Dadonequus Discord (Book 1)

by CrazedLaughter

Rating: teen
Tags: Profanity, Discord, Slice of Life, Main 6, Anon, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Second Person, Comedy, Cutie Mark Crusaders, Queen Chrysalis, Adventure
Length: 1318704

Discord makes a deal with an anonymous human. The human gets to live a good life in Equestria. And Discord? he gets to have a son of his own. Of course, his only reason is to impress Fluttershy and annoy Twilight.

Wanting to impress his best friend and bolster his own reputation. Discord takes a human from earth and changes him into a colt. But not just any human, a human who knows about the show itself. Thus begins a symbiotic relationship where Anon gets to experience life in Equestria as a young child while Discord can use him for his own plans. Of course, the information of Anon's origins are to remain a secret. And this of course, along with Anon being quite the manchild, creates all sorts of hi-jinks for both him and those around him. Though, considering his adoptive father is Discord. Chaos is all part of the course.

The story is mostly slice of life. Especially at the beginning. But as it goes on, things become more chaotic and life tumbles down into chaos for our good Anon. Everything from dealing with the queen of the changelings to even getting his own chance at soviet Glimmer. All that and more in this story.

This is a reformatted version (reformatted by ShobieShy) of the greentexted "Dadonequus Discord" written during mid season 5 by myself.

Cover Art by "Bunny". made specifically for the story

https://pastebin.com/u/Erf1111 link to the original version

Published 2017-10-21 04:40:06 UTC
Last updated 2018-06-27 06:34:29 UTC

Chapter 2

Oh holy christ on a stick. It's Applebloom. The REAL Applebloom. Damn your degeneracy. You found her remarkably adorable now that you got to see her personally. But NOPE… NOPE… NOPPPEEE.

You know the hell you'd have to endure if you became a CMC. You had to act chill, and not draw attention to your blank flank. Yeah, you could do this. You were one smooth cat...er...pony

"......"

You say nothing, you are too nervous. Real Smooth.

Applebloom tilted her head in confusion "Hey? Ya alright? ..hrn"

Applebloom was confused. She wasn't expecting company. She was getting the clubhouse cleaned up from an earlier adventure. And now suddenly you were there. a colt she's never seen. In a place you wouldn't have heard about....unless..

"Umm.. Ya got a name… Are ya alright?" Applebloom asked curiously, as she slowly began to move around you. Scanning you, looking to see if you have a certain mark.

You step back. She seemed awfully curious. You couldn't let her see your side. But you had no idea how to talk to her.

"hr...Wait, hey fella, WAIT!" Applebloom suddenly freaked out and reached her hoof towards you
But alas, you fall off from where the clubhouse is and fall face first into the ground. You were beginning to wonder if you were growing an immunity to this.

However, it was a pretty hard hit. You find yourself heavily dazed and it's difficult to stand.
Applebloom rushed down towards you "Gee whilikers! You coulda gotten really hurt! Are ya alright?"

You try to compose yourself. you have double vision. "Y-yeah..just sorta tripped..eheh"

"Fallin' is more like it. are ya lost? I've never seen ya before. Did you just roll on in to Ponyville?" Applebloom said as she checked to see if you were alright.

It was probably the hit on the head...again. But you weren't as nervous as before. "You can say something like that..ugh" You rub your head.

"I guess you can say I just "dropped" in, haha" You chuckle at your own silly pun. But Applebloom isn't laughing. She's suddenly silent. You turn to see what she is looking at. And you notice her eyes are on your flank. And it wasn't for sexy reasons.

"Hey! ya don't got your cutie mark either, huh?" Applebloom exclaimed

You sniff as your pupils shrink, ohhhh goooooooood lord. "N-no..." You turn towards her and again, begin to back up

"Then ya really are at the right place! I'm Applebloom, and this here is the headquarters for the CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS!"

You cringe at her sudden yell. Why did she have to do that?

Applebloom was getting excited "We're always looking for new members! and yer exa-huh?"

You raise your hoof towards her face, it's a little shaky. But...you can't let this go further. You were nervous alright. This wasn't part of your plan. You felt if you ended up as a CMC. You would be taken less seriously by the mane 6. And again, Being a CMC was dangerous as hell.

"L-look, I'm not interested in joining. I'm fine as is.I don't really care about getting a cutie mark, alright?"

Applebloom's eyes widened at those words. "WHAAA?! NOT CARE ABOUT GETTIN' YER CUTIE MARK?! YA GOTTA BE KIDDIN' ME!"

Crap, you made her even more excited. It looked like she was about to lecture you. You take a breath. "ahh, wait. I meant. you know, at the moment. Look, I was just trying to find Ponyville. Can you point me to it?"

But Applebloom was still stunned. What a turn of events. Good grief. "I can't let ya go to town with a attitude like that! Every pony needs to do their best to get their cutie mark! Ya clearly ended up here for a reason!"

oh come on…

You shook your head "what? No..no. Look, I only ended up here because I...I dunno...got lost. I just wanna get int-WHAAA!"

Suddenly she grabs your hooves somehow and starts dragging you up into the clubhouse. "I gotta get ya in the clubhouse immediately! agh, ah wish Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo were here! This here's an emergency!"

No! nooo! You can't be dragged in there! You fought hard to break whatever grip she had on you. The horrors that could happen could be anything. More lecturing, entrapment, oh god...she might even break into a song and dance number.

"LET ME GO! LET ME GO!" You weren't very strong for an earth pony. Or a male. You couldn't break free.

She manages to push you into the clubhouse and closes the door behind you, and sits in front of it. Before you could gather your thoughts or mount an escape. She starts speaking to you. "There we go, safe and sound!"

"Safe and what? Look...why did you drag me up here? You..you realize you just kid-coltnapped me right?"

Applebloom seemed to be sitting in place, as if she was guarding the door. Perhaps that's what she was doing. "Ah did no such thing, I just brought ya in here to break the mind control."

Mind...control? you cocked an eyebrow. "Are you serious?"

"As serious as a parasprite on fire! ya can't even say yer name and yer actin' all weird, definitely mind control."

Of all the hair brained… You sigh heavily, aggravated. "Look, I'm not under any kind of mind control. And my name is Anon. See? I know my name. Now how about letting me out of here?"

Applebloom tilted her head again "Anon? That doesn't seem like a real name to me"

NOT A REAL NAME?! You gave her a stink eye as you fluffed up your chest and gave it a pat
"It is a real name! It is the name of a real Man...ma-Stallion! I meant Stallion!..eheh"

Applebloom tapped her lower muzzle "Anon...Anon....nope, never heard of ANYPONY with a name close to that. Are ya sure that's yer real name?"

You coughed, you were really starting to feel as if everything about you was truly insignificant. "yeah it's my real name...it is a real name ,you know"

Applebloom shrugged "I guess maybe that's why yer lost then, ya must be one of them exotic livin types that live far far away. I guess they don't really care about cutie marks from...uhhh...wherever ya'll are from." Well, she wasn't wrong about that

You brush yourself off "Something like that....so, how about letting me go, huh?"

Applebloom shook her head "I ain't budging, ah don't know exactly where ya from. But I can't let ya go to Ponyville the way ya are now. Some fillies there, ya know, are really mean to ponies like us. We gotta stick together!"

huhm....she must mean Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. A noble sentiment. But you could handle a bunch of schoolyard bitches.

You try to walk past her. "I appreciate the concern, But I can take care of-" She won't move "ya mind? I'm telling you I can handle it." Applebloom shook her head

You were starting to lose your patience. "Listen! I don't need a cutie mark to do super awesome things like most ponies do. I'm fine as I am right now. It's not your responsibility to worry about me. alright? Let me...through!" But she didn't budge.

She could remember how easily Babs fell prey to them when she first showed. And someone such as you seem like they could be potentially screwed over a million times over.

You raise a hoof to her threateningly. "I will beat you! So help me. I will!"

Applebloom frowned, and began to falter

“Wh-what?...y-you'd really do that? ah was....ah was only tryin' to help. Things c-could really go bad for ya if you think the way ya are thinking..." Applebloom frowned from your sudden burst of threats

...Oh crap. you didn't mean to do that. You thought she'd maybe just move. Not pull out something like that. You couldn't give in. Not to her cuteness, and not to her reasoning and good will.

"Ah...mmmm" You lower your hoof. "...I'm sorry. I didn't mean to make you upset. I'm not used to being..umm..around these parts."

"Ah noticed. Ahm sorry about being forceful. I just thought I could help ya out at least. Ya know, show ya around. We could even meet some of the good natured ponies of Ponyville."

"I appreciate it b-...wait. Did you say show me around Ponyville?"

Applebloom nodded "'course ah did. ya would get lost without a tour guide like myself" she gave you a wider smile as the conversation continued, seemingly in her favor.

"Tour guide? Heh, that sounds like another way to get a cutie mark" Applebloom says nothing, she just smiles at the prospect.

...right… That's probably exactly it.

Applebloom was already raring to go "....and then maybe, when we're done. You could be-"

You hold your hoof up to her again, you could see where this was going. "Stop right there. Ain't gonna happen."

Applebloom gave you big sad eyes "Ya would think about it though right? It's not everyday a colt our age shows up without a cutie mark. We could always use new members."

Her pitch was pushy and lousy. No doubt she was pushing as it'd increase the odds of getting a cutie mark and she'd make a new friend in the process. You also began to wonder if Discord was watching or if he fucked off somewhere. You closed your eyes and took a small breath. What harm would it be to tell her you'd think about it?

"Fine, I'll keep it in my thoughts. I mean, I could probably change my mind later. right?"
Applebloom nodded profusely, already getting excited at the thought and wanting to tell her friends immediately.

"Ok then… About that tour." Applebloom then held out her hoof. You stared at it.

"...o...k. Why are you doing that?"

Applebloom giggled. "It's a hoofshake silly, ya know. Because we're friends now."

You put your hoof to your forehead. Holy shit you forgot how quickly friendship can work in pastel colored horse land. "Look I-ah?!"

Suddenly you found yourself bringing your hoof to Applebloom's and giving it a quick shake. "a-ah-ah"

Applebloom smiled. She now had made a new friend in you. Meanwhile you didn't even have to guess what happened. You muttered under your breath "Discord..."

Suddenly, the moment you do. Everything turns dark blue and freezes in place. even Applebloom. You are immediately startled and step back. "o-oh crap. What's going on now?!" You turn left and right, and suddenly. you hear a voice.

"Come now Anon, I was just used to you calling me dad. You could also call me father or daddy if you like." It was him. You looked around to see where he was at

"Where are you?!" You turn to see a picture of the CMC. But something was odd. Applebloom's eyes were yellow and red. Instead of the shade of blues you found yourself in.

You sighed. "I know you're in the picture...Dad. Basic stuff. You gotta do better than that." The Applebloom in the picture made a grumpy face at you. It was him.

"My my, what a party pooper. And here I thought me and Applebloom could catch you offguard" Him and appl-what?

"What do you mean you and Applebloom" The Discord eyes shifted to Scootaloo, giving it new life as he just shrugged

"Oh nothing, just thought I'd incorporate Applebloom into this"

Into this? Into what? You turn to look at the frozen Applebloom. But the moment you do, she's suddenly in your face. Colored red. Her eyes Black as coal with beady red pupils and her smile wide with jagged teeth. You turn snow white and fall back with a yell, bringing yourself to the wall. However, the moment you look back. She's back, frozen in her original position.

Discord laughs as you breath heavily from fright.

"TH-THAT WASN'T FUNNY!"

"No? I certainly thought it was. I don't get to do that often. If I tried that on any other pony. Well...Heart attacks can happen. Good to know you're made of thicker stuff, Anon." Discord chuckled

You gulp, your voice low

"You're crazy...." you say in a shaky voice.

Discord chortles as he hops out of the picture. Slowly changing back into his original form. He then begins to curl around you.

"Oh, don't be so dramatic." He gently dragged his fingered talon under your neck. "Can't you see you just hit your first milestone?"

First milestone? You move your head away from his talon as you realize he has you in a firm yet gentle and warm grip with his body. It was kind of soothing after such a scare. "What do you mean?"

Discord tapped your head "Think Anon, what did you just do?"

"...Almost die?"

Discord sighed and knocked on your head "No my dear son, I mean with Applebloom"

You… simply couldn't connect the dots.

"I'll give you a clue, it starts with an F and ends in..." Before he finished his sentence. He snapped his fingers. Causing a boat to smash through one side of the clubhouse and exit the other. "...ship"

That was...pretty neat actually. Must be getting used to his tamer tricks. Also...It just hit you. "....ohhh..you mean...wait a second. I didn't do that! You did!"

"Oh, why must you always get so snippy with the details. The important thing is the outcome, isn't it?"

"But I didn't want to be her friend...I..." You stopped. Aside from perceiving her as a danger. She didn't seem all that bad. Just upon your first meeting she cared about your well being. You've seen that trait on the show itself. But, experiencing first hand. Thinking back on it now…

"......."

Discord's smile widened "hrn? Oh, my adorable son. Is that a change of heart I sense? Let's see" Discord was suddenly holding a heart in his paw "Oh look..it did change"

Nooooo... That wasn't... "IS THAT?! IS THAT..MY HEART?! AHH?! AHHH!!!!" You struggle to get your hooves out of Discord's grip so you could put them on your chest to find a heartbeat

Discord chuckles "Anon, relax. it's only a problem if....oh look. It stopped beating..ahh yes, it does need bloodflow and all that to stay pumping, right?"

You turned white and fell forward back into his fur as you gurgled.

Discord scoffed as he snapped the heart away, back to it's original place "Really Anon, You're embarrassing yourself. You should be happy. You made your first friend!"

You start taking deep breaths as you feel your blood pumping again. ".....You..nearly killed...me"

Discord knocked on your head, it stung a little. "Stay on point Anon, I'm trying to congratulate you on a job well done."

Again, you feel a bout of anger as your strength returns. But you still can't break his grip. "You forced it on me! Do you know how annoying it is going to be for me now that's she's my "friend"? "

Discord used his magic to bring the frozen filly close to you and points to her face "But look Anon, are you going to tell me you would crush her feelings simply over some silly notion of being an adult? Because we already know how *snort* how much nonsense that is, don't we? Hehehe."

You started to get frustrated. There he goes again. Just because he made you young didn't mean you were a kid! "I'm not a kid! I am a fully grown human adult that you changed for some stupid reason!"

"Stupid? Well..maybe. But humans themselves are pretty stupid to begin with. You think so right? That's one of the reasons you wanted to come here sooooo badly...isn't it?"

"I...ah..." You kept your mouth shut. He was right. You weren't very happy living on Earth.

"Mhmm, well. Then, doing stupid things isn't so bad sometimes Anon. Well, at least for me it's not. But that's more of the fact that I'm the best. As for you, I'm merely trying to be a good father after all, you may have been an adult before. But as it stands, you're a kid now...MY kid."

HIS KID?! You really were more like his plaything. How dare he! He can't do this to you! But before you could make another retort. He was gone, and you and applebloom were back in your original positions. But everything was still frozen in time.

"....hrmmm" With nothing to say, and only a matter of time before...well...time resumes. You decide to examine Applebloom's expression. She looks....so happy. Really? Was something so simple enough to make her grin like that? You haven't even known her for....well. You've only known her for a short length of time. She's pretty friendly to begin with and being cutie markless makes you a damned target regardless for her little club. Just looking at that beaming smile though. itkind of made you feel warm. Which was good because it let you know your heart was working.

But...hrn. You were sure you were still adult capable. Discord is just super old and powerful. Everyone would be a kid to him. That had to be it. As for Applebloom, well, it's too late anyway. Time to grit your teeth and bare it. Besides, it made her happy. And It might not be so bad.

And with that, color started to return to the room. As time began to resume.

Chapter 3

And as if time was never stuck. Applebloom continued exactly where she left off. "And ahm glad you chose Cutie Mark Crusader Tours! Which just opened today!"

"Yeah… Lucky me" You gave her a sarcastic tone, but there was a hint of amusement. Since you're stuck between either this or more chaotic nonsense. You might as well play the part of "new friend"...even if the hoofshake was forced upon you. "Ahrm… Lead the way, miss Applebloom"

"Ahh shucks, ya don't have to call me miss. Just Applebloom is fine"

...Ok. You guessed she wasn't being fully professional about this apparently. "Ahh, yeah..ahrm..hrn"

Well, you might as well be nicer. You wanted to come to Equestria to be nicer. Have companionship and friendship. And have super awesome adventures. And Applebloom was going to be the best training you were gonna get. The ultimate crash course...as designed by Discord.

"I think I'm really going to enjoy this tour." You just throw in some nice words as Applebloom turns to exit the clubhouse. You could swear you saw her smile a bigger smile when she heard your words.

"Glad ya think so! Because there’s ALOT to cover. Of course ya know this is the official Cutie Mark Crusader clubhouse. The next stop is Sweet Apple Acres, where yer gonna meet a bona fide Element of Harmony...MUH SISTER!"

....Ohhh....Oh damn. You couldn't really get excited about meeting Applejack. Well maybe a little since you were gonna meet her in person. And if you can get in with her. The others would be a throws stone a way.

"Can't wait! Oh man, super awesomely excited to meet the famous and most forefront of the elements,Applejack! She's one of my favorites, you know?" Christ… What a lie that was. You forced yourself to sound really ecstatic about that.

Applebloom turned to you with a grin as she led you out and towards the farm. "Wow, usually a lot of ponies just talk about Twilight due to her being a princess and all. Not a lot of ponies ever talk about my sister."

"Oh yeah, the whole Apple family thing. Totally into it. I heard the ones in Ponyville were the best. So it's actually an honor to have a tour of Ponyville from you, Applebloom"

Applebloom did a jumping spin hearing that. "Wow, now I kinda feel like a big cele-..wait" Applebloom realized something. "Ya...ya didn't seem excited to meet me before."

QUICK! COUNTER LIE! KONAMI CODE! DO IT! "Oh..oh well. I was just nervous. I'm just a normal colt compared to you all. I mean, I've even heard of a few cool exploits about the main members of the Cutie Mark Crusaders. Really really caught me off guard."

Applebloom's excitement piqued. "Wow! What have ya heard about us Anon? Really neat stuff, right?"

..Oh...uhh shit. You weren't really big on CMC episodes. Usually it was them just fucking up really bad. There had to be an episode where they did something useful. Uhhh… "Well....uhhmnn...uha.."

Applebloom slowed down, she seemed to notice that you may have been lying. Or was starting to. You had to come up with something.

"Uhh....uh like..umm..That..oh yeah. That Troubleshoes. I heard you and your friends managed to clear his name of all those crimes and stuff. That's uhh....amazing"

Applebloom seemed confused by those words. It did happen. But worthy of spread? Well, at least you didn't seem to hear about the part where Applejack royally punished them afterwards. She tried to save face. "That was us, we couldn't let him be seen as a criminal, he just wasn't the type. He was a really good pony"

You nod in agreeance. He was a good guy from what you saw. You wondered if she suspected anything. As you also remember her getting royally punished by Applejack. You thought it might put a dent in the "legend". But it seemed to have worked.

As you both approached the farm, You and Applebloom could see the home near the center. Granny Smith was rocking back and forth on a rocking chair. Applebloom waved to her. "Hey Granny Smith!"

There she was. The real Granny Smith. Looking somehow more wrinkly in person...pony...eh..
the both of you approached her as Applebloom started to spout some facts about the farm and her family. Stuff you already knew. You just nodded in agreeance.

"....and this here is Granny Smith. One of the wisest ponies of all Equestri-oh...she fell asleep again. "

Oh god… Did you arrive just in time for her to die from old age? She seemed kind of unmoving. "Is she alright?"

Applebloom walked up to her and gave her a small shake with her hoof. "Granny Smith? Ya alright?"

Granny Smith took a deep snorting breath before slowly opening her eyes and looking down at Applebloom. she smiled at her "Applebloom? Oh hello dearie, are ya getting all yer chores done?" Applebloom giggled.

"Already got em done, Hey Granny Smith. Ah want ya to meet Anon. He's new around Ponyville!"

She pointed to you. You just gave a small nervous smile and waved. But then you noticed Granny Smith's expression suddenly become dark and sharp as she darts like a rocket and tackles you. "STAY AWAY FROM APPLEBLOOM YA VARMIT!"

OH GOOD CHRIST IN HELL. THIS WAS IT. THIS WAS YOUR FINAL MOMENT. YOU ARE GONNA DIE BY SOME OLD PONE. WHAT THE HELL WAS SHE THINKING?! DID YOU HAVE A LEWD THOUGHT ABOUT APPLEBLOOM IN UNDERWEAR OR SOMETHING?! BECAUSE IF YOU DID. SHE PICKED UP ON IT FAST!

You covered your face as she wound up her hoof. Applebloom called out "Granny Smith! What are ya doin’?! Why are ya attacking Anon?"

"Anon..hmmm..mmm?" Granny Smith stopped to take a better look at you. You were shaking in fear, Your eyes closed, as to not see impending death. "...Well what do ya know, yer just a small colt. Coulda sworn you were a vicious bear about to gobble up little Applebloom here"

Bear… BEAR?! SHE THOUGHT YOU WERE A BEAR?! WHAT?!

You didn't say a word, you were speechless, you just took a quick peek as you saw her slowly get off of you and suddenly have trouble standing as she wiped you off with a shaking hoof. "Awful sorry there young fella, ah didn't mean to give ya such a fright. but I still got some of that olllllllleeee maternal instinct in me, heh heh, yup, like a cat."

You just laid there. Staring.

"Well don't just lay there sonny, what? Ya act like ya never been taken down by a lady of my particular type before." Granny said.

Applebloom giggled, seeing the danger was over "Ah don't think he ever has. Are ya alright Granny Smith? Never seen ya do that before."

"Oh I'm alright, just was trying to get some more rest on mah chair after pulling an all nighter. And yer sister thought I couldn't get the work done." Granny Smith flexed her feeble leg as Applebloom giggled again.

"Well, more like she just tried to stop ya from working and get ya into bed. But ya did amazing Granny Smith. It was like you were younger last night." Applebloom praised

“Welllllll, that's because yer only as young as ya feel and-ohhh!" Suddenly a small snap in her back is heard. "And ah feel a little older than usual, just gonna get back on mah chair here and count some sheep....Anon, ya still on the ground?"

You were. Ugh, you were still in a stupor from the pounce. You recomposed yourself quickly and stood up. "Sorry..was still surprised..umm..from...that."

Granny Smith plopped herself back onto her chair and started rocking "Well next time ya gotta dodge better, back in my day. We were all as quick as a whip and strong to boot. Hrnn.." Granny Smith narrowed her eyes and looked at you. "Kinda bony for somepony so young… ehhhmm… Applebloom, why don't ya take him to the kitchen and get em somethin' to eat. He looks like he hasn't eaten in days."

Hey! What was wrong with the way you looked?! It's better than your human form.

Applebloom saluted "Alright! you get some rest Grann- ..oh"

She was already asleep.

Applebloom smiled at her and turned to you. "Well ya heard her. Let's get ya somethin' to eat. You do look kind of skinny, come on!"

Applebloom walked inside as you slowly followed. Suddenly, as you pass Granny Smith. You hear her mumble. "Anon..mnn...Anon..what kinda name is Anon? Never...mnnn..heard that before..Sounds silly to me..nmm"

Great… She's asleep and yet still able to criticize your name. You'd be more upset. But you were about to have some ACTUAL home cooking instead of microwave shit. It was actually sort of enticing. Especially since you knew the Apples could cook. Well, you knew Applejack and Granny Smith could. Now you kind of had to hope Applejack was inside to ask for some of her cooking, lest you get stuck with Applebloom's.

Chapter 4

You're inside. Wow, it really isn't much different from a human home other than the fact it's part of the barn. Aside from a few odd knick knacks and everything seeming lower to the ground. You couldn't fully tell, being so small yourself. And, with either an extreme amount of luck. Or just the fact YOU ARE in their home. You spot Applejack. And the scent of something deliciously sweet.

"Howdy Applejack! How're ya doin'?" Applebloom said with a positive vigor. Applejack turned, smiling, and having noticed her extra positive attitude in her voice. She knew she was cleaning the clubhouse not too long ago after another day of failing to get a cutie mark. And, it seemed...she was making some food...something apple related.

"Howdy Applebloom, Good to see my little sister in a chipper mood. Because you're gonna get really excited when you see what we're havin' for dinner later" Applejack said with an eager smile

She took a sniff, you yourself were still sniffing. It smelled so sweet. "Smells like Apple Pie, but uhm, hrn. Somethin's smells extra delicious about it. Whatcha put in it sis?"

Applejack smirked "Oh not much, seems we had a little too much Zap Apple jam. And since it's so close to harvesting time. Granny Smith and I thought dessert should have a little more of a kick to it. Gotta say, I'm more excited than a...oh, hey there young fella..." She finally noticed you.

Oh geez, you don't say anything. You just wave. You didn't want to get into a conversation with her. You didn't actually know much about anything apple related. Despite your lies.

Applejack slowly wandered over to Applebloom. Keeping her eyes on you. "New friend Applebloom? or a new recruit for your club?"

"Just a new friend, he's well....He doesn't wanna be a Cutie Mark Crusader. He says he doesn't really care about Cutie Marks." This seemed to have caught Applejack off guard

"Don't care about Cutie Marks?!" She turns to you "Is that true? Ya really don't care about them?"

Oh geez, really? Does it have to be this big a deal? "It-it's not that I don't care. It's just... Ya know… I think I could be good at what I want if I try… And uh. Well, I don't even think I could get one really" You really didn't. You weren't sure how artificial your body really was.

"Hmmnnn..." Applejack gave you a cold hard stare, she was quite astonished by that answer. "That's gotta be the most backwards thing I ever heard. Every pony strives to learn what their special talent is." She grabs her hat and put it on her chest as she looks up proudly "Everypony deserves their cutie mark. To help them through their lives by letting them know what they're destiny is, ya hear?"

Oh god, that sounded like garbage to you. "Look, I just don't see why I need one.. I-I mean… Right now."

Crap, no no no no. You didn't want to get into this. It's a stupid argument you know you'd never win because either there'd be an episode tier intervention or multiple dance numbers explaining why they are important.

Applejack gave you a short silent stare, and then pulled you close for a small hug "Poor fella, I can't imagine what would make ya think such a thing."

OH GOD, A FEMALE WAS TOUCHING YOU. OH GOOD LORD.

You tensed up, blushing. Applejack, still hugging you, looked to Applebloom "Where'd he come from?"

"Dunno, I kinda met him a little bit ago. his name is Anon. Ya ever hear of a name like that sis?"

AppleJack shook her head "Can't say that I have. Must be an out of towner" She released you from her grip. You had to take several deep breaths to compose yourself.

"....uhhhh...are ya alright?" Applejack was confused by your reaction

"...u..uhh......ugnn...m....."

"Anon, are ya alright?" Applebloom grew concerned too. She never seen anypony react like you do.

She was so warm. The first embrace you had was from a pony you weren't too fond of. And yet, it was so warm and cozy. You had a little trouble recovering as you had a goofy smile on your face. "I'm..I'm fine. Just uhhh… Haha. Thought of something funny. Haha"

Applebloom and Applejack were confused deeply from your reaction. "Wow...Granny Smith was right. Yer actin' really strange. Probably from hunger." Applebloom turned towards her sister "Hey Applejack! Can we have a little of that pie?"

Applejack shook her head "No can do, that there pie is for dinner. But if anon is actin' all weird from hunger...that kinda makes me wonder about his parents. Hey Anon, where's yer mother and father at?"

Oh crap. that sobers you up instantly. What do you tell them?! Do you tell them about Discord? Because eventually they'd learn about it. Maybe it's best to tell them you're adopted for now. But not mention who adopted you.

You immediately put on a mopey face. If you were indeed gonna play the lost abandoned little pone. You might as well act like it. "Well… I don't have one… Sorta. I have a dad now..."

You look down, but raise your eyes to look at their faces. You can see Applebloom suddenly come to a horrific realization while Applejack seemed to be entering some maternal mode.

Applejack inched closer to you, her voice becoming sad and somber. "Anon… Ya don't mean..."

You tried to make your voice squeakier and sad. You forced it, but couldn't get tears out. "Y-yeah… I'm an orphan..."

And with that both Applebloom and Applejack suddenly hug onto you. Welp, This was as close to girls you figured you we're going to get. And now you not only had their favor. But you were sure Applebloom and Applejack would back off about the cutie mark business.

"Ahm sorry Anon. I hope I didn't upset you" Applejack said, a tear rolling down her eye as she thought of her own parents.

"I-it's fine… You guys are really nice. If I were to have sisters, you two would be it."

"Ahh Anon. If ya ever need a pony to talk to, ya come see me whenever, alright?" Applebloom said.

"Same here Anon, yer always welcome here at Sweet Apple Acres. If ya ever want to talk. We'll be here" Applejack added.

Well well… That was easy. It's not like you completely lied. But not only should they lay off, knowing how "sensitive" you now are.

"Thanks girls, you're all really nice. But.." You now could feel a small pain enveloping your stomach. "Do you mind if I get a small bite to eat. I'm kind of hungry."

Applejack wiped a tear from her eye and nodded. "Sure thing Anon, I'll whip ya up something quick,delicious, and nutritious."

While Applejack went to make something for you. Applebloom backed up and looked at you with saddened eyes "Ya got somethin' to eat at home too, right Anon?"

Did you? Did Discord even know you had to eat food? Hopefully he did. You gave a careful nod. "I think I do. My new Dad hasn't shown me my new home yet. But I think there's food there."

"Ya think? Anon..uhmm..well..first of all, who's your dad? Ah can't think of anypony in Ponyville who was adopting. Can you Applejack?"

Applejack shook her head as she started getting ingredients for some sort of sandwich. One being, of course, apples. "Can't say I heard of anypony looking to adopt, I'm interested in who yer new dad is too to be honest"

...Oh joy, they wanna know. What do you tell them? Because the moment you say Discord. a shitstorm is going to start. What were you going to do?

Lie of course. The only pony you could think of who'd probably see this as a positive is Fluttershy and possibly Pinkie Pie. The rest would see this as an awful idea… especially if they delved further into the truth of dimensional shenanigans.

"Well, I… actually haven't met him yet. That's why I kinda got lost. It's my first time he-"

"Hold on a second, are ya telling us you traveled all the way from wherever ya from to Ponyville all by your lonesome and this dad of yours didn't even have the decency to go get you himself?" Applejack seemed awfully upset by your remark. Time to....lie some more.

"W-well uhh....You know, kind of how my orphanage works. They uhhmmnn… Give you the bits to travel to your home and your new family picks you up. I guess I sorta couldn't find the pickup point. Ahaha.."

"And...where exactly is the orphanage you're from at?" Applejack inquired.

You never seen Phillydelphia...but if it was anything like Philadelphia… "Phillydelphia..?"

Both of the sisters let out a "oooooooooohhhhh...that kind of makes sense" ...Oh good lord. You were right. How bad that place actually is. You'd rather never find out. Time to finish this up.

"Yeah so ummm..I guess I should go to the...umn..train station...haha..wherever that is. After a bite to eat. Don't wanna keep him waiting."

They both nodded in agreeance as Applejack turned to her younger sister "Applebloom, ya don't mind escorting Anon to the train station do ya?"

Applebloom shook her head "Nope, I'd be happy to show him, it'll be fun, right Anon?"

Right Anon? Wait..escort?! Oh geez… This was turning out to be against your favor. If you and her got there and there was no father… or worse. Then questions would be raised. "No no, it'll be fine. I can get there by myself."

Applebloom looked to you "But Anon, do you even know where the train station is at?"

...No… you didn't. "Sorta yeah. It'll be fine, I promise."

"Ok. But… what about that tour?"

"Tomorrow...I just kind of want to get the lay of the land on my own first before I get overwhelmed with all this new information." Applebloom frowned, she reeeeeeeeallly wanted to show you around today.

"But but, don't y-" Suddenly she gets cut off by Applejack as she puts down a plate of rather delicious apple sandwiches with a glass of milk to the side.

"Now Applebloom, don't go overloading the poor colt just because you want yer cutie mark. There is always tomorrow, you know? Here you are, Anon. Enjoy."

You slowly walked over to your meal… How were you supposed to pick up the glass? You know in the cartoon sometimes they could lift things with their hooves rather than their mouths. Ugh, why couldn't Discord make you a unicorn?

Applejack went back to tending the pie and dinner as Applebloom watched you eat. Interested on why you were having trouble with your food.

You look over to her, feeling a little creeped out. "uhm...what are you doing?"

"Watchin' ya eat. It looks like yer havin trouble there"

Trouble?! Pleeeeeeease. You were smart. It'd only take you a mere moment to learn how to do this right. But for now you were fine with dragging the sandwich to the edge of the plate and lowering yourself to take a bite. "I'm doing fine… This is just how we eat in Phillydelphia."

Applebloom raised an eyebrow "Wow...that's pretty weird. Weirder than some of the stories ah heard about that city"

"Yeah well, that's how it goes."

"You really wanna go on that tour right? Tomorrow? Because ah could arrange me and my friends to do an even bigger and better tour if ya want, but ya gotta be ready for it tomorrow, we'll be waiting at the clubhouse." Single minded...just like in the show. And just as annoying.

"Yeah, I got it. I'll be there… Can I eat without you staring at me… please?"

Applebloom nodded "Alright...but you're definitely coming?" You nodded, trying to hide your annoyance. "You ain't going to forget?"

Your eye twitched, you passively growled "No."

Applebloom smiled, ignorant to your feelings "Ok!" She began to walk off to leave you alone, then stopped and turned to look at you "In the mornin' right?"

Your eye twitched. How many times did you have to say yes?! AND WHY WAS EATING SO HARD?! NO MATTER WHAT YOU TRY. YOU CAN'T GET YOUR HOOVES TO STICK TO THE DAMN CUP. "Yes..."

Before finally leaving. She sat on her butt on the ground. Giving you a deep stare as she slowly brought her hooves together half way and gave them a slight turn in opposite directions. Then gave you a happy wave and walked off. The hell did that mean?

You looked at the cup… You tried the motion on the cup. You managed to lift it with ease. "....oh..."

With that, you finish your meal and bid a farewell to the Apple family, or to the ones who were present. You now made your exit and made your way towards the train station… Or at least the way you'd think it'd be given the layout of the town in the show. You just hoped Discord would show up before you got there. You didn't want to sit alone in an unfamiliar place.

"ok Anon. You gotta remember. You're from Phillydelphia now. gotta remember that," Suddenly, you hear a familiar voice in your head.

"Really now Anon. The idea was to befriend Applejack’s little sister. Now you've gone and made a mess. And what's worse, you told a bunch of naughty lies."

Ahhh crap… He was watching the whole time. You kept your pace, and started talking to the air.
"I didn't really expect to end up at the farm. Besides, could you imagine the chaos there'd be if they found out the truth?"

"Oh it wouldn't be that bad. an argument here, a rant there. I'm quite used to it by now. Though, you now gave me a great cover story to tell Twilight when I present you to her."

"Well that’s good I gues-… Wait…" Present? "What do you mean by that?"

"Haha, well you see. I just can't have a colt by my side without there being a commotion. If I bring you to my very good friend and princess of Friendship, Twilight Sparkle. Then everything else will move rather smoothly. Or… Things could go sour. Though, I do admit I also want to see her bust a few brain cells trying to rationalize my actions in the first place. You may have seen it from your little television screen, but seeing her have a breakdown in person Anon, it's absolutely hilarious. You'll have fun. Promise"

You actually gave it some thought. "So, you aren't going to tell her you plucked me from another universe?"

"Heavens no, that would just raise far too many questions that I simply don't have the time to answer. Her ridiculous reaction at just the idea of adoption shall suffice."

You chuckled a little. It sounds like you'd be in the clear. And you kind of wanted to see Twilight freak out. No, you just really wanted to see it. She's been on that pedestal of idolism a little too long. "I'm actually liking this. So what do I have to do?”

"Hehehe, Anon. That makes me so~ proud of you. I knew you had some of ole "chaotic spirit" in you. It's practically in your blood. What with all those wars humans have had."

You stop. Has he been reading up on..

"You know about all of that? How much of my world do you know about?"

"Oh not all that much. Just enough to get by and pick up some new tricks. A human's brand of actual chaos isn't much fun to me. So I decided only to memorize the more amusing bits. Like so.." Suddenly, you're puffed up like a balloon and begin to float upwards into the sky as you freak out and start shaking your now tiny legs. You have trouble getting out actual words.

"MMHHHMMMM!!! MMM!!!MM!!!" As you floated up to the sky, mumbling for dear life.

Discord appears next to you, keeping up with your raising height as he continues "Old cartoons from your world has so many fun new bits for me to try!"

You continue your muffled screaming as you raise higher and higher into the sky. Discord laughs at you "See, aren't we having fun? ahhh, but alas. Being the responsible father that I am. I need to get you situated in your new home. Sorry to burst your bubble on your fun but..." Discord took out a needle and flashed it to you.

You shook your head. What the hell was he thinking?! Discord snickered for just a moment as he stabbed you. Making you burst. Suddenly you found yourself screaming back in your normal voice as you spun in darkness. Only to fall on your face on some hard wood.

...You were really getting sick of that.

You shake your head, and try to calm yourself as you realize you are someplace new. It seemed to be some kind of house. seemed a little familiar. But..outside the windows it was dark… eerie… and weird.

.....You were in Discord's house.

Chapter 5

Just from where you were at. You could tell you are in a living room. And at first glance it seems normal. But you know better than that. A closer inspection shows some things to be very dirty with varying amounts of clean… Some objects seemingly normal while others more twisted,Stairs that go nowhere, And looking out the windows, all you could see was an endless void of eldritch curiosity.

Discord finally teleported in with a with confetti flying everywhere and a trumpet sound sounding. "Welcome Anon, to your new home!"

You grimaced at the blare of the trumpet as you turned over to him. A little peeved that he inflated and then popped you. "Yeah… Great..."

Discord gave a small huff before levitating you towards him at eye level "Anon. Why must you be so uptight? I thought you, most of all, would appreciate this." He slowly contorted his face into a frown, with big puppy dog eyes.

Ugh...Maybe you were being uptight. He DID go through the trouble of granting you this big wish after all. And you haven't even shown any true gratitude. You sighed. "Sorry… I guess I've had a lot on my mind. Thanks, by the way..."

Discord began to smile. not an evil one, a more sincere one. "Thanks...Thanks for what?"

"Thanks for well...bringing me here. It actually does mean a lot to me. And I guess I should of been more appreciative and under-" Discord gave you a small pat on the head and gently put you down.

"Anon please don't get too mushy on me. I'm not Princess Celestia, I don't need a report."

"O-oh. Right right… Well… Thank you again… And stuff." Eh, what a time to get sappy. Then again, he probably just didn't want to be in a sappy mood either. Just take it as is. That's the least you can do. "So, this is your house huh?"

"No Anon, this is OUR house. You're my son, remember?"

You chuckled, that seemed a little generously absurd to you. "Yeah yeah...you're really serious about this father son thing huh?"

"Of course, if I wasn't. I wouldn't have brought you here. I'd just have dropped you off at one of your hospitals after your heart stopped from the shock of meeting me. Hilarious reaction but I didn't know anything about human anatomy and if I dissected you then....well...you wouldn't be here now. Would have been an interesting though, don't you think?"

"Haha...eh. Yeahhh, don't think I would have been around to think that" You gave a nervous chuckle. You were sure he was just messing with you. Just push on through and deal with it.

Actually, you did silently realize you were taking things much too well than one would expect. Perhaps your want to be any where but your own world had desensitized you some from actually appearing in Equestria. Or perhaps part of you believed this to be a dream. Whatever it was, it at least made things easier for you.

"Now then, let me show you your room" Discord said, as he snapped his talons, making a door appear on the ceiling.

"...Ummm how am I supposed to get up there?"

Discord chuckled "Anon, Anon. Sometimes not everything is as difficult as it first appears"

You think you've watched enough cartoons to know what that means. You immediately go silent as you look up at the door with determination and try to walk up on nothingness.

It...it works..You suddenly start shifting gravity onto some invisible steps as if it was nothing. "Woah...this is kinda cool."

Discord pulls out a camera as he starts taking snapshots. "That's my boy! Taking his first chaotic steps into his room! Look into the camera Anon!"

"oh o-AHHHH BRIGHT, BRIGHT AHHH I'M BLIND." There were flashes coming from the camera with great intensity.causing you to trip and fall upwards into your room.

Discord, appearing in your room, catches you and puts you in a resting position on his lion arm as he pulls out a picture of you being surprised and dazed by the camera "Look Anon, look how adorable you look in this. It's definitely going into the family album."

You gave a moment for your eyes to adjust. "Was the flash really necessary?...geez..I thought I was going to go...oh hey, I look pretty adorable actually"

"Oh I know, Fluttershy is simply going to adoooooore you. But that won't be for a little while. For now, just relax a little… So," Discord waved his paw around the room "what do you think?"

Discord put you down so you could take a look around the room. It looked more human styled. And the bed… Wow… A modification of the one you had at home, with a blue quilt and everything. It was a little basic though. a dresser, mirror. Nothing to chaotic. And then there was the bookshelf. It didn't have much in it so far. But it did have some..hrn..so these are the Daring Do series. "Hey… These are… Is it the whole series?"

Discord nodded "Of course, Only the best for my Anon."

Ahh geez, he's really going all out with this. The room didn't seem to have any kind of booby traps or scares in it. It was just a normal room. "..Thanks Discord… I.. don't know what to say, really."

"Just call me ‘dad’. Ahh yes, now that you've seen your room. We do need to get some official business done and go see Twilight Sparkle." Discord chuckled.

"You mean mess with her, right?"

"Ohhhh… You really do catch on quickly, then again. I already told you I was, didn't I?"

"Yup, and I wanna help. But… ahh. Let's not go too far with it huh? I don't want to make her upset… Or get banished… Or something. She is supposed to be your friend after all"

Discord waved his paw at you "Pshawwww Anon, it's just a little prank. Friends do it all the time. If she wasn't my friend, then I'd probably just conquer her kingdom or put a whoopee cushion under her seat during some important princessy meeting or something."

Haha… good to know conquering a kingdom is at the same level as a whoopee cushion… Good stuff… Good~ stuff…

Not really.

Discord snapped his fingers. Making a cute little red bowtie appear on your chest, along with a small cute blue suit and a tiny top hat. "There we are."

You looked at yourself in the mirror. Awww. You looked cute enough for a bunch of horsefuckers to gang bang. You gave your top hat a little side tilt to add some style. "Ok I think i'm ready, so are we going n-HOLY GEEZ!"

As you turn to look at Discord, you see he now has Applebloom's head instead of his own....disturbing. "And then after all this, yer going on the tour tommorow with Applebloom, right? Right?!"

You sighed… Ugh.. "Yes.. You're really on to that whole friendship thing huh? That doesn't seem like you."

Discord popped the Applebloom head with his talon, changing his head back to normal. "You can say that being friends with Fluttershy has rubbed off on me a smidge. And besides, I can't have you running around here all day. I don't even know if you’re house broken."

"That's funny, I kinda was thinking the same thing about you, heheh" You smirked at him.

"Ohhh, my Anon is finally growing a backbone. How marvelous" Discord rolled his eyes

"I guess you can say you're finally rubb-wait… What is that sound?" You swear you can hear something inflating.

Discord covers his mouth to hold in his laughter as he points behind you.

You take a look and....OH SWEET JESUS. IS THAT YOUR SPINE GROWING OUT OF YOUR BACK?! You immediately begin to panic as Discord immediately disappears from the room. There's no pain. It's just freaky. And as you try to push it back in in frivolity. It explodes. Sending you into darkness… And then out somewhere else… Someplace… a little more castley.

You crash right into Discord's leg, as he looks down upon you. "Oh there you are anon, what in Equestria kept you?"

You look up at him, then ahead. You both stood in front of some double doors. Was this Twilight's castle? "You sc-...ahh...forget it. I really should get used to your shenanigans at this point… Really… Really should."

Discord chuckled and straightened your tie "Don't be a spoil sport Anon, ahh... There we are."
You look up and down at the doors

"I'm not… just caught me off guard. I ALMOST thought I was gonna die. Then I remember you wouldn't let that happen...right?"

"Of course not." Discord said with a gentle grin

You get a little upset. "What do you mean may-..oh.. You said… of course not… huh..." you guessed he's actually taking things a little seriously. At least with you. You expected him to say "Maybe". In fact, You readied yourself for it. But he managed to surprise you with a pretty normal and caring answer. Maybe he just did that to throw you off again...who knows. "So… how are we gonna do this ,Dad?"

"What, you actually want to plan this? oh nononononono. Just go with the flow Anon. Improvise. a truly good act is one nopony can see coming."

"Right right, ok...ahrm" You take a breath. “Ok.. Ok" You shake and stretch your hooves. "I think I'm ready. I think I got this."

"Well then… Let's begin!" Discord said as he once again raised his taloned fingers and snapped them. Causing you both to warp once more.

Next thing you knew. You found yourself floating. Looking around, you saw you were in the main hall. Where everyone's chairs sat around the giant table. The old tree library hanging like a chandelier. On the table seemed to be books and legal papers. and Looking into them was purplesmart herself, Twilight Sparkle...no sign of Spike though.

You'd have thought she'd be able to see you, but you quickly noticed that you couldn't even see yourself. Namely...your hooves. It appeared you were invisible. That's when you saw him. Discord appeared right behind Twilight and covered her eyes.

"Guess who~"

Twilight seemed to have gotten a little startled at first. But then she just puffed some air out, annoyed "You know that's getting old, right?"

Discord popped from behind to in front of her. shrinking in size as he stands on one of her scrolls. "Twilight, I'm surprised at you, that was a terrible guess. In fact, I don't even know anypony with a name that long. Sounds made up to me"

"I'm busy Discord, if you want. You can come back later. And as long as you don't pull any funny business. I'd be happy to talk with you… But just… Not right now… Super duper busy." Twilight said with disinterest to his presence

Discord chuckled "Ahhh, you see. That's what I'm actually here for. Some official business on our earlier talk of Equestrian law and such."

"Discord I don't hav-..wait what?" Twilight put her full focus on him. She was wondering what he meant by "official business"

"It's just as I said. What, did you think I wasn't paying attention?" Discord gave her a hurt look

"..I..didn't think you were.." Twilight said, prompting Discord to appear behind her, as he leans over her, making a fake sobby voice

"Oh Twilight, how are we supposed to be friends if you don't think I'm capable of being serious once in awhile, you're breaking my heart you know."

Twilight began to stutter, surprised "I-I...I just didn't think you were uhh...paying attention. That's actually wonderful, Discord, I'm proud of you." Twilight smiled at him

Discord bowed "Yes, I'm quite proud of me too. see, I even gave myself a gold star for excellence!" Discord points to a rather dilapidated star pinned to his chest.

Twilight smiled cheerfully at him, it was like a weight was lifted off of her "Discord, you deserve it. It makes me so glad to know that you're willing to fully integrate as a citizen of Ponyville, now then all-"

Suddenly, she's cut off by Discord's rambunctious laughter. "HAHAHAHAH ARE YOU SERIOUS?!....no...no..I am NOT doing any of that nonsense. I was talking about the particular laws on...oh what was it....ahhhh yes...." suddenly he made a cruel, soulless smile at her. "Adoption."

You smirked. Oh man, that's pretty good.

Twilight's smile turned to that of worry "Discord....w-what are you talking about when you say "adoption" ?"

"Oh it's just as I said. You see, I went over to Phillydelphia..." It seems Discord was going to go along with your story "And visited an orphanage… There was this cute little colt that was ooohhh so weak and helpless. Twilight… Oh Twilight… You had to have been there. It made my heart melt. So… I took him home and became his father." He poofed up some documents...they looked official from where you were at "See? legal documentation and everything"

Twilight's jaw dropped. She looked like she was nearing "Lesson Zero" levels of worry. "Discord… You… You didn't..."

"Oh, I did. Twilight Sparkle, allow me to introduce you to my son, Anon!" Discord snapped his fingers. Making you fall head first into her books and scrolls… Ugh… It just never stops.

Discord rubbed his chin "hrnn… He was supposed to land over there… Oh well, the deed is done."

Twilight turned to see you, and then rushed up to you. Instead of asking if you were alright. She was putting her hooves all over you. You didn't know whether to feel turned on or violated."Sweet Celestia… He's real… HE'S REAL?!?!"

Twilight turned to Discord "DISCORD ARE YOU CRAZY?! YOU'RE NOWHERE NEAR RESPONSIBLE ENOUGH TO RAISE A COLT! TAKE HIM BACK!"

Discord gasped in fake surprise "Twilight! Are you suggesting I put that poor little colt back in that orphanage to suffer never knowing what having parents are like? Oh my my, tch tch tch. How the Princess of Friendship has become so corrupt by the power she wields, oh goodness gracious, how terrible indeed."

"At least there will be stability in his life! Discord, You can't do this! You'll ruin him!" Twilight was livid with all this. She firmly believed Discord was not capable of parenting a foal.

"Ohh..that hurts...so much" Discord forces tears out "I thought we were friends...and...you think...i'm a terrible father" suddenly he grins "Ahh well, too bad for you. The only way he's going back is if he invokes the law that the colt or filly in question feels they are abused or in danger enough that they wish to go back to the orphanage. So...unless he wants to go back. He's mine."

Twilight turned over to you, she looked desperate "A-anon? right? You don't want to live with Discord right? There are so many wonderful and loving mares and stallions who will adopt you and give you a good home. Discord isn't one of them"

Wow… Way to be douchey Twilight. Then again, Discord was himself, being a douche. eh, everyone has to pull a douchey move at least once. And you liked the guy. You gave her a cute happy smile, and said as joyously as you could, you said. "He's my Daddy, and I love him very much."

Discord gave you a thumbs up without Twilight noticing. Twilight herself looked like she had a heart attack as she falls backwards. "I can't believe this"

"Oh don't be like that Twilight." Discord picks you up and gives you a big hug "Look how adorable he is. And so well spoken for a colt his age. Why I bet with my tutelage, he could skip grades." You played along and gave him a big hug

"Dad thinks i'm super smart, I never thought I was but he always tells me I'm super great. But he always encourages me and says i'm destined to do great things"

Twilight seemed surprised by your words "Really?....you said that Discord?"

You nodded profusely. "He even said I can become greater than him someday, in fact, a million times better than him! Isn't that awesome?"

Twilight cocked an eyebrow… That seemed less believable "Is he serious?"

Discord didn't seemed too pleased on your last remark. You knew he wouldn't. But hey, this was the only opportunity that you THINK you could get him to say something like that. He turned to Twilight and gritted his teeth in a smile "Of course Twilight, Why wouldn't I tell him that… He's my son… It's not as if he was actually some loser I picked up off the street or anything."

Ouch… You winced just a bit at that.

Twilight stood up and gave you a hard look "Well… it… seems unbelievable. But… I can't just bend the laws to suit me. I just… I don't understand."

"You don't need to understand Twilight. You just need to acknowledge that I'm a father, one to be respected." He suddenly covered your ears with some fluff "I mean, you wouldn't want him to wonder why some ponies sometimes scream or run in terror at the sight of me, would you? Or why their princess seems to be annoyed at my very presence. He'd be scarred." Suddenly, the fluffs disappear.

"No no… Of course not. And… if you are serious about this. Of course I can acknowledge you as a good father. I just need a minute to process all this. It's a little overwhelming." Twilight didn't really know how to take it. She couldn't just intervene if everything seemed alright for the moment.

"Go right ahead Twilight, I can understand the feeling. I'll let you get back to your work. I didn't want to be too much of a bother afterall."

"...Ahm… Actually, Discord. If I could have a private moment with your son. You know...just me and him. It'd be even more appreciated. I just want to ask the usual questions and whatnot. Help him understand how things work since… Well... I assume you won't just keep him locked up somewhere..right?" Twilight kept her eyes locked to his. Looking for anything that would spell dishonesty or mistreatment of you. Not realizing how big she was being rused.

Discord gave her a confident smile "Of course , a child needs wide open spaces and fresh air and all that. And I don't mind at all if you have a chat with dear Anon. You needn't even worry about me manipulating him or eavesdropping or anything of the sort. I'm a trustworthy and good father. Honest" Discord put his paw to his heart as a halo appeared over his head.

"Right..umm...Thank you for understanding Discord. I'll have him back to you as soon as I'm done speaking with him, alright?"

Discord bowed. "Of course my Princess, I trust you completely… I just wish you put more trust in me once in awhile..."

Twilight cringed. She started to feel bad. "I… umm… I'm sorry Discord. I Shouldn't have immediately jumped to conclusions." Twilight bowed to him a short bow "I truly apologize"

"Being one of your best friends. I of course accept your apology. In anycase. I shall be waiting outside the castle. If you can bring him there when you are finished. It'd be most appreciated...ta-ta" Discord waved as he vanished from sight.

And now you were alone....with Twilight.

Chapter 6

Twilight cautiously walked up to you. "Hello Anon, How are you feeling?"

"I'm..uhm..good. It's uhh...nice to meet you Princess" You do a courteous bow. The more you milk this, the better. You held in your laughter. She looked a damned mess right now as she tried to put things together mentally in her head.

"You can call me Twilight Sparkle or just Twilight if you want. Princess is a little too formal for me. I'm just another pony." Where was she going with this?

"Aren't you a powerful Alicorn though? I wouldn't call that "Just" another pony"

Twilight blinked in surprise. You really were well spoken. "Oh..well. I meant on the inside. I'm just another pony. One willing to listen and understand and help you with any problem you might have. So please, don't feel nervous, alright?"

Oh hoooo. So that's what she is doing. classic cartoon tactics. She's trying to make you comfortable to spill the "truth". Maybe it was your own human nature mixed with the fact you are now pretty much partnered with Equestria's greatest prankster. But Twilight wasn't Flutters nor Pinkie, hell even Rarity can be cool in your eyes. This was your chance to see how much mischief you can get away with.

You walked up to her and looked up to her with a false look of wonder. "Ok, why do you want to talk to me miss Twilight? Is there a problem?"

Twilight smiled at you, you were being so polite. A direct contrast of what she thought you'd act like due to Discord's tutilage. "Not exactly, I just wanted to talk to you without Disc-..your father present. That is alright? Right?"

You nodded and gave her the happiest little smile. "That's alright, Are you going to be my mommy?"

"W-What?! I-I..uh..no Anon..I'm sorry but I can't be your mother" Twilight was taken aback, mother? Her… Father… DISCORD?! DOES NOT COMPUTE. Not in her mind anyway.

You frowned. "O-oh...I guess seeing you and daddy talk like that. I thought you were with him. I thought you were my new mommy..." You turn away, hiding a sneaky smile as you try to force tears. but unable to. "But I guess not..."

Twilight felt awful. She also noticed… As far as she knew. That you really cared about Discord. You kind of did. He was growing on you. "Anon, so it's true? You really don't mind being adopted by Discord? He..hasn't done anything bad to you?"

You look at her. and give her a small smile and shake your head. “Nu uh. He's been really nice. Really really nice."

"..Oook..." Twilight turned away and walked off for a moment to collect her thoughts. "I..I don't know what to make of this. He's the last pony to be raising a child and yet he seems to be doing fine. Think Twilight, Think! Is this all for real or is he...no. If he was scheming, then Anon would definitely let somepony know. It's just so hard to believe and yet. It's actually happening. I wonder if Fluttershy has anything to do with this. Just… Wow. He's reall-"

"I can hear you, you know" You really could, she wasn't being subtle

Twilight yelped in a startled cry as she jumped slightly away from you. You had decided to trot right next to her since you couldn't hear what she was mumbling about from where you were.
Twilight gulped "Right..aha..Well. I'm actually glad to hear you're doing well. I know it may not look it. But we've had some trouble with your father in the past. It's why I just wanted to make sure you were one hundred percent ok with this."

You looked up to her, and gave her an emotionless expression. "Gee miss Twilight, you're not very nice if you can't even think of this as a good thing. Daddy is much better than that lonely old orphanage. You don't want me to be lonely..do you? I didn't have any friends..."

Twilight winced "N-no, of course not. I… didn't even know you had no friends… mmm. No.. You're right. It is very wrong of me to think of Discord doing anything bad. Adoption is supposed to be a good thing that brings love and friendship into a foal's life. I guess I was just too worried that Discord was pulling some sort of prank."

You nodded. "You should feel ashamed of yourself for thinking of that. Dad is a good guy."

Twilight looked down and frowned. She really did feel ashamed "I do. I'm very sorry Anon. You can go now. I have a lot to think about..."

You nod and give a small polite bow. "It'll be ok, I guess you can think of it as a friendship lesson. I guess you have more to learn huh?"

"I do, Well. I won't make this mistake again. In fact, I'll be sure to get you a gift when I get the chance to celebrate your newfound adoption."

You smile. "That'd be really cool! Thanks Miss Twilight."

Twilight gives you a small melancholy smile "You're welcome, Anon. Now hurry along to your father. He's not the patient type."

You hold in a snicker. "You're assuming again."

"R-right. ahrm..well, you have a most pleasant day. Goodbye Anon" Twilight gave you a small respectful nod. She knew she screwed up...perfect.

"Goodbye miss Sparkle" You gave your own small bow as you headed towards the exit and left. Looking around for Discord. "Dad...Dad...you around?"

Discord immediately popped up from behind you and scooped you up as you both floated into the sky. It was startling at first. But you calmed down eventually. Maybe it's because you knew he wouldn't kill you or let you fall....from that far high anyway.

"Aye geez… Do you gotta just sweep me up like a hawk like that?"

"Well...no, But I always like to have a sense of flair to everything I do. Now then..How'd it go in there? Tell me all the juicy bits"

You cock an eyebrow and smirk at him. "Are you seriously telling me you actually didn't eavesdrop on the whole thing?"

"Anon, Anon. You've watched me before on your little box. You know I always SOMETIMES keep my word. And in this case I did, I left the rest to you. Now then, I would hope you aren't going to tell me that you felt bad for her."

You kinda sorta did. But at the same time, it was fun to have the opportunity to knock THE Twilight, the one who became perfect pretty princess, down a peg. You look to your "father" with a smirk.

"Oh, you shoulda seen it. I mean, wow. She was all like "Discord is not to be trusted". And I just gave her cute smiles and little sob stories about how you saved me from a life from no friendship."

Discord giggled "Oh, that sounds marvelous. Pity we couldn't get any snapshots."

You chuckled. "Yeah, if I still had my cell phone. I probably could have sneaked a video… I mean. I even suggested she was gonna be my mom and she wigged out."

Discord chortled and laughed hard, nearly dropping you. You held on tight "YOU DID WHAT?! AHAHAHAHA. ANON..Oh Anon, you didn't. You might be able to slay me with that one. That's rich, I could practically taste the smoke coming from her brain as she tries to put together the pieces. We could probably even have a camp out and roast marshmallows over it. You know… real father son time."

You hang on tighter until he gets a better grip on you again. As you speak to him. You notice he is being rather malicious about this. more so than you remember him being. Fun is fun...but. "Discord, you don't think we took it too far right?"

Discord waved his talon at you "ah ah....that should be "Dad, you don't think we took it too far right?"

You slowly nod. "...right...ahrm..well?"

Discord gave it some thought as you both floated up enough into a cloud...and somehow came out back into his house. "Not at all, she forced me for seven hours Anon..SEVEN WHOLE HOURS. To listening to everything about Equestrian law so I can be a "better" draconequus. it was excruciating."

What? "Couldn't you have… Just left?"

Discord let out a heavy sigh. "No, Fluttershy would have been greatly upset if I hadn't sat through all of it. She sat there with me the whole time to make it less painful for me. Every law and piece of order was like a dagger plunging into me. Oh… It was like being in a war I couldn't win, and then somehow coming out alive. So, afterwards I told myself. I'll do everything by the law… and get myself a son."

Fluttershy? ahh that makes sense now. At this point. He'd do anything for her. He has a heart in there somewhere. But...wait a second. "Hold on, but you didn't. You never went to Phillydelphia and filled out some papers. You came to my world, turned me into a kid pony. and brought me here. Are you telling me you did all that for a prank?!"

Discord didn't seem to care at your surprise when he said. "Partially, you act as if you wouldn't have known that there was my own personal reasons for taking you here. You shouldn't act so surprised. The way I see it, you still won the the biggest lottery of your life. It's not as if I can send you back anyway. It'd be suspicious. So, I hope you don't have some angst brewing and ready to tell me how "wrong" it is and how "hurt" you feel. I have no time for those cliches. You know what I'm capable of if you annoy me."

...Well shit. He's got you there. it would be annoyingly cliche anyway. Especially since it'd never end in your favor and he might even get annoyed enough to send you back with some dubious reason as to why despite him saying he can't. One thing for sure. You didn't want to leave. And, it shouldn't have been to no surprise that you were being used anyway. At least he's being nice about it… Still, one thing. "Ok..but..we're not gonna mess with Twilight that hard again right? I mean, that was super enjoyable and all. But, I don't want to make her brain explode."

Discord patted your head in assurance "Fret not. It was just a little revenge prank. I don't want her turning into some depressed pony who is no fun. I just wanted to get her flustered. You must admit Anon, it was..hrn..how do you humans put it?..ahh yes..fun as hell"

You giggled a little at that. and Thinking about it. "Yeah it was, topping Twilight was pretty amazing. Never thought it'd be that easy. But, I do feel bad. Just a little. But… I really gotta admit. I would mess with her again if I got the opportunity. Just… with something more lighthearted though. I still kinda want to be her friend too."

"Of course, I'm all for light hearted pranks. a fart here, a flood there, terror rampant in the streets from an army of pies coming to hit their faces. I'd never ever want to make Twilight extremely hurt that'd she turn into a grey sad husk"

You laugh at the pie thing...but that last remark. "Woah hold on...You did do that. Once before"

Discord gave you a stern look "Anon, please. That was a necessary tactic that turned out rather funny while I was evil. It's not as if I would do something like that again. Well...not unless I went evil again or something."

You chuckle nervously. "r-right, ahah...anyway. So what's up on the agenda next dad?"

"Well, I do need to make sure you're nice and fed. Are you hungry?" Discord asked.

You rub your belly. "A little, all I had was a few sandwiches and milk."

Discord rolled his eyes. "How meager" Discord snapped his fingers. Suddenly you were on a small chair as a table appeared before you. On it was food. a huge variety of it, turkey, sweets, burgers, fries, veggies, fruits. Just everything.

"...Wooooooooooooooahhh...This is… This is all for me?" You ask, astonished.

Discord nodded "Only the best for my son."

Wow, that made you think a little. Despite the prank. It seemed he was taking this seriously… for some reason. Well, you didn't want to spoil it. Specially with this spread in front of you. but before you even open your mouth. He had one last thing to say

"I have to go set up a little something. It'll be our last trip of the day." Discord explained.

Another stop? But you didn't want to go anywhere after stuffing your face. You just kind of wanted a chance to relax. "Another trip? Can't we save it for tomorrow?"

Discord shook his head. "I'd rather not wait. No doubt Twilight will tell the others at one point and I want to beat her to the punch with at least a certain friend. Besides, You have a tour tomorrow. Which would would make us have to wait even longer."

...Hrn… He probably wanted to show you off to Fluttershy. Well, you can't complain about that. You really wanted to meet her. She seems so caring and loving. You wouldn't mind if she was being affectionate towards you.

You nod to him without a word, and look at your food. "So..do I get a fork..or uhh."

Discord rolled his eyes "Please Anon, You don't need to waste your time on utensils . Just dig in. Just remember to be polite if others offer you food. Here, I don't mind how you eat."

"Ok" You shrug, and bring your mouth to the turkey. And the moment you do. The roast turkey jumps up and screams, freaking you out. It then starts rolling around before discord smashes it with a hammer.

"Oh, That one wasn't fully cooked it seems. Well, it should be ready to eat now"

You gulp "...R-right." At that point, you cautiously begin to stuff your face. Being wary of any other shenanigans that might happen.

Discord himself just starts floating and lounging about waiting for you as he toyed with his talons, it seemed that was his way of "setting up".

You knew you couldn't finish all of this. But you didn't feel bad because you knew he could make it all vanish as easily as he made it appear. You also knew any crud you got on your clothes or fur. That Discord would most likely clean off in an instant to present you to Fluttershy as adorably as possible. So you didn't hold back on reaching for anything.

It seemed so quick to have visited three of the six in one day. It was also odd how you and Discord bonded so well so quickly. Or at least you hoped so. For all you knew, it seemed like a duo made in heaven… or in hell. Then again, part of it was he was playing the part of "Dadcord". But even then, he didn't have to be nice to you when no one was looking.

It was relieving really.

Chapter 7

You gobbled up enough as to not overfill yourself. However, you also noticed Discord had not moved from his position. "Hey Dad… You do remember you were going to set something up...right?"

Discord was floating in mid air, on his back, resting his head on his chaotic limbs "Already did"

Already did? the hell? So was him playing with his talon tips really? "What? You didn't even mAHHHHHHHHHHH!"

Suddenly you find yourself falling straight downwards into a void and landing head first into some dirt… You were going to get brain damage at one point from all this. Discord picked you up with his magic and immediately started to dust you off with his tail. "Anon, now is not the time to play in the dirt. I need you to be on your very best behavior. Understand?"

You cough and whack his tail away in anger. "I WASN'T PLAYING IN THE DIRT! WHY DO YOU ALWAYS DROP ME ON MY GODDAMN HEAD?!"

Discord whacked you on the head lightly "Language Anon, language. And besides. I figured you'd land on your feet."

WHAT?!

"THATS A CAT YOU ASSHOLE!"

Discord looked up, in wonderment "Is it? hrnn.." then he shrugged "Cat, Pony. I don't think there’s too much of a difference. Besides, I don't understand the hostility after I just gave you such a delicious meal… Also," He whacks you again "language."

You rubbed your head… Ugh… You were surprised you didn't have a headache. "Can't you just handle me a little better? geez Discord. I'm supposed to be your son, remember?"

"Ah ah ah, you are supp-"

Now you cut him off "No look, I'll continue calling you dad if you just stop dropping me on my head. It hurts and I don't like it. Alright? capesh? Understand?"

"Fine fine" Discord said as he gently put you down after straightening up your top hat.

Fine?...just like that? "Really? no lie? no tricks?"

"No lie, no tricks. I don't have the time is all. Given I'd rather have a chat with Fluttershy while she is still available."

Fluttershy?

You looked around. Behind you was a small bridge, and ahead of you was Fluttershy's door to her cottage. He dropped you right at her front door. You started to feel a little nervous. This was one of the ponies you really wanted to meet. "S-so, what are we doing here exactly?"

Discord gave you a gentle and relaxing head rub. running his talons gently through your mane. It was as if he wanted you to calm down. "A visit of course. Any opportunity I have to visit Fluttershy, I shall take it. Besides, I want her to meet you."

You found yourself gently pushing your head into his talons until you realized you were enjoying it's relaxing feel. Irking you just enough to slowly pull away. "You mean to boast to her"

Discord shook his head "Oh no no, not to Fluttershy. I'd rather her just see what a great and loving draconequus I can be. That I'm not only capable of friendship with other ponies, but can transcend into fatherhood successfully without a hitch. Which is why I need you, Anon. To be on your very best behavior."

"Like with Twilight?"

Discord shook his head "No no, just be more natural, yet nice. Courteous. Because Anon.." suddenly his voice became hard and intimidating "If Fluttershy so much as has a single tear in her eyes, we'll see how hard that head is . By testing a drop from Cloudsdale. Alright? Capesh? Understaaaaaand?"

You gulped "Y-yeah...got it" Hrn… The complete opposite of Twilight. Even if he was being scary about it. He really did care about Fluttershy in his own way. Frighteningly so it seems.

Suddenly, he went back to jovial and lighthearted "Splendid, now you wait here until I call for you. I want it to be a surprise. Ohhhh..I can't wait for her to find out..now..ahrm ahrm"

You stepped a few steps back to conceal yourself near a bush while Discord knocked on the door after clearing his throat.

It didn't take long. But Fluttershy opened the door for him. and greeted him with a cheerful smile "Good afternoon Discord, It's quite a surprise to see you. How are you doing today?"

Oh man, you could see it from here. She was soooooo cute. And her voice. Hearing it in person made the rest of the pain in your head vanish as it soothed your brain.

"I'm doing fine Fluttershy, you are doing well too, I assume?" Discord asked. Wow..what a 180 on his fucking manners.

Fluttershy nodded "Ohhh yes, I'm alright. Even better to know you are fine. I thought that lecture Twilight had given made you angry and upset. I'm glad to see you're doing ok" She flew up to him and gave him a gentle hug.

Holy crap. He was like a damned puppy. He wasn't pulling any kind of tricks whatsoever. Hilarious really.

Discord returned the hug and gave her a soft smile "Well, it was quite a lot of order for a chaotic spirit such as myself to take in at once. But giving it enough time. It actually sank in."

Fluttershy seemed overjoyed by that remark "Really? That's wonderful Discord. I'm sure you'll be able to make all kinds of new friends if you follow everything Twilight had told you"

Discord slowly walked past her, then turned. His face seeming unsure "Ahh yes, about that. As I thought to myself about all this. I realized even with my new found knowledge. Not many ponies would forget all that nasty business with Tirek."

Fluttershy frowned "Well… I guess not. But Discord, I'm sure they'd come around if you showed them how good you really are like you show me"

"Ahh Fluttershy, how long would that take? Days...weeks...months..........years. No, I wouldn't be able to take it. So, I opted to take on an innocent soul who doesn't know anything of treachery or lies..."

Oh here we go. I guess he actually isn't above lying to her...for the most part.

Fluttershy didn't seem to understand "Discord? What do you mean by that?"

“It's exactly what I say... To prove I'm capable of friendship..I needed to take a step beyond. Into fatherhood to be exact. So… I adopted a son. Anon, will you come out here please?" That was your cue.

You popped out of the bushes with a smile. "Hi miss Fluttershy! I'm Anon!" You gave her a cute smile. You weren't faking this time. You really wanted to lay on some charm of your own.

However… her reaction… she stuttered… then fainted.

"...Oh shit...uhhh...was that supposed to happen?" You didn't expect that!

Discord curled his beard on his talon, unsure of what just happened "I actually have no idea. hrnnn...Perhaps she was overly stimulated from joy"

You doubted it. "Yeah no Dis..hmm..Dad...I don't think she was able to fully comprehend that you just went out and adopted a child just because you felt inadequate."

"What's to comprehend? Seems simple to me… In any case, I don't want her mane to get dirty so..." Discord snapped his fingers. Causing a bucket of water to appear over fluttershy and dropping water on her face, albeit the water was slow moving as and very deliberate in it's movement to cause shock without getting her face too wet. Discord didn't want her to be soaked and cold.

"AHH WHO WHAT..Umm...uh...what was I doing?" Fluttershy said as she awoke in a shock and looked around. Noticing a bucket suddenly in your mouth.
Even you hadn't noticed until you felt metal between your teeth. You quickly spit it out and smile nervously at her. "Haha… Hi..."

She wasn't fully oriented yet, and just gently replied back to you before looking at Discord. "Oh my...I didn't mean to fall asleep like that. And I had the oddest dream too. That you told me you adopted a son."

Discord smiled happily "Oh that wasn't a dream Fluttershy. I really did do that. And that’s him" He pointed towards you.

You introduced yourself again. "U-uhm… Hi… I'm Anon"

Fluttershy just looked back to Discord in a panic "Di-Discord. Please tell me you didn't adopt a colt just because you felt you couldn't make a friend...."

Discord nodded "I did exactly that… And there he is, the colt, my son. I don't see why you have to question it."

Fluttershy flew up to him, unsure, and worried "But Discord… raising a child is a big big big BIG responsibility. They are very impressionable and require tender loving care. Don't you think you are taking things a little too far? ...Just a smidge?"

Discord frowned. This time, it seemed genuine. a lot more than it was with Twilight. But still, a hint of dishonesty. "Fluttershy...You don't think that I'm incapable of raising this poor colt? this little foal who was cast aside to suffer."

Fluttershy seemed to have felt a jolt in her heart. She didn't want anyone to suffer "It's not that Discord… I think you could make a wonderful father… Just, not so soon. Not with a rash decision… And of course I'd never want anypony to suffer from anything like that..."

Your heart sank. She seemed so saddened that Discord would make such a decision. Not even knowing the whole truth of it. You walked up to her and nuzzled her… She was so soft. You just wanted to put her at ease.

"Don't worry miss Fluttershy, Dad is great! I think he's the best dad I ever had..."

Fluttershy looked down at you. To her, you seemed very loving. She kneeled a bit to nuzzle you back… oh man… oh~ man… so~ good and soft.

"Oh my...you are very sweet." Fluttershy giggled softly, already feeling a little perked up from your affection and those words "Do you really like your new father?"

You gave her a cute happy nod. The whole ensemble you had on really helped bring it home.
"Yup! He feeds me and plays with me..."

Heh… Plays with you alright… Not in the best ways… "And he's even helping me make friends myself!" Forcing… but again… whatever… you just wanted to perk up her mood. You didn't even notice you were blushing a little.

Fluttershy suddenly seemed overjoyed "Even helping you make new friends?" She turns to Discord "Discord...I don't know what to say. You really took Twilight's words to heart!I'm very very proud of you."

Discord gave her the happiest smile you've ever seen him give. "Fluttershy..Don't say things like that. You'll make my heart melt and possibly drown half of the town..."

Fluttershy gave him another hug "Oh Discord, don't make silly jokes like that. I'm being serious. I am very proud of you."

"Thank you Fluttershy..." Discord said with a soft quiver in his voice

Holy crap...what a sap. You can see a tear coming from his eye before it fell… upwards… Yeah ok. Still… it was a sweet scene. It actually was good to see him happy.

Fluttershy flew back down to you and gave you a joyful smile "Are you enjoying your time here in Ponyville, Anon?"

That smile… Oh god, your heart… Play it cool Anon. You realize, even if you wanted her. Discord would rip you limb to limb if you tried anything funny...besides..you were too young now.

You let out a nervous giggle. "Oh it's umm… pretty nice. I haven't got to see much of it yet. But Applebloom is going to be giving me a tour tomorrow morning! I really really can't wait!" You really really could wait…

Fluttershy again seemed overjoyed "How wonderful! You already made friends here. And with Applebloom too. She's a very sweet filly." She turned to Discord "you must be so proud, Discord!"

Discord actually didn't seem to care too much… Or maybe he did… You couldn't tell. But he gave her a thumbs up.

"Oh..and you'll be able to make more friends once Discord enrolls you in school. You'll like Miss Cheerilee, she's a fine teacher." ...Oh yeah, she was alright. One of the high ups on your side pony list.

"hehe, I just hope she can keep up with me...I'm pretty smart you know" You gave a wink

Fluttershy giggled "I'm sure you are. Are you good at math?"

You snickered. "Am I? Well...162 times 150 is 24300..isn't it?"

Fluttershy seemed puzzled "..u-uuhhm..." She turned to Discord.

Discord made numbers appeared and essentially did things like a magical calculator. coming to that answer "He's right"

Fluttershy… was now very impressed and began to rub your head gently with her hoof… oh man. It took everything in your power not to fall over and drool. You couldn't stop your blushing however… oh… it was so soothing.

"Discord, He's so smart and charming. And, I can already sense a little of him in you"

Discord seemed a little worrisome of that comment "That's not a bad thing? Is it?"

Fluttershy shook her head "No, It means he's confident. I can't imagine how it was in an orphanage… And I know.. how it is not to be confident sometimes. So to see you.." She turned to you "showing confidence shows me that your father is doing very well… I'm very proud."

Awww...she's so sweet and understanding. No wonder Discord bends to her. She's really the only pony who seems to believe in him through and through. "...would you be my mommy?"

Fluttershy Gasped, Discord seemed surprised. Oh shit… You just realized what you said. WHY DID YOU SAY THAT?!

Fluttershy gave you a hug "Oh Anon, that's so sweet...mnn..How about this. Since me and Discord are good friends..I wouldn't mind being your Aunt." She turns to Discord "If you don't mind of course."

Discord stammered a little "Me? Mind? o-of course not. I think it's a great idea. If I do say so myself."

Fluttershy giggled and patted your head "Then it's settled. If you will let me, I will be your Aunt Fluttershy from now on."

That...made you very happy. That was good enough. You gave her a hug of your own. "Thanks F..ahrm...Aunt Fluttershy. You made me even happier than I am now"

"You're very welcome Anon, and if you want to visit. My door is open anytime." Fluttershy, she was so damn quick to accept you and Discord's fatherhood. It really showed how much she cared about him really, and his feelings.

Discord made a loud throat clearing noise. "Yes, yes. I think it's great too. But me and Anon must be going. Still many things to do for his first day here."

Fluttershy just smiled and gave you one small pat before she flew up to Discord. "Alright then, it was very nice having you over Discord. And you too Anon. You both have a good day, and… Congratulations Discord… I am truly proud of you."

She gave him a very affectionate hug as she nuzzled her muzzle into his chest. Discord couldn't seem to help himself when he warmly smiled "T-thank you Fluttershy, I appreciate that. I really do."

It was touching. Even if he lied about how the adoption went down. He genuinely cared about Fluttershy. Seeing it happen face to face. You were sure of it now. The guy would risk his life for her at this point.

You all say your goodbyes as Fluttershy re-enters her home and Discord takes you back to his house. You look up at him with a smile. "Heh, That went pretty well, right Dad?"

Discord looks at you with a stern, mean look.

...Oh shit… What did you do?

Chapter 9

You both warp back to Discord's house.

As you both appear. You've already straight lost it as you find yourself uncontrollably laughing.
Discord is looking somber. He just huffs. And looks down at your laughing form. "I'm going to bed Anon"

That just made you laugh all the more. You just giggle and slam your hoof on the floor as Discord hovers through his own door like a ghost. You slow your laughter into giggles and titters. Until you manage to stop. And take a look at his door.

"...hmmnn.." You actually felt a little bad for laughing. But at the same time you reasoned with yourself that it was fine. Discord himself needed to be brought down a peg after messing with you for so long. Still... "...mmm...I wonder what this place even looks like"

You hop up on a couch. It's surprisingly… hard, and lumpy. Or maybe that shouldn't be surprising. You place your hooves on the windowsill and look out the window to help get whatever guilt you had out of your mind. "Geez… It's like some crazy video game dimension out there.."

You see floating islands. Water and even lava flowing every which way. Trees growing upside down and various strange creatures and eldritch horrors flying about.

"...Maybe running out the door wasn't the best idea....geez...glad Discord warped me to the castle..." You continued to stare for awhile. Then back at Discord's door. "...hmmnnn. Eh, I won't let it bother me."

You shrugged off any remaining feelings and looked up at your door. It was still open. "hrn...I wonder"

You shook your rump as you prepared to make a jump "up the stairs"
You jump up. And gravity shifts as you fall upwards into your room....and then downwards onto the floor of your room… onto your head.

"Ngh..geez!..ugh...I guess I deserved that one" You got up and shook your head and gave it a small rub.

You got up on your bed and splayed yourself flat on top of it. It was...comfy. Wow, Discord actually made it comfy… And it was warm. It was an unnatural but very comfortable warmth.
You looked to the right at the bookshelf. It had more books than before. History texts? Math books? And some Equestrian literature among the Daring Do books. Hmm… You wondered why those were there.

You reached over and clamped your hooves on the first Daring Do book and immediately drop it. "Dammit..come on, you can get used to this whole earth pony thing Anon.."

You got off the bed and looked down at the book. You clamped your hooves on it again but it slipped and hit your face. "Agh! Stupid book! I didn't want to read you anyway!"

You huffed and hopped back onto your bed and looked at the ceiling, annoyed. "...I wish I was a unicorn. At least I'd be able to do some normal human things with magic… maybe toss hadoukens… see if rubbing it makes it feel good..."

You roll about, unable to sleep. You were now thinking of the whole tour thing. "And taking a tour? I know the town… Maybe not my way around, but there’s the schoolhouse, Sweet Apple Acres, Sugarcube Corner, town hall, Carousal Boutique, Twilight’s huge fucking castle… and ehhh, some houses, and a place that sells mattresses and quills… and… umm, some stalls… more houses..."

You took a breath. "Also… I lack a cutie mark. Meaning that’s probably all I'm really gonna hear about. ugh, I'm not a baby. Uhh… but I can't really say no. I said a lot of shlock to Applebloom that'd make me look like a real schmuck to her if I flaked out."

You turn to the side. "It'll be fine. It could be fun. Who am I to know, huh? I mean, this is the new world! Equestria! Who knows what can happen?...mmnn..."

You thought about Discord again. "......sorry for laughing at you...I guess..." With that, your eyes begin to grow heavy.

You didn't even need to get in the quilts. the magical warmth that enveloped you from the bed was enough to keep you soothed and comfortable.

The night passes to the day. In your sleep, you can feel a prod and a poke, making you jerk and slowly awaken. "Dad..don't do that..that's annoying.."

You feel more poking. "Dad stop, come on."

"Dad? is he alright Applebloom?"

you feel more shaking, and voices… "Ah dunno, ah hope he wasn't sleeping in the clubhouse all night. It gets really cold"

"...Dad?" you murmured

"Boy, he sure is a heavy sleeper.."

Those voices...those weren't Discord. You immediately open your eyes. Seeing three familiar fillies over you.

"GYAAAH!" You jump backwards and drag yourself along your back to a corner. "WHAT ARE YOU ALL DOING IN MY ROOM?!"

All three of them. Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. Were confused and looked around until Applebloom looked at you as if you were a little nuts. "Your room? Anon...this is our clubhouse."

What?! You look around, nothing was familiar. Actually scratch that. It was..but it wasn't your room. "....Of course he would have done that… Why not..." You calm down and rest your back along the wall.

Sweetie Belle looks to Applebloom and whispers "Is he ok? You didn't give him the clubhouse did you?"

Applebloom shook her head "Nah, I didn't. Ah just wonder why he thought we were his dad."

Scootaloo chimed in "Maybe he's craaaaaaazy"

You point to Scootaloo and react angrily "Hey! I heard that!"

Scootaloo snapped back "Well you know this place isn't yours right? You can't just take it you know!"

"I didn't take it! I just ended up here! I Thought it was my room!" You and Scootaloo locked eyes. You were still angry that Discord just threw you into the wolves...err....fillies. Without even a "Good morning" or a breakfast.

Applebloom got in the middle of both your gazes "Hey now, ah think this might just be one biiiig misunderstanding. There's no need to fight."

Sweetie Belle nodded "Besides, you can't fight the customer...then he won't want to take the tour!"

Scootaloo suddenly calmed herself and blinked, realizing her own foolishness "Oh right..haha..I forgot"

...You can't be serious with this…

"Anon, what are ya doin here anyway?" Applebloom asked you

"I dunno, I was sleeping on my bed. And then I woke up here."

Sweetie Belle rubbed the bottom of her muzzle "Sudden changes in locations? That sounds like a mystery to me."

Scootaloo joined in "Yeah, that's really weird. I've never heard of something like that happening"

Sweetie Belle went into deep thought "Hrmmm… Maybe if we can solve the mystery! We can get our Cutie Marks in Detectiv..viv..ing"

Scootaloo smiled and agreed "Yeah!"

Applebloom turned to them, gestured them to calm themselves "Hold on girls! We still gotta try being tour guides first!"

They both look to her. "Oh, right." They say at the same time.

You put a hoof to your face and shake your head. "...This is gonna be a long day."

Chapter 10

Applebloom stepped up a little past the other two to do some kind of "official" ...thing..or something. "Howdy Anon, Welcome to Cutie Mark Tours! We'll be your tour guides! I'm Applebloom, but ah… you already knew that.”

Sweetie Belle then stepped up and gave you a cute smile "And I'm Sweetie Belle, it's nice to meet you Anon. I'll give you the scoop on any place you really really wanna know about! Like the Carousel boutique!"

Then Scootaloo stepped up "And I'm Scootaloo...I uhh… umm… Applebloom… what was my line?"

Applebloom turned to her as sweetie belle did a facehoof, shaking her head "...Info on other ponies Scootaloo, Ya know, like Rainbow Dash"

Scootaloo nodded and laughed nervously "Oh right, eheh" She turned to you with and gave you a big smile "I do that."

Christ… They rehearsed it… and still failed. "Hello...girls..I guess. Um. I'm Anon, and I'm… your customer."

You didn't know what to say. You just went with it the best you can. The faster you get it over with. the better. Sweetie Belle went and opened the door out of the clubhouse as Applebloom and Scootaloo led you out.

Applebloom noting your less than enthused expression. "Come on Anon, ya don't have to be scared. We'll make sure nothin' bad happens to you."

Scared… Right. Well… at least they weren't being assholes. You thought maybe you should lighten up. They didn't know any better. They didn't know you're real self. And at least they were trying. I mean hell, you watched enough episodes. You knew they were given hell by two fucking assholes for not having tattoos on their fucking asses.

You took a small breath. "Yeah, I guess I am a little nervous. Ponyville is really new to me. I just don't want to get lost. Thanks for the tour, by the way."

Applebloom smile became brighter from your words "Well we won't let nothin', and ah mean nothin', happen to ya! Ain't that right girls?”

All four of you walked out as Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle agreed with Applebloom. "And besides, I've been getting better with my magic. If anything happens. I'm sure I can handle it." Sweetie Belle said, a hint of arrogance in her voice as she looked up proudly.

"And I know a few moves I learned from Rainbow Dash, I may not be able to fly yet. But I can fight! So don't worry about any bad guys showing up! You're safe with us!" Scootaloo gave a small buck and flitted her wings for a short hovering kick.

Ok… That's kind of cute. You doubted there was any danger. But, they were dedicated. And didn't want you to be hurt. It was endearing to say the least. They marched in front of you as you kept pace. It was a little difficult as you weren't 100% on actual long distance walking. And they were going on a vigorous pace. The three of you stop by at Sweet Apple Acres… again. You can see Big Mac working in the distance.

Applebloom spoke up first "This here is Sweet Apple acres! This is where the Apples-"

You stop her, raising your hoof "Umm.. Applebloom. I already know about this place. I was here yesterday, remember?"

Applebloom blushed and smiled, she forgot about that. "Eheh.. oops."

Sweetie Belle hopped up "that means you get to see the Carousal boutique next! come on!" She hopped up and started leading the way ahead of the rest of you.

You stifled a chuckle. Ok, watching them on TV was a little annoying. But actually being part of it was cute and nice. You could actually really get the vibes that they are trying their best.
You all arrive at Rarity's as Sweetie Belle rushes up and points to it with her hooves, putting on a big smile.

"This is the Carousal Boutique, Anon! The very center of fashion and style in all of Equestria! Ponies from all around come here to see my sister, Rarity! Hold your applause! Because you have yet to see the wonders that lay inside!" Sweetie Belle then looked to Applebloom and Scootaloo "How was that?”

They both clopped their hooves together. "Perfect!"

Sweetie Belle suddenly panicked. "No, I said hold your applause! HOLD YOUR APPLAUSE!"

You chuckled. These three...geez. This isn't nearly as bad as you thought. Sweetie Belle noticed your chuckle and seemed to have thought you weren't impressed. And tried a recovery "Ahrmm.. Umm. A-anyway... Why don't we take a step inside? Shall we?"

Sweetie Belle opened the door slowly. Then she suddenly looked to you with a serious face. "Oh… Anon..Dooooooooon't touch anything ok? I don't want my sister to get upset."

You raised your hoof to make a "ok" gesture… But you didn't have fingers, so you just sorta waved. "Gotcha."

The four of you go inside. And what you see is nothing short but perfection in the art of style… Well, that's what you thought. But what the hell do you know? It's not like you knew shit about pony style. Mannequins in various dresses,saddles, and hats. Threads,spindles, chests, and various high quality material as far as the eye can see.

You looked around. You wanted to touch some of the material to feel it's quality. But Sweetie Belle warned you not to. And if Rarity was around... "This is pretty amazing stuff. Looking at all these clothes. I kinda hope your sister can make me an outfit one day… Speaking of, is she here?"

Sweetie Belle shook her head "Nope, she's busy collecting gems with Spike. But if you’re thinking of touching anything, don't. My sister can tell if something got touched… truuuusst me."

Right...ugh. but the urge was growing each time it was mentioned. You inched over to a dress that seemed to be a work in progress. As Sweetie Belle started to lose herself in some sort of History speech of the boutique. Scootaloo and Applebloom, lost themselves at looking at a few of the dresses.

You eye the dress. It had a nice sun bonnet with a blue ribbon. Hoof sleeves seemed incomplete. The dress itself was blue as well, with some blue sparkly gems on it. But it didn't seem complete.

You take a swift look around. Nopony is paying attention… You stare at it more intently as you bring your hoof slowly towards it. Just one touch… One touch…

You gently rub your hoof along the side of the dress ...Oh… Good lord… So soft, clean… smooth… silky… You may not know what is truly high quality, but this… this had to be the highest quality regardless.

"......and so now that my sister is partnered with Sapphire Shores. That makes bus-..Anon, are you paying attention?" Sweetie Belle looks over to you.

Oh shit!

You quickly turn around and salute. "Y-yup! was just looking at this dress. I-it looks pretty nice."

Scootaloo moved closer to you to take a look at it herself. She didn't seem impressed. "Anon… it's not even done yet. It doesn't even look that good."

Sweetie Belle giggled at that remark. "Scootaloo, if my sister heard you say that. She'd probably use you as a pin cushion or something. Haha!"

All three of them giggled. You escaped notice....you also saw nothing funny about being used as a "pin cushion". But chuckled anyway as to not seem contrary.

"My turn My turn! Get ready Anon, We're going to the greatest spot in ALL of Ponyville!"

"Twilight's castle?"

Scootaloo shook her head, then made some sort of heroic pose… thing "Ppfft, no! We’re going to the house of the greatest pony who ever lived EVER!" She suddenly hopped up in excitement "RAINBOW DASH!"

Somehow this tour was seeming less like a tour and more like a "Let's go visit these fillies favorite places" sorta thing. You also felt the urge to say "Rainbow Dash isn't so great". both to see Scootaloo's reaction and because she was topcunt… But you kept your mouth shut. You didn't want to ruin their fun.

You followed them once again. You were trying to remember… Was Rainbow Dash's house in Ponyville? You remember it being off to the side of the town..but whatever. Not like you knew the city limits.

You actually started thinking of the dicktastic duo. You kind of wanted to try putting them in your place. You wondered how much you could get away with. You couldn't hit them. No doubt hitting Diamond Tiara would lead into some terrible repercussions due to her rich father. Cursing at them? No… they'd just call you a stupid silly poneanderthal. Shit… Fuck, you got nothing.

Applebloom noticed you lost in thought and inched slowed down to walk alongside you. "You ok Anon? you aren't bored, are ya?”

You shook your head. "Nah, just thinking about a few things. Sorry if I don't seem like I'm enjoying myself. I'm not the type to just hop around all excited."

Applebloom noted this, and looked deeper into your eyes "But ya are enjoyin' the tour, right?" You nod. making her beam, beam, beam.

"Yeah!... but" She tilted her head in confusion “Why do ya look like yer not enjoyin' yourself then, is what ya thinking about bad or somethin'?" She suddenly frowned "Yer not thinking about yer parents are ya? yer real ones?"

You shook your head, and gave her a smile. "Nah, just thinking of some things to do now that I'm in Ponyville. There's a lot of things I wanna do. Things I'd never thought I'd get the chance to do… ever. It's overwhelming."

Applebloom gave you a small nudge with her body "No worries Anon, if ya ever need anything or wanna do somethin' the Cutie Mark Crusaders will be there! We wouldn't mind at all if ya hung out with us… You know, it'd be a lot simpler if you were a Cuuuutie Mark Crusader. Don'tcha think?"

You look at her, and hold back a sigh. She was persistent. Maybe it wouldn't be such a bad thing. Even if you couldn't get your Cutie Mark. You wouldn't have to worry about not having any friends or being alone. Even if you were smarter than them. They were positive, endearing, cute, and they didn't hate you… That last part being a definite plus.

You chuckle. "I'll think about it Applebloom."

You give her a reassuring smile. It seems to fill her with energy as she skips and hops ahead to tell her two friends that you might as well have said yes… even if you didn't. You laugh again though. this was a huge contrast to human children. it was comical.

Scootaloo seemed to get more excited with every step. "Come on! We're almost there!"

You look back, yup. The town was beind you. Not too far off. But enough. You look ahead, and you could already see it. Rainbow Dash's ridiculously nice looking cloud house.

You all eventually finally arrive. Scootaloo takes her turn as she stands under RD's house and points straight up "Ahrm.. Witness, Anon, the greatness that is RAINBOW DASH… 's house."

You look up, it was pretty great. You whistle to it's beauty and splendor "Wow, I gotta admit. It's really something to see."

Scootaloo smirked and nodded "Of course it is, It's the greatest place ever! And you’re in for a treat Anon, Because I happen to know Rainbow Dash is here, right now!"

That… seemed irksome. "How do you know that, Scootaloo? did you follow her or something?"

Scootaloo nodded. "Yuuuup!"

...Creepy. "So, am I gonna get to meet her or something? I dunno, I don't feel like I should, she's pretty great." You just didn't want to meet her at all. Not at all. You actually wanted to go to Sugarcube Corner.

Scootaloo waved her hoof at you "Don't worry Anon, Rainbow Dash is super cool. You're gonna love her, trust me!"

...Right.

Sweetie Belle looked up "How are you going to get her attention Scootaloo? it's not like we can't fly up there."

Scootaloo suddenly froze up, then looked down, saddened "...Oh right… I… didn't think of that."

Applebloom however, stepped between them and smiled "Ah know! If we all hollar, she's sure to hear us and come down!"

Scootaloo then perked up. "Great idea Applebloom! Yeah! Let's do it!"

...Oh christ. Before they even line up, you put your head down and cover your ears. This was going to hurt.

"RAINBOW DASH! RAINBOW DASH! RAINBOW DASH!" They yelled. All three in unison.

You could still hear it… oyyyggghhh.

Then, you hear it. They began to cheer. You slowly look up as you see it. The flying blue blur, the toppest of cunts herself.

Rainbow Dash!

Chapter 11

Rainbow Dash wasted no time upon exiting her home as she hovered in place for a moment. And then plummeted down at a sudden ridiculous velocity. The fillies gasped, but of course… you knew better.

Rainbow Dash, despite her quick speed, manages to stop on a dime right before hitting the ground and gently plants her front hooves first. And then looks at the fillies with a smirk "Did somepony call for me? Heheh"

The three cheered at the "amazing" sight. Scootaloo greeting her immediately and asking how she managed to stop so suddenly.

Rainbow Dash rubbed her front hoof on her chest and then nodded to herself with pride. "Easy, I just pushed my wings with enough force to stop my fall right in time. I know, It was awesome. But what do you expect when it's me?"

You rolled your eyes. You were sure other pegasi could do that. The three fillies however were all over her like white on rice after that display.

"Woah woah, hehe. Calm down girls. relax. Trust me, you want to save all that energy when I perform at the Friendship Fair....whenever Twilight gets that set up." Dash said.

Friendship Fair? hrn....You wondered if that was what Twilight was working on when you had visited her with Discord. She did seem busy.

"Are you going to the castle right now Rainbow Dash?" Scootaloo looked up to her with lost eyes, she was a fanatic "You don't have to go right now, right? We want you to meet somepony!"

Rainbow Dash looked around, and spotted you sitting away while you just looked at her. "Oh hey… a little colt. Let me guess," Rainbow Dash looked down at the three "Got ya a new member to the club huh? Weird, never seen him before."

Applebloom took a moment to trot behind and suddenly push you closer to the group.

"H-hey, what are you doing?!" You protest.

"Come on Anon, we didn't bring ya to just sit away from us. Come on and meet Rainbow Dash."

You tried to push yourself in the opposite direction. But damn, Applebloom was strong for a girl. "I-I'm fine where I'm at! Come on!"

You struggled to no avail as Applebloom pushed you right up to Rainbow Dash… God fucking dammit. Now you had to talk to her.

Rainbow Dash just looked down at you, and her cocky smirk turned to a softer smile "Yo, you don't have to be shy ya know. I won't bite. So what's your name, squirt?"

"It's Anon." You just look up at her with unsure eyes. If you had to be this close to her. You had to continue your "actor" role for now.

Rainbow Dash seemed confused by that name "Anon? what? Never heard that kind of name before. Where ya from?"

"Phillydelphia"

Rainbow Dash looked puzzled by that statement as she looked around. "A little far away from home, ain't ya?"

Applebloom chimed in "He's an orphan who recently got adopted! So, he's livin' in Ponyville now! Isn't that great?! "

Rainbow Dash nodded in agreement, and wraped her leg around you and brought you closer for a quick hug "You bet that's great. Ponyville is one of the greatest places in Equestria...Mainly because I live there, but ya know. That's obvious." Then she looked down at you "So, Anon. You’re just in time. I'm in a really good mood. And I wouldn't mind showing you and the others a trick I've been working on for the fair."

Scootaloo once again, got excited. She was elated that she was going to get a personal first peak at Rainbow Dash's show. "Really Rainbow Dash?! You'd show us?"

" Let's just call it a special "Welcome to Ponyville" present" Rainbow Dash winked "Of course, gotta generate some super awesome hype somehow. Besides, I think Anon could use a little Rainbow Dash in his life."

You wanted to sigh. But you didn't. You didn't want to cause any trouble. You also came to the realization that you knew an entire board of people who would have creamed themselves to hear that statement from the pone herself.

You minced your words. And did your best to speak without sounding frustrated. "You're too kind Rainbow Dash… I'd love to see this trick. Being an orphan, I don't get to see a lot of cool things..."

The truth was you could care less. You were never a fan of any kind of air show and you've seen enough fireworks to last you a lifetime. Things didn't change. RD to you was just a meatbag replacement for an airplane with a grating personality. And you've watched the show enough times that even personally seeing her drop from her house to the ground was nothing special. No, you more appreciated Music, Art, Magic… and fire and explosions.

"Ohhhhhhh boy, you all are in for something super duper AWESOME!" Rainbow Dash shakes her flank as she positions herself to jet off into the sky. "...and..away..I..GO!"

She sprang off, with enough force that the grass spread from the small shockwave she generated. You all looked up at her as she started to fly about in the clouds until they started to follow her like lost kittens. She maintained a breakneck speed as she occasionally made a sharp U-turn to bounce and kick the clouds following her to combine them together as they continuously gave chase until they became that of a snake.

Rainbow Dash then suddenly flew upwards in a quick burst of speed, leaving the snake cloud behind as she looped behind it and flew through it. Opening it up like a pipe. And she continued to do this, sometimes spinning like a drill through it.

Eventually the clouds started to turn dark and stormy. The CMC ooohhh'd and ahhh'd While Sweetie Belle got a little extra worried and called out for RD to be careful. Scoots of course was so riveted it looked like she was going to shit herself.

You just stared. You just couldn't get excited for this. Perhaps it was bias. Perhaps not. But it just didn't captivate you.

Soon enough however, the cloud was shooting off lightning every which way. And yet RD passed through each time, unharmed. You looked over at the CMC. Each one now were getting worried and scared. With one final pass, Rainbow Dash once again, hit a ridiculous speed as the cloud started to burst from behind you. Creating spark balls that exploded in mid air. And once she reached the tip of the cloud pipe. It exploded with a huge shocking blast that sent sparks flying everywhere. It was a giant fireworks show that made the CMC cheer in wonder and delight… meh… you could have done that if you were a unicorn. Besides. You've seen fireworks do all of that except for the electric orb thing.

Rainbow Dash slowed down and gently brought herself back down to the earth. and gave all four of you an arrogantly prideful grin ".....And that's what I call "shock and awe". ehehe" She giggled at her own pun.

"THAT WAS AMAZIN'!" Applebloom called out

"I DIDN'T EVEN KNOW THAT WAS POSSIBLE! THAT WAS AWESOME!" Cried out Sweetie Belle

"ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE WHEN IT'S RAINBOW DASH! WOOOOO!" Cheered Scootaloo

"....ummm… yup, that was pretty cool." You didn't sound nearly as enthused as your fellow peers.

Scootaloo immediately took notice and took offense as well "Pretty cool?! PRETTY COOL?!" She hopped over to you and flailed her front hooves upwards like a mad man, looking at you with crazy excited eyes "THAT WAS ONE OF THE MOST AMAZING THINGS EVER! HOW COULD YOU NOT GET EXCITED?!"

You gulped, holy shit. you had to lean back as to not be hit by her flailing limbs. "Hey relax, it was just pretty cool to me. Besides, uhhm… umm… you know..I..I haven't eaten. Kind of hard to get excited when you’re hungry… you know?"

Scootaloo immediately calmed down hearing that. Boy she felt silly. "Oh… why didn't you eat breakfast?"

"....I...didn't get the chance."

Rainbow Dash was overhearing the conversation and had noted your lack of enthusiasm. She was up to something as she stepped up to the two of you "tch, or maybe you saw a flaw the others didn't see. Alright then, I think it's time for a little classic. Anon, are you ready… for the… SONIC RAINBOOM?!"

Scootaloo jumped up and cheered "YEAH! SHE'S GONNA DO A SONIC RAINBOOM!"

...That wasn't going to do anything. But why not. You should at least experience her signature move. "Yeah, sure. Let's see it."

While the others were unaffected. Scootaloo seemed shocked that you were so nonchalant about this. And Rainbow Dash herself seemed a little shocked that you weren't jumping up and down. "Do you know a pony named Maud by any chance?"

...Oh god… come on, you weren't that stoic were you?

You shook your head "Nope."

Rainbow Dash pointed to the sky "Look, just make sure to look right there. Because that's the point where I'll hit the "AWESOME" and magic will happen. Trust me, once you see this...you'll wonder what you have been doing with yourself your whole life." Gee Dash, way to hype it up in a positive light.

"I'm ready." You kept your eye at the point Dash pointed to as she again prepped herself and flew to ridiculous heights. In the next moment, she went from going straight up, to straight down. And as she reached terminal velocity. She managed. Right at the point she had showed you. To break the sound barrier and produce the Sonic Rainboom.

Applebloom and Sweetie Belle of course cheered. But Scootaloo didn't. She was fixated on you, and the fact your dulled expression hadn't changed. You just weren't impressed. Even seeing the Sonic Rainboom in person. It was the same thing you saw a million times before. It was just a Sonic Boom with color. It wasn't really magical as it was just a natural occurrence with some of Rainbow's colory… thing.

When Rainbow Dash came near. You decided it was time to just clap and ACT excited. You just wanted her to be pleased so you could move on with the tour. You also hoped it'd please Scootaloo. Unbeknownst to you however. She can already see through your ruse.

"Woo! That was super amazing! Gee Rainbow Dash! That was the coolest thing ever!" You said in false delight

"I know, I know. I should have realized nothing can top the classics. Well, I gotta get going. I'm glad you all enjoyed the show. Now remember, don't tell anypony about my new trick. If anypony noticed from far away and asks about it. Just tell em I was just working on a local storm. Got it?" You all nodded. "Oh yeah, And Anon? Welcome to Ponyville. You're gonna love it here. Promise."

Well… ok. That was actually nice of her. Still. In anycase, you all say your goodbyes as Rainbow Dash hurries off to Twilight's castle.

"Well… that was really something, huh?” You mention

Sweetie Belle nodded "Yup! I can't believe we got to see a preview of one of her new tricks! See Anon, one of the perks of being a Cutie Mark Crusader is getting to see stuff like this."

Nice angle Sweetie Belle, but you weren't that easy. "Yeah, gotta admit. It's a great perk."

Applebloom however. when she peered over to Scootaloo. Noticed she didn't have a cheerful expression. and instead seemed fixated on you. "Scootaloo? What's the matter? Why ya lookin at Anon like that?"

Scootaloo said nothing as she walked up to you, and brought her face to yours. Looking dead center of your eyes,

You got nervous and blushed. W-was she going to kiss you?! You weren't ready for this! OH GOD!? "U-um..S-s-scootaloo?"

But she didn't kiss you. Instead, she spoke. Her voice sharp as daggers "You weren't excited at all, were you?"

......Wut?

"Huh?"

"Don't play dumb. I was looking at you during the Sonic Rainboom. You didn't even smile. or get blown away or anything. You weren't blown away at all. So what gives?"

Oh shit… she was looking at you? Fuck. You were sure she was looking in the sky the whole time. You step back to make some space between you and her. "I was just stunned I guess. I never saw anything like that before"

Applebloom and Sweetie Belle noticed their friend suddenly seemed agitated. Applebloom stepped closer to Scootaloo and grabbed her upper shoulder gently "Hey Scootaloo, relax. He looked excited to me."

"No, he wasn't. During the Rainboom he just looked at it like it was nothing! He insulted Rainbow Dash! He lied to her!"

Oh for fucks sake. She was going to make a big deal out of this?!

Applebloom looked to you "Is...that true Anon?"

...No hiding it now. Scootaloo caught you. You took a breath. "Yeah it's true...look, I don't see why it's a big deal. I just wasn't impressed. Aren't I entitled to that opinion?"

Applebloom nodded "Well yeah, I'd think so. It's just… kinda odd you would lie about it, I guess"

Sweetie Belle then stepped in "I know! You just didn't want to insult anypony. Right Anon?"

that was part of it yeah. Sounded good anyway. So you nodded. That should end it right there...
it didn't.

"How could you not be impressed?! Everypony who is anypony is impressed by the Sonic Rainboom! Heck, that was THE big reason Rainbow Dash and her friends got their cutie marks! It's that amazing Anon, so how could you?!"

Applebloom tried to calm her friend down "Hey Scootaloo, ya gotta relax. Anon just ain't impressed by it. Sometimes somepony’s got different tastes. No reason to get all bent outta shape."

Scootaloo looked to Applebloom in anger "But it's Rainbow Dash! He lied to her too! And he did it so easily, What if he's lying about other things?!"

Sweetie Belle joined in in trying to calm her down. "Come on, Scootaloo. Don't you think you're overreacting a little? You heard him. He just didn't want to hurt anypony's feelings."

You nodded along. "Yeah, I mean. Look how bent out of shape you are Scootaloo. I saw how big you were into Rainbow Dash and I didn't want to upset you. I guess I failed at that, huh?" You tried to sound as sincere as possible to defuse the situation. And looking at Scootaloo, she seemed to be relenting. But she still looked upset.

"Yeah… Well, you shouldn't lie then..mnn. I just don't see how you couldn't be impressed..."

"Well, I am from Phillydelphia..haha..you know. Even my name is weird, hahahahaha!" You faked a big laugh to try to get her to chuckle. She didn't. "haha...ha...hrm..ahrm ahrm...u-umm"

Sweetie Belle interjected quickly "Aha! umm! Hey, You know what we all need? Some lunch. How about it everypony?! Doesn't that sound great? Didn't you say you were hungry Anon?"

Sweetie belle for the save. "Y-yeah, I didn't get any breakfast. Any place in mind?"

"Well, there's a hayburger place back in Ponyville. We can all go there for a bite to eat! You're hungry too. right Applebloom? Scootaloo?"

Applebloom nodded "I ahm sorta hungry after all that excitement. It might be what we need to cheer the mood up to. What about you Scootaloo?"

Scootaloo shook her head "No..I'm not that hungry. But if you wanna go. Don't let me stop you. I'll...umm" It took Scootaloo a moment, she was trying to think of a reason not to come along. "See if I can't check out what Rainbow Dash is doing. I wanna see more of her tricks."

Applebloom cocked and eyebrow and gave her a smile "Scootaloo, if you know all the tricks now, then how are ya gonna get excited for when she does em at the fair?"

Scootaloo shrugged "I'm not gonna look at all of them. Besides, maybe I can help with a few. I got some pretty good ideas."

Applebloom nodded "..I guess, just don't get in trouble or nothin' alright?"

Scootaloo nodded. In truth, she was just leaving because she didn't want to be around you at the moment. Petty reasons to be sure. You had an inkling that was it. But you believed she was just leaving for Rainbow Dash as well.

So the party split. Scootaloo headed for the castle while you followed Sweetie Belle and Applebloom to get some eats. You were internally begging for Discord to pick you up at some point. You didn't have any money. So you had to hope they had some to pay for you. But mostly, you just wanted to leave. Scootaloo being upset rubbed you the wrong way. You felt a little bad. But you couldn't get emotional. She was being a dipshit for stupid reasons. You couldn't give in. She should have learned to just respect your fucking decision. You weren't going to get all feelsy just because she got a screw loose. Rainbow Dash bought it at least. So you didn't have to get any shit from her. The other two though? You partially felt they defended you to keep the tour going strong. Gotta get them cutie marks.

As the three of you entered town. You looked around the area to take in the sights and marvel at the fact you were in a town full of talking equines. Though, you had gotten mostly used to it. You did feel a little bubble of excitement whenever you saw a BG character you recognized.

You also kept an eye out for Sugar Cube Corner, if anything. Meeting Pinkie herself would raise your spirits most definitely. And you were sure the others wouldn't protest. But alas you didn't see it along any the path. But you did see the burger joint. It was the one where Twilight was eating like a little pig.

Then suddenly. You can hear a voice coming from behind. It was familiar… enough to make your blood boil. "Well Well, if it isn't the Cutie Markless Cru-Failures!"

Chapter 12

The three of you turn. There they were. Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon at 6 o'clock.
These two...THESE TWO. These two were one of the reasons you even watched CMC episodes. You just wanted to see them get BTFO without recovery. But it never really happened..or worse. The CMC would even be lulled by them. You REAAALLLY REALLY HATED these two. You kept your cool however. If you just lost your shit now, then it'd seem awkward. Just… keep calm…

Diamond Tiara started to walk along the side as Applebloom and Sweetie Belle stopped.
"Whatyya want Diamond Tiara? Can't ya see we're busy?" Applebloom sneered, she wasn't at all pleased with their presence.

Diamond Tiara looked at your group then chuckled. "Oh nothing, I just noticed you're down a certain blank flank."

Silver Spoon walked along the other side, stopping next to you "Maybe she flew home… oh wait..."

They both started to laugh. You could already see Applebloom getting angry just from that remark. Sweetie Belle seemed to be surveying the situation. She just let Applebloom talk for now. "Ya take that back! Scootaloo is just elsewhere. That's all. Why can't ya'll just leave us alone?"

"Oh we would. I don't want to associate with you. But I noticed a new pony following you two around. A blank flank as well sadly, but that's because we think it's only from hanging around you two." Diamond remarked

Silver spoon nodded in agreeance "Yeah, we think he'd do much better if he was with us."

Sweetie Belle chimed in "Go away! We saw him first. Tell em Anon"

For once, You really wanted to join in, but you went into this cautiously. Now that you actually are encountering these two for real… You needed to assess the situation. "H-hey now, I don't even know these two. I mean. Why is everypony being so hostile all of a sudden?"

"Hostile? Us? We were just noticing that you were new, that's all. You don't even have a cutie mark." Diamond Tiara said as she eyed your flank. her voice less sharp when speaking about you.

"So what, are ya gonna make fun of him too? Come on, let's just go back" Applebloom said. But Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon cut her off a she began to turn.

"Don't be hasty Applebloom, we didn't come here to cause trouble. We just thought it was funny. I mean, didn't you know? You can't get your mark just because you have a cutie with you."

Silver Spoon stepped behind Diamond Tiara and looked over to you "Yeah, He's better off with us. If he just sticks with you then he'll just be a big loser."

Cutie?..right. You didn't even need to question it. Even if it sounded Gary Stu-ish. Discord made sure to make your form cute. If only to lull Fluttershy even more into the whole "Father Son" dealio. Seemed it might cause some other effects as well. Still… even then… not these two bitches.

"Hey, they aren't losers. They are pretty cool! I mean Sweetie Belle and Applebloom are related to the Elements of Harmony. That seems pretty cool to me." Ha, that should do it. They had a big boner for Princess Twilight. and the rest were pretty much her council. Here comes the win baby, yeah!

Diamond Tiara giggled at you and then walked slowly, giving you a bedroom stare before gently rubbing under your muzzle gently with her hoof. "Awww, how adorable. They've fooled you into thinking that actually means something. But in fact it just means they are even bigger losers since they don't even have anywhere close to the talent their sisters have. Scootaloo at least doesn't have to live with that shame. Don't worry… Anon, was it? We can offer you so much more than these walking jokes."

You blushed for a mere moment before stepping back. You immediately felt disgusted with yourself. Not only had your words backfired. But you actually felt a nuzzling warmth from her touch.

Applebloom and Sweetie Belle stepped in front of you. Sweetie Belle spoke… venom in her voice. "Step off Diamond Tiara, he doesn't want to go with you."

"So you say. Why don't you let him decide." She batted her eyelashes at you, and gave you a gentle, but cruel smile "Come on Anon, we can go have fun at the pool and have ice cream. And all the food you can eat. None of that slop these two were offering. Then we can maybe play some games… Doesn't that sound like fun?"

Silver Spoon stepped behind you away from Applebloom's and Sweetie Belle's view and gently rubbed her hoof along your spine "Come on Anon, we have money and power and all sorts of things. These losers don't have anything like we do. Just listen to what Diamond Tiara is saying and you'll realize how right she is. She's always right"

Ngh… dammit. At anytime, AT ANYTIME. Girls touching you would have been the bees knees. But fuck if this wasn't making you uncomfortable. Still… if playing a long didn't get these fucks away. Then you had to take a more direct approach. Because fuck them, you were going to see red and kill a niggapone if this kept up. No, it was time to do this like a goddamn human.

You gave a traitorous smile. "You know… you might be right. Maybe I should go with you two"

Diamond Tiara's own grin became vicious as she looked over to Applebloom and Sweetie Belle, who gasped in horror "Thought so… Nopony wants to hang out with losers"

You turn your gaze to Diamond Tiara completely. "I agree actually… but I am a pony who demands insight. I mean, if I don't hang out with you. How else will I know the level of degree of loserdom that you both have."

"Well… that can… Wait what?!" Diamond Tiara was caught by surprise. Silver spoon gasped at your impertinence to her friend. "What did you say to me?!"

You didn't falter. no, you weren't going to do this like some Saturday morning cartoon. It was time to crush them. "You heard me. for all of 3 minutes, being around you two made me realize I'd rather be around some sewage. At least that's cleaner."

Sweetie Belle and Applebloom stood in shock. Amazed by your words.

"How dare you! What gives you the right to talk like that to me? You're just blank flank gutter trash! Even you're name is stupid sounding!" Diamond Tiara barked with anger in her tone

You couldn't smile. You could feel your rage and arrogance compounding into one.

"I don't even care about my name or getting a cutie mark. Hate to break it to you. But I happen to think cutie marks are actually not that important. What I think what is important is my friends."

Diamond Tiara scoffed, but it was evident she was still pissed. "How stupid are you? He's stupid. Don't you think Silver Spoon?"

Her friend nodded "Yeah, I don't u-understand how anypony could think that" Silver Spoon was buckling. She could see you weren't being phased… she couldn't understand it. How could a pony not care about a cutie mark...you had to be rusing, she thought.

"Maybe I am… but at least i'm not black hearted, little stains who for all their worth need to have their daddy and mommy do things for them like freaking tumors. Oh, and that remark about Scootaloo… you best take that back"

"Or what? What are you going to do? You can talk all you want. But we are still better than you!" Diamond Tiara tried taking the offensive, Silver Spoon was getting more worried by the moment.

You gave… an intimidating evil smirk. When Applebloom and Sweetie Belle saw it. Internally, they didn't even recognize you. "I'll smash you to bits. I feel… it's been a long time coming. I don't even care that you are girls. I'll turn you both into pulp. I don't really care. So… take it back."

Silver Spoon shook and hid behind Diamond Tiara. She's never met a colt so violent sounding. "D-diamond...m-maybe we should apologize...I-I-"

Diamond Tiara looked at her, and growled "Don't be a wimp! He's obviously bluffing. Only an idiot would strike me!"

"Try me… Go ahead… Try me. I don't care who you are. I'm not the kind of guy you should be messing with" You've always wanted this. You hated bully characters so damn much… especially ones who never got their comeuppance… It was almost fetish-tier on the level of vengeance you had. You wondered if those from the board back at home felt the same.

Diamond Tiara smirked, and walked towards you "Heh, go ahead. Hit me. But once you do, my Daddy will have you shipped off to wherever you came from. It's obvious you aren't from Ponyville. We'll send you, and your parents down to the worst corners of Equestria if you even THINK of hitting me"

Oh… That’s rich… she didn't even realize your circumstances. Might as well let her in on it. "Ahh, I see. Well, it'd just be my dad then. I'm an orphan"

Diamond Tiara smirked at you, she was being arrogant "You think I care that you are an orphan? Pleeeease, you need to know your place. So why don't you back down, and go off with your stupid friends. Because I am not apologizing"

You don't even blink. "I'm gonna give you one last warning. Because I'm going to let you in on something. I… Don't… Care. You can't do anything to me and I can make you AND your friend into bloody punching bags."

Silver Spoon began to shake Diamond Tiara "Come on, let's get out of here! He's crazy!"

Diamond Tiara threw her off, knocking her down. No way she was gonna let anyone. especially some orphan no nothing. Bring her down. "Do you really think you're invincible? Do you even know who my daddy is?"

You chuckle, oh yes. Here it comes. "Do you know who mine is?"

She rolled her eyes. "Who? Doughnut Joe?"

You say it, in a cruelly quiet voice. "Discord..."

Everypony. Sweetie Belle, Applebloom, Silver Spoon, and now… even Diamond Tiara. Gasp in shock.

"Y-you're lying! That freak is a heartless moron who can't even do anything a-anymore." Diamond stuttered.

That was it. the fear in her eyes. Oh man, you were lapping it up. Having human intellect and logic was so juicy right now. Trumping Saturday morning logic was great.

"I'm sure you believe that. Now then… how about that apology, huh? Or do you and your "Daddy" want to spend the rest of your lives as grapes?"

Silver Spoon freaked out and screamed "I'm sorry! I won't even tell anypony! I Swear!" and ran away, tail literally between her legs.

Ohh that’s good… It might be pretty bad if anypony said you were threatening another pony. "Your turn… Oh yeah, Silver Spoon might have a point, It might be unwise to tell anypony that I threatened you. You wouldn't want to escalate things now, would you?"

Diamond Tiara was sweating bullets. "You can't...Princ-Princess Twilight wouldn't a-allow it"

"...only if she finds out. I wonder if my dad is watching right now..." You didn't know.

Diamond Tiara gulped hard… that was it "F-fine..."

"Fine...what?"

"I-I'm sorry...about what I said...and I won't tell...daddy..or anypony else"

"Good...now leave me and my friends alone."

Diamond Tiara nodded, and walked off. Trying to look as dignified as possible. OH SHIT..THAT WAS SWEET! HAHAHAHAH!

With the pressure and anger off. You began to laugh like a madman. Holy shit..That was awesome!

"Did you girls see that! Holy...OH BOY..You gotta admit! That was the freaki...ng...grea...test.."

As you turn, you begin to slow on your words as Applebloom and Sweetie Belle look at you… horrified on what they just heard and witnessed. Dead silent.

....Oh fuck...

Chapter 13

Did you go too far? Applebloom and Sweetie Belle remain stunned for just another moment before they say..in unison. “Anon..t-that was.."

"Terrible" Says Applebloom, her face full of concern and worry of the situation.

"INCREDIBLE!" Sweetie Belle cries out. Amazed..by what she just saw.

"What? Sweetie Belle. Ya can't be serious about that… Did ya see what ah just saw?" Applebloom turned to her friend. confused as to her opposite response.

"Did you? Anon just did the impossible! He got Diamond Tiara to shut up!"

Ha… At least Somepony fucking appreciated it. Goddammit Applebloom...what the fuck.

"Yeah but, did ya see his face. Did ya hear what he said? He said he'd beat her up! That's not the crusader way… That just makes us as bad as her"

What...says who? You interject. "Woah woah, hold on. What's this "Crusader way" stuff? I'm not a Crusader yet remember? Besides, I was defending you guys, Scootaloo included"

"Yeah Applebloom, and he did it so well. It was super amazing! Besides, he probably wasn't even serious. I mean, did you hear who he said his dad was? Come on… it was just a trick"

Applebloom didn't seem to think so. Unbeknownst to both you and Sweetie Belle. Applebloom not only believed what you said. But started to think you were lying about other things, like Scootaloo had mentioned before. "Ah don't think it's a trick… Your dad really is Discord, ain't he?" She turns to you, although she looked somber, her eyes looked towards you, searching for answers.

You nod slowly, cringing. You didn't like where this was heading. "Yeah, he is. But… come on, Sweetie Belle is righ-"

You are suddenly cut off by a now shocked Sweetie Belle "SERIOUSLY?! YOUR DAD IS DISCORD?! Woah..."

Applebloom turned to Sweetie Belle, she started to get agitated "Sweetie Belle, can't ya take this a little more seriously?"

Sweetie Belle frowned "Hey Applebloom… come on. What's with you? I really don't see anything wrong here… You weren't being serious with all that stuff, were you Anon?"

You shook your head. You sorta did..maybe. But you weren't going to tell them that. "Of course not, I just wanted to scare them. and it worked! I just didn't like the fact that they were treating you that way. Just over Cutie Marks… It's stupid"

Your ears lower as you frown. You couldn't tell now if you meant your words or if you really were just in a moment… A delicious moment, but a moment nonetheless. And now suddenly. One by one, you were losing the favor of the CMC. The freaking CMC for christ sakes. You started to actually like them and yet somehow, with all your knowledge, you were losing them. You had to make some sort of recovery.

Applebloom stayed silent, and walked over and looked directly into your eyes "Anon... Look into mah eyes. Ah want ya to promise me somethin'"

This was uncomfortable. You looked away from her due to her being so uncomfortably close. But when she asked you. You slowly turned back. And her eyes, they were big, and sad. Dammit why?! Why couldn't she be on the same page as Sweetie Belle?! She seemed on the ball. Applebloom shouldn't be moralfagging this hard.

"W-what is it?"

"Just promise me that everything you told us is the bonafide truth, I'll believe ya. Ah trust ya. But ah just wanna know..." She said.

You couldn't have lied to her too much… You knew ENOUGH about the Apple family. Of course your origin is a giant fib but whatever. If you ran into any trouble. You had enough knowledge of the show to get you out of it. You look directly into her eyes, you keep your justifications in your head so you won't look away.

"Yeah, of course I'm telling the truth. It's just in Phillydelphia, you gotta be a little tougher than the average pony. Ponies there Applebloom, they cheat and gang up on you and beat you up. I wasn't going to fight them… but I wasn't gonna let them hurt you and Sweetie Belle like that."

Sweetie Belle gave you a big smile as she walked near. Then she turned to Applebloom "See? now will you calm down Applebloom? We still need to get something to eat."

You nod. "She's right. Plus remember? all this emotional stuff is probably just from our hungry bellies. We'll feel a lot better after we get something to eat"

"ah… Ahright. Maybe ahm just thinking too much"

Sweetie Belle raised her hoof and knocked on Applebloom's head, giggling "Hehe, definitely. We need to save all that space for more ideas on getting Cutie Marks"

Applebloom smiled and giggled half heartedly. And then turned to ask you one more question. She seemed chipper. That was good. "Anon, ah got one more question, if ya don't mind."

You shrugged. What's one more? "Yeah?"

"What's it like being adopted by Discord?"

Sweetie Bell turned to you, she seemed curious as well. "Yeah! Does he do mean things to you?"

You shrug, this was easy "Nah… well sometimes. But he isn't that bad. He feeds me pretty good and stuff. It's just sometimes he might pull a prank that goes a little too far. Otherwise, I think he's a cool dad."

"That's it? He doesn't curse you or send you into creepy places or anything?" Sweetie Belle asks

You shook your head

"Wow… hrn. Maybe we shouldn't believe all those rumors from school"

Hah… Kids… Superstitious and always talking shit about others. Your thoughts get cut off from your stomach, howling for food.

Applebloom giggled "Maybe we should wait before we ask anymore questions! Come on, before Anon turns into bones!"

Heh… Ok good. she was chipper again. Good good. As long as everyone was in better moods. It's fine. You'd just need to think of a way to win over Scootaloo when the time came.

And with that. the three of you went off to the food court. It was like McDonalds… but with ponies… and hayburgers… yeaaahh…

Applebloom, and then Sweetie Belle made their orders first. Both were nearly identical. Except Applebloom got Appleslices with her hayburger instead of fries. As you saw them pay. You came to the realization that you had no bits…

"...oh.."

"Whats the matter Anon?" Sweetie Belle looked over to you.

"Oh boy, ya don't got any bits do ya? How did we forget to ask about that?" Applebloom put her hoof on her face and shook her head.

Before you could even say anything. Sweetie Belle slams some extra bits on the counter "I got it. Another order of Hayburger with fries if you don't mind!"

The cashier pony nodded. Thanked Sweetie Belle like any cashier would. And said their orders would be ready soon. You three found some seats at a table and sat down. Applebloom and Sweetie Belle started to converse with each other first. It seemed they felt somewhat uncomfy not having Scootaloo with them.

Meanwhile you started thinking about the day in general. You started scanning the restaurant for any signs of Discord. Was he watching? If he was, surely he'd have done something by now. Or he just wants you to stew in the mess you were making.

"Hey Anon… How did Discord adopt you anyway? I thought there was some legal stuff you had to do… and he doesn't seem the foal wanting kinda guy" Sweetie Belle asked. Still curious.
Shit… now things were getting difficult. you only had a base idea of what to say. You didn't have it in detail.

"Umm..I dunno what dad is thinking a lot of the time. And I dunno anything about legal stuff.." Time for a big smile. "I'm just glad I have a dad! It's so nice having a home!"

Applebloom smiled "Wow, I always thought Discord was still kinda bad somewhere inside. But ah guess ah was wrong."

Sweetie Belle rubbed her hoof under her muzzle as she thought "Hmmm… Maybe it's because he's part animal? Fluttershy is really good with animals. So maybe she has some weird crazy powers over him or something?"

Applebloom laughed at that. "haha! I never thought of that. Ya remember that cocktrice? Gee, Fluttershy is amazin'"

You nodded. "I agree, Dad took me to meet her on my first day here. She's so nice. I kind of wish she was my mom." Suddenly, Applebloom became stone faced. "Applebloom? ...You ok?”

Applebloom's pupils shifted to your yours "Anon, did ya say you wish she was your mom?"

You look left and white nervously… Awwkkwward… "Y-yeah. Why?"

Applebloom slowly turned to Sweetie Belle "Sweetie Belle, are ya thinkin' what I'm thinkin'?"

Sweetie Belle looked confused "On what's taking so long with our food?"

"No Sweetie Belle.Ya heard Anon, he wants a mom! And Fluttershy and Discord are good friends… Maybe they can be… more than friends?"

...Oh god… She's not suggesting...

Sweetie Belle shook her head. "Hold on, Wait. Last time we did that. We almost ruined your brother's and miss Cherilee's lives… and ours..."

"Yeah but, this is different! We got a colt on the inside! Maybe, if we manage it, we can get our cutie marks! Cutie Mark Crusader Matchmakers! I think we can do it this time!"

"Say… yeah… we need to plan it of course. All four of us. What do you say Anon?" Sweetie Belle wondered

ABORT..ABORT..YOU NEEDED EXTRACTION! MISSION FAILED. GAME OVER! HOLY SHIT DISCORD. YOU NEEDED ESCAPE.

"H-hold on. I dunno. I-I don't think it's a good idea." You say.

Applebloom gave you a reassuring, confident stare "Come on Anon! It can't be that hard. Discord is only ever super nice to her anyway. He just needs a small push. And now that we know he really is a good guy. ahm willin' to bet it'll be no problem."

...You. Got. To. Be. Kidding. They really, REALLY, were single minded. One moment, some feelsy fest. The next they want to push Discord and Fluttershy into some kind of… thing.

"L-look, I just got adopted and I just wanna settle in. Don't you both think you are rushing things?"

Sweetie Belle thought to herself. "Hrn..maybe you're right."

Applebloom nodded. "...so how about in a month? We'll have come up with a ton of good plans by then!"

...Dammit. "look girls, I just want to keep things the way they are for a while. Longer than a month. If anything went wrong, it's sort of on me. You know?"

Applebloom frowned "Aww… hmmn… You're right though, I guess we'll have to come up with something else."

..Crisis averted... woo… You took sighed and put your head down. Right when a rather cute unicorn mare waitress was putting down all your food. Giving you a wink as she said to enjoy your meals. You looked at your food..it looked pretty ok. Applebloom and Sweetie Belle was already digging in. You tried Applebloom's method on the burger like you did the cup before. It worked.

As you three ate. You started to think. Maybe it'd be fun to come up with an idea for a cutie mark. Even if the CMC did lead to ACTUAL danger. Everything was always ok by the end of the episode. Maybe that's how things were. And by that account, it might actually be fun.

"Ya know… I was thinking, If we were to get our cutie marks. We'd need to pull off something super amazing. Something nopony else could pull off" You mentioned as you started to bounce the idea of becoming a crusader. They were pretty endearing once you got to know them.

Sweetie Belle swallowed her chunk of hayburger and looked at you. curious. "But what could we do?"

Applebloom smiled "Anon, are ya actually thinking about getting a cutie mark? Does that mean you wanna be a Cutie Mark Crusader?"

...Eh… Why not. It's the least you could do for the trouble you caused. And, the more you interact with them. The better you can integrate.

"...Yeah why not. It might be fun." Both of them were elated as they cheered.

"We gotta go get Scootaloo and tell her the good news!" Sweetie Belle said in excitement

"Yeah, ah bet when she hears how Anon defended her AND that he wants to be a crusader, she'll cheer up in an instant!"

"Let's go tell her now!" Sweetie Belle suggested

"Yeah!"

You didn't even get a word out. You could only think it as they immediately dashed out, leaving their food behind.

o...k. Well, at least they are easy to please. You look at their food hungrily. "More for me I guess… I mean, if you girls aren't coming baaack." You look at the doors. Only other ponies exit or enter. No sign of Applebloom or Sweetie Belle.

You snicker "Oh yeah baby..more for me."

You lift up Sweetie Belle's half eaten burger. And as you plunge your teeth into it. You only feel the bottom of your other teeth. "huh?..what gives?"

You look… the food was gone. The restaurant. Everything. You were back at the house. "..OH COME ON! I'M STILL HUNGRY!"

Chapter 14

You look around for just a moment to see if the hayburger had fallen anywhere.
It hadn't. Damn, it actually tasted good. You sit there and ponder for a moment as to think of the reason Discord had teleported you. Then your eyes widened.

"...Oh shit… he probably… uhmm.." You slowly turn, expecting him to be behind you. He's nowhere in sight. "...hrm.."

You take one more moment to orient yourself and begin looking around the living room and kitchen for him… christ the kitchen's a mess. Dirty dishes lined up neatly while the clean ones were strewn all over the place. Grime and dirt along the sink and a bottle of some rather murky soap on the counter.

"Dad… you around?" As you search around the area. you happen upon a door. You can hear train noises coming from behind it. "...That's odd… mnnn… If he's behind there... do I really wanna open it?"

You pondered again. If he was watching, there'd be no escape. Might as well get it over with.

You open the door. What you see behind it is a breathtaking sight. On the floor laid a huge model of what appeared to be most of Equestria. Appleloosa, Ponyville, Manehatten, Canterlot, the Everfree. It was all there. With little models strewn about and some trains going.

Floating above it. working some kind of mechanism was Discord in a conductors hat. He hasn't seemed to notice you. "All aboard the train to Manehatten! Tickets please. And don't worry, there's only a small chance of a raging manticore turning over the train.. Ehehe" He was talking to himself.

You carefully move along the walls as to not crush any of the pieces. Sadly..you fail at this and step on a couple of trees. With a human foot that may have hurt. But hooves man.
Immediately you are magically lifted off the ground and brought to the middle of the room. hovering over the mini-Equestria. Upside down.

"Anon! Can't you be more careful? I'm trying to run a somewhat smooth train company here!"

"U-umm sorry. Umm, so, what's all this? Heh." You were nervous. Either he was seriously playing with this set or he was just going to make you a part of it.

"Oh this silly thing? Just a small hobby I've taken up. Fluttershy says it's good to have one to help one relax. Look, see? it has everything that's essential.” Discord pointed at a few notable locations. such as the Everfree forest and Twilight's castle. They all looked nearly real. As did the little pony figurines. "I can even open them up to move a few of the little models around. Here look!"

He opened up the Canterlot Castle. Sitting on the throne was a mini him with Celestia at his side. "Here's me, Ruling of course. And there's Celestia..and there's Celestia's Doggie bowl!"

Hmm, that's odd. You didn't see Fluttershy anywhere. Maybe the figurine was in the little floating Cloudsdale.

"This is all pretty neat..umm..So..you've been messing around with this all day, huh?" You ask.

Discord shook his head "Not ALL day… I also spent my morning having some breakfast with Fluttershy and discussing you. Oh Anon, you should have seen her smile whenever I mentioned what a good little colt you are. we discussed putting you in school, going out on a family picnic, And the fact you were already out and about making new friends just thrilled her! It was wonderful Anon, I not only get to spend more time with my best friend but it will win me points with my other friends too! Think of it, I might be able to sneak some of the delicious zap apple jam from Applejack with only a minor talking to… if she ever found out that is. Now, tell me. How did your day go?"

Oh boy. You wondered at that very moment how much he actually cared about the reputation he was painting on you. "You weren't watching me?"

Discord scoffed "Of course not" He flipped you right side up "I was busy Anon. You don't need to be so egotistical you know. I can't be watching you ALL the time. That'd be creepy."

You chuckle nervously. "Y-yeah… Umm, so, what do you wanna know about? Just the good stuff right?"

"Hmm? "Good stuff"? Are you implying there are "bad stuff"?"

You looked around dishonestly, not making eye contact. "M-maybe… I mean, I wouldn't think it was that bad. I mean… Sweetie Belle thought it was cool"

"Hrnn..give me a moment Anon." Discord removed his eyeballs from their sockets as they grew wings and arms and took the mechanism from his talons to use on their own. It seemed to be the controls for the trains and tracks. He then looked at you… Those empty sockets… creeeeepppyyy. "I'm all ears Anon, Tell me everything."

...Let's see. How to go about this? Well...Maybe it wouldn't be so bad? What he says doesn't always mean what he actually means. He's a lover of chaos. He might even get a kick out of it. The only thing he might berate you for is the whole Rainbow Dash thing anyway.

"Well I met up with Sweetie Belle, Applebloom, and Scootaloo and they did the whole tour thing. And..." You explain to Discord the events that occurred from the start up to the point Scootaloo left.

Discord shook his head "Anon, Anon. You couldn't have lied just a little better than that? Scootaloo is very sensitive you know."

"Isn't lying a bad thing?"

"Well it would be had you not started the foundation of your friendship on a lie. I'm not telling you to lie ALL the time. I'm just telling you a good key on winning over friendships is to NEVER upset your friends. Always be loyal, even if you have to lie"

Terrible moral, but it actually sounded more human than equestrian. Still, you didn't want entire friendships to be built from a lie. For now however. You'd just accept his moral at face value.

"Yeah… I'll do better next time, heh. This next part… Maybe you'll like it. I actually caused quite a bit of chaos..."

Discord smiled immediately at those words. a large grin. "Ohhhh? I didn't think you'd have it in you to cause some trouble. What did you do? Did you paint a pony's mane another color? Did you mix some apples with oranges? Did you make Rarity faint? Details Anon! Details!"

Good good, he seemed pretty excited. Man, he's gonna flood the room with tears of joy when he hears this one. Feeling confident now. As his reaction to Scootaloo was not what you were expecting. You tell him of the occurrence with DT and SS.

"..Haha. You should have seen them. Silver Spoon..she actually..haha.. She actually tucked her tail between her legs. I didn't even think that was a thing! Isn't that great Dad, right? ....Dad?" He wasn't reacting. And suddenly you can hear noises from below you.

You looked down, the trains were crashing and piling up as some of them crashed into the various towns and area. Which caused them to burst into flame. "U-um...d-dad...your..trainset is kinda on fire… and… exploding.."

He said nothing. His eyes however had dropped the mechanism and flew back into his eyes at they began to narrow and stare at you.

...Oh boy… "D-dad?"

He started to speak. But his tone was no longer bolstering with good humor. But instead with dark growls "Anon..do you mind running those last few parts to me again? I don't think I heard it right..."

....What?! What was wrong?! it sounded like right up his alley...R-right? "U-umm..I just… sorta… threatened them.. And.. stuff."

"And stuff..." he repeated rather darkly

You nodded as the flames began to get higher. As they engulfed the entire train set. The smoke wasn't moving as normal however. It was swirling below you. almost like it was forming a ring.

"D-discord?"

"Tell me Anon, what possessed you to do a stupid thing like that? As to actually threaten violence and virtually go against the common decency of being a good natured little colt?"

"H-hey come on, why are you mad? I-I mean. You seemed happy when you thought it was a prank."

"Yes, Anon, a prank. Something fun and of little consequence. What you did was traumatize two fillies with your human sensibilities."

You were losing. And that smoke cloud was suddenly producing lightning while a thin oval of water appeared in the middle. constantly rippling… It kind of looked like a portal. You had to reason with Discord, you had to make him see it wasn't so bad. You had a feeling that if you didn't, he was going to drop you.

"Come on Discord! They deserved it. You wanted me to make friends with the Cutie Mark Crusaders and I did...sorta...for the most part. Crushing two fillies who constantly bully them should be a positive! Can't you see that!?"

Discord shook his head "Sorry Anon, if you were say… a friend, a stranger, an acquaintance. I probably wouldn't care. But you are my son now. And as much as we both hate it. I am responsible for you, therefore I am in charge of you. And that includes your punishment..."

OH CRAP... HE WAS. HE WAS GONNA DROP YOU!

You started to plead and yell at him. "DON'T DO IT. I CAN FIX IT! DON'T DROP ME! COME ON, PLEASE. I'M SORRY… RIGHT DISCORD?! YOU WOULDN'T DROP ME! THINK OF FLUTTERSHY! WHAT WOULD SHE SAY?!"

"Goodbye Anon, you should have thought before you acted" Discord snapped his fingers. Sending you creaming downwards into the swirling smoke vortex. Into darkness...

In the next moment, you suddenly hit a sudden stop. Smacking right into your head. You immediately got up and started rubbing yourself and checking everything was in order while you panted heavily, drenched in sweat from being horrified.

"HA...AHH AHH..AHH...OK..OK...ha...ah...I'm all here...ok..wh-what?" You felt clothing on you. In fact, you were in the same pony tux and top hat that Discord first dressed you in. "..The hell?"

You looked around... It was night… You were sitting in front of a rather large house..a manor of sorts.

"What in the? Am I in Ponyville? How'd it get night so fast? Why am I in clothes again… Am I dead?"

Suddenly you heard a sigh right above you "Anon, must you always be so morbid?"

"Gyah!" You yelp in surprise as you jump backwards. Floating just above was Discord. In a yellow tux and top hat. Holding a cane with a sign of chaos at the hilt.

"Discord! Dammit, what the hell was- OW!"

Discord whacked you right on the head with his cane as he planted his feet to the ground and wiped his chest off. "Manners, Anon."

You rubbed your head… At one point, it really was going to crack like an egg. "Ngh... fine Dad.. What was that back there?! Did you really have to pull off those ridiculous theatrics? geez christ..."

"Anon, Anon. How are you supposed to learn unless I set an example?" He said as he adjusted his top hat.

"And what, pray tell, was I supposed to- OW!" He whaps you again. "WHAT WAS THAT FOR?!"

Discord shrugs "For now, I don't know. But i'm sure i'll have a reason to have done that sooner or later. In anycase, Anon. Since it hasn't sunk into your head yet. Let me make it clear. You acted out an act of childish cruelty, even if it was for good reasons. We don't threaten other young fillies or colts with acts of violence and harsh words. If you want to do such things, go find an evil arch villain or something. Are we understood?"

You continue rubbing your hoof on your head. You understood that. But what was with the portal and… "Ok...so what are we doing here? Whose place is this?"

"Filthy Rich's home of course"

You started to back up. You didn't like where this was going and you wanted to get far away as possible.

"Noooooope. I can already see where this is going. If you think I'm going to apologize, you got another thing coming. I'm not giving her ANY sense of satisf-...dammit.."

You realized you weren't making headway as Discord just stared at you with his snaggletooth grin. He taps his cane to the ground, making the dirt path to the gate send a small wave that brings you right to the door.

Discord walks up to the door alongside you and knocks "Well, at least you catch on quick. I didn't want to have to explain EVERYTHING. Now then, I expect you to be on your VERY best behavior, understood?"

You can't escape. So, you just wait for whatever pony to answer the door. You look up at Discord. "You know this won't even work out right? He's just going to freak out."

Discord says nothing. He stood elegantly at the door. Like a regal visitor. "..Fine, ignore me. I'm just gonna laugh when this all blows up."
It only takes another moment. But the door finally opens. You expected a butler pony of some sort… maybe a sexy mare maid, but it was Filthy Rich himself.

he looked up at Discord and gave him an inviting smile "Ahh Mr.Discord, right on time. Why don't you and your son come in?"

Discord gave a small bow "Why of course Mr.Rich. Thank you for inviting us to your home. It is quite a pleasure to be in the company as one as illustrious as yourself."

Your jaw nearly dropped. He was acting all fine and dandy… What? What ruse is this?

"Come in, Come in, I was just getting today's profit reports in order." Filthy invited you both in with earnest

Filthy Rich leads you both inside to his study. What in the world?
You whisper to Discord "Ok, what the heck is going on? Why isn't he freaking out?"

Discord looked down at you and whispered "It's called manners Anon. While you were swirling around in that vortex, I arranged a visit with Filthy Rich. It's simple really."

"That doesn't explain why he isn't freaking out. Didn't you scare him into this or something?"

Discord snickered "Of course not,we both came to an understanding that we are both powerful beings in our own way. After a nice little chat I got to bringing up the point of an altercation between you and his daughter and that was that. What, did you think I was controlling him or this was some sort of dream?"

"......." You stay silent

Discord nodded at you. "That's what I thought"

Eventually you both were lead into a study that consisted of many books. Almost like a library. It had a fireplace where a sofa and a few chairs sat near. a the other end of the room was filing cabinets upon filing cabinets with a work study next to them.

Filthy Rich both offered you a seat. It was time for business. "Now then, Mr.Discord. You weren't too clear about this "altercation" between your son and my daughter. I trust it wasn't anything that would have hurt my darling little princess, she seemed fine when she got home."

Filthy Rich was tapping his hooves together, his inviting demeanor hid the serious tone in his voice.

"Well Mr. Rich. To put it simply. It seems my Anon had said some rather cruel words to her. In his defense, it seems that your daughter was harassing his friends." Discord himself, had a rather gentlemanly tone about him as he spoke

Filthy's Rich's eyes narrowed. And his expression became more serious. And yet he still kept a respectful tone. "Mr.Discord… I appreciate you bringing your son to apologize for his behavior. But I hope you aren't suggesting that my daughter would do any kind of harassing"

Noooope. You slam your hoof on the table and look at Filthy Rich with furious anger. "I'm not apologizing to nopony! Her and her friend were insulting mine just because they didn't have cutie marks! If anything, she should be apologizing to me!"

Discord picked you up by the scruff as you huffed, still staring at Filthy Rich. He plopped you back on your seat before giving a small bow to Filthy Rich. "My apologies Mr.Rich. He is still young."

Filthy Rich didn't even seem to react. He just sat there, pondering. "It's fine Mr. Discord. That kind of attitude reminds me of my younger days." He fixed his gaze towards you "Son, tell me, is what you are saying really the truth?"

You nod, staying silent. Being grabbed by the scruff reminded you that Discord was still present. And still in power.

"I see… It's troubling to hear that my little princess would do such an awful thing as to cause this young colt to show such anger. Mr. Anon, considering your father wishes for you to apologize, what exactly did you say in retaliation to my dear Diamond Tiara?"

"...u-ummm.." Oh boy… You started to sweat. Thinking about it. It was pretty bad. "..I....I..uh...I threatened to hurt her… and to turn her into a grape… if she didn't take back what she said."

Filthy Rich looked at his crackling fireplace, and stood up to stand in front of it. "Mr.Anon. Just to let you know. I don't tolerate such brazen acts to be exposed to my daughter..is that clear?"

You look to Discord. For anything… Something… This was starting to sound bad. But he didn't even look at you. So you look at Filthy Rich with a frown, looking down, your ears drooping. "...yes sir..."

"I also won't tolerate my daughter participating in the same kind of behavior. Why, it just ain't ladylike. To hear that she's insulting others just for not having a Cutie Mark, well, it ain't the Rich way. My family built this entire fortune through good relations and fantastic business practices and bygonit, It's gonna stay that way."

Wow, that's unexpected. You thought he was going to go to town on your ass… Filthy Rich turned to Discord "So, as fathers...what do you suppose we should do?"

"I say we switch their bodies to let them see how it is to be in eachother's horseshoes!" Discord said with glee.

Filthy Rich coughed before dismissing that suggestion "No… I was thinking of something more practical But, hrnn… Instead of switching their bodies, why don't we just have them learn from each other? Have them dedicate their time to one another?"

"Ooohhh, that sounds like a marvelous idea! I'm sure my Anon would shape up quickly" Discord clapped at the idea.

Filthy Rich nodded to himself. "I quite like it myself, my little darlin' would learn a few lessons herself in treating the less fortunate with a little more respect. They will be customers when they grow up, eheh."

Oh...good....god..no. NO..NO..NO...a million fucking times no! You opened your mouth to say something. But what could you say? There was no way you could challenge this..at all. Now, you just wanted to go back home.

You hear one of the doors to the study open, small footsteps heading into the room.
"Daddy, Can you have one of the serv-....ants..."

It was Diamond Tiara… you raise yourself from your seat and lean over behind you to get a look at her. She was in shock to see you and Discord.

"w-w-what are they doing here?" She asked, rather spooked.

Filthy Rich chuckled. "Ahh good, now I don't have to have somepony fetch ya. Diamond Tiara, this young colt says you said some awful things earlier today. Is what he said true?"

Diamond Tiara was taking a step back, it looked like she was heading towards the door. "U-uhhmm.."

"Diamond, I ain't gonna ask ya again"

She gulped, looking at Discord. She suddenly dived and covered her head "Yes! I did! PLEASE DON'T TURN ME INTO A GRAPE! I'M SORRRRYYY!"

"Diamond Tiara" Filthy Rich walked up to her, he was giving a stern fatherly look "I am very disappointed in you missy! I know I raised you better than that!"

Diamond Tiara, noticing she wasn't turned into a grape. Realized what was going on. Her father knew… and was upset at her. "B-but daddy! It was Silve-"

"No buts!" Filthy Rich turned to you "Mr. Anon, can you come over here and apologize to my daughter for what you've done?"

..Geez, he was being pretty reasonable… but still. You look to Discord first… nope, he just points to you to get your butt in gear. Fine, whatever.

You get up and stand in front of the pony you had disdain for. Those tears… you felt nothing. She just didn't want to be in trouble "I'm sorry for all the mean things I said."

"Good good, Now Diamond, Apologize to Anon" Filthy commanded.

"Bu-but I already did..."

Filthy Rich stepped closer, looking down on her with steel iron will. "Diamond..."

She gulped and looked at you with fear. You were Discord's son. She could tell you were being made to apologize as well. But she knew she couldn't trump you. Not because of you yourself. But because of who your "father" is. "..I'm...sorry.."

"Good, now get up to your room. You won't be having any snacks tonight. Am I clear?" Filthy Rich said.

Diamond Tiara nodded. "Yes...Daddy.." She then turned and hung her head low as she walked out of the study.

Filthy Rich chuckled to himself. "Children, the bright stars of the future, but we parents have got to be there to guide them towards the right path, wouldn't you agree Mr.Discord?"

"What?..oh right. Yes, right right." It seems Discord wasn't paying attention at one point.

Ugh… taking it seriously at first. And now just losing interest… Goddamn him. He was treating you like a child… Dammit.

"Well, it was nice having this little chat and I expect you, Anon. To be on your best behavior when around my daughter. And to keep her away from whatever bad influences had persuaded her to take such awful actions."

You nod… defeated… beaten… nothing you could do but agree. Filthy Rich then turned to Discord with a courteous smile "Well Mr. Discord, it seems our business here has concluded… though. I wouldn't mind having future talks. A pony of your… disposition could lead to all kind of new business ventures for Barnyard Bargains and it's subsidiaries , in fact if you are willing to stay awhile longer."

Discord immediately sprang to life and grabbed you like a football… He did not want to sit through any business talk. "Oh look at the time! If I don't get food into Anon he has nightmares, wouldn't want that. Goodbye Mr. Rich, ta-ta and all that!" He snapped his fingers. Teleporting you both through a blinding light.

Filthy Rich just blinked. "...huh.."

Chapter 15

You both reappear back at the house. Out of your "classy" apparel. After adjusting yourself from the flash of light. You look at Discord. Now that it was just you and him, you wanted to try one last time to reason with him. In anyway necessary.

"Why, WHY?! Do you realize that I was actually befriending Applebloom and her friends. You do know that Diamond Tiara is their enemy. Right?"

"And?" Discord said in a light hearted tone as he whimsically waved his paw to get the oven going.

And… AND?! "Y-you can't believe this is a good punishment! If Applebloom and the others see me with her. What are they going to think?!"

Discord gave you a gentle rub on the head "Well, that's why you tell them. You don't keep things from your friends."

You stepped back and pushed his paw away. "And you think they are going to be thrilled with this?"

Discord shrugged "I don't know. But if they are your friends then they'll understand that it's just a punishment and probably just feel sorry for you. Anon, I thought you were a logical adult. Yet here you are acting like a little child." Discord poofed a rattle in his talons and held it towards you "Here, this will help you feel better" He shook it "See! it makes a happy little noise"

You swatted it away, like reflex. But… he was right. You were just upset. But still, even if THEY did understand. you still had to deal with DT.

Discord just gave you a smarmy grin. "Sorry,Perhaps you wanted a pacifier?"

"Can't you be serious for a second?! I'm trying to have a conversation with you! Stop treating me like i'm some kid!"

Discord sighed and produced a mirror right in front of you "Tell me what you see, Anon"

"What does that have to do with anything?!" You try to shove the mirror away. But it just stays in place no matter the force.

"Just take a peek. It's not going to bite you"

You grumble, fine. whatever. Not like he was going to let you do anything else. You take a look, and see that you were flustered, with an angry scowl on your face. "Ok… all I see is me. And?"

"Closer… Look closer Anon"

Nmmm..he was probably just baiting you for some kind of mirror trick. a monster or a cheap scare. You stood at the ready as you took another look, but you only saw yourself being angry and upset. "Still just me."

Discord started to get impatient "Yes andddd? Do you notice anything?"

...Only that… ohh...

"...Why couldn't you just tell me I was throwing a tantrum? This cryptic nonsense is getting real old, real fast."

Discord bent down to you, to meet you at eye level as he pushed the mirror away. "Anon. Just take a moment and think. Instead of being petty and immature. Why not be nice and caring? Don't you think Diamond Tiara could use a good friend such as yourself? To help her mend her bullying ways?"

You rolled your eyes at him. "Nooooo… I see it as being a gigantic bother. When the hell did you become so moralistic anyway?"

"It's not about being moralistic Anon, If you could see outside your own narrow scope of the world you are used to. Then you'd be able to see that I'm not all pranks and tricks. That deep inside, I am actually capable of the things Fluttershy says i'm capable of. I'm not exactly sure what those things are but I DO have an inkling at what they might be. That's why you are perfect for practicing on. You're a child without any of the effects of "trauma"."

Your eyes widen.....so thats the reason. "So...That's why you cho-"

Discord quickly reached for your muzzle and closed it. his talons turning into a rope as he rolled his eyes at you, annoyed "Anon, if I have to hear the whole "So you're just using me" speech, I think I'll literally hurl. Again, try to think outside that narrow scope of yours. Without me and my good graces, you wouldn't be here to enjoy Equestria. I mean, you didn't even want to be friends with Applebloom and now you're friends with her whole group despite your human bumbling. So please, spare me your tired words. You're using me just as I am using you. Otherwise you would have truly wanted to go home by now. now..." Suddenly, the oven beeps "Your dinner is ready..."

You look at the oven as it opens on its own and a large strawberry cheesecake comes out of it… it looked… delicious.

"Now, before I let you eat. Are we at an understanding? Can we just try to get along and you be a cute, cuddly, little colt? I'm not asking you to be an angel Anon, I'm asking you to just play nice… when necessary of course. Expecting you to be an actual goody two shoes would make me ashamed to be your father, ehehe. Now, you can do that for me, right Anon?"

You pondered and thought. No wonder he was always ahead of you. You were being angry, stubborn, and downright edgy. Instead of thinking logically. Or maybe you were wrong. You couldn't be sure. You were wrong about the CMC though. He had a point. But you knew if he didn't have Fluttershy, then he wouldn't have had as much as an upper hand as he does now… maybe… probably… hopefully? You had to control your temper better and think things through… It's not as if he was being cruel to you at least. Still… you had to ask him one thing.

You nodded to him, and pointed to the rope, so he could remove it.

"Good, let's get this off of you." He waved his paw. Making the rope change back to a talon as it appears in it's proper place.

You look up at him, and sigh. "Ok… I get what you are saying. But can you ease up on messing with me a little? I probably wouldn't get so miffed if you weren't scaring me half to death all the time"

"Only half? I could have sworn it was three quarters.." Discord chuckled

You point at him with your hoof, aggravated with his response. "See, that. That right there. you don't think messing with me like that isn't going to tick me off?

Discord gave your head a gentle rub as he rubbed his nose with his talon. "I fail to see the issue, you didn't seem to have qualms with messing with poor princess Twilight."

You stop… shit that’s right… that was fun. "Y-eah… but, we both were doing that."

Discord nodded "Right..we were. So are you telling me you can't handle what you dish out? That suddenly I shouldn't have fun with you every now and again?"

At first those words weared you down… but then you realized the one thing he always love to say. and look at him back with a cocky grin of your own. "Well duh, I am your son… Dad."

Discord didn't react the way you expected, instead he picked you up and gave you a hug "That's my boy! using your noggin' to try and outhink your good ole' dad"

"Does that mean you'll ease off?"

Discord laughed and put you down "Ohohohohaha… Oh heavens no, but I'm proud that you tried to reason with me. Now then..." Discord gently raised you with his magic and placed a small seat under you as the cheesecake appeared before you with a table. "Eat up. It may look deceptively like junk food. But it's filled with everything a growing colt needs. So please..enjoy!"

Dammit. He won't listen to reason… Fine,you'll just play along for now. As usual. But at least he admitted to the symbiotic relationship of it all. You looked at the cheesecake… it sure smelled nice. You gave it a tap. "Can you at least be honest with me and tell me there's nothing actually wrong with this?

Discord nodded "Of course there isn't. Now eat up and hop yourself to bed. We've got a semi busy day tomorrow."

Woah hold on..what? "What? But..I still have to talk to Applebloom and...apologize to Scootaloo and stuff.."

"And you will. It's not as if I'm going to take you away all day. We just have somewhere to be for awhile. Anon, stop worrying. If it makes you feel any better. I'll make sure everything will be fine for you tomorrow, alright?"

You look at him. with a half frown. You wanted to know if he was being truthful. "No lie? you mean it?"

"...Hmm… How did that rhyme go again? Ahh yes... Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." A Pinkie Promise...thats a good place to start.

"...Thank you.." You look down at the cheesecake and grab a chunk greedily with your hooves and take a bite… oh boy… it tasted great. "...so, what exactly are we doing to-...oh...you're gone"

You look up to see Discord had vanished off somewhere the moment you indulged yourself in some dinner. "...See ya tomorrow Dis… Dad..."

You eat and munch on your dinner until it's all gone and get up to go to your room. You were sure the plate and table would take care of itself. You took a stretch and looked down at the book you dropped the other night.

You stare at it for just another moment before you tried picking it up with your hooves again. Unlike a cup, a book was still beyond your understanding. "Still didn't want to read you.."

You hopped up on your warm bed and laid to your side and closed your eyes. "...Just relax Anon, you'll get this all figured out eventually. You wanted to come to Equestria to live a happier life… Eh, so it's not as simple as you thought it'd be. But hey. What is? At least you got an advantageous, if headache inducing start… right? ..That’s ok right?... eh… mmnn… I'll be fine..."

You drift off to sleep… Tomorrow is another day.

Chapter 16

It's a new day. You take a deep breath as you slowly open your eyes and yawn. You slowly raise yourself and look around. Hrn… You were still in your room. What time was it? You slowly got out of bed and looked out the window.

...You couldn't make heads or tails of it. It was always dark here. You wondered if Discord had forgotten about you or if it was just too early. Since you were awake. You decided to get more used to your surroundings… Maybe check out the "front lawn".

You were also still wondering about when you actually had to hang out with DT. But Discord would probably have that arranged against your will sooner or later. All you had to do was figure out how to make it the least painful experience possible. You open your door and look downwards.

...You just looked down. It was a drop to the first floor and you had no idea if you could just "shift" the gravity going down as you do going up.

You give it a shot.

You fail...

You fall down with a yelp, landing on your head first and falling backwards onto your back.
At this point you wondered if you were invincible or just hard headed. "Nghh… dammit… why can't he just put a stairs or an elevator or something… ugh."

You rub your head as you decide to look around… or did. Some of the layout was different than before. Different doors were about. The kitchen was upside down. And some of the windows were in different spots. Even the wallpaper has changed.

"Course..." You sigh, realizing immediately that exploring the house is pointless… or maybe even dangerous if it turns out to be a maze. The front door was still in the same general location however. You head for it and take a look out the peephole. "I wonder..."

You didn't really see anything out of the chaotic unusual.

You you decided to open the door. You were curious to see what anti gravity felt like. Since that one mail pony who seemingly got lost in the void floated away and got taken by a monster.

....Floated away and taken by a monster.

"....Ehhh… On second thought..." You close the door and head back in the middle of the living room. "Not even a TV… kinda wish I had the internet. Since I can't even step outside without some rape monster coming out of nowhere to eat me."

"Ahhhhhhnnn… What a good sleep that was..." You hear Discord's voice in the room.

You look around, but don't see him. "Discord?"

"hrn? Oh good morning Anon. how are you doing? I surely hope you didn't have any terrible nightmares."

...You didn't. But you also couldn't spot Discord. You were getting a little antsy. Due to still waking up and thinking he was going to get the jump on you. You could hear him as if he was right next to you. "No I slept fine… Are you invisible? I don't see you anywhere… You better not jump me with some kind of prank."

"Haha, what would you do if I did? Ahh, but you needn't worry about that. It's breakfast time after all"

You started looking around. Moving things around and looking under cabinets and table. "Breakfast time, huh? If it's as good as dinner and lunch is. Then I'm all ready for that… Darnit where are you?"

"Down here Anon, near the mouse hole."

What?

You look down and scan the wall until you spot him, waving at you. How odd, you could hear him clear as day. Then again. Nothing really made sense with him. So why even wonder? "Don't you think that's a little unnecessary?"

"What?" Discord looked around himself, until he grabbed a chunk of his own fur and pulled it out. A crazy, wiggling, black parasite popping out of it as he holds it up in plain view. "You mean this? I know he may not look like much, but he really gets those itchy spots. I can lend him to you if you wish"

Christ… You gag from disgust and shock from the screaming angry creature. "Geez Discord, What the heck is that thing?!"

"Ohhhoho this? Just a bloodsucking parasite. I collect them from time to time to help me sleep. They also make great snacks." He moved his paw over it. making it smaller. And then opened his mouth and tossed it in like a peanut "Delicious!"

You stuck your tongue out and gagged as you began to feel sick in your stomach. "...Yeah… no. I'd appreciate it if you don't let any of those things near me… please."

"Suit yourself." Discord said as he produced a magical bag full of the damn things and started munching on them.

...Oh god… You can't look at it. You turn around to remove it from view and the moment you do, Suddenly everything was super huge. Did he just make everything bigger all of a sudden? "Hey..what gives?"

You take a chance and look back to where Discord was...but now where he was is now super huge. The mouse hole was bigger than you were. And with a quick flash,Discord wasn't standing there anymore.

"D-discord...what are you d-HEEEYY!! OH GGEEEZ!" You are suddenly lifted by the tail as a super gigantic Discord brings you to eye level. You were smaller than his damn beard.
You were frantic. You felt as if you were so high up.

You were just screaming for Discord to put you down and fix things. But of course, he didn't listen. "Oohhhh, look at you… You're so cuuute..." He snickered. His breath like a strong wind.

"DISCORD! DISCORD I SWEAR PUT ME DOWN PUT ME DOWN AND FIX THIS! I'M NOT KIDDING!"

"Put you down? Alright then… Down the hatch." Discord lifted you up, looking at you while you raised his arm as high as possible. He then opened his mouth. You could see every tooth in great detail. A death maw right below you.

"DON'T LET ME DOWN. DON'T LET ME DOWN! DON'T EAT ME… DAMMIT DAHHHHH!" He let's you go as you scream in terror. Falling into his mouth.

He closes his mouth, enveloping you in darkness. You close your eyes. Still screaming as you expect to be lapped up on his wet tongue or digested. But instead, you feel a cool breeze and gentle grass.

You slowly open your eyes… You were… right in front of Fluttershy's cottage again. Discord was floating right above you as he giggled "Ahh, nothing like a good scare to fully wake you up, wouldn't you agree Anon?"

You fill with rage as you jump at him with a scream. You actually manage to grab him tightly as you pull him back down. Or at least half of him as his upper torso rains down orange juice onto your face and fur.

"Anon, I'd have expected you to at least expect a few tricks now and again. But you just keep falling for it. What happened to that human know-how? Hmm?" He said.

You move away from the falling juice and let go of Discord's lower half as it rejoins his top. You cough and spit and shake your head to recuperate before looking up at him with an enraged look.

"I THOUGHT YOU WERE ACTUALLY GOING TO EAT ME YOU BASTARD! YOU DROPPED ME INTO YOUR MOUTH!"

Discord snickered "And yet here you are...screaming at the top of your lungs for Fluttershy to hear what a potty mouth you have."

Fluttershy?

...Shit, you were right at her door. You did your best to calm yourself, but dammit. You at least lowered your voice. "I'm still getting used to this place. Can't you just cut me some slack. Sure fine, maybe I should have expected it. But actually dropping me like that is still scary as hell. Why can't you just ease up! huh? I'm supposed to be your son. And all you seem to like to do is piss me off half the time."

Discord floated down to the ground and dusted himself off. "That's because it's fun to make you angry half the time. It's so easy and has zero repercussions"

Zero repercussions? Oh hell fucking no. You weren't used to this magical bullshit yet. And you did want to get along with him. You really did. And sometimes you seem to. but other times? He just fucking grinds your gears. "What about mental trauma? You said you didn't need to worry about trauma. And that's because you know I had to deal with a lot of crap. But that crap wasn't crazy magic that makes my life flash before my eyes every damn time!"

"You have to take the good with the bad Anon. Besides? What are you going to do about it? hrnn? Grab me again? It's not as if I'm physically abusing you. I treat you well… and then sometimes I get bored. But if you want to rip me in half..." Discord started drawing a dotted line around his torso "...Right here's a good start. It could use a good massage."

You growled. There was nothing you could do. Even if his good was making you happy. His bad was infuriating you. And there was nothing you could do. You stomped your hoof to the ground and turned back to Fluttershy's door.

"...forget it. Let's just get this over with. I don't even know what you want to do with Fluttersh-.."

THATS IT! IT JUST HIT YOU LIKE A TON OF BRICKS!

An evil smile grows on your face as you slowly turn back to Discord. "You know, you're right… there’s nothing I can do"

Discord nodded happily as he leaned his back in the air and threw his upper limbs behind his limbs, closing his eyes to relax. "We established that"

"...But Fluttershy could"

Discord opened his eyes. and flipped back up. "hrn?"

"You heard me. All I have to do is say "Daddy is mean to me! He threw me in his mouth and made me cry!"" You caught his attention as his jovial mood dropped to that of one losing the advantage

"You wouldn't do that." Discord gave you a serious but worried stare

...that’s it? "You wouldn't do that?". That was his best defense? Oh man, you finally had him. "I would. Look, I could pull off some dirty crap of my own. It's part of my "human nature" after all. All I'm asking is for you to ease up. You want to pull pranks, fine. But don't do it all the damn time and stop making it to the point i'd have a heart attack. You don't do it to the ponies… so don't do it to me. Are we clear?"

"Are you giving your father an order? Anon, are you aware of the power I wield? The magic I command. THE HORRORS I CAN SUMMON?!" Discord said as green fire and smoke started to circle around him.

You just nod. "Yup, and if you use any of it. I'll tell Fluttershy… Excuse me, Aunt Fluttershy. Capesh?"

The threatening magic instantly dissipated as Discord mumbled words. "hmnnnmm....mnnn.."

Now you snickered. "Come on Dad. It's not like i'm asking you to stop. Just ease up. it's called a compromise. If you can do it for Fluttershy, then you can do it for me, now, about that thing with Diamond Tiara."

Discord crossed his arms "If you think you're getting out of that then you are out of your mind. A punishment is a punishment, Anon."

"Yeah well, I don't think I should have to take it. What do you care anyway? Is it really because you need to play the role as "Father"? Because you know and I know she's a brat."

Discord nodded "Oh I know, but you still stepped out of line yourself. I've hung around a few villains in my day Anon, and the way it sounded. You acted like how one of them would. And as such, discipline was required."

You sigh, aggravated. "But I'm not actually your son. Remember?"

"Oh I know, but we are compromising. Aren't we? as a trade for you being my son, you get to live a comfy life in the world of your dreams. If anything I would say you made out like a bandit."

...mmmm... No argument there.You could still interact with all the cute cuddly ponies for real. A huge product for the low price of just dealing with a reformed spirit of chaos who… so far… seems to have no intent on killing you or sending you back.

"Anon.." Discord sighed, and looked at you with a more sincere voice. "..you've seen how things are from a dimensional glimpse through a television screen. I'm asking for your help. Well, forcing you into it with the promise of happiness but that’s besides the point. Fluttershy is my best friend. I've made mistakes… very few, but enough that I nearly jeopardized everything because my grasp of friendship… while near perfect, has a few flaws. I picked you because I felt you would understand and play along. As I think other humans would have either called it quits, died of a heart attack, or become malicious enough to actually cause major harm. I'm not asking you as a father… I'm asking you as a friend. Just help me with this. Fluttershy's happiness means a lot to me" You noticed a tear drop from Discord's face.

..Shit… That was… quite a speech. "...Do you really mean that?"

Discord wiped his tear away "Most of it...the parts with Fluttershy are 100% true"

...ugh… you nearly roll your eyes. Still… whether he was faking or not. That was impressive. It was odd. He didn't have to treat you like a son outside of the view of Fluttershy. Maybe he was just helping you adjust? ...You'll never be able to figure it out.

"...Ok ok, fine. I won't say anything to Fluttershy. Just promise to ease up, that's all I ask. I'll even deal with Diamond Tiara… but don't expect perfection from that, alright?"

Discord put his paw to his heart "I promise!"

You narrow your eyes. "Pinkie Promise..."

Discord rolled his eyes "Really Anon? You can't take my word for it?"

You shake your head. "Nope...Pinkie Promise"

Discord rubbed his chin "Very well… but, you must Pinkie Promise to better yourself as a pony and as my son? Deal?"

You raise an eyebrow. "...What's all this "better myself" stuff anyway? I know it's for Fluttershy. But, the way you say it implies for everypony."

"Well, you did want to come here for a happier life. right? Nopony here would want to be around a stingy,grumpy, negative thinking human? Don't you think?"

...It didn't take even a moment to realize he was right about that. Pinkie herself goes through insane lengths just to get someone to smile and be more positive. And for others, it'd just turn them away... still… "...So..you're really helping me integrate better, huh? You know that means you're doing a good deed right?" You chuckle at the thought.

Discord tapped your head. Lightly this time, it barely even stung. "I thought it was a compromise. I help you, you help me. It's nothing more than that. I just happen to be the one putting in much more effort. Understood?"

You almost giggle. That's kind of cute. "Good talk Dad, good talk."

Discord smirked at you "It's always a good talk when it comes to me" He turns and knocks on Fluttershy's door "I assume I don't have to say anything to you?"

You shake your head. "No, I got it. Big happy smiles and be on my best behavior. Trust me, even I would never want to see Fluttershy frown or cry in person."

Discord nodded "You never want to see her angry either… trust me. When you are actually her friend, that stare suddenly means something, eheh."

You both stood at the ready. As the door began to open.

Chapter 17

Behind the door, was of course Fluttershy. It was her cottage after all.
She gave a cute little yawn and greeted both you and Discord

"Good morning you two. Sorry it took me so long to get to the door. I wasn't expecting you two so early" Fluttershy said, in a calm, soothing voice. She seemed a little shamed that she wasn't ready for you two.

"Oh it's quite alright Fluttershy, I'll take it as a compliment. You know how I enjoy not being expected." Discord gave her a reassuring smile. Coming from him, it looked a little on the smug side. But it can't be helped.

Fluttershy giggled anyway. soft gentle giggles that made you feel a warmth inside your heart. You immediately speak up in a cheerful tone.

"Good morning Aunt Fluttershy! I really hope you're doing well today!"
god that sounded sappy, but you didn't care. Fluttershy is one of the few ponies you are sure just from the show is just about one hundred percent good natured. It was endearing.

Fluttershy smiled sweetly at you and gave your head a gentle rub with her hoof...so warming..
"I'm doing very well, thank you Anon."

Fluttershy then looks up at Discord with a smile "Discord, may I ask you a question?"

Discord nodded with a proud smile "Why of course, what is it?"

"Well...umm..I was just wondering. Can I take a picture of you together? I think it'd be very nice and cute. I could make copies for you and Anon...I think it'd be very nice to have."

"That would be wonderful. But why just me and Anon? you are the "Aunt" you know. I think it should be of the three of us." He magically produces a camera in his talons "Wouldn't you agree?"

A family photo? That sounded ok with you. Especially if Fluttershy was in the picture...oh if only you could go back home for just a moment to shove it in every flutterfags’ face.

"Oh..I don't want to impose. Not unless it's ok with Anon too.." Fluttershy said with adorable meekness

SOOO CUTE. This is why her and Ponk was the best.

With a cute hop, you said with excitement in your voice "I don't mind at all! We're all a big family right? You, me, and Dad!"

Discord chuckled, he knew you were milking this for all it's worth. But as long as it made Fluttershy happy...He didn't mind. "Well then it's settled. Anon, if you can please stand next to your aunt if you don't mind."

You comply immediately, darting right next to her and nuzzling to her side. Making her giggle. "Anon, why don't you stand in front of me instead?"
in front? but then you wouldn't be able to nuzzle her. She was so soft ...And this picture was probably going to be one of the few chances you can get this close. Then again...if it makes her happy...

You reluctantly moved to her front. Where she immediately wrapped her hooves around you in a gentle embrace before looking at the camera. You immediately blush a deep red, stunned.
"....."

.....sooooo......warm...she's so....ohhhhh...she was hugging you....

Discord clenched his teeth, a little annoyed at the attention you were receiving. "Fluttershy, you needn't cuddle him so closely. He isn't a filly you know."

"Oh, but look at him Discord...he's so cute and nice. I'm sure he'd appreciate a hug. It’s one of the things that always makes me feel better." Fluttershy gave you a gentle squeeze

...oh yeah..you appreciated it alright. You were on cloud nine.

Discord tapped his chin, that gave him an idea. "It does, does it?...hrn..alright then. Fluttershy, Anon, be at the ready." Discord rips his taloned arm off as it floats in midair with the camera. "I'm about to take the picture"

Discord slithered speedily behind Fluttershy and grabbed you both for his own embrace. He then scoops you up and raises you to Fluttershy’s side "Everypony say oats!"

Fluttershy lets out a gentle titter from Discord's hug as you get startled from being lifted. Breaking you out of your trance.

The camera snapshots. Releasing a blinding light that stuns both you and Fluttershy as a photo shoots out from the bottom of the camera and into Discord's paw. his talon then reattaches itself as he shakes the photo and takes a look. "It's perfect!"

Fluttershy had to rub her eyes and compose herself. before moving to Discord's side so she can take a look for herself. You however were still rubbing your eyes. you were caught offguard more than Fluttershy was.

"...uhhh ..Discord...I don't want to sound negative..or upset you...but umm..This picture isn't very family esque"

Discord takes a harder look at the photo "What's wrong with it? I think it looks fine."

Fluttershy points her hoof towards you on the photo "Umm well...Anon looks like he he just saw something very scary."

"But look at me!" Discord points to himself "When have you ever seen a more vibrant smile from me? And look at you! you look stunning!"

"Umm....actually..I think I was just stunned. Maybe we can take the photo again without the flash? it's already bright enough..I think"

You blink several times until your vision clears. You rub your forehead. Still slightly dazed.
Unbeknownst to the both of you. He did it on purpose. Not really to be malicious. Just to snap you out of your little stupor. He felt a little jealous of you.

"Alright.Fine, I suppose we can do it your way; Like how the other ponies would have it..let's see..Anon...you'll be over here"

You're suddenly lifted up and placed down gently a few inches from Fluttershy.

"awww...Why can't I be in front of Aunt Fluttershy? I didn't mind being hugged for the picture...can't we go with that?" You pouted at Discord, you really enjoyed her loving embrace

Discord shook his head. "Of course not, I want this photo to reflect absolute perfection."

Dammit Discord..come onnnnn. You started to think he was getting jealous. He shouldn't have made you so cute then if he was just gonna muscle in on cuddle time.

You look over to Fluttershy."You didn't mind. Right Aunt Fluttershy?"

she shakes her head "No...but your father is right. We should take pride that he wants to take a professional photo. He only wants us to look our best. Isn't that right Discord?"

Discord grinned, looking dishonest "But of course!"

You frowned....you wanted flutter cuddles.

Fluttershy, being the empathetic pone that she is. notices your disapproval and gives you a warming smile. "Of course, if you want a hug after the photo. Then i'm perfectly alright with that."

Yes! You were ecstatic for more flutterhugs

Discord rolled his eyes at your excitement. "Alright alright, positions. Fluttershy. if you please, make some space between you and Anon."

Fluttershy scootched a little ways from you "Like this?"

“Perfect!”Discord immediately teleports between the two of you.. And gives a huge smile as he brings Fluttershy closer to himself "Everypony say oats!"

Fluttershy, being none the wiser. Says oats with a happy smile.
You however fake it. You now fully realized what Discord was doing.

The camera takes a snapshot.This time without a flash. Discord teleports the photo into his grip and looks at it. It looks a lot better, much happier. "There we are. Is this better Flu-"

Discord turns to her, and is shocked by what he sees.

You immediately took the advantage and was cuddling with Fluttershy as she held you gently and nuzzled her face into yours and giggled "Oh my, you're so affectionate Anon."

You were enjoying every second of her softness

"..well..I never had a mom..and nopony really cuddled with me before. And after you did..well..I really really like it!"

Fluttershy started to gently rub her hoof along your back and held you closer like a mother would "I can see that. Well you don't need to worry about a lack of affection Anon, you have me and your father now."

"Thank you Aunt Fluttershy! I wuvv you very much"

You were like a little kid in a candy store. Discord however felt the fires of jealousy burning within him.
You were taking his attention away. Something he didn't consider to be part of the plan.

Discord tried to hide his jealous growls as he spoke to you "Anon..do you mind if I have a word with you outside.....about.." he took a moment to think...but couldn't come up with anything. so he just said "...things?"

Things? the hell?..oh yeah, he was jealous alright, perfect. You nod happily to keep the ruse.

"Ok, be right back Aunt Fluttershy!"

She nodded "Alright. I'll make us all some breakfast...well umm..actually..have you eaten?"

You shake your head "nu uh"

"Oh, then I'll make us all some quick sandwiches to eat. Would you like some too Discord?"

"...yes...I'd..love some." Discord minced his teeth. staring at you.

Fluttershy, ignorant of the situation, merely smiled "Alright. I'll defini-" Suddenly you and Discord disappear out of the cottage. "...oh my..that was sudden..."

You both warp outside, away from the cottage and earshot. and without a moments hesitation. Discord starts drilling into you. "Would you mind telling me what you are doing?!"

you smirk at him "Getting cuddles and hugs from Fluttershy. Does that bother you?"

"I...thought...we came to an understanding." His snaggletooth snapped in half from clenching his teeth so hard.

You snicker, This is probably how it felt for him whenever he messed with you.

"We did...just getting some well deserved revenge though. Gotta at least make it even. You know? come on, you gotta at least let me have this one. Besides..she's so soft...." You blush just thinking about it.

"I should send you to meet those tentacles." Discord’s eyes were flaring up

"You won't. Because that would upset Fluttershy. Come on, why are you getting so bent out of shape. I already know I have no chance with her. Not my fault that i'm so damn cute...that would actually be your fault." You winked and pointed at him with your hooves
Discord raised his finger, in thought to counter you.....but he realized you had a point "hrnnn...I did indeed do that"

"Yup...you did."

Discord rubbed his temples, annoyed with his own mistake of making you adorable. "Alright Anon, I know when I'm beat. If you cease your ridiculous affections. Then I will definitely do my best to not pull any of my usual shenanigans on you."

You cock an eyebrow. wut?

"Wait...you weren't before?"

Discord rolled his eyes "Of course I was...by just a smaller amount. But now that I see you're willing to play dirty. Then you have forced my hand"

You rolled your eyes
"I'm not even going to begin to say what's wrong with that sentence. But fine.if you really REALLY mean it this time. I'll ease up and just be regular affectionate. But don't blame me if she's the one who decides to hug and nuzzle me, that's on her"

Discord sighed "..Fine...I'll agree on those terms. As long as you don't encroach on my friendship with Fluttershy. Then I can forgive her being affectionate towards you. If only because it makes her happy"

You smirk at him
"You're a stand up guy Discord."

You then walk up to him and and pat his long backside "Look, I really want to be friends with you. I know we got the whole father son thing to keep up. But even when I first saw you. You became my favorite villain turned good guy..I thought you were pretty cool...I mean..I guess it's not hard considering most of the other villains were eh..but still"

Discord seemed surprised by those words "hrn? You thought I was "cool" "?

"Yep, but...agh..somethings nagging me. Why did you just stand still and take the hit from the elements of harmony. I never really got that. "

Discord snickered "You would if I put you right in front of a speeding train"

...ahh shit.
"WAIT..WAIT! DON'T!"

You immediately brace yourself and close your eyes. But instead you feel a soft patting on your head.
"....but since I won't. I will only describe it as a "Stunning" experience. I really did think I had defeated Twilight and her friends. But, I suppose even I can be wrong sometimes...does that answer your question?"

You slowly open your eyes...yup...you were in the same spot...no train in sight.
"..u-um..yeah..yeah it does"

"Good, now let's get back to Fluttershy. I wouldn't want to tell her that the reasons the sandwiches got cold is because of you"

You roll your eyes and chuckle
"it's fine, all I'd have to do is give her big sad eyes and say "I'm so sowwwwyy""

Discord actually chuckled from that "quite underhanded. But just stick to the agreement Anon. You can be affectionate, just don't over do it. And I won't torture you tonight"

You chuckled in turn "Alright, but whatever tortures you had would totally be worth it"

you both laugh at the same time as Discord snaps his fingers. Sending you both back into the cottage.

Chapter 19

"B-but I already know a lot of things. I can do math really well and read really good."
fuck, you felt ashamed. That's all you were really good at.

"Anon, you're young. Even if you are good at math and reading. You need to learn so many other things too. You'll learn so many valuable skills and who knows..." Fluttershy gave you a spirit lifting smile "...You might learn a skill so well that it could be your special talent. And you know what that means right?"

...you had to ask Discord at some point if you could even get something like that on your flank. You wondered how artificial your form really was.
"my Cutie Mark?"

Fluttershy nods "Mhmmm! And trust me, it's one of the best feelings ever!"

Right...You weren't too sure about that. But you weren't going to argue this. not anymore.

Time to accept your fate. You weren't getting out of this. You already technically agreed.
"Well...I can't argue that I guess.. I mean. Everypony wants their cutie mark right? so Ummm..how do I go to school? Do I just go..or?"

"Well that's why we're here Anon, Fluttershy was going to take you to the schoolhouse to get you enrolled." Discord said

"Me?...don't you mean we? Discord, you have to be the one to actually tell miss Cheerilee that you want to enroll Anon...You're the father. I can't do everything for you. But I'll be there to help you in case anything happens." Fluttershy gives him a cheerful smile

Discord flinches, and starts to tap his talons to his paw. He was nervous. "But Fluttershy, that whole process is annoying and bothersome to somepony such as myself. I was hoping you'd do it for me. I promise next time I'll do it. Spirit of Chaos's honor!"

Fluttershy glared at Discord, feeling disappointment in him."Discord..you know you need to do this. You're his father. what kind of example would you be setting if you took the easy way out?"

You give Discord a false look of shock and worry. Keeping up your little act.
"You wouldn't flake out, would you Dad?...you wouldn't..flake out on me...would you?"

Fluttershy quickly gave you a hug to calm you, even though you needed no calming. "It's alright Anon, you don't need to worry. Your father won't do that. He's gentle and kind and good deep inside...he just gets scared sometimes."

Discord was about to shake his fist at you. But hearing those words about himself. It soothed his very soul....but he couldn't let you label him as some sort of wuss. "Oh please, I'd rather be labeled lazy than a coward. If doing this boring and simple task avoids such a label then of course I'll do it myself. The spirit of chaos does not "flake" out"

Fluttershy stops hugging you, and raised her hoof to wipe off your tears. Until she noticed you didn't have any, So she just patted your head. "There see? Sometimes he just needs a firm push."

You wouldn't exactly call that firm. Nevertheless. You smile and nod, and look at Discord with a smile, half smug.
"Way to go Dad, You're super cool!"

Discord rolled his eyes at you. He knew what was up. But those words from Fluttershy really did get him, and as long as you didn't go overboard. He wouldn't do anything hasty. Especially not in front of Fluttershy.
"Yes..right..in anycase. We should head to the schoolhouse then and get this over with."

Fluttershy agreed, and the three of you were off......instantly..Discord wastes no time in teleporting the three of you right in front of the schoolhouse.

Both you and Fluttershy had to readjust your senses from the sudden teleport.

"Oh my...that was so sudden...Discord..can you please warn somepony next time you do that?"

Discord let out a puppy whine...an actual puppy whine as he gave big sad eyes to Fluttershy "...ok, i'm sorry"

Fluttershy looked into his eyes and felt a little bad for being so stern...or as stern as she thought she was as she flies up and gives him a hug "I forgive you, I know you only did that because you are anxious, but it'll be ok Discord. One step at a time."

Discord hugged Fluttershy back, as he peered at you with a face suggesting that "He can get hugs from her just as well as you can"

You didn't particularly care. He couldn't amount to the same cuteness you had. Hell, You still had other ponies you could try to cuddle up to as well. Besides, you got a kiss from Celestia day fucking one, how boss is that?

The truce itself between you and Discord seemed pretty flimsy though. You both were still trying to get at each other. As long as neither of you took it to ridiculous lengths again. It should be fine.

With that little display over. You had to ask a question before you all proceeded
"Why isn't there any fillies or colts in school right now?"

Fluttershy answered "Well, it's sunday Anon...No school"

......right...course. Same as the human world.
"gotcha"

And with that, you three head inside.

It was as cozy as it seemed from the show. With cute little desks sitting in an orderly fashion. At the teacher's desk was Miss Cheerilee herself. Who seemed to be busy with something. Perhaps getting ready for tomorrow. She was cute looking...you could already sense you might have a few "fantasies"

Discord just stared at her. And then looked at Fluttershy.

Fluttershy just looked up at Discord and gestured with her hoof to walk up to her and talk.

It was becoming clear that Discord didn't want to have a chat that didn't exactly end in someone being pranked or messed with. This was a legit orderly thing to do. Meaning he had to be on his "best" behavior. Especially with Fluttershy watching him.

Discord stopped for a moment, looked back at Fluttershy, and then back at the busy teacher horse and finally spoke. "Excuse me Miss Cheerilee, may have I have a word?"

"Of course you can Mr." Cheerilee finally looked up, to see who had addressed her. Her face instantly turns white"D-D-Discord?! W-What are you doing here?!"

Discord immediately turns to Fluttershy and points to the frightened teacher "Look Fluttershy! See? That's exactly what I meant." Discord crosses his arms "I don't even get any pleasure from this. Since all it does is delay in doing more interesting things.Look at her face! And to think, she'd visit me every year with no problems when I was a statue, I thought she'd show a little more respect"

Fluttershy had noticed Cheerilee's reaction. She was cowering behind her desk. She then turned back to Discord "Discord..You don't need to be mean about it. Here, I'll talk to her and see if I can calm her down. She's probably just a little uncomfortable."

Discord rolled his eyes silently, still feeling insulted.

You just looked on. Well, it makes sense his presence would still be frightening to some ponies if he was to just show up uninvited. Given the whole Tirek thing. And the fact he had trashed Ponyville before.

Fluttershy walked up to Cheerilee "Hello Miss Cheerilee...I'm sorry if we scared you. We didn't mean too..honest."

Cheerilee pointed to Discord. "Fluttershy...was it necessary to bring him in here? What if there was children present?"

Fluttershy wanted to do her best to calm her down. She didn't agree with how she was acting though "Miss Cheerilee...please don't be scared of Discord...he came here for very good reasons, you're not even giving him a chance."

"Chance? Chance?! Fluttershy....I've read everything there is to know about him to teach the students just how dangerous he can be and why disharmony is an awful thing to follow.Simply put, he's a menace! And besides, he was given a chance. And he betrayed everypony. You can't expect everypony to just easily forgive him. Just because the princesses have, doesn't mean I have. There's children I have to care for and I can't let such influences near them. You should know that better than anypony"

Fluttershy frowned "I do..but Discord isn't bad or mean...He's just misunderstood."

Cherilee popped her head up a little, if only to take a glance at him incase he was trying something before fixing her gaze back at Fluttershy "Fluttershy, can you just please tell me what he wants so he can leave?"

Fluttershy was getting upset at Cherilee, that was no way to act "Miss Cheerilee..I'm surprised at you. I always knew you to be fair and have good judgement...and you won't even give Discord a chance...that's...Ohhh..I don't want to say it...it's extreme...but...That makes you a big meanie!"

oooohhh..Fluttershy said a curse word...or as big as a curse word she'd be willing to say. You were just waiting on your cue.

Cheerilee was silent. But she appeared moved by Fluttershy's assertiveness and slowly rose from behind her desk. "....You're right Fluttershy...If Discord came to see me about something important...then it'd be wrong of me to turn him away just because of prejudice." She looks towards Discord, apologetically "Mr.Discord..What did you want to see me about?"

Discord turned back to look at her, his tone of voice being rather snooty "That's more like it. Anyway, I came to see you because I wish to have my son enrolled in your fine school so he can learn,grow, make friends and other such nonsense."

"Son?" Miss Cheerilee seemed confused and looked around the room until she noticed you. You smile and wave at her.

"......oh...Sweet Celestia..." Cheerilee muttered under her breath. shocked at the sight of you. She turns to Fluttershy "Fluttershy...please tell me he isn't serious."

Discord scoffed and stepped up right at the front of her desk and looked at her sternly "Excuse me, but I do believe I was talking to you. And Yes...I am being serious. And I'd appreciate it if you took me seriously as well. Honestly, i'm appalled."

"You're appalled?!" Cheerilee looks over to him, now she seemed angry, self righteous fury taking over. She could already tell you were adopted. That much she could see as you weren't a draconequus. "I'm appalled you'd take on a child to corrupt with your wicked ways! Then bring him here to corrupt my students!"

...Hey!....you take offense to that. It's not as if you were going to fiddle with them or anything.

"Corrupt?! Please! Children do well on their own on being brats. But they least they have the decency of showing respect to their elders!" Discord huffed, making a direct comment on Cheerilee’s behaviour towards him in accordance with his age.

Fluttershy could feel an argument coming on, she knew she had to stop it "...o-ok...I think perhaps we should all take a breather...and.."

"Are you implying just because you’re older that you deserve respect? You betrayed ponies everywhere! And that is a terrible act deserving of nothing but contempt!" Cheerilee started to raise her voice.

"Oh, yes. I understand that. But perhaps if you ponies had understood my needs a little better like Fluttershy here then maybe I wouldn't have done what I did."

"Discord...Miss Cheerilee...please" Fluttershy's voice was quivering. As the two continued to snipe and argue.

Even you had to cringe. For being adults. They were acting pretty childish. Even if Cheerilee was doing what she thought was right. It still looked bad. Discord did try being nice at the start. You couldn't fault him for that.

Poor Fluttershy, she was just trying to get them to calm down. However...she was reaching her pique and...
"WILL YOU BOTH PLEASE STOP! WE ONLY CAME HERE TO ENROLL ANON! AND YOU BOTH ARE ACTING RUDE AND MEAN AT EACHOTHER. WHAT KIND OF EXAMPLE FOR ANON IS THAT!"

Discord and Cheerilee both immediately stop.

Fluttershy was angry and huffing...until it just hit her that she had yelled angrily. She looked down and frowned. "s-s-s-sorry...I..I just didn't like you both arguing in front of Anon like that..."

...awww...poor Fluttershy...

You walked up and gave her a compassionate hug. You did it to help her feel better...nothing more
"It's ok Aunt Fluttershy...please don't be sad. It's not your fault..please smile.."

Discord was the first of the two to speak. You took a glance at him during the hug. He looked miserable for what he did "F-fluttershy...Don't be upset with me. I just lost my cool..that's all..."

Cheerilee took a little more time to assess the situation before responding. Looking at you, you seemed as kindly as Fluttershy in her eyes. Respectful...nothing like she thought you'd be being adopted by Discord...but she also heard "Aunt" Fluttershy. It could be to her that Fluttershy was raising you really...She couldn't be sure. Also, Discord had not used any of his chaotic magic to get his way or mess with her. He only used his words. She only knew of Discord from what she read and brief run ins with him. And this was severely out of the norm. "...hmm..Perhaps I should be the one to apologize. I'm supposed to be reasonable and fair, instead I just made a biased judgement and stuck with it. As a teacher, I simply cannot permit that. So, I'd like to be the first to apologize...I'm sorry Discord for being so rude. And again, for allowing my prejudices and prior judgments affect my decision making."

"And I apologize..for......the things I did..to..hrn...make you upset." Discord turns to Fluttershy with a soft smirk, his tone not being completely serious with his apology as he felt he was the better man "Was that adequate?"

You stop cuddling on Fluttershy so she can answer. She gives you a brief head nuzzle before looking over to Discord and nodding "You didn't hesitate so that's good...but..it should be a little more heartfelt next time Discord...it's good to let the other pony know that you know what you did was wrong..But..I think that was ok..but it's really up to Miss Cheerilee.."

Miss Cheerilee nods "No..it's fine. The fact he apologized at all is enough for me. Especially since I instigated this.As a teacher, it's up to me to not allow pride and prejudice control my actions. I must be a leader, especially in the ways of educating the young minds of today....and in that regard. I don't mind taking your son in as another student in my class." Cheerilee reached into her desk and pulled out some papers and placed them flat onto of her desk. "I just need you to spend the day filling out these forms so we can get everything in order for him."

Chapter 20

Discord picked up the papers and turned them side by side, he seemed perplexed "The WHOLE day? To fill out some very arguably unneeded paperwork? Surely you jest."

Cheerilee slid a pen across her desk to him as she explained the process "Every parent needs to fill these papers out. It's so I know exactly what the needs are for their child in case of an emergency or a situation comes up. In other words, It's to make sure your child is taken care of in case anything goes wrong"

Cheerilee slowly peered over to you, she was looking for any kind of deceit from you. But the way you were acting. You seemed like a very loving and caring child in trying to have cheered up Fluttershy.

"And you expect me to sign all of this within the day?!" Discord was having none of this it seemed.

Cheerilee nodded "It should only take you a couple of hours really...Is that a problem?"

Fluttershy took to Discord's side and took a look at the papers in his hands "Discord, I know this must be difficult considering you haven't had Anon for too long. If you want, I can help you. We can figure it out together"

Discord put his paw forward in front of Fluttershy in a gesture that suggests refusal "Come now Fluttershy, it's merely paper with words on them. I can have this filled out in..ngh...GHMMM...GRRMMM"

Suddenly, Discord started to hack up and cough.

Everyone, including you, took notice

Fluttershy had an intense worry on her face "D-Discord?! Discord are you alright?"

Cheerilee just raised her eyebrow, she was skeptic, although inside she was a little worried "Mr.Discord?"

You took a quick look at his face to see if he was faking. No, he was indeed turning a reddish color.
You prepared yourself incase it was one of his usual tricks, but remained ready to help him if it wasn't.
"Hey..Dad..are you alright?"

Without any warning or words. Discord hocked up bright red liquid all over the papers, Cheerilee's desk, and Cheerilee herself.

Both mares shrieked at the sight of it, Cheerilee especially. They had never seen something so grotesque. Both mares fainted nearly on the spot. Even you were taken back. But not enough to faint.
"HOLY CRAP?! D-DISCORD?! ARE YOU OK?!" WHAT?! WERE THE PAPERS TOO ORDERLY OR SOMETHING?! SPEAK TO ME MAN!"

Discord wiped his lips and cleared his throat "What was that? I couldn't hear you over my vomit."

He...was fine. But still. You had to make sure.
"What? Do you not care that you just hacked blood everywhere?! I can't believe I'm saying this, but now i'm worried for your safety. I've never seen blood on the freaking show before!"

"Safety? Blood?" Discord looked around "What in the wide wide world of Equestria are you talking about, Anon?"

"You just..." You stop yourself as you notice the blood begin to quickly dissipate. Discord puts down the papers as the blood disappears from them....at least most of it. What's left behind is various signatures and writings left in red. "...hold on a second.."

You move closer and take a sniff at the papers....that wasn't blood...
"Ink?...You hacked up ink?!"

"Why yes, of course. Anon...Did you really think I was going to spend more than five seconds signing some useless paperwork when I can get it done in two seconds?!"

Part of you wanted to laugh, the other part was more worried about Fluttershy.
"Did it have to be red ink? You couldn't have picked another color?"

Discord shook his head "Other colors don't show up or are as vibrant as red, Anon. I wanted to make absolutely sure she could read everything I wrote."

"Discord..that could have been done in black ink...and besides. Look at Fluttershy. She's fainted and...hey.." As you turn to Fluttershy, her fallen form was resting comfortably on pillows.

Discord gave a pat to your head and snickered "I think she'll be alright Anon"

You turn over to Cheerilee, whose face has slammed onto the desk. She was drooling. Poor poor Cheerilee, Discord didn’t bother at all to make her fall as comfy as Fluttershy’s.

Without a word, Discord throws up the pen to snap his fingers. Producing a magical map in front of you. and a saddle bag around you. "Take this Anon, it's a map of Ponyville that shows you exactly where you are at any given time."

"oh...hey..that's pretty nifty actually.ok so if i'm....ugh"
You reach for the floating map, but the moment you touch it. it falls flat on the ground.
"...ugh...fine..give me a second"
You keep trying to pick up the map with your hooves, but you can't get any kind of grip. Instead of getting angry, you take a breath, calm down, and look at Discord.
"Hey Discord, can ya help a son out here? Couldn't you give me a horn or something?"

Discord didn't answer you, instead he just gave you instruction "Anon, look at the bottom of your hooves."

"What? what does that have to do with anything?"

"Just do it"

you raise your hoof, and turn it to look at the bottom. "Ok..now what?"

"See your frogs? those have little itty bitty muscles that allow you to grab objects. sometimes you need both your hooves, like for cups or chainsaws. But you should be able to pick up that map if you just focus on your hoof as if it was...hrmm...how about thinking of it as a puny little hand?"

hrm..that could work. You decide to try it. You place your hoof on the map, and try to grip as hard as you can. And the moment you lift your hoof, the map comes along with it. You are ecstatic
"haha! HAHA! CHECK ME OUT!"
You wave the map about
"I'M DOING IT! HAHAHA! TAKE THAT PHYSICS! I'M THE BEST!"

Discord chuckled "Bravo Anon, you sure showed those foals down at the daycare center whose boss. Perhaps next you can astound us with the amazing ability of blinking"

You chuckle at that, even if it is a little humiliating "Hey come on, I've never been a pony before until a couple of days ago. I'm still learning. I think I could even pick up the books back home now."

"You should be able to, yes. In anycase Anon, time is a commodity we always use so you might want to spend it wisely and get going. And please do be careful, alright?"

"Al-"
It then clicks
"Are you actually worried about me?...or are you just worried I might screw things up?"

"Both. You are my son now after all. I think a father is supposed to worry about the well being of their young."

You nod almost subconsciously, he was right about that. You give him a smile.
"Well..thanks Dad. Oh, and one more thing.."

You start putting the map in the saddle bag as Discord wraps Fluttershy in a blanket. "hrn?"

"That ink spit up thing, If you ever pull that off again. Pop your eyes too, trust me. I've seen a lot of movies. Girls always freak out at that stuff"

Discord starts to ponder, then smiles "That's actually a great idea Anon. Brilliant really. I just wonder...would it work on Rainbow Dash and Applejack?"

you nod, there was no question about it.
"It probably would, those two aren't as brave as they let on. Something like that would definitely do the trick"

Discord smile contorts to an evil grin "yes..yes...I'll keep that in mind, brilliant thought Anon."

You bow
"As expected from being the son of the spirit of chaos...welp...gotta go see Applebloom now. Don't do anything crazy! seeya!"

Discord says nothing, he just waves at you while he teleports away with a comfy unconscious Fluttershy.

You were alone now. You walked out of the schoolhouse and looked around. Then took a deep breath to enjoy the fresh air.
"Man...it actually feels nice to breath here. Cleanest air I've ever whiffed up anyway..now let's seeee.."
You whip out the map, and take a look.
"Hrn...the apple farm is over here...the clubhouse is right next to it and if I take this path around Sugarc-....hrnnn..Sugarcube corner"
You stared at the map, at the location of confectionery house of treats and cakes. And began to think deeply about your actions.

"It's not as if it's not along the way or anything. Besides, I bet Pinkie would get upset that she didn't know about me....that is. Unless somebody has already told her. Still...it wouldn't take that long. Go in, say hi, walk out."
You started to feel a shivering excitement course through your very bones as you think about it.
"she'll probably give me some hugs, a treat...oh boy. Good stuff. Maybe if I'm really nice. She'll give me a kiss...."

Suddenly your expression droops to a terrible realization of self awareness
"Holy shit Anon, you're getting excited for a kiss....thats a far cry from getting some....god you're lonely...Whatever it's fine. It's going to be a million times better than anything else because it's coming from her. And if not. At least you'll have met her....ok...See Pinkie, See Applebloom, get back to the cottage. No problemo..got this."
And with that alteration to the plan, you head to Sugarcube Corner to accomplish a mission of your very own.

You still didn't seem to care that Cheerilee fell flat on her own desk

Chapter 22

You followed the map all the way to the clubhouse. All the while wondering when you'll get to see Pinkie again, how things will go with DT, and how the CMC were going to react. You also hoped they were all there.

You walk up the boards to the door of the clubhouse. You bring your hoof to knock, but then hesitate.
You meditate in place for a moment. You needed to be in a state of mind that wouldn't seem off.
You think for a few extra moments to plan out your actions, but are unable to think of anything. So...the only option is to hoof it and see how it goes.
You knock.

"Who is it?" It's the voice of Scootaloo.

you get a small feeling of melancholy from hearing her. Last time you were with her you upset her.
"Oh..umm..It's Anon, I wanted to talk to you girls about something."

"Anon? Ok give me a second"

Suddenly, you can hear a lot of hushed whispering. It seems they weren't expecting you, at least...not so soon. You can hear a lot of scrambling about and hushed noises.
Then, the door opens, Scootaloo at the other side of it. But you don't see Sweetie Belle or Applebloom...odd...you could have sworn you heard more than one set of hooves shuffling.
you take a breath, and give Scootaloo a warming, nonaggressive smile. You were hoping she wasn't still upset..
"Heya Scootaloo..umm..how's it going?"

Scootaloo looked away from you, She was looking around the room for something, or she seemed to anyway. She then put on a smile. "Oh nothing really, how are you Anon?"

Well...she's smiling at you. That's a good sign. Well, since it's just you and her. You thought maybe you should apologize to her. You knew one of your goals was to befriend all three of them. And the news you had would cause a less heralding blow if you at least made amends first.
"I'm alright..umm..Hey Scootaloo, about the other day. Look, I want to apologize. I didn't mean to upset you and all. I just..."

You went silent. Did you really want to go as far as to say something along the lines of "Rainbow Dash is super great?". She wasn't THAT bad..but still. She could be cool when she wants to be. It's just sometimes she's so...

But before you could finish thinking. Scootaloo had noticed your pause and spoke. "It's alright Anon, I..I shouldn't have gotten so worked up either. I guess I let my fandom really get the better of me, huh?"

Fandom...ha. If only she knew how much that word had merit in your world. And to you in general. You did have your own favorites after all. the board you visited always had vicious arguments. You wondered for a brief moment how Scootaloo would react to IWTCIRD. But that was neither here nor there.

"Nah, it's fine. Trust me. I can reaaalllly understand it. Back home...at...the orphanage. We'd get into a fight or two about our favorite...uhh...teams..in...stuff.."

"Teams? Like the Wonderbolts? How do you feel about them?"

Shittier than Rainbow Dash. Then again. You had to at one point ask Discord how far canoninity goes into this world. You were sure there were some differences. Big one being that you were sure this whole day wasn't gonna be part of an episode any time soon. So you shrugged.
"They are pretty alright. Spitfire a cute-..I mean cut above the rest."

"She's pretty cool, but if Rainbow Dash was in the Wonderbolts..she'd probably be captain in-" Scootaloo is suddenly cut off by a soft noise.

"PSSST...PSSST"

What was that noise?
You and Scootaloo look back. You could have sworn you saw a pink bow behind the cabinet.

Scootaloo reacts to it more than you do though. And seems to try to hurry things along "Right..oh..umm..Anon..I also wanted to thank you for something."

Thank? what'd you do?"
"For what?"

"I heard about how you stood up to Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. That you defended Sweetie Belle and Applebloom and even me. How you told them off because...well..you know.."

Scootaloo looked happy and sad at the same time as she thanked you. no doubt a reminder that she was flightless was something that always torpedoed her mood.

Poor Scootaloo. She's had a hard life. Well...not really..but hard enough in this world.

"It's fine, the way those two were acting. I wasn't going to let them just walk away without an apology." That you were sure of.

Scootaloo's smile slowly grew hearing that "Wow Anon, it's like you're a hero. That's kinda cool. But, is your dad really Discord? I mean...you dont-"

"PSSSST...PSSSST" The voices interrupt her again.

Scootaloo suddenly shifted tones to that of more of a presentful manner as she looked back for a moment then towards you. "Right..umm..Anon. Me and the girls were preparing a surprise for you."

Surprise? huh...well..It was obvious at this point they were hiding. But you were a nice guy...for the most part. Best not to ruin their fun. You needed all three present anyway.
"All of you were gonna surprise me? Gee, that's pretty thoughtful. But um....aren't we the only ones here?"

Scootaloo started stepping backwards still facing you "noooope...We're actually all HERE!"

Suddenly, on that cue. Sweetie Belle and Applebloom burst out of their hiding spots as confetti flies and bursts everywhere and balloons float up to the ceiling. The girls themselves all had cute party hats on. Adorable. You had a feeling you knew what this was all about....hope they don't all come crashing down when you finally tell them about Diamond Tiara.

"Well look it all of this, What's the occasion?” You wondered

Applebloom walked up to you and gave you a gentle pound to the chest "Come on Anon, ya gotta be more excited than that. This is yer welcomin' celebration, You're gonna be an official Cutie Mark Crusader like us!"

Right..you did sort of agree to that.
"o-oh right,Almost forgot about that. So, uhh..anything I gotta do?"

Sweetie Belle shook her head "Not really, all you gotta do is is be sworn in and that's it. We'd have a cape for you and stuff...but..uhh..my sister is kinda on a rampage...somepony touched the new dress she was working on. So I haven't been able to get any materials"

Your pupils shrink....YOU were that somepony.
"O-oh...well..that's pretty bad"

Sweetie Belle nodded "Yeah, and the weird part is I don't remember anypony coming in and touching it. It's really really strange...but anyway. She'll calm down."

Hopefully...

Applebloom got up to begin the necessary requirements for you to be fully accepted into their group. You do what she tells you, say the oath, yadda yadda. It all ends with them being excited and hugging you. If only you got this kind of female attention back home.

Unfortunately, now comes the part where you put a rain on their parade. You really really didn't want to tell them. But you knew you had to. You could only imagine the kind of episode this would make if you didn't tell them and they spotted you with Diamond Tiara. With a lame moral and everything. You were above that.

"So..girls..now that I'm a Cutie Mark Crusader...I can say something and you gals will definitely not have a ridiculous freak out moment...right?"

"Freak out moment? Wait! Do ya already got a bonafide way to get us all cutie marks?!" Applebloom said, again. showing her single minded nature on the subject.

"...not really...It's something else"

"Oh right, you were gonna give us all the details on Discord right? Because I really want to know, that's gotta be pretty crazy" Scootaloo asked.

"Eh..I can save that for next time. I actually can't stay too long. Already cutting it close with the whole pledge thing"

Sweetie Belle took her time to answer, thinking hard. Finally she had her question "You..didn't touch the dress...did you?"

Evade mode activate
"Uhh, well. I don't think I did. I was just looking at it really."

"Oh...hrn...What is it then?" Sweetie Belle asked

"Ya, you're being all secretive about it, we're all crusaders now so ya can tell us! We'll understand!" Applebloom said, trying to encourage you.

Oh boy, probably best not to hesitate any longer. Just tell them and get it over with.

"Wellllll....Applebloom, Sweetie Belle...remember when I went off on Diamond Tiara?"

They both nod

"Ah still think ya went a little overboard, but... ah can forgive it. Ya we're just trying to protect us"

That was true...but damn, you shouldn't have let your blood boil like that.

"waiiiit.....you didn't actually go and attack Diamond Tiara did you?" Sweetie Belle asked.

"What?! No no...no. Actualllllyyyy.."

you take a breath

"...I'm sort of punished for that whole thing and-"

suddenly, a triple collected "WHAT!?" rang out throughout the clubhouse.

"Who punished you?! Do you mean Diamond Tiara sent some thugs to get revenge?" Scootaloo said, bewildered that'd you'd be punished at all. “Did you beat them all up?”

"That can't be right, he looks ok. And I don't think Anon is some super duper warrior.Oh, I know! Did Discord take care of the thugs?" Sweetie Belle added

Applebloom herself seemed quite flabbergasted with the responses from her fellow Crusaders. She was wondering why you were punished...but that was a stretch "Girls...ah think he means he was punished BY Discord"

You nod
"Applebloom got it"

Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle became more astonished, Applebloom just intrigued by it.

"Why would he punish you for that?! That sounds like something he'd have been proud of" Scootaloo was sure of it.

"What I want to know is why Diamond Tiara gets off scott free! ooohhhh!" Sweetie Belle felt a tinge of rage build up within her "She always gets away with everything!"

You raise your hoof to correct her
"Acccctuallly......she's punished too"

again, a collective gasp.

"That's ah new one. Never thought that would happen.But Anon, ya got punished because ya went too far, right?"

..dammit...you didn't really want to admit that one. You felt that you didn't. She was a gigantic cunt. But Applebloom didn't fully agree with your actions to begin with.
You slowly nod
"Yeah...that's the reason."

Applebloom turned to Sweetie Belle and closed her eyes and nodded "See, told ya he went too far"

Sweetie Belle contested her comment "pfft, only because Discord is nuts."

"Are ya saying our sisters, if we had done somethin' like that, wouldn't punish us either?" Applebloom cocked an eyebrow at Sweetie Belle, she knew the answer. And she knew that she knew too.

"......Wellll...mnn..." Sweetie Belle hung her head "They would..."

Scootaloo however, was now just curious on what the punishment was "So if you and Diamond Tiara are punished....then...what exactly are your punishments?"

Here we go...the big whammy. You chuckled, a little scared of the reaction, hoping a small laugh would lighten your mood.
"Well..that's the funny thing..I sort of...have to hang out with her...or something like that..for awhile. Not sure how long. Isn't that funny?"

They all look like they just found out that someone died. They don't even collectively gasp.
"G-girls?"

All three looked at each other, and at the same time said "We gotta hide him"

"You gotta w-WHAAHEEEY! WHAT ARE YOU DOING!"

They grabbed you and put you in a corner as you struggled. Then threw a blanket over you and held you down.

"Don't worry Anon, They won't find ya in here! We'll keep ya fed and everything until it all blows over!" Applebloom assured you

"WHAT?! LET ME OUT! YOU'RE OVERREACTING!"

"Calm down Anon! We'll protect you!" Sweetie Belle called out.

Scootaloo looked to her as she held you down as well "Wait...who are we protecting him from? Diamond Tiara or Discord? And wouldn't Discord find him anyway if it was him?"

"I dunno, but if he has to hang out with her. What if he turns out worse than Babs did when she was hanging out with her? He might not even be able to recover like she did!" Sweetie Belle said

"ahm...actually...she may have not recovered at all if we didn't..almost..well" Applebloom added.

Dammit, you couldn't even breath under this damn thing.
They didn't even seem to know what they were doing at that point.
"GIRLS! GIRLS! I CAN'T BREATH!"

Hearing that, they hurriedly remove the blanket. And apologize.

"Sorry Anon, we were just trying to hide you....Do you know a place?" Asked Sweetie Belle

Goddammit..they were worried over nothing! granted they didn't really know you. You weren't going to let yourself get manipulated by Diamond Tiara, if that even was going to be the case.
You look at them, you wanted to yell for such a stupid action they took. But you hold it in. You hold it in because you didn't want any further trouble. You didn't know when you had to get back, but you were losing time...if there even was that. You weren't even sure if you really had to go back as soonish as you thought.

"Girls...I don't need hiding...just relax ok?..geez..I feel like I was gonna die in there."

"But ya do need hiding Anon! Diamond Tiara might take ya away and make her one of her diabolical minions!" Applebloom said in a panic

Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, hell..even you looked at her with cocked eyebrows.

Applebloom smiled nervously. "Ehmm...too much?"

"See, now you're not being sensible.....but" Sweetie Belle turns to you "She's sort of right too, Anon. She might try to get you to be on her side. We've seen it before."

All three nod

.....relax Anon...relax. They are dumb children. You just had to get across that you aren't an impressionable idiot. Because if this went on, you were gonna flip.
"Girls, relax ok? I'm not gonna go on her side or anything like that. I'm just going to ride this out until it ends. Trust me. It's gonna be fine."

"But Anon, What if she uses her girly wiles on you!?" Applebloom exclaimed

"Erm...Applebloom, what does that even mean?" Scootaloo was ignorant on it.

Applebloom shrugged "Dunno, heard muh sister say something about it a few times about Rarity and some stallions"

Oh boy. This was getting nowhere. You try making your tone a little more stern. Without seeming hostile.
"Girls, I'm not going to suddenly betray you, I'm not going to suddenly hate you, I'm not going to stop being a cutie mark crusader, and I'm certainly not going to be charmed by her girlie wiles, got it?"

Well...not unless it somehow became sex.....is that wrong to think? eh, you didn't care. Because that probably wasn't gonna happen either.

They cautiously nod, but Applebloom still had to ask "Ya promise? You'll stay a Cutie Mark Crusader?"

You nod
"Yes yes, I will. Now will you three ple-"

Suddenly the three hug onto you. What's all this then?
"Good! there's not many pony's our age who don't got a Cutie Mark. It's really just the three of us and a few others. So havin' another friend we can talk to is great!" Applebloom said as she cuddle hugged.

"Yeah, and since you're a colt! we can try some things we haven't been able to before to get our Cutie Marks!" Scootaloo said in excitement.

Oh god.....that could be interpreted in so many ways.
"L-like what?"

You blushed..you dirty minded colt you...

"Well, we could be your trainers for a big race, or maybe even ringside fighting. And get trainer cutie marks, and you'd get your fighter or racer..or..something Cutie Mark. We're girls so we can't do some of that stuff, like fighting and sparring I mean” Stated Scootaloo

How disappointing.....and painful sounding
"Yeah..that sounds uhh pretty..cool. But girls, I kind of got to get going now. Stuff to do and all that."

"What? But ya just became a Cutie Mark Crusader! We got Crusadin' to do!" Applebloom said as she tried to urge you from leaving.

All three make a huge sad pouty face at you. Seeing this collective assault on your cute sensors was disarming. But you had to go. You would not be so easily swayed....unless orgies...yeah...gotta get mind out of the gutter...

"sorry girls...Look, I'll make it up to you. The next time I get the chance. I'll do whatever ideas you guys have for the whole day. We'll all do it together. How's that sound"

Sweetie Belle seemed confused by that "But Anon..that's what we should be doing anyway. We all do crusading together."

Dammit...you had to go
"Ahh, what I meant was. I'd be able to convince my dad to let me come early so we can get a whoooole bunch out of the way."

Scootaloo nodded to that "oooohhh, now that makes sense. Ok, that sounds good to me!"

The other two nodded, they agreed.

thank god. a part of you didn't want to go really however, an odd feeling indeed. It may have been fun to go on a crusade or two. But you surmised it's probably best to get this over with, not piss off anyone, and just wait when you'll finally have the time and privilege to just go about Ponyville on your own. You knew for sure, or hoped anyway, that Discord wouldn't just keep you cooped up or doing what he wanted to do all the time. You concluded the only reason it was like this now is because he's actually really and truly getting you accustomed to Equestria...while having a little fun along the way.
With that, finally, you are able to say goodbye to the three, and head off back to Fluttershy's cottage.
That wasn't so bad. You got super nuzzle cuddles from Pinkie and instantly became friends. a Super big plus. And...the CMC themselves aren't that bad. Just overzealous, you were sure of that as you got used to one another. That things would be ok. You'd probably have to answer some questions about Discord again next visit. Whatever..it'd be fine.

You finally manage to get your goodbyes out with them, as they remind you to come back soon and not let Diamond Tiara convert you.
You know you were made of stronger, sterner stuff than that.
You turn around, and exit the clubhouse....only to immediately slam your face into another door.
You were right outside Filthy Rich's manor.

You rubbed your face to try to calm the pain.but finally, you let out your pint up rage.
"DAMMIT DISCORD!CAN WE STOP WITH THE FACE THING?! ITS GETTING OLD!"

"Well Anon, it's not my fault you don't look where you are going. And please don't yell..it's rude."

Chapter 23

Right..don't yell. You didn't even really have a reason to be angry at him anyway. You were just pissed that you nearly died under a blanket and had to deal with an annoying filly.
You just stay silent for a moment and take in the scenery. The front of the manor was well kept with various flowers. Also the sun was still up. So no kind of time shenanigans this time.
"..ok..so, why are we here? I thought we were going to meet back at Fluttershy's"

"Well Anon, you simply took too long. Fluttershy felt tired after the shock at the school so I put her to bed, tucked her in, and got her some delicious and relaxing soup. Then I waited for you. So....what kept you?"

that made you a little nervous. You did indeed take a detour. But..it didn't take THAT long. If anything, the CMC's panic ate up some extra time.
"Well, erm. Applebloom and the others sort of overreacted to the whole Diamond Tiara thing. I had to spend some time calming them down so they wouldn't be upset."

Discord nodded, his eyes focused on something on your person "Yes, I suspected that might happen. But that doesn't explain..." He reaches over and plucks a pink strand of horse hair from your body "This...took a detour, did you?"

The jig was up. But you didn't panic. He shouldn't be getting onto you over such a small matter.
"Ok, I visited Pinkie Pie. And it went really well. You're not going to punish me over that too are you? That'd be overbearingly controlling,wouldn't it? I'm not actually some little kid you know"

Discord just nods again "You're right, you're not. I don't care that you visited Pinkie Pie"

wut?

"You aren't?"
Well that was peculiar. You expected something from him. Was he baiting you again?

Discord shook his head "Anon, I don't really care what kind of little mischief you get into. As long as it doesn't make me, Fluttershy, or yourself look bad. You could conquer Equestria for all I care.....actually...Don't do that...I'll do that...maybe...that's a back up idea of course, not as if I actually want to do that" He says as he loses his train of thought.

And that set you off as peculiar. You had some ideas of why Discord brought you to Equestria in the first place. Obviously the relationship was as said, symbiotic. And he has been using you for his own fun. But still, for him to actually care about image. That poked at your curiosity.

You looked him dead in the eye
"Discord, what's up with you?"

Discord seemed confused and offended by that statement "What's up with me? I don't know what you're talking about, you're the one running into doors. That's not what colts usually do. So you can get that out of your head right now mister! To think, I have a headsmasher for a son...the shame..."

you shake your head.
"No Discord. What I mean is. What's up with this whole "Dad,Son" deal. And I mean the WHOLE thing, the REAL reason you're doing all this. It can't be for fun or just for you. You would have been done by now.So come on, tell me"

Discord suddenly became serious in tone, he did not like that line of questioning at all. "Anon, where did you get the idea that you know exactly who I am?"

you arrogantly smirk. You had enough info. You were sure of that
"The show.your plans, While simple, always had some substance to them, even though they were..you know...petty as hell"

"Petty?! Anon please, far be it for me to understand how ponies go about their social lives that I myself can't take drastic measures to understand things such as "Friendship" and.." he starts rolling his arm as he tries to think of another word "things...that ponies do"

"And I'm not actually a dumb kid that's just going to sit idly by and just be a tool. We're in this together. Father and son, the least you can do is give me a damn freebie!"
You stomp your hoof, feeling more determined
"I'm tired of being made to feel like your puppet, Discord. Just tell me what this is really all about. We're essentially partners at this point. It'd help if I knew my motivation!"

Discord took that as a challenge, picked you up. And narrowed his eyes as he tried to stare you down. "Are you telling me what to do?"

You nod
"You bet I am! I'm not going to be afraid of you this time. Whatever you do, I'll know it's a trick."

Discord just rolls his eyes as he just opens a portal behind you and flicks you inside.
"Gyahh!"

You yelp as you fall onto some ground, right on your head, and roll on the ground until you come to a stop.
"...ugh...geez..you didn't......"

Suddenly, you give a small yip as you notice a ton of thrashing tentacles around you. You can hear Discord's voice somewhere, but he was nowhere in sight.
"You should of dropped it Anon, but now it seems I'll have to teach you a lesson."

The tentacles started to slowly reach towards your hooves as you stepped back to avoid them. But, they were all around you. There was no escape. You had to hold your ground. You had to hope you were right.
"You aren't g-going to do anything Discord. This is too dark, even for you, it's right out of a bad fanfic!"

Suddenly, four tentacles whip at you and grab your hooves, spreading you for "the incoming"

"Well, I have taken a gander at your world, Anon. Whose to say I haven't picked up some new tricks from reading said "bad fanfics" "

You suddenly felt one of the tendrils rubbing up and down your back. But...that's all it was doing. Still, it felt like ice.

shit, SHIT. When the hell did he get into this kind of stuff anyway?...wait right..plunder seeds...STILL. There wasn't any kinks. He had to be bluffing. No way your psyche could handle this kind of trauma and not go noticed. Fluttershy would definitely notice and find out. Come on Anon. Use logic. Everyone would find out. He can't..he won't. Don't get scared! of all the times he's ever done this. It never ended badly.
"You aren't going to do anything! I know you won't!"

"Yes I will" He said in a chide voice

"You won't!"

"I will!" He started to sound annoyed now

"You won't!"

"I will!"

"No you won't"

"Yes...I...will" He was breathing harder, aggravated. you could hear it.

"NO YOU WON'T!"

Suddenly, in a burst of flame, he appeared before you, gargantuan in size as he pointed at you with godly fury "YES...IIIIII..WILLLLLLLL, THIS IS YOUR FINAL WARNING!"

....shit...what do you do? that tentacle on your back could make a move at any moment. But you already got this far....in fact, you got far enough that he didn't seem to actually make any truly intrusive move..by his standards anyway. You considered yourself crazy for this. But if you went down, he'd go down with you after you tell someone. But that was worst case scenario.
You tried to think of more scenarios calmy coming from any brash action. And..well...no doubt Fluttershy or Pinkie Pie...or just some pone nurse..would tend to your penetrated ass...that could be nice...if you didn't die.
You play your hand.

You give him a stern look, the only part to break is your sweat.
"You won't"

Discord immediately started roaring and growling angrily as everything burst into flame "GGGGGGGGGYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH.....ok you win"
Suddenly, the tentacles disappear as you plop onto your back. Suddenly, fear and panic of what just happened hits your brain, as well as relief as you get up and pant excessively.

Discord sighed as the area suddenly became an open plain as he began to speak of the truth of the matter.
"Anon, the truth is this: for awhile now, a lot of ponies view me as a monster, simply due to a little thing as "high treason". And although I do my best to make things right. Some ponies still...Anon..are you listening?"

You were still recovering from the realization you really could have been tentacle raped.

"Anon, when I'm explaining a tragedy that has befallen me. I expect you to listen" Discord said as he snapped his talons, warping you from your spot to right in front of him. hovering in mid air.

"G-give me a second, geez."

Discord just lifts his paw and gives you a gentle yet firm slap in the face and then smirks at you "better?"

You felt more knocked to your senses alright. But it still hurt, you rub your face where he hit you
"yes..geez, you didn't have to hit me. That's child abuse"

Discord rolled his eyes "What happened to "not being a child" and "Being mature" "

You then roll your eyes to him
"Whatever, just get on with it. You're lucky I can put up with you. a real colt probably would have died by now"

Discord chuckled at that "Now THAT'S rather dark"

it was, but you didn't want to think about it. You just wanted him to tell his story.
"Yeah well, It's true. Anyway, can you just get on with it?"

Discord laughs "My my, so demanding. Simply because the little colt thinks he trumped big bad Discord. That's cute. But fine, let me fulfill your request. To continue, some ponies still see me as a monster. Now I know what you're thinking. "Why would Discord care what other ponies think, he's the greatest being ever, he doesn't need to care about such things"...and you'd be right to think that. But alas, poor Fluttershy. When we are walking, or talking, or having a picnic; We will often hear harsh words from passerbys and she will get upset. Or even act in my defense. And then, they will scrutinize her. But the odd thing is that she won't let me act on her behalf and get sweet unbridled revenge. She says she knows that I'm good inside, and to not worry about what others say. But I can't Anon, for some reason these "feelings"...I don't what ponies call them but they just bubble up inside me. So I came up with the brilliant plan to have Twilight Sparkle teach me all about Equestrian law to better act like an upstanding citizen"

Geez..so that was it. It was for Fluttershy. And it's true. You knew Celestia forgave him. even invited him to the Gala and such. But something like getting trashed by a manic spirit and a centaur is not something easily forgotten. Especially by global basis. You felt bad for him, he actually had a good and non selfish reason.
"Discord...that's actually really sweet. I never would have guessed that"

"Of course not, I'm Discord, you're not supposed to figure out my plans. But now you know. Are you happy?"

You nod, and smile at him
"Yeah, that's pretty cool of you actually...but wait...what happened to the whole upstanding citizen bit. When we got here we just messed with Twilight."

"Puhhhhlleeeaaasseee Anon, I sat through seven straight hours of that without Twilight relenting for an instant. It's pure insanity! If I had to do all of that just to be an upstanding citizen, I'd go mad! So...I took the adoption option. As you've seen it's gained me some respect already. Soon, everypony will see me as just as capable of good as any other."

You smirk
"Princess Celestia certainly thought so"

Discord was unamused by those words "..yes..yes she did.."

You giggle, that was a pretty sweet visit. You then hold out your hoof to him.

Discord looked at it, confused "Hrn? What are you doing Anon?"

"just offering you a hoofshake, I really want to help you Discord. I think I can put up with your crap since it's for a good cause. Besides, you can't do this without my cooperation anyway."

Discord smiled , it seemed genuine, he seemed pretty happy that you just complied without questioning it further. He grabs your hoof and shakes it. "Anon, you are better than what you seem. I'm really beginning to like you,"

you smirk at him as you shake
"The same, Dad"

With that, Discord teleports you and himself back at the door. And looks down at you and fixes your mane a bit before facing the door "Are you ready Anon? Do you think you can handle this punishment?"

You nod
"No big deal, how long is it gonna last anyway?"

"About a week, maybe less. We'll see how it goes. I trust you, And i'll help you with whatever you need"

That's actually reassuring
"Thanks, just stick by me for now. I don't wanna screw up, this guy seems to respect you and all."

Discord knocks on the door "Of course Anon, I'll be right by your side."

After a bit. Filthy Rich himself..again. Opens the door, and looks down at you "Ahh, Mr.Anon. I've been expecting you and...hrn? Say now, where's your father?"

"Oh he's right..."

You look to your right...Discord is gone
GODDAMMIT DISCORD! REEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE

Chapter 24

As before, Filthy Rich led you into his study. He was speaking. But you weren't paying too much attention. It was just this or that about that he wished Discord had arrived as well so he could talk about an interesting business venture.
No, you were tempering yourself. You had a feeling about what you were about to jump into. And had to steel your mind and body for what's to come.
You couldn't have an angry outburst like before. You were an adult in mind. You had to remember that. She was just a child and a brat to boot. Nothing to get angry about, and you knew you could shrug off her insults. You had no reason to react like you did before, none whatsoever. And on the plus side, being the cool and collected guy you are. You also knew you could pull off a few devious moves of your own if needed. She wasn't the only one who could charm others...well...you couldn't really do that before...but now you were cute.

"Mr.Anon?" Filthy Rich was looking at you, a little concerned. "Did you hear me?"

"What? Huh?"

You snap out of your thoughts as you realize you were standing in front of four seats with a small table between them. A large porcelain container with a spout sat on the middle of the table while four cups sat at the edges. Only three were filled with what seemed like Hot cocoa. Both Filthy Rich and Diamond Tiara were looking at you like you had just done something peculiar.

"Do you not want to sit Mr.Anon? I could have the chair removed if you like" Filthy Rich said as he took a sip of his cocoa

Fuck. You got too lost in your planning that you didn't even hear him. You quickly bow and take a seat.
"S-sorry Mr.Rich, just..umm..a little nervous"

Filthy Rich nods "Understandable Mr.Anon, It's not everyday somepony such as yourself gets to come into my home twice" he gives a hearty laugh

You just blink

Filthy Rich's joyous smile becomes stoic when he realizes you didn't get whatever joke that was supposed to be. " Well, nevermind. Here, have some cocoa, Anon. We got some discussin to do. Just a shame your father couldn't join us. It's awkward to be explaining how this is going to work without the other parent present. But we did get it worked out. But first, why don't you both greet each other. Since you both will be spending time together. It's important for two parties to always greet each other in kind, it opens worlds of opportunity."

That sounded like business speak. You look silently at Diamond Tiara, While she looks at you with a stoic smile. Trying to at least seem pleasant. Lucky for you, You knew not to be petty at a time like this.

You give a happy,cheery, smile to her
"H-hello Diamond Tiara!...sorry for being so nervous. This is just really overwhelming"

Filthy Rich finds your little hello adorable, and smiles "Now that's initiative, you didn't even hesitate, I wouldn't have been able to tell any kind of altercation happened between you two."

However, Diamond Tiara had yet to reply

"Say hello back darlin', don't be rude now" Filthy gives her a nudge

Diamond Tiara stared into your eyes and gave you a quick snooty look, She could tell, unlike her father, that you were faking it.And she was annoyed you took the initiative before she could.
"Hello Anon, it's a nice day we're having, isn't it?" Diamond Tiara said as she sipped her cocoa, eyes locked to you, filled with disgust

You just keep your smile, and carefully grab your cup with your ever growing skills of...grabbing.
"Oh yeah! It is! Everyday I get to spend in Ponyville is a new day of fun and making new friends, I hope we can be friends Diamond Tiara, I'm awfully sorry about before. But the situation was kind of nasty....I dunno what came over me."

Diamond Tiara, while remaining audibly collected. It was obvious that she was visually annoyed with you with the way she crossed her eyebrows, her face hidden purposely behind her cup. Her “upbeat” attitude sounding rather coarse"That's..so..good. I'm very happy...to hear that, and don't worry..I guess we both were having...a bad day.."

"Haha! Now that's what I like to see. My little darlin' having a nice cup of cocoa with a new friend. I can already tell you both are going to get along so well. Especially since you are being a gentlecolt about this Mr.Anon" Filthy Rich cheered

Diamond Tiara was gripping her cup tighter, it was shaking in her hooves.

"Well Mr.Rich, I don't wanna be any trouble..." You say as you take a sip of cocoa
You then think about Discord's "truth". You did believe it, you knew he wouldn't change too much in his attitude. But that had to be true. It would be too terrible if it wasn't .
"...My father, he got me out of a really bad place. I'm very grateful to him. And so, I always try to be the best and goodest son I can be. But sometimes, I just have some flashbacks."

"I can only imagine. Growing up in an orphanage in Fillydelphia. But I can already see great progress in you Mr.Anon, considering your father's past actions, it's remarkable, almost ridiculous to believe really, to see he could help you in that regard. It's truly inspiring and to be respected." Filthy said, with admiration in his tone

You take a sip of your cocoa...it tasted pretty damn good, top of the line.
"T-thank you Mr.Rich, that means a lot. And I'm sure it means a lot to my dad too if he had heard it. I mean, you are Filthy Rich after all. You are already a very respectable pony among regular folk like me"

You took a quick glance at Diamond Tiara, her eye was twitching. She was definitely getting angry that you were making such headway with her father. And it was obvious she couldn't think of anything to say.

Filthy Rich chuckled, he felt humbled "Now now Mr.Anon. One can swear you were tryin' to butter me up. Even if what you say is true."

You both laugh in unison, until Filthy Rich notices his daughter's silence.
"Something the matter sweetheart? you've been quiet."

Diamond Tiara turned to her father and smiled at him, a mirthfully fake one only obvious to you "Oh it's nothing, I didn't want to interrupt. That would be rude. Wouldn't it?"

Filthy Rich shook his head in disagreement, he felt in this particular instance that it would have been alright "No, but I also didn't mean to make you feel left out. No, I think it's time we get down to business then. Now, I'm not a harsh pony. I just want you both to learn from each other and hopefully become good friends. But I cannot tolerate the kind of behavior you both exhibited, especially you young lady, that is no way to act"

"..." Diamond Tiara hung her head in shame, frowning "Yes Daddy"

Filthy Rich gave his daughter a gentle pat "Now now, I'm not mad at you darlin'. I just want you to improve."

Diamond Tiara gave her father big sad eyes "But aren't I good as I am now? Am I a bad pony?"

Filthy Rich gulped, he didn't mean to imply that, but you knew she was playing him now. It was now time to observe and learn first hand.
"N-no pumpkin, it's not like that. You're one of the best ponies there is. But even the best make a mistake once in awhile."

Diamond Tiara looked downward, and circled her hoof around her cup "O-oh, I see.....I really am sorry Daddy. I just don't know what came over me...."

You just glance at her, a stoic look on your own face as you take a sip of your hot cocoa. You'd let her have this. Because she wasn't going to have you. That's for sure.

Filthy Rich reached over to give her a hug "Now now, don't cry. I'm just doing what I have to as a father, sweetheart. It doesn't make you a bad pony, it's just a part of learnin'."

"So, does that mean I'm still the best pony?" Diamond Tiara asked

"Of course you are" Filthy Rich squeezed her tight.

You roll your eyes. If that was a demoralizing tactic to make you feel less of a man...pony...colt.It didn't work. That's what all parents say because their children are all special snowflakes.
after that little display was over. Filthy Rich looked to the both of you. and finally started to discuss the terms of how this is going to work.

Chapter 25

Filthy Rich began to speak in a sterner tone as he talked about the terms of the arrangement "Diamond Tiara, Anon. Now I want you both to know that I nor Mr.Discord believe this punishment should be too harsh or demanding. It's purpose is so the both of you can learn from your mistakes and understand each other and become better ponies. That is why..." Filthy Rich takes out a good sized pouch and places it on the table, the cling clangs from inside suggest it's filled with bits. "I'll also be handing you both this generously filled bag of bits.....with a condition of course. You both cannot use a single bit from this bag unless you both have agreed on what you wish to spend it on. Am I clear?"

both you and Diamond Tiara nodded, it sounded simple enough as long as she was willing to play ball. If not, no skin off your nose, aside from food. You couldn't imagine what you'd need to spend bits on other than snacks. You did start to feel a little bad though. It was obvious Filthy Rich was intent on this more than Discord was. Discord obviously just wanted this mess settled without any actual repercussion while Filthy Rich wanted you and Diamond Tiara to become friends...or something close to that. He obviously didn't like hearing what you and Diamond Tiara did. And you were sure he had never heard of a colt nor his daughter getting into that kind of a nasty spat. Still, even if things were to work out. It'd mostly depend on Diamond Tiara, and you weren't going to hold your breath on that.

Filthy Rich turns to you "Oh and Mr.Anon. You being the colt in this little duo. I expect a little more responsibility from you regarding my daughter. Nothing complicated, I can already trust you'll never fulfill those threats you made when you were out of mind. So the only thing I ask is that you escort my little darling back home before the sun sets over the horizon. You can do that, can't you son?"

again, sounded easy enough. You nod with confidence.
"Can do Mr.Rich, I wouldn't want to worry anypony"

Filthy Rich nods, satisfied with your answer "Good good. Now you two run along. And don't separate from each other for any reason, you hear?"

You both get up, and then turn to nod to him.

"You don't have to worry Daddy, I only want to make you proud." Diamond Tiara says with an upbeat cheerful grin

You say nothing. It seems the punishment was just being stuck with one another. The bits was obviously incentive in case you and Diamond wanted to do something or eat together. This was almost sounding like some sort of forced date.

You and Diamond bid a farewell to Filthy Rich and step outside the manor. Taking the bag of bits with you in your saddle bag for safe keeping.

out of his sight and range of hearing. Diamond Tiara's smile immediately turns into a scowl.
"I hope you don't think I was fooled by your silly little display"

That was quick.

You look towards Diamond Tiara with an arrogant smirk on your face. the last thing you concluded on is she'd probably fake all of this to get out of the punishment. You certainly were willing too as well if it meant getting out of this.
"Wasn't expecting you to be. And isn't that calling the kettle black? We were both playing him. Which is pretty sad...you're supposed to be his "Little Darling Princess" "

Diamond Tiara growled at you, she didn't like that remark "What was that?! You think you can tell me how to act?"

You shook your head
"Not what I said, only making an observation that you're not above being a little sneak.Also, you may want to watch that temper of yours. We are still right outside the door."

Diamond Tiara held her tongue hearing that. She didn't want her father to suddenly catch her any yelling she might do. She couldn't believe how easily she was losing her cool to some cutie markless colt. She takes a moment to cool down, then points forward. "Walk, we'll talk about this after we get past the front gate."

You hold your smirk, and nod. This was going to be fun. Not your fault she's a little weasel. Still, if this whole thing could be salvaged. You would make sure it works, if only because her father seemed like a pretty cool dude.

You both walk out, through the front gate and out of definite earshot. Diamond Tiara, calmer, had assessed her situation in her own way during the short walk.

You also took something of note. She wasn't afraid of you anymore. You had a curiousness as to why. But you wouldn't ask. Not unless she brought up something you could lead the question into.

Diamond Tiara started eyeing your body, taking a longer time to look at your flank "I don't understand..."

you tilt your head, what didn't she understand?
"What?"

Diamond Tiara pointed at your blank flank "I don't understand how a colt like you doesn't have their cutie mark. It's obvious that you aren't as idiotic as the colts here in Ponyville. You're definitely smart enough to have discovered your special talent by now."

hrn, this could be interesting. you decide to gauge her in conversation.
"I don't think being smart has anything to do with finding your cutie mark."

"Oh it definitely helps Anon.That's why Applebloom and her little brigade don't have theirs. Every attempt they make always have them making them look like total idiots. Why do you think I wanted you at my side? I was just trying to protect you from them. Despite being an orphan, you have the look and smarts of somepony of my stature.....close to it anyway"

You keep your cool. But you also can't help but be intrigued by her words. "Protect"?
"Protect me? I don't think I need any protection if all you are capable of doing is bullying Applebloom and her friends...which by the way..are my friends too. I'm already a Cutie Mark Crusader"

she stays silent for a moment, she didn't seem shocked. But you wondered what her reply would be.

She raised an eyebrow, looking at you inquisitively "I seem to remember you not really caring about Cutie Marks."

"I don't, but I like Applebloom and her friends more than I like you. You're just terrible, you know that?"

Diamond Tiara's eye twitched at those words, but she held fast to her composure."Those are big words coming from a colt who threatened to hit a girl"

You roll your eyes at her
"Because threatening a jerk is something to be ashamed of right? At least I had good intentions"

Diamond Tiara huffed, then continued her march forward into town, you following. The trail she was taking seemed pretty aimless so far. "I don't get you. There's nothing wrong with what I do. Maybe if they got their act together they would have their Cutie Marks already. It's not my fault that I'm better than them"

You stop, you stop dead in your tracks as you feel your temper slipping. Not enough to do anything rash. But you had to remark on those words.
"Excuse me? Do you even listen to yourself when you talk? Do you not notice how malicious that sounds?"
You almost couldn't believe this. How could anyone not notice?

"Malicious? Me?" Diamond Tiara stopped and turned to face you, she looked insulted "I'm not malicious, I'd like to think of it as another form of encouragement. Maybe if they realize how stupid they are, they might stop to think of what they are doing instead of doing everything under the sun. They even get in the way of me sometimes, Anon. And even when they succeed, they STILL don't get their Cutie Marks. Clearly they are nearly beyond hope if Snips and Snails can get their Cutie Marks and they can't; they might already be beyond help actually"

some of that you couldn't argue. Even if she put it in harsh wording. You knew how single minded they were. They clearly had talents but never actually stopped to practice them. instead always moving on to the next thing. Still, you had an inkling she was trying something.
"I'll admit, they are a little disorganized. But that doesn't mean you should go and hassle them. No matter the reason."

Diamond Tiara gave a smug chuckle to your words "Do you listen to YOURSELF when you talk, Anon? You haven't been around them like I have. They are trouble. They even have a tendency to almost ruin other ponies lives, it's only a matter of time before they actually do."

Ok...that's also true. And you wish you could say it. But you knew they also helped lives, like Troubleshoes.

You answer with the only words you think you can get away with without arousing suspicion.
"I think you're exaggerating, they are just three fillies just looking for their place in the world."

boy, you were starting to feel pretty dumb. You were having a conversation with this bitch. Instead of just pummeling her with your superior human mind. But...you were just too intrigued. This was probably one of the few chances you'd get to actually understand what she actually thinks.

"And where's your place, Anon? I don't think you really mean what you say about Cutie Marks. I just don't think you've been given the chance. We're supposed to be learning from each other and being friends right? Why don't we actually do that then? You'd change your mind about Cutie Marks real quick. You're better than the others. I've never met a colt as smart as you"
Her gaze was becoming softer, warmer, gentler.

But you just raised your eyebrow, skeptical of where this was headed
"Let me guess...I just have to drop Applebloom and the others right?"

Diamond Tiara hesitated, she said nothing at first. It looked as if she was thinking of something to say before actually replying. "....not really..I don't want to tear you away from your first friendship out of whatever orphanage you came from. I'm just asking you to be my friend. That way we can share our perspectives like we are supposed to. I'm sure daddy would like that. And considering your dad...somehow...agreed to this whole thing too, then you'd definitely win points with him as well. Who knows, you might actually come to understand what I'm talking about. And if you think about it, it makes sense. With me as your friend, you'd be able to enjoy so many luxuries you normally would never have."

Enticing...If you were a dumb as shit kid. She was up to something.
"I'd rather,if possible, we all be friends. And that's really stretching it since to be quite honest. I don't really like you."

You felt you could get away with that. You both had to make it seem you were ok with each other for this whole thing to end.

Diamond Tiara shook her head, but she didn't falter from her resolve. "Anon, maybe if they had their Cutie Marks, I'd think about it. But they'd only bring us down if we were ALL friends with each other. Let's keep it simple."

"Let's not. Look, I'm not interested if it's going to hurt Applebloom and the others. So unless you actually want to give this a shot.I say we go right to pretending and just waste the day and get it over with. How does that sound?"

She didn't agree with that, and stepped even closer to you. Her eyes half closed, dreamy, seductive. What was she up to?
"Come on Anon...I can help you. I can do things other ponies can't. Who knows..." She slides her hoof gently under your chin "I might find you more interesting if you just say yes..."

..ugh...it felt nice being touched by her. She was cute enough. But still, you would not be swayed. Your dick was not in command here. You back away. You saw what she was doing. She just wanted you to betray the CMC. Another way to get them to suffer.

"Nope... Sorry Diamond Tiara, but I'd rather be a Cutie Mark Crusader. So you can stop. Either take MY offer and get over yourself. Or just be the slime you are used to being. It doesn't matter to me, nor does it bother me."
Diamond Tiara started stomping her hooves in frustration and anger "why.why,why,why,why,WHY?! I've even had those Dumbymark Pinheads eating out of my hooves once! What's wrong with you...Nopony denies me...NOPONY!"

She gets some spit on your little tuft of fur on your chest. You just look down calmly, blink, and wipe it off
"...gross..."

You swear you could see steam coming out of her ears as she stared at you with daggers in her eyes "LISTEN HERE YOU LITTLE WORM! I'M BETTER THAN YOU! I'LL ALWAYS BE BETTER THAN YOU! YOU'RE JUST SOME TRASH NOPONY WANTED. TO THE POINT THAT EQUESTRIA'S BIGGEST LUNATIC DECIDED TO ADOPT YOU! I GAVE YOU AN OPPORTUNITY AND YOU BLEW IT BIG, ANON! I COULD CRUSH YOU, YOU KNOW..ALL I HAVE TO DO IS TELL DADDY YOU WERE MEAN AND A BULLY!"

You stand there, unmoved by her anger
"You done? Because that wouldn't work.."

"OH?! AND WHY NOT?!"

suddenly, you pouted, and started to whine and cry
"I'm s-sorry Mr.Rich. I-I tried my best. B-but she wouldn't stop insulting m-my friends. S-she wouldn't stop hating them just because they didn't have Cutie Marks. S-she thinks they are lower than dirt...even Applebloom and Sweetie Belle...sisters to Princess Twilight's best and most trusted friends, I didn't mean to say those things Mr.Rich, but she said such horrid things...such..horrid..things.."

You then gave Diamond Tiara a cocky smile
"Two can play at that game. And I'm sure your "Daddy" wouldn't like to hear how you rag on them. He probably does have some business with Twilight Sparkle...wouldn't want to ruin that, would we?"

ohhhh..you felt positively conniving and sneaky, It felt nice.

Finally, Diamond Tiara began to falter. She didn't want that to happen. "Y-you're bluffing, daddy wouldn't believe you over me"

You chuckle
"He already thinks I'm quite the gentlecolt. And you already goofed up since thats exactly how you and I ended up in this situation. There's no where left to go Diamond Tiara. I've won. You lost...Now how about we get some lunch and make things look pleasant for the crowd, huh?"

She didn't calm down however. Suddenly there were tears in her eyes, She was beginning to cry "How?....how can you do that? You can't...I'm supposed to be the best. How can you just sweep me under the rug like some common bug?"

oh come on, did she think you'd feel bad over this? You didn't even feel bad about most tragedies that happened on earth,
"Don't do this, it won't work on me"

But she just continued to bawl and cry. And as she did, other ponies started to notice. Some even coming to investigate the situation.

At first you didn't care who saw. But then you quickly realized she was on the ground crying. And you seemed perfectly alright...and seemingly even cruel.
Shit.....You just realized what she was doing.

"What are you doing? stop already"

But she wouldn't, she only started to wail louder. the few that went to investigate started to get closer.

You quickly sorted through your options. But you had nothing. You'd seem the villain once they caught wind of it.
"F-fine! Y-you win...S-stop crying already"

She lifted her head slightly to look at you "Will you do what I say? or do you want to deal with them?....my Daddy would eventually find out"

Fuck.....FUCK. Dammit. You wouldn't even care if it wasn't for Discord's "Truth". You'd find some way out of it on your own.
"...fine..But that doesn't mean we're friends..."

"That's fine...We can work on that later...."

That little sneak, in her moment of actual sadness she must have come up with a plan to garner attention. She was able to use her temporary defeat to bring up a waterfall of tears. You almost had her. But she was a girl, you were a guy. And she was on the ground crying. You couldn't risk it.

As the onlookers gathered. Diamond Tiara raised from the ground and gave you a hug "Thank you Anon, Your pep talk really made me feel better! You're such a great friend!"

You silently grumbled, then put on a distorted smile as you hugged her back. Internally screaming at yourself.
"N-no problem..."

The onlookers were perplexed, they thought you did something to make Diamond Tiara cry. Which you did, but thanks to that display. They felt they made a mistake. A few found you two cute. One even remarking that you could be an adorable young couple. After a little while longer. They dispersed to continue on with their day.

Good...fucking....grief....you needed to recover and think of a new plan.

Chapter 26

Diamond Tiara, satisfied with being on top once more. looked onto the horizon, she could feel her sweet tooth aching. "You know Anon...I know what we should spend our bits on first. Let's go get me an ice cream"

You were still reeling from her power play. You were also getting hungry. That sandwich back at Fluttershy's wasn't a whole lot. Surely Diamond Tiara would at least agree to actual food.
"Actually, we could go to the diner. I think they sell shakes there. And I kind of want some solid food. Kinda hungry"

Diamond Tiara looked at you and scoffed "Anon, I think I said I want some ice cream. I've already eaten. Or do you want me to cry again. Because if I cry this time...I'm not stopping."

shit...

fantastic...she now had a WMD-tier method of obliterating everything. You couldn't even argue with her....maybe a compromise?

You reach into your saddlebag and pull out your magical map, taking a quick study. You notice a few fun places. an Arcade, Roller rink, Bowling alley.
"What are you doing? You don't need to look at that map. All you have to do is follow me"

you take a special notice at the bowling alley, surely they'd sell some food.
"Maybe we can go here instead? Waste some time bowling, and I bet they sell ice cream here. So we both win, we wouldn't even have to deal with each other. You can have your ice cream and we can play on different lanes."

Diamond Tiara shook her head.
"They don't have the ice cream I like Anon, now for the last time. Either we go and get me some ice cream...or I'm going to cry."

fucking...bitch..

"Fine..."

Looking at your map, you both head off to the ice cream shop. Your internal rage piqued. But there was nothing you could do. Your plan backfired. And this now truly became a punishment. And there was no one you could turn to. The CMC would be useless, you don't really know anyone else, and unless Discord takes things more seriously, then he probably wouldn't care about your suffering.

Diamond Tiara glances at you as you both keep a steady walking pace. "What's wrong Anon? Do you know how many colts would give their right hoof to be around me? You'd just realize how good you'd have it if you just listened to what I said, you'd probably realize how silly you're being right now."

You grumbled. You didn't reply to her. You were focusing on a way to make a reversal on the situation.

"Besides, you heard that pony. We make a cute couple..." Suddenly, she rubs up against your side "don't we?"

Every person on the board you used to visit would call you a colossal faggot for not giving in. But you could call them fucking pussies for just giving in to this steaming pile of horseshit you found yourself in now.

You move away from her, and snort
"That really isn't going to work. I'm not some stupid kid who can't get a girlfriend, I'm not desperate"

No, you were a stupid man who couldn't get a girlfriend...but that's splitting hairs.

Diamond Tiara moves back into you "That's too bad, normally I wouldn't give you a second thought. But you really are...well..better looking than most of the boys in my class. The only imperfection I can see being on your flank. But that can be fixed"

You moved away again, you could feel your body warming up to her advances. You just couldn't though...
"Do you mind not doing that?"

Diamond Tiara moves into you again "Why? Does it bother you?"

"Yes. Please stop"

"Why? You can't do anything about it. So why avoid it?"

"It's...inappropriate, this isn't a date.."

God...you felt mixed feelings about this. As much as a superior as you believed yourself to be. You were actually being a pussy about a girl FINALLY rubbing up on you. She wasn't being overly sexual about it...but still...it was enough.

"Of course it isn't...but it could be later. Everything I said before was because I got a little angry. Just like you did, were not so different" Diamond probably had no idea what you meant by inappropriate, but that line was tempting to say the least. Still, you couldn’t give in

At last, you can see the ice cream shop ahead. perhaps that'll break her train of thought.
"We're here...why don't you.."
You reach into your saddle bag for the bag of bits and hold it towards her.
"...go get the ice cream you want."

She just stared at it, then looked to you with a smug smile "Aren't you supposed to be the gentlecolt and handle the order for me?"

You huffed
"No. We are actually supposed to be learning our lessons and working together."

Diamond Tiara placed her head under yours and gently rubbed "And yet here we are. I don't really mind this punishment at all. It could go on forever for all I care. All it means for me is that I get to have my own personal little butler."

You growled, you were finally losing some of your fortitude. Both at the situation and the absurdity that you had to be a child. You tried to reason with yourself that you had no reason to give a shit about Discord's truth or Fluttershy or just him in general. You didn't actually know Fluttershy enough at all to care about her feelings. Yet thinking about her crying, with the added scenario of Discord being angry at you. Kept you from making a rash decision. The only thing you could do...is ride this punishment to the end. Because after it was over, she'd have no power over you. Sad you didn't have the mettle to just kill her. But you didn't have that much of a sharpened edge. And guilt is a bitch.
"But it won't go on forever. And once it's over. This little truce is over."

Diamond Tiara could sense you breathing deeper as she nuzzled you, but your words were cold as ice. she stopped her advances and looked at you dismissively "whatever, even if that's the case. I can still tell those Crusaders how you react when I rub against you"

You raise an eyebrow, what did she mean by that?
"What?"

Diamond Tiara giggled an arrogant giggle "Don't play coy, Anon, every time I do this.." She rubs her hoof gently up your chest and off your chin "You blush. It's funny enough that I think it should be shared with other ponies...like your friends."

did you really blush from her touching? Were you THAT lonely? Just thinking about it sent a cold shiver of fear down your spine. How could you let yourself get manipulated by a child?

Diamond Tiara studied your expression closely, she could tell you had realized she was telling the truth "Let me tell you something Anon, in the end, I will have my way. Sometimes things don't work out. But theres always next time. And you're so easy. To think I was actually afraid of you. But all you turned out to be was a puppy. I can already tell, you now realize you can't get away with getting all angry here like you probably did at your orphanage. And I can make your friends totally hate you.It's easy enough, so easy that I'd really recommend you reconsider things. Remember Anon, I always get what I want"

You couldn't let her get to you. She couldn't prove anything anyway. If she tried in front of Applebloom and the others. Then you'd just edge yourself to saying something to really insult her, really try to demoralize her. Tell her off.
"Big words, but again. I'm not stupid. Even if I was blushing, I've already told Applebloom and the others about this whole thing. And you could lie through your teeth all you want, but when I tell them my side of the story, they'll believe me. So far, you have nothing. Nothing but me being your "Butler". And I'm sure I can fix that before this whole thing is over too. So quit it, tell me what ice cream you want, and then go leave me alone."

Diamond Tiara nodded "How about....photography flavor?"

Photogr? what?
"Is that a special or something?"

her smirk became almost evil as she nodded to you "You can say something like that" Then she suddenly called out "SILVER SPOON! GET OVER HERE!"

from behind some boxes, Silver Spoon popped out and daintily walked over to Diamond Tiara, there was a camera hung around her neck.

"Did you get it all?" Diamond Tiara looked to her friend

Silver Spoon nodded "I snapped all the best bits, every time his face turn red, I took a shot"

The hell...was all this? No...No...there was no way she could plan something like this far ahead of time.

"....what is this?"

Diamond Tiara turned to you, and then pointed to her friend "Pictures Anon, Pictures of you enjoying my attention. You had your words, but a picture is worth a thousand more of whatever you have to say"

No....
"How did...how did you even know to plan all this?!"

"Easy, for one...I wasn't turned into a grape. You were put under the same punishment I was. In fact, when I first heard that we had to stick together...that's when I thought about our first meeting"

"....you mean how I scared you? what does that have to do with anything?"

"Ohh no no Anon, I mean when me and Silver Spoon was giving you our attention. You didn't seem to hate it all that much...you blushed then too....even if you didn't notice...the rest even a foal can figure out." She snickered "Really Anon? Did you totally expect me not to have a back up plan?"

No.....no..no..no...fucking..FUCKING!

You give Silver Spoon a terrible scowl and hold your hoof out
"Give me the camera"

The moment Silver Spoon's eyes look unto your vicious gaze, she suddenly feels a tinge of fear, and steps back.

Diamond Tiara looks at her, disgusted with her action "Silver Spoon, will you stop? He can't do anything. Don't be scared."

Silver Spoon takes a position behind Diamond Tiara, she was still scared of you it seems "But..but..he doesn't look too happy about this. What if Discord does something to us?"

Diamond Tiara shook her head "He won't, he didn't even care enough to show up today. He probably doesn't really care about him either, there's nothing he can do"

You stepped forward threateningly, growling louder
"Give me the camera, or else!"

Silver Spoon didn't like this, she began to cower "D-diamond..."

Diamond Tiara held her ground "I said don't worry..watch.." She takes a step towards you, and gets in your way "..Come on Anon, do something"

You look at her, and grit you teeth...one punch...thats all it'd take. Thats all it would take to wipe that smug off her face.....but you couldn't do it. You knew you shouldn't care about characters you just met too much. But you've sat through the show for so many years, it felt as if you already knew them.

You stop your advance....you were defeated
"...."

Diamond Tiara looked to her friend, and chided her "See? I told you to stop acting like a chicken, he can't do anything..." She then turns to you "But don't worry Anon, nopony has to see these pictures. All you have to do is be nicer to me...and do what I say"

You had several choices. but everything stripped away because you didn't want to cause any trouble. You didn't even realize she was capable of such a low handed scheme.

You only had one viable option to fix this and get rid of the photos......and thats only if he cared enough to do it. Otherwise, you'd have to admit total defeat to a pony you were sure you could dominate.

You can't think of anything to say.

Diamond Tiara looks to her friend one last time "Silver Spoon, if you'd please get those photos developed. That'd be great. And don't screw up a single one"

Silver Spoon nodded, and went off with the camera.

It was just you and Diamond Tiara again. And you were at a disadvantage.

Chapter 27

What a disaster. You felt like one of those stupid adult villains from an idiotic kids movie where a kid outsmarts them easily. The problem was you were outsmarted by what is essentially a villain. And the only last card you had to play was a near literal "wild card". And that was assuming you could actually play it.

"Now then, let's see. Today I'd like a vanilla,chocolate,strawberry,raspberry, sherbet topped ice cream with sprinkles on them. Lots of sprinkles..."
Diamond Tiara led you inside as she continued her order "With a large sugar cone with delicious cream in the middle. I also want a cherry on top of the ice cream"

you groan
"Anything else princess? Or should we just see if we have enough to buy the shop while we're at it"

Diamond Tiara giggled at the thought "Oh I tried to have daddy buy it for me once. But he said some dumb stuff about how it'd be bad for business and something about consumer view. I don't know what he talks about sometimes, it's just an ice cream shop after all. Now...chop chop, I'm getting impatient"

You roll your eyes as you speak to the cashier about Diamond Tiara's ice cream. You somehow managed to remember the order. But when it came down to pay. It turned out to be more expensive than you realized as it takes nearly all the bits from the bag to pay for it.
"Geez..."
You look back at Diamond Tiara
"You don't suppose I can at least get something from here to try to fill me up, do you?"

Diamond Tiara huffed "Fine..."

You show the cashier pony the rest of the money in the bag and ask what you could get with this. She offers you at best a normal medium cone, single scoop chocolate or vanilla ice cream. You take the chocolate, at least it was something.
You had a feeling the money you had wasn't meant for extravagant orders and was meant to keep things simple. If that was the case, well....so much for that.

You both take your ice creams and find a table to sit at. Diamond Tiara immediately starts licking and enjoying her ice cream while you take slow licks at yours. You were too bothered by the situation to actually enjoy it.

She was too ready. The plan too perfect. all brought about by her selfishness. And yet she didn't care who she hurt. She was just happily enjoying her ice cream. Meanwhile you can tell her little friend was just a stooge.
As much as you'd like to threaten Silver Spoon. You know word would eventually get out if you did. Even if she were to comply to get rid of the pictures, Somepony could still find out that you threatened her to do it. This world always seemed to have a convenient eavesdropper from time to time.

"See? Wasn't this worth it Anon? You get to enjoy a delicious ice cream and get to be seen with me. You're almost a rag to riches story.......almost" Diamond giggled

You slump on the table and put your head on down on it.
"Why me...?"

"Think of it as a lesson for getting in my way. And think of it as a blessing that you get to be in my company. Every other loser doesn't get any privileges like this."

You say nothing. She was still going on and on about just how great it was to be with her. At this point she was just drilling it into your head. Now you just wanted to go home. You didn’t even feel like eating your ice cream anymore, despite your hunger.

Diamond Tiara looked at you, she seemed confused that you'd just lay there and not even finish your ice cream "I thought you were hungry?"

"Not anymore"

"What a waste. Why did you get an ice cream if you weren't going to eat it."

Patience.....thinning
"Too depressed to eat."

"Depressed? How can you be? I could have said no on the ice cream and let you sit there. I was being nice to you, and you go and waste my good will" She says with great annoyance to your actions

You don't look at her, you don't really reply to her, you just say..
"Can I just take you home after this. I just want to go home, you have single handily ruined my entire experience"

"Home? But theres still some things we can do"

"How? Were already out of money"

"There are other ways we can enjoy ourselves. Let me ask you something, since your father is Discord...and for whatever reason...he has contact with Princess Twilight. Would that also mean you know her? Or has he not let you meet her?"

for..fucks sake...You decide to lie.
"No, I haven't met her"

Diamond Tiara started to nibble on her cone, as she giggled at your answer "Now we both know that's not true. I've heard Discord, when he was talking to daddy in setting this up, brag about how he's such "high" in status that he got some royal approval of showing you off to both Princess Celestia and Princess Twilight."

you turn your head slightly from your hunched position to look at her with tired frustrated eyes
"Then why did you ask me then?"

"Just wanted to see if you'd lie to me, now that I know you're a little liar, I'll just have to remember enough of what you say to point out any contradictions in case you need...help remembering the truth"

what?
"And what do you mean by that?"

Diamond Tiara finishes her ice cream cone and hops off her chair. Your ice cream had already melted onto your hoof and inside the cone. "That's nothing for you to worry about Anon. But you should worry about your ice cream. It's already melted and made your little hoof all dirty." She snickered

You didn't even notice. Your hoof wasn't like a hand. It was tough and hard, your old hands were soft and squishy. You pop the cone into your mouth and start licking the chocolate from your hoof.

Diamond Tiara gagged "gross, you may look better than most colts but your manners are totally awful"

"Unless you want me to wipe it on your face, this is how I'm doing it"

"Watch it Anon, or else"

You grumble and stay silent. And finish your cleaning. When you are done, Diamond Tiara demands you to take her to Twilight's castle. You didn't even need the map for this one. It stuck out like a sore thumb.

Diamond Tiara wasn't all too talkative during the walk, she wasn't even rubbing up on you anymore. No, instead she was getting excited. She was going to be able to spend some one on one time with Twilight Sparkle.....hurrah.....

You both arrive at the castle doors. No guards of course. It didn't seem Twilight's style. You step up, and knock at them as loud as you can.

after a few moments, the door slightly opens, and a familiar purple dragon, small in size, answers the door.
"Who is it?"
It was Spike, Twilight's number one assistant.

You hadn't met him yet. In fact, you wondered if he even knew about you yet or if Twilight hadn't bothered mentioning.

"Heya..it's ummm..two kids wanting to meet up with Princess Twilight Sparkle, is she in right now?" You say with purposeful false ignorance

Spike raised his eyebrow, cautious and wary of you "Yeah....but she's not seeing anypony at the moment. She's busy planning for the Friendship Festival"

You smile, haha. that's good. Now you didn't have to deal with this.
"Oh, welp, thanks bro, seeya later"

You quickly wave to Spike as you turn around. But Diamond Tiara, still facing you. Looks at you with contempt "That's it? You're just going to walk away?"

"You heard him, she's busy."

"Anon, if I don't get to see Princess Twilight Sparkle, I'm going to cry and go all the way home without you....now turn around and convince that stupid dragon to let us in."

oh you wish you had some Tylenol, this was getting to be too much.
You turn around and call to Spike as he was closing the door.
"W-wait, hold on"

Spike stops for a moment, but only to tell you "Look bro, Twilight is super busy and can't see anypony for any reason. I'm not letting you in."

"But...uh....ummm"
Come on Anon...think of something.
"umm..I'm....ahh...ahmm...I'm a special case."

Spike just gave you a stoic stare
"No, you're a nutcase for thinking I'm just going to let you in"

"No, what I mean is that I'm the orphan my dad Discord brought over to see Twilight a few days ago.. I just......wanted to talk to her about....something...about...that...thing"

Suddenly, Spike became interested as he opened the door wider,
"Woah...so you're that Anon kid? Man, sorry to hear who adopted you, that's gotta be rough. If you came to tell Twilight about anything he's been doing that's wrong...thennnn..I guess I can let you in"
Yes! it worked!
"But just you, I can't just let anypony in here. She's gonna have to wait out here. You understand. It's ummm...castle rules, you know?" Spike continued

You didn't even have to turn around to know she was probably upset. oh nope, you really didn't. Because now she was at Spike's face.
"Anypony?! You listen here you lit-!"

You immediately clasp your hooves on her muzzle, you do it with more than enough force to actually make her squeal in pain. You then look at Spike and chuckle nervously
"aha, sorry about that. I've been dragging her along all day telling her my problems and she's not really in the best of moods, you understand how it is. Can't you let her in just this once? It'd probably lift her mood a little"

"If she's that angry over just you talking to her....yikes..I guess I can. Just try not to bother Twilight too much,huh? She's already busy as is."

You nod
"Gotcha"

Spike opens the doors wide for you and points down the hallway to another set of doors "She's in the throne..map....uhh...room...we haven't really come up with a name for it yet. But she's in there"

You nod and thank Spike, and step on in. Diamond Tiara not saying a word as she rubs her muzzle.

Spike, you noticed, seemed to have a large bag. probably with bits. And a list. It seems he was going to go out anyway to pick up whatever was on that list. It was probably for Twilight. Because as you both stepped in, He stepped out, only stopping to tell you both to lock the front doors before you leave.

As Spike leaves, Diamond Tiara turns to you, her face scrunched up from pain and annoyance. "Did you have to do that so hard? You hurt me"

"Yeah well, if I didn't stop you, you'd probably get us both denied from stepping a single hoof inside. You should be thanking me"

"hmph, whatever"

you both reach the doors. Before you knock. You look at Diamond Tiara
"Look, you need to be respectful, ok? I really don't want to upset Twilight. I don't even want to be here"

Diamond Tiara gave your head a little pat "Don't worry Anon, I'll make you look good in front of her. Think of it as a present for not screwing this up. I'd probably do more but...you did hurt my face after all."

you knock, annoyed with her words of "generosity"
"Just please...don't make me look bad."

"I won't"

as you wondered how true that statement was. You can hear Twilight calling out.
"Spike, is that you? Did you forget something?"

You call back, through the door
"U-ummm, Princess Twilight, It's me, Anon...can I come in?"

Suddenly, her voice became frantic "A-Anon?! G-give me a moment! Don't come in!"

Suddenly you can hear rustling and bustling coming from the other side of the door.
What was all that about? Even Diamond Tiara looked confused.
After a bit, Twilight calls you into the room. And as you both step inside. You can see a pile of diagrams, scrolls, books, and even some dioramas littered around the room. All of them were glowing red.
Twilight rushed up to the both of you, and instead of greeting you, she frantically looked behind the door you both came through. and then bobbed her head every which way
"Anon..where's Discord, I don't see him"

"Umm...he's not with me. Is something the matter?"

"What?! no no.." Twilight takes a breath to calm herself as her horn starts to glow, making the red aura around the dispersed items disappear. .."Was just wondering....Wait,what are you doing here Anon? Is something the matter?"

You shake your head, and smile fakely. With as many fake smiles as you've been giving. You wonder if Pinkie had some sort of smile radar, and if it broke yet.
"Nope nothing's the matter. everything is just-"

Suddenly, in a burst of excitement, Diamond Tiara takes the opportunity to jump in. "Princess Twilight! It's so so so good to meet you face to face! I'm Diamond Tiara, but you already knew that right?!"

Twilight was confused, unsure why you brought along a guest. She was too busy to deal with a regular visit. She thought this was important "Oh...umm..Hello! You're Filthy Rich's daughter right?"

She nodded joyously "mhmmmm! It makes me really glad to know that you remember me! There's so many things I want to ask you!"

Good grief, she was star struck as hell. It was embarrassing given Twilight herself didn't want to seem to deal with it.

"Well..uhh" Twilight could tell she was ecstatic to meet her, but she really didn't have the time "I'm so glad...but, look. I'm really really sorry but I'm really busy planning for the Friendship Festival and unless it's reeeallllllllllllly important. Then it's gonna have to be some other time."

You'd think that'd be it. But Diamond Tiara just gaily hopped over to some of the scrolls and started looking at them "Well that's no problem! Maybe I can help, or get my daddy to help! I could be your assistant!"

Twilight used her magic to move the scrolls away from Diamond Tiara and sighed "I already have an assistant. Again, I'm sorry" Then Twilight turned to you "Anon, is something the matter? I assume you gave Spike a good reason to let you in. I'm very busy"

oh...ho...everything was the matter. You could probably just blurt out everything right now. But then it'd be he says, she says. And you felt you didn't have Twilight's full understanding. She'd probably only really listen to you if it was about Discord.
"I just..uhhh...wanted to see you. And I brought a friend a long. I mean...I dunno a lot of ponies...I guess I just wanted to see if you wanted to hang out..or something."
You pouted at her. It was the best you had. You didn't want the situation to get critical. Though you slowly started to realize you weren't much better than Discord or Diamond Tiara in the lying department. You'd really have to keep track of things to make sure everything fits. Eventually you'd have to pop out of the habit once things become more normal for you.

Twilight bit her lip, she felt bad considering your "status" as an adopted orphan. "Anon...I'm really sorry. But I really am busy. But, I do have some business to attend to tomorrow with your father. I could free up a little free time if you want to hang out that badly. But, you really need to get more friends your own age..." She looks over to Diamond Tiara for a moment, noticing she was already grabbing a few other scrolls to look at them. She moves over in to whisper to you "I'd suggest a filly named Applebloom and her friends, you'd fit right in. Because she seems more interested in me than you"

Right...you were already "in" with them. Looks like this visit was about to be over.
"Ok, I'll..umm..do that"

Diamond Tiara took notice that Twilight was talking to you more than her and walked up to you both, annoyed "Princess Twilight, come on! we have planning to do!"

Twilight turned to her, Diamond was obviously not listening to the nice way she was saying "Get out"
"Ms.Tiara, I know you really want to help me. But I already have an assistant and friends who are helping me with this. It's very important I get this all worked out so this festival can happen. It's for the benefits of Ponies and Griffons and yaks and everypony else everywhere that this all get done in time. But maybe, if you're really good. Then maybe I can take you on as a temporary assistant for my next project, is that alright?"

Diamond Tiara stomped her hoof and whined "But I want to help you with this! This is gonna be the biggest thing ever and I want to be a part of it!"

Twilight started to get a little annoyed with her "I'm sorry. But this isn't about status. It's about how important friendships are."

"What, who cares about that?!" Diamond barked

Twilight, taking immediate offense to that, Went into one of her usual spiels about the importance of love and friendship. She found Diamond's comment very rude.
Not wanting to seem like you were in anyway in agreeance with DT. You clap your hooves and root for friendship at the end of Twilight's speech. Diamond Tiara however, still thought it was pretty dumb. But, instead of saying so, she just looked in fake wonderment and said "oooooooooohhhh"

Twilight smiled, relieved that she may have understood "Do you understand now why it's so important?"

Diamond Tiara nodded "uh huh! That's why I really REALLY think you should take me on as an assistant. I'm sure my daddy could help fund anything extra you may need"

Twilight's smile instantly flashed into that of aggravation and disappointment. She walked up between the two of you and focused her magic until all three of you were teleported outside.
both you and DT were disoriented enough for Twilight to slip to the door and say quickly "I appreciate the offer but I'm handling it quite fine, please have a good day and Anon I'll see you tomorrow." And then she slammed and locked the door.

Diamond Tiara was shocked, shocked that someone like her would be turned away by a princess. "Wha-ho-wh-HOW COULD SHE JUST DO THAT TO ME?! ME! DIAMOND TIARA!"

You smiled, at least you get to have something good happen to you throughout all this. She just got utterly denied while you still get an invite.

She then turned to you, furious "AND THEN YOU, HOW DO YOU GET TO VISIT AGAIN WHILE I DON'T?!"

You look up in the sky, and turn your smile to that of neutrality. You didn't need her to notice you were savoring this.
"Hey, it's just business. My dad is pretty big time. I'm sure the reason she wants to see me is over some official stuff."

Diamond Tiara started to dig her right hoof into the dirt, upset and angered "I can't believe she'd just turn me away after I told her I could guarantee her extra funding. GRRRRRR. IT MAKES ME SO ANGRY!"

You shrug, looking at the sun's position, it was already starting to go down
"Well, I did my best to get you in there. So don't blame me. Because if it wasn't for me, you wouldn't even have had the chance to see her. So are we squares for now? Because I really should be taking you home."

Diamond Tiara looked up, and noticed the sun's position as well. She then turned to you with a scowl. "You're lucky she at least offered me something, or else you'd be toast......take me home.."

Oh, you were sure after that display that Twilight wasn't going to have her help with any other projects either. But whatever, she was finally being compliant enough to give you a free pass with the plus that today was finally over.
You both return to the manor, not much more talking to be done, as she was still muttering about being rejected by Twilight.
when you both arrive and knock on the door. It isn't Filthy Rich but one of his maids who answer the door this time....oh holy crap. She was a cutie. A long black mane with grey fur and sapphire eyes. and that pseudo french accent and outfit...unf..

She tells you you are allowed inside for a snack under Rich's orders. It seems he was out at the moment on some business of his own and wouldn't return until nightfall. Just as well, Diamond had already confirmed you were squarsies for now. Which hopefully she'd take to her word. And you didn't really want to go inside anyway. You were just...done with the day. Doesn't stop you from giving the maid a lusty eye. And although you wanted to bang her, you declined her offer for snacks just to make sure you didn't have to deal with any more nonsense.

With your response, she took Diamond Tiara inside, and wished you a good evening and a safe trip back home. Diamond taking the time to whisper to you about how she has you due to those pictures before disappearing behind the door.

You were alone now....or were you?
"Well now, that little go around went all over the place now didn't it? I'm very disappointed in you Anon, how could you lose control over the situation like that? All that extra brain power and you folded like a bad hand of poker. For shame."

you can hear a ringing inside your ear, that was Discord's voice. But where was he?
"Discord?"

"Then again, hanging inside here the whole time, I could very well be mistaken on the word "extra"...or “brain power” for that matter "

You looked around, but you couldn't spot him. But it seems...he was hanging around the whole time.

Chapter 28

you can feel an itching in your ear. You give your ear a bop, and when you do, a small Discord plops out of it, and floats up to your eye level "Careful Anon, you might crush me"

You were caught in surprise. He was in your ear...and.....was he there..the whole time?
"Discord?! Holy....were you in my ear the entire time?!"

Discord nodded as he starting spinning his talon finger in the air, resting his back on a cloud of air as a small ring begins to form where he's spinning "Of course I was, where else would I be? I did say I'd be right at your side, didn't I?"

He did, but you expected him to be at your side only for Filthy Rich...not the entire day. But...
"Hold on, if you were with me the entire time, why didn't you do anything?! I was getting obliterated out there!"

Discord nodded in agreeance as he tossed the ring up and it came over both of you. As it passes through, you both end up back at the house. "Yes, you were. I really have to applaud her, she pulled out all the stops and smashed you to bits. It was quite hilarious"

You growled, he found it funny?!
"REALLY?! I'M SUPPOSED TO BE YOUR SON. FAKE OR NOT. SHE WENT TWO AGAINST ONE ON ME AND MADE ME HER LITTLE BITCH! I COULD HAVE USED YOU OUT THERE!"

Discord yawned "Don't blame me, I would have helped but I got too caught up at looking at these adorable photos. Just look at you, you must not get a lot of female attention, hmm?" Discord fanned his paw over his talons, generating a fan of photos in it's clutch.

Now you were really pissed "YOU DIDN'T HELP BECAUSE OF THAT?! YOU GOT CAUGHT UP IN YOUR OWN PHOTOS?"

Discord looked at you, with a bored expression "Are you talking about the photos I took of our family? Oh no no Anon, I already took the liberty of putting it on mine and your dresser. I'm talking about the photos your little adversary's stooge took. see?" Discord flipped the photos to reveal that they were the ones taken by Silver Spoon.

Instantly, you went from a state of rage to that of immense confusion.
"Those photos..aren't those the ones Silver Spoon took? How did you get those?"

Discord started to chuckle as he spoke to you in a mocking tone "Duh Anon, I'm the spirit of chaos, remember...unlimited magic?"

"R-right....yeah"

Despite feeling stupid in that regard, you felt a huge amount of relief. But...
"Discord...I-is that all of them?"

Discord crunched the photos inbetween two slices of bread and downed them in a single gulp and swallowed "Every last one, mmmm..that hits the spot"

You were in awe, he actually helped you out and removed Diamond Tiara's blackmail element from play, for seemingly no reason.

Discord looked at you and suddenly got annoyed "What, no "Thank you, Dad" ? That's very rude Anon, such bad manners"

You snap out of your awe-inspired stupor and promptly give a small bow of your head
"Thank you...Dad....but, I gotta ask. Why did you do it? You usually just mess with me. I'm just sorta awestruck"

"You are my son now, Anon. I couldn't let that little gargoyle COMPLETELY take control. Two against one is hardly fair."

You feel absolute relief, Discord had given you a reprieve from the fear of blackmail. Though you wondered what would happen to Silver Spoon now that the photos were gone. And the more you thought about it...
"Discord...I can't go through this whole thing. She's out to get me, you saw that. Can't you call this off?"

Discord shook his head "Sorry Anon, all I can do is discuss with Filthy Rich in shortening it. It would help if you both kept up your little buddy buddy act though. And even then, I don't even really want to try in the first place. He keeps trying to ask me to help him with a little business venture....ugh...as if I'd sit down and listen to more useless nonsense after having to sit seven hours listening to Princess Goodyfourshoes....not that I hate her, she's my friend and all, but JAAAAEEEEZZZZZ she just never stopped."

"Ok then...can you at least help keep things even between me and Diamond Tiara then? I hate to admit it. But even with all the knowledge I have...I can't figure out how to best her. It's really weird when you don't have the TV as a window of strategy"

"Well I'd imagine it's easy to know what should be done when you have the ability to see what everypony is doing during any time the episode would shift around. I've been watching them myself and I only have one thing to say..... How did Rainbow Dash become the element of loyalty again? I swear I'd be a better candidate than her.

So, he started watching the episodes...and there hasn't been any crazy anomaly. That got you curious.
"Discord, doesn't it bother you this is all part of a TV show?"

Discord shook his head "No, I may be worried if that was actually the case. But it isn't.."

"It isn't? But the show exists and correlates with this world, hell, you even have John Delancie's voice. How do you explain that?"

Discord rolled his eyes "Humans...all the smarts to make technology more amazing than any pony here and yet you can't grasp the simple concept of alternate dimensions...I mean..Look at where you are right now Anon..do you honestly think this chaotic place is actually part of Equestria?"

You shook your head "...No...but...it was part of the show.That’s what I’m saying. How do you explain that?"

"Easy...." Discord stretched his limbs apart..creating a line. Then a web of lines started to appear around it "Imagine this line is the dimension Equestria currently resides in. Now...way over here, far far away is your dimension." suddenly dotted lines appeared, connecting to every dimension "These lines represent ideas that travel among universes. These ideas vary wildly in type. Some stay in their origin world, some transfer into other universes or even create parallel universes, and some are even shared among universes. These ideas sometimes pop into other beings heads and become theirs and then become a concept. To make it simple. The idea of this world popped into a human's head and so a show was created out of it. And me, being your friendly neighborhood Draconequus, can travel between dimensions and see the leylines of these ideas."

Woah...this was all complicated stuff.

"man..this is sounding like Kingdom Hearts..so, uhh..basically. Nobody has an original idea?"

Discord shook his head "I didn't say that, ideas that generally stay within their own dimension are original ideas...like your dimension and proper parallel dimension's ideas of "Pizza" and "Sex robots"...but I digress. Essentially, in short. The TV show you see was from an idea that flowed from this world."

You think you understood. It seemed to make sense, oddly enough.
"So you can travel to any dimension you want to? I didn't figure you had that much power"

"Unfortunately I can't, there are certain rules when it comes to hopping dimensions, Anon. Such as distance. I can't hop to any dimension that is too far apart. They have to be about..." He puts his paw and talons close together "This close for me to be able to do so"

You notice the line between this world and your world is really far apart. much farther than what he indicated
"So...how did you get to my world then? It looks really far away from here"

Discord chuckled "Oh that's easy, if you look at this line here. There exists another Equestria where there happens to be a mirror that oddly enough...travels through an actual idea leyline that takes you to a human universe very close to yours...Using that, I went to your world, then back to the Equestrian human world, back to alternate Equestria and right here to good old Equestria. Dimensions are quite amazing actually...did you know there's even a dimension where they never released me again and Twilight graduated..something..I don't know..Didn't care too much to pay attention."

Amazing...you'd never had thought it'd all be that complicated.

Discord wipes away the lines "And that concludes Discord's lesson on dimensions and leylines for the day. And so you don't worry your silly little head. I will help you with this whole Diamond Tiara business to make sure it all ends smoothly for you."

"..Thanks...But how are you going to do it if you aren't really willing to talk to Filthy Rich?"

Discord snickered evilly "You leave that to me Anon, I have a few ideas on how to make this work"

"You're not going to tell me? Shouldn't I be in on it?"

"Anon, if you were in on it then it wouldn't be as convincing....I can't trust you with this information because then anything I do wouldn't seem authentic."

You didn't like the sounds of that
"You're gonna cause me some hell, aren't you?"

"Oh don't look at it that way, I'm just leveling the playfield in my own innocent,playful way. Unless you just want me to turn her into a grape...I could just do that."

You wave your hooves approvingly, you didn't want that, oh no no no no
"No no, don't do that. I hate her, but She's still a kid....man I can't believe I said that....look, I just want everything to go smoothly, with a little payback of course....just nothing over the top"

Discord chuckled at your own absurdity "Funny, I seem to remember you actually wanting to cause her harm"

You sigh, he was right...but..
"Yeah yeah...I did ,but. She's a kid, I'm an adult who looks like a kid. She may be a little hateful rat but there's still a chance she could turn good. I mean if she was like...I dunno...evil or something then I'd just say turn her into a grape. I wouldn't miss her, and as long as the Crusaders don't find out....nah..they'd still get worried, wouldn't they?"

Discord nodded "Empathy can be so troublesome sometimes."

without warning, a small table appeared in front of you. With it, a glass of some fizzy black liquid and some very familiar foods...a large Rice Krispies treat and a bag of nacho cheese Doritoes.

Discord pulled up a chair for you "I thought after such a hard day you'd appreciate some more.......familiar food and a drink. Still, I hate too much order, so like before, they are chock full of healthy nutrients your little body needs despite looking like they’d give you a heart attack."

You cautiously sit...he was being really nice to you...maybe too nice.
"Why are you being so nice to me right now? You usually have some sort of trick or sight gag to pull on me by now."

Discord nodded "And you'd be right...the fact that you were expecting one would be a very good reason I haven't yet. Can't get too obvious, Anon."

Yeah...can't get too obvious..hrn.

You look down at your dinner....it was rather nostalgic. Not what you'd call a proper dinner though, even if it was turned into a healthy one.
"...Thanks. Discord...I appreciate all this. I really do."

Discord didn't say anything though. He just stayed silent for a moment before completely changing subjects "Ahh yes, and Twilight wants to see us tomorrow apparently. Troublesome, but I think we can manage it just fine. But I'm going to get an early sleep just in case, As Rarity would say...” Discord’s voice changes to that of Rarity herself “need to get that beauty sleep if I want to look my best, ciao!"

Before you could say anything else, Discord again disappeared to god whatever room he might be in this house. You smile, you didn't know what it was, but it made you smile.

You ate your food, and left the plates about. He'd probably appreciate it if you left things messy. You didn't really want to go to bed. It was still early enough for you. But you had no way of leaving on your own. You had to see if Discord could give you your own way in and out of the house without having to go through the terrifying outside.
You walked up into your room and looked around, and saw the book, the Daring Do book that had sat on the ground since you were unable to pick it up.
You smirk, with your new found knowledge you are able to pick up the book with relative ease. You take off your saddle bag and toss it to the side as you hop onto your bed and begin to read the book. Might as well see what Equestrian adventure literature was like since you had nothing else to do.
And so you read...and you kept reading until the extra comforting aura of your bed lulled you into a deep sleep.

Chapter 29

You wake up, laying on your side.

You yawn, you had a pretty peaceful sleep. You could vaguely remember a dream of adventure
Clutched in your hooves was the Daring Do book, you hadn't finished it. But it was pretty good so far.

Despite what happened yesterday, the fact that Discord seemed...nicer...was still fresh in your mind. You weren't sure if it was a one time thing or not. But it was nice.
as you hopped off to open the door that laid on the floor of your room. You prepped your mind so the gravity would shift to let you down.
You open the door, and take your first step. But there was no shift. You fall straight down into the next room.

You yell, did you do something wrong? You hadn't the time to think as you slam head first into...Gelatin?

Suddenly you found yourself stuck and submerged in what seemed to be gigantic red gelatin.
Discord popped out of nowhere, he was staring at you from outside the gelatin as happy as can be "Good Morning Anon! I've made you some Gelatin! Isn't that great?"

No! You started to realize you couldn't breath and struggled to get out. Welp, you knew his niceness wouldn't last forever. But right out of the gate?!
"BLLLARBBBGAHHAAAA"

Discord face of glee suddenly turned to that of contempt "Anon, I made this for you to eat, not to play with. Now hurry up and eat your fill. We need to go see Twilight post haste so we can be done with whatever boring thing she wants with us so we can move on to the fun stuff."

Goddammit! nonchalant as ever about what could be a dire situation. You desperately start munching and chomping your teeth at the gelatin and move slowly forward as you nearly run out of breath.
Right when things are getting hazy, you manage to pop your head out of the gelatin and cough and hack. tons of the gel like fluid popping out of your mouth.

Discord looks down at the chunks and sighs "Anon, now is no time to decorate the floor, I just told you we have to go soon."

You look at him, angry at the fact you could have drowned in fucking gelatin.
"Dammit! You didn't have to set it right outside my door! You nearly killed me!"

Discord hovered up to you and took some of the gelatin in his mouth and started chomping. "Well I couldn't very well put it to the side, you would have fallen onto your head."

Dammit...whatever.
"Why did you even remove the gravity..shifty..thing? I could have just walked down! Remember!?"

"Too slow, Twilight felt the need to send a letter. a letter Anon! I mean, she acts as if I didn't hear her yesterday"

you couldn't win this. Fine, You were just extra angry because you had just woken up. He wouldn't let you drown...most likely. You take a breath, and relax yourself as your body bobs around in the gelatin.
“As if she’d have trusted you to listen...”
You tried to get out of the gelatin, but no amount of struggling was getting you out.

Discord starts to rub his chin "Hrmmm, I suppose that sounds sensible enough. It's makes me a little sad though, makes me feel as if nopony really appreciates me"

"...I.....don't think anypony couldn’t notice you if....ahh..you know what...forget it...you mind getting me out?"

Discord snaps his talons, teleporting you out of the gelatin and sending you right to it's side. You take a glance at it, and stick your hoof in it and grab a chunk and stuff it in your mouth. While trying to escape it, you had noticed it’s delicious cherry goodness.
"This is pretty good now that I'm not drowning in it."

At least he served up some good food 100% of the time. And...apparently it was always healthy...you hoped. You didn't ever feel sick or out of energy. You take another hoof full and slam it in your mouth. Good stuff.

Discord was busy making different sets of clothes appear and vanish "Hmmmmm..which one of these would be good...I can't decide...Anon, which one of these do you think would be presentable to Twilight?"

He turns to you, on one side was two monster costumes, on the other was a couple of rags.

"a-ahmm..."
Definitely terrible choices no matter what. Grabbing one more hoof full of Gelatin. You think to yourself that the cute tux ensemble you both wore would be better.
"What about the tuxes and top hats? They are pretty classy."

Discord chuckled and tapped at his forehead "Yes of course, I suppose "Class" is the correct way to go."

He snaps his talons. making your tux appear right on you as his appears on himself.
He seemed to be in a rush this morning. You wondered what this was all about.
"Discord? What's up? What was in the letter exactly?"

Discord straightens his top hat as he speaks "It's a summons Anon, Apparently this is high end official royal business. One that calls for our arrival as soon as possible"

Huh...you didn't think he'd care if he was late or not.
"huh....it's just odd to see you in a rush. I would have thought you'd just procrastinate or find a way out of it."

"Normally I would. But I have responsibilities too. Anon. It'd look bad on the both of us if we didn't heed the words of our wise and intelligent princess"

Whatever was on the letter probably had to do with the whole adoption thing. Meaning you'd probably have to prepare yourself for anything thrown at you as well. You just hope Discord had covered every detail.

"Ahh yes Anon..." Discord said as he hovered over to you to straighten your top hat "She's probably going to hit us hard with some questions. I trust you are resourceful enough to give her the answers she wants to hear, right?"

You nod.
"Yeah, but Discord. I was thinking. What if your plan gets discovered? I mean...That'd be really bad for the both of us. Really really bad. I know you have good intentions, but I was just thinking. What if somepony finds out?"

"Hrn? Anon, as long as we proceed with tact then we should be in the clear. Word is already starting to spread about you and me, and from what I hear. It's positive. Nothing bad could possibly come from this as long as we play our cards right."

You really hope some Saturday morning bullshit doesn't get you both discovered. You feared it might be a ticket straight back to earth. In fact..
You gave Discord a stern look
"Discord, you have to make sure you have all your bases covered. And I mean all of them. I want to really help you achieve your goal here. But even after your lesson about dimensions...I'm still convinced theres some tropes that can come to play that could ruin everything.. You have to make sure Discord. I'm telling you....we're both screwed if anypony finds out..."

Discord gave a light hearted chuckle "Oh Anon, taking charge are we? Do you think I've missed something?"

"You may have...You have before. I really don't want to go back to earth, Discord. I'm certain I can find a happier life here in Equestria. But I don't want it screwed up because you missed something. Besides, could you imagine how Fluttershy would react if she found out?"

Discord gave you applause "Bravo Anon, I approve of your initiative. It means you are taking this as seriously as I am. But I can assure you I've taken all the measures needed to prevent us from being found out. All I require from you is to follow along as if you were an adopted colt."

you nod, that's what you were doing so far. You still thought there may have been a hole. But if there was. Your keen eye would spot it. But still, you had to wonder.
"Discord...I gotta ask, are we going to keep this up forever? I mean...I guess it's not all that bad. It's just weird I may have to adopt this identity for the rest of my life and nopony would ever know..."

Discord nodded "We would, but it won't be all that bad. Once we get more settled in, I can start letting you out on your own and you could become your own colt. How does that sound?"

That sounded pretty good actually. You were getting sick of this on-rails new life you had so far.
"Yeah, sounds good. You'll keep your word on that right?"

Discord nods "I hope so, all this planning gives me such a headache. I could get very ill if it keeps up..yes, letting you go off on your own would definitely be better for my health. That is if I can trust you not to ruin the plan."

You felt pretty confident that you could keep it up.. Besides, you got a chance at restarting your life over. Who knows what the future held for you.
"Yeah, I can manage it. Just have to get past Diamond Tiara too, you have my back on that still right?"

Discord nodded "Yes yes, but first thing's first. We have a princess to satisfy"

You nod, you were ready. All you had to do was act like a happy kid. That wasn't so hard.
With that, Discord snapped his talons. Teleporting right behind the doors to the cutie map.

You shake your head to orient yourself....you'll never get used to teleporting.
"hrn? huh...I thought we'd just barge right in."

"Manners Anon, manners. This is an official summons after all...not a friendly visit." Discord said as he knocked on the chamber doors.

...right..

You could hear Twilight's voice across the door. "Who could that be?"

Then you hear Spike's "Maybe it's Discord?"

Then Twilight "That's silly Spike. Discord doesn't knock on doors. Maybe it's Pinkie Pie, she did want to help with the festival plans today."

Suddenly, you could hear little steps approach the door "oh boy! that sounds great! Can't wait to hear the kind of ideas Pinkie Pie has, I'll let her in right away!"

Hrm...seems they were ready for you guys to actually barge in. You look up to Discord who just stands there waiting...but his head...it was now a creepy Pinkie head. oh...boy...here we go.

Spike opened the door and greeted the false Pinkie "Hey Pinkie Pie! how...are...you...u....u....u.."

Discord lowered his face to Spike's as his eyes became red, the poofy hair became mangled, and his teeth became fanged and sharp "Hello there Spike, are you ready to smiiiiiiiiiillleeeeeee!"
Spike screamed in terror as he turned and ran the other direction "AHHHHHHHHHHHH!"

You hold in a chuckle, that was pretty good.

Spike dove behind Twilight as he shivered with fright "T-T-T-TWILIGHT! PINKIE GOT POSSESSED!"

"Wha?" Possessed?" Twilight looked over to the door, and when she could only see you, the door hadn't opened wide enough to get a glimpse of Discord from where she was at "...It's just Anon Spike. how could you mistake him for Pinkie? They don't even look the same..." Suddenly it hit Twilight that you were there "...wait...Anon?"

Spike looked over Twilight to take a look himself "B-b-b-b-but...what?! I-I could have sworn that..."

You could see that all the books and scrolls had been moved out of the room. Twilight stood up and beckoned you over "Come on in Anon, you don't have to be shy. Where's your father? I thought he'd be with you."

Twilight started to look around, she seemed to be at the ready for Discord to pop out of nowhere.

But he didn't. the moment he heard his cue. He opened the other door of the twin doors leading into the room and bellowed "Good Morning Twilight! How are you doing this morning?!"

"Discord?" Twilight looked around, she could have sworn he was going to just pop in from somewhere "G-good morning....huh..Well, um. Will you both come in? We have a few things we need to talk about."

"Ohhhh...that's very uninviting Twilight. Were friends remember? You don't need to sound so official." Discord said as he walked forward. You walked along with him.

Discord decided to plop himself on Fluttershy's seat. You just sat next to him. It was pretty comfortable to sit as a colt. Your body seemed better for just plopping down than when you were a human.

"Discord, this is official business afterall. I've been looking over the papers you gave me. It all seemed legitimate. But I noticed there was something missing, there's no assigned social worker for Anon."

Goddammit...yes of course he had to miss something. You cringed that there may have been a hole already. But when you look at Discord, he didn't seemed worried at all.

"I skipped it entirely. How are social workers supposed to get to my home? Besides, I don't trust them. They'd probably mark me down as a bad father immediately and take my poor little Anon away."

That sounded like your cue. You immediately put on a frowny face and whined
"T-take me away? But..I don't want to go away! I love my Dad!"

You noticed Discord cringe at those words. A little too strong sure. But it was effective.

Twilight noticed you. She didn't say anything , but sheseemed to show some concern. "...hmmm..Discord, you need to have an assigned social worker to check up on you and Anon every now and again. You could meet them in a neutral place if you need to."

Discord yawned "Too bothersome, why don't you just do it if you are so big on assigning me a social worker"

"Me?!" Twilight said in surprise "Discord, I can't just assume the role of a social worker. I don't have the proper credentials and-"

Discord interrupts Twilight with a hearty big laugh "oooohhh Really? You?! lacking the credentials. My dear Twilight, you are a princess. That makes you more than qualified for the job...and besides, we are very close friends. And yet I can see in your eyes that you seem to think I'm pulling some sort of trick. And since that is the case, who better to be the social worker than you, you'd be able to sniff me out instantly if I was pulling the wool over your eyes...which I'm not"

Twilight thought about it "Well..I was planning to do a follow up on you two today anyway...I guess...I can do it. But just because it was your idea doesn't mean I'll be lenient. This colt's happiness and health is what's important here."

Discord took a sniff of his nose, and then scratched it "That's fine with me, I have nothing to hide."

"Alright then.....then I shall conduct the first official evaluation and have it recorded in the castle records. Spike, I need you to write down everything important, got it?"

Spike stood up and immediately went for a quill and scroll, and then gave Twilight a salute "No problem Twlight, I got this"

Twilight nodded to Spike, and then turned to you "Anon. I actually have a question for you first. Would you mind if I conducted a little test on you with my magic? It won't hurt you. I just want to make sure of something."

That was worrisome, and seemed a little intrusive. You looked to Discord for an answer.
"D-dad? is that ok?"

Discord didn't even turn to face you as he made a parfait appear in his talons and began to dig in. "Of course it is, just let Twilight do whatever she needs to do and relax. There's nothing to worry about."

mmmm...just was going to have to trust him, but what spell was she going to cast?
You nod to Twilight
"Alright then, I don't mind miss Twilight...."

You decide to make a cute nervous face, as if you had made an adorable mistake
"I-I mean Princess Twilight..I-I'm sorry...you're so pretty that I made that mistake...sorry sorry.."

Twilight didn't know how to take that comment. She noticed you were acting odd yesterday when you showed up with Diamond Tiara. she even had a thought maybe you had an excuse to actually visit her because you may have had a crush on her.
Twilight gave you a warming smile as her horn began to glow "I promise it'll be alright Anon, this will be quick. Ok? And you can call me Twilight if you want, in fact. I'd prefer it that way."

She gives your head a gentle rub with her hoof , thinking it'd calm you. Instead, it just gave you that usual fuzzy feeling...along with something else.
You can feel some kind of magical surge go through your body for a quick moment, then disappear.
"W-what happened?"

"Oh nothing Anon" Discord said as he downed the glass the parfait was sitting in "Twilight didn't think you were a real pony, she cast a spell that would dissipate some of my magic to show the "Truth" of the situation. But of course, nothing happened. I told you Twilight, I have nothing to hide"

indeed, nothing happened.
"I just had to be sure Discord...I hope that didn't upset you Anon, I just wanted to be sure. It was nothing against you." She tried to reassure you, you felt it was intrusive, but you just put on a happy boyish smile.
"That's ok Twilight! I don't mind! you were just doing your duty!"
You hope you weren't laying it on too thick.

Spike, writing down the results of the test, noticed how happy you seemed. "Wow! this kid's pretty happy. Maybe he's got a crush on you Twilight?"

"What?!" You cried

"Spike!" Twilight yelped, surprised by him.

Bookhorse was cute, but definitely not on your waifu list.

"I-I don't have a crush...I was just being polite.."

Spike smirked "Surrrreeee...I could tell that you got some sort of thing for her"

Twilight looked back at Spike "You'd be an expert on that, wouldn't you Spike?"

Spike blushed and felt embarrassed, he knew what she meant, and so did you "H-hey! That's not the reason! I just have a good eye for that sort of thing, that's all.."

Twilight giggled "Alright Spike, I believe you."
Twilight turned back to Discord "Discord, you don't mind if I ask your son a few basic questions do you?"

"Not at all, do whatever you need to do Twilight. I will comply with whatever you need from me, as I keep saying. I have nothing to hide."

Twilight was internally impressed, the fact Discord had come through the doors, her spell revealing nothing suspicious even though it should have, and Discord not being difficult was very amazing to her. She even had to compliment him."Discord, thank you for your cooperation. I'm really proud of you."

Discord chuckled "Yes, I've been getting that a lot lately."

Twilight nodded, then turned to face you. she gave you an inviting and warm smile and spoke to you in a happy positive tone "Alright Anon, I'm just going to ask you a few questions about how things have been going for you so far. I want you to answer as honestly as you can, ok? and don't hesitate to ask me if you need any of the questions explained to you."

Easy enough...even though you were going to lie when needed.
You nod
"I'm ready Twilight!"

Twilight couldn't help but smile at your demeanor and began to ask her questions "Anon, on a rating of one to ten, ten being the highest. How would you rate your father?"

"I don't think ten is a high enough number..."

Spike had to roll his eyes at that "Oh boy..."

"Spike Don't be rude, if that's how he feels then that's how he feels. Just write down a ten."

Spike was skeptical "I dunno Twilight, now I think something fishy is going on...." He jots the information down.

"See Twilight, this is what I have to put up with. And you wonder why I get defensive. Now I have to fear for my son because now there's ones like Spike who would see him as something sinister." Discord put in an upset tone to his speech.

"Hey! It's not my fault. I didn't sell out all of Equestria to a centaur bent on world domination!" Spike barked at Discord, feeling justified in his words.

Twilight looked at Spike with disappointment "Spike! I'm surprised at you. Discord is doing his best to actually show that he's changing. It is a little extreme to adopt a child. But...that's why we are all here. Keep your opinions to yourself and just write down all the important data , alright?"

Spike grumped "Yeah yeah...yeesh, can't blame a dragon for speaking his mind...mnng..."

this was in the bag. as you thought about it. It still felt off having to fake it to win Twilight over. But you'd only have to endure it for ,hopefully, a little while longer.

Chapter 30

Twilight went through all the usual questions you'd expect. Are you being fed, are you being fed well, are you happy, do you have a room? is it clean? are you enrolled in school. To each of these questions. You were able to answer honestly for the most part that it was all good. And as you answered them, hearing you speak the truth about it made you realize, even if it was for the sake of a plan. Discord was actually pretty good at providing a home.

Twilight was amazed. You've been here for days and by the answers you have given. You were a happy and healthy child. "Anon, and everything you've answered is the truth?"

You nod
"Mhmmm! Dad even introduced me to Aunt Fluttershy. She's so nice. We took a family photo together and everything!"

"Aunt Fluttershy?" That made Twilight smile, it means Fluttershy was also involved, it was a relief to her because that meant there was someone else keeping Discord in check with the whole adoption thing. "So..then..what does Fluttershy have to say about all this?"

in an instant, the family photo appears before Twilight as Discord begins to speak "Take a look Twilight and tell me what you see...a picture is worth a thousand words, they say."

Twilight examined the photo...it looked legit, all three of you looked happy. "You all look so happy together..."

"Of course we do Twilight, I don't know what else I need to do to convince you that everything is absolutely fine. I've gone through all the proper channels and even enrolled him at the schoolhouse in Ponyville. Surely you must have a judgement by now" Discord was already getting bored and impatient.

Twilight nodded, she felt a little odd saying what she was about to say. But her magic revealed you to be a legit colt, she couldn't argue her own magic. "I do, I can honestly say, without a doubt, that you Discord are a fitting father for youn-"

"Hoooooooold it!" Spike suddenly called out "Twilight, you can't be serious! He's got to be pulling some kind of trick, What if he's got Anon scared and making him say what he wants to say?! This could be part of some big master scheme to do...something!!!"

"Spike!" Twilight turned to him, she actually felt a tinge of anger from that outburst. She herself couldn't detect any malcontent from either of you. "I don't see any more reason to be suspicious, so do you mind explaining to me why you still are?"

"Come on Twilight! Discord is ALWAYS up to something. Even if it isn't evil, he could be using this guy for..something! in fact...uhh...can I talk to you in private?"

Aye geez, he was actually on to something. Wrong on the intentions. But Spike, through his suspicions, was actually on to something.

Twilight groaned, she already felt she was on to the right decision. But Spike had always been her number one assistant. She reluctantly decided to humor him "..Alright Spike...but this better be good."

And so they went to discuss whatever he wanted to talk about in the next room. Leaving you and Discord alone.
You look to Discord, a little worried
"Yo hey, Discord. What's up with him?"

Discord chuckled "Oh Spike? My guess is that he doesn't want you to suffer in my hands, he's highly suspicious of everything I do."

Huh...sounds about right
"Well..I guess I would be too if I was him. He's right about the whole plan thing. But I think he's got the wrong idea."

"Most likely, it's not like I'm doing anything evil. I mean, if he really wanted to be suspicious of me I could just torch this whole castle. Then his suspicions would be justified"

You didn't even get worried from that statement. At this point, you were becoming used to him just saying whatever he wanted.
"Right....so..what do you think they are talking about in there?"

"Hrm? oh...Spike just wants to talk to you one on one because he thinks you'll be more truthful if you speak to someone your own age. How laughable. You must be almost five or six times his age. "
Discord was eavesdropping without even moving. That was neat and scary at the same time. To be around someone of such great power....you were just glad you were his "son"

"Well, Discord. I can't blame him. I mean, I trust you. But, all things considered. You did say this was the problem you were trying to fix, so it shouldn't be surprising"

"It isn't surprising, it's just troublesome....ahh here they come."

You watch as Twilight and Spike re-enter the room.

Twilight looks to Discord, it was already obvious what she was going to say

"Discord, you don't mind if Spike has a word with Anon...do you?"

Discord didn't move, change expression, or anything. "Of course I don't mind. It'll give me time to collect my thoughts" he then muttered under his breath "I hope none of them has blown anything up"

"What?" Twilight turned to Discord, thinking she heard something about blowing up.

"O-oh, I said I needed another cup...for my parfait.." Discord said as another glass appeared in his hands "There we are."

"oh..hmm.." Twilight then turned to you "You don't mind right Anon?"

Spike suddenly grabbed you from the side and ruffled your mane "Of course he doesn't Twi, were both bros."

Bros...ha...right. At least he was friendly about it.

"Spike, I won't allow it unless he's ok with it.." Twilight said to him with inflicting caution

"I don't mind. Spike seems like a pretty cool dragon"
You grin a wide grin. That should break the ice instantly.

"See? Told ya. Trust me Twilight, I got this." Spike said with confidence

you always did have a soft spot for Spike. He could be a retard at times. But when he was cool, he was....well..cool.. This could be interesting.

With that Spike leads you out of the room "Come on Anon, walk with me, talk with me."

"O-ok Mr.Spike!"

"Woah woah, don't call me Mr.Spike. Just Spike. Mr.Spike just sounds nerdy"

You nod
"Ok Spike!"

You both exit the room down a long hallway as Spike begins to chat with you
"I know you're acting. You can't fool me, we did meet yesterday you know.."

AHH SHIT NIGGA WUT?!
"H-huh? What do you mean?"

Spike cocked an eyebrow "Mr.Spike, Miss Twilight? All that cute and cuddly acting? Come on....It's fake, you weren't THAT polite yesterday. You called me bro, remember? Not Mister or anything like that"

....you stayed calm, this was nothing, surely he had the wrong idea
"I did...I mean, I guess I just don't want to upset anypony. It's good to be respectful.."

"Upset Anypony?...so that's it...DISCORD REALLY IS MAKING YOU SAY ALL THAT STUFF ISN'T HE!? I KNEW IT!" Spike, jumping to conclusions as usual.

"What?! no! Dad isn't doing that. I just want to do my best. That's all! being...uhh.."
You had to think of something convincing....come on....
"Uh...uh..Being...a...an orphan is tough you know. Parents, they'll send you back if things don't turn out well. I just don't want to go back..."

You tried to sound as pathetic and sad as possible. But. Your words were still true. If you did fuck up...who knows what would happen.

It worked, Spike could feel the feels from those words "O-oh...I guess I didn't think of it that way...ahh geez...hey...Anon, I'm sorry." He began to rub the back of his head, feeling bad about what he said "I didn't know you were doing that so you wouldn't get sent back. Has uhh..Has he ever threatened to send you back?"

You shake your head

"Not once...and I can really be myself around him. He doesn't mind. He's pretty cool with it. He can get a little worrisome around public though. But that's because it...well..hurts him to be seen as a bad guy. And I don't think he's as bad as anypony makes him out to be. He's my Dad. And I l-....care about him"

yeck, you were about to say love, too strong a word for the situation as it was.

"Wow...I didn't think Discord was capable of anything like that. Now I feel like a louse...I guess Fluttershy was right. He really is trying to change for the better..Hey Anon..sorry for putting you on the spot like that...hey, actually." Spike lit up with a smile "Since you're new around here, you're gonna need a friend if you don't want to get eaten alive around here."

"Well uhh..I mean.."

Wait...that doesn't sound bad actually. Spike was pretty cool, and you were going to need at least one guy friend. Too many girls was scary.

"Yeah...that'd be pretty cool. Having a dragon as a friend sounds really neat actually."

"Woah really? because ya know, most ponies are afraid of dragons, we can be pretty scary" Spike blew a flame up into the air and then looked at you with a cocky smile "Sure you can handle it?"

You nod, you giggle. That was pretty endearing.
"I think I can. Thanks for wanting to be my friend Spike."

Spike gave your back a pat "No problem bro, we guys gotta stick together. And besides, you're also gonna have to have somepony by your side in case things get wild for you, and this dragon is up to the job! I gotta know something though."

"What?"

"Are you attracted to Twilight? Because if you are, sorry to break it to you but she's always got her head in the books..you got no chance."

...lordy
"No, not really...I was just being polite."

"Then what about Fluttershy? I saw that photo...you looked kind of blushy."

....ummmmmmmmmmmm
"What?! nahhh..I was just caught offguard. She's really soft..and stuff"

Spike smirked "uh huh. Be careful there bro, you did call her "Aunt" "

This...THIS coming from HIM?! ohhh nope..payback....paaaayyyyback.
"Well uhh...what about you? Twilight seemed to suggest you had a crush on somepony."

"Me?! Hey, you don't get to ask that kind of question" Spike began to blush "We don't even know eachother that well"

You smirk at him, tables turned..
"I dunno Spike, you look kind of "Blushy"...come on..who is it?"

As if you had to ask...
"Y-you wouldn't know her....hey. Come on, let's uhh...Go see what Twilight is doing!"

Spike immediately rushed to open the door as you grinned to yourself. That's how you do it.
You follow him back to the main room. Where Spike gives his final report to Twilight. It seems all went well. Much to Twilight's surprise.

Twilight, with positive finality, concluded that Discord was a fit father for you. And even congratulated him. which only fed into his boastful pride. There still had to be future checkups of course, but Twilight felt certain things would be alright after such a display. And, you got to make a new friend.

with a goodbye, you both leave the castle and look onto the horizon. So far so good. Only one more thing to deal with.

"...all things considering, that went pretty well"

"Ohhh I know" Discord shook his arms with glee "Fluttershy will be so happy to hear the news, we should go see her right now and tell her!"

heh..that was odd. Thing Discord as giddy as a schoolgirl over something like this...still.

"Wait..what about Demon Tiara?"

Discord waved his hand disapprovingly "pffft, she can wait. This is much more important. It's still early, we have plenty of time."

You shrug, who were you to argue. This meant you got to spend more time with Fluttershy. And boy, she's going to smile really big when she hears the news.

Chapter 31

Without hesitation. Discord teleports you both to the front of Fluttershy's cottage. He had such a big smile on his face, it made him look adorable. Seeing him this happy forced a smile out of you as well. It was just so nice to see.

He slithered hastily through the air right to the front door and knocked "Fluttershy! oohhhh Fluttershy! I have big news!"

You chuckle and walk up to his side
"looking pretty happy there Discord. You're not going to explode on us when she opens that door are you?"

Discord was bouncy, happy and mirthful "Of course not! I'll just be happy to know that Fluttershy will see just how great I was to get a full pass from Twilight Sparkle herself."

You sigh from his wording
"Can't you just say you are happy because Fluttershy will be happy? Because I think that's the truth of it. I'm not ignorant Discord, I know what's up"

Discord's disposition changes to that of his usual pompous demeanor "Anon, Don't try to understand the way I think or why I do the things I do...you just might go mad trying to figure it out"

You roll your eyes and smile
"Uh huh, whatever you say Discord"

Discord doesn't answer back though, it seems his attention was already pulled away back to the door...or rather...the fact the door hasn't opened "...odd..."

He knocked again, and yelled "FLUTTERSHY! IT'S YOUR BEST FRIEND IN ANY DIMENSION EVER! DIIISSCCOOORRRDD!"

"Maybe she isn't home?"

"Pffft, of course she's home. It's still too early to be anywhere else...hrnnnnn.."

"I dunno man, Fluttershy isn't the type to kee-...oh no...don't do that..."

Before you can finish your sentence, Discord pulls out a gigantic megaphone from thin air. It was huge, and had more megaphones attached to it.
"Oh shit! DISCORD...GAHHH HIT THE DECK!"

You hop away as quick as you can and pull your fluffy ears down before he gets a chance to yell into it.
"FLUTTTERSHY, DON'T KEEP ME HERE ALL DAY! I KNOW YOU'RE IN THERE! DON'T YOU WANT TO HEAR THE GOOD NEWS?!"

oh shit, you could still hear it blasting in your ears as the ground vibrates violently, trees around you lose some of their leaves as they float up. Birds fly frantically away, your vision vibrates with the ground.

"FLUTTTTTTTEERRRSHHHHHHYYY!" Discord yells again

She wasn't home! SHE WASN'T HOME! DAMMIT WHY WAS HE SO RETARDED SOMETIMES!

You had to act, when everything settled down and he took a breath. You immediately and almost drunkenly turned and jumped to his tail and bit it hard. You couldn't hear anything but a ringing in your ear at this point. You hoped you weren't too late.

Discord didn't yelp in pain, but he did stop and moved his tail to his front. You were biting hard enough to hang from it when he lifted it high. "Anon, now's not the time to be hanging around. I'm trying to get Fluttershy out here!"

You couldn't hear him. You thought he still would be yelling.

Discord noticed you not replying or coming off his tail. He quickly and near instantly stabs his talon finger through your right ear as it pops out the left. He just as instantly pulls out as well.

You yelp from a quick sting of pain as you plop down to the ground, again, hitting your head. as you rub your head, you notice the ringing in your ear is gone and you can hear again.

"Anon, what are you doing biting my tail when you could be helping me bring out Fluttershy?!"

You stand up, and nearly trip again. You were still very disoriented
"Dammit Discord...egh...Can't you see she isn't home?! ugh.. everything is so blurry"
You fall over, losing your balance.

Discord chuckles "As I said, it's still early. She should be....hrn?"
Discord notices a paper on the ground, it had tape on it. It seems it may have been attached to the door at some point. It was a note "Hrnn..." Discord reads it out loud "To whom it may concern, I'm sorry I'm not home today. I will be out doing errands for Twilight for the upcoming festival. Please don't wait as I will be out all day. I'm sorry for the trouble. Fluttershy...P.S:..I'm sorry"

Discord howls with laughter as he puts his paw on his forehead. "HAHAHAHAHA! I feel so foolish. Look Anon, she wasn't home after all. Don't you feel silly?"

You turn towards...something, still heavily disoriented
"I TOLD YOU SHE WASN'T HOME!"

Discord taps your back "Anon...I'm behind you"

what? huh? You focus your eyes...and see a creepy serpent
"OH SHIT! A SNAKE!"

You jump backwards in fright and into Discord's arms.

Discord just continues his mirthful laughter "HAHAHAHAHAHAHA ANON STOP, YOU'RE KILLING ME!"

He loses his grip on you as he falls backwards laughing. making you fall on your back.
"NGH!"

You lay there, hearing Discord's laughter as you submit to failure. The snake that scared you slithers up to you and looks at you. You just return it's stare.
"...you aren't even poisonous are you?"
The snake shook it's head
"......I wonder if this is how Warner Brothers characters feel when they make an ass out of themselves..."
The snake shrugged
"I guess you wouldn't know...well...let me ask...I didn't look that idiotic did I?"
The snake looks backwards and moves it's tail to make it look like the word "Yes"
You grumble
"....Who asked you anyway...?"

The Snake slithered away as Discord looked over you, "Anon, now is not the time to dawdle. We have to get you to the Rich estate!"

You just blink
"Isn't it too early for that?....ugh.."
You slowly get up, you weren't angry or upset anymore, just grumpy. You were getting used to Discord's antics more and more everyday, the only ones that still got you were the more extreme ones,
you were still a little disoriented however.
"....And besides....we still have to discuss a plan...ngh...and I think I need some Pepto Bismol"

"Leave everything to me Anon, you just do what you normally do. Trust me, this will even the score"

You hold your head.
"I'm all for evening the score Discord. Really, I can't stand her. But I don't want to do anything too extreme. Nothing life ruining or anything like that."

"Hrn? But don't you hate her guts Anon? I am doing this on your behalf, you know? Just say the word and I can make everything a living nightmare! HAHAHA!"

you cringe
"No..no..look. Just something that for sure gets me out of this without her being locked in her room everyday scared to look in her own mirror. You can do that right?"

Discord nods, but he looks a little bummed "Yes, I suppose I could whip something up that wouldn't do anything like that. But you are severely hindering my creativity, I hope you realize that"

You nod
"I do, and it's for the best. Even if you are doing this for me. We can't go all "Evil Villain" with it...hrn...I can trust you with this right?"

Discord nods "But of course Anon, I'll make sure it doesn't reach that point. All you need to do is be your" He grabs your cheek and pulls enough for you to feel a tinge of pain "usual cute self"

You pull away
"ow!...hfmmm..mnnn.."
You sigh
"I...can do that. I trust you Discord. So please, please. keep your word."

"I just said I would didn't I? Relax Anon, you are suddenly turning into quite the party pooper."

You take offense to that
"Hey! I can be fun, heck. If you actually chose a villain..I dunno..Queen Chrysalis or something. I'd not only be all for it. But you could turn me into a giant spaghetti monster or something and let me ravage their hive before taking a huge meatball and noodle dump on it. Then we could watch as an army of italians show up to obliterate everything."

Discord already had a notepad in his hand, wearing glasses as he wrote down what you said , repeating it quietly "...army...of..Ita-...hrnn..Anon, I don't think I could do human Italians. It'd be too odd...how about some hippos instead?"

Wait..he was serious?
"Really?...we'd..uh...we could do that sometime?"

Discord giggled and nodded "Of course, I wouldn't be writing it down for later if we weren't, I think it's great. It just needs a little more flavor added to it and it could be perfect"

Wow...hey. That was cool of him. You relished the thought of hassling some changeling ass for shits and giggles without fear of retaliation.
"Well umm..we can work on it later I guess. We can make time I'm sure. I mean, we can work in some mwhahahaing and a little chat with her right?"

Discord gave you a sinister grin "oh Anon, I'm liking the way you think. Tell me, when you say a little chat...do you mean just lauding over the fact we are better than her?"

You grin at him...that's exactly what you were thinking.
"You know it...b-but, just because I want to do that to her doesn't mean to do it to Diamond Tiara...I mean it ok?"

Discord huffed "yes...yes..I heard you. I'll make sure to keep it at a level that should be acceptable to you....hrn...ahh yes"

Discord snapped his talons. Making your clothes disappear and replaces them with your saddle bag "You forgot this at home. And yes, the map is inside...and no your candy isn't."

Candy?...oohh...ohh dammit. You forgot about the candied sugar cubes.
"..oh right..no it's fine. They were in there awhile. I don't mind."

"Good. Now then...I wish you good luck Anon, I have to go prepare myself. This will be...well....A performance"

And with another snap of his talons. You found yourself in front of the Rich manor once more. This time, you were ready. She didn't have anything on you anymore now that the photos were gone. And if whatever Discord is planning does works. This would be the last day of this hell and on to actual fun things. You couldn't wait.

You walk up to the lavish front doors. And knock, preparing for Filthy Rich to open the doors.

He doesn't. Instead it's a sexy maid unicorn with a short but well groomed mane. unf...

"Oh...umm..hi...Is Filthy Rich home?"

"Ahh, you muzt be Anon. Mazter Rich iz not home. I azzume you wait for the young mistress, yez?""

unf...
"y-yeah"

Using her horn, she brings a feather duster over and brushes your face a little "I shall fetch her, but you should look more prezentable next time, you look az if you had fallen and not cleaned up"
....unf

"S-sorry. I guess..umm...things..."

The maid rolled her eyes and went back inside. You went back to regaining your composure. You were starting to think being younger had some effect on your thinking.

A few moments later. Diamond Tiara stepped out. She didn't look too pleased to see you.

"Something the matter?" You ask

"No, what would give you that idea? Considering you still have to do whatever I say, I'm actually very happy."

......hrn.
"So, the photos must have come out pretty good huh?"

You prevent yourself from smiling, especially when her face became even more displeased.

"O-of course they did. So you better watch yourself Anon."

HA!
You bow
"Whatever you say princess, I'm at your call"

there was a hint of arrogance in your words. She wouldn't do anything too extreme now that she didn't have the pictures. She could still cry, but you were sure you were ready for that this time, you wouldn't let yourself fall for any of her tricks. You kind of felt bad for Silver Spoon though, no doubt she must have been chewed out for her "Screw up". In any case, you'd just comply with that she'd say.

You noticed a small bag wrapped around her neck. It must have been another bag of bits.

"Today I feel like cupcakes. You will take me to Sugarcube Corner. No arguing. If you're good, I'll let you buy some."

you were good with that. You didn't really want Pinkie to see you with Diamond Tiara though. But at this point. things could go your way.
"Alright..let me just pull out my map here..."

You open your saddle bag and look at your map. It was a little ways away further from the ice cream shop. But you could get there.

Diamond Tiara rolled her eyes and stepped past you "I forget that you're still new. Follow me, I want to get there as quick as possible."

You shrug. and put the map back.

She didn't talk much along the way this time around. She must still be upset and figuring out what happened to the photos. The only thing she had to really say to you is to hurry you up.
You kept an eye out for anything out of place. a Portal, a Piano hanging from a rope, monsters. Anything Discord would do. You didn't want him to do any of what you were looking for. But you began to wonder how he was going to pull this off realistically without some zany execution. He may have had a sudden eagerness to protect you. But even he must still remember that for the sake of his own plan. Whatever he does has to be mild.

"Anon?...Anon!" Diamond Tiara calls to you.
You snap out of your small haze to look at her. She was pointing to an alley
"Pay more attention when I call to you. We are going down this alley. It is a shortcut to Sugarcube Corner."

She seemed to be waiting for you though for some reason instead of leading the way.
"ok? So let's go down it then"

"Moron! I'm not going in first. You are!"

"....why? I thought you wanted to get there as soon as possible"

Diamond Tiara sighed "Because Anon,it's an alley. Meaning it's probably filled with icky spiderwebs. You need to walk in first so you can get them all with your face"

you shrug. Whatever, it was no big deal.You'd only raise a fit if she caused you some trouble. Today, you'd just act cool until the moment was right.
"Whatever you say..."

You walk into the alleyway, there were a few spiderwebs about. But you just moved them away with your hoof. The alleyway was longer than you thought. a little dark too...huh.

Diamond Tiara stepped along a small distance behind you. Rushing you to move faster.

Instead, you stop. A rather large and burly stallion. orange furred,ruffled brown mane, and with a less than sunny disposition stepped forth from the front of the alley and stepped towards the both of you.
....shit

"Anon, what's the hold..hrn..hey! who is that?" Diamond said in an annoyed tone

You had no clue, and didn't want to find out.
"...I..don't know. Let's..head back out the way we came huh?"

"What? but we're almost there! Just tell him to move!"

Oh fuck no, the more the guy moved closer, the meaner and burlier he looked. You immediately turned around and began pushing Diamond Tiara the other direction.
"What are you doing?! Don't touch me with your hooves! They are gross!" Diamond barked

You take a quick look back, the pony just stood there. as if he was waiting.
"Listen. I don't know about you. But i'm not going to get wrecked because you want to be bossy. We are going the other wa....oh...no."

The other end was blocked as well. This time of a pony with similar colors. but His mane was slicked back, he was taller and skinnier, and had a surly smarmy smile.
He stepped closer to the both of you, eyeing you both "Well well Bedlam, lookit what we got here. ya guys lost or somethin'?"

the other pony, the bigger one, Bedlam then spoke. His speech, unlike the other's quick tongue, was slower and dumber. "heh..heh..ah thank thay are Calamity"

The one known as Calamity had a smile that became nearly evil "yah...I think yer right. Course, we fine stallions are willin to lead you in the right direction for...oh...that entire bag of bits there...whaddya say?"

....fucking....shit. they were thieves.
"You guys will leave us alone if we give it to you?" You ask with caution

Calamity nods "Sure, it'll be as if we were neve-..hrn?"

Diamond Tiara wasn't going to have none of this it seems. Much to your dismay. "Listen here cretin, I'm Diamond Tiara.You know,the daughter of Filthy Rich? If you don't move RIGHT NOW then we are going to have a problem."

......oh...goddammit....

Calamity looked down on her with a dark smile "rich guy's father huh?....yeah...that might work out a lot better. How would you like to be a hostage, sweetheart?"

Diamond Tiara didn't like those words, she became even angrier "WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE TELLING ME THAT?!"

You had to calm the situation somehow....already things were getting bad.
"Hey! hey! Let's not get hasty. Just take the bag, come on. We're just foals here. You don't want to kidnap foals do you? It'd look pretty bad"

Under your breath you were muttering for Discord to pop out and save the both of you. Shit was looking bleak.

Calamity gave you a gentle smile all of a sudden "You're right kid, it would look bad if we kidnapped some foals. That's why we'll be taking one of you, and you can be the nice one to rush all the way to her daddy and tell him we want...say....a million bits?

Bedlam nodded to that number.

....shhiiiiieeettt

Diamond Tiara had enough of this "That's it, I'm just going to yell and then you'll all be looking at the dungeon walls. Hope you like prison you losers!"

Diamond Tiara took a deep breath to scream. But the moment she tried. She suddenly found herself unable to talk. She then started to panic and cry muffled cries.
You look back and could see a small glow under Bedlam's ruffled mane.....shit...he was a unicorn...

"D-discord...you can pop out any time now..." You whispered worryingly
Nothing

Calamity held down the now shocked and frightened Diamond Tiara as Bedlam hovered a rope and a large box over to her to tie her up and throw her in.

Calamity then looks at you with a devilish grin "What are ya waitin for kid? Get a move on, We'll be done by the time anypony arrives."

....shit...you can see in Diamond Tiara's eyes that she was scared as fuck. And now you felt the urge to just get out of there. Why should you care? Things could end up ok in the end. You didn't like her. This could be it...
You take a step away from them...and stop. You had told Discord to not do anything extreme because you didn't want her to suffer. Now here you are about to abandon her and leave her alone in a for real situation.

Yeah no...you couldn't do that. The guilt was too great. And Discord wasn't showing up. If you tried to draw attention now, they'd probably silence you too. So that was out. You had to fight......shit...
You turn around and step closer to them. You were scared as shit. But...this was cartoon horse land. All you had to do was distract them enough to the point a deus ex machina happened..right?
"Hey..you two, let her go right now!"

They both stopped to look at you, Calamity, unamused by you. "What are ya doin' kid? Didn't I tell ya to get a move on?"

"shut the hell up!"
The time for holding back was over, you had to make yourself threatening.
"I'm going to kick the shit out of both of you so goddamn hard that their going to have to put tubes in you just so you can shit and piss!!!"

Calamity snickered "Oh ho...look at this Bedlam, this little colt thinks he's a big stallion like us. Ok kid, come on. I'll have a go at ya"

....shit...shit...that didn't work. They weren't the least bit scared or even shocked that you used curse words.

Calamity stepped up to you. that shit eating grin never leaving his face "Ok kid, let's see how good ya are at playin' hero."

fuck....maybe you should have ran....
You hesitate for a moment. And through that hesitation. Calamity smashes his hoof into your face. sending you into the wall.

......goddammit....t-that hurt...

Ok....ok..things were serious. You get back on your hooves and try just rushing him. theres no way he'd expect you to get up that quickly and bravely rush him. You had determination.

But sadly, he did expect you, the moment you try sending your right hoof into his face. He jumped backwards, turned, and bucked you straight up, turned again and slammed his front hoof onto your back as you fell back down.

Calamity started to mockingly laugh at you "HAHAHA, wow kid, you are the worst fighter I've ever seen. It's like you've only been a pony for a few days or somethin'.

Fuck....you were really hurting...for real...you were actually scared,

Calamity looked back at his partner "Bedlam, ain't you done yet?"

Bedlam said, in a low slow tone "..Almost Calamity....just..having trouble...tying...knots"

Calamity rolled his eyes at him "Come on Bedlam, yer a unicorn. Just use yer magic you clod!"

"...oh...right.." Bedlam realized.

But even with his magic, he was having trouble. Diamond Tiara was too terrified to try to escape however.
Calamity walked up to him, you weren't going anywhere so he felt he had the time.
You were hurting bad. "

Ya dumb dumb, look. I'll handle the filly, ya just get this colt to understand the kind of business were in, got it?" Calamity barked at his burly partner

Bedlam nodded, and started to step over to you as Calamity took his place.
....Oh..shit..NO..NO..NO...he was big, beefy, and stupid. He might fucking kill you!
You tried crawling away, but Bedlam pressed his hoof on your tail to prevent you from escaping.

"Should have listened...kid..nothing personal.." Bedlam said as he raised his hoof to slam into you.

..GODDAMMIT NO!

In panic and fear, you feel a flash of strength as you raise your hoof as slam it into Bedlam....right onto his nuts.
instantly the giant fell over like a fallen tree. His voice now high pitched and yelping in pain.

....o-oh..shit....right..
you didn't even realize that horses still had balls. You just instinctively kicked them like you would to any other person bigger than you back home.

Fuck yes....fuck yes...he was down...Woo!

In your excitement. You manage to get up. And in doing so, you take cheap shots and slam your hoof multiple times into Bedlam's crotch until he was barely moving. You were still aching, but adrenaline was blasting through you.

"Take that you motherfucker! Yeah. Gotcha! You asshole!"
As you chide and insult him. you feel a tapping on your back.
Oh shit.you almost forgot about him.
You turn around, at the ready. letting your new found energy flow through you.

Calamity smirked at you "Pretty cheap kid, I like it. Too bad that means I'm just gonna have to rough ya up even worse. Doesn't matter to me, ya can still get the message out from a hospital."

You tried to get a good eye and angle to hit his nuts. But the alley was too narrow to maneuver in.

"What's wrong kid? Can't get a good angle? Ya know...I'm a generous guy. I don't really want to rough ya up too bad without a better reason. So...I'll give ya a free shot. Or ya can just run away.doesn't matter to me.choose wisely..."

....you could run away.he wasn't gonna let you get a shot at his nuts obviously. Maybe..if you bucked him in the face. One good buck. You've never bucked before.but,any good hit can knock anyone down. Shit man...you should just run away.
But you don't. You growl loudly and jump towards him and turn for a buck.
You manage it..sorta...you miss his face and instead hit his chest due to your size…..you were screwed.

But as you turn, you can see dust coming from the wall. In which you slammed Calamity right into it.

What...the..fuck?
You...what?!

Calamity was coughing from the hit, the wall had a small crater to it.

There's...no..fucking..way...

Calamity looked freaked out as well. "W-w-w-what?! N..ngh...ugh..I'm hurtin...forget this..Bedlam..we gott-gotta get outta here....s-somethin's..wrong with this kid..I..can barely move...C-carry me..."

you were stunned, Calamity was stunned, Diamond Tiara was stunned. Bedlam was still high pitched and rushing to pick his partner up with his magic and ran off with him before you snapped back to reality.
.....you did it...You did it somehow....
"Anon...h-help...me..please..."
Diamond Tiara could talk again, and she was a lot more soft spoken. frightened and scared about what could have happened to her.
...you did it. You actually did it..
How in the fuck did you do it?

Chapter 32

Of course, now your adrenaline rush was over. And with it gone. You felt the pain and aches of the beating you took. It was pretty bad, enough to make you stumble.

"...great...now I feel like sh-"

Diamond Tiara calls out to you, she's tied by the ropes. Unable to move "A-Anon! are you ok!?"

Wow..she was actually worried about you? eh..you just did pretty much save her life.
You slowly tip and tumble towards her
"Yeah I'm fine. ngh....I told you you should have just given them the money..."

"I-I'm sorry...I didn't know that was going to happen. I didn't think that would happen.."
of course she didn't. Then again, you didn't think you could win in a straight up fight.
You stand over her, your vision was blurring, but you could see the rope wasn't tied too well. You simply grab a loose knot with your teeth and pull. Freeing her.
"...There we go.....good thing these guys weren't very good at tying rope huh?"

Diamond Tiara didn't say anything as she stood. She looked worried for you "A-anon, you look really hurt."

Did you? You were in pain..but...
"nah...I..."
You fall over
"...ok...I dunno how I look...but ngh..I'm hurting pretty bad.."

Diamond Tiara got really worried for you, she began to panic "A-A-Anon! Are you ok!? Is there anything I can do?! What's wrong?!"

You weren't in the mood to get scared of your own condition. You were pretty sure you weren't going to die. You just got roughed up badly. You were sure you could still stand. But the moment you try, you fall over. You felt so weak, you were then starting to get a little scared.
"...oh geez...umm..Look..stay calm ok? We're near Sugarcube Corner right?"...get some help from anypony there...They'll know what to do.."

Diamond Tiara panicked but complied, and ran as fast as she could out of the alley.
Funny how sudden and immediate danger can change one’s thinking real quick
You were alone now.
You were in pain, and you were wondering how bad you looked. You didn't expect such an assbeating at all while in this world.

"D-dammit Discord....a-anytime now...I'm hurting pretty bad.."
No answer
your vision was blurring more and more.
At least Diamond Tiara didn't just leave you to fry, right? Hopefully she was doing as you said. She looked so scared. As if she never had been in such a situation before. It seemed pretty convenient
....in fact....this whole attack seemed like that.
Bedlam
Calamity
Chaos
Disorder
........Discord....
"...god...fucking....d-d-.....uhhhn-"

You fall unconscious as you just realized what may have actually happened.
things go dark...
fucking dammit....it had to be him...and now you were gonna die. What the hell was he thinking? That had to be him...right?

"Walk into the light..."

"...wha?"

"Walk into the light......."

Oh shit....were you dead?...or was Luna somewhere trying to contact you?
You couldn't speak..you were covered in darkness.

"...the liiiiggghhttt"

You...saw it. A light...you saw it!..you tried moving towards it. Whoever was saying this...was your guiding light...

"The.....liiiiiighhhtttt Nonny!"

"Will you stop that?! The doctor said he needs rest! So stop being an idiot!"

"huh? ummm..I'm pretty sure I'm saying light...not "being an idiot" "

The light starts to become bigger, warmer.

"No! What you are doing is stupid! You can't just wake him up with noise. He needs his rest! Can't you see that?! Ugh! Why did you have to be the one to help?!"

"Well...everypony else was stunned and confused. Mr.Cake went to get the proper authorities, Mrs.Cake stayed with her foals, and I was going to go out anyway so you got me. Does that answer your question?"

"NO! ANYPONY ELSE COULD HAVE DONE IT IF THEY WEREN'T SO STUPID! BUT I HAD TO GET YOU AND YOUR "WALK INTO THE-"
You wake up, gasping for air as if you had been underwater.
You were in a hospital room, in a bed, Diamond Tiara and Pinkie pie on both sides of you. Diamond Tiara looked shocked when you awoke "-...light"

Pinkie lit up with a smile "See? Told you it'd work. Welcome back Nonny! I hope you weren't planning on going anywhere"

"...u...ugh...w-what happened?...who...Pinkie?..."

Your vision was still blurry, and you still ached. But not as bad as before

"Relax Nonny...you're gonna be ok! Thanks to ole Pinkie Pie here! hey! since you're awake now. Do you want to hear a joke?"

"NO HE DOESN'T WANT TO HEAR A JOKE! HE'S IN PAIN!"
...oh...that was Diamond Tiara too....but wait...is she defending you...sorta?...ugh..your head hurt. Especially from her yelling. You turn slightly and move your hooves to your pillow and shove it in your face.

Pinkie shushes Diamond Tiara "Shhhh...don't yell, I think it's hurting him"

Diamond Tiara was now aggravated, angry she was told to be quiet "YOU'RE THE ONE HURTING HIM WITH ALL-"

You had it
"STOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOP!....oygh..."
You hold your head
"Please stop...I don't even know what's going on..."

Diamond Tiara immediately stopped.and Pinkie grew quiet as well.

You peek over. Your vision becomes clearer as you notice Diamond Tiara looks absolutely upset that you told her to shut up. She looks into your eyes apologetically. "S-sorry....I didn't mean to hurt you.."

You peer over to Pinkie. She wasn't looking too happy herself "...are you ok Nonny?"

You take a moment to collect your thoughts, and fully come to realize you were in the hospital.
"...ugh...I feel like I got hit by a truck..."

Diamond Tiara reacted negatively to that response. She grew even more worried. "oh no...Anon..."
Why did she react like that?

You look over to Pinkie, who suddenly had a book in her hooves, she was looking for something "Truck.....truck...I don't see or even know anything about a truck...oh no..Anon...is your brain ok?" She looks at you with a worried pout.

...oh...fuck..that's right...pony world.
"hey girls come on..."
You let out a chuckle, maybe that would help
"..it's just an expression I picked up...truck means...uhhh...a really big speeding object."

They let out a collective "oh"

you slowly started to feel better as you regained most of your senses.
"...so...where am I exactly?"

"You're in the hospital Nonny. And it's a good thing too, I don't think you were going to get better in that alley!"

Diamond Tiara slapped her hoof onto her own face "I think he knows that"

That's right! You were in the alley. That means Diamond Tiara really did manage it. And Pinkie was the one to save you it seems. And then....oh...oh...right...You really needed to see Discord now...

You turns to the flat of your back and took a huge breath. Trying to relax as you tried to reason as to why, if it was him, why he'd beat the shit out of you so badly...in fact...
"...can I get a mirror please?"

"ummm..Nonny....I don't think that's a good idea." Pinkie says with a cringe

"...I agree with her..." Diamond says with a worried look

"Why?..how bad can it be?"

"Well umm" Pinkie tapped her muzzle "Your eyelid is puffy, you got a black eye. You're bruised in a lot of places, you got scoffed, some cuts, a-"

Diamond Tiara looked at her with vicious eyes and raging anger "DON'T TELL HIM THAT! THAT'S ALMOST THE SAME AS GIVING HIM A MIRROR!"

You grumble...loud noises still hurt.

"oh...s-sorry" Pinkie stopped and frowned

These two in the same room was probably not good for your health. What you found really strange was that Diamond Tiara was here at all. And playing nice....sorta...kinda.

still...they both saved you...maybe..if you were really going to die that is...

"...Thanks...really. I almost thought I was done for.."

"Don't think like that Nonny. That's a really sad thought." Pinkie frowned again. Yeah, a colt talking about dying probably wasn't good for her own mood.

"Sorry..umm.."
shit..don't be such a downer Anon..
"..uhh..umm..how about that joke Pin-...Ponk?"

Diamond Tiara says nothing, as if following your word to let Pinkie tell a joke.

Pinkie lights up, feeling a joke will personally light up the mood of everyone in the room.
"Ok..I got the perfect one! Everypony ready?"

You nod, and give her a weak smile. Diamond Tiara just sits there. Waiting....she could at least smile...yeesh..

"Ok ok...How did the carpenter beat a whole pirate crew?" Pinkie was besides herself with this one.

Diamond Tiara actually started to think
You did yourself as well.. how does a carpenter beat a bunch of pirates. You look to her and shrug.

Pinkie giggled snorted "HE boarded THEM!"

And with that Diamond Tiara actually started giggling.

You didn't, you got the joke, but. It was too simple a joke for you.

Pinkie seemed hurt you didn't smile or laugh "N-nonny..you didn't laugh.."

Even Diamond Tiara seemed pretty worried. She laughed, so why didn't you "A-anon?"

ugh...girls...you had two of them....you were on a bed....and you were in pain...and now making them upset...this would be the worst porno in history.
"S-sorry..I guess i'm still a little too achy to laugh. It was a good joke though.."

And before anything else can be said, a doctor comes into the room. He seemed a little angry "What are you two doing in here? I said this patient needed rest!"

"Really? Because she said it was ok" Pinkie pointed towards Diamond Tiara

"Of course it's ok. Don't you know who I am?" Diamond Tiara chided at the doctor.

"I don't care who you are. If you aren't immediately related to this patient then I'm going to have to have you leave. He is in need of his rest!" The doctor barked back.

"Y-yeah?..Well...I'M HIS SISTER!" Diamond Tiara yelled at the top of her lungs.

The hell? ok...something was up. Diamond Tiara seemed awfully keen in wanting to stay with you. You thought she hated you.

"Huh? I thought y-" Before Pinkie couldn’t finish her sentence. You interrupt her.

"u-uhh Ponk...can you see if you can find....uhmm. Something? I need to talk with my sister"

damn..you couldn't have her go look for Discord. But "Something" had to work. You just hoped she wouldn't question what that something is.

"Discord? Okie Dokie Loki!" Pinkie saluted

"Wait...you know he's-"

"Your Dad? Yup! Twilight told me! But don't worry, I gotcha and I understand. Have a good chat with your sister" She winked at you. Ugh, yeah. Why did you even find that surprising? Pinkie always aims to please. And you do remember Twilight was waiting for her as well.

The doctor looked at Diamond Tiara and then you for a moment. being a unicorn doctor, he hovered your chart and some other papers up to where he can see it. He didn't see anything written down for family, but..you were a colt. So you had to have some. That’s what he seemed to think anyway "....alright...But don't be too long. He still needs his rest."

"I won't...hmph.." Diamond Tiara harumphed at the doctor. She didn't like being told what to do.

Pinkie bid you a happy farewell. You wondered if she could even find him. But you did want to definitely talk to him. The least he could do is fucking heal you. But first thing's first.

"u-ummm...Doctor...c-can I have some private time with my sister? Please...I just want to let her know I'll be alright."

The doctor sighed "You took a serious beating ..are you sure you're up to this?"

You nod
"Just for a bit"

"That's all I can give you. But then you need to lie down and get a little more sleep. We ar...wait.." The doctor then realized something "Did you say your father was Discord?"

You nod
"Y-yeah..is that a problem?"

The doctor held his breath for a moment and turned to hide his fright. "..ahrm...no no...umm. We just hope Miss Pinkie can find him for you..that's all...umm..have a good chat"

Ohhhhh...you figured he was supposed to contact colts and fillies parents. He probably was fucking terrified of having to talk with Discord at all.

But he left, and you finally had some alone time with Diamond Tiara. You were too curious to her change.
You just stared at her, as she stared at you.
You actually couldn't think of anything to start with.
But she did, the next moment after the doctor left. She grasped onto you and cried.

"A-Anon! Anon! You saved me!"

Oh god..OH GOD....THAT HURTS! it was like a lightning jolt!
"N-nghhh........nghhhhhhhhhhh"

"You...you didn't have to...y-you were so brave...I-I thought...because of things I did..you..would have just left me...b-but...Anooon!"

What the fuck was this noise?! and HOLY CRRAAAPP STOOOPPPPPPP!!!
You were doing your best not to yelp and cry out. But holy fuck. She was just nuzzling and cuddling into you like a damn puppy. What in the fuck...
"NMMHHHHHHMGGRR"

She could hear your muffled yelps and cries of pain and looked at your face. It looked like someone had just stuck a dagger in you. She gasped and backed off. Apologizing profusely.
"A-Anon..I'm sorry! I..I forgot you were still in pain..I...please don't get mad...please"

oh god...the pain..it was back..But also you began to get it. She was just ACTUALLY being thankful for saving her....you would have wondered how long that would last.
You take a moment to componse yourself. If only to get her to calm down about you being in pain.
"I-It's fine..s-see?"
You grit your teeth to a distorted smile
"..see..I-I'm good.."

Diamond Tiara wasn't convinced, and it was apparent she felt horrible about something. You tried thinking for a time in the show if she ever had to deal with anything like this. nothing sprung up.
"Anon...is there anything I can do to help you feel better?..I..I didn't mean to hurt you"

You took steady breaths, trying to ease the pain. Damn...should have at least told the doctor you were in pain, probably could have gotten some pills or something. They have those in Equestria, right?
"It's fine...Diamond..though it's weird"

Diamond Tiara tilted her head slightly, confused, wiping some of her tears away "W-what's weird?"

You chuckle weakly
"You're worried about me, you're being nice....well..sorta. And you actually got somepony to save me. I guess it's weird to me."

"W-what do you mean? You..you totally stuck your neck out for me. Instead of leaving me. I-I thought you...would just run off when that pony said you could..it almost...looked like you were...but you didn't. You saved me...you fought them off....it was amazing.."
she was capable of being thankful. Hell, she was having trouble speaking from being choked up from your actions.

"eh,It was just something I felt I had to do. Don't look too into it..."

"B-but...if it was...any other pony...anypony I was trying to blackmail or extort...they...they probably would have left me..you didn't"

That wasn't true.You knew the CMC,being moralistic when things get extreme, would have probably done the same thing.

"Nah.there's other ponies out there that would have done the same thing. Some of us aren't so scummy.."

Diamond Tiara suddenly shifted her expression to sad and worried. To extremely hurt. "..y..y-you think I'm scummy?..A-am..I really that bad?"

.........oh..no.....oh nooooo......that reaction...oh god no. Please no...She didn't...please god no...not her..
"u..uhh..I didn't mean it like that. D-diamond..I mean..you got Pinkie to come get me..s-so we're even..that makes you not scummy."

Tears started to flow from her eyes....oh these signs were not good. Why didn't you notice it earlier? "...but I did scummy things...I-I just didn't want to seem inferior...I..always want to be the best. Because I always am...at least...I..I dunno..Anon...you know the pictures?"

You nod...you knew where this one was heading.
"I..Don't have them...Silver Spoon lost them...and I got angry. I yelled at her for being stupid. I actually had another reason to go to Sugarcube Corner"

...ok..now she's being forthcoming.
"What..was it?"
..did you even want to know?

Diamond Tiara hesitated, she moved her tail to her hooves and began to stroke it. "I was going to wait for the Stupi-...Cutie Mark Crusaders to show up...and make them think we we’re in love...I wanted them to see I could take anything from them...but now...I think...umm"

Diamond Tiara started to blush deeply "..I think you took something from me...instead..."

Oh god...you knew it wasn't her virginity. But the stink of cheese was starting to fill the room.
"....uhhhh....Diamond?"
You stop her from finishing

"Y-yes Anon?"

She looks at you intently, deeply...lovingly. OH GOD NO, NOT HER! NOT HER PLEASE!
"I-I better get some rest. I'm feeling achy....c-can you send in the doctor? I just need some medicine to help me sleep"

She didn't protest, but she seemed melancholic from not being able to finish. "O-oh..yeah..of course...I-I'll see you later then..I..I need to see Daddy anyway...and tell him what happened."

You nod.and bid her a big farewell.
She hesitated on leaving, looking at you with one lonesome sad stare before finally vacating.
oh please. Let you be wrong. Don’t let her be in love with you.
After a moment, the doctor steps into the room. But something seems different about him.
"How are you Anon? Feeling better I hope"

You shake your head
"N-no...Can I get some pills or something..I feel queezy right now.."

The doctor chuckled, his voice slowly changing to something familiar "ya think yer queezy now, wait till I'm done with ya.."

The voice was that of Calamity.But, looking at the doctor and hearing his voice shift like that. You just groan heavily.
"Come off it Discord. I know it's you...geez. I'm in a fucking hospital and you still pull this shit on me. Never mind the fact you were the one who got me sent here in the first place...christ..."

Calamity immediately shapeshifted into Draconequus form. It was indeed Discord "Well shoot, I hadn't thought you figured it out yet."

You groaned heavily
"I did. Pretty much right after you pummeled me. Mind explaining yourself? Because I dunno if you know. But you nearly killed me...just saying"

You tried to keep calm, not for his sake, but so you wouldn't jump out of bed and somehow wring his neck with your hooves. But internally, you were angry.

"Oh you weren't in any danger of death Anon, My hooves were laden with a little magic to drain you. Truth be told I thought I would have had made off with that filly if you hadn't have stopped me. But I think things worked out much better now."

Drain magic? Wait. You stopped him?
"woah woah what? How the hell?...H-How did I stop you?"

Discord clears his throat, and then hesitates, he didn't seem to keen on saying it "Well. you remember how there were essentially two of me, correct?"

You nod
"yeah...and?"

"Wellll...the one known as Bedlam was actually my lower part of my body given physical form. You know. It seemed like a funny idea at the time. Anyway,when you ahrm..hit him in a certain area, you had disrupted my magic. I never EVER thought anypony would take such a cheap shot….multiple times. And so embarrassingly enough, the half with my brains got extremely weak without me even noticing. But still, I managed to make it quite a convincing performance with only a little bit of improv."

.....what?!
You laugh, then groan from the pain, then laugh again.
"Are you serious? You legitimately lost to me?! Because I attacked your nuts?! HAHAHAHA..Ow...ha...ow....ngh"

Discord turned away from you, crossing his arms, flustered "That's not funny Anon, I'm not usually so vulnerable. And besides, who taught you how to fight so dirty? It wasn't me, no siree."

You still laugh, or manage to keep it at a light chuckle.
"O-ok Discord, I'm sorry. It's just hilarious .pfftt..Haha...no wait. So if I was around in season 2, I could have saved the entire world with a swift kick in the nuts..oh man. I'd become such a hero that ponies from all around would come to learn the Anon Arts of nut cracking. nyahaha...haha...heh.."

Discord turns to face you, pointing at you to indicate caution "Careful Anon, I only made myself vulnerable. If I was actually fighting you, you'd be drinking garbage, twice your size, while slowly turning into a house"

You calm yourself, but you knew that was an empty threat
"Alright alright..."

You felt better emotionally now. Knowing you defeated the spirit of chaos with a swift kick to his nuts.
"So...dad...what's up? I'm just going to assume right now that you didn't come here just to check up on me. Since you already knew I'd be ok."

Discord nodded "Perceptive, Well,I've come to share with you the news on the results of today's happening. It's a double whammy! One I'm sure you'll be happy to hear."

"Heh...you actually care if I'm happy?"

"Now you come off it Anon. I don't hate you. I'm doing this for our mutual benefit at this point. And how mutual it is."

"Ok..so what is it?"

"Well first, word has begun to spread that a young colt..adopted by the fabulous Discord...had defended a high profile filly from a couple of hooligans from Manehatten. What this means is that I think I may have accomplished my goal at shifting ponies views about me. For the most part anyway. I'm sure I can't sway everypony, but they'll see Fluttershy and either be amazed that she is my friend and leave her alone, orrrrr they'll know to keep their mouth shut if they have any ill will since I raised such a good son in such a short time."

You smile at that. That sounded good so far. And you weren't sure how accurate that was. But, it was good, and the fact Discord still stuck to that story meant it had to be true.
"That’s pretty awesome, so everything is gonna be ok then. So then, what’s that other thing?"

"Well...I also came to realize....after looking at your face. That I may have overdone some of my blows to you. So..I suppose...I guess...that perhaps...I could take one for the team and meet with Mr.Rich myself instead of leaving you to deal with it. And discuss with him taking off the punishment. I'm sure he'd be happy to oblige now that this has all resolved itself. I'll also have to go to Twilight and offer my services to round up the hooligans and deal with them."

that sounded good after he left you alone with him before. But you were sure Filthy Rich would probably still want an audience with the one who saved his daughter, so you had to be ready for that. You also had to hope you were wrong about how Diamond felt, or that at least it was a spur of the moment thing; The thought of her loving you is scary indeed. but what about the hooligans thing? That didn’t make sense at all.
"...uhh… Discord? you were those hooligans."

"And? Everypony else doesn't know that. I'll offer my services, go do whatever, and then return to Twilight and tell her I dealt with it my own way. She'll probably get somewhat annoyed with some "They needed to be brought to justice properly" nonsense, but she should understand the rage of an upset father.”

And now you felt a little bothered. A lie compounded on yet another big lie, after getting pummeled like this. It was starting to wear on you.
"...Discord...Can I talk to you about something...I mean seriously about something...with you being serious as possible?"

"yes?"

"Look....all these lies. They are really piling on and it's making me feel a little...on edge. I don't like it. I don't mind the father son thing so much. I understand that was instrumental to the whole plan. I can dig that. And I...don't even mind having to start my life over. But I feel like everything is on rails and I hate all these major lies. You know what I'm saying?"

Discord narrowed his eyes, pondered, and curled his beard "...I think I do...and you know what. You might be right. Fluttershy does tell me lying is a very bad thing. Which is why I moved on to white lies, totally different. But I suppose all the lies we told aren't all white, are they?"

Oh thank god, he was getting it
"Yeah...So. After all this is done with. Can we just, I dunno. Be a sorta normal Son and Father, Friends, and I guess roommates since I'm staying at your place? and keep the lying to a bare minimum?"

"....I suppose...you're going to have some trouble transitioning from your cutesy wutesy "Miss and Mister" attitude you've shown to a few ponies, you know that right?"

You shrug
"Eh...ponies change, and I've barely spoken to them. And Applebloom and her friends, you know, who are my age..heh..They already know how I act really. It'll be fine. Though, wait. you mentioned when I hit your..ahrm...privates. That your magic sort of switched off?"

Discord nodded "Yes. Is that an important detail? Because I won't be letting you do that again"

"...well, I don't want to do it again..but..."
You look at your hooves
"Shouldn't I have turned back into a human or something? Or did that spell Twilight cast on me...what was up with all that anyway?"

Discord sighed and rubbed his temples "Anon, Anon. Didn't you listen to my lesson on dimensions?"

"Yeah....I don't see what that has anything to do with it though.."

"Ugh, of course not with that feeble human mind of yours, It's actually VERY simple. I used my magic on you while in your world to give you your adorable little face lift. Then...a dimension over, I took you through the mirror. You've seen what that mirror does. one end human, the other, pony. When I took you through it while you were still unconscious. You became a pony, and my magic grafted into you and became a natural force. So,in short,you are an actual little pony."

shit...is that how it works...wait..
"..Wait...so...I'm actually an earth pony when I go through the mirror?"

Discord nods

".....dammit...great! I had to be the most boring species of pony...that bites.."

"Oh it's not so bad, you still have me to spice things up." Discord gives you a toothy grin

whatever...well...if you were a natural pony due to that. Then maybe that meant you could actually get a Cutie Mark. hmmmm...wonder what'd it'd be?
"..soo...uhh...what now?"

"Now?....now you go night night and get some rest. Doctor's orders. I still have things to do, such as get found by Pinkie Pie so I can hear the dreadful news about you"

ugh...he was just going to knock you out. You could feel it.
"...ok ok, just let me get comfy first."
You scootch into your thin blanket, and gently rest your head on the pillow, being careful not to make any sudden movements to cause you pain.
"....ok..do whatever you're gonna do...I'm ready"

Discord raises his talons "I'll tell you this, I'm not doing this to be a jerk...for once. It's just I do a terrible job at actually healing ponies without causing....some spectacular effects.but putting them to sleep is easy. It's all part of being a Spirit of Chaos, you understand."

...well...that sounded about right. And you were going to get some rest. That was good. You needed to sort out this shit later when you weren’t suffering in pain.
"...and after all this, we can just go to the whole, barely lying thing?"

"After everything is handled, we can. Have a pleasant sleep Anon. I'll be back soon."
and with a snap of his talons, things went dark once more.

Chapter 33

You wake up sometime later...or a lot of time later...You weren't sure.

You open your eyes, and are met with a very soft moonlight seeping through the room window. It had to be night.
You yawn, and slowly sit up. You were feeling a lot better. just mildly irritating aches.
You look about the room. You can see a yellow and pink figure sleeping on a bench near the door. It was Fluttershy.
"....huh...wonder why she's here?"

You carefully get off the bed, and go to observe her. You could hear her soft, gentle breathing as you drew near.
You say nothing, you just stare at her figure. Thinking..
"....mnn..."
You tilt your head to the side towards her ass, her tail covering the very center.
".......mnnnnnnnn"
You reach your front hoof to her tail to move it.
You begin to sweat
"....mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmnnnnnnnnn......."
You stop, you don't even move her tail, and move your hoof back to the ground as you grumble to yourself.
"..mnngrr..can't do it. ...agh..Why couldn't she be a pony I don't care about?....ugh..whatever.."

With that mission failed. You look around for a mirror. You find a full body mirror on another side of the room. You take a look
You noticed you were in a petite hospital gown. Your mane was rustled, and it looks like you didn't have any swelling anymore. You were bruised in a few spots and you had a black eye.
"...ugh..there it is...mnnn"
You smile at the mirror
"...yeah...I still look good. Gotta hand it to Discord, he did a really good job with this body.I'd fuck me right now if I could.."
You half expect your mirror image to come out of the mirror to do just that. But no dice.
"...yeah fine..."
You quietly walk towards the door, and open it, taking a dare to look what's past it.
Hallways, leading to different rooms. Seems yours was "34"
"...hmm...might not be a good idea to leave..."
You close the door. And look back at Fluttershy.
She was so cute.
Well,you had nothing better to do...
You tried climbing the bench to snuggle with Fluttershy. But the moment you got on to enter a snuggle position on her side. You'd just plop off with how narrow it was.
you yelp in pain from the fall.
"ergh...course...I thought I was small enough.."

"Anon?"

OH shit....did she wake up?
You look up, and see a tired Fluttershy looking down at you from the bench

She looks at you with tired confusion "Anon, what are you doing out of bed?"

"U-ummm...I kinda woke up and couldn't sleep...and stuff..ngh"
You lay your body to it's side. you wince, the floor was pretty hard.

"Anon..I...umm. I don't think you're going to get a better sleep on the floor. It's also very dirty..."

..yeah..you knew...she probably didn't notice you had fallen
You carefully get up and hop back into bed, do a 360 like a cat and lay on your belly, facing Fluttershy.
"yeah..you're right..the bed is better...Sorry to wake you Aunt Fluttershy"

Fluttershy gives you a gentle, tired smile "That's alright Anon" Fluttershy yawns "I don't think you did anything worth apologizing for. How are you feeling?

"I guess I'm ok...but umm...Aunt Fluttershy, why are you here?"

"oh..well..Discord asked me to keep an eye on you until he got back. Him and Rainbow Dash and a division of the Wonderbolts are out looking for those meanies who hurt you."

Oh geez...even the Wonderbolts?
"..woah...all that because I got hurt?"

"Well..actually..it was that and the fact they are foalnappers. Twilight said she wouldn't tolerate them being at large. Discord was the first to volunteer to help with their capture. I thought that was very considerate..."

oh boy, if only she knew. Though, if Discord is out with a group. Then one had to wonder how he'd pull off the end of his ruse.
"yeah...but I managed to pulverize them! haha!"
You chuckle, you knew what you meant, you little ball smasher you.

Fluttershy tapped her hooves together nervously "yes but...you should never have to fight. But I know you had to, they had your friend and I just can't believe something like this happened...I can't believe there'd be foalnappers here in Ponyville that just hurt children like that.." She frowns "...nopony, no matter what, should have to be put in that situation..."

you cringe...You knew the truth. But Discord did say the good he wanted came from this. You had to shift the conversation.
"U-ummm...Well..umm..I mean it'll be ok. Dad will get em!..and..Aunt Fluttershy, can we talk about Dad?"

mentioning him as Dad, and thinking of the situation. You wanted to shift the conversation towards Discord, and see what Fluttershy thought about him. since you and her were alone. You think it would be a good time to find out what she thinks. Her side of the story.

"Oh..ok." Fluttershy nods, she'd rather herself not talk or think about the situation "What do you want to talk about?"

"Well...what do you think of him?"

Fluttershy smiles "Oh, well. I think your father is wonderful....Though he can be mean at times...and sometimes he does mean pranks...and sometimes he goes too far...and..he does tend to lie a lot..."

sounds about right. hrmm..maybe you should prod at that last one.

"What do you mean by lie a lot?"

"W-well...I don't want you to think any less of him, Anon. But your father has an issue with lying.. But that doesn't make him bad. He's just. He’s still learning"

hrnnn..
"Still learning?....umm..Aunt Fluttershy. What do you mean by that?"

"Well...Anon..your father. He used to be alone all his life too...he always did mean and thoughtless things because that's what he thought he should do.But I knew there had to be more than that. I managed to befriend your father and show him there's more to life than being a big meanie. And umm..he's made a few mistakes along the way. But he always tries to make things better, and he's always willing to learn. I know sometimes he may seem a bit shifty, but he isn't evil. In fact....seeing him as a father. and knowing you are happy with him shows me just how much he has improved over time. And now he's actually working together to put those two criminals to justice and...oh dear!” She realized something, and began to worry “...I hope he doesn't get hurt..."

ha...he won't. Now.,you had to ask her about Discord's "Truth". You were curious to how "True" it was

"Aunt Fluttershy....do other ponies...talk bad about you and Dad?"

Fluttershy looks down with a sad frown "sometimes..I ignore it a lot. But sometimes they just look at me funny whenever I'm around your father. And sometimes...your father overreacts if he hears something said about me...I have to keep him from doing anything bad. I don't want him to get in trouble. Discord...he gets...dangerous sometimes whenever he gets mad or jealous. But that's why I'm here... to help him through it and to help him better himself."

Right..jealous as well...Like when he got pissed at Treehugger. Well, that wouldn't help his reputation if he's acting out too. He failed to mention that part. Then again, you should have guessed it. It seems his reasoning was mostly legit. You just had to hope things would get better now like he predicts.

However, now was the time for one last question
"Aunt Fluttershy...can I ask you a private question?"

Fluttershy looked confused...she couldn't think of what you meant by "private"
"I-I suppose so...what is it Anon?"

"Do you......love Dad? Like love love? like how a daddy and a mommy love?"

Fluttershy shook her head "He's one of my bestest friends...but..I don't like him in that way Anon.."

Ouch...then again. You wondered what Discord thought. It could be anything. But you knew he deeply cared about her. It could be a sibling type of love.

"oh...umm..thank you Aunt Fluttershy..Dad is pretty lucky to have a friend like you"
He really was

Fluttershy gave you a serene sunny smile "It's not luck Anon. It's the magic of friendship!"

.....ugh...you felt your stomach churn a little from that, while at the same time feeling a "hnnnngg" from how cute that sounded. An achy feeling of cute and cheesey feelings.
You then yawn...you were starting to feel relaxed and tired.

Fluttershy yawned, then giggled "I guess we are both getting sleepy again...do you want to call it a night, Anon?"

you couldn't think of anything else to ask.
"..yeah...but.."

..you had to at least have this....You had to have her affections. The way she was, she already felt like a surrogate mother with the fact she was here just to keep an eye on you.
"A-aunt Fluttershy...c-can I ask a question?"
come on Anon, be braver. you weren't even going to ask for anything lewd! agh, you still felt a little bad about that. That was probably why you were stuttering.

She nods

"..C-can...you come to bed with me....I feel a little lonely..." You say with a pout as your ears droop adorably

Fluttershy doesn't even hesitate a nod. She doesn't even say anything that would embarrass you. "Alright, if it will help you sleep Anon.I don't want you to feel lonely."

Fluttershy carefully hopped onto your bed and laid on her belly as she gently placed her muzzle on the pillow and opened her wing to you. "Here Anon, you can use my wing as a blanket"

..oh..shit..it was happening......cudddlllllesss..
You dreamily scootch next to her and rub to her side until you were comfy. She was so warm...sooo...warm. You could feel fuzzy and relaxing feelings go through you, the warmest and fuzziest of feelings.
But it only got better. Fluttershy gently wrapped her wing over you like a blanket as she turned just enough to her side to bring you closer with her hooves to her chest and tummy.

Oh...good...lord...this..was..heaven...you affectionately nuzzle your head into her chest.
Fluttershy giggles as she hugs onto you "Aww Anon. Are you alright? Are you comfy?”

this was fine. You could already feel the most comfortable and gentle pull of sleep come upon you.You wanted this. You missed the feeling of someone who cared about you. Just lovingly holding you to keep the darkness of life away.

"...I like cuddling...Y-you're the best cuddler...ev-eve..."

You can't even finish your childish sentence as you drift off to sleep. the maternal abilities of Fluttershy seem to be a weakness to you.

"Goodnight Anon, please have pleasant dreams.." Fluttershy says in her softest voice before closing her eyes “I’m so glad you’re alright. I was so worried…”. She kept those words to herself the entire time she was talking with you. She didn’t want you to get worried that she was worried about you. As she drifted to sleep, she hoped everything would be ok tomorrow.

Chapter 34

It is morning.
You wake up, a smile still on your face as you give a big yawn.
As you stretch, you notice you are no longer under Fluttershy's wing. in fact, you are alone in the room.
"...she must have left..."
You don't feel achy at all anymore. Praise be to horse medicine. Probably still had that black eye though.
Wary of your status anyway, you carefully get out of the bed and look out the window. What a beautiful morning it was in Equestria. The sun was shining and the sky was a clear blue, non polluted thing of beauty. It helped you compose your thoughts.
"Let's see.Discord is either done with what he is doing or he's still leading them through that wild goose chase...ummm...I wonder where Fluttershy went off...oh wait..."

You remember what you last said to her, and then slam your hoof to your face.
"I like cuddling. I like cuddling?! what the fuck is wrong with me?...ugh..I shouldn't be that much of wuss....Well, nah. I'm still great. Kicked Discord's ass, heh...ok..so..let's see.."
you walk over to the door, you can see your saddlebag had been placed beside it.
You can hear talking from the other side.
You open the door slightly. huh, there was Fluttershy. Talking with the doctor and signing some forms. And....hrn...Applebloom was beside her...awwww..probably came to visit. That warmed your heart.

Now that there was more light in the room, you took a more thorough look around.
Aha! A water cooler! Just what you needed. You were parched.
You look at the cups hanging from the side and shrug to yourself.
You don't need no cups...bottoms up
You lower your head and use your hoof to pull down the lever, and start drinking from the spout.
After having your fill, you wipe your mouth and take a breath.
You walked towards the mirror to look at your black eye. Yeah,still there. But it looked a smidgen better.

Just then, you can hear the door open behind you. It was the doctor. You quickly jump back into bed so you wouldn’t have to hear any complaining.
Finally, the door is opened and the doctor steps in with a happy grin.
"Mr.Anon, I have good news for you! We are releasing you today."

"Oh that's great doc!" You say with an adorable smile.
good..you wanted out of here. You weren't getting much done.

"We'll be releasing you in the care of your aunt. She'll be waiting outside the door for you. Please, don't be in a hurry to visit us again" The doctor chuckled to himself,

"yeaaah...um..I don't have to sign anything? No release papers?"

The doctor shook his head "No no, that's for adults. Now you run along. We do need this room for another patient. You have a pleasant day."

You nod
"Thank you,you too"

You grab your saddlebag and wrap it around your back and then head outside the door where the mare and filly awaits. Hrn, You thought Diamond Tiara would have been waiting for you too. Unless they shooed her away after finding out she wasn't related.

"Anon! yer ok!" Applebloom shouted as she rushed up to hug you.

awww...you give her a hug back, you see Fluttershy smiling at the cute moment.

"Heya Applebloom, didn't expect to see you here." You say as you return the hug

"Well of course ahm here Anon! When ah heard our newest Crusader got in a huge tussle, I ran right over....then ah got kicked out....then ah came back this mornin'. Luckily Fluttershy was here or they may have not let me see you"

geez, this hospital has some crazy family policy. or maybe it was just for the child's benefit. whatever. it's good.

"huh...I would have thought Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle would be here too"

Applebloom shook her head "Nah, it's still mornin'. probably still sleeping. Ahm a farm filly Anon, I'm always awake this early."
Right, that makes sense.

Fluttershy stepped up to you, greeting you with that heart melting smile she has. "How are you feeling this morning Anon? The doctor said you made a full recovery."

You gave a small hop and a buck to show you were all better "Feeling perfectly fine! see?"

"cept fer that black eye ya got. Anon, how rough was them varmints?"

"Pretty tough, but.."
You chuckle arrogantly
"No match for me, I sent them packing. "

"Wow, yeah I guess you must have. Ah heard you even saved Diamond Tiara......ummm"
Applebloom looked like she wanted to say more, but kept her mouth shut. Probably wanted to say something mean. But wouldn't due to Fluttershy being present.
"
Yup, I did that too. I'm pretty great." You say with a cocky self serving grin

"mmnn" Fluttershy chimed in "Anon, please remember that fighting is dangerous. I know you're happy about winning. But you did get seriously hurt. If something like this ever happens again.....and I really really really hope it doesn't...try to find a way to run away and make sure everypony gets out safe,ok?"

...ugh...come on...

You look over to Fluttershy, she awaited your answer with an expression that filled you with guilt should you happen to say no. It made you not want to give a cocky answer.
"....alright...I will Aunt Fluttershy.."

Fluttershy let's out a sigh of relief as she comes up and gives you a gentle hug.

"Aunt Fluttershy?" Applebloom gave a light giggle "Wow Anon, yer making friends and family real quick. I'm happy for ya"

"Yeah...Ponyville is a really nice place. Much nicer than ya know...the orphanage."

"Ah bet.Hey! are ya gonna be coming to school anytime soon?"

"...uhhhh.."

You had forgotten about that, but Fluttershy answers for you.
"Oh, Anon will be in your class soon Applebloom. But after such a scary ordeal, I think he's going to need a little more rest first"

"Yahooo! Ah can't wait!" Applebloom hopped around with glee

God this place. Everyone was so damn happy go lucky for the most part. You wanted to ask about Discord. But you knew what was up, was probably milking that search for all it's worth. You felt bad for everyone involved in that fiasco.
Although, this wasn't so bad. You got to be with Fluttershy for as long as that was going on.

"Anon, you must be really hungry. Come on, let's go home and get you something to eat"
The way Fluttershy said that, just calling it home despite it being her cottage and not Discord's house. How she cares enough to worry about your health. ugh...made you sad she couldn't be your mom.

"Alright, I'm pretty hungry actually.Thanks Aunt Fluttershy!"

"Awww, no need to thank me Anon. We’re family now. I just want to make sure you’re happy and healthy” Fluttershy says with a sweet smile

Yeah, she really would have made the perfect mom. Goddamn Discord, why ya gotta be so against it? Just fucking ask her!

you three started to make for the exit and towards the cottage, and as you did Applebloom started hopping about "Oh! Oh! After he’s done eatin’. Can Anon come to the clubhouse so we can wait on the girls and then try to get our Cutie Marks?"
Single...fucking.....minded.

"Applebloom. I can't allow it. Anon just got out of the hospital, he may still need some rest. What if he were to get hurt again?"

"Aww shucks Fluttershy, It wasn't gonna be anything dangerous. I thought we'd just do some small stuff." Applebloom felt ashamed for trying to rush things. “sorry…”

ugh...that look of disappointment on the adorable filly's face....hnnnnnngggg.
"Ahm..I don't mind Aunt Fluttershy."

Fluttershy shook her head "I'm sorry Anon, but no. What if something happens? those two criminals are still out there....actually...Applebloom, you shouldn't really be out and about yourself."

"Ahh, ya don't have to worry about me Fluttershy, as ah said...I'm a farm filly. I'd show those criminals a thing or two if they came and messed with me. Ah might even get mah cutie mark if ah did!" Applebloom showed a face of determination as she gave a few bucks in the air.

"I'd rather you wouldn't. Come on, you can stay with me and Anon at the cottage. I'm sure Anon would love the company" Fluttershy said to Applebloom. After everything that happened. She’d rather everyone just stay safe and sound in their homes rather than out where they can still be nabbed.

That could be interesting though. Not as good as it could be with all three CMC. But still...

"That doesn't sound bad, maybe we can try to get our Cutie Marks there?"

Applebloom shook her head "nah, without express permission from other members, we can't just go and get cutie marks on our lonesome...but we can plan a few ways to get some! Ah really want to hear whatever idea ya might have Anon."

...oh no she didn't. You'd have to think up some family friendly shit along the way. Because the way your mind thinks. Whatever idea you’d have isn’t exactly safe for kids.

Chapter 35

The three of you make your way to the cottage from the hospital.
It feels a little weird not starting off from wherever Discord plops you off. But it wasn't unwelcome, with him busy. You could have a little "you" time and see how Equestria is without him fucking with you.

as you three walk through the town, you can hear a very familiar, very proper sounding, voice call for Fluttershy.
"Fluttershy, Darling, over here!"
It was Rarity, calling Fluttershy over, probably to talk...OH SHIT WAIT..IT'S RARITY! wait...why were you worried? You touched that dress like forever ago. She probably forgot about it.

"Oh, good morning Rarity." Fluttershy walked over to her beckoning friend "are you still looking for replacements for that dress some mysterious pony ruined?"

....ohhh.....guess she didn't forget...or at least Fluttershy didn't..

Rarity shook her head "Oh not today dear. Today I am roaming the streets of Ponyville. Doing my part in keeping these streets safe from those filthy degenerates that DARE sully our town's livelihood ."

Oh wow...that was pretty neat. You didn't think she'd take an active role in this whole thing. Still. Discord's ruse was getting out of hand. You hoped this would be settled...competently.

Fluttershy was amazed by Rarity's bravery "Wow Rarity, that's very brave and generous of you to use your time like this. I know how much that dress meant to you"

"Well Fluttershy, when barbaric vandals are about trying to foalnap helpless youths, then I, Rarity will not hesitate to step into the fray. Remember dear, I have a sister too...and I don't know what'd I'd do if I ever lost her."
She's pretty serious about this...wow.
"Speaking of family, I noticed you have little Applebloom and a colt I'm not familiar with."

Applebloom waved her hoof "Heya Rarity!"

Rarity waved back "Hello Applebloom" Rarity then looked to you "Fluttershy, who is this little gent....OH MY!"

...what...what?! why is she...OH SHIT. DOES SHE KNOW?!
You look left and right in a growing panic.
"U-umm..w-what?..i-is there something on my face?"

"Indeed there is! you poor dear!" Rarity moved close to you to examine your face, she was horrified. "What ruffian would do such harm to such a gentle looking colt?"

Gentle looking...ugh...did you look like a wimp? Cute yes. But a wimp?!
"Oh..you mean my black eye? It's alright. It doesn't hurt too bad, I got it when I fought off these two guys"
It really didn't hurt. It was just a black eye. yeesh, ponies overreact to every little thing.

"Two “guys?" “ Rarity only took a moment to figure it out, then she looked to Fluttershy "Fluttershy, is this the very colt who managed to fend off those villains and save his love's life? Anon I believe his name is."

you we- wait a minute..WAIT A MINUTE...LOVE?!
"Love?! what?!"

Even Applebloom reacted negatively upon hearing that "W-what?! Anon in love..with-....yuck..."

Rarity was confused by the reactions "What? I happen to think it's romantic and amazing. A young colt, reinvigorated with bravery upon hearing the cries of his young love. He manages to fight off two horrific monsters. Though it may seem like certain doom, the young colt achieves victory and fights off the villains. He takes his princess back from those heathens and returns to the castle, where he and his lo-"

Suddenly Fluttershy clears her throat "Ahhrmm ahhrmmm...umm...R-rarity, I don't think that's appropriate for them to hear"

Rarity blushes in embarrassment "Ah right, yes, my apologies. I suppose I got a little carried away. But it is an amazing story" Rarity looks to you "How in Equestria did you manage to fight them off?"

"...oh-...uhhh..I uhh..I kicked one of them in their uhh...lower regions..and uhh..I hit the other guy as hard as I could."
That was the truth.

Rarity seems unsure of what to think of that "well...I umm..I suppose that still makes for a valiant story. And yet, there is still the matter of the damage they caused"
Rarity looks directly at your black eye "I cannot let this blemish on your face persist. I know it will eventually go away on it's own. But for the sake of appearances, I will work my magic to make it disappear"
As Rarity said that, you noticed she had saddlebags at her right side. Her horn began to glow as various instruments of fashion and beauty began to fly out.

...oh...you get it. ha, she's just going to mask it up. And here you thought you'd have to be worried. Again, superior human logic dictates not to worry about this. She’s a professional.
"You're going to mask it up?"

Rarity nodded "Indeed, what a smart little gentecolt you are. You know, most colts would find this very frightening."

You chuckle lightly
"I dunno why, they probably just think it's all girly and get overwhelmed by all those little brushes and polishes."

Rarity smiles at you, she likes the way you speak "How true!" Rarity chuckles as she looks over what she brought out "and perceptive"

You smirk
"I guess you can just say that I look at the world a little more realistically. I like to think I have the mind of an adult"

"Ahhh, you don't want to think like that too much Anon, before you know it you will grow up and wish you were young again" Rarity chuckled

HAHa...ha...except your wish came true...sorta

Rarity brings a few items towards your eye and shifts her view for precise aim. "I need you to hold still now Anon. Eyes closed please"

You do, it was an easy enough instruction. You had nothing to fear.

Rarity immediately and carefully started putting on various blemish covering creams and soft brushes around your injured eye. Every stroke deliberate. It didn't feel half bad. Rarity was an expert. You didn't even feel a single sting of pain.
"And viola! it is done!" Rarity states as she steps backwards to show off your face

you couldn't see yourself, so you turn to Fluttershy and Applebloom
"How do I look?"

"Woah! Wow! it looks like nopony laid a single hoof on ya Anon! Ya look like a million bits!" Applebloom was impressed

"Wow Rarity, it's perfect. It's as if it was never there" Commented Fluttershy

Rarity giggled "Well of course, No matter where I am or who it is. I always do the best possible makeover" She magically pulled out a mirror and hovered it over to you "Have a look Anon, and tell me what you think"

Upon looking at the mirror, you couldn't help but feel amazed at her work. It's as if it was never there. It blended perfectly with your fur. These cartoon horses man...you don't think any human could have done this well.....maybe.

"Aunt Fluttershy was right. Thanks Rarity...that's really nice of you to do this for me"
You were genuinely thankful. She didn't have to do this.

"My pleasure Anon. And looking at you now, I can tell you are going to break many a filly's heart.Tell me, you aren't going after Applebloom are you?"

"WHAT?!"

you are taken aback, you didn't expect her to even suggest such a thing.
"N-NO! ME AND APPLEBLOOM ARE FRIENDS, THATS IT!"

Applebloom is taken aback as well, Her and you? You both didn't even fully know each other that well. "NOPE! ME AND ANON ARE JUST FRIENDS! AH DON'T FIND HIM CUTE OR NOTHIN!" She starts to noticeable blush..just a little

Rarity giggles from both your reactions "Oh no? Applebloom, you are aware you’re blushing, don't you?"

"I AM?!" Applebloom starts to touch her face with her hooves, surprised with herself "T-THAT DON'T MEAN NOTHING!"

Fluttershy starts to join in on Rarity's laughter, she was finding this humorous as well.

You notice Applebloom's blushing...oh god....god..please let it mean nothing. You can't be doing with this, you didn't want any of the ponies thinking it'd even be cute to try to bring you two close! ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU ALSO MAY HAVE TO DEAL WITH FUCKING DIAMOND TIARA!
You turn to Rarity.
"I"M NOT INTERESTED. AT ALLLLLLL. I'M TELLING YOU. I'D RATHER HAVE PINKIE PIE!"

Fluttershy immediately stops laughing, finding that super surprising "...oh my..."

Applebloom doesn't say anything at all

oh god...you just realized that you just spilled all your spaghetti
What was wrong with you?! You completely embarrassed yourself enough to duck your head down in shame. hiding it between your legs..
"....I-I didn't mean that...I-I just got caught up..and embarrassed..I-I"

"Oh Anon" You feel Rarity gently pet you along your back. "I apologize, I didn't mean to embarrass you like that. I only was having a spot of fun to ease the tension caused by recent going ons...We know you don't have a crush on anypony. You just did get here after all"

.....crisis averted, you were about to cry too...geez.
You look up, revealing your teary eyes to Rarity. Real tears, did you feel like you really goofed up that badly? That was random.
"I-it's ok Rarity...I shouldn't have taken it so seriously.."
Something was definitely amiss with you. Being younger must have regressed something like inhibitions and such. You had to ask Discord to know for sure...

"Well...if it makes you feel better Anon. If you were a little older. I wouldn't mind taking you out on a date to make up for making you feel this way...who knows, you might be able to sweep me off my hooves." Rarity gave you a small pat on the head "I know you'll make a lucky filly one day very happy. Knowing how you bravely stood up to those thugs and protected your friend. That's a quality not many ponies have. It is something to be proud of Anon."

Oh geez..that for some reason makes you blush and at the same time feel sorry for poor Spike. Your first meeting with Rarity and you already got a hypothetical date. Poor guy. Still, her words were also kind. But you knew you didn't deserve them.
"Thank you..umm..Miss Rarity.."

Rarity nodded "you're welcome." Rarity turned to Fluttershy "Fluttershy, I simply must know the family who adopted this colt. I want to offer them all a free customized set of clothes for Anon, it's the least I can do for the little hero. Especially after I embarrassed him so"

Applebloom says something first. "Ahm, Rarity, ah don't think it's somethin' you wanna hear in public, just sayin'."

"Hmm? Nonsense, why wouldn't I?" Rarity exclaimed

"Well ummm.....Rarity..I think Applebloom might have a point. You know how you tend to be dramatic." Fluttershy said in a soft spoken voice.

"Come now, what could be so surprising about Anon's adopting family that would cause me to act dramatically? Just tell me, I promise It'll be just fine." Rarity stood at the ready

"Well...alright...but...he only has a father...you see...umm...And I don't think you should react too much to this....because he's been doing so much better..but...ummm....It's.....Discord"

Rarity started giggling "Hahahaahaha, oh Fluttershy, surely you jest! I didn't know you were such a comedian"

"ahm...Miss Rarity. Fluttershy is right, Anon's dad is Discord" Applebloom added

"....." Rarity suddenly goes dead silent. Her eyes wide and full of horrid dread

"N-now Rarity...y-you promised..." Fluttershy reminded her

"Y-you're right...ahrm..umm..well it was a pleasure to meet you..A-anon..But I think I need to go back to my boutique...for...things..p-pardon me" Rarity excused herself, it looked like she wanted to burst. She actually had to run back to boutique to have some sort of dramatic fit that she didn’t want the public to see, or perhaps she didn't want to visibly break her promise. Either way, it looked like she wanted to go nuclear.

"Oh my...I hope she'll be alright" Fluttershy said worryingly as Rarity wandered off.

"Yeah...umm..Anon, ya heard that ah said AHM NOT interested in ya right?" Applebloom looked at you with a serious look, with a slight blush

You nod
"Y-yeah, same here."

Fluttershy was finding the whole situation odd "Umm..maybe we should get back to the cottage. I'll...umm...I'll make us all some hay pancakes. That should...ummm..lighten...the mood..."

And with that. You three went off once more. What a bizarre encounter.

Chapter 36

The three continue your trek to the cottage.

Things were getting a little out of hand. Or you thought so anyway. Seems you had some sort of hero status and you had charisma you weren't used to having before. Practically everyone you were meeting were either becoming nicer to you or becoming your friend in a short amount of time. You could have season 1's friendship lesson shit done in 5 episodes at this point.

You also think about what just happened as well. So goddamn embarrassing. You had to thank the heavens that you had the body of a young colt or that would have been extremely creepy.

You look over to Applebloom as you walk. She seemed ok. She didn't seem angry about what you said. Then again, girls are a fickle, grudge bearing bunch.
"Hey Applebloom, about what I said earlier...about umm...that stuff."

Applebloom look towards you, she seems a little confused. "Whatcha talkin' about Anon?"

"You know… how I said I prefer Pinkie Pie… I just, uhh… I got nervous. And just said something dumb. I didn't mean to say that."

"Uummm...so does that mean ya DO got a crush on me?" Applebloom seemed highly confused when she said this.

Goddammit! you suck at this. That's not what you meant! "Well… I think you're umm… a great gal and all. But. You know, we are but kids. Too young for that sort of thing and all… hahaha.."

Now Applebloom was really confused "Too young for what now? Anon, yer acting kinda weird"

DAMMIT… just be direct! Just do it before you fucking meltdown.
"What I'm trying to say is sorry… I didn't mean what I said back there. About preferring Pinkie Pie over you,. I was just saying stuff because I felt really embarrassed. And I just said the first thing that came to my head."

"Ohhhhh...ah think ah get it.umm.. Whatcha sayin' is that ya actually don't like anypony. But… wait. Now I'm really confused."

Fluttershy looks back on you two, having had heard the whole thing "I think what Anon is trying to say is he simply didn't mean to make you think he'd prefer anypony else but you. It's just he's not interested in any kind of relationship. Is that right Anon?"

Not exactly… you wanted SOMETHING… but that works. You decide to nod to that. "Y-yeah, that's it. That's it exactly"

Applebloom nods "Ah got it now! So that means if yer were interested, , you'd pick me right?"

You nod. "Yes exactly...WAIT I MEAN! AHHH..G..G.."

You didn't catch that last part due to just wanting it to be over. What a mess. But Applebloom just bursts out giggling. "Relax Anon, ahm just funnin' ya. Ah knew whatcha meant. and apology accepted… Now stop actin' all weird."

"R-right...ahrm..."

Fluttershy gave a small audible giggle.

The three of you arrive at the cottage. Fluttershy opens the door for the both of you while explaining that she'll get right on to making hay pancakes for the three of you and getting food ready for her little animal friends as well.

"Alright! now that we have time to spare, it's time to come up with new ideas to get a cutie mark! Anon, shoot me an idea!" Applebloom points to you.

.........uhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh

Oh wait… Ponyville had arcades. "How about… Cutie Mark Crusader… arcade game… masters?"

Applebloom didn't look too keen on that. "Umm, ah dunno Anon. That doesn't sound like too good an idea"

Oh come on! She's tried so many ludicrous bullshit. What was wrong with that? "Not too good an idea? Why? I happen to be pretty good at games."

"Yeah but Anon, that's like 2 bits a pop. Plus, if it's just me, you, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. We'd go poor pretty fast. We ain't got a lot of money to begin with"

Oh… Right… That's sensible. You havn't seen any game consoles either to practice on. So that's out.

"Hmmm… Well, since yer a new member and a boy. Maybe we can use that to form some sort of team that needs a boy… Ah just can't think of any right now." Applebloom pondered

That didn't sound like too bad an idea other than the fact it sounds like you'd be putting in the most work… well… depending on what it is, because you yourself couldn't think of anything.

"Uhhhh...let's see...uhmmm......I.....I got nothing. I'm fighting to even come up with a single word here." You say.

Applebloom however, suddenly lights up like a light bulb. "Anon, yer a genius!"

......Wut? ".....huh? I just said I can't think of anything"

"Ya did, but ya also said you were "Fightin'" to think of something. See where I'm going with this?"

.....Oh come on. "...you don't mean me actually fighting do you?"

"Well yeah...sorta, Ya could join one of them colt wrestling teams, and we could be yer trainers. With three of us trainin' you. You could go from Bronco to a lean mean bucking machine!"

You raise an eyebrow. "Do any of you even know anything about wrestling to be able to do the training?"

"....Well no......But ahm sure Twilight has a book on it somewhere in the castle and-"

You interrupt Applebloom, that was a bad plan. "Rather not, I'm not that good a fighter."

"Whatcha talkin' about! You beat not one, but TWO stallions! ya could cream the hay out of any scrawny colt!"

Yeah, two stallions who were Discord. You didn't want to risk getting into any serious fights and getting actually hurt. Not in this puny body anyway.

You shake your head. "Just not interested in it Applebloom"

"Can't ya atleast give it a chance?"

You sigh "No, come on. I just moved in here and you're talking about me joining some group just to beat down some others. Count me out on that. Let's just think of something we can do together"

"...Ok" She seemed a little disappointed, but she didn't relent on thinking of something else. "How about Cutie Mark Crusader Royal Guards? With how things have been goin' lately and how Twilight don't got any guards of her own, maybe we could be her first royal guards!"

...That… was an even worse idea… "....eeeehhhhhh… I'd rather not just stand around. Besides, My dad has told me stuff about the kind of things Twilight deals with. I'd rather not be slapped around whenever some major threat appears."

"Ahh come on, there'd be four of us! What could possibly beat four crusaders?"

"...Well, for one… my dad."

Applebloom laughs nervously. "O-oh right.......mnnn" Applebloom put her head to the ground as her disappointment grew. "Ah thought this would be easier..."

So did you, she's gone through so many idea with just the other two that there wouldn't be too much to think about with just you added that wouldn't be boring. But… just in case. Let's suggest something boring. If only to throw something in to keep her from going one hundred percent depressed. "How about Cutie Mark Crusader Window Wipers… There’s probably a lot of windows in Ponyville that need washing"

You expected it to be declined, you just wanted to toss an idea out just so there'd be an idea, but Applebloom just reacts with ecstatic enthusiasm. "That's a great idea Anon!"

"It is?" Window Wiping? Seriously?!

Applebloom nods profusely. "Of course it is! There's four of us now! We'd be able to cover the window washing market in Ponyville and leave no window dirty! We'd get our Cutie Marks for sure!"

...ugh...Why did you suggest that? But you were sure that when the time came to do it that it wouldn't last more than ten minutes until it turned out to be a dud. So you just nod. "Yeah....sounds like it'd work..."

"Yeah! After ahm done eatin', ah can go tell the girls and get it ready for tomorrow… Anon, you'll be there too right? We can't do it unless we're all there."

You nod. Why not? "Yeah, I'll be there. But when exactly?"

"Tomorrow afternoon after me and the girls get out from school! You could do that can't ya?...or is your dad not gonna let you?"

No, you think Discord would. Since the loose ends should be wrapped up by then. "No, I think I can make it"

Applebloom beamed you one of the happiest smiles you've seen from her. It was heart warming. Single minded as ever. "Ah can't wait! Ah can feel it in my hooves Anon, tomorrow is gonna be it!"

You wouldn't get so excited about such a thing, but you smiled at her to show that you were willing to try… boy… how horrific would it be if this really was it. Window Wiping for the rest of your life. With the way Discord is treating the father son thing. He'd automatically disown you for being so boring and probably throw you in that tentacle pit for shits n giggles.

Fluttershy, with a plate of pancakes on her head and Angel holding two of them while standing on her back. finally announces breakfast. "Pancakes are done everypony! Please don't hesitate to dig in"

Yesssssss!

Angel hopped down from her back to hand both you and Applebloom your pancakes. And while he handed Applebloom's without an issue, he stopped when he turned to face you. And looked at you, as if something was wrong with you.

"...Uhhhh, what's up?"

"Hmm?" Fluttershy puts her own plate down to the floor carefully, then looks at her pet rabbit with a little concern "Angel? is something the matter?"

The little rabbit didn't seem to like you… Or at least seemed to notice something was off. He put the plate down away from you and started making gestures and muttering something to Fluttershy.

"Angel, I'm surprised at you! He's just a colt! He wouldn't do anything like that!"

Woah, whatever Angel said to her. Fluttershy didn't like it. This was worrisome.

"W-what did he say, Aunt Fluttershy?"

Fluttershy turned to you, and gently slid your plate of pancakes to you with her hoof. "D-don't worry about it Anon..it's just Angel being silly."

Applebloom was just as curious as you are "Ahh come on Fluttershy, what did he say?"

"Yeah, it can't be that bad" Or it could… This was Angel. He was a fucking asshole in the show. So whatever he had to say was probably none to pleasant. Hell, you wanted to know just because it seemed odd that he didn't like a cute cuddly colt like yourself.

Fluttershy gulped. "W-well… umm, he said… he uh… he said.." Fluttershy let out a false chuckle "He said Anon looked like a really shifty adult..."

Applebloom was confused "Huh? ...But he's not, are ya sure he said that?"

PANIC!
You began to sweat. There's no fucking way...

..Relax Anon...relax. He's a fucking rabbit. even if that wasn't somehow a guess. There's no fucking way anyone would take that seriously.

Fluttershy nodded "I'm sure Angel is just being silly...aren't you Angel? coooome on, you don't have to say such mean jokes."

Angel crossed his little arms and looked at Fluttershy seriously, then muttered some squeaks. You knew he wasn't joking. What the hell could he see? Or figure out? Just by looking at you?

Fluttershy didn't seem at all too pleased at what he was saying. "Angel! Anon would never do such a thing! Ohhhh… I want you to apologize! The thing you just said; That's very lewd!"
Fluttershy's voice had only raised just a little. But her face, she was not too pleased… not at all.

"Lewd? ummmm...What's that mean exactly?" Applebloom didn't know the meaning it seems.

You had to play carefully. it seems Angel was picking up something that you yourself wasn't sure you were letting on about. But your body was at least of a mostly natural occurrence. If Twilight's magic couldn't do shit about it, then he couldn't see through it.

"I-it's nothing… Angel, go on, apologize to Anon." Fluttershy gave him a worried stare as she pointed to you.

Angel didn't seem like he wanted to. What you didn't know was that Angel just was able to somehow read off that you weren't what you seemed. And looked like you were the type that would take advantage of a sleeping pony's butt… or would try to anyway. You look at the rabbit,and try making a convincingly emotionally hurt frown.

"Hey… come on, I-I don't know what I did. I'm really sorry if I insulted you mr, uhh... Angel. I didn't mean it."

Angel just raises an eyebrow at you… That little fucker… What was he playing at?

Fluttershy shook her head at you "No no Anon, you don't need to do any apologizing… Angel… Please… Just apologize. This is no way to treat guests"

Angel groaned, and instead of doing whatever he needs to do to apologize. He just hopped off and out the window before anyone could say anything else. Huh...

Fluttershy looked to you and apologized for him. "S-sorry Anon..I've never seen Angel be so judgemental before.....I'm really sorry.."

...Awwwww… You felt compelled to make her smile. you get up and nuzzle into Fluttershy. You didn't want her to be upset. "It's ok Aunt Fluttershy… I'm not upset. I bet he's just cranky or something. You shouldn't have to listen to whatever crazy things he had to say."

Fluttershy embraces you in a gentle hug "Mmm, It's just, I've never heard him say those kind of things about Anypony… not even Discord. I just hope nothing is wrong with him..."

Maybe you shouldn't be too surprised. Angel has always been a colossal dick. Fluttershy tells the both of you to try to get it out of your minds and enjoy your food. For Applebloom that's easy as she doesn't fully comprehend such a thing. Fluttershy even brings you all syrup and joins in. breakfast talk was kept to a minimal. Y'know, just pleasant stuff.

You were evaluating how you approached things thus far. Maybe you were too obvious? Applebloom was just talking to Fluttershy about the whole window washers thing. Nothing too interesting. You were glad Angel had left though. No doubt frustrated that Fluttershy wasn't listening… but, you weren't a bad guy. Yeah you wanted to do lewd things and such, and maybe you were capable of doing things that many ponies wouldn't… but that didn't make you a bad guy. Angel, you were sure, was just thinking negatively due to being a massive asshole.

After breakfast was over. Applebloom wanted to head her way to the clubhouse to make plans and tell the girls of the window washing idea. "Fluttershy, can't Anon come along too?"

Fluttershy shook her head "No Applebloom, he just got out of the hospital… and you shouldn't be going any further than your home either... It's dangerous."

You weren't about to protest, you weren't too excited to get started on the whole window washing thing.

"Awww, ya don't have to worry about me. Ponyville is my home! All I gotta do is be careful" Applebloom was confident she'd be ok, which she was correct in thinking at the moment.

"Still, I'd rather you just stay here… or at the very least take the safest streets back to the farm… Applebloom, this is very serious."

Applebloom's ears began to droop "Awww… are ya really that worried? Ah mean, ah think I'll be ok"

Fluttershy shook her head. "It might not be ok...Applebloom please...promise me, you'll just head straight to the farm… If Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle are in the clubhouse… please… please… ask your sister go get them. I'm sure she'll know what to do afterwards.."

Applebloom was starting to understand Fluttershy's side of things. She didn't give it too much thought on how dangerous things were until mentioning that even Applejack had to be some sort of escort for her friends. She felt maybe things might really be that serious even after she knew you gave those two foalnappers a pummeling. She gave a slow nod. "Alright, I promise… I just hope they catch these guys soon..."

Fluttershy gave her reassuring smile "I'm sure they will...Discord is helping...and if I know him… he'll have them nabbed by the end of the day. And then you all can go for that window washing cutie mark! I can be your first customer if you want."

Applebloom instantly brightened up "Ya will! Really?!"

Fluttershy nodded

"Gee thanks Fluttershy! Oh, and Anon… You're definitely DEFINITELY going to show up tomorrow right?" Applebloom looked as cheery as she could be after hearing Fluttershy's words.

You nod "Umm, yeah. I mean… if the fillynappers are caught of course. You can count on me!"

"Alright! ah can't wait!" And with that, Applebloom had made her way out. Fluttershy went to her window to make sure she got all the way to town carefully.

You wish you could just tell everybody it was a ruse at this point… but fine, it was ok… Just stick with it. You had to trust in Discord. You were now alone with Fluttershy however… and, it didn't seem there was much to do.

Chapter 37

Fluttershy, after cleaning and putting away the breakfast plates, came to make sure you were ok. "Anon, are you alright? I hope Angel didn't make you feel uncomfortable...I'm really sorry about that. He doesn't usually act that way..."

"Oh that? Nah, no, don't worry about it Aunt Fluttershy, Like I said earlier, I bet he was just cranky about something else..."

"...Maybe, but, The things he said… They were... well… umm… I'd say… extreme.."

You wave your hoof in a way to suggest not to worry about it. "I'm not too worried about it. Relax, I didn't even understand anything he sa-" You cut yourself off as you see Angel back at the windowsill, he was staring at you, then he put two of his paw fingers towards his eyes, then on you… He was watching you.

"Anon? hmmm?" Fluttershy was confused as to why you stopped and looked to where you were looking, but Angel had hopped off before she could spot him."What are you looking at?"

"N-nothing, thought I saw something." You had to keep it together, no doubt, given what Fluttershy was talking to him about, that he was expecting you to act lewd or inappropriate. You were sure you wouldn't around Fluttershy, but perhaps this extended beyond her? Maybe not, who knows… Time to shift topics.

"Aunt Fluttershy, can I ask you some questions about you? namely, the kind of stuff you've had to face as an element of harmony?"

"Oh? What do you mean by that Anon?" Fluttershy was curious

"You know, monsters and stuff. I want to know from you, personally. What was the scariest thing you ever had to face?"

Fluttershy shivered a little as she gathered her thoughts "Oh… umm… if I had to name one thing… It'd be… Nightmare Night."

...That wasn't the answer you were expecting. "No no..What I meant was,...uhh...What was the scariest thing you ever had to do?"

"Oh… well… ummm… It's very scary setting up for… Nightmare Night… if I forget something, then I have to go out during, well… Nightmare Night."

Ugh...Halloween equivalence was not of your interest. You just wanted to hear a story from her point of view of one of her many adventures. "No no, ok,uhh… ok got it… Who is the scariest anything you've ever had to face."

Fluttershy took a moment to think. "Well… if I had to think of anypony… it'd have to be… myself."

"Yourself?" You were deeply confused, why herself?

"Y-yes… well… I mean… it's very very scary to have to look in a mirror and stare myself down into being brave enough to go out and fetch everything I need, especially if I need to gather food for any of the animals, on… well… Nightmare Night."

You plant your face on the floor… This was getting you nowhere.

"Anon… a-are you alright?"

You nod, face still facing the floor. "Yeah...just seeing how comfortable the floor is..."

"Well ummm..I don't think the floor is very comfortable at all, it's not too clean either...would you like to sit up on the couch instead?"

You shake your head. "No, it's fine..I'm comfy where I'm at."

"Are… are you tired? Or are you hurting?" Fluttershy was concerned, it's as if you suddenly felt weak.

But no, you were just annoyed. But you didn't want to be, you didn't want to be annoyed about whatever Fluttershy would say. You tried one last time.

You raised your head, and looked at her. "No, I'm alright. I really was just, uhh… testing the ground. And you're right. It's not comfy… umm, Aunt Fluttershy, can I ask you one last question… that's not related to Nightmare Night?"

Fluttershy nods, feeling better that you are actually ok "You can ask me as many questions as you like Anon, I don't mind"

Be direct. "Well, uhhh… How did you get dad to be good? I know a few stories from when he was bad. But, I only know vaguely about his reformation" You were sure that'd be pretty interesting to get the full story on. The episode only showed so much.

Fluttershy smiled "Before I answer that Anon… are you sure you are comfortable where you are?"

You nod, you were a little too lazy to move either way.

Fluttershy got up, and left the room for a moment. When she came back, she had a blanket hung over her as she carried in a pillow with her mouth. She used her wings to toss the blanket over you, and then gently put down the pillow in front of your head and gently bumped it under your muzzle. "Here, this should make you more comfortable for the story"

...That's adorable… You felt a warmth in your heart, you felt like she really cared about you like a child to a mother.

"T-thank you, A-aunt Fluttershy, you didn't have to do this..."

Fluttershy giggled as she sat down "It's no trouble Anon, I just want to make sure you're comfortable for the story… so… how much do you know? Did your father tell you anything about it himself?"

No, the show did… "Not really.."

Fluttershy giggles "He's probably embarrassed to tell that story himself. Well… Anon, you see. After we used the Elements on him, he turned to stone. And for awhile, he stayed that way. Until Princess Celestia decided to free him for the purpose of reforming him. and well… She tasked me with the job to do it. But… Well… I didn't want to force him to be good. I wanted him to learn what it meant to be a friend."

You nuzzle onto the pillow. "I bet he had trouble with it huh?"

Fluttershy nodded "He could be pretty tricky. When I let him into my home, he seemed pretty ok with all the space I was giving him. But he was plotting something of his own..and it was.." Fluttershy waved her front hooves at you in a spooky fashion "...nnooooottt veeerrryyyy niccceee ooooohhhh"

Seems she was getting a little into this, certainly gave you a giggle. You didn't expect that. Seeing your smile made her smile as well.

"But… something else inside him was planted, and it started to grow. In his mind… his plan was to make me promise not to use my element on him… and umm, I did do that, but uhmm, b-but his heart… He was actually learning from what I was trying to do for him..."

"What do you mean?"

"Well...Anon..How did you feel when you got adopted?"

...Haha… You're just going to answer for the feeling of coming to Equestria. "The best feeling ever!"

Fluttershy giggled. "Well, that was a feeling that was growing inside him… I can't imagine how lonely he must have felt before all this… or if he even realized it… because Anon… when he did realize it. He stopped, he stopped whatever bad thing he was doing… I could tell it was the first time he ever felt the fuzzy feelings that you get when you know somepony cares about you. All I had to do was show him what friendship was like, and he did everything else on his own… well… there were a few bumps on the road."

"Bumps?"

"Well, he felt friendship. But he didn't understand it. And while me and him became better friends during that time after. He wasn't quite… ummm… well… friendly all the time. He didn't quite understand what it meant to be a friend. And would do things, things that sometimes went too far, to try to understand what friendship meant, while also trying to ruin a pony's day in the process..."

Yeah, like in the episode with Twi and Cadence… hrn. "Did he ever try to ruin your day Aunt Fluttershy?"

She shook her head. "Actually, your father and me. we’re doing fine. We sent each other letters and went on picnics. He could be a little needy sometimes though… sometimes demanding my full attention… but I didn't mind. I wanted him to know that somepony did care. But… I guess he didn't understand the full concept of friendship at that point because… well… you know that horrible centaur, Tirek?"

You nodded, you had to make something up as to not seem as if you didn't actually know. "Yeah, he was terrorizing the city when he showed up...I still remember all those screams..." You made your body shiver in response to yourself to give the impression it had frightened you.

Upon seeing you shiver, Fluttershy moved up close to you to give you a hug. "S-sorry Anon...I...I didn't mean to bring up any bad memories… we… we can stop the story from here I think."

You blush, but it was because you felt a bond with Fluttershy in a sense of her being family. You felt no sexual feelings towards her anymore. This pure feeling without the lewd behind it was something you hadn't felt in quite some time.
You gently nuzzle into her. You felt bad for faking your fear. It probably would have been fine had you just nodded and let her continue the story...

"N-no..it's fine..I want to hear this to the end, but… Thank you Aunt Fluttershy… I'm really glad you're my aunt. You're really really really nice… and..." You couldn't think of anything else to say… you just… wanted to bask in her loving care.

Fluttershy cuddled up to you "Anon… I just want you to know that you are loved and cared for. I can't imagine how lonely your life must have been before you were adopted. And I think Discord couldn't have picked a nicer colt to call his son. I'm proud of the both of you. You both get along so well… and Discord, he's showing everypony what I already see in him… a good draconequus… and a good father."

Fluttershy's soft voice and cuddling was starting to get to you, you felt relaxed, sleepy. "Aunt Fluttershy… d-do you mind if I take a nap?"

Fluttershy nodded "Of course I don't mind, whatever you need to help you feel better Anon." Whatever helps you… mnnn… you could only think of one more thing.

"C-can… you… stay with me… until I fall asleep? I understand if you don't want to… I ju-"

She nuzzled into you more, and like before. got into a position to cuddle you and put you under her wing. "Say no more Anon, if it will help you relax, then your aunt is up to the task! Because...well...that's what I'm here for"

YOUR HEART...YOUR HEART! HNNGGG!

...But seriously, you kind of wish this moment could last forever… fuck… fucking ponies… well, maybe not to the point of forsaking it. Still… you can hardly remember any point in your life where you felt so loved. Fluttershy was climbing up to be best pony on your list now, even well above the Ponk. Also, fuck Angel... he better not ruin this.

You just silently nuzzled into her at this point as you felt sleep come upon you.

"Do you need anything else Anon?"

"...N-no, I just want you to stay with me ....please..."

"I never planned on stepping away Anon… you have a nice nap, alright?"

You yawn as your eyes get heavy. "..Alright… um… Aunt Fluttershy, can I say one more thing?"

Fluttershy nods "Mhmm, what is it?"

You go for it. your heart is saying this is the right thing to do. If this was part of being a family. Then you had to say it. "...I love you.."

Fluttershy said nothing at first, you nearly went lights out before you heard, in a very soft tone. "I love you too Anon… Pleasant dreams..."

You fall asleep once again.

Author's Note

in terms of nightmare night. this was written well before "Scare Master". who'd knew it'd actually turn out to be true?

Chapter 38

You dream a wonderful dream. Just being cuddled by Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie in an open meadow. Good~ shit.

They were just nuzzling and cuddling into you. It made you feel warm and nuzzly inside. Warm.
Nuzzly. Hot… Oohhh… yeah… they were nuzzling your cute colt body all over with their muzzles and hooves.

But of course, before this could get too steamy. You are suddenly blasted by a heavy wind, sending all three of you forward into darkness.

"GYYYAHH!" You jump up, awakening in fright.

There was thunder and lighting inside Fluttershy's house! no rain. But it was all gathering in one spot.

You even see Fluttershy in fright. She catches you and holds you close to protect you "W-What's going on?! Is anypony there?"

Suddenly, both you and her can hear Discord's laughter. "Yes there is my dear Fluttershy, it is I. The great, the mighty, the heroic, and devilishly handsome..."

Suddenly, the clouds gathered into one spot and release one frightening lightning blast. Making Fluttershy duck her head and hold yours down. At last, Discord appeared… In a Wonderbolt outfit, complete with goggles. "DISCORD OF THE WONDERBOLTS!"

In his arms was Rainbow Dash, he was holding her upside down.

Fluttershy looked up, shaking. "D-d-discord?"

"...Yes...I..I just said that..." Discord moaned in disappointment, he thought he'd get thunderous applause.

Rainbow Dash started struggling "Let me down Discord! Come on! I can feel the blood rushing into my brain!"

"Ugh… fine… no appreciation for the captivating and dramatic at all" Discord let's her go. Rainbow Dash is able to catch herself before hitting her head on the ground and begins to hover.

"Appreciation? pfft, whatever. there's nothing "dramatic" about pretending to be a Wonderbolt. So if you don't mind, take that costume off already! It's insulting to the REAL Wonderbolts." Rainbow Dash was none too pleased with Discord's antics.

"I think it suits me fine, I did manage to find those two loathsome criminals before you or them after all. I think that actually makes me better than a Wonderbolt to tell you the truth… But how could I resist not being one when they have such stylish goggles?" Discord taps and rubs the goggles he has "So stylish"

Fluttershy tries to talk, hearing about the criminals being caught "Y-you.."

Oh… Holy crap… They "caught" them? How did they manage that?

Unfortunately, everything gets cut off by a now angry Rainbow Dash "YOU AREN'T A WONDERBOLT DISCORD! YOU DIDN'T EVEN CATCH THEM. THEY GOT EATEN BY THAT GIANT PLANT!"

...Oh… Well… That's one way to take care of it...

"E-eaten?" Fluttershy stammers "T-they...they got eaten?!"

Rainbow Dash turns to Fluttershy, and sees the utter horror in her face. She didn't mean to upset her. But Discord got her riled up. She didn't even realize she got teleported into Fluttershy's house. "Fluttershy… ummm… I didn't see you… haha, look, don't get upset or anything. They were bad guys… they… uhh… kind of deserved it."

"RAINBOW DASH! HOW COULD YOU SAY SUCH A THING?! NOPONY DESERVES TO BE EATEN..AND SAYING THAT KIND OF THING WHEN THERE IS A CHILD PRESENT?! HOW COULD YOU?!" Fluttershy suddenly flew off the handle.

Oh geez… maternal mode Fluttershy. Her voice was nowhere near piercing. But it was still sharp in tone.

Discord turns to Rainbow Dash and smirks "Yes Rainbow Dash, how could you say such an awful thing in front of my son"

Fluttershy, in the midst of her own anger, suddenly became timid and looked to Rainbow Dash with a shamed look "S-sorry… I… I didn't mean to get too angry… I just… sorry."

But Rainbow Dash wasn't worried about that. "W-wait… I know that… wait… He's… your… WHAT?! YOU HAVE A WHAT?!..." Rainbow Dash then noticed you being close to Fluttershy . "FLUTTERSHY… Y-YOU DIDN'T!... TELL ME YOU DIDN'T!"

...Ohh… fucking shit. That's fucking hilarious. You had to hide your face in your hooves and laugh as silently as you could. Fluttershy retorted back, shocked at her friend's response.

"Rainbow Dash! A-are you honestly suggesting..?! I'm… I'm offended Rainbow Dash… you know I'd never..." She had to stop...and blushed heavily just at the thought of the word "...y-y-you know… do that… kind of thing before marriage… I'm his aunt… He was adopted by Discord… Didn't you know that?"

No she fucking forgot, she was probably so full of herself that day she showed off that she forgot that fucking detail. You started making muffled giggly noises.

Fluttershy looked towards you, unable to see your tears, she thought you were crying "Oh Anon..." She suddenly brings you close for a hug and runs her hoof through your mane. "D-don't cry… It's ok..."

Discord smirked and then looked at Rainbow Dash with a false disposition of concern, he knew what you were doing, but played along with it "Now, look what you've done. Really, Rainbow Dash? As the element of loyalty, I'd expect you to be the last pony to make such callous assumptions. I'd appreciate it if you apologized to my son."

Rainbow Dash felt ashamed of herself. Accusing her friend of such a thing. She was just surprised, she didn't know Discord had adopted you.

Rainbow Dash landed on her hooves, and approached you. You had to take a deep breath. You had to stop giggling before they noticed. "Heya..Anon, I didn't mean uhhh… whatever made you upset, what made him upset exactly?"

THAT DOESN'T HELP. You're practically screaming in your hooves, trying to muffle yourself.

Again, Fluttershy takes this as you even being more upset. and cuddles you closer. Then looks at Rainbow Dash with utmost disappointment "Well, for talking about ponies being eaten, and for saying that… other thing… The poor thing, he's probably so confused… It's ok Anon."

This constant cuddling, it was helping you stop your giggling, but you were still having trouble with that smile. You had to keep hiding it. But it was too rich not to be fattening. Rainbow Dash still didn't seem to sure on why she had to apologize. The… mommy daddy thing sure… but ponies getting eaten… moreso… bad guys getting eaten? She thought a colt would think that was cool.

"Ok..ok...Look..Anon...I'm sorry for scaring you about the bad guys being eaten and… ummm… getting you confused and upset with your dad and… your aunt… We square?"

You couldn't look at her, so you just say. "Y-yeah..gsh..w-were square...ghe.."

Rainbow Dash mistook your mirthful mutters as sorrowful whimpers. "Geez, hey… if it makes you feel better, umm.. Well..." She wasn't very good at this. "Well...if you ever wanted to feel what flying is like..I could take you around the skies of Ponyville if you want. Doesn't that sound cool?"

Actually… it did. You took another breath, and got your smile down. You slowly turned over to Rainbow Dash, because hell. flying around as super speeds? That sounded damn pretty awesome. And besides, it'd also means she's just doing it because she felt stupid. A definite plus.

"That..doesn't sound bad… umm, apology accepted." You say as you fully compose yourself

"And um… Sorry Fluttershy… you know I didn't mean to say that. I just kinda got caught off guard..."

Fluttershy, of course, being the way she is. couldn't stay mad at Rainbow Dash. "It's ok Rainbow Dash..just umm..please think..before you say something like that...please." Rainbow Dash nodded.

You look over to Discord, out of everyone there. You were the most interested in how he managed to finally wrap up his ruse.

"Dad… how, uhh… how did those guys get… eaten exactly?"

Fluttershy chimed in before Discord could say a word "Anon… I don't think you want to hear that kind of story.."

But you did, you simply HAD to know. "...I do actually. It really really makes me curious.."

Discord looked to Fluttershy "Fluttershy, If he wants to hear it, I say he should know. He does have a right to know what happened to his attackers. If it gets too intense, he can speak up."

Rainbow Dash, hearing Discord's words, suddenly seemed intrigued in something "Woah woah woah… hold on, attacked? Wait… you're the kid that fought off those two guys?"

Seems she was impressed. you nod to her and smugly smirk. "Yep, but they weren't too tough. I showed em what it meant to mess with me!"

Discord rolled his eyes. Rainbow Dash however, was examining your face. "Woah, you don't even have a mark on you. That's..." Rainbow Dash was indeed, incredibly impressed. "...Awesome.."

You couldn't help but feel arrogant. Ahh, but it wasn't too long to last sadly.

Fluttershy giggled and tapped your head "Now Anon, shouldn't you tell her about your eye?"

Rainbow Dash was confused "His eye? both look fine to me."

"...Yeah… about that. Actually, we ran into Rarity. And she put some stuff on me that covered up this black eye I got."

Rainbow Dash, upon hearing that, was not the least bit deterred "She did huh? I wonder why she would do that? You know how awesome it is to take down two stallions by yourself? that takes a lot of guts. That black eye is sort of a badge of honor."

"Excuse me!" Discord interrupted "But I was about to tell a story here!" He didn't like the fact that he couldn't hear himself talk

Rainbow Dash turned over to Discord and waved her hoof daintily at him "Yeah Yeah, hold your horses Discord. Can't you see two heroes are having a talk?"

"Are you shushing me?! Do you forget who I am?!" Discord walked up to her, shaking his talon at her.

Uh oh..

"U-ummm… can we not have a fight please… D-discord, you can tell the story, umm, after Rainbow Dash is done, please? I'd rather hear the… scarier story last" Fluttershy told him, trying to get him to calm down.

"Yeah Discord, you'll get your chance. Besides, you should be proud that your kid turned out to be a pretty cool colt… So Anon, were ya scared? I bet you weren't. Nah, you look like you got a mean streak about you. That's pretty~ awesome"

Discord crossed his arms "Hmph… fine… but only because Fluttershy asked."

Fluttershy smiled at Discord "Thank you for understanding Discord… don't worry, you'll have your chance."

"I was a little scared, y'know? But nah, when things got tough. I gritted my teeth and beat the crud out of em. Actually, I beat the big guy so hard that his voice went squeaky" You rubbed your hoof on your chest "Yup, he had trouble even getting up to run away. And the other guy? I sent him right into the alley wall"

"Woah, wait, so that crater in the wall in that alley… you caused that? REALLY?! WOAH! THAT'S AWESOME! Anon, the only other earth pony I know that can hit that hard is Applejack. You know how crazy it is that somepony like you can hit so hard?"

"Well… ya know" You didn't want to overdo it… but damn, were you enjoying the praise. "I mean, it could have been a lucky shot. But who knows? maybe I just don't know my own strength."

Rainbow Dash gave your head a pat "Hey, you're a hero, you don't ever have to be modest. Got it?"

You hesitantly nodded… You knew you weren't no hero. But the fact you did hit Discord's weak spot reassured you that you could probably win a few battles the mane 6 would have trouble winning at first with a swift kick to the nuts.

"Ya know, Discord. I gotta say. I had you pegged as a jerk. But talking with your kid. He seems pretty ok. You're doing alright" Rainbow Dash, surprisingly, even gives Discord some praise

Discord stopped his petty anger and instead went into his own brand of arrogance "Of course he is, I am the most qualified for the job of raising a colt… Ahh yes, actually, that was another thing I wanted to get to." Discord pulls out a copy of the paperwork Twilight had Spike write on back during the evaluation "I'm so good a father that even Princess Twilight herself has given me an official review and I passed with flying colors… see!" He held it up proudly.

Chapter 39

Right, you nearly forgotten Discord actually didn't get a chance to show that off. Before Fluttershy could walk up to take a look at it. Rainbow Dash snatches it out of his talons to take a personal look "Woah, woah woah. Hold on. This I gotta see for myself"

"I don't mind. As you can see, me and Anon managed to answer every question and performed adequately enough to make this whole arrangement official." Discord smiled, as he tapped the papers in Rainbow Dash's hooves and rips out… a copy of it. As if the papers had a soul. He then hands it to Fluttershy "And before anypony says anything, I'm sure you can read Spike's handwriting, he did write down everything Twilight told him."

You nodded in agreeance. "Yeah I was there, Dad definitely got the ok."

"...Wow… If Twilight even says it's ok… huh. And here I thought that this could have maybe been some sort of ploy or something." Rainbow Dash tapped at the paper, and peered closely at the handwriting. It was legit.

"Well, I didn't think that at all. I had faith that Twilight would see that you were a good father. I'm very very glad for the both of you. It would have been very heartbreaking if you both couldn't be together." Fluttershy said, overjoyed with the results

"Oh indeed." Discord rushes up to you and snatches you up and gives you a big ole hug "I don't know what'd I'd do without my little Anon here. He's the apple in my eye, you know." As Discord says that, he pulls an actual apple out of his eye and takes a bite. "Well, not this apple of course… anypony want a bite?"

Fluttershy nor Rainbow Dash saw the apple as too appetizing. You just hugged Discord, half hearted… it wasn't the same… it wasn't like Fluttershy. The full love she was capable of wasn't something Discord was capable of.
Then you realized, with the situation taken care of, you could probably go out and about Ponyville on your own. You look up to Discord's face.
"Hey Dad, now that you got those two guys. You think I can go out… and uhh… explore?"

"Explore? Ohhh yes… you mean explore your new home of Ponyville, yes yes of course. What kind of father would I be if I said no? Hmm??" Discord put you down.

"Exploring? Already? But you got out of the hospital just this morning… Discord, are you sure it's ok for him to just go out unsupervised?" Fluttershy was still worrisome of your condition.

"Of course it is! Fluttershy, if I baby him on every little boo boo then he will be a reclusive, bitter, cowardly being who would probably wear something such as a fedora in a unstylish manner… I could imagine Rarity having a fit now..." Discord snickered. You couldn't tell if that was a human world jab or if he was being serious… could even be both.

Rainbow Dash nodded reluctantly "I.....really hate to say it...But I gotta agree with Discord on this one. Kid has to be able to go out and play."

Fluttershy looked down, she was so unsure about it. she tapped her hoof once on the ground gently "..I-I… guess it's ok then… But..." Fluttershy looked to you "Anon, if you want to come back at anytime. My door is always open. ok?"

You nodded. "Thanks Aunt Fluttershy. Don't worry, I'll be ok!"

Finally! FINALLY! you were going to be able to go out on your own goddamn time. Fucking YESSSSSSSS.

"Anon, before you get going. I'd like a private word with you. Nothing major, just the usual father son chat. You understand." Discord said as he peeled the Wonderbolt costume like a banana peel and flung it in the air as it vanished in thin air.

You nodded, you knew however. it was anything but usual. "Ok...but can I say bye to Aunt Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash first?"

Discord nodded "Of course you can. It'd be rude not to."

You walked up to Fluttershy and gave her a big hug. Nuzzling your head under hers. "Thanks for taking care of me Aunt Fluttershy, you take care ok?"

Fluttershy nuzzled into you, probably more than she should, but… she was growing a maternal instinct towards you."I will… Anon… please please please please be careful ok? It can get pretty scary out there sometimes."

"I'll be careful, I promise." You give her another quick hug and turn towards Rainbow Dash. As Fluttershy goes over to whisper something to Discord.

"Seeya Rainbow Dash, don't forget what you promised" She wasn't all that bad, now that you got to see her just a little more.

Rainbow Dash smirked at you "You just better not chicken out when when I take you up high, got it? Heroes… don't… chicken... out"

You nod, how bad could it be? "I won't… I think you'll be surprised on how brave I can actually be"

"Hehehe, we'll see about that. Just catch me next time I'm free, got it?"

"Yeah, got it."

With goodbyes done, Discord says his own goodbyes in a grandiose way before teleporting with you to a black void. and yet, despite it being black, you could see yourself and Discord as visible as being under a light. You look up at Discord, wondering what he wanted to speak about with you. You were expecting another bout of hi-jinx, but you were ready this time. "So, what's up?"

"Oh, nothing in particular. Just wanted to give you an update on a few things to keep things as consistent as possible."

Oh..?

"Like what?"

"Well, first. Your punishment is officially over. without any chance of it reoccurring unless you somehow screw up. Annnnddd.....let's see."

Discord makes a small notepad appear and peers through it. "You'll be going to school in a couple of days, now I'm not forcing you, but I'd suggest securing what they call a "Clique". "

Oh, well..you were already part of one. "Already got it done, I am a Cutie Mark Crusader after all"

"Ahhh yes… right… hrnn… Well, I'm sure it'd help you a little more if you made a few extra friends or acquaintances before school starts for you. It'd make integrating even easier."

It seems Discord was actually caring about your well being… that was odd… huh… "That actually matters to you?"

Discord shook his head. "Not particularly no, but it does to Fluttershy. It seems she's quite taken with you and this whole family business and just asked me to help you along with making some extra friends… Of course I don't need to actually do that. Given you've wanted to come here so badly, I can only assume this is something you could do on your own."

Yeah, you could. You didn't need your hand held… dammit Fluttershy, you grew a deep care for her. But you didn't need your hand… hoof held the whole way. "Yup, I have my own plans. I still gotta stretch my new legs, ya know? all four of em."

"True true, just remember your place. You are, by official documents, my son after all. Now… let's see. Ahh yes, your sexual tendencies, now that you are going to be a free range colt I have to make sure you don't go… ahh such a vulgar word… raping anything. most of your posts on this website just have an arrow with the word "rape" marked in green. Ohhh, such a word even gives me some quivers"

...he can see your posts? Goddammit, this fucking guy. snooping in on your old life… and what did he mean by that anyway? "...umm..you know that was just a running gag right? I wouldn't actually go around raping anypony."

Discord poofed away the notepad and looked at you with a stare of authority "Oh I know you wouldn't. I know I don't have to worry about it at all. What you do with your urges is no concern of mine… But if it does happen to BE a concern of mine because I have to hear a complaint… well..." Discord chuckles as a pair of scissors appears beside him "Snip snip"

You gulp....that had to be the scariest thing he's done to you so far. "Y-you don't have to worry, t-trust me. I can control myself… But say… uhhh… let's say a mare… takes advantage of me and… erm… you know… that wouldn't warrant a… "Snip Snip"... would it?... Just asking, just want to be clear."

Discord could smell the sweat on you. "Well, I suppose in that case it'd be alright. Though, good luck on that… let's see… what do they call it...." Discord pops up a book and thumbs through it "Ahhh, here we are! Statutory… hmmm...Well, I suppose… hmmm.." He closes the book, making it disappear. "If it happens, it happens I suppose. It most likely won't since ponies are much much less deviant than any human. The worst that would happen is them going to prison and you'd have to go through counseling… at least ten years worth"

In other words, a big no… or a yes with a huge consequence attached. "You're a real buzzkill Discord, you know that?"

Discord rolled his eyes "Don't give me that, I'm just making sure you don't get into any huge trouble. Ponies are much less degenerate in behavior than any average human. If you could find a way without anypony finding out then good on you. But I doubt you'd get such an opportunity"

"So what you're saying is, you don't care as long as I don't get caught"

"Yes, exactly. But as I said. You'll probably never get the chance at your current age. I would do what everypony else does and wait until AFTER you have married the mare of your dreams… Actually I wouldn't do that at all, commitment is like poison to me, much too orderly for my taste."

You sigh, that was the best you were gonna get from him. It's not like you were going to go rape ponies or anything like that… maybe try to get a peepee touch. Or, something… ugh… fine, whatever. But if the opportunity comes up, you're fucking taking it… maybe. "Ok ok… mmnn, anything else?"

Discord shook his head. "Nope" Discord snapped his talons, your saddlebag appears beside you "Here's your bag with the map and a good amount of bits for you to enjoy the day. Don't spend it all in one place Anon." Discord then remembered something "...Ahh yes,almost slipped my mind... If you want to come home on your own. You can simply plunge the map into water, and it will open a wormhole to your room. Simple, isn't it?"

Was it? "Huh? That… sounds pretty simple… So I can just put it in any body of water?"

Discord nods "Yes, but I'd make sure you could fit in whatever you put the map in. wouldn't want to get stuck between dimensions now because you tried to jump into a cup, would we?"

..Nope… but, that is pretty convenient. "Nope...hmm..thanks Discord, I don't know if you actually care or not. But thanks."

You really did have to thank him, theres others you know who would kill you to take your place.

"...hmm.." Discord just murmurs something as he snaps his talons one last time.

In a flash, you found yourself outside town hall. With Discord nowhere in sight. You look up at the sun. it had to be the afternoon. Plenty of time to do your own thing. looking at the sun also brings up a thought… one day you had to ask about the sun and moon… the moon… Luna… geez, you also have to ask Discord about her in specific. Since Luna goes into pony's dreams, you couldn't help but think she'd get curious seeing a new dreamscape she's never seen around before. You were lucky enough she hadn't done so already. But… that'd have to wait… time to have fun.

Chapter 40

"Let's see… let's seeee" You looked around, you could see Town Hall behind you. but you had no interest in seeing Mayor Mare. No, you wanted to do something you could never do as a human. "...come on Anon...think.."

You started walking, humming a little ditty from your past. Trying to get an idea. "...hmmn hmmmm… mhhnnn… come on, this should be easy, there's like a million things I can do. Visit Pinkie?... Nah, she's probably off somewhere. Have an adventure?... like where? Maybe find a background pony and have a chat? nah, had enough talking. Come on Anon..."

You stopped, tapped your hoof to the ground. "Come on song cue...." You perked your ears up for any notes. Nothing. "...dammit..come on. not even a cool song and dance number where things get zany? Ugh… this bites."

You looked around at all the other ponies going about their day, roseluck buying seeds. Berry Punch having a chat with Amethyst… something… You forget. You even spot Carrot Top going about her day humming a tune of her own.

"Ok....maybe I should just go shop around for....something. lessee...what do I need? What could a pony like me want?" You began to sit and ponder. silently. You didn't want to spend it on anything temporary, you wanted a souvenir.

THINK ANON...THIIIINNKKK

"Come one! Come All! Come get your very own Princess Twilight Sparkle Figurine!"

Hrn? oh god… Hasbro has breached the dimensions… No, not actually. Your turn to see a bunch of ponies gathering around a stall ran by a rather stylish and quick talking blue stallion with a black mustache and mane. His Cutie Mark being of two ponyquinn dolls looking away from each other.

"That's right, How could you all live in the very town the Princess of Friendship herself resides in and not have these wonderful figurines in support of her rule! These figurines may not do much but look at the craftsmanship in each one, all hoofmade, and all in amazingly high quality. And you can get yours today for only 20 bits! It's practically high treason to be selling such gorgeous royal items at such a price!"

And just like that, the ponies of the town started flocking to get their own figurine. Boy, the Flim Flam bros could take a lesson from this guy. Or maybe not, their first escapade was pretty legit, sorta. Still, you weren't too much in a hurry to get one of your own. You wanted to make sure it was of fine quality first.

With your smaller size, you weave through the crowd, even forcefully pushing a few to the side without getting noticed and move up to the front of the stall. You start eyeing the models he was selling. All of them, Twilight in different poses, None silly, and most regal. It's like this guy doesn't know she isn't exactly the "proper" type. Still...They looked pretty damn good. Way higher quality than Hasbro's usual slock.

You squeeze your hoof into your saddle bag and pull out the needed bits to get one. You kind of wish there were Pinkies and Fluttershys, but it seems this guy was definitely working an angle as well.
You manage to get one amongst the sea of ponies. Woah...it's made of wood. You'd have never had noticed without touching it. If only you could post a picture on how exact it looked.
You put it in your saddle bag and nod your head. One fun thing down.....sorta...kinda....Now for something else.

But as you walk away from the crowd and head off in an aimless direction. You can feel a sense that you were being followed. You walk a little more aways, faking ignorance, you can definitely hear hoof steps behind you. "AHHAAAAA! YOU AREN'T GOING...to......why are you following me?"

What you thought may have been a pony after your figurine. Was instead Silver Spoon, and only her. one half of the tyrannic duo. She didn't seem to pleased that you were mucking about.

"Because...I'm on to you" She said as she narrowed her eyes at you

Wut?

"Excuse me? on to me about what?"

"You think I totally don't know? Do you even realize what you did?!" Nope, she was definitely angry about something.

Wut?... "What did I do? What, are you still mad about the whole threatening thing I said? That was a long time ago, get over it and leave me be" You snort at her, and go to turn, until she starts yelling at you.

"Don't turn away from me you friend stealer! I know you did it on purpose!"

Friend stealer? What? You turn to her, annoyed and confused. "Friend stealer? I have no clue what you are talking about. Why don't you go on with your other half and just leave me alone, I'm trying to have fun here."

A tear runs down her eye as she looks at you with a stern look, but her voice, it's weaker, stuttering "I-I can't, she..she doesn't want to hang out with me anymore"

Wuuuuuuuuuuut? "who, Diamond Tiara? Seriously? Why not?"

Suddenly, Silver started yelling at you, angry "WHY NOT?! YOU KNOW WHY!" She began to pant "I know you somehow took my photos, I didn't lose them. I know I didn't."

...Oh shit… Oohh shit… "W-well, I didn't take them. Not my fault you lost your blackmail centerpiece."

"Don't lie! Some ponies are already hailing you as some sort of brave hero now! Yeah… right... You probably hired those thugs to just CONVENIENTLY show up. No way a colt like you could beat up two stallions"

...Not exactly true on both counts. Seems she didn't have the whole story. "I did, I just don't play fairly. You think I'm just going to let some thugs do what they want?"

Silver didn't buy it. "oh? Then what's this I hear of your "Father" finding them and then them ending up as plant food in the Everfree forest? hmmmm?"

"Uhhhh....they were dumb? You do know Rainbow Dash was with him right? Are you suggesting he was in on this ridiculous theory you are just throwing at me? Because you sound pretty stupid right now"

She stomps her hoof. "Don't call me stupid! You're stupid! You think you're clever? You even managed to fool Discord. I wonder if you planned for him to get eaten too just to look like a victim. Look at you, you don't even have a single injury. Why did you even go to the hospital?!"

No injuries? Well you did heal kind of fast… but… oh right. Rarity...

"I do have an injury."

Whatever, it's fine. You rub your hoof along your hidden black eye. It doesn't sting anymore, but you begin to wipe away the mascara that Rarity used to cover it up.

"Do you see it?"

Silver Spoon seemed shocked, she didn't seem to understand how you made a black eye appear "Huh?... How?"

"Rarity said it looked pretty ugly and used her talents to cover it up. I took a beating."

She was already relenting. She was no Diamond Tiara. She couldn't keep up her relentless hatred like she could. "I didn't..I thought...but..still!"

Suddenly, Silver went back on the offensive "You still took my friend away!"

ugh...this was annoying. She was probably overreacting or something.

"Look...to tell you the truth, I don't care what you actually mean. She's probably just shaken up still. Why don't you go see her again and leave… me… be"

"I-I can't. Her dad took her out somewhere to relax.."

"...And? You can't wait for her?"

Silver Spoon shook her head, she was sad , she looked down in her sorrow "....No, she doesn't want to see me. When I knocked on her door, she came out… and… do you know what she said?"

"Hi?"

Silver Spoon shook her head as more tears started to flow. "She said your name, she looked really happy one moment...then disappointed the next. I asked her what was wrong. She didn't say anything. I asked her if she wanted to go out and spy on the crusaders… she said she didn't feel like it anymore. When I asked her what you did to her, She yelled at me...and told me to leave..."

Then she looked at you with tearful anger. "WHAT DID YOU DO?!"

...ohhhhh… that… that didn't sound good at all. you take a moment to think before answering. This… really sounded like you messed with the natural order of the status quot.

"I-I I didn't do anything! I just saved her. that's it! Look, I don't know. Like I said, she's probably just scared. Why don't you just wait til she gets back?"

Silver Spoon didn't say anything at first. Christ… she was still crying though. Was she this dependent on Diamond Tiara? Then again, on the show, they were ALWAYS together and Diamond was always the brains. What happened?

"Look...uhmm..Silver Spoon..why don't you just go back home huh? just uhh...wait it out a day, and, she'll probably go back to normal" You did your best to sound sincere. You didn't like her, but geez. She looked so sad and pathetic.

She wiped her tears, she was done. "D-do you think so?" Finally, she was giving in.

You nod. "Yeah, I mean. That kind of shock can get to you. Just give her a day. Trust me."

Silver Spoon sniffed, and wiped her tears away once again "B-but...why would she expect you instead of me? Why would she say your name?"

...You didn't have an answer for that one… Not one she'd like to hear.
"U-uhhh...well. I was with her when we got attacked, she may have thought I was just..uhh...gonna see if she was ok. Or maybe she wanted to yell at me because I didn't save her sooner. Who knows? Just… just give it a day alright?"

Silver Spoon didn't say anything, she was too busy crying.

....

You reach into your saddlebag and pull out your map. "Here...blow on this"

Silver Spoon takes off her glasses completely and takes the map, and takes a big blow, and hands it back to you. You take the map, and shake it a little to get the tears and boogers out. Now you knew how every cartoon character felt ever about this. It was kind of gross.

"Feel better?"

Silver Spoon slightly nods "m-mhmmm...So...just...wait a day?"

You nod. "Yeah, should be fine by then"

"O-ok… s-sorry, for… I'm sorry"

...Oh boy, if this didn't blow over, you were going to be the one to be sorry.

"It's fine. Just, just have a safe trip home ok?"

She nods, you thought about escorting her. But this was not something you wanted to make worse by spending more time with her than you had to. You had a feeling what was actually wrong. And you didn't like it one bit. Silver Spoon silently nods. turns away, gives you one last sorrowful look, and walks away in the other direction.

"...geez… why do I feel like this is really gonna come back to bite me in the ass?" You sigh… "Dammit… I reallllllly hope this blows over..."

You needed a hell of a pick me up now. ugh...well...whenever you feel lonely and sad. Pinkie is there to tell you it isn't so bad. Of course… even if she was available. There's no way you could just dump this on her. She'd ask too many questions.

...No, you could at least go there and just hang out. If anyone could brighten up anyone's day. It was her. You just hoped she wasn't doing anything. You take out your map, give it another shake, and open it up. and Look for the best path to Sugarcube corner and head off on your way.

Chapter 41

As you began your trek to Sugarcube corner, you couldn't help but feel a nagging feeling in your gut.

"...Ugh… Come on.." You knew this wasn't going to blow over in a day. You know what happened to Diamond Tiara. It's too cliche… but it must be it. She has definitely fallen for you. And it seems she alienated her best friend in the process. You ruined the cosmic balance of Equestria… sorta… If that was even a thing.

With every step you couldn't help but feel a little sorry for Silver Spoon. Was she a cunt? Yeah. But fuck, if your theory is correct. You just unintentionally took her best friend from her. Even more, it seemed she was dependent on her leadership.

With every step, your progress slowed. Visiting Pinkie might be a mistake. If she could read how you feel. If she had a Pinkie Sense for that. You wouldn't know what to say.

You stop. "Fuck me in the ass goddammit..."

You turn towards the direction Silver Spoon was walking off to, and run after her. You had no idea what this would accomplish. You had no idea on what you would say. But you know that if Silver Spoon saw Diamond Tiara again. Diamond Tiara would reject her hard.

You manage to spot her in your sprint, you call to her. "Yo Silver Spoon, Wait! I wanna talk to you!"

FUCK ANON, WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!

Silver Spoon stops and turns to you, confused as to why you followed her, tears still draping across her face. ".....A-anon?"

"Y-yeah, hey."

...Yeah, “hey”… good work Anon. Great start. Barreling right into stupidity on this one.

She doesn't seem to know how to reply, considering you just talked to her.

COME ON… CHEER HER UP YOU BASTARD… and then try not to let tomorrow be a disaster for her.

"Silver Spoon, uhh, look. Maybe you should actually take a break until I actually talk to Diamond myself. I mean, she obviously wants to talk to me about something. I could just find out what’s up myself and see if I can fix it. How does that sound?"

She shook her head, she seemed so unsure and depressed "I-I dunno… I mean. We always do everything together. She's my best friend… She's never told me to go away before. Maybe I should just go see her after a day… like you said… or maybe when she gets back"

NO NO NO!

"U-uh look. Forget about what I said earlier. Listen to what I'm saying now. Just relax, you know. Live up a day on your own while I find out why Diamond Tiara is acting strange. Just trust me on this. It'll be better for everypony. Ok?" You had to talk her out of it. Diamond Tiara was going to just tell her to go away again tomorrow, and what's worse. She'd probably say something about liking… or… loving you to her, crushing her utterly.

She didn't seem suspicious of your behavior as you began to sweat. She was just thinking. her tears letting up bit by bit. "Just, have a day to myself?"

You nod profusely. Geez, she's a wreck without her. Or just the fact she got shut down so damn hard really fucked with her. "Yeah, just do whatever you want. I promise by the time I'm done, you and her will be bumping butts again in no time"

You promised… YOU PROMISED… MORON. But, like giving candy to a kid. A promise was enough to cheer her up just enough for her to stop crying.

"You really....you really promise you can do that?"

You nod like a moron. "Yeah, trust me. I got a way with words. So, just go home and relax ok?"

"Ok… but" Now she seemed really confused "How did you know about the flank bump?"

You cringe just a little. You only seen them do it on the show. "O-oh well, I mean. It just seems like something you guys would do since you're so close."

"Oh..." She looks into your eyes "Anon… I'm.. I'm sorry again for blaming you earlier. I thought you were just..." She stops, seems she was gonna say something mean

"Well… uhhh… uhmm… You're kind of ok for a blank flank." She thought you were a pony who was mean and ruthless deep inside. But now...

"Can I ask you just one question Anon?.." She looks deeply into your eyes....oh god...

"Um...yeah? sure. Shoot"

"Why are you being nice to me?... I mean. Me and Diamond Tiara. We sorta… well.." She didn't want to say it, she couldn't admit to saying she was being mean to you, to the CMC.

You immediately interrupt her, you knew what she was going to say. It was like a saturday morning script. "Look it's fine, don't worry about it. No hard feelings. I'm not angry. Just go and enjoy yourself ok? Make a day of it."

But she didn't turn, or go to leave just yet. Instead she hugged you....FUCKING CHRIST. THIS WAS NOT WHAT YOU WANTED.

"T-thank you Anon… really. I just want to be friends with my best friend again. I thought you wanted to take her away. But, you're just a nice guy. You saved her, just because she was in trouble… despite what we did. That's pretty cool" She loosens her grip, and looks at you with a waiting smile.

"Well yeah, I mean. I couldn't just leave her. No matter what she, or you, did to me. Nopony deserves that kind of stuff to happen to them."

Silver Spoon looked at you, she cringed at first. Cringed at the thought of her own misdeeds. That you would risk your very life to save someone who mocked you and humiliated you. "S-so… if.. I was also in danger? You'd help me too?"

of course… probably… more so than Diamond at this point, maybe… god, this is horrible. You nod, you weren't going to say no. "Yeah, I would.."

She blushed just a little. And turned away. No… No… It couldn't be THAT easy. But it was. You somehow charmed Silver Spoon through her grief of losing her friend. This would be a good time to be ugly....

What's worse. Is that you know you charmed the bullies. No, it couldn't be the CMC. You probably would have learned to enjoy it. Sweetie Belle was especially a cutie… BUT FUCKING NOPE! CHARMIN' THE ANTOGONISTS! GO ANON GO!

"W-well I'm… I'm gonna go home… Can you have Diamond see me after you talk to her tomorrow? I don't… I don't want to accidentally see her too early and her get mad at me again."

...

"Yeah...I'll send her your way"

"Thank you..umm..again..I mean....B-bye" She looks at you one last time, and takes a slow pace back to her home.

....oh shiiitt..

You turn and look at a side of a house… looks like a firm wall. You walk up to it, and slam your head once on it's side.

"IDIOT! MORON! DIPSHIT! WHAT THE HELL DO YOU THINK YOU'RE DOING ANON?! AGGGGHHHHH!" You yell at the top of your lungs.

"Who's there?" You hear a pony come out of the house you just slammed your head on. You stop, and peer around the corner.

BG SECRET AGENT HORSE AT 10 O'CLOCK.....it was Bon Bon. She manages to spot you as you peer over the corner "Hello? Who's there?"

You'd consider running, but you were a colt. She'd probably think nothing of it. As you slowly come out of the corner, Lyra also pops out of the house, and looks at you. She smiles a big smile "Wow, that big sound was caused by that little colt?"

"I guess, hey, what's wrong?" Bon Bon said, she must have heard you "Who're you calling an idiot?" She walks closer to you to take a full look of the side of her home. Nobody there.

"U-umm, no one ma'am… Just, talking to myself.."

Bonbon seemed confused by that answer "Huh? Then… why are you calling yourself an idiot?"

Lyra looks over to you, giving you a big smile "Come on Bon bon, you don't have to be so direct with him. Look at him, he's so adorable! Can we keep him?"

...wut...

...Actually...you wouldn't mind a Lyra....and a Bon Bon...at the same time....

Bon Bon giggled "Come on Lyra, don't joke like that. You don't want to scare him. Why would you even say that?"

Lyra moved closer to you, and gave you a pat "Look at him. I've never seen a colt so cute..I dunno what it is...It's like..he's got something about him that just screams "There's more to me than meets the eye!" .......woah.." Then she notices "What happened to your eye?"

Bonbon notices aswell, and takes a closer look "Let me guess, you're Anon, that colt that managed to beat those two thugs… son of Discord… right?"

...Wut?! How did she know?! "Y-yeah...but..how did you figure that out?"

"Well… You did yell out your name… and I just put two and two together."

Lyra gives Bon Bon a big hug. "Wow! That's amazing Bon Bon, I wouldn't have ever been able to guess that."

...Hmnn… "You both don't live together do you?"

Lyra turns to you and shakes her head "Oh no no, we are just Super Duper Bestest of friends."

Bon Bon smiles and adds to her sentence "The very bestest"

...Oh boy, well, they were really cute and nice. Yeah… a twosome would be awesome… ugh… too bad they don't seem the type to fiddle with a foal… Well, maybe Lyra. She seemed to get some feeling from you.

"You guys look like it. Sorry if I bothered you"

"Oh it's no trouble" Lyra smiled, waving her hoof at you "Pretty cool we get to meet the little hero, wanna come in and have a cup of tea with us?"

Uhhh… maybe?... yes… that seems weird… yes?... alone with two stranger mares? ...yes? "Ummm..."

"Don't go scaring him Lyra, He did sort of meet us… just now, y'know?" Bon Bon cautioned her friend.

"Oh… right? Well… my offer still stands. Don't worry about it if you say no, we'll understand!" Lyra was giving you a very welcoming smile.

"...uhmmm, well… I guess, I could step inside for some tea."

"Woooooo! I'll go get him a cup!" Lyra rushed inside to set up an extra cup and seat.

Bonbon giggled "I wonder what got into her?" Then she looked at you with a smile "Ya sure you wanna come in? It's pretty girly stuff"

You didn't mind at all. They were cute… CUTE… and you needed to get your mind off this DT/SS mess.

You nod. "I don't mind, it's uh..."

Oh boy, this is gonna be nerdy. But it should work. with your fucking luck. "An honor to share some tea with two very pretty mares."

Bonbon giggled at your charm and rubbed her hoof in your mane, gently and lovingly "Well aren't you the little charmer? Hope you aren't planning to woo us, we're a little too old for you."

...Awww… ".u-umm, nah. I was just playing."

Lyra popped her head out "Come on! Come on! Before the tea gets cold!"

Ok, cool. You were about to spend some time with two BG characters. Hopefully… this would get your mind out of the shitter. And not only relax you but give you time to figure out what to do about Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon.

They do say tea relaxes you.

Chapter 42

Bon Bon's house seemed nice. Like everywhere else you expected. It lacked the marvels of the modern technology you were used to. And yet, it was comfy and uncluttered without the cords,buzzes, and zing of things such as tvs and computers.

The three of you sat down at the table. Lyra was giving you a large but sweet smile, Bonbon was less interested in your presence, but happy to have you all the same.

"I gottttaaaa ask! How did you beat up those two stallions?" Lyra asked, with curious glee

"Well… I uh. I remember giving this bigger guy a trouncing by knocking him over."

"Knocking him over? How big was he? Did you just tip him and clobber him? Details, details!" Lyra got excited, she was waving her hooves with each cry of "Details"

"Let me guess" Bonbon took a sip of her tea "You went right for his nether regions?"

...Woah… she guessed.

You nod slowly, with a little caution of whether that should be acknowledged. "How...how did you figure that out?"

"oh...ummm" Bon Bon looked up, down, left, and right. "I could just tell by a few things, that's all. I'm just a very perceptive girl."

"Yeah!" Lyra gave a small pat to her friend's back "You wouldn't believe how perceptive she could be! Like, once. I was going to visit my friends back in Canterlot and I forgot my money back home. and when I turned around, there she was ! She spotted me the bits right there and then so I wouldn't miss my trip! It's things like that that make Bon Bon so great!"

Bonbon smiles a little in embarrassment "Well you were really excited the day before, I figured you might forget something. Besides, I wouldn't be a that good a friend if I didn't see you off"

Lyra smiled, that warmed her heart "Awwww! but you didn't have to do that, I left so early. I thought you would have still been asleep. I didn't want to bother you or anything."

Bonbon got up to give her best friend a hug "Hey, when it's you, it's like, never ever any trouble"

Then they both yell out "Best friends forever"

You just sat there, sipping your tea, silently. You were half expecting them to fuck right there, right then. "....so uhhh."

Maybe you could ask them for advice. They weren't the mane 6, so, it might be less troublesome to get an answer from them. "Can I ask you girls a question...about girls?"

Lyra giggled immensely "Uh oh Bon Bon! I think he has a crush on us!"

Bon Bon shook her head "No, I think this might actually be important. So, what's on your mind Anon?"

"Well uh, there was this girl who was with me when I saved her, and I think she might like me now. But I kind of, well… not interested. And then there is this other girl, who is her best friend, she kinda got mad thinking I took her friend away… Then when I talked to her, and told her I didn't and that I would handle it and get them to be friends again and stuff, She started acting weird… and now I think she likes me too… but I kind of don't want that either… What should I do?"

"You should just pick one!" Lyra cried out.

"U-ummm n-noo..no..I don't want either of them, I want to let them both off easy without ruining their friendship or getting myself killed"

"Killed? That's a little extreme. Why don't you just be honest with the both of them? I'm sure they would understand if you just tell them you aren't interested" Bon Bon tells you, she was definitely more level headed than Lyra.

Sound advice, but, "I don't think they realize they love me yet, I don't want to hurt them or anything like that..."

...What an odd taste in your mouth from saying that. You drink more tea to wash it out.

"Well, I could just hang around you if you want, I bet if I give you a kiss… well no, that'd probably just make them angry and jealous." Lyra giggled again

Guhhh… Is she flirting with you?! You started blushing. Feeling a little nervous

"Lyra, come on. Don't joke like that. look at him, you're making him all flustered." Bon Bon however, couldn't help but have a titter at the situation.

"I'm only joking, but look at him. He doesn't find girls icky or anything if he's reacting like that. Come on Anon, just pick one of them!"

"..L-look, I can't even say I was interested. I would be destroying their friendship. They have always been the best of friends… and now because of me, it's suddenly turned sour. I just want to fix it".

Yeah, even if it means they go back to being douchebags. thinking that just makes you feel more sour. Lyra's ears drooped, she was starting to understand the gravity of the situation

"Best of friends?...and now they aren't?...That's… so sad..." Suddenly she burst out crying. "That's the worst thing I've ever heard!"

Both you and Bon Bon look at her in surprise… Wow, she was also sensitive to that sort of thing.

"L-Lyra, it'll be ok. That's why Anon here is asking us this question. H-he just wants to help them." Bon Bon tried calming down her friend down, and Lyra put her face on the table.

You nod profusely. "Y-yeah don't cry, I just want to fix it. I didn't mean for this to happen."

"Y-yeah but here I was, making suggestions that would have made it w-w-w WAHHHHH!" She just whined and cried, hiding her face in the arms of her hooves.

Oh geez.

"Lyra, come on. Get a hold of yourself. This little guy is asking us for help, and I happen to think the both of us could give him really sound advice on helping his friends. Lyra, you're the friendliest pony I ever met and I think you could give the best advice on this. So come on, cheer up!"

Lyra looked up slightly, tears in her eyes "You...you really think I'm the friendliest pony?"

"Even more than Pinkie Pie" Bon Bon gave her a warm smile.

Lyra immediately perked up and gave Bon Bon a huge hug. Then she immediately turned to you with fierce determination and slammed her hoof on the table, startling you, and knocking down the tea cups. "This is what you gotta do! If they both like you but it's ruining their friendship! Then you gotta have them both see you, and explain the situation to them the best you can, then you gotta remind them why they were the best of friends and that all you want is them to make up and be the bestest of friends! You can't see them individually, it could cause jealousy if the other found it. It could cause a RIP..IN...THE..FRIENDSHIP...CONTINUUM! DO YOU HEAR ME ANON?! THE CONTINUUM!"

You gulp....geez, she got super serious all of a sudden.

Bon Bon was cleaning up the mess silently that her friend had made, she didn't berate her or get angry. "I don't think it's that serious, but. Lyra has a good point. You may want to speak to them at the same time about how you feel. It could give off the wrong impression if you don't."

Holy crap....that sounded pretty good actually. Better than the plan you had. "Thanks. T-that actually sounds like a great idea. Ok… So that's what I gotta do huh?"

Lyra nods at you, then smiles and gives you a pat "Mhmm! then you can be mine instead"

W-what?!... c-come on... You blushed deep red in that remark as a million filthy lewd thoughts ran through your brain.

"Lyra..." Bonbon turned to her friend as she dumped the broken tea cups, she smirked and shook her head

"Hehehehe, sorry! I couldn't resist. He's just looks so adorable." Lyra noticed how dumbstruck and blushy you looked.

"I-I mean..I d-don't uhmm...mind if you wanted to uhhh..." You stopped yourself

Lyra seemed confused "Don't mind what Anon?"

You gulp "I-if you uhh… refill… my… tea cup?"

Lyra looked down at the table "Hhmm? but you don't h-...OH NO..BON BON I'M SO SORRY! I DIDN'T REALIZE!"

Bon Bon rushed up to Lyra and hook her hoof at her, making a shushy noise "Shhh, don't even get upset or anything. You just got caught up in the moment… besides, I got like three hundred of these."

Lyra wiped a tear away "So you're not angry?"

Bon Bon shook her head "Not one bit."

Lyra couldn't help but give her best friend another hug, which Bon Bon shared in kind. They were the bestest of friends alright. Bon Bon went into her cupboards to get another set of tea cups.

"So, Anon. Why don't you say a little about yourself? It must be really interesting having Discord as a dad!" Lyra said. She was curious.

"Well, not much to say really. Dad is dad, he takes care of me and feeds me and we sometimes don't see eye to eye. But I guess all families are like that. As for me, I'm just a another colt. Though… I don't wanna sound cocky or anything… but I think I'm pretty smart, smarter than your average kid."

"Oh I could tell, you speak really well and you seem really mature for your age. I bet all the other kids in your class envy you." Bon Bon sets down the set of cups and sits down to listen in on the conversation.

"Well...I'm not in school yet. But I will be soon. Miss Cheerilee seems pretty nice"

Lyra nods "She is, ohhhhhh gosh, she's going to be impressed by you i'm sure. I just hope you don't get picked on for being so smart"

Bon Bon served herself some tea and took a sip. "Nopony should have to be picked on because they’re smart… But, and this is just a word of advice. If you do get picked on, I wouldn't suggest using your fighting tactics. Trust me, other parents would get really angry. And considering some ponies are already seeing Discord in a better light after what happened with those two criminals. It'd be a shame for them to have to fear his kid of hurting theirs..."

"Well… I don't think there's gonna be any fighting. I think things will be fine. I can't imagine getting into a fight with anypony else" You said.

"You'd be surprised Anon, some kids can be pretty mean… But, you have a good heart and a quick wit. I'm sure it's nothing you can't handle." Bon Bon said with certainty in her eyes.

"You never got picked on back at the orphanage you came from, did you?" Lyra asks

"Ummm, uuhhh, well, sorta. It was different things. But, it's nothing I want to think about. The past is the past, gotta look on to a brighter future and all that." Not the orphanage exactly, but you knew what it was like

Bon Bon smiled "I like that way of thinking, good on you Anon. If I was your Dad, I'd be proud of you right now!"

Lyra nodded "Well I don't have to be your dad to know I feel proud and I'm not even your mom!"

That's...really heartwarming to hear. You smile at them. "Thanks guys, you two are pretty cool. I'm really glad to have met you both." They both nodded in agreeance, and replied in kind.

For the rest of the while you three made a little more small talk about things like the weather, the apparent upcoming Friendship Festival, they didn't seem to know much on it, so Twilight was definitely keeping things hush hush. They talked about themselves a little more, never did find out if Bon Bon was canonically a secret agent. And enjoyed some relaxing tea.

After some time, you felt it was time to go. With a hug and goodbyes, you left your new friends… until. "Anon, wait! I forgot to give you something!" Lyra cried out to you

"huh? What is it?" You turn to her, only to suddenly be kissed on the cheek "That!" She began to giggle like a schoolgirl

"...h..h.....hmm...mm..." ...This you didn't mind... oh please… why couldn't she just throw you on a bed and fuck you already?! AAGGHHHHHHHHH! You were blushing deep red and lost in thought.

"Lyra, now look what you did, he probably thinks you have a crush on him now!" Bon Bon giggled

Lyra was besides herself "I couldn't help it! He's just so adorable! I'm sorry Anon, I was only teasing" Lyra couldn't help but giggle through her words.

...STOP TEASING! DAMMMIIIT! "I-it's ok, u-umm..seeya guys.."

They reply, and wave to you as you wave to them. That was pretty nice all things considering. Pretty interesting for BG pones, and their friendship was so nice. You just hope their advice would work. Sad though, that they wouldn't just. Y'know...rape you

Chapter 43

Ok, now you could relax a little. you had a new plan of action, and had even managed to make new friends along the way. Even if your mind was filled with a few dirty thoughts about them.

You look up at the sky, the sun hadn't quite reached the point of sunset yet. And you still had bits to spend. Hmmm… You pull out your map and take a closer examination.
It seems it marks down businesses and important locations on it. But not individual homes… Except for Fluttershy's cottage being marked as "Fluttershy's Cottage". Rainbow Dash's house however wasn't marked by name, only by a picture. Poor Rainbow. Not notable enough for a map like this.

As you walk along a stretch of road, examining your map. You trip over something… or perhaps… someone.

"Hey! Watch where you’re going!" You hear in a quick scratchy tone.

You fall face first into the ground, the map flying upwards and landing on top of your head… This will never stop being a thing. Will it?

You then hear a slower voice beside you "Snips, are you ok?"

"Yeah I'm fine, but this guy just ran into me like it's no big deal! You should watch where you're going when heroes are walking the streets!"

You lift your head and shake the dirt off as you stand up. You didn't even need to guess who you ran into. Or who the other voice was.

You turn, and standing in front of you. Was the dubious pair of Snips and Snails.......wearing pots on their heads… Heroes? Since when? Half of you wanted to inquire about this. The other wanted to just walk away.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to walk over you like that." You say as you rub off the remaining dirt patches from your chest fluff

Snips takes a moment, then nods "I guess I can forgive you, since that's one of the many things heroes do. Is forgive the commoner ponies when they mess up like that."

Snails nods "Mhmm! But Snips, when are we gonna save somepony? We've been walking around all day and not one pony has been in trouble. I'm getting tired… and it's hot… I feel like my head is roasting in a pot."

Maybe because it was...

"Relax Snails, if that colt that beat up those two stallions can be a hero, then us, with our superior skills and reading all the magazines about heroes in Equestria, should be able to beat double the amount of bad guys!"

It seems these two jumped out of hero worship and just decided to be heroes themselves. It seems they didn't realize who you were.

"Are there any bad guys though? I thought it was just those two guys… or was it three?" Snails asked.

Snips gave a sly look of reassurance to his more dull witted friend. "Snails, Snails. Think about it. If there were two really nasty bad guys here in Ponyville that ARE known, then that means there’s gotta be like ten guys that we don't know about. All we gotta do is find em and beat em and we'll be considered heroes! We might even get knighted by one of the Princesses! Isn't that awesome?!"

Snails was astounded by his friend's words "We'd really get to meet a princess?" He smiled, looking up in the air longingly "That sounds swell"

Snips nods "Yup, we just gotta find some bad guys first… hey, wait… You!" Snips points to you "Guy who ran into me, have you seen any bad guys around?"

Seems he was talking to you "Uhhh… no… but uh… Don't you guys think it's kind of silly and dangerous to go looking for trouble?"

Moralfag powers...activate. Snips and Snails weren't bad guys. But fuck would shit go down if they actually found trouble.

Snails shook his head "uhhh, we're not looking for trouble, we're looking for bad guys"

....ugh...

"Look, if you haven't seen any bad guys, then don't bother us. We have very important work to do!" Snips said in a dismissing manner.

"Ummm, Snips… Don't we also have homework to do?"

"Forget homework, if we manage to do this, we'll never have to worry about homework again either!" Snips was sure of this, he seemed quite deluded.

"No homework ever again?! This sounds better and better..." Snails didn't seem to realize at all what a fool's errand this was.

Screw it… you didn't want to beat around the bush with this.
"There's no way you guys could beat even a single bad guy. I'd suggest you just go home and do homework." Blunt, but that should work.

Snails looks depressingly looks down "But I don't wanna do homework"

Snips jumped to his friend with a smile "And we aren't gonna!" He then looked at you with fierce challenging eyes "You got a lot of nerve telling us to do homework and stuff! Wait..."

Snips takes a closer look at you "I've never seen you around here before. Have you seen this guy before Snails?"

Snails shakes his head "Nope… you think he might be a bad guy?"

Snips rubbed under his muzzle "Could be… he did tell us to give up and do our homework… and homework is pretty bad."

You raise an eyebrow at them as you narrow your right eye inquisitively "...Are you guys serious?"

They both nod

"He's gotta be a bad guy! He's trying to stop us. And bad guys always try to stop heroes!" Snips cried out.

......

"You do realize I'm about the same age as you guys… right?"

Snails stood mightily, pumping his chest forward "You can't fool us! I read in the heroes digest that "bad guys can take on many forms! As a hero you should always be wary, read page 45 for more information" And then I did read page 45 and then I forgot what it said...but I remember the many forms part!"

"Prepare for battle Canave!" Snips said as he revved up his rear end.

"...It's pronounced knave… Are you seriously goi… you know what, that's fine." It was, just slap them out of their silly dream. It's a good thing you ran into them before they did something stupid. "I'll take you both on, but if I win, you gotta stop this hero nonsense, because all it's gonna get you is hurt if you run into real trouble."

Was this you being a responsible "Adult"? Maybe, or maybe it was the guilt you'd feel from them getting hurt due to the destruction of the status quo

Snails seemed really confused "Say Snips… this guy sounds more like an adult than a kid..."

"Then you were right Snails… this guy probably took on the form of a colt to fool… WOAH THIS MIGHT BE A CHANGELING!"

Snails shivered in fear at the thought "A changeling? I dunno Snips....maybe we should go tell somepony?"

"Come on Snails! It's just one! All we gotta do is beat him and interrogate him to find out what he's up to and then go tell princess Twilight. We might even become her first royal guards!"

".....ohhh......ok.." Snails nodded

What dopes… You were thinking that you probably should have left it alone. But these are the same stooges that caused an Ursa Minor to show up in Ponyville. Letting them go do something stupid would definitely weigh in on your guilt if you just let them go on with their stupidity.

"Changeling… right… whatever… let's just do this already."

Snips didn't even hesitate to yell "FOR EQUSTRIA!" when he rushed at you, headfirst. You just roll your eyes and quickly calculated every cartoon tactic used by bullies to stop nerds. Tactic to use?.....hand...or hoof...on head.

You simply raise your front right hoof forward onto the charging pudge unicorn's "helmet" and stop him in his tracks. His force was actually considerable as it almost made you trip backwards. But you kept your balance, and without his momentum, he was now just trying to push you back while giving an occasional swing of his hoof

"Quick, Snails! I need backup, artillery fire, hurry!"

"No problem Snips, I got this!" Snails said as he started charging up his horn.

You had no fear of this, so you just focused on holding Snips in place. You could just simply flick him to the side. You didn't want to hurt these two. Hmmm… You could just step to the side and let him go straight into a wall...that might be better.

As you decide on your merciful finisher, you start to notice the area around you get a little brighter. "...what?"

You look forward, Snails' horn was glowing big and bright. The hell?! THE HELL?!

"I'm gonna do it! I'm gonna hit you with my best shot you big dumb changeling!" Snails threatened as he aimed his horn at you.

WHAT IS THIS DBZ BULLSHIT?! WHERE DID HE GET THAT MUCH POW-OHSHIT!

Snails shoots a humongous ball of magical energy at you. You flick your hoof to the right to throw Snips to the side then cover yourself up as with your hooves.

You could feel a warm light envelope you. You must have disintegrated right then and there. You were probably dead. You open your eyes, in front of you was the magic ball of energy spinning right into your blocking hooves without making any kind of progress further.
It was just a big ball of nothing . You take a breath, thanking whatever deity there was that you didn't die and try flicking the ball away.

Success, it just goes flying into the air and sputters into non-existence.

"uwaahh? B-but......." Snails seemed pretty surprised that it failed. At first you were too. But then you came to the conclusion that just because it was big didn't mean it was powerful. It was like a big luminous cotton ball.

Snips got up and lifted his pot helmet from his face "Did ya get him?"

"N-nope, he's still s-standing!" Snails started to wobble

"Quick, Hero attack formation Alpha!" Snips cried out as he straightened his helmet.

Snails started to wobble more and more "No can do, Kind of put everything I had into my superhero surprise magic ball attack… night night… wake me when we're royal guards.." Snails falls over, unconscious.

Ha! One down, one to go.

"Snails?! Snails!" Snips ran up to his friend and jumped in between him and you "I won't let you hurt him! He's my best buddy!"

...You put your hoof to your face in annoyance. "I was never gonna hurt him, or you. You were the ones who started this fight remember?"

"Nu uh! You were the one who started it by being a changeling bad guy! Why don't you fess up now and tell me what your queen is up to and I don't have to lay down my own super magic on ya!"

Super magic..right. "I'm not even a changeling… you know that right? You were the ones who called me one. Look, I don't want to humiliate you too badly. Why don't you stop this now, pick up your friend, and go do that homework? Huh?"

Snips shook his head "Never foul beast! Beating you will be so much sweeter than doing some stupid homework, Prepare yourself!"

Snips lifted his helmet to start doing some magic of his own. Time for tactics B… "You really think your magic c....HOLY MOLY! IS THAT PRINCESS CELESTIA ON FIRE WHILE PRINCESS TWILIGHT AND TIREK DO THE MAMBO?!" You point forward, behind Snips.

He looks back in amazement,surprise, and fright "Wha?! Where?!"

You snicker as you rush up to him and slam your hoof against the side of his helmet so hard that it vibrates and rings over his head, sending him to his backside.

"Gyaaaaaah! My head!" Snips own head vibrates as he throws off his pot helmet and tries to steady himself "That was a cheap shot!"

Heh, it was. you felt pretty good about it though. Shut him the hell up. "I'm a bad guy remember? So....you done yet?"

Snips slowly stands, determined to beat you. "Never! As long as I stand… I'll… uhhh… ohh..." Suddenly Snips started to sweat and shiver.

You look at him funny, you hope you didn't bang his head too hard. What was up with him?

"H-hello..M-miss Cheerilee...u-ummm..."

Ohh yeah fucking right... "Don't even bother, if you think I'm gonna-" Suddenly you feel a tapping behind you.

Now you begin to sweat… that was an awfully firm feeling hoof behind you. You look behind yourself. Oh god… IT WAS HER… She didn't look to pleased. She had two grocery bags hanging off both sides of her. "What's going on here, gentlecolts? Anything you'd like to sha-SNAILS?!"

She notices Snails down on the ground and dashes towards him. "Snails!?" She then looked angrily at the both of you "What happened to Snails?!"

Snails peeped one eye open and just smiled goofily at her. "Oh I'm ok Miss Cheerilee, I thought I had to go night night because I used a lot of magic but then when I hit the ground it kind of hurt so I didn't actually fall asleep but I thought I'd just lay here anyway for dramatic effect since the magazine says heroes do everything dramatically"

...If this was an anime, this would be the only appropriate time for you to actually fall on your fucking face.

Cheerilee sighed, she almost got riled up for nothing. "Alright, what's going on here?"

Snips ran up in front of her, guarding her from you "Be careful Miss Cheerilee, that guy is a changeling, a really cheap one!"

Miss Cheerilee was not amused. She had already seen you before. And now she had caught you in a fight. Crap… crap. You had just had a talk about this...

"Uh huh… Snips… that's not a changeling." Cheerilee said, unamused by all this

Snips wouldn't let his guard down "Don't let him fool you Miss Cheerilee, he's a crafty one!"

Cheerilee sighed. She was starting to see how this happened..almost. "Snips, that's your future classmate, Anon... Please tell me what's going on before I round up the whole three of you and have your parents pick you up… yes… even you Anon, I won't make an exception just because of who your father is."

G-guh… come on..you didn't do shit.

"Anon?" Snips was confused, he had heard that name

Snails looked up from his position in surprise "Wait… uhhh… you mean the guy who beat up those two other guys? Uhhh… that's him?"

"That's right. Now will somepony please explain what's going on? pleas-" Before Cheerilee could finish, Snips started to panic.

"SNAILS! WE ATTACKED THE HERO COLT! WE ATTACKED DISCORD'S KID! WE'RE DOOMED!"

Snails put his pot helmet over his face shaking "awwww geez, now we're doomed and we still have homework to do."

Snips dives at your hooves, and bows down to you "Please forgive us Anon, we didn't mean to attack you or nothin’, we thought you were a bad guy changeling! We just wanted to be hero colts too!"

"Attacked? You boys attacked him because… you thought he was a changeling?!" Cheerilee couldn't believe it.

...Oh this was good though… You couldn't be roped into blame if you were just defending yourself. You already had enough on your goddamn plate.

"W-we never saw him before… w-we thought he was a changeling spy" Snails shivering became more intense.

Cheerilee looked at you, she just wanted to be sure. "Anon, is this true?"

You nod. "Yeah. They wouldn't listen to me when I said I wasn't a bad guy"

You weren't lying either . But you weren't going to defend them for their actions. Both for the fact that you weren't gonna deal with this bullshit and the fact that this should get them off their little crusade.

"...I see..." Cheerilee surmised it wasn't your fault and that both Snips and Snails were being overzealous "So he said he wasn't a bad guy and you both ganged up on him anyway?"

Snips gulped "Sorta… but he also said he'd take us on."

Cheerilee looked back at you "Is that true Anon?"

GODDAMN IT! "U-uh… ummm… sorta, I mean… they wouldn't listen when I told them they shouldn't go out looking for bad guys to fight. They just kinda went on and on. And I uhhh, I thought maybe if I just kind of, you know. deterred them without actually hurting them they would stop trying to find actual real trouble"

Cheerilee pondered on that. Then she looked at Snips and Snails one more time. "Did he hurt you boys at all?"

Snails shook his head "Nope, he didn't even touch me"

Snips just rubbed his head "Well uh, he banged my hero helmet… but uhhh… that's it."

"I see....I want both of you boys to go home right now. I'll have a chat with your parents tomorrow."

Snips and Snails looked down in shame, and together they just agreed with her and went on their way.Snips stopped to look at you one last time. He looked so disappointed with himself.

Well...you were sure this wouldn't be the last time you see them. "Well uhm...thanks Miss Cheerilee...uhh..nice to meet you again, I'm just gonna..."

Before you can do anything, Cheerilee interrupts you. "Oh I'm not done with you either young colt. If you don't have to go home right now. I'd like it if you would follow me so we can have a little chat."

That...could be taken in so many ways. You could lie to her. She'd never know. But, you're afraid of what she might do if you just ditch her. Your more adult sensibilities tell you you aren't actually in trouble. Hopefully anyway. You reluctantly shake your head. "No, I don't have to go home yet. A-am I in trouble?"

Miss Cheerilee's face slowly changed to a gentle smile "Oh no no no… but this whole thing has worried me. I just want to have a little talk with you is all. I think it's better if I learn a little about my newest student. A teacher has to always be prepared."

Hrnnnn… HRNNNNNNNNNNNNNN… Ok.

You decide to go along with her. Wondering what she wanted to talk about.

Chapter 44

You started reluctantly following your future teacher. She seemed to have a destination in mind as she started walking from where she came. She was, like every other mare, a cutie. And since you were going to be her student. You wanted to make a good impression.

"So ummm… what do you want to talk about Miss Cheerilee? Is it about me being in your class soon?"

She shook her head "No, though, now that you mention it… I noticed you don't seem too nervous about starting school in a place you aren't familiar with. I've never seen that before"

...Oh… you were supposed to be nervous about that? SHIFTING GEARS. "W-well, I'm a little nervous. There's gonna be a lot of kids there I never met… I hope they like me… I'm kinda scared that they won't"

"Well don't be. If it makes you feel better, I don't tolerate bullying in my class. And besides, as I understand it. I've heard from three certain students that you joined their club."

This… was a pretty casual conversation… huh. You felt pretty comfortable with this. "Oh… you mean AppleBloom and her friends? Y-yeah, they made me a crusader like them. It was… uhh… Well, it made me feel welcome."

Cheerilee giggled "I heard you actually had a little difficulty with that. Is it true you don't really care about Cutie Marks, Anon?"

...How to answer that?...Seems they have either been blabbing or they have been overheard. "...uhhmm...well. It's not that I don't care. It's just. Well..." She was an adult. Surely she would understand this reasoning. Maybe, you could actually have a sensible conversation without it being "HOLY SHIT YOU NEED A CUTIE MARK ANON!"

"I don't want to be defined by a single skill. I know they represent your "Special Talent". I don't want other ponies to look at me and say "Oh, he does this" or "He's only really only good at this one thing". I've given it some thought. Sometimes I think getting a Cutie Mark is a good idea, but when I'm alone and I think about it. It just seems to be a label to me. I mean, what if I'm equally good at like… five things?"

Cheerilee at first seemed a little confounded by your answer, she had to think. You started to think nobody your "age" has ever challenged such a concept before. "Well, Anon. I can already tell you that you'd be great on a debate team because that's a good argument" Cheerilee said to you, but she was smiling about it.

"Seriously? does that mean… uhhh... That I have a good point? That I'm right?"

"Well, you definitely have a good point. But I can't say if you're right or wrong Anon. There has never been a case where anypony, not even the princesses themselve, have ever been good at five things equally. But, if in the case that a pony was most skilled in five different areas, I would think the skill that ,even by a small tiny amount that goes over the four others, would be their Cutie Mark. Since that would be their "Special Talent". To put it simply Anon, a pony can be good at a lot of things, but they'd also have that one thing they are the very best at."

Ok, maybe five was reaching. "Well...uhh..how about a pony equally good at two things then?"

Cheerilee giggled "Come on Anon, do you know anypony that's equally skilled at two different things, it's a little unrealistic for anypony to have the exact same skill in two different arts, no?"

...ugh… no… most likely not. Even on Earth a guy can be multi talented but to expect them to be equally skilled in two different things. That was only in the movies. "...no, I guess not"

Cheerilee had to stop to laugh. It seems she found something about your answer funny.

It made you feel a little perturbed. "What's so funny?"

Cheerilee had to calm her giggling to give you an answer "Ohhohehe.. It's.. It's nothing. It's just. Here I am walking with a colt and I can swear I actually speaking to a Stallion. You're very intelligent for being very young Anon. Has anypony ever told you that?"

Yeah… Fluttershy… until Discord rekt you with that quiz. Still, even then. You couldn't feel honest about your intelligence since you weren't actually a kid. "Some ponies have..."

Cheerilee noticed your less than enthusiastic answer "What's the matter Anon?"

Nope, you don't want her wondering anything about that. You look up at her and smile.

"Oh no it's nothing. I'm just a little nervous. I mean, I haven't even really met you and now I'm walking with you alone. It's sort of..odd to me"

Cheerilee gave you a big big beaming smile "Well don't, I don't know how it was back at your orphanage. But Ponyville is one of the nicest places you could ever find yourself in. The ponies here, we help each other and look after one another and everypony usually always has a positive outlook on things. So don't worry, I'm not going to hit you… still, I guess you'd be a little on edge after what happened..."
She focuses on your black eye. "Nopony, especially one so young should have to go through what you went through… Anon, I hope those thugs didn't leave an impression on you. That kind of thing is very rare here."

Yeah… thugs are rare. Things like monsters and crazy chaos gods aren't. Still, she took your reaction the wrong way and was only trying to make you feel more comfortable.

"Thanks Miss Cheerilee… You're pretty nice for a teacher"

Cheerilee smirked "That's because you haven't broken any of my rules yet."

And you didn't plan to either. It shouldn't be that hard to obey a few school rules. "I don't plan to either. I don't know what impression you may have gotten due to my Dad, but I can assure you I'm pretty good at following the rules."

Cheerilee didn't say anything though, she stopped, to ponder at your words.

"Miss Cheerilee?"

You were wondering why she suddenly stopped, was it something you said? "Anon, did you take any kind of special schooling before you came here?" Cheerilee asked, curious

"What do you mean?" ...You started to think she noticed you're higher than normal kid intelligence.

"Well, It's just very rare for me to speak with a student who can use the words you use appropriately and can do such critical thinking. Usually when I speak to one of my students it's about sillier things. And here we are having a civilized and intelligent debate about Cutie Marks. I just thought you may have had some sort of higher form of education."

You shake your head, you didn't need her thinking into that. "No no nope, I just uhhh..I like to think a lot. Specially with who my dad is. I mean, haha. Being the son of the spirit of chaos really makes a pony think."

"Hmmm..." Cheerilee looked at you as if there was something more. But as she thought, she started to think that maybe prodding would be a bad idea. She actually had something related to Discord to ask you and she had fallen off track. And most of all she didn't want to upset you by digging into you about the subject too much. "Well then, I can only say I expect your work and effort to reflect all that deep thinking you do."

At first you wanted to groan… but you didn't. You didn't need too. You probably didn't need to put in too much effort at all. It was all kid stuff. But like everything else, best to give a smile and a salute. "Can do Miss Cheerilee!" And she followed suit with a smile.

You both arrived at a small garden with a few benches around, and a gazebo as well. The sun was finally starting to set, making the sky turn a golden orange. She sets her groceries down and takes a seat on a bench, and then invites you to sit next to her.

...Well, this was oddly romantic. But you didn't want to hesitate or stand around. Lest yet another female says something about… those kinds of things. But you did have to ask. "Why are we here Miss Cheerilee? I mean, this place seems a little secluded, don't you think?"

She didn't seem to understand your context, and just answered normally while looking up to the sky "I just thought this would be a good place to sit down and talk." She then looked at you, she looked pretty serious all of a sudden..."There's a few things I want to ask about you and your father. I don't mean to pry. But I always want to make sure all of my students, future or current, are doing alright."

So that's it. Even despite Discord's ruse, she still was worried about it all. Well… considering his display back at the school. She probably had good reasons to still worry about it. Being the adopted kid of a former villain would definitely raise some red flags. She was taking the opportunity to talk to you in a nice relaxing place to essentially interrogate you without it seeming too personal. Well, that's fine. You should be able to answer any question she might have without error.

But first, you had a question of your own. You wanted to understand why she took you to this bench..exactly. "Questions huh? Do you take all your students to secluded spots to ask them questions?”

Cheerilee shook her head "Not usually no, I talk to them after school, or if they want to talk to me alone about something they feel is important then I'll let them choose the spot. And I guess since I happened to bump into you that I'd be the one to ask you questions in a place that was serene and relaxing… Do you understand?"

You nod, that seemed reasonable. Miss Cheerilee probably had a deeper connection to her students than most. Considering she seemed to be the only goddamn teacher in town and she always seemed nice and caring on the show. It came to no surprise she'd actually take a more active role in her students care.

"Yeah, I got it. I'll answer any question you might have. I've got nothing to hide"

Cheerilee seemed a little surprised with that answer, she didn't think you'd be so forthcoming. She didn't even know where to start "oh..hmm..So I can ask you any question, and you won't hide anything from me?"

You shake your head. You wouldn't be held back by the guilt of having to lie about your relationship with Discord. The ends justified the means. Just as long as you weren't lying about EVERYTHING. "Nope, I'm like an open book. And just to show you, if you had a question about him abusing me in anyway. Then the answer is a big "no""

Cheerilee didn't say a thing. She had a whole round about way of getting to that line of questioning and you just unexpectedly nipped it in the bud. "Well… that's very good to know. hmmm.."

Seems she was stunned by your straightforwardness. You started to think if you could anticipate her questions. You could get them over with without her getting to a question you'd have trouble answering or make some sort of contradictory statement.
"..oh and he feeds me super healthy food, and he has shown me around town. I even got to meet Princess Twilight! oh, and I have my own room with books and a light and even a nice warm bed. And..AND..." You reach into your saddle bag and pull out the bag of bits and the map. "He gave me these!"

Cheerilee was definitely astonished now. Finally, your initiative seemed to finally pay off. Without a word, she pokes at the bag of bits, and when she heard the clanking of coins… "Wow...that's a pretty good amount of bits he gave you. Why did he give you so much?"

"Dunno… all he told me is that I could use it on whatever I want. I haven't got the chance to spend it… and looking at the sun. I don't think I'll get the chance to. I don't mind though, it's been an interesting day"

Cheerilee just looks up at the sun again. She couldn't think of any questions to actually ask now. You managed to convince her without getting into a whole series of questions you felt would be worthless. Looking at her, she was pretty cute. And being alone with her like this...You felt you had to ask a question of your own… but which one.

"Miss Cheerilee, can I ask you a question?"

She giggles "You might as well, since you just decided to give me all the answers before I could ask a single question"

"Well..uhh..I was just wondering...."

...No, you couldn't ask her about Big Mac...it'd seem to suspicious..But they did make a cute couple. You had to think of something else. You wanted to ask her something that never was addressed in the show… but what?! Dammit, she didn't have much to her… nah fuck it, it's hug time. There was something about these ponies that made hugs extra snuggly and warming to the heart. "...ummm....can I have a hug?"

Cheerilee again was surprised, she didn't expect that after you showed off your "Intelligence". "A hug?"

You nod. "Yeah...I like hugging, it makes me feel warm"

Unbeknownst to you, you had just made Cheerilee feel awful. She concluded the only reason you'd ask for a hug from a pony you barely knew was due to not having a mother. The only other student she knew who didn't have parents was Applebloom, but she had her sister, granny, and brother. You… well, she couldn't imagine Discord being too affectionate. As a teacher who cares about her student's well being, she couldn't say no.

She didn't even say a thing. She just wrapped you around her front legs and gave you a gentle squeeze. Unlike Fluttershy however, it didn't last as long as you'd hope. She gives you a gentle smile

Yeah… that was good enough. Just like every other mare. Her hug was calming, soothing, loving. It had to be this place itself. You knew when you got a hug. It was because they genuinely cared.

But then Cheerilee began to giggle again. it seems something struck her as funny.

"Did I do something funny?" You asked. Confused

She shook her head "No, I actually thought you asking for a hug was sweet. But now that I think about it. It seems pretty funny that'd you'd be so smart and yet ask for a hug. I hope you don't mind me asking what brought that along, do you?" She thought she already knew the answer. But she wanted to know how you felt. Because if it was a mother issue. She wanted to help you get through it with a few more helpful words.

"Umm..well.." Of course she'd ask. Asking for a hug out of the blue? Whatever, it was worth it. Because it also told you what kind of pony you'd be dealing with as a teacher. As long as you followed her rules then you'd have no issue with her. meaning no complications. And her caring nature means you could ask her for help in case you needed it. Equestrian history was, as proven by Discord, a little lost on you. "Well… don't go telling anypony..but I just like getting hugs from mares who are nice..it just makes me feel happy. I guess that's one of the reasons I like my Aunt Fluttershy, she gives me lots of hugs."

You didn't mind telling miss Cheerilee this. If anything you figured she'd keep it a secret and it'd help with making a connection with her. The kind of connection that'd hopefully mean she'd be as gentle natured as possible with you. It wasn't that you didn't mind gruff or hardened personalities. But they were all so goddamn cute. One of the things you remember from the boards you frequent was everyone wanting to hug the ponies, even cuddle fucking was a thing.

Welp, you were living the dream baby. You could even imagine hugging that commie pony Starlight Glimmer… almost… she was pretty sexy but she didn't seem too affectionate. Either way, you doubt you'd ever get a chance to meet her. Sad, you wonder what would happen if you butt heads with her about Cutie Marks… and hopefully not get magic zapped.

Miss Cheerilee gave you a shorter bonus hug and a pat on the head "You know, it makes me feel happy too. I now don't have any kind of worry that something might be wrong. Infact.." She laughs "You might actually make Discord a nice guy if you keep that up, considering he went after those two thugs that hurt you. I can already imagine he's already on the right track to bettering himself."
Miss Cheerilee then looked up at the sky and noticed it was getting dark. "Oh my! I didn't even realize it was getting so late… Anon, do you need me to escort you home? It's the last I can do keeping you here for so long"

You shake your head as you grab your map. "No need" You notice a fountain and walk close to it. All you had to do was toss the map into a body of water you could fit through. This seemed good enough. "In fact, I don't think you could get me home. Considering I live in another dimension. Here, check this out!"

You toss the map into the fountain. Causing the water to turn purple and swirl until it opens up to reveal your room on the other side. Neat! "See? Dad even gave me a super convenient way of getting home. So say, even if I got lost. I could just go home by tossing my map into a body of water. Cool huh?"

Yeah, that was pretty damn cool. This was the first time seeing it. You felt like a cool little magic caster from an RPG. even if the act was simple to do.

Cheerilee just stared at the whirling portal. She wasn't amazed at the portal itself. Magic was a normal thing of course. She was more amazed that Discord was being so generous with you. And looking at your room through the portal. It was just as you said it was. She didn't answer you back however, she just stared at the portal.

You toss your Saddle Bag into the portal, and it goes right on top of the bed… seems safe enough. You look up into the sky, it was indeed getting pretty dark. You look at Cheerilee. You took a moment to think about what transpired. Yeah, It probably wasn't too weird she spoke to you one on one like this. She was just worried about your situation and took the opportunity to make sure things were fine. It's not like she hasn't taken an active roll before. Her and Big mac did end up punishing the CMC for their own crazy antics with that love poison.

"It was nice talking with you Miss Cheerilee… you have a safe trip home ok?"

Miss Cheerilee smiled at you, yeah...she figured you'd be fine. But she was gonna stick around and make sure the portal didn't frag you or something "It was nice talking with you too Anon. I hope when you come to my class that you utilize that brain of yours for creative and wonderful things"

You nod as you begin to climb over the fountain's outer ledge. "I will, I promise. Seeya when I seeya!" And with that, you plop into the portal as Cheerilee waves and watches. The portal instantly closes behind you as it pops and turns back into the map. falling right beside you as you land on your bed

You snuggle up to your pillow a little as it gave off that radiant magical warmth. Everything was going fine so far. Every pony you've met besides two have been nice to you. You couldn't complain. It felt nice to be loved… loved… yeah, actually, there was a problem… two problems… you had to make sure to nip that in the bud tomorrow. For now, you'd relax… maybe see if Discord was home and see what he is up to.

Chapter 45

As you cuddled on your pillow, you could hear banging coming up from your door. It sounded like something was hitting pure stone.

"What the hell?....hmmm" You let go of your pillow and walk up to your floor door, and slowly open it.

You peek your head down, and before you was no longer a living room. But in fact a small garden with a bunch of statues of Discord. "..what the fuck?...This is a little, uhh, creepy… huh… Hey, Discord… you around?"

You here more banging and clanking coming from below. You decide to investigate. You place your hoof very carefully through the door and feel for the invisible gravity stairs. It was there...
You slowly make your way down from the ceiling to the ground of the statue garden and follow the noise to it's source.

Around you was various statues of Discord. He was in many different poses and costumes. It was pretty eerie. Almost as if he suddenly was capturing versions of himself that were turned to stone. They looked that good.

Finally, you spot him. He had a cap,goggles and a white shirt on as he used his talon as a chisel on a fresh slab of marble.

"What's all this?" You inquire

Discord stops and lifts his goggles to look at you "Oh Anon, you've returned. What do you think of my little garden?"

Creepy…

"Uhhh… It's nice I guess… but what's… uhh… what's this all about?"

"Well, since the train hobby didn't work out so well. I thought using my talents in chiseling and art would work out much better. And before you know it I had a whole garden of wonderful, beautiful, and quite charismatic me’s all around me. In fact, I even made a few Fluttershys to watch me work" He pointed towards a group of Fluttershy statues that looked like they were cheering him on…

creeeeeeeeepppyyyy...

"...uhhh...I uh.." This was so unsettling. It was like you were in Medusa's house. "I Didn't know you were so uhhh… good at making statues."

"Well Anon, one doesn't become a statue for one thousand years without picking up a thing or two. And I must say, having a bunch of me’s around is quite relaxing"

You'd say this was him just being lonely as fuck. But you knew that wasn't the case. He had Fluttershy, and anybody else that was willing to deal with him. He also had you. No, he really did mean what he said at face value… and holy fuck was it bizarre.

"Well uhh....Couldn't you have not turned the living room into the garden? What happened with the room you had the train set on?"

Discord looked at you, confused "It burned down remember? I couldn't do my work while it was still on fire"

"Yeah, didn't you like… magic the fire away or something? It can't possibly still be o… you know what… I'm not even going to finish that sentence because it probably still IS on fire… isn't it?"

Discord nodded. "Well, it is dangerous to try to calm the fire on my lonesome… though.." He rubs his chin "I suppose I could have made another room… but" He shrugs "The living room seemed the most sensible choice."

Course... Though, you couldn't be mad or hateful about this. It was his house, and Fluttershy did suggest he get a hobby. Nah, he's been pretty cool recently too. No reason to put him down. "Well, whatever makes you happy. So, is it just a whole bunch of yous and a few Fluttershys?"

Discord shook his head "Of course not. If it was just a bunch of mes and Fluttershys one might suggest I was obsessed. No, if you just turn the corner past the me with the mustache you'll see a small collection I made of another pony."

....huh..

"Alright, I'll go have a look see"

You walk past the Discord statue with the curly mustache and look around the corner. Besides the statues were walls of bushes… like a hedge maze. ".......woah..is that..."

The group of statues....they were of you. There was only a few. But… they looked remarkably like you in pony form. One was just a normal pose. The other was Discord holding you so tight that you looked like you were going to gag. And the last one was Discord shaking your hoof… but your face looked frizzled. Your eyes bugged out, and your mane and tail zig zagged… the fuck?

"Discord… what's uhh… why do I look so weird on that last one?"

Discord hovered over to take a look. "Oh that one?" He chuckled "I like that one. I call it "Ode to a joy buzzer""

...Oh… it's one of those… Still, you looked at the one where he was hugging you tightly, and then the normal one… then the one with the joy buzzer. All in amazing quality. You wondered why he would even make these. "So, why did you make these?"

"Why not? I figured it'd be nice if I made a few of my only son."

..hmmm..No...he had to have a better reason than that. You didn't see statues of anyone else.
"Is that the only reason? I mean..you made three of these. You could have only made one..and there’s one where you are hugging me....sorta..."

Discord was getting annoyed now, Seems he wasn't too keen on answering "Anon, Why do you need another reason? Isn't the one I gave you heartwarming enough for you?"

....ehh..no, it was his generic response at this point. You weren't really his son. "Nope, if you didn't want me to get curious you shouldn't have showed them to me. Come on Discord. I live with you, just tell me what's up so I don't have to feel like some creepy stuff is going down in the place I live at."

"hmph, you don't have any actual standing in this house… Oh wait… Yes you do. hrnnnn...." Discord laughed at himself "I can't actually be rid of you at all. It's as if I pranked myself. You'd think I'd be angry, but it's just too funny!"

You roll your eyes. "Yeah yeah, ha ha… stop avoiding my question and just answer it."

"Ohhhhhh...." Discord raised you up with his magic to eye level, he looked amused "you're demanding things of me again? Just because we're "roomies" doesn't mean you have a right to my private thoughts. There, don't you feel awful now?"

Hahahaa… no. You look at him with a smirk, you found that funny. "Who do you think I am? Twilight or something? You know that I don't give a damn just like you don't give a damn about privacy."

Discord chuckled "That's a good point." Then he started tapping at chin again, thinking. "hrn...I suppose I will tell you then. The real reason for these statues. You see Anon. It appears I've actually grown to like you. In a different way of course. Whereas Fluttershy is kind, nice, and makes me feel warm. You bring out what I like to passionately call, my "playful" side. You Anon, have not only managed to meet my expectations. But sometimes you even… well… exceed them. A very hard accomplishment indeed. Fluttershy was indeed right. I do like having a friend who I can talk to about all things chaotic. Of course, she can never know we actually have some fun actually committing a few… well… acts of chaos. Not the ones we've committed so far anyway. I'm sure when we get around with that suggestion you had about the changelings, then perhaps she'd be all ears to enjoy the tale of a us toying with a villain. But… there we go Anon. That's the very truth of it."

...Hoah… He just said all of that as if it was all good… And, it really was all good. It seems he took what Fluttershy told him in that episode with Tree Hugger seriously. Though, he had to essentially kidnap you to make it work. He actually considered you a friend.

"...you really mean all that? I mean, it seems kinda weird for you to just say that without more of a fight."

Discord nods "I do, friends don't fight each other over such trivial things. Since you wanted to know so badly why I made the statues. Then who am I to fight it? You're right. We live together, and therefore we have to care about each other and be friends. And, I'm glad it's you Anon. There was many candidates I could have chosen. But thankfully, my first choice was my best. You're… you're one of the best friends I've ever made… I suppose, it just upsets me when you get angry at me. I know I deserve it sometimes though."

Discord started to tear up. Oh geez, you actually made him sad. That was possible? Mnnn… now you started to feel bad.

"Ahh come on man… It's fine. I mean… I'm glad to be your friend. We started out pretty rocky. But damn, we actually make a good team.You're a fun guy Discord. And you made my wish come true. I know at first I could have been more grateful, but, you know, you were sort of a dick. But, mnn, I didn't know you cared that much. Yeah, no. I'm really glad to be your friend too Discord."

Discord, still teary eyed, looked at you with a growing smile "You really mean that? You're… really glad to be my friend?"

You nod. "Yep, it's fun. I can actually talk to you normally… sorta… about things. And under all that crap you pull, you actually treat me pretty good. You gave me a room, good food, you even helped me make friends. A little uncharacteristic of you. But hey, nobody's perfect right?"

You laugh, thinking you made a pretty good reverse joke. Discord has a bit of a chuckle too. Then he extends his talons to you "Put it here pal, to everlasting friendship"

Awww… yeah, how could you not. "To everlasting friendship"

You extend your hoof to his talons as he grasps you. the next moment you feel a huge surge of electricity surge through you.

"GDFDSFDSFDSFDFUFKCAEDAISDASKADAWDEWHWSA"

Discord, still holding you looks at you, then the statue of you getting zapped, then back at you "Darn… the mane and tail aren't supposed to be zig zaggy at all. They are supposed to be frazzled, how could I have made such an oversight. Now I'll have to start all over"

"FSDFSDFSDFSDFCSERFSEFDFSDF"

"And to think I actually spent an extra ten minutes trying to get it perfect and it all turned out wrong. Gee, I sure hope I'm not slipping with my old age."

"FSASFDASWDASDASDEFEFSAFS"

"Well… I'm not that old. only tens of thousands of years maybe. I'm as young as a foal. Hmmm, perhaps too young. Well, I suppose being a tad mismatched is a good trade off for my devilish good looks… what do you think Anon?"

"DDFDSFDSFDSFESFSDEFSDF"

"Oh who asked you? you wouldn't know a good looking Draconequus if they came up and did naughty things to you."

"DSFDSFSDEFSEFSEFSDSVFSD"

"Oh now you're just being downright mean. I don't think I want to shake your hoof anymore. And to think I thought we were on "Super good friend" terms"

"FDSFDSFSFSEFES"

Discord acted surprise "Ohhhhh… that's what you meant. Well why didn't you say so?"

Discord let's you go as you fall to the ground, shaking from the shock, Smoke coming from your ears. And although it was extremely painful. You were actually nowhere close to death due to it just being a chaotic piece of Discord's magic. Still, You couldn't even speak.

"tch tch, staying up to the point you can barely even move. Alright...fine...it seems I'll have to actually take being a father seriously and tuck you into bed." Discord rolled his eyes

Discord picked up your shaking stunned form and teleported into your room. Where he gently placed you on the bed and gave you a pat. Your body was still shaking however from the magical zapping. You weren't even coherent.

"You'll be like that for a little while longer Anon. I...I..HAHAHA" He started laughing mainacally "I CAN'T BELIEVE YOU ACTUALLY FELL FOR THAT! HAHAHAHAH...oh....yes...It's one of the best laughs i've had with you yet… still. I hope this doesn't put a damper on our friendship. I actually did mean what I said… for the most part anyway."

Discord puts the blanket over you "Now you get some rest now Anon, I could only fathom how busy you'll be tomorrow. I'll have breakfast ready for you for when you wake up."

You weren't really listening, you were still shaking and stunned.

"......hmmm..."
As he watched you shake and suffer, Discord sighed to himself and snapped his talons as the feeling of being shocked left your body. But the feeling was so overwhelming anyway, that you knocked out immediately.

Discord shook his head "Way to be a killjoy Anon, I pull a little prank on you and you have to make it look all serious. Hmm… you're not even listening are you? Fine, perhaps I won't pull that kind of prank next time. Since all it does is make you boring and annoying… hmm… Still not listening. Well then, pleasant dreams Anon."

Discord readied himself to leave with a snap. But after taking another look at you, he stopped for a moment. He sighed to himself. ".....hrn...I suppose one more statue is in order before I myself retire for the night." And then finally, he leaves you to rest in your shocking state of sleep.

Chapter 46

The next morning, you slowly wake up with a yawn. Oddly enough, you felt really good this… wait

You lay upwards, eyes widened. You immediately realized you fell asleep downstairs. You look around and see you were out of the statue garden and back in your room. "The hell happened?"

You try to think of everything that happened. You saw creepy statue garden. Discord was making statues. Made a few of you even, heartwarming moment… then… nothing. The last thing you could remember was reaching to give him a hoofshake.

"....weird...why can't I remember? I don't just lose track of memories like that..." But you couldn't remember. The gigantic shock from Discord's magic joy buzzer was too overwhelming, and being magically knocked out made sure you'd never be able to remember. But you were still curious.

"...Did he knock me out? Hrn... Well… at least he put me in my room, still… geez, what did he do and… huh?"

You notice a new door, right next to your bed. It was a red door with a dial next to it. The dial had four different colors on it. You go to investigate. "Is this a closet?... Why would I need this? I don't need clothes anymore… and what's with this dial?"

You tap it, but are wary enough not to twist it. You decide to open the door and take a peek. Upon opening it, you are blasted with sunlight. "Gyah geez!"

You put your hoof over your face as you let your eyes adjust to the light. You look past the door, before you was Ponyville. "Woooah cool, Wait..." You step outside the door, then quickly back inside. "....damn, thats pretty neat. What is this anyway?"

You close the door, having watched many cartoons and movies before. You started to guess what the dial does. You give it a twist and open the door. Upon opening it, you could see Fluttershy's Cottage… haha, super neat. With a growing smile, you close the door and try the third option.
You open the door, what you saw was a dank,dark forest. Was it the Everfree? "....nope"

You close the door, and try the last setting. You put your hoof on the knob. But you hesitate. "This one....for all I know this one is a joke." Whatever. Whatever it could be, you could just close the door before it rushes you. You take a breath, and open the door on the final setting.

...wait… Beyond the door was crystals and homes and a grand palace… this… this was the Crystal Empire. "...is this a joke? If it is… I don't get it. Why here?" You almost felt like taking a step out. But you had no business there. And you had work to do today.

You close the door. You go to the floor door that leads to the living room and open it. You peer downwards, the living room was back to normal. And you could smell a familiar breakfast treat coming from the room. "...Is that bacon and eggs?"

You descend the invisible gravity stairs to the floor of the living room and discover Discord already putting down a plate with bacon, scrambled eggs, and biscuits. He looks at you with a smile. "Ahhh, good morning Anon. Slept well I hope."

You did, still, you were wondering about why you just were sleeping at all. Ahhh, but that beautiful smell was so distracting… alluring. You approached the table and looked at the plate. "Is that mine?"

Discord nodded "Of course, I thought a more traditional breakfast would be appropriate today. One you were familiar with and would enjoy."

You sit down at the table, you better fucking believe you'd enjoy some bacon. "..wow, thanks Discord. Oh geez… it smells so good."

You begin to dig in immediately… oh god, it was so damn good. Ohhh… lovely… yummy bacon. You munch,chew, and enjoy your breakfast. It seems Discord himself wasn't pulling anything off today either. Good, because you were going to be busy… but still.

You swallow a glob of food then look at Discord. "Hey Discord, can I ask you a question about last night?"

"Hmmm? Oh, let me guess. It's about you suddenly waking up on your bed, right? You don't remember what happened?"

"No, what, did something happen?"

Discord hovered above you and gave you a pat on the head. "Something did, but nothing for you to worry about Anon. The important thing is that you have quite the day ahead of you. And I thought I'd show you something that might boost your morale!"

Wait… but what happened? "Discord, hold on. What did you do last night? Just knock me out? Why? I'm curious" He hasn't pulled anything on you yet… this… seemed like a normal conversation.

"Well I was working Anon, I didn't need the chance of you waking up and looking at my magnum opus of statues before I finished"

What?...so he just knocked you out to keep a secret? ok?...you didn't know if you should be annoyed by that. probably not, the breakfast was keeping you rather satisfied. "I could have just gone to bed you know?But..I guess this "Magnum Opus" is meant to be some sort of special surprise?" You smirk. "You know if it's some sort of horror monster thing, then I'm already prepared. You are getting pretty predictable, you know that right?"

Discord snickered as he stared at you, snapping his talons to make a large object appear behind him covered in a tarp. "Oh? Is that a challenge? that I can't surprise you?"

You nod, returning his smirk. "It can be the most vile thing in the universe and unless you actually mean to kill me… which you don't… Then you got nothing."

Discord grabbed the sheet and looked at you with a hard and malicious stare. "Ok Anon, let's see how you handle this then. I promise you that this is something you'd never EVER be able to predict."

You turn and stand the ready, even if it jumped at you. You wouldn't die. You had this. "Do it"

"Prepare yourself Anon...FOR THIS!!!" Discord pulls the sheets off the large figure.

You're rock steady preparation was instantly broken. What you saw… he was right… you weren't expecting it at all. "I-is that...?"

What stood before you wasn't a stone monster. It wasn't a hideous formed creature. No, It was a three part statue. a stone Discord with a fez and robe was smoking from a pipe, standing over and smiling down at a stone Fluttershy who was laying on her belly, covering a stone you with her stone wing as you slept.

...You couldn't say a damn thing. Your mouth just hung open. Discord moved close to you, and gently closed your mouth. Smiling a jovial smile "Did I win?"

...No way. You go over to the statue and look it over. The detail, the craftmanship....the feels… "Discord… what is all this?"

"It's a series of statues...what does it look like?"

"No no...I mean. What's with the scene. It's me..you..and Fluttershy. It's as if-"

"We're a family?" Discord nods "That's what you were going to say, right?"

You silently nod, still examining it.

"No doubt you're wondering why too. Well Anon. I felt, since the three of us get along so well and consider ourselves a family of sorts. I felt I should make something that perfectly represents it. What do you think?"

You were amazed. "It's… really good. It's just. It's also really serene and nice. I didn't expect this at all. It… I mean, just looking at it. I know I've never been a pony before… but this scene feels nostalgic. It makes me feel… well… eh..." You stop. "...now i'm sounding like a nerd"

Discord rested his back in mid air and looked up at the ceiling. "Oh no no, do go on. I want to hear ALL your critique"

You hesitate, it seemed really dorky to you. But...he wasn't insulting you...maybe it'd be good to let your guard down. just this once. "It makes me feel the feels Discord. This whole thing makes it seem that we're an actual family. And you know, it… well… considering I'm pretty much starting my life over from scratch, looking at this just makes me kind of wish it was actually like this… you know?"

Discord span in mid air to straighten himself out and flew over to the statue "Well Anon, I am quite happy with your review of my statue set. As for your feelings. It may not actually be like this. But I do like to consider us friends, and I know Fluttershy is already affectionate with you already. Come now, you're an adult deep inside. What you have should be good enough, don't you think? You are the luckiest being of your race, remember that."

You were… He was right. Expecting more than what you already have is selfish. And now that you had the freedom. You could do so much more for you… OH SHIT!

"AHHHHH! OH SHIT! I ALMOST FORGOT! DIAMOND TIARA AND SILVER SPOON!"

You look over to Discord and run under your door "DISCORD, I GOTTA GO! I GOT SOME SHIT TO DO!"

Discord wasn't insulted or annoyed, and just waved at you "Good luck Anon, I hope you enjoy your new door. Don't forget your map so you can get back"

You rush up the gravity stairs, and then look down at Discord one last time "I won't...and..really good work on that statue Discord! Seeya later! Take care!..geez shit!"

You close the door,and look for your map. It seems to have changed back from a portal to a map and fell to the ground. You grab it, put it in your saddle bag, and change the dial to the Ponyville setting, open the door. and dash off.

Time to set things right.

Chapter 47

You look left and right, getting your bearings.

"Ok… first thing's first. I gotta go get Diamond Tiara… Because I don't know where Silver Spoon lives." You pull out your map and give it a look. "Let's see… her house isn't marked. But I remember it being in this direction. All I gotta do is get in this general area and I should be able to figure it out"

You close the map and put it in your saddle bag. You look behind you to close the door. But it had already vanished.

"...Right… temporary door. Probably to make sure nobody else uses it." You look around, a few ponies seem to be staring at you awkwardly. "...Gotta stop talking to myself out loud… uhh..."

You just dash off without saying another word. The ponies that were around you just shrugging and going on with their day.

It takes a while, as you get lost once or twice, but you manage to to find the correct road and head straight to DT's house.

As you get closer, you look at yourself. You brush off your chest and lick your hoof and try slicking back your mane. It doesn't really work, you use your hoof to feel your mane and get a general idea of how it looks. "Eh...good enough..I think..." Or maybe it wasn't? "I need a mirror so badly right now..."

You rush up to the door, you were a little anxious. You just had to get DT and SS together and talk to them. shouldn't be too hard. No matter who answered the door, you were pretty much welcome here now, and you were a hero. A definite plus.

You take a breath. and knock on the door. You wait.

The door opens. But who is behind it is not DT, nor Filthy Rich, not even a maid...it was...some oldish looking purple maned pony with a haggish nose… who the fuck? Probably some background pony you missed.

"Umm...Hi..is Diamond Tiara here right now?" It was early, she had to be home.

But… even then. This pony said nothing. She looked down at you, with judging eyes. What was with her? "Anon...I presume?"

...oh shit..she knows you somehow… well wait duh. Of course she would. Word was spreading after all.

You give her a cute childlike smile. "Yup! Hello miss… ummm"

But she didn't react to your whimsical words or your smile. In fact, it seemed to make her look more… snooty... and even sinister.

"Hmph… save it. What business does somepony like you have with my daughter?"

Wait… DAUGHTER?! No… This couldn't be… No way...

You quickly cataloged in your mind every pony you could think of. From Golden Delicious to Harshwinny… nope… no Filthy Rich wife.

Whoever she was. She didn't look pleased that you were there. The vibes you got from her were vibes you didn't even sense from Diamond Tiara...it was dark.

"Umm… Well, I just wanted to talk to her Miss Rich ma'am."

"...ahhh, it wouldn't be about the relations with her best friend...would it?"

Ok...that was....very creepy. Her face was unchanging too, she was just… eyeing you with a look of disapproval.

"Y-yeah… but, how did you know about that?"

"It's not so hard to find out when the poor little dear comes knocking at the door in the very early morning begging for my precious daughter's friendship back. Of course, hearing how it happened. I couldn't help but intervene and make sure their friendship was mended."

Goddamn it Silver Spoon… no fucking self control. Still… that was mighty convenient, and actually cool of this scary looking mare…

Still, you had to talk to DT about her feelings for you. "So...is Diamond Tiara home then?"

She shook her head, but her eyes… they never stopped looking down on you. "She's at school, somewhere you should be. But of course, a delinquent urchin like yourself wouldn't be there. No, you'd instead come here. Trying to further your insidious little plot."

What… what did she? Where the fuck did that come from? You were caught off guard. "U-umm, what?"

She stepped closer to you, her presence. This wasn't like Diamond Tiara or Discord. You could sense actual full hatred. You've never seen someone look down on you like this before...not even on the show have you seen this come from a pony.

"Don't play innocent with me. Do you honestly believe that some markless, unwanted, little thug would be adopted by Equestria's most heinous degenerate simply to be "Father and Son". And then… by chance… meet my daughter and share a punishment engineered by said degenerate. Who most likely… somehow… coaxed my husband into it. And then… oh so conveniently… beat down some lowly foalnappers… who just appeared from seemingly nowhere to kidnap my daughter? Tell me Anon, should I continue? Or have you realized how obvious you and your father's little plot is?"

No… you knew what she was getting at. And she was… mostly kind of wrong. She was obviously thinking you were trying to get a piece of the pie. When you were just looking for a way out of an initial fuck up you made.

"Look, I don't know what you think. But whatever it is. You're wrong."

She she snorts her nose at you. "Oh really? The fact that my daughter is even infatuated with you was enough for me to realize what was truly going on. But you see Anon, I'm her mother… and you are gutter trash. And your title of "Little hero" is a laughable farce. All I had to do was nip that infatuation in the bud and that was that. You and your father's plan has failed. So whatever you planned to do here, it's over."

...That was exactly what you were trying to do. But you couldn't celebrate… this bitch. Holy shit, no sense of kindness in her.

You were starting to lose your patience, and you looked her directly in the eye. "Look, I know what you're getting at. And I promise you, I really promise. I was just trying to get your daughter not to be "infatuated" with me anymore and to get her to be friends with Silver Spoon again. So, can we just take a step back. Smile, and uhh...try greeting eachother again?"

She stopped for a moment. ok..good progress... But her face, it doesn't stop it's look of utter disgust. "So you say. Alright, I'm actually a very understanding mare..."

Ok… Sorta good… So why did she look so disgusted with you still. "Let's assume what you say IS true. That would mean despite being a hero. You are still a foul tongued little beast who simply got lucky. And in your luck, you caused two fillies with an actual future to lose their friendship due to your careless actions. Furthermore, you seem to think you can do whatever you wish. I had to come all the way from Manehatten to fix the series of mistakes you caused. And what do you do? You just come here, thinking you can just talk to my daughter and destroy her heart. And do you know what I find most vile about this "Truth"?"

You were afraid to answer. the hell… The fucking hell?!

She moved her head closer to yours, and made sure your eyes were locked to hers before she spoke. "That my Diamond Tiara would even associate with vermin like you. You are nothing but a blank flank that nopony wanted. Filth picked up by one who surrounds himself in it. And your sense of etiquette is so nonexistent that you let this chain of events happen without thinking once that there could be consequences. As expected from a blank flank thug."

You were silent… not because there was a possibility that she was right. But… holy shit. She was the opposite of Filthy Rich and was just Diamond Tiara turned up to eleven.

She lifted her head and took a breath, her eyes never leaving yours "Now then, I am not unreasonable. You are still a child after all. I am willing to overlook your careless errors on one condition..."

You had to shake your head. Who the FUCK did she think she was?! You wanted to deck her so goddamn hard. How the fuck dare she. But… No… No no… you couldn't. But… why?! Discord was pretty damn powerful. If he had just fucking fixed it or something. or not go so roundabout in his execution. This wouldn't have happened. Or hell, just snap his talons and make this bitch shut her fucking trap. But… he made it clear that your mistakes would be on you. And he worked so hard… sorta… on getting himself a better reputation for the sake of Fluttershy. Ogh… you couldn't smack this bitch. No matter how hard you wanted to. But… the fuck? She seemingly just poofs out of nowhere and is just the worst fucking pony ever.

You sigh deeply, letting your anger leave you as much as possible. And just ask. "What?"

"You will NEVER go near my daughter, my husband, or this home again. The same with your disgusting father. Because If I ever find out that you made any kind of contact. I will make sure you don't even know the MEANING of the word "parent". Trust me Anon, having your papers be re-reviewed is very easy for an upstanding pony such as myself "

Christ… Well… you didn't really, sort of plan to. But, that was just. How could Filthy have married this chick? No wonder Diamond Tiara was an asshole. "Fine, I can do with that..."

You wanted to finish with "and to hell with your fucking shitty ass family"...but you held your tongue. One to avoid her taking action, another because the only good one in the whole family was ironically the guy making the most fucking money.

"Good, now turn around and leave… I've already wasted too much time on you as is."

...This bitch. How could she even live up to that threat? Your dad was fucking Discord. And Twilight herself reviewed the papers and even became the "social worker". There's no way she could live up to it. But if your saturday morning senses have taught you anything. Background people were stupid and would raise their torches and pitchforks at anything a bitch like this put to the table. Otherwise, this would be the only real pony you could think of that you'd give zero shits dying.

And because of that. you played nice. But your blood was boiling. You felt, if she added Fluttershy to the mix, that the gloves would have come off. And you would have destroyed her there and then.

...you didn't want to say anything more. You simply nod. But you make sure to give her the nastiest look you could, to let her know you didn't approve. But she just smiled back at you. Her first smile, just of her triumph.

...Bitch... if it wasn't for the fact that she had a significant hold on others opinions… or the fact that you think she has… you really would just consider slamming her shit in for that crap. She turns and looks back at you, waiting for you to leave the premises. Getting the hint, you step away, and leave. Anger bubbling inside of you.

You wander off in an aimless direction. Silently cursing whoever that was. You didn't even get her name. The bitch wasn't even courteous enough to give a goddamn name.

"...bitch… cunt… faggot… how dare she? I'm fucking ten times the fucking pony she is. Fuck, I'm not even originally a pony and I can outsmart any of these guys… I have saturday morning smarts dammit… and yet I couldn't fucking outtalk that smug bitch… ugh, I feel like a cuck..."

You frown, holy shit. You were now really down. You find a silent and secluded spot to sit. and raise your right hoof and look at it.

"...and even with all my smarts I couldn't win that confrontation… Because I'm a kid here. Christ, is this how spongebob felt in the movie?" You lay back against the wall. "Whatever, it's fine...." It wasn't. "Diamond Tiara is out of my hair, and I'm free to do whatever I want… That's a plus… So why do I still feel like shit? It's not as if that meeting should have meant anything to me… she just basically did my job for me..."

But you knew why. She slammed your shit in verbally. And, you even felt it for Discord. She didn't hold back for him, or even you despite your new form. If that came from Chrysalis or Tirek, you probably wouldn't have cared at all, they were just villains after all. But this bitch just popped out of nowhere, and being a Rich. She could possibly go through with her threat and ruin everything...

You slumped forward, looking down. "...What a cruddy day..." You didn't even feel like doing much else. Who knows what the Mane 6 are up to?... Probably busy...

...Maybe you could hang out with Lyra and Bon Bon again? They didn't seem so bad. You kind of wanted to try to hang with Ponk or even Fluttershy. But you didn't want to worry Fluttershy. And you didn't want Ponk to know you were sad just because she might make it into a bigger thing. You just wanted this to be contained.

You pull out your map, and point your hoof towards the location of where you first met them. That was Bon Bon's house. Yeah, they'd probably wonder why you aren't at school. But eh, easily explainable. Since you weren't going quite yet.

Chapter 49

"Heya Anon! Did you come for the hat sale?" Lyra asked with a cheerful smile. Well, that explains the small gathering. There was a sale.

Well, considering you were feeling better. You guessed that's what you were there for. You nod. "Yup, came to find me a cool and stylish looking hat."

Bonbon smiled, she was happy to hear in your tone that you were no longer in a slump. "A cool and stylish looking hat, huh? Did something change? Or do you just want to impress somepony?" Lyra teased

"Oh no no, I just want to try on hats and find one that looks really nice on me."

"Ooohhhh, I getcha." Lyra nods, then looks to Bonbon "What kind of hat are you gonna get Bonbon?"

Bonbon smiled. "I was thinking we could get matching hats. I want to have the same and best kind of hat that my best friend would have"

"Oh. My. Celestia! I was thinking the same thing!" Lyra cheered

"Best friends!" They both cried as they gave eachother a hug. Cute.

You could hear the bustle of other ponies within the small crowd. Talking about what hats they want, or getting one to replace another. It seems the front door wasn't open. But you could see a meek mare inside with a greyish white coat. A green mane, and was wearing a red top hat. She was putting up a sign that said "All hats off between 50-75%! Only today. Last year's Nightmare Night's hats are 85% off." This sign got everyone excited as the shopkeep went to the door.

"Oh my gosh! Check that out! That's practically a steal! You'd think there would be more ponies around" Lyra smiled, excited that the doors were going to open soon.

"Well, the sale was only advertised yesterday. I guess not that many ponies need hats." Bonbon added, she wasn't as jumpy or bubbly about this as Lyra

"Why so cheap though? Surplus of hats?" You asked

Bonbon nodded "That's my guess since the sale includes hats from last year's Nightmare Night."

"Huh..."

You shouldn't be surprised. Most ponies you've seen don't even wear clothes. You only really saw a bigger mass of clothes wearing ponies in Canterlot.

And with that, the doors finally open as a rush of ponies rush into the door. You nearly get trampled until you feel yourself get lifted up into the air. "Ahh! What, huh?!"

Lyra's horn was glowing, she gave an annoyed look at the crowd "Sheesh, talk about a morning rush. You ok, Anon?"

You look down on her, awww… She protected you from being mushed. You nod at her and smile "Thanks Lyra, yeah I'm fine."

Bonbon shook her head "I swear, sales like these brings out the worst in ponies"

Lyra gently puts you down and looks towards her friend "I know, but let's not let it put us down. Come on, Let's buy some hats!"

The three of you enter the hat store. And… there was actually quite a wide selection to choose from. The store itself was cozy with red carpet and red painted walls with a small chandelier on top. It seemed to go with the shopkeep's Red top hat. She herself was at the register, already dealing with customers.

The hats themselves were plentiful. Top hats, caps, bowler hats, fedoras, bonnets, Adventurer hats like Daring Do or Indiana Jones, cowboy hats, and even party hats. In the Nightmare Night section were things like knight helmets, witch's hats, tiaras and crowns, Wonderbolt replica goggles, and even a few masks.

"Wooooooow! I don't even know where to start!" Lyra was looking every which way, she was so giddy

Bonbon was slowly scanning the shop "Well, let's just look through it one by one until we find the one we want.. hmmmnn..." Bonbon picks up a Fedora and shows it to you "How about this Anon, it looks pretty classy"

You hold back a cringe, and just smile nervously. Nope, you learned the curse of the neckbeard when it came to those things. "O-oh, it looks classy… but ummm, I'm looking for something just a little different."

Bonbon shrugs "Suit yourself"

Lyra was quickly trying on hat after hat. She put on a sun hat with a green ribbon around it and looked in the mirror… aww… with a white sun dress she'd look adorable. "Bonbon, Anon! Lookie lookie! Don't I look great in this?"

She turned to the both of you with a radiant smile that matched the look of the sunhat. Unf...

Bonbon nodded with a smile "That looks great!do they have one with a ribbon that matches my mane? I wouldn't mind wearing one of these during a hot day."

Lyra could only see ones with green ribbons. But she just continued smiling "Nope, but it's not like we can't just add that ribbon ourselves. What do you think Anon?"

"It looks really nice Lyra. It actually looks really cute on you."

Lyra's smile became a little more of the sensual sort as she giggled "Cute huh? Are you sure you don't have a crush on me?"

G-geez, come on. Don't do that… unf. You blush and start looking in different directions as to not focus on her face, She was giving you the bedroom eyes. "N-no, I just think it looks cute."

Both Bonbon and Lyra giggled. "Come on Lyra, don't tease him. If you keep that up he might really get a crush on you. And if that happens, then what are you going to do?"

Lyra giggled "I don't know, but it would be nice to have a box of chocolates every now and again."

Bonbon laughed "Lyra, that's terrible!"

...Oooogghhhh… You were getting them funny feelings. You wouldn't mind sticking your colt dick into Lyra at all… If only she was serious about it. Agh… Lewd thoughts. You had to turn away completely and just look at some random hats. "I'm uhh...just gonna look for a hat for myself."

Lyra laughed, she was just having fun with you. Nothing mean. But she may have overdone it a little. "Ok Anon, me and Bonbon our going… wait… Do you have any money on you to get a hat?"

You turn your head and nod. While in the corner of your eye, you noticed something peculiar at the window.

"Yup, and looking at these prices. I can definitely afford anything here. " You take your time browsing as Lyra and Bonbon get in line.

As you search, you look out the window… You thought you saw the CMC chasing down Diamond Tiara… Nah… That's insane. "huh..."

You go back at browsing through hats and pick up the indiana jones hat and try it on. "This… this would be the only fedora I'd wear… but eh.." You put it down. "Still...I need something better..."

You continue to browse. You didn't need a top hat. You already had one of those… hrnn… You wondered how Lyra would react if you wore that little ensemble of class Discord gave you.

Hrnnnn… So many to choose from. You try a regular baseball, or… hoofball cap on. It's white with a black trim and end. You twist it backwards and look at yourself in the mirror. "Totally 90s.."

It didn't look that bad actually. It was simple and seemed to compliment your own cuteness. And it was one of the cheapest things to buy. Yeah, you'll take this one.

You head over to the Nightmare Night stuff. You were sure you didn't need any of these, since Discord probably would whip you up something that would be exactly as you described.

Then you notice something. There was a horn. It looked like Sombra's. It could have been the one that broke. But looking at the string connecting to it's sides meant that it was you were supposed to attach it to your head. It was definitely a replica. Still....even with the 85% off. It was pretty expensive. You wondered why. Kind of made you want to buy it. You open your saddle bag and get the pouch of bits and start counting. Yeah, Discord was pretty generous with this. You had enough. That was cool of him to give you that much money when he didn't have to. Then again… he probably never needed money.

You take the horn and walk up to Bonbon and Lyra. They let you into the line, and the other ponies around don't seem to protest. good good. "Well, I'm gonna get this cap and this Sombra horn."

Lyra looked at the Sombra horn "What's with the horn Anon? That isn't a hat"

You shrugged. "It was from the Nightmare Night section. Thing's pretty expensive too even with the huge discount."

Bonbon rubbed under her muzzle, perplexed "That's weird, it's just a silly looking horn. I wonder why it would cost so much."

"Dunno… just gonna ask the shopkeep about it when it's my turn to pay" And with that you three wait.

As you wait, Lyra magically slips her sunhat on you and has a bit of a giggle. mentioning that you looked pretty girly with it on. You laugh a little, but feel embarrassed enough to take the sunhat right off and put it on her head instead. Nuh uh, you weren't no girl.

After Lyra and Bonbon got their sunhats, it was time for you to pay. You put the Sombra Horn on the counter and ask the shopkeep about it.

"Excuse me ma'am, what's with the price on this horn?"

The meek young mare with the silly red top hat looks at it, then at you. She looked nervous. Not about the horn, but in general. "That's a magically infused horn. You put it on your forehead and give it a tap and it creates an illusionary ethereal mane and dark magic filled eyes. Of course, the illusion isn't complete unless you get a costume with it too… Sad nopony bought it, everypony was big on the whole Tirek thing that nobody cared about poor Sombra..."

Suddenly everybody gave the shopkeep an odd, shocked look. She looked left and right nervously "I-I meant about the horn...n-not the actual Sombra." With collectives "ohhs" and "ahh rights" they went back to their business.

"So… if I just put it on my head, I'll look all evil and stuff?" You ask.

The shopkeep nodded. You started to think on why you'd even need the horn. Actually, you could probably use it for something… maybe even ask Discord to give it a few enhancements… for reasons.

You buy the cap and the horn and put the horn in your saddlebag as you put the cap on your head and slip it backwards… Totally 90s. The three of you, with no more business to attend to, decide to walk out. walking in a seemingly aimless direction.

Lyra looks to her friend with a smile "I can't wait for you to get that ribbon on your hat Bonbon, I won't even wear mine until you do!"

Bonbon had carefully slipped her sunhat into her saddlebag and looked to her friend. "I might get a ribbon from the Carousel Boutique. I'm sure Rarity would have a ribbon that naturally blends into my mane colors "

Lyra nods "That's a great idea!, Rarity always has the highest quality ribbons!"

You had no way to join in on this conversation really. So you just pondered to yourself. You were feeling better now of course. You had a neato horn, this hat, and a fucking grappling hook. A GRAPPLING HOOK! But still, you were still a little bothered by Spoiled Rich, but not enough to ruin your mood.

And then there was, what you thought you saw, was Diamond Tiara running from the CMC. But that's just fucking insane. If anything,they'd be running away from her. You could have sworn you even heard singing.....crrazzzyyy

It seems the duo had actually decided to go to the Boutique. Bonbon looked at you, she wanted to say something on how you were feeling. But she didn't want her best friend to catch on. So she decided on some light conversation. "So Anon, are you going to get any alteration on your cap?"

You shake your head. "Maybe, I wouldn't mind my name being on the front of it."

Bonbon giggled. "Isn't that a little narcissistic?"

You shrug and smirk. "Well, I like to think of myself as great sometimes."

"Well I think you're pretty great. We all get along so well! And you're one smart cookie Anon. Don't let anypony tell you different" Lyra added.

Hah… You were sure the only other pony who would call you a smart cookie anyway was Pinkie Pie. Which, you had to hang out with at sometime at some point.

The three of you reach the Carousel Boutique, Bonbon goes and knocks on the door. But no answer "Hmmm, that's weird. She's usually always here at this time"

Lyra shrugged "Maybe she's busy. She is one of Princess Twilight's best friends and I've seen her running around a lot more lately, maybe she's helping Princess Twilight with setting up the Friendship Festival?"

Bonbon took a moment to think, and then nodded "Yeah, that's probably it. Darn, and I really wanted that ribbon."

You are staring up at the sky, the sun was pretty ways away from being straight up, all that walking from place to place and being at the hat shop really ate up some time. It was afternoon already.

"Hey, what time is it?"

They both shrugged, they didn't have any timekeeping device on them. Lyra looked up at the sun, then back at you "You got somewhere else to be Anon?"

You nod. "Yeah, told a few friends of mine I'd be at their place after they got out of school"

Window Washing… oh boy…

Bonbon and Lyra nodded to themselves. "Well, don't let us keep you. Go meet up with your friends." Bonbon said

Lyra came up to you and gave you a hug "You take care Anon, don't go finding any more bad guys to beat up now."

Awww, you hug her back… she's so sweet. "I won't, and thanks again for the grappling hook Bonbon, I promise to take good care of it!" You turn and rush off as you hear Lyra getting surprised about Bonbon giving away her Grappling Hook.

As you walk off, you pull out your map. again, the clubhouse was there but not marked. But the Apple Family Farm was marked and definitely easy to find. You'd have no trouble finding the Treehouse on your own.

After some time, you reach the farm and crossover without being noticed by any of the apple family members… actually. You didn't see any of them around the farm. Then again...besides Applebloom, theres only three apples. And the farm was huge. They could be at the orchard.

You make your way to the Treehouse and rise up the sloped boards to the door. You take a look around to see if their was any equipment for window washing. None..

"Huh… stuff must be inside." You knock. "Hey girls, it's me Anon!"

You hear Applebloom from across the door "Anon?! Heya! Come in, come in! Me and the girls got a surprise!"

...She sounded… Really excited, what… for Window Washing? How desperate were they?....So simple minded.

You chuckle to yourself, and open the door. "What? Did we get some super good cleaning gear for the window wa… hmm?”

You noticed there was no equipment inside either. And the girls were just standing there, they looked ready to explode. They were standing in a row. Angling themselves in such an odd way that you could only see their faces and front. Maybe they hid something behind them?

"Umm..What's up girls?"

"Anon! We got some super good news!" Scootaloo cried out in mirth

"The best kind of news ever!" Sweetie Belle said next

"The best of best news, and the best part of it is now we can definitely help ya get your Cutie Mark too Anon!" Applebloom said with a bounce to her step.

You shift your eyes to the left and right… what?

"Uhmm, you mean… we get our Cutie Marks… right?"

The hell was going on?

"Alright girls, let's show him!" Applebloom cried out. They all shifted to show you their flanks.

........................

......C-cutie Marks......

........................

You… you didn't know what to say, what to feel… h-how?! "..A-are those real?"

Scootaloo nods "Mhmmm! We just got them today!"

"We can't wait to tell ya how we got them Anon, and the best part is what they mean… even for you. You'll have your Cutie Mark in no time flat!" Applebloom said with a wide smile.

...No… What could this mean? This had to be something you did… this… was a major break in status quo. You felt like gargling at the mouth at what you thought you done. You must have changed the timeline somehow for this to have happened. And if you did, who knows how badly it was changed?!

Your mind just passes through scenes super quick. To the point where you think that a villain might be able to win and destroy the Mane 6 just because of something you did. You were like homer in that old treehouse of horror special where he went back in time. You were horrified as to what this could mean.

"A-anon? Are you ok? Aren't you happy for us?" Applebloom said, her smile turning to a frown as she noticed you just frozen there.

Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo catch on and frown themselves.

"Hey, if you're jealous or something. Don't be, we didn't mean to make you mad" Scootaloo said

"Yeah, we didn't know this would happen either. And now that it has, we don't mind at all helping you get a Cutie Mark. We are all still Crusaders. So don't worry ok?" Sweetie Belle added.

...You almost don't hear them. This… this was too major a change.This would have never happened on the show, there was still like two seasons or something left...

"Girls...ahrm..I..I need to go check on something. D-don't worry alright? I just forgot something and I'll be right back, ok?"

"You're not upset with us, are ya Anon?" Applebloom said, she was feeling pretty bad now.

"W-what, n-no no. This… this is uhh… a really cool and neat thing… but I really REALLY… gotta go check on something" You edged near the door and opened it. "Don't go anywhere ok?... U-uhhh, just uhh, come up with... something to do for when I get back."

The three of them nodded, but that didn't boost their mood. But it did give them a huge resolve to think of something for you to help you get a Cutie Mark.

You go through the door, bust out your map, and beeline towards any body of water you could find. You had to find Discord, and find out what the fuck went wrong and what it could mean. They had their Cutie Marks… hell… you could have made DT's mom just pop out of thin air. This whole thing, christ, Equestria's dimension could be tearing at the seams now!

Gyaahh!... You had to get back home, post haste.

Chapter 50

You made a mad dash towards Sweet Apple Acres. They had to have a body of water somewhere. You run to towards the side of the barn, and begin your search. Breathing heavily, panicked on what you have done. You managed to find a few barrels, one was leaking… it wasn't cider… it was water. Good…

Without hesitation, you tip it over. it's top opening and spilling water all over the ground.
it was a big puddle, you didn't know if puddles would work. But...now wasn't the time to be frugal. You toss the map into the puddle.

Eureka! It works! You hop into the portal as it closes behind you and turns back into a map.

"DISCORD! DISCORD! WE GOT A PROBLEM!" You cry out Discord's name as you open the floor door and rush through.

You fall right to the ground, headfirst on your seemingly invincible head. Still, it hurt like hell. You forgot to fucking do the whole "imagine the stairs" thing. "...Ugh… dammit, my head.."

"Anon! Quiet! Can't you see what I'm doing? One tiny mistake and this whole place can go… for the fifth time..."

Go?... What? You lift your head and notice Discord in a lab coat, wearing goggles as he carefully mixes some chemicals. Another hobby? "Discord...we got a problem!"

"I'll say, alchemy is tougher than I thought. But I think I got it this time" Discord says as he drops a black liquid into a beaker of red liquid, turning it white. "Finally! I got it!"

You shake your head and rush up to him. "No not that, Discord. Something terrible has happened!"

Discord lifts his goggles and looks at you, giving you his full attention "What is it Anon? I'm all ears"

"THE CMC GOT THEIR CUTIE MARKS!"

Discord slowly raised his eyebrow at you "...That's by far the worst joke you've ever told. Why in the wide wide world of Equestria would that be a bad thing?"

"You don't understand, The status quo! I've changed it! What if things get worse! WHAT IF A VILLAIN ACTUALLY WINS AND BEATS THE MANE 6?!"

"...Anon, this is....very uncharacteristic of you. It's actually worrying to me"

...it was off for you to be so paranoid. But, this was a major change. A change that could lead into things like actual pony death. You just didn't want to be responsible for it.

"Look, I know. But Discord… this is a big change. And yeah, it's good. I'm happy for them. But what if this means some really bad things happen too. I changed things!"

Discord put his paw to his face "Actually Anon, I changed things. By bringing you here and acknowledging the existence of other universes. I created a dimensional split between the world you know from the television screen to the world you see right now. And even then, it's merely a tiny split that causes a few minor differences. You Anon, would have to have done something extremely major and cause a huge impact in somepony's life to change things so far as to completely split the dimensions. For example, we are very close to the dimension that has that mirror. Everything is practically the same EXCEPT for that mirror and whatever hijinx Twilight found herself in when she went through it. In other words, you are worrying over nothing. Even if you did cause something major, it's not as if it couldn't be fixed. Please Anon, this isn't a cartoon."

...Still.

"...Ok… but still. I don't think they were supposed to get their cutie marks so early. I'm sure I caused that. I was, well, I got a little panicky since..y'know. We were gonna mess with the changelings. What if that causes something really bad?"

"Then it will get fixed. Seriously Anon. you are reacting over nothing. How are you even sure you had anything really to do with them gaining their Cutie Marks?"

"Because, you said that "ideas" travel between dimensions and those become thoughts in other worlds. Well, if the show was based off ideas going into the writer's heads. I highly doubt this would be one of them. Shows just don't change status quo."

"Ahh, but not all ideas that flow are exact. But… I'm not in the mood to argue something this stupid" Discord floats his concoction up and floats it over to you. "Here, try this"

What?... Ugh, what did this have to do with anything? You give it a tap. "What is it?"

Discord closes his eyes and starts making presentation like gestures towards the potion "It is the fruits of my labor, well, of my new hobby anyway, This potion is a enhanced version of Zecora's little "Hindsight" potion that only seems to work on alicorns… for whatever reason. You know, I may be the spirit of chaos but even I can't wrap my head around that one. Anyhoo, this should let anypony look into the past of anything they deem important through any dimension. What I suggest you do is imagine the dimension with the mirror, since it's further along in the timeline, and your undue paranoia will do the rest."

You just stare at it. "...I don't know, does it even work?"

Discord shrugged. "Well, it didn't explode again like the other times. So....maybe. Bottoms up Anon."

"I don't think I wAGDRFDFDF" Discord magically shoved the potion into your mouth. forcing you to guzzle down every drop.

You push it out of your mouth and cough like crazy. "GNGGMM..DISCORD ARE...you?...what the?"

You weren't at the house anymore. You were at the schoolhouse...elections?..what?
there was elections going on. and a song battle between the CMC and DT over… who should be class president or something… Wait, is that Pipsqueak?

You try speaking to them, but none of them hear you. It's as if you weren't there. And… from there on things kept shifting as if you were watching the show. In fact, you see DT's mother interacting with DT… What a bitch… You see DT's song how… awww… what?... huh… so, she was pretty much forced to be that way… by this bitch of a mom.

As more scenes pass by you, you notice the CMC chasing DT down. In song... wait… so, you did see this!

You make a small detour, since they had to be near the hat shop at one point. You go to look in the window to see yourself. But… you weren't there. Lyra and BonBon weren't either, there wasn't even a sale going on…

...Then it hit you… All of Discord's words hit you as the scene shifts to the end, with the letter, DT converting… and the CMC getting their cutie marks. You didn't have anything to do with it at all. In fact, there were only minor changes between what you were seeing and what your day actually was. The only change you could have actually made is sabotaging them from getting the Cutie Marks… or maybe killing DT's mom just because… What a bitch… Geez. She didn't even show mercy to the CMC.

So… That's how it is. You think you got it now. Each dimension has it's differences, which ideas can flow between any. You being here may have split to a new dimension like the other two Discord had mentioned before. But you didn't make a big enough impact to change what was going to happen. At least, not with this.

God you were an idiot. You had it so set that you thought you were really in the show itself that you thought you nearly ruined it. When really you should have fully paid attention to Discord on this. This was just another world. If you remembered correctly, Discord mentioned there was a world he was never released and that Twilight never became an alicorn. That wasn't in the show either… Fuck… You were a fuckwit. And what's worse, you just left the CMC there during their excitement of getting to test their Cutie Marks Special Talents on you.

Everything around you begins to warp and spin as you find yourself back in the living room. on the ground, drooling and dizzy. You looked up, and saw Discord crying. Wiping his eyes and nose with a handkerchief… The hell?

You slowly got up. with your new understanding in your mind. And looked at Discord, worried. Did you scare him?

"D-discord...are you ok? Look, I'm ok. I'm not dead or anything. The potion worked." Wow, you were actually worried about how he was feeling. Heh...

"Oh it's not that Anon, I decided to peer into your brain and see what you saw. And what I saw...it was so… ohhooooo" Discord had to wipe his eyes and blow his nose again.

"Yeah… Who would've thought Diamond Tiara was pretty much forced to be that way, it was the only way her mom was teaching her. I guess anything Filthy Rich tried to do for her was circumvented by that cunt.."

"Oh it's not that… It's the fact that they remembered that it was me who broke the schoolhouse window. It was so sweet for them to remember!" Discord blew his nose again.

You roll your eyes, and nearly chuckle… until. "Wait hold on, you knew you broke their window and you just left it that way?"

Discord took out his eyes to wipe them dry "I did try to replace it, not my fault they didn't like a window that could sing jazzy tunes, I thought it would have been nice after what I had done."

...Right...

You started to feel bad again though. You now had no reason to hate Diamond Tiara, just her cunt of a mother. You wondered what changes you did cause. You hoped you could talk to her again. You wanted to apologize for the mean things you said. For real this time. And then… there's the CMC… you might as well get back there and check on them, so they don't get upset that you suddenly left.

"Discord...can I get a favor from you, please?" Discord put his eyes back into his head as he started floating over more beakers and vials in front of himself to work on his next project.

"What is it Anon?"

"Can you send me directly back to the clubhouse. The doors are kind of out of the way, it'd take me a while to run back there."

Discord didn't even say a word. He just snapped his talons. Sending you right back in front of the door of the clubhouse.

"...thanks Discord. I owe you one, or two.."

You take a deep breath, ready to explain any questions they might have of you just running away with any good answer you could think of. If it's one thing you didn't want to mention is anything having to do with dimensions. Keep it simple.

You open the door, with a smile. "Hey girls, I'm back… just had to go to the bathroom… hahahaha… sorry."

Smooth...

Chapter 51

Applebloom tilted her head, confused "Ah thought you had to check on something?"

"I… had to check for bathrooms… haha… I couldn't find one close by"

"Anon, you coulda just asked to use ours, the farm is right over there you know" Applebloom looked like she wanted to laugh at you "You made it to a bathroom, right?"

...You nod. "Y-yeah, just in time too… hahahahaha… haha.. Ha… So yeah, those cutie marks..."

"Yeah! Hey Anon… you don't mind if we tell you how we got them, do you? We won't if you don't want us to, it's just… we're so excited!" Applebloom said, trying to do her best not to hurt your feelings.

You nod, this could be interesting. Since there’s bound to be some differences from what you saw when you drank that potion.

The three of them bounced up with glee. They looked pretty pleased. Then again, if you had to spend five seasons worth of episodes trying to get something seemingly anyone can get. You'd be ecstatic too.

"How about we tell him in turns?" Sweetie Belle suggested.

"That sounds like a great idea" Nodded Applebloom.

"Alright, then let me go first! A good story is only interesting if it has a cool sounding beginning" Scootaloo said in earnest.

And so they told you everything that happened that day. You just sat there, nodding. So far, it was pretty exact. Seems they are friends with Diamond Tiara now, who is no doubt dealing with a few things of her own at the moment. In fact, the only real difference you could discern from all this is that Diamond Tiara apparently also said something about being able to see who she pleases. hrn...wonder what that meant...

"So Anon, pretty cool right?" Scootaloo said as the three of them looked at you for a positive response.

You clap your front hooves together "Bravo girls! I gotta admit, that's a pretty cool story"

They all smiled happily from your comment. Scootaloo stating "See, told you it was a good idea to let me start"

"And now , we can start helping you get your Cutie Mark, Anon! We ain't done being Cutie Mark Crusaders" Applebloom stated as the three stepped up to you.

Scootaloo nodded "And with the three of us helping you out. You'll have yours in no time!"

But Sweetie Belle stopped, and looked to her fellow crusaders "Uhhh… girls? How exactly are we going to do it? We actually… we actually don't know much about Anon"

"No problem, all we gotta do is just sorta do a survey thing and we'll figure it out in no time!" Applebloom said

Scootaloo nodded, she liked that idea "Hey, that's an awesome idea, then we can pinpoint what we need to do to help Anon!"

Sweetie Belle took the initiative to get a notebook and pencil ready to write down anything that may be important "Let's do it then, I'll write up all of Anon's answers!"

Well, then. If it helps. "So uh, what kind of questions are you girls going to ask me then?"

"Ummm, ah haven't figured that out yet, you girls got anything?" Applebloom asked

"I got a few" Said Scootaloo, she looked at you with a determined intensity "Anon, I want you to answer these questions truthfully and honestly, got it?"

You nod to her. "Yeah, sure, honesty is my middle name."

Again, you had to think, could you even really get a cutie mark? Discord said you were a natural earth pony due to the power of the mirror… but did the same rules really apply?

"Ok then! First question, are you good on a scooter?" Was that a serious question?... Well, she looked serious.

You shook your head. "Never tried."

Scootaloo turned to Sweetie Belle "You're getting this right Sweetie Belle?"

Sweetie Belle nodded as she wrote both the question and your answer down with haste and precision "Yup!"

Scootaloo turned back to face you "Next question. What's your favorite thing to do in Ponyville? no.. no.. of all~ Equestria!"

"Uhhhmnnn..."

"Uhmnn? Come on Anon, you gotta have a favorite something." Scootaloo expected an instant answer from you

"Well, uhmm..." You were drawing blanks, it's not as if you were from Equestria even… Still, maybe something from your world could fit into this, just tweak it a bit.

"Well...I like arcade games, I'm really good at them actually"

"Really good at them? How good?" Scootaloo was curious

"Well, I can 1cc Metal Sl-...a game"

"1cc?”

"Oh, it means without using a continue, one credit clear basically, doing it in a single qua… ah, bit."

They all looked amazed at that, even Sweetie Belle had to stop writing. "Clearing an arcade game in a single bit? And you don't have a cutie mark? I don't know anypony that is THAT good"

Scootaloo was in awe. Applebloom was unsure however "That's the truth right Anon? Ya can really do that?"

You nod. "Yeah, I did it quite a couple of times back home. Had to practice a lot though."

"And yet… no cutie mark… hmmm" Scootaloo was thinking deeply, there had to be a reason. "If you don't have a cutie mark based on that… Then whatever your cutie mark actually is… it must be pretty amazing..."

"Well, there’s no reason for Anon to lie about that… but, I just wonder… hmm, Anon, are ya good at anything else?" Applebloom asked

Good at anything else? "Well...I was really good at dodgeball as a k-... I'm really good at dodgeball."

"Dodgeball huh? Do you like dodgeball?" Scootaloo asked

"It's alright, not something I'd want as a cutie mark though."

"Well, it wouldn't be that bad. We have dodgeball leagues, not in Ponyville, but we could sign you up for a tournament in Manehatten if you're really really good, we can even train you. What do you think girls?" Scootaloo turned to her crusaders

"That sounds like fun! I'm pretty good at Dodgeball myself!" Applebloom said, a hint of pride in her voice

Sweetie Belle nodded as well "I could ask Rarity to arrange the trip! She could get us there easily!"

"What do you say Anon, ya want to try it?" Applebloom asked you.

Huh, well, roller derby and karate was in Equestria, so Dodgeball wasn't a far off guess… but to actually be in a tournament? Hahaha, you'd torch them. You were pretty nimble as a kid. "Yeah why not? I wouldn't mind trying it out. Do you girls got any balls so we can practice a little?"

"As a matter of fact, we do! We kept sports stuff around from our last few crusades. You just go outside Anon and stretch your legs, we'll be out in a minute" Scootaloo said as she and the others went to a box to pull some balls out.

Welp… Ok. You do what they ask and step outside. You walk down the boardwalk down to ground level… not falling on your head this time. And stand at the ready.

The next moment, the door opened and ball after ball started falling down in front of you. geez, they had a lot of dodgeballs. They then rushed down in front of you, instructing you to step back as they gathered the balls into one spot.

You step back until they tell you to stop. They then grab a ball in each hoof, Sweetie Belle even managing to lift one or two with her magic. Their faces suddenly became a little menacing, ooohhh boy...

"Alright Anon, I hope your ready to dodge, because we aren't going to let up for one minute! are you ready?"

You nod, you were sure you could do this. "Yeah, bring it!"

"Let him have it girls!" Cried out Scootaloo

And holy fuck, their tosses was fast. Even with Sweetie Belle launching her balls via magic. Applebloom had the fastest throw of the three. You do your best to dodge, and manage to dodge a few of the initial throws since they went to where you were standing. But it didn't take long for one of Applebloom's shots to knock you clean on your ass.

"Gyaaaa!"

They stop throwing, and walk up towards you. "You ok Anon?" Asked Applebloom

"Y-yeah… geez, you throw hard..."

"Well, Ah am an earth pony who works on a farm" Applebloom giggled

"...Wow Anon, we didn't even throw half the balls and you got hit. I thought you said you were good at dodgeball" Scootaloo was pretty disappointed. That meant your cutie mark wasn't in dodgeball.

You slowly got up and shook yourself a bit to get off any dirt. "Well, I thought I was good. But, I can promise you, I'm pretty good at arcade games."

"But not enough for a Cutie Mark… are ya sure ya did that 1cc thing you mentioned?" Applebloom said, now skeptical.

You nod. "Yes I'm sure… but I guess I wasn't really meant to have a cutie mark in that. It's been awhile since I played any arcade game"

Sweetie Belle lit up, it seemed she had an idea "I know what we can do!"

"What's that Sweetie Belle?" Asked Applebloom.

"Well, it's obvious this isn't exactly working, so if we are going to learn about Anon and figure out what Cutie Mark he would get. We have to do what Twilight would do, and observe Anon naturally and see what he does! That way, we get more of a feel of what he's actually good at and what he likes."

Observe? "Uuhhh… What exactly do you mean by "observe" Sweetie Belle?"

"Exactly that Anon, we just watch what you do with your day and write stuff down. Then we compare notes and figure out what it all could mean for your Cutie Mark. It's so easy that you don't have to do anything but what you usually do!"

"Say Sweetie Belle, that's a really good idea!" Scootaloo said

"It really is! Ah bet in a couple of days we could figure out Anon's cutie mark for sure!" Added Applebloom

Uhhh… being followed around by these three? It's not that you didn't mind. It's just you didn't really do much but talk… mostly to other adults thus far… and usually female. "Are you girls sure about this? I mean, I don't really do much.".

"Come on Anon, don't be that way. Just give it a chance, we promise not to get in your way or nothin'!" Applebloom pleaded, giving you big sad eyes.

Then the other two gave you big sad eyes. All three were giving you sad eyes and you could feel your sugar levels increasing to diabetes levels.

You sigh deeply. "Ok...ok...But I warned you"

They all got excited and started hopping around, crying out for sure that you'd have your cutie mark. Then they suddenly stopped, and stared at you. Almost creepily.

"Uhhmmm....what are you girls doing?"

"Just observing, just pretend we aren't here" Said Sweetie Belle, her face not changing a bit.

Alrighty… so...

"So what… do I just… go about my day as normal?"

All three nod.

"Ok… going to go… do… stuff… uhh… so, I can just go?"

They all nod again.

"Ok..."

Ok was right… What the fuck were you going to do? Welp, time to wander aimlessly into town and look for something to do.

And so you do just that. The CMC following you from a distance, even hiding behind things as you just walk into town. You even pull out your map to see if there was any notable locations you might want to go to. Maybe you could finally spend some time with Ponk? No… the CMC wanted to see you do something actiony… probably.

You stop, first you look deep into your map. Then you look at the CMC, who were hiding behind a cart… observing. Come on Anon, there’s like a million things you could do. You just got to think.

It could be anything, there’s literally a cutie mark for anything. You just had to think of fucking something. Anything… Anything… and a few things you didn't want to be was a window washer or a paper pusher… dammit.

Wait… you had knowledge of things this world didn't. Maybe you could introduce… nope. Not like you knew how to do anything advanced yourself. And introducing this world to something others came up with was probably not worth a mark.

As you thought. standing there, you could see the CMC getting a little anxious. But what could you do? All you had was adult knowledge and enough knowledge of saturday morning c-cartooo… wait a second.

Wait...that was something… maybe… maybe you could make that into a talent. Use your saturday morning know how to solve problems and issues that arise. All you had to do was be more competent about it. Any villain, any problem, any kind of trouble you would face, you could easily figure out the solution to it and either solve it yourself or get the ones required to solve it. Like, if you were in the Canterlot wedding episodes. It'd be easy to go all Solid Snake and snap a photo of Queen Chrysalis if she ever went back to her original form at any point. Or go looking for a dumb changeling to snap a photo of. Or with Tirek, you would have just dropped like a boulder on him or something, lure him out with a willing decoy like Scooby and Shaggy was used for.

Now the question was… what was around you at this moment that you could solve. Obviously not a villain. But maybe a friendship or a practical problem.

Anon, Ace Problem Solver… That had a nice ring to it. You started walking around town. Looking for a problem, usually. if there was a problem. The mane 6 would usually stumble upon it. There had to be a problem somewhere... "Come on, come on… I just need one."

The CMC were probably confused as hell as to what you were doing. So be it, you were sure this had to be it. Hell, if you even spotted Starlight Glimmer, that could be something. You could probably debate her on her whole Cutie Mark stance… as long as she didn't fucking kidnap you or something.

Maybe you just had to ask around? Agh! Dammit, this was infuriating… and somewhat familiar. "Come on...come on..doesn't anyone have a problem? Isn't there some villainy going on in this town?...anything?" You started grinding your teeth, you were really getting into this.

But everywhere you looked was happy cute ponies doing happy cute things. Wait… WAIT! There was something...

Rarity… RARITY.. RARARA!

The dress… The dress you touched. Maybe you could help her get whatever she needed to fix it. That's right. You should anyway, you did mess it up. Maybe if you help her, it would get you closer to that Cutie Mark. You just need to solve the problem faster than any episode would make you think it'd be solved.

You look for the Boutique on your map, put it in your saddlebag, and rush off.
the CMC get startled as you run towards then past them, they start following you, wondering what you were doing.

And you ran… You ran so far away… well not that far. You reach the Boutique. Yeah Rarity wasn't in before. But that's because probably at that time she was with Sweetie Belle congratulating her on her mark. She had to be there now.

The CMC seemed confused as hell, they were still in the distance. Sweetie Belle seemed extra confused. You knock...daintily...on the door. You were ready. YOU WERE READY.

It didn't take too long for her to open the door. "Hello, Welcome to… oh… Hello Anon. How are you this afternoon?" Rarity, polite as ever. But she stretched her head out looking around, she may have been making sure Discord wasn't with you. "Anon, are you by yourself?"

Well, the CMC did say to pretend they weren't there. You nod. "Yeah, and I kind of wanted to visit you, uhmm, Miss Rarity"

Rarity giggled "Oh my, you came all this way for a visit? What I did for your eye wasn't that amazing was it? Speaking of," She examined your face. She could see the makeup was gone, but your black eye was almost gone as well "Good, it's almost cleared up. Why, you could barely tell it was there."

Rarity stood aside so you could enter, she noticed you were a little disheveled from running. "Come right in Anon, You look like you just ran right over."

You step inside, Rarity following as she shuts the door on the CMC's prying eyes. "So Anon, what brings you here? I can't imagine it being a dress." Rarity asked as she hovered a seat right by you for you to sit at.

"Oh no no, I actually came to see if you needed any help… with something."

Rarity gave you a warm smile "Doing more hero work, Anon? You really should be taking it easy. It hasn't been that long since you came out of the hospital. Especially with the fact you had to deal with those two horrible creatures who call themselves ponies. I swear, if those two had touched Sweetie Belle… I would have... I WOULD HAVE!!"

Rarity could feel some rage growing inside her, she immediately stopped, and smiled, embarrassed. "Ahrm..yes...well. Let's just say things wouldn't have been pleasant."

"Well, I'm feeling pretty good. And I remember something about a dress. I thought maybe I could help you out with it. It's not really hero work, it's just… well, I just want to help solve your problem. I mean, if you haven't solved it yet."

Rarity took a moment to think, but, she didn't want you to go out of the way for her. "Anon, We barely even know each other and you want to push yourself more than you have to? That simply won't do! Why don't you just relax, perhaps I could make you a fine outfit to compliment your brave heroism?"

NO.. NO.. YOU NEEDED TO DO THIS! CUTIE MARKRWKSFDKKDK. You don't know what it was, but this idea. It had to be it. You felt overcome with the desire to try it. It was confusing. And yet… it felt right. "That's really generous of you Miss Rarity. But I just really want to help you with this."

Actually...that got you curious. "Umm, actually… why would touching the dress ruin it? I heard that something about it was special"

Rarity looked into your eyes, and she saw… burning conviction. You weren't going to take no for an answer. But she wanted to find a way to convince you not to help But first. "Well, the dress was incomplete. It was going to be a spectacular dress for Princess Celestia herself! I had managed to buy very expensive, very rare "Radiant" gems from the crystal empire, gems that when touched with hooves would glow with the intensity reflective of the one who touched it. But unfortunately, once touched. It only glows for that pony. And whoever touched it must have had a very negative attitude because not only were the gems dark as night but the color of the dress became an ugly green. I don't even know how that would happen… but Anon, that's exactly why you should put that silly but sweet notion of helping me to rest. You can't just go to the Crystal Empire to get these gems for me. And unfortunately, I can't just order them either due to how delicate they are. I'll just have to come up with something else." She sighed.

Crystal Empire huh?... HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! What fucking luck. Whether it was by design or just goddamn luck. You had a direct way of getting to the Crystal Empire… And even if you didn’t, Discord could get you there anyway. He was obviously going to have to help you with the cash. But you could surprise Rarity with those gems… Yeah sure, you were fixing your own mistake. But you had this solved faster than anyone else could.

You already had every idea already planned in your head. You would have to make sure to get more than enough of these Radiant Gems to make up for your own mistake. "Gee Rarity… that's rough, I-I guess… Well, I hope you could do something about it. And, I guess I could make one little order..."

"Name it darling, I'll just need your measurements and we can get started."

No, she wouldn't need that. You realized, you were at the boutique, and a certain new friend did need a matching ribbon for her hat. "Nah, all I need is a ribbon of like, a darkish blue blended with a pink color. Do you know Bonbon?"

Rarity nodded "Yes, she's one of my many customers." Rarity seemed confused "You need a ribbon with the colors of her mane?"

You nodded. "Exactly, about the size needed for a sunhat. Could you do that for me please?"

Rarity nodded, still confused "Yes, but, uhm, wouldn't you like more of a suit or perhaps a nice looking custom hat? Or even a nice scarf for the winter time? It's really no trouble. It's the least I could do for what you've done for Ponyville."

You shake your head. "Nope, it's fine. And uhh, I'll pick it up in like an hour or so. Thanks a bunch Rarity!"

"Hmmm… Well if that's what you want but, an hour or so? Anon, I can have it done for you in a minute. You needn't go anywhere."

No, you did. You wanted to have a reason for her not to leave while you go buy these gems. Discord, you hoped… would fit the bill. "I'm really sorry, but I gotta go check up on dad for something. I promise I'll be back soon for it. Ok? Please… Pretty please?"

Rarity was so confused. The hero colt, a colt… just wanting a free and simple ribbon, couldn't wait and had to be gone for hours just to come and pick it up. she was a professional. She said she'd do this for free, and you were the customer.

"Very well Anon! I shall prepare the ribbon and have it ready for you by the time you return from your business."

Sweet..

You got up..hrn...you didn't need the CMC stopping you or wondering what you were doing. You knew they were still out there. You didn't want them slowing you down, But you didn't want to just tell them you were leaving, no. You'd just find a way to have them wait there. Get done what you needed done. come back, get the ribbon. come out, and then tell them something as to why you took so long.

"Miss Rarity...do you have a bathroom I could use?"

Rarity points down a hall. "Why yes, it's in the back. Anon, why don't you just pick up the ribbon wh-"

You immediately interrupt her. "Thanks gotta go!"

You rush to back and find the door to the bathroom. Without wasting time, you fill the tub with just a little bit of water. You take out your map. and toss it in to create the portal. You then shut the water off.

"Ok… so there’s a flaw in this. She's going to wonder where i buggered off to. And how I managed it. It's fine, She seemed pretty serious about the whole business thing. So she'll be here when I get back… ok… well..GERONIMO!"

You hop into the portal.

Chapter 52

You turn around and manage to nab the map with your hoof. You quickly empty your saddle bag of your hat and horn and go to your floor door. This time, you carefully open it and travel down the invisible gravity steps. Discord was still right where he was. But now the whole living room was a gigantic lab. Discord again, was in goggles and a lab coat.

"Woah… I feel like I'm in Dexter's Lab… hmm, hey Discord, can I… bug you again for a second if you don't mind? I have a favor to ask."

Discord is hovering multiple vials and beakers and mixing chemicals every which way. He slowly halts his movements, he's moving everything around like a conductor at a music hall. "Anon, back again? and for a favor?" Discord chuckles as his lab coat turns into a mobster's vest, his goggles turning into a black fedora. "How ever may I help you?"

You notice a glint in his eye… Oh come on… You knew what this meant, given his costume. You cringed heavily at what he might want. "Come on Discord, don't do that, I'm your "son" remember? Give me a freebie here, I'm in a hurry."

Discord then looked at you confused. "Hrnn? Freebie?" Then he startling laughing "Hahaha ohhhh… ohh, you thought, oh no no no, I'd never DREAM of forcing a deal upon you. I just wanted to look nice."

You could tell, he just enjoyed your initial reaction. But no time to for a witty comeback. You had 3 fillies and a mare of class waiting on you. "Ok..ok you got me. So… uhh… I need. A ton of cash. Like, enough to buy a good amount of these things called "Radiant" gems. Apparently they are expensive and can only be bought from the Crystal Empire… uhhh, please?"

Discord floated over a few yellow vials and gazed at them intently "hmmm. Well, I did put that fourth option in the dial for a reason. To think you'd already put it to use. But Anon, you are going to use it for something as boring as shopping? Tsk tsk, I thought you were more fun than that. And besides, those gems you speak of. I could whip them up in an instant if I so wanted to."

Oh shit… That's right… He probably could… "O-oh...yeah...ok. Can I get a bunch of those gems then? Please?"

Discord shook his head "No can do, you already asked for bits. I can't be granting every wish you have Anon. That would make me a very irresponsible father."

"Well then, forget the b-WhwWHAAWAIT!" Before you could even finish your sentence. Your saddlebag began filling with a ridiculous amounts of bits. Enough to knock you off balance, and to your side as the bag sits on your body. It was so heavy, you could barely move it. All you can do was struggle.

"D-DAMMIT DIS-DISCORD!..G..GGHH..G..GET TH..THIS OFF!"

Discord rolled his eyes. "Children these days, so ungrateful and so unready for the consequences of their wishes." Discord snapped his talons, making the large bag float up. It was now weightless despite being filled to over capacity.

You took deep breaths, goddamn that shit got heavy quick. "Ngh… did you really have to do that?"

Discord shook his head "No, but it was a TON of fun, wasn't it?" Discord started laughing maniacally at his own pun.

Fine fine, in retrospect. That probably would have been funny if you saw him do that to someone else. Just be good humored Anon… he was actually doing you at least this favor. "Ok ok, you got me..."

You shrug it off with a light titter. "Ok, well. I guess you're really not going to give me the gems huh?"

Discord shook his head. "No, if I handed you everything you wanted then there'd be no fun in doing things on your own. Consider this a lesson in chaos. Because when you go out to do anything, you never know what might happen. Could be boring… or it could be fun. And speaking of fun, You'll definitely be going to school day AFTER tomorrow. I thought I'd schedule the both of us for a little father son time, maybe join forces on a little chaotic venture without letting Twilight or the others find out. Hmmm?"

Oh shit, really? Well, you weren't really to big on school. But… actually going out to wreak some chaos? Now that… that could be fun. "That actually sounds pretty cool. How about we mess with the changelings? They kind of deserve it, and it's not like they are going to whine to Twilight or Celestia about it."

Oh man, just those words coming out of your mouth made you excited.

"Sounds delightful. You have been wanting to do that, haven't you?" Discord chortled evilly, then he remembered something "Anon, do you need anything else for your trip… besides the gems of course."

Oh hey, that's nice of him to ask… but, you couldn't think of anything. "No, I think I just need the bits. umm..Thanks Discord. You've been a big help."

Discord rolled his eyes at you as he popped into his scientist ensemble and lowered his goggles. "Don't get sentimental on me Anon, I was just making sure you were prepared."

Yeah… heh… sure. But… hmm, there was one more thing you wanted to ask before you left. You were kind of scared of asking about if you could really get a Cutie Mark. But, there was another thing that itched in your brain. "Yo Discord...can I ask one more question?"

Discord lifted his goggles and looked at you "Yes?"

"I notice you don't do anything to me when I curse, what's up with that?"

"Well, you haven't cursed in front of anypony else right? You haven't cursed in front of Fluttershy… have you?" his right eye nearly bulged, focusing at you on that last question.

"W-well no, not since the whole fight thing." That stare on you… It was kind of scary.

But then, Discord just shrugged, put on his goggles, and went back to his work. "Then I don't really care, Just as long as nopony comes asking me why you curse like a sailor, and that you are a bad influence on their "foals"" Discord waved his arms in the air with abandon as he rolled his eyes at the thought. "Really, it shouldn't be my fault that they heard it. But we all know how mothers can be. Now shoo Anon, I'm trying to make a potion that will turn anypony's tongue green."

Wut? "...uhh..couldn't you just do that with your magic?"

"Well of course I can! But if I use a potion instead, maybe innocently swap it with somepony's ketchup or mustard. Then the results would be not only hysterical, but they'd never figure out that I did it."

Huh, you smile at that. You smile at the thought of Spoiled Rich having a freakout at her tongue. "You know, that would be pretty hysterical. Ok, I'll leave you to that then. I've got to hurry up and buy some gems. Good luck Discord."

Discord gave you a gentle wave as he used his other arm to carefully mix vial contents into a beaker. "And good luck to you Anon, remember not to touch those gems with your hooves now. I won't give you another sack of bits."

Right, you had to make sure that the place that had them would give you a way to carry them out. You were sure they'd have some kind of hoof gloves or something you could use.

With that, you went back into your room and to the door with the dial. You put it on setting four… The Crystal Empire.

"Whoo boy, here we go. Out of Ponyville and into an Empire… Here we go… Here.. we.. go..."

You feel hesitant, all them crystal ponies though. Looking through the door, you could see a few walking about doing… well, pony cute things. not too different from Ponyville, just… more crystally.

Ok… You wait for an opportune time not to be noticed, and then step through the door. It seems even though you could see them through the door, they couldn't notice you. Neat.

Woah, this place looked a lot nicer close up. Crystal Ponies shimmer from the sunlight… which you noticed was starting to wane. Shit, no time to dilly dally. You took notice… the door left you right outside of the Crystal Heart… ok… maybe a small detour.

It was just floating there, unguarded, and yet amongst all the crystal ponies to see. As you went closer to it, you could feel a gentle warmth in your heart. "Huh..that thing is kind of entrancing"

You were tempted to touch it...but you stop yourself. "Don't do it Anon… that's some high treason stuff right there… gotta get those gems. Now, let's see." You pull out your map. "Now… oh… come on" Despite it being a magical map of teleportation. It still only showed Ponyville.

You sigh, annoyed. "Really? He knew I'd do this. And… I only have myself to blame. He DID ask me if I needed anything else… ugh."

You had no idea where to start. Well...There didn't seem to be a source of water anywhere close by. So, do what the everyman… everypony does… ask around. You look around, plenty of ponies to ask. a lot cute, even with the crystal sheen. You also noted the chill in the air. This place was a lot cooler than what you were used to. Good thing you had a coat of fur...

You walk up to a gentle looking mare who seemed to be minding her own business. "Excuse me ma'am"

She looked to you, and immediately smiled "Well hello there, do you need something sweetie?"

Awww, she called you sweetie. "Well, I just need directions to where I could buy some radiant gems."

"Radiant Gems? Oh, sweetie. You don't need those. They are very expensive, especially now that the shop is under new management" The pony started to look around "Where are your parents?"

"They are..around. Look, I REEEAAALLLYYY need to know where I can get some of these gems. I promise you, I have the cash." You open your saddle bag to reveal your ridiculous cache of bits.

"W-w-wow! I...I guess you could afford them...I-I think...but, why would a little sweetie like you need radiant gems?" She was astounded by your wealth. And by your ability to lift it.

"Just want to give them as a gift."

The crystal pony d'awwws hard, and gives you a loving smile. "You really are a sweetheart aren't you? you're going to make your special somepony veeeerrrryyyy happy. Ok, you just go two roads down that way, make a left, down another road, and then a right, three roads down. You got that?"

G-guh? Special somepony? No… whatever, you didn't have time to debate this. "Y-yes ma'am… thank you ma'am, take care ma’am." And with that you rush off to your destination. New management huh? More expensive? Whatever, you got this.

The crystal pony just smiled "What a polite little colt"

You run, and run, no time to enjoy the scenery. And you sure as hell hoped you wouldn't run into a certain princess. You follow the directions precisely until you manage to reach a gem shop, with the words "New Management" on a sign right next to a board with different types of gems painted on it.

However, something catches your eye on the signboard where it says "New Management"
two crude paintings of two certain brothers. "You're fucking joking..." The Flim Flam brothers were the new owners of this establishment… "Ok… this… this could be interesting… dammit, they better not bamboozle me or some shit.."

You wondered what the fuck they were doing here, or how they could afford a goddamn gem shop. Then again, gems seemed to be wildly different in price in Equestria, depending. And the brothers themselves? You didn't even think you'd ever run into them. Not unless they pulled yet another scheme in Ponyville. But they probably couldn't get away with it after fucking up twice.

You reluctantly step into the shop. Wow, it actually looked pretty nice, looked almost like a middle class throne room. Gems that seemed less expensive were out in the open while more expensive looking gems were behind glass with golden rims. "Hello? Anypony here?"

Suddenly, out from behind the cashier counter, was them… Flim and Flam… the Flim Flam brothers. "Well Well, do you see what I see Flam?"

"Yes indeedy I do Flim, a customer of the youngest calibur!"

"The brightest calibur."

Then they both said together "And with that, we welcome you to the Flim Flam Brother's Gem shop"

Then Flim spoke "Where you can buy any gem you need and even have it delivered..."

Then Flam "That's right, with our griffon friends, we can ship out any gems you might need post haste and without fear of faliure! Why they can even ship out Radiant gems without error.."

Then Flim "Not even a margin for error, as it turns out. Their talons do not affect the gems in any way whatsoever."

What? Did they know you wanted Radiant gems? Then they said, together, giving you a welcoming smile "What can we, the Flim Flam brothers, do for you?"

Uhhh… ugh geez. These guys. "Uhhmm..well, it's funny you mention Radiant Gems. Because I need as many as you're willing to sell for..." You toss down your saddlebag as bits fly out of it. "This many bits."

Immediately, Flim and Flam look at your haul greedily. They start whispering to each other. They seemed amazed that a colt like you would have such a ridiculous amount of bits. Flim even hovered a bit over for him and his brother to take a look. Judging by their reactions. They saw it was real.

They both nodded to each other. Flim immediately snuck into the back, probably to get the gems ready. Flam however, moved away from the counter and closer to you and your bag. "This is quite a bit of bits, I've never seen a colt with so many before. You must want those radiant gems really badly, right?"

You nod, cautiously. "Yeah… I need to get them back to somepony. I know you can't touch them or else, I forget really… but uh, just slip them into the bag,"

Flam started looking through your bit count quickly and expertly. This was more than enough for the stock they had. "Well, I see. However, perhaps we can interest you in our Griffon service?"

Wuh?

"Griffon Service? Yeah, you mentioned that. What's that about?"

Flim comes from the back, floating a bag onto the counter and then looks at you with a… untrustworthy looking grin "What's Griffon Service?! I'll tell you what it is my little friend. Our Griffon Service is of the likes you've never seen before. like Pegasi, Griffons can get through any aerial environmental danger. But unlike most pegasi, they can also get through any PHYSICAL danger."

Then Flam spoke "And don't forget to mention that Griffons can handle Radiant Gems without setting them off! That's right, when they grasp them with their talons, nothing happens. Tell him what that means Flim."

Then Flim spoke "Of course Flam. what that means is there is no chance of your purchased gems being ruined through delivery. This allows us to do what the previous owner could not and ship these wonderful gems anywhere in Equestria!"

Right… There had to be a catch. Even then, you didn't need no griffons. You had a faster way to get them to Rarity. "Umm, yeah, look. I don't need that service. Just give me the gems."

Flam looked back, and nodded to Flim, then looked back at you with a smile "Don't be hasty friend. Now I know you think you're qualified to handle these gems. But you mustn't rush these things!"

Flim pulled out a card, and floated it over to you "In fact, we'd like you to take a look at this"

You nab it, and take a look.

"With this official Flim Flam brothers card, you are guaranteed ten percent off your next purchase on your next visit if you use our patented Griffon Service"

Only ten percent.

"What does this have to do with anything?"

Flim spoke "Well friend, it's a little something we like to call "incentive""

Then Flam "And besides, not only is the Griffon Service guaranteed a success, but it only costs an extra twenty five percent of your purchase."

Then Flim gasps "My dear brother! That's practically stealing from us!"

Flam nods "Indeed, now… umm, what's your name little friend?"

"Anon" You tell them. Wary of their shitty offer

"Well Anon, you wouldn't be able to buy AS many Radiant Gems. But surely you'd have enough for what YOU possibly need them for. Are you sure you could really trust yourself handling gems this valuable?"

Flim rose his hoof at you, to give you caution "Think carefully Anon, we are offering you guaranteed service! Anywhere in Equestria, with no worries attached!"

They must have thought you were an idiot. You already figured out how they are making a bigger profit. twenty five fucking percent? Even if their service was the bee’s knees. No fucking way are you wasting money on it. You were sure the crystal ponies would deal with these fuckwits soon enough.

"Look fellas, I appreciate the offer, but just give me the gems"

Flim and Flam started to look a little worried.

"Are you sure you won't reconsider Anon?" Said Flim, looking a little nervous.

"Perhaps if we give you a child's discount of say......five percent off the service?" Said Flam.

...ugh. "The gems, just take my money. Put the gems in the bag. and let me leave. I don't need the service."

"But sur-"

You stomp your hoof on the ground, angrily. You were done with this shit. You were trying to do a good deed, fix your screw up, and get back in time before everyone realizes you were gone.

"GODDAMMIT JUST GIVE ME THE GODDAMN GEMS ALREADY! I DON'T CARE ABOUT YOUR FUCKING GRIFFON SHIT"

Suddenly… silence filled the air. The Flim Flam brothers jaws just hung open.

Oh geez. You just realized what you had just done… Still, it's not that bad. They didn't know who you were, they probably wouldn't say anything. Hopefully. You didn't need Discord on your ass.

You take a breath. "....Just do it ok?"

They both nod, and just silently place the bag of gems into your saddlebag as they take about seventy percent of your haul of bits. As it turned out, you cleared them out of radiant gems and still had quite some bits on you.

You clear your throat. "Well uhh, pleasure doing business with you gentlem-...Gentlecolts. Thanks for the gems, and uhh… I hope your griffon thing works out. seeya later..."

Just walk out casually Anon, just walk out casually. They were still plenty surprised by your outburst. You look back, they were still stunned. they had to close each other's gaping jaws with their hooves. They couldn't do it themselves… actually, that's pretty fucking funny. You have yourself a chuckle as you step out.

Now you just had to get back home. Which in fact, didn't take you too long. The place was pretty bone dry. So you took a little bit of a sneaky route.

You found a pony enjoying a drink at a table. You hid under it, waiting for her to put her drink down. You then tossed a few bits out of the way. She notices, and goes to pick them up.

Good. You felt a little bad doing this. But you couldn't find any other way. You spilled her drink all over the ground while she was distracted. And tossed the map at the puddle. The portal opens, and you hop in.

A crude way to return yes. But it was just a drink. You didn't have time to waste.

Chapter 53

"Well… that went better than I expected." You snatch your map back up and turn the dial to one for Ponyville. "Mnn, I'm sure nothing is gonna happen. They deserved it."

Strangely enough, you got over what you did pretty quickly. both about the brothers and the tipping of the glass. "They tried to nickel and dime me. And, it was just a cup ...not like she couldn't get more. It'll be alright, this is more important."

You hadn't the time for guilt or worry of consequences. You were sure none of it would bite you in the ass. You open the door, and stare into the passage to the town. You nearly step through, until you stop. an idea fills your mind.

"Hmmm, dunno why. But, since I am dealing with classy horse. Being the intelligent and charming guy I know I can be..." You look over to your suit and hanging top hat. "Man, the girls are gonna laugh at me. But who gives a shit. It'll be fun on a bun"

You slip on your suit, fix up your bow, and place on your top hat. "There we go" You chuckle, looking at a mirror on your empty dresser. "Lookin' sharp there Anon"

You nod to yourself. Yeah, what would have been cringy at home was now adorable with your colt body and cute face… It felt good being a pone.

You walk through the door and head off to Rarity's. You took your map with you, but at this point. You didn't need to look at it. You knew where to go. You wish you could use a cane. But there was no point given your four legged form. Hell, you almost felt like singing a song. You were feeling pretty good about what you were about to do. It was getting late though, but it was fine. Today has been a good day.

You reach the boutique, hah, the CMC were still next to it. Hiding, waiting for you to come out. You walk over to them. "Hey girls, nice afternoon we're having, huh?"

The three of them were surprised and confused. They looked at the boutique, then you, then back at the boutique, then you.

"Anon… weren't… weren’t you inside the entire time?" Sweetie Belle asked. She never saw you come out.

"Yeah I was. Look, before you girls ask anymore about that. Let me just explain. I got a map from my dad that let's me open portals back to my house. So that's why you didn't see me come out. Does that answer any future questions you girls have?"

Ha, nipped it in the bud.

Scootaloo nods, then she starts to smirk then smile. "Y-yeah, but, hehehe… what's with the get up?"

Hrn, actually. It seems only Scootaloo found your attire funny. The other two just looked at you as if you did something weird.

"Oh this? I just thought I'd look a little classy for what I'm about to do"

Scootaloo was already laughing uncontrollably at this point. Considering she thought of you as this apparent badass . Seeing you in that get up caught her off guard.

Applebloom only got more confused "About to do? What are you about to do?"

Sweetie Belle just sat silently. She looked up at your top hat and just thought. Then, a lightbulb went off in her mind as she shook her head. "Anon, I don't know how you fell in love with my sister. But dressing up just to impress her isn't going to do anything. And besides, you're way too young for her."

Applebloom's wonderment only grew from that "WHAT?! ANON, Y-YOU FELL IN LOVE WITH RARITY?!"

Scootaloo tried to say something, but that response only made her laugh all the more.

You were caught offguard yourself, What the fuck?! "G-G..T-That's not it! Why would you even say that?!"

Sweetie Belle nodded "Yup, he's in love with her. Anon, it's not going to work out. Trust me" She snickered

Applebloom looked to Sweetie Belle, surprised she didn't have a bigger reaction "Sweetie Belle, how can ya be so calm about this?!"

Sweetie Belle shrugged "Eh, he wouldn't be the first to get a crush on my sister. It just tends to happen."

NO GODDAMMIT NO. You bring your hoof to your face. flustered.

"N-no, I'm not in love with her. I'm just trying to fix a mistake I made"

That caught their attention. Scootaloo slowly went to a titter as Applebloom and Sweetie Belle's confusion intensified.

"Mistake? Whatcha mean mistake?" Applebloom said, confused as all hell.

Sweetie Belle tried to figure out what you meant. But she couldn't think of anything "Anon, what do you mean? I don't remember you doing anything bad. Did you do something while you were in there? Is that why you're out here now?"

Ahh shit… In your flustered state. You let something you wanted to remain hidden slip. You could probably lie your way out of this. But… maybe it'd just be better to tell the truth. Ponies are pretty understanding… hopefully. Yeah… it might be better for your conscious.

"Look...uhm...you remember when you girls let me inside, and told me not to touch anything?"

They all nodded.

"Remember that dress that got ruined?"

Sweetie Belle nodded the most on that one.

You sigh. "That was me, I touched it. I didn't know it would do all that stuff just by me touching it. When I heard about it, I kind of got scared. And didn't say anything. I didn't want to be the cause of trouble, and I didn't want my dad to be blamed either..."

"Anon, that dress was really important to my sister… and, I know she can seem crazy when she's upset… But you still should have apologized. I don't think things would have been that bad… just kind of dramatic" Said Sweetie Belle, she looked disappointed in you.

"I know I should have. In fact… when you girls were following me. I started thinking of what my Cutie Mark could be. And, so I decided to try to fix my mistake… In my saddlebag are those rare gems from Rarity's dress. Untouched. I got a good amount of them on me and I was hoping Rarity would be happy with them."

"And you were planning to tell her that you ruined the dress too, right?" Sweetie Belle asked.

You hesitated… no, you weren't. That's all she needed to hear

Sweetie Belle shook her head "Anon..."

Great, you could see the disappointment in their eyes from your answer. Sweetie Belle's the most. Gyahhh come on, great… you felt like you were learning some end of the episode lesson already.

You let out a heavy sigh, burdened by your simple sin. "I'll let her know, and apologize. I'm really sorry girls. I didn't mean to do anything bad."

God, you went from classy to first class shmuck. You looked down in shame. A simple act, and it was enough to make you feel like shit when brought upon you.

Suddenly, you felt hugging. All three of them were hugging you.

"It's ok Anon" Said Applebloom

"Yeah, you were just scared. At least you tried to fix the mistake" Said Scootaloo

"And, well. We're friends and crusaders. That's why we're here to help you. I just didn't want to see things get worse Anon. I just wanted you to apologize to my sister. It'll be ok, promise!" Said Sweetie Belle

Gyuhh… g..g-go… goddammit. Fuck… Why do you feel the feels? They are so simple minded and forgiving. D-dammit. It's not like you knew them for that long. But they were so goddamn dedicated.

You let out some manly tears. But keep silent. You didn't want them to know you were crying. But you did embrace their hug. Dammit… It felt nice to be cared about.

Yeah… you'd definitely apologize. "T-thanks girls.."

"No Problem Anon!" All three of them said.

You sniffed from nearly crying. And as they let go of you, you quickly wipe your tears away before they could notice. "Ok… gonna do this."

"We're rooting for you Anon!" Applebloom cried out

"Don't be scared ok? No matter how dramatic she gets." Sweetie Belle warned.

Huh… you knew how she could get. Just never personally. You gently open the door and step inside, the CMC close behind.

Oh geez, Rarity was at the bathroom door. Knocking. "Anon, darling...are you alright? It's been an awful long time… You didn't fall asleep did you?" She looked awfully concerned.

You were overthinking this. It wouldn't be too bad. This isn't a jackass human who would still hold it over you or get pissed. This was a world of cute and understanding ponies. Yeah… this… this would be ok.

"Heya Rarity"

"Heya? Anon..wha..wait" She turned her stare from the door and to her side… then the door… then the side… "How...how in Equestria did you get there? I never saw you leave.."

You almost wanted to laugh at that. Same reaction… you could probably make that into a gag if you were more of a cartoony kind of guy in a cartoony kind of world.

Like with the CMC, you explain the whole map portal thing. Rarity seems to grasp the concept instantly… but

"Anon, why did you even leave? Surely it wasn't for your, well I must admit… adorable suit and top hat. I've had the ribbon you needed for quite some time. I even decided to put a larger amount on a roll for you."

Moment of truth. "Well, you see… I kind of went to the Crystal Empire. Yeah, I know. super far away, but when you got a dad like mine… haha… hnmm. Anyway, and dad helped me out with this too, I kind of wanted to get you something. Here, and don't touch with your hooves. Just use your magic."

You open your saddlebag and pull out the large bag of gems and gently put it down. Rarity was confused, but she complied. She magically opened the bag, and when she pulled out the gems.

Her eyes started to sparkle. "A-Anon..a-a-re these?"

You nod. "Yep, they are the gems you needed. Look, the reasDSGDRFDS"

Rarity had moved the gems aside and grasped you for a giant hug, standing on her two back hooves as she nearly suffocates you. "ANON! YOU AMAZING LITTLE GENTLECOLT! I CAN'T BELIEVE YOU'D GO SO OUT OF THE WAY TO GET THESE FOR ME! YOU HAVE NO IDEA HOW… Oh my..."

She notices you turning a different shade of color and gently puts you down "I'm sorry Anon, I don't know what came over me"

You take a few breaths to recompose yourself. You could still see on her face her excitement as she took a closer look at the gems. judging from her expression. They were real… thank god. You were scared of checking incase you ruined them… you didn't even know how to tell they were real.

"Really Anon, you have no idea how appreciative I am of this. And to think Discord helped out with this whole thing. I'll have to personally thank him as well for making this happen."

Yeah… "Yeah, Rarity, I have something to admit… that I'm really sorry for."

"Hmm? Whatever could it be?" Rarity looked at the gems, nothing seemed wrong with them. "There's nothing wrong with the gems"

"It's not the gems… do you remember that dress that got ruined?" Your ears drooped, it always hurt to admit to something you did wrong.

Rarity noticed you're sad, guilty expression and immediately figured it out. "Anon… you touched my dress?"

Hmnn, she didn't seem too shocked or horrified like you thought. Maybe it was the fact she had the gems that softened the blow.

"Why didn't you tell me sooner?" Rarity asked

"I was sort of afraid you would explode on me or something. I know it really meant something to you though, so I wanted to fix it by getting you replacement gems. "

"Oh Anon, I wouldn't have exploded on you...err..I may have gotten somewhat upset. But, I-I understand accidents can happen. I appreciate you replacing my gems, especially with as many as you bought. It's a lot more than I originally had. But, I would have appreciated an apology a lot more. It's better to know one is truly sorry then to try to mend it while hiding your misdeed"

Fuck, that made you feel like a coward. She was right, the CMC were right. Maybe it was because these horses were actually nice and not shitty that made you feel guilty. That they wouldn't do anything horribly shitty under normal circumstances.

"I'm really sorry Rarity, I p-promise not to do it again." You really were sorry, you hung your head in shame. Dat guilt.

"Apology accepted" She raised your head with her hoof so she could see your face "And please don't look so down" She smiled at you "You did more than enough to fix things. So that already tells me that you were willing to fix the problem at any cost. And I do mean any cost. But always remember Anon, a Gentlecolt should always apologize for any wrong they might cause immediately and with sincerity. Understand?"

You nod, yeah. You'd remember that from now on. "I understand, thanks for not being mad Miss Rarity..."

Rarity gave you a gentle rub on your head "And thank you for coming clean Anon, and another thank you for your wonderful gift. I'll have to start working on a replacement dress immediately. Oh yes! I almost forgot!"

Rarity hovered over to you a roll of the ribbon you asked for. Yes! It was exactly what you asked for. More than you expected. But eh. Perfect as is.

"Here is the item you ordered, I trust it's exactly what you wanted?" Rarity asked, sounding professional as ever.

Welp, nothing bad happened. Now you felt silly, not apologizing earlier. You felt like a silly kid at this point. Instead of a grown adult. Then again, even adults could be shady and try to get out of shit.

You take the ribbon roll and put it in your saddlebag. "Thank's Miss Rarity, it's exactly what I needed."

"A pleasure, Anon. And this is for your friend Bon Bon, correct?"

You nod "Mhmm, I really wanted to get this for her. It'd make her real happy to have it for her hat"

saying that, you noticed the CMC smile. Rarity giggles a soft warm laugh "That's very nice of you Anon, in fact. I do find this behavior of yours to be quite amazing. Not many ponies your age go out of their way to do the things you are doing. And what's more, to know that your father is helping you with these tasks. Well, I feel a touch guilty myself of thinking awfully of him. I don't know why or how. But I am elated to see that Discord is actually being a good role model."

Ha… hearing that. You wonder how Discord would react. Either prideful or with disgust. Either way, you were actually glad to hear that. "Yeah… he's a really good guy once you get to know him. And a good Dad. I'm really thankful for what he's done for me."

"And you know, I'm thankful too. To know that he is not only behaving but becoming a model citizen… Well, it makes me feel I needn't worry about myself or my little sister should we actually have to be in his company."

Oh, you'd still have to worry… ehehehehe… hehehe.. heh. "Thanks Miss Rarity, I'm sure dad would be happy to hear that."

Rarity smiles at you, then looks out the window "Oh my, it is getting rather late though. Anon, maybe you should save that gift for tomorrow."

No… there was still some sun out. You could do this. "I'll be fine, I did fend off those two guys. I'll just give my friend her gift and then head home. Promise."

In retrospect. You did legit win that fight… Through dirty means… but still.

Applebloom nodded "And we'll go with ya! Cutie Mark Crusaders always stick together!"

Rarity cleared her throat "Ahrm… sorry Applebloom. But it is rather late. I can't allow Sweetie Belle to go out at this time"

"Awwww! Come on Rarity! I'll be with Anon. Nothing bad is going to happen!" Begged Sweetie Belle

"Even then, I'd rather you just stay here. There will be plenty of time tomorrow to have fun and be with your friends. But the night is no place for a lady your age." Rarity stayed stern

"Awww..." Sweetie Belle frowned, her ears folding back "Ok..."

Rarity then looks upon Scootaloo and Applebloom. "That includes you two as well, you both should be going home before it gets too dark."

"Awwww… do we have to?" Applebloom tried giving Rarity a cutely depressive stare

"Yes Applebloom… I don't want your family to get worried, you know how your sister gets" Rarity just stares harder at her. Reinforcing her resolve. Applebloom complies.

"Well, I guess that means I'll have to partner around with Anon in case he gets into trouble" Scootaloo said, trying to get out of this.

"I did mean you too Scootaloo, I'll take you home myself if I have to" Rarity stared down on her.

"What?! come on, Somepony should go with Anon! Who knows what could happen?!" Scootaloo protested

Rarity doesn't say anything at first. Scootaloo had a point. "...hmm.." Rarity then looks at you "Anon, won't you please wait until tomorrow? I just feel that it could still be a little dangerous out there."

You really wanted to do this. You would try one more time to at least get her to be ok with it. You didn't want to worry her. "Miss Rarity, I promise it'll be ok. My house is anywhere I want it to be. All I gotta do is toss my map in some water and I can go home. I can just ask my friend to well...let me use her bathroom. My dad doesn't mind, honest."

Rarity again, took another moment to think. "You'll go straight home once your business is done, correct?"

Not a problem. You could settle with that. She was being worrisome for nothing. You were sure Applejack wouldn't worry about shit like this… still, that was reasonable.

You nod. "Yeah, no problem."

"Ok then, I know I'm not your mother. But I'm allowed to worry nonetheless. You take care Anon." Rarity really did look worried. No doubt Fluttershy would be even more worried about you walking around in the evening. She'd probably offer you her home to sleep in even knowing you could go home through the map.

"Come on Anon! Let's go!" Scootaloo said, trying to sneak off with you. "Scootaloo, I never said you could go with him. And if I find out that you did. I will tell your aunts. Do you understand me young lady?"

".....nuts..." Scootaloo said, kicking her hoof along the ground.

You hold back a chuckle...nice try Scootaloo. "You take care Miss Rarity, and good luck on that dress… and girls"

You group hug the CMC, you were actually thankful they followed you, and made you apologize. You felt better for it. And, if you really could get a Cutie Mark. You had an idea that maybe using your Saturday morning skills would be the way to getting one. You were actually getting pretty excited about the possibility of getting one.

"Thanks for today, I actually feel like I'm a little closer to my Cutie Mark" You give them a wink

They hug you, but are surprised at the same time "You do?"

"But we didn't really do anything" Applebloom said.

"You girls actually did. At first, I really didn't care about getting my Cutie Mark. But, I guess with you girls getting your Cutie Mark and actually giving me that push to give it a thought. I feel I have an idea of what it could be. I'm not sure exactly what it is… but I have an idea… so, thank you."

That made them smile, they told you that whatever they did to actually do it, that they were happy to do it for you. They still didn't understand what you meant. But hey, if it brought you closer to that Cutie Mark. It was enough for them.

And with that and a farewell. You all head off in your separate directions. You make sure to eye Scootaloo to make sure she doesn't follow you before heading to Bon Bon's.' This world, it really was a trip. The ponies here were good natured. They weren't overly mean, or evil, rude, nasty. Sure, there was probably the occasional antagonist. But like everything else. They usually become good too in the end. Hell, even Gilda got redeemed.

You liked it… you liked it alot. You didn't have to worry that some fuckwit was out to screw you over. You didn't have to worry about horrible grudges. And the only time you'd need to worry about revenge is if you pissed off some villain or something. Hell, even Discord. who gave you a hard time or messed with you. Wasn't actually an evil or nasty guy. He was just doing it for fun. Hell, the only pony you ran into that was an irredeemable ass was DT's mom.

This world was paradise. You just needed to adjust a little more. As you come upon BonBon's house, the sun was just about gone, you still had some light and time to get this done.
You straightened your Top Hat. You couldn't wait to see Bonbon's reaction to this. Yeah, you didn't get to really fully try it on Rarity due to feels moment. But you did nothing wrong to Bonbon, this is gonna be a trip.

You get up to her door. and knock.

Chapter 54

You readied yourself. You were going to have fun with this one. You expected Bonbon to be really confused. And you really really hoped Lyra was around. No doubt she'd find you super adorable. You felt a new spring in your step. You were happier, as if the last of the chains you felt holding you back had been removed.

You clear your throat, and take the ribbon roll and hide it under your top hat. Yeah, This time was fun time. Finally, Bonbon came and opened the door. Good, you were happy she was home.

"Hello, who's… Anon?" Bonbon looked at you awkwardly, then a small smile formed on her face, she looked like she wanted to laugh "I-is that you?"

You wish you had a monocle for this. Oh well, you stood as regally as you could and gave your tie a tug. "Indeed, it is I, Anon. Good evening lady Bonbon, I trust you are well?"

Bonbon had to stifle a giggle. what was this all about? "Anon..what are you doing? You look like you're dressed for a fancy dinner date."

Hmmm… that doesn't sound like a bad idea… eh. "On the contrary, I am actually here to provide you, lady Bonbon, with a gift that you in fact wanted earlier today."

"A gift?" Now Bonbon was really confused, and her smile started to subside "I don't remember asking for one… Anon, what are you doing here? You know it's almost sundown right? Shouldn't you be getting home?"

You just give her a gentlemanly smile and remove your top hat, holding it to her upside down. "I mean what I said. A gift for you young maiden, so that you may frolic with your friend in matching sunhats, behold!"

Bonbon looks down into your hat as you hold it closer to her. She notices the ribbon roll. Then she got it. "Oh Anon, you didn't need to get this for me." She gives you a warm smile "I could have just gotten it tomorrow." She takes the ribbon roll and slips it behind her ear. "Still, that doesn't explain the top hat and suit. I really hope you weren't trying to ask me out for a date."

You give her a surly smirk, you didn't react unusually this time. You were not only getting used to it. But you were in this only for fun. "Well, if you're not doing anything."

Bonbon burst out laughing, that sounded absurd to her. She was now sure you were just joking. "Ok Hahaha, ok ok… you got me Anon, I almost thought you were trying something."

You chuckle confidently. "Yeah, I just wanted to have a little fun with this. I could never ever think of any actual reason I'd need a top hat. You almost looked convinced I wanted something like that… Hey is Lyra here? I wanna see how she reacts to my "classieness"."

Bonbon calms herself to titters, and shakes her head. "No, she isn't. She went home a little while ago. I wish she was here to see you though. I would have loved to see her react too." Bonbon removes the ribbon roll from behind her ear and examines it. "And this...this is exactly what I needed. Thank you Anon, I appreciate you going out of your way to give this to me"

You nod. "Hey, no problem. I mean. You guys just let me come in and have tea with you. It's the least I could do, you guys just let me be friends with you just like that. Thanks."

Bonbon knew in reality, it was more Lyra than her. But, to her, especially right now. You seemed like not only an intelligent colt, but you got the modest and humble hero thing going for you.

Bonbon smile becomes more gentle and warming as she gives you a pat on the head "You're alright Anon. If you want to hang out with me and Lyra at anytime. Don't hesitate to look for us… but, you really should be getting home ok? Before it gets dark."

"Ok, I'm glad you're happy with your gift Bonbon… and now." You place the top hat firmly on your head and give it a tip "I bid you ado and a pleasant night" You bow

Bonbon giggles again, and waves "And a good night to you too young colt" She does her best to sound fancy, she's actually pretty good at it. agent training? who knows.

You thought about asking her to use her bathroom to go home. But eh, you wanted to take a stroll, just to enjoy the air without any worry in your mind. Hell, by Discord's word you were gonna have some kind of fun tomorrow messing with Changelings. Finally, you can do something super fun for a change without having to worry about consequences. You just wondered what Discord had in mind.

And you know what you told Rarity, but dammit. It was just a small detour. You could use the fountain by town hall to get back home. So it wouldn't be that long a trip anyway. It was a good time to be Anon. You felt happy, and you felt loved. It was a good feeling. You turn the corner, with a little spring in your step. A little more positivity and you could burst into song about how great you feel. I guess the truth really does liberate people… well… truth to certain degrees.

Then suddenly...

"Anon?"

That voice… no… way… what?

You immediately stop your prancing. And slowly turn around.

...Diamond Tiara

She looked… a lot more gentle than every time you've run into her before. And you couldn't just greet her nastily… You saw the episode through the potion… and the CMC told you the version that happened in this universe.

"Diamond Tiara? Uhh… what are you doing out?"

Diamond Tiara was eyeing your getup. "I was going home… What are you doing out?"

You noticed her staring at you, it must have been your top hat and suit. "Umm..the same..Was just going home."

"Oh..." She looked a little nervous "Can I… talk to you? Since you're here?"

Talk…? looking at her, it looked like she had a lot to say. She was looking around, and she looked a little upset just by running into you.

"Yeah umm, let's talk and walk actually. Cover more ground that way"

She agrees, and the both of you begin walking to the fountain. You feel a little nervous. Considering what Spoiled Rich told you. Then again, fuck that bitch. She’s a cunt. You were just a little thrown off by running into DT out of the blue.

"So… uhh… what's on your mind? " You ask.

What was on her mind indeed...

"Well… I heard you ran into my mother."

Yup, you did. "Yeah… she kind of told me to stay away from you."

"She told me the same thing. She said you were only after our family fortune. I told her that wasn't true. But… the way she explained it. It sort of made sense to me… but, you didn't seem like you would do that… In fact… do you know anything about what happened today? Did you happen to run into Applebloom and her friends?"

You nod. "Yeah… they told me what happened. Considering how your mom is, that was a pretty gutsy move to stand up to her."

"Well, that's the thing. At that moment. I realized just how wrong she really was. About me, my cutie mark, you, and Applebloom and her friends… Anon, I'm sorry about everything. About how I tried to take you away from your new friends… It's just, I saw how they made a friend out of you so easily… I got angry. I thought "How could this new colt just latch on to these blank flanks instead of me"...Though, umm, if you did come to me first… I… probably would have just laughed at you… sorry..."

Oh boy… you looked at her. With every word she was looking sadder, more apologetic. "It's fine… didn't sound like your mom gave you much choice of anything but to act that way. She told you guys like me, and fillies like the crusaders were pretty much scum, huh?"

She silently nods. Geez Diamond Tiara... You weren't used to this. She wasn't acting at all like her normal self… which was a good thing… but still.

"But, they showed me… they showed me there was another way. That's why I'm glad to be with you right now Anon, I wanted to tell you how I feel... and just to apologize… You know, when you saved me. I thought… “Why? Why did he save me?” And... It bothered me. I started to feel different about you. And when you fell down… I got really scared. I… I was never in a scary situation like that before… and you risked your life for me… Me… who treated you and your friends like di-..d..."

She couldn't hold it in. She nuzzled her head to your side as she cried, she felt so bad. You could feel it through her tears. All that time being a bitch had caught up to her. She was trying to be good, but those feelings, knowing who she originally was, must have made her feel like shit. And, you were the one she was dumping this on… You felt really bad for her.

"Hey hey, come on. I forgive you. You didn't know any better. Your mom did… but she just wanted you to be like her, to uphold some sort of social standing instead of letting you grow into who you wanted to be..." Christ, you sounded like a end of episode moral. But you weren't dumb. You had insight others didn't have. "But I forgive you, and Applebloom,Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle I'm sure forgives you too. They wouldn't have helped you out if they did. Just forget about what you did, and focus on what you can do. You're not a bad pony."

You could hear her cries die down a little, she looks to you. Her face was a mess, she was still crying. "I feel like I am… I tried today… I felt confident trying to fix things… but… Now I'm going home… My mother is going back to Manehatten. And I don't know… how to feel. She's my mother Anon, I care about her… but, now that I know there's another way… what am I supposed to do?"

Damn, that's right. That's still her mother. And despite being a massive bitch cunt. She's probably more angry than willing to accept she was wrong.

"Do you know how your dad feels?"

"Daddy?...I don't think he even really knows."

...You wondered something. "How is your dad? I mean, when nopony is around? Is he how I know him?"

Diamond Tiara takes a breath, her weeping was slowing, good, she was becoming more comfortable. "Daddy is always like that… he's not mean, and he listens to me."

Yeah, you didn't have much to go on. But he never seemed like an asshole and seemed to care a lot more than his wife. That's good… he did seem ignorant though. "Is anypony gonna tell him what happened?"

Diamond Tiara shook her head "I don't want to… I don't want him to get mad at my mother. And I don't think she's going to tell him either… I just want to leave it alone. I don't want them to fight..."

Aye geez… If it was up to you. You'd tell him. But given the politics… it'd be better to leave that to her.

You reach the fountain. But, if you left now. She'd be alone… "Hey Diamond… How about I take you home? It doesn't look like you're gonna get there before that sun goes down."

She looks up in the sky. No, the sun was visibly inches away from being fully down. She didn't realize she was out that late. "..You'll take me home?"

You shrug. "Yeah, you still look like you have things to say, and pfft. I'm in a top hat and suit, it'd be very ungentlecoltly to just leave you here."

She looked at your top hat and suit, then back to you. She lit up a little. You could see it. "I, I was wondering about that. I didn't want to say anything about it. I didn't want you to think I was making fun of you."

You give her a smile as you dismissively roll your eyes. "Pfft, I wouldn't care. Scootaloo already laughed at me for it."

Diamond Tiara reacted negatively to that, almost angrily "She did?! But she's your friend… that's just rude!"

Oh boy..here we go. "Hey hey, it's fine. It was just in fun.."

"But...doesn't that make you feel bad?"

"It depends. Sometimes friends joke and make fun of eachother in good nature. It's only really bad if they keep it up or say something that's really hurtful. Everypony is different about it. I don't mind too much."

Diamond Tiara took in your words, and just looked at you silently for a moment before speaking. “You do look a little silly."
She smiles a little bit. Heh, guess you can't take that part out of her completely. But that smile. It wasn't one of malice.

You smirk at her. "Silly huh? Is this better?" You pop off your top hat, knocking it to the ground, and grab Diamond Tiara's… diamond tiara… and place it on your head.

"Welp, I'm now one step closer to being a princess now. All I need is a horn and some wings." And that's what did it. She couldn't hold it in. She nearly fell over laughing at you. She found it hysterical.

Smooth Anon, maybe you should see if you could use that element of laughter one day. "Feeling better?"

You hold the tiara towards her. She has to calm herself from laughing so much before she could take it and put it back on. You yourself grab your top hat and place it back on your head.

"See? Just gotta be good natured about it. You'll get the hang of it… Feeling better?" You ask again.

"Mhmm… Thanks Anon, I really needed that."

"It's fine, it's what I do. So… what does the future hold for miss Diamond Tiara, what are you gonna do?"

Diamond Tiara looks towards the slowly rising moon. "Well, I want to be a better pony. I want to lead… but not push. I want to make things better for everypony without driving them away."

Heh, that's good. She really did manage to pull a 180 after getting out of the clutches of her mother.

"That sounds good to me. And if you fall down, me and Applebloom and the others will be there to help you if you need us, and.." You realized something. "Actually, how are you and Silver Spoon? She got really upset when you, well, you know.."

"Oh… we're friends again. After what happened. I apologized to her. She was really happy to hear it. I didn't realize I hurt her so bad. She was even trying to help me with the election. I almost screwed that up too... but, she forgave me. I'm really glad though, that we could be friends again."

"How does she feel about the new you?"

Diamond smiles at that question "It's kind of weird, but she's all for it. She said she just wants to be friends again no matter what."

Heh… a follower to the end. Even willing to make changes if it meant being her best friend. It's probably one of the only things she ever knew in life. Well, that's something you didn't need to worry about.

You both were approaching the manor. boy, you hoped Spoiled didn't show up. "Looks like things are really looking up for you then. I'm really happy for you Diamond Tiara. I really like the new you."

Diamond Tiara stopped, then continued walking beside you, she looked shocked. then she started to blush. "You like me?"

Oh shit, you fucking forgot. She did have a crush on you. You didn't even think to consider it. "U-umm..well..the new you I mean. It just feels nice to hang out with you."

"O-oh, well, I like hanging out with you Anon, you're really nice and understanding." Diamond Tiara was losing focus, she was looking about. Nervous.

Aye geez… You pass the gates and head towards the door. You didn't have to the heart to crush her. No, just, act natural.

"Yeah well. I mean, it is what it is and I am who I am. Ummm… here we are." You both reached the front door.

Diamond Tiara wouldn't stop looking at you. she looked so gentle and soft at this moment. "Th-thank you for taking me home Anon, that was really sweet of you… you know you didn't have to do that.."

You shrug "Like I said..." You point to the top hat.

"Right… umm.." She knocks on the door. she had forgotten that you mentioned it was just you being a "Gentlecolt". She felt it was more than that.

On that, you felt it would be good to leave before things got serious.

"Welp, I've gotta be getting home. You take care of yourself...ok? You're doing really good Diamond. I know things will only get better for you."

You wave to her, and go to leave. But, she wasn't done yet. “Wait… Anon… can I tell you one more thing before you go?"

One more? "Yeah sure, What is it?"

"Can you come closer?"

...Ok. You comply, and step closer.

"Yup… Is it something you got to whisper or something?"

"Sorta… a little closer."

Your face comes up right to hers. you turn your head so she could whisper to you. But instead, she gives you a kiss on the cheek and blushes deeply.

Oohh… No… Ohhh… Nooo… Ohh… Noo… Oh.. No..

You couldn't help but blush yourself… That was so sudden… So soft… You even felt wobbly… Come on man, this was DT… yeah, this was a newly reformed, not shitty DT. BUT IT WAS STILL A DAMNED FILLY!

"G-goodnight Anon..."

"G-goodnight Diamond..."

Woo… you stepped away, giving her a wave as you head towards the gate. Keeping an eye on her as the door opens..it was the maid that opens it. She looks back towards you, but you were already out of sight.

Oh god… Good fucking god. It happened. It fucking happened. Nope, couldn't be Ponk. Couldn't be Fluttershy. Couldn't even be the CMC who would be your age. It was Diamond Tiara… for five years you knew her as a gigantic fucking cunt. And now, in one fell swoop. She was different. She was trying to be a confident leader. And she was falling in love with you and you had no idea how to actually feel about that. Geez, you wondered what the CMC would think if they saw this shit.

But, at the same time. You couldn't just crush her feelings after she had just reformed. Who knows how she would react… and, would it really be that bad anyway? Is it a bad thing? You just didn't know. And even then… this is going to be something you sure would pop up day after tomorrow.

You needed to get home, and try to forget this for now.

Chapter 55

Author's Note

This was written well before the S6 finale. So forgive me on the inaccuracy. In fact, later in the story it's explained that the hive they infiltrated was a temporary one used for missions.

Chapter 55

You decided to make off back to the fountain. Giving you time to think about what transpired. You look up to the sky… It was an amazing sight. So many stars, more than you ever saw back home. Blanketing the night sky. No wonder Luna would get upset about ponies not staying up to enjoy this.

Perhaps this wasn't a bad thing. This whole Diamond Tiara business. You never got a girl back home. So… this.. was something? Course, you could never give DT the dicking. Not unless she for some reason really wanted it and you could get away with it.

Lewd thoughts Anon, lewd.

and that kiss… dammit.

No, this might not be good. You knew most of the strengths and weaknesses of the more major pony characters. Reformed DT… you knew nothing about. You didn't even know she had a mom...

Hrn… This might not even be worth thinking about now. No, it isn't. It's better to just see how things go. Maybe it's just a phase? Maybe she's just chock full of emotions because you technically saved her? Maybe it's all of the above. Eh… just… just forget it for now. You had to focus on tomorrow. Messing with changelings. You wondered exactly how that would go.
No doubt, it could be dangerous. But you were sure Discord wouldn't just let you get hurt by them. Hopefully, and given this was going to be some sort of massive prank… he might even give you some magical power. Yeah, that's actually pretty exciting. Just turn the whole hive upside down.

You reach the fountain, toss in your map, and dive into the portal. When you get into your room. You hang your saddlebag, top hat, and put away your suit. Welp, it had to be dinner time by now.

You open the floor door. And what you are greeted by is absolute darkness. "The hell? What's he up to this time?" You poke your head down and look around. Everything was pitch black. except for a spotlight in the distance that was over a chair and a desk.

"I… guess I should go down? What in the hell could this be?" You cautiously go down the invisible gravity stairs and head over to the light. You notice that there are two hayburgers on the desk… That's pretty simple for a dinner… if it was dinner. Was this a dream?

You sit down… and poke at the burgers. They seem legit… and you were hungry.

"Discord?... Luna...?" You look around… Nothing. You start carefully eating one of the hayburgers. Nothing happens… and the food ain't bad. You finish the second hayburger. This had to be some sort of trick...

Suddenly, a spotlight activates ahead of you. It lights up… a projector? Then another spotlight in the distance. Someone is under it… and they start walking closer.

Oh, what a relief… it's Discord. But his clothes… He's dressed as a general. Complete with a horse crop. He was marching down from the distance, towards the projector. Poised and dignified. Finally, he stands before you. and turns to face you.

"Private Anon, why are you late for the briefing?"

Private? Ahhh… ok, you get the shtick. Still...you had a good reason as to why you were apparently late. "I didn't even know you were doing this. I kind of had things to do. And uhh… stuff happened. What do you want from me, huh?"

"What I want is your full attention Anon. Tomorrow, we will be bringing chaos and disorder to the changeling hive!" Discord slapped his horse crop behind him as a screen for the projector appeared in a new spotlight. "We will need to be vigilant, smart, dedicated… and… well, you could use a thesaurus if you need to know any other words… But the point is, this will be a group effort. And it will… be… fun."

Can't argue with that. "So, what's the plan General Discord?... Sir.."

Discord moves aside as the projector sputters and starts. "I'm glad you asked Anon, I've prepared a movie that should explain everything. And in case it doesn't. Do feel free to ask your questions AFTER the presentation."

You stare at the screen as old timey war music type of music plays. "Hello Soldiers of chaos! I'm your host, General Discord. And I welcome you to the wonderful world of disorder and mayhem!" Everything in the movie was sepia tone. And the Discord in the movie… was like some 1960s cartoon. "Of course, to all of you who are watching. You know that tomorrow's campaign will take place at the hive of the changelings! But where is this hive you might ask… well… that isn't important now is it?"

The screen shows a tower, with a crudely drawn Chrysalis on the top, and a ton of changelings on the bottom. "This is a layout of the hive you will be causing your mischief. And although not important, we do know how you like to get curious about such needless details." The screen then shows Chrysalis herself in better detail… except she has devil horns, a beard and an eyepatch. A sign hanging from her neck that says "Big Dork". "This will be your target, Private Anon. Yes, I know. Very important for your first mission. But we know you can do it. But ahhh, you must be asking. "How do I even confront her?" Welllllll..."

The screen shows the everfree forest. "You private Anon, will assume the guise of Princess Cadence's cousin. She doesn't actually have one so you needn't wear a disguise. You will be coltnapped from this location and brought to the Changeling Queen herself so she can begin to enact some ridiculously stupid plan of revenge or something… I don't know. But she has a serious hate thing for both Princess Cadence and Princess Twilight." Coltnapped? What?

"Ahhh, but now you must be thinking. "What could I possibly do to her while coltnapped? Will I get cool powers like Discord? Will I get some sort of chaos weapon? Will I get to take a poop on her throne?" The answer to all of these are no… except maybe that last one. No Anon… you will be using the human technique of W.A.C.K.Y. Which means "Wit, Apathy, Cynicism, Key observation, and Yakmilk" ...please do not ask about the yakmilk part of the acronym, because if you do it is clear you are just jealous of my superior naming abilities."

Then the screen shows Discord turning into a Changeling "Anyway, while you are having "fun" with the queen. I shall be doing subtle amounts of chaos in the background. Playing amongst my "fellow" changelings. A few innocent pranks here and there." Then the screen goes back to the tower view with the crude drawings. and red and blue arrows cycling through the changelings and Chrysalis. "With my antics and your W.A.C.K.Y. We should be able to cause even the queen herself to lose her marbles at the sheer amount of confusion and chaos that will be caused. And our end goal, private? Yes, what is the true point of all this? Well..." a huge "?" appears on screen "You'll just have to wait and see.....see you at the war front!"

The movie ends. Discord smiles at you "Any questions?"

"Two… First one: what did the movie mean by W.A.C.K.Y?"

Discord looked at you with disapproval, tapping his talon at his horse crop. "Are you serious Anon? It's a trait that you possess that nopony else would be able to replicate."

You were confused. You got the words in the acronym...but. What did it all mean? "And that is...?"

Discord sighs. "Ok… tell me Anon, if say… a pony, be it colt, filly, mare, or stallion, was foalnapped by a scary being. How would they react?"

That wasn't hard. "They'd be scared"

Discord nods "And what would happen if they knew they'd be kidnapped and they played a role to outwit and cause her undue trouble?"

You thought about that one for a little bit. "Well… I'd guess they'd… just do those things."

"Yes Anon, they would. But, given how most ponies are. How do you think they'd fare?"

...Hmmmm. "They'd probably do alright until things got hairy. Or… I guess let things slip if something didn't go according to plan. Like if I imagined Pinkie Pie doing it. She'd probably drive her up the wall until either things got hairy and she'd get scared. Or Chrysalis just sucks the love right out of her to shut her up."

Discord nods "Now… say, somepony like you were to do it"

"Well I'd probably just act calm if I knew I wouldn't get hurt… I kind of always wanted to question and grill her on the whole Canterlot Wedding thing, and… ohhhh… ok, I see what you mean. But Discord… she's going to get super pissed you know that right?"

Discord smirked "Ohhhhh I know, and with my own going ons, she will go absolutely batty!"

"Yeah but… what if she tries to hurt me… or suck out my love?"

"Oh don't worry about that. I won't let her harm a single hair on your head… as for the whole love draining thing. I'm sure you could figure out a way to prevent that if she does decide to snack on you."

What?! "You can't just make some kind of barrier to protect me from it or something? Come on man, I do NOT wanna know what that feels like."

Discord gave you a pat on the head "Anon, you won't. I have faith that you will figure out how to prevent it when the time comes… Though if it does happen I'll have to keep you inside for a day or two so you can regain your "love". Well, whatever happens, happens." He shrugs.

Dammit, no fucking way. You understood what he wanted you to do. But holy shit, if she decided to drain you. Well… you didn't know how it'd be… but you didn't like the thought of it.

"Discord, I want to do this. I do, it sounds fun as hell… but it also sounds dangerous."

"We don't have to do it if you don't want to Anon."

Really?....he was willing to give up on it if you said no? "Look, I want to. But just be straight with me. No riddles, no tricks, how do I… personally… avoid having my love drained. It can't be as simple as just thinking really bad thoughts right? Because that's some anti-pixie dust stuff right there"

Discord nods and smiles at you "Why Anon, that is EXACTLY how to do it… so to speak. See, humans possess a special quality that almost everypony in existence does not. Absolute hate and disdain. I'm sure you can work out the rest from there."

Geez, what a way to word it. But… shit, Hitler and Stalin existed. Wow… sounds like the changelings could be obliterated by a rampant army of SJWs. "Ok… I think I can… but Discord… you gotta promise me. Pinkie Promise me, that I won't get hurt. If you can do that. I think I could do my part all the way through. I want to mess with her soooo bad… But I don't want to have a feeling something could go wrong. This is pretty big stuff. These are villains after all."

Discord hesitated at first. But, he could tell you were serious. And in his heart, he didn't want you to worry. Just like you didn't want him to screw up, he didn't want you to screw up or get scared. He just wasn't willing to say it outright.

Discord sighed, annoyed, but he did it… even went through the actual gestures "Fine… how does it go again? Hrnn, ahh yes, cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye. There, happy?"

You nod with a smile. "Yup, that's all I needed… so… second question… Cadence's cousin… Really?"

Discord pointed to the projector "Well you heard the handsome Draconequus in the movie. She has extreme hate for her plans being ultimately ruined by the efforts of Cadence, her husband, and Twilight and her friends. Capturing and using a relative to achieve her revenge would be high in her to-do list"

Yeah… that made sense, just. "Yeah but, wouldn't she know that Cadence has no cousins? Or wouldn't she notice I was Anon… you know, your son?"

"She would..." Discord suddenly turned into a changeling, then snickered. "If I wasn't the one who was handling her intel… I even had her captain fooled."

Oh geez, seeing a changeling this close… It was… cute and gross... At the same time. Even if it was just Discord changed into one.

"Uh huh… well, that answers that, but… now I have a third question… Is Queen Chrysalis gross looking, you know… up close?"

Discord shrugged as he clickity clacked his right front leg over his left "You're asking me? If I had it my way, I'd just turn her into a female version of myself. And don't get any ideas, I was just answering your question."

Female Discord… If it was like the drawings of Eris… unf… oh geez… now you had it in your mind if he could turn female… once… nope nope nope… you don't want to actually ask that… he'd find a way to twist it. "Yeah I wasn't thinking that"

"Surrrrreeee… In anycase Anon, go get some rest. We have a big big big day tomorrow! Lots of fun and chaos. You are dismissed!" Discord says as he changes back to his normal form. He even gives you a salute before he does.

You chuckle a little at that and decide to salute back. This was gonna be fun. You were sure. You just had to NOT panic. Discord would keep you safe.

You get up and head towards your door which hung in the ceiling.

"Private Anon, there is actually one more thing I wish to say" Discord calls out to you.

Mmmm? You turn around. "What's up? Sir."

"I… just want to wish you good luck on this mission. Nopony else would ever take on such a task with me. And even if Lieutenant Fluttershy did somehow wish to participate. I could never ask her to. It will be a pleasure and an honor working with you!" Discord salutes you again, this time with full bravado and enthusiasm.

It was, kind of cool and cute how he just kept up the whole military act. And those words. Even if it was too… part of the act. They were really nice to hear. Especially from him.

You turn and salute back to him as hard as you can. "I'd follow you to hell and back General,"

The spotlight over Discord disappears after you say that, making him vanish into the darkness. Before he disappeared… you could have sworn he smiled at you. Not an evil or snarky one… but a warm caring one. But you couldn't be sure.

But.. everything should be fine. If you were going to be kidnapped tomorrow, then you had a feeling you weren't even going to wake up in your bed. You had to make sure not to slip that you weren't Cadence's cousin or that this was just one big act.

You go back up the gravity stairs and into your room as thoughts of tomorrow fill your head. It was exciting. You were going to mentally go toe to toe with one of the series big villains. Yeah, you had a safety net. But still, you yourself had to not screw up or else the game would be over. You also had to do well. You had a feeling of what you had to do. You were going to be like a critic to her villainy. You wondered what Discord would be up to as well… Whatever it was, you had to synchronize whatever he did with your own moves. And finally… what was that goal the movie was talking about? Either it was a joke, something huge, or something silly... and hopefully nothing evil.

You hop onto your bed and snuggle into your pillow. Yeah, Diamond Tiara and School… the CMC… all of that would have to wait. Tomorrow, you were going to have fun with your "Dad"

Chapter 56

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

Chapter 57

Author's Note

Yes, I did an attempt at a shitty song requested by the readers....and I never did it again.

I also had to rewrite the entire intro to the chapter itself as the original first post from 4chan was never put into the pastebin. I goofed

Chapter 57

Returning home. You and Discord have a round of victorious laughter among yourselves. Not only did you meet Chrysalis face to face. But you came out of it unscathed with sweet sweet victory. All you could think about was her reaction to being defeated. It was a dream come true!

"Ha! Discord! That was fucking awesome! That was the best fucking thing ever! That was... That was goddamn amazing!" You cheered in excitement.

"Indeed" Discord chortled "I hadn't had that kind of fun in quite a bit. Well, since the last time I toyed with Twilight"

"Dude, you were fucking amazing!" You clapped for him "I mean, did you see the way she reacted?"

Discord took a bow as he answered with an arrogant smirk "Oh yes, I did. And her vows of vengeance. Truly comical! As if she could do anything to us"

"Yeah! As if..." Wait a second. Oh dammit, she did make a claim for revenge, didn't she? "She... could... Wait. Hold on, she couldn't really do anything. Could she?"

Discord shrugged "Doubt it. Relax Anon, don't let this bother you. I doubt she could even find this place"

Except... "But didn't some mail pony find this place?"

Discord, only having a vague memory of that mail pony, nods "Yes, I suppose if a mail pony could find me then she could find us as well. Not that it matters, she'd have to be crazier than I am to come here… or a masochist.

Well that was reassuring, It really was, you felt safe and quite celebratory once again. Discord was pretty damn powerful. More powerful than her definitely. Nah, it was nothing to worry about. Even if she tried, she'd probably end up getting eaten or something in the end. Though, looking at Discord. You could sense that he wasn't all there. Looked like something was bothering him.

"Hey Discord, whatcha thinking about? You ok?"

Discord again looked down to you, he seemed lost in his own thoughts. You wondered what he could be thinking about, you thought he'd be celebrating right along with you. "Oh nothing. just preemptively scheming our next adventure"

Discord was lying. In fact, he was starting to think that he may have found the exact kind of friend he was looking for. He'd have Fluttershy for a side of order… and you for a side of chaos. He just couldn't figure out how to find a balance yet. He was, in fact, very impressed, very proud, as he had underestimated just how well you'd be able to get under Queen Chrysalis's skin.. He actually felt a closer bond with you.

"Already? You remember I have school tomorrow right? Speaking of, how exactly is that gonna go? Don't I need school supplies?"

"Are you worried you won't be ready for something as simple as school?"

You shake your head. "No, it's just it's going to be weird going to school again… in a pony world. I just want to make sure everything is the same as far as preparations go"

"Don't worry about that Anon, I'll have everything ready to go for you in the morning." Discord then chuckled "I just hope you're prepared to bring me nothing but A+'s given your actual age… oh, and if I have to be called in for a parent teacher conference, it better be because you turned the whole school upside down… literally or figuratively… I don't care which."

You smirk at him. "Nothing but A+'s huh? Ok "Dad", I'll do you proud… but uhh, seriously… that's stuff I got to worry about tomorrow. And since you said you got it handled… you wanna do anything right now? It's not like it's time to go to bed or anything."

Discord was a little caught off guard by that "You want to hang out with me?"

You nod "Yeah why not? I mean, you're Discord! Spirit of Chaos. You'd be surprised how many people want to hang out with you. And as for me in particular… I just want to hang out, we see each other all the time. But we never actually… you know, hang out. We just do things."

Discord didn't seem ready for that at all, he darted his eyes around "Hang out… Hang out… well… what do you want to do then? I doubt you'd like to do what me and Fluttershy does."

Cucumber sandwich's and tea? Nah, but… well… maybe you could actually. Just sit down and learn about him.

"Well, why not? There's a lot I really don't know about you, I just know from the show how you are. I mean, I'm sure nobody has ever actually wanted to talk about your antics when you got freed from your stone prison the first time. "

"Of course they don't, they don't appreciate that brand of chaos"

You sat your ass to the ground, and curled your tail. "Well, I'd like to talk about it. I want to know how you felt, why you did it. Everything. I won't judge, I get a kick out of that kind of stuff"

Discord was intrigued by your curiosity "You humans… This is why you're so interesting sometimes. Even tales of chaos, evil, and mayhem can catch your interest and make you want to know more. But, since you wish to know what I thought and how I felt during my chaos spree… well..."

Suddenly, all the lights went off. "What? Who turned off the lights?" Suddenly, you hear piano music as a spotlight goes over Discord, who was in his suit and top hat, he was… playing a Piano. "Discord?...what's going on?"

"Oh not much, just warming up to tell you my tale" Warming up...

"Oh wait… oh..." Oh… here it comes.
The music he was playing started to get louder, as you could hear more instruments playing around you. You slowly walked over to Discord.

"Well Anon" then he started to sing,slowly "The story of my revival isn't looooong. But if you wish to join in and sing alooooong. Then all you have to do is join in on my soooooong"

Oh god.. "Discord all I wanted was some normal dialogue, you can't actually be thinking I'd sing along? Just tell me how you had fun and messed with pone"

"Egads Anon, watch your tone."

"What tone? Oh no! What? Am I singing?"

Discord chuckles "Singing? I wouldn't call it that, not when you sound like a screaming cat"

"Ok look, let's stop this music and just get to what I want to hear, the story of Discord and how he brought chaos and fear"

Dammit, you couldn't stop.

Suddenly, you were in the Canterlot Gardens… but in the past. You could see Discord as a statue. “Well here I am, oh glorious me, turned to stone, but able to see. "See?" you ask? Well that's quite easy, it was all the order in this world… It made me quite queezy"

You kept your mouth shut. Discord eyed you, then focused on the piano as things started to play out like the episode.

"And then by sheer dumb luck, your friends came by. And of course, to nopony's surprise. They had a fight. That plight! that Spite! It was pure delight!"

the tune started to get more fun and jaunty, if it wasn't for the fact you refused to participate. You might dance along to it. "And then who came to reclaim his might?" The music stopped as you suddenly flew right in front of Discord.

He stared at you, waiting for your word. The music stopping. He… looked really into it. And as you looked at yourself, you saw that you too were in your suit and top hat.

Fine. "Discord"

Discord jumped up in celebration as the song continued "That's right! Freed at last and wanting fun, I went over to ole sunbuns, but of course being old and a dummy, I had to find some new friends, and get chummy."

"So the Mane six arrived to Canterlot Castle, where you just wanted to give them a hassle?"

"More than a hassle"

"Well now I'm baffled"

"No worries Anon, it's easy to understand. I needed to make sure there was unlimited fun to be had. But to destroy these ponies, no that wouldn't do."

"So you messed with the mane six, I get that you wanted fun. Warping their mind, you almost really won. But tell me Discord why you did all those things. There had to be a reason to ever-ry--thiiiinggg"

"Well, now I'm glad you asked Anon." Everything went dark once more. As Discord stood on his throne across a vast distorted wasteland. "Chaos And Disorder, that was the name of the game!"

"Remove strife and everything that's lame!"

"Everypony would adore me, by their will or not"

"While Equestria itself simply..."

"Went to pot?"

"Now you're getting it Anon"

"So there was nothing serious at play?"

Discord shook his head "no no"

"You just wanted order to stay away?"

Discord nodded "Far Away"

"Well then, I think I get it now, you just wanted to be a clown. Make the world your circus act, giving harmony itself a big ole whack"

"That's right, I would be king of all that's wrong, and it would go on forever long. They say that rulership comes to an end, but when it comes to me that concept can get bend!"

"It's bent… actually"

Discord rolled his eyes.

"So what's the conclusion to all this? That you just wanted to cause a mess?"

"Why, yes!"

"That's so simple, I should have known.."

"Well you did want to be told! And now we must conclude our little symphony."

"Oh thank god, Finally."

"That's right Anon, to the Finale!" The music blares as the lights go out for a moment. You find yourself alone on stage, balancing yourself on a cane. What? "I tried so hard to make it last, but in the end I was hit by a harmonious blast. You know the rest, through the window you glanced, now come on Anon, Finish with a big dance!"

What?! You could hear the music picking up for a dancing solo… Dance? Fuck… Everything was so grand. You could see ponies everywhere around you suddenly, glaring at you. all probably illusions. But whatever, they wanted a show. Time for a show. You had already got into the song.

You tried doing a two legged jig as you used the cane for balance. You tried to copy all the moves you could remember from old timey movies and musicals… but you sucked at it. Still, the crowd cheered you on. It motivated you. To try to end the song on a zinger.

"Chaos and Disorder, that was the name of the game....." You could hear the end of the song coming. You dashed back and tried sliding on your back leg knees, taking off and holding your top hat. "BUT NOW IT'S ALL LAAAAMMMEEEEE!"

The song ends. and the lights go off once more. You found yourself on the floor of the living room. Your attire gone. You look around, breathing hard, smiling. "Ha! Haha! How'd I do, pretty good huh?"

Discord face palmed "Now it's all lame? Anon really… we just messed with some changelings and you end the song with that? How does that make sense?"

"Hey… It was the spur of the moment thing… I've never been in a musical number, cut me some slack here."

Discord crossed his arms as he thought about it "I suppose I should. You did alright with the rest of it. So, did that explain everything?"

"Not really. But, I actually had fun with that. No wonder it happens so much on the show."

"You'd be surprised what you'd find fun once you give it a chance. But… if you wanted a simple answer. The simplest I can give you is I just wanted to have fun and create chaos. Of course… I suppose it's alright if I tell you this… After getting to know Fluttershy… I realized, there’s more to existence than just chaos. Sometimes it's nice to just… relax… have a cup of tea, and enjoy some quiet time with your best friend… That's not to say I didn't have fun with you. In fact, it felt glorious to scratch that old itch"

You smile at him. "That's pretty cool of you Discord. I don't know what to say really… just… thanks for everything. Thanks for the fun. I bet you make Fluttershy proud everyday. It must have been really hard to quit being a bad guy."

You've seen him on the show. He valued Fluttershy like no tomorrow. Even willing to get rid of other ponies just to hang out with her.

"Bad guy? me? It was just going to be innocent everlasting fun, that never made me a bad guy… " Discord said, then he sighed " Though I don't know what'd I do if Fluttershy ever saw me as one again..."

D'awwww. "I doubt she ever will. You're a good guy Discord."

"Oh I know I am, and I'm thiiiiissss close to convincing Twilight to letting me have a chair in her castle."

You chuckle at that, you felt comfortable.You felt comfortable around Discord. You were actually just having, a normal moment with him. "Well, if you get one. I hope your ready to solve friendship problems if that map ever says you’re needed."

"Are you insinuating I can't solve friendship problems?"

You shake your head "No… though… I'd love to see that actually. Hell, I'd watch an episode of you trying to solve a friendship problem. It'd be interesting."

"Interesting you say..." Discord started rubbing under his chin "You know… we still have the rest of the day. Why don't we go do just that?"

Wha? "Wait… you mean seriously go out and solve a friendship problem?"

Discord shrugged "Why not? We managed to cause some chaos as the perfect team. So… and I HATE using this phrase but… it stands to reason we'd be the perfect team in solving a friendship problem. Wouldn't you say?".

Actually… you wouldn't know… but the prospect was too good to pass up. You liked hanging out with Discord, especially now that he wasn't torturing you. And doing what the ponies have been doing for 5 years on the show. It'd be a interesting experience to see what it's like.

You nod. "Yeah… no, let's do it. Let's go solve a friendship problem! You and me."

Discord was delighted to hear that. "Glorious, we can get started immediately! Now then."

Discord pulled down a shoddy map of Equestria and stared at it. "Friendship problem… Friendship problem… who is having a friendship problem that only you and me can solve..."

Wow, he was serious about this… but… what pony could be having a friendship problem at this moment? Wait...

You slam your hoof on the map. "I've got it!"

Discord was looking at where you were pointing "What...in the dragonlands?"

Oh, wait… You didn't actually mean you were pointing somewhere. "U-uhh no, I mean, I know who we can help"

Discord was curious "Who? do you actually know of somepony?"

You nod. "Yes… it's the one pony who still has yet to show up again. I don't know what kind of changes it would cause. But I think we should help her before she shows up in Ponyville."

Discord was confused "Who?"

"...Starlight Glimmer."

Chapter 58

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

Chapter 59

"Discord, come on. We're not going to be able to get Suri to open up unless we can get her trust"

"And then we obliterate it when we actually question her on it. Because I don't see how we're going to get her to talk about it without her becoming suspicious. Ponies are trusting… but they aren't THAT stupid."

Hmmm..he had a point. "Ok, then we don't tell her… Let's see... How about we just keep her satisfied, and then have Coco come in and talk with her when she's distracted?"

"You mean put her in a situation where she would HAVE TO confront Coco? Oh yes, that's something I can do quite easily. But why the whole fashion nonsense? I could just lock them both in a room until they've talked it out. Easy peasy."

Yeah… no. "We can't do that. Well maybe we could… ARGHH! THIS IS TOUGH!" You started to get frustrated. "Even if we do the whole fashion thing to lure her in, we'd have to talk to Coco first, get her to be in on it, and then hope Suri just goes for it… But dammit… I don't have a clencher. She'd still realize we were lying to get her to talk to Coco. And like every fucking saturday morning cartoon realization. She'd get pissed off and leave."

"Well, that's not a bad thing, is it? By that logic, we should be able to talk her back in within a twenty two minute time frame… commercials notwithstanding."

"It wouldn't be if it wasn't for the fact that I have no clue on how to go about calming her down. If we can get passed that, I'm sure we could get this whole thing done without a problem."

You both sat around and began to think, taking a look out the window every so often for Suri's presence. There had to be something. a way to clench this problem without anyone going through the annoying "THIS IS STUPID" moment.

While you thought, a bright light suddenly filled the room. "What?" You look up, and you see a lightbulb above Discord's head. lit and floating. "You got an idea there daddio?"

Discord pulled the switch to the magical floating lightbulb and smiled towards you. "Indeed I do, instead of making pointless additions to the plan. Why don't we cut out a piece?"

"Cut out a piece? Cut out what exactly? It's all essential, we just need a clencher."

Discord walked over to you and gave you a pat on the head with his hoof "Silly Anon, I'll never understand you humans and your inability to keep things simple. Here..." Discord makes a chart appear of the plan that has been thought up thus far. "It's a good thing I'm a master schemer Anon, or else you'd be in real hot water right now."

You stare at the chart, then look dismissively at Discord. "I dunno, your plans may be simple but you never win out in the end. Are you sure you got this?"

Discord nods "Yes Anon, I'm sure… I watched enough of the episodes to see how these whole friendship problems work… Anyway..." Discord points his hoof to the chart "Instead of bringing in Coco to talk to Suri, let's cut out bringing in Coco and have her already there."

"What? That won't work. Suri didn't even bother going to see Coco after the letter. She'd just walk out after seeing her."

"Then, we only need Coco's presence. Not Coco herself..."

What did he mean by that? "Go on..."

"Instead it being MY fashion business, it can be Coco's… I'd just be an innocent high end employee to bring Suri in due to her "potential"... Do you see where I'm going with this?"

You think you did. "So, uhh… we're gonna hide the fact she's "working" for Coco. So when she finds out she'd have no reason to say no? Since she'd already be her employee?"

Discord nods as the chart reworks itself to the new plan "That's right! Good on you Anon, I knew you could figure it out!"

Ha, that was actually a pretty good plan… but.. "You realize the reason why this will probably work is because it reeks of deception… right?"

Discord rubs his chin as if he didn't actually know that "It does? Well now, that doesn't sound like doing it how the Princess of Friendship herself would do it now does it? Perhaps we should figure out another way to do this."

"Oh come on, that's not what I meant. I'm just saying that the reason your plan is so good is because it's your specialty. And it's actually not even that bad. I'm not Twilight, I'm not going to tell you it's wrong. I say we do it… but you're kind of have to use a different name if we're gonna do this. Discord might be a tad too obvious."

Discord smiled at your approval and then begins to think of a name, one he thinks up quite quickly "Why think of one when I can just take one from another dimensional version of me?"

"What? What do you mean by that?"

"I mean this!" Discord hops backwards as a flash of light fills the room, He is now in a red hat with a white feather. With a Red cape and coat. A golden "Q" hangs off the his white undershirt.

"Call me… Magnificent Q"

Right… Star Trek… Makes sense now.

You have to smirk at him though, that's very narcissistic regardless. "I think I need a knife, the smug is so thick that I can't see my hoof in front of my own face"

Discord gives you a dismissive expression before making the chart disappear "I didn't see you coming up with any names Anon, besides, in this form. She'll never figure it out. Now then..." Discord points his hoof at you, causing you to have a similar suit to his, but without the hat, and a silver A on your undershirt. "Hmmm, not bad not bad… Now then, I'll just have to find a spot in this city to set up shop. As for you Anon, my assistant. I expect you to use that silver tongue of yours to convince our "Boss" to join in on our plan."

"What? You're not going to help me with this?"

"Anon, you start school tomorrow. We only have one day to accomplish this. I need time to set up the actual trap… er, scene for Miss Suri's redemption… hmm, that seems to be a big thing these days, redemptions… Anyway, I'll have Suri in the studio very soon. You just need to convince Coco to be our owners. It shouldn't be too hard, ponies like her are quite gullible."

No argument there. Gullibility is pretty rampant in Equestria. And Coco was a nice pony. Still... You were just a colt. You were going to have to have some sort of proof that you worked for a business.

"In that case, give me a business card"

Discord complies, and he poofs up a card for you. "Insurance?"

You nod. "Insurance… just in case she doesn't believe me."

Discord opens two portals, one that opened up to a seemingly random spot. and another that went to well… a much nicer apartment, Coco's. "Now then, let's try to get this all done in a timely manner hmmm? I don't want to spend all day trying to solve a singular friendship problem" Discord said, as he pulled out a business envelope and plopped it on Suri's bed as the folder he generated poofs away with it's contents.

"Got it...." You put your hoof out in front of Discord. Discord just looks at it… confused.

"Yes… that is indeed your hoof… Anon?"

Oh come on… "No, put your hoof on mine"

Discord narrowed his right eye at you, feeling a little weirded out "Anon, I know I'm magnificent in any form, but this is a little too much don't you think? I like being single"

WHAT?! "Dammit! I am just trying to do one of those "Let's do it!" things that teams and partners do! I don't want to fuck you or anything!"

"Really?" Discord pulls up a mirror and looks at himself "I'd hate to use a derogatory term… but I'd "Fuck" me… and I do indeed have ways of doing that"

Ewww… gross… You grimace at Discord's words. "I… I didn't need to know that..."

You slowly put your hoof down as you walk towards your portal. "Ok, umm, so, getting past that. How do I find you after I talk with Coco?"

"Just follow the card Anon, it's that simple"

"Oh, It opens a portal?"

Discord looks unamusingly at you as he points to the words on the card. "No Anon… It has an address. If you can't find it, Coco certainly can. Really? using a portal, how ridiculous. We have to bring her to the studio like any other pony would get there, either by carriage or by walking."

Well shit. You became so used to Discord solving most of your problems with magic that you just sort of became used to it. "Ok ok… sheesh. You don't gotta be rude about it."

Discord smiles at you "It's good isn't it? It's just like any other fashion snob… I'm just trying to fit the part Anon, I'm not actually annoyed or anything."

Yeah. "Just don't overdo it. We don't want to scare Suri away."

"Oh trust me Anon, these fashionista ponies crave a little abuse, it drives them to try harder. She'll be so distracted that she'll never actually have a chance to leave."

You didn't know if that was true. You never dealt with fashion, and you doubted he did either. But… he was "The Magnificent Q". You just had to trust him. "Whatever you say Q, good luck. I'll seeya soon."

You walk into the portal.

Chapter 60

You look around. The place was very… purple. The couches and seats looked soft and there was a few bookcases, and tapestries and supplies strewn about. Damn, Coco must get overworked...

Wait...

You put your hoof to your face. "Dammit Discord… Outside the room… Not inside..."

You immediately hide and look about. No sign of Coco… Well of course there wouldn't. She's probably busy. You take a dare to look around the apartment. man, even the floor carpet was soft. You can see a candle light coming from the crack of a door leading to another room.

Curious, you head over to the door and notice it is slightly ajar, you peek through the crack and… Ha… There she is. Seems she's getting ready to put some fabric together.

You take a look around the room and try to find the exit. You easily find it and head over to it. Locked...

You unlock it, knock on the door, open the door and shut it. Creating the illusion that you "Let yourself in"

"Hello? Anypony home?" You almost let out a laugh, you felt like a cartoon character doing that.

The door leading to the room Coco was in opens slowly as she peeks out. "Hello?"

Cuuuuuuute

"Oh hello. You must be Miss Coco Pommel, a pleasure to meet your acquaintance" You give a polite bow… Nailed it

"I am… How did you get in?" She looked nervously adorable about your presence

"Well uhh, you see, the door was unlocked so I let myself in"

Coco get's curious just from that and pops out of the room and investigates her locks, they seemed fine, she thought to herself on how she could ever forget to lock it. "Oh, well....hmmm"

She seemed perplexed on how that could happen. but she didn't want to be rude and focus on it. "Hello." Coco turns to you and smiles "What can I do for you today?"

Huh… Just like that, huh? She didn't seemed worried anymore, must be your adorably good looks. Great! Makes things easier. "I'm here on official business from my employer, "The Magnificent Q", I'm sure you've heard of him?"

That seemed to have caught Coco off guard. She wasn't expecting a colt to just come in and throw business at her. She looks left and right, seeing if there was anyone else around who could have gotten in. She felt like something was off. "Ummm… no, but, aren't you a little young for this sort of thing?" Maybe it was a joke someone was playing on her? She couldn't be sure. "I don't want to be rude… but I'm very very busy. But if you want, you can take some cookies from my kitchen if you'd like"

Grrmmmm… She wasn't taking you seriously. "Busy? Miss Coco I come to you with a business proposal of a lifetime! If you'd just hear me out. I'm sure you'd at the chance to take it."

She looked at your attire. it was pretty swanky and nice. She's never seen a colt gussied up like that for no reason. Not wanting to take the chance that this was in fact a real thing. She decides to at least listen to you before sending you off. "Alright, would you like a seat? Mr..."

"You may call me Anon, and thank you miss Coco, I'd love a seat." You hop on the couch and… ohhh goooddddddd… It's sooo soft… Must... Resist… Urge… To… Roll… On it...

You take a moment to compose yourself, but Coco notices the odd expression on your face as you sit on the sofa. "Is something wrong?"

You cough nervously. "What?..o-oh no. Just have some achy joints from walking all the way over here"

"Oh, well, I have some cream rub if you'd like some. I use it on my hooves on my busier days."

Damn, she's so nice. And cuuuuute. The fact she's even taking the time to hear you out puts her above most ponies in her industry… You think… You wouldn't actually know.

"No it's alright. Ahrm… anyway. My boss has a business proposition for you that I'm sure you wouldn't pass up."

"I am intrigued. I've never had a colt come make me any offers before. Especially one who speaks as well as you do."

"Well, when you’re in the fashion business like me and my employer, having proper etiquette in all fields of the fashion world is of utmost importance"

Coco giggled… Why is she giggling? "Is something funny, Miss Coco?"

Coco realized how rude that must have sounded. She meant no disrespect to you. She just thought it was cute and funny that a little colt was sounding this serious. You fit the part for everything but your age. Her smile immediately turned to frown as she looked down, feeling shameful at her lack of professionalism. "I-I'm sorry, I don't know what came over me..."

D'awww, she's cute… but… you had a mission to complete. You gave her a snooty look, hrnn… maybe Discord had a point on this whole "act a little like a snooty jackass" thing. "Right… in anycase, my employer has been wowing ponies across the north. Mostly in Yakyakistan and the Crystal Empire. Well beloved there, don't even question it, he does not like to be questioned. With our success we have come down to Manehatten to set up shop. But, my employer is very conscious of the competition and does not approve of having to fight for top spot. Therefore my employer is looking for, well… an employer of sorts. We are willing to split profits 80/20 in your favor. All we ask is that you take us on as your faithful workers. You needn't even take your time up with us as we do all the work… All we ask is you come see our fashion studio… and that you immediately accept our offer."

Coco was impressed. you handled it like a true professional. She found it adorable. But… this did actually sound serious. And so out of the blue.. "That's a very generous offer. But, do I have to decide right now? I haven't even met your employer."

You nod, you needed her to say yes so Suri would realize she was working for her. "He's a very busy stallion, that's why I always do the more menial work for him."

Coco found that odd… and even abusive. Sending a single colt out into the city to do these kinds of jobs, she felt a little deja vu. "Anon… do you always do these kinds of things for your employer? Doesn't he have any adults to go out and do these things for him"

Oh… what is this? "Well, yes. "The Magnificent Q" is my employer after all, and I do whatever he asks me to."

Coco frowned at that… She was hoping he wasn't taking advantage of you. "Anon, colts or fillies as young as you shouldn't be travelling around this city by themselves. It's very dangerous. Don't you know that?"

Come on, dammit. Is she concerned about you? Fuck… being a kid sucks sometimes. You just needed a yes out of her… dammit. "I do, but I am a professional. So you needn't worry."

But she did worry. Enough to want to meet this "Magnificent Q". In fact, if she would be the boss over him. Then she could make immediate changes if she didn't like what she saw. She felt that you were probably being taken advantage of. "I accept your offer"

That was easy… You bow your head. "Thank you, Miss Coco. You won't regret it… Oh and, here's our business card… We can leave immediately"

You had to hope the trip would be a long one. Discord not only had to get Suri in the studio, but get her hired for the reveal to work. You felt things were being rushed… Felt like a season 3 episode.

"Actually… I have to finish work on a client's dress. It'll take a while, I hope you don't mind. If you'd like, you can stay and wait. You can help yourself to anything in my kitchen. Even the cookies" She gives you a smile, she did have work to do. And she wanted to meet her new employee if only to figure out what he's up to and fix it. But she had obligations before you. She also didn't want you just walking back out into the streets of the city. She didn't know how it was in the Crystal Empire, and she only knew so much about Yaktakistan. She only knew they were waayyy up north. But she knew the city, and some ponies weren't the nicest.

FUCK… Wait… Maybe that's not a bad thing. Certainly gives Discord the time he needs to get things set up… hopefully. And it's not like you knew how to get there. You had no way of navigating the city. And due to not having your saddle bag. You couldn't pay for a cab either. Plus… cookies were nice.

But… remain professional. You didn't want to give the impression anything was wrong. "I have no reason to say no. And I wouldn't want to tear you away from your work. Yes… I think I'll accept your offer. My employer needed time to prepare for your arrival anyway."

Chapter 61

Discord walks through the portal. it's an old decrepit building on the other side of the city. The walls are falling apart, there's holes everywhere, it smelled...

"This could be my summer home! Ahh, no. Anon is expecting me to actually follow through with this. Sad, it's rare to find a building in this much disrepair."

Discord slammed his hoof into the ground. Causing everything inside to shift, shine, glimmer, and rearrange into a lit white room with ceiling lights everywhere. "Hmm… This will do. Now then, I'm going to have to add in some furniture, plants, maybe a desk… a runway… hrn."

As Discord starts naming things off, the room starts to fill with clean and stylish versions of the items he mentions. A counter that curved like a hat. Exotic plants, fine wooden floors, cashmere seats.

Discord gave everything a hard stare. "Hnnn… Now for some clothes. Now… what would be in these days? It's been so long since I cared about fashion… Oh wait… I never actually cared. I've always just had a good sense of it." Discord started to pace. "Of course now I need to have some fashionable clothes that ponies like, I mean. I know I have good taste, but they want variety. And I need to make this place believable. What to do Discord… what to do..."

Then it hit him like a sack of bricks, and he smacks his head. "Oh wait, I don't have to actually design any clothes." Discord points around the studio as various clothes appear on racks and hangers. "I'm sure the owners of these… gaudy things… won't mind if I borrow them. It is for the sake of friendship after all."

Discord takes another look around his studio. then looks up. "One more thing" He quickly nods his head as a giant golden Q appears on the ceiling. Flashing between gold and platinum. "Perfect..."

He looks over to the front doors. "I wonder how long it'll take them to get here? Hmmm… This place is far enough, and I'm sure Anon might run into a few problems along the way… even if I have to create them."

Discord chuckled to himself, then sighed. "Sure is lonely here, by my lonesome, I can't even occupy my mind with a hobby… Where is that Suri? You'd think she'd be here by now with the offer I left on her bed… Who am I even talking to?"

Discord started to pace impatiently. "And then there is Anon himself, an interesting fellow to say the least. Maybe I should have sent him back, maybe my whole plan was too much for me to handle… and then I remember that I'm much too great for failure of this caliber. And besides, seeing Fluttershy happy… Hrn… talking to myself again."

At that moment, Discord hears the door open. and hard panting coming towards him… Suri? "Showtime"

Discord straightened his hat and put on a grin. Suri appeared from the front doors. She looked panicked, trying to fluff and pretty up her mane with her hooves. "Darn it, Darn it! Come on..."

"Miss Suri Polomare, I presume?"

Suri put her attention to Discord, not realizing he'd just be standing there waiting for her. She stood straight, put on a smile, and walked towards him.

"Yes, that's me." She gives a small nervous giggle, but stayed focus on the prize "And you must be "The Magnificent Q", a pleasure to meet you, and thank you for recognizing talent, you won't be disappointed,mkay… I'm really good at what I do."

Discord just stared, as his nostrils got assaulted by a rather gunky smell...though..he found it quite nice. "I'm sure… Hrn, what is that wonderful perfume you're wearing?"

"Perfume?" Suri took a whiff of herself… oh geez, she was in such a hurry she didn't realize she stunk to hell and back "You're serious?"

Discord nodded. "Why of course, you've really gone all out for this job interview. I'm impressed"

Suri didn't know what Discord was talking about… but… whatever, she would roll with it. "It's a very rare perfume, you'll never find anything else quite like it, I mean, I just had to put it on for the special occasion of meeting you, mkay."

"I see, well, flattery will only get you so far my dear. I'm sure you brought me some clothes for me to see and review, right?"

"Well..." Suri bit her bottom lip, she hadn't brought any to show him. She actually missed that part of the letter in her haste. "But… it's not like you need to see my work, I'm sure you've seen all my past work. You don't need to see any of my new pieces, it would just uhhh… ruin their splendor for when we reveal them to the public." Suri put on a smile, feeling jittery of her own fuck up.

Discord started to walk around her, giving her cold hard stares. "I see, miss Suri, here in MY studio. I expect the utmost professionalism from my employees. I do have hundreds of others who would love this position."

Suri looked behind herself… what others? "Uhhh… well… umm… you're just going to have to take my word for it, mkay?"

Discord nodded and put his hat on her head. "Good enough for me, you're hired!"

Suri was taken aback, she almost fell over both in overwhelming happiness and the most puzzled of confusion "W-what? Really? You'll take me on as your employee?"

Discord nodded. "But of course, you meet all my requirements. You have a good sense of fashion, and an excellent taste in perfume. You can get started today!"

Suri couldn't believe it, she had never even heard of "The Magnificent Q". But just looking at his studio, and "his" designs. He must have been big… and to just take her on like that?

"You're not going to regret this, trust me. This is my calling after all, but, am I like… gonna have coworkers or something? And, what exactly am I going to do, the letter never said. Because I'm just saying, I'd be really good as your top designer, mkay"

Discord walked away from her, giving her a dismissive look as he sifted through the "borrowed" clothes. "We'll have to see what happens Miss Polomare, you see. Since I have no idea how this town works. I had to find myself an employer and sponsor of my own to help with my advertisement, due to the competition I'll be dealing with… So technically, she'll be your boss, and will decide what's best."

"She?" Suri was confused "Wait, so you’re not my boss?"

Discord shook his head. "Nope, I'm just doing the hiring.Trying to find a certain mare who can really make things shine for my sponsor. And you're it. Isn't that just lucky?"

"Lucky?" Suri was so confused. But, she was content. A job was a job. And she got the job she wanted. She even got a little cocky "Luck has nothing to do with it, mkay. I'm just that good. So, who am I actually working for anyway?"

"In due time my dear, she'll be here soon. My assistant went to fetch her."

"Assistant? You have an assistant?"

Discord nods "Indeed I do, he's very reliable. Why? Do you have an assistant?"

"....." Suri didn't say anything, she didn't actually want to talk about that. What was essentially her downfall. She silently walked over to the clothes and started looking at them "Forget about that, it's not important. Let's talk about all this fashion you have here, it's amazing, and so varied, I've never seen anypony capable of so many styles. What's your secret?"

Discord shrugged. "You can say that I take my inspiration from here and there."

"No wonder they call you "Magnificent Q". Maybe I can convince my new boss to let me work with you, we'd make a good team, mkay" She let out a small joyful titter

"Oh, I'm sure when you meet her that you'll be beside yourself. And since you start today, she'll be absolutely delighted to know you're willing to work hard."

Suri knew she had to work hard, it was her only option. Being so poor, her life ruined, all because she used Coco to such an abusive point. She didn't realize how hard it could crash down on her until it actually happened. She was going to have to figure out how she was going to pull this off. Coco always did the actual labor. Now she had to do it all herself. "Sure, and I'm sure whoever she is that we'll be the best of friends. It'll be like we're sisters."

Discord gave her a near creepy reassuring smile. "Oh, I'm sure the feelings you have for her will be familiar. Now just sit tight my dear, she should be here soon to meet you."

Chapter 62

It had been some time now.

At this point, you sat on a taxi carriage, heading towards the studio that you hoped was ready. And that Suri was there. You looked over to Coco, who was examining the card thoroughly. "Something the matter, boss?"

Coco tore her attention away and looked at you and smiled, giving you a pat. "You don't need to call me "Boss"."

Ohhhh… Soft hooves… oohhhhh… "U-um, well. You did agree to all of this."

"I did, but it all needs to be on paperwork for it to be official. I don't want anypony to get in trouble due to not having any documentation. You understand, don't you?"

Dammit come on… "Well… I mean, I guess, but "The Magnificent Q" is a little eccentric when it comes to things like that. I guess he can draw up some papers. But, remember. You did agree."

Coco didn't know how to answer that,and she didn't want to upset you. "I Know… I… I just want to talk to him first. In case any changes need to be made, it's to make sure ponies like you are getting a fair deal. I just want to make sure everything is ok."

That's fine. Slight alterations just need to be made. All you know is, once she sees Suri. She'll most likely take her as an employee. And you can Discord can go home with a fixed friendship problem under your belt.

You nod to her. "I understand, but I promise you. Everything is alright. We are all professionals after all… So uhmm, what's with you and the card?"

"Oh… It's just the address, I could have sworn the buildings near there were all closed down."

"Well you know, he's eccentric. He's the kind of guy that likes a little chaos in his life. But, hey. despite the location we already have our first employee… Your first employee anyway."

Coco started to think, this deal was strange to her, and very hard to pass up. It was risk free and the extra money could help in her endeavors. She could even make big donations to help restore places like theaters and community parks that have since been closed down. But the fact that you, a colt, was sent to make the deal. And that she's never heard of "The Magnificent Q" made things worrisome. But, if he already had a first employee… then maybe he is something? Even if he wasn't, She was willing to give him a chance.

You had no idea if you were actually there or not, but you could tell you were entering the more slummy side of town. "Does he pay you?"

You didn't quite catch that,you were busy staring at the buildings. "What?"

"Does he pay you? Does he take care of you when you are away from your parents?"

You didn't know if telling her he was your dad would be relevant or not. She seemed really stuck on this. And sadly, you lacked your saddlebag to show her that you had quite a haul of bits, even after buying those gems. You decided to play it cool.

"He pays me, very very generously. I never get a chance to spend all the money, and I just end up with more. I can't even carry it around anymore. And yeah, he takes care of me fine. I mean, look" You point to your red suit and snazzy silver "A". "He has a matching suit that has a "Q" on it. Were that close, And I wouldn't have it any other way."

Coco nodded, and smiled. That did sound very good, and it seemed this "Magnificent Q" treated you, his assistant, with utmost respect. "I'm very glad to hear that. I am actually getting excited to meet him now."

Coco smile then slowly wavers to that of a frown "I've met so many other fashionistas… and they are usually not very nice. And they always think I'm out to ruin them, I'm sorry if I made you feel insulted by being a little skeptical. I guess I shouldn't think negatively of somepony I haven't met yet."

You had no ill will about this. It was all a ruse anyway and being skeptical about Discord in any form is to be expected. "Don't sweat it, you're too much of a nice pony to put yourself down like that"

Coco giggled at your endearing words and gave you another pat "Thank you, you're the nicest assistant I've ever met in this business"

Yessss~

After a bit more time, you both are dropped off in front of a building with a giant Q and A on it. in fact, it had a tagline "QnA, Answering the question of fashion everyday, all day."

QnA. Hahaha… That's good… And… He even included you in it… That was nice of him… Even if it was a ruse. The building itself was nice. neon lights up the wazoo, clean red walls, glass doors. It especially looked nicer than all the broken down buildings around it.

Coco was impressed. "Wow… I certainly wasn't expecting this"

"Me neither..."

"What?" Coco looked at you confused

"A-ahh… I mean… give me a moment. I need to see what "The Magnificent Q" is up to. Please don't come inside until we call you in. It's not to be rude. It's just a rule we have… sorry"

Coco shook her head at you with a reassuring grin "Don't be, I'll just wait out here until I'm called. You go do what you need to do" Fucking thank christ she was so understanding.

You walked into the building. Woah. Lights were blaring. And… Suri was walking onto the stage in a dress, while Discord sat on a chair staring. Wearing sunglasses… the fuck?

You walk up to the side of him, and whisper to him. "What's going on here chief?"

Discord looks at you, then takes off his sunglasses… Holy shit, he looked like wreck, his eyes were bloodshot.

"W-what happened to you!?" He looked like hell! It was astonishing to you.

Discord points his hoof "This… I didn't realize doing a fashion show for so long would be the epitome of boooooring. What kept you?"

What kept you? You thought you made some damned good time. "What?! It didn't take that long for me to convince her, the trip just took forever because you’re in bumfuck nowhere land."

Suri stopped, looking down the the both of you, feeling a little peeved. "Hey you, can't you see I'm trying out different clothes for "The Magnificent Q"?, you can just go wait over there until I'm done, mkay?"

Ohhh… she's being a bitch and not even hiding it…

Discord however, looked at her, with a near death glare. "Suri, this colt doesn't take orders from you. He takes them from me, he is your superior and my assistant. Understand?"

Suri got immediately scared and worried form those words. She didn't want to lose her job. "S-sorry Mr.Q… it… it won't happen again… Is there… anything else you need me to do?"

"Leave us, I need to discuss further business with my assistant" Discord waved his hoof at her

Suri nods and bows "Y-essir..." And leaves, going behind the runway curtain.

Did...did he just talk down to her in your defense? "...Discord....did you just do that?"

Discord took out his eyes now that the coast was clear and began to clean them. "Do what?"

"You defended me, like, you just snapped at her and said I was her superior."

Discord popped one of his eyes in to more thoroughly clean the other one, to inspect for spots. "Well, that's the truth isn't it? At least for our little ruse. And besides… if she goes "mkay" one more time I think I'm going to burst. She's LEAGUES below you, certainly not worthy of my respect."

You… didn't know how to respond to that. So he respected you? Or just respected you over her? Still, it was nice of him to do. And the fact he did it so suddenly, made you feel towards the former.

"Coco is waiting outside by the way...so...how do we play this?"

Discord pops both his eyes in. "However you wish, it is your plan after all."

hrnnn..

"Ok… you tell Suri our new boss is here. I'll bring Coco in. If I'm right. They'll see each other, Suri will realize she works for Coco. Coco will be happy. We'll probably hear why she cares about Suri… yadda yadda. Redemption bla bla. The good thing here is that we fixed someone's life and that we solved a friendship problem."

"I'm just glad the whole thing is over, this was far too much trouble than it is worth… But… the fact we actually accomplished this DOES mean we are just as capable as Twilight in the whole friendship business… Princess of Friendship indeed..."

Discord… always looking at the brighter side of things. "Ok, I'll go fetch her now. Can't wait to see this all come together."

You walk off to the front. She was still there, waiting patiently. She gives you a smile the moment she sees you. "Hello Anon, is everything ready?"

You nod. "Yes ma'am, please come in and have a look. Meet our employee… your employee… before talking with "The Magnificent Q".

Coco nodded as she walked in "I don't mind that, if I do end up being your boss. I want to get...."

She spots her..."Suri?!"

Suri was next to Discord, and the moment she heard that voice. She turned… surprised to the nth degree "Coco?!"

Ahhh shit nigga… It's happening.

You walk over to Discord as the two mares walk over to each other. This was going to be a heartwarming fest.

Coco slowly stepped over to Suri, she was worried. Why was she there? "Suri… is that really you? I didn't know you got a job here.."

Suri looked down, and then side to side. She seemed reluctant "Yeah, you know. I still am capable of looking out for myself. I didn't need you to survive."

"I-I know. It's just… I didn't expect to see you here. I didn't know you'd be one of my new employees." Coco said, she was starting to feel a sense of hope and happiness build up in her.

Suri however, seemed a little stunned "Your new employee? Wait, you're the one we're gonna be working for?"

Coco nods "Yes… and I'm glad for that. When I found out what happened to you. I got worried. I didn't know what I had done would have such an impact. I only wanted to make things straight… even if I didn't want to be your assistant anymore. I didn't want you to just be out on the streets."

Discord started to eat some popcorn that he poofed up. reaching his hoof in to drag some into his mouth.

"Can I get one of those?" you ask

Discord doesn't even make a motion. a bag of popcorn just appears in your hooves. "Thanks"

Suri eyed Coco, her expression, she seemed unsure of herself. "Well, I haven't been. I've been working odd jobs here and there until I could get up on my own four hooves. And then I found this place. So I've been doing pretty good for myself."

Coco nods "I can see" then she smiles "Well, I'll be happy to have you. But… we would have to talk about… what happened before. I can't approve of dishonesty… I'm sure we can-"

Suri stopped her,and gave her an angry look "Dishonesty? Excuse me? Who do you think you are that you can tell that to me? When I found you, you were nothing. I made you my personal assistant. Did I work you hard? Maybe… but you ate everyday didn't you? You had a home right?"

Uhhhhhh. "....oh no..."

Discord leaned up, getting a little excited "Finally, things are getting interesting"

Coco's ears drooped as she took a step back "Y-yes… but… Suri, everything we did..."

Suri stepped up to her, getting angry "..Everything we did was because it was everypony for themselves. You saw those other fashionistas. It's a pony eat pony world and we were going to the top. We Coco, you and me. Then you betrayed me, and left me to rot. Mkay?!"

Coco started shaking "B-but… I, I tried… I sent you a letter and-"

"Oh, I got the letter. I'm just wondering why it took you so long. Oh, right. You were waiting until you were on top before you called me over to take your table scraps!"

Discord was beside himself "Anon, are you seeing this?! I didn't even see this coming! Talk about an amazing twist."

You were silent… This… This wasn't happening… This would never happen in any of the greentexts you've read. Sex wouldn't either… but… usually everything turns out ok… for sex… but still.

Coco backed up against the wall, scared "No! No, I didn't… I just wanted you to be ok. I didn't even know what happened to you..."

Suri walked up to her, and clapped her hooves, looking highly angry "Good job Coco, you followed my number one rule "Everypony for themselves". I bring you in, and on MY high note. You crush me under your hooves and now, now look at you. You're successful, you have money, jobs and clients. And look at me… I'm nothing now… because of you!"

Coco tried to get one more word in. But Suri pointed her hoof at her "I don't even want to hear it. I'm so out of here, I so totally don't need this job."

And with that… Suri walked out. Leaving you and Coco in shock. Discord found this all entertaining.

"What… just happened?" You were struck with utter dread

Discord looked at you then at Coco, then back at you. Then popped some of your own popcorn into his mouth "Isn't it obvious? Everything backfired because we made the wrong assumption on one matter. She didn't answer the letter because she was ashamed, she didn't answer it because she never got over what happened. And now we just made it worse. Amazing, we may not be as good as Twilight. But the surprise ending sure threw me for a loop."

Coco started to sob and cry. Feeling miserable and guilty about what she was told.

"Holy shit… What have we done?" This wasn't happening!

"I just told you Anon… Hrnnn." Discord started to notice your expression "Anon… you don't seem as amazed as I am about this. What's the matter?"

"How can you ask that? Look at her… we fucked up Discord… We fucked up… really bad..."

Discord gave you a chummy bump on your leg "But look on the bright side. We still are buddies. Isn't that what counts?"

No… No, goddammit!

"We have to fix this Discord… We can't just let this happen."

Discord shrugged, he saw no way to fixing it "What's done is done Anon. What are we going to do? Convince Suri to suddenly change her mind? MAKE her be Coco's employee? What could we possibly tell her to make her change her mind?"

You thought hard… You thought as hard as you have ever done before… And yet... "I… I don't know. I thought that even...with the way she was living. That'd she still at least take the job and it'd work out from there… I..."

Discord put his hoof on your side, and looked at you. His expression..he actually looked worried. "Anon, we failed. There's nothing more we can do here. If I knew this was going to happen, I promise, I would have told you. But I didn't. We need to cut our losses and return home. We can pretend this never happened. It's not like we'll ever come back here. And we didn't ruin their lives. Coco still has her job, And Suri still has....something..."

You look over to Coco… Shit… "What about her? We lied to her. Now we have nothing, and she's going to know that we lied. She's going to hate us."

"Does that matter to you?" Discord asked.

"It shouldn't...but...she was so nice and understanding..."

Discord nodded, and straightened his hat "Step aside Anon… I can at least do this much."

"W-what are you going to do?...please don't do an-"

Discord put his hoof to your mouth and shushed you "Just trust me Anon, we'll call this a special favor… And I'll collect when I feel like it."

Mnnn… You don't know, but, no. If it'll help. "Just don't do anything that'd hurt her.."

Discord bowed "Oh trust me, it will be a simple enough performance" Discord walked over to the crying sobbing mare. "Miss Pommel?"

She didn't answer, she was just sobbing. Discord produced a handkerchief "Ms.Pommel… may I please speak with you?"

Coco then noticed Discord's voice, and looked up at him. She realized she was here on business. And what happened? She had conducted herself most unprofessionally. it only made her sob more as she tried to stand and quiet her crying "I-I'm s-sorry… I..."

Discord wiped her tears and passed her the handkerchief "No apologies needed my dear. I had heard everything, and I was appalled about what I heard."

"B-but… B-but, she's right… I..."

Discord shook his head "All you did was follow your dream, and from the looks and sounds of it. Just because she made some of your life better, doesn't mean she has the right to abuse and hurt you like that. She should have respected you like a friend. If she had done so, none of this would be happening to her now. It's her fault. Because if you hadn't done what you done. She would have ruined the life of another pony. You did everything right. And you even tried to make amends. If she couldn't accept that… well, then that’s how things are. Besides, she may come around eventually. And if you're willing still, you'll be there to take her in and show her the right way."

Coco's sobbing slowly stopped Those words.... "S-so...she might still be willing to change?.."

Discord nodded "Everything takes time my dear, everything takes time."

Coco hugged Discord, crying "T-thank you… Thank you Mr.Q… I won't give up hope. I know she'll come around. Oh.." Coco backed off, and wiped her tears away, smiling at Discord "And, I'd be happy to accept you as an employee as well… Though we could do a partnership if you want. It doesn't matter to me."

Discord cringed… Noooooooooope "O-oh..well. I'd love to, but me and Anon must be heading back up north. Seems there's an emergency… All of a sudden."

Coco nodded, she didn't want to take up his time "I understand… But, if you ever come down to Manehatten. The offer is always open."

Discord nods slowly "I'll… remember that… come along Anon, we are taking the show on the road."

He did it… You were stunned… The fucker actually did it. He didn't fix the friendship problem, but… he… You just stood there..

"Anon, time’s a wastin'" Discord chuckled nervously.

You shake your head to get out of your stunned trance. "Oh..uh...umm..Can I say goodbye to Coco first?"

Discord took a deep breath, annoyed , then released "Yes… mnn, I'll be waiting outside."

Discord walked out, He didn't want to be there anymore. In truth, the words he said to her bothered him. They were more meaningful than he realized.

You walk up to Coco, and give her a hug. You wished you could do more. To make up for your failure. But… Discord had already done enough for the situation. "Thank you for your time Miss Coco… and, it was really nice meeting you. You're a really nice pony… I'm sorry about what happened"

Coco smiled at you, a tear coming off her cheek. She gave you a hug back. "It's alright… Mr.Q's words, well, "The Magnificent Q"'s words. They inspired me… I know everything will be ok. And I'm glad you have such a good and understanding employer. I bet your parents must be proud that you work for such a nice pony."

Yeahhhh. You smile at her, the ruse was over. So whatever. "He's my dad actually."

Coco was surprised, but… it explained a lot… to her at least. "Well, then it's no wonder you're so well mannered. You and your father are both amazing ponies.I hope you become as successful as him one day. If you ever set out on your own and need a job. I'll always be open for you."

You nod...you felt a little bad that it was all a big lie… but she was happy. So you just nod. "Thank you… umm… will you be alright?"

Coco nodded "I will be now. Oh," Coco put a hoof to her mouth in small surprise "Your father looked like he was in a hurry. You better go see him… Don't worry, I'll be ok."

You nod. Yeah, she'd be just fine. You both hug each other again, and you wave to her as you walk out. And as you walk out. You plop… right onto your bed.

Chapter 63

You lift your upper body up from your plop and shake your head. It was all over. But it was unbelievable the way it ended. Discord had managed to turn over the failure in a way you didn't think he knew how to.

You were too curious. You slip off your bed and open your floor door, and head downstairs. It's been awhile, but the living room was finally back to normal. You spotted Discord, who was brooming the floor, as dust just spread from the broom itself as if it was being generated by it… best not to question why.

Before you can say a word. Discord looks up at you. He was back to his original form. He plants his arms on the top of the broom and rests his head on it as he looks upon you. "You know I put you on your bed to get a little nap before dinner. It's been an exhausting day."

Exhausting? Yeah, it has been. You did feel tired. But it was negated by your curiosity. "I haven't needed a nap since I was a little kid."

"Says the little kid" Discord snickered.

You shrug his comment off with a smirk. "Whatever, You're just jealous that you're not young like me"

Discord continued to smirk back at you. Battle of the smug."Rather old and wise, than a face full of pies."

Face full of… Oh shit! You immediately weave to the left as a flurry of pies nearly graze your head.

You point your hoof and laugh at Discord "Ha! Finally! Take that Discord! Ain't gonna get hit this time!"

Discord snickered "Is that a fact?"

You nod, grinning arrogantly at him. "You bet, no matter what direction you throw them at. I'll be ready!"

Discord nodded, murmuring "Hmm, yes, I see. Well, if you can dodge them coming from any direction. How about all directions?"

Ahh shit… Before you could even reply. Pies started floating all around you. forming a sort of sugary, creamy, dome. "Fine fine! you win. Cripes, can't even play fair for once in your life, can you?"

"What fun is there in playing fair, Anon? And this isn't rhetorical. I expect a good answer… or… well.." The pies begin to shake violently.

Shit shit! Goddammit. He was serious?! Ok ok, calm down. This was easy… maybe… nope… ngh. You could only think of one thing… would he go for it? "Uhhh… The fact that gloating is so much sweeter when you decimated your opponent on an even playing field?"

"Hrnnnn..." Discord thought to himself, twirling his beard. You closed your eyes tight and braced yourself for incoming pies.

But… they didn't come. You didn't feel a single one hit you. You slowly open up one eye and look around… no pies. Discord slowly clapped. as the Broom went off on it's own to continue it's… dustifying. "Bravo Anon, I actually never thought of that until now… for that, you avoid a clown's fate."

Thank fucking christ. that actually worked. You take the moment to collect yourself. And then realize… you were still curious. And since Discord asked you a question… You look towards him, wanting your answer.

"Discord… how did you manage to calm Coco down back in Manehatten? How did you come up with all of that?"

Discord's expression became serious for a moment, then back to his jovial self
"Why Anon, isn't it obvious? I simply pulled together a few of the friendship lessons Twilight had used and learned and made my own solution. It's as simple as that."

And so you thought. What lessons exactly. Was there one that had to do with a failed reconciliation? Comforting a friend… sure. But the advice he gave, and the situation. It didn't add up.

"What lessons exactly… did you pull together?"

"Why are you suddenly being so snoopy?" Discord narrowed his eyes at you, now he was back to being serious. His joyful disposition disappearing.

Why is he being so defensive? You didn't mean to offend… but… it just seemed so off. "I'm just curious. Why is it so hard to answer the question? Just give me the episode names and there you go. We can go about our day"

But in truth, Discord didn't take from any episodes. His words, they were from growing feelings he was having. It was a lesson he himself was learning. Not to the extent a pony could learn. But he was learning at his own pace. That you yourself was more than a means to an end at this point. But he wasn't about to let you know that.

"How surprising… are you telling me that you can't even remember the morals of the show that you have to ask me for an answer you should already know? Makes me wonder if you ever took any of those morals to heart. For shame Anon, for shame." Discord put his arms to his side and shook his head at you, going "tsk tsk tsk"

Come on, you could remember them. But you were drawing blanks… "Give me a hint?"

Discord shook his head "Not even one Anon, you're just going to have to refamiliarize yourself with these lessons by actually having to learn them first hand. Of course, let's just hope you don't actually have to relearn ALL of them. That would just be tragic and speak volumes about who you are deep inside, wouldn't it?"

You sighed, annoyed. You weren't going to get your answer. And you weren't some edgelord who needed a fuckton of moral reconditioning that needed that many lessons and morals shoved down your throat. You were a good guy… You thought as much anyway. "Fine, don't tell me. Geez… after all this time. And you still can't tell it to me straight. I don't do this crap to you you know, the least you can do is show me the same courtesy"

Discord zigzagged over to you like a snake, and started rubbing your back before you could react. Uhhhh… this was weird… and yet it felt oddly nice… but… uhh... UHHH… "W-what are you doing?"

"Giving you a relaxing backrub Anon. You're being so uptight over something so simple. And yes, I'm aware you don't do this "crap" to me. But that's because you know that you owe everything to me. It'd be rude to play those kinds of games with me and you know it. But when it comes to me to you. I feel that there are some things better left unsaid. Trust me when I say this Anon. If you can't get me to tell you, then it's probably be best that you drop it. Because I'll only tell you if I want to tell you… or if you actually come up with something amusing enough for me to tell you."

And at that moment, Discord's voice turned female. "Do we have an understanding, Anon?"

Who, what?

You slowly turn backwards… and Discord… he… he transformed into a female form of himself, still giving you a back massage. "D-Discord...w-what are you doing?"

"I already told you" He… she said, making her voice more seductive "I'm just trying to relax you..." She brings her face next to yours as she rubs her paws and talons gently up your back. "Now… how about we drop the subject, and you go up to bed and wait for dinner. We can talk about other things then… alright sweetie?"

You were blushing hard, her rubbing became softer… more relaxing. And yet it was so goddamn awkward. He was messing with you. He was just trying to get you to drop the subject. "D-discord… this… this is really weird… I-I mean, you're still a guy..."

Discord giggled "Oh I know..." She/he...whatever...moved up to your front and started gently scratching under your chin… Oooooggghh… "But you don't actually seem to care… now do you?"

Dammit… you just wanted to know how he managed to do it. Now he was teasing you in the most awkward of ways, You didn't know what to do. "Come on… stop. This is just, really weird."

Discord looked into your eyes, he could see so much confusion. "What's wrong Anon? Can't decide if you want me or not? Do you want a little sugar?"

Your face turned completely red. He wouldn't… he wouldn't… right? RIGHT?! Your mind goes blank. And you slowly nod.

"Ok Anon, close your eyes, and you will get a biiiiig surprise." Big surpr...OH SHIT NO!

You immediately jump backwards and hide behind a table. Looking at the femDiscord in fear.
"DISCORD, FUCK OFF RIGHT NOW! THAT'S FUCKING SICK!"

But when you looked at him, he was just holding a really big pie. Discord, still in female form, looked at you, and then the pie, then back at you, he was confused "When did such a classic joke become "sick"? Children these days, I'll never understand them."

You took huge breaths, and tried to calm yourself. "I-I… t-thought it was something else… I..."

Yeah, just leave it alone. If you were going to get your answer. You would have to come up with a way that he couldn't counter. Because this… THIS… was too much. You didn't care that he… she… was hot. It was still him.

"I… think I'm just going to go up to my room… and… nap.." You shakingly get up and hobble to your room. You couldn't… just couldn't. You really thought he was going to… yuuuucckkkk…

Discord giggled and waved to you "Have a good nap Anon, dinner will be soon. We can have a chat then."

Discord watched as you went up to your room, and chuckled as he transformed back to his original self. "Well that was fun… I wonder what he thought I was going to do? Hrnnnn"

Chapter 64

You lay on the your bed. Wondering what the hell just happened. You looked to your door. Ugh...
You were never actually good with women. Even in pone world with cute horses. You had your sperg moments. But goddamn, that was too much. You felt so confused. FemDiscord… Eris as some would call it, was pretty damn hot. But it was still Discord, you knew he was messing with you, and even if you could have sex with it. No telling what terrifying kinks he'd/she'd actually have. Best to try to forget.

And so you laid there, and waited for dinner. You got up a few times. once to open the portal door to see the time of day. It was already dark. And then… there was school tomorrow. No telling how that was going to go… You were sure you could handle it. But, so many kids around you? It was a little worrisome. But with DT's redemption… things should be ok. Not like Snips and Snails were a threat if they somehow became bullies.

You closed the door. Stepping out now would be a travesty, given you didn't have your trusty map. Things have gone so different than what you planned. Instead of becoming super good friends with ponk, you became friends with Lyra and Bonbon. Instead of any of the CMC sorta falling for you, Diamond Tiara was the one who did. And any chance of getting the ponut was out of your hooves. And so far, you have met two out of the four princesses. Though the visit with Celestia was brief. You wondered if she had been keeping track of the going ons of you and Discord. In case she herself had jumped the gun.

Then you hear it. "Anon, Dinner's ready!" Thank god… male voice.

You open your door and head down the gravity stairs. Discord sat at a rather small table. With a seat across from him. Two plates sat on the table for the both of you… filled with tacos. And each were filled with something different.

You went and sat at your seat. And stared at the food. Taking care to look at the contents of each. some even had flowers in them. "Tacos huh? Is it Tuesday?"

Discord shook his head "Monday actually, I wanted to get a jump on things."

Ok, well. The ones with flowers irked you a little, but at least they weren't blue. But hey… you were a horse now. Might as well try it. You bite into it… hey, pretty good.

Discord himself wasted no time in digging into his food… You'd never get used to the way he eats though. His tacos were actually inverted. With the filling being the shell and the shell being the filling. So weird. And still, that one question lingered in your mind. Maybe now that was dinner time. He'd be more open to it. You raise your hoof slowly to ask your question. "Discord… I-"

You stop the moment he gazes at you, and bounces his eyebrows up and down and does a smooch… Yeah, nevermind… "ok… um, I mean. You know, so how are we doing the whole school thing… is what I was gonna ask"

Discord pops three tacos into his mouth, and without chewing, it goes right down. Then he wipes his mouth with a tissue and let's it go as it flies away like a bat. "Are you seriously asking that Anon? You've been to school haven't you? You just go and learn things."

"Well yeah, I know that much. But like… is there anything I need to know, since you know… I've never been to a pony school."

"Nothing in particular. Though I wouldn't be throwing around your "Genius" mind around like it was actually something. You'd give everypony the wrong impression."

Right… you did want to be a little of a smart alek before, but now that you've been in this world longer. You didn't really have the heart to put down anyone by acting like a prodigy. "Gotcha… so, what about school supplies?"

"Fluttershy has that covered. She's been oh so excited to see you off on your first day of school. She really enjoys the prospect of being an Aunt. So please Anon. Humor her whims."

You didn't need to be told. You really enjoyed it when you were around Fluttershy, especially when she was happy.

"You don't need to worry about that. I don't think I could live with myself if I actually upset Fluttershy." A little bit of a bold statement. But if she ever cried because of you… it'd break your heart. You could never forget how much she cared for you back at the hospital and her cottage.

"Good, because I don't think you could live with yourself if you did make her cry. In fact, living would be quite difficult." Discord gave you a hard stare…

Yeah, if it was one real trigger Discord had. It was if anything happens to Fluttershy, whatever did it would be fucked. He must have really been blown away when she forgave him after committing high treason.

You nod, you weren't afraid of his threat. You'd never do anything like that. "I know I know… I won't do anything bad. So… Discord. I know we gotta keep this up forever, in a sense. But, there's something I really want to know..."

Discord finishes his food, then eats the plate "And that is?"

"Growing up… I know it's nothing for me to worry about now. But if I'm as natural as you say. I'm gonna grow up right? Into a stallion?"

Discord nods "Yes, and with my food. A very healthy one."

"Right… the thing I'm actually wondering is. Well, I'll have to move out right? Make it on my own? Because, I know ponies usually go off their cutie mark. But… can I even get one? I've never actually asked you that"

Discord leaned back. his expression became soft, almost fatherly so. He seemed to actually care to answering the question. "As I've told you. The magic of that mirror makes you one hundred percent natural with a side of chaos. You are, like everypony else, capable of getting a Cutie Mark. What it is? I haven't a clue. But you'll do fine, it's not too hard living in Equestria. Usually doing your special talent is enough to have a living. Though… I suppose, depending on what your cutie mark actually is. Moving out might not be viable."

So, you can even get a Cutie Mark… but… what does he mean by that last part. "What do you mean not viable?"

Discord shrugged "Even I don't know what I mean by that. But just for a fun example. Let's say you're special talent happens to be living in a basement and watching cartoons on the projector, you'd never be able to make it out there. And I'd be forced to keep you in… Of course… under special conditions."

Your ears droop as your pupils slightly shrink at the sheer terror of that being your special talent. "Y-yeah… fun… But, uhhh… I doubt that would be my cutie mark."

"You mean you hope that isn't your Cutie Mark."

Yeah… "O-ok… moving on." You actually start to eat as you continue your conversation.

"Discord, uhh... I've been wondering. Are you in love with Fluttershy by any chance?"

Discord didn't answer. The moment his brain comprehended the question. He started puking like a cannon. Various crap hitting you, covering you in a viscous gooey substance of nightmarish vomit.

"How many times do I have to tell you that I don't do that kind of commitment! Why would you even bring that up during dinner conversation. What's wrong with you Anon?!"

You shouldn't even be surprised. You wipe the puke off your face and take a breath. Ughhh… it was so… gooey and sticky "a..ahhnnnn… g-grossss… I'm… sorry I asked..."

Discord raised his paw as all the puke came off of you. So much so any dirt or dust on you flies off too. Forming a giant ball… and leaving you squeaky clean somehow. Discord then moves the ball over to him and devours it. "Ahh… now that was a good dessert… anyway" Discord looks over to you. You were still stunned from the sudden puke assault. "Well Anon...do you have an answer?"

You say nothing. Even being clean, it all was so… ugh.

"Anon? Hrn..." Discord already begins to lose interest in your answer as he grins, snapping his talons as a gloved hand appears before you.

"Anon… if you don't want me to slap you, Say something."

You were still stunned. You could swear there was some horrific worms and creatures that were in that puke that hit you, crawling on you… in you. It was horrible… and for Discord just to eat it?!

"Ok" The glove slaps you on the face to make you yelp, and snap you out of your trance.

"Aye geez...what was that for?!" You rubbed your face with your hoof as you gave an angry glare at Discord.

"You weren't responding. I had to do something. I hope you aren't upset, because there is a question I want to ask you now Anon."

He had a question for you? You were still a little miffed. But, he's answered your questions so far. "What is it?"

Discord seemed to be hesitant with this one. He started tapping at the table before asking.
"Anon, I don't want you to think too deeply into this. But since we are having dinner and conversation is a must. I want to ask this… Do you consider me a friend?"

What? That… That was a surprising question. "Is that a serious question? Or are you going to spring something else on me?"

Discord sighed, and looked down, then back at you. his expression becoming melancholic "Just curious..."

He was asking this after just puking and slapping you, not to mention the femdiscord stuff… but… the day you had with him. It was the first day you both pretty much hung out as equals. And… it wasn't bad.

And his expression. If it was real, then, as odd as it seemed to you, it meant whatever you said he would take to heart. He wasn't a bad guy… you had no reason to tell him he was. He gave you a new home, you had good friends, and he was cool to hang out with. But, why was he so curious? You had a little trouble putting two and two together.

"Yeah, I do. You're a bit of a jerk Discord. But,you've never made me hate you. And when you aren't pranking me. You're pretty damn cool… Is there any reason you're curious all of a sudden?"

"Oh no real reason. I just wanted somepony else's opinion other than Fluttershy's. She's too nice sometimes, and I knew you'd give me a more unbiased answer. And with that answer, it just tells me just how good of a friend I am." Discord chuckles as he looks at the claws of his talons, blows on them, then rubs his chest "It means the next time Twilight or her friends, sans Fluttershy of course, tells me I'm not a very good friend, I can just bring you up and show them that I am in fact...a very good friend."

Right… of course that'd be his reason. "You're one of a kind Discord."

"Ain't I just?"

"So then… with that, when are we going to go out committing chaos again? Or maybe trying to fix another friendship issue. I know we fucked up… but, if we tried a pony that was easier… I mean, Trixie is still an option… or if we can find her… Starlight Glimmer… I mean, before she shows up on her own."

"If she shows up on her own. The timeline, she is a changin' Anon." Discord says in a cowboy accent.

"What do you mean? I thought it wouldn't change that much"

"And it probably won't. But there's still the possibility. I'm sure there was never a point in the timeline where I pulled a human from his world to Equestria. Nor was there ever a point where I and this human turned pony went and messed with the changelings. Who knows, it could inadvertently change things in ways we wouldn't expect. Or it might not."

Right, that seemed obvious.

Discord continued "As for the answer to your question. I'd love to do it soon. But it will require the right moment and the right target… oh wait, never mind. I thought of one."

That was fast. "Who?"

"Princess Celestia of course… She's a thousand years due for a little actual payback"

Uhhhhhh… "Right… no, come on. Not her, she'll just take it in stride. She doesn't seem to be afraid of your antics now that you're good. How about… I dunno… Cadence? That might be fun… and I'm not really emotionally invested in her"

"Please… You are aware who her husband is right? We do that and the next thing we know, Twilight will be lecturing us to Tarterus and back."

Right, that is true. You and Discord would never get away with that. "Luna? No… no, she's really sensitive these days… as far as the episodes go anyway."

"Oh come on Anon, that actually could be fun....imagine all the nightmares she'd bring us as revenge. It could be amazing!"

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOPE. "NOOOO… Nononononoo… no, ain't dealing with none of that nightmare shit… fuck… This is harder than I thought."

"Party pooper.." Discord was a little miffed about you not wanting to try. Damn… you could do Spoiled Rich… but… no, not her. She still had money and power. And no doubt that wouldn't help with your or Discord's reputation.

"I guess we can just sit on it for now and think of something later… I'm getting kind of tired." You yawned

"Ahhh, the hooves of the night clutch onto you hmm? Well then, you should get some rest. You'll have to be awake in the morning."

That sounded like a good idea. "Yeah..." You yawned "I guess I'll get going… Thanks for hanging out with me Discord. It was really fun."

Discord gave you a nod, and then a salute "It was fun, Private, a successful operation indeed. Though we never did get around to a debriefing"

Really? He wanted to go that far with it? Eh, why not. let's indulge. "Alright, let's do that then… General"

Discord nodded to that. But he didn't say anything however.

"Discord?" No, instead, you suddenly feel something on your lower half. You look back… you were in boxer briefs suddenly.

And then they came down, magically.

It was a little amusing..but not enough for you to laugh. Discord seemed to find it hilarious though. It was a little endearing. "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA OH THAT'S RICH!"

You let out a chuckle. He did it in good humor. It wasn't anything that'd make you sour since he did it without anyone else around. Still, it wasn't as funny as he made it sound. Can't win em all Discord. "It was cute. Heh… but I'm going to bed now. Seeya in the morning Discord."

Discord calmed his laughing as you went under your door. "Anon, hold on. There's one last thing."

One last thing? Nnmm, come on, you were tired. "Yeah? What's up?"

"Well, I was thinking. And you've been a real good sport about everything that's happened thus far. I want to reward you with a gift."

A gift? Another one? He's already been pretty generous, all things considered. "What is it?"

Discord snapped his talons as a horn appeared before you… It was. "Hey… that's my Sombra horn."

Discord nodded "Indeed it is… I've made… a small upgrade to it"

W-what? "Upgrade?"

Discord nods "Indeed, I've thought about it. You have proven yourself worthy of the art of chaos… not completely of course, more of an accomplished cadet. So, I grant you a horn that you can actually use… once per day."

Woah what? "Use? Once per day? What do you mean?"

Discord grinned "Give it a try Anon… But be wary, with great power, comes great irresponsibility… So it might be a good idea not to screw up."

Ha… still… You wondered… "Give it a try huh?" You take the floating horn and put it on. Instead of turning you into a mini-sombra. It instead becomes a unicorn horn of matching coat color. "Woah… I'm a unicorn now?!"

"Close… Just… Try it"

"But… I don't have any kind of magic training"

Discord went over and bopped your head "Anon, you insult me. As If I'd give you a gift that you'd need actual practice for. Just use it already!"

Ouch… geez. "Fine fine… yeesh… ok… just try it., uhh… how to try it..." You point the horn at the wall, and try something you always wanted to try. "I hope this works… KAAAA… MEEEEE… HAAA… MEEEE..." As you say it, your horn starts to build up in a blue colored energy. "HAAAAAOOOOOPH!"

You release a giant blue beam into the wall, obliterating it, but the force also send you backwards into the other wall. Ogh… It hurt pretty bad. And your horn fell off after use. "O-ooh… t… that was dum-b… o-o-of..me..."

Discord looked at the hole in his wall "Hrn… looks nice" Then he looked at you, picked you up, and dusted you off. "Are you alright Anon? You took off like a rocket."

"N-no..."

"Well that won't do..." Discord put his paw on your back and pressed hard. You felt and heard a snap… and you felt… fine "Now how do you feel?"

"U-uhhmm, better, what did you do?"

"Simply snapped some of your insides back into place… be careful with your new toy Anon, you don't want to break anything" Discord gently puts you down and gives you a pat on your head.

You still felt a little achy. The excitement you had left you immediately after such a misfire. Yeah, need to think things through better.

You walk over to the horn and try putting it back on… but it won't stick… once a day… got it.
You didn't know if you should accept the gift. Or… at least use it all willy nilly. Like with Bonbon's grappling hook you have yet to use, this was something you'd have to get used to. "Thanks Discord, you didn't have to do this."

"Don't mention it Anon. Just being a good friend and father. Nothing more than that, now you better scurry onto bed. Or you're not going to wake up in the morning."

Right… best to get some sleep. You give a goodnight to Discord. and take your horn with you up to your room. You put the horn away for now. And think to yourself about how the day has gone. All things considered, it was fun. But Discord was definitely acting strange. It was as if he was being a dick to hide something, instead of just being a dick.

You just couldn't figure it out. Probably not worth it. Otherwise, he was nice and fun all day… and even cheered up Coco. Discord is just random it seems. You couldn't figure it out.
Eh, probably not worth thinking about right now anyway. You had school to worry about. So probably best to just get some rest. And that horn. It started to make you feel excited again. If only because the possibilities seemed endless.

And so you cuddle on your bed, into your blanket, and sleep.

Chapter 65

The morning comes again… A little too soon for you actually.

"WWAAGH!" You scream in terror as your bed tilts and flips upside down. Dropping you to the ground. Making you hit your head. "WAH..WHAT..HUH… w… crap..ngh..Agh! Geez… ugh, what happened? I swear, my head is going to either crack one day or get so used to this shit that it's gonna harden to steel..." You look around, then up. then down. Your bed was hanging on the ceiling. and the door floor was gone. "Gotta be morning… geez… talk about a wake up call."

You stretch, and grab your saddle bag. "Probably going to need this… hrn?" You notice a note hanging on the button buckle. Wasn't much to it, it just told you to put the dial to two. For Fluttershy's cottage. Hrn… If you remembered correctly. Fluttershy probably wanted to see you off… or something. Hrn...

You check the contents of your saddlebag. There was still the bits. The horn… It was in there too. Discord must have put it in. It also held the grappling hook… probably not something you should bring to school. You take it out and put it away.

You put on your saddle bag and stop to think. This was your first day of school for you. You hoped you wouldn't do anything stupid… You walk over to the portal door. and set the dial to two. Opening the way to Fluttershy's cottage.

You step through, ngh… your eyes, they need to adjust to the sun. Morning sunshine… oygh. You walk over to the front door and knock. It didn't take long for the door to open. Fluttershy opened the door slightly to peer through, and when she saw it was you. She gave you a sunny welcoming smile "Anon, good morning… oh..."

She noticed you look a little a mess. Probably from being plopped from bed. "What's wrong?"

Fluttershy walked over to you and started patting down your mane. "Nothing, it just looks like a hurricane blew through your mane. Here, let me get it for you."

Aww.

Her hooves were soft and gentle. She did the best she could with your mane, but she was no Rarity. It didn't look too bad. Well, she said it didn't look bad. You couldn't exactly see it yourself. "I, guess that will do.." She says as she gave it one last inspection.

She gives your mane a little bit more of a pat down just in case. It still looked slightly messy. But that was the best you were going to get with a pat down.

You looked around, you didn't see Discord…

"So Anon, are you excited for your first day of school?" Fluttershy asked "I hope you aren't nervous about it. If you are, I'm willing to talk about it with you."

Dammittttt..sooo..cute. She was so nice and sweet. "I'm sort of excited Aunt Fluttershy."

"Sort of? Is something the matter?"

Ahh… you didn't mean to answer in that way. You were still waking up. You didn't want to give any answers that'd worry her. "W-well, I mean. All those classmates I'm gonna have… and I..barely know any of them, it's kind of scary"

That seemed like an answer a kid would give, right? Fluttershy smiled at you and gave you a hug "Don't worry Anon, you know you'll have Applebloom and the others there with you. They won't let anything bad happen to you. So no need to be scared , ok?"

You nod, you can work with that. "Ok… I'll do my best Aunt Fluttershy"

Fluttershy gave you a gentle pat "That's all anypony could ever ask for."

Mnnn… you felt a little bad acting instead of being yourself in front of her. You wanted her to know a little more about the real you. Ahh… maybe at some point. You thought, well… how angry could she get if she ever knew the truth? Hmm..

"Where's Dad?"

"Oh, he'll be here soon. He said he had a surprise. I can't wait to see what it is!"

"He didn't tell you?"

Fluttershy shook her head "No, he wanted it to be a surprise for the both of us." Fluttershy hovered up a bit and excitingly clapped her hooves "I can't wait to see what it is, I've never seen Discord so eager to surprise anypony before with a gift! I bet it'll be very nice!"

Heh… you had nothing to worry about. He wouldn't dare do a diabolical surprise to you AND Fluttershy… namely for her. But then… what could it be?

"In the meantime, since he was busy. I made you some breakfast. It's not much, but I hope you'll like it." Fluttershy hovered over to a table. and there sitting was a bowl. In the bowl was crushed apples, oats, plants, hay… all crushed and mixed with some milk. Fluttershy looked over to you, she hoped you'd like it "I put in a spoonful of sugar to make it sweet. I hope you enjoy it Anon."

Even if you don't… you could never do anything to break her heart. Mostly due to the crushing guilt. And Discord possibly crushing you.

You sit down and look at it. Not wanting to be rude. You lift the bowl with your hooves, and slowly dig in. You know you've seen them eat from the bowl like this in the show… right? You couldn't remember.

The food itself. Sadly, was not as good as you would have hoped. It may have been a healthy breakfast. But it didn't have the zazz of Discord's nutritionally warped meals. Still, you put on a smile, and finish it quickly. and wipe your mouth. "Thanks Aunt Fluttershy, this was pretty good"

Fluttershy smiled with glee "I'm so glad you liked it Anon. Not only is it good, but it's good for you and will give you the energy you need to start the day"

You stand, and just give her a hug. You just felt a compulsion. She was so caring. Perhaps this urge was also brought about the way she cuddled to sleep with you. She made you feel like a loved child better than any other pony in Equestria.

"Thanks Aunt Fluttershy, you… you're the best."

Fluttershy wasn't expecting a hug, but she hugs you all the same. Fluttershy was still amazed by your overall attitude and demeanor. Even out of the hospital and back with Discord. You still seemed like a loving and eager child. She couldn't imagine what Discord must be doing, but whatever it was. She was sure he was doing an amazing job. "Ohh Anon, I just want you to be happy and healthy. If Discord is willing to be serious about being a father… then I'm going to be serious about being your aunt. And a aunt does their best for their nephew."

Then it hit her, she forgot something "Oh, Anon, can you wait right here a minute? I have your school supplies in my room. I got you pencils and paper and a ruler, a notebook. And a lunchbox!"

Aww… wait what? You forgot that you needed extra supplies. Huh... You just nod "Ok, I'll wait right here." And so you wait...

You could hear her having some trouble finding them… and then you hear a tapping behind you.
Discord?

You turn around… no… it was Angel… and he was staring at you. You almost forgot about this. It's actually been a pretty good amount of time inbetween a ton of shenanigans since you've seen the little fuzzball. "Uhhh… heya… Angel… What's up?"

Not like he could say anything. But he brought out from behind him, a pencil, and some paper… welp… that’s where those went. "Uhh, whatcha doin with those buddy?"

Angel started drawing on the paper with the pencil. He drew a crude drawing of you, stopped, and showed it to you.

"Is that supposed to be me?"

Angel nodded, then he drew a picture of Fluttershy. And as he continued. he drew a line from your hoof to her flank. What… was he implying… You silently watch as he points to you, then her, and then proceeds to draw an X on you. Then he points out the window.
There… was a bear, A FUCKING BEAR. and he was looking at you rather threateningly as he punched his paw into his other paw.

Holy shit… He meant fucking business. "You really think I'd do that?"

Angel nodded at you

You wanted to grab the little piece of shit and toss him to the wall. But you probably only felt that way because at this point you didn't know what you'd do with yourself if you ever did anything lewd to Fluttershy… not to her. She was like a mother to you.

You kept your voice low as you began to speak. "I would never do that… listen. I know we haven't seen each other in awhile. And I don't know where you got the idea that I'm some sexual deviant. But I'm not..."

Angel stares at you, tapping his foot. He didn't believe you.

Fuck, Angel knew people… er… animals,scary animals. Not wanting to take a beating from said animals. You try to explain to him why you wouldn't. It's better you just be truthful with him at a point.

"Ok… I wouldn't do anything to Fluttershy. Look, ok, look. I do get urges… but for other ponies. I'm a guy, come on. You're a rabbit, you should know that kind of thing."

Angel taps his chin for a moment, then looks back at you with a defensive gaze. Ugh… if only you could talk with him. You could maybe use the horn, maybe. Could it do that? But you've had no practice with it. And given your first use… all it could be is just some giant magic cannon.

"Look, Angel. Fluttershy treats me almost like I'm her son. I could never… ever do that to her. Please believe me. Look, if you want the truth, fine. If I had the chance. I'd do lewd things with Twilight for all I care... But never to Fluttershy. Is that good enough? Can we please be friends? Or you just not threaten me with a bear?"

You really didn't want to tangle with a bear. Angel was already more terrifying than even Bugqueen and Discord combined… Christ.

Angel stared deeply into your eyes. he glared at you, as if he was studying you. He looked back at the window, and waved his paw at the bear. The bear nodded, and walked off. as if nothing had occurred… Oh geez..

"So, you believe me?"

Angel nodded, but then he pointed at the Fluttershy drawing, then slid his paw over to yours, and gave it a stomp. A warning… You gulped… Best not to fuck with this rabbit.

Shortly after, Fluttershy emerges from her room,Carrying everything but the pencil and paper,and the moment she does, Angel kicks the paper with the drawings behind him.

"I'm sorry Anon, I think I misplaced your pencil and… oh..." She sees Angel holding a pencil, he lifts it up high as he makes a happy face as if he was being helpful. "Oh… I guess I did misplace them. Thank you Angel for finding Anon's things.What would I do without you?"

Little tricky bastard. Angel smiled at her and made little noises as he hopped over to her to get a petting. "Oh, you two are friends now? That's so good! I knew if you both just gave eachother a chance that you'd be friends… and in such a short amount of time too. What did you two talk about?"

So naive… ngh… what could you even talk about with a rabbit who couldn't actually talk. Angel made some gestures and expressions, Fluttershy nodded with each one. then closed her eyes and beamed a big smile "Oh my, I didn't know you both had in an interest in carrots. If I had known that, I would have added a little in Anon's breakfast."

Woo… What a little mastermind that rabbit was. Definitely not to be taken lightly unless you had some magic of your own. Fluttershy carefully put the rest of the items on the table. "Here you go Anon, with these you'll be ready for anything!"

You take a moment to compose yourself, then nod to Fluttershy "Yeah… Thanks Aunt Fluttershy. Uhh, thanks Angel, for finding the paper and pencil." Angel did a bow, then lifted his head high enough to give you a glare that suggested he'd be watching you. Then hopped off. Ok… Crisis averted

Fluttershy went to her window. She seemed to be getting worried. "I hope Discord hurries soon. I don't want to have to leave without him. We should both be here to walk you to school, together."

You look over to her, she was really committed. She just stared out the window for him like a lost lover. You wondered if she had a thing for him, Since Discord swears up and down that he doesn't have a thing for her. But now wasn't the time to ask. "I'm sure he'll get here in time. I mean, he's gotta be busy with something. He could just teleport if he wanted to, right?"

Fluttershy nodded… you were right, he could. But then... "I hope he didn't get into any trouble then, oh no… what if he got into trouble?!" Now she was really worried. Dammit, you didn't mean to worry her.

"N-nah, come on. It's the morning. What trouble could he get into? Maybe he got stopped on the street by, I dunno, Pinkie Pie. And is having a chat with her… or something.."

Fluttershy wondered "I, suppose that could happen. But then, I hope Discord wouldn't lose track of time, but, still… oohhhh… I just hope he gets here soon."

Hrn..best to not say anything more on it. It only seemed to worry her more. It seemed this meant a lot to her than it did you and possibly Discord. Then she started pacing, keeping her eye on the clock. "Ohhh… we might have to be getting ready to go if he doesn't show up… come on Discord..."

You started putting the things in your saddle bag just in case… seriously… where the hell was he? "Please don't worry Aunt Fluttershy, I'm sure he's, I dunno, maybe he's doing it on purpose, to make the surprise… more of a surprise?"

"But if he doesn't hurry soon, then we won't have time for the surprise… Discord… please hurry, please" Fluttershy was holding on to the shred of hope. He wouldn't do this just not to show up...right?

You went to look out the window, see what it looked like outside… and… oh… crap. "A-aunt Fluttershy… u-uhh… You need to see this.."

Fluttershy stopped her pacing, curious as to what you could have saw that could have spooked you. "What is it… oh my..."

It was Discord, on a carriage being pulled by invisible… ponies? And behind him was… a huge crate. What the…

"What do you think… what do you think that is?"

"I don't know..." Fluttershy opened her window and called to the approaching Draconequus. albeit, not very loudly "Discord!"

Discord looked over to her and waved as he stopped right next to her little bridge. and started to float over the huge crate over to the front door. This thing was massive. What the hell could it be?

Fluttershy rushed over to her front door and opened it as Discord stood outside, using his talons to drill the screws out of the crate. Fluttershy was slightly angry that he took so long, making a possibility that you could be late. But that crate… it caught her interest. As it did you as you followed behind her.

"Discord, what took you so long?" She asked as she eyed the crate

Discord finished unscrewing the last of the crate's screws, then looked at his talon as it he spun it a few more times, making a "Whirr" noise. "I do apologize Fluttershy, I had a little trouble getting the colors right on this thing. I never thought painting would be so difficult."

"You were painting?" Fluttershy was even more curious as her attention went towards the crate "Is this the surprise? It's very big.."

Discord nodded "It is! and trust me Fluttershy. It's going to be amazing! Oh, Anon, how are you this fine morning?"

You give him a small wave. "Pretty good..." Suddenly, a thought went into your head. You were curious, you couldn't ask Fluttershy how she felt about Discord. But maybe, you could see it. Or not… either way. "You know you made Aunt Fluttershy worried, right?"

Discord, upon hearing those words, seemed to have grown nervous. "I did? Fluttershy, whatever were you worried about? Did you think I wouldn't arrive?"

Fluttershy didn't know how to react. She didn't want to be a problem. And you just.. did that "Kind of… you were taking a long time… I was getting worried"

"Worried? I worried you? But it's only..." Discord looked at a watch around his arm "Oh dear..." Discord then looked to Fluttershy, she was frowning, nervous. He finally realized that he did worry and scare Fluttershy. "I didn't realize… hrnnn, Fluttershy, you forgive me don't you? It was an honest mistake… My watch stopped."

Fluttershy moved closer to him, and looked at his watch, then at him "Did it really stop?"

Discord nodded "Honest… see?" Discord pointed to it. "It runs purely on chaotic energy… I suppose when I was working on the surprise that it just… stopped."

A watch that ran on chaos? Interesting. Even more interesting that it'd just stop due to him working on something in an orderly fashion… or he was just bullshitting. Either way, Fluttershy bought it.

Fluttershy gave Discord a gentle hug "Then it's ok, you didn't know you'd be late. And just looking at this crate… I'm sure the surprise you have will be wonderful!" And even if it wasn't, as long as there wasn't a monster. Fluttershy would still be happy with it. It's the thought that counts, at least to her.

Discord at first didn't seem to know what to do. But then, he slowly wrapped his arms around her and hugged her back, but only for a moment before letting her go. "I am sorry Fluttershy, I'll be more mindful next time."

Fluttershy gave him a smile, then noticed he was still frowning "Oh… D-discord, please don't be sad. It's supposed to be a happy day."

Discord grabbed his mouth and literally flipped it "Sad… who's sad? I just needed to make an adjustment" Discord said with a nervous chuckle. It was enough to make Fluttershy laugh at least.

That was a cute moment, but, it went about as much as you should have thought it would. Still cute though… now, that crate. You went over to the crate and tapped it… what was in it?

"Now now Anon, don't go peeking inside. I want you and Fluttershy to see what's inside at the same time!"

Fluttershy looked over to you and agreed with Discord "That's right Anon, come on, you can sit next to me while Discord opens the crate" She sat down in front of the crate and looked to you to sit with her.

"Sorry, I just got a little curious" You sit next to Fluttershy as Discord moves over to the crate.

"Fillies and Gentlecolts, we are here today to celebrate Anon's first day of school… or rather the moment before he goes to school… it's very possible that his first actual day of school can be quite horrible"

Fluttershy gave Discord a little bit of a stink eye "Discord..."

Discord cleared his throat, a little nervous. "Y-yes, right… ahrm… but, as I was saying. Since the day has not started. We are actually here… as a family to see my son, Anon. Off to his first day of school. As a family… and as a family, I thought we should have something to immortalize the moment… But since freezing time is apparently a horrible thing to do… We will have to instead make due" Discord kicks the crate "WITH THIS!"

The crate pops open. And, woah… inside..it..it was the family statue he made before… perfectly painted, and even bigger than before. It looked..amazing. Better than when you saw it from before.

"Woah… that's..."

Fluttershy finished your sentence "....amazing"

"Isn't it?" Discord said as he moved it right at the side of the cottage. "It is a monument , it represents unity, love, family… and I'm just going to stop right there because I can feel my stomach churn"

Fluttershy got up, to inspect the statue, it looked so, lifelike. She almost thought she could have a conversation with herself. "Discord, I don't know what to say. This… this was really a nice surprise." She took a moment to absorb the scene. "We look like a real family. You'd think I was more of a mother than an aunt… it's really sweet."

You took a closer look yourself. It was perfect. Just like when you saw it before. But bigger, and in color. It wasn't a trap, mean spirited… nothing. If there was a secondary plot, you couldn't see it in this. He genuinely did this as a show of family affection. "Yeah Dad. I… I dunno what to say."

"You needn't say anything Anon, your awe is enough for me to see that you were both surprised by my gift and truly appreciative of it. It is quite something, isn't it?"

Fluttershy nodded "It really is, I could sit here and look at it all day… all..day..SCHOOL DAY..OH NO OH NO! WE HAVE TO GET GOING!"
Fluttershy panicked "How could I lose track of time like that!"

Oh geez, she just suddenly flipped out "H-hey, Aunt Fluttershy, it'll be ok if I'm a little late, right?"

Fluttershy inspected you and noticed you didn't even have your saddlebag on you. you left it on the table when you were putting in the supplies. "no! no it is not ok if you are late for your first day of school! You don't even have your saddle bag on you… wait here, I'll get it. Discord, you're ready to go right?"

Discord nodded "But of course. Please calm down Fluttershy, we'll make it."

"Only if we hurry! I'll be right back!" Fluttershy rushed off inside to grab the saddle bag.

"..yikes....this means a lot to her huh?"

Discord nodded "It does, she's really taken the whole aunt thing seriously. And I don't wish to disappoint her. I'm so glad she liked the surprise… and I think it looks quite beautiful next to the cottage… speaking of beautiful." Discord whips up some sort of small photo like object in his talons "I have an extra gift for you Anon."

Extra gift? "What is it?"

Discord shows it to you… oh no way. "Oh crap! Hey, that's the… HAHA, look at her! She doesn't even know what's going on!" It was the photo Discord took of you,him, and Chrysalis. It was perfect. While you both had on dumb smiles, she just looked dumbstruck.

"One of our finer moments to be sure. I think I'll make a scrapbook for when we have outings like this. So then..." Discord makes the photo vanish "Right into your saddle bag with it, I'll let you decide what to do with it. And don't worry if you lose it. I made enough copies to fill her entire hive to the brim."

Wait. "You didn't actually flood her hive with photos did you? She's already pretty pissed as is"

"Of course not, that'd be a waste of good photos. I am thinking of mailing her a copy though.. It's not fair that we have a copy and she doesn't."

Considering she already swore revenge on the both of you. That might not be a good idea. "Uhhh… can we hold off on that until we're sure that she can't actually fuck up anything? We did sort of piss her off in her own home. We literally stirred the hornet's nest."

Discord scoffed "You can be so boring sometimes. What is she going to do? send her whole hive at our home? That might not be a bad idea actually… I could use new furniture.."

"Look, let's just not do it ok? I'd rather we just not press our luck."

"Fine… spoiled sport."

Fluttershy comes rushing back out of the house. Saddlebag in her mouth. She quickly attaches it to you. She was in quite the rush "Ok, let's go, let's go! We have to hurrrrryyy!"

"W-woah… O-ok, I mean… Is it even close to the bell actually ringing yet? because we can still teleport."

Discord shrugged "Don't ask me, my watch stoppe-oh!"

Fluttershy was alternating pushing both you and Discord "No time to talk, we have to get to the Schoolhouse!"

"F-fluttershy, I could just teleport us there. You know, I do have th-oooh!" Discord couldn't finish his sentence as Fluttershy became quite pushy

Fluttershy wouldn't relent. "NO! We can't teleport. It's supposed to be a lovely family walk to the schoolhouse to see Anon off. We have to walk there!"

Oh geez, christ. Whatever, do what the lady says. And so you three walk to the schoolhouse, or rather march. Fluttershy being frantic in not wanting you to be late. You didn't want to argue. And Discord at this point went along for the ride.

As you walked, you could see other parents with their children ahead. Some children just by themselves as they headed to the schoolhouse. You didn't see the CMC. They were probably already there maybe? Applebloom probably was… she was probably used to waking up so early. And quite frankly. you didn't mind this. It was otherwise a good morning. Sans the rabbit. And seeing Fluttershy flustered about you not missing a minute was pretty cute. She was focusing on the walk so much she wasn't even doing much talking.

Eventually, the three of you reached the schoolhouse. You took notice that nobody seemed to have a problem Discord was out and about. It seemed his plan was working more and more everyday.

At some point. the three of you stopped. Fluttershy took a huge breath and wiped her brow with her hoof "We made it just in time." She then looked at you, and smiled "Anon… you have the most wonderful first day of school, ok? I know you're going to have a very very great day"

You nod to her, of course you were. You had this. "I will Aunt Fluttershy, I promise"

Fluttershy went up to you and grasped you for a hug "And if anypony bullies you, just let me know, I'll give their parents such a stern talking too… Hmph"

You wanted to laugh at that… but you didn't want to disrespect Fluttershy. She most likely was serious about that.

Discord then took his turn and went on his knee as he put his paw on your right foreleg. "Anon, I know I haven't been the best father. But I always do my best to raise you to the best of my abilities. You are my world, my sun, my moon. I cherish everyday that we spend together and I am so proud that you are taking the next step in your life. I know you aren't my birth son, but I hope you see me as if I was your real father anyway. And that through thick or thin. That you feel comfortable around me and know that if you ever have a problem, that you can come to me about it, do you understand Anon?"

The fuck? Fluttershy however, bought it, and started crying "D-Discord..that was...that was so beautiful.."

"Do yo-ACK!" Discord stops you from even forming a sentence by hugging you hard.

"I love you Anon! Please have a good day, alright!"

"Gngmmmnngghh!" You choked out

Discord let's you go, faking his surprise "Oh, sorry Anon… I got a little… emotional there."

R-right, geez… his grip. You take a moment to look over to Fluttershy, who found the entire moment beautiful. She was really teary eyed from it. Ugh… you can't spoil it by calling Discord out on his bullshit. And even then, at this point. There had to be some semblance of truth in those words… right? "I love you too Dad… I'm gonna miss the both of you"

Fluttershy started sobbing "Ohhh! I didn't know this would be so sad!"

Oh geez… She was breaking your heart. You go in for another hug "It, it'll be ok Aunt Fluttershy, It's just school."

"I-I know, it's just, I didn't think this moment would be so..." She started to crack

"Hrn, well Fluttershy. We could always spend the morning together and wait for Anon. Time will just fly by. We could have a picnic, or go ice skating! How does that sound?" Discord said, you noticed that for a moment. He actually had an expression of either guilt or sorrow of Fluttershy's obvious plight.

"I, I guess it'll be alright. And we'll be right here for when Anon gets out of school, right? We'll be here to pick him up?" Fluttershy asked

"Of course we will. We won't be late for even a second."

"Ok… I d-don't mind then. We have been missing some time together. Ok… I d-don't mind at all. Anon… you have a good day at school… ok?" Fluttershy again, gives you one quick hug. She was really trying to convince herself that she could let you go on your own. Being sent to the hospital must have made her worry about you being on your lonesome still. Even when you'd have a teacher watching you.

You nod "Ok… seeya Aunt Fluttershy, Seeya Dad… I'm off" And with that, you walked quickly over to the schoolhouse. Waving to Fluttershy and Discord. It was time for a whole new world to open up… and hopefully not slam you in the face.

Chapter 66

You walked over to the schoolhouse. You were pretty much the last pony there. You take one look back before going inside. Discord throwing you a final wave. Fluttershy just standing there, smiling.

Ok… Here we go... No problemo Anon, you got this. You went inside and… hold on… this wasn't the setup you were used to. The desks were all put aside in favor of round tables. sitting beside each table was groups of three fillies and colts. Aside from SS and DT… and Snips and Snails. Only forming a pair.

In the middle of each table… was some kind of project. Each different. The CMC seem to be working on some giant chart. Filled with Cutie Marks of all kinds. DT and SS's table had unfinished plaster models… of, you think, the princesses? Snips and Snails was just making one model… but you couldn't make it out. It was being made of clay, and looked terrible. The rest of the projects were varied as well. You could also recognize a few of the background colts and fillies, such as Twist.
And at her desk, with a smile as she overlooks everyone. Was Cheerilee… Welp, it seems you came to school in the middle of some project week or something. Given the progress some of these things have. It's obvious they didn't just start building them in seconds.

Some of the children started looking at you, murmuring. You didn't hear the school bell, so school couldn't have started just yet. They weren't doing anything with what was on the tables. Cheerilee looked over to you, and greeted you with a warm, welcoming smile "Good morning Anon, we are about to start, so please. Choose any seat you want. And I'll get you situated when class starts."

Seems you weren't late after all. Or maybe close to it since you were the last to arrive. You turn around, you see Diamond Tiara looking at you, it looks like she's about to raise her hoof to call you over until...

"Quick Anon! come sit with us!" Applebloom calls to you.

"Yeah! Maybe we can talk about another way of getting your Cutie Mark befo-"

Scootaloo couldn't even finish her sentence as the bell atop the schoolhouse rung. Who rung it? You'll never know. But you decide to sit next to your Cutie Mark compadre's. Despite getting their mark, they were still on that crusade… of getting you one of course.

You sit down next to them, you don't even really notice Diamond Tiara getting miffed that you didn't sit with her. Though with school officially started. Everyone in the room grew quiet. And remembering your school etiquette. You kept your mouth shut too.

"Good morning class" Cherilee said in a cheerful tone as she stood up to greet her students.

"Good morning Miss Cherilee" They all called out… except you… fuck, you should have greeted her. Fuck… you weren't ready!

"Today we have a new student in our class. Anon, would you like to come up and introduce yourself to your new classmates, maybe talk a little about yourself?"

No problem. easy peasy. You give a simple nod to Cheerilee as you silently stand up, and go to her desk to address your new classmates. You take notice of poor pipsqueak, who as to stretch a little to look over his fellow classmates.

You clear your throat. "Hello everypony… I'm Anon, ummm, I was adopted by Discord an-"

At the moment, some of the class erupts, in surprise. All speaking at once. It seems a few had not heard of you. Snips yells out loud "See, I told ya he was Discord's kid!"

"Calm down everypony, if you have any questions. Please save them for when Anon is finished." Cheerilee tried to settle the class down.

But the class wouldn't be quiet. You couldn't even hear what they were saying. But you take a look over to SS and DT's table. Silver Spoon was looking at her friend worryingly, Diamond Tiara looked like she was going to-...oh shit.

"SHUT UP AND LET ANON TALK!" Diamond bellowed out

The room fell quiet. You look upon your ascended crusader friends. They looked damned surprised.

"Ahrmm, thank you Diamond Tiara." Cheerilee said, amazed that the class just halted at her screech "But, please, let's not use such harsh words… Anon, do you want to continue?"

"Yeah… I mean. I just want to let everypony know who I am."

"Alright.." Cheerilee turns to her class, and gives them a scary glare "And I hope you all will mind your manners."

They stayed quiet. Diamond Tiara seemed pretty pleased with herself.

"Umm..anyway. I am Discord's son. He's a pretty cool guy. Feeds me, shows me some cool stuff. As for me, I'm an easy going guy. I find magic pretty cool despite me not being able to do it myself. And uhhh… I guess that’s it. It's nice to meet all of you."

Cheerilee took a breath. No interruptions so far. "Anon, do you want to answer any questions before we begin?"

You shrug "Yeah, I'll answer a few."

Cheerilee looks upon her class "Now remember class, Like we've done before with every new student. Raise your hoof and if Anon picks you, you can ask your question. After a few, we'll continue with our projects."

And thus… it began. Snips and Snails seemed the most eager to raise their hooves first. They obviously wanted something answered.

"You guys… Snips and Snails I think.." You think? Ha, way to act ignorant.

They whispered to each other, it seemed they didn't work out a question yet. Then, it seemed they decided on something. And Snips asks the question. "Yeah, that's us! Umm, we got a question. How exactly did you beat up those two bad guys? What moves did you use?"

Oh, they were… they were still on that. You notice the class start to whisper to each other again.

"Snips! I'm not going to allow that question. You shouldn't be trying to learn how to do violent things" Cheerilee called out

"Awww, we just want to know how to beat up bad guys! Coooooome onnnnnn!"

Cheerilee shook her head "You two shouldn't even be looking for bad guys. It's nothing but trouble, and if something did happen to you two… what would your parents think?"

You notice both Snips and Snails slowly duck into their chairs; Both apologizing for the question they formed. Good… you don't think Cheerilee would have appreciated the answer you had to give if you did get a chance to say it.

"Does anypony else have a question NOT related to those two criminals?" Cheerilee asked.

You notice a pony filly raising her hoof at the same time as Diamond Tiara. But, you actually don't notice Diamond Tiara raise her hoof. So you call onto that pony instead.

The filly looked to you and asked "What's it like living with Discord? I heard he's becoming a really good guy… but I dunno… he's really scary."

Well..that's a good question. "Umm, it's weird at times. But he treats me pretty good. The food he gives me is pretty amazing. I have my own room. And sometimes we go out and do things together."

"What kinds of things?" Ohhh… what kinds of things she asks… what kinds of things. You now wondered if busting out that photo was a good idea. It probably isn't… but it would be hilarious.

No, you decide to to tell another tale instead. To raise Discord's standing even further.

"Well, we visited Princess Celestia once. It went pretty good. We had tea." And Discord got buttblasted...damn...it seems like it's been awhile since that day.

The students seemed to react favorably to that. They probably thought that an orphan like you getting to meet Celestia was a big big thing.

Cheerilee looked upon her class "Alright, we have time for one more question."

That's when you notice Diamond Tiara raising her hoof… and Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo, among a few others, were raising their hooves too… who to choose… who to choose...

You really didn't know who to choose. You knew… you just knew… Diamond Tiara had a crush on you. All that attention pretty much came from "saving" her life. should you indulge her question? then theres your crusader friends… they probably had a grouped up question. But, whatever, you could tell them outside of class… Uhmm, you know what, fine. You decide to call on Diamond if only not to get her any more riled up in anger. "Uhmm… Diamond Tiara, what do you want to ask?"

You notice a few of the others getting sour that they didn't get picked. Applebloom, more than her other two friends, also seeming a little too miffed than you would have thought.

Diamond Tiara grew a soft happy smile on her face. It's like she won the lottery or something "Anon, what do you think of Ponyville?"

Huh… You expected a different question from that. Like a "Is there anypony your life?" or a follow up on Celestia. But, that was the question she asked… and she seemed eager for an answer.

"Well, it's a pretty great place. Everypony here is friendly and nice. And they make me feel right at home. It's like I was never an orphan."

After that, you look to Cheerilee, for her to say what she wanted to say. But then Diamond Tiara snipes in another question. "So… you never want to leave, like, you'll never want to go and move somewhere else?"

There it was, her assurance that you wouldn't be leaving her in some capacity… But no, you didn't plan on leaving for any reason period. Even though it could be made that you could go anywhere at anytime if Discord willed it. Your home really was here now. "Yeah, I don't really want to go anywhere else."

"Ok, I'm done." Diamond Tiara smiled as happily as she could. Silver Spoon seemed content with that answer as well… given she didn't look miffed. It was safe to say that whatever charm you had didn't actually fall over her. That didn't explain Applebloom's reaction though… probably just a little ticked that you didn't pick her.

Cheerilee nods "Alright class, questions are over. I hope you all help Anon feel welcome here in our classroom" Cheerilee then looks to you "Anon, before you take your seat. You may have noticed our special sitting arrangements."

You nod. "Yeah, everypony is in groups of three. Is that normal?"

Cheerilee shook her head "No, the whole class are working on special projects for the upcoming Friendship Festival! Doesn't that sound great?"

There's that mention again. You can't remember anywhere on the show a mention of a Friendship Festival. This had to be one of those quantum differences, or something… who knows. "Sounds pretty great, but uhh, what exactly is everypony doing?"

"Well, everypony is working together in small groups to make something they want to display in the festival. Every group works together as friends to decide what they want to make, and then work together to make it. It's a three day project, and I'm sorry to say. We are already on day two. But we do have two groups that could use a third pony. So you'd still be a big help."

Well, that sounded sensible. It was a teamwork exercise. Basically making compromises and agreements. But… if it was groups of three then...

You look over to the groups. There was only two open groups… Snips and Snails. And Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. Shiiiiiieeeeeet. "So, I have to choose?"

Cheerilee nodded "Mhmmm, but don't worry Anon. Everypony here is friendly. And I think you already know everypony in the open groups. So choose the one you feel most comfortable with."

Applebloom quickly raised her hoof. Cheerilee takes notice, and calls upon her "Applebloom? oh, is there something you want to ask?"

Appleboom nodded to Cheerilee "Uh huh, can't ya make a special exception? Me, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle made him an official crusader and ah think he should work with us, since, ya know, we're already friends n all"

Cheerilee shook her head "Sorry Applebloom, I'm glad you all are friends but it would be unfair if I gave you a fourth member."

"B-but, if he goes to Snips and Snails or Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. Wouldn't that be unfair to them too?"

Cheerilee shook her head. "Whatever group ends up short will have me to help them if they fall behind. That way everything is fair and everypony can finish their projects on time."

"B-but" Applebloom pleaded

"Applebloom, that's enough. I won't explain it again." Cheerilee gave her a stern stare.

Applebloom backed down. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo seemed confused. They started talking amongst themselves but you couldn't hear it. It's like Applebloom made that decision to say those words on her own.

And all the while you noticed Diamond seemed like she wanted to say something. She seemed eager. But the moment Applebloom got shot down, she fell back to a calm state. She didn't have an evil sneer or anything either, she just seemed relieved. The old Diamond Tiara probably would have had some smirk on her face after something like that.

Cheerilee let you have at it. You had a choice of either Snips and Snails or Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. Both looked eager to have you. Snips and Snails probably want to know everything about the whole fillynapper thing in detail and learn your "moves". But that would detract from the project. As interesting as it would to hang with Snips and Snails. You didn't want to get a bad grade on your first project… what would Fluttershy say? Would Discord actually care?

You make your choice and take a seat opposite of Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. You look at Snips and Snails, who seem agitated with your choice. What's more, you take a glance over at Applebloom. She doesn't seem too pleased with your choice either. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo seem pretty fine with it. Though they seemed confused why Applebloom suddenly was so down… hell, you were confused.

On the table were uncolored plastered models of all four princesses. You look under the table. there was some assorted little containers of paint that wash off with water. and little paint brushes. You wondered if they were allowed to work outside of school too. You couldn't imagine working with plaster in this environment

Diamond Tiara smiled, a bright happy smile, you were still not used to it. Silver Spoon wasn't as enthusiastic, but she did seem happy enough for you to be there. "Welcome to the group Anon! What do you think of the models so far? Can you tell who they are?" Diamond Tiara looked deeply into your eyes as she spoke, she seemed so hoping you'd get the answer right.

"The princesses right? These are pretty good. You two made these?"

They both nodded. Both looking very prideful of their work.

"We've been working on them for awhile. We've been really focused on making them totally lifelike" Silver Spoon said

"We're allowed to take our projects home as long as we promise not to get any outside help." Diamond Tiara added

"Mr.Rich owns a general store, so we were able to get supplies for free! Then we got photos and art of the princesses and read up instructions on plaster models..." Silver Spoon stopped for a moment, looking to Diamond Tiara to finish up the explanation

But you spoke first. "Woah, so you girls really worked on these by yourselves?" They looked nearly perfect in all actuality. "How'd you do it?"

Diamond Tiara looked really pleased at your curiosity… maybe you should dial it down… oy. "Silver Spoon slept over and we spent all night practicing and practicing , reading and studying, until finally we had four perfect models ready for painting! We don't even need the third day to work on them. We showed them to daddy and he was so proud. He had our work carefully taken back to the schoolhouse by professionals so they wouldn't be ruined."

Wait… "Aren't you not allowed any outside help?"

"We aren't allowed any help on actually making it. But Miss Cheerilee was fine with it if it was just moved back here..." Diamond Tiara yawned "But we had to come really early to get them here before school starts… We actually didn't get much sleep"

Silver Spoon gave Diamond Tiara a poke "Don't fall asleep! We'll get in trouble if Cheerilee sees us sleeping."

Diamond Tiara leans down and grabs the small containers of child safe paint with her teeth and brings them up. They had two brushes on them. Seems they didn't count on a third. "Let's get to work then, that'll keep us awake."

You take notice of the two brushes. Diamond Tiara also brings up a sheet with color codes for each of the models. each of the colors ordered under the name of each princess. "Umm, there's only two brushes. What am I supposed to do?"

As you asked, you took a look at the crusaders again. They seemed hard at work looking at photos of their own. by the looks of it. They were taking pictures of ponie's flanks and making drawings of each of their cutie marks on a gigantic paper board. Applebloom seemed fine now too. Seemed she was preoccupied with the work.

"Well, I actually have all the colors for each of the models memorized. And I don't want Miss Cheerilee thinking you aren't doing anything. I can help direct you" Diamond said as she looked at you with ever growing dreamy eyes

Hmm, you couldn't really complain. They did work hard in even getting these ready. Painting them should be pretty easy.

"Sure, it might be fun actually. Let me just… huh? Ngh..." You tried grabbing onto the brush with your hooves. But, it was too thin… IT WAS TOO THIN.

"Anon? what are you doing?" Silver Spoon asked, she was confused as to why you were trying to grab the brush.

"U-uhhmm..just trying to pick up this brush...having a little trouble."

Diamond Tiara, upon hearing this, picks up the brush by the middle with her mouth, enough for the end to jut out, and holds it towards you. Gesturing at you.

Oh no… ohh… nooooo… nonononono....nonononononononono...

Silver Spoon pointed to the brush "Anon, haven't you ever used a brush before? It's like using a pencil."

You didn't know if Silver Spoon was ignorant or not of what was going on, but you could see in Diamond Tiara's eyes. She was looking up at you with innocent, love filled eyes. She wanted you to take the brush… with your mouth… from her mouth.

Oh… good god… ok, ok, this is easy… really easy. Just… grab it with the edge of your teeth. and pull, you don't have to make any contact.

You slowly bring your mouth close to hers, and try to edge your teeth to the edge of the brush...

And… here… we… go.

You reach for the brush ever so slowly with your mouth. And the moment you go to bite it. Diamond Tiara moves her head just enough for you to press your lips to her cheek as you take the brush.

You gulp, almost taking the brush with you as she leans backwards, blushing, smiling.

Silver Spoon is just confused on the whole thing "Ummm… is something the matter?"

Diamond Tiara leaned forward and put her hoof to her mouth and yawned "O-oh, sorry… I must have been falling asleep again. Are we all ready to get started?" That little sneak

Silver Spoon nodded "Ready!"

You didn't speak, you didn't even nod, you didn't even know how to use the brush. and you knew Diamond was full of shit. She did that on purpose. And what's worse, you didn't actually hate it… stupid natural male reactions… stupid biology!

But no… that wasn't the worst of it. As you looked around the room, to see if anyone noticed. You only notice one who did… Applebloom. And the moment you looked at her, she ducked back down to her work. No… nooo… no..nonononononono no… fucking way. That had to be a coincidence. She probably just thought it was weird. that's all. THAT'S ALL...

CRAP… you couldn't even leave or walk out. you were in class… FUCK. FUCK… STUPID FUCKING SCHOOL!

"Are you both alright?" Silver Spoon noticed you were subtly bugging out and Diamond Tiara was blushing.

"I'm just tired, I got less sleep than you did Silver Spoon. Come on, calm down"

You put the brush down onto the table so you can speak. "Yeah me too… I… didn't get much sleep either… you know, have to adjust my whole sleep schedule."

"Well, if you both say so. I was just worried, well, umm, let's get started then." Silver Spoon was utterly oblivious to what was going on.

And so the painting began. Silver Spoon took Celestia and Luna as you took Twilight and Cadence. And while Silver Spoon had to look at the color code on each section of the models. Diamond Tiara led you through the other two without so much as a glance.

But you yourself, this was hard. You've never painted with your mouth before. You kept getting the wrong spots. And even though you sucked at this, Diamond Tiara kept her cool. She would lick her hoof to wipe off any of the mistakes. And kept letting you retry again and again and again without ever getting upset at you, She did her best to word you through it, but hell if this wasn't tricky. Even as you got better, you had trouble reaching the tougher spots of Twilight's mane or Cadence's tail.

Silver Spoon was making much better progress than you. She eyed you a few times. She was a little weirded out that you were pretty incapable with a brush. But it wasn't just that. You had things on your mind. Applebloom's reactions. Diamond Tiara's crush on you. It all seemed pretty loony.

Miss Cheerilee was occupying herself with Snips and Snails. Showing them how to properly mold the clay to make models the best she could.

Just get it done Anon. Just get the day..

The bell rings mid-thought. OH MAN IT'S OVER! WOOO

Cherilee smiled and made an announcement "Recess Everypony! Now just like yesterday, if you don't want to go outside and play then you can stay and continue to work. But you all must come to that decision as a group. And don't forget to eat!"

FUCK NO… IT WASN'T OVER. FUUCCCCKKKKK.

Chapter 67

"Well, should we sit here and finish? Or should we go outside? I'm almost done, see?" Silver was pretty pleased with herself until she looked at your work "Anon… umm, you're doing pretty good too." Silver Spoon said, with a sheepish smile as she looked at your terrible work.

"What do you want to do Anon?" Diamond Tiara asked "We all have to agree on something. If you're tired, we can rest behind a tree or something until the bell rings."

Subtle...

"Um… uhh.." You didn't know what to say. Maybe it would be good to just sit and practice finishing up. But before you can say anything else. Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo came up to you.

"Anon, you want to spend recess trying to get your Cutie Mark? We have a few ideas that might work" Applebloom said, a smile on her face and an unparalleled eagerness in her step.

Sweetie Belle raised her hoof in a matter of factly like way "A lot of them are my ideas. I noticed how you wanted to fix your mistake you made with the dress. You went and got those gems for my sister, even more than you needed. And I thought of something. Anon, you might be able to get your cutie mark in..."

Oh shit. Did she figure out that you wanted to try solving other ponies problems? Well, that’s what it downgraded to since friendship problems seemed a little out of your league for now. Or you just needed to start smaller.

"...in gem hunting!" Sweetie Belle said with an accomplished grin

Ohhhh… Just missed it. But fine, whatever. If you were around those three, you didn't have to deal with Diamond Tiara's advances and how they made you feel… things. Maybe Applebloom's reactions earlier were just her being Applebloom.

"Yeah, maybe, let's g-"

"Gem hunting? Ohhh, that sounds like something Anon could do. Finding rare gems and handling danger like he handled those thugs. Can I help?" Diamond Tiara gave a huge grin, excited to help in anyway.

Applebloom, the moment she heard that, her face went a little… dark. But before she could say anything. Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle let out a "Sure!"

"With all six of us working together, Anon will have his Cutie Mark in no time!" Scootaloo cheered.

"You want to join in too right Silver Spoon?" Sweetie Belle asked

"Oh… umm yeah! Whatever Diamond Tiara wants to do, I'll join in too. I was even thinking, since we all have Cutie Marks. It should be pretty easy to get Anon one." Silver Spoon seemed to be doing it to want to belong rather than doing it of her own free will. But she was happy if Diamond Tiara was happy.

"Woah… I didn't think of that one." Scootaloo was caught off guard by that logic. It was like she forgot she got a Cutie Mark.

Applebloom didn't put in a word to the conversation. She didn't look too happy Diamond Tiara had put herself into the mix. That confirms it… well… it's either she still have something against her… or she was jealous.

"Hey Applebloom, you ok?" Scootaloo nudged her gently "Aren't you excited? We might be able to get Anon's cutie mark before recess is over! "

Applebloom put on a smile for show when Scootaloo caught her attention "Yeah I am, just was thinking of backup plans just in case, ya know, for after school."

"Alright! Let's go gem hunting!" Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo called out.

"Remember to let Anon find them, or he won't get his Cutie Mark! Actually… did you girls even figure out how Anon would find them without us ruining it by finding them for him?" Diamond Tiara asked "It wouldn't be a special talent if we were finding them for him you know"

She was right about that. And this might not even be a bad setup. Applebloom, if she did really like you, and Diamond Tiara, who did like you. Wouldn't make a move with all ponies present. All you had to do was make sure everything proceeds calmly until recess was over.

"Well, I guess you can help me dig if I happen to uhhh… sense any. Gem hunting is more about the finding than the actual work… I… think." That's how it worked, right?

Applebloom, hearing those words and ringing true in her mind. Thought that perhaps if they only had to dig for them, then it wouldn't count. "That's right! We can help Anon dig! Oh, wait, Silver Spoon, Diamond Tiara… ya don't want to get yer hooves dirty right? We understand if ya don't" And now she was trying to get them to be less active in the plot.

"Wait we actually have to dig to-" Silver Spoon didn't want to do anything like that. But Diamond Tiara cut her off.

"We don't mind. A cutie mark is very important. You three worked so hard to get yours, and to help me understand mine. To see Anon without his… well… I feel like it'll help me repay my debt for all the cruel things I did to you three. If you're all eager to help. Then I'm eager to help… Silver Spoon. If you really don't want to, you don't have to. But I'm going to."

"That's… uhm… that's really sweet of you Diamond." It was indeed. But it was driving you up the wall too.

No… dammit. WHY!? Ugh, she just wanted to help. She wanted to show that she was able to change. Not only for your approval, but for theirs. Ugh… now you felt guilty. But, dammit. You weren't in love with her. Or at least, you didn't feel you were. You were taken completely off guard. And you could see on her face a face of innocent glee, feeling mirthful that you approved of her.

"I-I want to help too, It's just...umm..can I do something other than digging?" Silver Spoon asked

"You can stick with me Silver Spoon. My sister wouldn't like it if I showed up with really dirty hooves. We can just chart where Anon doesn't think there's diamonds so he doesn't forget" Sweetie Belle offered.

"Oh! I can do that!" Silver Spoon nodded.

"Cool, that means me, Applebloom, Diamond, and Anon can do the digging. I bet if we find a super rare gem, that it will be Cutie Mark City for Anon." Scootaloo said with enthusiasm

Diamond Tiara hopped up to slam her hooves together "That shouldn't be too hard, I have diamond in my name! That should bring Anon a lot of luck."

Applebloom however. Seemed to be having mixed feelings in her expression whenever Diamond spoke.

Shit, what was going on with her?. She was jealous. that had to be it. But of what? What's wrong with Diamond joining in? Not like you were going to be alone with her anyway. Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle would always be there.

"Yeah, come on. Before the bell rings!" Scootaloo hollered "Let's get Anon his Cutie Mark!"

The six of you stepped outside. Sweetie Belle was being cautious however, always taking a moment to look upon Applebloom's demeanor. She just wasn't thrilled. She was starting to notice something was off. Meanwhile Diamond Tiara was happy as could be.

If you had to guess. Diamond was utterly ignorant that Applebloom had a crush on you. She didn't see her as a threat. But on the flipside, Applebloom saw her as competition… she knew… she figured it out. If only you could figure out what was going on inside her head. Because at this point, you knew it had to be a crush. There was no other explanation for it.

You thought about the horn… that could work… That could forcibly end both of them crushing on you...but… no, you couldn't… you could end up blowing their heads up instead… and, oh boy… that… that would be bad.

"Anon, you noticed too right? How Applebloom is acting?" Sweetie Belle whispered to you as she approached you.

Oh shit. "Uhh yeah, well, It's kind of weird. Maybe she's just tired."

"I don't think so. Applebloom, no matter what, Is always excited when it comes to cutie marks. She could be sleeping and she'd still be excited about it. I think something's wrong. And I don't think she's sick either."

Oh god dammit. You know the truth. You weren't stupid. You just wanted to tell somebody. You had those moments where you feel bad about keeping up the lie. You've had those moments where you felt bad acting like a cute innocent kid when you weren't. Besides Discord, the only one who had a semblance of a clue was a fucking rabbit. Sweetie Belle was level headed enough… maybe, maybe, you could let her in… on something. "Sweetie Belle… can I… tell you a secret?"

"A secret? Is it about Applebloom?" She asked. Curious.

"Sorta… yeah, you see… umm, I think I know what's wrong."

"You do? What is it? should we tell the others?"

You cringe… noooooo "N-no, it's between me and you… do you promise to keep this a secret?"

Sweetie Belle frowned "Anon, I don't know. I mean, why do we have to keep it a secret? If it's to help Applebloom, we should tell everypony"

Oh… maybe it was… yeah… this was a bad idea. Good job Anon, you stupid fuck. Now she's curious and untrustworthy. Time to reshift gears. "Well, I-I dunno if it's anything we can do to help. The thing is I think Applebloom is… overworked." You lied

"Overworked?"

"Y-yeah, think about it. She’s got her cutie mark and she works on a farm. She may have been right about the farm stuff… probably has a lot more responsibility to think about now..."

"Ooooohhhh… I never thought of that. But, then there's nothing we can really do. That's all Apple Family stuff"

"Yeah, it's a real shame really. I guess the best we can do is just let her get used to it."

Sweetie Belle nods in agreeance. "Yeah. Do you think maybe we should tell her to relax?"

"I'm sure it's fine, she knows what she's doing" Good dodge, good dodge.

The six of you went by a tree a little aways from the Schoolhouse, that would be the starting point apparently. Sweetie Belle went in front of the group and began to address everyone, speaking in a stern commanding voice "Alright everypony, given my sister sometimes goes out to hunt for gems. I feel that makes me qualified to lead this hunt… Because, I sort of know how it works… ahrm… anyway, we all agreed that Anon will have to use whatever senses he has to locate gems. Our job is simple. Me and Silver Spoon will memorize and chart where we dig and where Anon doesn't sense any gems. Diamond, Applebloom, Scootaloo. You're the diggers, and will help Anon dig anywhere he senses a gem." Then, she went a little meek "That's ok with everypony right?"

Scootaloo nodded "Fine with me! digging is tough work, and the tougher I get, the sooner I'll get to fly. It'll be like a form of training! Something Rainbow Dash would do!"

"I'm ok with it. I'll dig fast and hard, and find every gem Anon senses. We'll dig up so many that he'll definitely have to have his Cutie Mark. I'll stake my allowance on it!" What would have been just an expression, Diamond Tiara was actually serious. She pulled out a small bag, hidden in her mane and plopped it down as it made a "ching" noise. "There we go, that's my secret spending bag. I will give it to you Anon, if you don't get your Cutie Mark."

Oohhhhh… Come onnn.. "I-I don't need it really. I have a lot of bits in my saddle bag. It'll be fine."

Applebloom finally says something. Seeing the bag as some sort of sign of affection. She intervenes. "Now hold on a minute Diamond, since were actually the crusaders here, ah gotta be the one to actually put a stake on something. And ah put..." Applebloom takes off her bow, and puts it to the ground "Muh trusty bow"

"Trusty? Applebloom, you have a whole closet of those things at your house" Scootaloo said, not seeing this as much worth as a bag of bits.

"Y-yeah… ah-ah know. But this is mah trusty bow. The very first one ah ever got! And I want Anon to have it if we mess up"

"Applebloom, it's a bow you wear on your mane… Anon isn't going to want that. My scooter, definitely… because it's cool. Not something I'd give up, I'm just saying. But, I don't think you should give up your bow if it means that much to you. And I don't think Anon would ever wear it… because… he's a guy. Just saying" Scootaloo said, a little weirded out that she'd offer up her bow after Diamond offered up her bits.

Applebloom glared at Scootaloo "It's mah bow Scootaloo, ah can give it to Anon if ah want to"

This was getting awkwarrrrdddd...

"U-uhh, Applebloom, Scootaloo is right. It's a really nice thought. But, ya know. I'm a dude. Would never wear it. But thanks for the offer."

"Can't do that Anon, even if yah never wear it. It is an honorable thing to do. If anypony is going to stake anything, it's gotta be a crusader, and that means it's gotta be me"

"We're crusaders too Applebloom, remember?" Scootaloo reminded her, getting a little annoyed with her.

Sweetie Belle, also taking notice. jumps in, she could tell Applebloom was agitated. And she wanted to offer up something so she didn't have to, if only to calm her overworked friend. "Well, I could offer to make Anon his own crusader cape. He kind of needs one anyway."

Applebloom shook her head "eyyynope"

Goddammit Applebloom… What the fuck, why now?! IT WASN'T LIKE SHE WAS THE ONE YOU SAVED!

"Hold on, I think I see what Applebloom is saying. And I know the solution. And I think.." Diamond Tiara looks to Applebloom "We can both offer something, I don't see why we can't. I'm sure Anon will understand and be glad to accept." Diamond Tiara looked to you with soft eyes. "Right Anon?”

Anon will understand… That's what she said. Considering Applebloom was saying she'd offer it up as a crusader… that would mean Diamond would be offering hers up because… she liked you. She didn't seem to understand that was also EXACTLY Applebloom's reasoning as well. Because she liked you too, using "as a crusader" as a front.

Applebloom slides the bag away "...ah'm really appreciative Diamond...but yer ain't a crusader, therefore it's mah responsibility."

"What responsibility? We've never made offers for screwing up before. That kind of sounds like the opposite of what we are supposed to do. We are supposed to help ponies get their cutie mark, not give em stuff for not getting their cutie mark… then they'll just want more stuff and not even care about getting cutie marks anymore." Scootaloo stated… and yeah, she was fucking right about that.

"Oh no! I… I don't want that to happen!" Diamond Tiara immediately took back her bag of bits. "I-I know Anon would never do that, but, I don't want him to ever think it either. I don't want him not to get his cutie mark. There might… there might be ponies who would make fun of him for it… Like I did..."

And Diamond was genuinely upset now. No doubt not wanting anything to do with you not getting a Cutie Mark. She thought about the horror of you getting older without one, the ridicule you'd suffer.

Applebloom however, didn't back down. "Well, ahm still givin up muh bow. I already gave mah word, and an Apple never goes back on their word."

What was she even hoping to gain by offering her bow? You didn't want it. It didn't make you have the hots for her. The time of it being a kind gesture was over. Now it was just annoying.

"Ok fine whatever! Can we get to the digging now? The bell is gonna ring soon and we haven't even gotten started yet… Geez." Scootaloo was eager to get started, she just wanted to dig. Help you get your cutie mark, and get whatever training she thought this would be in.

"Yup, I'm with Scootaloo on this one." You say, right after her. You just wanted to get away from the situation. "And I'm getting vibes over here, I think, gonna walk over here… so uh… if you want to help, and dig, follow me… over here… right over here.."

You just wanted them to follow you, stop, and just get to digging. If Applebloom dug, then she wouldn't be worried about giving you her damn bow.

And so it finally began. Using this as more of a way to distract Applebloom than to actually find gems. You just walk over to random areas as they dug. Applebloom… was really into it. Digging so hard and fast that Scootaloo and Diamond Tiara couldn't keep up. She didn't even care she was getting dirt on both of them.

Scootaloo at one point even stopped digging and had to walk off in frustration. Sweetie Belle taking the time to explain to her what you have told to her. It helped a little, But Scootaloo didn't understand why it was making her so dickish.

Diamond however wouldn't let up, she didn't even care. She was determined to find one gem.It actually surprised you that you didn't randomly run into one yet. They seemed to be everywhere, if "Bats!" was any indication. Maybe this place was already dug up? It didn't matter anyway, after some digging and spotting. The bell finally rang.

"Awwww… we didn't find a single one..." Sweetie Belle frowned

"I guess that means gem hunting isn't Anon's special talent..." Scootaloo looks down at their latest hole, Applebloom… was still in it, digging.

"Come on...there's gotta be a gem in here somewhere!" Applebloom growled

Scootaloo looked to Sweetie Belle "Are you sure she's overworked? Because she's still in there. She's not even sweating."

Sweetie Belle didn't know what to say. And you didn't want to get in trouble.

"Applebloom, the bell rang. We gotta get back to class." You call to her.

"Hold on a second, ahm tryin' to find that gem ya sensed!" She continued her dig.

"Applebloom, I was wrong. If it wasn't in the other holes. It won't be in that one… come on out. before we get in trouble."

Applebloom slowly stopped… and then climbed out, and began to remove her bow. "W-well… then that means… ya get my bow Anon… That's what ah said I'd do if we didn't get ya cutie mark.."

You shake your head, and hold up your hoof for her to stop. "Relax Applebloom, I'm not gonna take your bow. Just keep it, and let's just get back to class ok? I don't want anypony to get in trouble."

"Anon, ah said-" But you interrupt her.

Nope, you were done playing games at this point. You had to remember that this was a juggling act for you. You had to avoid Diamond Tiara's advances, you had to stop Applebloom's nonsense, and you couldn't get in trouble on your first day of school for any reason. You had enough.

"Applebloom, this is stupid. Forget about giving me the bow. Forget about finding any gems. It's over. We can do something else another time."

You give her a stern look, and given the way she feels about you. It's more than enough to get her to back down.

"C-can we please just go back? I don't want Miss Cheerilee to get mad at us" Silver Spoon was already starting to buckle under the pressure of getting in trouble.

Diamond Tiara moved over to your side, looking into your eyes. Then Applebloom's… she didn't want anyone to be angry. She was starting to feel that she caused this. Even after becoming nice, she was still causing trouble. "Anon, Applebloom… let's just forget this happened. Offering something was clearly a bad idea. I don't want to ruin you two's friendship because of something I did... ok?"

Applebloom cringed. She fucked up. She fucked up in more ways than one. She somehow lost her cool over something simple. What's more. Diamond Tiara never lost hers, and was trying to defuse a situation she started. She felt ashamed of herself, and she felt even worse that you got mad at her. She looked down and frowned. holding back tears.. "A-ah'm sorry Anon, ah, just got worked up is all..."

She wasn't about to say what exactly got her worked up. She already felt bad enough. She was starting to think that maybe her crush was stupid and that she couldn't compete with Diamond Tiara.

"It's fine, i'm not angry, I accept your apology, can we PLEASE get back before Cheerilee gets angry?"

Applebloom nods, and climbs out of the hole, her heart was crying. But she was too proud to say anything about it. Scootaloo found the whole thing weird. Sweetie Belle was trying to make sense of the situation. Silver Spoon just wanted to go back. And Diamond Tiara didn't even want to think she had caused any trouble like her old self would have done.

You all head back to the schoolhouse, being the last to arrive...

Chapter 68

And so, work resumed on the princess models. You tried to forget what had transpired. Trying to forget that you now had two fillies after you. Diamond Tiara being ever so ignorant as she does her best to happily guide you. All you had to do was get this right but… who knew painting Twilight, a pony you've seen a million times through the screen. Would be so a damn tough. Screw not being left handed. You weren't mouth handed.

Miss Cheerilee was walking about, inspecting everyone's work. Happily giving them tips if needed and telling them what a good job they were doing. She stopped at the Crusader's table when she noticed Applebloom wasn't in the best of moods. You had a hard time focusing on your work, feeling Applebloom was going to say something worrisome.

Then you noticed Applebloom smile, and Miss Cheerilee smile. No doubt Applebloom told her some usual kid bullshit.

"Anon, is something the matter?" Diamond Tiara asked you. She noticed your attention was wavering.

"Well, didn't he say he was tired too?" Silver Spoon yawned. "Really weird, like, how a lot of us didn't get any sleep"

"Yeah… That's right. Just, nodding off a bit… Sorry." You slap your face a bit with your hooves, faking your tiredness. "There we go, much better. See?" You gave a wide eyed look.

"O-ok..." Diamond Tiara couldn't help but think something else was wrong. She had noticed Applebloom was acting weird enough to even give Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle an inkling of concern. But she didn't say anything about it, she didn't want to think anything was even remotely wrong. She was worried she may have been the cause.

Diamond Tiara gently reached to your head and tilted it "If you move your head like this, and carefully brush along her neck, you can get it all painted without hitting her mane."

Oh god… more touching. Ugh, even if your mind found this all wrong. You always felt a sense of warmth from being touched by these ponies. And Diamond Tiara, who legit liked you, didn't help these feelings one bit. You were starting to think somewhere deep inside, you liked her too… but then… Applebloom, what were you supposed to do about her?

Cheerilee then came upon your table as part of her teacherly patrol, you put down your brush to speak incase she has anything to say. She took a moment to inspect the figures. Then smiled at the three of you. "Now this is what I like to see."

"What's that miss Cheerilee?" Asked Silver Spoon, curious as to what she meant.

"You two girls working together with our new student. It's one of the very foundations of this exercise. And what's more, all three of you look like you're all being very good friends"

Diamond Tiara grinned happily as she gave you a hug "We are friends! Me, Anon, and Silver Spoon!"

"Well then, I'd say you three understand the very reason why we are doing this project. The very foundation of friendship is making compromises, working together, and sharing life experiences with one another. Diamond Tiara, Silver Spoon. I know you've been friends for quite some time. So to see you working together with Anon as if he had been friends with the both of you just as long. Well, I'm very proud. And Diamond, It's good to see you being so well mannered these days. I'm sure you make your father very proud." Cherilee couldn't mention her mother, she saw her mother… and she didn't like her.

Diamond Tiara nodded, almost becoming emotional and crying "T-thank you ms.Cheerilee, I'm really happy to hear that. And I promise to keep being good. Ponies are a lot nicer when I'm nicer to them! It makes me… happy.."

Cheerilee nodded "As it should be, it's always a wonderful feeling to help other ponies and treat them with kindness. It's one of the reasons I became a teacher. To help the little ones like yourself to grow up to be happy, knowledgeable stallions and mares."

"That's beautiful Miss Cheerilee" Diamond Tiara was captivated by her words.

That… aww… dammit Cheerilee… she was such a sweet teacher. Better than ones you ever had. Who mostly didn't give a shit either way.

Cheerilee then looked to you "And speaking of being happy. Anon, how are you enjoying your first day of class?"

Good and bad. Diamond Tiara, despite everything. wasn't being overbearing. it's Applebloom's brash attempts at affection and trying to obviously take your attention away that was aggravating.

You look to Cheerilee, and give her the best answer you thought you could get away with. You really wish the day was as perfect as you were going to make it out to be. "I really like it. Everypony here seems pretty cool. And, everything here is pretty comfy. I don't feel threatened like I did in my old school. And… you're really understanding and nice."

Cheerilee giggled and gave you a rub on your head. "I'm glad to hear that Anon. If you have any trouble in my class, don't hesitate to ask for help… also… don't think you can flatter me little colt. Many have tried and failed. There's no easy grades in my class." Cheerilee gave you a cute but devious smirk before going back to a cheerful smile.

Ohh, that was a little scary. But justified, you guessed. You can't imagine how many kids must have tried getting out of trouble by complimenting her. She then walked off to inspect other tables and be of any use to any of her students.

"Diamond, do you mind if I work on Cadence while Anon works on Twilight… he's kind of taking forever.." Silver Spoon said, being a little impatient.

Diamond Tiara… you swear, for a second there, grew a face of defensive anger before going back to a gentle smile. Did she get angry there for a moment? "Y-yeah, I don't mind. Come on Anon, I know you can get Twilight done before class finishes up!"

You pick the brush back up, and go back to following Diamond's instructions. Every so often she'd carefully move the model for you so you could get to unpainted spots. Or adjust the brush in your mouth or adjust your very head, tilting it enough to help with your angle of strokes. She was actually pretty good at leading you through this despite your mistakes. But, she was also taking a few liberties. You could feel her hooves at time slide along under your neck.

And what's worse, every moment. You slowly began to enjoy her attention. You thought, why the fuck not? Pinkie was never going to give you the time of day. Lyra was just a cute tease. Bonbon definitely not. And Fluttershy… you could never forgive yourself if you ever lusted for her ever again… and even if you could, Discord wouldn't give you the chance.

But then… Fucking Applebloom. FUCKING… HER. Even if you did 100% accept Diamond Tiara, you'd be hurting Applebloom. Ugh… why was this shit so complicated?

And so you just focused on your work. Eyeing Applebloom every so often.

The attention you were receiving. Applebloom again was noticing. She looked upset until Scootaloo or Sweetie Belle called for her attention. You still couldn't figure out what you did to earn her favor. Was it how you stood up to Diamond before? Was it just because you were cute? Was it because you were the first male crusader? Who the fuck knows?

"Diamond, can you ease up a little, my neck is getting a little stiff” You lied, you didn't want Applebloom to get any more upset.

"O-h..Did I hurt you Anon?" Diamond Tiara said in a low voice. worried that she may have hurt you in some way.

"No, just ya know. All this head turning is making my neck ache."

"Oh, well, if you're having trouble with any spots. I'll take over for you so you don't hurt your neck"

"Thanks, I appreciate that."

She was being considerate and nice. She was trying so damn hard. It was endearing. The more it went on, the more you wished Applebloom would just… stop. If you only knew why, if you only knew to what degree she liked you. You could probably nip it right in the bud. Shit was so confusing...

The rest of the school day went on like this. You had Diamond get less and less touchy until finally the day ended with the bell ringing, and Miss Cheerilee addressing the class, telling them the usual things a teacher would say. By the end of the day, Silver Spoon was able to get Cadence just about finished up. But your Twilight… Her head, wings, and horn were left untouched.

Ugh… at least you were getting better at this. the rest looked fine. You gave the model a somber look. Put down by your failure to get it done. and the current situation with the fillies didn't help this either.

Diamond Tiara noticed your stare, it made her frown herself "Anon, it's ok. We still have one more day to get it done. If you want, you can take home the paint and brushes and practice on something. Then tomorrow we can get it all done together. How does that sound?"

Your eyes looked upon Applebloom for a moment before turning to Diamond. Applebloom was packing up and getting ready to leave with Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo. Carefully putting the collage of Cutie Marks in the center of the table.

"Thanks Diamond, but don't worry. My dad can set me up with some paints and a brush. I don't want to take these and then forget em tomorrow."

You were being truthful about that. Even moreso, you didn't want them being lost in the void that surrounded your house for any reason. Diamond Tiara just agreed with you, following your words as if it absolute truth. "Ok… but uhm, is there anything you want to do? School's over."

Silver Spoon yawned heavily "I know what I want to do… I'm really sorry Diamond. But, I'm really tired from last night. I'm like… going to go home and get some sleep. You should too, you were up longer than I was"

Diamond Tiara shook her head "I'm ok. Besides, somepony has to stay and explain a few other things about the project to Anon. Since he's our partner now."

"Huh? Uhh… is there any more to explain?" Silver Spoon was a little confused.

"You know… uhmm… give him a few pointers on painting, and explain to him why we chose to do princess models in case it ever comes up… things like that" Diamond Tiara gives Silver Spoon a big smile, a squee coming out of her.

And Silver Spoon… reluctantly buys it. "Ok… But your dad is gonna be angry if you fall asleep somewhere and don't go home… are you sure you'll be ok?"

Diamond Tiara nodded "Mhmm, and if anything happens. Anon will be there to make sure everything turns out ok, right Anon?"

Ugh. "Right..."

"Ok… seeya tomorrow.." Silver Spoon was a little reluctant to leave her best friend by herself with you. Not because of you, but because she was afraid you'd both fall asleep somewhere and forget to go home. But... she herself was tired enough that her bed sounded like the best thing in the world. Just a nap...

Diamond Tiara and you watched as Silver Spoon got up from her chair to go home. At last, Diamond had you to herself… until… the Crusaders came to the table to talk with you.

Chapter 69

Before the Crusaders even arrived. You realized Diamond Tiara just pretty much inserted herself in hanging with you after school. And you agreed to it. Lordy lordy, you should have paid more attention. And with the Crusaders coming up to you, you had to make sure to be cool, suave, and not upset Applebloom.

"Come on Anon! Let's go get you that Cutie Mark! We have the whole day to figure something out." Applebloom said in excitement, she knew… or thought at least, you wouldn't deny an opportunity to try to get your Cutie Mark now that school was over.

What to say… what to say. ugh, don't sugar coat it. Be direct, then when you get the chance. Confront her later. You were getting tired of pussyfooting about, "That sounds like fun Applebloom. But I really got to focus on this project thing. I really don't want to screw up my first project in school."

Applebloom began to frown "B-but school's over. Can't ya just continue tomorrow?"

You point over to the unfinished Twilight model. "That took me the whole day and I didn't even get it done, while Silver Spoon got three of the models done on her own. Yeah, I kind of need the practice."

The three of them took a look, Sweetie Belle making the most notable cringe and speaking. "Well… we know painting won't get you a Cutie Mark.

"Well then… maybe we can train ya in painting. That way ya can be ready for tomorrow!" Applebloom suggested in earnest

"Don't worry Applebloom. I've got that covered." Diamond Tiara said, a happy smile on her face , still ignorant to Applebloom's motives

"He was our friend first ya know.." Applebloom said, giving a rather condescending look over to Diamond Tiara.

"Our fr- wha? Applebloom. Are you sure you're ok? That doesn't sound like you at all" Scootaloo said, not even knowing where that came from.

"Yeah, and besides, we can't help him with painting if it's gotta do with the project, Applebloom. We aren't in his group. Let's just try tomorrow ok? When the project is over" Sweetie Belle put her hoof on Applebloom to try to get more of her attention. "It's not like Anon is going anywhere. Besides, we can't just try random things anymore. It never worked before. I've been thinking and… Don't you think it'd be better to try what Anon wants to try? We already have our Cutie Marks after all. Who knows, if we let him think on it. Then he'll probably have a really good idea that we can help him with. Ok? Applebloom?"

Applebloom stared at Diamond Tiara for a moment. A cold glare. Something Diamond Tiara was still not picking up on. Then Applebloom shifted her attention to you, she began to frown, almost. Then took a breath. "Ok… But Anon, ya better be chock full of ideas when ya come see us tomorrow, got that? Enough for the whole day."

Oh you would have more than that. You had to talk with her, you really did. Tomorrow would have to be it. Today… you might as well try integrating as a colt a little bit more. You can't avoid it. You'll never ever have the mare you want. And Diamond Tiara… She wasn't being bad, mean, or evil. She just wanted your time. You really felt more and more that just a little of that time wouldn't hurt. "I will Applebloom, I've got a few ideas in the works. And I know you three are the ones to go to to help me with em."

That should work. at least for now. Applebloom smiles, more happily than the other two. Who just seem happy that Applebloom is calming down.

Diamond Tiara looked to Applebloom however, and asked a certain question… a question that made your stomach churn. "Do… you think I could help Anon too? I know I'm not a crusader… but we're friends right?"

Applebloom. You could tell her stomach churned too. But she was too slow on the uptake from the initial shock.

"That's a really good idea! You managed to get a Cutie Mark before us, so you have some experience in being… uhh… a pony with a cutie mark." Scootaloo said, unable to think of a professional word for a pony with their Cutie Mark.

"Yeah… that would be great" Applebloom said, with a disheartened chuckle.

"Hehe!" Diamond Tiara giggled in delight, she looked like she was ready to bounce "Thanks everypony!"

"Well, we'll see ya tomorrow then Anon. You better get some good practice. I dunno how Discord is about grades… but, I can't imagine what'd he'd do if you got a bad one." Sweetie Belle said, though, as you thought about that, Discord probably mostly didn't care. Or maybe he did… he was always so confusing and changing his mind all the time.

"Yeah, and if you decide to be a good scooter rider, I got ya covered on that. Just don't break it..." Scootaloo said, already excited to hear whatever ideas you might have.

"Ya better show up tomorrow Anon, We'll be ready for anything ya bring to the table." Applebloom said, staring deep into your eyes. No, she clearly meant that you just show up… period.

With goodbyes, they leave, and you and Diamond Tiara gather your things. You thought about talking to miss Cheerilee… but you don't. You just bid her a happy goodbye and tell her it was a great first day.

So, if Diamond Tiara was going to help you anyway. Maybe just taking the paint supplies was a good idea after all. "I'm just going to take the paint stuff with us after all. Since you're going to help me. I can just give it back to you when we're done. Better this way anyway… sometimes my dad can be a little bit of a hassle."

You begin to close up and put the paints and brushes into your saddle bag. Taking care to keep them closed tight so they don't spill. You both then start walking out of the school.

"A hassle? I thought you and Discord always got along… Mmm, then again. I've never really seen you two together."

"He's fine, he can just be a little weird sometimes… about anything, but we get along most of the time. I wasn't lying when I said he takes good care of me"

"I never thought you were lying. You're very honest and brave Anon… I don't think any other colt would have stayed to fight those two… monsters, but you did, and you won."

You almost visibly cringed...brave? Maybe it was more stupidity and guilt. Honest? No. "Yeah, I guess I'm those things. So… where and what are we going to practice on. The figures are still at the school."

Diamond Tiara seemed to already have an answer for that. "I'm sure we can find something to practice on in your house"

"I think there's som… wait… my house?" YOUR HOUSE?!?!?

Diamond Tiara nodded to you, she was smiling… but there was a smidge of… love in there. "Yeah, you already seen mine. I wanna see yours."

Your house… "I, I dunno if that's.."

You stop your sentence as she moves in front of you, looking deep into your eyes as you step back. "Come on Anon! I really want to see! I bet it's totally cool!"

You started to sweat a little. "D-diamond, it's just, what would your uh… dad say?"

You keep stepping back as she keeps stepping forward "It'll be fine, he likes you remember? Come onnnn. Let me see!"

Oy geez, Her dominating side from pre-redemption was showing. "O-ok ok. Just relax. Trust me, there might be some things you might not want to see… or maybe there won't be… it always depends."

"Well, you won't let anything bad happen to me right? I mean, all we're going to do is practice painting, right? " Diamond Tiara looked deep into your eyes, looking to find the answer in them. Ohhh...geez.

"Right..." You chuckle nervously.

She stops her advance on you and turns away with a self satisfied smile. "Then nothing bad should happen. Everything will be totally ok."

Right. Well, she seemed inclined to see your home. You wondered if Discord was around. If he was, you'd have to keep DT in your room. You can't imagine Discord playing nice if he knew you had a girl in your room. "Ok ok, you convinced me. But I've warned you"

Diamond Tiara giggled at that remark. "I know you did… so, how do we get to your house?"

"Ahh, now that's something that's pretty cool to see… Hmmm… need a source of water though"

That got her curious "A source of water? Why?"

You chuckle a little. If she was so interested in seeing your house. And if you were even going to even try indulging yourself a little in this whole thing. You were going to have to relax. Time to begin… "It's a surprise. Hrnnn.."

You start looking around the surrounding area. You were only a little way aways from the school. "Does the school have a faucet or something?"

"On the side, why? Anon?" Diamond Tiara was pretty confused.

You head back towards the school and go to it's side, spotting the faucet and turning on the spout. "Trust me… it's going to be cool."

You eye the now enlarging puddle. Keeping an eye on it as you reach into your saddle bag for your map. Yeah, you were getting into this a little now. You eyed Diamond Tiara's confused face as you turned off the faucet. "Ok...ready to see something cool?"

Diamond Tiara was deeply confused. She almost thought you were toying with her suddenly. "Mmm-mhmm"

But no, you were just finally giving up on resisting. What was the point? All it would do would continue to make Diamond Tiara more curious, more pushy, and more enthralled with such a mysterious colt. Avoiding everything was only making things worse. You would just indulge in your feelings a little. You hoped this wasn't a mistake.

You toss the map into the puddle. And like several times before, The puddle changes into a portal straight into your room. You look to Diamond Tiara, who is speechless at the action. "Pretty cool huh?"

"I didn't know you could do that. That's… wow." She was in shock and awe.

"It's not much. The map did most of the work. It's something Dad gave me to get home whenever I need to. So uh… it's just a jump down in the portal to get to my room. I think we both gotta jump in at the same time though. The portal tends to close right after I jump in."

Diamond Tiara looked to you, then back at the portal, then back to you. She never had to jump in a portal before. But, she decided, if it was you, then it was safe. "Ok… how do I know when to jump?"

"I'll count. When I say three, we both jump in."

Diamond Tiara nods "Got it, ready when you are"

Ok… Should be easy. "One...Two...Three!"

The two of you make the jump. going from Ponyville to your room in an instant, both of you bouncing off your bed to either side as the map lands in the middle.

"Ok… ugh… don't usually bounce off the bed like that. You ok Diamond?" You get up slowly and look around, she must have bounced to the other side… and good… your floor door was back where it should be.

"Mhmm! I'm ok. That was exciting!" Diamond Tiara jumped to her hooves and took an eager look around "Daddy could probably make a fortune… well, more of a fortune… if he could make this portal thing a commodity"

"Probably..." You opened your saddle bag and started taking out the brush and the paint. You left the other things inside in case you needed them and put the map back in as well.

"What's this Anon?" Diamond Tiara calls out to you. Hrn? You turn over to her, she was inspecting your Grappling Hook.

"Oh, that? That's my grappling hook."

"Why do you need a grappling hook?"

You shrug. "I dunno, it was a gift. But hey, it could come in handy one day. You never know."

"Handy? Like, if you had to spy on something? Or escape from something?" Diamond Tiara never thought you'd have something like this

"Well, yeah, I guess that's what I'd use it for. But I've never gotten a chance to use it."

"Do you think you'll ever need it? You wouldn't go looking for more bad guys to fight right?" Diamond Tiara was hoping you won't, she didn't want you to get hurt

You shake your head "Nah, no, you don't have to worry about that."

Diamond Tiara felt reassured, she didn't want to think of you getting into trouble. She knew that you could pull off being extremely mean if you needed to. The way you threatened her before. She thought about it now and to her it seemed… exotic in a way. She'd never seen a pony, much less a colt… be so blunt. It was sort of exhilarating , in the way that she wondered what else you could do.

Then her curiosity shifted to something else "...Hrnn, what's with this door?" Diamond Tiara curiously walks over to the floor door. "Why is it on the floor?"

"Oh that? Oh this is pretty cool too. Take a step back"

Diamond Tiara complies, and takes a step back, keeping an eye on you. You know… you were getting a sense of enjoyment out of this. Showing someone else all the kooky crap in your room. "Ok… I'm going to open the door and.."

You open the door, and look down. Seeing the living room. You peek your head down for Discord… nowhere to be seen. Either hiding, or he was still at Fluttershys.

"It leads to a whole other room? Really? How are you supposed to get down there without hurting yourself?"

You smirk. "Here's the kicker… watch this!" You focus your mind on the gravity stairs and take a step down through the door.

To Diamond Tiara, at first she thought you were falling. "ANON! WHAT ARE YOU....d...-doing?"

You were just standing there, in mid air. "Just standing around, told you it was cool."

She was amazed by what she saw. You had to give her a little smirk as you trotted down the invisible steps. Now… now you were having fun. Yeah… it was… it was a good idea to just let it go. After being frustrated with the both of them. Just letting go just made things… easier. You look around to make sure there were no surprises, then look up at Diamond Tiara. "Wanna come on down?"

Diamond Tiara didn't even know how. She looked a little worried, even putting her hoof over the opening of the door and feeling nothing to put it on. "..I don't feel anything. How do I get down like you did?"

"Just focus and imagine there being some stairs, and that’s all there is to it. The rest will work itself out. Just move slowly though, the shift in gravity takes a little getting used to."

Diamond Tiara just stood there for a moment, pawing the air with her hoof. Doing her best to try to find some footing. "It's not working"

Hrnnn… was probably easier for you because you started from the living room rather than your room. "You just gotta believe Diamond, just believe and take a step. Trust me, it'll work"

"Just believe?" Diamond looks down at you, unsure of herself.

"Yeah, that should work I think. Just give it a shot."

Diamond started murmuring to herself "I just need to believe… just need to believe… I believe… if Anon thinks I can then..I can do it.."

You couldn't hear her, you were just wondering what was taking so long.

"Here I go.." Diamond Tiara takes a step forward "I BELIEAHHHHH!"

Oh shit… OH SHIT… she's falling. It didn't work! You just act automatically, and jump right under her. She lands right on your back as you let out a yelp. Oh, geez, that hurt.

Diamond bounces off of you. and falls to her side with a tiny squeak. "O-ouch… I, I guess I didn't do it right… what did I hit?" She looks over to you, and sees you groaning in pain. She puts her hooves over her mouth in horror and rushes over to you. "A-Anon..I didn't..I didn't mean to fall like that! A-Are you hurt?! Are you ok?!"

Nope… You push your upper body up with your front hooves and hear a small bone snap back into place… Ouch. "Yeah..peachy… ngh… just got surprised.."

Shit, what did she do wrong? Or did you explain it wrong? Oh right… she had to imagine the steps too… crap.

Diamond rushes over to you and helps you up back on your hooves, using her face under your chest to push you up. "I'm really sorry Anon, I thought… I guess I didn't do it right..."

You stretch your body like that of a cat. hearing one or two more snaps. You ached, but you'd be ok. Not like a full sized mare fell on you or anything… almost felt like it though. "No, I forgot to mention to focus your thoughts on some stairs. Doesn't work unless you do that too… ugh… I'll be ok though. S-soo, uh, this is the living room… sometimes it is anyway"

But Diamond cared not for your tour, she was sliding her hoof slowly along your back, looking for any wounds. "..Anon..wait..we have to make sure you're not hurt anywhere."

Ohhh… that felt nice but. "I don't think I have any open wounds Diamond. Trust me, it'll be ok."

Diamond focused on any spot of your coat that might be red "I'm just making sure, you can never be too sure. Daddy says it's always important to double check everything, sometimes triple check."

You were sure he meant on finances. But, you humor her and let her check you up until she was certain you were ok. "Find anything?"

Diamond Tiara sighed in relief, not a single mark on you or your coat. "Nothing, thank Celestia. I thought I might have really hurt you."

You shrug. "Hey, no worries. You know me, I'm a lot tougher than I look."

Yeah right. You've just been lucky or had Discord at your back. In a straight up fight, you'd probably get knocked the fuck out, zapped, burnt, or blown up.

Diamond Tiara couldn't fully agree, if only for the fact she knows what happened before "Don't say that, you ended up in the hospital even after you beat those two stallions."

Hmm… she really got spooked when she landed on you. You take a few steps and walk in a circle. "Well, I'm pretty ok now. See? Just needed to walk it off."

Diamond Tiara had a little trouble shaking off something was wrong. But… you seemed ok. You were walking ok… no… even if slowly. She began to accept that you were ok. "O-ok Anon. I believe you… but. Let's not walk into any more doors that are on the floor..."

"I'm fine with that. We kind of gotten off track anyway. We gotta get something to paint. I'm sure Dad won't mind if we pick off a little something..." You look around, the living room was pretty filthy. But despite the mess, there was nothing really to paint. Except… huh… you had an idea.

"Diamond, wait right here, I'm going to check the couch"

"Ok… why the couch though?" Diamond asked, it did seem odd. But, you were getting used to the chaos that surrounded you. Stuff always gets lost in the folds of the couch. One could only imagine the crazy shit that was in Discord's couch.

"Ponies always lose stuff in their couch… I think… so I'd only guess Dad loses all sorts of stuff in here..." You hop up on the couch and start reaching your hoof into the couch… oygh… probably not the best idea… it was goopy and gross. "Ommnn..ngh...mmnnnnn.."

Your hoof finally hits something solid. You do your best to grasp it and pull it out. And you fished out a… "What the… oh… come on.." It was a statue of Discord reaching into the couch. "That… ok, whatever, it's fine. I don't know why I'd ever expect any different."

You hop down from the couch and show it to Diamond Tiara "Will this work? It doesn't have any color on it"

Diamond Tiara looks at it, then your hoof "Anon..." Yeah… your hoof wasn't looking very clean.

"Yeah, give me a second." Luckily, the kitchen was connected to the living room. This time, not upside down. You walk over to the sink put your hoof under the faucet. You then turn it on. As sludge drips onto your hoof, making you pull away.

GODFUCKING "Right… again, why do I expect any different." You walk over to the front door

"Anon?...what are you doing?" Diamond was confused.

"Just trying to clean my hoof here, I'm just going to get this gunk off on the front porch. I dunno if Dad wants this on anything or not." You walk over to the front door

You open it to wipe your hoof on the front porch. Instead, you are greeted by a huge fucking eyeball. You turn white in fright..and slowly close the door. "r-r-r-r-right… w-w-w-hy do--... I.. e-e-expect.. any… d-d-d-different."

You then just wipe your hoof on the wall and walk back towards Diamond Tiara. "Ok… we're going back to my room now.." Yeah, fuck this and it's horrors.

"Anon… you look… did something happen? And, why did you rub that gunk on your dad's wall? Won't he be angry?"

You shake your head. "Diamond… trust me. And listen really close… when it comes to this house… you should expect anything to happen. You should just not do anything that has to do with anything unless it's in my room because that's the only normal place in the house."

"Ok… but" Diamond Tiara looks upwards "How do we get back up?"

Ok… This should work. "Try to imagine some stairs. Just… do nothing but that. Forget the believing in yourself thing and believe in the stairs."

"Believe in the stairs… ok, I'll try it" Diamond Tiara nods then looks up "Believe in the stairs.." She repeats the mantra and tries taking a step. It works!

"Anon, look. I'm doing it!" Diamond Tiara was pretty happy about this. Probably because she wasn't going to plummet on you again. She began to prance about on the invisible steps.

"Good job! but don't lose focus, or else you might fall again." You stay under her just in case she falls again… but no, she manages to get it right this time, if only because you gave her the wrong advice beforehand. You climb up the gravity stairs yourself now. And close the door. And take a breath, you were glad you didn't have to go back down.

"Your house is really interesting Anon..." Diamond Tiara looks out your window at the chaotic dark sky and floating islands. Despite it being eternal black, light shone into your room just the same. "Does it always look like that outside?"

You look out the window with her "Yeah it does. It's not bad, it's interesting to see what kind of stuff is going on every now and again."

"What kind of interesting stuff?"

"Anything really, whatever can happen CAN happen out there, that’s why it's usually best not to actually think about it. I don't think anypony else would enjoy this kind of scenery."

"Well, I don't mind looking. It's actually pretty beautiful. The way the snow comes out of that volcano and spreads all over. It's like a white burst from a firework that never disappears."

"You don't find this weird?"

Diamond Tiara shook her head "No, not really, it looks too pretty to be weird..." She yawns, and then leans on you. She was still tired. Maybe Silver Spoon was right that she should have taken a nap at home.

Still… You let her rest her head on you for a little while. And let your mind drift for a moment. You weren't having lewd thoughts at all. She was just… comfy. She really was trying hard to be nice. And doing a pretty good job, she really has done a good job of staying nice and non-cunty. You let her have her moment of rest.. "You ok Diamond?"

She just softly said "mhmmm" as she nuzzled her head on the side of your neck.

you took a small breath. You were still not fully used to this. You had no idea how to proceed.

"A..are we still going to paint this thing for practice?"

That does it, she snaps out of her love filled trance and quickly walks over to your saddle bag to pull out the paint and brushes. She notices the horn. but thinks nothing of it as she puts down the supplies next to the statue on the side of the bed, then hops up on the bed and looks over the statue from the side. It was adorable really. She was blushing the entire time while trying to seem like nothing was wrong. "I'll watch from up here and give you pointers and tell you if you're doing it wrong."

You walk over to the statue and plop down on your butt. It was about half the size of you. You reach with your mouth and pick up the brush and salute to Diamond. You were at the ready.

And so it began, you started the painting of the Discord statue. And at first, you were as bad as ever. Not as bad. But still not used to it. Diamond Tiara told you which colors to use on what. And verbally stopped you when you got something wrong. Every so often she sounded like her old self. Sometimes saying something a little mean like "Come on Anon, my grandma can do better!" But it was far and few between, her only saying it if you screwed up multiple times on a single spot. She didn't notice when she scolded you. And you felt it'd be unwise to point it out lest she spiraled into an apologetic spaz.

With each stroke, dab, and tap. You got more experience. And got better. The statue was a little bigger and more intricate than the Twilight model. But you manage to get the upper quarter done. With Diamond's tips and advice and your own growing skill.

You put the brush down on the ground and wipe your forehead. Woo… you even got Discord's eyes right, for the most part. "Check that out Diamond, pretty good for a newbie huh?"

No reply.

"Diamond?" You look up, you could see the tip of her hooves coming off your bed.

You stand up and look at the top of your bed. She had moved to a more comfortable spot and fallen asleep. You didn't know when… but it must have been a little before you finished as she had went silent. You thought it was because you were doing a good job, but no. She had just fallen asleep is all . She just laid there, sleeping. a small smile on her face.

"....."

She looked so peaceful. the most peaceful you've ever seen her. You'd have to either wake her or have Discord teleport her home at one point… but for now. You grab your blanket and gently put it over her and tuck her in… she looked pretty cute all snug like that. No doubt the bed's enchanted warmth had overtaken her.

You take a moment to open the portal door… it was still daylight. You close it, and look at Diamond and yawn… Maybe a little nap…

You slowly climb onto your bed and lay on your pillow like a cat. Laying down a little way aways from Diamond. Just a small nap. Then you'd go track down Discord in case she was still asleep.

And so, you snooze.

Chapter 70

Some time passes, not enough for the whole day.Though, not like you could tell in this dimension.

You slowly wake up, feeling well rested, woo… a nap can do wonders. Your body has recovered from DT falling on you. "Woo… what a nap… what time is it, wait, WHAT TIME IS IT?!"

You didn't know how much time had passed, and you just remembered Diamond Tiara was sleeping on your bed with you. Oohhh shit. Was she still there…? she had to be. Even if she was awake. She'd have no idea how to leave.

You lean up and look at the foot of the bed. You could see her mane and tiara. She was still napping… ohh boy. You hoped it wasn't night… or the next day...

"Diamond?... psst… Diamond" You gently call to her to not startle her from her sleep. But she laid there, unmoving. You reach with your back hoof and give her a few taps. "Diamond Tiara… psst… wake up… I think we may have overslept"

As you tapped, you could feel rougher fur than usual. Her coat felt tougher. Diamond Tiara shivered a little, and began to turn.

"Diamond?"

She turned… and her face… that wasn't... GODDAMMIT! Discord, with tiara and DT's mane flips over, looking at you with soft, awaking eyes "ahhh...mnn..Good afternoon sweetie pie, have a good nap?"

You move back a little, startled by the sight, then cringe as you look off the side of the bed. The rest of discord's body hanging down from it. "Geez Discord! The hell! Why do you always do crap like this!? Every time I think I have you figured out… sheesh.."

"Oh lighten up Anon, I'd think you would have liked a cutie such as myself sleeping on your bed with you. Now I just feel insulted, hmph" Discord crosses his arms, and sticks his tongue out at you.

Cutie...wait..OH SHIT! You stand up and look around, even hanging to the side to look under your bed. "Diamond Tiara… oh shit. Where is she?! What did you do with her?! Shit Discord… please tell me you weren't her the whole time!"

Discord shook his head "Of course I wasn't, do you know how creepy that sounds? Wooo, just gives me the willies"

"Then where is she? She was sleeping on the end of the bed." Shit, did she try to explore the house? Did the house eat her?! Crap, you shouldn't have taken that fucking nap, You were really panicking here.

"Relax Anon… I sent her home."

What? You look at Discord, confused "You...sent her home?"

Discord nodded "Yes, What else was I supposed to do? She woke up and happened upon me. We had a small chat and then I sent her home. Poor thing, barely got any sleep."

Uh… huh… You narrow your eyes at Discord, not fully trusting him. "And that's the truth?"

"Yes Anon, it's the truth. I swear to Fluttershy. Surely that's good enough for you."

You take a breath, but you were still skeptical. What the hell could they have talked about? You couldn't think of any of the ponies sans some of the mane 6 having a chat with Discord.

"What did you two talk about?"

Discord gasped in shock, and put his taloned fingers to his chest "Anon! How rude. Do you really expect me to share the secrets of fair young filly with you? How awful of you to even ask such a question. I thought I raised you better than that."

"Don't fuck with me Discord. Not with this." You were determined to know either the truth, or what they talked about. Or both. This was another life he was possibly toying with.

No, the truth was that you finally let yourself into what you have become. A colt. And… you had fun. Hanging with Diamond Tiara wasn't actually painful. Hanging with the CMC is admittingly fun. Just, having a life in Equestria was fun. And you were finally fully embracing it. And then, this happens.

Discord snickered and started floating upwards, resting his head on his arms. "I'm doing nothing of the sort. She really DID swear me to secrecy. I'm not about to break my word just because you're a little snoop"

You cock your eyebrow at him. "When did you care about being honorable?"

"When it suits me. Sorry Anon, but you aren't going to get anything out of me."

Fine... "You're a real trip Discord, fine, if I know my stuff though. It had to be something about me… god, I hope it wasn't marriage plans."

You get up and walk over to the portal door and open it to see the time of day. The sun was already coming down. and the sky was turning red. "That should be enough time"

"Yes, it should be." Discord said to you…

Wait, did he know what you were going to do?

You turn around to face him. "What do you mean by that?"

"Well, Anon. You were supposed to come back to the cottage after school to tell me and Fluttershy how your first day of school went. Instead you made her worried. And then when I go looking for you, what do I find. But a filly on your bed."

You cringe… oh please, pleaseeeeee.."And… you didn't tell her about that, did you?"

Discord chuckles "Of course I did. I wasn't going to lie to my best and dearest friend about your whereabouts. She was already worried enough."

Oh… come on… You already had enough on your plate… "And… what did she say?"

Discord inches towards you, and lowers his head to meet your eyes "Well, you're going to find out… aren't you? Because I won't let you come back until you inform Fluttershy of your day… understand?"

Seriously?... You look upon those hellish colored eyes of his. He was serious. Dead serious. "Alright, I'll make sure to stop by the cottage when I'm done with my thing." You start packing up your saddle bag with the essentials.

"And what "Thing" can be more important than telling Fluttershy about your day?"

Heh, he didn't know you were going to see Applebloom to have a chat with her. Since now was any good a time as any… hopefully she was still at the clubhouse.

"It's a secret"

Discord as insulted by such a remark "A secret? Anon, you can't just do that. I'm your father, you're not allowed to keep secrets from me."

You open the portal door and look back at him with a joyous smile. "As long as I see Fluttershy then it shouldn't matter to you. I gotta thank you Discord, I'm finally getting this whole horse life thing. Seeya later!"

You gave him a wave as you passed through the portal. "Anon Wa-" Discord is unable to finish as the portal door shuts behind you, as you stand near City Hall.

"Ha, that felt pretty good. If he can have his secret than I can have mine. I bet he's stew… oh, come on."

As you turn ahead, Discord was standing right in front of you. "What, did you think this was like one of those animes of yours where you can befuddle somepony and walk into the serene, calming plains with a big goofy smile on your face?"

"Yeah almost… I forgot you could just teleport for a moment there… Ugh..."

Discord looked at you with a hard stare, looking disappointed "Anon, Anon. I'm not just some cartoon character that you can toy with. I'm Discord, Spirit of Chaos!... You'll have to do much better than that. Now… are you going to tell me what you are going to do?"

You shake your head. "I'll tell you my secret if you tell me yours, otherwise. I got something important to do."

"Are you aware that I can just follow you and find out what you are up to?"

You nod. "I do… Discord, look. Can we have a civil conversation right now please? I don't want to lose any time. And I'm sure you want me to go see Fluttershy before nightfall, right?"

Discord lands on the ground, and stops to think before answering "I do..."

"Then let me do this. Let me try to have this life of a colt that you have given me. And I promise to go see Fluttershy. I really meant it when I said I was thankful Discord. And unless we're gonna spill some secrets. Then I really gotta go..."

Discord rubbed his chin, he was considering and looking into your words within his mind. "Hmm… no… I think I'll keep my secret. Since you seem so inclined in finally embracing being a pony. I might as well keep things interesting for you. As for your secret. Keep it. I'm sure it wasn't very interesting anyway."

You almost chuckle. He was still interested. And so were you in his. But if it was going to be a stalemate. So be it. It shouldn't be that hard to figure out some kid's chat anyway. "Alright then. I'll see you when I get back."

"I'll have dinner ready… Oh, and one last thing before you go Anon."

"What?"

"I commend you on the stalemate. But the next time we have one of our little arguments. I expect you to put a little more effort into winning. Sometimes it's better to just take what you want instead of being crushed by the weight of defeat."

What? "You actually want me to argue better? So you're not actually pissed or anything?"

"Oh, just a little. But I have to test you every so often. I sometimes worry about your ability to handle a situation if you ever ran into somepony who was… less than friendly."

"Discord… come on, I didn't really want to argue in the first place. If I wanted to, I could be a pretty huge dick… I don't think your advice is very sound."

"Take it as you will. But Equestria isn't all sunshine and rainbows Anon. And if something were to ever happen to you and I couldn't do anything about it. I would hope you could fend for yourself."

Wait, huh? "Wait… so… you're actually worried about me?"

Discord scoffs at the thought "Don't get ahead of yourself Anon, I just think you are getting more and more reckless as time goes on. If you screwed up and found yourself in danger. I would have to hope you could get out of it on your own. Because if something did happen to you..."

"Then it'd look bad on you, yeah, I figured."

Discord shifted his eyes left and right, as if that wasn't the actual truth "Right yes, in anycase, hurry off to whatever you are going to do. I'll be at home waiting."

And with that, you rush off to the clubhouse. With Fluttershy on your mind. Shit, Discord was still hard to guess.

Ugh, the clubhouse was still quite the distance. You really REALLY hope Applebloom was there. You just had to get the other two to leave somehow so you could have your private chat.

Eventually, you reach the clubhouse. Ugh… you'd never be able to get to the cottage if this took too long, Though, you could still use the map and just use the portal door.

You climb up the rising boardwalk to the clubhouse and look through the window. Holy shit, what luck. It was just Applebloom in there. But she looked awfully down.

No, you couldn't just step in. You had to have a plan. You didn't want to crush her. Just let her down easy without ruining your friendship with her… or her getting mad at Diamond Tiara. You felt a tad ashamed. But you had leaned towards DT as a possible… special somepony. You knew her more, you were more involved with her, and, you just grew to like her more. It's not like you hated Applebloom. She's a sweet girl. But she's stubborn as hell, and she would just be better as a friend. Her,Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo were a team right down to the damn Cutie Mark. And you didn't want to ruin that too by being a bigger part of her life… also, what would Applejack say?

You took deep breaths. If she asked about Diamond Tiara… you would just have to be honest. You really were done being evasive or uptight about things… certain things anyway.

Fuck this was actually hard. You were about to tell this girl to cut her shit out. But, you had to. And hopefully, whatever crush she had didn't get any deeper than it seemed so far. Ok… here we go. You knock on the door.

"Scootaloo...Sweetie Belle? Is that you? Ah thought you two had to go home" Applebloom came to the door as you stood at the ready. Stay focused Anon, don't puss out. No matter how badly it hurts either you or her. This is for the best.

"Girls?" Applebloom slowly opens the door and peers at the other side. Only to see you instead

"A-Anon?..ah thought you weren't comin' today...W-what are ya doin here?"

You took a breath… here we go. You tried to make the least threatening face you could make. One that was soft, kind… reassuring..

"..I came to talk to you Applebloom"

Applebloom stepped to the side to let you in "Ya did? But, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo ain't here."

You nod as you step inside. "I know, I came to speak to just you… alone."

Applebloom started to blush "Alone?"

You sit at a seat that was just laying there in the middle of the room. You were a little tired from running. "Yeah..."

Nmm, she was already getting the wrong idea.

"W-what is it Anon? Is it about yer Cutie Mark?" Applebloom asked as she pulled up a chair in front of you, and sat down. She brushed her mane back with her hoof once… probably to get your "attention"

You shake your head. "No, Applebloom. I have a really important question to ask."

"W-what...What is it?"

"Do you like me?"

She blushed red deep, yup, that confirmed it. "Like ya? Y-yeah, as a friend ah course."

You shake your head "No… I mean, do you like me… like I was your special somepony"

Applebloom was now as red as her namesake as she looked away "........"

Fuck… Just do it Anon, make it easier on yourself. "I'm sorry Applebloom. But I don't feel the same way"

Applebloom flinched. She turns to you and you can already tell from her face she was heartbroken. But she put on a toughened look "Ah, never said ah felt that way… Yer my friend Anon. Ah don't know what yer gettin' at with this special somepony stuff..."

It hurt your heart to see her lie like that. But, so far,so good. "Ok… I'm glad we had this talk then. I'll seeya tomorrow"

Time to go, talk is done. But before you can get up, Applebloom let's out a "Wait!"

Mmnnn "Yeah?"

"Ah don't really ah..." She was hesitating "wanna pry but… ya don't have a special somepony… do ya?"

Could you consider DT your special somepony? No, it wasn't that far… not to you, but it could be getting there… How to answer this? How to be delicate...

"Well, um. I'm just keeping my options open a little right now."

"There's that there fancy talk you use. Can't ya just say yes or no?" Applebloom just wanted a clear answer.

If you say no, she'll just keep looking upon you and Diamond Tiara… and you don't know what that'd bring. If you said yes… no… better just go with maybe… that's the truth of it. As far as you knew. "I… might."

"It's Diamond Tiara, right?" Applebloom was doing her best not to look like she was about to be the saddest horse in the world.

You slowly nod. "Yeah..."

Applebloom gave a squeaky "Ok… ah..hope that goes ok.."

She was devastated. She started speaking in a low voice "...but ya promised."

What did she say? "Applebloom… did… did you say something?"

She shook her head "N-no..but ...ya still coming tomorrow right?"

Yeah… she was still your friend. You nod "Yeah, I'll be here. Don't worry about that."

"Then, ah… ah'll seeya tomorrow. Unless… there's anything more ya wanna talk about."

You may have not heard her. But the promise she spoke about was the one you made when you were punished and said you wouldn't go to Diamond's side no matter what. At this point it was petty, but she wasn't actually willing to let you go. Not just yet. Applebloom had grown a crush on you due to your actions. When you first reacted to DT and SS in your scary fashion. She didn't like it… but upon hearing of your "heroic" deed and even seeing you come out of the hospital like it was no big deal. It made her think you were a tough, brave colt. Tougher and braver than any colt she had ever met. Even braver than stallions. Until someone spilled the beans, she would continue to think that.

"No, that's all… though I am wondering. Why aren't you at home? I don't see the others."

"Ah… just wanted to be alone to think. Ya know, somepony gotta be here to plan for everything when it comes to cutie marks"

You couldn't call her simple minded. She was lying to you. For now, you'd just accept it. A part of you wished that Diamond Tiara didn't get a redemption. She would have been easier to put down if she was still a prick and Applebloom would have been the clear choice. But, Diamond Tiara was doing her best in every aspect, and she had it pretty rough herself. Unless deep down she was still a dick. You felt you couldn't just blow her off for another girl. You had no idea how to handle two girls after you, so you had to make a choice. And you hoped you picked the right one.

"Ok then, I've got to get going. My dad wants me to do something and he's not gonna be happy if I don't do it. Thanks for your time Applebloom."

Applebloom tries to put on a smile the best she can, and tries to sound chipper "Well ya.. ya better get goin' then. Don't want Discord tanning yer hide"

You get up and walk away, waving goodbye to Applebloom. She just sits there and waves back, she was despondent. She was hurt… But no matter what you did. It was either her or DT. One would be hurt either way. But at least Applebloom had better friends to help keep her spirits up. There was always that.

You turn away from her as you leave and close the door. How miserable. And you still had to see Fluttershy, and you just weren't in the mood for it. Maybe you should have gone to see her first.

You avoided looking through the window, and just walked down the boardwalk. You decided not to teleport home. You'd just walk there and try to clear your head. There shouldn't really be a time limit as long as Fluttershy hadn't gone to bed by the time you got there. There was still time. You just wish you knew what was going on in Applebloom's head. You had the horn… but… still… until you had practice with it. It was almost as if you'd never find a chance to actually use the damn thing and find out what it can really do.

It'll be fine. Hopefully Fluttershy's presence can help cheer you up.

Chapter 71

You begin your trek to the cottage. Cursing yourself.

"Good job fuckface, You just made a little girl cry… And for what? Oh yeah, being a regular ole colt was the fucking smartest idea ever… Ugh, why am I even doing this? I like Diamond… but not that much..." You stop to put your hoof to your face. "Not enough to just want to spend my entire life with her… Christ, Anon, when does being a kid involve relationships anyway? What's it going to amount to? Because it ain't gonna amount to sex… no, that's not right either.."

You sigh. "It's just a crush, you know what that's like. Crushes fade with time, right? Goddammit, you knew everything and nothing about how Equestria actually worked. No wonder you had to go to school… aside from more obvious… reasons. "I'm gonna have to find a way to let down Diamond..."

That was a lamentable fact. "Yeah real good Anon, she just turned her life around and you're gonna stomp all over it." You stopped and looked to the sky, The sun was almost down.

You started to think of some old words Bonbon told you before. "I'll have to sit them both down at the same time and explain to them how I feel. I mean.." You felt a little conflicted. "Hanging with Diamond, it was fun. But she's too young, too naive."

Children are children, even in this world. You could never have any kind of meaningful relationship with them no matter how much you tried to be a colt. You could never truly believe yourself to be one. You weren't, you just had the body of one.

But it wasn't like you had a choice in adults either. Just like with your own reasoning, their reasoning would be the same just due to you being a child in body. "Funny, if I was a unicorn, I could probably turn out to be a powerful wizard in a few human years."

You look at the falling sun again. "I'll figure this out later, or else I might lose my virginity to a tentacle or something."

You begin to trot over Fluttershy's cottage, not too fast, but not too slow, giving you enough time to sort your thoughts. Fuck everything, maybe if Applebloom hadn't reacted the way she did, you would have been content with everything as is. Maybe not.

Either way, no matter what you did. You'd be hurting one while leading the other on on what she'd think would be a very fulfilling crush that could turn into love.

Love...

Nope… yeah, no, you can't let that happen. With how clingy Diamond was seeming now. If… if she ever said she loved you… yeah, it'd be over… things would explode in the worst sense.

"Man… these things always work out in a greentext.." You'll have to figure out a way to put it delicately. Fuck… what if it only somewhat worked? Either they'd understand… fat chance. Or maybe one of them… namely Diamond Tiara… would either fall apart or go on some… well… you couldn't actually figure out what she'd do… but it wouldn't be good. Your mind was so befuddled that you couldn't keep a coherent thought that didn't end as something else.

You take out your map to make sure you were heading the right way. And continue your trot after making a slight turn. "It'd have to be tomorrow.."

You eventually reach the cottage, it was getting dark. But… Fluttershy should still be awake. No problem...

Ok, how to do this? You approached the door as you began to wonder if Fluttershy was ever going to be let in on the lie. If she ever was, You wonder what'd she'd think… That's probably a good reason for her to never learn the truth in all actuality.

Ok, here we go. You knock on the door and wait. It takes a moment, but the door slowly opens with the cute flutterbutter looking past it to see who knocks on her door.

"Oh… hello Anon..." Fluttershy looks up to the sky "Anon… shouldn't you be home?"

You shake your head and give her your hello "Hey Aunt Fluttershy… umm, no, I kind of came to tell you how my day went. Dad said you were really excited to hear how it went."

Fluttershy steps aside to let you in, she closes the door after you step inside. "I do… but your father told me you went home… with a filly."

You cringe… he really did tell her… you wondered how he worded it. "Y-yeah, I kind of had to practice something for school tomorrow, and she came over to help me."

"...oh" Fluttershy looked confused "Then why were you both sleeping… on the same bed?"

Oh he didn't. He fucking told her that?!

You gulp. "We both got tired. We both didn't get much sleep last night."

Fluttershy was even more confused, but she nodded in understanding. You guessed Discord didn't make it sound lewd… thank fucking god. You could feel your heart miss a beat there.

"That makes sense.But Anon, getting a good night's rest is very very important. What would have happened if you fell asleep in class?"

Easy answer. "I guess I would have gotten in trouble." You make a forced frown, trying to look ashamed. Ugh… you didn't want to fake it. You felt it made the bonding untrue. For your next outing… you felt… you had to ask Discord for it to be a day with just you, him, and Fluttershy. Just so you could be more of yourself around her. If she was going to be your aunt, then you wanted her to know you better. She was trying her best, and you just wanted a more honest setting.

Fluttershy nods "That's right. That's why sleep is important. Anon, I really want you to get a better sleep for tonight. As soon as you go home, you should rest your little head right into bed."

Well, if you ever needed the illusion of you feeling like a real kid. Look no further than Fluttershy. She was good at it.

You nod in respect. "Yes ma'am"

Fluttershy notices your shamed expression, and immediately starts to feel bad. "o-oh, Anon, I hope I… I didn't mean to make you upset. I just wanted you to understand that getting a good sleep is important. You'll feel better if you do, and be more ready for the day."

You could only imagine if Discord had ended up with any of the others as his closest friends. They'd probably be scolding you, even finding it odd that you slept on the same bed with a girl. But not Fluttershy, she was too busy worrying about your health.

You slowly give Fluttershy a reassured and pleasant smile. "I understand, don't you worry Aunt Fluttershy. I'll get a better night's sleep tonight."

It seemed to immediately wash away her worry. She began to feel maybe she was overthinking how hurt you actually were.

Fluttershy smiled cheerfully along with you. "I'm very glad to hear that Anon,"

Yeah, you were super lucky indeed. Especially with Discord not lying about it.

"So uhh, would you like to hear about my day?"

Fluttershy nodded intently "Mhmmm, if you want to sit anywhere, you go right ahead. And if you're hungry, there’s some left over cucumber sandwiches from earlier today. They’re a little cold… you don't mind, do you?"

You shake your head as you take a sat on one of her chairs. It was a little weird to you, sitting like a cat on a chair. But if you sat like Lyra did… oy, you couldn't imagine the back pain. So far so good though, you were slowly dumping the anxiety from visiting Applebloom.

"I don't mind, I could use a little food in my belly."

Fluttershy puts a few sandwich's on the plate "A little food… Anon… didn't you eat the food I put in your lunchbox?"

Oh shit, that's right, she did pack you a lunchbox… but… you didn't think… she never said you had food in it. She must have assumed you'd get hungry and look inside. "No… sorry"

Fluttershy brought you over a plate of sandwiches and put them on a table, and slowly dragged the small table to you before engaging you in further conversation. "Anon… you haven't slept much or ate? Do you know how unhealthy that is? That's very bad for you."

Now… now she was getting stern… or as stern as she could get. You felt a little annoyed yourself, but only because of how she was reacting. And yet… it was pretty adorable… but come on.

No, just let her have it… You should have eaten something at one point. And gotten enough sleep to beat out that "alarm" system. Your ears actually instinctively pull back a little.. You felt a little bad. You were supposed to be here to tell her about your day. And you couldn't even get that right. "I'm sorry Aunt Fluttershy, I just sort of, forgot"

Fluttershy notices you aren't even eating the sandwiches. "You can't forget to eat Anon, it's very important, it keeps your belly full and let's you stay active. And if you eat healthy, you'll grow up to be big and strong. Now please… eat a sandwich or two."

Right, right, the sandwiches… you take one and start to eat. Fluttershy sits silently at first, making sure you take the time to eat before speaking. Once you get halfway down on a single sandwich. She begins to be more content with you. "Are they ok?"

They were fine, cucumber sandwiches wasn't your favorite. But tastes of things had changed immensely since your transformation. You could even eat hay. "Pretty good, thank you Aunt Fluttershy… And sorry that I worried you, I should have come straight here after school."

"Well, I don't want you to feel obligated that you had to. It was more of an ‘if you wanted to’ kind of thing. It was more important for you to practice whatever you needed to practice on for school then to come here to talk to me..."

Oh come on Fluttershy, don't say it like that. That makes you sound like a schmuck. "W-well, I'm here now, and I'd love to tell you about my day."

And hearing that, Fluttershy gave you a wide smile and sat at the ready "And I'm ready to hear it, but then when you're done, it's straight to bed for you mister, you do have another day of school tomorrow… ok? If you don't mind that is… I know I'm not your mother… but, I really do hope you think of me as your Aunt."

you would do it… for her… ugh… some of you wished you could have Fluttershy as a marefriend just a little… to protect that smile. But, this was fine. You were happy with her as an Aunt. She just wanted the best for you.

You nod profusely "I do Aunt Fluttershy! You're like a mom to me..."

You meant that. That was the truth. You were happy with those words.

"I don't know about mother… I know I could never replace your real mother Anon..." Fluttershy felt that she shouldn't put herself that high on the pedestal. She didn't want to replace whatever feelings you may have had for your birth mother.

Oh… ohhh… come on. You didn't know how to take that… but that sure was a depressing thought. "Aunt Fluttershy, I… think you're great either way… and I think you'd make a good mom! Just saying."

Fluttershy, like yourself, didn't know how to take those words. She giggled a cute soft yet nervous giggle and looked at you "Now Anon, I don't know about that… I, well, why don't you tell me about your day." She tried to shift the conversation before it became too awkward

Ahhh, she didn't want to talk about it. You wondered if she ever wanted to be a mother. She probably did, they probably all did at one point… except maybe Twilight. "Well..."

You tell Fluttershy mostly of the day you had prior to Applebloom. from introducing yourself to the class to the hole digging gem hunting thing. She giggles at that one, while compliments you on doing your best with the painting. She didn't like the sounds of what Snips and Snails were doing. Sounded like trouble.

"...And that's it. It was pretty good for a first day."

Fluttershy gave you a nod "It sounds like it was. But you do know you don't need to rush getting your Cutie Mark right? You'll get yours eventually, you don't need to spend your recess trying to get one. That's your time to relax and have fun"

"I know, but you know Applebloom and the others. Always looking for that Cutie Mark, even when they already have theirs."

You both laugh at that.

You finish the sandwiches as Fluttershy looks out the window… It was getting really dark now. "Oh dear..it's already night time. You should be getting to bed Anon. You have school in the morning."

Yeah, she was probably right. Even with your mighty adult mind. Your body couldn't hold off the feel of sleep. "Alright, can I have a cup of water Aunt Fluttershy?"

Fluttershy nodded and got up to get you one. "Are you going to use it to go home?"

Oh, she knows about the map. Discord must have told her. "Mhmmm, that's the plan."

Fluttershy gets you a good enough cup of water, but sets it down on the table and floats a little in the air as she holds her front hooves open to you "Can I have a hug before you go then?"

Fuck yeah she can have a hug! You always felt warm and happy when you hugged her. "Mhmm! Definitely"

You hopped up and hugged onto her tightly. She span in the air once as she grasped you into a gentle but firm enough hug to hold you before putting you down and smiling at you "I'm so glad you're so good and affectionate… I know I never have to worry about you getting into trouble."

Of course she meant, you causing trouble… She must never see that photo of bugbutt.

"Well, you know… mnnn… you have a good night Aunt Fluttershy, seeya tomorrow?"

Fluttershy nods and gives you a quick nuzzle with her head "Mhmmm, if you want. If you're coming to see me in the morning. Then I'll wake up early and prepare you another lunch… but you better eat it this time Anon, or I'll be very… upset"

Upset… yeah, no. You got it this time. "No problem Aunt Fluttershy, you can count on me"

"I know I can .you have a very good night Anon."

"You too Aunt Fluttershy" With that, you both hug again. You get the cup of water and head just outside the door as to not wet her floor. or portalize it. It was her floor after all, she understood your reasoning and watched just outside the door to make sure nothing happened to you… as if anything would.

You look to your side to see the set of statues… it really looked nice. Even in the dark. And it seems she was taking good care of it so far. You wondered a little how come Fluttershy was so happy to be an aunt… maybe it was just her good nature and not only seeing Discord do such a kind act, but her herself being able to make sure you AND Discord are guided towards a good path… she was truly deserving of her element.

With that, you wave goodbye as you pour your water onto the floor and put the cup down before jumping in. Afterwards, you put your map into your saddlebag. and just decide to sleep. You didn't want DT or Applebloom popping back into your head. You just wanted to go to bed and sleep with the happiness Fluttershy has given you in your heart with her love and worry for you.

Chapter 72

The next day comes. You awake in your bed with a yawn. "What time is it? Ugh… Why don't I just get a fucking clock..." Then you widen your eyes as you realize something from the morning before. You quickly hop out of bed. You look at your bed, smirk, and laugh at it "Ha! not this time!"

You close your eyes and smile wide that you managed to beat out the bed overturning. But… it didn't turnover at all even after, not even to press on you for being smug… that didn't feel right. "Ok, really… what time is it?" You walk over to the portal door and open it… The sun was barely rising up in the horizon. It was early morning. "Well… will you look at that."

You yawn, and take admiration in yourself for getting up earlier than expected. "I wonder how much time this leaves me… hrn." Taking initiative, you decide to pack up for the day. You open your lunchbox to see what food Fluttershy packed you. Grass sandwiches? Grass? Uhhhh… Yeah ok fine. Though the grass itself seemed to be dying at this point.

Not taking any chances. You just open your floor door and toss the sandwich's as if it was a garbage shoot. Not like Discord was going to care. You continue sifting through your saddlebag as the events of yesterday start to flow through your mind. Slowly killing your mood. "Right… Applebloom and Diamond Tiara… fuck. hmmm..."

You find the Sombra horn in your saddlebag and eye it for a moment. Curious. "I wonder how much power does this baby even have? Would be nice to dues ex machina my way out of this."

You decide to put it on. Like before, it latches onto your head and becomes a unicorn's horn matching your coat. You look out the portal door. "If I could just turn back the clock or something. That would be perfect. Make sure this fucking shit never happens."

You look at yourself in the mirror then tap your horn. "I can even feel it. Damn, Discord's magic is fucking amazing sometimes I swear… I wonder… can I turn back time?" You look through the portal door, you can already see a few ponies about, Beginning their day. "Hmmnnnn.."

You lower your head, aiming your horn towards the portal door. You weren't sure what was going to happen. You were doing this on a whim. Either you were going to shoot a beam, or something would float, or some shit. You were sure as long as you didn't say any anime bullshit, nothing was gonna die. "Ok… come on… let's do it..."

The horn started to glow as you concentrated harder and harder, you could feel an odd tingling in your body as the horn began to glow brighter and brighter. "This… this feeling… a-am I doing it? H-holy shit, I think I'm doing it!"

You raise your head up, you can see light shifting through the door. and as you raise your head higher, you can see the sun, then the moon, then the sun, moving backwards. "O-oh shit..too far..too far!" You throw your head up, the horn popping off and changing back as it flies to the back of the room.

It was now night

"H-holy shit… I..I turned back time… but… by how far? O-oh shit… I di..wha?" The ponies that were on the roads were still there, now they were screaming, panicking, and running back into their homes as if the sky was falling.

"Oh… I… I didn't… turn back time at all… ummm..." You slowly close the portal door. "That didn't happen right?" You gently crack the door back open. You can still hear panicking.

"........" You close the door

You try putting the horn back on, maybe you could fix it? It won't go back on your head as a unicorn horn, it simply lights your eyes an evil green with red pupils as darkness flows from your mane. It's spent for the day.

"....." You take off the horn and crack open the portal door again.

Still Panicking. You close the door

"....." Well… it seems you really did it this time. You had moved the sun and the moon. You didn't realize the horn had THAT much power… worst still, you couldn't fix it. The horn was spent.

"Ok… relax.. It's not like this can't be fixed. Celestia or Luna can fix this. and nobody will be the wiser.." You slowly open the door again

"DISCORD HAS TURNED EVIL AGAIN! EVERYPONY RUN!" Screams one of the flower mares. Roseluck you think.

You close the door. "Fuck..." Well then, that's just fucking perfect. "Fuck fuck… as if I didn't already have problems on my plate, I didn't think that would fucking go back to Discord… goddammit!" You just realized you REALLY fucked up by putting his reputation at risk

You open your floor door and rush down the gravity stairs, screaming out for Discord. "DISCORD! DISCORD! WE GOT A PROBLEM!" No answer. "DISCORD! DISCORD!"

You run down an apparent corridor and see multiple doors, you rush up to one of the doors and open it, only to be greeted by huge flames and the distant sounds of trains. "ARE YOU FUCKING SERIOUS?!"

Holy fuck. That's scary.

The room where he had the model train set… was still burning… You slam the door shut and continue yelling. and try another door. You open the door, and see yourself looking through a door, only to see yourself looking through a door, only to see yourself looking through a door, etc. etc. Goddammit, this house… anywhere beyond the living room was pure fucking madness.

You slam the door shut. hearing multiple shuts in tandem behind it. "Where the fuck is he?! DISCORD!"

Still no answer.

You rush back into your room, and open the portal door. The sun… was back in it's position. But some of the ponies still looked freaked. You grab the horn and put it in your saddle bag. You couldn't let Discord take the blame for this. Fuck, you were really fucking up recently.

You could already see Mayor Mare coming out of town hall trying to calm the ponies in the area.
Ugh… you had to go see Twilight. She was the highest up, and you could explain to her what happened. You didn't want to at all. But a simple zap of magic put the entire town into chaos. And she'd be the only one they'd believe and look up to when it came to clearing Discord… Because goddamn, they all just blame Discord just because the sun and moon went nuts.

You make the preparations to leave immediately, even making sure the now inert horn was put into your saddle bag. "Dammit dammit… I just wanted to turn back time a little." You look through the open portal door. "How is Twilight even going to react? She's going to be pretty pissed that Discord would give me such a powerful fucking thing. How's Discord gonna react? I can't even think.."

You have to nip this right in the bud, no matter the consequences. You'll deal with it. You're a big boy. You grimaced at the flak you would soon receive. You wondered if you even had to do this? Discord could easily explain that he had nothing to do with it… the problem is anyone believing him.

You gave one last sigh. One mistake and the whole town just, fucking, ahh whatever. You jump through the portal and head off to Twilight's Castle, you didn't even need the map, the damn thing was huge.

You reach the front doors. There were no ponies about bashing the doors… not yet anyway. good good. Then again, they probably haven't thought of coming to Twilight yet to deal with the "issue"

You push through the doors and rush inside… you just push through the doors..and... "She needs to get better security. Really, leaving the doors unlocked?"

You rush into the Cutie Map room. No sign of Twilight or Spike. You didn't have time to explore the entire castle.

You take a deep breath. "TWWWWWWWWWWWWIIIIIIIIIIIIILLLLLLLLLIGGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHTTTTTTTTT" No answer. "TWIIIIIIIIILIIIIIIIIGGGGGGGHHHHTTTT"

This time, there was an answer. But not from her, it was from Spike. Who was coming through from another doorway, he had a little nightcap on, and a quill in his claw. "Who's in here? Rainbow Dash? Pinkie Pie?" Then he turns towards you "Hey, it's… you. Did you see what was going on outside too?"

You hesitantly nod.

"Yeah… wait, hey. Why are you here? You can't just go bursting into other ponies castles you know… I told Twilight we need royal guards here, but she won't listen." Spike said as he yawned.

Seems you weren't the only one with the thought. But also, he didn't seem to have an answer himself as to the reason you'd be barging in. Maybe not everybody was auto blaming Discord. Hrn… "I… came to… well… what do you think caused the sun and moon to move like that?"

Spike shrugged "Beats me, it's usually Discord when something crazy happens like this… But it can't be him."

It can't? Why...?

"Why can't it be Dis-..dad?"

"He's upstairs with Twilight."

What?! "Why?"

Spike looked at you with his eyebrow cocked "Uhhhh… she's your social worker… duh. You went to school yesterday right? I know you did, I do handle the paperwork you know" He was giving you a snarky tone.

"Yeah but..what does that have to do with anything?"

"According to Twilight, she had to make sure it was really you in the school, and then she needed to know if you caused any trouble, if Discord helped you with your school supplies… stuff like that. Apparently the only thing you did wrong was leave some holes in the ground. What were you doing anyway?"

Holes in the… oh that's right… you never actually… filled those holes back up. And Discord was here? Why? How? You didn't have any indication he was going to be here at all. "I was gem hunting.."

Spike was in disbelief, he eyed you from your head to your hooves. He didn't see you as the gem hunting sort. "Yeah… you might want to leave that to Rarity, she's the best gem hunter in all of… everything."

You could practically see hearts in his eyes when he said that.

"Fine fine… but, why exactly is my Dad here so early? Explain that to me"

"Well, Twilight has been pretty busy you know. And now she has to keep tabs on you and Discord every so often so she can make sure you don't end up, I dunno, exploding or something. And since she's so busy, she thought she'd get today's check in done early in the morning. Discord didn't tell you about the letter Twilight sent him yesterday morning?"

"No, he didn't say anything about it"

"Hrn, weird" Spike shrugged "Well, Twilight only wanted to see him for this check up anyway. Everything seems to be going ok so far, he's even saying that Fluttershy can back up everything he's saying since you apparently went to her cottage before leaving AND went to tell her how your school day went… so… uhh… Can she back up everything he's saying? Hrrrnnn?" Spike looked deeper into your eyes, trying to use whatever skills he may have had to see if you were going to lie.

Ulterior motive to everything… though. You were sure seeing Fluttershy wasn't part of his scheme . It more or less worked in his favor. "Yeah, she can. I met with Aunt Fluttershy before and after school."

"Aunt Fluttershy" Spike quivered where he stood "I'm never gonna get used to that. It makes Discord and her sound… Egh.."

You needed to have a chat with Discord now. You didn't know if he knew what happened with the sky. But you needed to tell him about it before anyone else… and ask why he didn't tell you about this at all. "It's not that bad. It's not like she's my mom. It's just my Aunt, sort of… not by blood."

"Yeah but that makes Discord and Fluttershy sound like brother and sister. That's kinda gross.."

You didn't find that unsettling at all. Probably because you know by experience that Fluttershy sometimes has to tell him off like he was a mischievous little brother..

"Yeah… hey, can I talk to my Dad?"

Spike nods "I guess, he's up stairs with Twilight. Come on, follow me. This place is pretty big and it's really easy to get lost."

"Alright, lead on" You start following Spike as he leads you through the castle.

"So, uhh, I heard something pretty interesting." Spike says as he leads you down a corridor.

"What's that?"

"I kinda heard that you got Rarity these super rare gems. I heard she was pretty happy about it too" Spike sounded a little jealous there.

Hrnnn… where was he going with this? Mnn..you just wanted to get this over with. "You mean the Radiant Gems? Yeah, I helped her out with that… what about it?"

"Ahh nothing, I mean, if she was happy about it, that's all well and good. And since you're here I'd just thought I'd ask… and… well… I get this feeling you're able to get stuff other ponies couldn't just because of who your dad is… and I was wondering if you would know of any other things Rarity would really… really need"

Oh fuck no... "No..."

Spike turns to you, He was befuddled by your response. "What?! Come on! When I asked her if I could get her anything, she told me I'd have no way of getting those gems from the Crystal Empire and back. And yet you somehow managed it in no time at all! What's your secret Anon… Tell meeeee! I really need to know, come on, do me this solid!"

You didn't even know him enough to do him this "solid". And he was obviously only thinking of Rarity. You wondered how long he's been waiting to ask you these questions. "Spike… honestly. Look, I got a door at my house that takes me straight to the Crystal Empire for some reason. And Dad gave me a ton of bits. That's how I did it."

"WHAT?! That's it?! That's all… really convenient… and huh.." Spike started to rub his chin "You said Discord gave you all that cash?"

You didn't like where this was going… "Yeah… why?"

"Well… we're good friends right?"

No.

"Spike… the first time we met, you weren't being all too friendly. Then the other time was business. I'm going to be honest, I don't think we can call each other good friends."

"Oh come ooonnn! Do you know how much I could impress Rar… ahrm, help Rarity with her work if I could travel around like that?"

You weren't in the mood to mess with him. Because right now would be the perfect opportunity. "Look, maybe… can we just go see my dad?"

"Maybe… Is that a yes maybe? A no maybe? A maybe maybe?"

You sigh "I'll think about it"

And Spike takes it as a yes. "Great! You won't regret it! Oh and.."

Spike moves next to you and wraps his arm around you as he gives you a cool and suave look. "If you ever need any advice… that, you know, nopony else can give you. then you can come to me anytime you want. My castle is your castle."

You raise your eyebrow at him. "Isn't this Twilight's castle?"

"Y-yeah, but you know. I live here too, it still sort of, kind of counts as mine.."

Ok, it was a little funny now. if only a little pathetic. Poor guy thinks he might actually have a way to win over Rarity. Even if you did let him use your doors and such. Rarity would probably only ever see him as a baby dragon and friend. You might as well throw him a bone, if only so you can get him back to taking you to Discord and Twilight.

"Well, I appreciate that Spike. Next time we get a chance, we should hang out. But for right now… can I see my dad? Like, now?"

Spike nods and goes back to the front to lead the way "Course! we're almost there… And yeah, we should hang out. Whenever you want Anon. You can show me all the cool stuff you got."

"Right.."

Spike, so far, that you can think of. probably had the least pure reasons for wanting to hang with you. Even if he was going to hang out, his end goal was clear. And yet, you didn't care, you just wanted to talk to Discord.

And so Spike led you upwards through hallways and stairs until you reached a door… presumably the one with Discord and Twilight behind it… Here we go. Just speak to Discord alone. Tell him what happened. And see how things can be worked out… because you didn't want to lose that horn… that thing might prove to be useful… if you can just get a better handle on it.

Chapter 73

"Well, here we are. They're right in there." Spike informs you as he opens the door and peers inside. It was a some sort of library. Well of course Twilight would get a library in here… Both Twilight and Discord were near a window, discussing something.

"Yo, Twilight. Anon's here." Spike announces as he steps inside. You just stand there, peering through the door as Twilight and Discord turn towards you.

"Ahhh, the little perpetrator has arrived. Good morning Anon, did you have fun messing with the cosmos." Discord said immediately the moment he saw you, with a sinister grin on his face.

Spike was already confused as he looked towards you "What the hay!?"

Twilight, who seems to not have been told who actually caused the sun and moon to shift reacts with a much more surprised and electric reaction of "W-WHAT?!"

And then there was you… you just got sold out… for some reason. "WHAT?! D-DAD?!"

"Dad what? Was it not you who caused all that chaos outside?" Discord continued to grin that grin

Twilight turned to Discord, she was confused and didn't understand how you could have done anything.

"Discord, now's not the time to joke. If you're not going to help me figure this out then you can leave, we can finish this morning's evaluation tomorrow"

You slowly step back, but Discord's magic starts pulling you into the room as you try to resist.

"Ahh but Twilight, he really is the one who did this. Aren't you Anon?"

why was he doing this?! "D-dad… c-come on… don't."

You were struggling, Twilight at first comes to your defense and looks at Discord straight in the eye with a mean look. "Discord stop, you're scaring him. You know he didn't do this."

"Well, if you're so sure" Discord stops your pull and keeps you right in your spot, you can barely move. "Why don't you just ask him?"

DISCORD WHYYYYYY?!

Ergh… you know Twilight wouldn't do anything bad to you, even if you admitted it. But you didn't want her to see you as bad...or lose the horn. What was Discord doing?!

"Fine, I will." Twilight looked to you, annoyed with Discord, her expression showed it "Anon, can you just tell me you didn't do it so I can get on to.." Twilight looks to Discord with a spiteful expression "More important things"

Oh shit… dammit, you could lie… But Discord probably wouldn't let you get away with that. What was he doing? You cringe, and cringe hard... "Well..."

Just that single word catches Twilight's attention. "Well? Well what?". She was curious.

"Well… it was me. But... I didn't mean to do it. It was an accident"

"Woah… That's pretty cool" Spike said, impressed by your apparent power.

Twilight looked to Spike with an agitated expression "Spike! This is serious!"

Spike waved his claws to his front apologetically "Woah Woah, I know. I'm just saying it's cool… sheesh."

Twilight looked back to you, wanting an explanation "Anon… tell me how exactly you managed to do all this."

You sigh… "Dad gave me a horn that let's me do stuff. But once per day… I tried using it for something… and, well… that happened."

Twilight didn't look too pleased. But upon hearing that, she turns to Discord "Discord, what exactly does he mean when he says "Dad gave me a horn"?"

"It's exactly as he says. I gave him a horn with unimaginable power. What, is that a bad thing?"

Twilight started walking towards Discord, she wasn't looking very pleased at all "YOU GAVE HIM WHAT?! DISCORD! YOU CAN'T GIVE A CHILD THAT KIND OF POWER! ARE YOU NUTS?!"

Discord shrugs "Are cashews nuts?"

"DISCORD!" Twilight barked.

Discord gave Twilight a gentle pat as he floated past her and moved towards you "Twilight, Twilight, calm yourself. I put proper safety measures in place. For instance, you'll notice he doesn't have a horn right now. And that's due to the fact he can only use the horn… once per day.

"AND YET HE MOVED THE SUN AND MOON WITH NO EFFORT WHATSOEVER! DISCORD. WHAT WERE YOU THINKING!?"

"I was thinking of my little colt's well being of course. You can't deny Equestria is a dangerous place." Discord was staying calm.

"WHAT DOES THAT HAVE TO DO WITH THIS?!" Twilight however… was not. "DO YOU REALIZE THE SORT OF HARM HE COULD HAVE CAUSED?!"

"A simple mistake Twilight, he just a colt. But to my point. We all know Equestria isn't all sunshine and rainbows. You can't deny there are dangers."

Twilight realized she was losing her cool, and calmed down to understand Discord's reasoning. to take it in. "There are… but what does that have to do with this? Answer me, please."

"Isn't it obvious? I had to give my son a way to defend himself. Only a few days in Ponyville and he gets attacked by a couple of thugs. It's distressing to know my child can be in any sort of danger at any time and not have a way to defend himself properly."

"Defending himself?" Twilight took a moment to think it over. "Discord..." She took one more moment to calm herself, to make sure she was being sensible. "Discord, I understand. No colt should ever have to deal with that. And the fact he had to go to the hospital… I can understand that being really worrying. But you didn't give him a defensive spell or some kind of magical item that could help protect him. You gave him a power that seems to be the same as yours. Don't you think that's a little much? Maybe?"

"Certainly not!" Discord walked over to you, you were so silent. You had no idea what the fuck he was doing. He then picked you up, and hugged onto you… Awkwwaardd. "The safety of my little Anon is very very important to me. And of course you know Fluttershy has also taken a parental role in my son's care as well, correct?" Discord gave her a smug toothy grin. He was wanting to hear her say "yes"

Twilight slowly nods "Yes, but. Again, something more simple would have been just as good."

"So you say" Discord puts you down "And yet, you Twilight Sparkle, who has seen many dangers in Equestria, say a simple spell will be enough for my Anon's protection. And yet, if it wasn't. Not only would I be devastated. But think of poor Fluttershy. I can't imagine how anypony would feel knowing that a child they have come to care about was suddenly… gone."

"And what Discord, could possibly be so dangerous that Anon needs that kind of power?"

"I'm glad you asked!" Discord turns to her with a happy grin "What could be so dangerous? hrmmm... ahh yes!" Discord starts counting off on his talons, even producing new fingers to count. "Tirek, Changelings, Changeling Queen, Monsters, Diamond Dogs, Dragons, Bandits, Thugs, Evil Entities, and of course we mustn't forget yours truly. We did have that little showdown oh so long ago when I had all of Ponyville upside down."

Twilight found that hard to argue… but she still knew that was too much power for a colt to have. "Ok… granted… those are things that would be beyond a simple barrier spell. But that's still too much Discord. And it's clear he didn't use it to defend himself.. I want you to turn down the capabilities of that horn"

Discord's smile slowly changed to that of a slightly more serious expression. "Twilight? Certainly you can't expect me to do that. I think it should remain at it's current power."

Twilight shook her head "That's not a request Discord" Twilight slightly grimaced at about she was about to say. She didn't look like she wanted to say what she was about to say. "As the Princess of Friendship, I order you to limit that horn's power to an acceptable level"

Woah… You've never actually heard her ever do that before. Not on the show anyway.

Discord started tapping his chin, thinking "Hrn… can I have a private word with my son before I carry out your command? Oh mighty princess"

It was clear Twilight didn't like to press her power on anyone… not even Discord. She gave a reluctant nod "Ok… but you better not run off Discord. We aren't done with the evaluation yet."

Twilight then turned to Spike "Spike, we need to get a letter to Princess Celestia to explain to her what happened."

You tensed hearing that… shhhiitt

"Anon, come along. We need to have a little chat."

Ohhhhh… noooo..noooo..noooo… things… keep… getting… worse…

"Anon… here… now" As Discord says that, you can feel yourself being pulled towards him as you pass the door's threshold. He then closes the door. to speak with you. And then uses his magic to sound proof it.

"D-Discord… what the fuck… are you doing?"

"I could have asked you the same thing Anon. What in Equestria did you think you were doing using the horn to shift the sun and the moon? I mean it was fantastic but much much too advanced for you in terms of chaos AND the fact that everypony would automatically assume either Princess Celestia or Luna had gone insane or I'd have something to do with it."

He had you there but still. "I was… I was just trying to turn back time. I thought I could do that with the horn to..fix a mistake."

Discord started laughing "Turn back time?! HAHAHAHA, Why would I ever let you have the ability to do that? That isn't chaos, that's just pure destruction. Even Twilight can't be trusted with the power of time travel."

True… she fucked that up pretty bad. But, why did he even have to rat you out? "Ok… but why did you have to sell me out like that? I didn't need her or anyone else knowing! I mean, for fucks sake. I thought we were partners, you're supposed to help me with crap like this."

"And I do, but I can only help so much Anon. How am I supposed to just make something on a global scale just go away?"

"Can't you erase memories… or something?"

Discord sighed, and went on a sarcastic tone "Oh, yes of course, silly me. I should of have used my power to make everypony across the world to forget that the sun and moon went off their cycles in a ridiculous fashion."

You look left and right, you knew he was being sarcastic… but that was exactly what you wanted him to do. "Well, yeah… what's the problem?"

Discord gives you a stoic look "I hate to say this Anon. I really do… but you overestimate my abilities. All my powers, all my magic, are completely chaos based. I think I've explained this before when it came to healing you when you took that nasty beating."

You stare at him, a little annoyed. "Considering you’re the one who gave me that "nasty" beating"

Discord rolls his eyes at you. "Oh please Anon, are you still on about that? I'm actually being serious here… anyway, making everypony forget about the chaos you caused is beyond me. It would be creating order. And that's something I cannot do."

You look straight into his eyes, now you were thinking that was bullshit. "Can't, or won't?"

Discord moves his face closer to yours, challenging your stare with his own "You won't ever find that out… now will you?"

...

You put your hoof to your face, god you hated it when he bullshitted you, and you had no way of proving it. "Fine… so then, all that with Twilight then was just to try to defuse the situation? Because, I'm going to tell you right now. Some of the ponies down in the town automatically assumed this was your fault. How are you going to defuse that?"

"I don't need to, Twilight will take care of that for us without your or me ever being mentioned. See, there are certain advantages of having Fluttershy along for the ride. Twilight would never ever want to cause mass panic by naming a colt as dangerous, especially if one of her best friends is involved in some way. If you look bad, I look bad, and if I look bad, Fluttershy looks bad. No… Twilight will probably explain it as some anomaly."

Something about that sounded fishy to you… namely the part where it sounded like Discord would be immune to trouble due to Fluttershy and you… but… no… he seemed genuine enough. If you had to guess… that was just an added perk he thought up… right?

"No, there is only one issue I'm having at the moment. Honestly I thought my explanation would have been good enough. But I tend to forget just how anti-fun Twilight can be at times when it comes to my brand of merriment."

"What do you mean?"

"Well, she want's me to tone down the power of that horn. I don't intend to do that. That would ruin the fun"

Ruin the fun? "Discord… what exactly did you intend for me to do with the horn when you gave it to me? I mean, the fact I can move the sun and moon is cool. But come on, I can only use it once per day. I probably could have fixed this myself if I could at least use it twice."

"And that's the problem… you say twice, but it could be three… four... five times. Anon, I gave you the horn as a reward. You may not have noticed. But you have quite a knack at chaos. You just have no sense of actually utilizing it in a way that makes it most humorous while keeping out of trouble. Hence the limit… and yet you still managed to screw up."

A knack at chaos. Well… you sort of did… but, not generally. "Discord. Look. I admit that me knowing stuff about Equestria through the show and the fact I'm not a total pansy makes me pretty good at it. But I don't want to just bring it down on everybody. Just villains… and if we get the chance, Diamond Tiara's mom… I… really hate her.." And this wasn't even due to Diamond Tiara herself. This was more personal. She was vicious as all fuck, with no remorse. "And as for me screwing up… maybe if you had told me what I could and couldn't do with the horn. Then maybe I would have had a better grasp at what it does. Don't blame this all on me. If anything, Twilight was right about one thing. That's a lot of fucking power to give me all at once. You should have given me some sort of instruction manual."

Discord shrugged at you "Anon, where's that sense of fun you have? Are you going to honestly tell me that chaos needs an instruction manual? You're supposed to be the smart, sensible human who has knowledge of the show. You should have had enough insight to realize the power that horn possesses. You're lucky I'm not going to downgrade it, even though I should with the way you're acting."

The way you were acting?! "Dammit… you know.." You point your hoof at Discord angrily "It's not like it's easy for me to fix my mistakes. I'm not used to being a pony, much less having to be a kid again. Not to mention I don't have the luxury of having bullshit magic to use at my leisure to crack jokes and torment people. Everytime I fuck up, I have to go through ridiculous lengths to fix it. When you fuck up, you just act like an asshole and it fixes itself anyway because either you can easily make amends or Fluttershy covers your ass. All I want is a little respect and help when I need it. Is that too much to ask?"

Discord let's out a "Hmph", your words don't seem to sit well with him. "A little selfish don't you think? I've given you more help and respect than you'd ever get from anypony had you remained a human. I've given you a happy home, a loving aunt, a door to go to town at your leisure, a powerful magical artifact, a very charming body, healthy and delicious meals, and I've made sure to make your integration into Equestria an easy one. And you think that's not help enough? Then tell me Anon… what more do I need to do. Because I'm listening."

Discord's expression was very serious, and even looking rather disappointed in you… and fuck… he… he was right about that. "I… mnnn… well..." You sigh. "Ok… maybe I'm being a little pissy. I'm sorry… I've just had other things on my mind..."

Discord smiled at you, and gave you a gentle pet and ruffled your mane "Oh I figured. Having second thoughts on your little love triangle are we?"

"How do… you know about it being a triangle?"

Discord chuckled "I do keep tabs on you from time to time you know.When I saw you were in bed with a filly. I had to keep an ear open on you."

Mnnn.. "You thought I was going to do something… sexual?"

"Pfffft, no. I thought you were just getting way in over your head. No, if I was worried about you doing something sexual, then I probably would have been too late by the time she was on your bed."

You didn't at all want to be reminded of the issues you were having by giving in to Diamond and putting down Applebloom. You knew when you were to sit them both down that it was going to be a pretty miserable experience. "So… do you think you can help me in some way with that?"

Discord shook his head "Why would I? I'm not going to get involved with females and their relationship issues. That's not even a form of chaos, it's just gross. But I do wish you luck on that. Now then, we should cut this conversation short. Twilight can be so impatient when it comes to me."

You felt a little anger at him not helping you. But you couldn't get really mad. You couldn't… you shouldn't. He was right, he's helped you so much so far. even if you compared to whatever help you've given. It didn't equate to his.

You were just frustrated… that was it. And then… what about.. "What about the horn? Twilight is going to expect you to lower it's power."

"True, well, I suppose I could comply a little. Can you lend me the horn for a moment? If I absolutely must… then I suppose I will comply with the mighty princess of friendship"

You grab your saddlebag with your teeth and hold it up to Discord as he takes it from you. "I thought you weren't going to make it weaker at all?"

Discord takes up the horn and looks at it and gives it a tap "At first I wasn't. But Twilight Sparkle is a special kind of nuisance sometimes. She's going to expect some kind of result. There, I've given the horn an extra charge and made it weaker."

You were curious. "How much weaker?"

"It is now impossible to turn salad blue, a little severe I know. But it had to be done"

"That's it?"

Discord nods "That's it… I keep my word and you can still get some daily practicing at mastering it. Everpony wins… except salad… what a miserable loss that is"

As funny as that was. You couldn't laugh. You felt a little bit like a schmuck again. But Discord, he just shrugged it off like it was nothing..

Probably for the best he didn't help you anyway. You were beginning to feel like you were one of those people who sat around expecting others to give them shit. And never fixing problems on your own. You were, you were going to do it. But, you thought you could get some extra help.
It was fine though. You were an adult. You could stand on your own two feet… four hooves...

Discord noticed you didn't even smile at his joke. and gives you a gentle pat on the back "Come now Anon, you're either supposed to laugh or get annoyed at me. Just standing there is very eerie. Makes me think you've lost your soul."

Huh.. "S-..." Before you could even say anything else, your mouth zips up like a zipper.

"Anon, if you apologize to me, I'll get… Well… I don't know what I'll get. But I just don't want to hear it, understand?"

You look at Discord. He didn't want to hear anything schmaltzy. He just wanted to get along with his day and get this over with. That was probably the best idea anyway, as that would mean Twilight would be done with her business and she could address the ponies that witnessed the cycle change.

You nod to Discord, prompting him to unzip your mouth. "Good, now then. Our plan of action is simple. We go in, let Twilight finish her evaluation. And if she asks about the horn..." Discord stops and waits for you to answer, to see if you were on the same page.

"We just fake it being weaker?"

Discord nods "There we go. That's exactly it… now cheer up already. If anything, I did find your little stunt amusing. If only for Twilight's hilarious reaction. She almost tried to zap me with magic herself until she realized I wasn't doing anything."

"Woah what? She tried to attack you?"

Discord nods "Almost. As if she could take me down by herself. I thought it was hilarious. I wish she had actually tried. Would have been more fun to toy with her. Imagine, having a battle with her until you showed up to say it was your fault… ohhh… ohhh, the reaction she would have had would have been enough to sweeten my morning coffee for centuries."

Now you laugh, that's a funny way to put it. And imagining Twilight realize she went on the offensive for nothing is pretty hilarious. Especially since she was throwing her weight on Discord as the "Princess of Friendship”.

"There we are. A nice happy smile. I do enjoy a good laugh sometimes. But alas, now we must deal with Twilight. Are you ready Anon?"

You nod. You also came to a realization. Discord did respect you… in his own way. You began to realize he actually does care for you. He has been probably lying to you all this time about it being anything else but him caring. All this time… And yet here he was. Making sure you were cheered up. And going against Twilight's word so you could practice up with the horn.

Despite him playing games with you,he truly cared about your well being. And even moreso, it seemed he likes the chaos you were apparently capable of causing. He did really, you had a picture as proof.

Maybe it wasn't accepting being a regular colt that you should have been doing. You should have been just been yourself… for the most part anyway. You and Discord was in this for the long haul together. Just on his ridiculous plan to make life for him and Fluttershy easier. It was truly outrageous he'd do this just because he hated Twilight's seminar. But that was him.

But you couldn't deny it. Despite him messing with you, and sometimes even tormenting you. He made a damned good effort at providing you a good life after stripping you away from your old shitty one. He was right, he's given you a lot of help. And the fact you were his partner in a sense on all this.That he saw you as such. Yeah… that was actually pretty respectful given what a speck you are compared to him in terms of power and age. The only things he even really expected of you was to continue pretending to be his son, embrace chaos, and not upset Fluttershy. Otherwise, he seemed to find any antics you made enjoyable. He said you had a "knack" for it. It started to make you think.

And as you thought. You realized. Deep down. You weren't the best guy anyway. And you didn't think that was a bad thing. You were working so hard to integrate you were forgetting who you were. You weren't some goody two shoes. You were Anon. You wanted a happy relaxing life sure, you wanted to make friends with the ponies that was fine, hell… you didn't mind being Fluttershy's "nephew", that was comfy as all hell. But you didn't want life to be fucking boring either, and stumping cheeselegs was some of the best fun you ever had.

Discord did that, Discord let you have that experience. And you knew deep inside that he enjoyed doing it with you. The statue, the family photos, even taking a picture with you and bugbutt. This fucking guy… What a class act. Even putting up with you when you were actually being a chicken shit or a pussy.

That was it though… in a nutshell. Discord was your best friend. Maybe not to him, Fluttershy took that spot. But you were probably high up there since you we're the only one he could find to partake in chaotic fun, mess with, and not be an evil cuntbag like Tirek.

There was only one thing to do. "Yup… seeya."

"Seeya? what?" Now Discord was confused.

"Yeah, I still got to get some extra sleep before school starts. Twilight, as far as I could tell, is just having an evaluation with you… so uh… bye"

"Now hold on!" Discord waves his finger to turn you around as you went to walk off "What exactly brought this on?"

You shrug and smirk at him. "Nothing really, but you taught me something Discord."

"Oh… and what would that be?"

"That causing a little chaos can be fun if you do it right. And that you actually really care about me."

Discord ignores the former, and goes right into the latter. "Is "Really" a word you should use? it's a little much isn't it?"

Moment of truth. "Am I wrong?"

You stare at him… Would he lie about this? And if he did, you'd be able to catch it this time. You've been around him long enough to know when he's lying. At least, when he's lying poorly.
But he doesn't say anything. He just stares at you. "Well played Anon, you're finally learning. Took you long enough"

You chuckle. "Only took a few knocks on the head, a few freak outs, and a relationship I should have never gotten into to figure it all out… gotta tell you Discord, I'm having a ball right now. I knew it, I knew deep down you cared about me more than you let on."

Discord gives you a soft, caring smile for once. "I suppose you've got me Anon. Well Done" He
claps "Bravo… though… you should choose your words more wisely next time..." His smile started to become a little sinister.

Oh… what? "What… what do you mean by t-...w-woah what?!" You suddenly found yourself inside a ball as it rolled slowly backwards towards the stairs.

Discord put his paw and talons on the ball and planted his face right on it to look at you, the ball was transparent. and he was just smiling. "If you thought you were having a ball now… then you're going to love this" He was slowly rolling the ball towards the steps.

"D-discord wait! DISCORD WAIT! DON'T DO IT YOU MOTHERFUCKER!"

"What was that Anon? I can't hear you." Discord chortled

"DISCORD! GODDAMMIT! I SWEAR TO GOWAAAAAHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!OW AHH OUCH GAH!"

Discord gently pushed you down the stairs, waving to you a goodbye "Ta ta, Anon! see you later… or in a few minutes. Depends if Twilight needs to see you for something."

"SDASSDESFSEFDSFSDFEFSFSD" And so you tumbled down, down the stairs and into a wormhole with more stairs until you came out the other end. the ball disappearing as you land on your bed from your backside. You couldn't see straight. and felt like puking.

"G-....gg....g.g..g....g......g.....g.....mnnn..." Goddamn that fucking guy… ugh.. You could barely move… you slowly turned to your side and just tried to get ahold of your senses.

You did after a while, and began to calm down. You never suddenly got teleported back to Twilight's castle either. Discord must have told her you needed your sleep or something… maybe, who knows what he told her. But you had a new understanding now. A better one than the "be a colt" thing. You just hoped you could pull it off in practice.

Dammit Discord....

Chapter 74

A few hours pass. You did your best to get some sleep. But, aside from the stomach pains, your mind was busy. Both on what transpired in Twilight's castle and what you planned to do about DT and Applebloom.

The horn had another charge. But you definitely were going to need more practice before using it. So any idea with that was out. No, you'd have to somehow get them together, and talk to them at the same time. That was the only way. You remember that being Bon Bon's advice when it came to Silver Spoon and Diamond Tiara… should work… hrn.

You thought about getting up and getting ready for school. It should be near that time right? You didn't know. You needed a clock…

Then, you get an idea.

You get up to get your saddle bag, to get the horn and try manifesting a clock. But the moment you go to do this… SPROING!

The bed springs you forward into the wall. You hit it head first and fall flat on the ground. "GYYAHH! DAMMIT!" You rub your head, turning to your side and squealing. "D-dammit… that's the worst fucking alarm system ever… goddammit my head..."

After spending more time nurturing your throbbing head and cursing. You get up, and go to your saddlebag. You didn't even hang it. So it got springed forward along with you. "Ngghh… grr, where is it..." You find the horn. "Ok… ngh… dammit… ok… let's do this"

You slap the horn on your head, transforming into a unicorn horn once more. "a clock… a clock… I WANT… A CLOCK WITH AN ALARM! GYAHH!" The horn glows and shoots a shot above your dresser, a blue orb now floats above it as it begins to shift into a physical form. And it becomes… a clock with an alarm. "W-woah, I..I did it! HA! I DID IT!"

The horn pops off your head. You put it in your bag and walk over to your first masterpiece. It had everything. The buttons were even big enough for your hooves. And it seemed to run off some unknown power source. It was a digital clock running off… chaos maybe? Who knows… The point is… it worked.

You even test it, putting the alarm a minute after the current time. The noise it makes is loud and clear. An annoying buzz that is sure to get you up. "Good… fucking good… because I'm not gonna deal with this shit again… ok..."

You take a breath, and brush back your mane with your hoof. Even licking the tip of your hoof to make your mane stay when you brush it back. Ok, next step. You take up your saddle bag and head over to the portal door and open it to Fluttershy's cottage.

No problem, just enjoy her company until it was time to go to school. Easy peasy. You step through and go over to her door, and knock. "Aunt Fluttershy, it's me, Anon!" You do your best to sound as cute as possible.

And it doesn't take long for her to open the door either. Already with a gentle smile on her face as she lets you in. "Good morning Anon, did you have a good sleep? You did go to sleep after you left, right?"

Despite her smile, she stared deep into you… making sure you obeyed her. And still, she was too cute to be threatening.

You nod. "Yup,and now I'm wide awake for another day!" Of course you were… after being shot out of bed.

Behind Fluttershy was Discord, he seemed to be enjoying a morning brew, well judging by the mug that said "Best Dad in the Multiverse" coffee cup anyway. "Ahh, good morning Anon. Right on time for breakfast."

There was a table laid out. It was rather… nice looking. The table was red with gold rims with… Discord heads at every corner. There was three seats… Discord was on one, Fluttershy went to another, and yours… had a bowl in front of it. Discord made this table of course...

You walk over to the bowl and look into it. Oats and milk, cereal… yum, that's not bad. You were always down for some cereal.

"Good morning Dad" You sit down, and point to the bowl. "Is this mine?"

Fluttershy nodded, the food she had was a plate of corn, hay, and a cup of milk. "Mhmmm, and if you get thirsty. Well… Discord?"

Discord nods and taps the table, producing a cup and four nozzles sprouting up from the flat surface. "You have a choice of milk, orange juice, apple juice, or water, all labeled for your convenience, pretty good eh?"

Fluttershy smiled towards Discord and nodded "That's more than pretty good Discord. I'd say it matches what your mug says. I'm so so so glad that you really treat anon like your own son… well, he is your own son… That's how you see him, right?"

Discord nodded to her "Of course, even though separated by distance and genetics. He is cut from the same cloth as mine. Why, if he hadn't a name already I would have named him Discord Jr."

Ummm… no… that wasn't a very fitting name for you. Hmmnn… Actually, it seems that things were going well. Discord was here, smiling, chatting with Fluttershy, things must have gone well with Twilight. Actually… you wanted to ask. "Aunt Fluttershy, did you, uh… were you awake early morning by any chance?"

"Early morning? No… but, I heard a strange thing happened. It was in a letter Twilight sent… I think she sent one to everypony in town."

Everypony in town? Christ, she works quick.

You look to Discord, he didn't seem worried by your line of questioning. So there was probably not thing worry about. "What did the letter say exactly?"

"Well...it said that the cause of the sun and moon going backwards in cycles was caused by an "anomaly". I think that's how you pronounce it. And that it was nothing to worry about. I looked outside and everything seemed ok to me… So I guess I missed it. Thinking about it now… it sounds like something Nightmare Moon would have done… you know… if Princess Luna was still Nightmare Moon..."

"Ahh yes, I heard about that. The poor thing, consumed by jealousy and tried to create an eternal night. I don't see what the problem is, the night life could be so interesting sometimes" Discord said as he added a fuckhuge amount of sugar to his seemingly endless mug.

Fluttershy turned over to him, and gave him a gentle scowl. "Discord, that's not something you should make fun of. It was a very terrible time for Princess Luna. She never really wanted Eternal Night..." Fluttershy then turned over to you, her expression becoming gentler "She just wanted forgiveness, for what she did… Anon, you know the story of Nightmare Moon, right?"

You did… or what the show explained anyway. You decide to nod. You felt you knew enough.

"Then… if you ever run into a situation where somepony, no matter who it might be, is asking for your forgiveness… on whatever that might be… I want you to take the time to consider it. Everypony deserves a second chance, Anon. You want to know a secret?"

Ohhh a secret? Now that was getting your curiousness going. As for her words. They were, a little naive. Not everything deserved forgiveness. "Mhmm..what is it?"

Fluttershy smiled warmly about this, seems she really wanted to share it with you. "Well, your father, he wasn't always as good and sweet as he is now."

"Good and Sweet? Fluttershy… I'm not those things, in fact, I'm still putting sugar in my coffee right now and it's still not "Good and Sweet". I'm more… fun and calculating and… unpredictable." Discord said with a scoff.

Fluttershy giggled at that and flew off her chair and hovered over to Discord "You don't need to hide it Discord. You see Anon, Discord did a very bad thing… and thought he couldn't be forgiven… But I knew… deep deep down, that he was sorry for what he did. He just didn't understand friendship quite yet… but.." Fluttershy flew close to him and booped his chest with her hoof and grinned "He has as good a heart as anypony else who is nice and kind… Isn't that right Discord?"

Discord was visibly shaken by this, and tried to focus on his filling his coffee with sugar. which was now finally having the sugar itself tip out of the coffee. "I think it was a momentary lapse of judgement really..."

"Cooommeee on… if it was that, then we wouldn't be friends… right? We are friends, aren't we Discord?" Fluttershy gave him a cute little fake frown.

Discord looked at her, then at you. Ohhh..you were loving this. It was exceptionally rare to see Discord put on a spot he wasn't used to. You didn't care if you weren't the one doing it. This was as good as it would get for what he did to you at the castle. You give him an evil grin. "Aren't you Dad?"

Discord cringed. He looked directly into Fluttershy's eyes. Which started to shimmer, waiting for his response. Discord couldn't hold it back anymore, in a display that even surprised you. He grabbed Fluttershy and hugged her tightly "Yes! You're my very very best friend in the whole wide world! I admit it!"

Fluttershy nuzzled her head gently into his side as they hugged "There see… was that so bad?"

Discord sighed. "No..."

You were awestruck… but… you also had an advantage over the situation. "Awww! That's the sweetest and cutest thing I've ever seen! Dad, you're the cutest dad ever! You're super nice and adorable and good and sweet and all that stuff!"

"Isn't he just? Once you get past that chaotic exterior, you'll see that he's just a little sweetie deep inside. He just needs a little help sometimes." Fluttershy happily gave Discord a pat on the head "And I know he's one of the best of the good ones because he gave a nice little colt a loving home. Not many ponies are able to say that. I can't even say that… You did a really good job Discord."

You see a tear, slowly slip down Discord's cheek. "Thank you Fluttershy… I suppose, it's good that at least one pony sees that I'm a not such a bad guy..."

Awww..this was actually getting really sweet. Yeah, it was fun seeing Discord fold… but this was one of the cutest moments you had to behold and, wait, what is his tear doing?

The tear that slipped down his cheek rolls on the table stealthily and towards you, it changes to black and spreads, forming letters… words.. that say "You'll pay for this later Anon, maybe, depends on my mood. In the meantime you should finish up your cereal and get ready to go to school and don't forget that you still need to fix that little problem of yours. And yes, I'm aware this is a long message. I'm actually quite emotional at the moment and can't concentrate."

Well… you didn't know how to feel about that. It was both a helpful and foreboding message. But even if he did get revenge. It was a sweet moment. And you knew he genuinely felt the feels he was visually showing. For now, you quickly finish up your cereal so you can get ready for school.The message itself vanishes from sight.

Fluttershy, feeling chipper from that moment, starts to hum as she flies off for a moment. and returns with a wrapped meal gently held in her mouth. She was also balancing a thermos on her nose. She daintily puts the thermos down on the table and places the wrapped food down as well and looks at you with a smile. "Here you are Anon, this is your lunch for the day. And you can fill this thermos with whatever you want and save the drink for lunch. Isn't that nice..." But then Fluttershy became… slightly more serious. "You're going to eat it this time right? It's not good to go through the day without a lunch"

You nod, of course you'd comply with her. She went through all that trouble AND she has never done you any harm. And she was your aunt. So... "I'll remember to eat this time Aunt Fluttershy, no worries."

You looked at the nozzles. they were all marked, you decide to fill your thermos with Apple juice. It seemed fitting really.

"Ahh yes, Anon, son of mine. Are you actually planning to come here after school? Or do you have any matters to attend to. This is important so you don't have your dear aunt worry or prepare anything for you. No point if you aren't actually going to show." Discord asks you, he looked a little miffed at you. Probably from what you did… definitely must be it.

Though all things considering. You wanted to try to nip DT and Applebloom in the bud as soon as possible. "I've got some things to do after school… so please don't wait up for me." You open your saddlebag and put the meal and thermos in your saddlebag,

"In that case, if you happen to go home and I'm not there, then I'm probably going to still be here… and that's it. I'm sure you know not to cause any mischief since you'll be out and about on your own."

Translation, don't get caught causing any mischief. "I won't. I'll be good, promise"

With nothing more to be said and school nearing soon. They let you go on your way. Discord with a simple goodbye and wave. But Fluttershy being more direct and giving you a kiss on the forehead and a gentle… ever so gentle and warming hug. And a much sweeter, more caring goodbye. She even scolds Discord a little on not giving you a more encouraging goodbye. She even wanted to get him to hug you. But time was already a wasting. It seems they weren't going to take you to school this time. Probably just giving you a little more freedom.

It was time to go. Time to fix a mistake.

Chapter 75

You rush off to school as fast as possible. You could already tell you had a lot more time than yesterday, you were passing some of the other kids who were heading that way. Perfect… except you still needed a plan.

You had to have a way to get Applebloom and Diamond Tiara in the same room… privately. Diamond would be easy in all actuality. You could simply tell her to meet you somewhere. Applebloom would be tougher, you already told her you were essentially interested in Diamond Tiara. You'd have to trick her somehow… but how?

"Anon! Hey Anon!"

You stop, and look behind you. Oh… It's Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle… with no Applebloom… huh...

You turn towards them and wave to them a hello. While you continued to focus your thoughts. "Hey girls… what's up?"

Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo walked up to you. They seemed concerned about something. "Anon… can we talk with you for a sec" Scootaloo said, stepping up to you first.

You nod, why not? There seemed to be enough time before school. "Yeah sure. Where's Applebloom though? You three are usually together right?"

Sweetie Belle nodded, looking more concerned from those words "Yeah… about her… we gotta talk in private."

Oh… Oh boy… what? Interesting… But, before you inquire about it. You had to ask an innocent question to make sure you wouldn't be late for school. "Private? I dunno, I mean, what about school?"

"We got time, it's just for a second" Scootaloo said, getting behind you and pushing you to the side of a house.

"H-hey! I can walk you know!"

"We know… but this is super important!" Sweetie Belle said, walking alongside you as Scootaloo pushed.

You three were now alone. Now you were REALLY interested. "Ok, we're here. So, what is it about Applebloom?"

Sweetie Belle nodded to Scootaloo. Scootaloo then checked around to make sure no one else was around. Then nodded back to Sweetie Belle.

"Anon, you might want to sit down for this.." Sweetie Belle said, looking serious.

"Just tell me. I'm not sitting down. Whatever you have to say isn't going to phase me."

"So you say Anon, but what we have to tell you will blow your mind!" Scootaloo said, making gestures with her hooves to show her head "exploding".

Sweetie Belle nodded "Trust me Anon, even we didn't see this coming."

Wait… oh… wait… you think you figured it out. You weren't retarded.

"Applebloom has a crush on me right? That's it right?"

Both of them were taken aback. "Woaaaahhh". They said at the same time.

"Wait… you knew? How did you figure it out before us? We just found out yesterday" Scootaloo said, curious as to how you knew.

"We know Applebloom didn't go and say anything to you. Anon, how did you know?"

You sigh. "Because It was pretty obvious."

"Oh...So, if you know… does that mean...?" Scootaloo says, then get cuts off by Sweetie Belle.

"Oh my gosh! Does that mean you and Applebloom are going to get married one day?! Can I be the bridesmare?" Sweetie Belle said in excitement.

"Ewww, Anon and Applebloom? That''s just weird" Scootaloo said, sticking her tongue out in disgust.

Oh god… dammit, Sweetie Belle. That wasn't even remotely what you had in mind. And you hate to disappoint her but. Since they now know, a thought propelled itself in your head.

"Look, Sweetie Belle, I'm sorry to say. But I'm not interested in Applebloom."

"What?! How couldn't you be?! Applebloom was being all odd and weird whenever she looked at you. It was cute. And then after school, she worked really hard on making the clubhouse look really nice for when we would try getting your Cutie Mark." Sweetie Belle was surprised at you, she wanted this.

Scootaloo shook her head "I think Anon is ok and all… but Him and Applebloom? Come on, we know him as much as she does. And that's not a lot. Yeah, I can see why Anon doesn't wanna go for Applebloom"

Sweetie Belle turned towards Scootaloo, a little flustered at her "Scootaloo! But think about it!.."

Scootaloo raised an eyebrow at Sweetie Belle "Yeah? Thinking about it… and it's weird. I'm not bagging on Anon, I really do think he's cool and all. But I got this feeling something's up. Diamond Tiara looked like she was giving him the same eye Applebloom was. You didn't notice that?"

"Diamond Tiara? Liking Anon? Pffft, that's silly" Sweetie Belle waved her hoof at Scootaloo

You raise your hoof. "Actually… that's exactly the… problem I'm having."

Then, like before, they are caught by surprise, even more so than last time. "WOOOOOOOOOAH?!"

"DIAMOND TIARA HAS A CRUSH ON YOU?!" Scootaloo yelled in surprise

"AND YOU KNEW?!" Sweetie Belle said right after.

Oh these girls… God, you didn't need this right after a good breakfast. They were looking at you with judging eyes.

"Yeah, look girls. It's not like I want either of them. That's exactly the problem I've been having. I… I need to let them both down easy so I don't, you know… utterly crush their feelings, I already sort of did that to Applebloom last night."

"How did you do that? You never showed up at the clubhouse. Sweetie Belle left pretty early, but I stuck around for a pretty long time, and well… nothing" Scootaloo said, she was sure you never showed.

And she was right… when she was around anyway. "I showed up when Applebloom was alone… and I said some things… I let her down for Diamond Ti-"

"YOU WHAT?! WHAT THE HAY, ANON! YOU JUST SAID YOU DIDN'T WANT TO CRUSH HER!" Sweetie Belle yelled

"That explains why Applebloom never showed up this morning" Scootaloo said as she rubbed under her muzzle with her hoof.

"H-hey! It was a mistake! Ok? I thought Diamond Tiara was… I dunno, I just thought it'd be ok. But I realized I'm too young for this sort of thing, and so are they. I don't really need a special somepony… but I still want to be friends..with the both of them"

Sweetie Belle looked you deep in the eyes, she was looking pretty angry all of a sudden, looking at you as if you were suspicious "Or maybe, you are being some sort of… uhhh… dirty pony who goes through fillies like some… dirty pony, Is that it Anon?" Huh! HUH!" She pokes at your chest

Scootaloo held Sweetie Belle back as you took a step backwards away from her "Sweetie Belle relax. It can't be that. That would mean you or me would be that third pony. Anon doesn't hang with anypony else, remember? I mean..." Scootaloo looks at you "You don't have a crush on any of us… do you Anon?"

Geez Sweetie Belle, christ. She was... She was just being protective really, You didn't fully know it. But that's what it was. Applebloom wasn't with them for a reason. So you had to BE that reason. And then there was Scootaloo's accusation.

You shook your head profusely. "Noooope. I don't have a crush on anypony… come on girls… please. I just want to tell them how I feel so they don't do anything stupid or get hurt."

"Too late for that… I'm guessing Applebloom didn't come to school because of whatever you told her." Scootaloo was worried now, she didn't think something like this was enough to make Applebloom not come to school. She didn't even know Applebloom's mood. They just know she never showed up.

Ugh, now you felt pretty bad about it all, even shameful.. You should have handled it better, but still, you had to make things right. "Yeah, I know, I screwed up pretty bad. Look… girls… I need your help"

"What is it Anon?" Scootaloo asked, she seemed willing to help immediately.

"Depends on what you need help with..." Sweetie Belle was looking at you with disappointment and a little distrust. You cringe a little at her response

As Scootaloo looks to Sweetie Belle, a little put off by her attitude. You start to speak. "Yeah, I know, I know I screwed up. But look… I need to see both of them, at the same time… privately. I think I can get Diamond Tiara to show up at say… the clubhouse, easily. I need you girls to get Applebloom in there too… say… after school?"

Sweetie Belle looked at you. She was conflicted. You were the same Anon that stood up to DT when she was a bitch. You were the same Anon who saved her life too. You were the same Anon who protected Scootaloo's honor. She was having a tough time mostly because she found it hard to digest that you'd hurt Applebloom enough for her not to come to school. Even if you didn't mean it. But… you didn't mean it. And you seemed to be wanting to break things off for good reasons, hopefully. "Anon, can you answer me one question?"

You nod, anything to get her to calm down. "Yeah, what is it?"

Sweetie Belle examined your eyes "If you're going to do all this, you gotta promise not to go after any other girl, got it? This has got to be just because of the fact that you don't want to be in a relationship."

You nod, that was exactly your reason. "I promise, friendship and crusading all the way. I just want this all to be over."

"Then I'll help you. I'm in… somepony has got to be there anyway incase things go wrong" Sweetie Belle nods, putting her trust in you

"Go wrong? ohhhh geez" Scootaloo put her hoof to her forehead and frowned as she shook her head "I hope things don't go as bad as they did when we used that potion on Big Mac and Miss Cheerilee. That was almost a thing… a scary thing"

You saw the episode. So you didn't inquire on it. You just needed her to help. "Scootaloo… you in too? Please?"

Scootaloo nodded "Yeah, of course I'm in. Same reason as Sweetie Belle… you're gonna need me anyway. I think I got a better head for this"

“"A better head for this?" What do you mean by that?" Sweetie Belle looked to Scootaloo, curious and a little insulted.

Scootaloo shrugged, and looked at her with a little caution, not realizing she had insulted her until now "Yeah, you know, I mean, I didn't think any of this was a really good idea at the start. It was all pretty weird. I dunno, ponies get weird when they fall in love. And if Applebloom is reacting like this, Diamond Tiara is gonna flip too. Somepony is gotta be there for the both of em when this all happens." Scootaloo then looks to you "And hopefully you get out in one piece."

"One piece? What do you mean by that?"

Sweetie Belle figured out what she meant quickly, she also forgot Diamond Tiara was a part of this too. And considering her recent redemption. She'd have to do her best for both her and Applebloom. "I think she means if you screw up that Diamond and Applebloom might try to tear you apart or something… I think… I saw my sister get really really mad at this rude looking stallion once… She tore this gem he was trying to give her as an apology in half"

You don't remember such a thing. Then again, you can't expect the show to cover everything. "With her magic right?"

Sweetie Belle shook her head "With her hooves… so you might want to be ready"

You gulped… with her hooves?! RARITY?! Geez… and that's Rarity. Applebloom was a earth pony farmer girl… not one you'd want to take a beating from. "Ok… so… you'll both help me with this?"

They both nod. And with that, the plan was set in motion. You would go to school as normal, finish the project, and invite Diamond to the clubhouse while Sweetie and Scootaloo get Applebloom to show up. Shouldn't be too hard.

You'd also have to watch your step of course. You were sure there'd be no violence. Hopefully. But these were two, emotionally immature ponies.

But once this over, you'd not have to worry about it anymore either. You'd be free… for now anyway. Again, you'd get older one day. And who knows, if you didn't totally fuck up with either of them… they might be a prime pick later, maybe?

The three of you head off to school. None of you wanted to be late as well. and for now, business was set. The three of you arrive with the last of the arriving fillies and colts who all entered the Schoolhouse to get ready for school.

Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon were already in their seats. They both waved to you to come on over to the seat. They already had the paints and paintbrush set up for you to finish up the Twilight statue. You also noticed a few of the other students looking at you… awkwardly… others talking amongst themselves. You manage to catch a few words that they were whispering. One being "Discord"

This was probably about this morning… but you thought Twilight took care of that… right?

"Heya girls...how are you both this morning?" You say as casually as possible. "It was a little crazy huh?"

"Oh, you mean that crazy sun and moon thing? I wouldn't know, I was asleep for that, but my parents we're saying it might be Nightmare Moon, since it apparently stayed more night than day" Silver Spoon said.

"I was awake for it. It reminded me more of..." Diamond Tiara looked at you, and frowned a little "something… else."

You look at the other ponies, and noticed Miss Cheerilee wasn't inside yet. "Do you know what the other kids are saying?"

"They are saying the same thing. Though Snips and Snails over there think it's some villain from the Daring Do books." Diamond Tiara chuckles a little, it almost sounded a little insulting "That's pretty silly, right Anon? I mean. Daring Do isn't real"

But she was… But Ahuizotl wasn't the culprit. You also noted a little of old Diamond Tiara in her words. But, that was normal. You thought most kids would think that was pretty stupid. But still...

You shook your head. "You never know, for all we know. Daring Do is real, as is all her adventures. We'd just never know because we only hear about it in a book from an author most ponies barely ever see… sort of mysterious huh?"

Diamond Tiara, upon hearing those words changes her tune, and slowly nods. "Well… uhm... She could be real. If you put it that way"

Silver Spoon was a little more hesitant to agree, and even brings up a small point "Maybe, but if she was real, don't you think Ahuizotl would have been locked up or hunted down already? It always seems a little convenient he always survives and gets away. You'd think the princesses would have stopped him themselves with some of the stuff he does"

That was a good point… but sadly a staple to the world of saturday morning antics… and wait. "You read the books?"

Silver Spoon nods "Yeah, I do. Like, do you know how cool it'd be to stop villains and find treasures? Though, I think I'd keep most of the things I find, or sell them. Giving them away is a little dumb to me"

"So Anon… what do you think about what happened this morning?" Diamond Tiara asked, excited to hear your answer.

You shrug. "Well you know, I kind of live in a different dimension so I never actually saw it."

"Oh right… well… you wouldn't have gotten the Princess's letter then either. Daddy said it was just a really weird happening that caused all of it." Diamond Tiara shifted her attention to the Twilight Figure then back to you "I'm just glad nothing bad happened and that it wasn't your dad that caused it… I mean, I know he never would… but that's why I'm glad, because he wasn't..." She chuckled nervously, she seemed to be stumbling on her words. But that was because she felt IT was Discord that had something to do with it. But it seemed all the ponies in the class had their own opinion. "So… uhh, are you ready to finish the project today Anon? Today is the last day."

You nod, with the practice you got. It shouldn't be too hard. "Yeah, I'm super ready. Thanks for the help yesterday Diamond."

Diamond blushed a deep red "Y-you're welcome Anon, I'm glad I could help."

Shit… Yeah that's right, a compliment would probably… ahhhh dammit… It's fine, just stay the course. You'd have this settled soon. "Well, thank you.."

You become a little more stoic and try not to smile too much at her. You didn't want her getting anymore into you.

And with that, the bell rang. And Cheerilee stepped into the class from the front door. But she stopped at the front door and gave everyone a warming smile. "Good Morning Everypony!". She was standing there as if she was hiding something. "How are you all doing this morning?"

You, along with the rest of the class reply with a good. None mentioning the morning's happening.

Cheerilee happily nods. Especially since no one mentioned this morning's occurrence. "That's very good to hear, because I hope that means you all are ready for a very special surprise."

A surprise? You, along with the rest of the class wondering what it could be. One pony even asking what it was.

Cheerilee replies, her smile growing even cheerier "Well, you all know how we will be turning in our projects to be seen in the upcoming Friendship Festival. Right?" Everyone nodded. "Well, We'll be having a very very special guest today. She's the pony who will be holding the Friendship Festival herself."

Diamond Tiara was the first to light up for this, and even said out loud "YOU MEAN?!"

Cheerilee nodded and stepped aside, away from the door. "That's right, please give a warm welcome to our Princess of Friendship. Princess Twilight Sparkle"

Twilight came into the classroom, without Spike, and gave all the children a very warm and casual "Hello Everypony!"

All the students were delighted and returned her hello, Snips and Snails even getting up to bow to her, making her a little uncomfy, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo giving a more casual "Hi Twilight". And you? You say a hello, but Twilight wasn't exactly a pony you could get excited for. You've already seen her enough and she wasalways spazzing about something. Granted it was usually Discord egging her on. But, she wasn't high on your list of ponies you'd just hang out with. Speaking of… you wanted to see Lyra and Bon Bon soon. In those matching hats. See how it all worked out.

You only had to endure for a little longer… and then hope you don't fuck up when the time comes… Also hopefully Twilight doesn't get into your business.

Almost there Anon.

Chapter 76

"Princess Twilight is here to give a rousing speech on the importance of friendship, and to answer any questions anypony might have." Cheerilee seemed really excited about this. Then again, Twilight was Princess Tier now. "If you're worried about her looking over your projects then no need to fret. We are all in an understanding that not Everypony is done. So please don't feel nervous or that you are being judged, she isn't here for that. let's all be respectful and save any questions for when she is done."

Twilight looked to Cheerilee until she was finished speaking, then she looked upon the class with an eager smile. "I'm glad to see so many young, bright, and eager to learn colts and fillies today. Learning, as I'm sure all of you know, is just about as important as friendship. In fact, learning and friendship actually goes hoof in hoof. Through learning about others, we can become friends and grow even closer to each other. And looking upon all of you, I can see you already understand the basics of friendship… But what exactly is friendship? And why is it so important? Well, if you look at this chart!"

A CHART?! Twilight uses her magic to roll in a huge board with a chart on it from outside the front door to her side. "As you can see on this chart, there are many intricacies when it comes to friendship. All can be derived by the meanings that can be found from the Elements of Harmony. Each being split into subsections and all being part of social integrity and general merry making in groups of ponies you care about, or even new ponies you never met before. All can revolve around this circle here which represents the very essence of friendship that encompasses every pony and..."

Oh.....my.....god....... She is fucking explaining it like it's a fucking science project… and it's boring. It takes everything within you to not slam your face on the table. How is friendship this complicated?!

Friendship....complicated..And yet...She had it down...To a science. You started to focus a little more on her explanations… or more so… on her, and began to think. It might actually help with your situation.

Having Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle back you up in case things did go wrong was… a little something. But… Here's Twilight… She has it down to a fucking science. And… she's an adult.

Your head started to fill with a good backup plan to your main plan. Twilight… usually is able to figure out the right thing to say when a pony is down. Pinkie is usually better at it. But to be fair. You don't know her personally well enough to know of what you had planned would work with her properly.

But here was Twilight. Your backup plan, the one forming… is simple. She would be there to calm the storm. If Diamond Tiara or Applebloom got out of hand. Twilight could stop them… hell, even teleport to them if they try to run in tears in case it escalates that high. She could then explain to them that it wasn't so bad. Maybe some spiel that they had to think of your feelings too. And that you never intended on hurting them. Shit like that… not like it wasn't true. You didn't want to hurt them, but you couldn't let this continue.

So you waited… you waited until a chance that you could ask to meet Twilight in private.

"...and that's why friendship is important! I hope you all got that. Now then, who wants to ask me questions! No question is too dumb. So please, ask! I'm excited to answer any and all questions!" Twilight exclaimed, ecstatic that she was teaching the young ones about the importance of friendship.

You'd have to wait a little longer. One of the ponies asked about the morning happening.

"Oh… that was just a weird anomaly. You know, sometimes it happens" Twilight smiled nervously. "Anypony have a question on friendship?"

Sweetie Belle raised her hoof, Twilight immediately pointing to her "Yes? Do you have a question Sweetie Belle?"

Sweetie Belle nodded "Mhmmm! What if you have a friend that had a crush on another friend, and then had another friend who had a crush on that same friend, and the friend who they are crushing on doesn't want them to have a crush on him… or her. How exactly would you handle that?"

GOAdwfdsdsfdSFSD SWEETIE BELLE WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!

Twilight was heavily perplexed "..u-uhmm..I'm not sure I follow"

Sweetie Belle tried to be more informative "Well. What if two ponies liked liked this one pony. But this pony doesn't like them in that way. But kind of screwed up with one, and now he… or she… has got to tell them he's not interested. How exactly would he… or she go about doing it?"

NO SWEETIE BELLE NO! You think you realized what she was doing. She was trying to get you help from Twilight. So you'd know exactly what to say. BUT YOU DIDN'T NEED HELP… or, you at least didn't need this somehow going public if a mistake is made.

"U-umm...well...your friend should be honest with them. That's the best advice I can give." Twilight's sound advice… you already knew that. Now she was looking curiously at Sweetie Belle. But didn't say more about it. "Is that all Sweetie Belle?"

Sweetie Belle nodded "Mhmm! Thank you Twilight" She then turned to you and nodded… as if she was being some help.

"Any questions strictly dealing with Friendship?" Twilight just wanted another one… just one. She worked so hard on that presentation.

Diamond Tiara raised her hoof. "I've got one!"

Twilight smiled in relief and looked towards her "Yes? What is it?"

"What should you do if you want to be more than friends with somepony?" Diamond asked, eager for an answer.

GDSWFDSFSDEFDS NOOOOOOOOOOOOO

Twilight looked like she was bugging out, she was keeping her cool the best she could. "I… uhh… Well… you should… be really honest with that friend. And you shouldn't just spring it on them. You have to make sure they feel the same way too.....so" Twilight chuckled nervously, sweat becoming visible on her face. She obviously couldn't handle questions based off of love. Not her forte it seemed. "...any Friendship questions..not dealing with special relationships?"

Diamond Tiara rubbed under her muzzle, contemplating, and gave you a glare "...make sure they feel the same way" she said in a low voice

Then Snips raised his hoof "We got a question my liege!"

"Yes? And, you don't need to be formal. Just call me Twilight" Twilight felt a little relief, surely this would be a normal friendship question that she could more easily answer.

Snips nodded, and then let Snails ask the question "Umm, Twilight, we were wondering if you could use the power of friendship to stop evil bad guys with..."

Twilight's right eye began to twitch, as her mane started to get a few split ends "....What?"

Snips then spoke up, with valiant courage in his eyes "You know! Like with that Rainbow Power! Me and Snails want to stop bad guys with our own super awesome friendship power! So… how do we go about doing that?"

Twilight didn't say anything at first. She didn't seem to have an answer for that. She looked at the class silently. Then back to Snips and Snails. "Where did you two even get an idea like that?!"

Twilight was having a harder and harder time containing herself.

Snips pointed to you "That guy! Anon, he somehow got the power to beat up those two guys! And we want to be great too! We want to protect Ponyville from bad guys!"

Snails looked to Snips, confused "I… thought we wanted to protect all of Equestria?"

"That too!" Snips said in earnest.

WHAT?! WAS THIS AN ANIME?!

You look over to them, completely caught off guard "I'm not a hero! I just beat up two guys! That was it!"

"But Anon… you saved me from those two thugs. And that.." Diamond Tiara gave you a hug "Makes you a hero!"

G-G-GUHHHHHHHHHHHHH! NOOO!

"What's going on here?! None of you should be trying to beat up anypony else! That's not right and you're all too young!" Twilight was close to a blowout. Nobody was asking a proper friendship question. And she would have been able to hold it. But using friendship as a weapon? Nope, nuh uh. "And most of all! Friendship ISN'T a weapon!"

"But Miss Twilight, can't you use friendship to shoot super cool beams from the elements? and what about that awesome rai-" But before Snips could finish, Twilight finally blew her top.

"FRIENDSHIP ISN'T A WEAPON! IT'S NOT TO BE USED AS A WEAPON! IT WAS NEVER A WEAPON! END OF DISCUSSION!" Twilight started taking repeated deep breaths as the class got a little scared of her, Diamond stopping her hug and ducking a little within her own seat.

"U-umm, Princess Twilight… do you need a little air?" Cheerilee, worried about that reaction, just wanted Twilight to cool down. That was really unexpected.

Friendship as a weapon..honestly...how could any young pony think that? That was going through Twilight's head.

"P-princess Twilight?" Cheerilee called out again.

"What?...uhh...hmm?" Twilight snapped out of her haze and looked upon the class.

......

They looked… kind of scared. "O-oh… umm… s-sure, I could use a breath of fresh air. Umm… when I come back, maybe I could explain friendship to you all again. And then more questions!" Twilight put on a smile, and then rushed out the door. That was… a thing...

"Umm… class, please don't worry… I'm sure the princess is just stressed from what happened this morning. But please, when it comes time to ask questions again… keep them friendship related, please." Cheerilee gave caution to her students and tried to put down the unrest.

You however… despite all that… still needed her. Yeah, that was a bit of an overreaction. But she probably thought everyone would get the picture and ask strictly friendship questions. Not questions on love or… anime power... Seems she wasn't fully vested in love advice and such. But that was ok, you only needed her because she was an adult, a princess, and could get her point across to a kid who MIGHT be in distress… or kids in distress… and you'd feel so goddamn stupid involving her and none of them overreacted. You were sure one of them would have a crisis… mostly Diamond.

In the confusion, you duck down and move from under your table and then table to table until you reach the front door and sneak out. This would only take a moment. You hoped this was the right path. All you needed was for this all to be over. And hopefully not lose any friends in the process. Or… ruin anyone's friendships in general.

"I don't understand? I thought I explained it clearly. Maybe I need another approach. Hmmm… maybe if I put a cap on backwards? Sunglasses maybe? Come on Twilight, you can do this. You're the Princess of Friendship! Your entire job is to spread happiness and friendship all across Equestria. And if you can't even get it across to children… no, don't think like that… you just need to get tha-"

"Princess Twilight?" You interrupt her self monologue

Twilight jumped, startled, she wasn't expecting anyone. She looked to where she heard the voice and saw you "O-oh, Anon… u-uhh… hello" You caught her off guard it seems… good. A vulnerable Twilight might be a more sensible Twilight.

"Hey. Pretty crazy back there huh?"

Twilight took a moment to gather her thoughts. She didn't nod or shake, she just looked unsure. "A little, but I'm sure my explanation may have been a little too advanced. I just have to… wait" Twilight looked down at you with an inquisitive stare "What are you doing out of class?"

Oh come on… Fuck being a kid sometimes. "Hey, nothing's going on but waiting for you right now. And, I needed to talk to you about something"

"It's not anything that you THINK is friendship related, but isn't… is it?"

You shake your head. "Nope, I got your lesson down. Actually, I was wondering if I could get your help on something"

Twilight snapped to attention. Help with something? Oh boy. "What is it Anon? Does this have anything to do with your father? Did he… do something bad?"

Oh goddammit… Again, you shake your head "No, this, this has to do with something else..."

"Something else? Anon, are you having any kind of trouble?" Twilight started to get more focused and serious. If anything was wrong, she had to know. She thought maybe you weren't being fully straight with her, maybe IT is Discord related.

You nod. "Actually… I am."

"Well, whatever it is. I'm sure I can help you with it with some of my advice. Go ahead, tell me anything" Twilight said with a confident smile.

"Actually… I need you to… do something for me, if you don't mind."

"Do something?" Twilight was confused "Anon, you are aware you're in the middle of your class right? I can't do anything for you right now"

"I didn't mean now, look, Twilight. I need you. You're a smart, understanding, logical, and friendly pony. I… just need you to be there for a couple of friends… for when I tell them. Look Twilight, you're sensible enough for me to tell you. So I'm just going to tell you. All that stuff Sweetie Belle mentioned? That was about me, Applebloom, and Diamond Tiara."

"Oh is that all, I tho-...wait" Twilight then spazzes "THAT WAS ABOUT YOU THREE?! YOU'RE THE ONE WITH TWO CRUSHES?! THAT'S A REAL THING?!"

Geez… christ. "Yeah, keep it down, geez. Look, that's why I need your help. Twilight, I'm being serious. I know how girls can get. I don't want them to just run off somewhere without them coming to an understanding of what I want to tell them… or, if it gets extreme. I need an adult to help articulate what I want to tell them."

Twilight looks into your eyes, you looked pretty serious about this. She could even see a worried fear in your eye of hurting your friends. She calms herself, and takes your words seriously. "Anon, how did this all even happen?"

You explain to her everything… without revealing anything crucial or about Discord's plot. "...and I thought I would have liked being in a relationship. But after I turned down Applebloom yesterday. Yeah, I realized this whole relationship thing was a mistake. I don't love either of them, I just like them as friends.."

"Is that why Applebloom isn't at school today? I never would have guessed any of this from a glance. Why didn't you get any help from your father?"

Seriously? "Uhhhh, I dunno. He's not the type of guy for something like that"

Twilight nodded "Good point… Anon, I'll help you. If it's one thing I just can't allow. Is a perfectly good set of friendships being destroyed by a simple crush. But now Anon, I have a question for you."

Yes! backup acquired, praise be to a friendship problem that she wouldn't back down from. But, what was the question she had to ask? "What is it?"

"That horn… Your father told me he downgraded it. But, I think" Twilight tried to think of nicer words to say "He may have forgotten a few things"

She didn't believe him. That was obvious. Then again, when it came to anything you and Discord had going. Trust was a volatile thing. "You mean you don't think he did it at all, right?"

Twilight cringed a little "Well, I wouldn't put it like that. I think your father is CAPABLE of the truth… but just in case. Did he really do it? You don't need to worry Anon, you can tell me the truth. Your safety and the safety of Equestria is the most important thing. You agree with that right?"

You did actually. But Discord never did anything in your presence that threatened the world. And he certainly would never kill you. "Right, and, he did downgrade it. I think it was pretty substantial so… no worries."

Twilight sighed in relief "Thank Celestia, I thought he was going to ignore me… hmmm, he's taking parenthood more seriously than I ever imagined… I mean, here you are… at school. We're you even late today?"

You shook your head. "Nope, got here on time"

Twilight smiled and gave you a pat "Good colt, and it should stay that way, school is very very very important."

Ugh. You should have known she would have taken the time to question the horn… but, other than that. She was being pretty cool. She asked about what you had planned. You told her, and where she needed to be when it occurred. It'd be at the clubhouse of course. Diamond would get there on her own as Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle brought along Applebloom. Thank god Twilight was being supportive and helpful… thank god she showed up at all really.

You felt a lot more confident now. No way any of this could fuck up. Twilight herself was ready for another bout of friendship lessons, and hopefully, a more successful questioning session.

You both went back inside, you took the same route backwards back to your chair. As Twilight went back to her chart. Miss Cheerilee asked if she was ok, Twilight let her know she was fine, and she was ready to continue.

Chapter 78

You rushed off to the Clubhouse as fast as possible. You had to make sure to be there at the ready, to be there before anyone else.

The fastest way was just to run. The portal had no door to the clubhouse...rather inconvenient actually.

It takes you awhile, but you get there before anyone else..

You run up to the door to the clubhouse, but something through the window caught your eye....something red and yellow with a bow.
You look through the window again..

Oh no way what the fuck?! It's Applebloom. She seemed to be cleaning up the clubhouse.
You thought she was just going to stay in bed.

...you look around for Sweetie Belle or Scootaloo. Neither of them were around. Yeah, Applebloom was here of her own accord.
You wondered if you should step inside and-
AH SHIT...while she was dusting off a poster, she looked your way.
You tensed up...expecting something. But...she just went back to dusting....huh...Interesting...
...too interesting..

You slowly open the door and cautiously step inside. "..Heya Applebloom...whatcha doing here? I thought you were sick or something."

Applebloom shook her head and put down the duster she had in her teeth and gave you a smile...a smile....hrnnnn "Nope, I was just..sorta..ya know."
...she was being nonchalant as hell

"...you mean...yesterday, right?" You knew what she was talking about. She was broken hearted.

She nodded "mhmmm, but I'm all better now. I guess I just needed to talk to somepony about it. And suddenly everything made sense."

Talk to somepony? Had to be Applejack. Score!
"..well..that's good then right?"

Applebloom nodded "Mhmmm, I'm too young for all that stuff. My sister told me anyway. I knew couples kiss and all, but all the time? Plus, I ain't got money to buy gifts and trinkets. And I definitely didn't think about marriage being a thing , totally forgot. I don't wanna do all that when there's still crusading to be done. Plus I realized, I don't even know you that well. We gotta build our friendship first...and hopefully get ya that cutie mark"

....welll damn....Applejack got to her before you did. Then again, why didn't you even think of this? no way in hell Applejack was just going to let her sister stay home without a good reason.

"So..we're still ok? We're still friends?"

Applebloom nodded "'course? Why wouldn't we be?"

"No reason, I was just...making sure..I'm.."
...well, since she's in an understanding mood.
"..I'm actually still in a sort of a bind about all this"

"Still in a bind? Whatcha mean Anon?"

"uuhmmm..Well, I sorta don't want to be in a relationship at all. I realized..I guess the same things your sister told you, and a few things of my own imagination. And I had it in my head that I had to tell both you and Diamond Tiara at the same time that I wasn't interested."

"...at the same time? But Anon, ya already told me you weren't..why we're ya gonna tell me again?"

.....ogh....why was right...what was your reasoning? your mind was clouded by your own foolishness and lack of experience.

"I ahmm...thought you were still interested in me. And I kind of wanted to let you know at the same time as her that I wasn't interested...in case you tried to swoop in and-"

Applebloom put her hoof to her face and shook her head "Anon, ah can't believe you thought that. You're ok n all, but I ain't gonna do somethin' like that."

.......right
"....yeah...sorry...sort of new at all this..in all actuality. I guess that means I just have to let Diamond know."

Applebloom had just processed what you were going to do "...ya know that won't end well right?"
...at this point you were thankful Applebloom already got the talk. But Applebloom also having the same thought as you do about Diamond was not comforting.

"..I figured. She's really attached to me"

"It's not just that Anon, Ah mean, I've sorta known Diamond Tiara to be the kind of pony that gets what she wants. Ah mean, ah know she's good and all now...but. As mah sister tells me, some habits die hard."

...figures..

And Twilight wasn't here either. where the fuck was she?

"....ok. So, you've known her longer, what should I do to ease the blow?"

Applebloom shrugged "Couldn't tell ya, it....might help though if ahm not here for when ya do tell her. She might get the wrong idea."

"R-right..yeah..that sounds good.."
It did, holy shit you felt like a goddamn dweeb right now. You had this planned out in your head and it was falling apart harder than a stack of cards. You were starting to lose hope on your ability to do this properly.

"She is coming here right? or are ya gonna meet her somewhere else?" Applebloom was making sure

You nod
"Yeah, I told her to come meet me here. I also sent Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo to go get you...if you...umm..could go tell them the situation. Please?"

Applebloom nodded "Gotcha Anon, and erm...good luck. ah mean, if we were still cutie markless...ya would make good practice for being cutie mark nurses" Applebloom gave a light chuckle.

You just cringe
"...is now the time for that kind of joke?"

"..well..erm..ah was just trying to lighten the mood a little. umm..ya gonna be all right Anon?" Applebloom asked you, she had a growing concern for you as she saw that you were growing more and more uneasy.

You nod
"yeah...just want to get this all over with..hopefully keep everypony's friendship."

"Well don't worry none Anon, ah got faith in ya....good luck..all right?"

"Thanks. and thanks for understanding Applebloom. really puts a lot of weight off my mind."

”No problem Anon, ya take care now? Alright? Try not to say nothing bad, ok?” Applebloom leaves on that note. leaving you alone in the clubhouse. Well..that was one down. and it wasn't even by your own hand...hoof. But still, there was Diamond Tiara. If even Applebloom had worries about this. Then you had to be on top of your game.
You waited for her, cycling through your head various ways to speak to her and make sure things stay calm.

You were almost there

WHERE ARE YOU TWILIGHT?!

You lay on your belly, staring at the door. Well...she wouldn't run here like you did. Just walk...so..you just had to wait

...and wait

.....and wait

You rolled onto your back and stared at the ceiling. You could feel your anxiety being replaced with boredom. Not even Twilight was showing up.
"Come on...."
You roll back to your belly and look at the door, annoyed
"Come on......."
You get up and look out the window to see if she was coming...she wasn't.
"COME ON!...."
you smack your head on the wall next to the window
"...this is some sort of punishment. I swear to god it is. All because I lost a little of my inhibitions and went with a filly. How stupid can I be?"

"Well intelligence is relative, isn't it?"

"..yeah b-...oh no..."

"oh yes....hello Anon."

.....you turn around, and standing behind you was Discord. He was in...the form of the pony he pretended to be, in colt form.

"Don't I simply look adorable? a real heartbreaker, am I right?" Discord struck a dashing pose.

"....Discord...please...for once, I really REALLY need you to listen to me and not be here right now."

"Why not?" Discord did a coy act of acting astonished "Can't I help out my best bro?" Discord put his hoof around your neck and brought you close for a brohug.

You grimace, you REALLY didn't need him here right now.
"..Discord please, I really need to do this without you doing...well...anything"

"Oh come on! You invited Twilight to this little shindig. Twilight! Of all ponies! Twilight!...I mean, come on Anon. She may be the Princess of Friendship, but she has nothing on the suave, debonair stylings of yours truly" Discord pointed to himself with a confident chortle

...dammit come on. This was a serious situation that you were THIS CLOSE to getting off your back, You liked the guy, but goddammit. there's a place and a time for anything....of course, he didn't give a shit. He was beyond that.

"Will you just get out of here! I can't have this blow up on me ok! This is serious!"

Discord cocked an eyebrow at you "Serious? the frivolous crush of one pony to another isn't exactly what I'd call a world crisis. Besides, I'm still peeved you invited Twilight. Why not Cadence? She's actually well versed on the subject."

"I don't even know her! How could I invite someone I don't know"

Discord mocks your voice perfectly "Oh no, woe is me. I stupidly accepted the crush of a little filly and now I’m in a hilariously terrible bind. If only I had thought to use the portal door my father gave me to go make friends with the Princess of Love. Then maybe my current predicament wouldn't be sooooooo scary"
Discord looked at you with a self satisfied smirk.

"You're an asshole...you know that right?"

"I wouldn't say that, I'm not lying am I?"

"How was I supposed to know ahead of time that I should have gone and see Cadence? Why would that even be feasible? Geez Discord, what did you expect me to do? Just walk up to her and say "Hi, I'm Anon, I'm super cute and i'm in trouble with a love problem. Do you mind leaving your empire for just a minute to help me. Please?"...That's fucking stupid."

"Says the one who thought Twilight would be a great idea. It's a good thing I put a stop to that. Who knows what kinds of chaos she would have caused."

....you felt something..a volcanic rage....build on you

"YOU DID WHAT?! DISCORD! I NEEDED HER! I WAS GOING TO USE HER TO SOFTEN THE BLOW!"

Discord put his hoof under your muzzle and gave a gentle rub, giving you a smarmy look. "...I love the way you worded that. "using" her. Ohhhhh...I knew I made the right choice when I brought you here,

You shove his hoof away
"Don't do that...that's creepy. And yeah, I am using her. She's an adult and a princess. If anything goes wrong, than I can count on Twilight to talk to her and calm her down....or at least I would have. What the hell did you do to stop her anyway?"

"Oh that's simple. I just pretended to be you and told her the problem was solved. She seemed a little upset that she couldn't help and record a little data in the process. But that's to be expected. Besides, don't you wonder what I could bring to the table to help bring this little chapter in your life to a close?"

You stop to think a moment...would he help you?...or just fuck with you. Even with that moment at the castle, he still stuck you in a ball and sent you down some stairs.
You sigh heavily. You decide to give him a chance. If only because Diamond walking in on you trying to strangle him wouldn’t look good. You couldn’t win this with anger.
"...Fine...how are you going to help me?"

"Easy,I'll just do the same thing Twilight was going to do and ease her troubled mind when this whole thing goes to pot. Pretty good huh?" Discord smiled happily at you as if that was the best plan ever

"..you're gonna..what?! WHAT?! IF YOU WERE GOING TO DO THAT THEN WHY STOP TWILIGHT?! HOW COULD YOU POSSIBLY BE A BETTER CHOICE?!"

"umm..uh duuhhh Anon" Discord span his eyes about as he mocked you "Because I have YEARS more experience on the subject than her. I have been around for centuries you know?"

.....god...fucking.
"......can you just promise not to ruin her day? Just..if you're going to help her. Actually help her?"

"I suppose I can..." Smoke enveloped Discord has his body warped and turned to his original form "...But Anon..that's going to make that favor you still owe me a little over the top. You are aware of that, aren't you?"

....oh..he was serious about that.
"I can handle it, so...do we have a deal?"

Discord holds his talons out towards you "....we do"

You look at it...hrnn..you felt like that was a bad idea. Like, you felt a small jolt in your body just by looking at it.
"...no funny stuff Discord. I'm trusting you."

You hold your hoof out reluctantly, and give Discord's talons a shake.....nothing bad happens.
"...so..what's this favor anyway? You never said what it was"

"In due time Anon, in due time. But let's tackle our problems one at a time....now then" Discord snaps his talons and disappears.
"I'll be around if you need me. If anything goes wrong. I'll just pop back in and have a little chat with the little filly."

You look around the room, he was out of sight.
"...and how are you going to get her to talk with you? If she reacts as bad as I think she will, I doubt she'd want to just speak to "my father" "

"Well that's easy...I'll just appear as Twilight and talk with her. I'll get to feel first hand what it's like to be a real princess!Oh joy!"

You shake your head. Only Discord would make such a pointless change to a plan. You couldn't even say "Why BE Twilight? when you could have had THE Twilight." But just as the change was pointless....telling him that would be pointless. It was so absurd you almost laughed.

"...You're one of a kind Discord, you really are...anyway, just stick to your word."

Discord says nothing

"....I'll take that as a yes"
you begin the waiting game again.

and finally, as you look through the window, you feel a sense of relief,nervousness, and worry as Diamond Tiara comes into view and starts walking up to the clubhouse.
Deep breaths Anon, stay calm. You are an adult...super easy..Discord has got your back...fuck...

There was a knocking on the door.
...here we go
"C-come in"

Diamond opens the door and steps inside "Hello everypony! I'm here to....hrn? Anon..where is everypony?"

....slow..deep breaths.
"...they're not here. It's just you and me"

"Just me and you?..." Diamond Tiara began to blush a little "...where's everypony else then?"

"...they aren't coming. Look..Diamond...I need to talk to you about something important."

"Something important?" Diamond Tiara began to blush a deep red, she couldn't look you in the face "W-what is it?"

.....

...you could feel your guilt crawl along your back
"It's about...me and you."

She blushed even harder and held her hooves to her face "Anon, I don't think we should. What if everypony finds out?"

...don't think we should? everypony finds out? WHAT?!...WHAT THE FUCK WAS SHE THINKING?!
"....w-what do you mean?"

...you could feel your dick slightly take over...did she mean?...ohhh...no...ohhh nooo...what to do...oghh..this could be it Anon....you could screw everythi...oh...no you couldn't...not with him watching...ugh..you had to get these bad thoughts out of your head.

"Kissing..I mean..I wouldn't mind..but uhhh...oh...I..I dunno if i'm ready for that"

......oh.....

Get on the ball Anon...god fucking dammit...you stupid perv. At this point you might as well get bugbutt to rape you or some shit. that seemed like the only way you were really going to get some tail.

"I'm sorry Diamond...I didn't ask you to meet me for that...look..." you began to sound softer, sadder, more guilt ridden "..I know you really like me...and I think you're cool too...but.."

"..Anon?..." Diamond Tiara was confused...but she could feel her heart suddenly twist painfully

.....ugh...
"...but I'm not looking for a relationship with you, or with anypony really. You're my friend Diamond...and, that's how I want it to stay. I'm not ready for this sort of thing. It's not you...really...it's me. I'm just too young for this sort of thing"

...too old really.

Diamond Tiara was visibly shaken by the sudden crashing and burning of what she thought was a thing "A-Anon...wait. I don't think you're too young. We're i-in the same class. Doesn't that mean you're just right?..I mean..doesn't this.."

She goes for it..and kisses you....on the cheek.

"..d-don't you feel anything?" She certainly did. she almost couldn't believe she did that. She felt like hiding after that, but..the fact this was happening. she had to stick around.

Boy did you feel like an asshole
"....I'm sorry"

You slowly back away
"..I just want to be friends Diamond, we can still be friends right?"

"...Anon.." Diamond started to get tears in her eyes "...Why? Did I do something wrong?..is there somepony else?"

You shake your head "no..there's nopony else. And...no..you did nothing wrong. It really is just me Diamond...you gotta understand. I'm not really the best of guys, and I really am not interested in going further than being friends. Please Diamond...please..can we just stay friends?"

Diamond gulped, tears were coming down her eyes, she was feeling the brunt of the friendzone smack her in her heart. "F-friends?...A-anon...why are you doing this? I really really like you..I think..I think I even lo-"

You speak up right there, interrupting her. And get more forceful, fearing that it really could escalate to that point if you just dance around the subject.
"..No..Diamond. Look, it's just a crush. You only really like me because I saved you from some thugs. You think I'm some hero..but...really, I just got lucky. You have no other reason to like me. You barely know me, that's why if anything, we should just be friends. ok?"

"B-but" Diamond began to shiver, blubbering as her tears grow. "I do know you. You're f-funny, and n-nice, and.."

You shake your head
"no, I'm just another guy. Diamond, please. Make it easy on yourself. It's just a crush..you'll get over it...I promise."

You expected her to cry and run away..but instead. she suddenly got angry, stomped her hoof. and looked at you with vicious eyes. "No! I demand to know the real reason why you're doing this! It's Applebloom isn't it? She was acting weird to you yesterday."
there were still tears streaming down her face, but she wasn't going to go down without a fight it seems.

...but you were too serious to back down. Though, her sudden fierceness was a little intimidating.
"No. I'm not interested in her either. In fact, when I thought I was interested in you. I turned her down yesterday. And now I've gotta turn you down. This wasn't meant to be Diamond. I'm sorry."

...you were starting to sound like one of those fanfic characters. But what you were saying was true.

and immediately, Diamond Tiara loses her headway, and falls. She lays on her belly, looking down and crying into her legs. "Why?..Why?! I don't understand why you think it won't work! We're perfect for eachother..A-Anon...."

....urgh...that guilt..you could feel it choking you almost. But you we're having trouble. You didn't know what to do beyond this point. You started to think of every cartoon and anime you could think of. And hoped you could put your knowledge to good use.
You sigh...you got nothing...and. it hurt seeing her cry like that. You lay down next to her. and the moment you do, she starts crying into your side.
"...Diamond...look. If it makes you feel better....."

....this might be a terrible trump card you just drew. But if it helps ease her suffering. And gets you out of it. so be it...
"...if...you're still interested when we're like...a lot older. like..I dunno, teen aged or something. Maybe...sorta...I wouldn't mind trying this....but only if you're still interested..I mean. you never know. a better colt might come along and sweep you off your hooves.."

...you could hear her sobbing slow as she slowly looks up at you "...do you mean that?....y-you wouldn't just...dump me. Would you?"

...ergh....uhmmm...
"Well....I guess I'd have no reason to. I mean..we'd both have to be free in the relationship department for this to happen. But hey, if it happened. Then I guess it'd be...I dunno....Destiny or something.."

"Destiny..." Diamond Tiara ended her sobbing, and with glistening moist eyes, began to ponder "......so...if you don't have anypony..and I don't have anypony...then you'll be my special somepony?"

......shh.....well...that was still a long ways away...and...if you were old enough and didn't have any young hot mare by your side by then...then..who could it hurt?...she'll probably forget this anyway...
You nod
"Yeah..I don't see why not. I mean...like I said...we'd both have to be available.."

Diamond looked at you, a growing determination in her eyes. "....do you promise?"

promise?.....ugh...yes fine...whatever. Whatever you were doing...it was working out fine...you'd just have to pay your dues later. Maybe....fuck..fine...
"I....uhh...promise"

Diamond stood up, and wiped the tears from her eyes "Good..then Anon...if we get older and have nopony else. Then you have to be my special somepony. Got it?"

Have to?!...well fuck....way to be turned into property all of a sudden.
....you don't nod, you didn't want to show that much certainty.
"..ok...but only if we both don't got somepony...ok?"

"Fine fine...but, if it happens. You better not go back on your promise. Remember, my daddy will do whatever I want him to do. Got that?" Diamond looked directly into your eyes, her flames of determination burning into your soul.

you gulp
"G-got it..."

....it seems....you had done it. You didn't even need Discord's help....but fucking god...you made a deal you may have to uphold later in your life. But...that wouldn't be so bad maybe...It still left your options open. And a decent pick if things went south.

"Good...you said we should be friends for now right?...Well..ok..we'll be friends. And the next time we meet up AS friends...you...me..and Applebloom and the others. WE ARE getting you that cutie mark....I don't want to have a cutie markless coltfriend in the future. I'd have to smack anypony who'd dare make fun of you...and that'd probably be a lot. And you'd be in big big trouble if I bruised my hoof for you . So you better BETTER get one? Understand?"

..you nod, a little stunned by her behavior. It was like a mix of new and old Diamond. You could only guess that she was acting super nice before to attract you. Now it was like she was going to keep a leash on you....ugh..you could never truly win..but this was fine...You succeeded in what you needed to do.

Diamond Tiara, realizing still that the others were not in the clubhouse. Looked to you again for one last thing, becoming softer as she stared into you. "...speaking of which...are we going to be meeting up today?..Because I'd actually like to see what your cutie mark would be as soon as possible.."

You shake your head.
"N-no...I don't think we'll all be meeting up today. But, We'll try tomorrow I guess. mmm...thanks for understanding Diamond. And I'm glad we can still be friends."

Diamond nodded, giving you a little of a longing look "I do understand...so...ummm...what should we do now?"

You....kind of didn't want to be here when the crusaders arrived. You didn't want to explain what happened You just wanted to....absorb everything and then release...and relax. You...you got through this mostly unscathed...good job Anon..
"...I...kind of want to go home and rest for a little while...I've had a stressful day..."

Diamond didn't want to overstep her bounds with you too much. Not after this..she wanted to stay in step of being your friend, without making you lose that "interest". "Y-yeah..I'm feeling a little tired too...I-I think I'll go home and ummm...see what daddy is up to. You'll be ok, right Anon?"

...holy shit..you did it....wooooooooooooooooo...you felt like a weight finally came off of you.
"I'll be ok. You take care Diamond...I'm...gonna hang out here a little longer first. It's gonna take me a little while to go out and find a water source to go home..so uhhhh..I just want to gather my strength."

Diamond Tiara...at first...was about to ask if she could stay with you....but...mnn...no. She'd keep her distance. And let you have your time to recuperate from all this. She says her goodbyes again. And calmly leaves the clubhouse.

...You immediately fall backwards onto your back....holy shit...that went...so incredibly well.

Author's Note

And to anyone who cares about spoilers. This isn't really over for Diamond Tiara's advances. Oh no. Not by a longshot.

Chapter 79

"...I can't believe it. I actually got out of that without either of them exploding at me"

Discord immediately appears before you, and looks out the window at the departing filly. "Yes, a real shame. I thought this was going to be a lot more fun"

You get up, brush yourself off, and look inside your saddlebag to make sure you had everything. school supplies,map, horn, money...all good.
"oh come on, this wasn't even about you. This was important Discord, and not something I needed exploding in my face."

"And that's what makes it terrible. I've never actually got to play around with love based chaos before. Would have been nice to have a go at it." Discord shrugs "Ahhhh well, we can make all of this up by cashing in on that favor"

You stop.....what?

You look over to Discord, worried
"What, right now?"

Discord nods with a devious smile "Yes, right now. It's not like you can escape. And besides, it'd be very unfriendly to not pay back your debts. Now then....." Discord held his paw out, and an orb materialized above it "...Since I am now interested in love, I have a very special task for you"

You stare at the ball as it swirls and begins to take a different shape.

"...what do you mean "interested in love" ?"

the orb begins to take the form of the crystal castle. "allow me to be more specific...I'm am now interested in the chaos love can bring. Anyw-"

...love?..crystal castle?...oh no. You interrupt him.
"NOPE! I already can tell where this is going. And I ain't going to do it." You quickly turn around to make your exit, but the moment you try to twist the knob on the door. You hear it lock.

"Ah ah Anon, I think i've been patient enough. I even let you clear up your little issues. Now is the time we see how much trouble we can stir...well..how much you can stir anyway. And do remember not to get caught."

...not get caught?..was he insane? this wasn't Twilight's castle. There were guards there.
"How exactly am I supposed to do that? Why would you even make that kind of risk? Discord, you really are insane if you expect me to just waltz into the ca...s....t........oh shit"

Discord had slowly brought up a mirror to you...you had Twilight face.
".....no no no no no no..."

Then your voice changed to Twilight's
"nonononononononono! Discord are you fucking insane?!"

"Oh come on Anon, you don't even know what I want you to do. And you must be quick. You can only maintain this form for so long..."

You were Twilight! You could feel it, wings, horn, you felt taller
"....What do you want me to do then?! Walk up to Cadence and Shining Armor and ruin their day or something?"

"....oh no no, in fact. I've already given up on love chaos.I actually came up with a much bigger idea."

much bigger idea? God, have mercy and let him end you.
"...and what would that be?"

"Welllllll...." Discord made a huge grin as he rubbed his paw and talons together. "....I've heard there's something very hush hush going on between those two lovebirds. You Anon, are going to find out what that secret is and come tell me. Then maybe we can use that to our own ends. That's my favor"

so...he made you a spy.
"....and that doesn't sound like a bad idea? Why can't you just go and figure out the secret.....nope..never mind...you're just going to say "Where's the fun in that" aren't you?"

Discord gave your purple horn a gentle flick and snickered "Good to see you're smartening up Anon, that's a quality well fitting to our purple princess. how hard could this be anyway? You have four and a half seasons of knowledge to fake being Twilight. It should be eeeeasssyyyy"

You sighed heavily....he wasn't going to let you out of this.
"...So...Go in, figure out the secret, get out...Fine..alright..so then, how long does this form last?"

Discord shrugged "I don't know. Could be days, hours....minutes....who's to say?"

MINUTES?!
"Discord! Come on, you can't just send me out there unless I actually have time to pull this off. Minutes?! That's fuck-"

Discord clasped your mouth shut with his paw and talons "....I do have to ask you to stop cursing. When it's you it's fine, but as Twilight. It's unnerving."

You roll your eyes at him as he let's you go
"...Fine...but Discord, you can't expect this to happen if I could change back at anytime"

"Of course I expect you to do it, That's why I turned you to Twilight. You'll just have to be on point and find out their secret as soon as you can. Then you can use your map to get out. It's simple!"

....he wasn't going to back down from this. And hell, you agreed to this when you said you owed him one. If this was going to be the case. If you couldn’t escape. Then you at least had to ask if it’d be square after this/
"...ok..fine, I'll do it. But we're even after this, alright?"

Discord mirthfully chuckled as he made the portal door appear inside the clubhouse "Of course, we'll be even after all this. Though I am surprised you aren't interested on what the secret could be. Aren't you the least bit curious?"

You shake your head, as a realization begins to pop in your mind.
"Not really, it's probably something crystal heart related or something. probably a season ender power up.....though, I am interested in something...uhhh"

You try reaching for your ass
"....does..uhh....does everything work down there?"

Discord found no amusement in that, he looked at you like the pervert you are, with disdain. "No...."

...well damn...you thought you could make something out of this. You grumble to yourself.
"...ok...Let me just get into character then..."

Discord just watched you, wondering how good an act you could pull
"..ok...Anon..you're Twilight. you're smart, nerdy, adorkable, neurotic, and you overreact to anything remotely ridiculous. You also REALLLLY love friendship...ok?...ok.. Show me what you got!"

You look to Discord and give him a smile
"Discord, I expect you to behave yourself while I'm away. Be friendly towards everypony and don't cause any trouble. You got it?.....how's that?"

Discord held up a signboard that said "6"
"Twilight wouldn't smile at me when she's telling me to "be good". And she'd certainly be much more annoying, telling me in excruciatingly painful details on how I should act. You could fool them, perhaps. But if you ever tried to fool me I'd have you figured out in seconds. You better do better than that Anon, or you'll be found out long before you change back"

hhhmmmmm....whatever. You got this.
"..fine...I'll be able to work it out when I actually get there. And while I'm gone, you better not do any shenanigans around or towards Applebloom or Diamond Tiara. I worked hard on this,and I don't need you doing something to totally ruin that. Got it?"

Discord gently claps "Much better, that's a lot more convincing"

......
"...I was being serious"

"And so was I. Now try to keep that level of acting when you meet your dear sister-in-law and brother. Because if you fail, then I'll have to find something else for you to do"

....you weren't fully confident you could pull this off. You had so little to go off of. In fact..
"...what happens if I need to abort?"

"You do have that map for a reason. You simply leave."

"...You do realize they are going to look into all this if they find out"

"Indeed they are.......and tell me Anon. What other creature in Equestria are known for taking the shape of others? hmmmm?"

.......oh right....
"...right. Yeah..I forget that sometimes I am in a land of magic and wonder. Can I ask one more question before I go?"

Discord nods "Go right ahead, I wouldn't be a good father if I didn't answer any questions you might have"

...right...
You sigh from that comment, and brush it off. You felt like he was just abusing you now to make you do all this, to go this far.
"Why are you doing this? A friend wouldn't do this to another friend"

"...oh don't even try that Anon. Yes, we're friends. But that's exactly it. I'M your friend. There's really no ulterior motive to any of this. Nor am I doing this to be mean. My reasons are simple. I want to know their secret and you owe me a favor. It's not any more complicated than that. It's really nothing personal"

Well....at least he was being honest. If that's all it was then you really couldn't be upset. You knew who he was. And everything he did, done, and expected was never normal. And again...you did owe him. Ahh, who were you kidding? He’s an ass.

"..ok..I'm going then. Oh, if I can, I'll see if I can bring back a souvenir for Fluttershy. I owe her too, she's already made breakfast for me twice and has been the best aunt I ever had." You could at least do that. The Empire seemed to have some cool shit. And thinking about it, you could get her something nice just so you could bask in her appreciative glow.

"That's a great idea! I've actually come to like Fluttershy's involvement and enjoyment of being your aunt very much. In fact..."
Discord snaps his talons, you could feel your saddlebag get slightly heavier. "Here's some extra bits in case you plan to bring back anything expensive"

"Thanks...wait"
You take notice of your saddlebag.
"...Think you could make this like...invisible to everyone but me? If anybody looked inside, it might look pretty suspicious."

Discord again, without any word, snaps his talons. The bag flashes for a quick moment. "Done"

...you could still see it. But..that was the point after all. You trusted him. He wouldn't screw you over. You didn't even have to double think that. You we're getting more used to him with each interaction and you knew he wouldn’t try anything if you were going to bring happiness to Fluttershy.

You take a deep breath,close your eyes, bring your right front hoof close, then point to the portal door and open your eyes
"Let's make some magic!"

"Good luck Anon, and I do mean that" Discord says with a wave

time to fulfill that favor. Then you would have to make sure never to owe another favor to Discord unless you REAAAALLLLYYYY needed him for something. Meaning you'd have to train with that horn more and more.

You step through the portal door, and find yourself near the crystal heart. You felt a little anxious. You really hoped whatever this secret was, that it was a big one. Hell, you started to get a little curious now that you were actually here and ready to find out what it is.

"..Ok...Twilight. You're Twilight. You got to think like Twilight. Be as smart as Twilight. And..."

You feel a pain on your back
"ergh..what's the heck?"

You look back, and your wings were all retarded. One was fanned out and crooked while the other was pointed straight up.

"Ahh geez!..u-ummm"

You try moving them to the right place. It takes you a bit. But you manage...no way you were going to be able to fly.
"....ok.....let's just keep em that way. I wonder..."

You try using your horn...it glows..but when you try using it like your "Super" horn. All it does is fizzle and spark.
"...no magic either huh...? Ok fine...that's why we improvise."

...ok...time to act like purplesmart
"Ok...ok...ahrm"

You make your way to the castle. Putting a smile on your face. You notice a pair of crystal ponies
"Hello Everypony! how are you both doing this fine afternoon?"

They started talking amongst themselves then smiled towards you.
one was male, and the other female. but both were equally excited.

the male spoke up first "Princess Twilight..u-umm" He bowed before you "It's an honor to meet you"

The female mare bowed aswell "It really is, what brings you to our fair city?"

Too easy...
"Just visiting! It really is a nice place to just stop by and reflect on things. And everypony here is so friendly. It's one of the best places in Equestria for sure"

They both were very pleased with that comment.

"Thank you! That's really nice to hear you say!" The male said, his heart filling with pride

"Would you mind if we had your autograph? We're a bit of the collecting type you see, and while we don't have our great savior's autograph yet. We would love one from you, his best friend and the princess of friendship." The mare was keeping a notebook...in her mane....that's odd. She holds it to you with her teeth, the pencil in the rings of the notebook.

..alright..this should be easy.

You take the notebook with your hoof, and then try to pull out the pencil...but..you couldn't get a grip.

"Is something the matter?" the stallion asked, a little worried that you were having trouble.

"N-no..just..it's been a long flight. I'm just a little tired."

...this is where you had to thank Diamond Tiara, you only assumed it worked the same way as the paintbrush. You carefully pull out the pencil with your teeth. And write down your autograph.....poorly..and slip the pencil back in.

"There we are! Here you go!"

you hand them back the autograph as they both look at it with excitement...which quickly turns to confusion.

They whisper to eachother. You catch that your handwriting is apparently really terrible. But the mare berates the stallion a little for saying such a thing about a princess's handwriting.

They both however, thank you for your time. And walk off.......smooth. Looks like you couldn't write either. Well, that should have been obvious. You can't stick around to do anything more than find out what the secret is, and then leave. Anything extra could blow your cover.

....you walk up to the front doors of the castle. There were a pair of guards. They shifted their eyes to you for a moment. Saluted, and then resumed their straight eyed stare.

"Carry on..." You say with a grin
So far so good, you enter the castle. Being wary of your surroundings

"ok..so if I see Shining first. Greet him and hug him. If it's Cadence. Sunshine Sunshine......good thing I've watched enough remixes of that. Got it all memorized."

You start looking for them. keeping in mind to keep things simple. You probably only needed to ask them what was so secret and they'd tell you. You were Twilight after all.

You start mindlessly exploring the halls of the castle. man, the sun's rays really illuminated the place in a spectacular way. Looked really nice.

"Twilight?"
....that voice. Cadence...

It's go time...

She was behind you, you turned to her, and boy, did she looked confused.
"T-twilight? u-uhh? What are you doing here? I-I mean. I didn't expect you."

...here we go.
"Cadence! Come on...don't be like that! Aren't you glad to see me? Oh..Oh I know!"

You trot up to her, and then start doing the motions.
"Sunshine Sunshine Ladybugs....awake?"

...she wasn't doing it with you....that's odd.
She put a hoof to her belly for a moment. and then gave a nervous chuckle "Oh Twilight..ahm..I'm sorry. I'm uhhhh........I've got a little belly ache. You know how it is sometimes, being a princess, you just get them sometimes from all that ruling..."

.....what? Belly ache? What did she live up to her joke name and eat a shitload of candy? Whatever, it's fine. roll with it.

"Oh right."
You fake a chuckle
"Yeah, being a princess sure can be...ummm..achy. So...aside from that. How are you?"

"Oh I'm fine. But Twilight. What are you doing here?" Cadence...was acting kind of funny......Chrysalis?...nah...Chrysalis couldn't keep up a nice demeanor to save her life..maybe..going off her single appearance and your only meeting.

"Well...you know. Just came to see favorite relatives! See if maybe I could help with anything...maybe something that's a secret and only we princesses should know..."

Cadence shifts her eyes, then collects her confidence. She looked like she was trying to keep something from you...er...Twilight. "Well, I appreciate you wanting to help. But me and Shining Armor are actually doing just fine. If you’re wondering where he is, well, he went out....doing certain things. And I was just resting here in the castle...and .."

...And?
"annnnd?"

Cadence giggled "..and..I was actually going to sneak off with a piece of pie from the royal kitchen. You can keep that a secret right?"

..a secret?..nah..that wasn't it..but yeah. Not like you planned to tell anyone anyway about her sneaking off with some pie.
"Of course...but uhh...are you sure there's no OTHER secrets that I should know about?"

Cadence shook her head quickly, nervously "Nope! not a thing. Twilight. umm...you want to come with me to sneak a snack?"

.......maybe...no..yeah...you could...a royal pie must taste fucking amazing.
"ok!"

Cadence found that a little...off "ok? You don't mind going behind your brother's back like that?"

....what? But she...

"..well...you're doing it too right? and you just did ask me."

Cadence cleared her throat...she was definitely nervous about something. "Right I did..I guess I ex..no..I umm...let's go get that pie"

And so Cadence led the way to the royal kitchen...to get some pie.
Awkward

Chapter 80

Wooo… sweet digs. There were cutting boards and pantry doors and ovens and tons of cooking tools all over the place. It looked like a real chefs paradise added with the fact that everything was shiny and crystalized. No cooks though. Then again, it probably wasn't dinner time yet…

Cadance leads you to a counter with something wrapped up, she magically removes the wrapping to reveal a half eaten pie… cherry flavored."Well, here's the pie. Take as much as you want, I don't mind sharing."

Cadance smiled as she used her magic to bring a knife over and slice a modest piece for herself. She kept the pie floating in mid air near her mouth to take subsequent bites.

…

You had no magic to be able to do that. You fidget a little... "I'm...suddenly not hungry."

Cadance giggled "Twilight. Don't tell me you’re not going to take a slice because I've already taken a few bites. Come on, we're family. Don't be so uptight. It's ok to be a little unprincessy once in a while"

...Shit...

"I-it's not that. It's just I… had a lot of cherries on my trip here. A ton… and I just not in the mood for anything cherry flavored. You understand, right?"

Cadance nodded, but she found something again… a little off "Oh ok… but, why'd you just eat cherries on the way here? I would think the train would have a lot more variety than that."

...Uhh..UUHHH "Oh you know us princesses… sometimes we just get… cravings from all that stress."

And then...Cadance started acting unusual right there and then. She backed off a little and seemed worried about something… and then immediately laughed it off. "Oh right. Cravings… I definitely can understand that."

She was eating a lot more slowly. staring directly into your eyes, sweating a little. "Ummm… Twilight. Do you want to take a walk with me around the kingdom? Maybe we could go shopping?"

Something was up… nobody acts that way unless they are hiding something. "Cadance. Is something the matter? Because if there is. You can tell me. We're family right?" That should work.

Cadance didn't seem to know what to do. What was up with her. It was like she not only didn't expect Twilight to show up at all. But also didn't want her to be here. Cadance was being friendly… so they didn't have a fight… so what then?

"It's… a little complicated Twilight. It was something that… well, when we had everything fully prepared for here. That me and Shining were going to pay you a visit in Ponyville to tell you about...something."

"Well, how is it complicated? Is there some villain that you don't want to mention because it might cause panic? Is it some sort of trouble either of you are in? Like, with the pony mob or something? Is… Is Sombra trying to come back?"

Cadance shook her head vehemently . "Oh no no, it's nothing like that. But I just can't say right now Twilight. It's… just not time yet. Please understand"

Ugh… she was being secretive as fuck. And you couldn't go back and have this favor cleared up without knowing that secret. "Come on Cadance. It's me, Twilight! You can trust me. I mean, if not me. Then who else could you trust with something so important. Huh?"

Cadance didn't seem to know what to say. She didn't want to be rude or push you away. But… how too-

Mid thought. both of you hear a familiar voice coming from one of the doors. It was Shining Armor, he hadn't come into the room yet. But he was shouting awfully loud.

"Cadance! Yo, Cadance. Check it out! I got all the ba-"

Cadance suddenly screeched out, uncharacteristically so "AAAAAAAAAAAMMNNNNNNN"

What the fuck?! Was she the "Thing"? HOLY SHIT?! WAS THE "THING" ALSO CROSSING DIMENSIONS?! Did Discord let it through?!

You step back, ready to book it if this shit started growing fangs or something.

Cadance patted her chest with her hoof and burped softly. "O-oh dear, s-sorry about that. I guess cherry isn't agreeing with me e-either… Excuse me a moment!" You can hear Shining call for her again as she rushes towards the door, in which she lets out another shriek. Even Shining sounded confused.

That couldn't be the "Thing". You're imagination was just running rampant. But, what the fuck was up with that. That wasn't the fucking pie… speaking of pie. You take a moment to bring your face down and have a bite of it… oh shit… pretty good.

As you wipe your mouth with your hoof. You can't help but feel something's pretty amiss.
You decided to get up and move towards the door. Maybe if you put your ear right on it. You could hear what they were talking about.

You put your ear up to the door. Hrn… Interesting. You catch a few interesting words. Baby… Twilight… something about Twilight not supposed to be showing up… and… distractions… wait… that first one… baby?

Baby...

....noooooooooo.....nononononononononono ...that can't be it. No way that could even be a thing..right? Did ponies actually fuck?

As you listened. the door suddenly reopens right on your face. RIGHT IN THE FACE.

You yelp and step back. Dammit, even as somebody else you still take hits to the face and noggin. It never ends.

"Twily?" Shining Armor entered the room, and turned to his side to see you rubbing your face. He seemed happy, yet, unexcited to see you. "Twily. Heeeeeyyyy… what's up sis? You, uhh, got something on your face?"

Put down your hoof and sigh, scrunching your nose a little. "No no… I mean… yeah, there was a fly"

Shining looks around the room, he doesn't see a fly "Huh… that's weird. We're usually pretty good at keeping them out of the kitchen. But, uhh, hey… it's really cool to see ya, In fact, how about we go and uh… check out… the, umm, Crystal Heart! Yeah, you want to come check out the Crystal Heart with your big brother?"

Hrnnn...they seem to be pretty adamant in getting you out of the castle. and "baby" was your only clue to the mystery. "Uhhh… sure, but uh. Shining… uhh, why are you and Cadance acting so… weird?"

"Weird? Who… me? And Cadance? Nahhhhhh… it's just we weren't expecting company. I mean, I was out doing things… and… before that me and Cadance were sorta of really busy and you just sort of showed up. We don't even know when. You usually tell us before you just show up. You ok Twily? I mean, that's not something I'm used to from my best lil' sis" Shining was sweating bullets as he said all this. He sounded as shaky as Cadance

Hmmm, they were growing suspicious of you as you were of them. Cadance though, where did she go?

"Well you know, I just wanted to surprise you both for once." You gave a fake grin

Shining armor laughed nervously at that "Oh, hahaha! Oh, haha… Yeah, I guess you would do that. So uh… you wanna go… or..uhh?"

You had to be careful now. You came to realize that they specifically didn't want Twilight to know this secret. Either the word baby was used literally, or as a pet name. And as far as you know. they've never said a thing like that to each other. You had to subtly find out the secret without being told. Because when the real Twilight did find out. They'd all be confused… and then who knows what would happen. You had to figure it out then bail.

You fake a yawn. "I uhh..I dunno Shining, I only came for a little visit. And I actually have to be heading back soon… you know, planning for that festival of friendship that..I'm doing....You know about that right?"

Shining nods "Yeah… I didn't think it'd eat up so much time that'd you'd only pop in for like… twenty minutes. That's… really weird Twilight… really… that's not like you."

You gulp....was he figuring it out? "H-how do you mean?"

"Well… You're usually a lot better with time. I'd never known you to be, I dunno… bad with time management."

"Well, I mean. It's not so much bad time management then it is my schedule. I know the trip was long. But if I didn't come now. I'd never have time to see my big bro! Come here you! So what if I'm here for twenty minutes, what's important is that I got to see my favorite bro and sis" You go up to hug Shining, he at first seemed puzzled. But only because he was trying to figure out what you meant. But then he thinks he realized it by thinking this was the only time you could come at all, and damned be the time of the trip.

He smiles and gives you a cuddly yet firm hug. "Awwww, now that's the Twily I know. You were always the smart one. I'd never have figured that out unless you told me."

YES,HE BOUGHT IT. Ok, time for a secret check. Depending on his answer. You could really leave… or you had to make an excuse to stay just a little longer.

You give him a little pat on the back before stepping backwards and looking at him inquisitively.
"So… uhhh… just so we're clear on something. This secret… it's not you and Cadance having a baby right?"

He grew wide eyed in shock. Then began to sweat, his voice quivering "N-N-nahhh. W-why would you ever think that?"

You let out a false chuckle. "Oh..sorry… haha, I guess I was just wondering if it was ever going to happen. I've been wondering about, you know, if I ever got a special somepony… you know, my future and stuff"

Shining went from shock. to worried care. "Oh Twily… come on. You'll find that special somepony. You know, some of the royal guards here are pretty nice guys. I know this one pony, his name is Fla-"

Suddenly… Shining was staring silently at you. "...uhhhhhhh" Well… you figured out the secret, but, why did he suddenly look like he saw a ghost?

"What's the matter shining?"

"Twily....your mane...it's...changing color"

Changing color? What the fuck does that mean? "Huh?....what do you mean? I don't-" You go to reach for some of your mane to push it into view when you notice your right leg has become smaller and stubbier. nooo....noo...no.

Shining stepped back "T-twily?"

"U-ummm...I-I gotta go!"

You try to make a mad dash out of the kitchen. But the moment you try.The rest of your legs shrink mid run. And you fall flat on your face and slide across the floor as your coat begins to change color.

You slowly get up as you shake your head, you were seeing stars. You looked back, and you could see Shining… and holy shit did he look pissed. "GUARDS! EVERYPONY TO YOUR POST! CHANGELING ATTACK!"

Shining armor shot out a blue spark that flew out of the room and emitted a loud blaring noise........that must be the alarm.

Shhiiiiiiiiiiiitttt

You got up and faced him. You weren't completely changed back yet. But you looked pretty hideous in your current state. Your wings were even featherless. You were in a state of half yourself and half Twilight. Your eyes different colors and patches of fur coming out to be replaced with a younger coat.

Cadance came in, alarmed by the noise "Shining! What happened?! Where's Twilight?"

Shining jumped in front of her, still facing you. "Stay back! That thing there..That's not Twilight. It's a changeling. I think it was here to find out about the baby!"

"What?" Cadance looked over to you and was in shock. "Oh..no...h-how could I be..."

"Don't worry about it. It fooled us both. I didn't think any changeling could imitate Twily that good." Shining slowly stepped up to you "As for you, You're not going anywhere. So you might as well give up and tell us where the rest of your hive is hiding,"

You slowly step back. Shit… SHIT… this wasn't good. You look back, and see a door. But then it begins to glow and shut tight.

Shining keeps his eyes directly on you "Don't even think about it."

"Dammit come on! I'm not a changeling! This is all a really big misunderstanding"

"Do you think we're that stupid? I can't believe your kind would go that low as to try to do something to our baby...It's not even born yet!" Cadance growls at you, she was entering a battle stance. Same with her husband… oh boy.

...you had no choice. "Would you believe… I'm Discord's son?"

Shining shook his head "Not even for a second"

WELL THEN… This wasn't good. You still hadn't changed back yet and you were facing down an alicorn and a strong stallion. You could fight them right?...well, maybe not Cadance… you weren't a monster. You weren't going to hurt a pregnant mare. But, maybe if you just took down Shining… you could escape. If the guards were at their posts then all you had to do was MGS out of there. Maybe you could hide in your saddle bag… Wait...

Your saddle bag… it did have a lot more weight to it now that there was more bits inside. Hmmmm...

You bow down to Cadance "My queen! We've been caught!"

"My queen, what?" Cadance was confused

But not Shining, he moves carefully away from his wife and stares at her. "Cadance… honey… that… you're not.."

She shakes her head profusely "No! No! I'm not..Shining! It's a trick..can' yo-"

But before she could finish her sentence. You take your saddle bag and swing it right at Shining's face.

KO!...... wait… no. he only side stepped a little. And Cadance? She didn't seemed too pleased as she looked at you with furious anger. "HOW DARE YOU! YOU STEP INTO OUR HOME! TRY TO ATTACK OUR BABY! AND THEN HURT MY HUSBAND?! THAT'S IT! I KNOW I SHOULDN'T BUT!" Cadance's horn began to glow alight as multiple blasts shot upwards and started to rain down on you.

Ohh… goddammit. You dive and crawl through the many counter sections of the kitchen. Quickly grabbing a pot and putting it on your head for some protection as magic rains down from all around.

You could hear Cadance panting, tired from her attack. You hear Shining tell her to go get the guards and find a place to hide. That'd he handle this himself. She agrees, probably for the baby's sake. You take the time to hide in one of the cabinets as Cadance leaves and Shining starts looking for you.

Shit, now you know how those kids from Jurassic Park felt. This was much harder than fighting Discord… if only you could get a clean hit on his nuts before the guards arrived.

You were actually scared. Shit… this wasn't supposed to happen. You could hear Shining carefully checking around. Quick Anon… think of all the times some dipsticks were hiding from monsters, what would they do...

EUREKA! That's it! You grab a spatula, and open the cabinet door. You carefully look out of it. Shining wasn't in sight yet. But you could hear his hoofsteps. You chuck the Spatula backwards into the air and wait.

It hits something. "There you are, I got you now!" Shining moves over to the noise. You crawl out of the cabinet and start looking for Shining's backside.

If you could somehow make a puddle of water. You could get out. Shit, you were in a kitchen. If you could just clog a sink. Well, your only two options were to either nutsack smack and castle escape. Or you'd somehow get some yeast or someshit to clog a sink… turn it on… and toss the map.

You carefully turn the corner. Towards where you think you heard the spatula hit. Oh shit… there he was… a clean run towards his nuts… Shit here we go! It's all or nothing.

You rush towards Shining Armor to give him a swift buck in the nuts. But you suddenly start to float upwards, covered in his magical aura. "Caught you!"

"What?! You were turned around! How could you even see me coming?!"

"I got ears, bug for brains" Shining confidently smirked as he turned around to face you. His ears having a small twitch.

You gulped hard. Discord… he wasn't going to show up… was he?

"What do you plan to do with me?"

"Interrogation… what else? If you're here, then your hive isn't far behind. So… you wanna tell me what you're up to now? Or do I gotta throw you into the dungeon?"

Shit..shit… Think Anon think! How the..wait… the pot..THE POT! "You really wanna know?"

"Are you actually going to tell me?"

"Yeah..You see we're gon-HYA!!" You quickly grab the pot and toss it right on his face. "Ha! Take that! finally someone else takes a… a… oh shit.." You notice that Shining's aura leaving you as you fall to the floor and hit your head, dammit, you should have seen that coming. "D-dammit..A-always the head"

No time to contemplate however. You quickly get up and run behind some counters as Shining recovers and chases after you. The hit from the pot didn't even slow him down! "You're not getting away from me!"

Great… you could have used the horn… but… nooooooooo… You made an alarm clock. Good job dipshit. You were also out of ammo. You dived into another cabinet and tried to think things through.

What were you going to do? The guards could show up at any second! You need to try to slip out somehow, because sticking around was a bad idea. You open the cabinet door slowly… And are greeted by Shining's eyes… looking directly at you. "Haha… wrong door.." You slowly close it, But then Shining uses his magic to force it open.

"Caught ya!"

SHIITTTTTTTTTTTT!

Shining steps back as he uses his magic to drag you out and again hold you in mid air. You were almost to your original form. Your eyes were still the wrong color. Your mane was between your's and Twilight's, and you had little stubs where your wings should be. Your horn was super tiny.

Shining took notice you had nothing else to toss at him. "Nowhere to run now bugbreath. You're as good as caught."

"I'm telling you I'm not a changeling. If I was, Why would I change into this?"

"Probably to trick me. That's what you're all best at. But you're not gonna fool me this time"

That's what he thought… you only had one weapon left. You felt for and grabbed your invisible saddle bag and chucked it hard at his face. It hit him harder and caught him more by surprise than the pan… since he couldn't see it.

Bits, school supplies, your map, and the horn fall all over the floor. You grab the horn and stick it on your head, then grab the map and head straight for the sink. You hop up to it then smack one of the valves, making water come out of the faucet. You then put your hoof on the drain to let the water fill.

"Come on...come on...."

Shining looks at you as he quickly recovers, and is again, caught by surprise "S-sombra?..No..another trick!"

You can feel a magical grip put upon you once more. You hold on to the faucet tightly with your arms while you keep your back hoof on the drain and grab the map with your teeth. Shining Armor moves close to you, pulling and tugging harder with his magic as the guards burst in. "Let go!"

"NNNmm...NGHHHHHMNNNGHHH!" You hold on so tightly that when Shining gives another tug. The faucet breaks loose and sprays you and him with water, making you drop the map as you fall backwards. Shining stepping backwards as well as he covers his face with his hoof

"Quick, somepony grab that changeling!" Shining yells out as he hurriedly wipes away the water and loose strands of mane in his face.

But it's too late. You fall backwards right into a portal and onto your bed before any of them could make a move.

You were breathing deep, hard, you were scared shitless. "Oh..my god… am I dead?" You slowly get up, off your bed, and look into your mirror… you were sombra… it was the horn of course. You take off the horn. And look at yourself… you were back to normal by this point. You fall onto your belly with a huge sigh of relief.

"Oh holy shit… holy fucking shit… that was so goddamn close. Oh my god. Why did I even think for a second I could take him?..Fuck… I thought it'd be easy..fuck fuck… He almost had me… geez!"

It takes you awhile to finally calm down. Who would have thought being in a combat situation with good guys was scarier than mocking bugbutt… geez. "Ok… hopefully, this never comes back to bite me… wooo..." You stand up, and wipe your forehead of sweat. "...and that's...the secret huh?...Cadance is pregnant....I wonder if this ever came up in the show...probably not. Another one of those, alternate timeline things. I mean, if it did show up on the show, Discord probably could have checked it up on his own and not sent me to check up on it… nope… definitely a new thing. And a good thing too… means I won't have to spend my entire pone life as a virgin. Since..apparently ponies do indeed have sex."

And with that… you stretch, take another moment to fully relax. You took as long as a moment as you needed due to still suffering from the fear of being obliterated by Twilight's brother. After you finally calmed yourself. You went to look for Discord. "Note to self, do not fuck with ponies who can kick my ass… I can't actually beat them. Sheesh, I thought I'd stay as Twilight much longer than that… Well, it should be fine. Nobody would ever make the connection. And Shining I think… didn't see what I actually looked like… everything… everything should be ok… gonna need a new bag and supplies though… also didn't get Fluttershy a present… fantastic..."

You lament over your failures, but, you still succeeded in your mission in getting that favor crossed off your list. You head over to your floor door, open it, and head on down.

Chapter 81

As you head down, you play the battle out in your head… christ. It was so much different than fighting Discord or the doofus duo. Shining was pretty competent… for a cartoon horse. If the portal didn't open. You'd be in the slammer. And eventually you and Discord would have been found out… luckily… they thought you were a changeling… wonder how that's gonna work out.

"Discord?...you around?" You go to the living room and peek about, calling his name again. Nowhere to be seen. Huh… you'd thought he'd be around to hear the news… but… nope. You even sit your butt on the ground for a few minutes… nothing...

You head back to your room. All you managed to bring back with you was the horn and the map… you even lost the photo of you, Discord, and Chrysalis… but you could probably get another if you asked.

You take a look about your room. And take notice of the grappling hook you left.

...Grappling hook.....hmmm…

Well, if Discord wasn't going to show up. That did… give you some free time. And you did just do some espionage. Might be time for some training.

You go and pick it up, it had two bands under it to attach to your leg. it had a lever with three settings, and a button… hrnn, the settings were "Release,Neutral, Retract". The hook itself didn't look anything futuristic or fancy. Most of it was wood except for the hook and rope attached to it.

You attach the hook. and aim it… maybe the button fires it? You press it, aiming at your wall...
Nothing.. You look at the settings..it's set on retract. That could be it.

You switch it to… release… The hook just falls straight down and hits your other leg. "Gyahh OUCH!...geez..ok...fuck.." You shake your leg from it's pain and get a little frustrated. "Ok..so release just makes it drop… let's… retract"

You switch it back to retract. And hit the button. the hook goes back inside. "Ok..easy..so… if I set it to neutral.." You hit the button. And it launches the Hook straight into the wall. cracking it. "fuuuuuuu.....ok it's fine..it's fine… it all can be fixed..fuck I can probably fix it myself tomorrow… don't need to be owing dear ole dad any favors."

You retract the hook. "Ok… let's see what it looks like out there.." You walk towards the portal door, and take a quick glance at your dresser. You notice something. Beside the framed family photo, was a framed pic of the Chrysalis moment… huh.

You figured it must be just for a collection of special moments or something that were to remain on your dresser. Because unless Discord was around. He couldn't have just put it there at this moment… but just in case.. "..Discord?....you around?..." Nothing… "..ok then"

You set the portal door to the town hall setting. Number 1. And open the door. "Hmmm… it's kind of getting late." The sky was a orange red. The sun was setting. "Perfect… Maybe I can visit Lyra and Bon Bon. Check out them hats… but first… I really want to try this… ugh.." You slap your face. "Talking to myself again"

You step through, and start walking about aimlessly. You started to think a little again. Hmmm… You wondered if Twilight was going to be involved into what happened at the Crystal Empire. That could either be really interesting, or really bad. Hopefully either one not being bad for you.

You slink yourself away to an alley between some houses… and then look straight up. Ok… Let's...

Your train of thought is interrupted… you heard a noise. You look left and right… Nothing.. "Discord? Come on man… if you're following me. Just pop up already. I got the info you want..."

...nothing… ...curious...

"Discord?" Still nothing

Maybe it was just a cat or something. Who knows. You go back into focus, and look upwards. Let's do this… You aim your arm upwards. "...Here we go...."

You look around… still nothing… ok then. You set it to neutral. And press the button. The hook launches upwards to the ceiling of the house. "Ha!..that's pretty cool… ok then… going up!"

You set it to retract, and press the button. But you don't go up. The hook comes down quickly, before you can even react it hits your face, bounces up, and fully retracts back to the hook. "GYYYAHHHH! OGH" You cover your face and yelp in pain. "D-dammit… ok… ok… next time… gnnn..make sure it's hooked to something... ogh.."

Attempt two. After recovering, you aim upwards again, and fire your hook. It again hits the roof of the house. You grab the rope and pull a couple of times. After a few tugs, nothing happens, the hook stays where it's at.

"Perfect..ok..let's give it a go," Actually… as you think about it. You probably could have fired this at Shining's face and knocked him out or something..maybe..or maybe you were overestimating how tough your own head was compared to others.

Let's retract. You switch the switch and hit the button. "Here we GOAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!"

You launch upwards into the air, and slam a few times onto the wall. You then flip and land on your back as you slam onto the roof of the house. "G… g… gh......t-this… this is a lot more dangerous than… than I thought..."

You carefully get up and look around… huh… the view was pretty nice. You could see the roofs of the other houses. The hills, the farm, and schoolhouse… and Twilight's ugly ass castle.

You decide to sit down and enjoy the view a little. This was nice… you still hurt a little though. "Hmmm, I could get used to this.."

The breeze, the sight, the sky, the solitude… Yeah, this was cool. You linger a little while longer.

Ok… time to go back down. You carefully move to the roof and look down. Oh boy… falling could be a doozy. Let's see… you could hook the hook onto some part of the roof. Hit release, and slowly manage your way down.

Sure you had hooves, but all you had to do was hang on tight. Then suddenly… it hit you.. "HOLY SHIT THE PICTURE! I LEFT IT AT THE FUCKING CASTLE!"

In your panic, you lose your footing, and fall off the roof. Welp… Nothing to worry about now. Because nigga, you were gonna die. Not like you could take it bravely, you scream like a little bitch as you fall. You close your eyes, knowing of your inevitable doom.

And then you land... And you hit something… Were you dead? Dying didn't seem so bad… It felt… soft..and warm.

"You ok Nonny? What were you doing way up there?"

Pinkie?...were you in heaven?...

You slowly open your eyes… No. You were back in the alley. You look down, you were above the floor, on something pink and soft. You look to your side. Pinkie was looking back at you with a smile "Good thing I was following you. or you would have ended up like an egg!"

"P-Pinkie?...W-what are you doing here?" Holy christ thank god… She saved your life. You were still shaken though.

"I was following you silly." Then suddenly she looked at you angrily "Do you know how long I've been trying to talk to you?"

What..? You slowly get off of her. and back up a bit. "What do you mean? Wait… how long have you been following me?"

"Oh, for a while now. I've been following you from time to time since you left the hospital. I even followed you when you went to school too. I was the bell ringer!"

Well… that explains that… But… holy crap… that's… all kinds of creepy. And this was your waifu you were talking about. You flashback to a few greentexts where the main character would always had the admiration of the mane 6… and… geez… did you have Pinkie's?...Because… oh shit! How much did she know?! "Uhmm… why exactly… have you been following me?"

Pinkie beamed at you "Oh that's an easy one Nonny. You see, I'm sort of the party planner round' these parts. Any new pony, and event, anytime somepony needs a smile. I'm there! And you… well… I haven't thrown you one party yet. Do you realize how hard to track you are? I haven't been able to throw you a..." Suddenly, she took a huge breath ""Yay you got adopted" slash "Welcome to Ponyville" slash "You're a hero" slash "Get well soon" slash "Yay! you got well sooner than expected" slash "first day at school" party! I had to combine them all because that's A LOT of parties to throw at once. And I do have other ponies parties to plan. But don't worry Nonny, that just means your party is going to be big big big!"

........what.... "Pinkie… are you telling me you've been following me just for an opportunity to throw me a party?"

Pinkie just then… frowned at you. "...u-uhhh....something the matter?" She seemed upset about something. "You forgot the nickname you gave to me already? I really liked it… I know we haven't seen each other since the hospital and all. But… I thought it was nice"

Ohhhhh… lordie. You almost forgot Pinkie was heavily friend oriented. If there was any pony that was going to auto care about you immediately. It would be her. She was the embodiment of actual friendship… scaringly so, if a certain donkey had anything to say about it.

"I remember. I… was just caught by surprise… by you just showing up… Ponk"

And instantly she smiled. "You remembered! And of course I'm good at surprises! I'm actually a master… almost like an ancient master… but not old like one… that's how much of a master I am"

You chuckle a little. That was cutely endearing… But it only distracted you for a moment until you remembered the picture. Pinkie even noticed your sudden anxiety, and gave you a friendly boop on the nose "What's the matter Nonny? You ok?."

It doesn't calm you down any. Though the tap was appreciated. "It's nothing, just… something I forgot." Something you forgot. You were already thinking of ways to get it before it was seen… you never saw it fall out of the bag. And the bag was invisible… but no doubt as they picked everything up that they would have felt and found it by now.

"Well, since I'm here. Why don't I help you remember? Do you remember anything about what you forgot?" Pinkie asked, trying to be of help to you.

"I… Ponk look. I remember what I forgot. It's just I forgot it in… actually. Ponk, this is actually a sort of… private thing."

"Private?...private how?" Pinkie asked, with curiosity.

...come on Pinkie. You didn't want her to meddle in your business like this. You didn't want to get upset at her for being nosy, She was much too cute and friendly.

"Just private. Ponk, It's just something I got to sort out on my own. You can understand that. Right?"

"Well, yeah but." Then Pinkie gave you a big ole smile "But wouldn't it be more fun if we sorted it out together? And I'll bet it won't be as bad as you think when we… uhm… do what… you forgot that you done, I think" and then she giggled.

You kept yourself from grumbling. Maybe if you just changed the subject. Shit… though, you really needed to see Discord. "Umm, I'm sorry Ponk, it really is a sort of thing I got to do on my own… but hey. Umm, let's talk about that party you wanna throw for me. What exactly is that about?"

Instantly Pinkie lights up. She did really seem to want to talk about this. "Weeeeeellllllllllll, if you want to know. Since it's supposed to be a big combo party. I was thinking maybe it should be a surprise party. But then I thought, since you really are new to Ponyville and don't have many friends that it'd be more of a "mingle" kind of party where I would get everypony and their kids to show up so they could talk to the hero! But then I realized, since you are going to school, then you probably already mingled, so I thought of it being a surprise party again. But now I've pretty much told you what I thought I wanted to have planned so now it can't be a surprise party, so now I don't actually have a plan. Buuuuuuuut, that's not a bad thing because I'm talking with you now. So that means I could just ask you the kind of party you want and I can make it happen! But then if we're going to do it like that then we're going to need a guest list of all the friends you have made. And maybe some ponies you want to make friends with too! Then I have to ask for the theme of the party, presents you might want, supplies. Then we have to choose a location! I have a few spots you might really like, I can even rent a gazebo in the park if you want. And I also need to know the kind of music you like. Can't have a party without music. And if your birthday is soon then we can throw it on that day because then we can have lots of cakes and games and all of that good stuff! Did you get all that?"

Holy shit… that's a mouthful. And yet… not any less endearing. Pinkie knew you the least out of any of the other ponies. and..well..besides Fluttershy of course. She was making an effort to throw you the perfect party despite basically being strangers. "Uhhhhh… I think. Actually, that all sounds really good Ponk… but..you know what I really need right now?"

Pinkie rubbed her muzzle, trying to make a serious guess. "A party hat?"

You shake your head. You only needed one thing right now. "No. I REEAAALLLLYYY need to find my Dad actually. He's not at home. And, the thing I forgot. He's the only one who can help me with it." Damned be the consequence of a favor

Pinkie stood still for a moment to contemplate. "Ok… but then… can we talk about throwing you that party afterwards? I still owe you one Nonny! Nopony comes to Ponyville without at least one party" Then Pinkies narrowed her eyes at you, frighteningly so. "Nopony"

....That's… a little scary. It even makes you gulp. "Sure Ponk… whatever you say"

"Oki Doki Loki! Now… your Dad is Discord right?"

You nod. "Yep. But didn't you alrea-"

Pinkie put her hoof to your mouth. "Shhhh..." She slowly removed her hoof and pondered "...I'd say… if you're dad was anywhere… that'd he would be… At… the Crystal Empire."

..................wut.......................

Your pupils shrink....why was he there? Wait... "Ponk… how do you know he's there? Do..you have some sort of super sense?" You knew about her Pinkie sense… but holy shit… that's overkill.

"What? Oh, nope! I just overheard Discord telling Fluttershy that he was going there for some "important business". I was hiding inside the cottage waiting for you… but you never showed up there either. I mean, you didn't even show up right after school on your first day. Did you even go to see Fluttershy at all that day?"

Holy shit… She was clearly stalking you… for party purposes of course… but still. "So, wait, did Aunt Fluttershy know the whole time?"

Pinkie shook her head "Nope, that's why it's called a "surprise" party… duh, I mean. Wouldn't it just be awesome if everypony was caught by surprise? But that didn’t work out either..."

"Ponk… why don't you just throw me a regular party? I mean. It could just be me,you, a few friends… Dad… I mean, you know. Keep it small but still have some fun out of it. Wouldn't that be ok?"

Pinkie nodded "Mhmmm, that's ok. As long as it makes you happy Nonny"

You wouldn't mind a small party all things considering. But, nothing would break the tension you felt unless you could get that picture without hopefully anyone noticing. "It would Ponk. But… can we plan it out later. I gotta go and really talk to my dad. Super important"

Pinkie nodded "Ok! But one more thing Nonny! Do you want a theme for your party? I can do themes!"

"Surprise me Ponk"

Pinkie beamed a huge smile "Can do! Ohhhhhhh gosh! You're gonna be really surprised Nonny! You can bet on that!"

Oh you bet. You say your goodbyes to Pinkie, who didn't let you go without a hug. She was so sweet… and scary sometimes… and a little of an inconvenience. But in the end she knew where Discord was. If he was at the Crystal Empire. Then either he got impatient and tried to find out the secret himself. Or he's just hanging about for other reasons. All you had to do was go back home, and then take the portal door.

Easy as pie.

Chapter 82

As you begin searching for a source of water, you reach back to your saddlebag… wait… what saddlebag? In fact… you never even grabbed your map back from the house either. Just the grappling hook.

You slap your face with your hoof. "Well, that's just great! I can't believe I forgot it! How am I supposed to get home now! Ugh… UGHHHH… fine… whatever. It'll be ok. I guess I'll just head back and see what Pinkie is up to. Maybe get that party planned and all."

You remove your hoof from your face… something was different. The ground was a different color… more crystally. You look up…

Oh sweet mother of god… it was Shining Armor and Cadence, looking at you. "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" WHAT THE HELL?!

You scream in surprise and turn around, before you can even run you were surrounded by royal guards. "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" NO..NOO..HOW DID THIS?! You duck down and cover your head "Please don't kill me!"

Suddenly, you feel yourself being lifted up, and cuddled. "Please excuse my son's behavior. He's been very erratic lately. What with those girl issues and all. He's very new to it."

...Discord?

You lift your head out of your chest and look around, you were surrounded by guards, Shining Armor and Cadence included. But they didn't look hostile. "W-what's going on? I was just in Ponyville a second ago."

"See, he was in Ponyville! Oh, I'm so sorry to have pulled you here my son. But when I came to play a little prank I was suddenly surrounded by royal guards. Seems there was some sort of attack and apparently we were involved."

Cadence sighs "Please don't worry your son like that Discord." She then shakes her head and gives you a smile "What your father meant to say is we THOUGHT he was up to something, but..." Cadence stopped, and try to think of something comforting to say. As she never thought you were explicitly involved. Well… She did… but only for a few moments. "We started to realize that… well… Actually. Discord, we don't need to involve your son do we? He had nothing to do with this"

"Ahhhh… he may have had nothing to do with the attack. But the picture certainly proves that the changelings are out to ruin our image. Probably revenge for getting their two sentries eaten in the Everfree Forest."

What… wait. Ok, now you went from scared to confused. "W-what's going on? Why am I here? Why are there royal guards? What..." Better think of your next words. Because as it seems. They didn't see you as an intruder. "What… happened exactly?"

Discord gently put you down and gave you a gentle petting. Obviously for show. "Oh not much, just a misunderstanding. It seems those two villains you beat in Ponyville were actually changelings. They must have been very high rank because they saw fit to raid the Crystal Empire and try to do something most heinous. And then, and here's the kicker. The intruder dropped various school items, money, and a picture of me, you, and the queen being buddy buddy." You cringed hard at the fact they indeed in fact found the picture. But… the two thugs weren't changelings… they were "eaten".......oh......Discord was lying...Of course

Shining Armor noticed you cringing and gave you a smile, and even saluted. "Hey, don't sweat it little guy. Like Cadence said. They tried to make it look like it was you and your dad's fault. But I've gotten my sister's letters about what happened back in Ponyville, I know a little hero like you would never do something so terrible. Nah, you're royal guard material. Takes a lot of bravery to kick some changeling tail. Especially when you're saving somepony else's skin."

Cadence nodded and agreed "Yeah, but come on. Dropping school supplies and a blatant picture? Why would you even bring school supplies? They made it way to obvious"

Discord nodded "Indeed, what moron goes around carrying school supplies on a infiltration mission anyway? You'd think they'd bring actual tools for the job. Then again… I guess I would know as..." Discord rubs his paw on his talon finger,opening it up like a swiss army knife. "I'm always prepared for anything anyways."

Holy shit. HOLY SHIT...

You took a breath. It seems Discord had saved you from your initial screw up and shifted the blame to the changelings. Which… wasn't bad. Because fuck those guys. "...So...u-uhh..what exactly happened?"

Discord shook his head at you, and again gave you a pat as he gave you a gentle smile. "Nothing for you to worry about Anon. At this time, we we're actually discussing what must be done about all this. I mean..."

Discord looked up to the sky as a spotlight came upon him as he spoke in a dramatic tone "To try to destroy everything I have created. A loving home, a wonderful and brave son, and even amending bridges among the other ponies… why......why..." Tears stream down Discord's eyes ".....it's...truly dreadful" He says as he clenches his chest

Cadence walks up to Discord and gives him a pat in the back "Discord… It'll be ok. We understand what happened and we'll make sure you nor your son will be blamed for this..."

Shining Armor looked to his men with a very serious and militaristic expression "Ok everypony. Dismissed. We'll meet back in the throne room to discuss strategy." Shining Armor nods to them, and they all march inside the castle in two lines. Shining then looks to you "Hey, Anon. When you're older, if you ever want to try out for the Royal Guard here in the Crystal Empire. Look me up."

Shining then looks to Cadence, in which they share a kiss before he marches along behind his little army. Cadence then looks down at you. She was curious about you. The hero colt that when adopted, even started to turn Discord into such a kind and caring fellow. Or so she thought. "I hope you didn't get too scared Anon, I'm sorry if you did. I wasn't expecting your father to seriously teleport you."

Discord rolled his eyes "Please, as if you'd have taken my word for it."

"We would have, it's just you have to understand that it's a very delicate situation. Come on Discord, are you telling me you wouldn't be suspicious if somepony raided your home and left evidence that pointed to somepony you knew?"

Discord didn't even have to think about it, he responded immediately. "If somepony actually raided my home I highly doubt they'd be able to leave… at least not intact"

Cadence cringed at that. It must have not been a pleasant image to think. "Ahrm… anyway… Anon, again, our apologies"

Hmmm, you were out of trouble. And Cadence, she was genuinely sorry. But you couldn't help feel a little guilty about all this. Definitely not the fact that it seemed that the Changelings were gonna get rekt. But the fact you caused her any trouble at all. "It's alright ummmm....."

You acted ignorant of her name. "Sorry, I actually didn't catch your name. I was too surprised by everything"

Cadence gave you a warming smile, fitting of the princess of love "I'm Cadence, I'm actually Twilight's sister-in-law. I've come to understand she became your social worker and, given her letters, that you've caught her by surprise by not being a little hayraiser. And" Cadence giggles "Being real apparently."

Ahhh… you remembered that. Twilight couldn't believe you actually existed. Also. Now that you think about it. Thank god she never ever went to actually check if the orphanage was real. Discord must have still stayed on top of any letters Twilight sent to it. It was also nice she didn't introduce herself as a princess. Showed she didn't have an ego about it.

"It's nice to meet you Cadence.I haven't heard much about you. But just by meeting you, I can tell you're a really nice pony. Would you be my friend?" You give her the cutest look you could. If she said yes. Then you'd have less to worry about.

Cadence herself couldn't help but smile, no, more than that. She gave you a nice pet on the head, it was very gentle and loving. Just about as much as Fluttershy "I'd love to be your friend. And you don't have to worry about me falling for you. I'm already taken. Though I could see why you'd have filly troubles. You're not only heroic, but you are also very handsome."

Hahahaha… ohhh… geez. Yeah, you only heard a little blurb of that in the whole conversation. And you knew you weren't around to hear all of it. But that's what it seemed Discord used as your alibi. Filly troubles. Christ.

Cadence herself. Now that you didn't have to focus on getting a secret from her and pretending to be bookhorse. Was actually one sexy horse. One you wouldn't mind shacking up with if circumstances were different. You couldn't help but feel slightly embarrassed though. The whole relationship issue was a little blown out of proportion. "T-thank you. But uh, I don't think I'm ready for all that stuff yet. It's all super complicated. I just can't understand girls."

Cadence's joyous smile became a little more devious. "You will one day Anon. One day you'll make that one special mare very happy. And then they'll want to do this to you."

What? What did she mean by that? Why was she smiling like that? She didn't mean… "W-what do you mean?"

"Well. When two ponies like eachother, they generally do something like..." She quickly moved up to you and gave you a kiss on the cheek "this with each other"

HNNNNNNNNGGGGGGGGGG. You blush deeply and moved back. Even though it was just a cheek kiss. It felt like it was done by an expert. You were blushing deep red. "A-ahmmm"

Cadence couldn't stop giggling. Even Discord was having a chuckle from your reaction. You didn't say anything however. But you did feel embarrassed. Moreso by Discord joining in on the laughter. Why were you such a sperg? It was probably because you were some basement dwelling slob. Well… a former one anyway. "Come on, don't laugh. I-I mean. That was a low blow. Just kissing me like that."

Cadence stops her giggling to a titter, and goes back to a more gentle smile "I'm sorry Anon, I couldn't resist. But, if you ever need any kind of dating advice or help with girls. I don't mind talking about it with you, being the Princess of Love. It is my duty to help those in need in all matters of love. And besides, it's always been a talent of mine anyway"

"Actually Princess, me and my son really must be going. It is getting late. And I'm sure you have important work to do. What, with all this nasty changeling business" Discord, despite having a laugh. Didn't seem to want to stick around. Which was understandable. He just got away with what was essentially high treason. Well… you both got away with it anyway.

Cadence did know Discord was right. But she was feeling some sort of maternal instinct towards you. She couldn't explain it. But it was most likely due to her pregnancy. And it was true (not really) that the issue at hand did require attention. "You're right Discord. But my offer still stands. If you ever want to talk about dating Anon, you know where to find me. I'm sure your father can get you here no problem."

Part of her friendly offer was also due to the fact that she felt bad that you even needed to be summoned here. Or really, that Discord bothered to summon you there. For you however. You realized how really easy it was to befriend ponies. Especially thus far. It seemed as long as you were kind and cute and caught in the middle of circumstance that you could make friends with anybody. Except villains...

You nod to Cadence. "Ummm, I don't think I'll need that. But I would love just to hang out with you. And that other guy too. You're married to him right?"

Cadence nodded "Mhmmm. I'm sure he wouldn't mind hanging out." Cadence put a hoof to her belly, she was considering that offer as good practice at child raising. Any and all practice would be welcome. "When we get the chance, we can make a day out of it"

That didn't sound too bad. As long as they never found out the truth of what really happened anyway.

Discord did a simple bow "Well then, a pleasant day to you Princess, and if it comes to what I think it will be. Happy hunting"

"I hope, it doesn't come down to that. I really don't want there to be a battle or a war. I'm sure we'll find a proper solution to all of this."

You say nothing. No, you just wonder. coming into a full realization that Discord may have just started something pretty fucking big. Something that may have been beyond the scope of the show itself.

With goodbyes all around. Discord snaps his talons, and teleports you and himself back to the house. To the living room. Now that it was just you and him. You could actually talk about the situation proper. You wondered if within all of this if Discord was ever told the secret you were sent to learn.

Well… you were about to find out.

Chapter 83

You take a few steps forward. Yeah, definitely the house. You look back at Discord, he looked pretty pleased with himself. In fact, you felt that he should be. He made a damned good recovery from, what you could tell anyway, a gigantic fuckup that you yourself made me.

"That was pretty impressive Discord, amazing really."

Discord seemed a little surprised by this immediate response "Oh? No complaining, whining, or surprised reaction from my little Anon? You usually would have something to say that would indicate some sort of disapproval."

"Normally… But when I saw all the guards I thought that was it. But geez, you turned it all around. And we got away with it scott free"

"Oh. Well then. In that case. As much as I'd like to say, I can't take all the credit. None of this would have been possible without you. I didn't actually expect you to change back so soon. And dropping your saddlebag, with the picture inside? Anon, you don't have a knack for chaos. You actually have a true talent for it."

Dat praise. Unfortunately. As much as you wanted to accept it. It was all just an accident. "Yeah, about that. I didn't actually mean to drop my stuff. I was sorta cornered. So I threw my bag at Shining's face."

Discord floated over to you and gave you a genuinely gentle pat "Don't fret Anon, the great thing about chaos is that it doesn't matter if it was on purpose or accidental. Chaos is measured in the mayhem you cause. And..." Discord chortled and rubbed his paw and talons together, making an evil grin "You did cause enough mayhem to incite a battle… oh, I'm going to have to find out when it's happening and mark it on my calendar."

Huh, true. now that you thought about it. That's how chaos generally is. Though, you were just glad you got out alive. Oh, that secret! "Oh yeah! hey, I learned that secret you wanted to know!"

Discord was looking through a calendar he poofed up, looking through his "available" days. He didn't even look back at you. "Oh that? I knew about that for a long time. I didn't actually care if you found out or not"

"oh all rigg-WHAT?! THEN WHY DID YOU SEND ME OVER THERE?! I COULD HAVE BEEN KILLED!"

Discord poofed away the calendar and then turned to you with a half cocked smirk "Imprisoned actually"

"WHATEVER! WHAT THE HELL WAS THE POINT?!"

"Ahh, that's one of the few things that disappoint me Anon. You still have trouble figuring out even my most simple plans. This wasn't about the secret, this was about finding out how good you were at being sneaky, using that silver tongue of yours, along with that cartoon knowledge you have. And by my surprise, you manage to surpass all my expectations. Are you really going to be angry at me for doing a much better job than expected?"

Yes, but then no. Because at this point, it would just lead into the same old runaround. So, you just calm down with a sigh. "It's really hard to tell if I'm your friend or tool at times."

Discord shrugged with a smirk on his face "Why not both?"

Right… "uhhhhhggg.." You just lay down and cover your face with your forelegs.

Discord's smile turned into that of a melancholic expression as he lowered himself to ground level and looked at you with a dog like whine coming from his person. "What's the matter Anon? I did mean what I said, I am proud of you"

You raise your head a little, you were aloof about all this. "I know, don't worry about it. Just need to get over myself. Though, we'd probably get along a little better if you thought as me as your partner once and awhile."

"I do think of you as my partner, and as my friend, an up and coming trickster, a failure with fillies, and a tool. All rolled into one. I fail to see the issue here"

All rolled into one, huh? Well, at least he was honest.

You really REALLY needed to get over Discord's words putting you down. Discord was Discord. He had his own way of thinking and he never ever thinks of others feelings unless he tries or after the fact. And even then, it takes a beating in his head for him to get it. And even through it all, despite being called a "tool". He seemed genuinely enthralled in the fact you did more than what he expected, accident or not.

You slowly stand up, take a deep breath, and let your melancholic aura flow out of you. "Alright, I'm good with that. As long as you see me as some sort of equal. I've gone through a lot of shit just to keep up this little act Discord. So, thank you for that. I guess. So… what about the changelings then? What's going to happen to them?"

"Them? Anon, are you actually concerned for them?" Discord asked, with a cat like curiosity.

You shake your head, fuck no you didn't give a shit. "Nope, I was just curious. Fuck those guys man, there was nothing about them that I saw that even remotely hinted at them being good. I mean, hell. Their plan was to make everyone worried sick, then bum rush them. That's really low. Hell, I'll sit with you and watch the fight. We can make bets and everything."

"Oh that does sound like fun. But Anon, if you expect a bloodbath. Then you better be ready to be disappointed. Ponies are not vicious bloodthirsty creatures. They will probably only try to send them all to Tartarus, probably with a powerful sealing spell Alicorns seem to have."

You shrug. "Whatever, I just wanna see a good fight. Twilight versus Tirek was a little bit of a let down. But a good ole brawl of quadrapeds? I'm all for it."

"Interesting. I'll have to make a mental note of this." Discord smashes his paw into his head, grabbing his own brain and writing onto it with a quill "Anon has a lust for violence when dealing with "Villains"" After making his notation, he slams his brain back into his head. Then makes some minor adjustments. You step back and gag, some of his brain juice leaked on the floor. Gross.

"Yeah… and about that mental note. Don't think too much into it. It's really just, Well, since I live in Equestria now. Seeing bad guys not trying to ruin things for everyone else is sort of something that needs to happen. I never understood that really. It's clear she's a threat. But they just let her roam free and do whatever. In fact, I probably just did this world a favor. Yeah, hey. Actually. Now that I think about it. Snips and Snails mentioned something about being heroes. Discord, You're a powerful guy, why don't we just face off against any villains ourselves? You know, if they show up in Ponyville. We jump in and kick his ass"

"Tempting, But I'd rather Twilight and her friends do the heroics. Though, if they failed. THEN I wouldn't mind swooping in and taking all the glory."

"Heh, you just want to knock Twilight down a peg, don't you? What's up with that anyway? You really like to toy with her."

Discord brought a chair to himself and sat down, as suddenly all the lights go dark except for a single light shining on him. You even saw a subtitle appear under him. it read "Discord, Burn victim"

Discord closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and looked into… nothing… with a depressed look. "It all started long long ago. It was a Tuewednesday. The day between Tuesday and Wednesday that is totally not made up. I had woken from my stone prison and immediately began my campaign on chaos. But that dastardly Celestia, somehow aware of my presence, she had called upon her precious "Elements of Harmony" to try and stop me and-"

"Discord.....is this a retelling of the season 2 opener?"

"SHHHHHH!"

What the? You look around, you were… in an audience of Discords.

"Can't you see the poor fellow is telling his story?" One of the Discords hissed at you.

"Alright geez..."

"Ahrm, anyway, to continue" Said the main Discord. A subtitle appeared right under him again. "Discord, Wagon Accident Victim"

"...I thought it was burn victim?"

All the audience Discord look at you with disdain.

"ok ok.geez! I'll shut up"

"...as I was saying. Those evil elements… all except for Fluttershy of course, they wanted to stop what was ultimately harmless and innocent fun. So my plan was to warp their sensibilities and turn them into angry, hateful, greedy, lying, and disloyal little ponies. And then, let things take their course and eventually corrupt Celestia's perfect pupil. I wanted to break her, I wanted to show that no matter how much friendship and hope she had. That she could be broken down just like anypony else. THAT I WAS SUPREME! HAHAHAHAHAHA!" Discord cackled, outstretching his arms as he made a triumphant laugh.

He then immediately calmed down, stayed silent, and took a drink of water from a magically appearing cup. "But alas, there was one teeny tiny flaw in my dominance of the purple pony, and do you know what that was?"

Everything goes silent.

Discord looks over to you, with impatience "Well?"

Oh… you were supposed to say something?

"Uhhh, what was it?"

Discord sighed, then sighed again, then heavily sighed, then moaned, then fell silent, looking down, an expression of being ultimately crushed. "That Twilight, that pony. She somehow… SHE SOMEHOW. Ahrm... She somehow managed to avoid my influence for zero point zero zero zero zero zero zero zero zero zero zero zero zero zero one seconds more than I thought she would. And for that, she has earned my eternal attention of generally causing her chaos and disharmony. Of course, I still consider her a friend. But old grudges for me don't tend to die. You understand"

The discords in the audience started crying, clapping, some speaking to each other to how tortured a soul Discord was. You just put your hoof to your face. "...are you kidding me?"

A Discord, in a black suit and red bowtie walks up to you with a microphone and holds it to you. "Do you have anything to say sir?"

"Yeah, I do actually. That whole reason sounds like a heaping pile of bull*BLEEP*" You narrow your eyes. "...Did I just get bleeped?"

"Well of course, there are children watching." The Discord says. turning away, staring at seemingly nothing.

"...yeah, look. I'm saying. I think it's a little more than that. You're...he's...no..you're always touching her al-" You look down, you see a subtitle. It says "Anon, Chaos trainee/Discord's "Son"/Whiny baby who still hasn't got a clue/ Possibly dreams about Spike every night"

You start to speak in a sarcastic tone "..oh that's real funny, that's rich. Haha."

A subtitle is added "Humorless doodyface"

"Humorless doodyface?! That's it! Two can play at this game. You're not the only one who's good at insults!"

Discord just sat there as all the other copies disappeared. His ears started to perk up and grow as he looked at you with a cocky little sneer. "Oh really? Well then, I'll make it interesting. If you can insult me successfully, then I'll give you… this!" Discord holds up two cardboard wings, connected by a little strap.

What? "What's that supposed to be?"

"Wings, they work in the same way as the horn. Imagine it Anon, you could be a cute little Alicorn princess"

Woah, despite him insulting you. Being able to fly sounded pretty damned tempting. "And all I gotta do is insult you?"

Discord nodded "Yup! But, be warned, you only get one try"

You sit on your ass, and begin to think. What would be the best way to insult him?

AHA! You give Discord an evil grin. "You're gonna regret this "dad". Are you ready?"

Discord just sat daintily on his chair, and nodded silently. bouncing his dragon like foot up and down.

Here. We. Go.

You make the most retarded face you can and start walking about. "LOOK AT ME, I'M DISCORD, I THINK I'M SOME SUPER COOL BADASS BUT I'M ACTUALLY A MANCHILD WITH DUES EX MACHINA POWERS AND I STILL SOMEHOW FUCK UP EVERY TIME. OH NO, WHAT'S THAT OVER THE HORIZON? OH, CAN IT BE?! IT IS! IT'S LOVE AND FRIENDSHIP, HERE TO STICK ITS DICK UP MY ASS BECAUSE SOMEHOW EVEN THE EASIEST OF FRIENDSHIP LESSONS ESCAPE ME. BUT LET ME ACT LIKE A BADASS ANYWAY DESPITE THE FACT THAT I WAS EVEN SHIT AT HIDING THE FACT THAT I LIKE THIS SUPER COOL GUY NAMED ANON. OH FLUTTERSHY, I'M SORRY FLUTTERSHY, PLEASE DON'T BE MAD AT ME FLUTTERSHY, I'LL BE THE MOST GOOD, BIGGEST FUCKING PUSSY YOU'VE EVER SEEN. I'M MORE OF A PUSSY THAN RARITY'S FUCKING CAT. OH I DIDN'T MEAN TO MAKE YOU MAD FLUTTERSHY, HERE, TAKE THIS GIANT ROD AND STICK IT UP MY URETHRA FOR BEING SO WRONG FLUTTERSHY. OHHH, I'M SO SORRY FOR GETTING JEALOUS OVER A STUPID HIPPY. CAN YOU EVER FORGIVE ME, PLEASE FORGIVE ME, I CAN'T GO ON WITHOUT YOUR FRIENDSHIP. I'M SUCH A GIGANTIC CUCK"

Discord just sat there, he was silent and unmoving.

And you stood there, waiting.

Finally, he said something. "What's a cuck?"

Oh right, uhhh. You shrug. "You know, it's a guy who's like, subservient to a chick or something. While the chick goes over his head with other dudes. Or something like that. I never really looked it up."

"Ahhh, ok" Discord tosses the wings towards you "You win then, I certainly didn't expect that"

Score! Though Discord didn't look the least bit upset.

"I'm going to go hang around and spy on what's going on at the crystal empire. See if I can't get a time and date for when they actually go and invade the changeling nest. Perhaps maybe drop a hint on their current location. When I have the information I'll be sure to let you know."

You call out to Discord, you actually felt a little bad about what you said. And a little worried. He didn't say anything about it. Other than his question. "Hey wait! Discord. Look, don't take what I said seriously ok? I just got into a serious… thing. It doesn't mean anything really. We're still friends right?”

Discord gave you a nod, then laughed a short laugh "Of course we are. Despite the fact that I did in fact feel insulted. I am not taking it personally, not when I know I can simply get some payback later."

Well, that's a load off your mind. Still… "I'll be waiting for it you know, because I think I get it now Discord. You really just do what you do. You could probably make my tail burst into flames, and you'd still consider me your close buddy and friend. Just because, and I think I'm right about this, but, it's just because you just do things on a whim and-" Wait... You turn your head back. Good, your tail wasn't on fire. "Ahrm. And I just never got fully used to it. I mean, I always had the feeling. But damn man, you do gotta relax a little with it sometimes. I still have feelings. And I know you got them too. Think we can work on that a little? Buddy?"

Discord snorted a giggle "Pffft, as if. You're simply too much fun. Oh, and don't worry about me getting you back right now. There's better moments I can get my revenge. So, why don't you go out and enjoy the night air? And practice with those wings hmm? I'll be back when I feel like it… oh and I almost forgot"

Discord zapped a ray of magic on the floor. producing your saddle bag. "Here's your bag, if you want to check if your things are all there, then be my guest. You have fun Anon, try not to break any bones while I'm away"

"I'm smarter than that. I'll be fine. Just don't get caught sneaking around."

Discord snickered "Oh no, worried about that?" Discord then slowly turned invisible, each limb, eye, and even horns, slowly disappearing separately. "They'll never see me coming".

Discord then leaves in his usual flash of light. And hey! you got your saddle bag back. You also noticed your arm. Oh, you never took off the grappling hook. Huh, you wondered if anyone had noticed. Whatever, it's fine. You slip it off and prepare to put it in the saddle bag. Grabbing the cardboard wings with your teeth as well.

You open the saddle bag. And are immediately greeted with a boxing glove to the face. Knocking you flat on your ass.

As you regain your senses, you notice a note float downwards and lands on your nose. You adjust your eyes. And read it.

"We're even now"

Chapter 84

"We're even now?" You get up slowly, giving a rub to your face. "We're even now!?" You shake your head and raise your front right hoof in the air. "OH WE'RE NOT EVEN DISCORD. GETTING TIRED OF THIS SHIT. I SWEAR TO YOU, ONE DAY. I'M GONNA PRANK YOU SO DAMN HARD THAT YOU'LL HAVE TO-... TO..."

You sigh "...yeah… yelling to myself. Gotta, really stop. Hrnnn." You move over to the cardboard wings you dropped and look at them. "Could be another trap." You give them a nudge. Nothing "hrnnnnn"

You go over to your bag, and nudge it open again. Nothing happens. You peer into it. All of your stuff is there. Even the cash. But the photo wasn't. Cadence and Shining probably took it. That's fine. You had that copy up in your room. You grab your saddle bag. And look back at the cardboard wings. "...hnnnnn.."

You decide, against your better judgement, to pick them up again with your teeth. And toss them backwards and catch them with your back.

BAMMO! In a flash of light. You now had wings matching your coat. "Oh shit! Hey..." You try flapping them and moving them around. It's a lot easier to move them than the "Twilight" wings you had. You look at the grappling hook attached to your leg. "Guess I won't be needing you for awhile. Sorry Bonbon"

You look up at the ceiling door to your room. And began to wonder. "I wonder if these things even work" You start flapping, you flap softly, but you don't even lift off the ground. "Guess I need to flap harder. Let's see" You try flapping much harder than before, thinking it will create initial lift. Instead it just lifts you all the way to the door. You slam your head on it, then fall to the ground. "Gyahh! OWWW nggggh!"

You hold your head as you turn side to side and whine "Goddammit, that's it. I need to buy a helmet. I fucking swear. Gyahhh..." After some more tossing and turning. You decide to just go up to your door normally. And enter your room.

You look at your grappling hook. And then decide to take it off and put it to hang. You can see the map and horn on the bed. The horn was still unusable. So you take your map and put it in your saddle bag.

You then go to your portal door, and set it to the first setting. Ponyville. And step through.
It was night. The stars were out. the skies were clear. The air was cool. And nobody was around… Perfect for flying. "Ok, so doing this indoors was a bad idea. But now that I am outside. I have all this empty sky to fly in. No problem."

You stand at the ready and begin to flit your wings. "Here we go, here we go, here we go!" You lift off like a rocket "HERE WE GO!" You go straight up into the air. "WAAAAAHOOOO! THIS IS FUCKING GREAT! YAHHH!"

You started to curve on your trajectory and fall backwards, before you knew it you were now flying straight down. "YEEAHHHHHOHSHIT! AGH! HOW DO I TURN!?" You start falling like a rocket that failed . "SHHIITT! W-WAIT! GOT IT! AIRBREAKS GO!" You slam your hooves straight down, thinking that's going to stop you.

It doesn't… this isn't a cartoon you know. “FUCKSKFASDFJDSOLFJDS"

You slam straight into the ground and roll like a kicked ball before falling to your side. hurting and dizzy. "H-h-o-ohh… d-damn. G-g-g" It takes you a little while, but you manage to stand. shaking. You brush yourself off and then steady yourself. Remarkably. Your wings were fine. Magic wings don't break apparently.

"Ok, so, it's not as easy as it looks. Let's try. Not that fast. If I could at least hover." You start flapping slowly, and then carefully increase speed until you slowly lift off the ground. Hovering a few feet off the ground. "H-hahaha! I-I think I got it this time!" You try flapping a little harder, rising higher with each increase in speed.

"Yeah! Ok! Now, let's just try turning my body and get some horizontal movement going." You carefully lean forward, and then dart forward. Which then causes you to fall while moving forward. And then roll on the ground like a ball until you hit a bunch of trash cans.

STRIKE!

You were dizzy from that. Ugh, flying… flying was so much tougher than it looked. You might want to trade in Rainbow's flying promise into a training sort of thing. If she'd allow it anyway. This was ridiculous.

"Wow Nonny! That was really good! You managed to hit them all!" You heard a familiar giggling.

You look up, as your vision cleared. Pinkie was above you. With a big old smile. "P-ponk?"

She nodded, closing her eyes as her grin grew "Yep! You guessed right Nonny! You ok? You look a little dizzy"

A little dizzy? That's an understatement.

You shake your head, and begin to stand, you tumble a little. But Pinkie leans into your side to keep you straight "Watch it there Nonny! you don't wanna fall again. although, You're really good at it! You hit every last trashcan. If there was a record for it. You'd be number one!"

That was both amusing and insulting. But it was Pinkie just being Pinkie.

"I didn't mean to crash into those trashcans. I was actually practicing to fly. Wait, you aren't surprised that I have wings now?"

Pinkie shook her head "Nope, doesn't surprise me one bit. Doesn't surprise me that you just stepped into Ponyville from out of nowhere either. If I had to make a guess, I'd say… Discord, right?"

Perceptive. Or it was just that obvious.

You nod. "Yeah, it was him. I actually just got these. I thought flying would be easy. I guess not."

"Well, you could always ask Rainbow Dash for help! She's the greatest flier in Equestria! She owes you a flight-thingy doesn't she?"

Yeah, that's just what you were- hold on...

You narrow an eye at Pinkie, how the fuck. ".....how...how do you know about that?"

Pinkie giggled "That's easy Nonny! She told me about it. She's my friend after all. Friends tell each other things."

Right

"Oh...."

And with that Pinkie moves super close to you, bringing her face to yours and yelling "Nonny! Guess what!?"

WHAT THE FUCK?! Geez! You got startled there, you moved back some from her darting so close. "U-ummm… I dunno"

"You're not even gonna guess?" Pinkie looked disappointed in you not joining along.

"Uhhhhh, I dunno Ponk. Uhhhh. You got a new balloon? something?"

Pinkie shook her head "No silly! This is about your party! I figured out what the theme is. In fact, I got your whole party planned out in my head!"

Well shit, that was quick. And made you curious. It was probably something childish. But hey, It's Pinkie. so It's no doubt also endearing. "What is it?"

Pinkie screeched and jumped in excitement "SUPER AWESOME ORPHANAGE PARTY! I got it all planned out. We invite your new friends, some random ponies, and all your old friends… no, ALL the ponies from your old orphanage! We mix and mingle, party games, food and drinks, all sorts of fun! And hopefully at the end. Not only will everypony will have had fun! But there might even be adoptions all around! Hehehe! Happy fun and families all around! Isn't that the greatest idea ever!"

Your pupils shrink, oh… oh no… nonononoono. " C-come again?"

She repeats herself. In the exact same fashion.

"O-oh. That's… That's what I thought you said."

NO. FUCK NO. THERE WAS NO ORPHANAGE! HOLY SHIT. MAYDAY, MAYDAY! ALERT ALERT! Shit. You couldn't even imagine what would happen if Pinkie found out. If she did, she'd tell Twilight. And then...

"P-ponk. Uhhh, I actually don't think that's a good idea. I'd rather it just be a small party. Or rather. How about we just forget the party. And uhhhhh. I dunno. Do something else? Maybe?"

"Something else?" Pinkie was confused, she was sure you'd love that idea "But Nonny. Everypony likes a party. And your old and new friends would all be there. Isn't that great? ...Nonny?" Pinkie started to feel a sense of despair. This was different. She never ran into someone so young who didn't want one of her parties.

You cringe. All she wanted to do was do you right. And give you an awesome party. But you knew you couldn't let her do it. "I'd uh. What I meant to say was. How about a party that doesn't involve the orphanage. It can still be fun"

Pinkie was confused, but, it only took her a moment to come to her own realization. "Anon… Don't you have any friends from the orphanage?"

Oh shit. She called you by your actual name. You had no choice. You had to lie to her. If you didn't. You were fucked. You looked into those sad, beautiful blue eyes. They were filling with tears. Friendlessness. At least to Pinkie, must have been a fate worse than death.

You'd have to get over it. This lie was just to deter her. It wasn't to manipulate her. It'll be fine. That's what you tell yourself. "Yeah..."

You look down, and make the most depressingly, terribly, emotionally, sad expression you can make. "I never made any friends. Everypony there. They hated me. They called me a loser. That I'd never amount to anything. They bullied me. Not one pony ever came to help me. Not even the adults. Every one of them just let me suffer. I sometimes wouldn't even eat because I was so lonely. They even tricked me into friendship. And when I was at my most happiest. They tossed rocks at me and told me I was stupid to believe I'd ever have a friend… And then. Well, Discord happened. I guess he saw something in me they didn't"

Perfect, right out of some edgy OC story.

Maybe too perfect. Pinkie couldn't contain herself. She broke down hard. She was crying. Maybe your story was a little too edgy. It poked a hole right in her mane. It began to deflate.

"T-t-tnnmmnnbb.. t-tha...WAHHHHHH!!!!" She couldn't even speak.

You monster. Even if what you said had some semblance of truth. But only some. "P-ponk. H-hey, it's alright. I mean, ever since I came to Ponyville. Things got better for me. I have friends, a family, and all that good stuff. It'll be fine. We can come up with something else."

You felt like a heel. Seeing her cry for you like that. It made you feel a little sick in your stomach. No matter what, chaos really did seem to follow you wherever you went.

Pinkie couldn't stop. The very idea that anypony was treated that horribly. Especially so young. Hit her at her core. You needed something sappy. And while you did come up with something. It wasn't a lie. It was something you felt was true.

"Ponk… please don't cry" You try hugging onto her "I'm really happy now. I'm happy I've got new friends. I'm happy that I'm in a good home. And you Ponk, I only ever met you once before. And you remembered our nick names. And you spent all that time just wanting to throw me a party and make me smile. You saw me as a friend the moment you laid eyes on me. Ponk, I can honestly say. That I never felt such a wonderful feeling. Even if it was initially a li-" You cut yourself off from saying "little creepy". "Ahrm. Anyway. Ponk, to me, you really are best pony. Ponyville is my home. And I'm glad for the friends I have"

Pinkie must have heard that. Her sobbing started to slow. She turned a little to face you. And embraced you in a hug as she sobbed slowly. Her mane didn't puff back up though. "Nonny, if you ever ever ever ever ever ever need a friend. At anytime. I'll be there. You just come to Sugarcube Corner and ask for me. And I'll be there in a jiffy."

You felt guilty, you had to hide your face in her side. You just guilt tripped your way into getting closer with your favorite pony. This was not at all how you'd imagined it. There was no fun to be had, no endless parties and cake. But what else could you do? You couldn't let her reach the orphanage that never actually existed. And she was still hurting inside, completely wrapped up in your story. "Thanks Ponk..."

"Hey Nonny" Pinkie hugs you a little more firmly, she wipes her tears, and looks up to the sky. "Do you have any dreams that you ever wanted to come true?"

It sort of already did. You were in Equestria. And although you couldn't have your waifu as a wife. She was at least your friend. "It already came true Ponk. I'm just happy to be here, for better and for worse."

Despite those words, you couldn't shake your guilt. Though, after those words. You could feel Pinkie's mane slowly inflating around you. "That makes me happy Nonny. Do you want to know my dream?"

You did, whatever Pinkie's dream was. You could bet it was really uplifting. "Sure Ponk"

"Well, my dream is to make everypony in Equestria happy. And for there to be no more fighting or meanness or bad feelings. I even want the bad guys to smile, to be happy, and for everypony to be friends with everypony else. Twilight told me once that it was a very nice dream, that she would like everypony to be friends too. But she also said that some ponies don't want to be friends, and just want to do bad things. I guess that makes my dream kind of silly huh?"

THAT BITCH! YOU'LL GRIND HER TO DUST FOR SHATTERING PINKIE'S DREAM LIKE THAT.

You raise your head, no, that wasn't silly. That wasn't silly at all. Not from her! "No Ponk! That's the best dream anypony could ever dream. I think it's the sweetest thing I've ever heard." Or at least, the most genuine, considering who it came from.

Pinkie giggled a little from your words. You wondered what she found funny. Though, you were also glad she was ok. "What's funny?"

Pinkie nuzzled you close to her, and smiled "You know Nonny? You're really weird. I've seen you a lot of times. I've been trying to learn about you the best I can. And I know you can be a bit of a potty mouth, and cause a little trouble. But that's what's really neat about you. Because you also try to do the right thing. You saved a filly, you got Rarity a whole bunch of those gem thingies, and you actually think my dream is a good dream. You're a good pony. And super unique. You've even made Discord a nicer guy. That's some serious cupcake points!"

Cupcake points. hahahaha, that's cute. hrn. You know, that wasn't all a lie. Despite the hero thing being false. You did do those other things. And, despite Discord being a douche. He was being nicer. At least to you… sometimes.

You felt better, if probably only from Pinkie's cuddles and endearing praise. "So Nonny, I guess I'll ask you this then. Do you want a party at all? I don't want you to feel pressured into having one. We can just hold off if you really want to. And then, when you do want a party. You can come to me, and we'll plan the most awesomest party ever! Whatever you want it to be, and anypony you want to invite, I'll make it happen! So you better go make more friends, ok! That way we can make the party super duper huge!"

Goddamn Ponk. You hold your tears in. But you couldn't help yourself in the snuggling department. You cuddled like no tomorrow "O-ok Ponk. The moment I want a party, I'll let you know."

Pinkie smiled a smile that could illuminate the sun. She then took a look around, and sniffed. and caught something awful. " Oh… and Nonny?"

"Y-yeah Ponk?"

"I think we should get up now, it's kinda stinky with all the garbage you knocked around"

...Oh shit. You raise your head, you didn't notice the garbage cans you knocked over spilled garbage,

"Right."

You both decide to get up and clean up the immediate area. You may have been a little dirty minded. But actually dirty? Nah, fuck that.

"So whatcha gonna do now Nonny? Are you gonna try flying again?"

You nod. "Yeah, I just wanna get a little more practice in. I think I at least got hovering down. Here, see?" You flap your wings at the speed that got you off the ground. Hovering in place. "See? I just kind of have problems..." Suddenly, your wings change back to cardboard. "...moving? ...oh no"

You fall, head first to the ground. You put your front hooves downwards and close your eyes and prepare for the usual impact. But you don't hit the ground. You instead feel yourself get caught. And hugged onto a warm belly.

"Woooo that was a close one!" You open your eyes. Pinkie had flipped onto her back and caught you.

...Praise be Pinkie, You didn't want to suffer another hit. And dat belly. It was soft and warm.

"Thanks Pinkie." You look to your back. Yep, cardboard. You sigh. "Well, that's great. I guess the wings can only be on me for a certain amount of time too."

Pinkie thought to herself, then she carefully put you on her front hooves and held you up, and made wooshing noises.

Uhhhhhh… "Ponk, what are you doing?"

"I'm letting you fly again silly! So you can get that little extra practice you wanted!"

That was. Ugh… yeah, it was stupid. But, you felt your heart whine from that too. She was just trying to cheer you up. Yeah fuck it.

You put your legs out, and close your eyes, and pretend to fly. "Wooooooosh, wooosh!"

Pinkie giggled and joined along with you "Woooosh Wooosh!"

This went on for a little while longer before you felt a little too silly and asked to be put down. You looked up to the sky. The moon was up. It was time to go, you were getting tired. "Ponk, I think I'm gonna go. But, thanks for hanging out with me. And thanks for being my friend."

Pinkie couldn't help herself, she couldn't stop grinning. "You're really really welcome Nonny! Also, this is gonna sound weird. But I hope you don't get your Cutie Mark before we throw your first party."

That was a weird thing to say. "Why not? Wouldn't that be a thing to celebrate?"

Pinkie nods "Exactly, and with all the other things we haven't celebrated yet. I don't think I could contain myself. I'd be throwing a party right there, right then. Everypony would be invited."

Pinkie was really serious about this. Then again, you don't think she's ever had to hold off throwing a party. Especially for not so many reasons TO throw one. She was obsessive, no doubt.

"Well" You chuckle. "I guess we'll just have to see. But I'll brace for fun impact in case I suddenly get my Cutie Mark. Or my birthday. Right?"

Pinkie snickered sneakily "Ohhhhh, I was hiding that one in case that would have to be the reason I would at least have to throw a birthday party. You're pretty smart Nonny! But remember" Pinkie looked at you seriously, and poked your small chest fluff "Everypony at least gets one… no exceptions… ever" Pinkie giggled "Well, I guess if you were super evil that'd be the exception. But otherwise" She goes serious again and pokes you "No exceptions"

You laugh at that. "I gotcha. You take care Ponk, and pleasant dreams."

"You too Nonny! Oh, and if you want to know. Your wings were flashing for a little bit before they changed to cardboard"

They did? Well, you never looked back to notice. You'll have to remember the amount of time you generally kept them on as well. Or maybe… use your horn to make the transformation permanent on command. Yeah, fuck off Discord. You were going to have near perma wings. For sure.

You thanked Pinkie, and both had a big huge hug moment before Pinkie bounced back home. You walk to the fountain with that happy looking purple stone pony. And grab your map. Tossing it into the water. And return home.

Tomorrow was another day. As you thought about it. You wanted to hang out with Lyra and Bonbon again. But also wanted to get some flight training. Well, you could get both tomorrow. Rainbow Dash can't just avoid you if she wanted to since she owed you something. Well, you didn't know if she would. But you had a promise to cash in either way.

There was also the CMC. Tomorrow was going to be kind of busy. You also wanted to hang with Pinkie again too. Maybe you could get her to come with you to Bonbon's so all four of you could hang. She most likely knows them. Though, you wondered if she knew of Agent "Sweetie Drops".

As for you and Discord. You weren't super mad at him. And wanted to hang with him too. But, he was more of the shot caller whenever it came to that. Though, he better keep his word on him and you watching bugbutt get royally kicked. You wanted front row seats for that.

You stretch, hang up your saddle bag and hop into bed. Tomorrow really would be another day.

Chapter 85

The morning comes. Or whatever time it was. Your alarm didn't go off, it wasn't set. Discord's alarm didn't go off, it wasn't school. So you get a good night's rest.

You open your eyes slowly and yawn. "...uhmmmm, yeaaahh, I feel good" You roll off the bed, and stretch. "Time for a fun day, fun fun fun. Lesse, CMC first. Then see if I can get Ponk to join me with Lyra and Bonbon. See if I can work Fluttershy in there." But then, a certain something comes to mind. "Oh yeah, almost forgot!"

You grab your horn, and slap it on your head. Then toss your cardboard wings onto the bed.
"Time for perma wings… wait" A thought occurs "Why just perma wings? I could probably make the horn permanent too. I wonder if that'd make me more powerful than Twilight or Celestia."

You nod to yourself. "Ok, let's do this. ALRIGHT, WINGS AND HORN THAT I ADORN! BECOME LIMITLESS FOREVER MORE!" You figured you didn't actually need any actual magic words. But, whatever. You tossed it in for good measure.

Your horn started to glow erratically. "Ohhh shit, it's happening! It's HAPPENING!" The horn blasted a beam directly at the wings, then back to the horn.

You weren't sure if anything happened. "Huh… Did it work?" Before you could try using another spell. The horn glows again and lets out a giant bubble that hovers in front of you. Discord slowly becoming visible within it.

"Hello? Hello? hrnn, I can't tell if I'm actually recording this. Buuuuut, Anon. If you are seeing this then that means you tried to bypass my limiters that I put on your magical items. Now I can't be mad since I'm simply a recording. But I can tell you that it didn't work. But don't fret, your horn will still have it's charge so you don't feel cheated. Oh, and one last thing. This message bubble will self destruct in zero point ze-"

Before you even had time to react, the bubble explodes violently. Leaving you in black soot all over the front of your body. You spit out some smoke, and cough as you wave your hoof in the air. "D-dammit..." You cough. "Fucking Discord. mnn, well. At least my horn still works."

You cough again and start rubbing the soot off with your hooves, patting yourself off. It takes a little while. But you do a decent job. "I wonder if he's here. Probably is."

You open your floor door and look down into the living room. "Discord? You around?" No answer, but you spot a bowl of oatmeal on a small table and a note. Must be breakfast.

You walk down the invisible gravity stairs. And stare at the bowl. Like all his other food. It looked legit. Smelled of sugar and cinnamon. Yum.

You take a look at the note. The note read as follows "Anon, If you are wondering where I am. I am hiding around Twilight's castle. All four princesses are around and having a rather serious sit down on what to do about the changelings now that "They have become more active and vicious". How droll. You don't need to come if you don't want to. I don't mind. But if you wanted to meet Princess Luna, now is your chance. I should have a date on when they will strike down on the changelings by the end of the day. See you soon, or later. Or whenever. - Discord"

Meet Luna huh? "Noooooope." You crumple the letter and toss it. The princesses were obviously doing something important. And you really had no reason to see Luna, despite curiosity. And besides, you being there would only be a risk. No, you'd just continue on as planned.

You eat your breakfast, and leave the bowl on the table as you walk back into your room. You remove your school supplies from the saddlebag. and pack in the horn and wings. The horn, you had a charge in it for the day. You wondered what you would use it on. You open the portal door and step through. And head over to the clubhouse.

You wondered what crazy plan they'd have for you today. You also knew Diamond Tiara and even possible Silver Spoon would be there. As long as the whole break up thing went through as smoothly as it seemed. Then there shouldn't be too big an issue. Though the idea of two females fighting over you was a little enticing. But eh, that ship had sailed.

But as you begin the pass by the farm and to the clubhouse. Something in the in between catches your eye. "What the fuck?"

There was some sort of Boxing ring set up. Two tents on two sides. And even some bleachers. Though there was. Wait… was that Lyra sitting on one of the benches? It was. No Bonbon though. There was also a few ponies you didn't know with hard hats.

Curious, you approach the ring. And as you get closer. You notice another familiar, but much smaller, animal on the benches. Angel. The hell was going on?

As you walk closer, Out of one of the tents is Sweetie Belle, the moment she notices you she waves her hoof to flag you down.

Whhhaaattt the fuuuuuuuccckkk is ggoooiinnggg ooonnnn

It seemed Lyra and Angel hadn't noticed you. They seemed to be waiting patiently for something. You hesitantly head over to the tent Sweetie Belle was at. She goes inside as you draw near. You reluctantly enter the tent. In it were Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, Diamond Tiara, and Silver Spoon… but no Applebloom.

"G-girls? What's all this? What's going on? What's with the fighting ring outside? Is something important going on? Where's Applebloom."

"Woah, calm down Anon. One question at a time." Scootaloo said, unable to keep up.

"If you're wondering what's this all about. Well, it's got to do with getting your cutie mark." Sweetie Belle said.

You look around, there was a punching bag hanging, and some weights, and all that stuff meant for training. Da fuuuuuck? "What does this all have to do with getting my Cutie Mark? How did you even get all this stuff here?"

Diamond Tiara stepped up, with a proud smile on her face "That would be me. I asked Daddy if he could have some of his workers set this all up. We couldn't get a trainer though, so we we're going to try training you. But, we're almost out of time to even try all of this out"

All of what out? What the fuck? Were they going to have you fight? This was all really elaborate. "Diamond, was this your idea? Are you girls going to have me fight somepony or something"

Then Silver Spoon spoke up, pointing to herself with a little pride "Actually, having you fight was my idea. I thought about how you saved Diamond Tiara from two stallions. And I thought, well. Nopony could ever do that. And that means that's special. And you know what that means right?"

Special talent. Ahh fuck. It always goes back to that doesn't it? You already knew you couldn't really fight. Or maybe Shining was just better than most. Still though. Where was Applebloom? "It means it could be my special talent. Yeah, that's pretty smart thinking."

Silver Spoon nodded with a proud smile. "I thought so too. Though I couldn't have gotten any of this done without Diamond Tiara. She got it all to totally happen."

"Well, when you’re rich. You just have this certain way of getting things done." Diamond Tiara chuckled to herself.

You looked to Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo "So, what did you guys do? Where's Applebloom?"

"What did we do? Ha! Something just as important. Me, Sweetie Belle, and Applebloom managed to get you the perfect opponent and get the permission to set the ring up here by the farm. Without us, we'd have nowhere to fight and no opponent to fight"

"Oh! and Applebloom is in the other tent ,Anon" Sweetie Belle said, giving you a pat on your back "I hope you're ready."

Hope you're ready?! What the hell! You just got here and they already expect you to fight?!

"I can't fight Applebloom! She's a girl! You're not supposed to hit girls!" Or to be exact, you’re not supposed to hurt girls who are family to ponies who might beat the shit out of you for it.

Sweetie Belle giggled "What? You're not gonna fight Applebloom."

You weren't? Then who? "Who am I fighting then? I mean, did you guys stop to think maybe I shouldn't be fighting at all?"

They all look at eachother, and give you a collective no. Of course.

"Right..."

You sigh, so. The first thing you were going to do for the day… was fucking fight. This was really really unexpected. What if you got clobbered? or if you clobbered whoever you were fighting? Dammit… hopefully your opponent was Snips or something.

"Ok....then who am I fighting?"

"Applebloom's brother, Big Mac. But don't worry Anon, He's been training not to demolish you. To keep things fair." Scootaloo gave you a confident smile "You'll do fine if you just fight him like you did those two other guys,"

"And don't worry if you have an easy time. Big Mac is also training with Applejack to fight harder if you fight harder. That way you won't beat him easily either!" Sweetie Belle gave you a cheer "Yeah! You'll do fine!"

BIG MAC?! FUCKING BIG MAC?! HOW THE FUCK WERE YOU EVEN GOING TO HURT HIM?! HE WAS GOING TO TURN YOU TO PASTE! Well, he would if this was a serious fight. Still, you didn't know if he'd still hurt you or not.

You gulp. "S-sure. So, if Applejack is a part of this too. How did, well. What exactly did you three say to convince them to make this happen?"

"Oh that's easy Anon" Scootaloo said with a smirk "I actually came up with the idea"

"Well, what is it then?"

"Simple, we offered to help with the farming for a whole month. Well, me and Sweetie Belle anyway. Applebloom already does farm stuff. We are all pretty sure this is gonna get you your cutie mark."

Sweetie Belle cringed at Scootaloo's words "Yeah… we hope so anyway. I'm not exactly keen on farm work if it turns out this was all for nothing. But" She sighs "We have our own Cutie Marks now, which means we have a new responsibility. So, we gotta do whatever we gotta do to help anypony get theirs too"

Ohhhh, god. Sorry Sweetie Belle. But that was probably most definitely was going to happen. But then…

"Wait..." You turn to Diamond Tiara and Silver spoon "You guys aren't part of the farm work thing?"

Silver Spoon shook her head "Are you kidding? That's backbreaking labor you're talking about. I'm not doing that!"

Diamond cringed a little, it didn't dawn on her that she essentially dodged a bullet at the cost of her new friends having to suffer "Y-yeah, daddy was nice enough to get this done for us. But I don't think he'd want me doing farmwork for a month. Not without being paid at least."

Diamond's reason was better than Silver Spoon. Probably still bullshit. But it was clear Silver Spoon was a slacker. But...you had bigger things to worry about. "So when's the fight then? Can I get a little time to check things out?"

"Sure! We'll go tell Applebloom that you're not quite ready yet." Sweetie Belle said.

Scootaloo held up some sports shorts, kind of like boxer shorts to you. "Oh, and put this on. Since you're gonna be fighting. You're gonna need fighter shorts. I dunno if they're clean or not though. They came with the tent."

Gross? Maybe. Hopefully not. You reluctantly take the boxer shorts. "So is your dad actually here Diamond?"

She shook her head "He wanted to be, He's been wanting to talk to you for a while now actually. But he's been busy. And he doesn't want to bother you."

Busy dad. But at least he cared about Diamond more than that bitch of a mom. You look at the boxer shorts in your hooves. And take a sniff. Smelled clean. Ok.

As you start to put them on. You notice that four pairs of eyes were staring at you. "Uhhhhh, some privacy please?"

"Oh, uhh. Right right. Umm. We're gonna go see Applebloom now. When you're ready, just call for us. haha" Sweetie Belle was blushing when she said that.

In fact, all of them were. As they exited. You realized how initially stupid it was to ask for privacy for just putting on shorts. Especially since you were already naked. But then again, things like this happened in the show too.

You wondered if the "Ponies are sexier with clothing" thing from the board was actually true. Then it dawned on you. Holy shit, did they all get lewd thoughts or something?!

You nod to yourself. "Yeah, I'm sexy and I know it" You chuckle as you put on the boxer shorts, and peer outside the tent.

Those ponies in hard hats must have been the ones who set up the fighting ring. But then there was Lyra and Angel. You were curious as to why they were there. You step out to talk to them. Well, talk to one of them. With Angel it'd be near one sided.

The moment Lyra notices you she smiles happily and waves and yells. She was sitting… oddly humanish. "Anon! Anon! over here!"

You walk over to her, and smile at her as you greet her. "Yo Lyra, uhhhh. What are you doing here? It's kind of weird just to see you randomly like this."

"Oh, well. I was going to see Bonbon. But when I got to her house. There was a note on her door. It happens sometimes. She goes and does "Things"."

"What kind of things?"

Lyra realized she probably shouldn't have said that "o-oh, you know. Mare things… that mares do. um. But uh. Yeahhhh. Since she wasn't there, I had a lot of free time. So I thought I'd give my friend Pinkie Pie a visit, since the train to Canterlot is down and all. But when I saw her, she was running over here for some reason. So I followed her and saw alllllll of this! So I just decided to sit down and see what happens. No idea where Pinkie went."

Huh, so she had no idea what this was all about. "So, you don't know anything that's going on?"

Lyra shook her head "Nope! And, ohhh, those are some snazzy shorts. Is this some sort of fashion thing? If it is! I already vote for you! I just need to know where to vote!"

You giggle, cute as ever. A little more ignorant than Pinkie too. You also wondered where Pinkie was, since apparently she came here in a rush. "No, it's actually some sort of fight, or spar. Or something. I'm gonna be fighting a pony named Big Mac"

"Oh! I know him. But, Anon, if you're gonna fight him? How do you plan to win? Actually. Why is a colt fighting a stallion? That seems pretty wrong."

"I think it's more of a spar really. I don't think any serious fighting is going on. It's just a plan to get my cutie mark."

"Ohhhhhhhhhhhh, I get it. Well, you can count on me to root for you! I'm really good at that. But don't get distracted by it. I wouldn't want you to lose due to my hopping around."

Awww. "Thanks Lyra, and thanks for coming. I dunno if I need the support. But it's definitely appreciated."

Lyra giggled. "There you go sounding like an adult again!" She gives you a pat "I'd say not to grow up too fast, but in this case. It could actually help you in this fight. Ahh, I'm sure nothing bad will happen. And if it does. It'll be on your opponent! Good luck Anon!"

You couldn't help but smile. She was a real sweetie. And cute. "Thanks again Lyra."

You then walk over to Angel, you weren't enthused to see him. Why was he even here? How did he even know to come here? Hmm. Unless you wasted your horn to understand him. You'd probably never find out. Still… "Shouldn't you be at Aunt Fluttershy's?"

Angel shrugged, he had a small cup with him with an orange liquid. Carrot juice?

"I'm not gonna even bother to ask how you knew to come here. But, why are you here?"

Angel smiled at you. He pointed at Big Mac's tent. Then pounded his paw into his other paw, then pointed at you. You understood that. That was universal for "I came to see you get knocked the fuck out"

You groan. "I should have known. Whatever, you don't know if I'm gonna lose. I could very well win this thing, you know?"

And at the end of that sentence. Angel started to laugh. And laugh hard. He was rolling around in uncontrollable laughter. Cocksucker...

Fine, whatever. Who knows how this was going to go. Who knows. You might actually get your Cutie Mark in this. You couldn't use any cheap tactics obviously. No nutsack hitting. Big Mac didn't deserve it.

Besides the farmwork thing. You could also only think that the Apples are also doing this for the same reason they were. To help you with a Cutie Mark. No doubt they knew about the incident as well. Probably agreed to also make sure the fight wouldn't get out of hand, or hoof in this case. But this was all speculation.

You climb up to the ring and stand at the center. And call out to Sweetie Belle and the others to let them know you're ready. Who you could presume were your team. Since Big Mac got his siblings on his side.

You took a breath, and stood at the ready. Hopefully. You weren't going to get laid out. Maybe you could win? As you wait. You drop your saddlebag to a corner, and begin hopping from side to side, and try thrusting your front hooves forward as you balance on your back hooves. Not as easy as it looks.

After a little shadow boxing. Big Mac's tent opens, Sweetie Belle,Diamond Tiara, Scootaloo, and Silver Spoon stepping out and moving behind the ring where their tent was. Following them, was the Apples. All of them. Even Granny Smith.

Big Mac had his own set of fighting shorts. And given his expression. He seemed pretty reluctant to fight you.

"Remember Big Mac, he's just a little fella. Ah know he beat two stallions and all. But there ain't no way he can take one of yer hits. Be gentle with him" Applejack warned her brother.

"Yeah! And uh. Try not to step on him either. Anon is kind of jumpy." Applebloom gave caution.

"Why are ya both tellin him to be careful? Do ya see that bear? One wrong step and it'll tear him limb from limb!" Granny Smith hollered.

"Uhhh, Granny Smith. Big Mac ain't fighting ah bear. That's a colt" Applejack said, bobbing her head towards you to show Granny Smith to where she should look.

"Hrrnnnn… I coulda sworn it was a bear. Why is Big Mac fightin a youngin' again?" That don't seem right fair"

"It's not really a fight Granny Smith. It's more of a friendly tussle. We're just helpin' the fella earn his Cutie Mark. Applebloom and her friends brought up ah pretty good point. Beatin two varmints is pretty special." Applejack said, she too was pretty impressed by your false victory.

"Eeyup!" Big Mac said, agreeing with her.

"Well, ah guess. Seems a little one sided to me. But I'm always willin' to watch a friendly tussle. Let me just go get mah rockin' chair."

"I'll get it for you Granny Smith!" Applebloom cheerily said as she jumped into the tent to get her chair.

Big Mac stepped into the ring, and stood before you at the ready. He didn't say anything really. Just towered over you.

This… was gonna be a hell of a fight.

Chapter 86

"So… uh, what now?"

Big Mac shrugged and looked back at his family.

"Where's Pinkie Pie? Wasn't she supposed to be the ref?" Applebloom looks around, but sees not one pink hair around anywhere. So Pinkie was the ref?

You look back at your team. "You guys didn't see Pinkie at all?" They all shrug

"Maybe she's in the bathroom." Scootaloo said "I could go and look"

"YAHOOOO!" You heard the loud screech of Pinkie explode through the air around you.

Wait, the air around you? You all look up, and see Pinkie coming in from the sky. There were cut balloon lines behind her. The fuck?!

"PINKIE! WHAT IN TARNATION ARE YA DOIN?!" Applejack yelled, her mind racing and kicking into emergency gear to set up a rescue.

"FALLING!" She cries out in glee

Everyone was gasping. Even you. What the fuck was she doing?!

Applejack jumped into the ring and positioned herself under Pinkie's trajectory. "Big Mac! Get ready to catch her! Darn it Pinkie! What were ya thinkin'"

You step back away from them. This was actually really worrying. "Why would she do this? I don't even see a parachute on her!"

"She probably thought she had one, ya ready Big Mac?" Applejack keeps him at the ready

Big Mac nodded and readied himself "Eeyup!"

"WOOOOHOOOO! I'M GONNA DO A CANNONBALL!" Pinkie yelled as she rolled into a ball and began to spin.

"PINKIE! WHAT ARE YOU DOING?! YOU DON'T HAVE A PARACHUTE!" Applejack cried out

"I KNOW!" Pinkie laughed a huge audibly loud giggle of mirth.

Applejack and Big Mac made slight adjustments as they prepared to catch her. "Steady Big Mac, we only got one shot"

Some of the ponies close their eyes. You couldn't stop watching. What was she doing?! Right before impact. Pinkie positions herself headfirst towards the ground. And begins to spin her tail rapidly like a helicopter. "I HOPE EVERYPONY IS READY FOR THE MAIN EVENT! ANON Vs. BIG MAC! WOOOO!"

But nopony was cheering, they were fucking scared to death that she was gonna turn into a pink pancake. But she doesn't. She slows down to a near stop. And gently plants her hooves down on the ring. Then looks over to the now shocked Applejack and Big Mac as she unties the cut balloon lines. "Applejack? I didn't know this was a two on one. Is this because Anon beat up two guys?"

"two gu- PINKIE! DID YOU GO PLUM CRAZY OR SOMETHIN'! WHAT WAS ALL THAT?! WHY'D YOU DIVE IN FROM THE SKY!" Applejack was both angry and worried on Pinkie's thinking that it was ok to dive in from the sky.

"Well, I thought it'd be pretty neat. Since it's not only Anon getting his Cutie Mark, But the first time just about any of us has seen Big Mac do any actual fighting. I wanted to make a big showy entrance!"

Applejack put her hoof to her forehead as she tried to calm down "Sugarcube, yer not a pegasus. You mind not doin that ever again? You scared us all to near death"

Pinkie looked around, looking at all the shocked faces. "...Oh. I guess I overdid it huh?"

Applejack sighed, and gave Pinkie a pat on the back "Ya did, but the important thing is that yer ok. Now ya better do what ya do best because everypony is lookin pretty darn spooked about all that."

Pinkie nods "Gotcha! Don't worry, I know how to win over a crowd."

Christ… you should have remembered she could do that. But still, at that speed? Pinkie could be a goddamn Alicorn without the horn and wings at this point.

Applejack left the ring as Pinkie got to the center. She tilted her head forward, dropping a small microphone from her mane as she catches it with her hoof and gives it a spin before turning to the audience, or what’s little of them. "FILLIES AND GENTLECOLTS! WE WELCOME YOU TO SWEET APPLE ACRES FOR THE GRAND EVENT OF THE MILLENIA! A BATTLE TO END ALL BATTLES! ONE TO MAKE THE BATTLE AGAINST TIREK LOOK LIKE MASHED POTATOES!" She points to Big Mac. "IN THIS CORNER! STANDING A HEIGHT OF I DON'T REMEMBER! THE BIGGEST APPLE OF THEM ALL! THE TITAN MUSCLED RED RUMBLE! BIG MAC!"

There was some applause from the audience, Angel taking a huge jump in support. And of course the apples rooting for him.

"AND IN THIS CORNER, THE MYSTERIOUS LITTLE COLT ADOPTED BY THE MASTER OF CHAOS. DESPITE BEING THE SON OF DISCORD, HAS BECOME A LITTLE HERO BY THRASHING TWO DUMBY DUMB BAD GUYS! STANDING AT ABOUT HALF MY HEIGHT. THE TINY PACKED DYNAMO! ANON!"

"Woooooooooo! go Anon!" Yelled Lyra from the crowd of worker ponies.

"Get em Anon, I know you can do it!" Cheered Scootaloo

"Smash him into the ground!" Sweetie Belle yelled, a hint of viciousness in her tone.

"You can do it Anon! I believe in you!" Cheered Diamond Tiara.

"Try not to get hurt too bad Anon" said Silver Spoon, making the other three fillies look at her in disgust. "W-what? I was being realistic"

"Now remember you two. No cheap shots, no hurting each other if one of you are already on the ground, no overly rough stuff, no weapons, no magic. If you fall to the ground, I start to count, and if I count to ten. Then the one left standing is the winner. Or, your team coaches can toss in the towel for you if things get a little intense. You both got it?" Pinkie tells you both

"Eeyup!" Big Mac said.

"Yeah, got it."

"Theeeeenn!" Pinkie Pie lifted a hoof, under it, right on the frog, was a hidden small bell. She taps it with the microphone. "Let's get this battle rolling!" She hops daintily out of the ring as you and Big Mac faced each other.

He wasn't moving at all. You wondered if you could take him in a straight up fight like this. Shining was a cheating magical faggot who kept you up in the air with magic. But here was an earth pony, like the one Discord disguised himself as. You didn't want to hit him in the nuts. He didn't do anything to you. And you weren't fighting for your life. Plus, dem against the rules.

But it's not like you didn't know the places you could hit. A swift hit on the face. A buck to the jaw. Maybe a headbutt? A headbutt could work. Your head seemed pretty invincible. You felt pretty confident, you could feel a flow of determination surge through you. Maybe it was the setting. But you felt you could take him.

But… he was just standing there. Just staring at you.

"...You..uhh..gonna move? At all?"

Big Mac shook his head "Nope"

Ok, awkward. "Well, ok then. Because. I'm not going to hold back. You better get ready"

Big Mac stands there for a moment. Then...says something different. "I'm ready too. But It just doesn't sit right with me to be fighting a colt. I'm willing to help if it gets you your Cutie Mark though. Don't worry about hurting me. I'm pretty tough."

Huh, sometimes you forgot he could actually say words. And not to worry huh? Well then, in that case. "Ok, here I go!"

You had this, if he wasn't even going to fight back. Then this would be an easy win. Probably won't get you a cutie mark though. Maybe, who knows. Maybe it would. You waste no time in going right in and darting to Big Mac's side. You get up and balance yourself on your back hooves as you punch into his side with your front hooves. With each hit, you slam your hooves harder and harder into him, with no mercy, and no hesitation.

"Woah! Look at Nonny go! He's really laying into Big Mac right at the start of the match" Pinkie called out. Ref and announcer. Nice.

You heard Pinkie's words. If she was even surprised. You must be doing some sort of damage. You hit harder and faster, you tried to go Jojo on Big Mac.

As you kept on slamming your hooves, you could feel your back legs buckle. You were beginning to lose balance. But you could hear Big Mac make a sort of noise. And a few grunts. Yes! YES! That's it. Don't stop!

You lay in a few more hits before falling on your front hooves. But you felt damned confident. You must have done some damage. But when you finally gaze upon Big Mac. He was still perfectly fine, he never moved. All he did was yawn and stretch a little.

"Oh no! Nonny's Super Duper Jab Flail didn't work! Well, it did. Big Mac looks like he just got a really relaxing massage!"

REALLY?! MASSAGING WHAT NOW?!

NO WAY! You had a ton of free hits. You could feel every impact of your hooves hitting his side. They we're even sore. And he was only massaged?!

You growled. Not wanting him to suddenly make a move. You hop to his front and and try bucking him in the chest. "HyaaWAHH!"

Your forceful buck only succeeded in pushing yourself forward and making you fall on your face. He was as steady as a boulder. "Ngh!...always the head...always the face.."

Pinkie hopped onto the ring and started counting "1.....2......3.......4......5.....6"

You slowly get up, not due to being hurt. But feeling some humiliation in the countdown being caused by you pushing off of him.

“Nonny is back up, I'm not really sure what caused him to go down. But He's back up! Ready to put the smackdown on Big Mac! But Big Mac stands tall. Ready for anything Nonny dishes out!"

Ready huh? Maybe he was just used to being hit like a pony. Maybe you just had to hit him like a human. Humans did dominant the horses after all. A rising punch to the chin, that should do it.

"HYYYAHH!" You rush up to right under Big Mac's muzzle, and kick off with your backlegs, extending your right front hoof. "SHORYUKEN!"

Even if it wasn't the real dragon rising punch. You felt nerdy enough to try it anyway. And, it was still should be a hard hit under the jaw. That should do it. Your hoof connects right at it's mark. Hell, for a split second while you’re in the air. You can see Big Mac's head move up with your hoof. You got him! He wasn't expecting that.

You land back on your hooves, facing the opposite direction. Facing your team coaches.
You smile in confidence. "Did you all see that? Pretty good huh?"

"Errr, Anon?" Scootaloo didn't share in your enthusiasm "You might wanna look behind you"

"Huh?"

You look back, Big Mac was perfectly fine. He was giving his jaw a gentle rub. Then stood back in his position.

Scootaloo looked to her fellow fillies "Wasn't Anon supposed to win this fight?"

Sweetie Belle didn't seem to sure "I thought he would, but it wouldn't get him his cutie mark if he just let him win. But I kinda thought Anon was stronger than this"

"M-maybe he's just having an off day" Diamond Tiara was worried

"Maybe he was never that strong to begin with" Said Silver Spoon, losing hope in you by the second. Her fellow fillies again, looked at her with disdain. "W-what? It's just a theory"

Now you were getting angry. You could feel some of your pride shatter. You didn't even phase him. You wanted to at least knock him off balance. But, you still had one more ace in the hole. "That's it! Let's see how you like a little head to head face time!"

Big Mac just shrugged.

Shrug at you will he? WILL HE!? It's time for your ultimate attack. You charge at Big Mac as fast as you can, you make a heralding jump, and try smashing your face right with his. To you, it felt like the world was shattering right there and then.

"What a hit! Nonny bravely defies his opponent's sturdy form and smashes his head right into Big Mac's face!"

It felt almost atomic. You bounce backwards and land on your back. But before Pinkie could start a count. The sheer determination that filled you helps you get up to look upon your handiwork. "Ngh. How'd you like tha-WHAT?!"

Big Mac had only taken a step back. His nose was bobbing a little bit. And then he sneezed, and then went back to his original position. He was perfectly fine, even after that! He was ok. Meanwhile you started to feel a little tuckered out.

"Looks like Nonny is gonna have to try something else if he wants to bring down Big Mac"

What else was there to try that wouldn't make you look like a jackass. No fuck it. You enter a berserker state and try hitting Big Mac with various blows. You even manage to climb on his back and start jumping and stomping on it.

"Uh oh! Nonny is really mad now! He's giving Big Mac all he's got!"

You could hear your team cheering you on, You could even hear Lyra cheering you on. That's it! Go for a focused stomp! You jump off his back and try slamming all four hooves right into the center of his back. With that Big Mac flinches, making you lose just enough balance for you to quickly jump off and turn around.

Big Mac was stretching, he looked like he actually felt something from that as he grimaced a little. Finally! You take a quick breath, then rush at him again. But the moment you do, he does something unexpected… by actually doing something.

He outstretches his front right hoof and stops you just like you stopped Snips.

"Woah, Big Mac is finally doing something. He stopped Nonny right in his tracks! What is he planning to do?!"

You weren't a fool, you just push off and try to make a side attack. You thought he was gonna hit you. But instead, as you revved up for a jump punch to the side of his face. He was just giving himself a stretch, and then. You heard a pop in his back.

"There we go". Was all he had to say.

No time to question it. You wouldn't let yourself react. No. You rushed up, jumped and tried slamming your right hoof right into the side of his face. But, he moved. He actually moved. He dodged it! HE DODGED IT?!

"Wow! And Big Mac finally becomes active as he dodges one of Nonny's jump attacks. We might be getting a real fight on our hooves!"

Oh no he doesn't.

You begin another flurry of strikes and attacks. But this time, Big Mac starts dodging. And dodging ALMOST all of them. He was still a pretty big target. But the hits you did hit him with. Did nothing to stop him.

"Our two combatants are really getting into the swing of things now! Or just Nonny really! But Big Mac does an awesome job of dodging and parrying all of Nonny's moves! This fight could be getting nuts at any time..Well it would if it wasn't for this!" Pinkie raises her hoof with the bell on it and taps it "It's the end of round 1! Everypony go get some food and drinks over at the concession stand while our fighters rest and recuperate!"

With that Pinkie rushes off behind the apple's tent and immediately comes out rolling a a concession stand. She… was also the vendor.

You put in a few more swings before realizing the bell was rung. Your teammates calling you back saying the round was over. You look at Big Mac. He looked perfectly fine. Meanwhile you were feeling tuckered out.

"You alright there?" Big Mac actually looked at you with concern. "I hope I didn't hurt you none, I was just trying to stay out of your way"

No, you didn't feel like being too pleasant right now. Whether he meant it or not. He was making you look the fool. You sigh, both from being tired and feeling weak. And begin to enter a less determined and depressive mood. "Whatever, it's fine"

Big Mac just murmured to himself as you walked passed him back to your corner. He seemed worried about you. You didn't know what of. Nor did you care. You felt like you were a pussy. All this hype around you beating two stallions. Hell, maybe you believed it a little yourself. And now, you couldn't even beat one. You got caught up in your own lie.
You lay on your belly at your corner and put your head on your saddle bag.

"Anon, what was that? You didn't even knock him down once!" Scootaloo exclaimed, surprised at the outcome of the round.

"Maybe Big Mac is just too big? Did you see Anon out there? He was hitting him everywhere. And that spinning jump move looked like it'd really hurt." Sweetie Belle said, sounds like she made observations.

"He IS a lot bigger than those two goons. " Diamond Tiara noticed you were looking pretty down. "Anon, don't feel bad. Maybe you just need to think of another way to beat him."

You huff. "What's the point? I've tried everything and I can't even scratch him."

"Should we throw in the towel for you?" Silver Spoon asked you. And once again, she is looked at by the other three.

"Hey come on, this is serious this time. Look at him. I don't think Anon wants to do this anymore. None of you even asked if he was ok" Silver Spoon then looked to you "Are you ok Anon? Do you want to keep going?"

Ha, Silver Spoon was being the only sensible one. Probably either because she sees that you can't win. Or she sees that you are getting tuckered out and losing motivation. Or both.

"It's only round 1, I at least want one more round with him. I'm sure I'm missing something." You didn't want to call it quits just yet. One of the rules of video gaming was to learn the enemy patterns. Big Mac had to have some sort of weakness. No, you couldn't call it quits yet. Not until you were sure. "...so..anypony got any tips?"

They all shook their head. Some team. Full of advice.

You groan and snuggle onto your saddlebag. Not like it was cuddly though. It was full of bits and stuff.

"Come on Anon, I'm sure you could do it! It's only the first round!" Diamond Tiara tried to pep you up.

"Maybe we need a new angle? what if Anon struck down from up high?" Sweetie Belle suggested.

Scootaloo shook her head "That won't work. Anon isn't a pegasus pony"

Sweetie Belle pointed to the corner posts "Well I meant Anon using the corners of the ring to get the drop on him."

Silver Spoon shook her head "Probably won't do anything. Anon doesn't look too heavy, he'd have to really be big to do any real damage. Or strong enough to add to the force of dropping on Big Mac. I dunno girls. We really need to come up with something. Or Anon won't win."

She was right. But you, nor them could come up with any way to win. It seemed pretty hopeless.
If only you had something. Just something that could give you an edge. And as you thought this, the chunky feeling of your saddlebag became more apparent.
And as you looked at your saddle bag. You began to realize. Maybe you did have that edge all along. The horn.

You look back at the fillies who were on your side, you look at their faces. They looked like they really wanted you to bust out a win. Not like the horn would be noticed. You could take it off. Or it'd pop of after you use it. All you had to do was give yourself a boost.

"Girls, I'm gonna go to the tent to get some thinking done. Just… a little alone time. I'll be out in a moment."

"Are you ok Anon?" Diamond asked

You nodded as you took up your saddle bag. "Yeah, just need a little thinking time is all. Just give me a moment." And so, you hopped out of the ring and went into the tent.

You looked back, to make sure you weren't followed. And then pull out the horn. You gazed at it. Almost hypnotically. Who would it hurt really? At this point, you could tell fighting wouldn't get your Cutie Mark. But then again, there was really nothing you'd be losing in this fight. None of them would think lesser of you for losing. The only one who'd probably get a kick out of it is Angel.

But you were losing so badly, it just felt humiliating that you were putting in so much effort and you couldn't even get him to go "ow". It wasn't wanting to win that drove you. It was the fact that you just wanted to at least be some sort of a challenge. You didn't want to seem like a goddamn wuss.

It'd be so easy.. Just use the horn. "Mmnn....." You couldn't do it. Even as your opponent. Big Mac, who you never even met. Was just trying to be a bro and help you get your cutie mark. You knew it wasn't going to happen. Even if some of your friends were gonna be let down. This wasn't your shtick. Poor Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle. Looks like they were going to be doing farmwork for a month for nothing.

You sigh. "Get over it Anon, fighting isn't your thing."

You look at the horn before putting it away "Nah, you know. Maybe Discord's right. I seem to be pretty good at causing chaos. Too bad it doesn't seem to matter who I cause it to. I don't want to cause any good guys to have a bad time. I just wanna mess with villains. Queen Chrysalis probably won't be happening any time soon. Not with that whole battle thing. Tirek is already back in his hellhole, so that's a bust." Then a thought crosses your mind. "Messing with Twilight is, yeah, I admit. It's a little fun".

You chuckle and remember there's also Celestia. You remembered being scared of her wrath before. But just like the show. She seemed pretty based. Maybe it would be fun to successfully prank her.

And then there’s Discord. For all the hell he gives you. One good prank… oh ho… how'd you'd so love to get him so badly.

With the right use of the horn. He may have given you a way to do it too. You'd just have to figure out how'd to do it with just one charge a day. "Yeah, let's just get this over with. Just get on with the day."

You put the horn away. You would meet Big Mac head on with brighter spirits. If you lost, you lost. You weren't some prideful kid. You were a logical adult. And it was obvious this body wasn't suited for combat. At least not yet. And even then. If you wanted to, you could kick just about anyone's ass with the horn. So everything was a done deal anyway.

You even laugh a little as you come out of the tent. "It'd be really funny if chaos was my cutie mark. Ha. Nah, that probably won't happen."

You wave to the girls, who asked you again. If you were ok. You nod to them. "Yep, let's just get round two over with."

You'd give it one last shot. For fun. And if you somehow won. Then woopee for you. And if you lost. No big deal. Just get on with your day. Though with everyone here. You'd have to pick a certain group to go with when it was all over.

You climb into the ring, re energized with your more positive outlook. Ready to win or lose.

Chapter 87

You look at Big Mac with newfound determination. Big Mac looks at you, he gives you a smile only a gentle giant could give "Are you ready?"

You nod, it was still a little weird to hear him talk. But he did talk in the show. So eh. "Yeah, can I ask you a question though?"

Big Mac nods "Eeyup"

"What do you think of miss Cheerilee?" A random question to be sure. But now was as good as any to ask it.

Big Mac shrugs "She's a nice and well meaning gal"

Thats it? You expected him to blush, or get a little shy or something. Huh. Well, you were sure he likes her deep down. It's not like some other pony would show up that would grab his attention. "Ok then. Thanks for answering."

Pinkie jumped onto the ring and looked at both you and Big Mac with eager eyes "You both ready to go?"

You both nod and tell her yes.

"Alrighty!" Pinkie faces the small crowd. "Get ready everypony! Round two is about to..." Ding Ding! "GO!"

You start circling Big Mac. "You know, you could try just a little. Make things interesting. I'm not gonna get upset if you beat me. But I don't want to lose when you're just standing there."

Big Mac thought about it, he looked back at his team. Then at you. He seemed unsure.

"Just a little. Come on. I wanna see what you could do."

You did really. Nothing rough. But you know he's capable of ridiculous "Ed" like shit if the situation calls for it. You didn't want to be pummeled. You just wanted to see some fancy hoofwork. Big Mac still looked unsure, but he started to move opposite of you, keeping you in his sights.

"Oh wow! Big Mac is moving! Is he going to go on the offensive? This could be a whole different fight!" Pinkie announced

"Offensive? Applejack, ya don't think Big Mac would actually hurt Anon do ya?" Applebloom asked her big sister, worried.

Applejack shook her head and gave her sister a gentle look "Don't you worry none sugarcube, your big brother is probably just gettin' into the mood is all"

You kept your attention on Big Mac as he did the same to you. Ok, let's give it a shot. Since he still seemed reluctant to make an actual move. You'd make yours.

You rush to Big Mac, this time, you'd try some wrestling moves. You know what they say. ‘The bigger they are, the harder they fall.’ You side step to his side and jump towards it, raising your front hooves over his back so you could climb on it. You then reach all four of your legs around him to clamp him the best you could. And try tilting to the side to make him fall. "HRNNG, HAAARNNNNGH! HAAANNNGGH"

"Nonny is trying to wrestle Big Mac to the ground! I don't kn-WAIT. BIG MAC IS TILTING! HE MIGHT BE GOING DOWN AFTERALL!"

Wait, he was what? really?

You could feel a shift in gravity and slight movement. Yeah, he was go-GOING DOWN TOO FAST! Big Mac purposely tilts and falls to his side before you could properly react. Making you slam your side to the ring and roll and tumble a few feet across the arena.

Ugh, you yourself couldn't tell if you had done that or if he did. But before you could even get up. Something firm taps you on the side hard enough to make you fall the other way. "What? Wha-Ahh! agh!"

Big Mac had managed to get up over to your position and was lightly yet firmly pushing you around on the ground with his left hoof. He was messing with you like a ball. "Hey! gah! sthap! burf! That's! ngh! not! mrf! Fair!" Every attempt you tried to get up at was met with a push back to the ground.

"Looks like Nonny just became Big Mac's new beachball! Let's hope he doesn't use him for a game of Hacky Sack!" Pinkie called out

This looked like his way of trying. Dammit! There had to be a way to counter this.

You quickly think of something, and instead of trying to get up. You instead quickly turned towards him and latched on to his leg. Big Mac at first tried gently shaking you off. But as you held fast. He started shaking harder and harder.

"Oh! Oh! I know this move! Anon! You got his leg! Now all you gotta do is thrust yourself backwards to flip him over!" Scootaloo called out to you

Really? You give it a shot, and pullback as hard as you can. Nothing happens, well. Something does. He flicks you hard enough to get you off his leg. But not so hard enough that you couldn't quickly get up and bounce back on your hooves.

"Well that didn't work" Silver Spoon scoffed

"Well yeah, he was probably doing it wrong." Scootaloo said, underwhelmed by your performance.

You were getting tired again. This much physical effort was not something you were used to. Meanwhile Big Mac looked like he could go on for days. This was fine, this was ok. You already knew you weren't going to win. But dammit, just once. You wanted to get him down for the count.

You dash at him, but stop short of meeting right head first into him. You get up on your hind legs again and rev up your right hoof. And try a humanesque straight lunge smash right into his face. Hopping off your hind legs to make sure your hoof goes straight at him. But he does something you didn't expect. He parries your blow by moving his face to the side, then hits the side of your incoming hoof with his face. Giving you a spin right in mid air. He turns around into bucking position.

"BIG MAC DON'T! YA CAN'T DO THAT TO ANON!" Applebloom yells out. Getting scared at her brother's actions. But it seems he ignores her. and puts out his right back hoof. But he doesn't hit you. No, he catches you and flips you up on his back. Hops up to throw you to his front. Which he catches you with his right hoof. And then he tosses you gently forward. Back onto the mat.

"Oof!" That didn't even really hurt. But it made you dizzy enough that when you stood up. You were off balance.

"Wow, I never thought Big Mac could do things like that. I wonder why he never tried to go out for any sports." Sweetie Belle wondered, impressed with his hoofwork.

Scootaloo sighed, already accepting defeat. "Probably because he works the farm all day, kind of like what we're gonna be doing pretty soon." She puts her head down on the mat, outside the ropes.

Sweetie Belle coughed, and then put her head down in disappointment. The realization about what was soon to come. "Oh right. I almost forgot about that. Ughh, why did we even say that!? He's not gonna get his cutie mark!"

Diamond Tiara cringed at those words, but she's seen how the fight was going. She saw how you weren't making any progress. She wanted to say something. But she said nothing. She was trying to reason why you were losing so bad. The only reason she could come up with was… "I don't think this was a good idea, there's something different about Anon."

"What do you mean by that Diamond Tiara?" Asked Sweetie Belle

"Well… when he fought those two stallions. He got hurt really bad. He was knocked around a lot worse than he was right now. But, he got really really angry. He said those bad words you're not suppose to say. Even some words I don't even think actually exist but sound even worse than the bad words we're not supposed to say. Then he started pounding on the really big guy first. I couldn't see how he was doing it. But he was hitting him so hard that he fell to the ground."

Sweetie Belle began to ponder "So what you're saying is, Anon only gets powerful when he's angry?"

"That sounds like something from a comic book" Said Scootaloo "How does that even work?"

Diamond Tiara shrugged "I dunno, but that's what I saw. Do you think we should try to get Anon angry?"

Sweetie Belle nodded "It's the only shot we got to winning. But how do we make him angry?"

"Hmmm… leave that to me" Silver Spoon chimed in "I've noticed that Anon gets super easily angry. And I think I know how to do it."

"You think you can do it? Because Anon ain't gonna win any other way" Scootaloo asked, unsure about this.

"Trust me, Me and Diamond we're good at making you two angry right?" Silver said

Diamond cringed at those words ".....yeah… we we're good at that..."

Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle nod to each other.

"Well, give it a shot." Scootaloo told her.

Silver Spoon looked over to you, you were currently thinking of trying to bounce off the ropes for momentum. Maybe far enough like a cartoon to launch like a bullet.

"Hey, Anon!" Silver calls out to you

You look over to your team. Silver Spoon was calling out to you. "Silver Spoon? What is it? You got a tip or something?"

She shook her head. "Nope! I just wanted to tell you that you're a blank flank nothing. You only have friends because we felt sorry for you for being an orphan. In fact, that's probably why you have any friends at all. But you were adopted by stupid Discord. You're a nasty little pony who probably wets his bed and cries for mommy and daddy every night."

What the fuck?!

Everyone close by heard it. including Applebloom. She yelled back at Silver Spoon "What did ya say?! How could you say such awful things, Don't make me go over there! or else there's gonna be a real fight!"

But you just stood there, confused. What the fuck just happened?

"Silver Spoon! Wasn't that overdoing it?!" Diamond was shocked and appalled

"I-I thought. I just wanted to get him really riled up!" Silver Spoon was frightened by Applebloom's threat. making her stutter her words. You had no clue what was going on.

"Yo Silver Spoon, what the hay? why'd you say all that?" You ask, puzzled by her words

You were a lot more confused than angry.

"Aren't you angry at me? That was supposed to make you angry" Silver Spoon seemed to have failed.

"It was? I mean. I guess… but. It just came out of nowhere."

"She was trying to get you angry so you could beat Big Mac" Sweetie Belle noted that you didn't look the least bit angry.

"...what? That sounds like something from a comic book" You say, even more confused

"See, I told you!" Scootaloo exclaimed.

Pinkie got up on the ring to see what was going on "Hey? What happened? Did somepony toss in a towel and I missed it?"

No, but. It was clear you had no chance to win this. And since she mentioned it. And it was obvious that it looked like your team was getting desperate. Whatever, you'd get over it. He was obviously just a tank. No regular pony could beat him. That's how you'd delude yourself anyway."Nah Ponk, but I'm calling it quits. I can't beat this guy. And I'm getting tired. You fine with that Big Mac?"

"Eeyup"

"What?! You're just giving up?" Diamond Tiara said in surprise, not willing to fully accept it. "But..."

"Sorry Diamond, but Big Mac is obviously super strong. No way I'm gonna beat him."

You yell out for everyone to hear. "EVERYPONY HEAR THAT? I'M THROWING IN THE TOWEL!"

"Finally, ah don't know why he didn't do it sooner. A youngin' shouldn't be fightin’ just to fight. Not even fer a Cutie Mark. If he was gunna get a cutie mark in fightin' he woulda gotten in in an actual fight. Hopefully one he didn't start." Granny Smith said, she seemed to know what was up.

"Well, can't say ah didn't see that comin'. But it was worth a shot. Sorry si-" Applejack looked down at her sister, who looked upset at the whole thing. "What's the matter Applebloom?"

"I thought this was really gonna work. Anon did beat two stallions. So ah thought he was gonna at least do something against Big Mac." Applebloom sighed "Ah thought we we're supposed to be better at this sorta thing by now."

"Come on now Applebloom, yah can't fool me. You'd just move on to another thing like ya always do. Yah still got feelin's for him, don't ya?"

Applebloom cringed, and immediately went on the defensive "N-no! Ah jus-"

Applejack smirked at her and gave her a pat "Don't got to explain nothin' to me sugarcube, but you'll get over it. Trust me. it's just a lingering feelin.. Don't go pursuing it, then it could actually be a problem. As fer cutie marks, yer just gonna need to think of something else." Applejack was just making sure that Applebloom would drop it altogether when it came to her feelings. Applebloom did have lingering feelings for you. But that's all it was, just lingering feelings. With enough time. She'd drop it. Hopefully.

But you yourself wasn't paying attention to their conversation. Pinkie went on to announce the winner was Big Mac, holding his hoof up for everyone to see. You congratulated him. If only to at least save face.

The audience gave little woos, Lyra looked miffed, Angel was satisfied it seemed. He looked happy that he got to see you fumble about like an idiot..

"And look at that everypony! Nonny congratulates his opponent for a good fight. Isn't it great to see the younger generation being such a good sport! Let's hear it for Nonny too!" Pinkie tries to get the crowd to cheer for you

"Woooo! Go Nonny! Anon… uhh… I don't know which one is your name right now! but yay Nonny Anon!" Lyra called out.

Cute. Then again, you started to think about Minuette all of a sudden. From that one single episode. She seemed pretty peppy and cute too. You got a lewd thought or two of minuette and Lyra doing… things to you. But of course, it'd never happen. You wave to Lyra and take a stretch.

You look at your team. Yeah, none of them looked all that thrilled that you just gave up. Better try to pep em up. Somehow. "So… you all ok?"

Silver Spoon was the least affected "I'm fine, it looked like it was going to end this way anyway."

"Yeah, i'm with Silver Spoon on this one. You're no Rainbow Dash." Scootaloo said, disappointed in the fight and what was to come for her later.

"Sorry Anon, we thought this would work and get you your Cutie Mark." Sweetie Belle was more disappointed in the fact it didn't work.

"It's ok, I'm not sweating it"

"But you should!" Diamond Tiara stomped her hoof. "You should have been able to grind that stallion into dust!"

Woah.

"H-hey, calm down there Diamond. Big Mac is simply stronger than those two guys I beat. there's always a pony who's stronger than another. And he just turned out stronger than me. It's fine… it's ok. I'm cool with it."

Diamond grumbled, muttering something about how it still didn't make any sense. It was fine though. It was fine. Now you wondered what the opponent team thought. Especially Applebloom. You saw them stepping into the ring to speak with Big Mac. Applebloom trailing behind before making a turn towards you.

"Hey Anon, you ok?" Applebloom asked you as she stepped into your group.

"Pfft, yeah. I'm fine. Oh..." You notice she's not too happy either. "You wanted me to win too huh?"

"Well yeah! Ah mean. I don't want mah brother to lose. But this was all set up to get you yer Cutie Mark. And ya still didn't get one. We're supposed to be better at this" Applebloom groaned. She was really hoping it'd happen.

"It's ok Applebloom, really it is. You all just went off the fact I whooped two stallions. It was a good try. But don't worry. I mean, everypony eventually gets it right?"

"Anon, it's not just about gettin' it. It's also about understandin' it."

"Oh. Well hey, relax. We'll all figure it out when it happens. We'll just have to give it another go. It'll be ok, alright?"

Applebloom groaned. But, she was no stranger to trying a million times.They'd just have to try again.

Diamond Tiara sighed, and looked around. "Well, I better tell daddy's workers that it's time to pack up. If you'll all excuse me" Diamond Tiara was definitely disappointed. She was still audibly muttering her confusion about the fight. But there was nothing you could do. She'd just have to work it out. Unsurprisingly, Silver Spoon followed her. Some things never change.

"Well, in that case. Let me grab my stuff. I think I left them in the corner of the ring" You said

Sweetie Belle looks over, she sees nothing "I don't see it"

"Oh… I guess I left it in the tent. Let me go see, I have to get out of these shorts anyway. Just give me a moment and I'll be right out" You hop out of the ring and go inside the tent to look around. You didn't want to stay any longer in the ring anyway. You were afraid Applejack would start talking to you, and then start talking to you about Applebloom.

You shake off your shorts. And start looking everywhere for your bag. But… it was nowhere to be found. "What the hell? Hrn..." You poke your head out of the tent to look at the ring. Your saddle bag was definitely not up there.

You start looking again inside the tent for your bag. Fucking… Nothing. "Discord… are you fucking with me again?"

No answer. Oh shit......nonono..no. Bags just don't walk off. "This isn't funny Discord, Come on. don't fuck with me here. It's a joke… right?" No answer.

You start to get scared. As if someone might have pilfered your bag. You step out of the tent. At this point the CMC were together. Applejack talking to them, seemed to be about the deal they made. But you had to interrupt them. This was important. "Hey, did any of you see my Saddle Bag?"

They all shook their heads.

"Are ya sure you just didn't forget it somewhere?" Applejack said "Actually, Anon, ya wouldn't mind if ah talked to you. In private?"

Fucking dammit!

"I uhhh… no no. I really gotta find that bag."

"Well, ya three wouldn't mind helpin' out and lookin' for Anon's bag would ya? I'll knock off a week if ya do"

For Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle, that was a damned good deal, and they immediately dart off with enthusiasm.

Applebloom doesn't however, she had no stake in it. "Ya mind if I stick around sis? I wanna hear what ya two are gonna talk about"

Applejack shook her head "Nope, I already told ya everything ah needed to tell ya, now I just wanna talk to Anon. Ya can ask him what we talked about after we're done" Applejack just didn't want her sister interjecting into anything she might have to say. You didn't want to have this talk at all.

"Come on! what's it gonna hurt if I just listen in?"

Applejack knew she'd do more than that. "Applebloom, as yer big sister, ah'm tellin' you ya can't stick around for this. Now if ya wanna help Anon. then help him out in findin' his bag. I bet ya it's in some place obvious. Come on, run along now."

Applebloom didn't really want to go. She looked at you, and you looked at her. She huffed, then turned. She really wanted to listen in. But the way you were looking about that lost bag. It looked like it was really important to you. She decided that if she could find the bag real quick. Then Applejack wouldn't have any other reason to shoo her away.

You could only imagine what Applejack had to say… Ohh god...

Chapter 88

You follow Applejack into the tent. But you were panicking deep inside. More about your lost bag than what she had to say. But it wasn't like being alone with her wasn't that far off of being scary. Given what the topic matter is probably going to be.

Applejack finds a bench to sit on, and plants her butt and back hooves right on it. "Alright Anon, why don't ya take a seat right in front of me. I wanna talk to ya about somethin' important."

Hoo boy… Dem hips though.

You push a chair in front of her with your face, and then climb on top of it to sit. You don't say a word. But you were visibly nervous.

"Relax Anon, I ain't gonna chew you out. I just want to talk to ya about what's been going on lately. "

"W-what do you mean?" You barely personally knew Applejack. And here she was, having some serious sit down with you. At this point you wish you were under Fluttershy's wing, away from the panic you felt.

"Well, ya know I know about mah sister fallin' for you and you lettin' her down. Ah can't lie, when ah found out, I didn't know what to feel. Didn't even know she had a crush on you. And to tell ya the truth. I did get right angry with the way she put things. Sounded like you were just going after the richer girl." Applejack sighed "Now don't ya worry, I didn't tell her you were some scumbucket or nothin'. Ah didn't know the whole situation and I know how these things go. And ah didn't want to jump to conclusions since Fluttershy seemed so fond of ya. I was gonna ask you yourself what was goin' on, but then ah found out ya ended it with that other filly too. Somethin' about you not feelin ready. So, ya wanna tell me your version about what happened? I wanna make sure everything is on the up n' up"

There wasn't much to tell. Well, you couldn't tell her everything. Not about some of the actual reasons anyway. "There's not much to say. I didn't know your sister as well as I did Diamond. But that mostly happened because, well, I was stuck with her due to some punishment thing our dads cooked up. Your sister also didn't really show me any signs or anything, while Diamond was pretty much showing me all kinds of affection. I never really had that happen to me before. So you know, things went from one thing to another and i grew to like Diamond. And then, well. When I found out Applebloom liked me, it was sort of too late. So I let her down easy. But then as I thought about it. I realized the whole thing was complicated. And that I'm too young for this sort of thing. I just wanna stay single until I really feel I'm ready."

Applejack stared at your face. It looked like she was trying to figure out if you were lying or not. You weren't really. You were just hiding the fact that you were also an adult.

"That's how it happened?" She asked

You nod. "That's how it happened. I didn't mean to cause any harm." You were still nervous, you just wanted to get out of here and look for the damn bag.

Applejack wasn't done yet however "Anon, you seem like a very sensible young colt, ya got a lot of brains up in that head of yours. A lot of colts would have fallen apart in a situation like this but it sounds like ya kept a cool noggin'. Sounds like ya don't need any filly advice from me."

Nope, you didn't. you just wanted to get the fuck out. You chuckle nervously. "I guess I don't, t-thank's Applejack. Can… Can I get up now? I reeeeaaaallllyyy need to find that bag"

Applejack gets curious, she notices that you were very nervous. And if it wasn't her that was doing it. then... "What's in the bag that's got all yer screws loose?"

"Very important things. I mean, super important. Things my dad would be super angry about if I ever lost any of them."

Applejack cringed "hoo boy, that's pretty serious. Considerin' who yer dad is. Ok, I'll help ya look for your bag too if it's really that important"

Ok that's good, any help was good help. You rush up back on your hooves and rush out of the tent. "Thank's Applejack, yell if you found it!"

Applejack held her hoof out to you "Wait!" But you were already gone. "Gosh darnit, ah don't even know what it looks like. Guess I'll just have to pile up any bag ah see"

You rush outside and look around. The other tent was already down and the ring was being taken apart. You could see the five fillies around in different spots looking for your bag. Pinkie was chilling with Lyra. Angel was gone.

Fuck… someone must have taken it. Because everyone was still looking. You look around where the worker ponies were putting away the ring. No bag. NO BAG. FUCK. It couldn't be in the general area anymore.

You really begin to panic as you start shifting your step and moving side to side. Your thoughts filling with nightmarish thoughts. Especially if… oh god… what if it was changelings?! WHAT IF IT WAS TH-

Before you could finish your thought. You feel something flat and hard under your hooves. "What the?" You lift your right front hoof, and under it. Was a bit. Your bit? You look around, keeping your eyes close to the ground when you find… another bit. And another. Whoever took your bag wasn't very careful.

You trail off from the others and follow the bit trail. It leads right into the farm… and into the barn.
You can hear two familiar voices coming from inside. "...oh no..." You say as you open the barn door, and peer inside.

Snips and Snails. Where the fucking hell did they come from?! and how the hell did they steal your bag without anyone noticing. No fuck this shit. They were already looking inside. "So that's where my bag went."

You step inside, and you were none too happy about what you were looking at.
Snips and Snails immediately jumped in front of the bag to try to hide it. And they both smile as innocently as possible as snips speaks to you "A-Anon, w-what are you doing here?"

"Wondering why you two took my bag"

Snails begins to panic "He caught us Snips! T-the jig's up!"

Snips looks over to his friend and tries to calm him "Relax Snails, Anon ain't gonna do nothin' to us. We're not bad guys."

Snips then looked at you, he was looking like that of a self entitled git "Come on Anon, we know you've been hiding all your hero gear in this bag. And you have soooo many bits. I bet it's all from your heroic deeds huh?"

Oh god, still?! They were STILL on that?!

"I don't have anything in there that you two would want. It's just my school supplies and my allowance money. Geez guys, don't you think you're taking this too far? Where were you both even hiding?"

Snips snickered arrogantly, and then started doing stealth like movements "Well that's complicated. You see me and Snails wanted to find the best point where we could see the battle and nopony would notice, so we slipped past everypony like ninjas, and remained unseen in a place where everypony could see."

Wut?

Even Snails got confused "Errr, I thought we just ran under the ring? And I don't remember seeing the fight. I remember taking the bag though"

Snips felt a jolt of anger and turned to Snails "Snails! That doesn't make it cool at all!"

"But that's what happened and..." Snails sifted through your bag "I don't think there’s anything cool in here either. Just bits, school stuff, a map… a horn.... and wooo!" Snails pulled out the cardboard wings, entranced by them, despite their dull appearance and crude coloring. "These are pretty!"

"What?! That's it?!" Snips starts to look in the bag as well "Where's all the cool stuff? Smoke bombs, grappling hooks, trick gum, sneeze powder...." Snips comes to a realization about the bag "There's no hero stuff in here at all."

You sigh, morons. "Yeah, as I said. Nothing in there that you guys would want. Now, mind giving me my bag back?

"Y-yeah" Snips passes over the bag to you "Your not gonna tell on us… a-are you Anon?"

You probably should. But these two numbskulls probably wouldn't get it even then. No, you had to settle this yourself.

"No, But I'm getting sick of the both of you. You both aren't heroes. And at this rate. You both will nev-" Then you stop, Snails still had your wings. and his attention was fully on it. Goddammit "Snails, the wings."

You hold out your hoof. You could see Snips had a feeling on what you were going to say, he looked a little shattered. But Snails wasn't even paying attention. "Come on Anon! Can't I keep them? They look really pretty"

HOW?! They were just cardboard wings with a band in the middle. "Snails, give me NO DON'T!"

Snails puts the wings on his back before you could react. a flash of light emits from snails as both you and Snips are blinded by it. "Agh!" Shhhhhhit!

As the light grows dim. Both you and Snips look upon Snails. Who now had wings. He had a dull look on his face as he looked backwards "Hey… where'd the wings go?"

Snips was in awe "SNAILS! SNAILS! FORGET THE CARDBOARD WINGS! LOOK! YOU GOT REAL WINGS!"

Shhiiiiiiiiitttt.

Snails couldn't see them "Where?"

"OPEN THEM! THIS IS SO AMAZING!" Snips was amazed, almost speechless

Snails had a little trouble. But he got his wings open to a point that he could see them "...oh, wow… they look pretty too."

You were getting a little ticked now. This wasn't funny to you. "Why? Oh why? Do you two do stuff like this?" But they weren't paying attention to you at this point.

"Snails… Snails, buddy. You've. You've become an Alicorn Prince!" Snips was so amazed by this, that he bowed.

"Oh… erm. What do I do now? I don't even know how this happened" Snails was so confused, he didn't even seem to realize how he even got them.

"Are you two even listening?" DUMBASSES! GEEZ!

"Isn't it obvious? You must have wanted to be a hero sooooooooo bad that whatever makes ponies into Alicorns must have made you an Alicorn! It's the only explanation there is! And now… I too will become a super Alicorn hero too!" Snips started to hop about in excitement

......

You smack your hoof into your own face and shake your head. They somehow BOTH missed that it was the cardboard wings that did it.

Snips stood at the ready and started grunting, trying to focus his heroness into becoming an Alicorn. "RRAAAAHHHHHGHHGRRRRRRRHHHGGGRRRAHHH I CAN FEEL IT!"

This… this was utterly ridiculous.

"MMNGGHHRRR! YEAH! I DID IT! CHECK OUT MY WINGS GUYS!" Snips seemed excited… over nothing.

Snails inspected his friend. confused "Errr, Snips. I don't see wings on you"

"What?! B-but… aren't I heroic enough?" Snips grew disappointed, looking to his back to see nothing. ".....awwwww nuts"

Snails thought to himself, then gave Snips a pat "Don't worry pal, since I'm an Alicorn Prince now. I shall deem you my… uhh, royal guard captain guy!"

Snips eyes began to grow teary eyed "R-really? you'd let me have such an important job?"

Snails nodded "Yup, because you're my best buddy!"

Snips gave Snails a hug "And you're my best buddy too!"

You must have been high or something. Because this was beyond stupid. If not a little heartwarming. Still. Unbelievable.

Snips then turned to you, looking at you.

"...you guys gonna pay attention to me now?" You said, patience nearly lost

"Did you say something Anon? I uhh… I don't remember. I was too busy looking at Snails becoming a super Alicorn Prince! Aren't you amazed too? You're a hero and you didn't even grow a horn! And Snails! Snails became an Alicorn right before our eyes! He must be destined to be a TRUE hero! And I'm gonna be his royal guard captain!" Snips says with a joyous grin

You heavily sigh. This was not amusing to you. "He's not an Alicorn. Those wings. The cardboard ones, they give you pegasus wings."

Snips and Snails laughed at you. "Anon, Cardboard doesn't do that!" Snips laughed "Don't be jealous that Snails is a better hero than you.

WHAT?! "BETTER HERO?! LISTEN YOU TWO! YOU GUYS ARE TERRIBLE HEROES! YOU TWO CAN'T DO ANYTHING RIGHT!"

They both laugh at you again. "Come on Anon, stop. It's embarrassing. You're just mad because you didn't become a hero Alicorn prince" Snips was starting to feel shame for you.

Oh no, that's it. You weren't going to take that shit from two morons. "I'm taking my wings back. Whether you both like it or not"

Snails was confused by those words. But Snips jumped in front of him and looked at you with determined eyes "Stay back my liege! Anon has gone crazy with jealousy!"

"You guys really want to go a round two?" You look back, no one was around. You take a few steps back and close the barn door. "Then I'll make a deal with you."

They both look at eachother, then at you and both say "A deal?"

An idea starts to form in your head as you go through your saddle bag. "Yeah a deal. I mean, you say Snails is a hero Alicorn now right? Then he should be able to handle me right?"

They both nod.

"What are ya getting at Anon?" Snips was intrigued. "It sounds like you wanna fight us."

You nod. "Yeah I do, here alone in the barn. With a little wager to boot."

"Wager huh? What say you my prince?" Snips looks to Snails.

Snails tries to look regal as he thinks, then nods "We're listening"

Listening? Finally...

"Easy, first to go down loses. And if I win, you both drop this hero stuff forever. And I mean it, you both drop it, and drop it hard. Also, none of us ever speak of this. No matter what."

They both nod in unison. Then Snips speaks an arrogant tone "As if that's gonna happen."

"Yeah, I'm an Alicorn prince now. I'm super powerful and stuff" Snails said, feeling a newfound pride in his wings.

"And what do we get if we win?" Snips asked

"I will join you guys, I will bow down to Alicorn Prince Snails and become your soldier."

They both nod to each other again, and both look at you, and speak at the same time. "You're on Anon"

Good... "Glad you both agree."

You pull out your horn, and slap it on your forehead. This was going to feel good. You were getting tired of their hero shit. You were tired of being praised over a lie. And it was going to stop. Before it got out of hand.

The horn becomes a unicorn horn. You face both Snips and Snails. who are bewildered by the horn that has appeared on your head.

"What the?!" Snips said in surprise.

Snails was dumbly confused "Wait a sec… Anon… you were a unicorn the whole time?"

You sigh heavily, whatever. It wasn't like you had to hide it now. As long as they keep their word. "No, this is the other part of the wings you took from me. This is a horn I can use once per day. And you guys are going to be my horn's target. So how about that?"

Snails instantly got worried from that, But Snips did his best to inspire him "Don't worry your highness! You're an Alicorn now! You've become like, a million times stronger than before. You can do this! We can take him!"

"O-ok, if you say so. I'm ready" Snails tried to look at you with a brave face. But your face, you had a menacing expression. You were going to enjoy this.

"Ready?"

They both nod.

"Well then, GO!"

Like the dumbasses they are, they try immediately rushing you. You didn't want to hurt them too badly. But you only had one shot at this. In fact, you thought of a really amusing spell you could try. Since the magic seemed to bend to your will. It should be automatic.

You fire your horn at them. The moment it hits them they both end up floating in mid air. weightless, absolutely no gravity as they get trapped in a thin sphere of glowing purple energy.

"What?! What's going on?!" Snips cried out

"I'm scared Snips, I can't go where I wanna go!" Snails tried flapping his wings "Not even with my wings!"

You instantly had the battle. Your horn was still glowing, you step into the sphere. unaffected by the anti gravity, and start spinning Snips and Snails as if they were tops. They started crying, screaming, and whining. Luckily for you, the sphere also kept noise from escaping.

This felt good, you had an arrogant smile on your face as you span them faster and faster
"So, uhhh… when are you guys going to beat me? Because if you're not going to do anything, then I'm just gonna spin you. I can do this all day"

They were just crying and whining for you to stop.

"Hmmmmm, nah"

This would get it in their head not to fuck with your stuff. And to drop this hero shit.

"PLEASE ANON,WE'RE SORRY! I'M GETTING SICK!" yelped Snips

"YOU'RE TOO GREAT FOR US, WE GIVE UP, WE GIVE UP!" cried Snails.

"You give up? Gee I dunno, I mean. How can I be sure you both will drop this hero nonsense? How can I be sure you won't say this to anypony?"

They both screamed "WE WON'T, WE WON'T! WE PROMISE! PLEEEEASE STOOOOOOPPP!!"

You chuckle, this felt pretty good. No wonder Discord got a kick out of it.

"Mmmm… nah, not yet. I just want to be sure"

They continue to whine and cry, turning green from sickness. But you spin them. And spin them. And finally, what you were actually waiting for happens. The wings finally pop off of Snails. You take it, and put it in your saddle bag.

Satisfied with their suffering. You end your magic. Causing them to fall on their heads, spinning like tops as your horn pops off your head. You take that too, and put it away. You watch as their spinning slows and they fall on their side. That felt… incredibly good. You were so wanting to put these two in their place for being morons and taking your stuff. And now, with the power of the horn. You wreaked enough chaos on them that they should stop their stupid shit and leave all this hero crap alone. You didn't even care if they feared you from now on, you didn't care for them and their antics. They are the types that could get ponies killed.

You put on your saddle bag, and look to your two sickly looking opponents. "So, you guys done?"

They both slowly nod, silently. "

Good, oh. And a good lesson for you both to also learn is not to steal other pony’s property. All it does is get them upset. You two take care now, I'm gonna go. Try to be out of here before any of the apples check inside, ok?"

They both groan. You smile cheerfully. "Good! seeya guys later"

You exit the barn, feeling absolutely happy and cheerful about what you have just done. All this time of holding back. All it did was cause you grief if you couldn't get the situation handled. This time, you took the situation by the horns and ripped it head off. And it felt great. And all you had to do was just will it, and it was done.

That power....it felt great.

You returned to the now empty site. Happy, and proud of what you've done. Seems most of the ponies were gone. All that was left was Applejack and the five fillies. You wondered where Lyra and Pinkie went mostly. But they probably had things to do. You could find them later.

You wave to the girls who were present. "Hey girls! I found my bag!"

They were pretty happy that you found it. Though, given Sweetie Belle's and Scootaloo's expression. They must have already been instated into the apple workforce. They weren't too enthusiastic.

"Where was it Anon? Did somepony really take it?" Diamond Tiara asked, appalled that anyone would steal from you.

"Oh uh, I found it just a few ways out near the barn. I think some curious animals got into it or something. See?" You point to some of your fallen bits. You never actually picked them up. "They couldn't even keep a few of my bits from falling out. Guess they couldn't keep my bag steady"

They look at the fallen bits. That seemed… reasonable to them. They never saw who took your bag either.

"Aren'tcha gonna pick em up Anon?" Applebloom asked

You shrug, they weren't important. "Nah, you girls can keep whatever you can find."

Silver Spoon and Diamond Tiara don't get excited for the that. But the other three do. They immediately go bit hunting.

Applejack giggles and shakes her head. "Well, ah guess that's one way to make some bits. That's mighty generous of you Anon"

You shrug. "Eh, I just don't really need the bits. Money isn't important to me"

Applejack finds those words a truly good thing. She liked the fact that you weren't greedy. She didn't know that Discord could just give you what you needed. "That's some good morals ya got there Anon. Glad to know you put friends over bits"

Diamond Tiara smiles at that as well, and agrees with Applejack "Well, Anon has always been like that. He's a really nice guy. But..." She puts her head downwards, she realized despite you being nice, you lacked your cutie mark still "I guess that doesn't win you Cutie Marks either"

"It's fine. Come on, don't get like that now. There's still a million things we can do."

"I guess, but we still have to think of the next thing to try. I'll think of something while I'm at home. And we can try it later" Diamond Tiara said, filling with some hope.

"You're leaving?"

Diamond and Silver Spoon nodded

"Yeah, it's lunch time. I promised Daddy I'd be there for lunch after all this." Diamond informed you

"It's my lunch time too, and I'm pretty hungry" Silver Spoon said

"Oh, ok then. Well, you girls take care. And see ya when I see ya"

They head off, Diamond wanted to invite you for lunch. But she was doing her best to emotionally distance herself from you in the ways of love. She thought it better to just go on her way.

"What about you Anon, ya gonna get lunch? You're invited to our home if you want a bite to eat. We're all gonna have some good home cooked meals today"

You weren't really hungry though. And you had a schedule to keep. You wanted to see if you could find Pinkie, and then meet up with Lyra. Or maybe....maybe you should see Fluttershy instead. She was your "Aunt". You were sure she'd appreciate the visit. No yeah, you already saw Lyra and Pinkie pretty much. And Fluttershy always managed to make your heart melt, she gave you that cuddly feeling.

"Nah, I'm good. I think I wanna see my Aunt. I haven't really gone to visit her on my own. I kind of feel bad about it."

Applejack knew about Fluttershy being your "Aunt". She thought it was cute. Especially since to her, you seemed like a good kid.

"Well shoot Anon, that's mighty sweet. Ya know, I feel a little odd sayin' it. But I guess Discord really is being a good dad to ya. You're a really good kid, all things considering."

"Thanks, Dad's a good guy. I'm glad he was the one who adopted me."

"Ya really don't mind him?"

You shake your head. "Nope, he can be scary sometimes. But he cares about me. He takes care of me. And without him, I wouldn't be here, and have such good friends."

Applejack felt something inside her, a feeling of sadness "Anon, ah..." She suddenly stops. She wanted to ask about your real parents. She felt reminded of her own.

"Huh? Applejack?"

Applejack shook her head "It's nothin' Anon, well. Yer gonna go to Fluttershy's huh?"

Hmmm… you wondered what she wanted to say.But if she didn't want to say all of a sudden. It was probably best not to ask her whats up.

You nod. Applejack reaches into her hat and puts an apple in your bag. "Here ya are, if ya get hungry on the way over. You can eat this here apple."

"Thanks Applejack, but isn't it your apple?"

"Ain't nothin, dunno if you noticed. But there’s apples all around us."

Ah right yes… right… apple farm.

With that, you say goodbye to her, and to the CMC. You tell them where you are going, and they don't seem to mind at all. You wish Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo good luck as Applebloom and Applejack take them towards the house for lunch, and then to give them a few lessons in farmwork. Oh boy...

As for you, you went off to Fluttershy's. You were sure Snips and Snails would find their way out without being found out.

Chapter 89

You decide to take the more scenic route to the cottage. As in, you don't just teleport there. You wanted to see if you'd see Pinkie or Lyra along the way. They weren't.

You could see the small little bridge ahead that was in front of the cottage. You really did want to see Fluttershy. Your internal thinking of Pinkie being best pony may just be your prior bias. Fluttershy has done nothing but care about you, cuddle you, and love you as if you were her own. You haven't seen her that much. Which would be the same for her. But she's treated you as such just the same.

In fact, as you near the bridge. You could see Fluttershy coming out of her cottage. She looked like she was in a hurry. Well damn, you wanted to visit her. Wonder where she was off to? You wave to her and call her name out as she begins to lift off "Aunt Fluttershy! Hi!"

Then something unexpected occurred. She flew and rushed right into you, picking you up and hugging you tightly in mid air. "A-ANON! You're ok!"

Wut? "Yeah, uhhh. Hi Aunt Fluttershy. u-uhhh, what's up?"

Fluttershy gently put you back to the ground and immediately started checking your body… for something. "Hmm, no injuries, bruises, cuts. Nothing." She wipes some sweat from her forehead with her hoof and calms down. "Thank Celestia"

"Aunt Fluttershy?" You were deeply confused

Especially when she suddenly gave you a stern look. "Anon..."

Wuuuuuuuuuuuuuut…?

"Y-yeah? Is everything ok? Aunt Fluttershy?"

She shook her head at you, she looked worried and angry. "No, everything is NOT ok! What were you doing fighting Big Mac?!"

Wuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuut…?!

"U-uhh… I. I wasn't really fight-wait. How did you know about that?"

Fluttershy never broke her stare "Angel told me. Anon, really, fighting? Why were you fighting Big Mac?!"

That cocksucking asshole rabbit. He didn't even seem to explain the situation properly to her. "A-ah..I..I didn't even really want to. I was going to the clubhouse and there was this fighting ring on the farm. Applebloom and the others were there, Applejack too!"

Fluttershy tapped her hoof on the ground, she was both confused and irritated that it looked like you we're set up to fight for some reason. "Applejack? Applebloom and the others? Why would they ever want you to fight?"

"Uhm… they thought i'd get a cutie mark in fighting. And I didn't. And, it wasn't that bad really. It was more of a staged fight thing."

"They thought? THEY THOUGHT?!!?! Ohhhh..that makes me so angry. Don't they realize the last time you fought you ended up in the hospital?! And now they wanted you to try to get a cutie mark in fighting?! Which would only make you go to the hospital even more?! No! That's wrong!"

"U-ummm" You didn't know what to say. Or do. Or even think. This was Fluttershy, any kind of outburst from her was always baffling.

"And you went right along with it, didn't you mister?" Fluttershy gave you a very hard stare, not "The Stare". But close

"...U-umm....yeah" Wow, you don't know what she did to make you feel this way. But you felt ashamed of yourself, you put your head down in shame. "Sorry..."

Fluttershy took a breath, she knew she had to calm down, she was afraid she was scaring you. But she also felt she was in the right. "I-it's ok Anon, but. Fighting under any circumstance is wrong. If you have to fight, it has to be a last last last last last resort. Hasn't your father taught you this?"

Pfft, he'd probably encourage it. "N-no"

"Hmmm, I'm going to have to talk to him about this. I also want to talk to your friends. I don't want them trying to get you into anything dangerous. And… and Applejack" Fluttershy muttered to herself "Applejack, really?"

You felt she didn't need to do that. The situation was already over. Goddammit. Fucking Angel, if only you could toss him into the wall or something. "A-aunt Fluttershy. It's ok really. I promise, we aren't trying to do that anymore. Fight's over, and I didn't get hurt. Big Mac just sorta stood there while I tried to tackle him down. I promise, it was really more just… y'know… play fighting." And then you quickly add, as you show her your blank flank "See? I didn't even get a cutie mark in it. Fighting is definitely never gonna be my thing. So, c-can we just not mention anything? please please please?"

You started to notice how childish you were acting all of a sudden, you weren't even actually acting this time. You were actually really feeling these feelings.

Fluttershy moaned, still disapproving of what happened. "Mmmnnn. Anon. I just. mnnn. Anon, I. I still need to talk to your father. Please understand, I am only looking out for your well being. I agreed to be your aunt, and." Fluttershy gently nuzzled into you "I mean it when I say it, you're family to me Anon. That's how I feel anyway."

...awww come on Fluttershy, don't say that shit.

She barely really knew you, and she was already so emotionally invested. You didn't know where Angel was. But you were sure he was now going to regret his decision of fucking with you. You were going to turn this around and make Fluttershy smile. Fuck him for trying to make her angry at you. He didn't realize he was dealing with a superior human mind.

"I do understand Aunt Fluttershy. I'm not worried about that. I just don't want you to get angry or upset over something so small. I'm ok, I really am. Can we go inside? Please? Maybe have some snacks and um..other things?" You nuzzle into her, to show her everything is ok. She was so soft, and she was still tense. Poor girl.

Fluttershy gave it some thought. She decided you may be right, it wouldn't do much good to go and talk to Applebloom and the others now that a "fighting" Cutie Mark seemed to not be your destiny. You seemed ok, and she knew Applejack wouldn't put a child into any serious danger. She started to realize she may have overreacted. But still… "Anon, I want you to make a promise"

A promise? "What is it?"

"Promise me that you won't start fights. And that you won't fight unless you really really really have to. Promise me. Please"

That, that was something you know you'd have trouble keeping. Come on Fluttershy. Don't.

You don't say anything, your bottom lip quivers. You don't know if you should. Fluttershy becomes more worried, her eyes shimmering. She was looking more upset the longer you stayed silent. "Anon? please?"

You break… You hold in your sigh. You didn't want her to feel as if she was forcing you. "I promise.."

That was good enough for her. She moves into you for another nuzzle. "Thank you Anon." You nuzzle into her nuzzle. enjoying her motherly warmth. You felt awful that she was so worried. Even if it wasn't your fault. You felt even worse that you knew you'd probably not be able to keep that promise. But you'd at least try. You'd try for her.

Fluttershy moved back so she could give you a visible smile. She seemed much happier now that she felt she didn't need to worry. "Anon, before we go inside. Can I ask you a question?"

You nod, what else could she want to know?

"Has your father ever told you that he loves you?"

....ohh nooo. nooo..Fluttershy why? You didn't know how to answer that. Of course he's never said that. But before you could even answer, she could tell from your hesitation that he hasn't.

"I love you Anon" She then gave you a wide grin.

Your heart! YOUR HEART! FUCK FUCK FUCK! You couldn't. NO FLUTTERSHY. THE FLOODGATES, THINK OF THE FLOODGATES! NOPE,CAN'T CONTAIN IT CAPTAIN, SHE'S GONNA BLOW!

Tears start to flow from your eyes. You didn't know why. It was just a simple phrase. You already had friends here. So why did you get teary eyed over this? You raise your hooves to hug onto fluttershy, as you hide your face under her muzzle, nuzzling.

You knew what it was. You knew exactly what it was. It was love. And not the kind of love of you wanting to sex a pony. The fuzzy kind of love. The kind of love that you knew that if anything ever happened. Then that person would be there, that she'd drop anything, to help you, and love you. Fuuuuuuuuuuuuuuck. You were blubbering like a baby. "ah, luuoovee you taooowwnngh"

Fluttershy could feel your tears, she gave you a gentle rub with her hoof. "There there Anon. It's ok. I… I never knew Discord never told you that before."

Fluttershy felt she really had to talk to him now. About how you and him interacted. She started to gently hold you as she hovered in the air. She did her best to maintain balance, she wanted to do this for you. You didn't even notice as she brought you onto her belly in mid air. You found yourself laying on top of her as she hovered in place, she was rubbing her hoof gently through your mane.

You rub your head on her chest as you hug onto her, still crying. Even when you notice that you were in the air. You felt so safe with her that you didn't care. This was genuine, this was a genuine love. You hadn't felt this kind of love since… well, you were an actual kid.

Fluttershy didn't say anything. She was feeling a maternal instinct kick in. She didn't need to understand why. She was the element of kindness after all. And she wanted to be your Aunt. And as far as she knew. You were a loving child. That her friend had taken in so you wouldn't have to suffer being alone and parentless. She was feeling more like a mother than anything else at this moment.

Fluttershy, she was doing fine, she was hovering upside down. Belly up. Being your bed. "Anon, I never want you to feel scared around me, I never want you to feel like you can't tell me anything. If there's anything you ever want to tell me. Then please, tell me. I won't judge. I never want you to feel as if you can't be yourself around me. I never want you to feel like you have to hide things from me"

d-d-ddd DAMMIT FLUTTERSHY STOP. You wanted to tell her everything all of a sudden. You wanted to tell her that everything was a massive lie. So badly.

So badly.

But you don't. You just cry. Knowing you can't tell her anything. You cry, you cry like a pathetic little being. You could feel a huge weight on your back. Up until now you only felt a little bad about lying. But it was a necessity you could live with if it meant being happy in pony world. But Fluttershy. She didn't love you, she loved who you were presenting yourself to be.

But, you did love her. You loved her as your Aunt. As family. You could feel it. It wasn't a lie, it wasn't a fucking lie. You just cried, and cried. Fluttershy didn't expect this from you. Not this much. She started to hum a gentle song.

You knew what it was. it was "Hush now, quiet now" Her humming was so soothing. You just, you just clung to her. Like nothing else mattered at that moment. You hadn't felt this feeling, this deep loving feeling for so long.

She cared that you were in a fight, she cared enough to tell you and make you promise not to fight, she cared enough that she was going to go have a talk with your friends and even Applejack, she cared enough to tell you that she loved you, she cared enough to hold you, love onto you, in mid air, pumping her wings at what must have been an uncomfortable position, just for you. Just so you could feel loved.

No, she did love you. It's not like you were pretending completely. You just had to hide a few things from her. Otherwise. This was you. You didn't want to hurt her, you didn't want to worry her. You wanted to slam her rabbit to a wall. But that was about it.

Her humming, it was starting to course through you. You felt relaxed, your tears. Your crying was beginning to stop. You could feel yourself wanting to take a nap. That was fine. Fluttershy wasn't going to hurt you. You were fine. Things would be fine. You had to visit her more often. Hopefully, under happier circumstances next time.

Fluttershy could hear that you were calming down. But she didn't stop humming. She cuddled you as if you were a baby foal. She did this until you fell asleep. She never expected this to happen. She did mean what she said about loving you. But she just wanted to be cute and make you smile. Not make you cry. She'd never understand the complexities of the situation. But, she didn't care to. She just wanted you to rest your head, and recover yourself through sleep. She would talk with you some more after you woke up.

She only wondered what Discord was up to, she wondered how much time he spent with you really. She'd really have to talk to him too. Fluttershy gave you a peck on your head as you slept soundly. "Please dream a sweet dream Anon..."

Some time passes, but you don't remember any dreams. Or if you even had one. You wake up. You could feel a cool breeze, and a gentle warmth under you. You were outside. On top of a sleeping Fluttershy. The wind gently passing through, making the grass bend ever so slightly. The sky was going darker. The sun was going down. How long were you out?

Fluttershy… she must have landed on her back to let you sleep , and had fallen asleep herself. You hoped she hadn't hurt herself attempting that. It must have been awkward to do so.

Fluttershy… You rest your head on her chest for a little bit. You could hear her heartbeat, it was as soft and gentle as she was. You could remember what happened before you knocked out. She told you that she loved you. Just thinking about it nearly choked you up again. You held it down, you didn't want to cry again.

She looked so peaceful. But, you had your doubts that she just wanted to sleep outside on the ground like that.

Another thought occurred to you. If that rabbit intended you to be in big trouble, then things pretty much just got turned around on him. Hmmm… You gently get off of Fluttershy, and gently nuzzle the side of her head. Slowly waking her up.

"mmmnn...Anon?"

You look at her with a smile, and lay on your belly next to her. "Hi Aunt Fluttershy, did you sleep good?"

She gave you a gentle giggle. "Mhmmm, did you Anon?"

You nod. "Mhmmm, some of the best sleep I've ever gotten."

She couldn't help but smile from hearing that. "That's very very good. I'm happy to hear that."

And you were happy that she was happy to hear that. Everything would be ok.

Fluttershy stretched and yawned, and looked up to the sky. "Oh my, we slept for a while haven't we? Did Discord need you for anything today Anon?"

You shook your head. "Nah, he's busy with other things right now."

"Really, with what?" Fluttershy wondered what he could be doing. . Ugh, you started to feel that hurt again. You couldn't just tell her what he was doing. That he was seeing what the princesses were up to in Twilight's castle. But… after all that. You didn't want to straight up lie to her.

"Ummm. I forget."

Terrible Anon, simply terrible. Way to be a good nephew. You nearly cringed at yourself.

"Oh… well. I guess that gives us plenty of time with something I wanted to do before we had our little nap" Fluttershy had a big cheery grin about this. You wonder what got her so giddy.

"What is it Aunt Fluttershy?"

"Well, I know we don't actually get to talk very much. So I was hoping you and me could sit down on the couch and" She got cheerier with every sentence "Have a nephew aunt conversation! Doesn't that sound like fun!"

You know what, it did. You'd do it for her, with a smile on your face and happiness in your heart. "It does sound like fun. I want to learn a lot more about you Aunt Fluttershy"

You really did, on a more personal level than what you gathered from the show. "I do too. Oohhh, this is going to be so much fun!" Fluttershy was beside herself. These were the times she felt like a true Aunt.

You both went inside the cottage. To be courteous, she asked if you wanted to eat anything before you both started. You told her you weren't hungry. With that, she invited you to the couch. She sat on one side, you the other. Facing each other.

"Ok! now, do you want to ask a question Anon? Or should I?"

Haha! if it was one thing you could never forget. Was to be the courteous guy. Never worked back home. But… this wasn't back home. "Oh no no, it's always ladies first right?"

Fluttershy giggled "Now I can see why Applebloom and that other filly fell for you... Me and Discord have talked about it quite a bit. Though, he was a little mean about it. I had to remind him that just because he didn't like those kinds of relationships that he shouldn't find it funny that you were in one. Or was..." Fluttershy became a little more somber, and concerned "I don't know much of the details actually. About the… well… we don't have to talk about it if you don't want to."

No, you wanted to talk about it. She wanted to get to know you. And you didn't want to hide anything that didn't need hiding. You wanted her to get to know you as best and as well as possible. "It's alright. It doesn't bother me none. If you're wondering about the whole break up thing. Yeah, it definitely happened" You showed no hint of faltering. You were being upfront and truthful. "I knew it wouldn't work out in the end. I'm currently too young to handle all of that right now. And I never ever wanted to hurt Diamond Tiara or Applebloom. And I knew if I continued, then it would end badly. That's why I ended it. I didn't want to hurt anypony. By breaking up now, I not only stop the problem, but I can still be friends with both without them being jealous or fighting over me."

"That's a very mature way of thinking Anon. I think you did the right thing. I wouldn't want to hurt anypony either. I like the idea of love, it's very romantic. But I don't think I'm cut out for it myself yet. I think I'd just end up hurting somepony."

Wuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuut? "Aunt Fluttershy! What are you saying!? You're the nicest pony I ever met. I mean, you're the element of kindness! KINDNESS! And I happen to think you're really beautiful. Any stallion would be lucky to have you"

Fucking Discord, he could have this if he just made a goddamn move. But he was so adamant on keeping it a friendship it was almost disgusting. It'd probably mellow him out if he went with Fluttershy.

Chapter 90

"I don't know about that Anon. I don't think any stallions would like to be with a mare like me. But it's ok though. I have all my animal friends to keep me company."

Come onnn fluttershhhyy. Cooommeee ooonnn.

"Have you ever thought about it though? Haven't you met any stallion that caught your eye?"

Fluttershy shook her head "No, I admit that I find a few attractive. But. Well, you know"

"What about Dad? He seems really close to you. And he's a guy."

Fluttershy giggled "Anon, are you trying to set me up with your father?"

Errrr.yeah fuck it. Everyone in this situation always says no. So, let's try a yes. "Yes, that's exactly what I'm doing"

This catches Fluttershy off guard. You were so upfront about it. "Well, erm. Anon. You have to understand that although your father is a nice spirit of chaos. Him and me are really good friends. And I don't think either of us want to take it beyond that. I mean… well… ummm, Anon, yo-" Fluttershy stops. She wanted to ask if you were trying to ask her herself to be your mother. But she couldn't. She simply couldn't even mention it. She didn't want to reinforce the idea in your head if that your intention. She stops.

What was she going to say? You wonder. "Aunt Fluttershy?"

Fluttershy thinks of something immediately to try to veer off the subject. "Oh umm… I was just wondering if you'd like some… erm… candy?"

Candy? "Sure… mnnn" Yeah you got it. It was obvious now. She wasn't comfortable with the question. Or maybe she just didn't want to make you feel disappointed. You got the hint, you'd drop it.

Fluttershy got up quickly to fetch some chewy candy squares she had been keeping. She brings back one for you. You take it, thank her, and put it in your mouth. It was pretty ok. Fluttershy then went in for the finisher on changing the subject. "So Anon, how has school been?"

School huh? "It's been ok. We haven't really done much. I came in on the middle of this whole project thing. I'm in a group where we were making and painting models of the four princesses. I… sorta got caught off guard on how hard painting was… Oh, and Twilight visited our class and did this whole presentation on friendship."

"Oh? That must have been a lovely learning experience for you." Fluttershy was actually happy for you to be learning about friendship from her friend Twilight. Fluttershy felt Twilight was one of the biggest experts on the subject. "I bet you learned all kinds of things about Friendship from Twilight, would you like to tell me what you learned Anon?"

Awww, she wanted you to tell her what you learned. Agh… actually. Normally, you'd have found that terribly annoying. But the look on her face… darnit. "Well, Twilight went into a ton of detail about it. But I think I got the gist of it. You should be nice and care about your friends, share experiences and love with each other, always be there when they need a helping hoof. Things like that."

Fluttershy nodded happily, she was so glad that you had understood. She didn't know what Twilight said of course. But from the sound of it. It was exactly what she would expect. "Good job Anon! I know Twilight can be hard to understand sometimes when she gets really technical. But then, I figured you'd be smart enough to understand what she would have to say! I think that deserves a hug for being a good and smart little colt!"

A hug.....Fuck yeah! But before you could even prepare yourself, Fluttershy stopped "Wait… wait. I'm sorry, I didn't stop to think if you'd actually want one or not. I know you probably don't like getting too many hugs. I know how colts can be."

No fuck that, you already had this chat long ago. Time to solidify how much you wanted that hug. You outstretch your front hooves "I always want a hug from my Aunt Fluttershy, no matter what! That's like, one of the best things I could ever look forward to!"

Fluttershy felt a warmth in her heart from that. She liked hugging. It not only let whatever she was hugging know that she cared and everything would be ok. But it always felt so right to her. And knowing that you seemed to really like it so much. Well, she was the affectionate and nurturing type after all.

Fluttershy leaned back so she could stretch her front hooves to give you a hug. Flutterhugs were the best hugs. They made you feel soft,warm, and loved. You go in for the hug, but, before you could make contact.

"Angel! ohhh..Angel!"

Angel had zoomed in out of nowhere, and stolen her hug from you. He made a terribly lonesome face at her, and "spoke" to her.

"Oh Angel, I..I didn't know you were feeling unloved and left out. Of course you can have another hug."

That little mutant rat! Nggrrr. Fluttershy gave Angel a happy little hug, set him down. and started petting his head gently. "Is this better Angel?"

He nodded, turning his head back to stick his tongue out at you. You wanted to stomp on him. But, Fluttershy would disapprove of that. Angel was however, trying to get the attention focused on himself. He realized that you'd manage to talk Fluttershy out of being upset with you. So he was trying another tactic.

You did your best to smile, and spoke to Angel. "Hey little guy, ummm. Can you come back later? Me and Aunt Fluttershy were talking."

Immediately Angel started to sob and cry.

"W-what did I do?!"

"O-oh, no no. Angel. No no no. shhhhh" Fluttershy held him close and gently rubbed his little back. "Anon doesn't want you to go away forever. He just meant that me and him were having some talk time."

Angel chattered and sobbed.

"Well of course you can sit in, and yes. You can rest your head on my belly if you want to. Let me just..." Fluttershy laid on her side, Angel then started to make his back comfortable on her tummy by rubbing along it, he did it slow. Staring right at you with a glint in his eye as he made himself comfortable before resting his head and back and sitting down.

"Isn't he adorable Anon? And look how happy he is now. You just wanted to be a part of the family, don't you Angel?" Fluttershy gave him a gentle tap on his head with her nose. He nodded.

You held back from wanting to strangle him, put on a false smile, and slowly, almost angrily, but keeping it pleasant as possible, spoke. "He is pretty adorable, he's so adorable that I could just hug him to death"

Fluttershy took that as a compliment. Not understanding that you meant it. With your hug taken away, you were now frustrated. You moved on with the conversation to get your mind off Angel being a little asshole. This time, you'd just keep the conversation away from maternal or relationship type of things. But, you did want to ask a question of interest. "Aunt Fluttershy, have you ever had to fight anypony? You know, hoof to hoof?"

Fluttershy didn't want to answer that question "Anon, ummm, don't you have a more pleasant question to ask?"

You shake your head, no. You wanted to hear from her mouth about battles she's had to fight through. Well, there was only one actual time you could remember her entering hoof to hoof combat… sorta. "I'm really interested. You said I shouldn't enter a fight unless I reaaaallllyyy have to. So was wondering if you ever really had to fight. Please please pleeeassee! Can you tell me?"

Fluttershy thought about it, she didn't want to give you any ideas. She felt the times she had to do anything violent were truly horrible times. "Anon… are you sure you don't want to hear about something else?"

You could see, she was uncomfortable about it. Ugh, you bend like a paper plate. And back off from the question. Having a conversation with Fluttershy was a little tougher than you bargained for. "Ok, then. Let me ask another question"

You thought of something more pleasant. Something she'd like. "What's your favorite animal?"

Fluttershy lit up, beaming a joyous smile "Oh, now that's a much nicer question! And it's easy to answer!"

You wondered what it could be. Here's hoping she didn't say rabbit.

"my favorite animal is… all of them"

......Of course. Why did you expect a singular answer.

"I love all my little animal friends, from the smallest spider to the cutest bunny rabbit." Fluttershy giggled as she hugged Angel. Grrr… you were supposed to be getting hugs.

"My turn! ok..Anon, I hope you don't mind. But I have a question that might seem like something, well. A little too extreme. You don't mind if I ask, do you?"

That seemed a little unfair. Considering she dodged your earlier question. But what the hell, shoot. An extreme question coming from Fluttershy? What the hell could it be? It got you curious. "Ok, shoot"

Fluttershy hesitated, she almost thought it was too extreme for a colt. But finally. She let it out. Just her hesitating had you at the edge of your seat. "Well… ummm, What's your least favorite thing about Ponyville so far? I know it might be kind of hard mentioning it. But maybe if there’s something I could do, I can make it better for you."

...Well that wasn't extreme at all. But… aww, come on Fluttershy. Stop being so nice. Your heart was having trouble taking these many niceness hits. But the question itself. Least favorite?

Probably Angel. But you couldn't say that. Snips and Snails? Nah, they were negligible. Twilight's castle? Yeah you know what. fuck it, that thing doesn't fit and is an eyesore. "Twilight's Castle."

Fluttershy gasped. She liked the castle, she didn't see anything wrong with it at all. And hearing her gasp, you felt a little bad answering the question. But dammit, you thought with that you could have a bit of a neutral discussion about it. Sure the topic was beat to death back on the boards. But here you could have an actual conversation about the actual goddamn castle that was a just a way aways… you just couldn't have that conversation with Fluttershy.

"I-I don't understand. I think it's a really nice castle. It's very pretty and it fills ponies with hope and pride. It's a practical monument to friendship itself." Fluttershy just couldn't understand it

You cringe. Yeah, you should have expected her to say that. In fact, you began to realize that you really should be picking your questions more carefully. Fluttershy was a sensitive soul who really believed you to be a sweet loving child. And every time she was taken aback by your actions or questions. You felt bad deep in your heart. You try to recover from this, and decide from this moment not to mention anything negative around her.

"I-I know. It's not really the castle itself. I mean it's my least favorite because erm… uhhh, the location itself. The castle is fine, I just think it should be in a place with ummm… more trees?"

Fluttershy sighed in relief. "Oh, I thought you actually meant the castle itself." Fluttershy gave you a gentle smile as she tilted her head "And I could easily fix that. I would just have to ask Twilight if she wouldn't mind me planting a few trees around."

Really? She'd actually feng shui the area around a castle that wasn't hers? "You'd really do that for me?"

Fluttershy nodded "mhmm! I'd have to ask Twilight. But if she said yes, then I'd love to try to make the castle more pleasant. Planting trees actually sounds like a great idea Anon, since the castle itself looks like a tree. ohhh, now that I think about it. I can really see where you were going with this. I sure hope Twilight agrees to the idea, not only would the trees look nice around the castle. But it'd give some new homes for some cute little birdies, some squirrels. Maybe even a spider or two! Doesn't that sound wonderful?"

Maybe? You couldn't really picture anything making that castle look better. But, just to fuel that cute optimism. You say yes. "Mhmmm, I'd bet it'd look really pretty after that."

Ok, it was your turn to ask a question again. You wanted to ask her a question you honestly wanted an answer to. You just wanted to make sure it wasn't one she'd not like. "My turn… ok." You went through your thoughts piece by piece. You wanted to ask her what she thought of Twilight becoming an Alicorn. But you knew, oh… you knew. It'd probably just be her saying that she was happy for her. So you wanted to do some note comparing. "Aunt Fluttershy, what would you do if you were an Alicorn princess?"

Fluttershy didn't know how to answer that, Though she seemed willing. "Alicorn Princess? Ummmm… what do you mean exactly?"

"Well, I mean. What would your policies be? What would you do? How would you solve problems?"

Fluttershy deeply thought into this one. "Well… I guess I'd first have to learn some magic. Since I'd have a horn. I'm sure Twilight would be willing to teach me. I don't think I'd need a castle really. Or… oh..oh!" Fluttershy got excited for this "I would need a castle, a big one! So any animal friends or ponies who needed shelter could come inside and rest and eat a good meal! And and… umm… as Princess, I would make laws asking everypony to be nice and kind to one another always. And to always be nice and gentle with all the animals. And for everypony to just get along" Fluttershy continued to think of as many things as possible. She was already liking the concept of ruling as a princess.

"And I'd want to go around personally, to every town and city. And hold big meetings so I could explain the values of being friendly and kind. And I wouldn't need many bits. Any I would get would instantly go to any charities or animal shelters! And… erm.." She started to think of the bad guys, and villains of Equestria, she's usually so scared or timid about such things, but as a princess, maybe she could be braver, brave enough to stand up and try to show them the light. "If anypony bad tried to do anything they shouldn't do. I would do my very best to show them the right path. Does that answer your question Anon?"

It did, it was pretty ideal. You didn't think you should even question if it was possible. This world was different from your old one. And, it was just sweet. The whole castle thing was cute and adorable. But you felt worried for her if this ever did happen and she had to face down a villain. They'd probably tear her apart. Still, that was very sweet, and aside from thinking the villains would tear her limb from limb, everything else sounded damned good. You smile, and clap your hooves. "I don't think there'd ever be a princess better than you Aunt Fluttershy."

Fluttershy liked the praise, though at the same time felt she didn't deserve it "Oh Anon, you don't really mean that. We already have perfectly good princesses as is"

"I do mean it! I don't know any other pony who has a castle specifically just to shelter others. That's really kind of you to want to do that."

"W-well, it's true though. Why have such a big castle unless you were going to use it completely? I feel it'd just be good to have one to help everypony else." Then, Fluttershy giggled at a thought "Ok, My turn. And I think I've got the perfect question"

The perfect question? "Go for it, I'm ready"

"Well, I know we've never had one before. But you never know if it'd ever actually happen or not. So, my question Anon. Is. What would you do as an Alicorn Prince? I bet it's super adorable! Right?" After getting excited for her own answer, she was ecstatic to hear what yours would be.

Oh shit. Uhhhhhh. An Alicorn Prince? You only ever wanted Celestia and Luna to be Alicorns to be truth of it. You were just curious because even Twilight became one. So this kind of thought never occurred to you.

But it is a leadership position. What would you do as a leader? Hmmm..."Well, I'd like a decent castle with plenty of guards and an army. Ponies, I'd like to think, look to their rulers for guidance and leadership. And I'd want to have armed and capable forces to protect my people from harm. As an Alicorn Prince, and hear me out on this, I'd want to train to be a master of combat. Not to fight, but to be able to defend those closest to me from any harm. And I'd like to make policies that were fair and just for everypony under my rule. And I'd like to hope I could keep the economy stable. An economic depression, I'd think, would cause panic. And I don't want that. And finally… ehhmm, maybe a cute mare at my side to rule beside me."

Fluttershy giggled at the last one "Oh Anon, just wait till you're older for that last one."

Fluttershy's giggly smile turned into a gentle loving one as she thought about the rest of what you said. "Anon… I think you'd make a brave and wonderful Alicorn. And not to mention very bright. I wonder." Fluttershy got an idea that made her laugh just to think about "Maybe you could run for mayor. It's not as big as being a prince. But you'd be able to make laws that would make pony lives better."

Oh right, Mayor Mare was still mayor despite a castle being there. But as you thought about it, you remember, whether this was right or wrong. That rulers did have duchies and towns or some shit. Which had counts and dukes and mayors under them. So, having a mayor made sense if you were right. "Well, if I became mayor I'd have to go through all the old laws and policies and see if I could just optimize them a little. Everypony in Ponyville seems pretty content with how things are run as is. I don't think I could make it any better by adding any laws."

"I didn't even think about optimizing anything. I just thought you'd want to make new laws." Fluttershy was in wonderment over the whole thing "Maybe you really should run for mayor… well, umm, when you're older anyway."

"Yeah, maybe" Both you and Fluttershy started to notice it was getting pretty late. She began to wonder if you needed to go home.

"Anon, it's getting dark. Is there anything you need to do? Do you need to go home?"

Yeah, you probably maybe did. You can't imagine that meeting at the castle having took all fucking day. Discord probably was waiting for you with all the juicy details.

"I think dad might be waiting for me"

"Oh..." Fluttershy looked down and saw that Angel had fallen asleep.She carefully shifted to the side so his head would slowly lower to the couch. She slowly got up as you did, and moved up close to you to give you a nuzzle "I'll miss you then, I've had a really nice evening with you Anon. Next time, we all should go out and do something together. I think it'd be a lot of fun. Just me, you, and your father. How does that sound?"

You'd love that, all three of you together doing casual things? You imagined it would be very fun and uplifting as long as Discord didn't do any bad shit. "I'd really really like that"

"Good! how about tomorrow afternoon?" Fluttershy asked

"Isn't there school tomorrow?"

Fluttershy shook her head "I don't think so, there’s always two days off from school. I think this would be the first."

"Then I'd love it! What would we do?"

"Yay! well, it could be a family picnic! And erm… ohh… well, I do need to ask your father too. Though, I'm sure Discord wouldn't mind. But you never know, just in case"

He better damn well agree. It sounded like it could be really good fun.

"Well, you have a very very good night Anon, and pleasant dreams. I'll see you tomorrow! I'm sure your father will agree! so don't you worry."

You nuzzle under Fluttershy, enjoying her warmth. "You too Aunt Fluttershy. I'll see you tomorrow."

After that tender moment, you packed up and left with a smile on your face. Wooo! Family outing! woo! It was gonna be adorable! You look at the sleeping Angel as well. If only. But no, Fluttershy loved him too much.

Fluttershy followed you out the door, and made mention you could use your map in the small river by the bridge. hrnn, you couldn't actually remember if she knew about the map. No, you don't remember telling her. Discord must have. Or did you? It seemed so insignificant to remember.

As you step out, you also notice the statue set. It was still in perfect condition. Fluttershy must have been taking good care of it. She seemed to have even put a bird bath close to it. Cute.
You go over to the little river by the bridge and toss the map inside. The portal opens pretty wide, but thankfully. The whole river doesn't become one gaping hole. Thank goodness.
You hop inside, and as usual. after bouncing off the bed, you grab the map and put it in your bag.

You head over to your floor door and head down to the living room. "Discord? You around? Woah huh?"

The living room was dimmer than usual. You even noted that the color looked washed out. And over at what could be deemed a new piece of wall was a fireplace with a large rocking chair in front of it. You could see the back of Discord's head as he rocked slowly, back and forth.

"Discord?" You walked over to him, when you walked in front of him. He was "smoking" a bubble pipe that let out triangle bubbles. he didn't look pleased however. And he wasn't responding. "Discord? you ok?"

Discord let out a gruff "Hmph".

"Discord? Uhhh. Something wrong? Did uhh… did everything go ok?"

Well, this was worrying.

Discord's entire chair turned a full 180 degrees away from you. "Go away Anon, I'm upset."

Upset? Him? About what?! "Discord… yo hey, come on. What's up? You can tell… wait." You look around carefully "Is this another trap?"

"It's not a trap Anon, I just don't feel up to my usual business right now. Something terrible has happened."

Terrible?...well, Fluttershy isn't dead. You just saw her. "Look, Discord. It's kind of eerie seeing you… depressed… I think that's the right word for this. Look, if it cheers you up. Fluttershy is going to ask you tomorrow if we could go on a picnic in the afternoon. So you should visit her tomorrow morning to get that all set up. That's good right? a picnic?"

You put your hoof at the side of his his rocking chair and gently shake it. You were really getting worried. The chair turns slowly towards you. Discord's face. It was a wreck… literally. It was cracked and his mouth,snaggletooth,eyes, and nose were out of place.

"That does sound enjoyable. But it can't fix the problem the princesses have created"

The princesses? what? what the hell happened at the castle? "Problem? Discord, come on man. Just tell me. We're partners. You can't leave me out of the loop if it's important. What, did they catch you? ...you didn't do anything stupid did you?"

Discord sighed, spit coming out of his horn and spraying everywhere. You had to cover your face to cover yourself.

"Discord… uhh, mind pulling yourself together? Come on man. This isn't like you."

Discord stayed silent as he grabbed his face with his paw, and squeezed. That did it, it fixed his face. But not his miserable expression. "You're right Anon… we are partners. Which is why I don't want to tell you the horrible news of what's to befall our changeling friends."

What? What did he suddenly sympathize with them or something? "Uhhh, Discord, we kind of wanted a battle to happen. You know, for both the chaos factor and to drive them out for good. Remember?"

Discord heavily sighed. "But that's exactly it Anon, There won't be any kind of battle whatsoever. The Princesses actually got the brilliant but UTTERLY boring idea of using a sealing spell with all their power to send them to Tartarus before they can even react! It's going to be a whole midnight raid and everything! And not one hoof is going to be raised. It actually hurts my poor tender heart to know that all that effort you went through will be all for nothing. No fun or chaotic payoff whatsoever. I could only imagine how upset you must be knowing this. This is why I didn't want to tell you, I didn't want to shatter your poor heart."

That was a little disappointing. But, it also meant that nobody was going to get hurt, but, you needed more details. Also, what did he mean by "Your efforts"?.

"Come on Discord, it's not all bad. At least Equestria will be a safer place right? I'm actually surprised you didn't do anything to help the changelings just for their to BE a battle."

"A good idea Anon, but unfortunately. My father status and my friendships prevent me from committing high treason for the sake of a great laugh. All four princesses are involved in this. And as much… as it" Discord started to groan in pain "H-hurts me to s-s-AGHHH!" Discord's head exploded.

HOLY SHIT!

...wait.

You initially react, but then immediately calm down. This was Discord, that wasn't going to kill him. "Wow… you're really losing your head over this huh?"

Discord giggled as a new head popped out from his bloodless stump. "Good one Anon, I always enjoy an appropriate pun. But alas, this is still a problem. Or it seems to me that you don't really see a problem with all this"

You shrug. "I don't really. Why don't we just think of it as doing Equestria a gigantic favor by getting the princesses off their duff and dealing with a problem that could have escalated into a more major issue at any point."

"Well I don't mind that. But" Discord began to whine "I wanted a big battle for all that effort!"

"Yeah, you mentioned that before. What exactly do you mean by effort?"

"I mean your effort Anon. Whether by accident or on purpose. You caused a series of events that could have led to one of the biggest battles in all of Equestria. And instead the princesses are just going to sneak up on them and cast a spell powerful enough to send their entire hive down under. It's just shameful"

He definitely meant the screw up back at the Crystal Empire. There was no arguing this point. He mentioned before that chaos can even be caused by accidents. And your accident did lead to this. You just didn't think it'd be this easy for them to do. But it sounded they were going for a preemptive strike.

You give Discord a friendly tap on his leg with your hoof "Come on Discord, you still did a service. Even if it didn't turn out as you planned. Think of it this way, that's one less set of villains that could do horrible things to Fluttershy. Now that's gotta make you feel better right?"

"Anon, I already knew that. But that point would have happened if there was also a big chaotic battle as well. Anon, your inability to empathize with the situation is very… disturbing"

Empathize?! He wanted a battle. You couldn't even tell if he cared if any of the good side combatants got hurt or not. "Well how about this then. Would it cheer you up if I told you… well"

No, you didn't feel bad for it. They deserved it. "That I used my horn? for a little chaotic fun? While still serving some justice."

That got his attention. "Chaotic fun? With the horn? Anon, you actually caused chaos using the power I gave you… on purpose? Do go on"

And you do. You explain to him the situation from earlier that day. Up until you turned on the anti gravity on Snips and Snails and made them living tops.

Chapter 91

This, caught Discord's attention the most. So much so the living room started to become brighter as he became curious and amazed at what he heard. "So Anon, are you telling me. Rather than showing mercy to these two colts. You instead span them until you could reacquire your wings?"

You nod. "Yeah, I mean hell, like I said. Chaotic justice. They weren't going to get away with stealing my stuff just like that. Talking to them didn't work, they were still on that whole hero nonsense. Hell, I wouldn't have minded if the timer on the wings were a little longer just so I could keep spinning them. But hopefully they got it by now."

Discord stroked his beard, he was thinking, and thinking hard. "Yes, the timer on the wings are a tad short. I only meant for them to be used for escaping purposes… or for you to hilariously fall if you forgot how much time you had left. But this… this changes everything Anon"

Changes everything? "What? What do you mean by changes everything?"

"I don't have to explain it to you. If I did, it might change the course of things. Buuuuuuut..." Discord snapped his talons, causing your saddlebag to shake and shine for a moment. "I think I could upgrade your wings to allow for five times the flight time than before, and even put in a special feature that won't end in you falling to your doom by accident. How does that sound? You can call it a reward for doing your father proud."

Well, you didn't expect a reward, that was pretty sweet. You only meant to cheer the guy up. But that still left the actual handling of the changelings. You still wanted to see it happen. You felt they were overdue a millennial banishing. You also wouldn't push your luck by asking if you could get an upgrade on the horn. Especially with Twilight being a little bitch about it. "So, you feeling better "Dad"?"

Discord nods " Much better, though there’s a side of me that still wishes there'd be an actual battle… Here, let me show you!"

Discord got up from his chair and turned around to show you his back, growing out of it was a dead, hollowed version of his head. With a sign hanging out of it's mouth saying "excitement is dead" You cringe at it, some of it's skin was falling off.

Discord looked at his backside and cringed himself. "Yeesh, I didn't think the princesses being a killjoy would have actually killed him. Poor thing." Discord chuckled as he pushed the head back into his body.

That was a little morbid. "Yeah. Erm, speaking of the princesses. Can't we at least see the whole banishment process? That might be pretty cool."

Discord rolled his eyes "As cool as a desert that was thrown into the sun maybe. All it's going to be is a fancy light show."

"Aww come on! We can make it a father son outing. I mean, if this is the conclusion of a villain. We should at least be there to see it. Don't you think?"

Discord shook his head "Not really, but if you insist, I suppose we could sit down and TRY to enjoy the show. But don't complain if it turns out disappointing."

"I won't. Wait… this doesn't count as a favor does it?"

Discord shook his head again "No, this can be considered watching the end of our efforts. an anticlimactic end to what was a fun ride."

Discord was actually being pretty cool about all this. It was clear he was disappointed. But cheering him up must have really made him more agreeable. Plus, woo! Upgraded wings! That should give you enough time to really get some training in with Rainbow Dash. You could do that after the picnic.

"So, uhh. How are we going to do this?"

"Easy, first" Discord makes a mirror appear in front of you. "Look into this mirror very hard"

Huh? a mirror? That's a little odd. Considering he usually snaps his talons and BAM! Somewhere else.

You look into the mirror. "Like this?"

"Harder Anon, really stare into it!"

"Ok" You stare at the mirror as hard as you can. In the next moment, a giant fist pops out of the mirror and knocks you out.

Some time passes. "U-unnngh" You slowly wake up, you can feel a cold breeze, there was very little light, and you could hear animal noises. "Ummnngh" You slowly look around, you seemed to be behind some brush and bushes. You were outside somewhere, in a misty and dark area. But you felt comfy.

You look down. You were on a theater chair. On your right was popcorn in a popcorn holder, and another seat. With Discord in full camo, overlooking something with some binoculars, in fact. You yourself were in camo, with your saddlebag gone, replaced with binoculars of your own. What was going on? "W-what happened?"

"SSshhhh, there's royal guards all around us Anon, keep quiet"

"W-wha?" You look around, it's too dark to see anything, you can make out trees, and ahead of you, was a dark and eerie lake with a fortress tower island near the center. You speak in a low voice. "W-what happened? where are we?"

"Oh, I used some knock out potion to put you out until it was time for the show. We're just outside the changeling's hive and headquarters"

You rub your face. It kind of hurt. "...O-oh, why does my face hurt?"

Discord put down his binoculars and took in a handful of popcorn. "You fell on your face when the potion took effect."

"O-oh" That sounded about right? maybe? You couldn't remember. "Ok..u-umm.." You look ahead, your vision unblurring completely. But it was still dark and foggy to really get a good look at anything. "Discord, I can't see anything."

"Use the binoculars Anon, and just watch for the princesses. This is going to be quite… lackluster"

You grab your binoculars and look through them. Woah, you could not only see through the fog, but things we're a lot brighter too. You could see a few guards hiding in various places. But no Princesses. "You can also adjust that knob there for x-ray vision in case you want to see what's going on inside."

You flick the knob, and look through your binoculars again. You could see through the walls of the fortress. Woah… That's a lot of bugs. But many of them weren't moving. Sleeping most likely. As you looked about and inspected. You could see a few moving about. Finally, you spot Chrysalis. Alone and asleep in the tower. The whole hive must have been there.

You flick it back to normal vision and look around. looking higher, you could see the moon. Then, you saw it. "Woah hey, the Princesses are coming in." Each one hovered over a corner of the fortress. Their horns aglow. "What's going on?"

As you take in some popcorn, Discord takes a look with his binoculars. "Looks like they are preparing the spell. I will admit, I never expected a midnight sneaking raid being led by the Princesses. They usually handle things head on. A speech there, a banishment here. It's usually so routine"

"Well, I guess the fact that they think Chrysalis wanted to do something with Cadence's baby must of raised a ton of red flags. They didn't want to take any risks."

"What's the fun without risk? I hope they don't do this every time. Would make for very boring legends later on in life."

"Hey, you gotta do what you gotta do. Not everything needs to be chaotic"

"I'll agree with you once I become the spirit of order-..oh, it's starting"

Their horns all began to glow brighter as a huge sealing like sigil appeared through the middle of the fortress. The fortress itself started to sink through it. Leading to Tartarus no doubt. You switch to X-ray view. You could see the changelings waking up, they didn't seem to know what to do, scrambling around as they began to disappear into nothingness. Not even Queen Chrysalis was wary enough to escape. She disappears as well, along with the rest of the tower. Now there is nothing to obstruct the view of the lake.

That was very… anime. And boring-ish. You couldn't hear anything, you didn't know what they were thinking. You just saw something you'd see in an anime without the actual cool bits. Though, seeing the magic itself was ok.

Discord looked to you "What did I tell you, utterly lackluster"

You sigh, yeah, it was a little. Impressive that they got them all. But you didn't expect it to be THAT plain. Such is the realities of cartoon horse land. "Yeah… well… at least they’re gone."

Discord was wondering about something. You didn't seem to care about villains too much. "So Anon, why no sympathy for them?"

"Huh?" That was random. "What do you mean?"

"It's a simple question. I just want to know. You usually have some sort of moral fiber poking out. But you don't care one bit about the changelings. You wouldn't mind enlightening me, would you?"

"Huh? Ahh, it's really easy. They are villains. I guess I never thought about it too much until coming to live here. But unless something can be done about them, then they just try to cause harm. I mean, think about it. What if they hurt Fluttershy? I'm sure you wouldn't show any mercy to them then, right? I guess I see the difference between watching the show and actually being in Equestria. Your thinking changes."

Discord nods "Hrnn, I can't disagree about what would happen if ANYPONY hurt Fluttershy. Very well, that answer will suffice. Shall we turn in for the night?"

You hear some brush move behind you, almost a growling noise. A monster? Perhaps a timberwolf? Whatever it was, you didn't want to stick around to find out. "Y-yeah, let's go back. This place gives me the willies"

With that Discord wooshes both you and himself back to the house, into the living room.

Discord stretches and yawns. "Ahhh, Well, that was… something. You have a pleasant sleep Anon."

Wut?

"Have a pleasant sleep Anon? really? A normal good night? Really?"

Discord nodded "Yes, really. We have a picnic tomorrow with Fluttershy after all, It'd be rude for you to show up without having the right amount of sleep. You'd just be tired and probably fall asleep during one of her rousing and adorable conversation starters." Discord yawned again, patting his mouth with his paw

"And I need to wake up early to get everything set up of course. Need to pick a location, make food, choose proper chaotic measures that would be Fluttershy approved, and I've got to make sure nopony would need me for something. Of course I mean Twilight. Who knows what kind of mood she'll be in after all that. She might want to double check about our whereabouts again or something during the whole "baby attack" incident"

"Why would she wonder that? They just banished the changelings"

Discord looked to you, unamused "Anon, does she need a reason to double check or triple check anything? You should know, you've seen the show."

Mnnn… she might wonder about the picture. Eh, fine. At least he'd be the one dealing with it. You just had to be at the Picnic after everything was set up. "Yeah ok, well then. Good night to you Discord. seeya tomorrow."

With that, Discord disappears in a flash of light. You yawn, and head up the gravity stairs. opening your door. You hop into bed, and stretch. Oh, it felt good. You could see your saddle bag hanging by the dresser. You look upon the dresser itself, looking at the picture of you, Discord, and Chrysalis.

Maybe you did feel bad a little about it. Discord used to be a bad guy too before he was reformed. Maybe bugbutt could have gone through the same process. Mnnn, it was too late now. Besides. Discord wasn't really evil, even before hand. Just a selfish douchebag. Now he was just a good selfish douchebag. Best to sleep and forget about it. You didn't want to suddenly have the feels for the changelings.

The morning comes. Or, whatever the morning was in this dimensional world. You had forgotten to set your alarm clock. Or even ask when it needed to be set. But that was fine. Because something was slowly waking you up.

You felt a warm, gentle nuzzling. A leg was around you, a head was nuzzling into the side of yours. Slowly waking you. "Mmmnnn...."

Wait… what? Who was nuzzling you? "mmnn.."

Whoever it was, it sure was cuddly. Was it Fluttershy? "Mmnnnn?" No, you could still feel the peculiar warmth that comes from your bed. Was it Discord? If it was, he was being damned tenderly.

You slowly open your eyes, and turn just a little. You could see a washed out pink little hoof gently grasping you. No....

Noooooooooooo..... Noooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo....

You slowly turn all the way, and beside you was Diamond Tiara, cuddling and nuzzling into you. In your bed… When and how the fuck did she get in here?

She looks into your eyes, her own was half cocked and dreamy as she smiled at you "Good morning Anon, did you have a good sleep?" She cuddles more into you.

She was so cuddly. But… "D-diamond?" You yawn. "Diamond, wh-what are you doing here?"

Diamond Tiara giggled "Your father let me in silly. I wanted to see you, and cuddle with you."

Wuh? "Uhhhhh,"

Discord must have been messing with you. But, wait no. he couldn't just be messing with you. Because then this would be Discord posing as her. And, this didn't seem like it was him. And if it was morning. He would be setting up for the picnic. Did… Did Diamond wait for him to appear or something just to get in here? Did she not understand that it was over?

She cuddled closer, and gently kissed your neck, slowly and repeatedly. Ohhh-..ohhh..you started to blush. What was she doing? "D-diamond. C-come on. This is weird."

Diamond giggled into your ear. "What's wrong Anon? Don't you love me?" She giggled again. "Don't worry, I won't bite"

You gulped, oh god. OH GOD… did… did she want the D? Oh shit. you were so tempted. But… ugh. Applebloom, if she even knew. And even then, what was Diamond doing? You were sure that she understood that you broke up with her. "D-diamond?"

She looks up at you, loving, and hungrily says "Yes, my love muffin?"

Doooon't...

"D-diamond. I, I don't know. I mean, don't you remember? We broke up. I ended it"

She looked surprised, not hurt. Just surprised.

You sigh. "Diamond, I'm sorry.."

You really were, it looked like sexy times were going to happen.

"But I can't return your love, this isn't right. And it wouldn't be fair to Applebloom"

Diamond Tiara looked confused "Applewho?"

Applewho? "Applebloom, you know. Your former rival now good friend? Are you ok Diamond? What's up with you?"

Suddenly Diamond Tiara growled as she looked up to the ceiling "Grrr, when I say I want my intelligence up to date. I mean from a few minutes ago! You slackers!"

Wh-what the fuck?

You look up to the ceiling, and what you see, terrifies you to no end. Changelings, all over your ceiling. You look around. They were all over your room. a few even guarding the portal door.

You look back at Diamond Tiara, who was giving you a ferociously evil grin. "What's wrong darling? It looks like you have just seen a ghost."

O-oh no. You back up against your bed rest, as Diamond Tiara moves closer. Eyeing you deeply. Giggling at you. "Don't you love me? Even a little Anon? I could feel something from you before. Was it love? Or was it lust? Strange, given how young you are."

You gulp. You felt trapped. Diamond Tiara moved closer to you, no, not Diamond Tiara. You knew who it was. She began to gently rub her hoof on your chest. "Yes, how odd. it's too bad lust ,while just as delicious, is nutritionless. Otherwise you'd be quite a catch."

You swat her hoof away. "H-how did you get in here? I saw you get sealed away!"

The fake Diamond chortled at you "Oh, you did, did you? No, what you saw was my proxy when I go out and do my own little business. But, I did see you Anon. You and your father sitting down and enjoying the banishment of my hive. Tell me Anon, how do you think I felt about all that?"

You gulp, not answering.

"Oh, cat got your tongue? Well then, let me answer for you" the fake Diamond Tiara stepped back on your bed, as her eyes began to turn red. Her body being enraptured by green flames as she changes into her original form. Furious with anger "I FELT LIKE DESTROYING YOU, YOUR FATHER, AND THOSE ACCURSED PRINCESSES A MILLION TIMES OVER!"

OOHHH SHIT, FUCK THIS SHIT! You looked around as the changelings began to converge, slowly. Chrysalis took a few breaths to calm down, looking down upon you, smiling at your fear. "What's wrong Anon? What happened to all that bravery and arrogance? Oh ho ho, that's right. You don't have your father here to save you. He's setting up a picnic. Isn't he? Oh, and how we got here? That's easy. I've always known about the few wormholes that lead to this dimension. But only a fool would ever enter them. A fool, or somepony who just really has a thirst for revenge."

Oh no. Oh fucking shit. FUCKING SHIT! You had to get out of here.

"Of course, there's still the question on w-"

You immediately point to your window and scream out. "HOLY SHIT! A METEOR IS COMING THIS WAY!"

The changelings, being rather stupid, begin to scramble. A few ducking and grasping onto things. You immediately jump off your bed. You look to your portal door, FUCK. Too many changelings. Your Saddle Bag? Shit! Changelings there too. The Floor Door! That's it. There were no changelings around there. Fuck it, you'd rather take your chances floating through the dimension than end up dead.

You rush towards the floor door, only taking a quick glance at the changelings. While the drones were ducking or hiding. Chrysalis only stared at you, smirking evilly. Whatever, dumb bitch was probably ready to pounce you. No time to think. Just run!

You get to your floor door and quickly open it. The moment you do, you get a chair slammed right into you as you roll a few inches away from the door. Crawling out from the door was a slightly bigger changeling in armor, wait. Wasn't he...?

Chrysalis looked down on her changeling captain "Good of you to join us captain, Do you feel better now?"

The captain quickly turned and saluted his queen "Yes my Queen, so much better"

Chrysalis gets up from your bed and stands over you, smiling. She was staring at you recover from the daze of being hit. "I hope you didn't mind that little side dish of vengeance Anon. My captain had been wanting to do that ever since he randomly changed back from being a chair"

You shake your head, as your vision clarifies. At that moment, Chrysalis holds you down with her hoof.

You try hitting it away with your hooves, but you weren't strong enough "Let me go you dumb bitch! Dammit! Let me go!"

Chrysalis presses down on you a little, making you wince "Oh Anon, I'm never going to let you go. I don't think you understand the gravity of the situation."

She probably wanted to end you there and then, fucking just smacking her. You try biting her leg.

"O-OWwww!" You bite down hard, only to hurt your teeth on her extremely hard leg. It was almost like a shell.

Chrysalis pressed down even harder on you, hurting you enough to make you stop.

She looked down at you as you yelped, she was angry. She looked around at her children, All who have realized by now there was no meteor. And as she looked at them, she noticed a certain picture in a frame. One that filled her with rage. That picture.

Without a word. Her horn lights up and shoots a shot right at it. Obliterating it. She looked down at you, as you looked right at her. Those eyes, it looked like she wanted to kill you. "Oh, but you must be wondering Anon. How did I ever come to figure out that this was you and your father's fault? That too is easy to explain. You see, after I saw my hive banished and you and your father sitting around. I disguised myself as a royal guard. And decided to listen in on the Princesses's mockery of a job well done. And I found out such interesting things. I don't ever remember sending in a spy to assault Princess Cadence over her baby. A very lovely thought, in fact, a perfect revenge. But even I understood the costliness of either success or failure without a strong power backing me. I really thought one of my children was being stupid in trying to please me, they do tend to do that. But then, I saw that they had a copy of that picture… that picture" She growled.

"My queen, please remain calm! Your plan. please remember your plan!" her captain said, doing his best to help his queen calm.

Chrysalis growled, but she took another moment to calm herself, to keep herself from blasting you. "You're very lucky Anon, I'm in a very destroying mood today."

You gulp. A plan? what plan? Do you even dare ask?

You do. "W-what does he mean by a plan?"

Chrysalis smiles at you "A plan, Anon. Something I had thought out after finding out the truth. What, did you think I'd come here just to destroy you? Cute, but oh so wrong."

Yes. You slowly nod, looking at your saddle bag. If only… if only you could grab the horn. You could probably decimate them all. "Y-yeah, you look like you really want to." If only you could find a way to get her hoof off of you, you could make a dive for it.

Chrysalis snickered, it hid the rage she really felt. "Oh, I really do. But then I thought about it. I thought maybe this wasn't all your fault. You being a colt raised by a buffoon. I thought, maybe you needed a better parent. Somepony with experience."

Oh good lord no. "You mean somepony like you?"

Chrysalis nodded "How perceptive, I've heard you were very smart for somepony your age. Much smarter than any normal orphan. Come now Anon, wouldn't you want a mother instead of a father?"

Her eyes began to glow. "You'd have so many brothers and sisters to play with. Tell me Anon, what did your real mother look like? Did she have a coat like yours? a blonde mane maybe? blue eyes? Green? I could bring her back Anon, just for you."

Chrysalis's plan was simple. At least in her mind. The ultimate revenge. She'd take you as her own, warp your mind, turn you against your loved ones and friends, and ultimately bend even Discord to her will to get you back. Using his power to her own ends.

Her trance wasn't working on you however. She was trying to force love out of you, to hypnotize you using the love for your horse mother. A mother you never actually had. You just blink, you even tap at her hoof, but it remained where it was.

HAHA! Dumb bitch! She didn't have a foundation to get you to fall into her trance! You got this!

Before she could notice anything wrong, you start to relax yourself, and just look straight up to her and softly say. "Momma?"

You could feel the pressure from her hoof already lightening up. Chrysalis's smile became more gentle, her eyes glowing brighter "Yes, my child, that's right. I am your mother."

You look at her hoof, then give her the cutest, saddest eyes you could. "Momma, why are you hurting me?"

Chrysalis smile was half soft, half evil. She took her hoof off of you. "I'm sorry, my little Anon. You had a nightmare. I was only trying to wake you." She kept herself from snickering "Tell me, how much do you love your mother?"

You take a quick glance at the bag, then at her and smiled happily. "Lots and lots Momma!"

Chrysalis smiled at first, but then, she started to show anger again, hatred.

You go for it, you jump for the bag and manage to gnab it. But Chrysalis was not fooled, she stomps and holds the bag down as she looks down at you with disgust "Did you really think you could fool me? Not a single ounce of love for even your own mother. Even as I, a changeling queen who feeds on the pathetic love of others. Finds the likes of you sickening"

You scoff at her as you try pulling your bag away. "Says the stupid idiot who just stood there and let the heroes just blast her. You dumb cunt!"

Chrysalis growled at you and smacked you into the wall "That's it! I've had enough of you! Things will work just fine when they find you as a smoldering pile of ash!"

"Ngh!" You look up, you were cornered, oh god, oh god. It was over. Chrysalis was lighting her horn up, ready to zap you into nothingness. Her children looking at you, with soulless, emotionless expressions.

You didn't manage it. You thought you could at least thwart a villain. But you were useless. Her ambush worked. It was over. You were too scared to even look at her, you covered yourself with your legs, and waited for the inevitable. You nearly cried. All your friends, Fluttershy… hell, even Discord. You couldn't imagine how they'd react to this.

You could hear Discord now, you probably could guess on just what'd he say. "I can't believe I forgot the poison joke! Can't have a good sub sandwich without poison joke to ease it down!"

....Wait.

......That's not what he'd say.

You look up, you could see the changelings and Chrysalis looking to the side. What? You look, Discord was taking poison joke out of your dresser "Anon never even bothered trying to look in the other drawers, a perfect prank ruined by his ineptitude to be curious."

You could see the changelings were scared, ready to either pounce or run. Even the captain didn't look ready for this. Chrysalis herself, She didn't look ready for this at all. She thought she had more time. Or moreso, she wasn't expecting Discord to show up before she could leave. You take advantage of the situation and call out to Discord, who didn't seem to realize what was going on.

"Discord!"

"hmmm?" Discord looked over to you "Oh Anon, you're up earlier than expected. But good morning to you none the less. I'm afraid we aren't ready for the picnic, but we will be soon."

WHAT?! DID HE NOT SEE YOU WERE IN DANGER?!

"DISCORD! THE CHANGELINGS! THEIR RIGHT IN FRONT OF YOU!"

"Oh, you mean your guests? Oh, right. Yes yes, I'll punish you later for not telling me you were inviting them. I'd rather you still have privileges before the picnic was over."

Chrysalis was edging towards the portal door, she was going to open it for her and her changelings to escape. For whatever reason, Discord wasn't responding to them. "DISCORD! THIS IS SERIOUS! THEY ARE TRYING TO KILL ME!"

GODDAMMIT! THIS WASN'T THE TIME TO JOKE!

Chrysalis quickly opens the door, and tries to escape. But her and her children are met with a brick wall instead. And they all hit their heads trying to rush out.

Discord began to smile evilly. "Oh, going so soon? I hope you don't think you're above punishment as well, you all are uninvited guests after all."

Discord waved his paw as every changeling, including even yourself, fly and crash right to the walls and ceiling.

"DISCORD! WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!"

Discord laughed embarrassingly "Oh right. Sorry, I over did it a little”

Discord waved his paw again, as you fell from the wall and right onto your head. FUCKING TYPICAL.

As you rub your head, Chrysalis barks at Discord angrily "LET US GO, YOU HOMEWRECKING MONSTER!"

Discord rubs the poison joke along his chin as he thinks up an answer "ummmmm… nope."

You rub your head as you rush up to Discord's side. "ugh, geez. Thanks for coming Discord. could have eased up a little, but. How did you know they were here?"

Discord shrugged "I didn't, I was just grabbing my poison joke. I honestly didn't expect them to be here. Speaking of which, would you mind holding it for me? I think I feel a chat coming on" Discord holds the poison joke to you and drops it.

You quickly step back and dodge it. "I'm not holding that thing! I know what it does!"

Discord rolls his eyes at you "Ugh, what a baby."

Chapter 92

"Ok Discord, you've had your fun. But they tried to kill me. Send them to Tartarus already!" You try to command him.

Chrysalis growled at the both of you "You think I can be imprisoned forever? You think this will be the last you'll hear from me? Mark my words, My revenge will be absolute!"

Discord pondered for a moment, then looked down at you "I was thinking Anon, how would you feel about having this queen as your nanny?"

Both you and Chrysalis cry out at the same time, a unified "WHAT?!"

Discord shrugged with a smirk "Well, it's clear that I'm usually out and about, unable to watch you with my fatherly eye. I think you need a nanny, she could be your second aunt!"

Chrysalis gagged, she wouldn't stand for such an insult "I'D RATHER YOU SEND ME TO TARTARUS THEN BE MADE TO WATCH YOUR PUTRID SON!"

You agree with her, not liking AT ALL what you were hearing. "D-discord! I agree. I'd rather she be in Tartarus then watch me! She tried to kill me Discord. SHE ALMOST KILLED ME!"

Discord put on a pair of reading glasses. "But Anon, she's perfect." He made a sheet of paper appear in front of him as he began to read. "She's good with kids, has a high standing in society, has tons of experience, likes to play games, and has quite the singing voice, perfect for arias" He poofs away the glasses and the paper "She's perfect!"

Your eye twitched, there’s no way he was being serious. "D-discord. This isn't a very funny joke"

Discord raised his talons in the air "Well then, it's good I'm not joking then. I hate telling terrible jokes."

"Discord… don't."

But he doesn't listen, he snaps his talons. All the changelings disappear, except for Queen Chrysalis. Who detaches from the ceiling and falls towards the ground. But she doesn't crash down. She begins to float with her wings.

She starts to become frantic, noticing her remaining children, including her captain, had been poofed away. "What have you done?! Where are my soldiers!"

"In my basement. They'll be fine. It's time for your interview… uhmmm" Discord starts sorting through papers he is pulling out of thin air "hmmm… Chrysalis… is it?"

"Discord! Stop! You can't be serious! She wants us both dea-MHHHH" Discord magically zipped your mouth

"Shhh, the adults are speaking" Discord points his talon at you, and slowly points up as you get stuck suspended in the air.

You growl at him through your zipped mouth. But he ignored you.

Chrysalis did her best to calm herself, to assess the situation, figure out exactly what to do, and evacuate if possible. She looks over to you, then to Discord. "So then, it appears you have the upper hoof at the moment. However, do you really expect me to play your game?"

Discord pulls out a notepad and pencil and starts writing. "No games here, I'm actually being quite serious"

Chrysalis slowly backs to the floor door and looks down upon it. The escape was covered with bricks too. She looks to the window. Bricks. The portal door was still covered in bricks

"Why would you want me as your son's nanny anyway?" Chrysalis was looking around, there had to be something he missed "You are aware I'd simply destroy him. Don't you? Then again..."

Chrysalis began to contemplate "That doesn't make it sound so awful. But you wouldn't let me do that, would you?"

Discord kept focus on his notepad as he continued writing "I don't really care how you handle Anon to be honest. I'd just find it interesting. And it's not like it would be without it's perks. I'd let your remaining children have free reign in my basement. And you wouldn't have to spend time in that boring pit of a prison. How does that sound?"

You try to yell in protest, but all you manage to end up doing is spin in place

"Please... don't act like you're doing me any favors. You're only confining me and my children in a different prison. One developed by a mad being such as yourself to be used as your playtoys because you got bored and whipped by a bunch of foolish ponies. Are you even aware of the nourishment we require?" Chrysalis was being wary of Discord's shenanigans.

Discord does a visible but subtle nod as he continues writing "Yes, and I could easily acquire an unending source of love for you from a friend of mine." No… that bastard. THAT FUCKING BASTARD!

You try to scream profanities and attack Discord, he was selling out Fluttershy! Chrysalis raises her eyebrow at him, she found those words curious. "And here I thought you had lost your backbone." She chuckled "Giving us one of your pony friends just to have some fun? I'm actually starting to like this deal. So then, who is it? Please tell me it's that contemptible Twilight Sparkle"

Discord chuckled "Oh, actually. That would be quite a hysterical trade. But sadly no. The friend I'm talking about is more… gelatinous in nature"

What? Did he mean the Smooze? That… came out of left field. But still! It looked like he was being serious about this! Chrysalis didn't know who he was talking about. But a limitless source of love did sound usable to her.

"I see. But you do realize it is yours and your son's fault that my entire hive have been locked away, right? How do you plan to make up for it?" She was trying her damnedest to make a way to escape through her words.

Discord stopped writing for a moment, and shifted his eyes towards her "What makes you think I owe you anything?"

"If you even want me to consider your request. I expect to have my entire hive at my beck and call. What you are demanding of me is pure ridiculousness. I want something of equal value before I even begin to think about it"

Discord makes no kind of motion whatsoever for a moment, then goes back to writing on the notepad "Done"

Chrysalis narrowed her eye at Discord "Seriously?"

WHAT?! HE DIDN'T! HE WOULDN'T?!

Discord gently nodded "Yes, but just to make you aware. You won't know what my rules are until you agree." Discord slowly shifts just his eyes towards her, his face still positioned towards the notepad. "Think of it as a mystery game. You'll never know what you'll get until you open it. But the prizes you already have make it quite tempting. Doesn't it?"

"If you're speaking the truth, then it does indeed. But tell me Discord. What about myself? I can't be trapped here for all eternity watching your pathetic child. I need to stretch my wings, travel the world." Chrysalis licks her lips, just thinking about it. It wouldn't be bad to have a headquarters in a place nopony could feasibly get to. "...and exact certain revenges"

Discord simply continues to write "Well, I hope you mean ONLY you. Because letting your entire hive enter and exit as they please would cause some problems for myself."

Chrysalis thought about it. Even if he let only her go in and out. She could surely figure out a way on her own to secure an exit. Perhaps for the greatest of surprise attacks Equestria has ever seen. Her hive pouring out of seemingly nowhere. Terrorizing everything they touch. "Only me then, I suppose that's fair."

"Anything else, my dear?" Discord tapped his pencil on the notepad.

"Of course I want to know exactly what is expected of me as Anon's "Nanny". You don't really expect me to believe you'll just let me have my way with him,do you?."

Discord yawned as he went back to writing "No, I wouldn't expect you to believe it. But it's exactly as I said. Of course, certain actions would be met with certain consequences. I'll let you figure that one out on your own."

Chrysalis gritted her teeth. She figured that meant she couldn't outright destroy you or Discord in general.

Discord poofs away his pencil, and looks intently at his notepad as he snaps his talons again, freeing you from your suspension and silence. "Now all we need to do is hear from my son, and then I'll hear your answer. And we'll be all set to go"

You drop to the ground. thankfully, not hitting your head this time. You quickly stand and rush up to Discord. Oh boy, were you ready to protest. "Discord! no! SERIOUSLY! NO! What the fuck are you thinking?! You want to talk about consequences?! YOU JUST LET HER ENTIRE HIVE FREE! YOU KNOW, THE ONE THE PRINCESSES JUST FUCKING SEALED! And don't forget. SHE'S EVIL AND SHE TRIED TO KILL ME! AND YOU'RE GOING TO LET HER BE MY NANNY?! FOR KICKS?! ARE YOU INSANE? I MEAN SERIOUSLY! DID YOU EVEN THINK OF WHAT FLUTTERSHY WOULD THINK?! DISCORD,DISCORD… I'M BEGGING YOU. DO NOT DO THIS. OK? I'M SERIOUS."

Discord stayed silent for a moment. Then looked to Chrysalis. "....and now I'll hear your answer"

You ears droop, you shiver. No fucking way. No. He didn't. He couldn't have thought this one through. This wasn't funny. This wasn't cute. "Discord..."

Chrysalis took a moment to think. On her own. She would most likely be attacked on sight and be hunted if anyone ever found out she was still out and about. And now that she had her hive back. She'd only have to endure Discord's shenanigans until she could find a way to strike. Then she looked at you, as you looked at her.

You both just silently stare at eachother. You hope, you just hope that Chrysalis has too much pride to accept a deal. And would rather take her chances in the pony version of hell.

Unfortunately for you, Chrysalis, already decided she could take advantage of this.She slowly forms an evil glare, gazing right at you. As she imagines being your nanny could be an interesting bonus if she plays her cards right. "Deal"

No, no, FUCK NO! "No Discord, fuck that shit! I don't agree with this at all! I swe-OMPH!"

Chrysalis grabs onto you gently and cuddles onto you "What's wrong Anon? You don't think we can get along? I think your father is being quite fair. And besides.." Chrysalis turns into a younger form, and gently nuzzles her head at the side of your neck "Like I said before, you have an unusual amount of lust. Maybe I could be your little cuddle friend on those more lonely nights. Hmmmm?"

You cringe, even if it felt nice, you cringed. This was all kinds of weird and wrong. Chrysalis still found you disgusting deep inside, but she was using her wiles to try to get you to lean towards her side and decision.

"Cuddle friend? Now, that's adorable. See Anon? All we had to do is give her a chance and she already has grown attached to you. Who knows? We might be able to reform one of the biggest villains Equestria has ever seen. Wouldn't that be fun to rub in Twilight's face, hrmm?" Discord chuckled at the thought.

Nooo… nooo… please, no. He must have come up with that dipshit plan the moment he saw her. That's..n..ohh god. Chrysalis was kissing under your neck, she wasn't making any sexual movements other than soft gentle kisses. "I remember, you really liked this, didn't you? Come on Anon, why don't you give me a chance? Maybe turning over a new leaf might be what I need. And I do agree, rubbing anything into that princess's face would be amusing."

What a lying sack of shit… except for the rubbing into Twilight's face part. She was planning something. You knew it. Nobody goes from raging bitch to sexy cunt in mere moments. She was calculating something.

And as much as your mind was protesting. This… this felt nice. NO! NO! That's what she wants.

Chrysalis's voice became younger, cuter, more innocent sounding "Pweease Anon? You don't want me and my childwen to suffer in Tartarus, do you? It's scary down there"

She just continued to cuddle and hug onto you. And although you fought it at the start, trying to shove her away, you didn't fight it when you started to feel warmer. You were sickened with yourself as a… sexual… curiosity… began to form.

"Pwwweeease Anon? I pwomise, I'll be very nice to you" The lolified Chrysalis gives you a sweet kiss on the cheek.

DAMMMMMIITT! WHATEVER FINE!

"F-fine, whatever."

Chrysalis suddenly becomes cold, as her cute smile becomes that of that of slight disgust as she pushes you away "Then it's a done deal."

...dammit.

You just lay on the ground, feeling like a tool.

"Indeed, however, for now you'll have to find a way to entertain yourself. Me and Anon have a picnic to attend and I'd rather not have Fluttershy worry. Shall we be heading out Anon?" Discord stood up, tossing the notepad aside.

the notepad falls right at eye level. You take a look at it. All it was was a crude picture of Chrysalis as a pirate and you in a tutu. Nothing important at all.

"Fine..." You felt so unenthused. How were you supposed to enjoy a picnic knowing the queen of the fucking changelings would be waiting for you when you returned home. And what worried you was the fact Discord seemed to have an intention of letting her out of the house. All it would take is a single spotting and the Princesses would wonder what happened. And if it ever came back to Discord… ugh... He'd be destroying his original plan of making things better for Fluttershy.

Discord picks you up with his paw and looks at you, he began to frown "Anon, please don't look so down. I'd rather Fluttershy not worry about you. I want this to be a very mirthful picnic. I want everypony smiling."

You look at Discord, sigh, and then look away. He was holding you in such a way, with an enlarged paw that you could lay on it, curled in a ball. "Discord, I don't know how you could possibly find this fun or funny. I'm not even shocked anymore, I don't even want to know what's going through your head anymore. Because I feel like sooner or later, she's going to just kill me. And nobody is going to care."

Discord gently put you down and looked to Chrysalis. "Chryssi, would you mind letting me have some private time with my son?"

Chrysalis didn't enjoy having nicknames. "Excuse me? Did you just call me "Chryssi?"

Discord looked hard at her, he was being serious "Yes, you are under my employ. And I can do as I wish. And I want you to excuse yourself, the door leading to my living room is open now. And there is another door that will lead to your hive if you wish to inform them of their situation."

Chrysalis didn't enjoy actually being given orders. She wanted to hear what was going on. But she could see he was being serious. She'd have to bide her time, it was only the beginning. "Hrnn...fine" Chrysalis exits, floating down through the floor door with her wings. unknowing of the gravity stairs. The door then shuts.

Discord was actually carefully thinking. He didn't expect this kind of reaction from you. He was just expecting you to freak out until you just wanted to go to the picnic. But he knew, he screwed up just a little. "Anon, would it cheer you up a little if I told you the truth?"

You sigh, and lay your chin to the ground. "It depends, are you just going to lie about telling the truth?"

"No Anon, it's going to be the truth." Discord took a breath, it wasn't easy for him to spoil some of his own fun. "I will admit, this is a tad hasty a decision to make. And yes, part of it is to mess with you. But I promise you, I have everything under control. The princesses nor Fluttershy will find out, and I'm not going to let Chrysalis just walk out of here without some measure of security. Trust me. It'll be ok"

...That did sound honest. And, yeah. He wouldn't jeopardize Fluttershy. And he would do it to mess with you. That much was obvious. Even knowing that was mostly the point. You couldn't prepare yourself properly for it because you could never tell if he was serious. Not unless there was obvious tells.

Ugh, you'd probably be less forthcoming and just lay there and mope if it wasn't for two factors. One, you yourself agreed to letting Chrysalis in because she prayed upon your… more base instincts. And two, Fluttershy was waiting for the both of you. And you didn't want her to worry. You really didn't. Not after yesterday.

You sigh, and slowly begin to stand up. "Ok, but I'm still not happy with you. I'm only doing this because Fluttershy is expecting us to all have a good time. But what about Chrysalis? We're just going to leave her here?"

"Oh, don't worry about her. This is my home, and it is within a dimension of pure chaos. My powers are absolute here. She won't be escaping if I don't want her to"

That sounded good. Hopefully that was true as well. "Ok then… give me a second." You take a few more breaths, then pat down your face , and smile just a little. "Ok, I think I'm ready. Though, I still don't know Discord. Now that I know one of your reasons of doing this is to mess with me. Doesn't that kill it's point? You could, you know… send her to Tartarus now, right?"

Discord shook his head "Nice try Anon,but my decision is final"

...dammit. Ugh, fine. Just… fine. Though, as you thought about it. Maybe it could go both ways? You could pretty much study up villainy from Chrysalis herself. Maybe learn how and why they do the things they do.

What a dangerous thought. you shouldn't think that. You were just trying to find your own and rational way through this ridiculous decision that was made. Just focus on the picnic, just focus on not worrying Fluttershy. She didn't deserve to be put down because Discord was being a fucking moron.

"Ok then, but I am ready. Hopefully this will go so well I'll forget bugbutt and her kids are going to be living with us."

Discord smiled as he prepared to snap his talons, picking up his dropped poison joke with his paw "Good, let us have a grand and pleasant time!"

And with a snap, both you and Discord were gone.

Chapter 93

Both you and Discord appear in an open field. It had a few hills. The town was way over yonder, and the everfree in the opposite direction. You didn't see Fluttershy anywhere though. "Where's Fluttershy?"

Discord was patting a picnic basket that had appeared around his arm during the teleportation. "Just over the hill Anon, I thought I'd give you just a little more time to calm yourself and assess the situation."

Assess? "Discord, I'm doing my best. But you're fucking insane for not dealing with Chrysalis. But… I can only assume you aren't going to let her kill me… right?"

Discord nodded "If it'll calm you down then I'll give you my..." Discord suddenly started hacking and coughing. You didn't worry or get surprised. You knew he was faking. Discord then puked up a giant word. A literal word that said "Word"

He then patted his chest, coughing up a period. Then smirked at you. "There you are. I trust that will suffice?"

Egh, it was covered in goop and saliva. "Eh, I'm good. But let's get serious. What if somebody were to find out?"

"Nopony will find out. And this extends for when she steps out on her own as well."

"What? Are you going to force her into one form?"

Discord nodded "Now you're catching on, I haven't decided what form to force upon her yet. Another aunt would just raise questions. I was thinking, oh say, long lost sister?"

You nearly gag at that "Are you serious? She'd never be able to play that straight, and besides. There's the whole orphan thing. Where would she have come from?"

"Easy, a street urchin from Manehatten, She has a locket with her and your face on it from younger days. Upon seeing your face on some newspaper. She worked her way to Ponyville to meet you." Discord started to tear up "It's so beautiful"

You raise an eyebrow at him. "That's so stupid. Don't you think the ponies would get suspicious when she inevitably just messes with me?"

"You mean like a sister?"

Doh… ok, what about.. "Ok, but don't you think it'll be odd when she separates from me to go about her own business. Which may or may not be evil?"

"You mean… like a sister?"

You grumble. "Okkkkk, what about when she goes super evil, and tries to enact a plan to try to rule over Equestria? How about that smart guy?"

Discord chuckled "Two words, Anon: Nightmare Moon..I mean that in a sibling sense"

"Agghh… ok, dammit fine. You got me." You weren't going to win this. He had you at every turn.. "Fine… whatever. At least having a picnic with Fluttershy will cheer me up."

Discord frowned "Oh what? You don't like being around your dear ole dad?"

You sigh. "Depends on when "dear ole Dad" isn't being crazy in the coconut. I'm already trying to cheer up here. Only way I think that'd really do it is if you got a taste of your own medicine. Whatever that may be"

Discord laughed "Oh Anon, that's cute. But I highly doubt that's going to happen. No, we're just going to have a picnic. And then you can either return home to get used to your new nanny or you can just roam free and delay the inevitable fun back at home."

You sigh. "I swear there's some sort of wavelength with you, when it's high you act pretty cool, then when it dips like this you act like a total assclown. I'm just going to up and say it right now, clear as day. One day I'm going to really enjoy you getting utterly assblasted at something. And I'm just going to ride it to the end."

"Oh don't be a spoiled sport Anon. I've lived for centuries upon centuries. I need to find ways to have fun, no matter what it is. As for you, you haven't even lived a quarter of my life, you just don't understand what it's like to be me. Oh, and about being "Assblasted". Don't count on it. You may see me get irritated. But I've been learning Anon, oh yes. Having you around has taught me some things that I doubt I'd ever had learned on my own. Out of all the timelines, I'm probably the best Discord there is"

Right. "Let's just go, I don't want to keep Fluttershy waiting"

"Yes, let's. Smiles Anon, smiles. Don't want to disappoint Fluttershy now, do we?"

You didn't. Unlike inconsistent as fuck Discord. Fluttershy could always be counted on for cuddles, love, and nuzzles. Man it's a good thing Chrysalis didn't try becoming Fluttershy. She might have gotten you with that one.

You both step over the hill, right behind the decline of the hill was a few trees, a picnic cloth set up in the shade of one the bigger trees. Aside from the picnic basket Discord had, it seemed Fluttershy had brought one of her own. But wait. There was more than one pony in the area.

And it wasn't one of the mane 6.

It was....

Discord's eyes immediately bulged when he saw her. His arms shaking. It was Treehugger, just out of the fucking blue. "No, wait. When?! When did she get here?! I didn't plan for this!"

You look up at Discord, it was clear he meant for this to be a party of three. He, nor you was expecting a side pone. And he didn't look pleased at all about it. You guessed despite learning a lesson back at the gala, that he still wasn't overall fond of her presence. And that was good enough for you.

You chuckle at him. "Smiles Discord, Smiles. You don't want to disappoint Fluttershy do you? Look, she's waving at us to come on over."

She was, she spotted the both of you coming down the hill and smiled and waved at the both of you. And now, you were in a much better mood. You trotted over to Fluttershy with a friendly yet arrogant smile as Discord hovered over at a slow pace, with a dismal expression on his face.

"Good Afternoon Anon! Are you ready for a relaxing and yummy picnic?" Fluttershy said, with naive optimism. Naive to the situation anyway.

"Hey Aunt Fluttershy! Yep, I am!" You go in and nuzzle under her neck. You always genuinely enjoyed this. Enjoyed her company. And compiled onto what you were now expecting. This was going to really be a good picnic.

As you and Fluttershy nuzzled, she had a look over to Discord, and noticed he was looking… Well, he didn't look down or angry. He just looked stoic. In truth he was actually trying to smile. "Discord, are you alright?"

"Hmmm? Whatever do you mean Fluttershy?"

"Well, you look um… Well, you don't look happy." Fluttershy began to get a little worried. She was hoping it wasn't because of Treehugger.

"I don't look? Oh!" Discord slapped his forehead "Pardon me, I must have some rusty bones. I have lived for quite some time you know!" Discord put down his picnic basket, and made an oil can appear in his talons as he squeezed some oil into his mouth, adjusted his jaw, and then made a wide toothy grin. "There we are! good as new"

He was desperately trying not to look angry or upset. Oh, he remembered that lesson alright. But he was being internally selfish at the moment.

"Oh, ohhh" Fluttershy giggled "That's a clever joke Discord, I almost thought you were disappointed that Treehugger was here."

Treehugger was laying on the picnic blanket, she was directly looking up into the skies and clouds.

Discord gritted his teeth, still smiling "Why would I be upset that a non family member would be at our family picnic? Oh no no, I'm… quite… alright..."

Fluttershy moved over to Discord and gave him a gentle nuzzle "I'm glad to hear that Discord."

Treehugger, her attention shifting to what was going on around her instead of it being in the clouds, stands up and looks to all three of you with a dreamy smile "Heeeey,what's up." She then slowly stepped over to the three of you with a dumb smile on her face "Fluttershy, wooooah hey, I didn't know you had a weird dragon as a husband, righteous"

You held in a snicker as you see Discord's eye twitch wildly as Fluttershy giggles. Fluttershy looks over to Treehugger and corrects her "Actually Treehugger, I'm an Aunt. To little Anon here, who is Discord's adoptive son."

Treehugger looked over to Discord, and tilted her head as she focused hard on him "Oh, hmmm. I swear I've met this guy before, it must have been another weird dragon though. The one I remember was really out of sync with his center. It was far out."

Discord tried really hard to stay calm "Ms.Treehugger… I am the Draconequus you're referring as "out of sync". We've met twice, remember?"

Treehugger was tapping her chin, trying to, but couldn't make a connection. "No, I could have sworn it was like, another draconequus or something. You're kind of different from him, I think. That other guy was just really angry, he needed to mellow out"

Discord started shaking his paw and talons, wanting to strangle her. another draconequus? ANOTHER DRACONEQUUS?! There could only EVER be one, and mellow out?! He was the most mellow there EVER WAS. "A-allow me to correct you… T-Treehugger. But I'm the only Draconequus there is."

"Really?" She wondered

Discord nearly growled "Yes, really."

Treehugger looked at him, and then smiled. "Cool"

Cool? That was it? Discord looked like he was expecting more. Perhaps an apology, or acknowledgement. But nope, all he got was a "Cool" as Treehugger turned to you. "So this is your nephew Fluttershy?"

Fluttershy couldn't put her hoof on it, but she started to think Discord was upset about something, But her attention get's taken by Treehugger "Oh! Oh yes, this is Anon. Don't let his cuteness fool you, he's very very smart for a colt his age."

You smirk, not only at Discord having a clearly obvious internal spaz, but Fluttershy giving you praise. Time to put on that ole Anon charm. "Hello miss Treehugger, I'm Anon. It's nice to meet you."

Treehugger's smile was different from other ponies, it felt like this was her natural expression, you wondered if it was her personality or if she was stoned. "Yo dude, it's cool to meet you too. And woah..." Suddenly Treehugger looked like she was in an odd trance "Wooooah, wicked, Fluttershy, Disorder. Do you feel this? Anon's got some weird vibe going"

"Disorder? That's not my name! It's Discord. Diiiis-cooord. You've alrea-" Discord noticed no one was paying attention to him, Fluttershy intrigued on what Treehugger meant by "weird vibe".

"Weird vibe? I uhh… what do you mean?" You were curious too.

"Well, like, it's really weird. I've traveled all over the place. And like, I've been around a lot of ponies. So I got this whole, feeling thing when it comes to pony auras and chi and stuff. And I don't feel a pony aura coming from you, it's really really weird, totally off the wall dude, like, gnarly. It's like you're something totally different"

......wut? There's no fucking way. She can't actually feel and see auras and chi and shit. Could she?

Fluttershy was confused "What do you mean Treehugger? He looks like a pony to me."

"Y-yeah, I've always been a pony"

Treehugger stood silent, unmoving for a second, then shrugged "Oh, I guess that makes sense. Oh hey, are we gonna eat now? I'm totally hungry."

"Oh yes, that sounds like a great idea! I'll get the paper plates and sandwiches ready!" Fluttershy seemed pretty excited to eat and strike up some conversation.

The three of you now face Discord, who was looking pretty ticked, then he started to act hurt. "Well good, are you all going to pay attention an-"

All three of you then turn again towards Fluttershy's picnic basket, stopping Discord midword. You and Treehugger sit beside it as Fluttershy pulls out plates for you, then her, then... She looks up at Discord with a paper plate in her mouth. She puts it down next to her, then looks back at Discord. "Discord? Aren't you going to sit with us?"

You look back at him as well. You didn't ignore him at all, you were just doing it on purpose at this point. You give him a smug smile. He couldn't do shit to you, not in front of Fluttershy. They completely ignored what he was about to say. Discord sighed, and hovered over to Fluttershy and sat down next to her, magically sliding his basket towards himself. He was looking pretty grumpy.

Fluttershy, happy with the arrangements. Opens the basket and starts pulling out bread and various jams and stuff to go inbetween the bread. Nothing a human would eat. Grass, flower, hay. But that was the norm.

"What does everypony want in their sandwiches?" Fluttershy asked.

"I'll take whatever you want to make me Aunt Fluttershy. I always enjoy what you make."

Fluttershy giggled. "Well, I do have some cucumbers too. Would you mind eating what your father and I will be eating?" She thought it'd be cute if the family was all eating cucumber sandwiches.

You nodded as you watched Discord pull out his sub and put in his… odd condiments into it. You wonder why he brought a basket at all if Fluttershy was going to feed him too. But just as you thought it, Fluttershy had began making him his sandwich to go along with his sub sandwich. And as she made your sandwich, she looked over to Treehugger. "What would you like on your sandwich Treehugger?"

Treehugger instantly knew what she wanted "Can I get a hay sandwich, I feel that hay is one of the basic building blocks of eating, it balances the flows of the mind and body, it's totally good for you"

Fluttershy didn't quite understand what she meant, but she complied with her request, up until Discord spoke up. "Umm, Fluttershy, if you don't mind me asking.Why is Treehugger here?"

Fluttershy stopped and looked up at Discord, a little concerned with the question "Oh, well, she actually just showed up out of the blue. We send letters to eachother, just like you and me, and when I told her about our family. She thought it was ummm...how did you put it Treehugger?"

Treehugger was rubbing the fabric of the picnic blanket, intrigued by it "Righteous”

"Right, she said it was righteous. And thought about visiting to see us all. And, then she just showed up while you went to get Anon. It was really a surprise. But that's ok, I think everypony should be able to enjoy a wonderful and friendly picnic."

You nod, agreeing with Fluttershy. "I think Aunt Fluttershy is right. Who doesn't enjoy good food, and good company. GOOD company… right Dad?"

"Yeah like, I'm getting all kinds of good vibes from everypony. Sorta, I feel.." She looks over to Discord "like you're kinda not on the same balance we're on. It's wigging me out a little."

"I am perfectly "balanced". You can't tell me that I'm not. I'm having a great old time, with my sandwiches." Discord takes his cucumber sandwich first and sucks it in like a vacuum, swallowing it whole. He then looked at Treehugger angrily "See, that was fun. I'm having fun"

"Uhhh, Dad, you may want to chill out, dude" You say like a stoner would

Treehugger had a laugh at that "Woah hey, now I'm like a mom . Anon is talking like I am and I've only known him for like, five minutes. Radical."

Fluttershy, unaware of Discord's anger, giggles at that as well. Up until Discord turns his attention to you, furious.

Which was fine, you were baiting him.at this point. This was perfect. You were calm. You were able to think better. And seeing Fluttershy. You knew even if he wanted to get you back. He could never do anything too extreme. And as you thought about it, you really could just go to Fluttershy and whine he's being a "big meanie". She'd help you out for sure.

"Who do you think you are talking like that to me! Hmm?!" Discord has lost his cool.

"DISCORD!" Fluttershy gasped, she was surprised by Discord's reaction. Even you were, given his close proximity to Fluttershy. You expected him to try to play it off again. "Discord! Why are you acting this way? I hope it's not because Treehugger, who you know is my friend, is here. "

Discord cringed hard, he didn't even think of the consequences of his actions. As usual. "F-fluttershy. Can't you see that they started it? Treehugger and her attention grabbing personality and Anon with his obvious need to try to bring me down! It's all a trick!"

Treehugger was looking at a butterfly that was passing by, having lost her attention to the situation. Fluttershy then looks at you. You frown, and shake, and lower your head to your front hooves. You were faking acting frightened "D-dad? Why are you mad at me?"

Fluttershy was now the one that was angry, pointing at you as she stared down at Discord. And this was almost "The Stare" levels this time. "Does that look like your son is trying to bring you down Discord? You're scaring him! I certainly hope this isn't the way you actually treat him when I'm not around"

Discord gulped "B-but Fluttershy, he's" Discord stops himself, even he didn't dare to reveal any actual facts about the situation.

"He's what? Yes Discord, I can see that Anon is frightened! Mnnn." Fluttershy flew over to you and held you close, hugging and cuddling you. "It's alright Anon, it'll be ok. shhh"

You nuzzled and cuddled into her as she looked at Discord angrily "Discord, you need to apologize, right now!"

"Fluttershy" Discord was looking pretty damned worried. "C-come on, it was… it was just a slip of mind" Discord put on a smile "See, I'm much better now."

Fluttershy held you close, she felt he was not only lying, but being selfish, it wasn't about him. She stared silently at him as she held you closer, brushing your head with her leg.

Discord put his paw out, wanting to say something. But when he opened his mouth. Nothing came out. He realized he couldn't say anything. Not without risking pissing off Fluttershy and ruining the picnic.

They both stared into eachothers eyes. Discord grimaced, he actually grew frightened. He didn't want to screw things up too badly. You got him, you got him ridiculously hard. Discord lowered his head, completely in shame. He could never convince Fluttershy you were doing it on purpose. Not without giving up his own lie. "...I'm sorry Treehugger."

"Oh huh? What?" Treehugger tore her attention away from the butterfly "Was something happening? I was totally looking at this butterfly float along with the breeze, it was like, it knew the answer to everything… woah… that would have been so cool if it did"

"Discord was apologizing to you and Anon for being rude." Fluttershy informed her

"Oh, it's ok. I don't even know what he did" Treehugger couldn't be mad at what she didn't notice.

Discord opened his mouth to yell at Treehugger's ignorance of the situation. But Fluttershy's stare, it prevented him from doing it. So he sighed, and moved on to you. "Well, Anon. I apologize for getting angry, and scaring you."

"Annnd?" Fluttershy looked deeper into him "Is there a reason you're acting like this Discord?"

There was, he didn't want to admit it. He knew, he figured out at this point you were doing what he’d do to you.

He wasn't taking this as a lesson to be learned. Not completely. He was learning he shouldn't be jealous of Treehugger or losing the attention he thought he deserved. While on the other hand, he had nothing to learn from the way you were acting. He just took it as you getting back at him. The only thing he learned from that is he had to be careful around you when it came to Fluttershy. As it seemed she'd favor you over him, because you were "a cute, helpless, colt"

But Discord takes a deep breath, then releases and speaks "Yes, I wanted this to be between the three of us. And I suppose I got a little jealous when all the attention was taken away from me. But Fluttershy, surely you understand that I only wanted to enjoy a picnic as a family" He was pleading with her.

Fluttershy immediately calmed down after that, no longer angry at him now that he understood what he did wrong. She gave you a gentle kiss and whispered to you everything would be ok. That however, made you feel guilty. You wanted to mess with Discord yes, but now you felt like you were ruining the picnic. But you held fast, nothing was definitive yet.

She then flew over and landed in front of Discord, looking up at him with concern, and care for her friend, only wanting him to understand "Discord, we can still have a picnic as a family. Treehugger being here doesn't change that. Any friend, whether it be mine, yours, or Anon's could be considered a family friend. And well, I'd think welcoming them to a picnic would still make it a family picnic. It's not about seeking attention Discord. It's about sitting down, enjoying a meal with family and friends, and having a good time. And, I still want to have that good time. Do you think we can still have a good time, Discord?"

"D-do you forgive me Fluttershy?" Discord was worried that she didn't.

Fluttershy gave him a gentle smile and hugged him tightly "I did, the moment you apologized. I don't want anypony to be upset. I just want us all to be happy and enjoy lunch together."

"I'd like that too Fluttershy, I'd… like that too" Discord had to wipe a genuine tear from his eye and joined Fluttershy in the hug.

Awww, even despite the possibility you went too far. Everything ended up being ok. You wanted to show there was no hard feelings in your own way. You snuck up on them, and joined in on the hug.

Treehugger just watched, and smiled at the situation "There's so much love in the room right now, which is really weird because there's like, no walls, because we're outside. I guess it doesn't make it weird, but if we weren't outside, and there wasn't walls, then it'd be weird. Hrmmm" Treehugger began to go into deep thought about the importance of walls in an indoor and outdoor setting.

After the hug ended, Fluttershy smiled at both you and Discord "See, it's still a family picnic. Because we're all here. As a family.This is how it should be. With cuddles, and hugs, and good food, and nice fuzzy feelings in all our hearts. You two feel it too don't you?"

You kind of did. It could have been from the hug. Most likely from the hug. But then, there was also the fact that after all of that. All three of you we're still able to come together for a hug rather than either you or Discord taking things too far accidentally. Really, it was Fluttershy who held the family aspect together. And that, you could definitely feel. Because you did care about Discord, and you knew he cared about you too. Threats and pranks aside. But without Fluttershy, nothing would actually stick. Because then Discord wouldn't have a reason to care. And if Discord ever actually lost Fluttershy, he'd probably have to be sealed on the sheer fact that his grief could be world ending.

"I do Aunt Fluttershy. And it's ok Dad, I forgive you too. I still think you're the best dad ever" You didn't think he'd take that the way you intended. But in a sense, you meant that. Bringing you to Equestria, no matter what he's done to you. Was pretty much the best present you could ever get. The time of pranking him was over, you really did just want to enjoy the picnic now.

But it seemed Discord might have been on the same page. Maybe. He hugged slightly harder, but still gentle, just to bring you and Fluttershy closer. "Thank you Anon, and thank you Fluttershy for making me see the follies of my jealousy. I really hope we can put this behind us and enjoy our picnic together. With Treehugger included of course."

Fluttershy was absolutely delighted to hear that.She felt everything was going back on track. "Then let's do just that. Let's take away all the badness from our minds and hearts and let the goodness in. And then everything will be ok."

And with that, The four of you continued the picnic, putting the negativity behind all of you. Though, you still wondered if Discord meant what he said. You'd never know until you privately spoke with him. And that's even if he told you the truth. Like with Chrysalis, you'd have to push that out of your mind until the picnic was over. This was no time to think bad thoughts.

Chapter 95

"Woah… are those giant pieces of toast?" Treehugger couldn't tell your cardboard wings were cardboard wings. They were brown sure, and hastily colored. But toast? You almost felt like you could anime sweatdrop.

But Fluttershy knew better, she could tell they were wings. She just didn't understand the significance of it. "Anon? Why do you have cardboard wings in your saddle bag?"

You put on a cocky grin "Trust me, you're gonna find this really cool Aunt Fluttershy. Everypony brace yourselves for..."

You felt like being a showoff was appropriate for the situation. You wanted to wow the cute horse. Treehugger being impressed would be a plus. You slap on the wings. And they instantly morph and graft onto your back. Becoming real wings in a flash of light. You even pose to add on to the grandeur splendor. "Pegasus Anon!"

Treehugger was near speechless, she'd never seen anything like it before. "Wooooooooooooooooooooooah"

Fluttershy however, wasn't impressed. She smiled though. And she did think they were nice. But she wasn't blown away by them. "Oh, they look very nice on you Anon. Do they work?"

Wut? Wait… no seriously, wut? You expected her to be all "that's amazing Anon" in the cutest way possible. But she was underwhelmed. "A-aunt Fluttershy, aren't these cool? Look!" You flap the wings just enough to hover. It was the only thing you could manage without falling flat on your face. "I can even get off the ground with them!"

"woooooooah, Fluttershy, I thought your nephew was an earth pony." Treehugger rubbed her eyes "I must have not been paying attention or something."

Fluttershy giggled from Treehugger's astonishment. "Oh no no, he's very much an earth pony. I think Discord gave him enchanted wings so he could be a pegasus pony too. Is that right Anon?"

Your smile and enthusiasm, gone.

"Y-yeah, he did. It was a gift. For uh. Being a good boy" You lied as you gently brought yourself to the ground, flitting your wings a bit after landing.

Well, that made Fluttershy smile at least. Even if it was a lie. You got them for the exact opposite of being a good boy. Or maybe you were being a good boy when it came to being Discord's son? Who knows.

"A good boy?" Fluttershy beamed a warm smile at you, while Treehugger moved in close, probably to get a closer look. "Do you mind me asking what you did? I'm sorry if I'm being intrusive, I'm just really interested . Discord never told me that he was giving you gifts like these."

Well, at least she was curious. That made you feel a little better. But, egh. You couldn't just tell her you got them by insulting him the way you did. "I uhh… he gave them to me for uh. Doing what he asked me to do. I engaged him in a conversation about, uhm. Himself."

Fluttershy was confused by those words. She thought you may have not been totally honest with her. But then she thought that was pretty silly. You're a good boy after all. She concluded that it was probably Discord being a little self centered if the conversation was about him. And with that thought. She laughed. "Oh, I think I got it. Oh Discord, he can be like that sometimes. But Anon, I… well, please don't tell your father this. But do you think you could be a little, not as, ummm, how to say this. But. Well, your father can be a little boastful in what he does. And I just don't want you to learn to be like that too. It's ok to be a little boastful. But erm, don't take Discord too seriously when he's doing it. It's not a good trait."

Now she was looking sad and apologetic, she didn't want to say anything bad about him. But she got the impression that he was teaching you a wrong lesson.

"Oh, well, I think I can do that. I've noticed Dad can be a little, um, would arrogant be the right word?"

"Well, um. Arrogant might be too mean a word." Fluttershy explains

Treehugger began rubbing her hoof along your right wing, you could even feel it. It felt like a gentle massage like rub. "Woooooow, they feel so real" You turn and take a step away from her, Your upgraded and fresh wings were actually more sensitive than you realized. The rubbing began to feel ticklish.

"O-ok, yeah. That's because they are real. In a sense. It's Dad's chaos magic that makes this all happen."

Fluttershy at least understood that. However, a fear suddenly popped into her head as she realized how real the wings were.

"A-anon, actually. There's something else I really really really have to ask you to NOT do. It's very important."

Really important? "What is it Aunt Fluttershy?"

"You got to promise me Anon, promise me, that you'll never ever fly close to the sun. I don't know how real those wings are. But only bad things can happen if you fly too close to the sun. Ok? So please, don't do it."

What? Wait… OH RIGHT. Riiiiight, that would also explain further why she wasn't blown away. Even Twilight could give wings to earth ponies. This was nothing new. Though it was Rarity being really show offy that caused her wings to get burnt to dust. You wouldn't be so foolish. Besides, these wings were probably a lot more sturdy and burn resistant. But, it's still something you could easily do. And it might be good to heed her warning anyway. So you nod

"I promise Aunt Fluttershy, flying that high doesn't really seem appealing anyway. My wings actually have a sort of time li-" Your wings then pop off. Seems the extra charge didn't have a lot of time on it as even the old normal one did. "Yeah, as I was saying. Time limit"

Treehugger looked at the cardboard wings and tapped them. "So like, if I were to put them on. Would I get wings too? That actually sounds pretty rad, because I think, like, with wings. I could probably go up in the sky and see if clouds are like nature too. Because I notice clouds kind of come in different shapes and colors sometimes. And it really speaks to me. Though, sometimes they spit out rainbows. Which is cool because rainbows are nice.”

You quickly take your wings before she could grab them, and slip them into your saddle bag. Didn't need her trying them on and wasting your essential regular charge. "Treehugger, can I ask you a question?"

"Yeah" She nodded

"Um" You thought of a way to put it delicately, because you were now really curious to find out if she was just baked off her ass. You asked this question before. But now you'd be more broad about it.

"Are you always like this? Or do you take something, erm, special to be extra happy?"

"I'm always like this. Ever since I was a young filly. I've always had this, I dunno, connection to nature. The trees, the grass, the rocks. Everything. It just speaks to me. I can see things on a whole other level, you know? It's kind of like how Fluttershy can talk to animals. It's because she's able to see things in a way, and hear things in a way other ponies can't and it's really cool that she can do that. And the air is always so clean, and the plants are always so healthy. It really puts me in a good mood, it's soooooo groovy" Treehugger took a breath of fresh air, stalled, as if to enjoy it's "aura", then breathed out "totally groovy..."

So she really was "High on nature". Huh, that made you want to inquire more on it. It wasn't everyday you were going to get to talk to Treehugger, and if she REALLY could feel auras and vibes. You wondered what she could feel from you if she really looked hard at you. "So, um. You can feel auras and stuff? Even from other ponies?"

"Totally"

"Can I ask you another question then Treehugger? I mean, if you don't mind."

"Sure little dude, what is it?"

This question was a pretty risky one, or maybe it wasn't. It depended on if what she said wasn't just insane shit. But you wanted to know what you looked like deep inside. If you were inherently good or bad. She could already sense something "Not Pony" about you. If it was one thing that still bothered you still, and this was especially when you were around Fluttershy. Was the fact you were lying to her when it came to who you were. And she was so nice, and so loving towards you. You loved being around her, and enjoying her affections. But you felt like a shmuck at times. And you wanted to know. If that made you a bad person, to just keep lying instead of trying to find a way to let her in on the truth.

"You think you could just, I dunno. Read my aura or something?"

Treehugger nods, she didn't mind at all. Why would she, she doesn't seem to mind anything unless it was straight up "messing with the vibes"

"Sure, all you gotta do is close your eyes and concentrate. Follow along with me. Alright?" You nod, you wondered what she was going to sense. Well, there couldn't be too much risk in this. She wasn't Luna, she would have no way of poking around in your head.

You close your eyes, Treehugger doing the same. She starts humming in a single tone. She stops a moment for you to do the same. As it supposedly helps. Fluttershy just watched silently. She wondered what the results of this could be. She felt in her heart that'd you of course have a good and loving aura.

After a few moments. Treehugger stops humming. As it seems she had felt the deepest recesses of your aura. "Wooooooooooah"

You pop one eye open, not wanting to ruin anything. But wondering why she was reacting. "You felt something?"

"What is it Treehugger? What did you feel?" Fluttershy asked

"It's weird, Anon's aura is like… all over the place." Treehugger was heavily confused by it. She didn't expect to get this kind of vibe from you. It made her more "woken up"

All over the place? "What do you mean Treehugger? I-is there something wrong with Anon's aura?" Fluttershy too, was not expecting that kind of reaction.

"I don't know… it's like. I can't tell what's going on with it." Treehugger was dumbfounded. You didn't know what that could mean. Maybe you just didn't do it right?

"umm, is it because I didn't do it right?"

Treehugger shook her head "No, you got it right. But, the feeling is really gnarly. I can't tell what kind of aura it is. Never felt anything like it. Never felt anything close with anypony else"

Considering its "All over the place". It could only be... "Are you saying my aura is… chaotic?"

Treehugger didn't even think of that word as something she should say, but it sounded right "Yeah, that's what I'm trying to say. It's all chaotic."

Chaotic. For Fluttershy, She didn't know if that was worrisome or not. She tried to rationalize it the best she could. "Maybe, um. Maybe it's because Anon doesn't actually live in Ponyville? And considering it's Discord who adopted him. Maybe his aura has just changed because of it. That sounds right, right? I mean… nothing bad would happen to Anon for having that kind of aura… right Treehugger?"

Treehugger shrugged "Don't know, Discord's kind of got the same aura. But Anon's is like. Different. But that's all I can say about it, it's really hard to read. I don't know what it could be. It's kind of wigging me out."

"Well um, maybe Aunt Fluttershy is right. I live in a house that's floating in some weird subspace where waterfalls go up and lava is cold as ice and stuff. Maybe that's what's causing it?"

"Oh hey, if it's like that then maybe. But like I said, I don't know for sure. I don't even know if it's good or bad. But… you seem like a cool little dude, but let me make sure. Anon, you mind me asking you a question." Treehugger stared at you, she looked pretty serious. It was kind of weird given her mussy dreadlocks and such. And with her attitude. It was hard to take her fully serious.

"Sure, what is it? Is it going to reveal anything?"

Treehugger nodded "mhmm, it's gonna tell me if you're good or bad. So answer truthfully."

You nod. And hoped to god it wasn't a question about your "home" life. "ok good." Treehugger hesitated a moment, it was like she was syncing up to you or something. "ok, here it goes, Anon..."

"Yes?" You ask

"Do you… like nature?" She asks

What? Well, yeah. Especially in Equestria where it was beautiful and not ruined by industry shit. "Yeah, it's pretty"

Treehugger nodded and looked to Fluttershy "He's a good little dude, totally rad in my book… but I don't have a book really. But he's still totally ok"

Did that really just. Ugh, why were you even the least bit surprised? You really should be used to not just most of the shenanigans of Discord. But other ponies in general. They really usually stuck to their personality and cutie mark meaning. Fluttershy with being nice and cute. Pinkie Pie, actually stop right there. Just her telling you that she's missed throwing you a ridiculous amount of parties was still catching you off guard. You took a quick look around after that thought… You wondered if she was still following you.

"So does that mean there's no meaning to my Aura? Or… maybe a really big meaning? You can figure that out right?"

Treehugger gave it some thought, and she came up with something. "Maybe there's nothing to figure out. Your aura, little dude. It's like the morning breeze. You always expect it, like your friends and your family would always expect you to be you, and to be there, but when you think about it. You never know where that breeze is going, it can be going back to the ocean, or maybe up a mountain. It's always changing, it's always doing it's own thing, ya know? But you could always count on it to be there every morning, to make everything really chill. Maybe your aura has always been that way, as if to say that you're always doing your own thing in your own way, Like beyond anything anypony else would ever even think of. And you know what's really cool about breezes? They could turn into hurricanes. I think, you got like, all this potential inside you. And it's up to you to find your own way, like the morning breeze does to meet us every morning no matter where we are."

Woah… that's… deep. Ok, yeah, you were pretty surprised. You thought she was going to just say something simple again. Which would have given no or little insight. Instead. As you thought about it. You never did think about your overall potential. You thought, well… Twilight became an Alicorn princess after all. And Fluttershy's potential, she's able to pacify even Discord. But, you never had any potential back in your old world. Maybe you'd be able to do something here? Well, as long as you never went crazy living with Discord at least.

"Treehugger, that's really amazing. I didn't know you thought about stuff that deeply."

Treehugger shrugged "Little dude, I think about EVERYTHING deeply. Everything has meaning behind it, even when there's no meaning. You get what I mean?"

Ahhh no, you just now lost her on that one. "Ummm, I'm sure I can figure it out. What do you think Aunt Fluttershy?"

Fluttershy agreed with Treehugger, in her eyes. You were a smart colt with a big brain. Your speech sometimes ranged to childish to something an intelligent adult would say. And she knew Discord, and the fact that she knew he has to have done some "mistakes" with you and you still are the way you are, just sticking with him instead of becoming frightened of him. She could tell you had so much potential. "I think Treehugger is right. And I know you'll be able to figure out the meaning to your aura, Anon. Just like one day you'll get your cutie mark. Who knows, maybe your cutie mark and aura are related."

Related? Huh, given from what you were hearing. Cutie marks being special talents and your aura apparently being untapped potential. That sounded like the whole Megaman X unlimited potential deal. Ergh, you hoped your cutie mark wasn't a big X. Even if it meant unlimited potential. It just seemed unimpressive and could probably be taken in other ways. "Well, I guess we won't know until I get my cutie mark. Whenever that happens."

"Hey, don't worry little dude. Trust me, everypony gets their cutie mark one day. You'll find yours soon, or maybe it'll find you." Treehugger stretched "speaking of breeze, I gotta get going. I can hear the wind calling me, telling me I need to be somewhere else."

Seems Treehugger goes wherever she felt she was being called. And the picnic was over anyway. Treehugger bids a farewell to the both of you. You thank her for her insight. And you and Fluttershy wish her a safe trip. This leaves just the two of you. "You really have interesting friends Aunt Fluttershy"

"I do? Well, I guess I do. I just like to think of them as more friendly than anything else. But, that was very interesting. You really are something special Anon"

Something special, well that made you smile. Fluttershy always knew what to say to make you feel fuzzy and warm. "I guess I'm a little special. Not to toot my own horn. But I am pretty great"

"oh?" Fluttershy giggled "So does that mean you've mastered Equestria history yet? I remember you having trouble with that"

You flinch, oh… oh… she still remembered that. "I uh...I think I've." You sigh "Yeah no, I haven't brushed up on it at all… yet"

Fluttershy's giggling went to some light hearted laughter.

"H-hey, come on. It's not that funny"

Fluttershy laughing at you, that did hurt. Not too badly, more of a "picked on" sort of feeling.

"I'm sorry Anon" She did her best to stifle her giggling "But didn't I just say you shouldn't get too full of yourself? I just thought it was funny… erm" She stops laughing, feeling she may have gone too far "a little funny… sorry"

You grimace at her sorry, she didn't need to be sorry. "It's ok, Aunt Fluttershy. You don't need to be sorry. I sort of set myself up for that one… actually, speaking of setting up." You looked to your saddlebag. "I probably should be heading out myself to go see Rainbow Dash… you wouldn't want to come, would you?"

Fluttershy hesitated on that answer. She did have animals to take care of. But, She did leave them extra food before coming to the picnic. And none of her other friends needed her. And she did want to be more of an aunt. So she decided.

She looked to you with a smile, and nodded "I'd love to Anon!"

FUCK YES YEAH!

You hopped about in excitement, Yeah Yeah! not only were you going to learn flying from an actual expert, but someone you cared about was going to be there to cheer you on. Then you heard Fluttershy giggling again. You realize it was due to your sudden excitement.

You stop "Ahrm… yeah. Cool cool, thanks Aunt Fluttershy. I... am..er. Glad that you want to come."

Dammit, don't be a spaz Anon. You better not do this shit when you actually go girl hunting, it'll be failure all over again. Just like back in human land. But, you were super glad she was coming with you. It'd also probably make communicating with Rainbow Dash easier as well. If there was one pony with an arrogant streak as big as Discord's. It was hers. But training wise, you knew she'd be the pony to go to.

And so, you and Fluttershy went off to her house. You began to imagine all the cool tricks you'd be able to do once you got flying down. You'd probably never be skilled enough to pull off a Sonic Rainboom. But flying well enough just to get around. Well damn, what human hasn't dreamt of shit like that?

Chapter 96

You both would cut across the town to the other side, to the outskirts to where Rainbow's house would be. Ponyville was the same as ever, ponies going about their day. Having fun, buying things, probably getting into their own zany hijinks. Though, as you walked with Fluttershy. You started to wonder how many episodes you might have fucked up. Obviously the cutie map episodes would go about the same way. You just wondered how many the second half of the season had.

From the looks of it. There seemed to have barely been any episodes centered on it. Or it was just calling Twilight a majority of the time. "Aunt Fluttershy, can I ask you a question?"

Fluttershy nodded as you both trekked through the town. "Of course Anon, what is it?"

"It's about that Cutie Map thing in Twilight's castle. How many times has it turned on?"

"Oh, well. Not that many actually. It's called us only a few times. Maybe two or three. But it always seems calls us in pairs. In fact. Aside from us being called all at once when we first discovered the map. Me nor Twilight have been called by the map at all. I guess Equestria doesn't have as many friendship problems as we thought. Or maybe, it just calls us when there’s a really big big problem. Like the first time it called us."

"The first time? Hrn" You were around for that. TV viewing wise at least. You were surprised there wasn't that many calls from the map. Your saturday morning instincts always told you that when a season introduces a gimmick. It usually spams said gimmick. Yet here, the cutie map was seemingly underused. "How did that go? As I ummm.."

You hold back, and think your words through. "As I uh, heard it. You and the others had trouble with somepony named Starlight Glimmer, right?"

"Oh yes, that's right actually. Did your father tell you about it?"

"Errr, yeah. But he wasn't too keen on specifics."

"Well, he only knows what I told him. I was actually surprised by your father's reaction. But then I tried to think about it like he would. And, I think I figured out why he found her so terrifying."

"He found Starlight Glimmer terrifying?"

"Well, not her really. It was more of what she was trying to do"

"You mean make everypony equal?"

Fluttershy nods "Mhmmm, It goes against your father's very um… spirit."

"Does it terrify you?"

Fluttershy shook her head, she didn't even show a hint of fear or anxiety from thinking about it. instead, she looked disheartened. "No, it actually makes me sad. I think I knew what she was trying to do. She just wanted everypony to live in peace and harmony as equals. But, the way she tried to do it, forcing everypony to give up what made them unique. Forcing them to not let them be who they want to be... She wouldn't even let them have their cutie marks back. And that's wrong. She wouldn't listen to anypony either, she wanted everything her way… even if she had to force it on you. I kind of wish she would have listened, she ran away after all of that. And I can't imagine how lonely things are for her right now."

Wait, Fluttershy felt sorry for her? Well, of course she did. But, why? The why was what made you curious. "You feel sorry for her?"

Fluttershy nodded, frowning at the thought "Well, Everypony did turn on her in the end. She probably doesn't have any friends at all. And now nopony would follow her now that she's been found out. It's just sad knowing that she's probably hiding in a cave, alone, scared. I think, if she wanted to try to be friends. I think I'd be willing to give her a chance, and I'm sure my friends would be too. But, none of us even know where she is. So all I can do is hope she's ok."

Ergh, you knew of that ONE sighting from the episode"Amending Fences". But was that really Starlight? it could have just been a huge coincidence. If only there was another sighting. Like her hiding in the bushes with some binoculars or something.

You wondered, if it really was her. Should you tell the others. Should you tell Fluttershy? It was jumping the gun. But you felt she'd be back for the season finale. You don't know what'd she do. But you don't throw away a villain like that when there’s so many unanswered questions.

You could possibly even change the season finale, prevent it altogether. But only if you were right. And if telling them didn't work, then maybe your previous notion of handling her yourself would work. You had the horn after all… which you now just realized you could also probably use to even the odds against bugbutt.

No, just leave it alone for now Anon. You don't have enough to go on. If only you had a little more foresight. You cuddle into Fluttershy to give her a little comfort, it was all you felt you could do. Who knows, maybe Starlight isn't as bad as she seemed. It could be like the whole Sunset Shimmer shit where she was nasty up until the end when it's revealed all she wants was a friend… or something… you forget. Equestria Girls was eggghhh…

"Well, if she isn't actually bad. Then I hope she's ok too. Actually, now that I think about it. I'd like a chance to talk to her"

Well, that made Fluttershy curious "You do?"

"Yeah, her philosophy is interesting. It sounds like a topic to debate about. I mean, she was trying to take away the strife and misery from ponies lives right?"

Fluttershy nodded reluctantly "Yes but, the ponies in the town that she was in. They weren't truly happy. Even when they said they were, it was all the brainwashing she did to make them think they we're happy. She tried to brainwash wash us too. I didn't like that at all..."

Hmm, Fluttershy was becoming more depressed with every moment the conversation lingered on the topic. Yeah, better just to drop it. Though, you wish you could have had an actual full conversation about Starlight. Because Fluttershy just wasn't the one to have the conversation with since she can and will be brought down emotionally by it. And yet she would probably still talk about it just so she wouldn't be rude.

"Err, well. Let's talk about something else then. I don't want to bring up any bad memories."

"We can still talk about it if you want to Anon, I uhm… I just didn't think you'd think so deeply into it. I didn't know you had an interest in philosophy."

"I just find the whole thing interesting is all. but, I can tell it's upsetting you to talk about it. So I just want to talk about something else now. Something… Ahh I know, why don't you tell me what flying is like. Like to really soar and stuff. Since I'm gonna be learning it soon. Is it scary, is it fun?"

"Oh, well. I don't know how to answer that Anon… oh wait." Fluttershy cringed "Yes I do, I remember when I was a filly, it was around when I got my cutie mark. I fell all the way from cloudsdale and it was… really really scary." Fluttershy then looked to you, frightened about what this could mean for you."Anon, erm. Before you train with Rainbow Dash. I think I'm going to have a talk with her first."

Oh come on, Surely she didn't think… "Aunt Fluttershy, please don't worry. I'm not gonna fly up that high. I'm just training after all. I'll just ask Rainbow Dash to keep it low to the ground."

Fluttershy couldn't take your word for it, she wasn't afraid of you screwing up. She was afraid Rainbow Dash would take it too far. "Anon, I'm sure I don't need to worry about what you'd do. But Rainbow Dash, sometimes she overdoes it. And I don't want her to get too show offy and try to make you do something you're not ready for. I just want to let her know to keep things safe but still informative, and still fun for you. Ok?"

Ehhh, you weren't going to argue this. You were sure you could handle Rainbow Dash's antics on your own. But again, you didn't want to argue or upset Fluttershy. And yeah, it was annoying. But you knew everything would be better when you saw that smile on her face when she sees you soaring in midair like a badass. "Ok Aunt Fluttershy, whatever you say"

She was happy to hear that, and you both continued on your way.

Along your trek, you saw in the distance two familiar fillies. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo… oh… they were enjoying an ice cream at a table… and. Oh, they didn't look happy. In fact, they we're pretty sweaty.

Fluttershy had noticed them as well "Oh look Anon, it's Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo! They look… erm.." Fluttershy noticed that they didn't seem too happy despite licking at their ice creams. "...they don't look very happy at all, I wonder what's got them so down?"

Given the sweat, they were probably working at the farm. Either they were done, or on break. "Well, they made a deal with the Apples to help with the farm to set up that fight thing for my cutie mark. So, my guess is they must have been working really hard."

Fluttershy didn't like the sounds of that "Oh no, they must be so tired… mmnn.." Then she got an idea she thought was great "I know! Let's see if they can come along with us. I know seeing Rainbow Dash would brighten up Scootaloo's day at least!"

Fluttershy skipped along towards them to greet them and invite them along. At first, you thought that'd be a great idea. Then you went wide eyed at the realization that you, YOU, would be flying with Rainbow Dash. She'd be teaching you. While Scoots would be on the ground, watching. Most likely feeling terrible that she couldn't join in.

You hold your hoof out to Fluttershy. "AUNT FLUTTERSHY WAIT!"

Well Anon, you dingbat. Yelling at Fluttershy caught the attention of the other two anyway. They get up with their ice creams and head towards you and Fluttershy. Fluttershy was wondering why you told her to wait. "Anon?"

"Oh ahm, I almost thought you were going to trip on a rock." You were cringing as they drew ever closer.

Fluttershy looked around herself, there was no rock. "Oh, don't worry Anon. There's no rock. See." She moved aside to show you,

erghhhhhhhhh.

"Hey Fluttershy, hey Anon. What's up..?" Sweetie Belle was the first to greet the both of you, she wasn't as enthusiastic as she usually was.

You spoke first, quickly, before Fluttershy could say something. "O-oh nothing, we we're just heading to Rainbow Dash's place to erm… to do something."

"You're going to Rainbow Dash's?! to do… wait, what's the something?" Scootaloo was still pretty enthusiastic until she was confused by the "something.", then again, her adoration for Rainbow Dash was second to none.

"Oh, well. Anon got a special gift from his father and..." Before Fluttershy could finish, you cut her off.

"Annnnnnnnd uhmmm. I wanted to show her it… that's all."

Fluttershy was confused, as were Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo. But Fluttershy's confusion was caused by the fact that it was looking like you were trying to hide something. Were the wings supposed to be a secret? Because it didn't seem like that at all.

"Anon, are you alright?" You were trying to do good, you just couldn't let Scootaloo come.

"I-I'm fine, I'm just. er. I guess I got nervous all of a sudden about… Rainbow Dash. and erm. Maybe we shouldn't go"

Then, Fluttershy felt a sting of guilt from that "Oh no… I hope it's not because of what I said earlier..."

Scootaloo butted in on this, she saw an opportunity to go see Rainbow Dash for sure, and she wasn't gonna lose out. "Relax Anon, whatever it is. Rainbow Dash is one hundred percent professional. And if you need some extra support, well, I could come along."

Sweetie Belle looked to Scootaloo, with surprise "I thought you said you couldn't move another inch?"

"Well..." Scootaloo was taken aback, she didn't want to seem like a wimp "You know, I just didn't want to make you feel bad because you were so tired."

Sweetie Belle wasn't convinced, seeing through Scootaloo's bullshit "Yeah… because you didn't need me to take over lugging all those apple wagons right?"

"Y-yeah, well...." Scootaloo, started to get snippy "If Applebloom didn't fill them with so many apples I could have done it myself!"

"Girls, girls! please don't fight. Even if you're upset or angry with something. You shouldn't fight, it's not right" Fluttershy tried to settle them down.

They both stopped, and looked down with sorry faces. "Sorry Fluttershy.." They both said, at the same time.

Sweetie Belle sighed "I guess we let all that farmwork get to us, I didn't think it was that tough. Applebloom makes it look really easy. It's a lot harder than what we did back at Appleoosa"

"Yeah… a lot harder." Scootaloo said in agreeance.

"It's alright but, just remember that you shouldn't argue with each other just because you're angry about something. You should never take your anger out on your friends, or… well, anypony really." Fluttershy told them, it was stuff like this that baffled you on how Twilight ended up as the princess of friendship. Sure she had to write letters and learn all about it and stuff. But goddamn, Fluttershy and Pinkie Pie, ESPECIALLY Pinkie Pie, were much better at it than her.

You wondered about Discord's theory. If ideas could travel out one way, maybe they could also travel from your universe to here. It did fit the theory… hmmm...

"Well Scootaloo, if you wanna go with them. You go ahead, I'm just gonna go back to our table, finish my ice cream, and then maybe put my head down for awhile. I don't really feel like walking all that way." Sweetie Belle told her, she was bowing out from this adventure.

"You're gonna sleep right there?" Scootaloo found that irksome.

Sweetie Belle nodded "Yeah, right now, even the floor looks comfy. I just can't sleep on the floor because then Rarity will just say something about my coat being all dirty and stuff. So, the table will work just fine as a nice comfy pillow."

Christ, they must have worked really hard. And from the sound of it. They were done with today's work as well.

"Well, ok then." Scootaloo looked to you, with excitement and wonder, She couldn't wait. Feeling renewed vigor. "Come on Anon, Fluttershy! Let's go see Rainbow Dash already! I'm ready to roll!"

Ugh, no way you could convince her not to go see Rainbow Dash. You'd have to come up with a way to do this in a way that wouldn't upset her. But shit, once she knows exactly why you were going. She was not going to like it. She's a pegasus pony who can't fly, and she'd be witnessing an earth pony gain wings TO fly. Given if you were in her place, you knew you'd be pretty ticked about it. As far as jealousy goes.

But you three said your goodbyes to Sweetie Belle anyway. You tried to either avoid talking to Scootaloo, or just acting aloof. But nope, she wouldn't let it be. She was curious. "So Anon, what are you gonna see Rainbow Dash for? Is she expecting you?"

"Errr… sorta."

"Sorta?"

Fluttershy looked to Scootaloo "Oh, Rainbow Dash owes Anon a promise because well… erm… Rainbow Dash made him cry."

Scootaloo was now really confused "What? Rainbow Dash would never do that! Anon, what did you do?!" She felt it was your fault.

Fluttershy didn't like Scootaloo's reaction. "Scootaloo, Anon didn't do anything. Let me ask you something. Do you think it's nice to know that two ponies got eaten by plant monsters?"

Scootaloo was again, confused. Until she put two and two together "Oh, you mean those two guys that beat up Anon?"

Fluttershy nodded "Well, those would be the two I was talking about. But just the same. How would you feel? Knowing that they’re gone. Would you feel that it was your fault? Wouldn't you cry?"

Scootaloo shrugged "That actually sounds pretty cool to me, bad guys getting what they deserve? That's what Twilight and you and everypony else do too right? Like sealing up bad guys for a one thousand years and stuff? And didn't that Sombra guy blow up?"

Fluttershy was utterly flabbergasted by those words "SCOOTALOO! H-h-how could you say those things?! Even if they are bad, it's always better to want them reformed than just gone! You're not supposed to find it "Cool"."

"H-hey, I'm just saying. Those two guys sounded pretty bad, what if they always stayed bad? If Rainbow Dash didn't chase them down, they might have come back to finish the job on Anon. Right? Couldn't they have done that?"

If it wasn't for the fact that those two guys were actually Discord. That actually did sound like a good point to you. Especially since, Chrysalis tried to kill you over what happened before. Barging into your very home. It also seemed some information didn't get relayed that they were "changelings" or working with changelings, you forgot the exact details on that. Whatever, details on that weren't important anymore.

Fluttershy had to stop, she was trying to come up with a retort to that. But, she felt Scootaloo had a point as well. And considering how helpless you looked in the hospital. You wouldn't be able to do anything about it. "Well… maybe. But, I'm sure with all the doctors. And with us there, Anon would have been just fine."

"What if the bad guys dressed up as doctors and then poisoned Anon like in the comics?" Scootaloo was really hammering this point in.

"No more! I don't want to talk about this! Ponies being eaten is wrong! and liking it is even more wrong! Wrong! Wrong! Wrong! Wrong!" Fluttershy just… lost it, and started barking at Scootaloo until Scootaloo just pulled back away from her. You rushed up between them to try to calm Fluttershy. She wasn't going to hurt her, nothing of the sort. You just didn't want Fluttershy to lose a gasket and burst into tears or something.

"A-aunt Fluttershy, It's ok. We get it. Ponies dying is bad. I totally agree with you. Please please calm down." You try nuzzling into her, it works like a charm.

She steps backwards and sits down. and starts to tear up. "I-I'm sorry… I..I didn't mean to scare Anypony… I.." Then she bursts into tears and lays her head in the dirt "I'm so ashamed! I… I got… s-so upset… I..I didn't mean to yell at you Scootaloo. I shouldn't be yelling at fillies… I-I hope I didn't scare you. I didn't mean to..."

You hugged onto Fluttershy, and rubbed your hoof along her back. "It's ok Aunt Fluttershy, I'm sure it's ok… right Scootaloo?"

Scootaloo, while having had to step back. Didn't realize what she did wrong to upset Fluttershy, but she felt that pinch of guilt. Just, didn't know why she was feeling it. "Y-yeah it's ok. I mean…I didn't really mean it like that"

Fluttershy was still having trouble calming down. Ugh, this is why you avoided that conversation about Starlight. And ponies dying being cool? Yeah, even if Scootaloo didn't understand that. for all intents and purposes, those two "stallions" actually "died".... Making light of it would definitely flip out poor Fluttershy. You look back at Scootaloo and tilt your head in rapid succession, motioning her to come give Fluttershy a hug.

Scootaloo, already feeling more and more guilty over Fluttershy, figures out what you mean, and walks on over, and joins in the hug. "I'm reeeaallly sorry Fluttershy."

Then she thinks about it right there in a split second. Diamond Tiara was her and her friend's own villain. Heck, they remembered when they tried to do in Babs Seed. She realized her mistake with that too. Yeah, maybe somebody getting eaten wasn't as cool as it sounded, even if they were bad. " I think I realized what you mean. Those ponies didn't deserve that. They should have been captured and brought to justice… Then maybe, they would have learned their lessons. That's the right way things should be done, right?...Fluttershy, I'm really sorry. I didn't mean to make you cry..."

Fluttershy snuggled into the both of you until she herself began to calm down "I-it's ok Scootaloo, A-and I'm glad you understand what I w-was talking about. B-but, I'm still..I sorry… I really had no right to snap… l-l-like that"

Mental note, death and destruction makes Fluttershy sad, thinking it's cool or right will make her cry. Then again, you should already know this. Considering her reaction to when she thought Angel died in "Castle-Mania"

This went on for a little while longer. Until Fluttershy finally calmed herself. with apologies all around.

You both ask her if she's ok. "I'm alright, I… well… I just. I'm a little extra sensitive to those kinds of things. And I'm sorry that you both had to see me like that. I must look like a really big baby.”

Fearing Scootaloo might still say something insensitive, you immediately open your mouth to disagree with Fluttershy. "No Aunt Fluttershy, I think you're fine. I mean… that's how we even ended up going to Rainbow Dash's right? I did cry at pretty much the same thing…”

"But Anon… I'm much older than you. I should have a better stomach for these things. Some ponies tell me I need to toughen up. And I try. I've done better at being assertive I think… but I never want to overdo it, I don't want to turn cold and mean just so I'd never cry at times like these… but ponies being eaten..being gone forever? I guess what Scootaloo said… I thought about… what if you were gone… and… and" She started to tear up again.

Yeah, no. That'd do it. You thought she was being maybe a tad over sensitive after a while. But Fluttershy being Fluttershy. If she thought about anyone she cared about kicking the bucket. That'd definitely do it. No doubts whatsoever.

You nuzzle into her again. "It's ok Aunt Fluttershy, it's alright. I think you're fine the way you are. The way you are, the way you smile, or cry, or cuddle with me. I wouldn't trade that for anything in the world. And I bet your friends love you the way you are too. I mean, you're the Element of Kindness, it'd be depressing if you weren't all nice and sweet. That's who you are. You're my Aunt, and I love you. And I don't want to see you cry. Today is supposed to be a happy day. right?"

Scootaloo thinks she sees something she could add to this, and tries her very best to cheer her up "Yeah! We're going to go see your friend Rainbow Dash. And I bet she wouldn't want to see you crying like this either! I bet if she was here right now, she'd just… she'd just.."

Fucking Scootaloo… dammit. You'd finish this sentence yourself.

"She'd cry right along with you Aunt Fluttershy" You turn to Scootaloo, and gave her a dead serious face. "Right Scootaloo?"

You just wanted Fluttershy to calm down, you wanted her to be ok. You knew bringing Scootaloo was a bad idea. But not this fucking bad. But it was fine, it'd be ok. She's a kid, she probably didn't understand the concept of death.

"R-right. She'd totally cry along with you, and do everything to cheer you up too!" It worked, but slowly, Fluttershy took a few deep breaths until her sobbing had stopped. Her mane was a little messy. And that vibrant smile was gone. But, she stopped crying at least.

"I-I think I'm ok now."

You hug onto her again. "Aunt Fluttershy..." This pained you to say it, because you wanted her to be there. "Are you ok to come with us to Rainbow Dash's? I-if you want to go home, I understand."

Fluttershy immediately stood up hearing that, and brushed her mane back with her hoof. Taking another breath. She focused on trying to cheer herself up internally. "No, I won't be going home. I said I'd come to see your flight training, and that's what I'm going to do!"

"Flight training?" if ever there was a time Scootaloo was absolutely boggled, this was the time.

And holy shit… did you not need the conflict right now. Now you were just starting to feel this was all your fault. You should have just gone alone, just walked straight to Rainbow Dash's. But NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO, you wanted to impress Fluttershy. You stupid halfwit.

"What do you mean by flight training Fluttershy? Anon can't fly. He's an earth pony" Scootaloo was thinking maybe Fluttershy was just delirious.

How to approach this? You almost felt like just being straightforward. But even with Scootaloo's fuck up. It was only because she didn't know any better. But how else were you going to explain it? It seemed just telling her was the only way.

You sigh. You open your saddle bag, and pull out the cardboard wings. "Scootaloo, see these?"

Scootaloo nodded, weirded out "Uhhhh… yeah… Anon… you know you can't fly with those things right?"

"Scootaloo, these wings were enchanted by my dad. When I put them on, they turn into Pegasus wings. And they allow me to fly."

Scootaloo was actually amazed by that "Woah really? So, if you put them on. You can fly just like a real pegasus pony?!"

You cautiously nod. "Yeah, that's about the size of it. And, that's why I wanted to see Rainbow Dash. She wanted to take me on a flight, but I wanted to see if I could cash it in as a flight lesson instead."

"Oh, that's actually!....actually.." And that's when it hit her, and her amazement turned into that of instant depression "...pretty cool… yeah. So, you're gonna go fly around with her? With Rainbow Dash?"

You cringe, ogh… why were you such a sucker for cute girl face? Hopefully bugshit never figures out any of your soft spots. "Y-yeah. And learn to fly.."

"From Rainbow Dash… with your wings..."

"Yeah..."

Scootaloo looked down, she felt utterly crushed. That you. a pony that didn't even seem impressed with Rainbow Dash. Was now going to go flying with her, with wings of your own… with wings that let you fly. "O-oh… I..mnn.. I think I should head back. I just remembered. I think I was needed back on the farm for extra work."

Scootaloo then looks to Fluttershy "And Fluttershy, I… I really am sorry about before. And… I'm… I'm just going to go now."

"It's ok Scootaloo, really. But. are you really leaving? I thought you really wanted to see Rainbow Dash today? I wouldn't mind telling Applejack that I was taking up some of your time. I'm sure it'll be ok then"

Now Scootaloo felt real bad. She didn't want her lie to have a possibility of being found out. To know how utterly crushed she actually felt. She wanted to leave as soon as possible. "No, it's ok. I really just need to go back. You two take care. And say hi to Rainbow Dash for me..."

"Oh… mmnn..if you really gotta go… Goodbye Scootaloo, and I will definitely tell her you said hi" Fluttershy gave Scootaloo a smile, but it wasn't returned in kind. Fluttershy was starting to pick up something was amiss. But didn't know what.

Scootaloo turned around, and didn't even really give you a goodbye like she did Fluttershy. No, you saw a tear or two leak from her eye as she turned and walked off. Was this worth it Anon? Should you really feel bad for her?

Dammit, you did. She really was Rainbow Dash's biggest fan. And now she had to see that some earth pony that had just waltz in onto her group was going to actually fly and learn from her idol. You felt this wasn't your fault. But you blamed yourself just the same. But you didn't want to let Fluttershy know what was actually going on. God help you if she was still in some oversensitive state.

"Aunt Fluttershy, I'm gonna go back for Scootaloo. I uhhh… I feel sorta bad she has to work on the farm. I mean, she made a deal with Applejack and all to work on the farm regardless if I got my Cutie Mark or not. And everypony else went through so much trouble and I'm still a blank flank. I bet she could really use some pepping up from her hero right now."

"Oh… Anon.." Fluttershy came up to you and gave you a kiss on the forehead "You're so sweet, you know that?"

Yeah, a real bang up guy.

"Well, in that case. I'll fly ahead and make sure Rainbow Dash doesn't fly off anywhere. I'll let her know you'll both be right along. Ok?"

Yeah, that was a good idea. "Ok, I'll meet you at Rainbow Dash's house then. Seeya in a bit Aunt Fluttershy"

You gave her a false smile. Which she accepts as a real one. You both nuzzle each other, and she flies off ahead as you head off in the opposite direction.

Why did you feel bad? Yeah, five years of watching pony mixed with getting to know your comrades better would have something to do with it. Empathy sucked sometimes. You even wondered if you'd actually feel bad for Chrysalis if she gave you some sob story and it turned out to be true. Or maybe not. Yeah, fuck empathy when it came to her.

And even though you tell yourself that empathy sucks. You rush over to Scootaloo just the same to fix everything.

Chapter 97

It didn't take you long to catch up with Scootaloo, though, she could hear you rushing towards her. She doesn't even turn to face you as she picks up her walking pace just a little bit. "Anon, why are you following me?"

You weren't going to sugarcoat it. "Because I know you’re lying, you're already done with the farm for the day. I know the real reason you're walking away is because I'm about to go flying with Rainbow Dash."

Scootaloo stops "Yeah well, you're wrong." She wipes her tears away, then faces you, trying to act like she's ok. "I think it's perfectly ok. Rainbow Dash must think you're super cool for beating up those two stallions and being Discord's son. Yeah, So, you don't need me around to drag you down."

"Did Rainbow Dash say I was cooler?"

You didn't know if she had actually said that or not. But if Scootaloo would say no. Then you could work from there.

"....." She doesn't say anything, and then starts walking away, her tone getting more irritated. "Look, just go do your training thing already. I'm just going to go back and do something else..." Scootaloo takes a quick look at her wings "Something I know I can actually do"

She wasn't able to hide it that time, you catch her eyes flowing with tears when she took a look at her wings. Oh Anon, Anon, Anon. You figured out she was jealous. But what could you do for her? This was the reason you didn't want her following you. And now she's crushed. You were going to do one of the things she's probably dreamed of doing ever since she first laid her eyes on Rainbow Dash. "Scootalo-..Hey!"

The moment you spoke, she went off in a sprint. Goddammit! She was moving pretty damn fast too, flitting her wings as hard as she could to pick up any extra speed she could muster. You weren't going to catch her. At least, not on hoof.

You take out your horn and sigh as you put it on. Considering the control you were sure you had over it. You were sure this would be fine. Your horn lights up, making Scootaloo light up as well as she lifts off a few inches into the air, and then gets pulled towards you "H-HEY, WHAT GIVES?!"

You kept her suspended in the air as you turn her around to face you. Dammit, she made you waste today's charge. "I'm not letting you just leave. Not until I'm done."

Now Scootaloo was really angry, jealous and angry. "What?! You have a horn too?! Let me down! LET ME DOWN!"

You shake your head. "Will you just listen?!"

"Why?!" Scootaloo barks at you.

"Because" You sigh, trying to remain as calm as possible. "Look Scootaloo, I know this is gonna sound weird. But I know what's up. I know what's really up. You're just angry because you can't fly, and I can... You think I'm just gonna become closer to Rainbow Dash than you just because I can train under her… right?"

"So what!?" Scootaloo couldn't hide her tears "You're better than me anyway, you can use magic… and fly… and you're just an earth pony. I'm supposed to be a pegasus pony, but… I can't even use these stupid wings!" She tries flying out of your aura, but she can't escape "So just let me go already!"

You couldn't blame her for her reaction. She was heavily jealous. She just wanted to leave so she could avoid a scene, but you just had to chase after her. "I can only do those things because of my dad's magic. And… mnn"

...it wasn't like you ever needed to fly. The magic was enough. Man, you really wanted to learn to fly like a bullet too. Ahh well... This would be for the good of friendship

You reach into your saddlebag and grab the cardboard wings. "...and you should be able to too"

"Well I can't, my wings just don't work ok!"

You shake your head at her as you gently put her to the ground, but don't release yet. "I don't mean flying with those wings. I mean flying with these." You toss the wings towards her "I bet flying with Rainbow Dash was something you always wanted to do over anything else right?"

"Anon..." She looked down at the wings, she was getting less angry, but she was confused. "What are you doing?"

You didn't need them. Besides, watching Scootaloo throughout the show. And especially any time in the show where her wings were mentioned, egh. She deserved them more than you did. You remember the Luna episode with Applebloom. She looked so happy flying… even if it was just a dream.

"They’re yours Scootaloo, I don't need them. Not like I can't just use my magic to fly… I think." You release Scootaloo from your grip. Causing the horn to instantly fall off the moment the aura disappears.

Scootaloo looks at the wings, and carefully picks them up, inspects them, then looks towards you, she was absolutely astonished. "Anon… you can't just give me these, they’re yours."

Well that was a turn around.

"I don't need em, at all. Rainbow Dash was never my idol anyway, remember? She's more your speed. So I'm just passing down my little access pass to you instead. How's that sound?"

"Anon… really?... But… I got rea-" You cut her off, you knew what she was going to say. And as predictable as it was. You did feel good giving her this gift, she was finally going to fly. For real. You did look forward to flying yourself, but. Well, seniority and all. Maybe Discord could give you another pair anyway.

"Yeah, I know. You got angry and jealous and all that stuff. Scootaloo, you're my friend. And you, along with Sweetie Belle gave up a lot of your free time just for me to try to get my Cutie Mark. I always noticed too, that you are always eager to fly. Look, I know one day you will. And you're gonna zip around like lightning. But, until that time comes. I think you should get some training in with your favorite hero before your own wings actually kick in. Sound cool?"

She started to cry, and without warning, she jumped ontop of you and cuddled on to you. "THANK YOU, thank you thank you thank you thank you thank you thank you thank you thank you!!!" She cuddled, and hugged you tightly enough that you had a little trouble breathing.

"Ngh… y-you're welcome Scootaloo"

She hopped off of you, noticed you looked a little out of breath "You alright Anon?"

You take a breath, and stand up, brushing yourself off. And chuckle, you were already feeling better minded. "I'm ok, just got caught a little off guard there."

You also just realized this could have caused the same effect as Applebloom or Diamond Tiara was hit by. But you only wanted to do a good gesture, and make her life better after seeing how hurt she was.

She then grabbed the wings in excitement and started putt- WAIT! "SCOOTALOO DON'T!"

She stopped, and turned to you "W-what? I..I was just going to try them on. If they worked like your horn did, wouldn't they turn into wings?"

You nod. "They would, but Scootaloo, they have a sort of time limit per day before they become cardboard wings until tomorrow. So you might want to save it until you're actually ready to get off the ground."

"Oh, well that's ok. Because I'm going to go flying with Rainbow Dash! YEAHHH!" Scootaloo hopped around in excitement, to and fro before stopping before you and giving you another hug. "Anon, Thank you soooooo much! This is the coolest thing EVER! If you ever, and I mean, ever need anything. You just ask me ok! I owe you soooooo much right now!"

Awwww, yeah. This was worth it. She was only going to get happier from here. "It's fine Scootaloo, really. I'm just glad to see you're feeling better."

"Feeling better?! I'm more than that Anon! I'm on cloud nine, or..i'm gonna be...WHEN I'M FLYING WITH RAINBOW DASH! WOOHOO!!" Cute play on words, it makes you giggle. That along with her enthusiasm.

"Oh! Oh! And Anon..." Scootaloo looks at you with longing, loving eyes, and slows her speech "Thank you, for coming after me like you did. Thank you really, for everything you just did. I've always dreamed of this day, and you made it happen."

Ahhh shit...

You smile and cringe at the same time, trying to smile more than cringe. "Y-you're welcome Scootaloo, it's nothing really, we're friends. That's what friends do"

She starts to draw closer, ahhh shit. You close your eyes, you didn't even want to see it coming, oh god. What will Applebloom and Diamond Tiara think?...you should have been maybe… less nice? Or maybe not chased her.

But what you thought was coming didn't happen, instead you hear Scootaloo behind you. Calling for you. "Come on Anon! Let's get to Rainbow Dash's before she goes off somewhere! Ohhhhh! I can't waiiiiiit! Here I come Rainbow Dash, your new protege, Scootaloo!"

You look back as she dashes off. Woo… you dodged one hell of a bullet there Anon… one hell of a fucking bullet. She didn't actually seem to be into you at all.

You chase after her, but at your own pace, you knew where she was going to end up. So you didn't have to actually catch up with her.

Eventually, you both reached the area where Rainbow Dash's house was floating at. Rainbow Dash herself was leisurely lying in the grass, Tank resting on her belly as Fluttershy paced, it seemed at some point she had thought something had gone wrong. "Relax Fluttershy, I'm sure they're fine. Come on, just lay down and soak up some of this sun. It feels great." Rainbow Dash said, trying to calm her friend as she enjoyed the sun's rays and cool breeze.

"I know I shouldn't worry, but. I think something may have gone wrong. Just, something didn't seem right." Fluttershy's voice was a little jittery as she paced up and down.

"Look, if it makes you feel better, I can just give a quick sweep of the area and..." as Rainbow Dash begins to lean up, being careful with her turtle pet in not knocking him off her belly. She spots Scootaloo, then you, running down towards them "..oh..hey look, there they are. See? Told you you were worrying too much"

Fluttershy sees the both of you running towards herself and Rainbow, and sighs in relief, sitting on her butt. "Oh thank Celestia, they are ok."

"Rainbow Dash! Rainbow Dash! Hiiiii!" Scootaloo cried out as she rushed over to Rainbow Dash.

You on the other hand, walked over to where Fluttershy was. "Hey Aunt Fluttershy!"

The moment you get up to her, she gives you as a gentle nuzzle, She was happy you were ok. "Hello Anon, I'm so glad you're here. I thought something might have happened to you"

Wut? "Aunt Fluttershy, I wasn't gone that long."

"I-I know, but you only went to get Scootaloo, and it felt like it took longer than it should. So I got a little worried. But now you're ok now, and.." That's when she noticed Scootaloo had your wings "Anon, why does Scootaloo have your wings?"

"Because..." You explain to Fluttershy, and Rainbow Dash when you catch her attention, some of the circumstances that had happened only a few moments ago. After the explanation of that and what the plan was. Scootaloo decided to, again, dsy she was sorry, and that she was acting silly. But she also stated how excited she was to be able to get flight training with Rainbow Dash.

But Rainbow Dash looked at the wings, tapped them, and didn't seem to get it. "How are these things supposed to let you fly? Their junk."

Oh come on Dash, don't be like that. "Actually, they just look like junk. When you put them on… well… Why don't you show her Scootaloo?"

Scootaloo nods, she's never done this before, but she was ready. No, she was more than ready. She slapped on the wings right above her real ones. And in a flash of light. Her original wings twisted and warped. And then went back to looking normal. The cardboard wings had gone… but..you, hell. Everyone was expecting something bigger after the flash.

Scootaloo was still looking back in excitement, but the moment she saw that she still had her old wings. She was devastated "W-what happened?" She then looked to you, hoping for an answer. "Anon? W-what happened?"

"I.." You had no answer, it should have worked. "I..I don't know."

Rainbow Dash was actually just as surprised, she expected something amazing to come after the flash. And already seeing Scootaloo's growing disappointment. She actually tried to comfort her. "Hey S-scootaloo, it's alright. It's ok, really. I can still take you a few laps around Ponyville if you like." Rainbow Dash was already noticing how immediately crushed Scootaloo was getting, even her ego couldn't stop herself from feeling a little heartbroken.

It seemed to cheer up Scootaloo a little. "Thanks Rainbow Dash… I'd really like that… I… I just wish I could have actually flown with you."

But the oddest thing out this all, was the way Fluttershy had reacted. She didn't seem blown back or utterly disheartened from it. Instead, she was staring intently at the wings, she was thinking in her mind.

"Aunt Fluttershy?...you ok?" You wondered why she was acting so off

You almost thought she was going to cry, but instead. She walked over to Scootaloo and began to speak. "Scootaloo, I want you to try flapping your wings as hard as you can"

"B-but Fluttershy… what's that going to do? The wings didn't work." Scootaloo was losing more and more of her enthusiasm by the second.

Fluttershy moved in closer, and laid on her belly to meet Scootaloo at eye level. And gave her a smile "Just try, I bet you're going to be really surprised."

"...." Scootaloo didn't want to face any more disappointment. But she didn't want to ignore Fluttershy either. It pained her to do it, but she began to flap her wings a little. "You mean like this...?"

Fluttershy nodded "Mhmmm, but faster."

What was she doing? You didn't know how to tell Fluttershy. But you couldn't just believe in something and it'd just work. Not only that, but the cardboard wings had just disappeared. Which you found really odd. Because normally it could be deduced that you were the only one it'd work for. But then there was "Alicorn" Snails. Maybe it just didn't work on Pegasi?

Scootaloo concentrated, closing her eyes. and as she focused more and more. she began to feel lighter, she began… to lift off the ground. Oh no fucking way. So the wings did work. They just didn't change her wings appearance… and Fluttershy knew.

"Woah, hey, Scootaloo. Look! You're flying, ha! How does it feel?" Rainbow Dash smiled, she had never seen Scootaloo fly before, and she was already anticipating her reaction.

"C-come on Rainbow Dash, please don't kid around like that..." Scootaloo said, she hadn't noticed that she had lifted off the ground.

"Scootaloo, open your eyes!" you yell at her in excitement

Ooohh shit… Ooohhh shit!

She did, but she still looked disappointed "....see...nothing's happening"

Fluttershy then giggled, and looked up at Scootaloo, who was now above her "Scootaloo, if you'd look down. You might see something surprising"

And so Scootaloo did, and she looked perplexed. SHE STILL DIDN'T FIGURE IT OUT. You almost wanted to laugh at this whole scene.

Fluttershy waved to her "Hello Scootaloo"

"Fluttershy? how did you get down there?" Scootaloo was getting more confused by the second.

"Actually" You giggle at this. "You should be wondering how you got so high up"

She wasn't that high up at all, just about a couple of feet at this point. But just saying it was enough for Scootaloo to look around. You were lower to the ground too. and yet Rainbow Dash's face was at her eye level.

"...Wait… am I?" Scootaloo's eyes started to go big from the build up of her realization

Rainbow Dash nodded, giving her a cocky grin "You sure are, squirt."

"OH… MY… GOSSSHH!" Scootaloo, upon finally realizing it, was overjoyed. So overjoyed in fact that she started to flap her wings at the hummingbird pace she was capable of. Causing her to zip straight up, without heading back down. "I CAN FLYYYYYYYYY! THIS IS THE HAPPIEST DAY OF MY LIFE!"

Oh shit..she was going… really high. "Er… should w-"

"I'm on it!" Rainbow Dash zipped up to the air, Tank following slowly behind her. "HEY SCOOTALOO! SLOW DOWN A LITTLE, YOU DON'T WANNA GO FLYING TO THE STARS DO YA?!"

And with that, Rainbow Dash darted up to the ecstatic Scootaloo. She manages to catch her in her forelegs to give her hug. They were so high up, you could barely hear them now.
You walk over to Fluttershy, who was just looking up on high. She was pretty happy herself. Seeing Scootaloo so happy.

"How'd you know it was going to work? I didn't think it was going to at all. I thought it was something Discord pulled in case any pegasi thought they could double their flying power with them."

Fluttershy continues to look up, seeing that Rainbow Dash was already starting Scootaloo's first lessons. "That's the thing, I knew there had to be some sort of trick to it. And I was almost scared that it may have been the same thing you were thinking. But… all I had to do was believe. And look. Look at her. She's so happy Anon. I don't think I've ever seen Scootaloo so happy before."

She did look happy, she also was getting the hang of things better than you did. She was zipping about like a bug. "Yeah, me neither."

"It's thanks to you really, You did a really nice thing giving up your wings. You selflessly gave them up. Just so you can make your friend happy. Anon, I couldn't be prouder. And I know, deep down inside, your father is proud of you too. I just know it"

Fluttershy opened her wing so you could cuddle next to her, and watch Scootaloo up above learn to fly.

"Thanks… Aunt Fluttershy..I'm glad that you're proud of me… it means a lot."

You really did do a good thing. As you went under her wing, you thought about all the seasons prior. Scootaloo probably had it the hardest out of the three CMC. She not only didn't have a cutie mark at the time, but she lacked the ability to fly on her own. At least for now. And even with her Cutie Mark, she was still flightless. Her dream was to be able to fly, and fly with Rainbow Dash. And you made it happen. Of course some credit went to Discord. He made the damn wings.

Of course, when it came to being proud. You knew he wouldn't really care about this. He was only proud of you when you caused mischief. But now wasn't the time to think about that. Or the infestation back home. You'd just lay here and enjoy the show, it was Scootaloo's time after all.

So you and Fluttershy rooted for her, encouraged her, And she was doing just fine. even finding the time to wave back to the both of you. Her flying was a bit odd though. She zipped around like a bug..or a humming bird. Well, flying was flying. So no reason to pop her fun over it.

After a good amount of time, much more than the original internal clock that the wings had. Scootaloo began to descend back to the ground. She couldn't control it, but her descent was slow. "H-hey, what the hay?! What's going on?!"

You knew what it was. The time limit was done, though it seemed one of the upgrades to the wings was a gentle descent back to the ground. The moment she landed, the wings popped off her back, her original wings appearing back in flash of light. "W-what?! no!"

Scootaloo tried grabbing the wings and putting them on, but they wouldn't work. "W-what's wrong?! They were working before."

As Rainbow Dash landed, wondering what was happening. You slowly crawled out from under Fluttershy's wing, to explain what happened. "Don't worry Scootaloo! It's ok! I promise. Relax. It's just that time limit I told you about. Looks like it's spent for the day"

"Time limit? That's stupid. Why would Discord put a time limit on a pair of wings?" Rainbow Dash asked. "You can't get everything you need done if there's some stupid time limit. Why would Discord even p-" Rainbow Dash stopped herself "Nevermind, because it's probably some dumb reason. Right?"

You shrug. "No idea, I can never figure out some of the things my Dad does."

Scootaloo was already looking devastated that her flight got cut shorter than she expected. The wings did last a pretty damn good amount of time. Just not to the amount Scootaloo was expecting. "So I have to wait til tomorrow until I can use them again?"

You nod. "Yeah… sorry. Hey, it could have been worse. Before today, the wings lasted a lot shorter. Just wait until tomorrow Scootaloo. And you'll be able to use them again."

"Yeah but… wasn't the whole thing with Rainbow Dash a one time thing?....mnnn" Scootaloo looked to Rainbow Dash, heartbroken, she wanted to spend more time with her training. But… she had to accept that she at least got this much. She didn't want to be selfish. Not after she saw what her jealousy initially caused "Thanks Rainbow Dash… for the training. And for letting me fly with you"

Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes at Scootaloo "Pfft, what are you doing thanking me? We aren't even done yet."

Not done yet? Scootaloo didn't understand. "But my wings...they'-"

"So what? Hey, the training was a freebee. If I remember right, the original deal was I was supposed to give Anon a flight. And since he kinda gave it to you...well..." Rainbow Dash hovered over Scootaloo, and grabbed her, she yelped in adored surprise. "Looks like you're the one getting the ride. I can't just NOT fulfill my promise, that'd be pretty weak. And Rainbow Dash never skimps on a promise"

Rainbow Dash, With Scootaloo held by all four of her legs, flipped upside down, throwing Scootaloo straight up as Rainbow came to a complete spin and caught her on her back.

Woah… hey, that was pretty fucking cool of her. You thought she was just going to be like "Sorry Scootaloo, I only meant the one thing". But as it turned out. Whether through her compassion or the fact it didn't count to her. Scootaloo was getting more of what she really wanted. More time with Rainbow Dash.

Rainbow Dash informs both you and Fluttershy that she was going to milk this flight for all it's worth. And probably drop Scootaloo off at her home. In other words, that was yours and Fluttershy's time to vamoose.

Rainbow Dash informs Scootaloo to hold on tight. Scootaloo, completely lost in her RD high. almost forgot to wave and say goodbye to you. But she catches herself on the last few seconds. Waving to you, and graciously thanking you before blasting off with Rainbow Dash,

You did good Anon… you did good.

Chapter 98

"I don't think I've ever seen Scootaloo that happy before."

"Me neither" Fluttershy said, looking up at the sky as Rainbow Dash and Scootaloo speed off into the distance. She then turns to you, with a proud smile "and you're the one who made it all happen. I really wish your father was here right now. I'd want him to see you doing so much good. Actually… erm… Anon, can I tell you a little secret?"

A secret? "Yeah? What is it Aunt Fluttershy?"

"Well, one of the reasons I really wish your father was here is because I think he could learn something from this. To see how much it makes ponies happy when you share and give."

"Well Aunt Fluttershy, you know, he was the one who gave me the wings"

"But you earned it as a reward, right?"

You nod, you did. Though you didn't tell her the full truth how.

"That's what makes this different. You got it as a reward. And, you? you gave it away as a present. Something you earned. Just so you could see your friend happy. You fulfilled her dream Anon..." Fluttershy's smile became ever warmer, her mind becoming filled with maternal love. "It's a lesson, I think. Your father could learn. I'd never want to force him to learn it, but I think it'd help him with making more friends. If he just gave a little using his magic, he'd be able to do wondrous things. He says his magic can't be used for anything orderly and good, but I know, if he just tried. He could find a way to make it work."

The ever kind Fluttershy everyone. You could never find anything to outright hate about this pony. No wonder Discord folds to her, the feels are too strong. She just wants everyone to be nice and kind to each other. Ignorant yes, but a sweet sentiment anyway. "Maybe, Dad is a weird guy. Sometimes he's cool, sometimes he's erm… not cool." You wanted to avoid saying anything bad about him. "But I think his heart is in the right place."

That had to be true, he created this whole damn lie just for her. "That's what I think too. Adopting you was a really big step. And I think he did it just right. You and your father, you two make a cute team. To think, I was afraid he was going to do bad and nasty things to you. I shouldn't have never thought that. I guess I was just afraid he may had been plotting something. He does that sometimes"

She couldn't have been more right. But you were fine with it at this point, even if you did get ticked still. But then… theres this bugbutt shit. "I guess, I wouldn't know anything about that, personally anyway" You chuckle, trying to sound as casual as possible about that.

"No, I guess you wouldn't. And I'm glad you don't. Old Discord was kind of scary. But, he's not like that anymore and..." Fluttershy looks up at the sky and notices the sun's position, it was still afternoon, but… "Oh no… It's my animals' second lunch. And I'm not there to feed them..." Fluttershy said worryingly, she was usually never late for a personal feeding.

"Second lunch?"

Fluttershy nodded "Mhmmm, some animals eat at different times, or need more food than others. So I have a second lunch time for those who need it. And if any other animal wants a little extra food… well, I don't mind feeding them too. Would you like to come with me to feed them Anon?"

That did sound cute. But that would also probably mean being around that sleazebag rabbit. Besides, you had other friends you could visit. Lyra and Bon Bon were about due. You shake your head. "Nah, there's some other friends I want to meet up with. Maybe next time?"

Fluttershy nods "Alright. Oh, we'll have so much fun! And I'm sure all the animals will love you, Angel certainly does!"

Yeah… right.

With that, Fluttershy gives you a gentle hug. She flies back off to her cottage. Leaving you alone near Rainbow Dash's house.

Fluttershy. Adorable, kind, loving, and naive. All rolled into one. And you wouldn't change that for the world.

Welp, nothing more to do here. You get up and stretch your body, and then head back into town. At this point you no longer needed the map. You remembered many of the key points you would usually travel too. The only thing the map was really good for now was a trip back home. And right now, that was the last place you wanted to be.

You cut through town, and head to where Bon Bon's house is. You needed to find out where Lyra lived at one point. In case you visited Bon Bon and Lyra wasn't there. Or vice versa.

As you go to knock on the door. You hear a bush shuffle beside you. And a hint of pink fluff sticking out of it. No way… "Ponk?...are you in that bush?"

"Nope! Just go about your business Nonny, no Ponk here!" The bush shuffled from Pinkie's voice

You inch over to the bush. You didn't know whether to feel creeped out or find it cute. Maybe both? You poke at the bush. "Ponk, I know it's you"

You poke again, you hear a giggle snort as a huge notebook falls to the ground out of the bushes labeled "Anon Party Plans". She was gathering information on you, for your, as it read "Super Mega Compilation Party Extravaganza".

Pinkie immediately rolls out of the bush, nabs the notebook, and lands on her back as she looks up at you. "Tickling, Anon? That's a low blow"

You guessed you must have poked her side or something. You didn't mean too, but at least you knew what she was doing. "Hey, I didn't know I even poked you." You look down at her and the notebook. "So don't even."

Pinkie notices you looking at the notebook and puts it behind her back. "Well, you did... Now go back to doing normal things. So I can NOT study up on what you do and what you like."

You shake your head with a smile, that was too cute. Especially with her on the ground like that. Ogh, you could feel a little lust on you. Keep it in Anon. She's not into you. "You know you could just ask me what I like, instead of hiding and stalking me"

Pinkie shook her head "Mmmm mmmm, you said to surprise you with a theme. So I need to study you until I can make sure it'll be perfect!"

Oh right, you did say to her to surprise you. Riiiiiight. "Oh yeah, I forgot about that" You chuckled, embarrassed that you forgot that detail. "So, how long have you been following me?"

"Since you stepped back into town. I thought you may have been up to something fun! So… are you up to something fun?"

You nod. "Actually yeah, I was going to visit Bon Bon and hope Lyra is there."

"Ooooohhh, visiting friends?" Pinkie giggled "Do you mind if I tag along? Lyra and Bon Bon are my friends too!"

You raise an eyebrow. "Isn't everypony in Ponyville your friend?"

Pinkie nods "Yuuuuuuuuuuuup!" Pinkie bounces up onto her hooves, and catches the notebook while it's in mid air.

You wondered what could be inside. "So, what do you have written up in there anyway?"

Pinkie giggled at you, waving her hoof "I can't tell you silly, it's a seeeeeeeeeeecret. A secret that I plan to spring on you right after school, when you'd least expect it"

...Wait what? "Uhhh, wouldn't I expect it then? Since you just told me?"

Pinkie shook her head "No, because.." Pinkie waves her hooves at you and tries to sound spooky "...I could be trying to triiiiiick you, oooooooo"

You smirk at her. "Ok then, I guess I will not expect it then. You convinced me." A party already huh? hmmm, you didn't know how to actually feel about that. "Can I ask who's expected to show up?"

"Wellll, I can tell you that. At first I was going to invite everypony in Ponyville. Like I normally do for this kind of party. But according to my data stuff, You look like the kind of pony who wants the party to be small and only have friends and family over. I'm right on that right?"

She was, you didn't need the entire town making a ruckus around you. Even if it was nice. You didn't want the party to be too big, you didn't want to be around a bunch of unfamiliar faces. You wanted a focus on the friends you already had. Though, should Discord really be invited? He could do something really dickish. But if you said you didn't want him there, that would never look right to the others. Especially Fluttershy. "Yeah that's right."

Pinkie's smile turned into a little frown "That's really too bad Nonny. One of the points of the "Welcome to Ponyville" Party is to introduce you to the town so you could make new friends. I know you've already made a few wonderful friends. But you know what they say, you could never have too many friends!"

Well, she was respecting your decision. Something you were afraid she wouldn't do due to how overzealous she could get. "Thanks Ponk, I know it's probably hard for you to deviate from how you usually throw a party, but I've never been a guy who liked going to parties with peo… ponies I don't know."

"No problem Nonny, what's important is that you're happy and that everypony will have a good time! Speaking of which!" Pinkie pulls out a sealed envelope with her teeth, it was signed to Discord "mheres da minvite mfer yer mdad"

Hrn? You take the envelope and slip it into your saddle bag. "Why are you giving it to me?"

"Because Nonny. How else am I supposed to get it to him before tomorrow? A lot of mail ponies don't go to where your Dad lives for a reason you know."

...Yeah, you still wondered if that mail stallion survived. Nah, he probably showed up later in the season or something. He's fine. "Yeah, I guess you're right. The place is a little loopy. I don't even step through the front door because I'm afraid I wouldn't be able to get back"

"That's why you use some sort of portal thingy right?" Pinkie asks, it seems she really has been observant.

You nod, that was a little odd to you. "How'd you know?"

"I've seen you pop out of nowhere a few times. You really outta be more careful about that. You could spook somepony." Pinkie warned you before giggling "Though that would be a little funny"

It would be, to be honest. But you've been pretty careful, you think anyway, to step out when everything was clear. "Yeah, so uh. Who else do you have on the invite list then?"

"I've got Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Twilight Sparkle,Spike, Rarity, Applejack, Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, Diamond Tiara, Silver Spoon, Lyra, Bon Bon, and of course yours truly!"

...Oh no… Twilight. Not only did you think her coming was actually a bad idea. But with Discord around? If it wasn't you he liked tormenting, it was her. Even with Fluttershy around. How could he resist not tormenting her at least? You wondered if he tormented her again in another episode as well later down the season. Maybe even the finale.

You thought about it, And yeah. No matter how Pinkie would react. This was for the better of the party. And everyone in it. "Could you maybe… take Spike and Twilight off the list?"

"Oh ok, let me j-....WHAT?!" Pinkie was surprised to a ridiculous extent, as if she had never been told to do that before. "Nonny?! What?! huh?! Why take them off?"

Be straightforward Anon. "Because you know how Dad is, I think he has a thing for her or something. He's always touching and harassing her. And if they were in the same room together… well, I think that'd kind of ruin the party."

"B-but, you're dad has become so much nicer right? You don't think he'd really ruin the party just because Twilight is there, do you? I mean, it's a party! It's ok if everypony goes a little wild. It'll be ok." She just didn't want to knock off Twilight and Spike. Or probably anyone. Did she perhaps… already send the rest of the invitations? If she did, nobody told you.

Chapter 99

You stand there as you give it some thought as Pinkie stares at you with glistening eyes. Hoping you'd change your mind.

You think deeply. And you start to think if there is even a point in NOT inviting Twilight and Spike. Even if they don't come, Discord would probably still either terrorize you, another pony, or try to be the center of attention. With any of those bound to end badly. Even if he managed to behave himself, he'd only do so until he could find an opportunity to strike. Of course, these were your personal thoughts on what'd he'd do. You didn't know if he'd actually do any of that.

But then a real terrible thought entered your head. What if he used the party as an excuse to introduce Chrysalis as your sister? You didn't have any idea if he was serious about that. But if he was… "You know what Pinkie, you're right. It is a party. I guess I got a little paranoid. Yeah, invite them too."

Pinkie jumped for joy, happy you changed your decision. "WOOOHOO! Yay! I'm really glad you changed your mind Anon. I promise… no… I Pinkie Promise that this party is going to be the best one you've ever had!" Pinkie goes through the motions of the Pinkie Promise "Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye"

You didn't doubt it. Then again, you've never had a party of this caliber thrown for you before back in your world. You already knew how to deal with Discord as well, you simply won't give him the invitation. It'll be ok if he misses the party, you felt sure that he wouldn't take it personally. You hoped you were right anyway. Even then, he wouldn't blow the secret over this. "Thanks Ponk, anyway. I'm going to knock on Bon Bon's door now."

"WAIT!" Pinkie reached into the bushes, she had her own saddle bag hidden away inside. She opened it up and pulled out two more envelopes. "You want me to give it to them, or do you want to do it? You could say something like "Hi! do you guys want to come to my super mega compilation party extravaganza! It's gonna be super mega awesome!" " She holds the envelopes towards you, smiling her cute dopey smile.

Well you wouldn't say that. You'd keep it more casual. Actually, since Pinkie was asking if you wanted to do it. You decided you would, so you take the envelopes from her. Besides, you could only imagine how Lyra would react. She seemed to have this odd fascination with you. "Yeah, I think I'll do it."

You turn towards the door, and raise your hoof and knock a few times. Pinkie standing behind you, waiting for the door to be opened. The door slowly opens, Bon Bon, wearing the sun hat with the matching double colored ribbon. was standing on the other side of it. The moment she sees you, she smiles, then she looks higher up and notices Pinkie behind you. Her smile turning into worry. "Pinkie?"

Pinkie waved at her "Heya Bon Bon! Mind if we come in?"

Bon Bon seemed hesitant for some reason. Whatever it was, you noticed her mood change when she looked at Pinkie, so you knew it wasn't you. "Ummm, yes actually...erm. I was going to Lyra's house today. I just got back last night and I wanted to see her. So errm.." Bon Bon steps forward, and shuts the door quickly. "You two can come along if you want."

Huh...

"Ok!" Pinkie says gleefully, it didn't matter to her.

You try greeting her, since she didn't initially respond upon seeing you. "Hiya Bon Bon, how are you today?"

"Oh Anon, hi!" Bon Bon chuckles nervously "Sorry about not saying hi when I saw you. I just had some other things on my mind." She looks at Pinkie again, Pinkie just waves, ignorant of Bon Bon's… whatever was up with her.

Yeah, definitely wasn't you. "It's ok, so you're going to Lyra's huh? That's cool. I've been meaning to find out where she lives. Never got a chance to ask her."

"I'm surprised she hasn't told you. She really likes your company. When I asked her why, she said "Dunno, There's something about him that speaks to me". I honestly don't know what she means, but" Bon Bon giggles "That's Lyra for you."

That's endearing enough for you to smile at. You wondered, was the whole human thing of the fandom a sort of thing in Equestria? You think back to Discord's "Idea" explanation. Hrnn… no reason not to think it's a one way trip in the idea super highway. Neat! "I don't think that's a bad explanation. I just think that makes her extra friendly."

"Well, Lyra has always been extra friendly. Among other things. I couldn't think of a better friend than her, no offense"

You shake your head, that's fine. You weren't looking to take Lyra's spot as best friend. "It's alright" Actually, you wondered why Pinkie hadn't butted in with anything. You look back, and she was already gone. "Ponk?"

"Ponk? Oh you mean..." Bon Bon looks forward, and her pupils shrink when she notices Pinkie wasn't standing there. "Oh no..." Bon Bon opens her door, flicks on the light and quickly pokes her head in, looking around for even a small pink hair. But she sees nothing.

"Bon Bon? Hey, what's up? I've uh… kind of noticed you were pretty nervous around Pinkie. what's up with that? Do you not like her or something?"

Bon Bon was sure she didn't come inside. Not even a single hoofprint. She sighs, and closes the door. "It's not that, she's a great friend. I just… sorta don't want her in my house."

Wut? "Why?"

Bon Bon locks her door tight with a key, then takes the key itself apart like some sort of puzzle. and hides the various pieces in her own mane… wut?

"Oh well, I just erm..." She didn't look like she wanted to give a straight answer "I think she can be a little too snoopy sometimes. Sometimes I just look away and she can be somewhere else… like right now."

You think you got it. Bon Bon was also Sweetie Drops. She probably wasn't worried about you coming across any of her secret stuff. But Pinkie, yeah. Understandable. "She probably went on ahead, She probably thinks we're right behind her or something"

Bon Bon nodded, and started walking forward "Well, let's get going then. Don't want to give her a reason to come back, right?"

More like she didn't want a reason to worry. "Yeah, let's go."

You both made the trek down to Lyra's house. You took care to take note of every landmark and turn. So you could remember how to get to Lyra's. It shouldn't be too hard to remember. Everything was pretty distinctive in look. And you could see Lyra's house down a road with a bunch of other houses. You could automatically tell which one was Lyra's due to the fact that Pinkie was standing right in front of the door. Talking to herself?

It was a two story building, with a few windows like the other homes, the blue door had a lyre shaped hole punched into it.

"...And I said, pfltpflfkegodfojgodo. Well, actually that's what it sounded like. I couldn't really talk, Poison Joke and all." Pinkie giggled

You both step up from behind, from the looks of it, she hadn't even noticed you two weren't actually listening or even near during the walk over.

"...So Fluttershy did the song for me! Though, just to let you know. You don't need to be scared of Zecora at all, Anon. It actually turned out to be a really silly misunderstanding. Pretty funny right guys?"

"Ummm, Pinkie. Didn't you notice we weren't with you on your way over here?" Bon Bon asked, a little perplexed at Pinkie's inability to have noticed she was alone.

"You weren't? So… none of you heard the story?" Pinkie frowned, her bottom lip shaking, she really hadn't noticed you two weren't around her. She felt so bad that you both didn't hear her story.

"It was the story about how you and everypony else met Zecora, right?" You asked

"Oh, so you were listening!" Pinkie grinned, she was absolutely thrilled. She thought she was talking to herself. "So, what did you think? Pretty funny, right? Riiiiight?" She gently shoved her right leg into you, gazing at you, waiting for your answer.

Bon Bon was confused, She was wondering how you heard her from such a distance. You give a fake laugh. The episode itself was pretty funny. It was just lost on you now since well. You weren't around to hear Pinkie's retelling of it. "Yeah, pretty funny. Especially Fluttershy being Flutterguy."

Pinkie wasn't laughing any more though, she immediately got suspicious from your fake laugh, and after you said "Flutterguy", that really set off some red flags. She looked into your eyes, she looked serious. "....Anon, you didn't find that funny at all. Did you?"

...errr… "Ummm..."

"And how did you know we called her "Flutterguy?". I didn't actually mention what we called her in the story."

Holy crap, Pinkie became scary really quick. No, not scary. She was just noticing something suspicious. Time to deflect.

"...errr… it just seemed obvious. I mean, she had a deep voice right? W-what else would you call her?"

"..........oh right! I guess that would be a pretty obvious name!" Pinkie giggled,

Bon Bon took the time to knock on the door while you conversed with Pinkie. It didn't take very long at all for the door to burst open. Lyra didn't even stop to say hi. The moment she saw the three of you she dove in for a hug "Bon Bon, Pinkie, Anon!"

She stepped back, grinning happily as she hopped up and down "What brings all three of you here? Ohhh! Is it a super secret party?!" Lyra looked around for her other friends "Pinkie, you didn't have to do this you know. I would have been just as happy if it was just you three!"

Pinkie giggled "Then you'll be happy to know it IS just us three, but...." Pinkie put a pencil in her mouth immediately and started writing in the notebook. Writing down "Note to self, Go to Canterlot, get more friends, bring back, surprise party."

As Pinkie closed and put away the notebook. Lyra was already inviting the three of you inside for tea. "Come on in then! I got tea and snacks and a hay casserole! Doesn't that sound great?" You all agreed, you never had a hay casserole. But you did like hay. You were a pony, tastes change.

Lyra used her magic to quickly set up a table for the three of you. At this point, you were used to seeing things just float about. You never thought you'd have those thoughts. But the longer you were in Equestria. The more normal even the wackiest shit would get, sans Discord.

The four of you sat down. Pinkie already guzzling down her tea the instant she did and digging into the portion of the casserole she was served. The house itself was pretty plain. The walls, the furniture. There were a few lyre themed knick knacks. But that was about it.

"So, Bon Bon. How was your..." Lyra almost finished asking, but Bon Bon looked at her and shook her head. "Ahrm, right. Um." Lyra turned to you "Heya Anon. So er, I didn't get a chance to talk to you after that fight. You didn't get sore that you lost did you?"

You shake your head. "Nah, I figured it was gonna happen anyway. All I could do was give it my all."

Bon Bon put down her tea cup, she found that surprising. She wasn't aware of the fight. "There was a fight? Anon, you were in a fight?"

Lyra giggled, and waved her hoof at her friend "Don't worry Bon Bon, it wasn't a real fight. It was just something for Anon to try to get his Cutie Mark. I couldn't believe he didn't get it. I mean, that pony was super huge, but Anon was amazing! He did this spiral jump hit thingy! and it looked so cool. It looked like a sort of rising punch thing a dragon would do!"

Bon Bon put her hoof to her face and slowly shook her head "I don't think Anon should be trying to get his Cutie Mark in fighting. He ended up in a hospital by doing just that." Bon Bon sighed "Lyra, you're not supposed to encourage children to fight. You should have done something to stop it. But… Mnn, I guess it's ok. I mean, he didn't get a fighting cutie mark. It's just, Equestria is dangerous. I know first hoof how dangerous it can be, and it's not good to be filling a colt with ideas that he should be fighting just on a whim."

Bon Bon then turned to Pinkie "I wish you were there Pinkie, I know you would have talked some sense into whoever set up that fight."

Pinkie looked up at Bon Bon, her face smeared with casserole "Oh, I was the announcer AND the referee!" Pinkie smiled, a squee escaping her lips.

Bon Bon slammed her head on the table "......"

That was odd, why did Bon Bon care if you got a fighting cutie mark? She was a secret agent in, something, you didn't really know. You'd think she'd like that sort of thing. "Bon Bon, why does it bother you that I was trying to get a fighting cutie mark?"

Bon Bon slowly raised her head, and looked at you, stoic and serious. "I don't think any colt, or filly for that matter. Should be trying to get a fighting cutie mark just for the sake of a cutie mark. I don't want to sound mean Anon. But children like you can get a pretty big head and then before you know it! BAM!" Bon Bon smacks her hooves on the table "Hospital!... or worse… I've seen it happen before in my.." Bon Bon stops, and thinks of her next words quickly "Life"

"Oh, Well. umm.." That sounded like a good reason to you.

"Well, it was just sort of sprung on me. It wasn't my idea to fight. I was just going to the clubhouse my friends are usually at and the next thing I know I'm being shoved right into a fight. It wasn't a for real one though. And as you can see. I'm still a blank flank."

"That's even worse. Pinkie, I'm really surprised at you. You're an adult. Show some responsibility. You work at the Sugarcube Corner and yet you lack professionalism in your job, you need to be more like the Apples."

"Accccctually, Anon was fighting against Big Mac. And Applejack and Applebloom and Granny Smith was his trainer!" Pinkie giggled as she held her cup out for more tea

"......." Bon Bon slammed her head on the the table again. "....This is why Equestria is in danger every other week. Nopony has a sense of responsibility."

This little tea party was getting a little humorous. You held in your giggles, but Bon Bon's reactions were almost enough to make you burst.

"No sense of responsibility? Bon Bon, you don't think I'm irresponsible. Do you?" Lyra felt like she was included in that generalization. She made a big sad puppy face at her, feeling hurt.

"No, I didn't mean you Lyra. Come on, you're my best friend. You know all my deepest secrets and you've been responsible with every one of them. I could never think you were irresponsible." Bon Bon explained to her, giving her a gentle smile to reassure her.

Lyra didn't say a thing, she just rubbed her hoof across her lips like she was closing a zipper, and smiled. Making Bon Bon giggle. But Pinkie was curious, she looked to Bon Bon and beamed a grin. Trying to look as pleasant as possible. "Deepest secrets huh? You wouldn't mind telling me one would you? I can keep a secret too! and I bet it'd help me with a party I could throw for you Bon Bon! You're always so hard to throw a party for. You're either gone somewhere or the party I throw wasn't one you really wanted. So come on, tell ole Pinkie a secret and I can use it to make a better party for you!"

Bon Bon shook her head, she was now irritated with herself. She felt she should have known that even mentioning she had deep secrets would have set Pinkie off. "Pinkie, we're friends. But we're not super duper close friends like me and Lyra are. I'm sorry, But I can't tell you what I do. So please drop it, ok?"

"Awwwwww...." Pinkie lowered her head to the table as her ears drooped "Ok… but we are friends right? You aren't just saying that?"

Bon Bon nodded "Yes Pinkie, we're friends."

That perks her up back to her normal self. Friendship was the most important thing to her after all, she was still curious. But it wasn't worth losing a friend over.

Ahh yes, there was something you still had yet to do. And since you were all sitting together. Now was the time to do it. "Actually. Speaking of friendship..." You bring out the envelopes, and hold it towards them.

"You guys want to come to my… erm.."

Pinkie moved close to you and whispered "Super Mega Compilation Party Extravaganza"

"...my Super Mega Compilation Party Extravaganza? I'd really like it if you two came."

"You're having a party?" Bon Bon took the envelope and looked at it, opening it and looking at the invite. It had the location, time, and what the compilation actually consisted of "Oh, I see… but if this is also a "Welcome to Ponyville" Party, shouldn't everypony be there?"

Lyra was confused "Hey yeah, why are there invites? That's not how you do it! Why, if there were invites for my "Welcome to Ponyville" Party, I would have never met Bon Bon. What gives?!"

"That's what I thought at first too. But Anon doesn't like big crowds. And I didn't want him to NOT have fun at his own party. So I made some teensy weensy adjustments. Besides, Anon doesn't even know what the theme to the party is yet" Pinkie winked at Lyra and Bon Bon. But they didn't get why she winked.

Oh right, you did tell her to surprise you with that. But why did she wink at them?

"Errr, Pinkie? Is there something wrong with your eye?" Lyra asked

That made Pinkie whisper loudly "It means Anon doesn't know what's actually going to happen at his party. So don't tell him"

...Goddammit Pinkie. You're hilarious as you are silly, but you suck at being subtle.

"I..er… ok..I guess" Lyra shrugged, she didn't even know what the secret was. Nor did Bon Bon.

You felt like you could manipulate the situation to figure it out. But you knew if you did, Pinkie would probably be pretty shattered. You didn't want that.

Chapter 100

"So Anon, have you ever been to Canterlot before?" Lyra asked, she wanted to go somewhere with this.

"Erm" You did, for only a few minutes. Actually, since it's common knowledge that you're Discord's "Son". You felt saying the truth would be fine. "I have, Dad sorta whisked me away there once. But only for a few minutes."

Lyra's smile grew upon hearing that "So you've never actually been. Like, you've never got to see the sights or anything?"

You shook your head. "No, not at all."

Lyra giggled and clapped her hooves "Neat! Then you wouldn't mind coming on one of my trips with me, would you? It'd be pretty fun!"

Bon Bon cocked an eyebrow towards Lyra before you could answer "Ahm, Lyra. You do know he isn't your son right?"

"Pffft, come on Bon Bon, I'm only borrowing him for a little bit. And besides,it could be like a learning experience for his education. Sorta..."

Hrn, though Bon Bon already gave you an answer, you wanted to ask Lyra directly why she seemed so taken with you. See if her answer changed any. "Lyra, I don't want to offend you or anything. But, erm. You treat me like I'm special or something. You know I'm just a normal pony right? Normal as any other… right?"

"I know you are Anon." Lyra refills your tea cup with some more tea "It's just, I dunno. Let me think. Have you ever had a feeling like you really really liked something, but you can't explain what it is? It's like this..." Lyra slowly rubs her front hooves together, as if she was trying to do a gesture she's never seen before "...feeling, And then, you're sure this pony that you know has known this feeling. But this, even that pony might not know what it is. I feel like, there this bond between you and me."

"HOLY MOLY! ANON! YOU DIDN'T TELL ME LYRA WAS YOUR MAREFRIEND!" Pinkie screeched in surprised excitement,. Causing Bon Bon to spit and choke on her tea.

"W-what? She's not my marefriend" Play it cool Anon, you knew that wasn't the case.

"What? Nah." Lyra laughed "Anon's too young. I meant like this spiritual bond thing. That transcends time and space… hey, Bon Bon. You ok?"

Bon Bon was hitting her chest, coughing out tea as she tried to compose herself "I-I'm alright..I-I just swallowed wrong. ngh"

"Time and Space huh? Hey Nonny. Doesn't the place you live at transcend time and space?" Pinkie asks, that's actually a valid question.

Did it? Time seemed to run the same as Equestria there. Or Discord was just doing that so he wouldn't be late or early for something. "I think it just transcends space. Dad is always changing the dimensions, doors, and rooms to the house. It can get pretty weird sometimes. But the time there and the time here always matches up. I think."

Lyra was getting into some real treehugger territory here. Just without the aura and chi stuff. You were definitely getting your own vibe though that the whole idea thing Discord explained was somehow at play here. You figured, just from watching Lyra tap her hooves together. That she could have meant "hands".

"Well, anyway. I feel like Anon and me just, click. Almost like you and me Bon Bon. But in a different sense." Lyra looks to you, looking pleasant yet serious in her next words. "Anon, you get what I'm saying right? Have you ever had that kind of feeling?"

Time to put your theory to the test. "I think, Lyra. is this feeling you get. It wouldn't be like, ten little feelings poking out, like.." You point at points of your hooves where fingers would be if it was a hand. "five here, and five on the other hoof?"

Lyra's eyes went wide "Woah… THAT'S THE FEELING! BON BON! DID YOU HEAR THAT?! THAT'S THE FEELING I GET!" Lyra slammed her left hoof on the table and she leaned closer to you, she was stoked and giddy."THIS IS MINDBLOWING!"

Bon Bon looked to you, then to Lyra, then back to you. She herself was baffled. But then she came to a conclusion of her own. "Wait, hold on. Don't get too excited. I mean, you've told me the same thing before plenty of times. Maybe you told Anon about it too. "

You shook your head, Lyra had never gone into specifics about it. "No, she never has."

"He's right Bon Bon, I never did. But I knew it, I just knew. From the moment I saw Anon, I knew he'd fit right in. How does this sound Bon bon?" Lyra sits up, like a human almost, and raises her front hooves, close together, and slowly spreads them apart "Lyra, Bon Bon, and Anon. Roaming the streets of Ponyville, as bestest of friends!"

Pinkie clapped, this time doing the ground stomp clap on her chair. ahh yeah, they did clap like that too… right. "I LIKE IT! BESTEST FRIENDS FOR EVERYPONY!"

You blush a little in embarrassment from Lyra's enthusiasm. "Bestest of friends already? I don't think I've ever had a bestest friend before, and so fast..."

Bon Bon cringed, she didn't want to put you that far up. But as far as she knew, you were an orphan. And after hearing you say that. She didn't want to break your heart, or Lyra's. She didn't mind having you as a friend. Just not bestest do everything together kind of friend like she was with Lyra. "That sounds… fine. But Lyra. Just remember. Anon has things like school and friends his own age to worry about. And curfews. Don't go thinking we can just take him along everywhere we go."

"Awwww, ok." Lyra looks down, sad, her ears twitching and drooping before she instantly lights up again "But we can take him if he just happens to show up right?"

Bon Bon nods "I don't see why not."

"Hoo boy Nonny, maybe you didn't need the "Welcome to Ponyville" Party after all. You already have so many friends here! I bet you feel really welcomed!" Pinkie was absolutely beside herself with joy, seeing that you already had many friends in Ponyville.

You did, it was nice to have… friends. Nice, caring, thoughtful friends who actually gave a damn about you. It made you feel, pretty warm inside. Even if they sometimes got you into some sort of trouble, or shit hit the fan. They never abandoned you.

You felt your head go heavy. Even Discord has never abandoned you. For all the shit he's pulled, for all the torment he's given you. He's never ever actually abandoned you. Did he treat you like shit?...yeah. But he also treated you good, fed you with not but delicious and nutritious food. And given you abilities that you were sure were beyond even Twilight's level… even if it was once a day. And without him, you wouldn't have been able to make Scootaloo so happy… or meet Fluttershy… or meet anypony really.

...Idiot.

You look at your saddle bag again, Thinking of the invitation to Discord. you felt the feelings of guilt bubble up in you. One thing Discord has been good about was inviting you out on his more fun or relaxing ventures. Such as the picnic. And here you were, being a dipshit and not returning the favor. So what if he fucks shit up? It'd fall on him anyway. It was up to him to behave, And who knows, maybe he will? To prevent bugbutt from being a thing, all you had to do was ask him not to spring that little number at the party. And everything would generally be ok. Hell, it might even be fun. Who knows, him wrecking things might actually be hilarious. Not like any of the ponies would take it too seriously or hold it against him if you said you were ok with it.

Yeah, you'll give him the invite.

"Hey Nonny. What's the matter?" Pinkie had noticed you weren't looking too hot, and came up and whispered to you. Though, that didn't stop Lyra and Bon Bon from noticing as well.

"Anon, what's wro-" Before Lyra could finish her sentence, Pinkie shushed her

"Shhhhhhhhh, I'm trying to have a private chat with Nonny so you two won't notice and get upset that he's upset about something." Pinkie was doing her loud whispering again, then looked at you and winked.

Pinkie… dammit.

"Pinkie, we al-" Bon Bon was going to explain to Pinkie that she had already noticed, but her words are broken by a breakout of laughter.

Your laughter.

You couldn't contain it. You just laughed. Pinkie was ridiculous. The fact that she wanted to cheer you up before anyone noticing, even though they had already noticed due to her drawing attention to the situation. You don't know what it was about it. But you just laughed. "P-Ponk hahaha, y-you're too muchaha!"

You go in for a hug, and hug Ponk tight. Whatever guilt you felt had instantly washed off from her silliness.

"Are you feeling better now Nonny? What was making you sad?" Pinkie asked as she cuddle hugged you back.

"Nothing, I was just thinking about the party, that's all"

"Well, if you were worried or nervous about it. Then don't worry. Pinkie is gonna be there to make sure everything is A-OK. You're gonna be around your closest friends, and family. And the best part is that it's already a good sized party because you've been really good at making friends! In fact, I think this calls for a… GROUP HUG! COME ON EVERYPONY! JOIN IN ON THE HUGGING!" Pinkie cries out as she extends her forelegs out for a hug

Lyra didn't need to be told twice, she jumped right in for the hug. Bon Bon was a little hesitant at first. It wasn't that she didn't want to join in. It was just so sudden. It didn't take her long at all to join in however. It was one big nuzzle hug party! Woo!

The tea party didn't last long after that. Or at least it didn't last much longer for you. After that hug, and getting over your guilt. You felt you needed to redeem yourself over your thoughts of not inviting Discord. "Hey girls, I hate to cut and run like this. But I want to go give the invite to my dad."

Lyra didn't seem to mind. "That's ok! you go right ahead. But hey Anon, we gotta talk about that "Feeling" thing next time I see you, Don't worry about bringing it up at your party. Because I might just accidently end up taking all your attention then"

"That's cool, I'd really like that Lyra, and thanks for the tea. It was really good" Hah, you could absolutely blow her mind with the shit you knew.

"You take care Anon, oh… yes. Have you been taking good care of the gift I gave you?" Bon Bon asked.

Right, the grappling hook. If Discord wouldn't give you a second pair of wings. You always had the grappling hook. And that shit had unlimited uses.

You nod. "Yup, it's safe and sound back at the house."

Bon Bon smiled, she was glad you were taking good care of it. "Good, have you used it at all?"

"Once, haha. It's a little tricky. But I think I can get the hang of it with a little more practice."

"Well, I would hope the first thing you're doing with it IS practice. It's not a toy, and I don't expect you to treat it as such."

"Yeah, I know. You can trust me. Bon Bon"

"Oh right, Nonny, right after school tomorrow. I want you to go STRAIGHT to Sugarcube Corner. Ok? That's where the party is gonna be. I hope you don't mind Mr. and Mrs. Cake being at the party. I didn't put them down as guests because, well" Pinkie giggled "They are the caterers and it IS their place. It'd be rude to not invite them in their own shop."

You nod, that was fine. The cakes were cool. "That's alright, I don't mind."

"Yay! Trust me Anon, you won't even know what excitement actually is until you've partied, Pinkie Pie style!"

Oh, you knew what excitement was. Just not the positive kind. More like, "the almost died" kind.

With that, you bid farewell to the trio and went on your way to the fountain with the pinkish purple pony statue near city hall.

You look down at the water. You we're hesitant to toss the map in as another realization reminded you of something. Chrysalis was also there. In the house. You hoped she was in the basement, wherever that was. And you just had to hope that if Discord was going to spring her on you during the party. That you could talk him out of it. Or maybe he wasn't even being serious about that. You didn't know. You had to be optimistic.

You take a deep breath, and ready yourself as you take out the map. "Here we go Anon, just go in, and give him the invite. It'll be ok. It'll be fine." You toss the map and immediately jump into the portal. But you are not met with the warm snugness of your bed. No, you slam headfirst right onto the ground as your map plops off your back.

"NGH!..w-what happened? Ngh..." You rub your head, then slowly stand and shake to regain your vision. And what you saw wasn't pretty.

Your room was covered in green goop, both hardened and gelatinous. Even your grappling hook, still hanging where you left it. had some gunk on it. And your bed? It was moved into the corner. You could see the captain and four other changelings sleeping and cuddling on it...

You grimace at the fact that your room had been desecrated. But you couldn't just shove them off your bed. Well you could… if your horn had a charge. You mutter to yourself. "...bastards..."

You walk up to your grappling hook and wipe off the gunk and put it inside your dresser. The top of it now missing both pictures. They both must have been blasted by Chrysalis when she was in that fit of rage. Strange though, you would have expected her to have taken your bed if they were just going to move up into your room.

You walk over to your floor door, you hesitate opening it. You could only imagine the horrors of what the living room had been transformed into. You slowly open the door, gently as to not wake the sleeping shitheads that have made your room their own.

You peer down through the door. The living room looked exactly the same, untouched, not a single changeling could be seen from your position. "...typical. Of course they leave Discord's things alone… Discord? You down there?" You whisper out, but no reply.

You focus on the invisible stairs, and head downwards. Gently closing the door above you and walking down to ground level. You call Discord in a louder tone. But no reply.

...well shit.You we're really hoping you didn't come down here for nothing. You look ahead, and you see something new. A trap door, with some sounds coming from it. Your heart fills with dread. That had to be the basement. Who knows how many of those bastards were down there.
as you stepped away from the trap door. You suddenly hear a gentle humming. Discord? ...nope, it was... no...

"Fluttershy?" You turn, as the tune becomes recognizable. That's not something Fluttershy would hum. She wouldn't hum "This Day Aria". You look towards the couch, there, gazing at you was Fluttershy. But you knew better.

"Hello Anon..." The false Fluttershy said in a gentle tone as she opened her wing to you, inviting you to sit with her on the couch. "Would you like to nap with me?"

You just stand there, silent, staring down at her with a mean look. Fluttershy snickers evilly at you "What's the matter Anon? Too old to snuggle with your mother?"

"Aunt… actually. Your goons really suck at intelligence gathering" But the false equine didn't react surprised or angered, her smile just remained plastered on her face.

"Well, it's not like any of us has gotten an opportunity to leave since we got here. I had to work with what I could find." Find? So Discord didn't say anything?

"How'd you know Fluttershy was considered family?"

"A picture is worth a thousand words Anon" She giggled as she brought out the family photo from under her, still in it's frame. She stared at it, licking her lips intently. "You look so happy here, when I saw it for the first time I actually thought to myself "Gee, is this colt so heartless that he's willing to fool such a loving fool such as this yellow pony?". And it made me curious." She went back to looking at you, with an evil smirk. "I had never met a pony before with no love in their heart, especially a colt so young. It made me wonder if you were just some creature Discord had conjured up for some scheme. But now I know… I was very wrong."

You didn't like where this was heading. "What are you talking about?"

Her smile became evil to caring and loving as she tapped the couch again. "Why, love Anon. Your love. For just a brief moment. I tasted it. Pure love."

"What? that's not possible. I figured you out, like, the moment I saw you."

Chrysalis giggled cutely "ahh, but not when you heard me. How interesting. You are capable of love, you're just very good at hiding it. Nopony I've ever met has been able to stop their love from flowing in my presence. They always worry about their loved ones, they are always scared and wishing to see them one last time. They hope to be saved by their partners or their friends. But not you, you bottle it all up inside. But it's there Anon… it's there." She snickers.

Fuck… you knew you weren't fooled. You only thought it was Fluttershy for a second just because of the voice. But you knew it couldn't be her. She never comes to the house. But it looks like you foolishly made it apparent that you loved her like a mother.

It's fine… it's fine Anon. Even if she got a taste. That's all she got. She can't kill you. Discord wouldn't let it happen… you just wished he was here right now. So you could give him the invite and leave. "So what? Not like you'll be getting any more than the taste you got. Kind of pathetic really, were you waiting for me this whole time?"

She shook her head, and pointed to the ceiling door that led to your room "Oh no, I was helping the captain rearrange your room for you. Since we're going to be living together. I thought it'd be nice if you saw how a changeling lives. Did you learn anything Anon?"

That bitch… You started to grind your right hoof into the ground, twisting in anger. "You can't just come in here and do whatever you want. I was here first. And that's MY room. You have the basement. why don't you and your drones just go down there like the creepy little shits that you are."

Chrysalis, still in Fluttershy form, frowns, and puts her hoof to her chest "Anon… that hurts. Although I myself don't fully agree with your father's terms. I thought it'd give us a chance to learn from one another. And maybe be friends. Come now, are you telling me you don't wish to indulge in a delusion of being snuggled by your aunt? I'll keep it up all day, all you have to do is lay by my side."

You notice her eyes flash green… NOOOOPE. She was being a typical villain. Predictable in every way. While Discord had surprised you with how truly clever he could be. Chrysalis… while her offer was definitely tempting… was being predictable, she wanted food. "I'd rather not go through a predictable dialogue with you. So, I'm just going to say this instead."

You look into your saddle bag, and bring out your horn. You were going to bluff her. "You see this?"

"Is that some sort of horn for a costume? What about it? I fail to see it's relevance." Chrysalis was indeed confused by your gesture.

"Actually, that's exactly what it is, until Dad enchanted it to give me his level of power. I can only use it once a day. But don't think for a second that I won't use it to send you and your entire hive flying out of here."

Chrysalis immediately changed back into her original form, staring at the horn, feeling a little anxious, but overall unimpressed. "You're bluffing. Nopony would be foolish enough to give a child so much power."

You smirk at her "You seem to forget who my Dad is. Just to give you an example, do you remember a day where the sun and moon went out of whack?"

Chrysalis was feeling more anxious, she didn't even think that had anything to do with Discord. Let alone you. "You can't be serious. You can't just do that Anon. Your father and I have a deal. Just as I can't harm you, you cannot harm me or my children."

Deal? "What? He just agreed you could live here. I don't think he cares if you and your entire hive just suddenly got jettisoned off to the far reaches of this dimensional nightmare."

Chrysalis got up from the couch, and slowly approached you… holy shit was she tall. You hadn't really noticed until now. When you were meeting her on equal ground. "Try it then Anon, do with me as you will. But your father does seem to be one who loves his fun. He told me I'd be safe from harm as long as my hive and I abide by his "rules". And that does include being your nanny"

Nmmmgh… "I don't think he was being serious"

Chrysalis started to draw near. she was starting to get the idea you were bluffing "I do"

You shake the horn at her "Stop, or I swear."

"Why are you hesitating Anon? Use it already. I said you could. I know you don't like me. It's depressing, yes. But if you must." She snickers at you "Then do it"

...you can't. The charge was spent. You put the horn back into your bag.

"I thought so" Chrysalis moves up close to you, and gently lifts your head up with her hoof so she can look into your face "Nice try Anon, but like it or not. We are stuck with each other. And you only have you and your father to blame.. You still have yet to even apologize for what you've done to me and my hive."

You back off, and look at her with a nasty, distasteful look. "Don't even. I don't owe you anything. If anything, I managed to do what you wish you could. I conquered an entire race. Your race. Indirectly of course, but I still did it. And if you were in my position, I know you wouldn't hesitate for a second to send me, Dad, and the princesses to rot in Tartarus if you could. Would you?"

Chrysalis shakes her head "Only the princesses. Truth be told, trapping your father would be a waste of time and energy. I can't tap into the force that can actually stop him. As for you, why would I waste my time sealing a colt? Especially you. I'm supposed to be taking care of you after all. All I ask of you is simply follow my command. Is that so hard, Anon?"

"Do you really think I'm just going to bow down just because you're my "Nanny"? Get real, even if I can't kick you out. I can make you want to leave. Dad and me had fun messing with you, you know that right?"

"I don't doubt it." Chrysalis, you noticed, scrunched her nose when you said that, she was obviously keeping her composure from that particular memory. "But making me want to leave? Sorry to tell you, but I have an entire hive I am responsible for. Try as you might, but I won't let my children suffer just because of a few childish pranks. I'm here to stay Anon."

You both we're standing your ground. Neither willing to give the other an edge in the conversation. "Fine then. If we HAVE to be stuck with each other. Then so be it, I can live with you if you can't hurt me. But I still want your drones out of my room. It's my room. They got their crap all over it, and I won't stand for it. You have an entire basement, stick them in there. And you right along with it."

"Oh… I get it, if we both stick to our own rooms. Then we don't have to deal with each other. I can do my own thing… and you can do your own thing. That's what you'd like, right Anon?" Chrysalis gave an expression of understanding. Fucking finally, looked like she was getting the idea.

"Yes… yes, that's exactly what I'm saying. Doesn't that sound better, you know, for the both of us? You wouldn't have to deal with me or my Dad. And you could plot and scheme all you want. Doesn't that sound great?"

Chrysalis nods, with a happy smile on her face "It does!"

"Good! So, we agree then. Greeaatt" You sigh in relief

Chrysalis gives you a sly smile, and chuckles "I never said I agreed, I just agreed it was a good idea. Want to know a better idea?"

You sigh, and grumble "No, because I'm sure it only benefits you"

"It does. Too bad there's nothing you can do about it. Your father isn't here to do anything about it either… too bad" Chrysalis starts to speak in a fake tone of grief "If only he was here, he could probably settle this mess." She then looks upon you with cruelty "Too bad he isn't."

...ugh… fine… you were going back to Equestria. Fuck this noise. You turn silently, and go back to the gravity stairs. but the moment you start going up, Chrysalis taps you, making you fall down on your head. "AGH! WHAT THE HELL!"

"Oh, I'm sorry. We're you leaving Anon? I'm afraid I can't let you do that. For me to be your nanny, I have to learn more about you. I WANT to learn more about you. You aren't normal. And it's made me terribly curious. No colt in Equestria talks like you, Nopony even speaks some of the words you speak. Not even Discord. These words like "Hell" and "Fuck". Those aren't words Anon… that's not even slang. And yet, you are the only one who speaks those kinds of words. And speaking of words, you're very well spoken. Your manner of speech isn't that of a child. And although you are pitifully childish in some of your mannerisms. It's more like an adult that never grew up as opposed to an actual child. So Anon… let's be friends… shall we?"

You get up, and back away from her. You didn't like where this was going. "I'd r-rather not."

Shit… she wasn't going to let you leave. And you couldn't fight her. Wait… maybe you could? Her power seemed to be dependent on how much love she's absorbed. Surely under all that smug, she was pitifully weak. "I'll fight you if I have to."

Chrysalis started laughing maniacally "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA, YOU WANT TO FIGHT ME?! HAHAHAH! THAT'S RICH ANON, THAT'S FUNNIER THAN ANYTHING THE PINK ONE HAS EVER SAID!"

If you had a fist, you'd be clenching it right now. If it was one thing you were getting tired of. Was the fact you couldn't beat anything up besides a couple of retards. Maybe… maybe you could do it. "I'm calling your bluff Chrysalis, just like you called mine. I'm going to walk out of here. So let me go now, or I'll be leaving while your "children" put you back together."

Chrysalis says nothing, she just gestures her hoof towards herself in a "Bring it on" sort of way. She's a typical villain, she'll expect a frontal attack. All you to do was kick her in that green glowy spot under her belly and you were sure she'd go down. Instant K.O.. You were going to try a quick "Shoryuken." You could do that faster than setting up for a buck. Without screaming like a moron, you zig zag towards Chrysalis.

She just observes you, not moving. Good, stupid bitch probably didn't know what to do. or was arrogantly waiting to smack you away. You try baiting her into jabbing you by moving close to her frontside. You dodge to the side, despite her doing nothing anyway. Here we go, you go for the instant K.O.

You duck under, and jump with your hoof straight up. And she… just flies up as you jump upwards, spin, miss your landing. and fall on your face.

Right… She can fly…

Chrysalis claps, hovering in mid air as she looks down at you "Bravo Anon, what are you going to do now that I am thoroughly defeated?"

......

"...shut up"

Chrysalis started cackling "Oh, oh. Now I see why your father keeps you around. You are cute when you think you are better than me"

You slowly get up as Chrysalis lands down in front of you. You slowly raise yourself, and as you look at Chrysalis. She was in a younger, filly form. "Perhaps this will make it more fair"

You growl. "Don't mock me..."

"I'm not, I'm simply trying to level the playing field for you. I won't even use my wings. Now, let's begin. Tell me Anon, what orphanage did you come from? I happen to know of some. I go to a few personally sometimes with the promise of adoption… and then never do it"

...that bitch. That's pretty fucking low. Then again, you always imagined orphaned pones as cute and innocent. "You're a monster"

Chrysalis giggled adorably "oh, there we go. That's something I expect a pony to say. So then, your answer?"

You stare at her. You were getting angrier at her mocking you. She even insinuated you were a manchild.You weren't. YOU WEREN'T. You just weren't used to a few things yet. That's all. You wouldn't be deterred. You were going to win, maybe after you beat her. Her children would follow you instead.

Chrysalis yawns "Come on Anon, before I go down because you bored me to death."

THAT’S IT! You pounce her, and she doesn't even dodge it. Haha! You had her now. You were right on top of her. "Gotcha!"

Chrysalis yelped cutely, and gave you an adorable frown. "Pwease don't hurt me Anon, I'm onwy twying to be yer fweind"

"Don't even. You can change your size and shape. But deep down you're cruel and heartless.."

Egh… you were starting to sound pretty cliched yourself. "Don't think I won't pound your face in, I'll go easy if you just clear my room out. Final chance"

Chrysalis shivered and hid her face "B-but Anon..."

Dammit, her cuteness was getting to you, but it was fake, it was a lie, and you wouldn't be fooled. "three..."

Chrysalis looked at you with glistening eyes "A-anon?...pwease...pwease don't"

Ngh… "Two..." If she produced a tear, you might relent. But even she couldn't fake that.

"A-a-anon?.....pwease..."

"One..." But before you can reach Zero, Chrysalis does a power move. She latches onto you, and starts kissing you, even forcing her tongue in your mouth, and gently rubbing it around. "GMMMGGMMMHH"

You tried to back off, but even in her small form, she was stronger than you could hope to be. And she wouldn't stop.

You could feel yourself feeling warmer, no..no NO..BAD!..BAD! You try pushing backwards, but that only causes her to flip on top of you, she kisses you a little more before breaking the lock. Then looks at you with seductive eyes as she sits on top of you, silently.

You just pant, blushing, silent. And she just looks at you, with a seductively sly grin "What's wrong Anon? You don't feel disgusted that you just kissed a girl? Aren't you afraid that you have contracted an imaginary disease?"

...What was she doing? Oh geez.. WHAT WAS SHE DOING?! Chrysalis sat on top of you, you were too stunned to struggle.

"Your essence Anon, I can taste it. It doesn't taste like a child's love Anon. It doesn't even taste like a pony. What's your secret Anon? What are you? If you tell me… I'll give you more" She gently rubbed her hoof along the side of your neck. "You don't want to hate me Anon, I know you'd rather somepony just love, and cuddle you. I can taste it. It fills me"

You gulp, you didn't know what to feel. Any horsefucker would have probably dreamed of this moment. Hell, maybe if she had done this before you got to know the other ponies. You would have completely submitted. And although your body wanted to go further. You couldn't do it. If Chrysalis ever learned the truth. You couldn't imagine the kind of damage she could do.

...Sorry little Anon… Not today. You started to speak to Chrysalis, soft spoken, betraying your lustful feelings. "You're right. I've really gotten used to cuddling and being loved. But you could never love me back. I've tasted what real love is like. And I could never betray it just for a quick fix."

Chrysalis's lustful look started to turn into a peeved one "Don't lie to me, you want me. I can feel it all over you."

You sigh, then smirk at her. "Not gonna lie, if you came to me before I got to know my friends, I'd be all over you. Sucks doesn't it? But guilt trumps lust"

Chrysalis changed into her original form, she now stood over you, you were right under her belly, but she was standing too high for you to kick. "SUBMIT TO ME!"

You shake your head. "Nope"

Chrysalis growled and stomped her hoof right next to your head "TO THINK I LIP LOCKED WITH YOUR PUTRID MOUTH FOR NOTHING! THAT’S IT! I'M DONE WITH YOU! IF YOU THINK YOU'VE BESTED ME THEN YOU'RE WRONG. IF I CAN'T RELINQUISH YOU OF YOUR SECRETS THEN I'LL JUST HAVE TO DO SOMETHING THAT IS, AS OF THIS MOMENT, IN MY POWER TO DO!"

Well… you beat her. Now, you hoped she wasn't going to beat you. "Give it up Chrysalis, there's a reason why they say love conquers all."

Chrysalis's eye twitched as she raised her right hoof and hovered it over you.. "I tire of you Anon… your sentiments of love and friendship is something that I find repulsive."

You don't say anything, it was time to get the hell out of dodge. You try crawling backwards, but the moment you moved a muscle, she shot from her horn right a bolt that hit right next to your head "Ah ah Anon, don't move. Or you might get hit next time… no… you'll DEFINITELY be hit next time"

Dammit, you should have hit her in the vajayjay instead of giving her some cliche'd friendship speech. She wouldn't have saw that coming… but ergh… she was pretty cute… and… seductive, and stuff… You couldn't lie. You were entranced. Damn your sensibilities! Now she was going to stomp you. "Just give up, y-you won't break me."

"This is no longer about secrets Anon, I just want some revenge. TAKE THIS!" Chrysalis brought her right hoof down.

You cover yourself to defend yourself. But it doesn't come straight down on you. No instead, she pushes you to your side, then rolls you to your other side, then she hovers over you and just starts rolling you across the ground. What the fuck?

You tried getting up, but every attempt was met with a push back to the ground, before being rolled about some more. "W-what are you doing?!"

"Relieving stress" Chrysalis said, becoming calmer she she continued to roll you around.

You were getting dizzy, and your tummy was starting to rumble. "S-stop, I'm getting dizzy!"

"Who cares… I'm bored and there's nothing else I can do. And since I can't destroy you and you refused my fair offer of cuddling. I'm just going to roll you about until I get bored." She continued to roll you about, you couldn't overpower her at all, she was floating. Using the tip of her hooves to just roll and tumble you about. Like a predator toying with their food.

"C-come on already! t-this is stupid. Y-you're q-q-queen Chrysalis. You're supposed to b-be better than this." Urgh, you weren't feeling good at all.

"You should have thought of that before. Now? You're my stress ball until I'm done with you… is it humiliating? Yes, for the both of us I suspect. But at least there's SOME pleasure to be had."

Chapter 101

You didn't know how much time had passed. You had stopped trying to escape and had let Chrysalis just silently roll you about as your vision blurred and span about.

Eventually Chrysalis got bored with this activity and had decided to lay on her stomach, next to your dizzied and confused form. You had somehow managed to avoid vomiting the entire time. "So this is what it's come down to, trapped in this nightmarish dimension with the spirit of chaos and his little lackey" Chrysalis groaned as she laid her chin gently to the ground, staring vacantly at the wall.

You were struggling to turn to your side, everything was still spinning, and you were on your back, waving your hooves about. "uunnnghhh."

Chrysalis hears your moan and looks over to you, but says nothing. She doesn't even take pleasure in your pain. She just looks back at the wall bored. "I need to get out of here"

You finally turn to your side. You rub your stomach to try to settle it as you stare at Chrysalis. She looked pretty miserable. Serves her right.

"How does this happen...? One moment I was on the verge of coming up with the perfect plan to overthrow the princesses. And now i'm stuck babysitting a little wretch of a colt." Chrysalis sighed

You slowly begin to gain your senses back. You stand up, and look over to Chrysalis. You noticed she wasn't being very villainy anymore. she was just wallowing in self pity now. Looked like now was the perfect time to escape. While she was busy moping on the ground.

You sneak to the underside or your door, and slowly begin to ascend upwards to it.

"Leaving, Anon? " Chrysalis says to you, she was soft spoken about it, no hint of anger or annoyance.

You stop, and look down at her. But you don't say anything. She turns her head to look at you. "You're not even going to gloat?"

"I just want to get out of here. I don't care that you're being mopey. You deserve this."

"Cold words, Anon, cold words. I have to say. I don't know how you could even be Discord's son. Even he is not so brutal with his words." Chrysalis slowly stood, and took a single step towards you, in a non menacing manner. again, she must be up to something because Discord can damn well be brutal.

"Yeah well, I'm not my dad. I'm me. And do you think I'm not going to be cold after you rolled me around for who knows how long?"

"I suppose not. But that brings about my next question. What exactly ARE you? You aren't a colt, you aren't a child. You are a deceptive… thing. All that torment and not even a single tear or cry out for your daddy. So why don't you stop acting and tell me what's going on hmmm? It'll make this relationship so much easier."

Not a chance. "I don't know why you keep thinking I'm not a colt. But look at me, see? What else could I be but a colt?"

Chrysalis stood there silent, and quickly changed shape into… you. "Please Anon, you're talking to a master of disguise and deception. If you really think I'm simple minded enough to believe what I see then you're not as intelligent as I originally thought. You may have everypony else fooled, which in my line of work, doesn't seem to take much. But to think that you have me fooled? Well, that's simply ignorance."

...It seemed she was figuring it out. That was weird. Everyone else you ever met was pretty easily fooled. Even Twilight hadn't actually personally gone to the "orphanage" for a closer inspection yet. She was fully trusting you and Discord on this. And yet bugbutt was actually pretty smart. Might be because she is an expert on the art of disguise and trickery. But hell, the only super intelligent beings in Equestria seemed to be villains. Former or otherwise. Your entire existence here depended on that type of ignorance.

You were beginning to feel intrigued over the whole situation. You had to admit. This was never a normal circumstance to begin with. You never ever thought you'd be living with a an actual villain. All that learning about the cliches of saturday morning cartoon villainy had done you well… for the most part as long as they didn't get the drop on you. Now you had the opportunity to delve into it further into the most controlled environment you could have hoped for.

But should you? You could learn more about Chrysalis, as she was trying to learn more about you. In this instance, you could do what other horsefuckers had dreamed of doing. Having a one on one with Chrysalis.

...Dammit, you could feel that curiosity creep on you. Especially with how docile she was looking now. Even if she was taking your form.

You begin to slowly descend from the invisible stairs. "Why do you even care if I'm a colt or not? What about you? Why would you spend all this time doing evil if you knew you'd be eventually defeated?"

Chrysalis changed into her lolified filly form. "Well, that's pessimistic. Nopony goes into something expecting failure. I simply made a mistake, a mistake you had pointed out to me before when we first met. But I digress. There's plenty of evil in this world Anon. Nopony hatches a diabolical plot expecting defeat."

You keep caution, she was up to something now, assuming that form. "Let me rephrase, it's you and your "children" versus EVERYPONY else. Do you really think all of Equestria is just going to lay down and let you take over?"

Chrysalis giggles "I'd like to think so. You'd be surprised how pathetic ponies happen to be. In fact, I'd like to think that if I had actually succeeded. That'd I'd have everypony free range and ready to be drained. There might be a patch of resistance or two… but nothing I couldn't handle."

You roll your eyes at her. "I really doubt you could defeat everypony ever."

"I defeated Celestia, didn't I?" Chrysalis chuckles, "She's quite powerful"

"Yeah, but then you got blown away by a giant love blast. Or did that just slip your mind?" You were getting invested in this, this was one of the things you wanted to do back at her tower. But you had too much fun tormenting her.

"It didn't" Chrysalis's amused expression began to slowly fade. "But all I would have to do is take better precautions next time. Just iron out a few flaws, and then Equestria will be mine! HAHAHAHAHA!" Chrysalis burst into adorable, squeaky laughter.

It was almost cute. You walk over to her, feeling a little smug despite what had happened only moments ago. You were becoming REALLY invested in this conversation.

You then flick her crown like antenna, smirking at her. "Or would be yours if you weren't stuck here."

Chrysalis noticeably wobbled, as if she lost balance. She smacks away your hoof and takes a step back. Grumbling. "My my, aren't we being arrogant all of a sudden."

"I'm just feeling a little confident. I think anypony would be once they realized somepony like you can't actually do anything but silly things like rolling a colt on the floor like a ball."

You grin at her.

"Is that what you want me to do?" Chrysalis grinned right back

...ok, time to reel it back. "Ahrm… no, I ,ok..." You take a breath, and try not to do anything to incite her wrath.

"Good, because I'm actually enjoying this civility between us. Who would have thought that? Hmm? In fact, now that I've answered your questions. Would you answer a few of mine?" She took a step closer, and slid her hoof right under your muzzle "Anon?" She was giving you "that" look

You take a step back, and at least try to act disgusted. "Will you stop that? It's creepy."

"Ahh yes, about that. When you answer my question. I'd rather you not lie like you obviously just did now. I've been nothing but truthful. So I expect the same from you" Chrysalis gave you a sly smile. "You can do that, can't you?"

You grumble, she was trying to get a rise out of you. Which rise? You weren't fully sure. You hesitate to answer. Something Chrysalis notes. "Amazing, here you are. Actually hearing the truth from one you paint as truly terrible. And you, who are supposed to be GOOD can't tell the truth? You do realize the irony, don't you?" Chrysalis's smirk became that more sly and degrading to your being.

That revelation was a little annoying to you. You didn't like the thought of being "the bad guy". "I can tell the truth! It's just..."

"Just what Anon? hmmm? What could make you so hard pressed that you can't tell me some silly secret?"

...Should you really? mnnnngh. If you did, you'd have to talk to Discord later about it. Maybe her knowing would prevent him from letting her out. And keep her trapped here. So you wouldn't have to deal with her both here and in Equestria. Not like you had to tell her everything. Just enough… maybe you could even ham it up a little. "...mmmm. So you really want to know?"

Chrysalis's nods "I do, and I expect to be surprised"

Oh, she'll be surprised alright.

You hesitate again. This was probably a shit idea. But, it could open up a few doors of opportunity. While closing a few for her. "I'm… not a colt… or a pony for that matter. Well… I'm a pony now"

Chrysalis said nothing, she just raised her eyebrow at you. "...That's the worst lie I've ever heard. And even if it was true. I'd sooner believe you were a regressed Stallion than not a pony at all.

"What? you were the one who was suspicious of me NOT being a colt!" The hell was she saying?!

"Yes, but not a pony at all? Then what are you, a dragon? That can't be right since you don't find ponies appalling. And don't mention Twilight's little pet. He seems to be a special case. A minotaur? You lack the self confidence."

"I'm not any of those things. I'm not even from Equestria. I used to be a thing called "A human" "

"What kind of hogwash is that? Do you really expect me to believe that? There's no such thing as "Humans", that's not even a real word, much less a species"

"It's not a lie. Discord plucked me from my dimension. And changed me into a colt"

Chrysalis's scoffed in disbelief "And why would he do that?"

"Err" ...You couldn't tell her. "the same reason you're here. For kicks. And you wanna know what else?"

"What? That those words you made up are part of your "human" language?"

Oh… this was good. This might blow her away.

"No, in my world. we are not only technologically superior to ponies. With machines that can fly, and weapons that could destroy entire kingdoms in an instant. And you wanna know what else?"

Chrysalis didn't believe you for a second "What? that you had some sort of device that let's you go beyond the stars?"

"...well, we almost have that. But what I was thinking of was more along the lines of ponies. Namely, the ponies you and me know. And trust me, what I have to say is a doozy." oh yeah, this was going to blow her fucking mind.

"Didn't you just say you weren't from here? I'd appreciate it if you could at least keep your lies organized Anon, because truth be told. I feel insulted."

You snicker. this was going to be great. "Chrysalis, in my world. All this, you, Dad… or… I guess I should say Discord. And hell, even your enemies. All part of a TV show. A cartoon namely."

Chrysalis was now really annoyed with you "I tire of your lies. I should have known better to actually try to have a civil conversation with a brat." She rose into the air and looked down on you, still in filly form. "I’m going to roll you about until you actually puke"

But you didn't stop smirking at her, you cleared your throat, and began to sing. "This day is going to be perfect, the kind of day of which I dreamed since I was small, everypony will gather 'round, say I look lovely in my gown, What they don't know is that I have fooled them alllllllll!"

You stop, and look at her. She couldn't even maintain her form after hearing that. Changing back, her mouth agape. Nope, you had to laugh. She looked absolutely priceless. Who knew telling the truth would be so fun. "That's impossible. I was singing that privately. I… nopony was around to hear it. You weren't even there, Discord wasn't there. There's NO way you could know what I had sung… there's no way"

"Well, I DO know that your heart had no room for the groom, but you wanted to make him all yours anyway… am I right?" You wiggle your eyebrows at her.

Chrysalis didn't know what to think anymore "...I refuse. I refuse… There's no possible way. A-are you telling me? I'm nothing more than a machination of these "humans"? There must be some sort of other explanation. That can't possibly be right"

"You think that's crazy? It's not just you. I've seen everything unfold as they happen in the form of episodes. Starting right when Twilight first comes to Ponyville. If we look around the house, I bet we could find a season one or two dvd around"

Chrysalis began to falter pretty damn hard "You must be lying. Discord would have to have known about all this. And he seems perfectly fine."

You shrug. "He does know, and if you think that's crazy. There's a dimension in between this one and my world that has the ponies AS humans. Crazy huh?"

"That IS crazy! Too crazy to be believed. So you know a few lyrics. A lucky guess. You could have heard me through the door."

"I was never at the wedding. You could sneak around and collect all the photos from the wedding. I was never there. I was adopted not too long ago. I'm sure you know that. So how could I be there to have heard it?"

Chrysalis had to land. This was all too heavy. She was starting to feel as if everything was turning topsy turvy. "...I… How… what are humans? How can they be this powerful? To just create a world from paper and quill?"

"Oh, actually. We created it using something called computers. It's a device that let's us do anything we want. From anywhere we want. We could get humiliating pictures of someone and spread it across the world in seconds. And trust me, if computers were a thing here. I would have spread that picture Discord took of us a long time ago. Yep, humans are amazing Chryssi. We don't even have a bug problem."

"W-what do you mean by that?" Chrysalis's voice quivered

"See, some of these weapons. We can buy them in a shop like you would food. And we have tons of weapons against bugs like you. From a container that releases a gas that eliminates entire hives. To a spray that near instantly kills a bug on contact. We even have baits that slowly kill bugs that they simply cannot resist. You see Chryssi, if you lived in our world. You wouldn't be banished to Tartarus. You'd be dead… instantly. No sealing, no chance, not even a word or a cackle. No mercy whatsoever. We kill bugs like they are nothing. We don't even need magic to do it."

Chrysalis didn't know what to think. There was no way. She looked into your eyes. To see if there was any truth. She could tell when someone was lying just by looking at them. She's had years of practice.

But the expression you had, was purely evil. You grinned at her viciously. You never thought you'd have her on the ropes like this by yourself. What's more, it was with the fucking truth! Sprinkled with some exaggerations.

You took a gander at the frog of your hoof. "Of course, I didn't even mention the name of the show. See… we call it "My Little Pony." Which is funny really. Because they are tiny the way we saw them. Yup, just like… bugs. See. We didn't even need these weapons. They were luxuries. We could do just as well with a shoe." You stomp your hoof down. "CRUNCH! Bug go squish. Isn't that interesting?"

Chrysalis was now being extremely cautious, this was absolute madness. "...You… wouldn't have brought any of these… weapons with you. Correct?"

"Maybe, what does it matter? How does it feel to know that I've sat down every week and seen this world unfurl before my eyes for the sake of entertainment? How does it feel to know you are just a creation by humans?"

Chrysalis was greatly confused. She felt a creeping feeling of despair come upon her. Part of her was starting to believe. As crazy as it sounded. You had information that just wasn't possible to know unless you had somehow were there personally. Then, a thought had occurred in her head. "........wait"

You grinned at her. "yeesssss?"

"If this… everything was preordained by "Humans". Then how do you exist? You couldn't actually be a human. You'd only be another machination of their design." Chrysalis was growing suspicious, while a feeling she hasn't felt in some time, fear, began to creep up on her. She was deeply interested in this explanation you could come up with.

"Oh Chryssi, Haven't you figured it out?" You quickly thought up a delicious lie. "The reason I watch the show every week? The reason I know everything about everything? The very reason I can remember your lyrics? Let me be more clear. I… AM… YOUR..CREATOR! I have merely inserted myself into my own story and weakened my abilities because I grew tired of ultimate omnipotence. But if I really wanted, I could crush you. Like the bug you are."

Chrysalis was actually convinced. She looked absolutely perplexed.The things you said, the things you knew, even the lust and love she tasted didn't feel ponylike in nature. Even her personal victory song was within your knowledge. She stepped back. "....You can't. You can't be that powerful." Chrysalis then realized something. Something truly horrifying. If this was the truth. If it really was. Then she was destined to lose no matter what she does. "It's impossible! IMPOSSIBLE! I-I am the Queen of the Changelings! How could I be destined to lose when I have conquered kingdoms in the past? It's..."

You step closer, making her step back "Stay back…!"

You had her now! and you were eating it up. You couldn't contain yourself. You never thought you'd be able to dominate her like this. You started to smile, then giggle, then you fell over. Laughing hysterically.

"D-don't mock me… DON'T LAUGH AT ME! I-I AM A QUEEN!" Chrysalis yelled, with no hint of confidence in her voice. But you just kept laughing anyway. You finally had the upper hand on your very own. And it was delicious.

"S-STOP!" Chrysalis stammered. But you wouldn't, you stood up. And tried to stifle your laughter before you died from it. She looked so angry and yet, defeated. You wish you had a camera on you. This was a magic moment.

"HAHAHAH..HAHa...nghhehehe hoo… hoo… boy. That was good."

"I-I'd never thought I'd ever see a creature of such unimaginable power. And yet here you are, playing an entire world for fools. I-I can't even say I'm impressed, it's… terrifying..." Terrifying...oh, that was great. She said it.

You try to compose yourself, but this was just too good. "Relahahax. It's hehe… hmm… mmnnnn. It's alright. I'm just fucking with you"

"I don't want this "Fucking"..I don't want anything from you… " Chrysalis took another step back. She didn't even know what you meant. It almost made you burst into another wave of laughter.

"Hahaha..n-no..no. Look, the whole omnipotent god thing? I was screwing with you. I was making that up."

Chrysalis instantly went from fear to bloodcurdling rage "YOU WHAT?! SO EVERYTHING YOU SAID WAS AN ELABORATE LIE?! THEN HOW DID YOU KNOW MY SONG?!"

You raised your hoof towards her. "Relax there bugbutt. everything else was true. That really did happen on the show. With you circling Twilight in that green fire, and your bridesmaids, and all that stuff. I was almost in the same boat you were. I didn't know how Discord did it until he told me. This world wasn't created by humans. See..."

You explain to her the explanation Discord gave you about dimensions and idea flow.

"Gotcha pretty good, didn't I?...But no, I was serious about everything else. You're entire hive would be err...pretty puny."

You were still obviously lying about a few finer points. But damn, was it worth it. You wondered if you should have not told her the truth at all. But if Discord had told her later. Then you'd probably be dealing with a scheming and rage filled bug queen who'd have tried to sadistically mess with you the way you had done her. Best to try to nip that now, while still enjoying the moment.

Chrysalis was not pleased. She felt foolish displaying that much uncertainty. She felt humiliated that you so nonchalantly lied to her just to get a rise out of her. She had never thought a colt would be capable of such a thing. She was still wigged out that you were from another dimension..

"...you are scum" She tells you with loathing in her black heart.

"Don't even, you were the one who wanted to know the truth so badly. You brought this upon yourself. You think you can do whatever you want because you're the queen of bugs. Well, that's what you get for rolling me around and kissing me and stuff."

Chrysalis growled at you.and then a thought occurred to her. "Wait… so in your world. Everything is presented in a moving cartoon?"

You nod. "Yep."

Chrysalis, already composing herself, looked at you, then smirked. "So, then that means I was right. Despite you being an "Adult". You really are just a grown child, who… as it apparently seems… who watched a cartoon meant for little girls."

You nod. "That's r-..." Wait… "Where did you get the idea the show was meant for little girls?"

Holy crap. She recovered fast. M-maybe you let on a little too much information.

Chrysalis smirked at you, as she tried to turn the tides "Well, during your explanation. You mentioned that the show was generated through a flow of ideas from this world. You said the show itself is about love and friendship centered around Twilight and her disgusting friends"

"Yeah… and?"

"Well Anon. Twilight and her friends are all mares. And I know colts don't find it appealing to just sit down and hear about friendship every single week. That's really more of a filly type of thing… Something Discord should have turned you into really. It's more fitting." Chrysalis chuckled. She hadn't fully recovered. But she was going to try to regain control of the situation. She needed it. She needed that control after such a humiliating display. And she had the experience to turn things around even when at a disadvantage.

And you were going to try to keep the advantage. You wouldn't let yourself be phased so easily this time. "Well, in that case. I guess that just makes you a throw away villain. Since you haven't shown up in the show since you got your butt kicked. That's a testament to how generic and boring you are."

Chrysalis internally took offense to that, but wouldn't dare show it externally. Not again... "Well, maybe I never showed back up on your little show because my life is too complicated for little FILLIES like you to understand"

You were starting to get ticked. "Oh yeah, because sitting around on your butt muttering "Hurrr durrr, how will I get my revenge today" all day is real complicated and hard to understand. You're a one note villain."

Chrysalis audibly growled "Better a one note villain than a little punk that was probably so pathetic in his world that Discord took pity on you and brought you here. That's right, you're so pitiful that even that fool felt sorry for you"

"Oh yeah?! Well then, I guess the same could be said for you since you're stuck here. At least I can walk in and out when I please."

Chrysalis stepped closer, feeling more enraged "AT LEAST I'M NOT AN INSUFFERABLE WEAKLING!"

Grrr, you were getting pretty angry now yourself. You started to step closer to her, yelling. "YEAH, YOU'RE RIGHT! YOU'RE JUST A GIGANTIC MORON WHO DOESN'T NOTICE THAT THEIR FOE IS ABOUT TO CLEAN THEIR CLOCK. I MEAN, FUCKING HELL CHRYSALIS, THEY WERE A FEW FEET AWAY FROM YOU AND YOU LET THEM USE THEIR LOVE BLAST! THAT'S PATHETIC!"

You and Chrysalis met face to face. She went back into filly form, just so she could mash her face against yours. Both of you pushing against one another. "YOU DETESTABLE CRETIN!"

"STUCK UP BITCH!"

"IS THAT EVEN A WORD!?"

"YEAH, IT MEANS YOU ARE A BIG WHINY LOSER!"

"SAYS THE TINY LITTLE SPECK!"

"SHITHEAD!"

"HALFWIT!"

"SLUT!"

"IMBECILE!"

You both stared eachother down angrily. Neither of you relenting. With all the fighting, neither you nor Chrysalis had noticed that your argument had caught the attention of the other changelings. They were all slowly congregating into the living room. Watching the fight.

Chapter 102

You stare directly into Chrysalis's eyes. You weren't going to take this from her! She was just a bug. "I don't have to take this from you. I'm an adult, and not only that. I am Discord's partner. Without me everything falls apart. That's how important I am. You? You are just a bug that got a lucky break!"

Chrysalis scoffed as she stared at you with the same intensity "Puh! An adult?! That's a laugh. You're just a grown child in the body of an ACTUAL child. I'm willing to wager my entire hive that even "Humans" saw you as a pathetic being. It only makes sense that an overgrown brat like Discord would take you in as a partner"

You flinch… ngh, she was right. But still.. "Yeah? So what, at least here I'm somepony! I'm loved, cared about, and I actually feel the magic of friendship here! What do you have? Nothing. You only ever had your hive, and even being stuck here. That's all you got. Manchild trumps evil, checkmate!"

"That was all given to you! I bet your original form was ugly and vomit inducing. A form nopony would ever approach." Chrysalis growls back at you, her anger rising. She wanted to crush you so badly.

And you too, equally wanted to crush her. "Hey! Only the body was given to me. I still had to work hard to get where I'm at now. And you wanna know what? Going to your hive and annoying you… that was my idea. And boy, was it worth it. You couldn't do anything. Me and Discord got you so good that it was worthy of a photo. Because that's all you're good for Chrysalis. Being propped up just to be beat down."

And amazingly, Chrysalis is the first to lose it. Changing back to her normal form in a huge fit of rage. "THAT'S IT, I DON'T CARE ABOUT THE RULES! I'M GOING TO OBLITERATE YOU!"

...Oh shit. You step back, only noticing now that you were surrounded by Changelings. But even with that, a green flame suddenly surrounds both you and Chrysalis as she stares at you, licking her lips, her desire to crush you going hand in hand with her anger. "I'M GOING TO ENJOY EVERY MOMENT OF THIS!"

It was only you and Chrysalis, the changelings staring from outside the circle of flame. Chrysalis remarkably had not noticed them. She was blinded with rage.

You try to think of a way to win this fight, but Chrysalis wasn't going to give you a chance. She lunges at you immediately. You cover yourself in fright. You were done for. Not even a chance to yell to her to stop.

And the moment she makes contact. A blast of magical energy expands out from your body and sends her colliding into the wall. You were hiding your head in your hooves, shaking. Not even realizing what happened until you looked up, and saw the circle of fire was gone. And Chrysalis was falling back down to the ground.

"W-what? I'm… ok?" You looked at your unscathed hooves

Chrysalis was still in a rage. She didn't even take the time to consider things when she just roared at you and fired off a bolt of energy. You didn't even have time to dodge it. Not like it mattered. The moment it hit you, it bounced off and slammed into the wall, right above Chrysalis's head.

...You were protected… by something… Discord? "What? Ahh geez!"

Chrysalis was shooting off shot after shot at you. Each bouncing off of you and hitting other targets. Eventually, one shot hits a changeling. Making the captain and the other Changelings intervene. "My Queen! Please stop, you're attacking your own subjects!" The captain calls out to her.

But she's not paying attention. She's firing more shots, each shot bouncing off of you still. At this point you were just standing there. Watching the green lights of energy bounce different ways. Hitting more changelings.

The captain calls to her again "My Queen! Please!" But she just wouldn't stop. Not until finally she was out of shots. Her magic drained. And yet she was still trying. Panting, yet still determined.

You didn't know what to do. The changelings were watching both you and her. Some tending to the wounded. And the Captain had flown in between you and Chrysalis in an attempt to calm her. "My Queen! You have to stop. The child has some sort of protection. You are doing more harm than good."

Chrysalis looks into her Captain's eyes angrily, and shouts at him "FINE THEN, IF YOU'RE SO WORRIED ABOUT ALL THIS! THEN DESTROY HIM FOR ME! I COMMAND YOU!"

The Captain didn't know if he could actually follow through, he didn't understand what was going on with his usually cool headed queen. "M-my Queen, I I think the child might be..."

"DO IT OR I'LL THROW YOU RIGHT OUT THE FRONT DOOR!" Chrysalis barked at him.

The Captain shook, but saluted to her, fearful of what might happen to him "A-as you wish my queen...."

...This was..interesting..it wasn't that she wasn't allowed to destroy you. She COULDN'T. It didn't take you long at all to surmise this was Discord's doing. But did it work on the other changelings too?

You didn't have time to think if you could properly test that theory as the Captain steps up to you. He did his best to act confident "I have no idea what you have done to our Queen, But I will not allow you to do any more harm. FOR THE HIVE!"

...here we go… time to see...

The Captain tries to out right gore you with his horn. geez, you weren't expecting that brutal a move. But the moment his horn connected. It sent him into the wall so hard, it knocked him unconscious.

Chrysalis watched as her captain slammed right into the wall, and sighed. Putting her hoof to her face as she shook it left and right "Of course...."

She was still so full of rage. But what could she do now? Oh yes, what could she do? You smirk at her, you had the advantage.

"Hahaha! Look at that, you can't destroy me. That's too good. You and your children are absolutely useless." You looked around, the changelings were already backing off, a few gathering near Chrysalis. It looked like they didn't know what to do. Leadership was crumbling.

She wasn't making a move, none of them were. You looked around and smirked. "What? none of you want a piece of me? Come on, I'm ready for a fight!"

You hopped about happily. Oh shit, this was perfect. There was nothing they could do. An over zealous Changeling, thinking he could actually do something, hisses and rushes at you, wanting to avenge his queen from the dishonor you caused her.

"Oh ho? Really? Come on then, bring it!"

The changeling was pretty runty and weak looking, was about your size too. You could probably take him. During the rush, the Changeling trips and flies right towards you in a spiral. Chrysalis grumbles, watching her little changeling fail. But you took it as an opportunity to get them back, at least for taking your room. You would show them that you were truly top dog.

You raised your hoof, ready to slam it down at the incoming runt of a changeling's head, not to kill him. But just to down him. But you miss his skull entirely, your hoof going right into his eye due to bad timing.. Or it would have gone through his eye, severely hurting him, if the same energy field didn't extend from it's body and send you flying into the wall, right next to Chrysalis. "GYAAAGH!"

And at that moment, Chrysalis too had figured out what was going on. Before you did even. She couldn't hurt you, at least on a severe level. But the same went for you. You couldn't severely hurt her or her children.

The runt however, didn't realize it. He hopped for joy, and went in to smack your face in while you plopped back to the ground. Chrysalis holds him back, and gently speaks to him "Hold yourself little one"

"But my queen! He's just a weenie that caused you harm. I must avenge you and the captain. I must!"

Chrysalis gently rubbed her hoof over his head, and shushed him in a way a mother would. "You've done more than I could ever expect. now hold yourself, and let me handle this."

The little runt of a changeling calmed down, and nodded and bowed to his queen as he backed off.

Chrysalis looked over you with a smirk, as you held your head and tried to regain your senses. "So, it seems to go both ways. I can't hurt you, and you can't hurt me. Interesting, isn't it?"

"Ungh… s-shut up" You say in an injured daze.

Chrysalis chuckled "Oh poor Anon, did you hit your head? Do you want me to rub it and make it all better?"

You slowly get up, and back away from her. "I don't see what's so funny, You looked like your head was going to explode a minute ago. W-what changed?"

"Easy, the realization that destroying one another is impossible. No matter what we do, you nor I can end each other. Or did you think you got flipped into the wall?"

That's when it actually hit you, that's when you realized what happened. Ogh… You look over to the runty Changeling, who still looked like he wanted to fight. "N-no, I realized what happened… ngh"

"Which brings me to my next point, since you can't do anything to me or my hive. That means your room is now my children's or my room if any of us decide we need a comfier sleep. That bed of yours is really quite something, Anon. I was enraged because I thought you had actually pulled a victory. But in the end, I still win" She gives off a satisfied smirk

You get up, and gaze upon Chrysalis. You couldn't just lose. You wouldn't. "Kinda petty taking this as a victory, don't you think? Aren't you a queen?"

Chrysalis snickered "Don't bother Anon, there's nothing you could say now that I know we are working on an even playing field. In fact..." Chrysalis looked to her changeling horde. "You're all dismissed to the basement. Take the wounded and the Captain into the basement for healing. I wish to speak privately with our pint sized host."

"...save it, I'm going back to Equestria. I'll deal with you when I'm… YIPE!"

Chrysalis moved close to you, and stomped her hoof on your tail. She was almost expecting to be blasted again. But her theory held true. It had to be a really heavy blow for whatever defenses were on everyone to actually activate. "You're not going anywhere… when I want to talk to you. YOU WILL listen."

The changelings however, were barely moving. They seemed willing to disobey an order to find out what was going on.

"I SAID TO LEAVE ME! NOW!" Chrysalis barked at them, causing them to scramble and vacate the room as you yanked and tugged at your tail.

"Let me go! I said I was leaving!" There was no point now, you thought you had the win for sure. Now you were just buttmad that you lost your lead.

After Chrysalis was sure her subjects were gone, she lifted her hoof, causing you to fall on your back.

"Ngh!" You immediately flipped over and prepared to run for the ceiling door. You were almost to the point where you could go up the stairs when Chrysalis called out to you.

"Anon wait. Please." Her please didn't sound too sincere… but it came out of nowhere, enough to stop you dead in your tracks.

"Please?...when do you say please?" What was she doing now?

Chrysalis laid to her belly once again. Instead of attempting to approach you. "I'm saying it now, I'm starting to realize the position I truly find myself in."

...Uh huh… "And what does that have to do with me? I don't know if you realize or not, but I don't owe you anything. You being sealed up is the logical conclusion for villains like you and you barely, just barely, managed to escape. You brought that upon yourself"

Chrysalis looked at you, not with anger, she actually looked....sad. "Why do you hate me so much? Did you hate me since you saw me on your "show"?"

...This was… different. "I actually didn't. I thought you were an ok villain. But my views changed since coming here. Villains like you are an actual real threat. You tried to kill me before, remember?"

"I do, but what did I ever do to you personally to warrant all this? You coming into my home just to torment me. You setting off the chain of events that nearly brought upon my end. Tell me Anon, I'm listening."

......

You didn't have a reason, you just thought it'd be fun to mess with her since she was a two dimensional bad guy. meaning no emotional strings attached. "...Erm. The whole sealing thing was actually more Discord's fault. He was having me sneak in as Twilight to find out a secret about Princess Cadence, and it sort of went wrong when I started to change back in front of Cadence and her husband. And Discord explained it as you guys being the problem. But I'm sure you knew that part."

"And what about your little trap? Hmm? You and Discord fooled us… fooled me. Into capturing you just so you could torment us. For what purpose Anon? Justice? Is that what it was? Doesn't seem like something Twilight would do… now does it?"

Because she wouldn't. What the hell was she doing? Was she trying to make you feel guilt? You open your mouth, thinking you could just tell her EXACTLY what you did. But looking at her depressive state, and thinking back on it. It was kind of uncalled for. You close your mouth. And don't say a thing. This wasn't so easy anymore, now that you were being called out on it.

"Looking at your expression, I can tell you just did it to torment me and my hive and nothing more. Tell me Anon, wouldn't that be the same thing that I did back in Canterlot? Is that not evil?"

You wince… "I… err… well, I mean. You're a villain. So it shouldn't count..."

Chrysalis laid her head down on the front of her legs, and sighed, she looked miserable. "I see, so it's alright to attack others because you deem them as evil. You don't know what my life is truly like, and yet you and your father saw fit to ruin it anyway"

You stay silent, you did not like where this was going at all. Surely she couldn't have a reason to mention her own life unless there was more substance to it…

"Well? Don't you have anything to say for yourself?" She asks

"I… I mean… you tried to take over Canterlot… that's..pretty evil."

"I'm starting to sense that the show only ever showed one side of things. Tell me Anon, Did it ever tell you my reasoning? My motivation?"

...It didn't really. Unless you counted her song. "Didn't you dream of ruling? It was in your song… you know that right?"

"I do… but that was merely a song. Do you know what my children and I feed off of, Anon?"

"Love?"

Chrysalis nods, looking more depressive by the second "Yes, love. And the love we feed off of comes from ponies. But do you know what the problem is, when your food source is love?"

You shake your head. "N-not really"

"The ponies in which we need to feed off of react violently towards us. And why shouldn't they? Draining their love weakens them. So of course they look unfavorably at us."

"So why don't you just talk to them? Set up some sort of..I dunno, an arrangement?"

"It's not so easy Anon, there are many of us. That requires a large amount of love. Apparently, more than Celestia is willing to part with. So of course, like every other "Villain" she's locked up, we are seen as beings who are to be hated. And so, we react in kind. But not because of spite, but of necessity. You understand that, don't you?"

You stayed at caution, but you decided to slowly approach her. This was an interesting development. "But the other villains DID deserve it"

"Even Discord? Your caretaker and "partner"?"

You nod. "Yeah… he wasn't doing Equestria any good. You can't convince me on that one. But on the same coin, I'm glad he became a good guy. I wouldn't be where I am without him. And I owe him a lot for that."

Chrysalis gets intrigued by your answer. Or that's what it looked like to you. Something about this looked off to you.

"Look, even if Celestia was being disagreeable about your methods. You could have found another alternative, another way. Couldn't you?" You ask her. Still being cautious

Chrysalis shook her head "I am a queen, Anon. A simple alternative for me, I could possibly find. But I have an entire hive to think about. And since Celestia did not want to negotiate. War and deception was our only choice. Unless you could think of a better way. If you can, I'd like to hear it."

.....

There had to be something. "You could er… ummm. What about the animals of the forest?"

"It's possible. But their kind of love is minimal at best. Instinctual. Not enough to feed an entire hive."

You couldn't come up with another answer, so you wanted to be sensible. And to be sensible, you'd get right down to it. "...What's your point? What are you getting at with all this."

Chrysalis took a huge breath, and then slowly released. She didn't speak for a good minute. Then she looked to you, with a melancholic expression. "....My point is Anon. Now that it's all come to an end for me. I have no options left. And whether Discord was joking or not. I'd like to fulfill my new role or… roles as it might seem to be. In other words, I'd like to be your friend. And learn to be good. So perhaps eventually. I could try again, and make a better world for my children without angering the ponies."

You narrow your eyes at her. "Bullshit. In other words, you're lying to me"

"I see. So rather than take a chance and show me that there is another, better way. You'd rather condemn me based on biased observations. Who is truly the villain here Anon?...Me… or you?"

You felt your heart wrench on that. She had you there. How could you not try? Most of the in between season villains and antagonists got reformed, even Gilda and Diamond Tiara. Two characters you never saw coming when it came to redemption. But, were you the one to even attempt giving her a chance? "How am I supposed to trust you? This could all be a huge trick."

"And why would I trick you? It's already clear that we can't hurt each other. And even then, what could I possibly do? Discord's plan on making me your "sister" includes a curse that traps me in a single, powerless form when he finally let's me out and about. You'll be perfectly fine."

Hrn… "And, what about your attitude? I already have to deal with enough shenanigans as is. I don't need you causing me grief if I agree to this."

Chrysalis gives you a little bit of a sly smile "That's something that can't be helped."

You look at her, staring her down the best you could with your best "Oh you better fucking not" expression. "Why not? How am I supposed to take you seriously with that sort of answer?”

Chrysalis, ONCE AGAIN, changed into her filly form "Because Anon, deep down. You enjoy it. I can taste it..."

Dammit, you'd really wish she'd stop doing that. The way she always had advanced on you before. It made you feel things you shouldn't be feeling. "That's not true, most of the time, I get pretty angry about it."

"...When Discord does it. But when I do it, no matter how angry you get" Chrysalis gets up, and looks at you with bedroom eyes "You get some sense of enjoyment out of it. It's odd really, considering you aren't originally of a pony species. You must have really enjoyed the show for more than just the reasons of watching it, am I right Anon? Hmmmm?"

You started to sweat at that… Oh shit. "N… no"

Chrysalis giggled, but she didn't make any more motions towards you, she just smiled. "Whatever you say Anon, I think I'm going to like being your friend. I'm sure we can learn to get along. In fact, why don't you go off and enjoy the rest of your day. I'll have your room ready for you for when you get back. How does that sound?"

...Wait. "Huh? What? Really? I mean… you'll have it cleared out?"

Chrysalis nods "And cleaned back to the way it was. So, will you give it a shot Anon. Will you let me be your friend?"

This was a difficult decision. But she had a point. Now that it was obvious you were both invincible to each other. There wasn't much else she could do. And it could make the whole eventual sister thing an easier transition. Hmm… "...Ok, but you only get one c-GYAH!"

Chrysalis hugged onto you tightly. "Thank you Anon, I promise, you won't regret this!"

You slowly return her hug. She doesn't try molesting you this time. It actually was a pretty legit hug. "Ok then… erm, you're welcome. I'm gonna go back up and uh… do some Equestria stuff. I guess I'll see you later… I guess."

You waved to her, and headed up your gravity stairs back to your room. She waved back.

That… surprisingly ended well.

Chapter 103

You step into your room. What a mess. You take a look around now that it was unoccupied.
Goop, everywhere. You find the charred remains of the picture frame that had the "Chrysalis" picture in it. You also find a few mechanical chunks.

"...Ahh dammit..." You find the wrecked remains of your alarm clock. You didn't even notice that it also fell victim to the blast. What a waste of a charge.

You still wondered if this was a good idea. It was clear she was still going to mess with you. But to what degree? Sisterly? Like a rival? Or just treating you like an insignificant bug because she didn't know any other way? Just thinking about it was depressing you.

You needed a pick me up. Maybe that would help you look at things more optimistically. Who could you visit? You open the portal door to the first setting. It was already sunset. But it still gave you some time to work with.

Hrnn… Sunset. Sunset leads to Twilight. Twilight Sparkle? Maybe that wouldn't be a bad idea. You haven't visited her for personal reasons. But you could now. Maybe interacting with her one on one could help improve the whole "Social worker" situation. Despite Discord not really worrying about it unless it was called to attention, you were always thinking that Twilight could one day actually just go without telling anyone and find out the truth if she ever got suspicious about anything.

But if you went and spoke with her one on one. You could perhaps make it that she'd never decide to go at all. Discord could only keep her preoccupied with fake letters for so long. You knew Twilight, she could be a snoop about certain things. And this could be one of them.

Then after that, maybe you could swing by Fluttershy's again for cuddles and cocoa. Then you'd be ready for Chrysalis. Of course, you still needed Discord to turn up. You had to give him that invitation. You walk through the portal door, and head to Twilight's castle.

As you trotted over to the castle. You began to think your little future endeavor was actually a good idea. Once Twilight sees how happy you are living with Discord. She might end the whole "Social Worker" thing altogether. Then no one would have to worry about shit.

...Egh, that castle was still pretty unsightly though. Especially when compared to the town.

As you approached the castle doors. You had hoped Twilight wasn't busy. Well, it wouldn't be too bad. That just meant you could head straight to Fluttershy's.

Before you even knock though, you try pushing the door in. It moves, the door opens.

You shake your head. "I swear, Starlight is probably just gonna barge in or something. I'd bet fifty bucks on it."

You walk inside, cautiously, because if it wasn't a security issue. It could be someone had actually barged in. You slowly enter the Cutie Map chamber.

You look around, She didn't appear to be here either. But there was a dragon. Spike however, was asleep. He was sleeping on Twilight's chair. Cute, but you didn't come here for him. Where could she be?

Oh wait… didn't the castle have a library? You decide to look around. You couldn't exactly remember if it did. Last time you got to go any further than the cutie map chamber ended up in you being put in a ball and tossed down some stairs.

You decide to head into another room, and then another… and then another. Damn, every room you went into was NOT a library. but either more hallways or it led back to the Cutie Map chamber. The place was a maze. Then again, why wouldn't it be? It sprung out of the ground. It was like being in the Deku Tree if it decided to be a Transexual.

You could head up the stairs. Looking along them, it had more rooms. You decide to go down the hallway that had the stairs, being careful as to not wake the slumbering dragon.

You take the first door to your right on the second floor corridor. BINGO! Library.

It was sort of depressing, now that you thought about it. This wasn't as comfy or nice looking as the old Golden Oaks library. R.I.P. Golden Oaks. But the library too was empty. Not of books. The ones in the bookcases were neatly organized. There was only only one book out, left open on a table.

You step inside anyway. Intrigued on what she could have been reading. As you step closer to the open door. You hear girlish murmuring coming from the book itself. It sounded like...
oh wait… that spell from Amending Fences. She was probably using it right now. And was in that book.

"Twilight?"

"Spike? Is that you?" You hear her voice coming from the book.

"No it's, er. Me. Anon"

"Anon?... Huh?" Twilight sounded really confused, enough so that she immediately popped out of the book she was reading. "Anon? What are you doing here? Did something happen?" She was worried, no doubt jumping to conclusions.

"Oh… um, no no" You shook your head. Seeing her pop out of a book was pretty rad. But, seeing her reaction to you calling for her instantly made you want to ease her mind. "I just wanted to come by for a visit. I didn't bother you did I?"

Twilight held off from saying yes. She was relaxing herself, reading deep into a book she was enjoying. But given she was your "Social Worker"... "No, I was just doing some studying. I can catch up on it later." Twilight looked behind you, expecting Spike. "Anon, did Spike let you in?"

You shook your head. "No, I just let myself in. The doors were unlocked."

Seriously? Does she not realize how super easy it is to barge into her own castle? She needs royal guards or something.

"I see." Twilight rubbed her hoof along under her muzzle. She was thinking deeply. "I think I might have to put a special locking spell on my front door. Hrnnn"

She thought?! Oh christ Twilight. What has happened to you between seasons? You'd think after nearly two seasons of having the castle that'd she would have had some sort of security.

No, fuck it. You had to ask her why she didn't before. "Twilight, I hope you don't mind me asking" You give her a cute and innocent look. "But why is your castle doors always unlocked?"

"Well..."Twilight stopped. She… never actually thought of having them locked. Besides Tirek. She was never in any danger that she could think of that required locking them. She felt since she was the Princess of Friendship, that the doors should be left open for anyone who wanted to come inside and meet with her or her friends for the sake of friendship matters "Anon, as the Princess of Friendship. It is my duty to leave my door open for all who seek my help."

You kept your cute expression, but you were having trouble making sense of Twilight. "Then why put in a lock?"

Twilight's next words had a hint of irritation while still remaining pleasant. "Because I didn't expect anypony to actually just step inside without knocking first. It's common courtesy Anon. But not to worry, my spell will still leave the door unlocked. You just need to at least knock a few times before you can enter. That way, it'd give either Spike or myself a chance to open the door."

That still sounded like a shit idea. But whatever, it wasn't your castle. "That sounds like a great idea Twilight! I would have never thought of something so clever." You make a cheerier smile, that's it Anon, feed into her ego.

Twilight felt pretty proud of herself for thinking of the solution so quickly, even moreso from your comment. "Well, thank you Anon. But it was actually a very simply solution. So, what did you want to talk to me about?"

...Errr… You actually didn't think this all the way through. "Stuff..."

"What kind of stuff?"

You didn't actually know what you'd talk to her about. You didn't want to just go in and say "HEY THINGS ARE GREAT AT HOME!". You wanted to ease into it. As you began to get more nervous, your eyes began to trail away from Twilight's.

Twilight was at first, confused. But as she saw that you were getting nervous. And then looking around. She thought she had figured it out. "Ooohhhh… I get it"

Get what? "Huh?"

Twilight giggles "You don't need to act shy Anon, I'm not going to make fun of you because you like books. I don't know if you knew, but I'm actually a big book enthusiast myself!"

YOU DON'T SAY!

"I...would have never guessed." You chuckle nervously.

"Come on, don't be shy. If you came here to discuss books. Well, you came to the right mare! So Anon, what books do you like to read?" Twilight seemed pretty eager to talk books with you. You wondered why. Was it specifically you? Or did she just get off on talking books? You did have one you were reading. Though, you hadn't read it in awhile.

"Daring Do, I've actually been reading the first book."

Twilight smiled at that, she did love Daring Do after all. "So you just started? That's great! I actually happen to have the entire collection… after having it replaced. Aha. But look, see. Right up there" Twilight pointed to the highest point of one of the bookshelves. Up there was the Daring Do books. Neatly organized in it's own little spot.

You felt another hit of sadness. Knowing she had to replace her whole collection due to Tirek. "That's pretty neat Twilight. I think I might have the whole collection back at home. Dad was the one who gave me the first book. But I've been… well… sorta adjusting to my new life that I haven't had time to read through it all." This could work. Just talk books and whatever else makes Twilight happy and you’re good to go.

"Well, that's... actually really generous of him. He didn't tell me in any of the followups that he provided you reading material." Twilight seemed to be taking a mental note of it. She was thinking upon it. She at first, wondered why she wasn't told. But your prior nervousness told it's own story, even if it was wrong. She took it as Discord "honoring" your wishes and not letting anyone know you liked reading books. Even though that assumption was wrong.

"Well, you know Dad, He can be a little weird sometimes."

"A little weir-" Twilight was about to insult Discord, but the moment you looked up at her. she stopped. Internally she was fighting herself to just try to accept that Discord wasn't doing any kind of ruse. How could he? Everything seemed legit. "Ahrm, well Anon. Speaking of your father. How have you and him been lately?"

Twilight was going to at least try to have this talk with you. You were alone. No influence from Discord whatsoever, no chance at all. To her, your health and welfare was the most important thing, since she put herself responsible for it. And that would be easy enough for you to answer.

"Really good in fact! Look!" You reach into your saddle bag. The bag itself a little scuffed up from your spat with Chrysalis. But nothing major. You pull out Discord's invitation envelope and show it to Twilight. "See? Even inviting him to my party that Pinkie is throwing for me. You got yours too right Twilight?"

Twilight nodded "Mhmmm, I didn't know it was for your party though."

Huh?

"You didn't? Didn't Pinkie tell you what the party was?"

Twilight cringed. That wasn't the case at all. "Well, actually Anon. Spike was the one who brought me my envelope. He didn't say what it was for, and I was kind of busy… reading to er… open it."

That sounded like her, but it wasn't like she wasn't going to open it eventually. "Why are you nervous Twilight?"
You give her a gentle hug. "You were going to open the envelope eventually, right?"

Twilight was afraid you were going to be disappointed that she hadn't taken the time to look at the invite. Any regular child would have. Pinkie herself would have probably been devastated. But your reaction was very understanding. Very unexpecting. She was eventually going to look, it wasn't like she was going to ignore it. She actually felt a feeling of relief from your reaction.

She returns your hug with a hug that was just as gentle. "I was, I just get a little caught up in my books sometimes.You're not upset at all? Really?"

You end the hug and shake your head. Even if you were taking this seriously.Why would you be upset? It's not like she wasn't going to show up at all. If she did, she wouldn't have to worry about you. She'd have to worry about Pinkie and either her shower of anger or shower of sadness… or both, in a huge storm of emotion.

Chapter 104

"Hey, as long as you come. It really doesn't bother me. The party is tomorrow, plenty of time to check the invite. So uhh.." You give Twilight a gentle tap to the leg. "Don't sweat it"

Really don't, you didn't need her tarding out. Twilight was usually used to her friends, or ponies in general being pretty sensitive about matters like these. Especially Pinkie, the fact you were the exact opposite was actually a breath of fresh air for her. Especially with the way you saw it… even though it was pretty much common sense.

"Ok, I won't. In fact, let's switch the subject back to Daring Do. I bet you've been looking for somepony else to talk to about it now that you're reading it right?" Twilight was pretty excited to hear you say "yes"

Uhhhh… You shake your head. "Uhh, not really. I'm not even very far in the first book, Kind of got preoccupied with other things."

Twilight cocked an eyebrow at you "Like what? Don't you only have to worry about school? Anon, I hope you're not one of those kind of ponies who don't read a book all the way through. You're really missing out if you are."

Oh hell no, who is she to insinuate shit. Sure she didn't know that this world was still fresh to you, but goddamn. "Don't assume things Twilight. My life has been pretty up the wall since I got here. What with Cutie Mark stuff and then that crazy happening at the Crystal Empire. I usually go to bed pretty tired. And don't assume I'm having a bad time either. Because I'm not."

Twilight went silent, and stepped back from you. To her, that was. A heavy response. She was only wanting to explain to you the wonder of books. "...I… uhm… Sorry?"

Well, you shut her up. It was, strangely easy to do.

You sigh, wow. No wonder she always seemed to have a heart attack whenever Discord was nearby. She herself was pretty uptight. You were afraid that if she ever found out the truth that she would go full "Lesson Zero" mode on how easily she was fooled. "It's fine. I'm sorry for snapping at you. Can we talk about something other than books? Please?"

Twilight nodded, she felt that was best as well. She was afraid of saying something that might upset you again. Though, your reaction in general intrigued her. She was wondering what could had happened to make you snap like that. Was it trauma? Did something bad happen to you that was book related? Were you attacked by books while you were a foal? All these thoughts and more circled in her head. "Alright, but can I ask you one question Anon?"

You nod, that seemed harmless. "Sure"

"You do like books....right?"

.........

You nod. "Yes, I like books" You had a hint of irritation in your voice. Seeing Twilight was probably not the best of ideas.

Twilight pondered a little, Well. It looked like it wasn't some sort of book trauma. "Can I ask you another question?"

You gaze at her, your expression turning sterner. "Is it about books?"

Twilight shakes her head, her expression becoming more concerned. "No, it's about you and your father. I just want to be absolutely sure of something. I want to be sure that he's not doing anything he shouldn't be doing. Colts your age shouldn't be displaying this kind of stress. Not unless there was something going on at home."

...Well, you couldn't be upset at the question. You did want to try to paint up you and Discord's relationship in as good a light as possible. "I'm just stressed because I'm overwhelmed by things outside of my house. We have a school project going on, that I need to finish tomorrow. I have five fillies trying to get me a Cutie Mark. And that alone is ridiculous because I had to go up against Big Mac in a fight, and then there's these two colts who we-"

"WHAT?! WHY WOULD BIG MAC FIGHT YOU?! H-he's always been so gentle… and" Twilight eyed you closely, no marks. "...Did you beat him down? That's… improbable"

...Dammit Twilight. "It was a mock fight. Nopony got hurt. And I didn't end up winning. But it was just weird. I was going to the clubhouse and there it was. a fighting ring. and the next thing I know I was getting shoved into a fight by my friends. Why? To see if I could get my cutie mark just because I beat up those two stallions. And as you can see, fighting is not my forte" You point to your blank flank.

"Oh. So it wasn't an actual fight. And... Well, that would be pretty stressful." Twilight thought of how she would react if she was suddenly thrown into that kind of situation. "Ok, I think I'm understand now."

...You sigh in relief. Good.

"Well Anon. I'm glad to know your father isn't the one causing you stress. But, do you know what I think you should do about all this?"

"What?"

Twilight entered what you liked to call "Moral mode". She was about to give you a lesson of friendship in her usual way. "I think you should have a talk with your friends and tell them to slow down with this Cutie Mark business. Everypony gets their Cutie Mark eventually. It's not something that can just be forced. I'm sure if you tell them that then everything will be ok"

You nod, but that was something you already figured you could do. It's just they had a little trouble understanding that. "Ok. So, er… can I suggest a topic of discussion now?"

Twilight looked impressed by that wording. ""Topic of Discussion"?" Twilight giggled "I wouldn't mind that at all, but if you want to discuss topics with me Anon. I hope you're ready to play "keep up". I'm no simple mare."

OH REALLY?! Now that, while demeaning, made you want to put her in her place. But what topic should you bust out? "Good, because I'm no simple colt."

You had a determined tone in your voice, a tone Twilight picked up on. "I never said you were, I'm actually taking this as an opportunity to teach you a few things you may have not known. Think of it as a free tutoring session… er" Twilight laughed nervously with a sheepish smile "I'd never make you or anypony pay or anything like that. I just meant it in a sense of being challenged."

Challenged huh? Hrnnnn… You got it. "Let's talk changelings."

Twilight was surprised, very surprised in fact. And she suddenly looked at you suspiciously. "Changelings?......Why them?"

You could already tell why she was looking at you that way.

"I'm not some escaped changeling Twilight. I'm being serious. There's a few things that bug me when it comes to changelings."

At a risk of insulting you. Twilight decides not to question you to find out if you were a changeling. But she stays at caution. This was a very random subject to pull out. And you weren't acting like the cute little colt she was used to.

"Ok Anon, what about changelings do you want to discuss?"

"Well, first of all, they feed on love. Right?"

Twilight nods "They do, they can feed on other positive and strong emotions. But love is their main food source as it is nutritional to them"

So far so good. You were still interested from that discussion with Chrysalis about making some sort of truce with the princesses. And since Twilight IS a princess. You could find out from the other side of the spectrum what they thought on the matter. Even if bias was going to be prevalent. "And that's all they can feed on, right?"

Twilight nods.

"Then, let's say you hadn't sealed them up in Tartarus. Couldn't you and the other princesses come up with some solution to allow them to coexist with you?"

Twilight shook her head "Anon? What are you talking about? Are you actually suggesting we try to make peace with changelings after what they have done?"

Come on Twilight, stay focused. You wanted to debate this. Not for her to get on some moral high horse. "I'm only suggesting that some effort could have been put forth to try to keep peace between two races. I want to hear your thoughts. What I don't want to hear is the morality of it."

Twilight was greatly impressed by your level of thought. She was caught completely off guard. She was even more suspicious of you now. No colt talks like that, and you weren't acting at all like you were before. She began secretly preparing a spell. While she herself was becoming more interested in the subject itself. "Well, I… If it wasn't for the fact that they always attacked and even tried to overthrow entire kingdoms. Then maybe something could have been done. Anon, if you were there during the attack on Canterlot. You would see first hoof how evil they can be."

"But maybe they did that because that's all they knew at that point. They've obviously existed for a long time. If they always had to stalk the shadows for food, then that tells me no actual meetings took place to discuss some sort of treaty or truce. Explain that." Twilight took a moment to think.

"I… I cannot confirm or deny that. But I've learned about changelings from my teacher, Princess Celestia. They are never to be trusted Anon. They lie and manipulate. Even in books of old. They have always taken what they wanted without giving back. It's hard to set up peace talks when all they want to use them for is to drain love from a large crowd. They manipulate, they feed, they grow. And they don't care about anypony but themselves."

"Ok, let me ask you this then. If Queen Chrysalis came to you, herself, without her hive. And asked you, Princess of Friendship Twilight Sparkle, for a second chance. A chance to show you that she could change. Would you let her?"

Twilight looked at you, with very stern eyes. "......."

"Twilight?"

Twilight's tone, it shifted to a tone to match her now suspecting notions. "That depends, would she actually intend on turning good? Or reforming? Or would it all be a trap?"

You had thought that yourself. It could be a trap. Seems Twilight was along the same thought process you were. But what was wrong with her? She looked like she was getting ready to zap something. "I honestly couldn't tell you. I've been thinking about it myself. I mean, Dad used to be a bad guy too. And now he's good. And, might I add, a great dad. But I agree changelings are pretty shifty and violent, among other things" Like being seductive.

"Well, I don't think it could just be up to me. The changelings are, as far as anypony knows, evil to a fault. I think it'd require the decision of all of the princesses to even think on that kind of decision. And even then, if we turned out to be wrong. We'd be opening up whatever town or city they would call home to a possible ambush. Anon, the safety of ponies we know are good trumps giving the changelings a chance, simply because we know them as evil."

...Egh, you couldn't call bullshit. You didn't know if Chrysalis was being genuine or not. And this debate wasn't as insightful as you hoped. You could practically guess what Twilight's stance was going to be on every question. "Let's say, for the sake of argument, that you, and you alone had to make a decision. Would you be willing to work with the changeling queen to make some sort of truce? And help her and her hive become citizens in Equestria? Like any other pony would be?"

"Again, that depends Anon."

"On what?"

"The fact that you are trying to manipulate me into making a decision by myself, hoping that I'd come to some sort of understanding and just unseal your hive. I don't know how you escaped. But I'm not going to let you escape!"

Huh? Escape what? "Twilight? What are you talking about?" You looked at her, puzzled, you tried stepping towards her, but she yelled at you the moment you took a step.

"Don't even take a step. I can't believe you managed to fool me again. But you made one mistake."

You stop, the fuck was she talking about?

"Twilight? What are you..." You noticed her horn started to glow, with a fierce intensity. "Twilight?"

You started to step back

"Don't move!" Twilight was looking around for something, what? You didn't know. She was suddenly acting crazy.

"Twilight! What are you thinking?! Have you lost your mind?!"

"Nice try Queen Chrysalis, I've managed to figure you out before. And I've figured you out now. And this time I'm not going to sit back and let you try to bring your hive back through me. No, I'm going to send you right to them!"

OH FUCK! WHAT?! SHE THOUGHT YOU WERE CHRYSALIS?!

"T-TWILIGHT!? WHAT THE HELL?! I'M NOT CHRYSALIS!"

"You can't be Anon. Anon is a smart pony yes. But he's still just a colt. You tipped me off the moment you started talking like an adult. And changelings. Really? You didn't think I'd catch on to that?"

Fuck it, she's gone nuts. You try to retreat through the door. But you couldn't move. You look down, and notice a red sigil under you. The same kind of sigil that sealed up the hive. "What's this?!"

"Something I had been studying. A weaker version of the sealing spell we used on your hive. This version can be used by a single alicorn like myself. You've messed with the wrong mare this time!"

OH SHIT! Chains started to bind onto you, restricting your movement completely. "Twilight, you can't do this! I'm Anon! I can prove it!"

"Then do it, I'll give you a chance" Twilight couldn't refuse a chance. But she was so sure of it. So damn sure.

"My saddle bag, see? My stuff is in here. Like the invite for my Dad."

Twilight took another look at your saddle bag. This time she took more notice of the fact it had some damage on it. Like it had been thrown around and such. ".....Where's the real Anon, Chrysalis?"

"ARE YOU SERIOUS?! LOOK AT THE BAG!"

"I can see the bag, it looks like you got in a tussle. Tell me where he is Chrysalis. I won't ask you again." Twilight looked dead serious.

You look at the bag… Fucking shit. She was right, you barely noticed that Chrysalis's bolt barrage had caused some obvious burnt marks. You couldn't explain that. AND YOU WASTED YOUR DAMN CHARGE ON SCOOTALOO TOO, SO YOU CAN'T EVEN ESCAPE! You could feel the chains get tighter. They rubbed firmly along your body. It made it a little harder to breath. "Twilight… stop. Please. Please listen."

That wouldn't work. Goddammit Anon, think… think. You only had one move.

"GET HER FROM BEHIND MY CHILDREN!" You scream out

Twilight looked back and jumped forward in fright, close enough that you could reach into your bag and toss your lunchbox at her face. Breaking her concentration on the spell, and making the chains release you.

You don't even say another word, you head to the exit. Twilight, realizing there's no changelings behind her. Gives chase.

NOPENOPENOPE. You kick the door of the library into her face and rush downstairs. Fuck this shit, Chrysalis was right.

Chapter 105

You pass by Spike, who was waking up due to the commotion. "Huh..what?...Anon? Hey"

He waves to you, but you don't have ANY time to wave back. You make a turn and head to the front doors. Almo… OH SHIT!

You skid on the ground as you try to stop. Twilight had teleported right in front of you. Ready for another shot at you. Goddamn, she was just as persistent as her brother.

"Yo, hey. What's going on? Is the party happening? I thought it was at Sugarcube Corner… oh boy, how long did I sleep?" Spike was rubbing his eyes, he was feeling a little groggy from his nap.

"SPIKE! THAT'S NOT ANON. IT'S QUEEN CHRYSALIS!" Twilight yelled to her assistant.

"I'M NOT QUEEN CHRYSALIS!" You yelled out, stepping back away from Twilight.

"What? What are you talking about Twilight. That's Anon. You locked up Bug Breath. Remember?" Spike said, confused.

"I thought I did Spike, But she's here somehow. I need you to get out of here! She might try to use you as a hostage!" Twilight warned as she released a wave of magic.

You tried to move, but you once again were caught in the sigil as chains began to bind you back into the spot. Dammit, she works quick. You don't even remember her having this spell in the show. Must be new. Just your luck.

"Woah woah, hold on Twilight. How do you know that's really Chrysalis? Wouldn't she had turned back or something?" Spike got up from the throne chair and walked over to you, he was feeling panicky "Come on, this looks like a little much. Don'tcha think?"

You struggled to break free, but it was useless. You weren't strong enough to break the magical chains. "She's a master of disguise Spike. I managed to figure it out from the way she was talking. And what's worse. I think she has the real Anon hidden away somewhere." Twilight turned towards you "Where is he? Talk or I'll just send you to Tartarus right here, right now!"

GODDAMMIT! No amount of struggling was working. And your mind was racing. Tartarus was never fully shown in the show. Who knows how bad it could be down there. What's worse, even if Discord could get your ass out later. How long would it take him to do it? Would he even know you were down there? Because it seemed pretty clear that he wasn't watching what was going on right now.

"Yo, hey. Twilight!" Spike waved his clawed hands at her, in a motion to suggest she was being way too hasty. "Why don't you just ask him, or er..her, a question only Anon would know?"

FUCKING BRILLIANT. BASED SPIKE.

You looked to Twilight, with a meek and frightened look. Not even faking. You were fucking scared. This was the second time you couldn't escape a situation. And if you somehow failed this test. You'd be in Pony Hell soon enough.

Twilight eyed you, and sidestepped directly between you and the exit. "...I Don't know.."

DAMMIT!

"COME ON! JUST ASK ME A QUESTION! ANYTHING! COME ON!" You yell out in panic. You needed her to try.

"Twilight, come on. If that's really Anon and you send him away." Spike cringes hard "Yeah, I don't even want to imagine what would happen..."

Twilight took a moment to imagine it however. It didn't take her long to realize perhaps she was being TOO hasty. Sending a colt to Tartarus? If that happened. All her friends would look at her as if she was a monster. She'd lose the favor of the town… maybe even her teacher.

But it was hard. If Chrysalis somehow knew everything you knew, even though the case was that IT IS you. Then she'd be letting a villain go, one who could plot a deadly revenge. And that too, would be her fault. She'd have to think of a question that only you, as Anon, would know. But what?

You were breathing hard, scared. Hoping Discord to show up at some point. Your eyes never left Twilight as you shook. You'd never think you'd be this scared of her.

Twilight sighed, she never loosened the spell. But she didn't send you away, no, she was going to try Spike's plan. "You're right Spike, But… what question do we ask?"

"Leave that to me" Spike walked over to you and prepped his question"Trust me, I got a question only the REAL Anon would know"

Twilight raised an eyebrow "...Spike. Are you sure? Maybe we need somepony else. Like Fluttershy." Twilight knew that Spike had, like herself, very little interaction with the colt. But all the interactions they did have suggested a cute happy little colt.

Twilight was even hoping Discord would show up, he could clear things up easily. She could cast a spell that would reveal the truth. But that would require her to drop the sealing spell. Giving "you a chance to escape".

"Trust me Twilight, I've got this." Spike looked to you, you said nothing. Wondering what he was going to ask, while waiting, if for a chance, to run out of the castle if possible.

"Ok, you ready erm… I dunno if I should call you Chrysalis or Anon. So er, do yo-" Spike was now suddenly nervous

"GET ON WITH IT GEEZ!" You yell out in a burst of anger. Your fear making you more and more hostile to any kind of stalling. You feel the chains get a little tighter after your outburst. Shit..

"Yikes, ok ok." Spike was still willing to give it a shot, but your complaint made Twilight even more suspicious. "Ok, so. If you're REEAAALLLLYYY Anon. Then what kind of gems did you collect for Rarity. And for what?"

Twilight slapped her hoof to her face "Spike, really?"

"Hey, relax Twilight. It's still a really good question. I really doubt Queen Stinkbug would know about it. In fact, where did you get the gems too. That'll really clench it."

...You really hoped Twilight would accept your answer. "Radiant Gems. Rarity needed them for a dress! But I bought her enough with money Dad gave me! In fact! More than enough! Enough for four dresses! I got them in a shop at the Crystal Empire. These two brothers. Flim and Flam were the new managers at the time! Please, that's the truth! Please let me go!"

Twilight cringed… that was an awfully pinpoint answer. You could already feel the chains loosen up. "S-Spike?"

Spike nodded, he was convinced. It hadn't hit him yet though that Twilight was now chaining up a colt. "That's all pretty correct."

"Even the Flim Flam brothers managing the shop?" Twilight asked

Spike nodded "Yup, I know that because I wanted to see if I could order some of those gems myself for… er… tasting reasons. But the prices for delivery were INSANE! Wait hold on!"

You stayed silent, and watched as Spike exited the room. And came back with a sheet of paper. "Check it out. See? This was the price for even ONE gem. And look at the bottom. It's from their desk… and… oh boy Twilight..." It finally hit him.

Twilight's horn began to dim. as the chains on you began to dissipate into nothingness. Twilight didn't know what to say. She just looked at you, shocked at what she had done.

You look at her, you were angry. Beyond angry. But you only stared at her. You were in disbelief. That Twilight, of ALL ponies. Would do something like this.

"...Anon.I-" Twilight was about to apologize, but you snap at her. With a growling low voice.

"Save it… I don't want to hear it."

"Woah..hey Anon. It was ju-" Spike was going to try to speak up for Twilight, but you quickly turn, and snipe at him too.

"I SAID SHUT UP!...I can't believe this." You never thought you'd be cutting it so close. Even if Spike was the one to save you. You were beyond angry. Discord was definitely busy with something. Because he didn't even show up to stop this madness.

You start to step towards the door, eyeing Twilight with dagger filled eyes. Twilight tried again, raising her hoof towards you for you to stop so she could explain herself. "Anon, please, I did-"

"You didn't what? Mean it? You're sorry? You think I'm just going to accept it because I'm a kid? I know exactly what would have happened if you sent me down there Twilight. I'm not stupid. I just wanted to have a civil debate with WHO I THOUGHT was a levelheaded and very smart pony. Because who else could I have this kind of discussion with? Nopony else, that's who!"

Twilight cringed "A-Anon it's. I'm… I just didn't. You have to understand. I-I made the wrong call. I… mnnn" Twilight realized she was making excuses, and then said nothing. She looked horrified with herself. She had felt she was so right. She couldn't believe how wrong she truly was. And felt terrible for what she just caused.

You drew closer to her. Your eyes growing ever sterner, harder. "Yeah, you did. You really did… I'm leaving now. Don't even bother trying to apologize. I won't care."

Spike muttered under his breath. He wasn't understanding it as much as you or Twilight was. "Harsh..."

You head towards the exit. You don't even look back. Nor does Twilight try again to apologize or talk to you. She doesn't even beg you not to tell anyone. She'd probably never do that anyway. But you felt, in some way, she would have. No, she was too crushed by her own actions.

You exit through the door, and close them. You look up into the sky. It was getting dark. Your legs began to shake. But you press on. You try to rationalize with the fact that hopefully. Discord wouldn't have left you hanging.

But you didn't know. You could think of a few times where he couldn't find someone. He couldn't locate Starlight. But he was able to find Chrysalis due to her home apparently being obvious to find. So that begged the question. Would he have been able to find you? And… what if you ran into someone like Tirek while down there?

You looked back at the castle doors. You weren't being followed. Good. You wondered what Twilight was feeling right now. You hoped she was absolutely miserable. You didn't even need to tell her not to come to the party. She wouldn't. And that was fine with you.

You went back to walking, aimlessly forward. With each step. you started to feel your anger turn into fright and sadness. You didn't realize how possible it really was for you to get fucked over in what you saw as a paradise. With each step, you came to realize Discord probably saved your life more times than you could count. When you went to Twilight's. You thought you could have a debate with her, and it would be fun. Maybe bounce off ideas. Maybe even allude to a few human inventions. You would have gotten a kick out of it.

Instead, because of your form. She saw you as someone else, and immediately condemned you. Or, Chrysalis really.

You didn't know where you were going. You were heading down an empty street. You head over to the side of a house and sit near a small garden patch beside it. Gathering your thoughts.
You looked at your hooves. You were still shaking. You began to realize just how helpless you were in this world without help. Without Discord, without miraculous luck, without your horn. You were at your opponent's mercy. Even if that opponent was a pony you thought was at least ok for so many seasons.

You laid there for quite some time. You didn't want to go home. Chrysalis was right. Or, that's what you felt. But you couldn't shake off something was off about her. Or maybe… just maybe. That sort of thinking was the same as Twilight's. You didn't want to think about it all.

You looked up at the sky again, you could see the moon. How much time had passed? You didn't know. It didn't even look like Discord was looking for you. Why would he? He's still probably off doing whatever he was still doing. You didn't want to go home to just Chrysalis. no, you couldn't. even if she wanted to be your "friend". You'd feel alone. You were, at this moment, wishing for Discord's company...

You got up and began to wander. Again, you tried to rationalize that everything should be ok. It had to be. Twilight was just an idiot who got in over her head. Right?...Well, even if you just tried to think of it lightly. The fact she so hard headedly and immediately jumped to conclusions without so much as a fucking test both infuriated and terrified you every time you thought about it.

You didn't feel safe. You didn't feel safe on the streets of Ponyville at night. You, who were supposed to be this man. This adult. You were now terrified. To the point that it matched your form well. You weakly called out. "Discord?...You around?...Applebloom? Scootaloo?...Sweetie Belle? Diamond?...F-Fluttershy?"

...Fluttershy… What would she say about this? It would crush her so badly. You couldn't just tell her. Not because you gave a shit about Twilight. But because you didn't want her to worry.

...You started making a heading towards her cottage. You kept your composure the best you could while on the way. You were trying to convince yourself that you were only going for a friendly visit. With any luck, Discord would be there too. You wished for him to be there.

Through a tireless walk. You could see the cottage in the distance. The windows were a light. So Fluttershy still had to be awake.

You cross the little bridge, slowly, gathering as much willpower as you could. You stop just short of the door and turn to your left. The three statues still sat there. Still in perfect condition.

You stepped up to the door. One last time. You tried to rationalize things. "Twilight's an idiot. Come on Anon, you knew that. Remember Lesson Zero? Or It's About Time? Hell, she couldn't even fix her friendship with Moondancer without Pinkie. Ngh..It's fine… It's fine… It's fine.......it's....fine..."

It wasn't, it didn't fix the fact that being sent to pony hell, with a chance of no escape, was a possibility. "Come on Anon… don't be a wimp, c-come on. Discord's fucked with you so many times..."

And he never meant to actually do you any harm.

"......"

"...Just.....play it cool." You prevent yourself from knocking at first, hoping to see Discord. You even look at his statue for… you dunno… a wink?

Nothing.

You sigh. You knock on the door. You wait....

The door doesn't open, but you head a very soft "Hello?" She was probably wondering who was knocking on her door so late. You say nothing at first.

"H-hello? Is anypony out there?" Fluttershy was beginning to think maybe it was the wind… or something.

You gulp. "A-aunt Fluttershy, it's me… A-anon" You were stuttering… good going dipshit.

"Anon?" Fluttershy opened the door, she didn't even crack it open to check, she just opened it, she was smiling. At least for a moment. The moment she looked at you, she got worried. Even you hadn't noticed that you looked raggedy and even dirty from laying around on the street. "A-Anon?..are you.." She steps aside, to let you in "Please come in, what happened?"

"U-uhm, what do you mean?" You looked away from her. There was still something obvious about you that she caught on to. Best to just not look her in the eye.

Fluttershy closed the door as you stepped inside. "Well, Anon… you don't look well. Actually… Anon… what are you doing outside at night? Don't you know there's school tomorrow and… Oh." Fluttershy giggled.

You cringed, still looking away so she couldn't see. What did she find so funny? "W-what's so funny?"

Fluttershy walked up from behind you and gave you a gentle nuzzle from behind your neck. It was… reassuring. But not enough for you to look back. "You must be nervous about the party tomorrow. Well, don't you worry Anon. I know crowds can be a little scary. But you'll be around all your friends. And it's going to be lots of fun, you'll see!"

You had to not look at her. That's all you had to do. But as you looked ahead, towards the couch. You could see Angel, staring back at you. He was wrapped around a blue blanket. Dammit… him. Just keep it together.

"O-oh, right..yeah...the party...I-I guess...I am a little...nervous..."

"Oh Anon, please don't be nervous." Fluttershy went to look into your face, so she could give you one of her bonafide reassuring smiles "I'll be there too, and I'm sure y-.... Anon?" Fluttershy noticed that everytime she entered your peripheral vision. You'd slowly turned away from her. "Anon, why… why won't you look at me? I-I know you're nervous but..."

...This was a mistake. She was already seeing something was wrong. And this wasn't related to Discord. You couldn't lie… because the moment she went to Twilight's castle… she was going to… You started to tear up, you fucked up Anon. You fucked up.

And as you hid it from her, Angel was able to see you were crying.

"Anon?...please answer me...please.." You didn't want to upset her.

Angel got up from his blanket and rushed over to Fluttershy, grabbing her attention. "Angel? What's the matter?"

He was trying to pull her away from you. For what purpose? You didn't know. But, you were actually thankful for him taking the attention this time. You wiped your tears away. And tried better to compose yourself.

Angel on the other hand, could tell that's exactly what you were trying to do. And while he considered you an enemy when it came to Fluttershy and her affections. Even he had never seen you cry. And considering he was now, at this moment, in third place in knowing anything about your secrets. For him to come to your rescue. If you knew, you'd thank him later for it.

"Angel, come on now. I-I'm dealing with something important. I promise I'll get you a snack when I'm done ok? I'll even give you some extra, just for you." Fluttershy was trying to shoo away Angel. She couldn't do it by just telling him to go away, wasn't in her nature. But maybe with the promise of treats?

After you were sure your tears were wiped off. You turned to Fluttershy, who was looking down at Angel. And the moment Angel saw you were ok. He just backed off from Fluttershy. But not without giving you the "I'm watching you" gesture. While he believed you were really hurt, he still had some doubt. And seeing that, you could tell he definitely did you a favor. Though, you weren't sure yourself why he did such a gesture.

"Angel?...Angel Bunny?" Fluttershy called out to him

But he just hopped off, just out of the room itself. Without telling her a word apparently.

"I-I sure hope I didn't upset you..." Fluttershy was talking to nobody now, but she was afraid she hurt Angel's feelings. In fact, she was starting to think she hurt yours, somehow.

She turned towards you, she could see you were facing her now. But despite your tears gone. your somber smile was off putting. "A-Anon… did I hurt your feelings when I mentioned you were nervous about the party?"

...Even trying to put up a false front. Fluttershy was upset about something. Maybe she could tell something even deeper was wrong. Or maybe she really thought she had hurt you… and...
...nope, you started to tear up again. All you needed her to do was just smile and cheer you up. Not act sad.

"N-no, I'm fine… I'm just… tired" Why couldn't you get over this? WHY?! Chrysalis threatened to kill you before. So why did this affect you more?

...You couldn't figure it out. And you couldn't stop your tears. Your lie was easily saw through.

"Anon...." Fluttershy stepped up to you and wiped your tear away gently with her hoof. "Please tell me what's the matter. If it's not the party, then what is it? Maybe I can help? Oh! In fact! I know just the trick to turn that frown upside down!"

Her maternal instinct was kicking in as she put on a bright smile, even though she was still worried, she knew you always calmed down when she was affectionate towards you. She, like before, gently grabbed you, and flipped onto her back, so you could hug onto her tummy. "Are you feeling bett-.....Anon?" She was smiling up until she looked onto your face. You still looked miserable to her.

But you still took the opportunity to lay your head down on her belly. even feeling as shitty as you did. It made you feel safe, but not enough to make this a distant memory. Maybe it was because someone you seen for so many seasons, go through so many friendship issues, and get through them with her friends. Suddenly went full retard on you and tried to banish you. And if the show was any indication… it could have even been for a 1000 years… if you lived that long. "......Aunt Fluttershy....Au...nt.."

You grasped onto her tightly, and just nuzzled, taking in her warmth. You didn't want to be anywhere else. "C-can I stay here tonight. Can I sleep here? Can I sleep here with you..please… please..please?"

Fluttershy's mind only grew with grimmer thoughts when she heard that. What could have happened to make you want to sleep in her home? Not that she minded, you were always welcome. But she never thought your first real sleepover with her would be because of… whatever it was. "Of course Anon… but… won't you please tell me what's the matter?"

...You can't. ...You can't.

"....is...it's not your father is it? Is something going on at home?" You open your mouth to tell her yes.

"Y....y......"

You can't, you see a look of genuine worry in her face. Not just Flutterbutter worrying. REAL worrying. You clam up.

"Yes?....oh… oh no. I… he didn't do anything… t-to bad. Did he? Maybe just..a prank?" Fluttershy was hoping it was just one of Discord's silly pranks.

...Great, she was blaming Discord now. No, you couldn't let he blame him. For his sake, your sake, and her sake. You shake your head. "No, it's not him, or anything at home.."

"...Then what is it? Is there anything I can do to help? Whatever it is Anon, you tell me. I'm here for you" Fluttershy started to gently rock herself the best she could while on her back. Wrapping her front hooves around your body.

...You thought about it, just keeping it to yourself. But what good would that do? Once one of the ponies went to see Twilight. They'd know, and it'd spread among them. Including Fluttershy. It was inevitable. And as you tried to contain it. You knew, holding it in would only make it worse.

"...Aunt Fluttershy..." You thought about asking her to promise not to get upset. But you knew that was futile.

You took a breath. Between hiding it, and talking about it. You weighed the options one last time.
By not telling her. Life could eventually proceed as normal. But you knew everyone would find out, probably during the party. You would get barraged with questions. The hassle would be great. And Fluttershy, she might even be hurt that you didn't trust her enough to actually tell her whats wrong. And if she had to react at all, you didn't want her to do it in public.

But by telling her. You'd have someone who you could talk to about it. Maybe, to help you sort your thoughts and maybe not be so upset. Maybe even not be pissed off at Twilight. But that was going to be hard. The problem was, you knew this would upset Fluttershy and cause a catastrophe. So no matter what the choice. You were fucked.

...You decided to tell her. You would just have to make sure to try to cheer her up somehow right after. And even looking at her, you hesitated. And so you thought one last time. Was Twilight really at fault for her actions? You thought on Chrysalis. even you didn't fully believe her when it came to prejudice. And Twilight just attacked you right when she suspected you. And even with all the ways to think of another way. It was Spike who essentially saved your ass.

She was. She was totally at fault. And within your fear, your hurt on being attacked by a character who you essentially felt you watched "grow up". You felt anger, that this same character would be so damn aggressive. "...It's about Twilight.."

Fluttershy was extremely confused, she even held her breath for just a moment upon hearing Twilight's name. That… that couldn't be right. "...about Twilight? Anon what do you mean?"

You were shaking, just from hearing and saying her name. That was it, wasn't it? The terrible realization that Twilight just condemned you for even trying to talk with her about something you were sure would be ok to talk about. And then the fact that you knew if you were sent into Tartarus. It'd be the end. Period.

You could have possibly been lost forever. And the very fact that Twilight would have caused it. Made you cry, you didn't want to be alone again. You didn't want to know that could have happened. That was it. The fact you could have ended up alone because Twilight was being a fucking FUCKING SHIT! A FUCKING PIECE OF SHIT! You would have been alone in a place worse than earth, in a near literal hell. even if you found the exit. You'd be torn apart by Cerberus.

"Twilight, she tried to send me to Tartarus..." And that’s all it took.

Fluttershy went wide eyed. Utterly shocked. No, that couldn't be right. "A-Anon, a-are you sure? I mean… that just sounds like a bad dream."

You shake your head. as tears began to well up. You never EVER wanted to be alone. or a chance to be forced to be alone. "It wasn't a dream. It wasn't. S-she thought I was the changeling queen. She thought..."

You tell Fluttershy what had transpired at the castle. With each sentence. Fluttershy's heart grew heavier with sadness… and as the story went on. She even started to feel anger. The details you gave didn't sound like the imagination of a child. Fluttershy wanted to get up, and go find out Twilight's side of the story. And she was hoping she had a good one. Because Fluttershy thought that if she had succeeded. Then it was DEFINITE you weren't coming back.

"...I was afraid… I thought I'd never see you, or dad, or my friends again..I… I" You started crying. Now that you figured it out. You just cried. Telling the story, while it got it off your chest. Didn't help in the ways of calming you down. You were a pathetic ball of fluff.

You liked your life here. You liked the excitement. You liked being dragged around for stupid shit, even if you didn't like it at the same time. You liked how different each of your friends were. You liked having friends. You liked looking forward to the new day, even if on school days, you got slammed into it head first by a bed alarm. Hell, even falling on your head multiple times wasn't that bad. Because you would always get back up, because you still had a good day ahead of you… or you were running for your life. Whatever it was.

And you never wanted to lose it. Ever...

Fluttershy, could feel you shaking on her belly as the tears from you flowed more and more. No, She wouldn't go confront Twilight now. She held you tight. Gently rubbing her right hoof along your back. "Anon… would you like to sleep with me tonight? We can cuddle close, and I'll tell you a story. Would you like that?"

You sob and cry, nuzzling firmer into her. You just wanted to feel her warmth, and her love. Things you'd never feel ever again back on earth. You tell her, in a weak, sobbing voice. "I-I'd like that… s-s-o much.."

Chapter 106

Fluttershy didn't do anything to get you off her belly. She let you take your time. She was even willing to lay on her back all night if you felt you couldn't get up to head to her bed. But it made no sense to you to not lay in her bed if that's what you said you wanted. So you slowly and carefully get off her belly, and head to her room while Fluttershy follows.

Fluttershy was internally trying to figure out what actually happened in her head. She thought she herself may have been jumping the gun in her mind. Twilight could be irrational sure, but actually going through the means and measures to seal up a colt without at least making some sort of check? But Fluttershy knew you were smart, she felt while the changeling debate that you mentioned was a little odd, that you were indeed capable of keeping up with Twilight. She didn't know how to feel, and at this moment, she would disregard things for now. And be there for you.

You said nothing, you just hopped up on her bed. Fluttershy giving you a little push with her muzzle to get you up there. You immediately lay on your belly and curl up like a cat while you look into Fluttershy's eyes.

Fluttershy, noticing your sad soaked eyed, took the opportunity to once again give you one of her warming smiles. She even gives you a peck on the forehead. Your expression only changes a little.

Fluttershy notices your small smile. This calmed her heart. She was afraid you'd be too traumatized to react. She hovers up a few feet and lays on her belly next to you. Cuddles up next to you. And wraps her wing around you like a blanket.

You could feel your heart slowly calm itself. You felt safe with Fluttershy. Her wings were so soft, and yet, pretty good at keeping you warm. You nuzzle your head to her side. This was fine. This was good. Maybe if you calmed down enough. You could try to rationalize better without breaking down.

"So, what story would you like to hear? I may not have any storybooks with me right now. But I'm sure I can come up with something that will make you feel better." ...You didn't know any pony stories that'd you'd be willing to hear right now. No, you were fine with just cuddling. You still wanted to manage your thoughts.

"Can we just lay here? Until we fall asleep?"

"Of course Anon, anything you want. But are you sure you wouldn't like to hear a story? It might help"

You nuzzle again on her side, resting your head against it. "...It's fine, just being near you makes me feel better."

Fluttershy doesn't argue with you. "Then I won't get up, for any reason. I'll lay here until you want me to move. Ok?"

"Ok..." You were fine with that. You closed your eyes. And just waited for sleep to hit. You felt nothing more could happen. Not while you were in Fluttershy's gentle presence.

You give it one last thought before drifting to sleep. Could you forgive Twilight? ...Maybe. Once you calmed down, maybe, you should go talk to her. But then, you felt a tinge of anger. If she tried to rationalize her assault on you, or play it down as if it was nothing. You knew. You knew you'd lose it. You'd have to see tomorrow.

You were falling asleep. You were finally calming down thanks to Fluttershy's presence.

Fluttershy had begun to hum. She wanted to do something that would help further ease the tension. Her humming was like a massage to your ears. You didn't protest. No, you were too far gone now.

You fall asleep.

No dreams tonight. Or none you could remember, or cared to remember. But luckily, no nightmares either. Fluttershy must have been some bonafide Dream-catcher or something.

you felt at peace in your sleep.

Or you did, until you heard a yell. "SHE DID WHAT?!" You slowly open your eyes. That voice?... You could only hear muffled talking after that. Fluttershy was no longer next to you, and there was sunlight in the room. It had to be morning.

You yawn, you didn't catch the noises coming from the other room at first. And you were disappointed Fluttershy wasn't around you upon waking. But the moment you hear voices in the other room. You snap to attention. The quieter voice was obviously Fluttershy. And the other… Discord… finally.

You move over to the door, and put your ear against it. That yell from before. That had to have been Discord. Fluttershy must have told him what you said.

"N-now Discord. Please calm down. T-there is a possibility it's just one big misunderstanding. M-maybe Anon imagined some of it?" Fluttershy, from the sounds of it. Had done some rationalizing on her own. And seemed to try to want to look at things from a not so dark side.

"Fluttershy. I know you want to see this optimistically, but I know Anon. He wouldn't imagine chains sprouting from the ground and holding him down. And he wouldn't lie about it either..."

Woah… Discord was not sounding like his usual self. There was no joviality in his voice.

"I don't think he'd lie either. But Discord, do you think Twilight would really go that far without at least confirming if Anon was a changeling or not? I don't want to doubt Anon, he was so… he looked dreadful. I had to do my very best to make him comfortable. But Twilight is also my friend, I've known her since she first arrived in Ponyville. Something doesn't seem right..."

"Weren't you the one who told me of a certain time Twilight tried to cause a friendship problem, that if Celestia had not arrived, then the entire town would have clobbered each other into submission for a doll?"

You open the door slightly to eavesdrop further on them. Fluttershy cringed and looked down "...yes."

"Then I have no doubt that Anon is telling the truth. You do realize, Fluttershy, that if she had succeeded. I wouldn't be able to just bring him back, right? I'd have no way of tracing him."

Fluttershy grimaced "...no..."

...So you were right. If you ended up in Tartarus… you were fucked. And that didn't sit well with you at all. Discord started tapping his paw digits with his talons. "I am his father Fluttershy, you do realize I have to see that this matter is resolved."

"I-I know. B-but… Discord, please let me come along. Please? Pretty please? I'm afraid something bad might happen. Maybe I could… erm… moderate?" Fluttershy was afraid that if she wasn't there. Either Discord or Twilight was going to go overboard.

Discord slithered over to Fluttershy, giving her a hug "Fluttershy, Fluttershy. I appreciate your worry. But I promise I'll handle this just fine. Trust me. Besides, how am I going to learn to deal with fatherly issues if I can't do it on my own? Hmmm?" He sounded calmer. But you swear you could see his eyes having internal flames.

"But Discord, wouldn't this be more of a family issue? I am Anon's Aunt, remember?" Fluttershy reminded him.

"Yes but..." Discord really didn't want her coming "...this is really more of just… a father thing."

"Discord… I feel… I need to go. He came to me in a way I had never seen him before. I can't just stay here and do nothing. I think he needs both of us for this. We need to go… as a family."

Discord clenched his talons, it looked like he wanted to scream. But he held it in. And sighed, defeated "You really won't take no for an answer. Will you?"

Fluttershy shook her head, hovered up, and gave Discord a hug "It'll be ok, I'm sure we'll get everything sorted out together."

Discord hugged her back, knowing he couldn't and wouldn't do anything underhanded to make her back out. Still...

"I'm at least going to have a one on one with Anon, where is he by the way?" Discord looked around, not seeing you.

Fluttershy pointed towards her room, making you hide your head behind the door. "He's in my room… but can you wake him gently? I don't want him having a fright."

Discord nodded. "Of course, would you mind waiting outside? I'll only be a moment."

Fluttershy nodded, but, she was curious on something "What are you going to talk about?"

"I just want to talk to him about what happened. But privately"

"Privately?" Fluttershy tilted her head, she didn't understand.

"Yes. If he knows you're overhearing the conversation then he might hold certain things back. It's a guy thing really. Not wanting to say things that would trouble one with such a gentle heart. Such as yourself." Discord was laying it on smooth, But clearly he just wanted to talk with you more candidly.

"I… well… mnnn." Fluttershy already felt bad about what happened. She couldn't think of what you might be holding back that could be worse than what you already said. "I won't argue with you. But please, just don't pressure him or scare him. He's been through enough."

Discord nodded "I promise."

With that Fluttershy went through her front door and waited outside. Discord hovered over into Fluttershy's room, you waiting by the bedroom door for him. You still weren't too pleased with the situation. But the sleep, and Fluttershy's loving care really did help you settle your mind and not be as disturbed like you were yesterday. For now, you were thinking clearly.

But still… knowing the fact that you could have indeed been fucked. It made you feel angry inside.

Discord looked upon the bed first, but didn't see you.

"Over here Discord." You call to him as you close the door. Even with Fluttershy another door away. You understood why the conversation had to be private.

Discord's head span around, and then literally turned behind himself as he looked at you. And smiled his usual welcoming but at times, suspicious looking smile. "Ahh, there you are. Hmmm… weren't you supposed to be sleeping?"

"I was, until you woke me up with a yell. I don't even have to guess what that was about. I overheard you and Fluttershy talking a little after that. Is it true? You really wouldn't have been able to find me?" You wanted to know. Directly.

Discord shook his head "I could. But it would take a long time. And that's assuming nothing had happened to you between then. Tartarus is a terrible place. And a pony would get lost, and most likely never be heard from again should they wander around aimlessly."

"Then… how were you able to find the hive?"

"Simple, one, that tower fortress was already a giant eyesore. And two, I could see where the fortress and it's occupants were going during the actual sealing. But that's the thing, I wouldn't know where you had ended up going unless I was witnessing the sealing. And even then, I wouldn't allow that to happen had I known"

You look at him, a little skeptical. "Not even for a cheap laugh?"

Discord shook his head. "Tartarus is not a joke Anon… well… it is for me. But for somepony like you, it is a dangerous place only meant to hold those who only wish to cause harm. Somepony like you wouldn't last two minutes down there. And if I lost you A… ahrm..."

You notice a tear go down Discord's cheek, as he turned around to wipe it away. Was he being genuine?

"Discord?" He wouldn't turn around, not even to try to pull a joke on you. You walk over to him and poke at his tail with your hoof. "Hey, Discord… you-HRNGK!"

Discord turned, picked you up, and latched onto you tightly "I COULD HAVE LOST YOU, MY CHAOS BUDDY, MY PARTNER, MY… friend." In fact, he was hugging you so tightly that you couldn't breath.

"DFGFDGDFGD"

"A-anon...I-I'm being serious when I say this. You are my second best friend in the world. And… I don't want to insult Fluttershy's name but. You are the only one I could see as being my partner. To think, I could have lost you. I never thought something like that could happen, I swear it. If I lost you… who would I have to help me in my merry making? Who would I have to tease and taunt without having to worry about them trying to leave me? Who would I have to discuss topics of chaos with? Nopony, that's who!"

"REGREGFDGFD" You were turning different shades of blue.

Discord gently put you on Fluttershy's bed so you could be at constant eye level with him. Though, you were just glad he let you go. You almost felt you were going to die from that. "And to think, this was all caused by the" Discord made a very mocking tone. "Princess of friendship"

You took a deep breath to get some air into your lungs, exhaled. And looked towards Discord. Wondering if he was truly being genuine when he was hugging you. "Discord?"

"Ooooohhh! This is why I don't want Fluttershy coming. I want to give Twilight a piece of my mind!" Discord reached into his own head and pulled out a cherry bomb. "I'm so steamed up about this that I swear, I'm going to burst!"

OH SHIT! You cover yourself in fear of an explosion. But… There was none, you peek through your forelegs to see what became of the bomb.

Discord was still holding it."But… for Fluttershy's sake. I have to keep it together" He slips the bomb back inside. "Anyway Anon, did you have something to say?"

You blink, you really were..or still are rather...waiting for one of his usual shenanigans. "..y-yeah..I just wanted to ask. If you really really meant those things you just said."

"I do..I know I've admitted to a few things before. But knowing you could have been lost in Tartarus. Possibly gone forever. I suppose it just… hit me on how much I cared about you. You have stuck to the plan and have played the part as my son without fail. And for that, I thank you." Discord was using an eraser at this point to literally rub out any cube shaped tears that fell out of his eyes.

So, he was truly being honest. You weren't used to him acting… normal. Or as normal as he was going to get. ...And yet, the way he was acting. And your thoughts from before. You felt, since he made this confession. You had one to make of your own.

"Discord, I feel the same way. You know, I used to think you were mostly a dipshit. You could be cool, and I appreciated when you were nice. But usually I wanted to strangle you for most of the things you do to me. But, I always thought that deep down still. You thought as me as a plaything that just happened to be your friend and "Partner". But thinking back, like when you covered up the fact I moved the sun and the moon. Or when you snapped at Suri for talking down to me. Or hell, right now. I realized you treat me better than you treat anyone else… except for maybe Fluttershy. But… the point is.You're my best friend. And you could probably play the biggest prank on me ever, and I would still consider you my best friend."

Discord sniffed, he was feeling both happy, and sad at the same time "Please don't say that Anon..."

Wha? "Why not, it's true..."

Discord nodded, doing his best to keep his composure "I'm aware it's true. And I'd rather not think of it that way. I don't want to feel tremendous guilt for when I pull little pranks on you."

You smile, and even laugh at that. That was a hilariously absurd way of thinking. "Are you serious?! HAHAHAH!"

Discord flicked your nose, but it did little to stop you "Don't laugh, it wasn't meant to be funny"

You had to take a moment or two to calm down. because that was both cute and hilarious. You had your hoof to your face, propping it up as your laughter turned to light giggling. "S-hahas-s-orry. I m-mean. Hmmmm… ok. I guess. Still… thank you anyway Discord. You're a great guy, deep inside."

"Fluttershy tells me the same thing. Not like I need to be told however, I already know I'm great. That being said, you are pretty good yourself. But let's move this conversation right along before I start coughing up rainbows and kittens. I heard you weren't doing too well last night. What exactly happened?"

You sigh, and explain the exact version of events that transpired. Only leaving out that Chrysalis was the one who told you this would pretty much happen. That particular note interested you and you would investigate that later. "...I'm not happy with her, Discord. I'm actually afraid I might even hate her."

Chapter 107

"Hrn" Discord was stroking his beard, something about your story seemed off to him "Yes, I can see why you'd be so upset. But why, of all things, would you discuss changelings with her at all?"

"I just wanted to know why there couldn't be peace. Don't you think keeping the changelings around in one house is kind of? I don't know. They'd get bored eventually. Among other things. Wouldn't it just be better if they could all just be good guys? Or at least not have them and the ponies at each others throats?"

Discord rubbed his forehead, a little annoyed "No, I meant why would you discuss this with Twilight? Celestia is much more reasonable and wouldn't have tried this on you at all." Then he sighed "Still… Twilight had no right to do what she did. And unfortunately, straight out revenge is out of the equation."

"Straight out revenge? ...You were going to get revenge for what she did to me?"

Discord nodded "Of course I was, oh Anon. I may look like my usual perfect self. But deep inside. I want to turn her whole world upside down. For at least a day. But alas, We all know Fluttershy will not let it happen"

Awww, that was sweet of him. In a twisted sort of way. "Well… Thanks for the thought at least. So.." You sigh "We're going to go see Twilight right?"

Discord nods "We are, But I can assure you, I won't leave until she fully understands how catastrophic her actions could have been. Now then..." Discord puts his talons on your mane and pulls it out like a vegetable. A new puff of clean and straightened hair popping up on your head. He then proceeds to eat the hair he pulled out. "Ahh there we are, you must excuse me. I haven't eaten since yesterday and my stomach was killing me."

You didn't even feel the initial yank, and at this point. Something like that was normal, and not worth reacting to. "It's fine… Oh, wait. I got something for you. Let me just..."

You look around, until you realize you never took off your saddlebag, You look around, and see your saddlebag sitting on the side of the bed. Fluttershy must have put it there for you. You dig through your bag until you see the invitation envelope. You grab it with your mouth and show it to Discord.

"Hmmmmm?" Discord takes the envelope and flips it inside out by pushing his talons and paw together, making the invitational letter slip down. He quickly catches it and reads it. "Discord hrn hrn, invited..hmm..compilation..hrn… mmm"

"You weren't around when I got this. I was almost getting scared I wouldn't see you at all before the party. And well now. I don't even know if I really want t- OW!"

Discord whaps you on the head with a rolled up newspaper he just manifested. "Bad Anon, bad. Don't get so depressive that you're willing to upset everypony else. Parties are meant to be fun. And you can't have fun being mopey, understand?"

Yeah, you understood. but, this time. It wasn't because you were going to be mopey… well, maybe a little. "Discord, what do you think is going to happen when Twilight doesn't show up? Fluttershy will obviously still want her to go. And everyone else will still be expecting her. She's going to be the mopey one after all this. You know that right?"

"You assume Twilight isn't going… again" Discord whaps you "Bad Anon, bad."

"Ow! Stop that!" You wave your hoof at him, trying to knock the newspaper out his his talons, that was getting annoying.

"Oh relax my pint sized partner, I'm sure we'll find a way to make this all work out. For now, let's go give Twilight a talking to. Maybe mess with her a little without letting Fluttershy catch on. How does that sound?" Discord poofs away the newspaper

He was right from before. He really didn't look all too upset despite him saying he was deep inside. "...that..I guess… But, are you sure you're ok?"

Discord nods "I am, are you ok Anon?"

You sigh, and give it some thought one last time "Yeah… I'll be fine. I think I'm mostly over it. Still, If Twilight tries to make this not as big a deal as it could have been. I'm going to flip"

"Well, I can't say if that will or will not happen. So, if you'd like, I'll flip right along with you"

...Again, that was reassuring in the twisted kind of sense.

With that, you and Discord head out through the front door where Fluttershy was waiting. She looks upon you both. You weren't crying and looked a lot calmer now. At least to her as compared to last night. "Good Morning Anon… erm… how..are you feeling?"

"Better" You go up to give her a hug, to let her knows things are ok "Thanks to you and Dad"

Fluttershy felt absolutely relieved, not only from you being calm and seemingly happy. But Discord looked calmer to her as well. She already felt that all things were going to be ok. "I don't know what you did Discord. But I'm very happy that you did it." Fluttershy smiled up to him.

Discord chuckled, blowing on his talon claws and rubbing his chest as a "Best Dad Ever" shirt appears on him. "I don't even think I need to say it, it's self explanatory"

Fluttershy giggled at Discord's cute joke. Well, you were glad she was in a good mood. Because depending on how this went. Somebody was going to be in a really bad mood.

The three of you went on your way to the castle. Fluttershy was still worried about one thing however. "Is it really ok if Anon misses school?"

"It'll be fine Fluttershy. What could missing one day of school possibly cause? Besides, this chat with Twilight is much more important. Don't you think?" Discord responded. He wasn't lying. You agreed with him completely.

"I do, but. Does Anon have to be around for this? I have a feeling… some bad things are going to be said..." Fluttershy was starting to look worried.

"I'll be fine Aunt Fluttershy. I promise, besides. I want Twilight to apologize to me. Right there and then. If I went to school. I'd just be worried about what was going on between you three."

"Fluttershy, You needn't worry at all. Anon is..." Discord teleports right over you and gives you a pat on the head "a mature and intelligent little colt. Mature enough to handle the conversation like a big grown stallion. You said so yourself, he's very smart"

Fluttershy nods. "He is… Are you sure you'll be ok Anon?"

You nod. "Yeah, besides. With you around Aunt Fluttershy. I never have a reason to be sad." You move up next to her, and nuzzle your head on her side.

You meant what you said, even if it was childish. As long as she wasn't being pessimistic or depressed. She was always a ray of sunshine.

"There see? I can't believe I've got to be the one to say it. But as long as we stick together as a family. We'll always manage to get through even the worst of adversity. And...." Discord started coughing "Ok that's enough of that. I could only take so much unity and balance at one time. Especially when I'm the one to first realize it"

"...but, you're right Discord. And.." Fluttershy lightened up again, giggling at Discord and, just as he hovered above you to give you a pet, she hovered above him to give him a pet. "If it wasn't for you, we'd never be a family. I think it was a really good idea to adopt Anon. Everypony has been able to see that you aren't a meanie like they thought just by seeing that you really could be good and nice."

Discord tapped his talons and paw together, feeling a little embarassed "W-well, That's well and good. B-but I really don't care how other ponies see me.." He was never going to finish that sentence. And mention that his goal was to make sure they never looked down on Fluttershy again.

Fluttershy gave Discord a big hug "Oh I know you do! deep down, you're just a nice, cuddly, softie!"

Discord stops, he slowly accepts, and twists his head and arms around so he could grasp and hug Fluttershy without having to turn. "A… erm… only for the moment… just this moment."

Awww, how could you not join in on this? You were already feeling better about the whole thing. Because it was moments like these, that made you feel like you were part of a family. And that feeling, was one you'd hope would never go away. It was worth keeping up the lie.

You three continued your trek to the castle . You could already see fillies and colts leaving their homes to go to school. You hoped Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon wouldn't get sour that you dipped on them. But you were sure they could handle the project just fine on their own. You just wondered what Discord planned to tell Cheerilee on the reason that you weren't there today.

The three of you approach the front doors of the castle. Fluttershy moves up to them first. And gently knocks on them. No answer.

She knocks again. No answer. "Twilight...Spike...are you in there?"

Discord moves up next to her and pats her on the head "Fluttershy, if I may, I think a firmer approach is necessary."
Discord cocks his paw like a gun. And punches the door. The boom was so heavy that you felt the ground tremor.

Still no answer. "Will, now that is rather distressing.." He mentions

You roll your eyes, and just push the doors open, and walk inside. Cute as the moment was, you didn't want to be waiting around out there all day. You didn't know what it was, but being near the castle. about to talk to Twilight again, was making you feel a little sour again.

"I-I guess..we could just let ourselves in" Fluttershy muttered, she didn't like just barging in unannounced.

The three of you step inside, and head towards the Cutie Map chamber. And the three of you didn't have to go any farther than that. Twilight was inside, on her seat, her face was planted right on the map.

Fluttershy carefully approached Twilight first, she wasn't reacting, she approached closer to her at a slower pace, Still no movement.

"T-Twilight?" Fluttershy drew ever closer, enough that she could reach out with her hoof and tap her, and she did just that "Twilight… are you ok?" No movement. "T-T-T-Twilight?"

...Noooooo… No she wouldn't. She couldn't. She didn't.

"nnmmnnffgmmmmhhh" Twilight groaned as she raised her head slowly, her eyes bloodshot red, veiny, and her coat color looking slightly paler than usual.....soommmmeeehhoowww.

"T-Twilight? Wh-what happened?" Fluttershy was now worried for Twilight, that kind of made you feel angry inside. Even if the only reason she was doing it was because she just cares too much.

"...I haven't slept… Fluttershy, I did something terrible yesterday. I haven't left this room since it happened. I sent off Spike because I didn't want him to see me like this. I had to bribe him with gems… ugh… I just, I don't know what happened. I..I just. I mean, it just seemed so obvious. I should have checked, but If I stopped the spell to start another one, she could have escaped… but then it turned out it wasn't even her… I don't know how I could be so wrong. I..I honestly never seen a colt that smart before. And asking about changelings right after their banishment?...Ogh… F-Fluttershy, I'm, actually glad you're here… I don't think I could face A-"

Twilight turned her head, and saw that you and Discord was right behind Fluttershy.

"...Oh no..." Twilight slammed her head right back on the cutie map. "...Ohnmmmm" She moaned, she honestly had no idea how to handle this.

"....." Fluttershy didn't know what to think, that pretty much confirmed what you told her. And yet at the same time, she could see how badly Twilight was devastated. There was even a letter of some sort under her face. "T-Twilight, I.."

"You don't have to say it… You're all really mad at me, right?" Twilight says without movement.

"oh..I… er" Fluttershy didn't know what to say… but you did.

"I am.." You step up, you could feel something flowing through you. Was it rage? Maybe. Maybe you just wanted to knock her down another peg. Maybe… or maybe you just wanted to vent on her about how stupid she really was. Just because she didn't sleep doesn't excuse that, through confirmation, you could have been gone forever.

"You nearly sent me away forever Twilight, and for what? Because I was able to keep up in a debate about changelings? You had a spell that could reveal the truth right? Why didn't you just zap me BEFORE trying to seal me? I want to know that, right now!"

Twilight raises her head, everything she was looking at was in a blur. She looked at you, and sighed "B-because I thought you'd take a shot at me. Even if I cast the spell, you… mmnn, Chrysalis would have probably taken the opportunity to shoot right back with something more..painful. And if she escaped… I didn't know what could happen after that."

"But it wasn't her, it was me. Even Spike believed me. You're assistant, Twilight, a baby dragon, one we can presumably say is less learned than you are. Believed me. Or at least, was willing to question it."

"...I… I..." Twilight was already losing hope in this situation, she couldn't excuse what she had done.

"You're sorry right?" You eyed her, expecting the obvious.

"I..I am..I really am..an-"

"Good, because I'm not accepting it." You tell her, standing firm. You couldn't let go of that anger.

Fluttershy turned to you, gasping "A-Anon?"

You look over to Discord. "Dad, you mind taking something down for me?"

Discord nodded, he had a neutral expression as he made some parchment appear. He then poofed up a quill, licked the tip with his tongue, which was black and inky at the moment. And prepared to write.

"W-what's going on? I thought we were going to discuss things?" Fluttershy didn't like where this was going.

"...." Twilight just silently stared, she felt too weak to comment on what was going on.

"You want me to accept your apology right?" You stare right into Twilight's bloodshot eyes.

"...I do..but… what are you… doing?" Twilight was too tired to guess.

"Anon, Discord… I don't like where this is going. What are you doing?" Fluttershy asked, She was not expecting this at all.

"From the looks of it. It looks like Anon is going to have a list of demands." Discord tapped the parchment with his quill to make sure it was working. Of course it was.

You nod. "I am, I'm not going to be happy with a simple apology. And I want to do this my way. I was the one she was going to banish."

"But, Anon, look at her. She's been up all night, wracked with guilt. Don't you think we should just… let bygones be bygones?...Please?" Fluttershy gave you a big sad look.

You looked to Discord. He was buckling under pressure from Fluttershy. Dammit, even you felt offput now.

"Fluttershy… stop… Anon's right. What I did was irresponsible. So much so that I could have put him into a fate worse than death." Twilight was mustering up energy to stand, and put her hoof on Fluttershy, to let her know it'd be ok "..I'll be fine."

...Goddamit. You didn't want her to be fine with it. You wanted her to stew for what she did. Dammit, this was the problem people spoke of when it came to the show. Perfect little fucking Twilight can do no wrong, even when she does wrong..

And then there was Fluttershy. You didn't want to upset her. No wonder Discord didn't want her to come. He knew this was going to happen.

You sigh… "never mind, there's only one thing I want. I want to finish that discussion about changelings with you."

Discord poofed away the parchment and quill. He knew the situation had been defused thanks to Fluttershy. He doesn't even comment on the situation. He just lets you lead on.

"...T-that's it?..." Twilight asks.

You nod. "That's it. And depending on how that discussion goes, I might want one more thing from you."

"...Ok, I agree" Twilight doesn't even ask you what it is. And what you wanted was simple. The moment you confirmed that Chrysalis truly wanted to change. You wanted a meeting with the Princesses. And with Twilight hopefully agreeing with you. See if you could get some equality going on.

"Anon...." Fluttershy was relieved, she thought it was going to be something crazy "...are you still mad at Twilight?"

You at least wanted to be honest about this. "I am… but I guess, not as much." Or just not allowing yourself to be,

Fluttershy turns to Twilight "Twilight, can you do something for me?"

Twilight weakly nods "whuzzat?" Oy, she was really out of it.

"I want you to spend an entire day with Anon. I now understand that this really was a big misunderstanding. But… it is your fault Twilight. You don't understand Anon. But Discord does, and so do I. And we see him for what he is. A very smart colt, a very loving colt, a colt that makes us both feel oh so proud. Isn't that right Discord?" She turns to him

Discord nods "Of course, a chip off the old block. Though" Discord snickered "I think I'd actually have to feed him that chip for that phrase to have meaning" Discord looked around. No one was laughing. "hmmm...." Discord stays silent after that.

What was she doing though? "Aunt Fluttershy… I don't think that's a good idea."

Fluttershy could see what the situation had caused. It made Twilight restless, and it made you angry, different from the colt she grew to love. "Anon..I..I know I don't usually do this… but..." Fluttershy raises her right hoof, then puts it down. "But I'm putting my hoof down."

...Oh the irony.

...Shit… you weren't nearly hateful enough. Or to be exact. Hateful towards her to bring on le edgy "YOU AREN'T MY AUNT". You look to Discord.

He just shrugs the moment you both make eye contact "I'm ok with it, of course. I'd like to add that if for whatever silly reason that Anon is once again threatened with banishment. That it will be I who will be doing the banishing."

"Discord.." Fluttershy looked to him, she didn't want that....

"I'm sorry Fluttershy, but it's only fair. You don't want poor Anon having the possibility of being sent to Tartarus… do you?"

"I don't want anypony going there...."

Discord, surprisingly, even to you. Would not back down from this "Fluttershy, please believe me when I say I'm sorry. But if it comes to that. I will do it"

"Mm-mnngh… It wont..I p-promise I won't use any magic… on A-Anon… F-fluttershy… I agree to his terms..I promise it'll be ok..." Twilight was having trouble standing at his point.

"Mmnnn… I just don't… mnnn… Well..." Fluttershy looked to everyone in the room. "I just want everypony to get along. That's all I want… Anon… are you ok..with being with Twilight for the day?"

You didn't want to… but. Discord was at least backing you on this. And you did need the time to have a full discussion on the subject of changelings. Fine, it'll be ok. "...fine… but only for you Aunt Fluttershy..."

Fluttershy could feel the tension in the room, she let out a meek "Thank you..."

She didn't like the situation, or the bad feelings going around. She only wanted everyone to get along. She had never seen you like this before. It worried her. And yet, she did her best to grasp the situation. She couldn't tell you that you had no right to be mad. What Twilight did was… extremely bad. So she knew she couldn't just tell you to stop. All she could hope for was to try to make the situation better.

You were still angry. Still upset. But you were no longer scared, or feeling so emotional that you were ready to break down. You didn't get exactly what you wanted. But it was a start. And at least Twilight was complying. she understood the gravity of the situation. "o-ok...I-I'm ready t-t-then...A-Anon..a-a..re...y.....y....ogh" Twilight groans as she falls to the ground, and starts to snore. Out like a light.

There was no point in talking to Twilight at this moment. She was too tired and weak to keep up any kind of conversation.

Fluttershy moves over to Twilight, and gives her a gentle nuzzle "....Twilight...mnnnn"

"Well, that went splendidly. But look at the time! I need to take Anon home, and get him ready for the party!" Discord said, spontaneously out of nowhere.

Wut? Both you and Fluttershy didn't expect that.

"What about Twilight? We can't just leave her here..." Fluttershy said, not wanting to leave her friend on the floor.

Though, it didn't take you long to realize that Discord probably wanted to have a more private chat with you. It was still school time after all. Clearly he was making excuses. "That's fine..."

You look onto the downed Alicorn. She was in no shape for the party. "If Twilight has the energy, she can come to the party… as a sign of forgiveness."

"Really? You're not un-uninviting her?" That made Fluttershy smile a little, she was seeing a glimmer of hope in all this. Of course, she was also buying into Discord's lie "You really forgive her that much?"

You nod, you yourself lying about the forgiveness bit. But if it made Fluttershy feel just a little better. Then it was worth it. You were about to probably head home. The last thing you needed was Fluttershy having terrible thoughts fill her head. You'd rather Twilight not come at all. But telling her she couldn't in front of Fluttershy would have only made things worse. You probably had nothing to worry about. With Twilight being tired, yet still being invited, everyone else could just be told that Twilight didn't sleep last night. They would still probably figure out the truth of why she didn't sleep. But it would happen AFTER the party. Which… is just… fine.

Fluttershy gently moves Twilight's head to it's side so she wouldn't be pressing her face on the floor. She then hovered over to you. And gave you a gentle hug. "Anon… I love you. All I want for you is to always be the happy little colt I know and love. I know, I know the situation is bad. But I know we can all get through this. And if Twilight just spends a little time with you, and you with her. I know you both will be able to connect and be real good friends. You're very very smart, and so is Twilight. I know you both could have such interesting conversations if you are just willing to open your heart to her. C-can you promise me something… before you go?" You held in your sigh, you didn't want to promise anything. But. again. It's FlutterButter. She genuinely loved you. What could you do? Just thinking of telling her no slowly cracked your heart. You just couldn't do it. You held no hatred in your heart for her.

"What is it?"

"Just, keep your heart open. And please give her one more chance"

...You agree to it, much to your chagrin.

Fluttershy then looked to Discord "...and Discord… do you think you could at least put Twilight on her bed?...So she can get some rest."

"I suppose..." Discord snaps his talons. sending Twilight away in a flash of light.

With that, you all say your goodbyes. Fluttershy giving you both hugs. Fluttershy told you both that'd she see you at the party. She was still depressed about the whole situation. But she managed. She reasoned that if things went well, like she could imagine it, then things… things should be fine.

Chapter 108

Discord once again works his teleportation magic. Sending you and him back to his house. Into your room.

Upon arriving, you didn't take the time to take in your surroundings. You were just angry at the whole situation. "Argh, dammit! Why does Fluttershy have to do that! I can't even get the nerve to just… egh… ugh"

You sigh at the futility of your anger. Fluttershy had successfully deterred you shoving Twilight's "perfection" right up her own ass. Even if you did get what you wanted, what would it do? Eh, you at least would have made her feel how you felt right then and there. You had serious doubts that Twilight had never felt the true terror and despair you have felt back on earth… and on that moment. THAT moment was just as bad as anything from your old world. It would have been… a learning experience for her.

But now there was no real point. What's worse, Fluttershy wanted you to spend an entire day with her. That was not only going to be incredibly awkward, but you could only imagine it being you and Twilight not even really talking to each other because of what happened. Aside from the talk of changelings. You wondered how round 2 of that was going to go.

Then there was the party. WHO KNOWS how that's going to go. You felt that you needed to balance and focus your thoughts. "Ok..ok, maybe this won't be so bad. Twilight's obviously had a bad night because of what she did. But, ugh..."

You look up at Discord, who was busy reading the paper that was under Twilight when she had her head on the cutie map. "Discord, what do you think? Do you think I'm overreacting? I mean, you said yourself, she could have banished me forever."

Discord put on reading glasses he obviously didn't need as he answered you, his gaze never leaving the paper. " I think it's fine. A little on the melodramatic. But I don't see why she doesn't deserve an actual punishment. Look at Luna. A little bit of a hostile takeover and..." Suddenly, the whole house shakes, knocking you to your side. "Boom! Bang! Straight to the moon. And do I even need to mention locking poor innocent little me in a statue?"

"Ogh, was that you? You didn't… have… woah.." As you stood back up, you had realized you were in your room. And, IT WAS your room. The goop was cleaned. Everything was put back to it's place. The only thing missing was what was blasted off the dresser. Namely your alarm clock and the picture with Chrysalis.

You know Chrysalis said the room would be cleaned up. But, it was cleaned to near perfection. She actually kept her word. Though no doubt she actually had her changelings do it. "...they actually fixed my room."

"Hmmm?" Discord just shifted his eyes a little bit, then went back to reading "Seems they did, hrnnn"

Broken from your train of thought, you look over to the paper Discord was reading. "What's that? Is it the invitation letter? Didn't you already read that?"

"What this? Oh no no, This belongs to Twilight"

"You stole her invitation?" That seemed off to you, considering you were sure she wasn't even going to be there. And even if she was. Stealing the invitation wouldn't do anything to help the situation. Pinkie would just let her in anyway.

"Invitation? Oh no no, this is Twilight's letter of resignation"

Woah, WOAH WHAT?!

"W-what? You mean...from being a princess?" You cringed, You were super pissed at her. But, that's a little much. Especially when Equestria usually relies on her and the mane 6 for saving. "Discord… that's… a little too much man."

"Whatever do you mean Anon? I think it's great in all actuality" Discord chuckled evilly

Were you mad at her? Yes. Did you want her to suffer a little? Yep. Did you want her to feel how you felt? Did you want to her to see that being "smart" and "observant" doesn't constitute trying to send you to pony hell? Yes. Did you want her to step down from being a princess? No.

As stupid as the position of "Princess of Friendship" sounded. You knew just by watching the show that Equestria always had this "power creep" thing going on. And you doubted she had stepped down from being a princess anywhere in the current season. If she stepped down, what does that mean when the season finale villain shows up? What if Starlight Glimmer is working for what’s his face? The guy who made those eight items. Shit could go bad.

"Discord… She can't step down. I know I'm mad at her. But Equestria is usually SAVED by her… in ways. You know. She usually figures the shit out in the end. This is really bad"

"Well, she is" Discord poofs away the letter "And I think it makes everything that much easier for the both of us."

You narrow your eyes at Discord. "...Don't tell me you've been waiting for her to step down just so you could reveal that you were rusing everyone so you could take over Equestria."

...Oohh shit. Discord smiled joyously at those words, grinning as he rubbed his chin "That does sound like an excellent idea. Buuuuuuuuuuuuut… no" Discord presented the paper to you "It just means I don't have to keep up appearances with her anymore."

What huh? You look at the letter. It wasn't from being a princess… it was from being a social worker. You fall over. "...you did that on purpose" You weren't even yelling, you were in a strange mixture of irritation and relief.

"I did, didn't I?" Discord chuckled as he poofed the paper away "Just goes to show that you're not as angry at her as you thought. I figured as much."

You don't even snap at him. You just lay there. Annoyed "...Hey..you do know I was really actually upset when she did that to me right?"

"As was I when I found out about it, but now that time has passed, I've had time to think it over… namely after Fluttershy had requested you spend a day with her. What you want to do with Twilight from here on out is totally up to you as long as you stay within the prerequisites of the plan. I'm not even going to give you any advice or suggestions. This is your business. You handle it as you wish."

That was… really weird to hear out of Discord. But, it was also. Kind of mature of him to let you handle it without his meddling… well, as long as he doesn't actually meddle.

You don't answer him, instead thinking again. Twilight was… well, she didn't sleep. And she even made an attempt to start right there and then before falling on her face.

.....

You put your hoof to your face and shake your head. "Ugh… fine. I guess I actually can forgive her. But just this once… If she tries this shit again, that's it. Over and done with."

"That sounds fair. Now..." Discord turns over to you "Do you mind telling me WHY they fixed your room?”

That was easy, nothing you felt you needed to hide. "Me and Chrysalis sort of came to this understanding."

"Oh ho. An understanding you say? Now that's interesting because last I checked, she wanted you dead. A pity, you both didn't get to experience my little surprise."

...Oh… He must have meant when you she attacked you, and you attacked that changeling. "...eh, no. We did fight. And… well, it was kind of pointless. I'm just going to guess you put some anti-kill enchantment on us, right?"

"Close, My spell is only effective inside my home. Reason being is this is the central home of ALL things chaos. Remember, my powers only work on you for a limited time unless I am constantly channeling my magic through you. So, using my home as a special beacon. It spreads the spell among all its occupants to make sure nopony has to accidentally kick the bucket… ahh… but I digress. I'm still intrigued about this whole Chrysalis business. How did you manage to get on friendly terms with her?"

"It was easy, once we realized we couldn't kill each other. it was all diplomacy. And.."

Discord interrupts you. "And that's why you talked changelings with Twilight. I had a feeling that might of been the case. But I didn't know to what degree. Anon, are you actually aware of what you are doing?"

Discord was showing worry and concern over the subject, which you found… a little hypocritical. "What do you mean by that? What? Do you have a problem with it? That's kinda weird considering you are going to make her my sister. I don't even have to mention the nanny thing"

"That, Anon, is all in the name of fun. I never planned on ever unleashing the changelings into Equestria. That's insane. Relatively speaking of course."

"Discord, can I ask you something?" Since you were going to have this chat with Twilight, you might as well have this chat with Discord too. You knew he wouldn't banish you. But, considering his own past villainy. You wondered his thoughts.

"I don't even have to know what you want to ask. You want to know about my thoughts about changelings and their situation when it comes to their relationship with ponies, their feeding methods, bla bla… correct?"

You nod. "Yeah, you've been around a long time. More than Twilight. So please, I want serious answers. Do you think the changelings and ponies could coexist? Because the way Chrysalis tells it, and well, the way Twilight reacted. It looks like the ponies are pretty unreasonable about the whole thing."

"Anon, the changelings themselves are merely drones. They are capable of individual thought yes. In fact, they all have different personalities just like any other pony would. But they all still unquestionably follow their queen. And I don't know if you've noticed, but she's very good at manipulating the situation into her favor."

"So, what you're saying is all of them are evil because their queen is evil?"

"Yes, and I'm also saying that there's no doubt that Chrysalis is trying to manipulate you… I don't know why. It's not as if you can do anything for her. But I'm just making an observation."

...but, that wasn't true.

"Woah, woah, woah. hold on. What about the changeling at cranky doodle's wedding?"

"The what now?" Discord was confused.

...No, you knew that was canon. If Bon Bon being secretive was a thing. Then that wedding happened… and at that wedding was a changeling. Who everyone knew was there, and despite that, nobody did anything about him. Hell, the princesses were there too. The only ones who weren't there was the mane 6.

"You know, that donkey from season two? That Pinkie annoyed the hell out of, and then sort of fixed his life by revealing she knew Matilda"

"Ohhhhhhh, right right. Him. I didn't watch all the episodes mind you, so… hrn. There was a changeling there? Odd, what did Twilight think?"

Woah… You knew something about the show… or namely, Equestria's going ons, that he didn't know. And what's more, it didn't fit in with his opinion. "She wasn't there."

Discord raised his eyebrow "She's always there. What, are you going to tell me she wasn't going to show up when a changeling crashes a wedding?"

"Actually, he was invited. Also Celestia and Luna was there too. Just… not the mane six. They were busy fighting this bugbear… thing."

Discord could barely believe it. "Indeed? Well then, seems I wasn't wrong when I suggested talking to Celestia about this whole changeling business. But, hrnnnn........." Discord started stroking his beard, he couldn't come up with another answer, it looked like you stumped Discord. "Hrnnnnnn… Then I suppose changelings can act on their own whether Chryssi wills it or not." Discord smirked "...oh gee, I hope that doesn't come back to bite her or anything"

What? "What do you mean by that?"

"Oh, you know, the collapse of kingdoms is indeed a repeating event in history, no matter what dimension you're in."

"...and that means?"

"I can't say. I don't want to say a thing further on the subject until it actually happens. If it happens. And before you mention anything. No, I won't actively be participating on what you'll maybe eventually figure out. It's just something that will just… happen. As for my further thoughts on the changelings. I must say I am surprised that there's at least one changeling capable of being invited to a wedding without being chased out. But that doesn't change my opinion on their queen."

"Discord, look. That I can get. Chrysalis, at least for her only appearance in the show, is evil. Buuuuuuut. considering their only food source is love. It would sort of force her to try to forcibly take it if the ponies weren't willing to negotiate some sort of, I dunno, truce or something. Maybe she started out as neutral, or maybe she didn't know that draining love would cause the ponies to hate her. And you know. One thing leads to another, and she becomes evil, and cruel. That makes sense, right? Considering how quick you turned, maybe she just needed a pony friend that understood her. Like you did."

Discord started to understand what was going on. "Aha… I see, you want to reform Chrysalis."

You… sorta did. You didn't know. She COULD be tricking you. But… maybe not. You were giving her the benefit of the doubt. "Kinda, I want to understand the situation first. Then maybe try to get her to be good. Discord, you were a bad guy too until you felt that feeling in your heart."

"Yes, I like to call that the "Fluttershy Effect". The heart, twisting itself painfully at the mere thought of losing somepony that cared about you, and even made a promise that could doom her world, over a little thing as turning a lake to ice. It's enough to wreck a lesser pony. But, I'm sure you know how that feels"

You did. And really, maybe that was a good thing. Fluttershy's unconditional kindness kept you from doing something possibly stupid and edgy. You nod. "Yeah, and that's why I think, if done properly, that it might be possible to reform her, as long as she wants to try. She just needs a pony that can tolerate her, and could resist that whole love drain thing. It's going to be tough. But, I think, I think I could do it. With your help of course."

"Me? oh no no no, if you want to try. Then that's your business. I still plan to proceed with my plans without this reform nonsense. But I do wish you good luck. Despite it being a foolish endeavor"

"Well, even if it's foolish. She kept her word about getting my room cleaned up. And I'm willing to give her a shot… within reason"

"And how do you plan to handle this when I inevitably make her your sister? Because as I said, I don't want any part in this. Except for the front seat ticket for when it inevitably blows up in your face."

Yeesh, he had no confidence in you for this. Or maybe, he was trying to protect you in his own way from making a stupid mistake.

Either way, if he didn't know about the changeling at the wedding. Then, you can't count on him being right about Chrysalis… Also, you should find out if that changeling was among the hive when it got sealed up and then brought here.

You just nod at Discord, accepting the challenge. And hoping. That if somehow you're stupid enough to be caught in a trap set by Chrysalis… that hopefully he could fix it. "That's fine. I even know she's still going to tease me. And that's fine too. Because If I can deal with it from you, I can deal with it from her… And speaking of dealing with… uhh, how are they going to survive here without a food source?"

"Hrn? Oh, I took care of that yesterday."

Hrn? "Really? was that the reason you were gone for so long?"

Discord nodded "Yes, you see. I needed to see my friend, The Smooze."

"The green goopy guy? Why?"

"Simple. You see, Smoozy is quite the little soup of emotions. In fact, there are times that when he's feeling a strong enough emotion. He'll change into a purplish color. And anything he comes into contact with will feel the same emotion he is feeling."

Wait a second… that sounded familiar. "Wait, woah woah woah. Hold on. You mean, he becomes like the G1 Smooze?"

"G1 Smooze? Hrn… Ahh yes, I forget that there were "Generations" of Equestria. Though, those are actually just other dimensions as well. Dimensions I've never bothered with. Would you care to explain?"

"Yeah, in G1, these crazy witches unleashed the smooze, which, by the way. Was fucking huge as hell. It took over all of Equ..." no, it was called Ponyland. But, given the whole dimensional thing. "It covered that version of Equestria in itself. But any pony that got covered in the smooze became cranky and mean."

Discord nodded "Then it is like that. Although, the sample I took from ole Smoozy won't be touching anything. It is merely an unlimited food source of love so I won't have to clean up my basement later. It's not perfect either, but food is food I suppose."

You were interested on how that worked. Or how it even produced love. You knew that "The Smooze" in this universe wasn't evil. And, was just a child like slime thing. "How can they take love from it? Wouldn't you have to smother something with the slime for it to feel the effects?"

Discord nodded "Not necessarily, no matter how far you separate a piece of the smooze. It will always be a part of him, and therefore it is as good as any living being. All I had to do was give him a collection of Pinkie Pie dolls and he just turned purple with happiness. There's some love in there too, and since it's of an unlimited amount. Enough to feed an entire hive."

Hold on, if that's all he had to do. Then what took him so long? "Then why were you gone all day if all you had to do was give him Pinkie Dolls?"

"...He also wanted to dance. To about thirty songs" Discord then snapped at you, with a growl. "Look, I don't have to explain to you what I do with my time. I am supposed to be the father. And therefore all I have to say to you is that it's "none of your business" "

You chuckle. "Then you probably shouldn't have told me that you danced with him. You went through that trouble just so the changelings wouldn't suffer. Are you sure you mean what you said about them?"

Discord nods "Well, considering I had no idea about the whole wedding thing. No, but I still stand by what I said about their queen… And Anon" Discord looks at you, he was looking at you with all the seriousness he could muster, he even put his paw right on your shoulder "I won't stop you from trying reform her, but don't let her fool you either. Unlike me, she won't be doing it for the fun of it. And I don't want to lose my partner because he suddenly decided to be an idiot"

You've never seen Discord on such a consecutive streak of actually caring about you. You never thought you'd have to reassure him on anything either. He was usually on the ball with most things. But this, it did make you feel a little doubt. But, if you didn't try. Who would? Things were not as black and white as you previously thought. Though, you should have realized that with the fact that he himself had been reformed.

No, if you just proceeded carefully. Then you were sure you could do it. If Fluttershy could do it. Then you can do it.

You wink at Discord. "Hey, no sweat. Friendship is Magic remember?"

"Ha! You've got me there Anon, you certainly got me there." Discord chuckles for just a moment, then immediately goes back to his stern hard look. "But cut that out, I'm being serious. And since you want to put an emphasis on friendship and reformation. Then I'm going to ask you to promise me one thing… as a friend."

Geez, the tension. This was unexpectedly heavy. You were actually hoping for Discord to pull off one of his pranks. But..a promise as a friend? You could do that. You owed him so much. So a promise? Yeah, totally doable. "What is it?"

He hesitated at first. Then… finally, he said it "Anon, if you manage this. This whole, reformation thing. Then you have to promise me that you'll...." He stopped. It must be pretty hard for him to say. Was he afraid you were going to be fooled and die or something?

"Discord, whatever it is. You can tell me. We're buddies"

Discord sighed heavily, he looked really down on what he was about to say. "Ok… then, just promise me you'll… make her say "Friendship is Magic". And I mean in front of the whole town. And you get me to hear it so I could snap a photo."

...Ugh… Even though you were hoping for a joke. You somehow STILL felt annoyed. Even if it was amusing. "...are you serious? I thought you were going to tell me not to get killed or something."

Discord rolled his eyes "I'm not worried about that. Why would I be? While my spell only works in the house, she's going to be in a much weaker form when she's out and about. So there's nothing to worry about. No, I just want the satisfaction of her admitting that friendship is magic just like I did. Then I'm going to use it as my very own white noise so I can raise my mood for those more chilling nights."

That was ok, what he did was his own business, just like he was letting you do your own. But... "That's fine, just… don't openly gloat when she does admit it. I don't want to give her a reason to relapse in any way."

"All I can give you is a maybe. In anycase, This chat has gotten a little on the boring side and we do have a party to get ready for. That includes finding a gift for you that won't cause any commotion. Terrible I know, but such is the burden of being a father. Do you have anything else to say before I go?"

Did you? Oh wait… You had one. "Erm, you're not going to just… throw Chrysalis at me out of nowhere. Right?"

Discord chuckled at that "What? didn't you want to reform her?"

You cringed, you did say that but… revealing her as your sister at a party is… a little much. "Ye-yeah… but, you know. Everyone is going to be there. And I think it'd ruin the mood of the party if she just… you know… came up."

"Oh please, you know they'd all be ecstatic and find it awe inspiring that your "long lost sister" finally found you"

He's right. They would be. And if Twilight did come… somehow. She wouldn't dare point her hoof at Chrysalis being well… Chrysalis. Not after all that shit. "Come on, I know you're the spirit of chaos. But, just do me this solid and don't spring her on me on the party. Ok?"

Discord rolled his eyes "Very well, but on the condition that I can introduce her at any time that I wish thereafter. And I will not negotiate"

Not very reassuring. But as long as he brought her out at a point where it'd be easier to accept and explain. You'd be fine. Because a party would completely kill the mood. "Alright, I agree, Just not the party… got it?"

Discord nods "Got it"

"really?"

"Yes, really?"

"Pinkie Promise?"

Discord's grin turned slightly evil "Oh, no no. Not this time. The way I see it, you could relapse at any time and be angry for some silly stupid reason. So I'm just going to leave it at that, and let your mind be preoccupied with the possibility of happily reuniting with your sister."

GODDAMMIT! WHY DOES HE ALWAYS DO THIS! "Dammit Discord! I thought we were buddies!"

"We are buddies, don't try to turn this around with that. You know it won't work. I'm not Fluttershy."

You point your hoof at Discord, annoyed with him. "If I'm your friend, then you'd do the friendly thing and..." Discord poofed away before you could finish your sentence "...Pinkie Promise… ugh… why do I even bother sometimes..."

Chapter 109

He didn't even tell you when the party was starting. Well, you did know what day. You just didn't know what time it was. Mostly due to your alarm clock being wrecked.

You had a charge… You could repair it… but… maybe not today. You walk over to the portal door and open it, peering outside. You didn't see any children around the town hall. You peek your head out of the portal to get a look around. Even with increased view. You didn't see a single filly or colt.

"GYAHHHH! HEADLESS PONY! HEADLESS PONY!"

...That voice. You, couldn't put a face to it. You look to your left and see a pinkish pony with a very light yellow mane with flowers, lillies you think, as a cutie mark. You could only vaguely remember her. "Er… Hi?"

"IT'S GOING TO EAT ME! WHYAAuuhh..." She faints.

"...Oh..right. That's… Lily I think… why did she?" You look down, you had no body, since it was on the other side of the portal.

Shit.. You quickly pull your head back in. "Did not… mean to do that… cripes."

You close the portal door and then head towards your floor door. "I guess I have some time. If I'm going to try to reform Chrysalis. I should probably start by thanking her for the room."

You open the door and head down into the living room to look for her. "Maybe she won't mess me too much now too, since she knows I'm an… Oh no.."

You just realized something. The whole Twilight business had made you forget that you had told Chrysalis most of the truth. "Ugh… dammit."

You wondered what Discord would think. He most likely wouldn't like it. But… you and him were bros right? He wouldn't stick you on a skewer and roast you, right? You'd have to hope that he wouldn't. Because if he figures it out first, or Chrysalis tells him before you did. That would look awfully bad. And then… he might actually do that "thing"… or something worse.

"Relax Anon, just relax. All you have to do is just talk to him right after the party. It'll… it'll be fine." ...Oh, you were really deluding yourself now. "Ok. Just accept it. Maybe he'll get a laugh when you tell him about the whole scaring her with the "God" thing. He does love that kind of stuff..."

You just stood there, talking to yourself. Until you realized that getting too worried over it was probably just as bad an idea. "Ok, worst case scenario is that he just probably takes my horn away. That'll be fine. It'll suck, but it'll be fine. He said it himself. Were buddies. Second best friend and all that. It'll be ok..." You put your hoof to your chest, breathe out, and extend your hoof forward. "Wooo.....ok...."

Hrn, that was easier than you thought. Or maybe you really were just deluding yourself too much. But you also wanted to get through the day now until you could talk to Discord as quickly as possible so you could get it over with. So, first things first. Thank bugbutt.

But as you looked around, she wasn't anywhere in the living room.

You look down at the floor where the trap door was. "...Do I dare?" You were going to at one point… Hopefully you wouldn't get ripped to shreds. "...maybe… if I go down there, she'll see it as a sign of good will… hopefully. Mnngh..."

You inch over to the trap door, and carefully flip it open. There was a staircase that led deep down into dank darkness. Despite the house being on a small floating island, those stairs looked like they went several feet deep. That's chaos for you.

You carefully approach the stairs. "Hello?...Anybo-Anypony down there?" No answer. "....mmnnn..."

That's annoying when there’s not even a scowl or hiss. "Chrysalis? You down there?" No answer.

You inch closer to the stairs, and start heading down slowly, being wary of your surroundings. Or… what you could see anyway. You had to be careful. If it went too deep, you'd just head back up and forget the whole thing. "Hello...?" Still no answer.

You head down a few more stairs down what seemed to be a cavernous underground. You could see some green glowing lights down the stairs. Was that the end? Or was it changelings coming upwards towards you? "Hello?..." No answer, looking harder down, the glows looked like they were coming from crystals. Interesting.

You decide to head down just a little more. "Hello? For the last time, Is anypony going to answer?"

"I am."

"I am? Huh?" You focus your eyes downwards, but don't see anyone. "Hello?"

You feel someone pat your back, startling you. You turn your head… and see that scrappy little Changeling from before. You turn around and step back downwards away from him. He was guarding the way back up.

"Oh… hey. How's it going?" You ask him, trying to sound friendly as to hope not to anger him.

He didn't answer, he just stared at you angrily, shaking his butt left and right as if he was going to pounce.

"Hello?..Hey, I'm talking to you."

"Well don't! you are an enemy of the queen and I will stop you from... your... plans" Wut? He didn't sound very sure of what he was doing.

You cock your head in confusion. "Uhhh, what are you saying? Last I checked your queen and I were cool with each other."

"Nothing but lies! The queen would never be friends with you! I shall avenge her honor for what you have done to her!"

Wuuut? "Uhhh, what do you mean? I just sai-"

"Enough! It's because of you and Discord that she got a headache when we captured you. And now it's your fault that we're stuck here. Our queen forced to associate with scum! Prepare yourself Anon, I will end you!" He was getting ready to fight. Was he for serious?

"CHARGE!" The little changeling rushed towards you, horn first. You just roll your eyes and step aside. Little bastard wasn't even looking where he was going. On fucking stairs no less. It was clear he wasn't going to listen to reason.

The little guy trips, and starts rolling down the stairs with grunts and yelps. You smile just a little. You found his dedication a little cute. You could also use this opportunity to listen to how far you had left to go before you reached the bottom.

Thirty-two yelps, that’s what you count up total. "Hrn… That's pretty deep."

You continue your trek shortly after the yelps ended. But after taking a few more steps down...

Suddenly, you hear the little scrappy changeling and the voice of the captain arguing. You couldn't exactly make out what with all the echoing. And before you could make another move, you heard the sound of wings quickly fluttering and echoing closer towards you.

The ever imposing captain flies over you and lands behind you, your exit once again being blocked. Ahh shit…

"...U-uuhh… Hi?"

The captain nods "Hello… friend Anon, please forgive that drone for his impudence. He never fully grew like the rest of us. Both in mind and body"

Friend Anon?..Wut? "We're friends now? Really?"

The captain nods. "Of course, any friend of the queen is a friend to the hive. Have you come to visit her?"

...Huh… "I just wanted to swing by and er… thank her for cleaning up my room."

"I see, then come down. She has been expecting your return" He grinned a rather creepy grin, as he stepped closer to you, making you step back.

"Ummm, can't you just...go get her?"

"The queen is tired, and doesn't wish to leave her spot. Come friend, I shall lead the way"

...Oh… this was… not… exactly good, you didn't want to go this far down. "Erm...can you just tell her I said thank you?"

He stepped closer as you stepped back "But wouldn't you want to tell her yourself? She would appreciate it."

it was clear you weren't going to go past him. The only option you saw was to just go with it. Do what you came down for, and leave.

"Ok ok, just… stop walking towards me like that. Makes this whole thing feel like a trap."

The captain stopped his approach, looking right into your eyes with his blue pupiless eyes. "Oh..." He floated behind you again, you now had a clear way to the exit. But, considering he was right there. That was probably STILL not a good idea. "Is this better?" The captain asked you.

Again, you didn't know if he was being genuine. "Y-yeah… so, just down there?"

The captain nodded, and turned around and started walking down the stairs "Yes, please follow me."

You do so, deeper into the cavernous basement. Which it was indeed, a cavern. There were glowing crystals of various colors barely lighting up sections of the cave. When you reached the bottom of the stairs, the area in front of you was vast and wide. There were "nests" of green goop along the cave walls. And although you couldn't make out bodies. There were blue eyes staring at you from everywhere. This place was fucking spooky.

Further ahead was… oh shit. It's the tower fortress. He brought the whole damn thing, though it looked like it was in more ruin than before. "Are we seriously going in there? It looks like it's going to collapse"

The captain shook his head "No, it's too dangerous. The queen had us gather what we could and set up behind the fortress. Follow me"

You follow him around the fortress tower, behind it was the furniture with a few tattered banners set up, and Chrysalis herself laying belly down on a bed, raised by a small staircase of their green mucus stuff. Two torches on either side a lit with a green flame. Set up in the center of it was an orb with a purple slime inside of it. That must have been the piece of "The Smooze" Discord talked about.

"Welcome back Anon, I'm pleased to see you casually step into my abode. What do you think?" She was smiling at you. Her expression was soft and inviting… not a good sign.

You wouldn't say "casually" either. You felt like you were forced. The Captain walks over to Chrysalis and sits in front of her bed, standing like a guard would.

"Hi… it's err… pretty good." Oh boy, you shouldn't have come down here. Every single changeling you could spot was staring at you.

"Only pretty good? Hrn… I suppose. We did get a little behind schedule on completely stripping the old fortress. Having your room clean was first priority. I assume you're happy with my children's work?"

There we go, just say it and go. Reforming shit can be done ABOVE the basement. You nod, and even smile. "Yep, it's just as if it never happened… umm… aside from my destroyed alarm clock."

Chrysalis made an expression of concern. "Oh, is that what that was. Well… I apologize Anon. But I nor my children had any idea of what that was. We thought it was supposed to look that way"

...You'd have to give her the benefit of the doubt. She has probably never seen anything like a digital clock before. "It's fine, I can just make a new one if I want. No harm done. I mean, we're friends now right? Friends don't hold things like that over each other."

Chrysalis slowly got up, and began to approach you. "That's good to hear. Because I've been thinking about us being friends while you were away. And the more I thought about it, the more appealing it seemed."

...All this uncertainty you felt. "Well, I mean. Friendship is what makes Equestria go round. You can't really get anywhere without it."

"And how right you are." Chrysalis now stood over you, looking down at you. Her original form was so imposing. Especially with the creepy lighting. "Especially when it comes to you and Discord. You all have accomplished so much together. Trusting each other, teasing each other, and fooling all those ponies down in Equestria. All thanks to friendship." ...She wasn't wrong. But, the way she put that last part. It felt… pretty bad.

"It's for a good cause Chrysalis. I don't think you'd remember Fluttershy. But, her and Discord are the best of friends. But..."

Chrysalis interrupts you "Let me guess, that whole business with Tirek soured their relationship. Right?"

You could’ve sworn she was about to smile there. You shake your head. "No, it sort of soured every other pony's view on him. And that reflected on their view of Fluttershy too. They started not to really trust her since she was still buddy buddy with him. So, he just plucked me out of my own dimension and made me his son. And by doing that, well… nopony could possibly hate a good father. And that’s exactly what it is."

"I see. And you have no objections whatsoever?"

You shake your head. "No, I really do like it here."

No, don't mention Twilight to her. Something about this didn't feel right.

"Well, I'm glad you're enjoying your stay. I won't open any old wounds by asking about your own world. Actually, I was hoping we could maybe talk some more about friendship." Chrysalis turned into her filly form. "Doesn't that sound neato?" She giggled

"Umm, actually. I got to be going. I still got stuff to do." You really did.

Chrysalis then did the cutest pouting she could. "But Anon, I want to learn about friendship. I want to learn more about you. How can I learn to be good if you won't spend time with me? Pwease, just for a little bit?"

You cringed, that was pretty… damn cute for a loli bugpone. "Erhm..."

Then, the captain spoke up. "My queen, may I… say something?"

Chrysalis visibly got annoyed for just a moment as she turned her head and forced a smile at her captain "Yes?"

"I er, just don't feel it appropriate for you to beg..." The captain was looking a little nervous speaking up like this.

Chrysalis never broke her gentle smile, but her tone, it was a little sterner than what her expression let on. "Captain… we must show a little humility to our hosts. How else are we supposed to live in harmony?"

Chapter 110

The captain held back his own sigh. For what reasons? You didn't know. "Yes my Queen, my apologies for questioning your actions"

Chrysalis gave a quick glance to you before looking at her captain, again, with a most gentle smile. "You are forgiven captain. It was merely a question after all."

She then turns back to you. her gentle smile becoming wider, cuter, as she looks at you with glistening eyes. "Just a little bit, Anon?"

...It was cute. But, dammit. The party. But, she does seem to want to really get into this. You decide a quick crash course would suffice. "How about a quick umm, explanation about friendship and then when I get back we can hang out?"

"...Hrn." She took a moment to think, and then she sat her cute little bugbutt down and saluted. "I'm weady for my lesson, Anon"

This was as cute as it was creepy. And it was only really creepy due to the setting. And the fact that you could swear you were being watched by the entire hive more intently with every moment. You look over to the captain, he looked a little unsure about all this.

"Ok, so you know what love is right?"

Chrysalis nods "Yep!"

"Ok, but… just in case, tell me what you think love is."

Chrysalis waves her hoof at you as she closes her eyes and smiles "Well that's easy, it's a foolish sentiment ponies have when they care deeply about one another."

...Oy. "Um, I wouldn't call it foolish."

Chrysalis raised an eyebrow at you "Then what do you call it?"

...Dammit, this might be a little tougher than you thought. You thought her thinking would match that "Cute" act she was pulling. "It's a feeling… wait, hold on." You just realized something. "Don't you love your "children"? you're always on about how you worry about their survival and stuff."

Chrysalis was stumped by that, she had never considered her feelings as "love". "Hmmmnnn. That's an interesting notion you have Anon..."

In fact, she was so stumped by that that she couldn't retain her form as she started to look around her entire hive. "But to answer that question, I'll just have to say that I love them in my own… special..way. A pony's love is different from our own. Theirs' is full of nonsense, a silly devotion to one another despite the fact that both the lovers in question are no doubt deceptive and secretive. And the same goes for a pony mother's love. Unconditional love? Unearned? Ridiculous..."

Well, you should have figured she couldn't keep up the cute act forever. "You don't love the children you've produced when they are born?"

Chrysalis shook her head "Of course not, when I birth my children I expect them to earn their keep in some way or form. Otherwise they are useless to me. But that's nothing I need to worry about. Of all the children I have birthed, only one had ever failed ALL my expectations." Christ, she was pretty hard hearted about her own hive.

Then again, if it was only ever one. Maybe it's actually not that hard to earn her care. But who was the one? Was it the one who went to the wedding? Well, if it was. At least it looked like he was doing well for himself.

You would ask her about it, but she probably has no idea where he went. Nor was he the point of the discussion...if it even was that particular one. "Well, Chrysalis. We can't be friends if you think that's what love is all about."

Chrysalis flashed an angered look at you for a second. But she caught herself, and smiled, "And why not Anon? Does my way of thinking bother you? One thing I do know about the act of friendship is that friends look past each other's differences. That is true, right?"

.....

Hrn, you had to think about that. She definitely wasn't wrong about that. But, love did play into friendship. Sorta. "...yeah… but. Friends love each other too you know… just not the kind of lovey dovey love that a couple would have."

Chrysalis chuckled "I know it isn't, but you can't expect me to love you as a friend. Not yet anyway. Don't we have to get to know each other first? Hmm?"

...Wait, WAIT. Was she… giving you the lesson? When the fuck did it get turned around? "Yes, but. You… were. You were getting the wrong idea about love. And… ummm"

"Yes, but" She changed back to her filly form "It's my opinion. And even though we have different ideas about love. Friends look past such things. Right?"

...Fucking… shit… "...Right"

Chrysalis looked deeper into your eyes, her smile almost turning more seductive "And you accept my opinion on how frivolous love is, right?"

"...I..guess. But, it's still up to debate.." ...Shit, how the fuck?

"I won't deny you a debate, Anon. But, as long as we can accept each other's opinions, then I'm happy. Oh so very happy!" She acted giddy, floated up, and clapped her little hooves.

...Right... "W-well, I'm glad you're happy. I er-..." You didn't know what else to say.

She looked down upon you as she hovered. Then she started giggling. "Nothing to say, Anon? I guess I'm just a quick learner. You can go now, though I'd LOVE to talk with you when you're done doing whatever you were doing."

You were still silent, stunned. What happened? What the fuck just happened? "...Erm..yeah.."

...You were so… confused. You thought this was going to be showing her real quick that her thinking was wrong. And… then… that happened. It was like she scripted everything, down to her reactions.

You just stood there.

She tilted her head in confusion. "Anon, are you ok? I thought you needed to go somewhere."

You were stupefied, you were thing to come up with a coherent thought. "...er… yeah… I'll..just… go..and erm… come back later.."

Chrysalis giggled again "Ok! That was lots of fun, Anon! I hope next time is just as fun!"

.....

"Er… yeah..erm… you take care. Chrysalis.."

Chrysalis zipped down and nuzzled her head under yours "You too Anon, come back real soon!"

You didn't nuzzle back. You didn't know what happened. you just turn around, and head back up the stairs. None of that made sense to you. You could only hear Chrysalis's giggling as you head up the stairs. You thought you had her when she noticeably got angry for that split second. Did she even get angry? Or was it an itch of some sort? Because now she was giggling at you like a little schoolgirl.

You step out from the basement, and close the trapdoor. You go to the gravity stairs, but you were so unfocused, you couldn't manifest them properly.

...Something about that… didn't seem right to you. Did she just play you? Or did she take charge of the conversation and royally buttfuck you? You should have easily been able to pop off an obvious friendship lesson on her. And yet, it seemed it was so obvious that she turned things around on you. And what's worse, it was about accepting other's opinions. Geez, Anon. Fucking christ. Something so minuscule and yet still mind blowing.

Discord suddenly poofed next to you as he was straightening up his orange bow tie, he was overdressed for the occasion. With the suit, cane, and top hat. Seems he really grew attached to that outfit. "Ahhh, Anon. There you are. Are you ready for the party yet?"

...Right..the party. "Er..yeah, I just sort of. I'm… having a little bit of a moment."

"Hmmm?" Discord looked down at you as he pulled his bow tie tightly "What happened? Are you having a fashion crisis? Because I can tell you right now, that you are wearing absolutely nothing."

You suddenly have an epiphany as you slap your hoof to your face. "Dammit! She IS messing with me!"

"Hrnn?" Discord was confused by your sudden outburst "Who is messing wit-oh… wait." Discord started to smirk "Having trouble with your little mission Anon?"

Oh no, now he was gonna start. You slowly look up at him, cringing. "Don't, the party is about to start and the last thing I need is you chastising me."

Discord sighed "Very well, I suppose I could let this one slide. But I do have some advice that could put you on equal level with her"

You doubted it, he was probably going to suggest something silly that you couldn't do without the horn. "What?"

"Tell her what you actually are, what the plan is, and..OH OH! Start telling her things that you shouldn't know. Like her song from the season two finale. You'll have her absolutely shocked. Then you can make up anything you want afterwards and have her fear you. How does that sound?" Discord smiled at you happily, He was thinking to himself how fun that could be. How he could probably do it himself. But you doing it would be more effective.

…....WHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHAAAAAAAAAAAAAATTTTTTTTTTTTTTT

"........." You were speechless, you were utterly UTTERLY speechless. He just went straight for that. "....u....uhmm...er"

Then Discord's smile slowly turned into a stern, hard, look. "You already told her.....didn't you?"

"I..." Goddammit, it wasn't that you were afraid to mention it. It was the fucking fact that HE suggested it.

Discord was rubbing his temples, he looked very agitated with you. "You had the advantage. And you somehow ruined it, and now you're having trouble with her. Anon, Anon, Anon. I could not be more disappointed in you than I am right now."

"Ah… ah… D-discord. I.."

Discord was noticing just how dumbfounded you were. Discord then smirked, seeing an opportunity to blow your mind. "Oh, you must be so frightened and confused right now. "Oh no, Discord is going to kill me, and yet. Why would he even suggest such a thing, he must have been joking", Oh… but you'd be wrong if you were thinking that. You were thinking that, weren't you?"

You say nothing, your mind was racing. You thought you could mention this to him AFTER the party. Hell, you should be able to handle it right now. But now being in the moment itself. It was fucking terrifying.

"Silent hmmm?" Discord put his paw on you, he could feel you shaking in fear and worry. "Ohhhh, you must think I would even send you home over this. I could...."

.......

"...Discord...I...I'm.."

Discord once again, pulling out a newspaper, whaps you on your head. "Bad Anon, Bad! Seriously, what am I going to do with you when you can keep it together over something so simple."

...WHAT?! "SO SIMPLE!? I TOLD HER OUR SECRET DISCORD! YOU AREN'T PISSED AT ME?! I..I..I broke your trust....I-I thought I could mess with her a little and..."

Discord shrugged "Ehhhh, that's fine. Like I said, I'm just disappointed you didn't play it up more. Now..." He whaps you again "How many times do I have to hit you with this thing?"

You were barely even feeling it. Everything just felt… so damn wrong. "...how can you not be angry at me? I fucked everything up..."

"You did?" Discord looked left and right, acting confused "How so?"

"I..." You told her, that’s all you had. That you told her. "I let her know our secret"

"Yes… and?"

"...e-err...I.."

"Anon, What do you think is going to happen? That she's going to use the truth to tell everypony? Or eventually manipulate you with going with whatever she tells you in some insidious plot to conquer Equestria? Or perhaps use it to break our friendship? Oh, that would be quite an evil plan… if I cared. But I don't, and do you know why that is?"

...You didn't. You were too mind blasted to figure it out.

"It's really quite simple. If she tells the truth, I will most likely be forced to send you back, I will get a very very long talking to, and she will be sealed into Tartarus with no chance of escape. At least for the usual thousand years anyway. If she's smart, which is what I'm going all in on, she won't do anything with whatever you told her. Understand?"

...That, sounded right. You accepted that rational point blank. If only because you were so empty headed right now. "I-I do but..I'm just. I mean. I-"

"Yes, you're very surprised. Anon, I'm not Twilight. I'm not going to get angry over something like this. If you actually thought ahead a little more you might have realized that her knowing the truth means absolutely nothing. The only thing you have to worry about is the party. Now, are you going to bounce back from this or..." Discord holds up the newspaper and shakes it in front of you "...Am I going to have to whap you again?"

You raise your hoof and knock the newspaper away from his talons. "Dammit… I'm not a dog!" That didn't stop Discord though, he instantly produced another newspaper and whapped you.

"Stop.."

And he whaps you again.

"STOP"

And again.

"DAMMIT THAT'S IT! YOU WANT A DOG! I'LL SHOW YOU A DOG!"

You rush towards him and bite his dragon like leg.

But he doesn't even react to your bite. No, he just detaches his leg and holds it up as you hang from it with your teeth. "Feeling better?"

You realize you weren't really biting him. But if you let go, you'd fall right to the floor pretty hard.

You can't answer either.

Discord puts you a little higher as he produces your saddlebag and puts it around your back. "There we are, and hrnnn..." Discord grabs one of your hooves and inspects it. It was a little dirty. "Well, that won't do."

While you were hanging on with your mouth, he put your hoof in a magically produced tiny tub of warm water, and then began to give you a… rather relaxing hooficure. He also started talking more effeminately. "Oh Anon, you juuuuuuuust wouldn't believe the gossip going around Equestria these days. I mean really darling, Diamond Dogs actually sharing their diamonds? How utterly absurd."

And you just hung on with your teeth. Feeling your little hoof be gently massaged, cleaned, and managed without the ability to do anything about it… though… Discord was oddly… very good at this.

"Oh and those DREEEAAADDFFULLL parasprites, once they get attached to you they never leave. And then, before you know it, they eat you out of house and home and you’re out on the street. Such little pests they are.."

You could now feel all the same motions on all four of your hooves… it was bliss. It was so relaxing that you simply entered a near euphoric state… until it made you forget you were hanging on to his leg, causing you to let go. But as you fall, a pillow appears right under you. Catching you with it's softness.

Despite the fright. You still felt oddly relaxed. You looked up at Discord. Not knowing how to feel once again. But you didn't feel prone to anger anymore at this point. You could still feel a gentle tingling at the tips of your hooves and in the center of the frogs.

"Feel better?" Discord asked, fluttering his eyes at you.

You cuddle into the pillow just a little, reluctant to answer. "..........yes."

"Are you ready to party?"

You sigh, you couldn't muster any more anger and demand him to apologize. You felt fuzzy.

"......fine..."

"You sure? You're not going to worry about this? Because I'd focus your energy on two things. Rethinking your approach to our royal pest of a guest and getting down! Come on, we got a party to get to!"

You roll on your back, and look up at Discord. "So, everything is ok?"

Discord nods "Everything is ok. So relax, put on a smile, and let's get going."

You slowly stand up and take a breath, with the help of the forced hooficure. . You felt a lot better now. Especially since Discord learning that you told Chrysalis didn't end with you being tossed against the wall. You were lucky he was so understanding. Especially about your anger spurts.

Geez, even after coming to terms with how good he treated you. You just come into more situations to really cement that in."...Thanks Discord, I really needed that."

Discord gently gave you a pat on the head. "That's good Anon, you're welcome. Now.." Discord holds up a candy towards you, and then gently puts it on your nose "Want a treat?"

You sigh, you were going to take the candy and toss it back at him… but it had a scent of cherry. You take it and pop it in your mouth,

ohh..it tasted good.

You then stare at Discord, realizing you DID just take the "treat". "...Just because I took it doesn't make me a dog"

Discord raises his talons to snap you both away. "Whatever you say Brutus"

And with a snap, you both disappear.

Chapter 111

You both appear on top of a roof of a house. Overlooking the town.

"W-woah!" You had to move backwards to keep yourself from slipping. And yet, despite the quick rush of adrenaline, you could still feel a soothing tingle in your hooves that has since moved up into your body. Calming your nerves. "Huh..that's weird. I still feel tingly."

"It's not weird at all, Anon. It's just an extra precaution to keep you from going into one of your little spats. It won't last long of course, but I thought I'd do something for you since you seemed so on edge." Discord explained

Well, that's nice of him. "Hey, thanks. I really needed it after all that. But, why are we on a roof? Shouldn't we be at the party?"

Discord pulled out a telescope and began to look through it. "all in due time Anon, first I'd like to scope it out and see what it's like"

"See what it's like? Why does that matter to you? It is a party for me, you know"

"I'm aware, but I just want to see who is there. See what I have to deal with... Ah there we are" Discord looked over to the distant Sugarcube Corner.

"I can tell you who is going to be there. Just the mane six and the cutie mark crusaders, and a few others like Lyra and Bon Bon. It's a small party." You explain

"You don't say?" Discord was peering hard.

You look over to where he's looking. But you aren't tall enough to look over the other roofs blocking the party from view. "I do say, it's nothing to worry about."

"If you say so, but tell me Anon. Was there a white pony with purple shades and a blue mane invited to your party?"

"You mean Vinyl? Nah, it would be kind of cool if she could come though. I'd wanna see if she was a mute or not."

"Ahh, well. I suppose that would be interesting to you." Discord continued to peer through the telescope "And what about your teacher? Was she invited?"

"Ahhh crap, I don't remember… I don't think so actually."

"Mhmmm, and what about that peculiar purple pony drinking the punch?"

"Oh you must mean Ber-....."

...wait

"What do you mean "Drinking the punch" ? "

Discord looks down at you "What do you think I mean? There's a purple pony who ISN'T Twilight at the punch bowl."

"That can't be right. I don't remember inviting Berry Punch. Can you lift me high so I can get a look?"

"Sure thing" Discord curled up a single talon, making you float up high enough to see the party.

From what you could see from that distance, it was an outdoors party. And, there was a conglomerate of color… oh geez.

"Discord, can I look through that telescope?"

"Of course" Discord makes the telescope hover in place, right in front of you, ready to go for viewing. You look through it, and hooooooly shit. The entire town was practically there. Even Mayor Mare. What in the..?

Practically every background pony was there. Heck, you spotted Lyra and Bon Bon hanging with Minuette. And… oh crap, you see Filthy Rich too, you never went to see him after that whole hospital thing. You felt kinda bad about that, the guy is pretty cool.

All those ponies, just to be at your party. You didn't know if it was the fact that you were being magically soothed or just knowing everyone is there, just for you. It felt Mary Sue-ish… but damn, it felt nice. But as you gazed through the telescope, you notice some missing guests.

"Twilight and Spike didn't go to the party. Hmnn" Now that time had passed, your initial feelings long being gone. You started to feel bad that she hadn't arrived yet, or at all.

"Well, that was to be expected, right? Either she didn't want to go, or she is too tired to go. Why should it be a bother?"

Because of the other pony that you couldn't spot. "Because Fluttershy isn't at the party either"

Discord, calmly produced a glass of water and took a drink, already you realized what he was about to do. "WAIT DISCORD NO-AGGGHH!"

Discord spat water all over you

"Agh… g-gross"

You did your best to try to get the water off of you with your hooves, but it was just all over you, even shaking didn't help.

Discord put his talons and paw to his head, screaming "FLUTTERSHY ISN'T THERE?! HOW DID I-" Discord loses his magical grip on you as he grabs the telescope and scopes out the scene "MISS HER?!"

You felt gravity pulling on you as you dropped like a rock. Back on the roof as you started to roll down. "Discord help! I can't grip anything!"

"HOLD ON! THIS IS MORE IMPORTANT!" Discord's eyeball literally broke through the other end of the telescope as he kept on looking.

Welp, he was no help. You yell as you drop down the roof, and have your fall broken by soft mushy garbage in a garbage can. "Omf… o-ohhh..."

You slowly climb out, dizzy as your senses are violated by various gross and rotten smells. "D-dammit… I-I don't feel relaxed anymore"

You crawl out, and shake your back left hoof to get a banana peel off of you.

You look up at Discord, who throws down the telescope, teleports near the fallen trashcan, and holds his arms out "Don't worry Anon, I'll catch you!"

You just eye him, annoyed, and clear your throat loudly so he could take notice of you.

He looks down at you, and gets annoyed himself. "Anon, what are you doing down there? You're supposed to be falling"

Welp, that relaxing feeling didn't last long. You bust out, yelling at Discord. "I ALREADY FELL! YOU WE-”

Before you could even finish, Discord pulls you close to his side and points forward. "Anon, we have no time to lose. You need to go to the party and distract everypony while I go search for Fluttershy. It just isn't a party without her!"

You push his arm away and land on your hooves, turning over to him and sighing, no point in exploding at this point. "She's probably taking care of Twilight."

You brush yourself off, you could still smell the stank. And you could already feel the relaxing tingling completely wear off. "You mind cleaning me off before you go?"

Discord nods "Of course I don't" He gently picks you up and looks into your eyes "I can't let my child go to his own party smelling like that! Even if it is a good smell for you, might even get you the ladies" He winks at you.

"Chrysalis maybe" You chuckle at your own words. "Anyway, why'd you have to pick me up? Aren't you just going to spray me with some more water or something?"

"I have a more… thorough way" Discord wiggles his eyebrows at you.

"Thorough? What do you mean by that?"

Discord open his mouth as his tongue starts to slowly stretch out.

"Discord? No Discord..no Discord..no..NO!"

You cover yourself with your hooves and close your eyes as his tongue starts to explore your body. You felt so uncomfortable. "Discord stop! That feels weird! Oh geez! I can feel it on my leg!" Suddenly, you felt a slimy substance get all over you. You open your eyes and look at yourself. "...oh...oh gross! what is this stuff?"

You try to shake it off. And although gross, it smelled of fresh lemons.

"Discord, ugh..I don't even know what to say about this. Is this, soap? Or something else?"

"No time to explain Anon, time to spin dry!"

"Spin dry? Wait! Discord stop!" Discord's tongue wrapped around you, holding you tight like a snake. "Discord, just get me a towel! I can wipe this stuff off myself. Please?"

Discord snipped the other end of his tongue off with his talons. "No can do, Anon!" Discord grabbed the part of his tongue that was sticking out and eyes you with a smile "Who knows how much time you've already wasted."

You noticed him grab one end of the tongue, and realized what he meant by spin dry. Your pupils shrunk. "D-discord Don't! I...ugh..." You sigh, and just give up, looking at him, annoyed "You're just going to do it anyway, aren't you?"

Discord nodded "Of course I am, why wouldn't I?"

You sigh again, yep. He'll never change. "Can I atleast get a helmet?"

"Certainly, I can't believe I didn't think about that before. In fact..." Discord points to you and zaps you, giving you a helmet, four knee pads, and a light suit of armor.

You look down on yourself. "Isn't this a little much?"

Discord nods "It is, which is why I'll compensate by spinning you harder than planned."

"Ohhh dammit." You lament at the fact you were about to go for a spin, but a thought hit you. Maybe it won't be so bad. It could be fun. Maybe? Hopefully?

Before you could think of anything else, Discord let's it rip. And you start spinning faster than any top you've ever seen, as you slide across the street. Already you felt like puking in the first few moments of spinning, and it just wouldn't stop. "I WAS WRONG! THIS ISN'T FUN! AAAGHHH!"

And you span, and you span. All across the street as your protection began to fly off in different directions. Finally you slow to a stop, and despite stopping. Everything was still spinning. So much so that you fall to the ground, groaning. "..I'm so glad I haven't eaten recently....or else......nope, never mind" You hold your hoof to your mouth, as your cheeks puff up, and you puke. "...ogggghhhh"

"THERE YOU ARE NONNY! I'VE BE… woah, you ok?" Ahh, Pinkie Pie. Right on cue to see you barf everywhere

"Ogh, I feel like I just went through a dryer...."

Pinkie Pie catches a whiff of you, and smiles "But you smell like fresh lemons! That must have been some dryer!"

"Yeah… ogh, I'm just going to lay here awhile."

Pinkie Pie quickly zips right under you by pushing you up in the air with her face, then catches you on her back."Here, you can lay on my back while I take you to the party, everypony is waiting for you! Though" Pinkie frowns "Twilight, Fluttershy and Spike are late, and..." Pinkie looks around "Where's Discord? Isn't he with you?"

"Oh, he went to go get Fl-" He probably only went to get her. But maybe, just maybe. He went to go fetch Twilight and Spike too. Somehow, you had no idea if Twilight was even able to actually go. "He went to go get them"

"Awww, that's sweet of him." Pinkie went back to smiling, excited to get the party underway "You're going to make so many new friends today Nonny! Isn't that awesome!?"

"Y-yeah, I noticed while I was coming over that you invited the whole town. Didn't we have a set list?"

Pinkie giggled "We did! But remember how you said to surprise you on a theme?"

"Yeah"

"Welllllllllllllll, I thought the theme could be an outdoor slash open door party! That way, nopony would feel left out! And better yet, that means anypony that comes to the party would want to meet you since it's your party! Genius, right?" You could hear in Pinkie's voice just how happy she was about it. So much so, that, well, how could you denounce what she had done? You couldn't.

You take a breath, you were still seeing some stars from the spin. But your mind was still working. And you decide to just go with it. Who is it going to hurt? "It is a pretty good plan Ponk, but I guess that's why you're the best party planner around, huh?"

That made Pinkie smile even wider "You really think so? Oh boy, if you think that's great. you're gonna flip when I start planning for your birthday. Birthday parties are always the best! Speaking of birthdays, erm. Some of the guests sort of thought it was your birthday. And brought you extra gifts, that's ok, right?"

Gifts? Woooo, that sounded cool. It made you grin. Gifts were always great, and you wondered what ponies would give as gifts to a hero like you. Colt or not. Hero or not. It could be pretty great. "Fine with me, it's a party right? Let's just let everypony do whatever they want. If they bring gifts, all the better right?"

Pinkie looks back at you, and narrows her right eye "For you maybe", she then giggles happily.

"You bet! Besides, you can't blame me for wanting to see what kinds of gifts I'm gonna get. Can you?"

Pinkie looked up and wondered, then she shook her head "Nope, I guess not. If everypony got me a lot of gifts; I'd be pretty curious too. And happy, and ecstatic, and overjoyed, and glad! All at the same time!"

"Ponk, you know those all mean the same thing, right?"

"I know, but if you combine all of those words, you'd get how happy I am. Especially if it's gifts I could share with my friends!"

...Awww, that made you smile. But, hell. You couldn't expect any less from Pinkie.

"That's a nice thought Ponk, my worl-...ahrm...orphanage could have really used a pony like you."

"Well, if I could make more of me that were exactly like me in everyway, I would. So everypony could have a friend that would never quit on then. But for now, I'll do my best here. As the one and only Pinkie Pie!"

As you both approached the party, you pat on Pinkie's side. "Hey Ponk, can I hop off from here? I feel better now, I can walk the last few steps."

"Oki Doki Loki! Let me just duck right here, all ponies please remain in your seat as the Pinkie Pie prepares to dock." Pinkie giggled at her own little joke as she lowered herself so you could safely hop off. You do, and give her a quick hug. You really did feel better, probably just due to being around her and her upbeat attitude.

You look ahead, just a few more steps before you was the party itself. There were various ponies there. Mingling, having fun, playing a few games, and there was Vinyl, wubbing out a beat. The party was chaos itself, with it seemingly being of various themes within itself. To your left was two long tables, one with food and drinks, mostly of various treats and pastries. And on the other seemed to be a gift table. Right at the front of Sugarcube corner was a large stage with a huge banner with the name of the party.

...Ohhhhhh man, there was like fifteen gifts there. You did wonder what they could be. But, agh… It'd be bad form to just go directly to them and open them up. You look to Pinkie… who wasn't next to you anymore. Where did she disappear off to?

"HELLO EVERYPONY! HOW ARE YOU ALL DOING?!" Pinkie had zipped on stage, she was wearing a cute little black top hat on, with gummy on her back.

Everypony, just like that, stopped what they were doing to say hi back to her. Caught you off guard really, this was unexpected. You wondered what she had in store.

"THAT'S GREAT! BECAUSE I HAVE SUPER DUPER GOOD NEWS! THE GUEST OF HONOR HAS ARRIVED!"

Uh oh, wait. WAIT. You knew where this was heading, you were about to get bombarded by the whole crowd all at once. You try calling out to her. "P-Po-"

"THAT'S RIGHT! IT'S ANON! EVERYPONY GIVE HIM A WARM WELCOME AND SAY HELLO! HE'S SUPER FRIENDLY AND REALLY SMART! AND RIGHT NEXT TO HIM IS-" Pinkie was about to announce Discord and Fluttershy, but they weren't there. She threw out a few cue cards she had on the podium she was behind and skipped ahead. "ALRIGHT EVERYPONY, LET'S MINGLE, HAVE FUN, AND GET DOWN! IT'S PAAAAAAAAAARTY TIME!"

You could already hear the music crank up to eleven, but as everypony went to approach you, you had already ducked behind the sheets of the food table. That was way too much for you at once.

You peek outside the sheets, there was a few ponies who went back to partying, but a few others, like Filthy Rich, the fillies, Lyra, and a couple of other ponies were looking where they thought they spotted you.

Well, this was quite the pickle you found yourself in. It seemed even in large crowds of ponies, you weren't ready to handle so many of them all at once. This very situation reminded you why you wanted a smaller crowd. "Great, if I was some Mary Sue, this would be no problem. But I can't talk to them all at once. And if it's anything like any other cartoon show. It'll be a wave of noise… ugh, I hate waves of noise."

Though, you did feel bad you weren't out there actually mingling. You remembered how Lyra did want to introduce you to Minuette, how Filthy Rich did want to talk to you, and that you had friends out there that you really say hi to. Including explaining to the Silver Spoon and Diamond Tiara why you didn't show up to finish the project. Or, you could just tell Cheerilee directly, she was right there.

You gulp, you just needed to work up the courage. And if you chose wisely, maybe you could go down the line of who to talk to first.

Filthy Rich. He'd have to be the first you talk to. He was pretty bro tier after all, and you just pretty much avoided visiting him all this time. You could just walk up to him and have a friendly chat. Then move on to Lyra and Bon Bon, you did want to meet Minuette after seeing how cute and friendly she was. And finally you could move on to the next obvious choice of the CMC. Though, maybe this could also be a good time to interact with a few of the Mane 6 you haven't really interacted with too much. Namely, Applejack and Rainbow Dash.

You look around, hrn, even Derpy was here. She could be a cute friend. But nah, let's not get too hasty. You wait until only Filthy Rich would catch you in his line of sight, and pop out, heading towards him.

Chapter 112

You notice as you walk towards him that his daughter wasn't around him at this time. Good, she must have buggered off to hang with the CMC since you zipped out of sight.

Damn, there were ponies everywhere, the party was pretty tightly grouped together.You stay low profile as much as possible until you reach Filthy Rich and greet him, being as respectful as you could. "Hello Mr.Rich, I didn't know you'd be at my party today."

Flithy Rich, upon hearing your voice, looked down and greeted you with a smile of his own. "Mr. Anon! pleasure to see you again. And of course I'd be here for the party, I felt it was one of the only open times I'd have to talk with you and your father. Speaking of which, where is your father? I still have a business proposition for him."

"He went to go see the Princess. You know my Dad..." You chuckle. "Can never stay in one place, that guy"

So Discord never actually went to see him about the business venture. You yourself had no idea what it was. But you'd think he would have at least seen Filthy about it at least once. Would make it easier on him instead of having him wait. You wondered how long Filthy was willing to wait for anyway. Because it's been awhile since you and Discord have seen him.

Filthy Rich chuckled right along with you. "Right, I suppose you and your father have been very busy since we last met. What with getting fully situated to your home, school, and of course, trying to get that cutie mark. Such a shame the fighting ring didn't do it for you. When my little pumpkin told me it would do the trick, I of course was willin' to spend any amount needed to help. It's the least I could do for you after you saved her life."

If it was one situation that always got called upon the most. It was that. You were actually getting sick of it to be honest, but you weren't going to make that apparent now. It was something you'd just have to deal with. "Well, you know. She was in trouble. I couldn't just leave her there."

"But this was no simple situation Mr. Anon. You put your life on the line to save somepony you barely knew. And what's more, that pony happened to be my daughter. Who, if you remember at the time, You had some trouble with. It was a very honorable and brave thing to do… in fact." Filthy Rich started to tear up

"Mr. Rich? You ok?"

Suddenly, he hugged onto you as he began to sob "I don't know what I would have done if anything would have happened to her. Why, if you weren't Discord's son. I would have made you my own. You have the makings of a Rich right in your heart."

...Ohhhh… Now you felt like shit. Yeah, you really REALLY hated when this moment was recalled. You started to gently pat his back, nervous. "It's o-ok Mr. Rich, I was just doing what was natural, really!"

Filthy Rich let you go slowly, wiping away his tears. He tried to stand in a more dignified position, clearing his throat. He didn't want anyone getting the impression anything was wrong. He was a pony of reputation after all. "Right, yes." He straightened his tie "In anycase, I was never ever ab;e reward you properly for what you have done. So I generously have brought you a gift that should, only slightly, compensate you for a job well done."

Awww. "You didn't have to do that Mr.Rich, it was my erm… civic duty and all."

Filthy Rich chuckled and rubbed the top of your head "Don't be modest,son. Heroes like you deserve gifts to show how ponies such as myself appreciate such a young, brave, and sharp little colt you happen to be. Though, I do have one favor to ask. If you don't mind of course"

How could you deny him? "What is it?"

"When it's time for you to open gifts, and you get to mine. Would you mind saying something along the lines of "This generous gift was given to me by the wonderful pony known as Filthy Rich, who is always looking to make life easier for everypony with cheaper prices and more economical deals at Barnyard Bargains". That wouldn't be too hard, right?"

That was actually pretty funny to you, a great guy but always looking to make a bit as well if he can. At least he was being honest, one of you had to be. "No sweat, and I'll even hop about like a giddy little school filly if you want."

"Really? Well now, that would definitely help sell it home. Thank you Anon."

After a little more small talk, you let Filthy Rich know that there's probably other ponies who wanted to talk to you, given the party was focused on you. You let him know respectfully of course. You both let each other go, Filthy Rich only reminding you that Diamond Tiara was around as well. But you already knew that.

Next up, Lyra,Bon Bon, and Minuette. Oh boy Minuette. You weave through the crowd, looking for either the mint colored horsie or dual mane colored secret horse. But as your weaving, you feel a gentle tap on your back. "Huh?"

You turn around, and spot Scootaloo, she was hovering over you. Ah shit, it almost caught you off guard. You weren't used to seeing her flying about. "Found ya!"

"Hey Scootaloo" You smile at her, she looked positively at ease hovering about. It was cute.

"Hey Anon, what are you doing going that way? We're hanging out over there!" Scootaloo points over near a poster of a pony without a tail. Presumably a "Pin the tail on the pony" game. "Why don't you come with us? maybe we can get you a cutie mark at pinning tails."

...Oh cooome onnnnnnnnnnnnn. "I… I don't think I'd want a cutie mark in that"

"Why not? If you could get a cutie mark at that. Then that means that if there was ever a situation where you couldn't see anything, you'd still be able to hit your mark. Doesn't that sound cool! You could be some sort of blind master of the… the… pinning arts!"

As cool as it would be to be able to hit your mark blindly, it's not a profession you'd ever want. Especially if it could lead to you actually being blind. And still, it seemed kind of worthless as a talent in the end compared to say... Being super fast or ultra strong. "Ehh, still. It's not for me. Is Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon with you girls?"

"Just Diamond, I don't know where Silver went. Diamond's taking her turn right now. Come on Anon! It'll be fun."

...Eh, fine. let's get them out of the way first. "Ok ok, but let's not make this about Cutie Marks. Ok?"

"Ok! Oh, and… hey. Where were you today? None of us saw you at school. We got pretty worried about you. Thought you might have gotten sick."

You shrug. "Eh, you know how it is living with a spirit of Chaos, anything can happen. And that's what happened… things happened."

You both headed over to the rest of the gang, but Scootaloo was confused. "What kind of things?"

"Things... just trust me on this Scootaloo. You don't want to know."

"Did you have a fight with your Dad? I noticed he isn't here. What's up with that?"

"Well, Aunt Fluttershy and Twilight aren't here either."

"Yeah, but he's your Dad. Seems kind of strange to me."

"My Dad is all kinds of strange, it shouldn't come to a surprise"

Scootaloo nodded, that sounded right to her "Right, because your Dad is Discord. I guess that all makes sense, sorta."

Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom are the next to notice you, while a blindfolded Diamond Tiara still is taking her turn.

"Heya Anon" They both greet you.

"Heya girls, having fun?"

They both nodded.

"Hey Anon, are you trying to get a party cutie mark? Because..." Sweetie Belle pulled out her invitation "There's a lot to this party. I almost thought it was your birthday."

Applebloom looked towards Sweetie Belle, narrowing her eye at her "...Ya did think it was his birthday. that's why we all chipped in to get him a gift"

Diamond Tiara, overhearing the conversation, splits her concentration, she was still trying to figure out where to pin the tail. "Actually, I paid for most of it." She says with a hint of smug in her voice.

Applebloom got a little angry at that and looked over at Diamond "Yeah well, ah spotted it"

"And I flew it over! These wings are really amazing! They're strong enough to let me carry even heavy things without falling down. I gotta remember to show that to Rainbow Dash, she'll think it's sooooooo cool!" Scootaloo was getting excited just thinking about it.

You however, wanted the girls to simmer down. Mostly Applebloom and Diamond; Because it seemed like something worrisome was brewing. "H-hey now, let's not argue. I appreciate everypony's effort in the gift."

Applebloom muttered under her breath "...that I saw"

"Got it!" Diamond Tiara pinned the tail, but was way off. Like, off the poster paper itself.

She took off her blindfold, and upon seeing how badly she missed. She huffed and turned about, walking towards the rest of the group with her head held up high. Scowl on her muzzle."This was a stupid game anyway."

Sweetie Belle looked over to Diamond's failure, she found it astonishing how badly she missed "Wow, that's… really bad. You didn't even hit the poster."

Diamond growled at Sweetie "Yes well, you all broke my concentration! Besides… It's a dumb game. it's not worth my time"

"Ah bet I could do it!" Applebloom went over to grab a blindfold and put it over her eyes "Watch this Anon, Ahm gonna show you how good an Apple is at pinnin' tails"

"That's not fair! you've got full concentration on the game!" Diamond cried out. Suddenly caring about the "dumb" game

"Well, that ain't gonna mean much if ah can't see. This game is all about luck… for most ponies anyway" Applebloom grinned as she grabbed a tail and prepped for pinning. "And besides, nothin', and ah mean nothin' is gonna break mah concentration!"

Diamond did a very low audible growl as Applebloom started walking near the poster. Oh boy, it was clear to you that they still had feelings for you. Most definitely Diamond. The other two cheered Applebloom on of course, and damn. It looked like she was about to get it.

"Anon! There you are! Come over here and give me a big hug!" Before anyone could realize what was going on. Lyra grabbed you and balanced herself on her two back hooves as she gave you a super cuddly hug. "How's my favorite colt doing! Because I got a surprise for you!"

Upon hearing a female voice calling to Anon, and calling him her "favorite colt". Applebloom lost all concentration and pinned the tail even further way than Diamond Tiara.

"a-a-ahrmmm..L-Lyra?!" What a surprise this was. Seriously, you didn't expect her to grab you out of the blue.

She put you down, and smiled at you "Mhmmm! Hey are these your friends! Hi! I'm Lyra! Wow Anon, are all your friends fillies and mares?" Lyra giggled "I hope there's not another reason for that."

While Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle thought nothing of it. You could see Diamond's eyes were going green with envy, although her face was going red from inner anger.

Applebloom rushed up, tossing off her blindfold, she didn't look to pleased either.

"Anon! Who is this?! You didn't tell me you had marefri-...I-I mean friends who happen to be mares!" Diamond deftly avoided any word suggesting you were with her, while still being angry that it could be a thing.

"Yeah! And besides! that doesn't seem right! She's gotta be double yer age!" Applebloom joined in, trying to immediately throw a wrench into the possibility.

Oh for fucks sake. How could you not have seen this one coming. "Uhhh, Applebloom. Aren't you friends with a few mares yourself?"

Applebloom nodded "Yeah, but ahm also a mare, er… filly. So it makes sense,"

Diamond nodded with her "She's right! It does make sense. So mind explaining this to us Anon? hmmm?"

Ohhh… geez. You open your mouth to speak, but before you could get any words out. Bon Bon and Minuette step up from behind Lyra. Both greeting you.

"Hey there Anon, are these your friends?" Bon Bon waved to you

Meanwhile, Minuette, upon gazing upon your adorable form. Grabbed you for a hug, keeping better balance than Lyra did. "OH MY GOSH! HE'S SOOOOOO CUTE! YOU WERE RIGHT LYRA! HE'S SOOOO HUGGABLE AND SOFT!"

Lyra giggled "See! Told you!"

Bon Bon faced hooved at all the excitement for you. Meanwhile, both Applebloom and Diamond Tiara's jaws dropped. Sweetie Belle was giggling, she noticed how uncomfortable you looked. Though she thought it was from the hug, and not the two steamed fillies beside her

"Wow Anon, you work quick. Don'tcha." Sweetie Belle said jokingly. naive to her friends' plight.

Both Applebloom and Diamond looked at her with angry stares.

"W-what did I say?" Sweetie Belle was confused.

"So, how exactly did you three meet Anon?" Applebloom was very uncomfortable with this. Even mares were after you? She thought that was ridiculous.

"Oh, I met Anon when he was walking around Bon Bon's. He was feeling pretty down. So we did our best to cheer him up! But this was a long time ago." Lyra said

"Yeah, but it wasn't TOO long ago. Poor guy, he was wandering around outside my house feeling all mopey. So we invited him in to join us for tea." Bon Bon added

"And I just met him!" Minuette put you down, still smiling "And am I glad I did! I would have missed the party if I had waited a day."

Diamond Tiara wanted to be more direct, she didn't want to beat about the bush. "And none of you love him, right?"

Geezes, way to lay it thick there Diamond. Damn, you wanted to abort so damn bad now. Shit was hitting critical mass with these fillies.

Applebloom however, seconded that question. "Yeah, none of ya like him like him. Right?"

"Well, I just met him. Can't go loving somepony you just met." Minuette said, giving you a gentle pat.

"Maybe if he was a little older, and if he was just as cute as he was now" Lyra giggled.

Bon Bon however, was slowly realizing what was going on."No, not even close. Just as a friend." Bon Bon looked over to Lyra and Minuette "Girls, can I have a moment with you two? Especially since this is Anon's party? We shouldn't be bombarding him like this"

"Bombarding? With what?" Lyra looked to her best friend, confused "Come on Bon Bon, when did you get so stiff?"

Bon Bon shook her head. "I just think Anon might be a little overwhelmed as is. Come on, let's go get some punch." Bon bon then took out a vial of white powder she was hiding in her mane… for some reason. "I brought emergency sugar to sweeten it up. I know you like your punch sweeter than the norm Lyra"

Lyra cheered "Oh you know me so well Bon Bon! But that is because we're best friends. Hmm… Well. Ok, Let's go get punch. Seeya Anon, enjoy your party!"

"Yeah, it was nice to meet you Anon. And just to let you know, since you're Lyra's friend. You’re my friend too! And since I hear your friends with Twilight. I guess that does make us double friends! Seeya around Anon! Don't be a stranger!" Minuette said with a cute wink

Bon Bon said nothing, she only smiled and winked at you; Her wink being more informative as to what she was truly doing. She then lead her friends to the punch bowl. You didn't figure out why she winked at you however. And you didn't want to know. You were glad they had left, not because they were bad. But because you could tell two certain fillies were getting riled up.

"Wow Anon, you got a lot more friends than I thought. I'm surprised you haven't gotten your Cutie Mark in friend making. Because you are really good at it." Sweetie Belle commented

"Yeah, I actually agree. I mean look at t-ahh shoot" Scootaloo was already getting full of disappointment as the wings began to automatically flutter hard as she lowered gently to the ground. Upon landing, the wings changed into cardboard and popped off. "Well, that stinks"

"You know what else stinks?..." Diamond Tiara looked to Applebloom

Applebloom looked to Diamond Tiara "Those mares?"

Diamond Tiara nodded, then looked to you. "Right" And she looked at you hard, with a stare that demanded answers "So Anon, when were you going to tell me you were seeing mares."

Applebloom then gave you the same look "Yeah, ah knew it was kinda weird she was watching you fight. She was being awfully friendly with you just now, ain't she?"

Ugh, you were hoping to stay within mary sue status. You couldn't deal with two jealous fillies. or worse, two jealous fillies that seemed to be teaming up.

You needed to approach this with grace and finesse. These weren't reasonable adults. One was very single minded in her thinking and the other had the power to ruin you if you somehow pissed her off enough.

"Girls, come on. They're friends of mine. That's it. I met them ages ago. Like, a few days after getting out of the hospital. Don't you think you both are overreacting?"

"Wait, hold on" Sweetie Belle looks over to Diamond and Applebloom "You two are jealous? I thought the whole weird love triangle thing was over."

"Hey yeah, that's right. You said you were completely over it Applebloom, What gives?" Scootaloo added along.

"I-er… I am, ah just thought that Anon may have been..." Applebloom couldn't think of anything to say at all.

However, Diamond Tiara was more confident. "Well, in that case. I can safely say I'm over it too. I'm just making sure Anon isn't making any wrong choices. Somepony has to look out for him, he's barely just started his new life and there could be so many ponies out there trying to take advantage of him. He is a hero after all."

More like she was securing that promise. This was getting complicated.

"Oh, because it looked like jealousy to me. I guess I was wrong." Sweetie Belle was easily convinced. You weren't, but you didn't want to open any more can of worms.

They both nodded.

"See, not jealous" Applebloom said.

"Totally" Diamond Tiara nodded in agreeance.

You sigh. "So, are you both going to relax about me having adult friends? Because I also have Pinkie as a friend, and...uhh.." You couldn't really consider Twilight a friend, nor Rarity, she was more of a acquaintance. In fact, the only ones out of the mane 6 who were definite friends WAS Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy, but Fluttershy was under a family category.

"Rainbow Dash is also your friend too, right Anon?" Scootaloo moves up next to you and grins at you, giving you an elbowing with her leg. "I mean, I know she's my friend, and practically everypony's friend because of how awesome she is, but she's your friend too right?"

Where did this come from? Whatever, you'll take it. You needed as many adult females to mention as possible. "Yeah, Rainbow Dash is my friend"

Scootaloo pumped her hoof "Yes! I knew you'd come around on that Anon"

Oh… she just wanted to hear you say that.

"But yeah, see? Nothing to worry about. Nopony is going to take advantage over me" You try to reassure them

"Well, you know. I was just making sure. I'm totally ok with it. Like I said, it just smelled fishy to me. I mean, I never knew about them before." Diamond explains. Her expression still marked with haughty jealousy

Applebloom said nothing at this point. She didn't want to look stupid for suddenly getting jealous.

"Well, Diamond. I can have friends that my other friends don't know about. So, look. I'm just going to say this once. Please don't do that again, please? I don't need any kind of protection, and it just came off as rude."

"R-rude? I wasn't being rude." Diamond shook her head, she didn't expect to suddenly be called rude. "I was just looking out for you"

Despite your words being directed to Diamond in response, Applebloom knew it was really towards both her and Diamond. Applebloom lowered her head in shame "Ahm really sorry Anon, Ah lost my head when I saw her hug you like that. ah guess I was just a little jealous."

Well, at least Applebloom was on the ball. And since she was actually willing to admit it. You thought you'd give her some slack. "It's alright Applebloom, I guess some feelings die hard. But I'm not upset. In fact, my Dad actually gave me some advice on this. Well, not really advice. But more like a message. That being down over things like this are silly, especially during a party, so forget about it ok?"

Applebloom nodded, smiling. That actually pepped her up. "Ah didn't think of it that way. Lingerin' feelings huh? I guess that could be it. Yeah! That's probably it. ah guess I just got to get over it is all."

Diamond gave a harumph, she was being stubborn, refusing to admit it "Well, that's good for you Applebloom. But as I was never jealous, I don't see the point. I don't see why nopony can understand that."

You narrowed your eye at Diamond, you were hatching a little bit of a mean idea to get her to admit it. You didn't want her holding it in if Applebloom just nicely apologized for it. "So, you're not jealous. Even a little bit?"

Diamond Tiara shook her head "Not even a little"

"So, under no circumstance. If I was around another girl, you'd think it was ok"

Diamond nodded "Yep"

"Really?"

"We're around the crusaders aren't we? Do I look like I'm worried?" Diamond looked like she was getting annoyed with the whole conversation.

"Yeah, I guess you're right...." You look over to Scootaloo. "Hey, Scootaloo, can you come over here for a minute?"

Scootaloo nodded "Sure thing Anon… wait… you're not gonna ask for your wings back. Are you?" Scootaloo was nervous about giving them up. She wanted to keep them.

"Nah, I just want to tell you something."

"But… ummm" Scootaloo was looking left and right "I'm standing right here, can't you just tell me from where you're standing?"

...Goddammit. You walk over to Scootaloo and kiss her on the cheek. Dammit, why did she have to make things so difficult.

"YUUUCK!" Scootaloo backed off "Anon! What the hay was that for!?"

Applebloom was able to suppress a reaction. Despite being caught off guard, she didn't want to react after just apologizing the way she did.

Diamond however… "WHAT?! WHAT WAS THAT?! YOU LIKE SCOOTALOO?! YOU CAN'T LIKE SCOOTALOO! WHY WOULD YOU EVEN LIKE HER?!"

You point at Diamond "Aha! See, you're jealous!"

"I AM NOT JE-" Diamond realized she was yelling, and quickly tried to recover "Ahrm… I am not jealous. It just caught me off guard."

You point to Sweetie Belle, who hadn't even reacted to the kiss. "Sweetie Belle didn't react, neither did Applebloom. How do you explain that?"

"Huh? What? What happened?" Sweetie Belle had actually lost her attention on the whole conversation "What's going on?"

"Anon kissed me!" Scootaloo said, as she continued to wipe her cheek off with her hoof "It was so gross!"

"Woah, that's almost as weird as that!" Sweetie Belle pointed in the air. What?

You all look up, and see a giant yet slender white dragon with yellow eyes and red pupils flying towards the party, with Spike,Twilight, And Fluttershy riding on top of it. You could barely hear spike yelling "Yeeeeeeeahhhh!" while holding his claws up in the air.

...Oh dammit, you were seeing where this was coming from. Making you facehoof as you mutter to yourself. "...Discord come on… really?"

You wanted to end the conversation before they arrived and the attention inevitably switched to them. You couldn't even believe you were seeing Twilight coming to the party at all. You wondered what convinced her.

"Ok ok, let's not lose focus." You look over to Diamond Tiara. "Diamond, it's clear to me you were jealous. Just admit it ok? I'm not gonna be mad or hate you or anything. But if you keep doing this, then I probably won't want to hang out with you. Simply because I wouldn't be able to make any new friends without you biting their head off."

"W-WHAT?!" Diamond's eye twitched, she couldn't have that "Y-you wouldn't do that?" She whimpered "Would you?"

You shook your head. "No… but only if you admit that you're jealous."

You could see Diamond doing he best to hold back. Her lips quivering. "I...I'm...mnn" Suddenly, instead of just apologizing. She got angry. "Fine, I was jealous. And I'm sorry. Now say you’re sorry for kissing Scootaloo and we'll be even"

Scootaloo actually agrees with that "Yeah, that was actually really weird. I like you, Anon, but not like that."

You wanted to put your hoof to your face. Scootaloo did realize that wasn't serious right? "Ok, fine. Scootaloo, I'm sorry for kissing you. But I was just trying to… ah..never mind"

"It's ok Anon-" Before Scootaloo can say anything else however, Pinkie Pie starts yelling into a microphone

"HEY EVERYPONY! BIG PARTY UPDATE. IF YOU LOOK UP, YOU CAN SEE TWILIGHT, FLUTTERSHY, AND SPIKE RIDING IN ON A GIANT WHITE DRAGON… or their fighting a giant white dragon. I don't know which. BUT DON'T PANIC, EVERYTHING WILL BE OK! OR IT'S ALREADY OK AND THE BIG WHITE DRAGON WANTS TO PARTY TOO! I DUNNO, SO LET'S SEE WHAT HAPPENS!"

No, that was enough to make you facehoof. That was not something you just announce like that. Not that way.

You could already see some of the ponies getting a little anxious.

"...darnit." You look to your filly friends and excuse yourself. "Hold on a second girls, I gotta do something real fast."

You zip towards the stage before they could say a word. Rushing right up to Pinkie. "Ponk, that's not a giant white dragon. That's just dad BEING a giant white dragon. There's nothing to worry about."

"Oh really? Why would he pretend to be a giant white dragon?"

You were confused as she was. You never really understood Discord when he made some sort of fourth wall breaking joke that couldn't exist within the spectrum of Equestria's reality.

"I… really don't know. But could you let the guests know before everypony starts panicking for no reason?"

"Why would everypony start panicking?" Pinkie looked so confused, she couldn't be that ignorant, could she?

You look to the crowd, and you spotted Lily looking the most panicked. "Look at that pony over there, she looks like she's going to flip because you called my Dad a whi-"

Lily pointed to you "IT'S THE HEADLESS PONY AGAIN! IT'S FOLLOWING ME! AHHHHUUUuhhh..." And she fainted.

You eyeroll and quickly take the microphone from Pinkie Pie while the guests were in the utmost confusion. Vinyl even stopped the music entirely as she looked up at the approaching figures.

"H-HELLO EVERYPONY! IT'S ME, ANON! DON'T PANIC! THAT WHITE DRAGON IS MY DAD AND-" Suddenly, the microphone gets taken from you by...Discord?

"Ahh thank you for that… subpar introduction, Anon." Discord then looked to the crowd as he stood suddenly next to you "HELLO EVERYPONY! NO NEED TO APPLAUSE TO MY PRESENCE. I KNOW YOU ALL HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR ME TO ARRIVE. SORRY I'M LATE!"

But all the ponies just looked around in confusion

Discord was actually annoyed his arrival wasn't met with applause. "...and there's also the Princess of Friendship I guess."

A spotlight fell upon Spike, Twilight, and Fluttershy. they were all on stage, and terribly confused.

"Weren't we in the air just now?" Spike said, confused. Looking around. "what happened?"

"I don't know Spike, I think Dis-" At that moment, all the ponies broke out in a cheer, calling to Twilight.

Fluttershy, having caught on just as slow as the others. Looked up and noticed the spotlight on her, and then the crowd. She began to slowly back away to the back of the stage "I-I don't know what happened, b-but I think I'm going to back out. S-sorry"

Discord noticing the applause Twilight had instantly garnered, snaked up right up to her and held her up, holding her to his side. "That's right, The Princess of Friendship..." The crowd cheered louder upon him saying it again. "And her good buddy Discord!" He announces

...Suddenly silence.

Discord drops Twilight like a rock. "Well, I never."

Pinkie, being ever so resourceful, pops another microphone out from seemingly nowhere. and starts another announcement. "LET'S ALL HEAR IT FOR DISCORD, THE FATHER OF THE PONY WE ARE THROWING THE PARTY FOR, ANON! THE LITTLE HERO!" And then, there was applause.

"What?" Both you and Discord was confused.

"Ponk, how did you get them to applause for Dad?"

Pinkie gave you a sly look, tilting her head towards you. smirking. "That's a sseeeeeeecccreeeeeetttt" Pinkie tossed the microphone up and caught it, looking to the crowd with a big cheerful smile "ALRIGHT EVERYPONY, NOW THAT YOU'RE ALL HERE. WE CAN FINALLY GET OUR BOOTIES REALLY SHAKING." Pinkie pointed towards Vinyl "HIT IT!"

Woah, before anyone could even react. The entire area was filled with even louder, more intense music than before. You swear you could feel the ground shaking.

Discord was examining the microphone he took very closely "How did she do that? Hrnnn"

No doubt through her natural talent. At least they didn't boo him off the stage.

You noticed Twilight, who, after coming out of her stupor, was looking at you. You wanted to say something to Discord about his entrance. But, with Twilight looking at you like that. You thought it would be better to go talk to her and see how she was. Her eyes were still red, though not as bad as before.

Chapter 113

You pass by Discord, who was still trying to figure it out, and head right up to Twilight and Spike. Though, your attention was entirely on Twilight. "Heya Twilight."

You keep your tone pleasant and welcoming. It was a party after all. And at this point, your anger and worry about nearly being sent to Tartarus was gone. Nearly anyway. Though, looking at Twilight's puffy eyes. she still had it deep in her mind.

"Anon, hi. Ummm. Enjoying your party?" Twilight too, was keeping a pleasant tone, though. She just didn't want to incite any anger out of you. While also not fully knowing what she should say to you.

You nod. "It's ok, there's a few bumps. But it's because I barely know anypony here."

"I know that feeling. I remember when I came to Ponyville and Pinkie threw me a "Welcome to Ponyville" party. I didn't really want one because at the time, I thought friendship wasn't important." Twilight looked rather nervous and sheepish. But that could also be due to the fact that she also looked so damn tired. "Weird hearing that from the Princess of Friendship, huh?"

Spike was just observing. Not saying a word. Which was perfect for you. Because you just wanted to let Twilight know things were ok. Almost... You still wanted that conversation about changelings. Although the party wasn't the right time for it.

You shake your head, you didn't think it weird. But that's because you been watching her since she was a unicorn. "Nope, I don't know too much. But I know you started out as Celestia's top student and apprentice. And though you had many friendship trials and adversities. You managed to get through them all with the Magic of Friendship. Enough to prove yourself worthy of becoming the Alicorn Princess of Friendship. From defeating big time villains to giving your time to even the smallest of friendship problems, you did it all Twilight Sparkle. So nope, I don't find it weird."

There were two reasons you said that. One, you thought the praise may cheer her up a little. And two, you wanted to put into her head that you were DEFINITELY not average in intelligence.

"Woah, and here I thought you were still mad at Twilight. And what you said." Spike looked to Twilight, he was greatly impressed by your words. "Twilight, Fluttershy wasn't kidding. This guy is smart."

Twilight didn't respond to Spike however. Instead, She was processing your words in her head. Including the praise you had just given her. A part of her still found it suspiciously curious, but she forced herself not to inquire into it. She didn't want to upset you or piss you off. Instead, she just checks if you're still mad at her. "Does, that mean you're not angry at me anymore? Because, I am really sorry. I know an apology isn't enough. So if you want, we can have that conversation, right now. Right here."

Spike looked towards the crowd, then back to Twilight "Err, Twilight. you do realize were in the middle of a party, right? Don't you think you should relax first?"

Twilight shook her head. "No Spike, this is a problem that needs to be fixed right now" Twilight stomped her hoof "Right right now!"

You had to agree with Spike on this one. "Er, Twilight. I'm with Spike on this one. It's a party, it'd be kind of rude if I spent the rest of the time with you talking politics. Why don't you just go and enjoy the party for now? You know, relax."

"B-but, the only reason I agreed to come was so I could talk to you. This is a problem I need to fix."

What? You doubted that's what Fluttershy would have wanted.

"You agreed to come here only to talk to me? And not for the party? I don't think Aunt Fluttershy would have accepted that. She would have wanted you to come for the fun and to let loose."

Twilight grimaced "Actually, that's exactly what Fluttershy wanted me to come for. But I just couldn't do it. Your father was the one who said it'd make sense to come to the party to talk with you about the changelings, that'd you'd be up for it right there and then."

Wut? At a party?

"Twilight, I don't wanna be rude or anything but, I don't think that was a good idea. I want to have that chat yeah, but it's a party. You're supposed to have fun."

Spike pointed to Twilight. "See, I told you. You're not supposed to talk boring stuff at a party, Twilight. You're supposed to.." Spike through his arm up "PARTY!"

You nodded in agreeance to Spike's words. "Yeah, that's right. Twilight, I think my Dad just lied to you so you would have a reason to come and enjoy the party."

"Anon" Twilight giggled, drunk on her own tiredness "Your dad wouldn't lie about something like that. Applejack is the most honest pony I know." Twilight started to tip over, Spike had to hold her up. What? What happened? What about Applejack?

"Spike, what's wrong with her?"

"She hasn't slept at all Anon. She really lost it when she realized what she did. I was with her all night while she just paced in the castle library muttering who knows what. I managed to get her in bed but she'd only sleep for minutes at a time before waking up for another half hour or so. It was really crazy stuff."

"Huh? Wait… How'd you manage to stay up all night then? Don't baby dragons just go out like a light during the night?"

"I ate a lot of doughnuts that night, Anon. A lot of doughnuts. I know I'm going to pay for it later, but for Twilight. I'd ride a thousand sugar rushes for her… and for Rarity… a million."

So Twilight was only working on a little energy. She was in no condition to party, much less have a discussion.

"Wait right here, give me a second." You say as you do a quick U-turn towards Pinkie

Spike couldn't say anything, only giving a yelp as Twilight's weight overtakes him, Twilight landing right on him as she begins to snore.

Yikes..

You walk back up to Pinkie, who seemed to be securing a rope on the other side of the stage, You tap her on the side of her flank to get her attention. "Ponk?"

Pinkie turned around with a smile "Heya Nonny, what are you doing over here?" Pinkie starts to gently shove you away "You don't want to come over here, there's… uhhh..bears! That's right! Bears! Oooooooo!"

She must have been securing something for later in the party.

"Oh, right bears yeah, gotcha. But Ponk, I gotta talk to you about Twilight."

"Twilight? What's wrong with her Nonny? Is she not having fun? Because, I can personally fix that!"

You point over to the sleeping Alicorn, laying on her side at the other side of the stage. "I don't think she's able to party right now Ponk, she's dead tired."

At least Discord tried. If it wasn't for her being dead tired, you could have probably put in the effort to get her to join in. But she just was too tuckered out for the party.

"Wow, I didn't realize the party was that crazy. It looks like she only took three steps before she out partied herself. Weird, Twilight usually has a lot more in her than that."

Sure, let's go with that. "Err, yeah. Do you think you can do something about that? You know, give her a place to rest?"

Pinkie nodded "Of course! I can just put her in my room and put corks in her ear in case the party gets too loud for her,"

"That'd be great Ponk, thanks"

Pinkie gave you a boop on the nose "Don't be silly Nonny, I don't need a thanks. It's just what friends do for their friends. Just let me get Twilight set up in the bed and we can get to the gift opening! And then after that, the Fir-..." Pinkie stopped herself ".....and then..thinnnnggsss.."

She must have meant whatever that rope was for. Pinkie, with relative ease, used her face to gently toss up Twilight onto her back. She then got off the stage to go into the Sugarcube Corner, which was behind the stage.

Spike looked to you, it looked like he was trying to figure something out. It was kind of uncomfortable. "You know, now that I think about it.It is kind of weird that you're so smart. Hrnnn, did Discord make you that smart with his magic?"

Well, that was intrusive. "No, it's just, I'm just that smart." The subject of you bring smart has been brought up so many times that at this point you were afraid of letting something slip just because of how natural it seemed to be, despite the fact you wanted to be above average colt I.Q. in the eyes of ponies. "And I don't want to get into it, It's just. I catch onto things quick."

Spike then looked upon your blank flank. "Yeah, I noticed. I've never met a colt as smart as you before. I haven't even met a lot of stallions that were that smart. And the fact your smartness got you compared to bugbreath? I dunno dude, I would expect a book or something to be your Cutie Mark. That's a real special talent you got."

But it really wasn't. You were just an average joe in a kid pony's body. With a more realistic outlook on things due to not being so accustomed to love and friendship every 5 seconds. Or used to anyway. "I guess, but then that means whatever IS my cutie mark is going to be pretty crazy, right?"

Spike didn't even think about that, upon hearing that revelation, he was blown away "Wooooah, I didn't even think about that. Whatever it is, I bet it's going to be really nuts! I just hope nopony thinks it's a bad thing like how Twilight thought you were Queen Chrysalis. That could be pretty bad, really bad even"

Woah woah, where'd this negativity come from? It was mostly just out of worry. He'd never seen Twilight do anything like that before. Banishing a colt because he was super smart and mentioning a subject about a species she just dealt with. He thought that it could get worse.

Though, you were smarter than that.

"Relax, Me and Twilight. That was just a chance misunderstanding. There's no reason to really worry."

"Maybe, but maybe not. I dunno Anon, I'm just saying that since you managed to beat up two stallions, and accidentally fool Twilight. That you got this… I dunno… this strange luck thing around you. Like, you're always lucky to make friends and even get Fluttershy as an Aunt. But then you have this really bad luck, like when the changelings tried to frame you and Discord, or getting attacked by those two stallions in the first place. It's always really out there."

It really was, but the circumstances weren't unexplainable. You just… couldn't explain them to the ponies. "Well yeah, look who my Dad is" You point to Discord, who was STILL trying to figure out Pinkie's showmanship.

"Ohhhhhhhh yeeeaaahhh, that explains everything, never mind" Spike felt stupid, somehow forgetting that Discord would be a good reason to all the hijinx you've dealt with thus far.

Pinkie returned back to the stage, and walked right up to you with a smile "Well, Twilight's all comfy cozy sleeping on my bed! It's a shame she's gonna miss out on the rest of the party! but, the show must go on! Nonny, why don't you go get your Aunt and..." Pinkie noticed Discord still looking at the microphone and walked over to him "Whatcha doin?"

Discord was annoyed at this point "What does it look like? I'm trying to figure out how you made this thing force those ponies to applause."

Pinkie giggled "Force? Hehe, that's silly Discord. I didn't force them to do anything. It's all in the way you present yourself."

"Present yourself? Do you know who I am? I am Discord! I can present myself in any way I choose!"

Pinkie shook her head "You can, but not that way. You gotta be happy, all smiles, you gotta show them that good times are right around the bend. Even if it's with a few words. It's all about how you sound! Watch this!" Pinkie took the microphone from Discord and walked to the front of the stage. "HELLO EVERYPONY,ARE YOU ALL HAVING FUN?"

They all cheer.

"YAY! I'M REALLY REALLY REALLY GLAD TO HEAR THAT! WE HAVE AN EVENT COMING UP RIGHT NOW. OUR MAIN COLT OF THE PARTY, ANON, IS GOING TO BE OPENING GIFTS! AND I ALREADY KNOW HE'S THANKFUL, BUT I'D ALSO LIKE TO THANK EVERYPONY THAT BROUGHT A GIFT TODAY!"

Pinkie then started speaking in a softer tone. "I know some of you got confused about birthdays and that's ok, but I also know that some of you didn't, and even the ones that did? you never took back your gifts. Which I think is really neato, because even though it's not Anon's birthday. I'm glad that we can still party like it is anyway. Because Anon, well, he was an orphan. And he never got to experience what a good party is really like. And, well, I'm glad we can show him just how happy, nice, and friendly Ponyville really is"

Pinkie then looks to you, her smile was a lot softer, less festive, and more emotional. "And I'm glad Anon really loves it here too, he's so young and yet so brave. He's the kind of guy that would stick his neck out for you if you were ever in trouble. And he's so easy to talk to. And yet, he's super duper smart. As smart as any stallion or mare. Why, when I first saw him. I already felt this nice and warm connection to him, I even had a nickname for him ,"Nonny", and that name… it just felt right. He's a good colt. And he'll make a great stallion."

Pinkie then looked towards the audience again and held her hoof out. "But before you stamp your hooves in applause, let me say one more thing. We wouldn't even be having this party today if it wasn't for his father, Discord. Despite what many of you may think, Discord took it upon himself to take care of a poor lonely colt and raise him like his own. Nopony took Anon in, and when nopony would. Discord stepped up to the plate for Anon. And from what I could tell, he's doing a super duper good job in raising him..."

...Holy shit… You didn't expect this coming from her. Her words, her words pierced deep into your heart. So deep that you started to tear up. "...come on Ponk..don't do th-..huh?"

You saw Discord holding a handkerchief to you, you looked up at him. He was tearing up too. "Take it Anon… you look like you need it..."

Christ… the feels. You take the handkerchief and wipe your eyes. This was heavy stuff.

"And to you too Spike, I think you'll need it" Discord held one to Spike aswell

"Ummm, nah, I'm good." Spike wasn't as phased as you or Discord.

Discord shoved the hankerchief into his claws "I insist! You're really going to need it!"

"Wha?! hey! don't do th-..." Spike stops as he catches a whiff of something "What's that smell?"

Discord, still crying, points downwards at Spike's feet. There were cut onions, smellier than usual. And taking an immediate effect on

Spike. "W-what?! T-that's not… oh man! Now I'm crying! but for the wrong reasons! Wahhhh!" Spike started to wipe his eyes now.

Pinkie Pie continues "I mean, sure he turned Ponyville into a crazy looney land once, and yeah, there was that time he teamed up with Tirek and nearly doomed us all..."

Ohh Pinkie nooo, don't say that.

And despite you cringing from those words, feeling it was either a bad joke or Pinkie being Pinkie. it only seemed to make Discord more enthralled and emotional.

"But he also makes life lots more interesting and fun sometimes, and I think Anon needs that. In fact, if anypony were to ask me "Pinkie, don't you think there are better dads for Anon?". I would say "Nope, Discord is the best Dad Anon could have. He's fun, full of wisdom stuff, is very caring, and makes things interesting! Also, he teaches Anon lots of stuff other Dads couldn't teach. That's probably one of the reasons Anon is so smart!". Yup, that's exactly what'd I'd say. Because In my heart, I know it's true. In fact, he cares so much about Anon that he let Fluttershy be his Aunt! And you know Fluttershy, she's the softest, nicest, most lovable pony you'll ever meet! Yup, Discord really is a good guy once you look past all the stuff he did in the past! so come on everypony, let's hear a big ol’ shout for the whole family. Let's hear it for Anon,Discord, and Fluttershy!"

And in just that instance, the crowd erupted into cheers and applause for the three of you. While you and Discord looked upon the cheering ponies on the stage. You could see Fluttershy,among the crowd, being tossed up like it was a mosh pit. It seemed she went hiding in the crowd to avoid the spotlight Discord had generated. Though looking at her now, she looked half happy, and half terrified. She didn't seem to know what to do. And at the same time. Didn't mind it.

You were absolutely speechless. Even if you knew some of that was born off of lies, the way Pinkie said it made it feel so real. It made you feel that despite the lies, that was the truth of it. You didn't even feel any guilt. Or to be exact, your mind didn't know if it SHOULD feel any. At least for the moment. You knew sooner or later it'd creep back up to you, or maybe not. You didn't know. But for the sake of Pinkie and that speech. You'd do your best to keep it together for the rest of the party.

Chapter 114

Before you could give it another thought. Pinkie rushed up right to you and flipped you onto her back. Running like a rocket right to the gift table and dropping you off before you can even realize what happened. Fluttershy gets dumped off right next to you by the crowd, her eyes were swirling from all the bouncing and turning. And Discord, getting the hint, appears on your other side. Taking one more moment to wipe a tear.

"ALRIGHT NONNY, IT'S GIFT OPENING TIME! AREN'T YOU EXCITED?!" Pinkie yelled, almost in your ear. Geez, this was definitely one of her more "screechy" moments.

"Y-yeah, I just. I was on the stage just now and. Woah, and.." You were still adjusting from the crazy speed of being on stage to being in front of the table. You look over to Fluttershy. Lordy, she looked dizzy. "Aunt Fluttershy, you ok?"

"Everything is swirling, is the world supposed to be swirling?"

Yep, she was dizzy.

Discord, seeing his friend in distress. Placed his talon right on top of her head. The moment he did. The entire area shook, knocking down every pony to the ground. Even you. The only pony left standing was Fluttershy.

"Is that better my dear?" Discord asked Fluttershy, genuine concern in his voice.

"Oh yes, much better. Thank you but..." Fluttershy looked upon the crowd. "Why did everypony fall to the ground?"

You slowly get up, even though it was a small shake. It was enough to slip up the entire damn party. "I think he sent your dizziness straight into the ground, yeesh Dad. A little much?"

Before he could give you a convoluted answer, Pinkie jumped in the air with a cheer "WOOOO, WASN'T THAT AWESOME EVERYPONY! LET'S GIVE DISCORD A CHEER FOR REALLY GETTING THE PARTY SHAKING! LITERALLY!"

And as the guests stood up, they cheered and stamped their hooves in applause. This, however makes you facehoof.

"How does she do that?! You'd think with all the fun and cheer I'm capable of that ponies would be cheering just seeing me pass by." Discord was once again dumbstruck by Pinkie's showmanship.

"I don't know, I sometimes forget where I am when it comes to things like this. This would never happen in my world."

"Your world?" Fluttershy asked, listening in on the conversation, given she was right next to the both of you. Oh shit.

"He means the world inside his head" Discord chuckled nervously "Anon does have a nasty habit to sometimes see things too logically rather than accepting them how they are"

Good enough.

"Y-yeah, I just thought it was just a little silly that everypony applauded right after falling down."

Pinkie, hearing all this as well, jumps into the conversation. "Oh, I can tell you why that happened. The answer is really easy, so easy that you don't even need a brain. All you need is the will… to party"

Wut? "What do you mean?"

Pinkie tilted her head, she couldn't believe you just asked that "Are you serious Nonny? It's a party! There's no reason to be serious and boring. Unless it's an evil monster attacking, then anything that happens, happens. And if it's fun. Well, you just accept it. Come on, you didn't feel just a little excitement when Discord did that?"

"Well… it caught me off guard."

"And that's OK, because it caught everypony off guard and we all tripped and had a good time! It was like going down a rollercoaster! But instantly!" Pinkie grinned at you, hoping her explanation got through to you.

It sort of did. But not in the way she thought. You realized you were being a stick in the mud. It was probably because you also had on your mind that you let something you shouldn't slip. But it's fine, everything was covered. Just act natural. "Well, if you say so. It was kind of fun. So… err..what do I do now?"

Pinkie giggled at you "Silly Nonny, what do you think? It's gift opening time! Pick a gift, and open it! I bet each and every one of these are going to make you smile!"

"Oh..oh ok" You begin to grin. "That I can definitely do, let's see." The first box you notice is a white one with ribbons, the white wrapping painted with blue diamonds. It was like looking at an eyeless box Rarity. "How about this one first"

You grab it and pull it close to you, and right when you start to tear it open. Fluttershy whaps your hoof. Albiet, softly. "A-aunt Fluttershy? What's the matter?"

"Anon, you can't just open the gift. You have to read who it's from. Out loud. It's rude just to tear into the gift like that."

Discord nodded in agreement, but only because Fluttershy said it "Indeed, it is rude just to do that. You should know better Anon, mmm mmm, so disappointing"

You mutter to yourself internally. You got a little too greedy there, yeah. But come on, you just got caught up a little on getting gifts. "Sorry, ok ok. I got it now. Let's see, this one is from Rarity."

You look among the crowd, they wanted courtesy. Fine, you'd do it in spades. By calling out the pony that gave you the gift and having a friendly word with them. "HEY MISS RARITY! YOU THERE?!"

Rarity stepped up, being very careful not to bump into anyone "Right here darling, you needn't shout."

"Sorry, but hey. Thanks for the gift Rarity. That's really generous of you to get me one."

"Well don't thank me yet, go on, open it. Once you see what I got you, THEN you can be thrilled about it"

Well, you didn't know if you were going to be thrilled. Whatever was inside, you could bet it was an article of clothing. A coat? or maybe a hat? hrnn..

You open the gift, and pull out… A scarf. And not just any scarf, this was the softest, yet warmest scarf you ever felt. Geez, this was.. "This is..woah."

Your hooves already felt a gentle warmth just by touching them. It was enough to put you in a trance. Is this how other ponies felt like when they put on anything Rarity produced? You doubted even Discord could make something of this quality. Even with his magic.

You wrap it around your neck, and oooohhh lordy. It was sooooo warm. a natural warmth your bed wasn't even capable of making. "Rarity, this is the warmest and most snuggly thing I've ever felt. Thank you so much!"

Rarity smiled at you "Think nothing of it Anon. But you may want to take it off. It's not actually cold outside and you may overheat."

"I-I dunno, I feel fine, and I just want to keep it on. It's just feels… right." You couldn't even think of wearing anything back in your old world as comfy as this. This was otherworldly, and it was just a scarf.

Rarity wasn't going to fight you on this, but she was going to give you caution "Suit yourself Anon, but I did warn you. In anycase, I'm so glad you are enjoying my gift. And do remember to take good care of it, as it's meant to last a thousand fabulous winters.”

You will, you hoped anyway. You'd have to use the horn to probably make your dresser more secure. Yeah, if nothing else happens today. You could probably just do that at the end of the day. "I will, you can count on that. And thanks again ahrm..Miss Rarity"

Rarity laughed at the "Miss Rarity". "Relax Anon, it's a party. You don't need to call me Miss Rarity today, though it's greatly appreciated."

Right, yeah, party. Come on Anon, loosen up. LOOSEN UP. You'll get it right with the next gift. You’re a party guy, so act like it!

You bring up the next gift. This one was plain looking, just plain white with a cute little red bow on top. You didn't even need to tear this one open. It opened from the top. "Lesse, this one is from.."

Oh shit sweet! You always did want to give at least a shout out to this horse, she was pretty adorable. "Derpy! I wonder what's inside!" You acted as excited as possible. Though you did wonder what she could have gotten you.

"Ohh ohh! I know, it's a muffin!" The cute grey pegasus pony announced as she flew up in excitement. Her eyes as derped up as ever.

Still adorable though. Though, you did find it odd she'd announce the gift… before you opened it.

You open it up, and sure enough. It was a muffin. "Yeeeah, it's a muffin alright." You look to Derpy. "Thanks Derpy, and it's very nice to meet you. So, did you bake this muffin today? I notice it's got some stuff in it, Blueberry right?"

"Today?" Derpy put a hoof under her chin to think. "Today?...today...ohhhh!" Then she remembered, and cheerfully smiled at you. "I baked it a week ago and forgot it, and when I heard it was your birthday! I put it in a box and brought it over for you to enjoy! But… wait… erm..I don't remember putting blueberries in it. It's a plain muffin!"

...Wut? You look back at the muffin. Holy shit, that's not blueberry, that's fucking mold. "O-oh, th-thanks Derpy"

You slowly begin to put the top back on, but that only makes Derpy look on with confusion. "Anon, aren't you going to try it? It's reeeeeaaaallllyyy good"

Then, you hear Fluttershy whispering to you "A-anon, I-I saw the muffin. And I know… I know it's gone bad. But, just be nice and give it a nibble. Ok? It's the courteous thing to do"

Is she serious?! You whisper back to her. "Aunt Fluttershy, what if the mold is poisonous? It looks really bad"

"Oh Anon, I don't think it's pois-...DISCORD! WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!"

Fluttershy shrieked in surprise as Discord was licking at his talons, he had just eaten the entire muffin. Discord then looked upon Fluttershy, who went from surprised and to angry within a moment. Or as usual, as angry as she could get. "Discord! That was Anon's muffin!"

Discord shrugged "And? He wasn't going to eat it. And it looked delicious. Why, it even tasted delicious. You really missed out Anon" Discord looked to Derpy and clapped "Bravo Ditzy, the muffin was exquisite."

"A-actually, my name is Derpy. A-and I'm glad you liked it Mister Discord. But erm… Anon was supposed to eat it" You watched as Derpy frowned....oh god.. YOUR HEART. It was like seeing Fluttershy frown...but if she was a retard horse that never meant to do wrong ever.

NO, YOUR HEART WAS SCREAMING. YOU WOULD RIGHT THIS WRONG!

And you knew exactly how… You point to a random direction. "Aunt Fluttershy look, it's a cute woodland creature!"

"Oh? where Anon? I really like cute woodland creatures" Fluttershy started looking around… works every time.

You rear up your right front hoof and punch Discord right in the gut. Making the WHOLE muffin pop out of his mouth.

However, you got overzealous. You caught the muffin in your mouth and bit off the entire top chunk. Your face started to turn green as you slowly chewed. "S-s--....oo....good....y-yum..."

Derpy, not realizing you punched Discord, but immediately noticing her muffin fly into your mouth. Deduced in her head that Discord hadn't really eaten it. And that you were enjoying, what it seemed to her, the best muffin ever.

"Oh, I guess Mister Discord didn't eat it after all." She then smiled wide, a big, heartwarming smile.

That made eating the muffin...almost worth it. It was worse than you could ever imagine. "Do you like it Anon?"

You look at her, holding in your puke, and force a grin. "B-best muffin, I-I ever had..."

Derpy did a spin in the air and clapped her hooves "Yay! I'm really really glad to hear that!"

You were glad that she was glad, because your stomach certainly wasn't. Dammit, now you wished that wouldn't have worked.

"Anon, why did you do that? You know all you had to do was ask and I would have pulled it out for you." Discord looked to you with a grin. He didn't really care, he found the fact that you bit more than you could chew absolutely hilarious.

"I overdid it, ugh. I didn't actually think that would work."

Fluttershy looked to you, she had not noticed at all what happened. Her mind was preoccupied with wanting to hug whatever woodland creature you saw. Afraid that the party may have startled it. "Anon, are you alright? Y-you're looking a little green… a-are you ok?"

"I-I'm fine, j-just anxious to move on to the next gift..."

"Oh… And Discord. Tomorrow, we need to talk about you taking things that don't belong to you. That was Anon's muffin, not yours."

Discord bowed his head in fake remorse "I'm so sorry Fluttershy, but do we really need to talk about it? I've learned my lesson already, honest. I feel oh so awful about taking the muffin. Truly I do"

"....well...ok...as long as you learned your lesson.." ...you couldn't believe Fluttershy had missed all that. Ugh, and your stomach was now killing you. Time for the next gift. And this one, was gold colored.

You reach for it, only for your hooves to clank on it. Oh holy shit, the box itself was made of actual fucking gold. You pull it close and read the tag, it had to be Filthy Rich's gift.

And you were right… Ugh… time to ham it up. "Amazing! this must be Mr. Rich's Gift, I wonder what's inside?"

You noticed Filthy Rich step up, smiling, head held up high. Oh, he was waiting. You open the gift, and pull out a box. It was… some kind of brand of horse shoes. you silently read it. "Invincishoes, horseshoes that will stand the tests of time and survive any trial. A product brought to you by Brawn co. a subsidiary of Barnyard Bargains"

Ok, got it. Let's go for broke. "Wow! Real, bonafide Invincishoes. I cannot believe that Mr.Rich, one of the nicest, most generous, and business savvy pony in Ponyville would get me such a thoughtful gift. Why, it truly reminds me that his company is capable of such wonderful and economy friendly items for anypony of any class. Gee whiz, I need to remember to shop smart and buy any product from Barnyard Bargains. They really make good stuff."

Ugh, you sounded so fake and hammy. But you knew ponies were easy to impress. Filthy Rich laughed heartily at your words, trying to act humble "Oh Mr. Anon, you're too much. I only try to keep prices down and manageable so anypony can afford the nicer things in life. I'm simply a business pony with a heart of gold. Yessiree"

...Oh… That was horrible. And it'd probably work too. You put the gift aside and move on to the next one. You slowly began to notice that Fluttershy, nor Discord had gotten you a gift. But… that was fine. You figured Discord wouldn't since he'd already given you so much. And as for Fluttershy, her company alone was the greatest gift she could give.

On to the next gift. "Next gift… lesse. Oh, this one's from." You look over and see the CMC, Diamond Tiara, and it seemed Silver Spoon had rejoined the group. "You guys..."

"Well duh, we did tell you we got you a gift, remember?" Scootaloo said, reminding you in a mocking way.

"Y-yeah, right. ok let's see what it is." You begin to open it

"You're gonna really like it Anon" Sweetie Belle said with squeaky excitement "Any colt that is ANY colt is gonna get jealous when you see what we got you."

"Ahrm, just remember that it was me who got daddy to order him all of the series two cards." Diamond said in a snooty tone, as if she was the major player in the gift.

"We remember, but we were the ones who found most of them rarer series one cards." Applebloom challenged back

Series one? Series two? Cards? The hell? "What are you girls talking about?"

"Well? Why don't you open it and see?" Scootaloo said, excitingly trying to move you along.

Hrn, well, you were curious. What could it be?

You open the gift, and inside was a small tin. Hmm… You take out the tin, and you look upon the fillies. Their eyes full of excitement and anxiousness. Waiting for you to give them praise for the gift you received.

You open up the tin, and in it were cards. But not just any cards. These were Power Pony Trading Cards. Just from that you were able to figure out what the "Series" talk meant. In truth, you didn't care too much about having them. You never planned to get into the series. But you did know trading cards, and you couldn't imagine collecting this many cards was an easy feat. No, Filthy Rich probably payed a good amount of bits for the series two cards. And you don't even want to imagine what the CMC did for what was "most" of Series one.

So you acted excited, and smiled. "Thanks girls, I really appreciate this. I can't imagine how hard it must of been to get all of these. I actually really like Filli-second and Saddle Rager. To me, they are top class heroes."

"I actually don't know any of the characters, but they said you'd really enjoy having those cards. And since apparently Series two was still out. I of course could get you the entire set. I'm really glad you like them Anon!" There went Diamond. Trying to gain your approval.

"And I actually do know the characters, so it was really easy to read up what the series one cards were and go around looking for them… It was just really hard to get them… well, except for the ones we got from Spike" Scootaloo said.

Yeah, of course he'd have some. You could even guess how they bribed him out of the cards. "Let me guess, you offered him a huge amount of gems."

Sweetie Belle nodded "Yup, and that was actually thanks to me. I guess a little of my sister's gem hunting skills rubbed off on me! We found enough for Spike to give up his cards."

Hmmnn..it was all making sense. But then you wondered what Applebloom did. "What did you do Applebloom?"

"Well, actually… not much. But ah kept what cards we got all organized. So we didn't end up going for repeats and stuff. Ahm just sad we couldn't get all of the first series cards. They just don't sell them anymore." Applebloom felt disappointed in herself, she felt she could have done more to help than just organizing and cataloging

Awwww, poor girl. "Well, I appreciate what you did. I know a thing or two about trading cards and it's really annoying when you forget you had a card and you trade one of your good ones for what you remember later to be a repeat. I think you did a good job, you all did." And of course, that brought many a smile to their faces.

"Awww, Anon" Fluttershy gave you a gentle hug "That was very sweet of you to say"

"Well, it's the truth. Trading cards can be pretty serious business. The teamwork to get me this many cards so quickly just tells me how dedicated they can be. I super appreciate it. Thanks girls."

"You're welcome!" they all cheered in reply.

And with that, you went through the few gifts that were left. A Bowler cap from Lyra and Bon Bon. Probably as thanks for the ribbons you got them for their hats. a super mini party cannon from Pinkie Pie, that actually worked. And a box of assorted chocolates from the cakes, and even a pencil set from Cheerilee. And after a few miscellaneous gifts. You finally came upon… "What the...?"

This last gift, didn't have a tag on it. Did it fall off? You held it up. And called for it's owner. "Hey, does Anypony know anything about this box?"

They shook their head, and no one seemed to know where it came from. Not even Pinkie. "Hrn… Well, thanks whoever you are..hmm.."

You open it up, and it was empty… save for a single card… which it too… was empty. "...what the?" You pick it up, and look on the other side. Nothing. ".....what? What kind of gift is this?"

Fluttershy looked at it, confused as well "Erm, normally I would have said something about you… saying that. But..You're right. This gift doesn't make any sense… Discord, is this from you? As a joke?"

Discord shook his head "No, there's nothing about an empty card I'd find funny. Not unless it actually did something."

Pinkie however, took an interest and moved closer to it "Ooooohhh, I think I know what it might be"

"You do Ponk? What do you think it is?" You asked

"It could be one of those cards that you splash with warm water to make words appear. Or it could be some sort of treasure map instead! Oh wow! This could be the start of a gift that might be super huge!"

Warm water huh? You knew about stuff like that. You'd have to test that after the party. You slip the card into your saddle bag. And then face the crowd. "Hey everypony, thank you, really. For the party and the gifts. I really appreciate it."

"Hey Nonny, don't thank us all for the party just yet. There's still one more thing left to do!" Pinkie said, her grin turning wider and wider. Her body shaking.

What else could there be? "What's left?" You look up, it was already getting dark. "I mean, it is becoming night time."

"Exactly, now is the perfect time for one last surprise! Wait right there! And.." Pinkie grabbed the microphone and announced loudly "EVERYPONY LOOK STRAIGHT UP!"

And so they did, even you did. And all there was was empty sky. Stars appearing as the moon began to rise.

Pinkie snuck off to the stage, and pulled the rope...

Chapter 115

Pinkie went center stage as various rockets started to rise from the roof of the stage, pointing upwards. "I HOPE EVERYPONY IS READY FOR THE FINALE, BECAUSE IT'S GOING TO BE A REAL BLAST! ENOUGH ROCKETS,FIREWORKS, AND BOMBS TO COVER EVERY PARTY IN THE COMPILATION! AND A FEW MORE JUST FOR KICKS! GET READY PONYVILLE, BECAUSE HERE WE GOOOOO!"

And right on the word go, everything started going flying in a sequence. The air lit up in various colors, blasts, and patterns. The sound was booming. Almost enough to cover up the "oos" and "aahs" from the crowd as everything exploded. It was a sight to behold. Either fireworks were better here or Pinkie was just better at rigging them, the whole thing nonetheless was spectacular.

After about five minutes. The show was over. As was pretty much the party. Pinkie had thanked everyone for coming of course. And to be on the look out for the next crazy party in town. Whenever that was. Fluttershy had encouraged you to personally say goodbye to as many guests as possible. As it was the courteous thing to do. You gave hugs to your closer friends, such as the CMC, Lyra and Bon Bon, and Diamond Tiara, Silver Spoon was fine with a simple goodbye. As was most guests. Derpy however, was so thrilled you enjoyed the muffin that she gave you a hug that nearly choked you, it made you think how many ponies were actually capable of a fucking death grip.

Pinkie stuck around for clean up. And doing it amazingly quickly. Meanwhile Filthy Rich looked like he wanted to stick around to speak to Discord. But Diamond Tiara was pulling at him, telling him she was tired.

He couldn't let his daughter just walk home alone. So, it would have to be for another time.

While she was brooming up the trash from the ground, Pinkie came close to the three of you, leaned on the broom handle. and smiled at you "Sooooooooo Nonny, what'dya think of your first party?"

It was, pretty ok. You weren't hiding in a corner and nobody was making fun of you. the fireworks were cool. And as per the norm in this crazy magic horse land. Everyone was pretty friendly. "It was pretty awesome Ponk, I'm really glad you talked me into all this. I actually feel… like I'm really part of the town."

"Well duh! That's the whole point of the "Welcome to Ponyville" part of the party! The fireworks were for your hero part of your party. But I did have to leave out the hospital part. Since we couldn't throw the party over there and all. That's ok right?"

You nod, of course it was. She did more than enough. "Yeah, perfectly fine. I don't think a hospital would have been a good venue anyway. You know, I don't think they'd appreciate the noise."

"Really? Because that's what the doctors said too. I'd think it'd be more fun than being stuck in beds all day. But eh" Pinkie shrugged. "Annnnyyyyway, this mess ain't gonna clean itself." Pinkie goes back to brooming up the mess, singing a little tune as she does so.

Fluttershy looks to you and gives you a hug "I'm really glad you enjoyed your party Anon, I really hope it wasn't too much for you. Since you have school tomorrow and all. I don't want you to be worried about anything and not be able to sleep."

Awww, nah. There was nothing you didn't like. It was perfectly fine. "Nah, it's ok. I liked everything about the party. And best yet, everypony was just… really friendly. My tummy still hurts a little though."

"Awww, do you want me to give you a tummy rub to help it feel better?" Fluttershy asked, worried that the muffin might be hurting you more than you let on.

NOOOOOPE. Well yes, but no. You'd love a tummy rub. But you're still a male. And Fluttershy's hoof being so close… down there. No… you'd be fine. "Nah, I'm really good. I'm a big tough colt. See?" You flex your hoof. "Totally fine"

"Are you sure Anon? I don't want you having trouble sleeping because your tummy is hurting."

"I-it's fine Aunt Fluttershy, really. It's just a tiny ache." It was a little more than that. But you'd be fine.

"Don't worry dear Fluttershy, for if my son's tummy ache causes him pain most foul. Then I will commit to alleviating it post haste. For if any pain comes to my son. I will lay, gloomy, upon my bed. Feeling wretched feelings for what I could have prevented" Discord said in a very Shakespearean way. Trying to sound as dramatic as possible.

"Discord, that's very sweet of you. You do have medicine at home that can help Anon right? Because, I do have a few remedies for him if you don't."

Discord chuckled "Remedies? Oh no no, that's not how I planned to cure him"

"Then how?" Fluttershy was curious, how could he cure you without tummy rubs or medicine?

"Why, like this!" Discord looked to you with a sinister grin.

OH SHIT! YOU KNEW WHAT HE WAS GOING TO DO! "Dad! dad don't! I OH NOPE!"

You try to run off, but as you move your hooves back and forth. You notice that they aren't pushing along the ground… it was already too late.

"D-discord?! What are you doing?! You're scaring him!" Fluttershy flew up to try to grab you, to pull you away from him. But she couldn't move her wings. "Discord?!"

"Relax Fluttershy! Just relax, it'll be over in a minute" Discord tapped himself, making scrubs appear on him as well as Fluttershy.

"D-dad, I know you like to joke, But I d-don't want this. I don't want toFEAGFEDA" But your words meant nothing to him. He reached right into your throat and started digging in.

Oh god, even if it was a joke, you could taste him. it tasted fouler than the muffin. You could feel your insides squirming from his talons. You knew if he was anyone else, your insides would be torn up by now. He then pulls it out, the entire top half of the muffin you bit into. "Nurse! the surgery was a success!" Discord drops the muffin onto a plate, and whisks it off into nothingness. "The patient is cured!"

You were, the pain was gone, replaced with a vile taste in your mouth and your insides squirming. "A-ahhhnmmmnnn… that… was nasty"

"Dhischorm mm?!" Fluttershy noticed she had a doctor's mask on, she tore it off with her hoof and stared hard at Discord "Discord! Why in Celestia did you do that?! He's your son! Look at him! You hurt him! I-I can't believe what I just saw! How could you!"

Discord cringed, he thought she'd find it funny. He immediately started tapping you to say something. "A-anon, do you mind? Tell her how you're feeling."

"Gross...."

Discord slapped his face with his paw "Yes, and?! Do you have a stomach ache anymore?! That's what I'm asking!"

You didn't, but your tongue was gonna need a bath. "No… but I… I really need something to drink."

"WHEEEEYUUUWHEEEYUUU! NURSE PINKIE PIE IS ON THE JOB. EVERYPONY CLEAR!" Pinkie Pie gently pushed aside Discord and Fluttershy as she stuck a quarter filled soda bottle into your mouth. "Quick, one million ccs of soda pop! Stat!"

You were able to swallow it all in one gulp. Also good thing it wasn't a million fucking ccs. You don't think she knew that it meant "cubic centimeter".

"Everypony stand back! We're about to see if the medicine worked!" Pinkie took out the soda bottle and gave you a smile, booping her nose on yours "Feeling better now?"

Everything was happening so damn fast. oy, you needed a moment. "Y-yeah, thanks Ponk. Bu-"

"Wooooo! the entire operation was a success! Come on Doctor Discord! How about a hoofpump!" Pinkie Pie raised her hoof up high.

Discord just stared at it, he didn't know what the hell she meant "What?"

"Come onnnn! You know, a hoofpump for a job well done! Don't leave me hanging!" Discord looked to Fluttershy, who looked so confused. She didn't know to be mad at Discord, happy you were feeling better, or just weirded out by the fact Pinkie just joined in so fluidly.

Not wanting it to seem any more awkward or unpleasant, Discord gives Pinkie that hoofpump she so desired. "I suppose we make… some kind of team."

Fluttershy tried to clear her head of worry by checking on you. your wellness was her first priority. And she wanted to make sure you were ok, absolutely sure. "Anon?...are you alright? Really? You're not hurt?"

You were able to put your hooves back on the ground. If it wasn't for that super sweet sugary soda. You'd still be tasting something worse than foul. Ugh, as much as you were annoyed right now from all the quick zaniness. Discord and Pinkie DID fix you right up. "Yeah, I am actually feeling better. But..." You turn to Discord. "You mind giving me a little warning before you do something like that? Dad..."

You stared at him with a stern look.

That, you felt, was truly invasive. You were honestly scared he would actually hit something vital. And even when you realized he wouldn't, still. a little warning is appreciated.

"Anon, you had a stomach ache. Would you have really let me just stick my talons in you if I simply asked?" Discord asked you.

"Urmm… I think I would have asked you to just, you know. Teleport it out of me? I know you can do that."

"I could, but then, how would I know if I got every single crumb if I just used my magic blindly? I'm not psychic."

"I, err. I mean, you could have just at least asked anyway"

"And what would you have said?" Discord then turned to Fluttershy "And Fluttershy, if he did say yes, would you have let me do it?"

"W-well. I… would have suggested medicine..Like I did"

Discord rolled his eyes. "Ooooh, medicine" He waved his paw and talons "That would have worked. In what? An hour or two? My method was clean, safe, and as you can see. Anon is much better now for it. I'm sure my nurse, Pinkie Pie. Could vouch for me"

"Yay! I really am a nurse now!" Pinkie Pie whipped out a nurse's hat from… again… out of nowhere. And went and gently tapped your tummy "Did that hurt, Nonny?" She came out of nowhere yet again.

It didn't, all it did was make you feel a little warmer from her touch. "No, it's really fine. And..." Discord was right, all in all, you were the one that hit him. You were the one who caught the muffin in your mouth. And medicine does take time. And if he was telling the truth about the whole "teleport" thing. Then, he really did do you a favor. As did Pinkie.

"Aunt Fluttershy, you don't need to worry. I think Dad is right on this one. Medicine does take awhile. And, I think it's better the muffin was out of me all together than it just sitting in there. And for that..." You turn to Pinkie and Discord. "Thanks Dad, thanks Ponk. You guys did me a solid."

"Ahh it's no biggie! Anyway, it's getting late soooooo" Pinkie swapped her nurse's hat for a janitor's hat. "Back to work for me! seeya later!" And so she went. Back to clean up.

"Finally! Somepony understands the value of doctors! Speaking of which, Anon. Your bill." Discord snaps a bill of expenses right in front of you.

You look at it, then get a clever idea of your own. Well, as long as it was the same in Equestria as it was on earth. "But… I'm so young. I think my daddy should sign it. I think that's the legal thing to do."

"But..I am your father, and your doctor" Discord smirked at you, thinking he had you.

"Yup, so I guess "The Chaos Hospital" is gonna be fitting the bill on this one."

Fluttershy, noticing the joke and already feeling better that you were feeling better. starts to giggle. "Oh my, that's actually very clever. And Discord, he is right. You'd be the one covering the hospital bill. You are his father."

"What? That's nonsense! A child should be able to fit their own bill. Give me a moment!" Discord popped some legal documents right in front of himself, took out his brain, rubbed it all over the papers, popped it back, then poofed the documents away. ".....drat."

You start laughing, you didn't know if he was actually taking it seriously or not. "Dad, you know you don't actually have to pay it off right? It's your joke."

You needed this, Discord looked absolutely befuddled that his joke turned on him simply because he sucked at legalisms.

"It's the principle of… ARGH! Whatever, I can only be glad there isn't a crowd to see this. In anycase, we should be going. School is tomorrow and I want to get to that muffin. So, to speed things along" Discord poofed your gifts away, including the scarf you were wearing. "I'll put these in your room for safe keeping so you needn't lug them around. Consider it my payment,"

"So you're both going home now?" Fluttershy asked.

It seemed you both were… Though, you wanted to stick around a little while longer. You checked your saddle bag. And the blank card was still in there. You could walk to the fountain, dip it in, see what it said, then go home. You were afraid to touch the sink in Discord's house. It's water wasn't clean. You knew that much.

"I… actually want to stick around a little bit. I want to see what that blank card is all about."

"But what about school? You need your rest Anon" Fluttershy warns

"I'll be fine, it'll just be a quick hop to the fountain. I'll dip in the card. And it'll all be good. It'll take me five minutes tops."

"Mmmm… still, what do you think Discord?"

Discord shrugged "Being a child aside, I trust him. Besides, if he takes too long. I have an alarm set up to get him ready if he oversleeps."

...ohh… yeah… yeah he did.

"O-ok then, I'll be heading home then. And Anon..." Fluttershy walked up to you and gave you a kiss on the forehead "I love you, don't take too long, ok?"

Aww… you give a kiss on Fluttershy's cheek and smile. "I love you too Aunt Fluttershy, I'll be super quick. Promise."

"Ok then… Goodbye you two." With that, Fluttershy flies off. Giving a goodbye to the working Pinkie Pie. Who seemed to be just about done.

"Hrnn.." Discord watches Fluttershy fly off, then turns to you "Anon… please don't take too long"

Huh? "I thought you didn't care how long I took..."

"I do..and don't. I do, because I'd rather you get up, nice and rested. See Fluttershy in the morning. And give her a hug. Your presence really does make her smile."

...Awww. "I won't take too long. And, that's really sweet Discord. You know, I think it's pretty cute when you're affectionate like that. I bet Fluttershy would like it a lot if you were like this more often. But, what do you mean you don't? Does it have to do with me having my own time to explore Ponyville or something?"

"Oh no no, it's just I do get quite the kick from seeing you hit the wall. Gets me everytime"

Well… that ended that moment quickly.

"Yeah… I'll… be back soon. But don't wait up for me."

"Of course I won't. That'd just be boring. So long Anon." And with that, Discord teleports off.

You turn to Pinkie and give her a wave. "Have a goodnight Ponk! Seeya later!"

"Seeya later Nonny! Hey, when you get the chance, let me know what that card said. Because if it doesn't say who it came from, I know I'd probably be able to figure it out just from the hoofwriting… I've memorized everypony in Ponyville's hoofwriting you know."

Creepy… but that's ponk. For her, it was no doubt for party purposes. "I'll let you know."

And with that, you headed towards the fountain with the card. The only thing you could think of from this card that would worry you is if it turned out to be from a female… that wanted your dick. You don't think you could handle Applebloom and Diamond Tiara going pure offensive mode from that.

You head over by the fountain near town hall. This would be easy, dip the card. Read it. Dump map. Go home. Easy as apple pie. Upon reaching the fountain. You take out the card. "Here goes nothing"

You dip it and pull it out. "...hmmm" Nothing appears, you try again, but let it soak a little.

Still nothing. "I guess Ponk was wrong, or… maybe the water is not warm enough?" You dip in your hoof, it felt kind of warm. "...huh..maybe it's just a joke gift. Though, I don't get the jo- hrnnn?"

The card started to glow a soft blue color. "...ohhhh, ok. I get it. It's one of those glow in the dark wall pad things. Huh. Whoever got it for me must have thought I would think this was cool or something. Eh… Well. Maybe Chrysalis would like it."

You go to stick it back into your saddle bag. But then you notice something. You couldn't let go of the card. You take your hoof back out and shake it. "Agh, or it WAS a joke card. I don't even feel any glue on… WHAT HEY!"

Suddenly the card clamped around your hoof. "What in the f..UUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH"

And before you could finish your sentence, it started pulling you. covering you in a blue aura as you zipped through the town, then outside through the outskirts, into the everfree, and towards a cave. Screaming all the while. "WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"

The card continued to pull you deeper inside. Until it started to slow down, and then slam you into a wall full of fluffy white pillows. "OMPH!"

You hit the pillows, and fall to the ground. Hitting your head on thankfully… more pillows. "...ogh...w-what...happened?"

You shake your head and quickly stand up to look around. There was, a shitton of books around. a simple bed. a table. And candles everywhere, all alit. Who the fuck lived here? What fucking happened?

"Oh no, I'm not doing with this… I'm..gonna......oh no.."

You reached for your saddle bag. And… it wasn't there. It must have fallen somewhere during the trip. You quickly started looking around for it. "Oh geez, where is it! Where did I drop it?!"

This was bad, this was really really bad. Without the contents that laid inside your bag. You were helpless. You came to terms to that and knew whoever, or whatever was in this cave was probably not something you could fight. What if it was a fucking Ursa Major… that somehow learned to read?

Then you noticed a soft blue glow in one of the corners of the cave. And a voice. "Welcome, Anon"

That voice....

Chapter 116

You look towards the glowing blue light that is within the darkness. You couldn't see who it belonged to. But that voice…

"Hello?" You ask into the glowing darkness

And then, she stepped into the light, Starlight FUCKING Glimmer. Oh… fucking shit. And you without your bag. What were you, a villain magnet?! WHY WAS SHE HERE?!

"Hello, you are Anon...aren't you?" She was giving you a pleasant smile.

"Don't give me that "Hello" stuff. I know who you are. What do you want?" Oh no, fuck this shit. You already had a villain in queue at your fucking house. And although you wanted to reform Starlight before. Suri put you in reality, and Chrysalis, you were suspecting, was just messing with you at this point.

And now this happens?!

Starlight went from a smile to an immediate frown. "You do? Hmmm, then bringing you here in this way was probably a bad idea, huh? Sorry about that, but that was the only way I knew I'd be able to speak with you. I bet, from what you've probably been told by Twilight and her friends is that I'm not a very nice mare."

"Considering this is probably some sort of trap, I'd sa-TWILIGHT! YOU’RE HERE!" You point behind Starlight, she immediately turns around and you bolt towards the entrance of the cave.

Or you would, if you weren't floating in a blue aura.

"Nice try Anon, but I'm not stupid." Starlight turned back to you, an arrogant smirk on her face. "I don't even understand why you're acting this way."

You stop trying to run as you just float there, you were looking at her with a pouty, angry face. You figured she was going to hold you hostage. And you figured she wasn't as violent as Chrysalis was. It'd only be a matter of time before Discord came looking for you. You knew you'd be ok… hopefully. You didn't want a reason to just panic. Oh geez, but that feeling was creeping up on you.

"Oh, I dunno. the fact that you're probably going to use me for something. I'm not stupid either, I know what you want from me. Otherwise you'd have no interest in me whatsoever."

"Oh, and what's that?"

Considering all you knew. All you could deduce. She gave you that present to lure you in for a source of power that would fit her needs. There's no way you could be wrong. She truly has to have been spying upon the town for some time now.

"My horn, what else? I know you've been spying on Twilight. I don't know by how much. But I hate to tell you, I hid my horn in a special place. And you aren't getting it by keeping me hostage. Might as well give up, let me go, and maybe my Dad won't have to pound you."

That was the best you had. You were sure, at this point, that you could handle the situation. Sure, you didn't actually know where you dropped the bag. But she's the only villain you could think of that didn't try to destroy anything. And she couldn't equalize what you didn't have.

Starlight looked to her backside as something glowed behind her, she brought it forward so you could look at it. It was your saddlebag. "Oh, you mean the horn that's in this bag? The bag you dropped halfway through the cave? I found it. I don't appreciate you lying to me, it's very rude for somepony your age."

...Oh shit… You cringed hard. "Ummm… hey, you… found it. Umm, just to let you know. The horn doesn't actually do anyth-.."

Starlight raised her hoof and shook it, stopping you mid sentence "Ah ah, there you go lying again, Anon. I know what the horn does. I did a little investigating after two, poor little colts told me what you did to them. I put two and two together after that, and well. I can only guess how much power this horn has considering you can move the sun and the moon with it. Probably very easily if a colt can do it"

...Ohhhhh… Shiiiiiiiitttt… You didn't know what else to say. Oh fuck, you just fucked everything up. Starlight however, hovered the bag right in front of you. And placed it on the ground. "There you are, I didn't want you to lose it."

You then felt the aura leave you, as you were gently put back to the ground. What hey? "...You're just giving me back my bag?"

Something seemed fishy.

"I am, it doesn't belong to me silly. You can check it if you want, I didn't take anything from it." Her arrogant smile changed to that of a cheerful one "I never said I was taking your horn. The fact that you’re making these kinds of assumptions.." She then looks down, she looked upset now "It hurts, I thought you were smarter than that."

You could see the horn sitting right next to the map. It was there, like she said. But what the fuck? Why didn't she take it? And why was she acting this way? "Don't act like you're hurt. I know this is some sort of trick. In fact. I bet..."

You grab the horn and slap it on your head "This isn't the real..." Sombra's horn changed into the unicorn horn upon being placed on your forehead. "...horn."

"I told you I didn't take it. And now, you are in the position to crush me. Go ahead Anon, if you really feel that you need to. I'll take anything you got." And so she stood, at the ready to be zapped.

Anything you got huh? No matter what, she was a threat. She had the power to remove and replace Cutie Marks. And god knows what else. Maybe she had a tragic backstory? Maybe not. But for once, you weren't going to leave yourself in a position of helplessness.

You aim your horn and zap her, you had the perfect thing in mind for her.

"W-WHAT ARE YOU DOING?! AGHH!" She yelps in surprise. She clearly didn't expect you to actually do it.

"I'm not taking any chances with you. Besides, it won't be too bad when..." Your magic explodes on her, a cloud of dust covering her from view.

"You're equal to me" You say as the horn pops off. The smoke clears. And what stood before you was a fillified Starlight Glimmer.

"I'm ok?" Starlight thought she had exploded, but she noticed something was odd. First, you were suddenly her height. And two, her voice was lighter and squeakier. "...what's wrong with my voice?"

You step up to her, grinning. Finally, you got the drop on someone before they could royally fuck you up. You didn't need deus ex discordia this time. It also felt fitting, using a spell to make someone else young. "Nothing, I made you as young as I am. I'm no fool Starlight, it's a common trick for a villain to act "Nice" and...OFSDGGSDF"

Suddenly you were slammed into the wall, covered in a blue aura, Starlight was pissed...adorably so. "YOU DID WHAT?!"

This may have not been the best move. As she held you up, you could feel her magic suddenly letting up. You took a look at her forehead. Her horn was shrinking. Good, you were sure you had removed it with that blast. Seemed it needed to discharge before the rest of the magic took effect.

"W-what's going on? What's happening?!" Starlight was now terrified, she could feel her magic weakening. Going completely null when her horn disappeared.

"Ha! There we go! Now we'r… oh..." You fell down from the wall you were flung onto, and crashed onto your head. "..d-darnit… always… always my head..."

Starlight was touching her forehead, she couldn't believe it. Her horn was gone. "What did you do?! How?!"

You slowly got up, and shook your head, looking at her frightened form. "I disarmed you, that's what. I know what happened at the town. I know everything. And not just through word of mouth. My Dad is Discord, remember..I got..GRGSWFD"

She immediatly rushed up and decked you right in the face. "CHANGE ME BACK! NOW!"

Oohhhh, ok. She can still hit. And she was furious. You were barely able to dodge her second blow

"CHANGE ME BACK! CHANGE ME BACK! CHANGE ME BACK!" She screamed as she continued to immaturely slam her hoofs at you

You had a hard time dodging her. Geez, you didn't expect her to get this pissed off this much. She was bucking around like nuts. You manage to dodge her last buck, but she immediately turns around and charges at you swiftly, knocking you down as she towers over you. Staring at you with a terrifyingly adorable expression. "NOW!!!...I was gonna be nice to you. BUT THIS...THIS?! I WON'T TOLERATE IT! YOU'RE JUST AS BAD AS TWILIGHT SPARKLE"

"I can't change you back… the horn only works once per day, and geez. Temper much?"

"TEMPER?! TEMPER?!?!?!? YOU JUST CHANGED ME INTO A FILLY! A FILLY WITHOUT A HORN! I THOUGHT WE COULD DISCUSS MATTERS OF IMPORTANCE, BUT NOOOOO, YOU JUST HAD TO PROVE WHAT AN IGNORANT LITTLE SCUMBAG YOU ARE!"

"What importance? I'm just a colt! Just admit you want the horn. That's all you wanted."

"OF COURSE THAT'S WHAT I WANTED… THAT'S… what I wanted. But..." She started to ease up for a moment, but only for a moment before jumping back into anger. "NO! YOU KNOW WHAT?! NO. TO THINK, I ACTUALLY THOUGHT THAT A COLT WOULD UNDERSTAND. HOW STUPID COULD I BE? A COLT? REALLY? A COLT UNDERSTANDING MY PHILOSOPHY?! HOW COULD I HAVE BEEN SO STUPID!"

Ok, you were tired of getting yelled at. And since she was a filly now. You should be able to easily…

You slip your back hooves under her and push her away, knocking her on her back. You quickly rush up to her and return the favor of holding her down. "Gotcha! and, just to let you know. Your philosophy is uniting all of Equestria under a single banner. Making everypony equal in every way. And removing strife and hatred in the world by making everypony work together. Stop me if I'm wrong."

She growled at you, but… that wasn't wrong. "You're as smart as they say… so if you DO understand. Why would you do this to me?"

"Because, I couldn't risk you using the horn to FORCE it upon everypony. That's what you were going to do, weren't you?"

Starlight cringed, she didn't expect you to have her figured out so easily. "...how..? How did you know I was going to do that?..a-a-and..grr.."

She shoved you off. "And what's wrong with that?! Haven't you noticed Equestria is always dealing with a crisis? Monster attacks, villains breaking out of Tartarus, why..even ponies fighting among themselves..or… just leaving their friends over something stupid..."

You manage to land on your hooves as she got up, she stopped being overly aggressive, instead just opting to stare at you angrily as she spoke. Just like you weren't wrong, She wasn't wrong about that. But still.

"...I can't argue that. That does happen. But you can't just force everypony to just give up their cutie marks. You can't just force it to be like your town."

"But my town was perfect! Everypony worked with one another, everypony smiled everyday. Everything was nice and good until TWILIGHT AND HER LITTLE BAND OF HORRIBLE FRIENDS CAME AND WRECKED EVERYTHING!!" She started breathing hard, just the thought of Twilight was enough to set her off, especially when she was reminiscing on what she did. Being fillified probably didn't help things either. It seemed to affect her temper.

"It wasn't. Sure, you managed to convince the ponies there to give up their cutie marks. But they became miserable without them. And they became afraid of you when it came to ever even thinking of getting them back. They weren't happy. You just brainwashed them, Starlight. You even had a shack dedicated to just spouting your message every second of everyday. How are you going to tell me that everything was fine?"

"You think you understand, Anon? You think it's really like that?" She started to ease up, and this time, you could tell that growing frown on her face was definitely genuine. She was starting to tear up. "That town was everything to me, I spent my LIFE… MY LIFE… making it what it was. I HAD to put in every measure imaginable so nopony would just waltz in and ruin it. Ponies that tried simply didn't understand. Life was better in that town. Anypony that had suffered due to their cutie mark were welcome. And I expected nothing out of them but their loyalty. Is that so wrong? Is it?"

You weren't an idiot though. You saw the opener, anybody who ended up following her. Was never allowed to leave. "And let me ask you this. Anypony that went in, they could never leave if they wanted to, could they? If they weren't actually happy, like you wanted them to be, you'd still keep them there by holding their cutie mark hostage, right? Not very "Equal" since you got to keep yours."

The way you worded that, the knowledge you knew. It was starting to get to Starlight, and make her suspicious. "How can your father possibly give you all that knowledge? He wasn't even there, and I can't imagine ANYPONY even going into that much detail about what happened to a colt. That doesn't make any sense to me. It's as if you know EXACTLY what happened."

"I have my ways, now can you please answer my question?" you were starting to realize that you just defeated a villain on your own. And had no idea what to do with her. You could just leave her here, she wasn't your responsibility.

"Mnnnn… If I let ponies leave, it could be a threat to my cause. What would stop the rest of them from leaving? They'd leave, and go back to their miserable lives. Maybe they'd be happy with their cutie marks back… but it wouldn't be for long… They'd be sorry they ever left my town."

...Christ, what the fuck was with her and cutie marks? That's it, you had to know. "Hold on, what does Cutie Marks have to do with anything anyway? Lots of ponies have differences besides just their Cutie Marks. From coat color to their personality. I don't see what makes Cutie Marks the most important factor..."

"Why should I tell you? It's not like you'd care. You made that obvious"

Maybe you would, maybe you wouldn't. But you were damn curious. "Try me, you went through the trouble to bring me here. And now I'm willing to listen."

"WILLING TO LISTEN?! YOU TURNED ME INTO A FILLY! I CAN'T EVEN USE MY MAGIC ANYMORE!" She exploded in anger.

"Not my fault, maybe if you didn't send me flying in here with that stupid card. Maybe, I don't know. If you just came up and asked me for a chat. In a public place, then not only would I be willing to listen better. But we wouldn't be able to do anything to each other without attracting any attention. But nope. You flung me in here and expected a rational chat."

"Yes! I did! I thought if I returned your bag as a show of good faith, then you'd relax a little. SILLY ME THAT I DIDN'T EXPECT A COLT TO BLAST ME WITH A SPELL THAT MOST UNICORNS COULDN'T EVEN FATHOM CASTING!"

This was getting annoying now. You just wanted to know the reason. "Whatever, still your fault. And that seems to be your problem. Don't you take the blame for anything?"

"Not when I know it's not my fault. You want to know why I hate cutie marks so much? You want to know the pain it's caused me? Fine..I'll tell-...huh?" Both you and Starlight heard multiple growls coming from down the cave.

"...you know, you don't need to growl with every sentence. If you just calm down, maybe we can work something out." You tell her, just wanting to know the damn story

Starlight was looking past you now, she could see shadows behind you. "...that wasn't me..." She gulped.

"Then who was it? It's just me and you in here."

She looked pretty frightened now, she was taking steps back as the origins of the growling grew nearer. "...and them..."

"Them?" You take a look behind you… oh shiiiiit "...are those...Timberwolves?" You started to take steps back, there were three of them. And they did not look like they came to play.

"What do you think they are? Darnit, my spell keeping the animals away from the cave must have gone away too."

...huh......yeah....maybe turning her into a filly wasn't a good idea. Good job dumb dumb.

You held onto your saddlebag tightly. You picked up your horn and tried putting it on. But no dice. No charge, and the Sombra look wasn't deterring them.

"Can't you do something?! Zap them!" Starlight cried

"I-I can't, like I said… It only get's one shot per day. Isn't there an exit through the other side?"

Starlight shook her head "N-No, it's a dead end. I… I can't believe this… It can't end this way. I was so close...."

You both were stepping back, the timberwolves looked primed and ready to jump and tear you two apart.

No magic, no way out, it was over. By defeating Starlight. You doomed yourself. Why could you never fucking win?

Game....over.

You started to shake as you stepped back. It was only a matter of time before they decided to attack. Starlight didn't look like she was doing much better. It was clear she was giving up already.

As you stepped back, you felt a drop of water hit your nose. You could feel your hooves step into something wet. A shallow puddle? There was a small puddle right under you, and you alone. You look down… OH SWEET MERCY! The cave had moist spots!

You reach into your bag quickly. And pull out your map. Oh thank god for puddles. Fucking yes.

You were going home and… and...

You looked at Starlight… she wasn't under the small puddle you were under. You could escape, and leave her to fry… Can you do it?

.........you can't.

.....Discord wasn't gonna like this. You only had a moment left, you toss the map straight down. And grab onto Starlight as you pull her into the hole. And into your room.

You both land on the safety of your bed. The map falling right on top of you as the portal closes. You managed to escape. "...woo… that was close."

Of course, you also realized that you had brought in someone who really shouldn't have. But, you couldn't just leave her.

"What happened?! Where am I?!...." Starlight looked around, still frightened and completely disoriented. "A-am I… gone?"

You hop off your bed. To be at the ready in case Starlight tries to hit you again. "If you mean dead, no. I brought you to my house."

You had to find a way to get rid of her. If she ran into Chrysalis, then you wouldn't be able to let her leave. But first, that explanation on Cutie Marks… you wanted to know. You just had to.

"Your house? Another one of those trinkets, huh? I hope you're not expecting me to thank you."

You shake your head. "Nope, but now that we have time. I REALLY want to know what your deal with cutie marks are."

Hearing this, Starlight started to feel a huge rage boil inside her, but she hopped off your bed. And smiled innocently at you. "So, after all that happened. After you are basically the one doing the foalnapping. You want to know what my deal is with Cutie Marks?"

"Well, I wouldn't exactly call it foalnapp-"

She let her rage just burst through every orifice of her body. It was near liquid rage. "WHAT IN THE HAY IS WRONG WITH YOU! YOU THINK I WANT TO TALK TO YOU NOW?! AFTER WHAT YOU DID TO ME! ARE YOU INSANE!? OH HOHO......oh haha...Oh..I'll talk all right. RIGHT AFTER I TURN YOU INTO MINCEMEAT! DO YOU THINK I NEED MAGIC TO THRASH YOU? THINK AGAIN!"

Holy shit, she was violent when she was angry. She rushed right at you like a bull. But you manage to easily dodge her ramming attack. Though, she didn't even stop to turn around. Instead she was heading to your floor door.

"Hey! what are you doing?!"

She was going for the doorknob. "Did you really think I was going to fight you? There's a much better way to make you suffer than just pounding you. I mean, what would Twilight think when this poor little filly tells her that you and your father is in league with the changelings? Then she'll be forced to banish you and turn your father back to stone..."

HOLY SHIT?! SHE KNEW?! And that threat… Oh geez…

Then she starts to cackle "And then, when Twilight realizes she condemned the both of you due to a lie. She will stand down as the Princess of Friendship. Then, I'll spend my time getting my body back. And with her crushed by what she had done. Suddenly, I'll appear. And she'll have no choice but to realize that my way is the best way. Pretty good plan, eh Anon? HAHAHAHAHAHA so long" She saluted.

...Wow… That's incredibly dickish. But, now that you realized her path. She couldn't escape through that door. Still, you couldn't let her get any deeper in the house, or her "lie" would be known as truth. Surely you could explain away the lie she planned to tell. But explaining away the fact that it ISN'T a lie. You couldn't let her discover the truth.

"Starlight, come on. We can talk about this" You edged closer to her, you'd tackle her if you had to.

Starlight opened the door, smirking at you. "Enjoy the rest of the time you have Anon, because you and your friends are going to realize the hard way how wrong you are." She heads down… or moreso...she falls down "WHAWWWWWWWWWWWWWW!"

You hear her slam to the ground. Oh geez. You run up to the floor door and look through. No sign of Chrysalis. And Glimmer looked stunned.

"W-what happened to...where's the stairs?...ngh" She slowly began to stand up. Now was the time to stop her.

You rush down the gravity stairs, and tackle her down. "I can't let you leave if you're gonna do that Starlight! What's wrong with you?! I'm sorry, ok?! But you couldn't expect me to just sit there. You said yourself you were after the horn!"

She struggled to try to get out of your grip. "You think sorry is going to work now?! Shut up and let me go! LET ME GO! Or I swear I'll do worse!"

"No, not until you agree to just… look, I'll talk it out with you, ok? Just like you wanted! Maybe we can talk it out!"

"NO!"

"Well! I'm not letting you go then! Do you think I'm going to just let you go after that kind of threat? How about I just turn you into a toad? How about that!"

"As if! You said yourself you already used your charge for the day! What a stupid bluff!"

"I can wait it out! I'll hold you down all night if I have to!"

"You little creep! You little… GRAWR!" You didn't expect that. she slams her head right into yours. Knocking you backwards,

"Ow! ugh! Why the head… always the head.." You hold your head in pain as Starlight rushes towards the front door.

"So long Anon, you brought this on yourself!" She grabs the knob and throws the door open. You started to ponder why you even worried about her escaping. The only thing you had to worry about was Chrysalis. And she wasn't even in the living room. Meaning she was still in the basement.

"Starlight, you're done. You have nowhere to go and you can't even get back in my room. Will you calm down now?"

"Are you serious? You think I'm afraid of whatever is out there? A forest? A mountain? Please, I traveled miles on these hooves many a time… and....I.....I" She turned to look out the door. And there was nothing but floating islands, flying water, crazy creatures, and weird noises. "W-what? What is this?"

"This is where I live. What, you didn't realize I lived in a chaotic dimension?"

"I… didn't realize that. I would have thought your father would have kept you in a more… hospitable area."

You shake your head. "Nope, you’re trapped. But I'd rather you not be. Come on, look. I'm really sorry. And I know you're really really angry. I get it, I shouldn't have zapped you. If you promise to calm down, have a talk with me, and NOT go through with that plan. I'll change you back, and let you go. How does that sound?"

Starlight started to consider it. It really looked like she had no way out of the house. But she was so angry, she had not expected you to just retaliate like that. She really did just want a pleasant talk with you… that would inevitably get her the horn. ".....So, you managed to turn things around. Fine, let's talk. But I hope you realize that this will not make us friends or allies."

"That's fine, but you're sensible right? You realize that I wouldn't let you just go through with your plan all willy nilly, right? You couldn't exactly stop me from stopping you."

"Of course I'm sensible. I'm not an idiot, It's clear that even if I did manage to get out of here. You'd have use of your horn." Starlight was giving up, she sighed as she looked down, defeated "...it's not like you'd care about what I have to say anyway."

...Ngh, her filly form made this sadder than it should be. You were cringing from your heart twisting. "...just… ugh… Look, I'll sit. And I'll listen. And I'll tell you this. I'm smarter than any colt you ever knew, I promise. You'll be really surprised."

"I already was, even during my spying. But it doesn't mean you’re sensible. You've proven that too..." Starlight walks towards you, and sits her butt on the ground. You moving close, and sitting down in front of her.

Now that she knew she couldn't do anything. She was a lot easier to deal with. Easier than Discord or Chrysalis ever was.

"Hey, just try me. That's all I ask."

Starlight only figured you were being more calm and cool because "the ball was in your court". She knew she couldn't fight. And she couldn't calculate any other way to escape. "...so, you want to know what my problem with Cutie Marks is right?"

You nod. "Yeah, why do you hate them so much?"

Her stare became a little harder, her eyes gazing at yours "If you want to know, then answer this question first. Why do you care? From what I know about you, you don't even care about Cutie Marks. Or am I wrong?"

...Hmmmmm, you did and you didn't at this point. "Sorta, I don't really care about getting mine too much. But, I think it'd be nice to have. If only so I could actually know what my special talent was. Living as long as I have, I've sort of never managed to develop a special talent. Everyon- ...everypony usually was better than me at everything."

"Live as long as you have? You do realize you're just a child, right? You still have plenty of time to discover what your talent is… and then realize how much pain it'll cause you."

"What do you mean by "pain"? You have your cutie mark, and for the most part. You seemed fine… until..you know… Twilight showed up."

You saw her lips buckle at the mention of "Twilight". "...I was never really fine. I was just managing. I wouldn't truly be fine until everypony understood what it truly meant to be happy. Only then, would I really be. You're very lucky Anon, you have friends that do have Cutie Marks. That do care about you, and yet at the same time... You're unlucky. They seem to really push you into getting your Cutie Mark. Forcing you even, why would you let them do that to you? You're a smart pony, you could figure it out without forcing yourself to try every random thing"

..Was she?....Was she trying to turn things around on you?

"Because it makes them happy, and really. I don't mind too much. Gives me something to do. Even if it is ridiculous sometimes. That's how friends ar-"

Starlight stomped her hoof, interrupting you "DON'T GIVE ME THAT TRASH! THAT'S HOW FRIENDS ARE!? DON'T… don't Anon… Look, haven't.." She took a breath to calm down. "Haven't you ever suffered because you lacked a cutie mark? Ever?"

...Sorta… "Yeah, but, me and my friends managed to turn that around. I have a friend named Diamond Tiara, and she used to be… well..pretty nasty. Up until I saved her life, and my friends helped her realize that she didn't have to be cruel and nasty just because her mother was. And now we're friends. All it took was a little effort"

Or more luck really, but you weren't going to tell her that to fuel her "lucky" argument.

"Well, aren't you the silver tongued Colt?" She gave you a loathsome look "or maybe it's just because you were adopted by somepony that could manipulate the situation to make you look better. You are "The Little Hero Colt", suspicious considering you haven't been in Ponyville long enough to actually earn that title."

...Well, it was Discord you beat up. Still, that was uncalled for. And she was still dodging your question. You wanted it answered dammit! "Things happen, now can you stop dodging my question and tell me your problem with cutie marks?"

"Anon, there's no way you can understand my pain. I'll give you this. You're smart, but you're still too young to know what it feels like to be betrayed. To be alone..."

...The fuck you didn't. "Stop… stop right there. You have no clue what I've been through either. I know what those are, I know what those are in spades. If you knew Starlight, if you had a peek inside my head. You'd know that what Twilight tried to do to me is nothing compared to the real horrors of what I've been through, what I've seen. I know what loneliness is like. So don't… spare me, and just tell me the problem already" You were getting aggravated with her. Whatever it could be. There's no way it could compare to a human's.

"And you do? Do you really?" Starlight eyed you, she felt insulted that you could compare your pain to her. "I doubt any orphanage could be that bad, You just think it is because you're so young."

You stomp your hoof hard, right on the ground. "Stop! Stop and just tell me then! Stop beating around the bush and tell me!"

"What's all that noise?" a voice calls out from the basement trapdoor, a female voice.

"I'M TRYING TO… Oh no." Your anger instantly vanishes into panic. Shit, SHIT! It was Chrysalis. You look over and you can see the basement trapdoor opening. "H-hold that thought!"

"What, are you serious?! You dare to tell me you have had it tougher than me? And now you're telling me to "hold that thought"? Right when I was about to show you how wrong you are!" Starlight barks

You rush up to the trapdoor and slam your hooves on it. Trying to keep it closed. "Yes! Can you hide somewhere please?! Don't ask why! Just do it!"

"Is the door stuck? Mmnnghh!" Chrysalis started smacking it harder, making you bounce "Will somepony open this thing?!"

"Who is that? What are you keeping down there?" Starlight became curious, and started to inch closer.

"JUST HIDE, PLEASE! Don't come any closer!" You couldn't hold it down much longer.

Starlight started to think about hiding, but whatever it was. Maybe it was something that could help her. Maybe it was something that you and Discord were keeping hostage for… whatever reason. "I think I will come closer. I think I'm gonna let out whatever you have down there. I knew you were smart, but I didn't know you and your father took to actual foalnapping. Out of the way!"

"What?! Ommmph!"

Starlight shoves you out of the way of the trapdoor, ready to see what creature or pony would thank her for releasing them from your prison."Hey! Whatever you are, come on out. I promise I won't hurt you. So please, let me help you, so you can help me."

"Finally, now what is with all that noise!? I was trying to sleep!" ...well good, bugbutt was out.

Starlight Glimmer's pupils shrunk. She started to shake in her little filly hooves. "I-it can't be....."

You put your hoof to your forehead, now she's done it. She should have fucking hid.

Chapter 117

Chrysalis hears the sound of a little filly before her, and looks down upon Starlight. "Well Well, what is this? I didn't think Discord would take my request seriously. A midnight snack indeed. Hello, little one..." She smiles a fanged smirk at Starlight.

"S-stay back! I'm warning you!!" Starlight began to step back, frightened as Chrysalis stepped ever closer. Shit, and it's not like you could actually stop her. Any attempt you'd make would either be too weak or send you into the wall.

"Chrysalis, wait!"

But she pays no heed as she licks her lips, opening her mouth to feed, lowering her head towards Starlight. "Come now, think of your parents, yes… think of them worrying about you as I..." She stops, raises her head, and has a confused expression "....not feed from the love you don't have. Alright, what's going on?" Chrysalis looks over to you. "Anon? Ahh… hmm. That makes sense then. Of course somepony like you with the lack of female interaction would choose a marefriend who doesn't actually love you at all."

MAREFRIEND!? "Hey! She isn't my marefriend!"

"Riiiiiight..." Chrysalis moved over to the frightened, spooked to the bone Starlight, looking down at her "Hrn, interesting. Do I detect hatred? Oh, this is quite familiar. But I can't put my hoof on it. hrnnnnn."

Starlight looked to you, then Chrysalis, then slowly back to you "T-t-this...this is impossible. How? Why?....what is this?! You both know each other?"

"Starlight, look.." You step up to her to try to calm her down, but she moved back against the wall. She was powerless, up in front of a known evil, and couldn't even escape. "Look, I know this looks bad. But..."

Chrysalis puts her hoof right over your mouth. And smiles an evil grin. Hearing you even attempting to give an explanation gave her a wicked idea. "Buuuut, you're right. We do know each other, we are very good friends..." She swiftly changes into her filly form and glomps you. "See? Lookie, he's even blushing!"

You try to push her away, you knew what she was doing, she just wanted to make the situation worse for fun. Too bad, despite her smaller form, she was still physically stronger than you… being a colt sucked sometimes. "S-stop! You're gonna give her the wrong idea! I-I'm trying to have a c-conversation with her… s-sthap that!"

Chrysalis just giggled and licked along your neck. "Don't be shy, we're all friends here..."

"Friends!? We're not friends! You are a terrible bug that travels around and sucks the love out of everything you see, and you Anon… you're just evil. To think, a plan to take over Equestria was going on right here..."

"T-that's not whaHMMPH!"

Chrysalis put her hoof to your mouth, and gave an evil, yet cute grin to Starlight. "That's right, and I can only guess Anon used his horn to turn you into a filly. Cute, so I can only assume you know how we plan to do it. With his horn, and my skills. We plan to take over Equestria without any resistance whatsoever. So… you best start bowing, go… go ahead and bow to us… And maybe I'll let you survive"

Chrysalis, deprived of her meal, was only wanting to make the situation worse on purpose just for a laugh. Just to make everyone suffer.

Starlight however, was slowly calculating things in her head, her fear leaving her. "I want in..."

"Mph?" you said, muffled

"What?" Chrysalis cocked an eyebrow, she wasn't expecting that.

"I said I want in. Anon's horn only has a single charge per day. You're going to need somepony who has a knowledge of magic even Alicorns don't have. You won't be able to win otherwise...."

Chrysalis rolled her eyes, sighed, and tossed you away "Well good, I can't even have fun terrorizing ponies without it becoming ridiculously stupid. I'm really thinking Tartarus may have been the better option, at least things aren't nonsense there" She changes back to her normal form as she walks away, then stops to look at you "Oh and Anon, when you're done with this filly, come down to see me. We still have friendship topics to talk about."

"WAIT! Just wait! What about taking over Equestria? We can bring about an order that brings equality to everypony, and everything!" Starlight didn't understand what was going on. But she still wanted in.

"Are you serious? Even if there was an actual plan, I'd NEVER share Equestria with the likes of you." Chrysalis scoffed

"There's… no plan? Then… why are you here?" Starlight was so confused, why would Chrysalis be here if there was no plan?

Chrysalis stopped, just the thought of how she ended up stuck at Discord's home infuriated her, just on his whim. There was no way to escape, not even a chance. She probably could have found a way to slip through by herself in Tartarus, but this was somehow a much more secure prison.

"Figure it out...I'm done here." Chrysalis yawns, and slips back down into the basement.

Meanwhile, you just realized that Starlight really was willing to team up just to bring her dream a reality. Damn, you wondered what villain she teamed up with for the season finale. Though, looking at her now. She didn't know what to think. Her mind looked like it snapped.

"I need to lie down, I… think I'm dreaming" Starlight falls over, laying her head on the ground.

"You're not dreaming, you're just now dealing with what I deal with on a daily basis." Still, just wanting to jump in on a plan like that? Even if there was none? "Still… Really, what the hay was with the "I'm in" stuff? You would really go as far as to join up with the changelings?"

Starlight just laid her head down, filled with hopelessness. "It doesn't matter now, does it? I don't even understand what's going on anymore. Am I going to be trapped here forever?"

You didn't know now, she knew you and Discord actually had Chrysalis. But then, she didn't look like she'd be able to stomach being here for too long. Her brain would melt, she seemed more bent on revenge than any other villain on the show. What the hell did she really want? Why was she willing to go so far. WHY?!

"Starlight, what happened? What would make you want revenge so badly? Why do you hate Cutie Marks? Just tell me already."

"...Do you even really care?"

You didn't even know, this was more of a curiosity thing than a "I care" thing. You didn't know her enough to care. But whatever made her so angry inside. It had to be something.

But just to get the answer, you lie. It looked like she was just going to keep dodging until you found a way in. "Yes, so please. Tell me, and maybe we can figure something out."

Starlight let's out a single "ha" in hopeless abandon. "I don't believe you… But whatever, it doesn't matter anymore now that you took everything away from me." Starlight slowly picked herself up, and looked at you, her eyes were glistening, tears slowly dropping down her cheek. "..I just wonder if you really can understand the pain I've gone through..."

"Just try me, I'm listening. And who knows, I really think we can figure… something out. Something that doesn't end in trying to ruin everyponys' lives."

"You still think I'd be ruining their lives? Hmph..." Starlight sighs "Though… if there was one life I wish I could ruin. It would be Twilight's. She ruined everything before you did. She didn't even give the town a chance..."

"Starlight, you keep trying to divert the conversation. Stop, please. And just tell me already. We're never going to get anywhere if you keep doing that.."

Even in her depression. She was going to attempt one more time to persuade you. Or at least she was. She finally noticed that you weren't going for it. "Fine… then before I start, all I have to ask is that you accept this as the truth. Because… well… This is something I could never lie about. It's the whole reason I've done everything I've ever done. Ok?"

You nod, you didn't know if this was actually going to be the truth. But, you were finally going to hear her "Tale". "When… I was a filly. And I mean a REAL filly. I had a friend named Sunburst. And… we did everything together. We didn't have Cutie Marks at the time, and the other kids. Well, they could be really cruel about it. But it didn't matter. Sunburst always cheered me up whenever I was down. We played games, talked about the future, studied, and laughed together. We were inseparable. A real team. We didn't need anypony else. Are you following so far?"

You nod. "Mhmm, you two were the best of friends. But, what does that have to do with Cutie Marks?"

"It didn't, not yet anyway. You see, one day. We were playing a game of book stacking. But, it became too unsturdy and was about to fall on me. Sunburst, well. He saved me that day..."

"Saved you? I don't think you would have kicked the bucket from being hit by a couple of books."

"I probably wouldn't, and to tell you the truth. I wish he hadn't. After he saved me, he got his Cutie Mark. And… he… he just left. I never saw him again, he went to study in Canterlot. And, he never even wrote back to me. Not once… I was alone. I was the only filly in town without a cutie mark, and everypony made fun of me.."

Nooooooo, that can't be it. You sit there silent for the rest of the story. Because that was sounding like shit Applebloom and her friends went through. Maybe not so harsh with them getting dumped the moment a friend got a cutie mark. But still....

"So, I vowed to follow a solemn oath. I would unite everypony in Equestria under one flag, one nation… one Cutie Mark. Nopony would ever have to suffer because of their differences. Nopony would have a reason to leave a friend if everypony’s lives and goals were the same. And I knew I had to do it alone, I studied in magic that unicorns could only dream to be able to cast. I built the first few houses of the town on my own. And slowly but surely, we were flourishing. There was, at times, a pony who stepped out of line. But they would always see the light sooner or later. Everything was ok. And I was happy again… And that's my story."

...Nooooooo, there had to be more to it than that. And yet, her tears were plentiful. That was it… that was the reason. And nothing more… "I… I can understand that losing Sunburst like that can be heartbreaking. I know what it's like to be betrayed by many a friend. But, I also know what it's like to have friends who always stick by you. So… what happened to all the friends you made after Sunburst? Or did you make a few after getting your cutie mark."

Starlight grimaced "Another friend?...I couldn't, nopony could be trusted. There was no reason to make another friend. I… I couldn't make another one.""

...Wut? Noooooooo......noooooooooooooo.... "Woah..ok… hold on, are you telling me. That after the whole thing with Sunburst, you didn't even attempt to make another friend?"

"No...but" Starlight felt her reasons were justified, she was feeling deeply insulted that you'd question them "...but… mnngrr… HOW DARE YOU! HOW CAN YOU QUESTION ME? WHE-"

You interrupt her, yelling even louder than she could. Fuck this noise. "WHEN WHAT?! YOU HAD ONE FRIEND… ONE… IN AN ENDLESS SEA OF PONIES, YOU DECIDED YOU WOULDN'T MAKE ANOTHER FRIEND AFTER LOSING ONLY ONE, ONE WHO WAS OBVIOUSLY A SCUMBAG IN THE END. SO WHAT? YOU SHOULD HAVE MADE ANOTHER FRIEND, YOU WERE A FILLY! A FILLLLLYYYY! YOU HAD YEARS TO TRY AGAIN! HOW COULD YOU GIVE UP AFTER ONLY ONE FRIEND?! DO YOU KNOW HOW MANY PONIES WENT THROUGH THE SAME CRAP YOU'VE GONE THROUGH? I'VE BEEN THROUGH THAT SO MANY TIMES....SO...MANY...TIMES. HOW?! JUST...HOW?!" You lost it. That was the worst reason for being a villain you ever heard. Maybe a bully, but not a fucking villain of the magnitude she was.

Starlight started crying, bawling like a baby, she didn't even know what to say.

....

...Fuck… there she was. Just crying her eyes out. Yeah, that was what really happened all right. You didn't even know what to say after that. You could stab in the fact that it was her lie with her cutie mark that made her lose her potential friends back in the town… in fact, no… you would. But more calmly. "...and then there's the fact you had an entire town of ponies dedicated to your cause. And yet you never actually attempted to make friends with any of them. They probably would have liked it there better if you tried being their friend instead of locking them in that shack. You had no reason not to befriend them, but no. You just towered over them, keeping your cutie mark while taking theirs. You're no better than a villain like Sombra. Taking ponies livelihoods, and ruling over them."

Whether you got through to her or not. You didn't know. You were so flabbergasted with that explanation. in fact, you went through each villain's reasoning to see how it matched up. Nightmare Moon, well, there did seem to be some dark forces going with that. That and the fact Luna was a bit on the dramatic side. Celestia never did seem to attempt to help get her sister more of the recognition she might have deserved. Discord was Discord, Chrysalis has a hive to feed, Sombra is straight up evil, as is Tirek.

Nope, everything checks out. Her reasoning sucks. Starlight herself, just laid there, crying, defeated, hopelessly lost and full of doubt.

You did it, you. On your own defeated your first villain of the show.

So why were you starting to feel like shit over it? Her reasoning was shit, and she straight up tried to join with Chrysalis. You should be turning a blind eye to her crying. But that crying, all that sobbing. No, fuck it, you wouldn't be sentimental over this. She'd have to just sit there, and realize that her reasoning was terrible. And..

And what… She knew some of the secrets of the house already. And Discord was bound to find out about her presence. Though, maybe you could fix that with your horn… hnnn… What to do..?

You turn away from Starlight, and started to head to your room. Your mind was clouded, you didn't even know if leaving her in the living room was a good idea. But you doubted she was in a state of mind to be able to get on the gravity stairs.

Starlight looked up at you, and held her hoof out towards you "W-wait....."

You turn around, but say nothing… god… she looked so miserable.

"Please… I… I don't want to be alone… I'm… so lonely..." She whined

You cringe hard, geez. You beat her alright, you won the season. Yay…

She looked so scared, so sad. The tears never stopped. And she was shaking.

"Starlight..." You could feel your guilt rising, but you knew you were right. Her reasons DID suck.

She didn't respond. You take a breath… You walk up to her, and give her a gentle rub on the back. "Starlight… hey"

She didn't say anything, she just cried and pathetically latched to your leg. Told by a colt, her life was now in shambles. She felt so stupid. So weak. And now her reasoning had been obliterated.

You wouldn't be able to get her into your room if she couldn't focus. So, you opt to sit beside her. And the moment you do, she just cuddles up close, still crying. You couldn't imagine what she was feeling right now. If that was what her drive was her entire life, you could only imagine how the season would have ended. Twilight probably would have ended up her friend or something. Would have given her a second chance, to be her second friend. Well, it was too late for that now… probably.

"Anon… you're a colt… do you know why… Sunburst would just… leave like that?"

You didn't. What he did. If her side could be fully trusted, was a truly dickish thing to do. Just run off on her because he got a cutie mark? You could see where it'd hurt like no tomorrow. But still, not to this level.

"Starlight, you shouldn't even worry about him. He's pretty scummy for doing that to you."

"......"

She didn't say anything, she only continued to cuddle and sob. "What do I do now?...Where do I go? I don't even have a home anymore… I have no friends..." ...She was right, she had burnt a ton of bridges. But you couldn't keep her here. Even if Discord let her stay. She wasn't like Chrysalis. Chrysalis in the end could handle being stuck here. You were sure of it. Starlight couldn't, she'd go mad… but… you could be her friend.

Why not? Surely it would have been the way Twilight would have handled it.

"You have one friend.."

"Who...?" Starlight sobbed

"...I..can be your friend. I know it seems silly having a-HRNM!"

She hugged onto you tightly.

Yeah. She was taking what she could get. You could only imagine her trying to use this as some sort of trap if you had said this back in the cave. But now, it was genuine, and desperate.

"..I would..." Then she suddenly stopped hugging you, and moved away from you instead. "...wait… w-why would you want to be my friend?...After all that… I thought you hated me."

"Because, everypony needs at least one friend. And, despite your reasoning, no offense, being dumb. You must have been lonely for a real long time trying to achieve that dream. So yeah, I'll be your friend. I mean, If I can try to be Bugbutt over there's friend, then It should be fine with you."

Starlight looked down in shame. "But… what about a home? I have no place to live..."

...true, but...maybe..

"Maybe not, but… maybe there'd be a town willing to welcome you back."

Starlight shuddered at the thought. She felt she wouldn't be accepted back. "I can't go back there… they hate me."

"Nah..they were just upset. If it's anything I've gathered about other ponies. They are usually really REALLY easy to forgive. Look at my Dad. Guy committed high treason and is a threat to all of Equestria, especially since my Aunt refuses to help seal him up again. Still forgiven. You just have to show that you're willing to try again. And by try again, I mean not zapping their cutie marks and taking over… right?"

Starlight slowly nodded "R-right...b-but...are you sure? Would they really take me back?"

All your cartoon knowledge was telling you yes. "I'm pretty sure, and if you want. I'll even go with you. Help sell your case. How does that sound? We'll go in the morning, I'm… probably going to miss another day of school. But in the end, I know my dad won't care."

Starlight was feeling a little more confident, her tears were slowing, but she looked upon her own filly form. "W-what about this?"

"Easily fixed in the morning, I'll just zap you back to normal. The horn works on my thought process, so all I gotta do is focus on changing you back… speaking of focusing.." You look up at the ceiling door. "If you want to sleep on an actual bed, we're gonna have to get into my room, and for that, you're gonna have to focus."

Starlight looked upon the door, but saw no way of getting up. "Focus? Focus on what? there's no way up.."

"Just watch this.." You focus on the gravity stairs, and slowly start to walk upwards, seemingly in midair. "All you have to do is focus on there being stairs, and just like that, there's stairs. Just try, and come on up." You go up into your room, and look down from the door.

Starlight walks into position. "Focus on stairs?...that shouldn't be too hard.." She takes a step...and...manages it her first try. She starts to smile, as if that was a step towards hope. "Hey, I did it!"

"Yep, just keep focusing though. And head on up." And so she did, not failing once. Despite having the form of a filly, she was still able to focus like any adult would. Or she was just ridiculously gifted.

You hop up onto bed, and take in the warmth it gives out. Today has been a long day, and you were ready to snooze. Starlight curled around, and laid on the floor. and then looked up at you. "I… really can't believe a colt like you exists. The way you speak, the way you think. You had to grow up really fast in that orphanage, huh?"

....

...Yeah… "...I did, things were… well, they were tough. And… hey, why are you sleeping down there?"

"I just didn't want to be rude and..."

You roll your eyes at her and smile, beckoning to her with your hoof.

"Just come on up, you can lay at the end of the bed." She was a lot different now that she wasn't trying to change the world or enact revenge. She was unsure, and her confidence was gone.

"A-are you sure? I can j-"

You cut her off. "Stop that, and just hop on up. You need to be more confident, otherwise you’re just gonna stutter up a storm tomorrow."

Starlight took a breath, and gave those words a hard thought. "Right.." She climbs up onto your bed. and curls up at the end of it like a cat. It's a good thing she's an adult… you didn't need another filly somehow getting a crush on you.

Though… you were also going to have to swear her to secrecy about what she had seen inside the house. Absolute… secrecy. "You comfy?"

Starlight nodded, fluffing up some of your blanket to rest her head on. "mhmm, the bed is enchanted with some sort of spell I noticed. Is it always this warm?"

"Yeah, it makes it really comfy. Since the temperature inside the house is always the same."

"It takes a really powerful spell to keep a bed warm like this forever. Your father cast this spell, right?"

"Mhmm, but it shouldn't be too surprising. He can cast a spell for just about anything."

"To me, it's still surprising. Most unicorns only can do rudimentary things unless they practice and study very hard. I've studied for so long, that I can do spells beyond any level of a unicorn. And yet, your father is capable of so much more..."

...You didn't like where this was heading. "Is there any reason you're mentioning all this?" You do your best to sound understanding and pleasant.

"I'm just curious. And, I guess I wanted to see what a normal conversation with you is like. Since we're friends now. Would you know anything about magic theory?".

...Nope. You shake your head. "No, never gave it much thought. I'm an earth pony. So magic isn't really my thing. I mean, I know I got the horn. But there's nothing to get when it works differently from a unicorn's horn. And how it works? Well, it's as easy as a thought."

"How about alchemy then? Earth ponies have a knack for all things nature. A pony as smart as you could make a fantastic alchemist."

Alchemist? You wondered if Applebloom was even still doing that. She didn't really need to do it now that she got her Cutie Mark. You could make a suggestion. "I… could try being an alchemist. I'm ok at remembering a few elements, and I'm sure with some practice I could remember even more. But, I dunno. I have this awful feeling bringing chemicals in this house to practice would be a pretty bad idea. My dad, among some others. Are pretty bad at personal space."

"It's something to think about at least, I just wouldn't want to see a..." Starlight stopped. She, realized what she was going to say. And felt uncomfortable saying it.

"You ok?" You also had noticed she had stopped mid sentence

"Y-yeah..I'm just tired" She faked a yawn "I just needed to yawn… I guess we should sleep now, before it gets way too late"

It was pretty damn late, the party ended at night. So you could only imagine what time it was now. "You're right… and Starlight.."

"Yes, Anon?" She looked at you with worried eyes. She wasn't used to all of this.

"Everything is going to be ok tomorrow, so don't worry, and relax. And, you have a good night. alright?"

Starlight felt a warmth in her heart. Not the "I am in love with you" warmth. But the warmth of a friend, a warmth she hadn't felt in many a year. "I will, good night Anon."

And with that, you both went to sleep..

Chapter 118

The next day came, of course, with no way to tell what the time of day actually was. But you were waking up slowly, meaning the bed hasn't sprung yet. You rub your eyes, and look down at the end of the bed. Starlight was still there, sleeping soundly.

You slowly get up with a yawn, and scooch over to Starlight, you knew you were going to miss school. But that was fine. This was more important. You gently shake Starlight with your hoof. "Hey Starlight, it's the morning. We gotta get going."

Starlight shrugged, and slowly lifted her head, yawning. "Mmm? What?"

"It's morning. Come on, it's time to go."

Starlight looked out your window into the black abyss "Mmnn..are you sure?" She stretches then hops off the bed "Because it doesn't look like this place knows it's morning yet."

You hop off the bed as well, and grab your saddle bag. sifting through for the horn. "It's definitely morning, Very early morning." After grabbing the horn and putting it on your forehead.You walk over to the portal door and open it. You can see the sun just rising over the horizon. "Yeah… not even school yet."

Starlight walks over to the door, and examines it. "So, this is how you get to Ponyville, huh? But how did we get here in the first place?"

"Dad gave me a map to Ponyville, that ironically takes me out of it when I toss it into any kind of body of water. That's how we made that nifty escape"

You tap the horn, yeah, primed and ready to go. You really hoped you could trust Starlight. Because you were about to change her back.

"This entire setup is incredible. But, then what about Chrysalis? Can't she use this door too?"

You shake your head. "If you're worried about anything relating to world conquering. You don't need to worry. She can't pass through this door. For her, it's a brick wall"

"...And why exactly is she here?"

"Because my dad has no limit when it comes to the kind of fun he likes. Trust me, I have my hang ups about it too. But I'm trying to make it work. Anyway, ready to be an adult?"

Starlight raises her hoof, shakes it at you, and shakes her head "Wait, Wait. Not yet. Let's save it until we actually get to the town."

"Why?"

"Because somepony might find it suspicious that a total stranger is taking a colt that just had a party onto a train… alone."

Oh right… yeah, that party did happen. "Right..hah..ok. Umm..anyway.." You take out your map, and look at the spot designated as the train station. Luckily, it was considered one of the major spots on the map. "If I remember, the train goes all the way up to a stop near the town. Shouldn't be too hard at all to actually get there."

"Anon, aren't you forgetting something?"

You take your eyes off the map, and look up at her. "What?"

"Money, we can't just use the train without money. And..." Starlight sighs, she shows that she has no kind of saddlebags whatsoever, no pockets, not even a bag of bits hidden in her mane. "I'm broke, and tickets going out that far are a little on the expensive side."

You snicker, lucky for you. Money was limitless… as long as Discord kept paying out.

You walk over to Starlight, and show her the contents of your bag. It was stuffed with bits.

"What?! how?" She was astonished "The bag should be a lot heavier than...hmnn.." She calms down as she realizes the only solution to the nonsense before her. "or..the bag would be heavier if it wasn't for you and your father, am I right?"

You nod, you actually smile. Many of the other characters don't usually catch on so quick. "Right, you're one of the few ponies I've met that seems to get that rules don't really apply to me and my Dad."

Starlight chuckles, feeling a little arrogant from the praise "Well, when you're as well versed in magic like I am. Things like that become plainly obvious. Though, I never did actually study up on chaos magic. It looks to me like there's no limits, and no consequences to boot. I wonder if there's a way for a unicorn to harness it."

You raise your eyebrow at Starlight, feeling a little suspicious of her. "Why...would you want to?"

"Just curious. I've studied magic for a long time Anon. It's kind of a hard habit to kick. Did you know time magic is much more flexible than books and texts would lead you to believe?"

Wait, it can't be. You remembered the time travel episode. It wasn't very flexible at all. "Pretty sure it actually isn't, even if you do learn the spell. You can only use it once, for five seconds. Or that's how I remember it."

Starlight felt a little giddy, she always wanted to be able to discuss her findings with someone else. She always had to keep it to herself. And you seemed smart enough, at least to her, to have this conversation wish."Well, let's get going and I can explain it on the way."

Right, she's right. Better to keep going than to just stand and talk. "Right yeah… let's get goi… ahh wait wait.." You grab your grappling hook and slip it in your bag. Since you had no wings, this was going to be your backup. "Ok let's go!"

You hop through the portal, Starlight following you. "What's that thing?"

"Grappling hook I got from a friend. Pretty advanced stuff. Basically let's me zip around rooftops like I'm a spider… pony. Haven't mastered it though, but you never know. I might need it"

You both start heading to the Train Station.

"Interesting, I've heard gadgets like that aren't really available for public access. And you just happen to have gotten one from a friend?" Starlight, like you, had very little knowledge of secret agent ponies. Though, her knowing about it was completely different from how you knew. Of course.

"Yep, probably just something she got from a trip or something. I don't know. Anyway, what about that time magic, like I said..doesn't it only work once?" You wanted to move the subject away from the grappling hook, your life was already suspicious enough. You didn't need her getting snoopy… you didn't need any of the ponies getting too snoopy.

Luckily for you, Starlight was very eager to explain her findings. She was also hoping that you'd understand it. And be able to keep up with her. "Well, that's how the spell normally works. But what if I were tell you there's a scroll that would let you do so much more with time, enough to change the events of the present and future."

...uhhhhhh. "I would say, that's kind of scary. How do you know about it?"

"Because… well," Starlight cringed, now that she thought about her plans now, it sort of hurt to talk about what she had planned to do "I sort of have been looking into it, for reasons."

Ohhh, probably for changing the events of the past and turning Equestria into Equalistria. "You mean changing the past to fit your plans right?"

Starlight lowered her head in shame "Yeah… that's... exactly right. B-but, it's not like I'm going to do that now. Still, I would have liked to finish my research on it. I had everything worked out except on a way to control the scroll properly, a way to be able to pinpoint an exact place and time you'd want to go. Without that way, the scroll is useless. Or actually, dangerous to use."

Wow, just talking to Starlight Glimmer. She already seemed a lot more magic savvy than Twilight was. You can't even say Twilight stayed away from learning darker magics because you know she didn't. She used dark magic to open that secret room to Sombra's basement after all. And then there was the fact that she had an alicorn that could move the sun as a teacher. Twilight seemed to have had more privileges, opportunities, and resources to learn the highest tier of magic. And yet here was Starlight, surpassing her. Whether it was with that cutie mark spell or seemingly mastering fucking time magic.

You had to ask her something. "Starlight, who taught you all this stuff? Magic, I mean."

"Taught me? Oh.." Starlight shook her head, her expression became somber as she looked forward into the distance. "Nopony taught me. Like I said..I've been alone for a while. Everything I know about magic is self taught. Besides the town, my magic was all I really had in the world. Without it I feel helpless… And I know I'll be getting it back, but still. When you know anything can happen, like with those timberwolves. Even having that knowledge isn't very comforting."

No wonder she broke down so hard when you took her magic away. God, despite her reasoning, her life had been a pathetic and lonely life because of it. Almost no better than a human down on their luck. The only difference is that she had blinded herself to the way to fix it when it had come to her.

"Well, don't you worry. You'll be getting your magic back soon enough. Along with some friends to go with it."

"Do you really think so? Are you really sure they'll forgive me? Even after all I did?"

"Trust me, all you gotta do is show them that you're ready to change and they'll accept you just like that. Remember, confidence." Haha, confidence. Something you lacked most of the time. And even then, this was a gamble. If you were wrong. She'd probably go full on dark cloak evil.

"Right, confidence… Got it" Starlight nodded to herself, and put on a braver face. She was nervous deep inside. Despite her intelligence. She had no idea of what to do if she was rejected. She didn't know if she could hold it together if she opened her heart. Only for it to be smashed. But she wouldn't tell you that. Half reason being is that she felt an urge not to disappoint you, her other reason is because she wanted her age and magic back. All topped off that she really did… just… want it to work.

You both head up to the train station. There was a booth in which to purchase tickets, and thanks to luck. A train already seemed to have stopped. But, you had to be quick. You had no idea when it'd go off. "Come on, let's get those tickets"

You rush up to the booth, behind it was a tired looking, skinny, and rather nerdyish looking Earth pony stallion running the booth. He was lazily looking through a magazine, yawning every so often.

"Good morning sir! I would like to tickets to… erm.." You had no idea what the town actually was called.

"Anon?" Starlight was confused as to why you stopped. "You know where we're going right?"

"Yeah, I just don't know how to ask for it. I never actually done this before. And I don't know the name of the location it stops at."

Confidence..right. Starlight steps past you, and knocks on the glass of the booth. "Hey, we would like two tickets to the "End of the Line", if you don't mind."

The pony in the booth leaned forward, and looked down at the two of you "...shouldn't you both be in school?"

"We have someplace to be. We need those tickets." Starlight says in a cuter yet sterner way

"Listen little filly, I'm not about to give tickets to some children. Where are your parents?" The ticketseller told her

You were thinking of bribing the guy, but Starlight bucked the booth hard enough for her leg to go through, geez!

the booth was pretty weak. It probably needed maintenance.

"Listen you little stooge! We demand tickets to the "End of the Line"! We have the money for them, so you have no reason to deny us. I don't see any rules saying you can't sell it to fillies, colts, or even changelings" She barks at him

The pony behind the booth started to freak out at the hole "H-hey, d-d-don't do that! Any damages to the booth comes out of my paycheck!"

Starlight smirks at him "Oh really? Wouldn't it be a shame if you had to explain to your boss that your entire booth came down because of an angry little filly? You know they'd never believe it. Tickets… now..." Starlight growled at him.

"O-ok! J-just stop.." The pony slid two tickets, he was stuttering, he already knew he'd have to pay for the holes she punched in already. "J-just put forty bits i-in the s-s-s-lot there, in front of you."

Woah… you keep your mouth shut. And take out the required bits and slide them into the slots as Starlight takes the tickets.

"Thank you" Starlight smiles happily at him and nods as she walks towards the train. "Come on Anon, according to these tickets, we don't have a lot of time to get on."

"O-ok..." You look at the pony in the booth, who was looking at you. He was absolutely petrified with terror. Mostly over his paycheck.

You both enter the train and find a more private seat to sit at where you wouldn't be bothered. You could already hear the conductor making final calls for everyone to get aboard.

Thinking about what just happened, it actually struck you funny, you started laughing on your seat. Starlight tilted her head at you, her expression was a adorable look of confusion. "What's so funny?"

"You are, I didn't expect that. I was gonna try to bribe him. But you just went in and kicked in some of his booth. That was insane!"

"Well... I wasn't going to just let him talk down to us. I'm a fully grown mare, and you're obviously an intelligent colt. He had no right to stop us" She tells you. It seems her fillyish form also made her more brash in tone and thought.

You smirk at her, something about that seemed hypocritical to you. You could also hear the train starting to chug. "Talk down huh? I thought you believed in equal everything."

Starlight shook her head "I did, until a snarky little colt decided to zap me into a filly. Things aren't as black, white, and equal as I thought they could be. I know that now." She then smirks back. "And besides, I definitely know we're not equals. I can still beat you up, even in this form. You really need to learn to fight better, an earth pony who can't fight is like a pegasus pony who can't fly. In other words, a baby foal could probably beat you up."

Woah woah, hey. That wasn't nice. "Hey now, I'm not THAT bad. I could beat up some ponies. Sort of. Kinda… Oh geez.." She was right, you sucked. You could only beat Snips and Snails. "I'm really bad. But..eh. Fine, so I can't beat anypony up. Not like I need to when I could just turn their worlds inside out with my horn."

Starlight found you fascinating. Just from the way you talked. you spoke like an adult, yet had moments where you acted like a child. "Anon, where are you from?"

"What do you mean?"

"It's simple, where are you from? Where were you born? What were your parents like… or… do you not remember anything?"

You just sat there, frozen in thought. Things were going pretty fine. Up until this point. You now have to lie, lie again about everything. Every time you did it, it ate at you more and more. But, it should come to no surprise to you. Everyone was eventually going to ask that question anyway. But dammit, if she had held off from that question till you were done. Then you would have never had to lie. "I don't remember, I only really remember the orphanage. And, well. I don't know if you heard. But the place was pretty awful. Or at least, nopony liked me there."

Starlight rolled her eyes "Obviously because they didn't understand anything. I've worked with a few fillys and colts back in my town. They had the same problem, I showed them that they had nothing to fear if they stayed with me. And...." She didn't continue, she didn't want to say that she became the new thing they had to fear.

"You don't have to say it, I think I get it. But that's why we're going there now, to show them that you're a better pony now. So, like I said, stay confident."

Starlight nodded. "I know, I trust you. And when I say that, I really mean it."

You figured she did, Starlight did seem to be pretty trusting depending on the situation. She trusted Fluttershy after all. Before Fluttershy tried to throw that water on her.

"So, I was meaning to ask this...." You were curious as to what she thought of Twilight.

"How do you feel about Twilight and her friends? I was kind of curious because..well, I know you don't like them very much."

Starlight didn't say anything at first, she was in deep thought. Her voice became less mirthful, and more serious when she finally decided to speak. "That's… difficult. I don't think I can ever stop being mad at Twilight. I don't even understand how she has the title "Princess of Friendship". She ruined everything I had, and yes. I know, looking back on it now, it may have not been the best thing for everypony. But then there's also the fact that she tried to seal you up. I don't know, but she seems like the type to just go off assumptions. I'd rather, just not deal with her at all."

You nod, that was fair. And she wasn't wrong. If she knew about what happened during "Lesson Zero", she'd probably lean to just hating her if that's her reasoning.

"Gotcha."

"Speaking of sealing. How do you feel about her?" Starlight asks, which was… a fair question. She was curious, considering she did in fact, try to seal you in Tartarus.

"Shes alright. I'll still be her friend. I know you didn't see it. But she didn't even sleep after it happened. She showed up super tired at the party and had to go to bed shortly after. I think she's suffered enough for it, she's sorry. And I'm willing to give her another chance."

Starlight nods "I see, I hope you understand that I won't… at least. Not for awhile, I just don't trust her. I feel if she knew I returned to the town. That she'd show up and snoop. I want to try to prove that I can change without her showing up… can you keep it a secret that I went back? I know there's a possibility that they might send a letter to her, but that could be a while. And I'd rather deal with it when I've had more time to settle."

That was no problem. "No problem, if you promise not to say a word about Chrysalis."

Starlight nods "I can do that, I know if anypony found out about it that you'd probably be seen as a villain. And, after getting to know you. I know, in my heart, that you aren't. Anon, I know I shouldn't be giving advice to you. But I want to give you one piece of advice that I think will be useful to you."

A piece of advice? You wondered what that could be. She looked timid, you glanced out the window, it's been some time. it couldn't be long now, she was probably getting anxious. "What is it?"

"Don't ever give up on your friends, no matter the circumstances. you should never take a friendship for granted, nor should you let one die because of some stupid reason. I know that now. I let friendship in me die because one went bad. So, if you ever need a friend. Somepony who you need to talk to on an equal level. Just come by, ok? I'll always be willing to have a chat, or a debate, or if it's just a friendly visit. That's fine too."

Awwww, hmmm. You know, that doesn't sound too bad. You'd just have to ask Discord to make a dial to the town. Or… maybe you could do it for yourself with the horn.

Before you could even open your mouth. Starlight gets up and gives you a hug as she starts to cry. "Anon, I'm scared. What if they still hate me? What if it turns out it's not ok? I..I don't want to be alone"

...Oh geez. Poor Starlight, she kept it together for awhile. But you could already hear the train slowing. Down to it's last stop. the "End of the Line". You gently rub her back, she had jumped right on top of you while you were sitting on the chair. without warning, it had totally caught you off guard. "Hey, hey! Starlight, Starlight..it's gonna be ok, alright? I'm gonna be there with you. Even logically, they aren't going to attack a colt. I'll be your shield if I have to, how about that?"

"Y-you can't do that, Anon… you can't."

"Hey, what else am I going to do? Let them run you out of town? Bah, look..don't worry. you're thinking worst case scenario. I got a plan. I'll go into town first. I'll find whoever is leading the town, talk to him or her. And see how that goes."

Starlight moved back away from you, and shook her head. "No, I can't let you do that. I'd rather just step in with you and..."

"No, I know you’re upset. But we also have to think logically too. If you just step in, they are probably going to get uppity. Let me go in first, let me get them to agree to meet with you. And then Starlight, it's going to be all up to you. That's where being confident is going to come in."

She was taking deep breaths, she was visibly shaking. Geez, she had been friendless for so long. You could only guess her mind was still stuck that making friends might be an impossibility. You were internally having a few issues yourself. If you failed… you couldn't just leave her. you are… her only friend at the moment. And possibly...

The train stops.

Starlight tried to stand brave, but she was still shaking. "We're here..."

"Yeah… let's just take it a step at a time… remember, whatever bad can happen is worst case scenario. We gotta stay positive."

Starlight hesitatingly nodded "A-agreed… stay… positive." You really hoped you could help her. You really… really did.

You both leave the train, and you let Starlight lead the way. You had no idea where the town was.

Chapter 120

Night Glider didn't know what to think. Maybe the happenings of the town became public knowledge. But she didn't remember any new ponies around the town at the time. She was thinking maybe you came from Ponyville, maybe even ran into Twilight and her friends. But she wouldn't speak further about it until she was sure you were feeling ok. As for your title...

"Son of who now? Hey, I don't know what you mean by that. But we don't have any discord or chaos around here. Are you sure you're ok? Feeling faint? Do you need some water?"

This wasn't working. You just wanted to blurt out exactly what you were up to. But you had to hold your tongue, not until the right moment. For now, you'd humor her. Try to get her and as many as the other townsponies together as possible so you could work things out with them. "I am feeling a little thirsty, it was a pretty long trip. I could use some water. But after that, do you think we can talk?"

Night Glider nodded "Sure, about anything you want. Come on, follow me. We'll get you a drink, a little something to eat, then we can talk."

You nod and follow Night Glider deeper into the town. Until you reach Sugar Belle's. Sugar Belle herself looked so much more vibrant now that she had her Cutie Mark back. She was serving up pastries and drinks to some of the other townsponies. As Night Glider and you drew near. She took the time to wave and greet the both of you in a very cheerful manner. "Hey Night Glider, oh hey? Who's your cute little friend?"

"Hey" Night Glider waved back. "I dunno, he just sort of showed up out of nowhere. I think he might be a run away from Ponyville."

Sugar Belle gasped "A run away? Oh dear.."

Goddammit, you thought you explained you weren't a run away.

"Yeah, can you get him a drink and some food? I'll pay for it"

Sugar Belle shook her head, she wasn't going to let her friend pay for the food for a lost foal. "No need, consider it on the house."

As Sugar Belle rushed off to fetch something for you. Night Glider again gives you a gentle and welcoming smile "Ok, let's take a seat over by that table and have a chat. Ok?"

...Restraint Anon, it's been awhile since you been genuinely condescended too. Even if it was unintentional. It was still blood boiling. "Ok.."

Night Glider chooses a spot for the both of you as you both take a seat opposite of eachother. She leans a little closer to you, and, curious of exactly what was going on. She once again speaks to you about the situation at hand. "Ok, so let's start from the beginning. You're from Ponyville, right?"

You nod. "Yes."

"Do you know Princess Twilight? or any of her friends?"

"All of them, actually."

Night Glider nodded, thinking to herself and slightly muttering "Well, that explains that.." She now believes she understands how you knew about their situation. "So, what made you want to "visit" our town? By yourself I mean. Trouble at home?"

That's it, if you didn't get it out, they were just going to assume you were a lost kid the entire time. You appreciated that she cared. But you had someone counting on you. You had to think. You just sat there, contemplating.

"Hey, you ok?"

...You ok?...Hrn… Those words. AHA! You got it, most every pony was sympathetic. Maybe if you purposely acted depressed and sad. She would actually listen to you. You hang your head down, and try to look as sad as possible.

"...I don't understand" Atta boy Anon, that's a good start. Be upset, be angry, be miserable. It's a low tactic, but it should be effective.

"..Don't understand? Hey, come on. What's wrong. Whatever it is, we can figure it out together" Night Glider tried to console you

"We can't, we can't because you're not listening to me."

Night Glider stopped, She felt you may have been right. She's been making so many assumptions. She didn't actually give you a chance to speak. And considering how you were sounding, she thought she was making you upset. "O-ok, then. Tell me what's on your mind. I won't say a word until you tell me to, how does that sound?"

You nod, that was perfect. "Ok, but… can we step inside? I want Miss Sugar Belle to hear this too. Please?" You made a pouty face, your eyes had no tears. But your voice was trembling. This had to work.

"Sure, if that will make you feel more comfortable, then it's no problem. Come on." Night Glider got up, and led you inside Sugar Belle's shop. The aroma was very pleasant and delicious. Sugar Belle herself was hard at work at making you a delicious sweetbread, your drink seemed ready already. It was sitting up on a counter. It was some sort of fruit drink. "Hey Sugar Belle, could you stop for a sec?"

Sugar Belle was busy pulling the bread out of the oven, and gently placed it on the counter. " Huh, but I just finis-..." She turned over to see that Night Glider looked rather upset, as did you. "..What happened? What's going on?"

Night Glider stepped over to Sugar Belle, then turned towards you. "This colt, Anon I think his name is. He wants to talk to us about something. Whatever it is, it's important to him. And I told him I'd listen. But he wants you to listen too." She then whispers to her "I think it's something to do with his home, I don't think his parents are on the up and up"

Whatever Night Glider whispered to Sugar Belle, it made her instantly upset. That vibrant and upbeat attitude had vanished in a flash. "...Oh no..."

You paid it no mind, because in a moment, you were about to make things clear. You dropped the act, but still kept a face that would concern some. A face of somber attitude. "So, do I have your attention?"

They both nod. Sugar Belle prepared for the worst. You had to ready yourself. You were about to open some old wounds you knew you'd have to try to mend. You couldn't fail Starlight now, you were this close.

"Ok… The reason I'm here is because I'm helping a friend. She's… well. She's alone, she has no home, and she's scared. She has no friends, and she's afraid everypony from this town will hate her. She really needs help. And I'm doing my best to get her what she needs. And what she needs, are friends." Perfect, that seemed pretty Twilight tier. If that didn't tug at their hearts. Nothing will.

And it seemed to. While Night Glider looked like she was greatly concerned, Sugar Belle was already ready to head out. "Who needs our help? Where is she? Whoever this foal is, we're going to be there. If she's homeless, we'll give her a home. If she needs friends, then by Celestia, We'll be her friends! If she needs food... Well, they don't call me Sugar Belle for nothing!"

...Now comes the hard part. You had their attention. Time to hit it home. Oh geez, the way you knew they would react, you hoped you weren't in over your head. "H-hold on. It's not a filly or a colt. It's a mare… You might know her."

They both looked puzzled from that. "A mare we know? That's… weird. Night Glider, was there anypony we know that just left... Did we scare one of the townsponies?" Sugar Belle was scared that she may have acted badly towards another pony, she couldn't think of anyone she reacted badly to. Or reacting at all. She was usually very nice and cheery.

"I couldn't tell you… that's… really weird. Who could it be?" Night Glider looked to you for answers, deeply puzzled. "Anon, uhhh, are you sure it's a pony from our town?"

You nod… Here we go. "It is… Look, this is going to come as a major shock to you both. But the pony I'm about to name, she really needs help. She's really sorry for what she did, and all she wants is the trust and friendship of the town."

"But… who is it? Where is she?" Sugar Belle asked, her concern peaked.

"She's just outside of town… the pony I'm talking about. It's Starlight Glimmer"

They both looked to each other as the information processed in their brain. You expected a gasp, or panic. But instead you got. "Wow… she really came back, Party Favor was right… we should have listened." Night Glider said to Sugar Belle, concerned, but not panicky, not even a break in her voice.

"I didn't think she would. We chased her out of the town in such an angry flurry..." Sugar Belle said back to Night Glider

...Wut? You expected them to freak out. For Sugar Belle to panic and hide. Well, you didn't want that to happen, but you also weren't expecting them to handle it this calmly.

Night Glider then turned to you, she still looked concerned. She didn't eye you as if you were a suspicious individual or anything. She just wanted information. "How did you meet Starlight?"

You were so caught off guard, you were the one stuttering in your speech as you recollected your thoughts. "U-umm… Well, actually. That's uh..a funny story. She sort of pseudo foalnapped me. And then using a magical item I had, I turned her into a filly earth pony and.."

You explain in detail the events of your time with Starlight. Answering any questions they might have. You only omit the information on her past. Feeling that it was kind of a negative in this narrative.

"And… that's it. She's out there, wanting a second chance, ready to change, and scared to death about being rejected. I know it must be hard for you both, but, that's why I wanted to talk with you. To discuss maybe giving her a second chance..."

Sugar Belle's expression changed, from deep concern to one of pure seriousness "There's nothing to discuss, right Night Glider?"

Night Glider practically donned the same expression as she looked to Sugar Belle "Right..."

...ahh shit.

"L-look, I know you guys hate her. But she seriously wants to turn her life around."

Sugar Belle nodded. "We know, you told us. And as I said, there's nothing to discuss. Because if she really wants a second chance." Sugar Belle then, started to put on a warming smile "Then who are we to turn her away?"

Wha? That easily?! THAT EASILY?! Holy shit! you had to keep in your surprise. You felt like you were about to have a stroke. You felt dizzy.

"Anon, you ok?" Night Glider noticed you were a little wobbly.

"Y-yeah..I-I'm fine. Just a little bit of a...I dunno"

Sugar Belle quickly grabbed the plate with the sweet bread with her teeth and brought it to the counter in front of you., next to the drink. "Here Anon, it might be because you’re hungry. Take a bite, drink a drink, and relax."

You needed a drink, you take the cup and take a quick sip before biting into the sweet bread… pretty yum. And it gave you enough time to absorb what just happened. "So, you guys are willing to give her a second chance? Just like that?"

Night Glider nodded "Yeah, but we weren't at first. We were all still pretty angry about what she did, how she lied."

"But then after a few days, when we got back to our lives, we realized something." Sugar Belle said "A lot of the things she taught us, about working together, doing our equal share, being welcoming to every newcomer and helping them adjust… well… we still kept to it."

"Not completely though. Forcing ponies to give up their Cutie Marks and follow our ideology had to go. We want everypony to actually feel welcome, and if they want to stay or leave, that's their choice. Every pony in Equestria has their own talents. So we worked to improve the town, to work together as one, and make everything even better than before using our talents. " Night Glider added.

"And that's the thing. If it wasn't for Starlight, we'd still be lost. And we wouldn't have a home. We wouldn't even know how much our cutie marks meant to us without her. If she was still the same though, then we couldn't let her come back. But if she's willing to change, then it was already agreed we'd let her come back, and we'd show her our way." Sugar Belle smiled, she was very happy for this. Excited even.

.....wow..... Just wow. Here you were expecting some crazy bullshit. And they were already willing to accept her back. And… that was actually ok. You were sure Starlight would be happy to hear this. "...Well then, she'll be happy to hear that. Ummm, so the entire town is decided on this?"

They both nod.

"Well then, I'm going to go see Starlight and tell her the news. Can you both come with me ?"

Night Glider shook her head "Nah, I got a better idea. Just give me ten minutes. But before you go, where exactly is Starlight?"

"A huge boulder outside of town, can't miss it."

"Gotcha, Sugar Belle, you take all the houses on the left. I'll take the right." Night Glider was going to get the entire town in on this.

"Right" Sugar Belle nodded.

"Alright Anon, better go get her ready, if you really mean what you say, then we're going to welcome her back. Our style." Night Glider gave you a wink.

...Well, shit. Haha! Success. And it didn't cost you an arm and a leg. You felt pretty good about this. Sure you fucked up with Suri, but you probably beat Twilight's fucking record. HAHAHAH. "Alright, seeya guys in ten minutes! haha! she'll be so happy to hear this!"

The three of you set out, you rush outside of town towards the boulder. You felt a cozy cuddly feeling in your heart for helping out Starlight Glimmer.

Until a dread hit your head mid run. Shit, what about that shitty trope where they ran off when you got back! GODDAMMIT! You rushed outside of town, double time, and headed towards the boulder. "STARLIGHT! STARLIGHT! I SWEAR IF YOU!...."

You were running so fast. that when you turned behind the boulder to check, you slipped and tumbled away from it, falling on your back. You didn't even have a chance to see if Starlight had run off.

Starlight however, didn't. She walked over to you. And seeing you run and slip up so fast. She feared the worst "Anon? what happened? D-did they chase you out of town? Did they..."

You shook your head out of the daze you were in. You didn't even catch what Starlight asked. "Ugh… that hurt..what, what did you say?"

But Starlight didn't answer, she was looking past the other side of the boulder. And could see the town gathering up. "Oh no..." Starlight rushed back up to you, knocking you down as you tried to get back up "WHAT HAPPENED?! WHAT'S GOING ON! ARE THEY GOING TO TRY TO RUN US OUT? THEY ARE GATHERING UP TOGETHER!"

G-geez, this seemed familiar. Almost like… you.

"Woah woah, hey relax. relax,. Everything went ok. they aren't gathering to run you out."

As you once again tried to get up, she covered you in a magical aura and shook you "THEN WHAT?! ARE THEY GOING TO DRIVE BOTH OF US OUT?!"

"Aolswdjopjdposspopsstopwfjdkljstopeldj"

Starlight drops you as she turns around and panics "I knew I shouldn't have come back! I should have just gone back when I had the chance. I could have probably found a magic to change my look forever. Or maybe..."

"...Why would you do that? When you're home already?" That wasn't you… but Starlight responded just the same. She didn't notice who was talking behind her.

"Anon, it's over. This isn't my home anymore...."

You however, were still shaken up, she shook you damn hard. you felt like your brain was going to fall out. "gmmmm..t...t-that wasn't me...ogh"

"What?" Starlight turned around, she hadn't noticed. But the entire town had already converged behind her in her panic. Sugar Belle was to the front, giving her a gentle smile.

"......." Starlight stood silent.

"So, we heard you wanted to come back" Sugar Belle said, in the softest, comforting voice she could muster.

Starlight didn't reply. She was shaking, frightened, and ready to hightail it and run. Then Sugar Belle giggled "You know if you had let us know ahead of time, we probably could’ve fixed up your old house for you. It's gotten pretty dusty since you left."

"...I..." Starlight was speechless, she was still scared, it hadn't processed in her yet.

As you got up, you could see Party Favor stepping up, rolling his eyes "See? I told you she wouldn't get it. You can't just talk to her."

Starlight stepped back away from him, she thought she felt animosity from him. But she was wrong. Party Favor stepped up and hugged her, hugged her tightly. "Welcome back Starlight"

She was shaking, silent. And as Party Favor hugged, everyone else started to join in. Night Glider, Sugar Belle, Double Diamond, one after another. And as the hug grew, Starlight started to break down in silent tears as she began to hug back.

You didn't join in, you wanted to see this, you just looked at the giant hug orgy. It was… beautiful.

Starlight cried, she cried hard. "I… I'm so sorry everypony, I was wrong… I shouldn't have done what I had done."

"Hey, don't even worry about it. It's all water under the bridge Starlight. We're just glad you're back, and willing to change." Night Glider said as she continued to hug.

"B-but I thought you all hated me… after what I did, after tricking you all..." Starlight couldn't control her tears.

"You didn't trick us, you just… saw things in your own way" Double Diamond said.

"Mhmm, it just went too far. Starlight, we want to show you our way. We want to show you that things can always get better, and that we can work together and be friends despite the differences we have. If you're willing to come back, then we will welcome you back with open hooves!" Sugar Belle felt so ecstatic that everything was going so well. that she just had to yell out "COME ON EVERYPONY! FREE FOOD AND DRINKS ON ME!" And then suddenly loud cheering.

"Alright everypony, we aren't going to get to that food and drink just by cheering, grab our new friend, and let's head back! come on! move it, move it!" Night Glider flew up as she started to direct the other townsponies to pick up Starlight, and run her back to the town.

She wasn't saying much, but she despite her crying, there was a smile behind those tears. Her heart was mended, her past could be let go, she had friends. And you were sure they wouldn't abandon her. They never really did anyway. The town thrived because of Starlights teachings that didn't relate to her crazy bullshit. And they always kept that with them. If it was christmas, or rather… Hearthswarming. This would probably make this absolutely perfect. But eh… it was good enough.

You watched as they all went back to town, you followed them all the way up to the entrance. But that was it. You had to go back home. And besides, a hero like you knows that internally. she was thanking you, and that was enough. Or maybe you were just cemented in your old cartoons that you watched. "Take care Starlight."

You turn to walk away, until you hear "Anon wait!"

...Oh..right..that happens in cartoons too..haha.

You turn around, and it was Starlight, she wasn't crying, but her coat still was damp under her eyes. Her smile was no longer evil or cunning. It was soft and sweet.

"Hey, what'd I EWGRFDRSGFD"

Goddammit, what was with these ponies and hugging you so damn tightly!

"o-oh..sorry, I didn't mean to hug you so hard. I got excited" Starlight puts you down, and steps back.

You pump your chest a bit with your hoof, and let out a cough. "N-no problem… hehe… heh.."

"Anon, I couldn't let you just go without thanking you… and uh." Starlight's horn glew as she brought forth… your horn. "I need to return this to you."

...Oh crap. You didn't know whether to laugh or be surprised. And since somehow you weren't surprised, you just laugh… because thank god, you didn't fucking notice that she took it. That… would have been bad.

Starlight was cringing as you looked at it, but you laughed, hell, you should have expected it. She had a backup plan after all in case things didn't work out. "Wow, I should have seen that coming. Pretty nifty actually, when did you take it?"

"While you were walking towards the town, I used my magic to slip it out of your bag. I'm sorry… I just thought if everything went wrong. That'd… well, you always got to have a backup plan, right?" Starlight laughed nervously.

"Tell me about it, and you don't even have to say it, I'm not mad or upset. Because all in all. You didn't run away, you waited for me. That tells me enough that you at least cared to try, instead of just tricking me and running off. Yeah, you're alright Starlight."

That made her tear up a little again, and she hugged you. Not so hard this time. She was just happy that you didn't hate her for what she did. "Anon, really. Thank you for everything. But, you're going home now right?"

You nod. "Yeah, my job here is done and it's time for this little colt to ride off into the..is it still morning?"

Starlight shook her head "No, it's the afternoon now. You're not going to get in trouble are you?"

"...I really hope not, but who knows. After this, I'm sure I could just weasel my way out of it" You give a light hearted chuckle, the way you phrased it even made Starlight laugh a little.

"Smart and sneaky, I like it… So, you're gonna visit me at one point right? Hate to say it, but you're the only pony in a long time I feel I can talk with when it comes to my research and findings."

Well, that was true until, and if, Twilight ever made friends with her. You actually wonder how things would play out when Twilight finds out about this. "Sure, wouldn't mind bouncing a few things off you myself. But, that's for another time. You go enjoy your new life Starlight."

with that, Starlight gives you one, more compassionate hug before letting you go.

You watch as she joins up with her new friends, yeah Anon. You did good. You felt so proud of yourself. You just started walking away from the town, with your head up high. Yeah, shit was real good man.

Then when the reality of the fact that she DID take the horn hit you, you fell over, shaking. Because that could have been game over. "...Oh shit… That could have ended so badly..."

You stood up, took a breath, and thanked God..or Celestia… or whatever the fuck that she didn't run off. Actually, why the hell did you even walk away from the town? You needed water to get back home. Well fuck, you just got into the moment, didn't you? "Fuck, gotta go… wha?" Then you hear it, you hear… clapping.

"Bravo Anon, bravo. You defeated this season's villain with the power of friendship. Though to be honest, I give the finale a two out of ten. You changed her thinking in what, a night? I could only suspend so much disbelief."

...Oh shit...

You turn around, and there he was. Discord, leaning against the boulder like a gang member.

Chapter 121

Holy fuckballs, where the hell did he come from?! Was he always there?! Christ, you thought you could get home before even he noticed. Though, that was a folly. School had to be over by now, your absence would be noticed. "Geez! where did you come from?!"

"Even I don't know the answer to that, next question" Discord said as he started to sift through some papers he had… for some reason.

"You know what I mean, you followed me right?.....How did you even know I was coming here?..er...how much did you hear?" You wanted to know. As far as you knew, he didn't seem to be keeping any kind of tab on you. It just seemed so sudden. And then there was the fact that he could have heard things you didn't exactly want him to know… like Starlight knowing about Chrysalis.

"Enough to know that this was disgustingly sappy" Discord was carefully tapping each piece of paper carefully as he spoke to you. He sounded unimpressed, and a little annoyed. "Though I suppose I should commend you on a job well done, if only because you one upped Twilight Sparkle at her own game. But even that won't save you from the fact that I'm rather upset about this whole affair."

...Oh shit, he probably knew. "Look, things got out of hand. She kidnapped me after the party and I fought her off, sorta. Then I had to take her home because if I didn't, she would have been torn apart by Timberwolves. Her finding out about Chrysalis was not part of the plan, but she promised not to tell anyone. I think we can trust her. So no worries… right?"

Discord started to put the papers back together as he snorted from hearing your words, disgust in his voice. "Oh, you think this is about her finding out about our infestation? No no, this is about you missing school. Nothing more."

Wut?! WHAT?! "Excuse me?"

"S-C-H-O-O-L, you missed it Anon. I already trust you in the fact that you got this whole "Starlight Glimmer" thing sorted. As for how I knew you were here. I didn't follow you, I waited for you. You seem to forget that we have a witness to your shenanigans at home. She told me who your guest was, and I simply worked out the rest. Speaking of working out, I have all your missed school work done. All you have is your homework." Discord lowers the papers as he sarcastically says. "You're welcome, by the way"

That explains that, but that doesn't explain why he's more upset about you missing school while he's sweeping the whole Starlight thing under the rug. "But that doesn't explain WHY you're upset at me, I thought you wouldn't mind me missing school."

"I don't, but do you forget we have another member in our little family who actually does care?" Discord looked down at you, looking serious, his expression dark and foreboding "Do you know how worried Fluttershy got when she found out you hadn't gone to school? She flew over there herself to give you a pencil she bought that barely wears down. And you weren't there."

Oh… well… this was sort of making sense… but still. "Ah come on, it's just… another day of school. You could have just told her I was sick from the party."

"I did that actually, Which I also think is a fitting punishment."

Seriously? A punishment? You felt like that was overstepping.

"Come on! Don't, Discord. I was doing important things. I reformed a villain. It's just school, even if Fluttershy got upset. If she knew the truth about us...I....u...ugh.." You fell over, you were starting to feel nauseous. "....ogh...R-really? You're really doing this over that? Do you know how nonsensical th-that is?"

"Do you remember who I am? It's really for your own good Anon, you could have left a note. Or perhaps waited until AFTER school to do your little deed. It wasn't like she was going anywhere. Do you know how boring math is? Especially when I have to copy your atrocious writing style? I love chaos but this is just abysmal, I don't even think your teacher will accept it."

Your stomach, it felt like you wanted to puke right there. You held it tight. "Mmghh… C-couldn't we just say… I'm sick… and not..mmnnngghh..my stomach.."

Discord shook his head. "Come now Anon, it's not so bad. You'll be properly cared for." Discord snapped his talons as you appeared on your bed, as Discord hovered beside you. "Soup, love, care. You'll be better in no time. Which is good because I left you your homework. I'll leave it right here on your dresser."

You quickly grabbed your blanket and wrapped up in it tightly. Goddammit, part of you wanted to be mad at Fluttershy too. But… eh, she didn't deserve your anger. "..Can't you just....leave me...alone? I don't want y-your care..."

You sniffed, you felt like you had a cold. Christ, don't puke Anon. Don't puke. Because you probably had no way to clean off your bed through normal means. You also were pissed deep inside. You did good, you helped a villain see the side of friendship, yet here you are, in bed. Over something stupid.

"Oh I plan to. Actually caring for you while you're sick is a very boring affair indeed....... That's why I have a nanny to do that." That caught your attention rather quickly. He couldn't mean. He couldn't possibly mean… Discord pulled out a bell, and rang it daintily. "Ohhhh Chryssi… Chryssi, can you bring up Anon's soup?"

Oh god… he did… he fucking did. Even in your state, and your anger at your friend and partner. It suddenly all washed away. Because not in a million years, could you imagine Chrysalis actually taking the call. But the floor door didn't open, she didn't even answer.

Discord rang the bell "Chrysssiiiiiiiii, Anon needs your love annnnddd caaareeeeee...."

You stayed silent, waiting for her to answer. Or come in. But there was still no response. You almost couldn't believe your own curiosity. This was some shit… if this was real.

Discord looked at the floor door. Annoyed. "Well then, that's rather rude." Discord looked at you with a gentle smile "Excuse me, my adorable little Anon, while I personally fetch your loving nanny."

You say nothing… Holy shit.

Discord opened and went through the floor door, slithering through the air like a snake. Things were silent for a moment, you could hear talking through the door, but you couldn't make out the words. Then, the next moment. You could hear Chrysalis screaming and shooting magic. Oh holy shit, it seems she didn't agree to this at all.

Discord popped his head through the door "Excuse me a moment Anon. your nanny seems to be on her time of the month." As he popped back out, you couldn't help but grin a little at that. You felt terrible for grinning, considering what he did to you… but that was genuinely funny.

There was still fighting though. But only for a few more moments. Then, it died down. Discord popped out through the door again, his expression a twisted, arrogant smirk. "There we are, it just took a little convincing. Now then… Nanny Chryssi… will you come up here please?"

You hear Chrysalis call out "I refuse… I can't go up there looking like this!"

"Come now, it fits the scene. If you had been more agreeable, then maybe I would have been more lenient. But if you don't want to come up, I understand. I just hope you like your entire hive having their minds twisted to be loving,adorable, cutesy wutesy little darlings."

There was silence for a moment. "...Fine… Just give me a moment.." Chrysalis called out.

Looking like what? Did he turn her into a normal pony? Did he make her look like something else? Your curiosity was overcoming your sickly stomach. Then you saw her slowly crawling through the door with some sort of outfit on. There was a little white hat with a red cross on it. And as she slipped further through. She was in a nurses gown, she was carefully hovering a bowl of soup through the door using her horn magic. She looked absolutely demoralized. She was grumbling.

Holy....shit...

Holy...fucking....shit.

Ok yeah, it was sort of hot. But holy shit, you bursted out in laughter. You couldn't contain yourself. "HOLY CRAP!? ARE YOU SERIOUS?! ARE YOU SERIOUS?! HAHAHAHAHAHA"

Chrysalis growled at you, baring her fangs. "Silence! I will not be mocked! I will… what?"

Discord held a sheet of paper to her face, and tapped at it "And don't forget the script, it's not complete without the script."

Chrysalis threw the soup at your face as you laughed and giggled at her situation. You started to spit and throw it off of you. Thankfully, the liquid wasn't scalding. And you were still struck funny from it all that you continued to giggle.

"I AM NOT READING THAT FILTH, I DIDN'T AGREE TO IT AND I NEVER WILL"

"Ah ah, that's not very family friendly, that anger of yours. I'm sure a hive full of cuddle bugs will soften you right up." Discord warned her.

Changelings being nice and friendly? That didn't sound too bad. Maybe they could all turn into sexy mares and lounge around with you… dirty thoughts. "I wouldn't mind that. I bet having a bunch of loving and caring bug ponies that could turn into soft and gentle mares would help me sleep at night"

Nah, you had it. You were snickering now. You knew you were safe, and you know you wanted to try being friends with her. But holy shit, you'd never get another opportunity like this ever again. This was a punishment?! It's worth the pain.

Discord smirked at Chrysalis "See, Anon likes the idea too. Now then, let m-"

"ALRIGHT!......alright..." Chrysalis could feel hatred flowing through her entire being over this situation. She felt so humiliated. But this was a much better fate than what Discord was threatening. She takes the paper, and starts to read in a deadpan, uninterested voice. "Oh… dear… my poor little Anon… sick… how… terrible....let....mommy...Ch...Ch..." Chrysalis looked up at Discord "You can't expect me to read all this....."

"Of course I do, he neeeeeedddsss you." Discord floated over to you and patted your head. "He's in so much pain"

You look at Chrysalis… Oh yes… it's time for some revenge. All those times she tried to sexually manipulate you. You did sort of like it, but you hated the fact you had trouble resisting. Now… now was the time to go all out. You held out your hooves. "Come on Chryssi, I need a hug and a kiss on the cheek!"

You felt a cough coming on, and coughed to the side as Chrysalis looked at you with disgust. "This is blackmail of the worst kind. I hope you realize that you'll never get away with it."

"Come on, how many times did you try to manipulate me? You said you wanted to be friends with me. This could honestly be our bonding time. And I do remember you saying to come see you last night. So I'm a little late. It still counts...wight chwyssi?" You made a cute, adorable little face at her.

That only fueled her anger. "DON'T YOU TURN THIS AROUND ON ME YOU LITTLE CUR! YOU'RE SUPPOSED TO BEND TO MY WHIM, I WILL NOT BOW TO YOURS."

Ohhhhhh....well, she let that slip. "So, you were trying to manipulate me the whole time, huh? You never wanted to be my friend, did you?"

"Of course not" Chrysalis said "Why would I want to be friends with a lowly little whelp who wasn't even wanted in his own world" Then Chrysalis sneered at you "I bet that hurts, doesn't it? to know that you failed at making me your friend… doesn't it?"

You smirk back, you had this. She couldn't kill you, at all. And if she was going to play that way. If she just was going to throw everything like that away. Then you had no reason whatsoever to play nice. "Oh no no, it's just going to make this much more enjoyable. Because now I won't feel bad about it later."

Discord was just sitting in mid air at this point, enjoying the back and forth. Eating popcorn.

Chrysalis however, found that statement absolutely foul. "You.....little.....INSECT! You're a little nothing deep inside. What makes you think you can act all high and mighty now?!"

You cough, and lay back and snuggle in your pillow. "Because you can't kill me, that's why. But don't feel bad..." You knew this was going to piss her off, your next words. "But when it comes to what's "Deep Inside". I still like to think that you can be my friend in the end. After Starlight… I really think that's possible."

Chrysalis didn't have a retort to that. She felt like she had bitten on bait she shouldn't have bitten on. She instead looked to Discord, and growled at him instead, ignoring your words. "You can't treat me this way! I am a QUEEN!"

"Yes, and I am a spirit of chaos and that's a human turned pony… and that's a bed, and over there is a door, and the dresser is right there… I would ask you what your point is. But now I'm having fun with ACTUAL pointing, oh look.." Discord pointed at your window. "A window!"

Oh yeah, this was worth it. You'd have to try to make nice with Chrysalis later. But for now… oh man. You wouldn't mind sticking your dick in it while she's in th… wait… "Discord, could you put her in a maid outfit?"

Discord chortled at that question. "Anon, now that truly is sick… I like it"

"A maid's outfit? For what purpose? Unless… that scent.." She looked over to you, with utter disgust "...you sickening little roach. I will not stand for-"

But before she could even finish her sentence, she was put into a black french maid's outfit, with a frilly apron, stockings on her back legs, and a feather duster in her mouth. "mgmmhpp?!"

You needed a towel, that was a little more sexy than you realized. Discord looked over to you, with a devious smile "Oh my Anon, are you getting sicker? I can sense your temperature rising"

You felt a little nervous. You felt turned on from this. "Uh..yeah. I guess uh… yeah."

"Ohhhhhhh, I see~. I'll leave you little lovers alone. Have fun you two. I have to go see a certain teacher to explain why you were absent today. And for proof..." Discord snapshots a picture of your sick self. You had spots on you that you hadn't noticed. "There we are… tata!" Discord waved and poofed away before you could answer. leaving you to Chrysalis.

"You're sick...." She says to you in disgust

"Yes..I am, Discord sort of did this as a punishment. So, why is he doing this to you?" You were still smirking, and… eyeing her.

You had a mix of emotions in you. You felt confident, maybe because of what you did for Starlight. Mixed with the fact that you finally did something right from beginning to end, and you felt you could do more than you ever could before. It also helps that Discord set this up.

"Don't patronize me, and you knew what I meant. You don't think I can't taste that lust off of you?"

You shrug. "Never bothered you before"

"....." Chrysalis stays silent, she didn't want to admit that she did it to try to control you, because if she admitted that, she'd also inadvertently admit that she's being manipulated now.

"Come on" You cough a little. "Just relax, maybe if you do. We can actually be friends. I still think we can."

Chrysalis scoffed. "As if." Chrysalis started heading towards the floor door, holy crap, Discord even put panties on her. U-unf… despite what he did to you… he was also clearly pandering to you, they were even green striped, green like the color of her eyes. "As long as you refuse to follow my command, then we can never be "friends". And now that Discord is gone, I… can… ngh… NGH!" She was trying to magically open the door, but it refused. "...he didn't"

You laughed "Oh man, he locked the door?! that's awesome!"

But Chrysalis growled as she blasted the door with the strongest shot she had......and it did nothing.

".....Of course.......at least I can get out of this...ngh....NGH!" She tried ripping off the clothes with her magic, but that too, was to no avail.

Even tearing them off with her teeth proved ineffective, the outfit simply wouldn't come off. It became clear what was going on. Maybe, you should never hazard a definitive guess when it comes to Discord. But maybe he just wanted the two of you to bond. Or try to tear each other apart. Who knows.

You did know this though. Your little adventure with Starlight showed you that being indecisive, panicky, and worried was probably not the best way to approach some situations. You went into the town expecting them to get angry, or explain to you that you were caught up in a lie, but nope. They had essentially been waiting for that kind of news. And then there was Starlight herself, she could have ran off with the horn and fucked up Equestria the next day. And the only one to blame would have been you. But she stuck to it, and even returned the horn. Maybe, just maybe. You could learn to brave through things you thought you normally couldn't. Hell, even being made sick wasn't so bad. If only because Chrysalis in that maid outfit was just… unf. Even her anger added to it.

While she was doing that, you looked to your dresser where Discord left your homework. You wondered what it could be. "Hey Chrysalis, can I ask you for a favor?" You ask nonchalantly, you might as well try to ask her to get it for you, you didn't feel like getting up.

Chrysalis stopped her attempts to look at you, and then scoffed at the audacity of you asking her anything. "No, whatever it is, you can do it yourself. And if it's THAT kind of question. Then sure… with my mouth… with teeth."

Ugh, that was cringeworthy. That's not the way you wanted your first time with a pony, changeling… whatever to go. Luckily for you, you just wanted the homework. Maybe if she heard you out. "It's nothing like that. Can you just hand me my homework. I'm feeling pretty bad. I don't want to get up, grab it, then puke on it. Please?"

That was the best you could do. Yeah, you just laughed at her. But maybe, just maybe. She had a sympathetic side?...Maybe?

Chrysalis walks over to the paper, and hovers it in front of her eyes. Taking a read as she snickers. "I could just tear it to pieces, you being viewed as a failure would make my day."

You raise an eyebrow at her, seriously? She's sunk that low? "Really? You're going to take me getting an F as a winning blow? You do know I could just make it up with an A, right?"

That made Chrysalis grumble, making her even realize how pathetic that sounded, she tosses over the paper to you. "Here, I hope you choke on it."

You take the paper and take a brief look at it before replying to Chrysalis… Seemed your homework was Nightmare Night related. "But… I'm not going to eat this. I'm not a dog."

"YOU KNOW WHAT I MEANT!" She barked at you, she was so frustrated. And so uncomfortable with what she was wearing. Being stuck in the room with you, even unable to destroy you or at least shut you up. "When did you get so smug...?"

"I..wouldn't really call it smug, I just feel more comfortable than usual. Knowing you can't kill me helps."

Chrysalis tried opening the portal door, it opened, but to a brick wall. Upon happening onto the wall, she speaks in a calmer, more monotone tone. "Of course… no way to leave whatsoever." She then turns to you, to continue the conversation, giving up on any other attempts of escape. "And yet knowing that before didn't make you so comfortable around me. You were always nervous, or cowardly. What changed? Or is it just me wearing this ridiculous outfit?"

Knowing what it is, you would hope your next words would calm her down. Maybe get her to ease up, and try to have a more normal conversation with you without manipulation involved. You still wanted to try to make her more friendly. She was definitely going to need if she was going to be your sister. Though, you didn't know the full extent of how capable she was an actor. You were pretty sure you could always spot her if she took the form of one of your friends, like she did Diamond Tiara.

"No, it was my time with Starlight. That pony you saw earlier. You see, she was a villain who, as I saw, was rising up to achieving her goals. She had her own town. And if things had went her way, she would have had Equestria under her control. But she was stopped by Twilight."

Chrysalis rolls her eyes "No surprise"

"Well, that's the way things go. But interestingly enough. That wasn't the end of her. She was ready to get her revenge. She had so much stuff in there. She even was working on a time travel spell using a scroll. I think she was going to mess with time itself, probably to make herself the ruler of Equestria and achieve her goals."

Chrysalis then became intrigued. "A scroll you say? Did you happen to know exactly what it was? Or where it might be at this moment?"

...Probably wouldn't be best to mention where you THINK it even is right now. It was most likely still in the cave. "No, but. Look, my point is. When I showed up, I turned her into a filly"

Chrysalis was paying close attention to your words, hoping you'd slip something more interesting to her plans. "The same filly from last night, well then. That does explain why she was interested in my schemes. But what does that have to do with you and this increase in your bravery?"

"I'm not one hundred percent sure. But I think it was when I saw Starlight just start breaking down when I ruined her life's work. And then, realizing all she wanted was to be friends with somepony. That's all she needed. But she was scared, somepony had to step up to the plate and make things right. And that pony was me. I couldn't fail, she needed my help. And the way she put her faith in me like that. Well, I guess it made me realize being super cautious and worried about everything isn't exactly very attractive."

"How typical.." Chrysalis was not impressed by your story, she found it to be like the dime a dozen stories she had heard before about friendship. "Knowing she had a plan that could have changed the entire fabric of reality, and instead you chose the goody four shoes route. And for what? For the betterment of her and yourself? I'm disappointed in you, I would have at least hoped that a human would have some sort of lust for power. I've sensed it in you before, it's one of the reasons I was more willing to be your friend. In fact… I still sense that in you"

Well, that's interesting. You don't remember having a lust for power. "What do you mean by that? Didn't you say before you didn't actually care for my friendship?"

"Anon, I want to be absolutely clear when I say this. If you would choose me over Discord, I would be more than happy to be your friend. You have the power to turn the entirety of Equestria over in one fell swoop. And yes, that horn only works once a day. But that's where I come in. A swarm of changelings to finish the job would ensure our victory over the ponies. And we could rule over all of Equestria… together. Imagine it, you could let out all those repressed emotions you have. That lust, that hate, there's so much hate in you Anon..."

Chrysalis started to speak softer, more seductively as she inched towards you, and that outfit didn't help. "What is it that makes a human have so much hate in their heart that they have to repress it? There's no single being in Equestria that can hold in those many emotions as easily as you. This could be your out, a way to let your true self come to light."

Ahh, the ole "true self" speech. Classic.

You smile and snuggle onto your pillow. "No dice, I like the way things are. All that stuff you mentioned, it was from the loneliness and cruelty of my old world. I would never give up the friendship I have. It's gives me too many fuzzy feelings. You really should try it sometime. I mean, think about it. You could just feed off the love of friendship a little, while still maintaining a healthy relationship with somepony you actually like. Instead of hanging out in some cave all day thinking about how you're gonna get back at a couple of princesses."

"What would I do with friendship? I don't know if you've realized it Anon but everypony is the same. Boring, annoying, and always, ALWAYS trying shove their positivity down other's throats. You cannot tell me the pink one is anything more than overbearing."

You shrug. "I think it's cute."

"You say that now because you come from another world that seemed devoid of friendship, but trust me. She can get very irritating, very quickly."

You remain unswayed. "You're not going to convince me Chrysalis. I think you're actually trying to avoid having a friend."

"Based on what, exactly?" She had a point, she only appeared in a two parter. You had nothing to go on. But you didn't want to believe she was just straight out evil.

Chapter 122

Nope, you couldn't think of a single point where she may have genuinely cared about you. So then, you'd have to retreat and wait it out. And hope maybe with a little more time. She'd truly warm up to you.

"...Just a gut instinct, but erm. I guess I should get to my homework. It would be pretty irresponsible if I just procrastinated on it."

Chrysalis snickered "Retreating from the conversation are we? That's perfectly ok with me, it just proves to me how right I am."

You start reading the directions to your homework. "Opinions aren't facts, You won't know anything about friendship until it happens."

"IF it happens, Being your "friend" just proves my point on how troublesome it is. Especially since I can't even leave."

"That has more to do with Discord being Discord."

Chrysalis shakes her head. "It has nothing to do with him. If you were actually worthy of my time then I'd actually wouldn't mind being stuck here. Maybe if you showed some actual interest in what I want to do, then MAYBE we could work something out."

"Not interested in taking over Equestria. Maybe if you had interests that were more… I dunno… doable?" Hrn, it seems this was a special homework not really based on Nightmare Night itself, but more to do with the fact that many ponies dress up as monsters during that time. To be exact, Miss Cheerilee wanted a report of a monster or being of your choice, two pages long. Hrnnn...

"Doable? Of course it's doable, there have been conquerors before, Anon. I know you've heard of King Sombra."

"Yep, and he died for it. I don't know Chrysalis, you should really consider yourself lucky. You're alive despite what you did. They straight up killed Sombra, just like that. If the ponies were able to stage a massive force against you after the fact, with Twilight and her friends at the helm? Yeah, you might end up squished… like a bug."

Chrysalis put a little thought into those words. It was true, Sombra was obliterated. She had heard about it before. But she was sure she wouldn't make the same mistake. "He was just one pony. Of course the ridiculous force of the Crystal Heart would destroy him. I however have no such weakness. Given time, I could not only take over Equestria, but amass a large enough force to deal with any threat."

"......and then you and your entire force gets hit with one shot and goes blasting off......again" ...Hrn… What to pick, what to pick? You were juggling the conversation and your thoughts. You could probably take a crack at monsters you do know. But would human interpretation match up with the actual monsters that exist in Equestria?

Chrysalis felt a tinge of anger from that remark, but she remained poised and calm outwardly. She didn't want to give the impression that she could actually be beat. Despite already being defeated. "I told you before, that was due to a minor mistake. One that, I can assure you, that I've learned from."

...Hrn....."learned from"....those words. You could learn… more about the changelings actually. You did have the report to write. And you had a bonafide Changeling Queen right in front of you. The gears in your head started turning. Maybe this homework could be used to actually bond with Chrysalis… in some way. Surely she'd enjoy being written about in a more informational, and if you write it right, positive light. Maybe you could get that "moment" she says she's never had.

"Yeah....huh.." You act disinterested in the conversation.

Chrysalis again, feels she's making headway in the conversation "Nothing to say Anon? Does it scare you that once I get my army rallied once again that nopony could stop me in my conquest?"

You shake your head. "No, actually. I got a problem with this homework."

Chrysalis nose scrunched, she looked at you with scornful eyes. "Are you telling me your homework is more important than our debate? I'm trying to show you how hopeless things will soon be for everypony. Discord cannot keep me contained forever, you know. He isn't perfect, he also makes mistakes."

You still act disinterested. "Right, right. I know..." You stared intently at the instructional paper. Until Chrysalis gets annoyed that you are paying it more attention than you are her. She uses her horn to rip the paper from your hooves so she could read it herself.

After reading, she burns the paper up in green fire, still heavily annoyed. "That's what got your attention? What? Are you seriously having trouble choosing a monster? Why don't you just pick a Timberwolf and be done with it? It's not that hard." Chrysalis rolled her eyes "Humans aren't actually very intelligent are they?"

You shake your head dismissively. "It's not about intelligence. It's about the fact that I don't know too many interesting monsters in Equestria. That's why I was wondering. Why don't I write about changelings? They're pretty interesting."

"Write about changelings? My kind? I wouldn't let you."

"Why not?"

Chrysalis puts her hoof to her face, she couldn't believe you said that. "Why not? WHY NOT?! Think Anon, think! Why would I let you write about changelings when it's clear you don't know anything at all about us. Choose something else, I don't want even a single pony getting the wrong idea about my kind."

"Well, I wouldn't know what else to write about. So I got an idea." You rummage through your bag and pull out a pencil, two sheets of paper, and your lunchbox. You place the paper on the lunchbox, using the lunchbox as an object to write upon. "Why don't you teach me about changelings? That way, everypony will have the RIGHT idea about your kind. And nopony will think any false information I may have written will be true."

"Teach you?" Chrysalis thought about it, she wasn't worried, but mostly found it insulting that'd you try writing about her kind with very little actual information. Especially if you were going to write anything that'd be less than true. ".....Sure, why not. I think the young should know what my kind is like. So they know how to properly be afraid of us."

Woah...she's seriously going to do it. "Oh, um. Cool. So...umm..let's start and....ahh dammit...dammit...COME ON...ugh...I forgot.." You were trying to grip the pencil, but you were failing miserably.

"....you can't even use a pencil?" Chrysalis couldn't believe it.

"...I can...just..I forgot I had to use my mouth. Not like I have a real horn of my own to use whenever." You sigh as you take the pencil in your mouth and write out your name,date, and title of your report. "The Changelings". Your handwriting is fucking atrocious though. Writing was nothing like painting. "...ogh...Discord was right. This is terrible."

"What? your writing? It can't possibly be that bad." Chrysalis walked over to you, and looked at your writing, she then cringed. It was that bad. "....Anon, if there was ever a time where I felt remorse, it would be now. Because that is the worst I've ever seen. I can't even laugh because of how awful it is. Are those even words?"

Ugh, you were actually wishing she was laughing at you. At least that would have been a normal response. This was dire. You lay back on your pillow and sigh, this was frustrating. "I can't believe I'm going to fail school because I can't fucking write."

"Hrnnn, Anon, put that pencil in your mouth" Chrysalis was carefully assessing the situation.

You were pretty annoyed at this, your cool disposition cracked by your own inability to write. Hell, you felt Chrysalis was going to mock you at this point. But, she didn't.

"What? No "What a shame"? Or something generic like that?"

Chrysalis magically picked up the pencil and stuck the eraser end into your mouth "Silence! Just do as I say!"

You cough and try to spit it out, but she keeps it there tight. "mfmdfg"

Chrysalis looked at the paper, then your head. "Hmmmm, how to fix this..."

She started to flitter her wings and float up in the air above you as she hangs her hooves down to grab your head. "Alright, Anon...ANON, FOCUS!"

You stop your muffling the moment she yells focus. You could feel her hooves gently on the sides of your head. What was this all about?

"Alright, let's try writing "changeling". Very slowly, I'd do it quickly in all actuality but I'm sure Discord's little spell is still in effect. Right to left and left to right like a half swirl. Bite hard on the pencil so it won't wobble." She started to gently guide your head. She was...she was helping you write? "There we are, to the next letter. You have to keep your head steady. Don't worry about the condition of the pencil, bite hard enough that you can feel your teeth sink in a little, that will keep it steady. Don't try to see what you're writing, just write." She guided you along until you spelled "changeling" in full.

You let go of the pencil and take a look at your work. It looked… a lot better. "Woah… it looks much better now. Why did you help me?"

"I told you already. And I'm not repeating myself. Now, do this fifty times on your own, and each word must be "Changeling". I won't let you write any other word until I see perfection."

Wut? She really wanted your report to be accurate and readable? or just her version of accurate and readable. "Fifty times? how about like, twenty. I'm not a kid, I just need to get used to it."

"Who's the nanny, Anon? Me or you?"

"...I thought you didn't want to be my nanny?"

Chrysalis looked at the bottom of her right front hoof with an arrogant smile. "For this instance, I shall be. If only because it means you'll have to obey me."

Is she daft? "I… really don't think you being my nanny NOW gives you that much sway."

Chrysalis clears her throat "Oh Mr. Discord, young master Anon was very disagreeable today. He shall bring shame to your family, including the yellow one, due to his inability to write."

You were speechless, she even had to put Fluttershy into this? Whimsy or not. Discord would take that seriously in his own non serious way. For sure.

Chrysalis could see in your eyes that you understood. "Good, I'm glad we understand each other, now practice."

You internally grumbled, both from illness and from things being flipped on you. You take up the pencil and write up "Changelings" fifty times. With each time you write slowly improving your skills. Until you could actually read it. "...Hey, I did it. How about that? Ha!" You take up the paper to show to Chrysalis.

She looked at it, unimpressed by it "It'll do. But you'll never write as well as I do."

"That's because I don't have a horn like you do."

"Oh really?" Chrysalis takes the paper, and the pencil and puts it on the dresser. She leans upwards onto it and starts writing with her mouth. It takes her a moment. But she smirks and even cackles a little as she slips the paper back to you "You were saying?"

Oh shit, she wrote "Changeling" in a style of old style story books. With hyper stylized writing. "...where did you learn to write like this?"

"Practice Anon, practice. That's not even my own style. I have perfectly emulated the writing styles of many of the ponies I've taken the form of. Anypony could don a disguise. But a changeling? Especially one of royalty like myself; perfects the form they take. I have memorized the writing style of every pony I've ever copied. No exceptions."

..Woah...you were going to note this for the report. This is good stuff. "...Do you automatically learn when you take their form?"

She shook her head. "No, it is something I need to practice. One cannot take down a town, a city, or even a kingdom if they get found out through silly things such as writing styles. It takes painstaking practice to both learn and memorize every single writing style I copy"

Interesting, interesting. "What about your children? Do they go through the same thing?"

Chrysalis shook her head. "Of course not, cunning though they may be. They can't be trusted with anything beyond normal duties such as reconnaissance, pony replacement at basic levels, stealth, and information gathering. And foalnapping of course."

In other words, they aren't as capable. Or smart really. "Ok, but what exactly makes a changeling a changeling? Are you bugs..or ponies… or bug ponies? What?"

"We are… for lack of a better word, insects. But not as lowly as your common roach or bee. We have evolved beyond anything primitive." That would be true, but what about those holes in their bodies.

"What about the holes? Are they part of the evolution?"

"No, the holes in our bodies exist because there is nothing vital there. When a changeling forms within its egg. their innards and vital parts always grow differently from one changeling to the next. And if they happen to expand in a circular motion. Then the carapace will form a hole where there is nothing."

Well, that seems logical. Sort of, but speaking of eggs. "About your eggs. How exactly does that work? How long does a changeling generally live?"

Chrysalis was being very forthcoming with this information. With nary a look of hesitation or deception. "I can only reproduce if I have a proper level of nutrition within my body. when I generate a clutch of eggs. the inside of each egg is lined with physical love so that my little darlings can feast. And once the love is no more, if they are strong enough. They will break out of the egg, and be ready to serve me. As for how long we live… I don't know a single changeling that has yet perished due to old age,"

Christ, that's a long fucking time. "I-I see...well, I already know changelings think independently from you. So, how about this? How does the whole "love feed" work. I notice you just don't tear it away from ponies. But instead just feed off the emotion itself when they are feeling it."

Chrysalis smiled at you, it wasn't evil or false. But genuine. "That's correct. The love energy we feed off of is from the emotion itself. The more a pony feels love, the more potent and nutritious it is to a changeling. It even gives us power. Though, there are ways to force love. Sometimes we can forcibly drain it from a host who is not expressing love, but that is for desperate times. And other times it is through me, when I put them under my power."

Chrysalis looks at you with glowing green eyes "You know Anon, if you just gave in. I could bring you a pleasure you'd never get from a mare."

Ogh, her eyes always looked nice when they glowed. And the maid outfit didn't help. This time, you couldn't help but feel a little unnaturally closer to her. But nothing a hard smack to the head couldn't fix. You smack yourself with your hoof to make sure you keep your senses. Then look at Chrysalis with a "...don't do that" expression. "Don't even, I'm no one's pawn..." Then you started to feel a little… under the weather in a different sense. "...even if the queen is sort of hot."

Chrysalis loomed ever closer, her eyes glowing as she gently put her hoof under your neck and began to rub. ""Hot" Enough to serve me?"

Fuck, no no no no no no no. You go to smack yourself again. But Chrysalis quickly moves her hoof right to the side of yours. Blocking it. "Don't hit your face Anon, it doesn't look to bad. It'd be a shame if you did any harm to it."

Ohhhhhh, is this how Shining Armor felt when under her power? You found her more and more alluring the more you looked at her. It was getting harder to resist. "...don't..come on..."

"It'll be alright Anon, just relax, I won't harm you. If you give in, I'll do everything in my power to bring you happiness. Trust in me, and give me your nutritious love."

...Ogh, you felt like this could be your only chance… for some reason. You felt you could become hers… for some reason. She was taking advantage of your perversions. "....m-my q-q..."

"Say it..." Chrysalis gave you the most seductive look she could muster "Call me your queen… tell me you love me..."

"M-my.....FSDDFDFSDFD" You leaned up to try to kiss her, and instead puke all over her face from your sickness. Immediately breaking her spell as you come to your senses. Chrysalis takes her hoof to gather a chunk of your puke to throw it off her face Looking at you with quiet fury.

you hold your head, gathering your thoughts. You didn't even really know that you were in a trance. The deeper you went in, the foggier the memory was.

"Ugh, stupid sickness. I think I blanked out for a moment..." You look over to Chrysalis, you could see some of the gunk on her face. But you weren't sure how it got there. "What's all that stuff?"

Chrysalis grumbled, but she remarkably holds her anger and rage back. She knew she'd just be wasting energy over another pointless argument. If she could tear you apart right now though, she'd certainly give you at least a thrashing. "...It's nothing. Let's just continue where we left off...."

But you were really curious. Was that a secretion to bathe herself in? Or something? Because it smelled pretty foul. "Well, I think we left off on how you feed off love… I want to ask about what you mean by "force" the love out of somepony. But, that gunk. What's it for?"

Chrysalis snapped at you "I SAID IT'S NOTHING!"

Woah geez. "Alright, alright. yikes. Didn't know that kind of stuff was personal."

"Hmph" Chrysalis wasn't used to to this. She lived in what she would call "better conditions" for so long that these kinds of shenanigans were beneath her. Now she would have to get used to them, however way she could. "Anyway..everypony, as far as I know, is capable of producing love. And if they are not producing love at the time of need. We can strip them of it right from the source. Unfortunately for us. If we are already low on food, then this is actually detrimental. As the pony we strip the love from takes a very long time to recover. And if that's all we have. Then well, it doesn't do us much good."

You still felt a little cloudy in the head, but you memorized her words as best you could. "Ok, but what about lust? You said you could feed off that too right?"

Chrysalis nodded. "Yes, but there is no nutrition in it. We could only survive on lust for only so long. That's why I'm a master at getting the food we need. Coaxing a pony into loving me. It's just a matter of the right form and flattering persuasion" Chrysalis chuckled to herself. "And I do mean it when I call myself a master. You may always bring up the fact that I lost in Canterlot. But the fact that I even fooled the "Great" Princess Celestia and defeated her is a testament of how skilled I really am"

Or more how dumb the ponies were being. But for once, you wouldn't argue that point. You needed as much information as you could gather. "That you did, that you did… hrn. What about that stuff you and your hive produces. That green stuff?"

"Green stuff? Ahh yes, that is a substance all changelings can produce. We use it to create a protective barrier around our eggs. Or to seal up beings we plan to harvest for love later. It depends really."

"And your mane? Is that really hair, or is it something else?"

"My mane? Ahh, hmm.. Believe it or not. I actually have no idea what it is, but it adds to my regal perfection. Now then..." Chrysalis wanted to give you some information, rather than answer a question.

"One thing I want you to write in your report is about me. Now pay attention carefully Anon, because this is important. As queen, it is my duty to make sure my entire hive is well cared for. To make the most important of decisions. And to make sure I never lose a single drone in any battle. Many may see me as some sort of cowardly brute. But I am not. How many creatures do you know of that has a leader go into the heart of the enemy? My hive is brave because I am brave. My hive is loyal because I am always the first one into the fray. And that is something I want to be known and respected for. And before you ask why. It's because if I somehow never truly escape this place. Then I don't want my race going down in history as a bunch of cowardly wimps. Do you understand me?"

You thought about that. You could be a dick and write it that she sucked. But, she really did go in first. She kidnapped Cadence, she kept Shining at bay, she put herself in the most danger and nearly won. That does indeed take balls. It was actually respectable. "I understand. And you can trust me, you'd be surprised how many leaders back in my world just sit on their butts a million miles away from where the real fighting is going on."

"Your world?" Chrysalis became intrigued. "Ahh yes, your world. You wouldn't mind telling me a little bit about it, would you Anon? Or are all humans like you? And not worth my time"

Not worth her time? Heh, despite you doing her the favor of writing your report accurately to her words. You weren't just about to take the insinuation that you were pathetic. "I'd rather not go through a long explanation on how my world is. I'll use my horn on another day to show you this really nice documentary titled "Starship Troopers". I think you'll like it."

"Starship Troopers? I don't know what a starship is, but if it's about troopers, then I assume this is a war documentary?"

You nod.

"Then I suppose that will suffice. It'll either be interesting or terribly boring to see how a human conducts themselves in combat. Is it about any particular battle? Or just an overview on their war tactics?"

Oh hohoho...oh ho...this would be sweet. "Just a particular war. But I don't want to spoil anything. It's a really really good documentary, trust me, you'll love it."

Chrysalis was skeptical, but she decided to keep an open mind due to not knowing what humans were really capable of. "We'll see, but if you're not going to tell me any details. Then I expect to be floored by what I see"

You hold back a smirk. Didn't want to let her on on anything. "Trust me, you'll be more than floored. It's really that good."

"Better not try to get me too excited, Anon. Because if I'm disappointed. I'll make sure to make you VERY aware on how inane human battle tactics really are compared to us changelings. I'll make you ashamed to have been known as a human."

Oh boy, wait till she sees how vicious the bugs are in the movie. and the weapons the humans employ. She'll be wishing every night for humans to hopefully never come en mass to Equestria. "We'll see, anyway. I think I got everything I need for my homework. Thank you"

You actually genuinely thank her for the information. It was going to make writing two pages worth of information much easier.. Especially since she taught you to actually write better, right there, right then.

Chrysalis wouldn't accept a "Thank you" though. She didn't want to be seen as "kind". "Don't thank me Anon, I did this for myself. It just required me using you to make sure Equestria has an actual historical record of my kind."

You didn't want to burst her bubble. But you were pretty sure no one was going to take your paper too seriously. Considering it's just homework. You'd let her have her cute delusion. So you took pencil in mouth, and began to write.

Chapter 123

You had to put a lot more focus into writing with your mouth than you ever did with your hands. With every letter you had to think of to write down, your mind wanted to trail off more and more. It was slower, required more effort, and was just fucking boring. Dammit, you hate homework.

You could probably just use your horn in the morning to zap the report complete, but the writing might not match up. Heck, you had to look at your schoolwork after all this. To see how it syncs up with Discord's work.

Chrysalis could see you were still struggling, but she didn't pay it any mind. In fact, she was avoiding bothering you. But every time she glanced at you, she would look annoyed within a few seconds, maybe it was because you were slow? Or maybe because she thinks your writing is still bad. You'd ask, but you didn't want to lose focus.

Chrysalis walked over to the window to peer outside "..Pure emptiness..how anypony could live in this realm is a miracle..." She was speaking to herself. She curved her head slightly to look over to what you were writing. "hrnn...decent..." She then started looking through your dresser, she finds the tin of cards the fillies gave you. And starts to look through them. "Power Ponies....hmph,"

She was so bored.

The fact she was going through your things made you a little anxious, you were constantly shifting your eyes between her and your paper. Dammit, does she not understand boundaries? You didn't care that much about the cards. But the fillies went through so much trouble collecting them for you. You didn't want a single one ruined.

".....what are you doing?" You ask, putting the pencil down so you can observe her.

"I'm bored Anon, and I'm letting you focus on your work. Why do you even have these cards? I doubt you've been here long enough to read all the comics. In fact...You don't have a single one, do you? Pathetic."

Pathetic? wut?

"What do you mean "Pathetic"? Are you saying i'm terrible for NOT having the comics?"

"That's exactly what I'm saying. Why would you have merchandise to something you're not even into?"

what? where does she get off saying that?

"Woah woah woah..mph"
You cough, you had to try to not react too much. you were still sick.
"ok..ok..so tell me then, what makes you an expert on the comics then?"

"Nothing, I don't know anything about the comics. But part of being a changeling is pretending to enjoy and like things that are obviously terrible. I at least have an excuse. For you, well, it just makes you look like one of those children that are only into something because the others are into it. Which then goes back into the reason why you are pathetic. Understand?"

that actually upset you. you didn't have them for those reasons, you had them because they were a gift.

"Or maybe they were given to me as a gift by some friends who like me but didn't know I didn't read the comics. Friends do that you know, they like to be giving."

Chrysalis continues to sift through the cards. Even going so far as to order them by collection number. "Well then I apologize...it's your friends who are the idiots."

"Hey! Don't say that..."

You lean up, despite the pain in your stomach, you actually felt a need to protect their actions.
"Haven't you ever gotten anything from somepony just...oh wait. Never mind, I'm walking into such a cliche. Of course you've never received a gift that was genuinely meant for you."

"No, I haven't. Because there's nothing in this world I'd ever need. Unless of course, it was an entire kingdom. But I'm not so lucky to know a pony that generous."

something about that made you both angry, and yet, made you feel sorry for her. You knew how cliche you were about to sound. But, you can't make progress without going down familiar roads.
"That's really selfish. Isn't there anything you've ever wanted that wasn't the world? Something small, something you could cherish because it reminds you of a happy memory or an event that meant something to you?"

Chrysalis continued to organize the cards as she put some serious thought into that question. "hmmmmm... How about a castle that isn't in disrepair and ruin? I'd actually like it if I didn't have to be worried that a step I might take has a possibility of sending me a few floors down."

ugh, that's still too much.

"I don't think you get it. Just picture this. You're a young little princess queen...bug...changeling. your parents take you sh-"

Chrysalis stops you "What?! I seriously hope you aren't making some sort of comparison on how pony parents are like. Because I don't remember if I ever had any. Who knows? I may have ate them."

oh, just the thought of that made your stomach churn worse than usual.

"ok...fine, how about this then. In all the times you've EVER been other ponies. Have you ever come across an object or song or SOMETHING that you wanted to have, to keep as a memento?"

Again, Chrysalis entered deep thought. Trying to think of any particular thing. But then she realized something. "Well, this is a useless line of questioning. You do realize that if I did want a memento. I could have just taken it while I was actually there, right?"

But you had a retort for that one.
"What if it was too big to take? Like a record player?"

"or a castle."

"Right, like a ca-...hey...stop that!"

Chrysalis chuckled, and then went back to organizing the cards while still speaking to you. "You know, Anon, that's a thinking I'd expect out of Twilight Sparkle. Thinking that there has to be a reason, a something, an ANYTHING as to why a being such as myself do the things we do. The thing is, we just do. If you want to call it "evil" then so be it, we're evil. I've long since embraced it"

She was right, but then. as she said it, it made you realize something as well. Starlight was good now. But she still probably hated Twilight deep inside. all in all,her redemption and her feelings were two different things altogether...and so...
"It's fine if you're evil. But I still want to be your friend...I don't even know why. I think you're kind of awesome. For a villain."

Chrysalis stopped organizing the cards. Those words...they didn't click right with her, she looks at you with pure confusion. "What? excuse me if this sounds like you..." Chrysalis changes her head into yours "But that doesn't make any fucking sense" She then changes her head back to her normal form "That is the correct usage of that word, right?"

You nod, but you did have an explanation.
"You mean because of how I condemned you? and pretty much any villain? Yeah, it's because I live here now. I got to see what the lives here are like, and I went to assuming that villains really are one dimensional and not worth my time. There's a difference between watching, and living it. By watching, you know eventually things are going to be ok. And there can be discussions about villains, fanfictions, or even thinking up ways to improve upon their evil and their plans. But now that I live here, I didn't want any part of it anymore. Because anypony,including myself could, end up a victim of said plans."

"So, what you're telling me is. That when you saw things from your world, everything was fine because you weren't personally involved. But now that you're here, you just flipped your thinking? Sounds to me like you only care about yourself, since now anything can happen to you."

"Don't,just don't... because the difference between me watching and me being here is that I didn't even know this world was real. I had no idea about the dimensional rifts and idea lines and all of that. Come on, are you telling me you've ever given it a thought that any storybook you may have read might actually be real, but in another dimension?"

"No, and that's because.....hmmm.." Chrysalis then starts to see your point. But she still had one last argument up her sleeve. "Well, you may have some sort of point. If you were to tell me something like these Power Ponies being real, I'd probably laugh at you and not even find your love worth my time."

"...actually...they do have a world of their own. I'm not sure exactly how it works. But, they exist too."

Chrysalis didn't know how to reply to that. Instead, her mind was running through a million possibilities. "Are you telling me that anything that's fiction could actually be a real world?"

You nod

"Absolutely, it really could be anything. There's even a possibility of a world where you're super nice and Celestia and Luna are evil."

Oh god, it was just sinking in that the comics might actually be canon in some other universe. After Reflections, you couldn't imagine there being anything worse than that. The only thing worse would be Sombra being brought back to life and some stupid romance plot being thrown in.

Chrysalis found that intriguing, and horrifying. "A goody four shoes version of me?....I'd rather...I'd rather not talk about this anymore. I think I get it..."

Even then, she only got it about alternate universes. Not about what you meant on friendship.
"I figure that would bring things into perspective. But I still want to explain my reasoning. Look, if you want to be all big and bad. Fine, I'm not too worried about it because of how the situation is. You can be as evil as you want to be. Want to devise different ways to get revenge? I'm cool with that. But I also, want to try to be your friend."

Chrysalis found no sense in those words. "Why? I thought you wanted to try to "reform" me. Isn't that the reason you want to befriend me?"

it was, but maybe it didn't really have to be.
"That was a reason, but maybe someponies just can't be redeemed. Even then, that doesn't mean we can't be friends."

"And how do you figure that?"

"Because, well. You said it yourself actually. Friends accept each other for their opinions,and who they are. And although I'll never be evil, I can learn to be your friend despite the fact that you ARE evil."

Chrysalis narrowed her eyes at you "I didn't say that..."

"Actually you did, you used it to turn my reasoning around. Remember?"

Chrysalis tapped her chin "Hmmm, now that you mention it, I do remember saying something like that to make you look the fool. But I didn't seriously mean it."

"Well, whether you meant it or not. I'm gonna take it to heart. And I can start by saying. Thank you, I know I said it before. But really...thank you for helping me with my homework, Without you, I'd probably never get it done. Not on my own."

Chrysalis could tell you were being truly serious on your thank you. No sarcasm, no hint of deception. Truly genuine, but she still felt you were trying to change her. "Don't do that, you know my reasons for helping you. So you don't need to tell me “thank you”. I know you're just trying to get me to "soften" up. There's nothing there, Anon. Nothing for you at least."

Well you tried. But if she was going to be that way, then best to leave it be.

You don't say another word. And go back to your homework. To get it finished up and reread it for errors.

Chrysalis just stares at you "Well...?"

Well? Well what?"
You spit out the pencil.
"Huh? What do you mean "Well"?"

Chrysalis was getting irritated. "Don't tell me that. I know that you were really just trying to get me to act more "Friendly". There was no reason to thank me otherwise."

You shrug
"Ok, but I told you that I just wanted to be a friend. It's up to you if you want to accept my thanks or not. Nothing more than that, in anycase. I've got homework to do."

You go back to writing, and as you do. Chrysalis walks up to you and pushes the lunchbox away to look directly into your eyes. She looked very annoyed. "You don't think I know what you're doing? I am the MASTER of deception. And I know when a pony is trying to deceive me."

You pull the lunchbox away and prop it back up.

"I'm not trying to deceive you. I was being serious. You can be evil and malicious and all that. I don't really care about it anymore. All I'd really like is to try to be your friend. There doesn't need to be a redemption for it to happen. Now...do you mind? I gotta finish this report."

Chrysalis slapped the lunchbox away. "what do you take me for?! Nopony is willing to be friends with an evil being just like that!"

You sigh, you were starting to get annoyed yourself

"And you forget I'm not originally a pony. And if I keep fighting to try to redeem you, you're just going to fight back by messing with me. There's no point. So let's just look past our differences ok? We have to live with each other, right? You're gonna be my sister soon, right? Does it make sense for us just not to have ANY kind of relationship when that happens?"

"I don't even think it matters. I think Discord is just doing it to toy with the both of us."

"The both of us"? Hrn, you never actually gave it too much thought on the effect it'd have on Chrysalis. Just more on yourself. It made you curious.

"Why would it bother you? You get to be out and about and you get to toy with my life as a bonus."

"Because I don't get to be myself. I actually have to play a part I don't want any part of for the amusement of your "father". No amount of tormenting you can take that away. Didn't you realize this?"
you didn't..or, not that far. You didn't really think how'd it effect her too much. You tried to come up with a good answer for her. But as you laid silent, she spoke up for you.

"If you wanted to be my friend, you wouldn't be so selfish as to think of how things only affect you."

Woah...what?! Did she just Friendship lesson you....AGAIN?!
"ah-...ah...I. Woah...hold on. you're going all over the place. And what do you mean "If I wanted to be friends"? I do, but it's hard when you're being all over the place. Especially when you're saying I'm selfish because I didn't think how being my sister would affect you. I mean, I thought it was obvious that you'd get a kick out of messing with me."

Chrysalis snickers at the thought "And I will, but. It's still humiliating, and limits me to acting like a useless child. I'm used to a day of scheming, planning, and sucking the love out of whatever unfortunate fool happens into my lair. So, I'm sure you can understand at least what it's like to be stripped away from something you love. Or did you truly care for nothing in your old world?"

hmmm, that didn't require deep thought. You didn't even care if it surprised her.
"There's nothing worth going back for. That's all I have to say about that. I'm actually a lot happier here."

Chrysalis however, wasn't surprised. She knew that was probably the case. She's never ever heard you ever complain about that before. "Of course, what a silly thing for me to ask.....well then..."
Chrysalis looks directly into your eyes, she started to read you, and read your emotions. "So, are you serious, truly serious in wanting to be my friend despite the fact that I am indeed evil?"

you sigh, yes, a million times yes.
"Yes Chrysalis, I don't care if you’re evil. I'd just like to be your friend rather than your enemy. Especially since we're pretty much stuck with each other anyway."

Chrysalis walks over to the end of the bed...and something was different...was she..deliberately shaking her ass at you? because she was adding a little swagger to her walk. "...then, do something for me. And I'll put considerable thought in becoming your real friend."

even the way she was climbing on the bed, she took a stretch..u-unf. Your irritation left you, in trade of desire...ohhhhh, if she said to fuck her....maybe...mmaaaybbeee

"it d-depends, I w-won't do anything evil."

you felt your ill feelings from being sick even subside as she laid at the end of the bed on her side. Looking at you with seductive eyes. "Oh, you needn't do anything evil. All I want to do, is cuddle with you."

WHHAAAAAAAAT?!

It's not even the fact that she said that. it was the fact that she went from terribly annoyed to suddenly wanting to cuddle? That doesn't even make any sense. holy shit, what was her reason? Was she going to try to hypnotize you? That doesn't work, you'd never let that happen.

"...why?"You said, with much skepticism.

"I'll be honest with you Anon. I'm very hungry. And I'd leave to go acquire the food Discord had given us. But, the door being locked is a problem. So, if you don't mind. I'd like to cuddle with you as you think gentle and loving thoughts. Is that ok with you?"

Is she serious?
"Why would I let you feed off me?"

"Because I need the nourishment. And it's not like it's going to destroy you. You'll be fine, just a little tired. You might even fall asleep. But is that so bad when embraced by the likes of me?"
She was looking at you with bedroom eyes, you had to look away.

"I-I dunno."

"It's your choice Anon. You don't have to do it. I won't force you. But it would be appreciated. Especially if your love is delicious. I'll be gentle, like a mother would. It could be the first stage of our bonding. Are you telling me you aren't interested, just a little?"

you started to sweat, you couldn't just say no.
"But...w-what about my homework?"

"It'll still be there when we're done..." She pats the bed, near her chitin tummy. "I'll nibble your ear a little."

you gasped, oh shit. oh shit...what to fucking do?...oohh fuck. W-what if she toyed with you..in those ways? Oh god, if you said no. You'd be considered a beta faggot for refusing the queen. But if you said yes, you'd be considered a cuck because there's probably no sex in this. ughhhhhh...

....ughhhhhhhh

....fine.

"F-fine...just..just for a little bit though. I'm only doing this because, you know, friendship.."

Chrysalis giggled "I know it's more than that, but I'll let you keep your delusions. Now come on, put your back against my stomach. And just...relax. Think nothing but your happiest thoughts."

you stood up, and cautiously walked over to her. The warmth of the bed under your hooves did not help. Were you seriously going to do this?

You felt this may be a mistake. But fuck, if you go back on it. Then you'd just be a hypocrite. But...she was gonna feed on you. And you were just going to let it happen. oh crap, your life is such a mess sometimes.

You gulp as you stand in front of her, you point down near her belly.
"J-just lay there? and that's it?"

Chrysalis nodded

ok...ok..here we go. Here we go.
You take a breath,and slip in and put your back against her belly. and as you do, she takes her forelegs and gently holds you close with them, hugging onto you as if you were her child.

And, despite her legs being tough and hard. She was putting on gentle pressure. as the silky lace of her maid outfit cushioned your backside just a little.

"See, was that so bad?" She says in a warm and inviting voice.

"I guess not, It just feels, kind of weird."

"What do you mean? I haven't even started feeding yet. Or does the possibility that this might turn into something more excite you?"

You blush deep, something more?
"U-uh...what do you mean?"

"You know what I mean. I can already sense it in you" Chrysalis brought you up closer to her chest so your head would be close enough to hers

she didn't, she couldn't....oh man. But if she did...

"I-I dunno I HMNNNK"

Chrysalis began to gently nibble on your ear "hush now, and think of only your loving thoughts. I know you're in the mood, but do it for me..."

Chrysalis couldn't believe how easy this was. She knew you were easier than any pony she's ever met or seduced. But this was too much. even for her. It was just way too easy.

she started licking the back of your head gently, she then opened her mouth to suck in any love you were producing. But there was no love, just lust.

Chrysalis grumbled "Anon...dear.."

But you were so lost
"uuhm...huh.."

Chrysalis rolled her eyes "Anon, snap out of it. You're not doing what I told you"

"ahh..what?"

She wasn't even hypnotizing you. you were just that lost.

Chrysalis realized you were TOO easy. And too riddled with lust to think more loving thoughts.
"Anon, let me ask you a question"

You look up at her, only half snapping to attention.

"Are all humans so riddled with lust that they can't follow a simple instruction?" She asked you, her aggravation not apparent to you yet.

"What instruction?"

Chrysalis sighed "You're such an idiot. I need you to think of something you love. Don't you care about that moronic pegasus pony?"

"Which one is that?"

Chrysalis shook her head, annoyed you'd even ask that. "The yellow one"

Fluttershy? Right..right. You did, and. Oh...yeah. You were supposed to be feeding her your love.
"ok, I see why you're annoyed at me. But can you blame me? I don't usually get to be this close to a girl in a maid outfit."

"I doubt you ever get close to a girl period. It's so pathetic that I actually feel an urge to help you with that."

ouch, and after all that confidence you had gathered. She just stuck a pin right in it.
"Hey, I can get any mare I want. They find me cute."

"And yet you can't because of the age you currently are. and we all know you can’t be lustful towards a filly either. I can only imagine how frustrating that must be for you. And I can only imagine how terrible it will be for you once you've grown up. If you act like this around mares like you do towards me, you will never EVER find any love."

ouch..and yet. It was common sense. You doubted there were any mares that would appreciate you acting like this. Except maybe Diamond Tiara...maybe? Nah, she'd mature up like any other pony. Chrysalis was right, and you had to accept it.

"I know, but hey. It's not like I can't clean up my act. I'm just a little on the perverted side. That's all. It doesn't help when you're in that maid outfit either."

"Well excuse me, but I don't have a choice in taking it off. So if you want to prove to me that you aren't just looking for a mare's behind. Try to think more genuine loving thoughts."

ugh, she really wanted the good stuff. You could use Fluttershy...but.
"Ok, but. If I use my love for Fluttershy. Will you feeding off of me just...make me not care about her?"

Chrysalis shook her head "No, you'll just feel a little empty inside for just a moment or two. It should be fine, I'm sure you're used to it"

Ouch, that lust you felt for her just drained right out of you.
"You know that's not a very friendly thing to say, right?"

"And I don't care, I haven't considered you a friend yet. So, can we do this already? I'm tired of being hungry."

You needed her to promise. A Pinkie Promise. even if she were to break it. a Pinkie Promise might help her think otherwise.
"Fine, I can do it. But I need one tiny thing from you before I let it happen."

"And what is that?"

"I need you to Pinkie Promise me, that you will seriously consider being my friend after this. I'm not even asking you to be my friend, just..to seriously consider it."

To Chrysalis, that seemed reasonable enough, it's not like she had to actually do it.
"I promise"

"No no, Pinkie Promise"

Chrysalis rolled her eyes "A regular promise is all you'll get. Don't ask me for things when you've done nothing thus far but ruin my life. Even Discord has done a little to make things more comfortable for me. What have you done?"

.....nothing.

"Fine, I'll take the regular promise.."

You snuggle back up with her, your lust for her definitely gone.

"Good, now then. Let's start the feeding."

And so you started, reluctant at first. You began to remember Fluttershy through the episodes, with you, and all the kindness and love she brings.

Chrysalis could taste it, it surprised her even. Genuine love. She avoided talking to you as she fed. She didn't want to break your train of thought.

As for you, you could feel her draining you. But it didn't feel too bad, it just made you feel a little more ill than you already were. But besides an upset stomach. It was manageable.

But the longer it went on, the more you realized you were losing something else. You know she said you would, but actually feeling like you love Fluttershy less was actually...scaring you.
"H-hey Chrysalis...are you done?"

"No, keep going. I'll let you know when I've had my fill."

"I don't want to, I don't like what I'm feeling...or starting not to feel."

You started to squirm

"Anon, relax. It's only temporary. Don't be such a wimp" She holds you closer, to try to stop you from squirming or escaping.

"Please don't. I'm serious, I don't like this."

Chrysalis didn't want to listen to you, but as you became uncomfortable. The taste and amount of love she could feed off began to lost it's luster.

"Fine...." She loosen's her grip, allowing you to crawl away.

You take a moment to recover, you didn't know how it'd feel to recover. You didn't know how'd you know if you knew the difference in the love you felt or not.

You said nothing as Chrysalis plopped off the bed. What she was able to take from you would be sufficient. It was better than Smooze love at least. "Relax Anon, I've done this to many a pony. You know about my work at Canterlot, so tell me. Did that fool, Shining Armor, love his wife any less than he did before?"

No, he loved her just the same. Enough to have a kid apparently.

"No, he seemed to recover just fine. Enough to even..."

"DON'T SAY IT! You've already reminded me enough times of that particular day." She felt you were going to mention being defeated by love again. "In anycase. thank you. Your genuine love for the yellow one made for quite a meal."

You turn to face Chrysalis. You didn't know how to take that. You were surprised she just thanked you. But dammit...you didn't know having your love drained like that would make you feel so...off.

Chrysalis just stared at you. She thought you would have reacted to her "Thank You". She had a whole second line to add afterwards. But you just sat there. Quiet. "Anon?"

"Yeah? sorry, just not used to this..."

You sounded stoic. You were cycling through your thoughts. making sure everything worked. Having your love drained like that was different than having your lust drained. It was terrifying. Maybe this was one of the real reasons ponies feared that changelings.

"You'll get used to it, eventually. Nopony ever loses their love permanently. You have nothing to fear"

"Maybe...but I'd rather not do this again. Not unless it's absolutely necessary."

"What do you mean necessary? I told you those loss of feelings is temporary. And I need a better food source if I'm going to stay in a good condition."

You shook your head. You agreed to be drained because she couldn't reach her food source. But you won't be a battery.
"No, I did this for you because I wanted you to consider being friends. And because you were hungry and I understood that you need love as food. I won't let you take advantage of me. And THAT wouldn't be friendly if you did do that."

Chrysalis stood silent for a moment. Sooner or later, she realized that you would have eventually been able to pull a friendship lesson out. She started to consider if a friendship with you was really worth it. She'd be stuck with you. And while she could just fake it. She was a bug who always thought ahead, or tried to at least

She knew that she said she'd consider your friendship. But actually thinking about it. What else could she do? Not having your cooperation would only cause more frustration. WITH your friendship, especially since you said you'd accept her evil ways, meant that you would probably look the other way or sympathize with her more often than if she continued to make enemies with you. No, there was no reason to not be friends with you. It might even get Discord off her back. "You're right, it wouldn't be. I apologize"

"Just because your queen doesn't mean you can do whatever you want, you shou....wait what?"
Did she just...
"You're actually sorry? Or are you being sarcastic?"

Chrysalis shook her head "No, I meant it. And that's because I have considered your offer of friendship. And I accept it. No tricks, no sarcasm, and certainly no evil schemes. That's what you wanted, isn't it?"

you did...but....that was...really goddamn quick.
"...you know it's not about what I want right? it should be something you want."

"And I do want it. I don't want to fight the same pointless fight with you anymore. It's just a headache"

Ok...you could say that this was probably some sort of trick. But, even as obvious as it could be. You said you'd accept her evil ways. But....
"You know what, I'm gonna trust you. And I'm going to trust you because this would be the first time we're officially friends. Let me tell you something though, in my world. That alone wouldn't fly in terms of friendship. So, this is a lot of trust i'm putting in you Chrysalis. You got it?"

Chapter 124

Chrysalis nodded "Of course I've got it. It's easy to comprehend."

"Right, course. So...I'm just going to get back to my homework then."
You were still skeptical. But just leave it be. Accept her friendship, and move on.
"..but if there's anything more you want to talk about. Well, just let me finish and we'll talk. I'm almost done anyway."

You get re-setup to finish up your homework, and before putting the pencil in your mouth to resume. You noticed Chrysalis hadn't replied or said anything.
"Um, nothing else to say?"

Chrysalis stretched, leaned back down, and went back to organizing the cards. "No, Like you said. I'll save it until you're done. Though, I will check over your work. For accuracy purposes of course."

"Oh, um. Ok. Then I'm just going to finish up then."
Ok then, she was actually respecting your actions. Good. Yeah.

You went back to writing. you were just about done, you thought about adding something about what happened in Canterlot. But that may have been too much. Instead, you write out your final thoughts on the second page.

Your final thoughts? Yeah, you kept it simple yet, for a pony anyway, thought provoking. That you still think changelings could live side by side with ponies if certain conditions are met. As you had time to sit down and think about when Chrysalis was sucking your love from you. You started to think deeply that she wasn't lying when she said it was temporary. Shining Armor did seem to be alright. Would it be bad if they just had rationed times to eat should they live among ponies? hmmm..it didn't seem fair since ponies would be able to eat whatever they want. Maybe you shouldn't write this down. No, instead you'll just write out a more simple "And that's my report" Sort of thing. Better to play it safe.
"Done! Haha,"
As you look over your words, your paper glows a green color as it flies off the lunchbox and to the front of Chrysalis's eyes. Well damn, she didn't even let you look it over for errors.

You just stared silently as she mumbled and read through the paper. As she read, you could see a smile forming on her face, then she started giggling. That was weird

"What's the matter? I don't remember writing any jokes in the report. Everything should be accurate to what you said."

Chrysalis didn't answer at first, she had to stop herself from laughing. It made you wonder what the fuck you wrote to gauge such a reaction.
"Anon..this...this report. There is nothing childlike about it. Do you realize how suspicious this looks? There's no whimsy, there's no cute, there's barely any errors and very large words. And then that ending comes out of nowhere as to sounding humble and childish. Who are you trying to fool? Your teacher will see this and either suspect you copied this from somewhere or wonder if you had actually been talking to a changeling."

you sighed.
"I don't know if you realize, but it's already kind of known that i'm pretty smart for my "age". She'll probably just think I did some pretty good research."

"And indeed you did, straight from the queen of the changeling's mouth. Do you really think nopony is going to raise an eyebrow at this?"

"I'm sure my one teacher who will actually be the one reading it might. She'll pull me aside after class, ask about it, I'll tell her some bullcrap. She'll have no way to tell if i'm lying, and that will be that. It's pretty much how I've handled things so far."

Chrysalis floats the report back to you "If you say so. Don't say I didn't warn you. I'm just trying to be your friend after all."

You were confident things would be fine. You gently slip the report into your saddlebag. Putting it into your lunchbox first. As silly as it seems, You lacked a folder or such thing to keep the paper straight.
"It'll be fine. So, what did you think of the report itself? Everything good"

"It's perfect, which is why I suspect that things might not turn out well for you. Are you sure you won't take my advice?"

"I'm sure, I think I got a handle on how things work in Equestria. It'll be no problem."

You were absolutely sure. As long as your secret wasn't spoiled, nobody would suspect a thing.

"Hmnnn..We'll see" Chrysalis doesn't remark further as she puts the cards back into the tin. Perfectly organized. "Well then, that takes care of that. And now I'm bored. So I have two choices."

"What is that?"

"I could either try to strip you of your love to try to excavate some dessert, or we can have a talk about something interesting. Something that I'd actually like to talk about, since you won't be biased...I'd hope."

.....hrrrrrrrrrnn, Well, knowing her, she was probably serious about the former. So really, you'd take the latter.

"Well, uh. What would you like to talk about?"

Chrysalis puts the tin into your drawer as she hops up to the end of your bed and lays on her belly, turning her head to you "I'd like to talk to you about ways of conquering Equestria, theoretically of course. You seemed to know a lot about it. Considering you taunted my own plans and thought up improvements to it."

Well, did you really want to do that? ugh, you told her you wouldn't be biased. But that conversation just leans all over the place to being evil. No neutrality to it.

"uh, can't we talk about something else?"

"It's either that or I feed on you, what do you think?"

"geez, you do realize friends don't threaten each other like that right?"

"But we aren't normal friends. And I know that the loss of feeling and weakness you'd feel is temporary. So I'm not worried about hurting you. Which is different from destroying you, which that outcome would leave you in a crater. If I could destroy you, that is."

Right, it's more the fact that she doesn't understand what it really means to be a friend. Despite her being able to dish out basic friendship lessons. Friendship to her was obviously whatever was the most convenient for her. For now, you'd comply.

"Alright, let's talk schemes and plans." You took a stretch,and then began to wrap yourself around your blanket. Making a sort of butt cocoon. It was comfy and helped make you feel a little better from being sick. You pulled up your pillow to place your head on as you face Chrysalis, comfy as fuck.
"So what in particular do you want to talk about?"

Chrysalis's horn glows as you feel the blanket pull up on you a little more. More than what you could get it up to with just your hooves. It made you feel even more comfy. "Is that better?"

Huh...Why did she do that?
"...uh...yeah. Why did you do that?"

"Do you have to question everything? If you think it's to squeeze some love out of you then you can forget it. I merely feel pity, just a little, that you need to suffer an illness for no reason."

Pity? Anon, you gotta relax. It's probably just best to try not to figure anything out about her behavior at all. It would be smarter just to just proceed and adapt. If you keep questioning her, you'll probably just end up annoying her. Nobody likes to be continually questioned. Not even villains.

"Thank you Chrysalis...or. Can I call you Chryssi?"

"What? Discord calls me that and I don't like it. So why would you ask that?"

"I don't mean as an insult though. I have a friend that thinks nicknames are pretty keen. So I thought it'd be nice if we give each other nicknames. That way, things are more loose. You know, there's a lot less tension if we give each other nicknames. Don't you think?"

Chrysalis didn't understand. "But those aren't our actual names. So why would we identify with them?"

heh, it seemed she didn't actually understand the point of a nickname.

"Because it means that we trust each other enough to call each other by names we give each other. So if you don't like Chryssi, then how about.......Amour? I know it means somebody's love or something. But it also sounds like a name to me."

Chrysalis still thought it was silly, why bother with nicknames unless it was some covert operation?"Amour? hmmnnn, well if you insist. But, I want to call you Panic. How does that sound?"

What? why?
"Uhhh, that's not even really a name. That's more of a state of being"

"But it fits you perfectly" Chrysalis smiles at you, with her smile sprinkled with smug. "You're always reacting to something, what's better than Panic?"

"It's just I don't think it's a good name."
And you didn't want to be associated with when you do panic.

"Then I say we drop the nicknames altogether, I didn't want to be called amore anyway. It makes me sound like I actually care about "nice" things."

Well, that went nowhere. It seems perhaps it's too early for nicknames. Well, then...
"Alright alright, I guess we should come up with nicknames when we get to know eachother better. Anyway, plotting and scheming. What about it?"

"Simple...I want to know what you'd do to try to take over Equestria. You always did seem to act like you'd do better than I could. So, let's hear it. What's your grand master plan?"

Grand master plan. Cripes, You wondered if she'd even understand it. Because it's not hard to figure out a way to conquer the world, especially if your horn was powerful enough to pull shit from your old world. Provided it actually could.

You look to Chrysalis, your expression was one of giving another caution.

Whether it's because you're human or the fact that Earth had a bunch of real monstrous people with terrible ways of subjugating others. You had one plan in your head that went to the edge. It was pretty dark.
"Are you sure you want to know?"

"I wouldn't have asked if I didn't want to know. So tell me, I want to know how you measure up."

Chrysalis was sure it was going to be something she could easily pick apart like you picked apart her plans. Though, she was ready to be impressed if by some way, you were able to impress her.

"Alright, well. First I'd use my magical horn to bring in some things from my world."

And right at the get go, Chrysalis is actually intrigued. She wondered what you could bring back from your world that would be useful. "Pulling things from your world? I thought you had no care for that place."

"I don't, but it has something that would instantly help me conquer the world. And that would be a couple of nukes."

Yup, ultimate edge

Chrysalis had no idea what a "nuke" was
"A nuke? What is that? It doesn't sound very useful."

"It is for what I need it for. See, since my horn only works once per day. I'd need some other means to do some untold damage. So, I'd teleport two nukes and place them where they wouldn't be noticed. One under Canterlot Castle. The other under the Crystal Empire."

"Untold damage?" Chrysalis didn't think these "nukes" could do as much damage as say, Discord or Tirek. Or herself on a good day. "It can't possibly be too bad,"

"Let me finish...so anyway, I'd set them to blow up on the next day. I'd try to get Discord to go to Canterlot so he could be at the epicenter of the blast. The blast itself would defy anything you ever knew. Ponyville, The empire, and Canterlot. All gone in an explosion so powerful that everypony else in the world would feel it. All reduced to a huge set of craters. All four princesses gone in an instant. And anypony who would survive wouldn't for long from the radiation poisoning that would follow..."

Chrysalis had to stop you. You thought she may have thought you were exaggerating. But instead, that worried her. "Are you telling me humans have weapons powerful enough to reduce that much into rubble with just two bombs?"

You nod
"Yeah, pretty devious huh? I could announce my emperorship after the blasts using my horn. And bam, everypony would submit to my might and bend to my will, or else I'd just set off another bomb. Not a nuke though, can't set too many off. Could make things harder to clean up."
you threw up your forelegs as you shook your head with a cocky smirk.
"It's super easy, and nopony would even see it coming. buuuut...."
You sigh, and relax yourself from your venomous thoughts.
"I would never ever actually do it. But, talking about it? I was always kind of curious what a villain would think of it if I ever got to talk to one. And you being a villain in the eyes of ponies, well, I want to hear what you think."

"I don't like it." Chrysalis said, She said it with a stern tone. She did not like it one bit.

And that surprised you
"What? Why? It's an unbeatable plan."

"I can tell, but let me ask you this. How much do you know of Tirek?"

Tirek, you knew enough that he was a gigantic dick that blew shit up. "Enough, why? Do you actually know him?"

Chrysalis nodded "I do, a long time ago he sought my changelings to forge an army. But I refused."

Oh shit, really?
"So, you knew him from when Celestia and Luna beat him? Why did you refuse him..wait...let me guess, you didn't want to share Equestria right?"

Chrysalis actually didn't mean that she didn't want to share....though..she didn't. "Well..yes...I wouldn't join him for that too. But, the MAIN reason I didn't join him is because he's destructive. He has no real ambition to actually rule anything. He just wants to torment, conquer, and destroy. If he won, we changelings would have died out from lack of food because everypony would either be gone, or in despair. It's the same reason I don't like your plan. Not only does it not sound fully thought out. But whatever this "radiation" poison is, if it's spreadable through a blast that size. I'd think it would cover all of Equestria and then EVERYTHING would perish."

You actually had no idea what kind of damage a nuke could truly do. But you were sure two nukes wouldn't do that much..right?
"Well...I mean...I could just summon up a ton of bombs and firebomb everything or something."

"Do humans even have enough of those kinds of bombs?"

You nod
"Humans have all kinds of weapons Chrysalis. We have these sticks that shoot metal at such a speed, it'd go through a pony one way and out the other. or a closer range one that would make their entire top half explode to chunks."

Chrysalis was now entering the realm of disbelief. These weapons sounded more powerful than most magic. "Are these mythical weapons hard to come by? They sound like they could topple the entire world."

You shake your head
"Opposite, anypony could get them. Humans, Chrysalis, we don't do what your types do. We destroy and obliterate others. Sometimes by the tens, sometimes the hundreds, thousands, and even beyond. Sometimes for stupid reasons, like oil. Humans are destructive, as is our weapons. We could fly using special machines that could move faster than pegasi. And could lay waste to entire fields. We have weapons equivalent to a dragon's breath that we can wield, that burns anything into a puddle. "

"Beyond thousands?" Chrysalis went silent, she seemed unsettled, she looked at you, she wanted to know one thing "Are you just trying to terrify me again?"

You shook your head.
"Nope, i'm being serious. Why, does it scare you? You're the one who wanted to talk about schemes and plans."

You give her a little bit of an evil smirk. If you scared her, then good. You wanted to at least rise up on top of her at one point.

"Scared? hardly" But she still looked unsettled "It's just that, from what you told me, humans are actually ruthless creatures. Who seem to be constantly at war. And I can't make any sense of it because you are a pitiful being. I would have never thought you came from such a horrible warrior race. No wonder you don't miss it, you probably would have been destroyed the instant you went into battle."

ugh, dammit. Now she's just trashing you from a human angle.
"ugh, no. The reason I don't miss it is because it just sucks living there. Sucks the love right out of you, and you will never get it back. I like living here because everypony is nice and friendly..."
You look straight into Chrysalis's eyes
"...most everypony anyway. Anyway, still. It's a plan that would undeniably work. You have to admit that at least."

"...If your weapons are as strong as you say. Still, I'll admit this. I wasn't expecting that kind of vicious and conniving way of thought coming from you, Anon. It might be a little overdoing it, but. As your friend, I can respect it due to how absolutely ruthless it is, especially when you compare it to others. I don't even think Luna, when she was Nightmare Moon, could compare."

oh..really? REALLY?! YES!
Well, you felt your confidence coming back.
"Well, humans aren't as black and white as ponies in that sense."
You smirk, feeling well accomplished in your evil thoughts.
"We can think the cruelest things imaginable and still be good guys. And we have the tools. If you knew the kinds of things humans have really done. I bet even your stomach would churn"

"I'd like to know an example. I don't want you hanging on to the assumption that I have a weak stomach"

"I dunno, you might not like it."

Chrysalis chuckled at that, she found it humorous that in her eyes, you were protecting her from something possibly grotesque. "Anon, Anon. I am the Queen of the Changelings. I'm sure whatever you have to say, I can handle it."

...oh boy, she asked for it.
"Well, then....imagine being tied to a chair. Now, this human that has you tied is really sick. gets off on the sickest kinds of torture. Imagine the first thing he decides to do is smack you around, hit you a few times with a club, just to get you tenderized. Then, he starts cutting off your hair...or mane in this case. Paying no care if he accidentally stabs or nicks you. Once he's done, he shows you your new look on a mirror. Laughing at your humiliation..."

"Sounds like the usual so far, no different from any other cruelty I've heard of."

"Just wait, just wait. Anyway, after he's done with that. He decides to get sharp, rusty pins. And start sticking them in your most sensitive areas. right through your hooves, your butt, even the genitals. He doesn't care."

Chrysalis cringes "...ok, that's a little much. What's even the point of that? To get information?"

You give her a dark look "For fun"

"And if you think that's bad. Do you want to know what we do to bugs?" You decide to add

"...am I going to regret saying yes?" Chrysalis was morbidly curious, but she's never heard of this much cruelty before. She could be cruel, but it was for the purpose of either food gathering or just mocking her enemies.

"Maybe, how do you feel about them being burned alive under a microscope or having their feelers slowly torn off. Or being sprayed with a compound that melts them outside in."

"...for fun?" Chrysalis did NOT like that at all

You nod "For fun, or just when we think they are annoying. But you'll learn more when we watch that documentary"

Chrysalis couldn't believe these words had come out of your mouth. She began to wonder if you were actually going to do these things. and your bumbling was just an act. "..I...suppose. Anon, here's a question for you. Are you actually planning on doing any of this? or are you just telling me all this because that's the topic of our conversation. Because that's all just... Well, I've lived a long time. And I've not heard of such cruelty. The closest I've heard is of Sombra's rule over the crystal ponies...and even that is tame compared to that."

"Just talking, I have no intention betraying my friends..."

Chrysalis let out a slightly audible sigh of relief, one you caught. Was she worried?

"Is that a note of relief I heard?" You chuckle
"Were you afraid I was some evil mastermind working Discord over until i could get the power I need to destroy Equestria?"

"No, I can still sense your emotions you know. I was just making sure my senses weren't betraying me. But, good work. I no longer want to have this conversation because there's nothing more to discuss." She claps with her hooves, not even sarcastically. She was both impressed, and creeped out. She just didn't admit it. "you clearly have a mind for evil. But, I hope you know that if you ever actually tried anything. I'd be the one to destroy you."

"Isn't that what a good guy would do?"

Chrysalis shakes her head "You misunderstand. I'd wait until you summon up your bombs. Sneak up, destroy you, and then use your plan to subjugate everypony. Without actually setting them off. I do want princesses under my control."

"Ahhhh, but you do realize you have to be careful with those bombs right? They are super powerful. Also, since I know you'd try to destroy me. I'd have to destroy you first."

"Ha! As if! I'd destroy you before you destroy me!"

"My horn trumps yours"

You both started to stare eachother down.

"you're too soft to use it to destroy me. I don't think you'd be able to handle your own work." Chrysalis challenges

"I could just make you my slave then!"

"I think you'd be my slave before I became yours, you're simply too easy"

"My horn trumps your glowy eyes!"

Chrysalis growls "You can't just use your horn for everything you know. And given the hypothetical, you wouldn't see me coming and then i would DESTROY you."

You stick your tongue out at her then snicker
"except I can use these hypotheticals from a previous conversation we had to know you'd try to overthrow me and then i'd just destroy you. And then make all your children my slaves. Bam! Human trumps bug!"

"If that's the case then I could simply sneak up on you before you can do anything because I already knew about the hypothetical. And then crush you beneath my hooves before you saw it coming"

"Then I would know about that and then sneak up on you, and whammo! Magic Blast to the face!"

"Then I would know that you'd be sneaking up on me, so instead I'd be waiting for you. And then you'd be no more once my hive converges on you from all directions!"

"Well, not if I knew beforehand that they would be doing that! And since I do know. That means I could attack you from afar! a satellite strike!"

"Satellite strike? I don't even know what that is. And even then....." A thought occurred to Chrysalis as she thought up her next attack "...We'll be doing this forever. We're at a hypothetical stalemate, Anon."

"It seems we are, it...seems..we...are"

You both stare at each other. Silently for a moment or two.

Then Chrysalis smiles at you "I like you Anon. Enough that if I ever do manage to escape from here with my children and recontinue our efforts of conquering Equestria. I think I'd actually offer you a place in my hive."

That actually makes you smile, because it seemed like some sort of progress to you. Even if she was statingthe fact that she'd be conquering the world for that to happen.

"You know, if I ever become evil for some reason. Eh, sure why not. I wouldn't mind partnering up with another villain and trying my hoof at doing bad things. Of course, it'd never happen. Discord wouldn't let it"

"You'd let him influence your choice? Sad, I think you'd make an excellent partner of sorts. With some proper training and making sure you understand the consequences of your schemes. I don't think having craters the size of mountains would do any of us any good."

No, that's not really it. Even with Discord being against it, while probably internally for it, you couldn't bring yourself to actually hurt any innocent pony. They are just too cute.
"No, it's just not in me. I can think up being as evil as possible. But, I don't want to be evil. There's too many good ponies in this world. And my friends, well. I don't think I could handle the guilt of hurting them"

Chrysalis sighed, that was disappointing to hear. She had thought that maybe there was a side of you that would be willing to help her. Even help her escape. But she knew she couldn't tempt you, she could feel it in you. The only way she could is if she could fully bring you under her control. And at this time, she couldn’t manage it. She really had grown a little respect for you. "Well, I suppose playing the part of "happy little" colt would get you settled into such a pointless idea. You're not tired at all from acting all good and nice? It doesn't get sickening? I would think that somewhere in your mind that it would torture you having to restart your life from such a young age. I know it'd drive me insane if I had to be a normal pony child."

Chapter 125

"Nope, why would it be? it's relaxing. Ponies generally like me. I get a powerful horn and got a cool grappling hook. And best of all, mares think I'm cute"

"And yet, despite you being a perverted little colt. You never make a move. Why is that I wonder? Scared?"

Scared? no..sorta. It's more that you are in the body of the child.
"Too young, you know that. Don't try to spin it into me being a coward. I mean, if you want. I wouldn't mind a little f-"

"Don't even think about it. I'm way out of your league when it comes to going that far. Cuddling? Sure, as long as I get something out of it. Otherwise....no"

Welp, no way you'd ever actually get any poon from her.
"Alright, alright, fine fine....so uh. Now that I've revealed my evil plan that'd I never do. I think it's your turn. What evil plans did you have in queue. Any good ones?

"Only one, because it's pretty obvious the one I had in using you to gain control of Discord was impossible from the very start."

You shrug, yeah, that was never going to work. Discord, whether you really was his son or not. probably wouldn't have bent anyway.
"What is it? A revenge plan against Twilight and her friends?"

Chrysalis laughed, a malicious and mocking laugh at the very words you spoke. "A revenge plan? That's very funny. A revenge plan after having time to properly meditate on my past failures would be stupid. No, instead it's a plan based on what I'm best at. Infiltration and infestation"

"You mean like at Canterlot? I mean, it worked. But, I gotta ask. How many times did you fail before Canterlot due to you getting cocky?"

"I never failed before Canterlot. I didn't have to deal with a gigantic, love fueled, inescapable explosion of magic in my previous campaigns."

You would again point out that would never happen if she didn't get all cocky. But you won't, you didn't want to agitate her.
"Ok, I'll give you that. But, if it's the same plan you always do. Then I don't think you need to explain it to me. You go in, pretend to be somepony else, hive comes in, and you conquer everything from the inside. It's not really creative. I thought you'd have something more interesting."

Chrysalis thought that was a pretty ignorant comment. So what if it was uncreative? The point is, to her, that it would work. "Don't be an idiot. Sure it's not creative. But it works. Besides, I wouldn't be taking some no name town. No, I'd be after bigger game. And of course, by that, I mean Princess Twilight Sparkle herself."

Wait huh? you thought she said this wasn't a revenge plan.

"Uhhh, so it IS a revenge plan? Chrysalis, just to let you know. Twilight suspecting you the first time in Canterlot wasn't a fluke. She's sort of got these paranoid tics and stuff. I don't think this plan would work. She'd probably figure it out sooner or later."

Chrysalis tapped her forehead with her hoof, annoyed that you'd just make an assumption before she even said what the plan was. "Anon, do you mind not talking until after I'm done. It just makes you look like an idiot."

You try to explain to her, calmly, your opinion.
"Hey, I'm just saying. She's so paranoid she almost ruined Ponyville herself once, which..."
You laugh at the irony of it.
"Which funny enough, if you came and took over right there and then. You'd probably be able to suck up so much excess love you wouldn't know what to do with yourself.. You could then t-"

Chrysalis was just staring at you, a hard, dissatisfied, aggravated stare.

"....uhm, I mean."

"Anon...will you kindly shut up. I politely listened to you and I expect the same courtesy"

mnnn, maybe you were being a little too outspoken. But yeesh, you just saw the funny irony in it. You thought she might get interested and ask about what happened. Guess not.
"Alright, alright...I was just trying to bring up something I thought would make you laugh"

Chrysalis nodded, half rolling her eyes in disbelief of anything you had to say about the subject making her laugh. But she didn't continue just yet. "You're going to let me finish?"

You nod slowly. You really didn't mean to agitate her. But of course, you had to consider that she probably doesn't realize that this conversation is supposed to be a fully friendly, albeit evil, conversation.

"Good. So yes, it does involve Twilight Sparkle, but it's not revenge. It's just the fact that she happens to be unlucky enough to reside in a town that I KNOW is brimming with love. The plan itself is simple. Given that I doubt Twilight Sparkle has no actual diplomatic skills. I would become an ambassador of a far off, unknown kingdom that had been destroyed due to harsh conditions and lack of crops. Knowing enough about Twilight to know that she'd never turn down somepony in need. She would no doubt give me a room in her castle while I get the rest of my "subjects" into Ponyville to reside in until plans can be made to help us find a new home. Of course...we would already be right in the middle of it."

Interesting, what's even more interesting to you is that Chrysalis was right about Twilight's shitty diplomacy abilities. She had trouble with the yaks, and for fucks sake. She needed Pinkie to help her with Moon Dancer. This plan could very well work.
"Go on"

"Well, the rest is obvious. Once we have settled in. We'd wait until nightfall. And then, we strike. We capture, imprison, and take what we want from the ponies while I personally deal with the foolish princess herself. Before dawn, Ponyville and all that inhabits it would be ours! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH!"
Chrysalis just started laughing out of nowhere, a mad maniacal laughter. Floating upwards while she spreads her hooves.

what the fuck was that all about?

You just stare at her, this was oddly pretty cute. But that was probably due to the maid outfit.

"HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA" She looked down at you while she laughed, and then started to realize how silly she must look. She usually did this on her private planning time. She always got excited when she came up with a good plan. She'd either sing or laugh. And she usually didn't have an audience for it. "Hahaha....ha....hmmm.......hmmm...."
Chrysalis calmly floated back down onto the bed and cleared her throat "Yes..it's a very good plan. No mess, no destruction. Just a new home and plenty of food. That is how you make a proper plan. Yes, you could destroy your enemies. But it takes a special mind to be able to actually make them useful to you. Consider this a lesson if you ever decide to join me."

But you don't say anything to that. Instead, you really wanted to ask about the whole laughing thing. That was just.....what?

"Anon? Surely you have something to say" She was expecting some sort of intelligent answer from you. Then she got an idea, an idea that made her smile. As she arrogantly thought that perhaps her plan was too genius. "Or are you speechless at how great my plan is."

"uhhhh......actually I was wondering why you laughed like that. I mean, you're not getting cabin fever are you?"

"Cabin what? I have no such disease...you know what?!" Chrysalis instantly got angry with you, she didn't like the fact that you called attention to her crazy laughter. "Why did I even bother. You're incapable of understanding the intricacies of espionage,stealth, and trickery. You'd never be able to sew the seed of deception like I can."

was she really just trying to call you dumb because you brought up her laughing? Now who was being childish?

"Actually, I do understand. And like before, there are some major flaws in your plan."

"oh ho" Chrysalis let out a sarcastic titter "Well then mister "I'm a human therefore i'm eviller", tell me my flaws. So I can tell you how wrong you are in painstaking detail"

Oh really, she's gonna let you actually call out the flaws? You didn't know if you should actually proceed. But then you remember she can't do shit to you. and if she wants to treat this a little more serious than it should be. Then fine, let's do it.
"Well first, how are you going to repel an eventual attack from the other princesses?"

"That's simple, by the time they attack. I'll have gathered enough love from all those poor worried ponies that were trying to accommodate us. If I could defeat Celestia before, then I can again. Especially with my hive on my side. We're more than capable of defeating the other three princesses."

You doubted it, but you had no way of knowing how much power she would actually gain from acting like she lost a home. But still... There was one other thing.
"Uhhhhh, even then. Did you forget a certain detail?"

Chrysalis assumed you meant of her current condition. "Anon, I thought we were assuming that I wasn't trapped here."

"No no, that's not it. But it does have to do with who lives here. How exactly do you plan to deal with Discord? It's not like you can just zap him like you could the princesses."

"Why would he care? I honestly don't believe for a second that he actually became good and chained himself to friendship. If you had known him from before Anon, you would think he was a completely different Draconeequs. Just look at what happened with Tirek, I had heard that he flipped sides when it came to him."

"That's because he didn't have a full grasp on friendship yet. And yeah, sure. Maybe he might not care about what you're doing at first. But the moment you hurt "The yellow one". You're done. He will crush you like a...well...a bug."

"Do you really think so?" Chrysalis couldn't fully believe it. "Do you really think he actually cares about that pony? I think he just keeps an act up with her because he doesn't want to be turned back to stone."

You could argue that she was dead wrong, but instead. you'd take this a different angle.
"Let's assume you're right. Let's assume he doesn't care and he let's you just take over. You do realize you have another problem, right?"

"If you mean you, I'd also like to assume that you weren't around. My plan didn't take account for an inter-dimensional visitor."

You shake your head, you didn't mean yourself.
"Nope, I'm still on Discord. Which brings me to your problem. Discord would destroy your plans regardless of if he was good or bad."

"And why would he? He would have plenty of other places to go and wreak havoc. He might even thank me for liberating him."

Nope, dead wrong.
"Chrysalis, I know you've lived a long time. But I've lived with Discord, and I've seen how he is via my TV. If he was still a bad guy. He would make you his pet just because you were making yourself the center of attention. He's not going to let anypony take his limelight. No matter what, you'd be screwed. There's a reason he was sealed up, he doesn't care who you are. You're nothing but a playtoy to him. And if you take his attention away, then he'll just torture you until you either break or he gets bored. Your plan is terrible because Discord, good or bad, wouldn't let you have it."

"......." Chrysalis had nothing to say to that, she heavily thought. "...Then can we assume that he isn't present?"

Haha! what's this now? It seemed Chrysalis was faltering on her own set of plans. Did she really think Discord would just leave her be?

" Come on Chrysalis, all that boasting and you’re fumbling right now.You can't just change things to suit your needs because things wouldn't go your way otherwise. Isn't that....kind of childish?"

You noticed Chrysalis's eye twitch as she stood up on the bed and loomed over you "Did you just say I was acting....childish?"

you stare right back, at first you were intimidated. But you knew....you knew. You had nothing to worry about. So you begin to smirk
"You're the one who likes to change into a bug filly, toots"

"YOU IMPERTINENT SLUG! YOU WANT CHILDISH?! THEN I'LL TANTRUM RIGHT ONTO YOUR FACE! TAKE THIS!"

Chrysalis brings her hoof right above your face. And brings it crashing down onto your face.

Of course, with the magic of the house still in place. She goes flying from the bed and smacks into a wall, sliding down from it slowly.

Geez, you didn't expect her to lose her cool so damn fast. Poor girl, she definitely was more edgy due to being stuck in the house. You knew she had the cabin fever. Why else would she partake in this conversation with you?

You crawl to the end of your bed, dragging your half cocoon blanket from your lower body with you. You then reach your hooves out to the edge and pull yourself up so you can look at the fallen bug queen.
"Chrysalis? You ok?"

You intended to be smug. But instead you were worried, that was a damn hard hit. And you didn't know if Discord accounted for broken necks.

Chrysalis blew some of her mane out of her face and looked up at you. "Yes....I'm just having an internal crisis right now."

She just stared up to the ceiling. Unmoving. "....I can't believe I'm stuck here. Even when he lets me out...I'll still be stuck here."

......awww
"Hey, it's not so bad. You got a good home now. Nothing to worry about really. And you got a food source. And you got all your hive with you."

Chrysalis just continued to stare at the wall. Her wings flittered, despite her not actually moving. "....but what's the point? I'm at the mercy of that fool. my desire to rule Equestria has been utterly destroyed. I'm nothing but a toy now."

oh god....she was looking more depressed by the second. Hitting the wall like that must have made her realize how futile it was to actually try anything malicious.
"Hey...come on. Don't be like that. Maybe if you act good and nice, Discord will let you have more freedom."

"...If you both hadn't caused my hive to be sealed in the first place, then I wouldn't be in this mess."

Chrysalis slowly turns her head towards you, her expression near expressionless, but still filled with sorrow. "I really do want to destroy you"

Well, that wasn't good. She probably meant it too. But she was so hopeless that she couldn't even act enthused about crushing you. Poor thing.

"I know you do, here...give me a second."

"Whatever..." She just continued to stare at the ceiling.

You wiggle out of your blanket cocoon and hop off the bed. You didn't know if you should be doing this. But...
You carefully walk up to her side. and like a small cat. Curl up and cuddle into it.

Chrysalis turned her head to you. Confused by your actions. "What are you doing?"

"What's it look like? I'm cuddling up with you and being all carey. You don't want an extra snack?"

Yeah, you felt sorry for her. Enough that you didn't even want to insult her further. She wasn't you. She didn't want to live here. And a bug pony like her probably doesn't do well being kept in captivity. She's probably never even had anyone feel bad for her like this. At least...not while she was in her normal form. You'd even be willing to let her drain you a little if it made her feel better and helped with the friendship. You weren't kidding when you said you wanted to try. Even if you did sort of lie about wanting to reform her.

Chrysalis just turned her head however "I don't need your pity, just leave me here to sulk...alone"

Nope, just like she played the cute filly bug for you. you were going to try the reverse, and be the cute colt that everyone tells you you are.It'd be fun. She'd probably find it annoying, but how long could she resist until she gave in and started feeding?

You got up on your backlegs and put yourself right on her tummy. The feeling was odd. it was warmer there than anywhere else on her body. Her green chitin must give off warmth, even through the outfit.

You resumed your cuddling.

"Will you stop? I refuse to drain your love on the account that it's pity. Why don't you just go and torment somepony else?"

You climb higher onto her and look at her face. God, she was in such despair. So you reach your hoof. and give her a gentle boop on the nose.
"You got a cute nose, you know that?"

"And you've got an annoying everything. Why don't you act your age?"

"Because this is my age"

Chrysalis looked at you, and then narrowed her eyes "You know what I mean"

But you only answer back by giving her a kiss on the nose. and then giving her a happy smile.

She doesn't even react physically, she just continued to speak in a deadpan voice"Are you insane?....I thought you didn't want to be drained."

"I didn't, but I had time to recover and think it over more rationally. You said you're my friend right?"

".....I guess"

"Then I trust you, evil or not. A friend is still a friend."

Chrysalis sighed and looked at the ceiling "You're so naive. You do realize that if I had a chance to betray you in trade of my freedom. I wouldn't hesitate, right?"

You roll off her belly and walk up to her neck, you position yourself, and rest your neck on hers. and settle yourself down in a restful position.
"I do, but I bet if we became better friends. We'd...."

Chrysalis cuts you off "I'd still betray you...I wouldn't care"

"Ahh...but that's the thing. I think you would. Maybe not enough to give up your freedom, but you'd probably destroy me painlessly to spare me the pain."

Chrysalis's voice began to have a little emotion into it. a bit of amusement in it. "That's very morbid. Makes me wonder what really goes on in that head of yours."

"Things...I'm not a pony. I'm capable of thinking of a whole load of things, both evil and good."

"So you've said...." Chrysalis started laughing all of a sudden, and then calmed down. She had a funny thought. "How insane....I want to see you befriend somepony like Sombra. I really would. I'd pay to see somepony like him actually have a friend."

hmm? Now that's curious.
"How much do you know about Sombra?"

Chrysalis chuckled again, she didn't know if she was going insane or not. But she now felt, for real. That she was having a bonding moment with you. and it was driving her nuts. She just wouldn't admit it. "Sombra? hmmm, not the kind of pony that works well with others. I met with him a few times. The first few times was for an alliance. But he was so arrogant in our meetings. I still remember his words.. "Your kind is useless to me, you're not even worth fooling into an alliance just to be betrayed later when I'm done with you." “

"Wow, I guess if you were part of some alliance though. That you'd had been sealed up with him, so you kind of dodged the bullet there....but. I thought you didn't really team up with other bad guys."

"I don't, I was going to use him to further my own conquest. He was too powerful to just leave on his own."

You chuckle
"Well, that's ironic isn't it?"

"hush.....anyway. Sombra only ever held one banquet, he invited me, and many other unseemly types to his castle. As it turned out, it wasn't the kind of party we were expecting."

"What? was it a trap?"

"If only. He did it to boast that not even we would be safe from his eventual rule. I find that more insulting than a trap. Of course, a few attacked him right there and then. Those that did found themselves turned to crystal and thrown out of his kingdom. He didn't even find them fit for his garden."

"...wow, now that's fucking ruthless. What I knew of Sombra, he just seemed like a generic villain."

"Maybe in your world. But he was actually fairly intelligent. I knew about how he hid the Crystal Heart. I didn't know where it was, nor did I care to find it since the princesses had went to deal with him. But for it to be found after his return? I detest saying this. But I will give it to Twilight Sparkle, the fact she managed to find it using dark magic was something I would have never expected....and you will never tell anypony I said that. Or else I will roll you on the ground for hours on end. Not like I have much else to do."

"I won't tell anypony. As your friend, I will keep any secret you tell me."

"Even from Discord?"

You lift your head and nod
"Mhmm, even from him......unless you plan to do something TO him or my friends. Can only go so far when it comes to you and me. You understand right?"

Chrysalis sighs "I don't, but I'll keep that in mind....anyway. It's probably a good thing Sombra is gone anyway. He was nopony's friend, and he was far worse than Tirek. Tirek is only a threat if you actually let him get that powerful. Sombra was so powerful that the only thing that could really stop him is the Crystal Heart."

"And it did. He's gone. Which you're right. It's probably for the best. I could only imagine what Equestria would be like if he had his way."

"I don't need to imagine. I saw what his empire was actually like. If he conquered the world. It'd just be his empire multiplied by one hundred. a wasteland of horror and despair. And not the kind a changeling could handle.....hmmm.."

"What's the matter?"
You noticed she sighed, and went back to just staring blankly at the ceiling.

"....I feel better..."

...woah.
"You do? really?"

"Mhmmm..I don't know what it is. But I don't feel.....so much hopelessness as I did before."

...hey..that actually sounded great. You actually felt proud that you helped, and glad that she was feeling better.
"That's awesome Chrysalis, see? Is it so bad having a friend?"

"No...I suppose not. In fact....."
Chrysalis quickly rose up as your head slides off her neck and hits the floor. Before you even realize what's going on, she put her hoof gently on your side and rolls you onto your back.
”I think I will take you up on your offer" She licked her lips as she looked down at you with a smile.

......well shit

Chapter 126

"W-woah, C-can I get a second first?"

"Oh hush Anon, You're already primed from that conversation we just had. If I wait, I won't be able to get any of that genuine emotion you have. Here, if it'll help..."

She starts to gently stroke your tummy with her hoof
"I'll give you a gentle massage while I have my meal."

"b-but...mnnn...fine..."
You just lay back and take it as you feel her hoof gently circle along your belly. She even gives you a gentle poke, eliciting a giggle out of you.
"H-hey! don't do that."

"tch, don't act as if you aren't enjoying the attention."

"...I..do enjoy the attention. But I don't need you tickling me. "

"You're such a wimp. You can't even take a simple tickling? Fine, I'm nearly done anyway"

You could feel yourself slightly losing your emotion as you grow more tired. But it's very minor. Due to this, it makes you wonder about something.
"Chrysalis..can you permanently remove somepony's emotions? Like..from overfeeding?"

It seemed Chrysalis was already done with you at this point. She removes her hoof from you.and steps back to take a stretch. "I wouldn't know. It's never happened before. Again, Shining Armor would be your best example. I had that fool in my control for the longest time and he seems to be as optimistic as ever."

You just lay there, unmoving, thinking.
"Huh, well. I'm just making sure. Because if I'm right, you'd probably feed off me without me even knowing. I'm right, right?"

Chrysalis nods as she goes and taps at your floor door. "Of course I will. Food is food. Or would you rather I lie and say I'd be a good little changeling and i'd rather just frolic in the fields and catch butterflies."

Well, atleast you know for sure now. And, with the reassurance again, using Shining as an example once again. You were able to cement in your head that it wouldn't be so bad.
"No, thanks for telling the truth."
You walk over to the floor door
"You want to leave?"

She looks at you, then back at the door. "I do. My changelings get on edge when they are without my presence for too long."

You try tapping at the door knob...and then you notice something peculiar. But you don't mention anything of it. But, it's odd in the fact that the knob was loose.
"Ahh, that's understandable. Probably a bug...thing. Can I ask you for a small favor?"

"A favor?" Chrysalis raises an eyebrow "What? Before I go?...the door's locked Anon. If you wanted a drink of water or something, then that's impossible.....also you can do it yourself."

You shake your head and smile happily at her, with a small chuckle.
"No no, that's not it. I just wanna ask if you can turn into that filly form you do."

Chrysalis found that suspiciously odd, then she smirked at you "Ohhhhh, Anon, how shameful. I didn't know you were actually into that sort of thing."

You smack her leg, lightly, but you were sure even a heavier slap wouldn't have hurt her.
"Shut up, just do it for me. I have my reasons."

Chrysalis rolls her eyes. "I don't even think I can. If I know Discord. If I do manage it. I'll just change back. He definitely does not want me getting out of this ridiculous outfit. But if I can....at least I can take it off." And upon that thought, she thinks it might be a good idea to try. "Ok, you know what? I think I will do your favor."

She takes a step back, and glows as she begins to shrink in her filly form.
"HAHAHAHA! It worked! Now to........oh..."
The outfit shrunk with her.
".......typical."

Chrysalis again gives her clothes a tug. But to no avail. It won't come off. And damn...did she look adorable now. You kind of wanted to see her walk around, do some dusting, and refer to you as master. No...no...gotta get that out of your head. You had a reason for doing this.
You dart right into Chrysalis and give her a great big hug. Causing her to hiss as she falls down with you. She gives a cute little squeak when you both hit the ground.
"ANON! WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!"

"I'M GIVING YOU A FRIENDLY HUG! AND YOU CAN'T STOP ME!"
This is what she gets for calling you a wimp. Plus, how could you resist not giving that adorable form a hug. The friendliest of hugs. You even rub your cheek along hers.

Chrysalis struggled to escape, trying to crawl away. But you just wouldn't let go."STOP! STOP IT NOW!"

"Nope! Because I'm a wimpy wimp who needs his hug! that's what friends do!"

"Not this one! NGHH...NGGHRRAAA!" She struggled hard, but she just couldn't do it. She couldn't shake you off. And she dared not try hitting you.

But that's all you needed. You let her go before she realizes she could just transform back to throw you off. And you then give her a grin as you walk over to the door.

Chrysalis quickly stands up and stares at you angrily. "Explain yourself Anon, explain yourself NOW!"

You felt like you had gained control of the situation now. Especially with your new ace in the hole.
"Relax Chrysalis, I just wanted you to be my size so I could give you a hug as a thank you....since we're friends."

Chrysalis stomped her hoof as she took a single step up to you, angry. "SO WHAT IF WE ARE FRIENDS?! I WILL NOT TAKE UNWARRANTED AMOUNTS OF AFFECTION FROM YOU UNLESS I'M IN A FEEDING MOOD!"

"Relax, geez. You act like you haven't warmed up to me even a little. Besides, do you know one of the best things about friendship?"

"I swear, if you say something along the lines of "hugs and tea parties". I will attempt to strip every last emotion away from you." She growled

You sigh as you place your hoof on the knob and throw open the door. then look back at her, shaking your head.
"Tsk,tsk. Come on Chrysalis. I'm not that bad. No, the best part of friendship is the gifts you can get. Like...the fact I can open the door."

"w-what?" Chrysalis was shocked, nearly speechless. She silently stepped up to the open door. And tried reaching her hoof through it. She was able to do it.

".....when did it unlock?"

"It probably was always unlocked. Unlocked to me anyway......but"
You slam the door shut. there was still one more thing you wanted from her.

"..no..what?!" Chrysalis tried opening the door, but it wouldn't open. "WHY WOULD YOU DO THAT?! WHY!?"

You look at her with a serious look, an almost evil look. Not because you were being evil. You just wanted to fit the part.
"Because there's one more thing I want from you. And please, spare me the "Destroy you" stuff. You know you can't do it."

Chrysalis looked at you, with angry eyes. "No, but we can test trying to suck out every one of your emotions....permanently."

oh right......she could still suck out your love.
"Well, you could. But then you'd never get the door open. And then who knows what Discord would do. No, I'm going to take control of this situation. Because there's one more thing I want to know. Something I need to hear."

"You need to hear?" Chrysalis wasn't liking your tone, she felt you were trying to stand above her. "...and what is that?"

"I want to hear what friendship means to you. I want to know, for true, for real that I'm your friend."

Chrysalis stood there silent, then sighed, calming down. For some odd reason, she felt she couldn't make her threat happen. She didn't have that sinister urge to just drain you and force your husk to open the door. "Simple enough, I can answer that if it means you'll open the door."

"I will, but I just want you to be honest with me Chrysalis. I just want you to go against those deceptive instincts of yours and tell me the truth"

Chrysalis scoffs "Ha, says the one who no doubt has to tell countless lies just to be accepted. But fine, I'll be honest. No tricks, no lies, and no deception. I suppose one of us has to be honest."

...ouch, mean as ever still. She didn't have to say that. That made you not want to open the door at all. But, you just wanted this question answered.
"Are we really friends? Or was this just one elaborate ruse to pass the time?"

"Are you that insecure that you can't just accept your own version of friendship and be done with it? Ha, pathetic....but...if you want my honesty. If you really want it. Then I'll be honest. At this time, I consider you a friend. In fact, you'd be my only friend. I'll even go so far as to say that I feel a sort of affection towards you. As if you were one of my changelings. But don't let it go to your head. Because if there was ever a situation where I'd have to choose between domination or you. I would choose domination. And before you ask why, I'll tell you just this. Because if you're MY friend, you'd be happy with me achieving my life's dream. A dream I've had since I was very young. Is that good enough for you?"

"Yeah, that'll do..."
Not the heartwarming answer you were hoping for. While Starlight was relatively easy to crack, Chrysalis just wouldn't bend to the fuzzy feeling of friendship so easily. But you keep your word. You open the door for her. But she doesn't vacate just yet.
She just stands there, as if she's waiting for something.

"Uhhhh, Do you have anything more to say? The door is open."

Chrysalis sighs, annoyed. "You really are hopeless..." Chrysalis walks up to you....and gives you a quick and gentle hug. Was she still trying to feed off you? You thought she was done.

"U-uhhh...what was that for?"

Chrysalis put her hoof to her face and shook her head. "Seriously? Anon, that was a brief hug to wish you a good evening. Or are humans always so rude and impertinent?"

"I thought you didn't want hugs.."

Chrysalis started to get irritated again. "Oh yes, right. you're sooooo right. Because I didn't gently cuddle you and nibble your ear earlier. And if you're talking about me wanting you off me from your hug. Well that should be obvious. In fact, let me say it slowly so you can understand."
Chrysalis cleared her throat for this.
"You.....tackled....me...to...the....ground...and..I..wanted...you...off"

....you did..you did with that hug. You did get overzealous. She had accepted your hug through force. So, what did she even mean exactly?
"Y-yeah but still, wh-"

"Keep quiet, keep quiet right now before I change my mind on this whole friendship thing. There is no "but still". I'm not Discord, I'm not your friends, I'm not a pet, And I AM CERTAINLY not a maid. I am me. And I will conduct myself in the way I want to act. That is the truth, and there is no changing it. Be happy that I'm willing to converse with you and let you be in my presence without the ulterior motive of using you." Chrysalis stops for a moment, she realized she was wrong about that, and she did want to be honest. "....ok, I retract that statement. I mean using you most of the time. I enjoyed some of my time with you, while the other time was purely for food or the desire to destroy you. Now, I'm waiting..."

Chrysalis waits, tapping her hoof on the ground.

She wanted an answer? for what? And fucking christ. You actually believed her. So it meant you really did succeed. You managed to make her your friend...and you really hoped that wasn't a mistake.
"Uhm...for what? I”

Chrysalis shook her head, "Remember? I just told you about it a minute ago?" Chrysalis then changes back to her original form and yells at you "THE WHOLE GOOD EVENING THING!"

o-oh...yeah.
"Geez, sorry. It's just you just dropped a whole lot of confusing crap on me just now. ok..."
You take a moment to sigh. as if to reset your thought process.
"Good evening...Queen Chrysalis."

You don't just say it, you even try bowing to her. To see if that helps calm her down.

Chrysalis notices it. And she takes it the way you had hoped. It even made her smile. "Well now, you can indeed be respectful. Then good evening ,Anon. Try not to be so annoying next time we have a chat. Ahh...hmmm." an idea pops into Chrysalis's head. "Actually Anon, I do have a request of you. Something to give us more things to talk about should we be in a conversing mood."

a request?...you wondered what it could be.
"What is it, it's nothing I'd regret later, right?"

"It's simple actually. If you ever happen to hear about the princesses suffering about something. I'd like to know what it is. It'd probably help me cheer up on more depressing days. Given you have no bias, then you shouldn't have any trouble telling me should you know anything. Right?"

Ugh...you did say that. You REALLY didn't want to open up conversations of other ponies suffering as if it was something you'd talk about so casually. But you did say you had no bias. And, you did want to show her that you didn't. Who knows? maybe it wouldn't be so bad.
"Right, if I hear anything. I'll bring it up when I come visit you."

"Or I decide to visit you. Have a pleasant sleep Anon..."

And there she went. She seemed to be able to tell when it was day and night internally. Or enough time had passed where it just became obvious. You took one last look at her ass as she hovered down into the living room....unf.

You also noticed you didn't feel ill anymore. You hadn't had any trouble with your stomach for awhile. Maybe that's when the door unlocked? It could have been possible that you weren't supposed to be able to let her through until a particular time. Who knows.
Well...there wasn't much to do now. And you couldn't just go through the portal door. If anyone who knew you, saw you. Namely those who knew you didn't go to school today. They'd probably ask questions. And you were more tired than usual. probably from Chrysalis's draining. Maybe it'd be fine to just go to bed until morning. And then go to school,

you get on your bed and put your saddle bag to the side of your bed. You remembered Nightmare Night was soon. You wondered if there was any episodes dealing with that day again. Probably not.
You snuggle up on your blanket. And go to sleep. At least you didn't have to worry about your schoolwork and homework. You were already theoretically caught up.

Chapter 127

As you sleep in the safety of your own mind. You start to hear loud obnoxious noises, cheering, creaking, it's really distracting.

You can then hear Discord's voice calling for you.
"Oh Anon...Annnoonn...Annnnnnnnnnnnooooonnn. Wakey wakey for some eggs and bacey."

ugh, all that noise. this was a ridiculous dream you were having.

Then you hear it, a loud thunderous squawk. And then laughter.

The fuck?

You slowly open your eyes, and as you do. you lose balance and slam your face on a table.

earliest head slam you’ve had to deal with yet. Even faster than your own bed flinging you into a wall.

Which is funny, because as you lifted your head to groan and rub it. You noticed you weren't on your bed. You weren't even in your house.

You took a moment to look around. You were surrounded by griffons who were either keeping to themselves, armwrestling, drinking what appears to be cider, making merry, or arguing with each other. What the fuck? you were in some sort of bar...and it stunk. You could smell a bevy of horrid odors in the air.

And in front of you. with a slick grin. Was Discord, in his pony form. "Good morning Anon, I hope you don't mind the noise...or the smell...or our company. But I thought this would be a great place to grab some breakfast."

You don't say anything at first. you needed time to take in the foreign scenery.
"Where are we? Are we in Griffonstone? Why are we in Griffonstone?"

"Actually we're in a seedy part of Phillydelphia. A bar that is home to the toughest griffons around. But hey, if you want to generalize everything just because they are griffons that's fine by me. So, I guess you would be referring to their kingdom as....ahhh..what was the word?....a...hmm..ahh yes...a shithole?"

You cringe, and look around. Looked like nobody heard him, they were already busy being loud and obnoxious.
"...do you mind?..ugh...why are we even here? I have school, remember?"

"You have plenty of time, as for why you're here..." Discord doesn't say anything more as he looks over behind you.

"Discord?...you gonna finish that sentence?"

He says nothing. which makes you curious enough to look over behind you. And holy shit, there was a burly looking Griffon walking right towards the both of you. balancing plates on her head,back, and even at the tip of her tail. Despite being burly, her head bandana and eye shadow made it apparent enough that she was a girl. She had a brown feathered head with a curled sharp beak. Her coat being black. It wasn't a very pleasing combination of colors.

You feel a little meek as she steps over to the both of you and slides a plate to you and Discord. "Glob-o-everymeat to the big spender and some burgers for his runt....."

oh geez. Discord's plate just had a glob of...what looked like a mishmash of...things.

Your burgers though. They looked ok, they were actually pretty big and...good looking. But....you wondered what kind of meat was used to make it.

The griffon holds her talons out in front of Discord, in which Discord just stares at it. Not knowing on what to do.

And as you looked up, the griffon looked like she was getting impatient.

"Tip her."

"What?" Discord asked, not knowing what a "tip" was.

"Ya heard the runt, give me some bits." The griffon opened and closed her talons "sheesh, big spender to get in here but ya ain't gonna tip your waitress?" the griffon let's out a sigh of disgust "Ponies, I swear"

"Now why would I give you money? Isn't it your job to bring us our food?" Discord asked

You smack your hoof to your forehead. ahh geez.
"Dad, tipping is when you give your hostess or host some money for their service. Generally around fifteen percent of the amount you paid for the food. Though, you don't tip if they did pretty bad."

Then the griffon slammed her talons onto the table in anger. "Only fifteen?! ya listen here you runtfaced weasel. I did ya both an excellent service, the best around. And if you are thinking I'm stepping away with anything less than thirty percent then I'm gonna throw the both of ya out myself. I don't care that you’re a kid. You got me?"

Geez christ. why the fuck did Discord choose this place?! why even eat here?! what the hell was the point?!

Discord rolls his eyes and materializes a bag of bits using his "horn". "I'll pay you double if you apologize to my son for calling him a runtfaced weasel. Otherwise, there's going to be trouble."

The Griffon takes a bit out the bag and bites it with her beak. "huh....real. Sorry mac, ya want an apology. It's gonna have to be triple. We don't apologize here. Not unless ya pay big."

"....just do it. You know you have the money. Just give it to her and let's eat our..."
You look at the burger and tap it....no reaction. good
"meal"

Discord wasn't having it though. "If you think I'm going to let this slide then you've got another thing coming. Don't you want to make her sorry for calling you a runtfaced weasel? That's worth more than ten times the amount of bits I think"

"I'm gonna take that as a no then.." The griffon hostess raises her talons and spits on them, then rubs them together as she clenches her right talons like a fist. "Ya asked for it buddy!"

Discord just sits there smiling as the griffon actually takes the shot at his face.

Though, it being Discord. He didn't even flinch as it made contact. The griffon put so much power into her punch she wasn't expecting her talons to quake and shudder as pain shoots up into her brain; making her fall backwards. All the food she was expertly carrying around falling and smacking into the other patrons.

...oh joy.

Discord yawns, sits down, and goes to eating his meal quietly as the griffons that got hit by the food start blaming one another. and instantly, scaringly instantly. a brawl breaks out.

"Discord!.."
You duck as two griffons fly overhead, one tackling the other onto a table.
"Discord, why!?"

"Because she was rude, Anon..." He takes a bite, chews slowly, then swallows "Because she was rude"

"Can we atleast go so-"

Suddenly, another griffon gets tossed onto your table. Sending your food upwards and then down onto the griffon's face. Discord's food...stayed exactly in place...in mid air.
"Well, that's unfortunate. I paid good money for that mouse burger"

"WHAT?! YOU WERE GOING TO LET ME EAT MOUSE?!..WOAH!"
You duck as a griffon with a bucket on his head starts swinging randomly near you.
"Screw it, I'm out!"

There was courage, there was standing up for yourself, but this was just madness. and you just fucking woke up.
You duck down low to the ground and start crawling away. Looking for the door.

You go looking for the door, ducking and even rolling away from the brawls going on. You weren't even trying to figure out why Discord let this happen. He could have just paid the damn tip. or better yet. not brought you here.

you hide under a stool as you take another look around and see...THE DOOR! It was over yonder. But there were about six griffons beating on eachother near it. Dammit.
You look over to Discord, who was casually weaving himself and his food about while eating. Dodging incoming griffons and blows.

whatever, fuck it. You rush over to the door, ready to escape this madhouse.

And right when you were about to reach it, a griffon misses his mark and slugs you right in the face. Sending you backwards, sliding along the ground until you hit Discords seat; Even knocking it away.He resumes his position however, eating, enjoying his food slowly.

"U-ugh..."
You look up at Discord, and ask him, while in a daze.
"Why?...isn't this enough? What's the point?"

Discord wipes his mouth with a handkerchief, then looks down at you "Hmm, what? Oh, hello Anon. I thought you were leaving. Rude really, I wanted to discuss something with you."

....that's....it
THATS IT!
"YOU PIECE OF SHIT, FIRST YOU TRY TO DEFEND ME, THEN I GET SMACKED AND YOU CALL ME RUDE?! THAT'S IT! I'M FUCKING DONE!"
You feel oddly revigored by pure rage as you grab Discord's chair and and slam it....right through him. and into the back of a Griffon's head. Knocking him clean out.

Whatever, good. maybe if that hostess wasn't a bitch at the start then this wouldn't have started either.

You see another griffon blindly coming towards you. Whether he was going after you specifically or not. You didn't care. You get up on your back legs to spin and throw the chair right into his feet. Tripping him up and making him slide across the ground.
"COME ON! WHO WANTS SOME! I'M GONNA SHOW YOU ALL! I FUCKING SWEAR!"

and while the other griffons were to busy pummeling each other to pay attention to your cry. The hostess from before starts to get back up. Recovered from falling. And ready for round two. "Show us all huh? Well kid, show me then. Because after I tear ya apart. I'm gonna tear up yer dad!"

you piece of shit. YOU PIECE OF SHIT!
You turn to her with pure rage in your eyes. Looking up at her. She was much taller than you. but at this moment. you didn't care.
"You...you want a tip huh? I'll give you a tip all right..."

You run and slide right under the griffon. And do the dirtiest play you can. You pick up a piece of broken chair and slam it right into her exposed pussy. Making her scream in pain as if she had been hit in her nonexistant balls. She fell over, and blacked out.

That's right...THAT'S RIGHT!
You climb on top of her fallen form, and cry out, in a mighty yell.
"COME ON! I'LL TAKE ON ALL OF YOU. ALLLLL OFFF YOOOUUUUU!"
you were breathing hard. But as you looked around. All the patrons had already beat each other into unconsciousness. The only ones left standing was you, Discord, and the barkeep. Who was just spitting into a glass and cleaning it, calmly. He gave no shits.

"Good show Anon, You did barely anything in this fight but knock out two, maybe three griffons? I was hoping for more. But this will suffice, especially with how brutally you took out the last one." Discord said as he finished his meal.

But you were still upset.
"Why?! Why would you even do this to me? We could have had breakfast at home, at Fluttershy's, hell Ponyville has a diner. So why here?! Answer me Discord, or I'll find your nuts and hit them so damn hard."

Discord uses his magic to set the table and your chair back up. Then smiles at you "You do and I'll make sure you can never find yours again. Now, if you'd sit down. I have something serious I want to talk about."

Ok then...
"Give me a second, I'm still angry.."
You look down at the hostess you were standing on and gave her a swift stomp. Then, like a cat, rubbed your hooves backwards until you felt satisfied with yourself. Then you hopped off. And got on your chair.

"Feeling better? You really got angry there. I was almost worried." Discord said as he put your burger back on the table. a small brush appearing to clean up the dirt and dust. Then Discord looked over to the barkeep. "Hey! Can we get some drinks over here?"

You look back and notice the barkeep. Then you look back at Discord. You were sure he wasn't gonna do jack shit since the place got trashed.
"Discord..I don't think.."

But before you could finish. The Barkeep came over and dropped an odd apple cider bottle to Discord and a large cup of water for you. With ice.

Discord, without having to wait for the barkeep to open his talons for money, tosses him the bag of bits meant for the hostess. It was even bigger than before too. The hell? "There you are, I think this will more than cover the drinks. And thank you for being patient with us. We'll be vacating shortly."

The barkeep says nothing, takes the bag, and walks back to the bar.

"Well, you responded to me threatening to counter your threat. Still angry there sport?" Discord chuckles. "Or did it not register yet?"

You were angry, none of this seemed right. You were in a bar of beat up griffons. And you were just...so angry. Maybe it's because you just woke up to this. But damn, you felt like you were getting super pushed around.
"I know you won't do it. Because you know I'm not gonna actually hit you."

You sigh, and try to relax. No way you were going to eat the burger.

Discord looks to the hostess. "Well she didn't know that, ohhh...can't imagine how painful that was. Or how it's going to be. The splinters are probably going to be the worst part. But I digress. I wanted to have little chat about our plans for tomorrow."

"were they that important..or that unimportant that a whole bar fight had to start because you couldn't tip with your unlimited cash?"

Discord smirked at you "What do you think?"

"...right...you don't care. I don't even know why I'm upset anymore. You know what? I'm really not because I just stuck a piece of chair up a griffon's vagina and I feel great....."
You repeat yourself
"I just shoved a piece of....christ. even in this fantasy world of friendship and harmony, that just doesn't sound right. But fuck it, I did it. And you know what. I feel good. I feel fucking good. Sick of losing fights, I won one, and you see that!"
You point to the fallen hostess. "That's victory! That's me not being a pussy! That's me shoving it right into the pussy! So how about that?! huh! HUH!"

Yeah, you were out of your mind from this. You had so much adrenaline pumping through you that it was just pure....
You look at the burger again, you just take it, and start munching it like crazy. damned be it mouse or not.

Discord just watched as you eat your food at a furious rate. When you’re done, you slam your plate on the table and let out a belch.
"YEAH! YEAAAAH!......holy shit...what's wrong with me?! I feel so pumped! I feel I can take on the world! And I like it!...no..wait..no...I don't like it! But I do! I..."
You leer over to Discord
"...what did you do to me?"

Discord shrugged "Oh nothing, just experimenting with your inner body. Adrenaline and the like. I always found it a shame how you panic and lost the last few fights you were in. So I wanted to see what happened if you got into a little fight of my creation. and eh, I expected better. But I guess that little body of yours can only do so much."

"WHAT?! YOU MESSED WITH MY INNER ME!? I SHOULD HIT YOU RIGHT NOW! DAMNED BE THAT INVINCIBILITY OF YOURS! WHY WOULD YOU EVEN DO THIS TO ME?! WHAT WAS THE POINT?!" You slam your hoof down on the table "TELL ME!"

"I just did. Now then, now that the games are over. Time for business. Anon, what do you know about...Nightmare Night?" Discord asks as he materializes a cider bottle in his hoof and takes a swig.

You felt like benchpressing something. You felt like getting into more fights. You were nearing berserker state. You were trying to relax, you looked Discord dead in the eyes.
"You mind stopping whatever you're doing? I feel like breaking heads. It won't stop"

"Are you sure? You might not like the feeling"

"Do it, I don't like it anymore. I feel like busting a lot of heads right now. To be on top."

Discord clapped his hooves together "ok, but don't say I didn't warn you."

You feel your uber rage and anger immediately leave you, as well as your upped strength. You fall over, slam your head on the table,and fall to the floor.

Discord gets off his chair, and walks over to look down on you. "And by not like it, I meant you were probably going to incur another injury. It is a good thing however that your head seems stronger than the strongest metals in Equestria, isn't it?"

"My head....."
You couldn't get up, you suddenly felt so weak.
"I...can't believe you did that.messing with my body like that....that's low...even for you.."

"Oh relax Anon, you would have gone back to normal eventually. Besides, I didn't know this would happen. Like I know what a tip is..."

what?...but didn't he say he was experimenting?
"What do you mean you didn't know what a tip is? I thought you were faking."

Discord laughed sheepishly "Oh, how embarrassing. No no, I wasn't faking. Despite my wide and vast knowledge, I didn't know what a tip was. See, the whole adrenaline thing was going to happen after we left the bar and I teleported you to some diamond dogs. Their annoying nature mixed with the adrenaline pumping through you would have made quite the entertaining show. But, given that a fight had broken out. I thought it'd just work out doing it right there and then. It was ok....now"
Discord picks up your weakened form and plants you back on your seat. "To business..."
Discord hops back to his seat, and looks at you, his expression suddenly becoming serious "Nightmare Night Anon.....a night celebrating the fact that Nightmare Moon is a scary entity that should be dealt with."

You gently lay your head on the table and look at the side.
"...what about it? ugh. It feels like I spent the whole night staying awake, I can't even stay mad anymore, not like it'd do any good when it comes to you...sheesh. You really need to tell me when you're gonna do stuff like this.."

"Anon, as I said. That was for my entertainment. It wouldn't have been fun if I told you. But this business, I'm telling you all of this because you are my partner and my friend. Now...pay attention closely. Because this is of extreme importance...."

You perk up your ear, keeping your head on the table for comfort.
"yeah?"

"We are...the both of us....are going to team up and take down Nightmare Moon ourselves. How does that sound?"

either you were too weak to actually understand his words. Or this was Discord being too much like Discord.
"...Discord...Luna isn't Nightmare Moon anymore. ugh...I really hate you right now. I can't believe you did all this just for this bullshit. Don't you ever wonder that sometimes, shit like this, that maybe, just maybe, might make me have resentment towards you despite our friendship?"

"What's a little resentment between friends? That's what I always say" Discord grins at you, a happy, innocent grin.

"....right...ok...I sometimes forget that you're insane. Ok fine, I won't interrupt. What exactly is this plan all about?" There really was no point in pursuing this.

"Well..." Discord poofed in a book...but not just any book. It was the journal of the two sisters. You recognized it right from the get go. And that was enough to make you lift your head up to look at it. "I've been doing some reading.."

"Discord...That's the princesses old journal...what are you doing with that?"

"Duh, I've been reading it. I just said that. Also..."

Discord slides his hoof to the right. Zipping your mouth. You don't even react. You just lay your head on the table. You were too tired, and used to this particular stunt.

"You said you wouldn't interrupt....annnyyywaayyyy..."
Discord poofs away the journal. "Apparently our dear princesses of the sun and moon were quite the jovial pranksters when they were younger. In fact, according to their journal. They thought themselves the best tricksters of all Equestria. And I'm going to tell you right now Anon....I won't let that stand"

oh, no way.

you point to the zipper, you wanted to interrupt, you wanted him to unzip you. But instead. He just continues.

"Therefore. we must not only defeat Luna, but her sister as well. A contest of wits, tricks, and if we're lucky....a bundle of sticks!" Discord produces a bag of sticks and takes one using telekinetic magic. pointing to a magically appearing white board. "We are going to challenge them to a prank off. You and me, together, two on two. the best team of pranksters will be left laughing"
Discord started to rub his hooves together and he chuckled evilly "Oh yes, I can see Celestia and Luna's faces now when they realize the only way they could ever beat me at anything was with their precious elements of harmony...oh yes...this will be delicious...ah yes, and the best part about this. At least for you, is that I will grant you unlimited use of the horn for the entire day of Nightmare Night. No limits. Now, hearing that, you surely must be excited and no longer upset now. Right Anon?"

You were actually in awe from that. One day? One day of unlimited power? You needed details. So you started pointing at your zipper and mumbling.

"Ahh yes, right right." Discord moves his hoof to the left, unzipping you. But he could see in your eyes. That the horn thing easily swayed you.

"When you say no limits. What do you mean? Because...gee..Discord. That actually sounds rad. I'm already feeling pretty excited for the horn thing"
Then you realize something.
"......wait..WAIIIT...hold on. How are you even going to get the princesses to do this? This doesn't sound like something they'd do. Specially Luna."

Discord grins at you "So I assume, that if I can get them to agree to my challenge, that you will definitely join me? no complaints, not even worried about banishment at all?"

"Well.....I'm still a little upset. But unlimited power with the horn? just give me some details on that. Because i'm not worried about being banished. You said if you were there, you'd be able to help me. And even then. I doubt Celestia would banish me. She seemed super nice. Plus, you'd be getting them to agree to this right? I doubt Celestia is a sore loser. Luna..ehh...not sure."

"Yes, you're right about that. I will make absolutely sure that they accept my challenge. There'd be no point if they didn't bring their “A” game. Then the win would be totally empty. As for no limits, that's what I mean. No limits. You'll be free to do whatever you wish until we actually get our chance at them. Which then I will expect you to use that power to use your own brand of human based pranks. I know your kind has quite a few terrifying ones."

oooohhh shit. The entire day of messing with shit until the challenge? ohhh man...that was too juicy. Now that was worth getting naturally excited for.

"well.."
You smirk back at Discord, to let him know you're in
"We are the master of the jump scare"

Discord laughs happily "Excellent! truly marvelous! Oh...this will be a Nightmare Night to remember. I'm so glad you're not too sore about this whole bar fight thing. I was almost afraid you wouldn't join me."

"Well, you did sweeten the deal. But what about going around and getting candy?"

"Sadly...it's one or the other Anon. You can either go with your friends. Or you can come with me, for some real fun...father and son. Buddies, comrades...and other things."

Sort of a tough choice. no doubt the CMC would have loved to go with you on gathering some candy. But, you probably wouldn't have the unlimited power then...or maybe...you could get down with the prank battle early and still make it for some candy. You make your choice.

"Ok, I'm in. But no bullshit Discord. I swear, if you end up putting me on and tricking me. I'm gonna move in with Fluttershy. I will make her absolutely pissed at you.And don't say or even threaten that you'll send me back home or some shit like that. Because you'd just be hurting her even more"

You got him. you were tired of his shit. So since he can just do shit to you. you were going to let him know you could do shit to him. You were tired of pussyfooting around with him. Unlike Chrysalis, he didn't have the sex appeal to make you weaker minded.

"Touche’ Anon. But as your friend, you can trust me. I really...REALLY...want to win this. And now that we have concluded business and that you're fed. I'm going to teleport you to your school. class should be starting pretty soon. Just be ready AFTER school so we can talk to the princesses. And I want you looking your cutest."

Well, that was no problem. You had looking cute down.
"Alright, if my friends ask me to meet them after school. I'm just gonna tell them you need me for something first. So you don't have to worry about me being late."

"I didn't need to worry at all anyway, I was just going to snatch you up instead of waiting for you to come home. That's why I said to be ready. And try to stay as confident as you are now. I want the princesses to know exactly what they are dealing with. Cute and confident. Can you do that for me? Anon?"

Cute and Confident?...yeah, you were sure you could. You've faced shit like Twilight trying to banish you, Chrysalis trying to kill you, and griffons just now, trying to fight you. And as you doubted Celestia and Luna had any interest in seducing you. You should be able to do it.
you nod
"Yeah, I think I could do it. No problem. You can count on me."

"Good, I'm glad to hear that.....business is concluded..oh and.."

Discord leans to the right and looks at the barkeep "This is fine if we just leave your bar like this, right?"

The barkeep shrugs as he continues cleaning cups. "Eh, this happens every week anyway"

..the barkeep...THE BARKEEP?!
HOLY SHIT, YOU FORGOT HE WAS THERE!
You slowly look back, worried as shit.
"U-uh...h-how much did you hear..u-uhh..mister?"

The barkeep shrugged "That yer somethin called a human, and that's actually the spirit of chaos, and yer gonna go mess with the princesses. But eh, what do I care? I just run the bar."

You gulp...the hell....?
You look at Discord. He looked really calm about all this.
"...Discord...you're gonna do something about that right?"

Discord nods "I do, this is rather serious."

oh man, if he was gonna do some MiB shit. You were ready to cover your eyes.

Discord looks over to the barkeep again. "We're ok?"

The barkeep nods "We're ok."

....WHAT?!
"That's it?! "we're ok"?! How can you be so nonchalant about that"

But then you hear a loud clunk behind you...what?

You look back at the barkeep. There was a huge ass bag of bits right beside him, he had grabbed it and put it down to show you, he was even grinning. Finding it amusing that he'd ever tell anyone after receiving so much cash, with the ever possibility to get more..

"........"
you look back at Discord silently for a moment, then put your hoof to your face.
"..........yeah...ok.....just....take me to school already..."

Discord changes back to his normal form, chuckling. "You'll never grow old for me Anon. Never ever. Seeya later"

Discord snaps his talons. as the bar flashes away from you. And you appear in front of the schoolhouse.

Chapter 128

You have to shake your head. You were still feeling drained and fatigued from Discord's magic.

as you stand there, recuperating. You can already see a few of the other foals walking into the schoolhouse. A few of them giving you odd looks due to the fact you were standing there.

You could feel a little weight to your side. You had your saddle bag magically on you.

Your mind thought about what just happened. Did you stick a piece of chair up a griffon's.....oh man Anon, that's both awesome and terrible at the same time. You knew what came over you, and you were so pumped. You felt you could take on the world.But all that raw anger, you wouldn't want someone like Fluttershy seeing it.

and good lord. You just agreed to go toe to toe with the princesses. And you were actually pretty hyped for it. You'd have unlimited magic at your disposal. You thought about how awesome it'd be to terrify them with your human antics. Ohhh man.

"Anon?"

And Discord will have his win...and..ohhh..what if he makes the horn have unlimited charges forever after that? Damn, that'd be awesome.

"Anon? You ok?"

As you imagined all the things you could do. You feel a hoof on your side. Giving you a gentle shake.

"Anon, are you still sick or something?"

Oh..Oh shit...
You look up, and you see Scootaloo. She was alone this time around. She was wearing some snazzy looking goggles. And her wings were bigger. No doubt wearing the magical wings.
"Scootaloo? What are you doing here? Shouldn't you be inside?"

"Shouldn't you? I just got here. Everypony else is inside I think. You ok? Are you still sick?"

"Huh?...oh right..right"
You almost forgot.
"Just still...recovering. But I'm alright. So uhh...what's been going on in school?"

Scootaloo raised her eyebrow at you "What's been going on?.....haven't you done any of the classwork your dad brought to you?"

..right..RIGHT...Discord filled it all out himself.

"Of course...ahh..I just meant if anything interesting that didn't have to do with class happened. You know, monster attacks, big fights, a race...something.."

"Nope, though that would be pretty cool. Could you imagine if Rainbow Dash came down to the school to try and race me with these wings? I've been practicing really hard with them to move as fast as possible. Then when they pop off of me. I always give my old wings a shot. But..." Scootaloo sighs "I can't seem to fly just yet. But that just means I gotta try harder."

Good for her, as long as she was still trying with her normal wings. Then you had no reason to berate her.
"Hey, I know you'll manage it one day. And you'll probably be super fast too. You're super fast on a scooter right?"

Scootaloo nods, giving you a cocky smirk. "The fastest filly in Ponyville. Nopony can ride a scooter like I can"

"Well, you'll probably be zooming all over the place when you get-"

The schoobell starts to ring. You can see Scootaloo's pupils shrink and ears droop as she pushes you inside. "We can save the small talk for later. We're gonna be late!"

Geez! ok ok. She was right. You didn't want you or her to be late.

As you get pushed inside. You can already see the other fillies and colts in their seats. And the seats you remember from the show were back in place. It meant the project was over. sheesh. You felt bad not being there for the final day. Scootaloo had already zipped into her seat after leaving her homework on Cheerilee's desk. Leaving you standing there, confused.
"uhhhh...."

Cheerilee immediately notices you and greets you with a smile from her desk as she straightened up the homework papers. "Welcome back Anon. Please, take a seat. You can sit there next to Twist." She points to a seat in the second row to the farthest right. ugh...Twist? Really? Eh, it's fine. Not like you'd do much talking while in class.

As you go to sit on your new seat. Cheerilee continues to speak to you, she was worried about you, like she would any of her students. "Are you feeling better? I hope you didn't force yourself to be here while you were still sick. Your father hasn't really let me know too much about what was wrong with you. And I pray to Celestia that it was nothing serious."

"I'm feeling much better. Thank you very much Miss Cheerilee"
You bow your head as a sign of respect. You wanted her to know you appreciate her concern. After what happened at the bar, especially hitting your head a couple of times. You really did appreciate the genuine concern.

Cheerilee smiled "Well, that's a relief then. Then I have one more question before we begin. Did you manage to do your homework?"

haha! you did!

You nod. Reach into your saddle bag and pull out your homework and classwork. You actually had some worry about your classwork as you take a quick glance at it. Because if it was as bad as Discord said it was. Then you'd slip it back into your saddle bag. But...oddly enough. It matched the writing you had on your homework. Discord did say he matched your writing. Maybe it changed as you improved while doing your homework. Good enough for you.
"I did, and all my classwork too! Pretty good huh?"

Cheerilee however didn't give you a congratulatory smile. Instead, she looked at you with an expression of suspicion. "All your classwork? Anon, you really did all of that in one day? I expected you to turn it in segments so you wouldn't get bogged down."

fuck..FUCK. Why was she suspicious?! it's not like, realistically, you'd have anything else to do.
"W-well. Miss Cheerilee. I was in bed all day. I had to do something to pass the time."

Cheerilee had considered that. But no student she's ever had make up class work ever did it in a day unless they only ever missed one day. She always let them take the amount of days to finish up the classwork. And you managed to do two days of classwork and a homework assignment in the span of one without getting bored or burnt out. But..if you did it. Then that was actually something to be proud of. "Anon relax. I just wanted to know. You should be proud of yourself. Not many of my students can get that much work done in one day. Now.."
Cheerilee pats the side of her desk where the homework is. "You can turn them in right here. And for the future. Have your homework ready to turn in when you step into my class."

Right...you'd take the praise but, internally. You couldn't. You cheated, and the work was probably super easy. But fine. You just give her a thanks and put down your classwork and homework on the desk. At least the homework was legit.

And with that Cheerilee stood up as you went back to your seat to start the school day. "Ahrm, Good morning class!"

Everyone, including yourself this time let out a "Good Morning Miss Cheerilee"
ahh, that felt nice. Schools didn't really do that when you were in school, even when you were younger.

And that good morning seemed to fill Cheerilee with good cheer. "As you all know, Nightmare Night is tomorrow. And I was thinking that we could do something to fit the theme today since there is no school tomorrow. So I was thinking..." Suddenly, she made an evil face, and made herself sound much more villainous "QUADRUPLE HOMEWORK AND ASTRO PHYSICS. ALL WORTH THIRTY GRADES! BWHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!"

The entire class immediately starts to panic, Snips even screaming out "MISS CHEERILEE IS POSSESSED!"

You however, for once, didn't react. You knew it was a cute ruse.

Cheerilee however grimaced at the class reaction. She was hoping they'd catch on to the joke in a half second. "C-calm down class. I was only kidding"

It took her a little bit of extra time. But she managed to get them to calm down. She shook her head. She couldn't believe their reaction. "Alright...let's just do something simple for today so you all can have your fun tomorrow. There won't even be homework. Let's see...."

Cheerilee went and looked into her lesson plan. She wanted to find something easy within it. Even if it was a lesson for later. "Let's see.....let's see....no, they wouldn't want to do math.." Cheerilee looked up at them for a quick glance, wanting to at least give you all a math lesson right after nightmare night for the undue panic. She didn't appreciate the remark of being "possessed"

Finally, she spots something easy. It would let them busy themselves for the day while she checks the homework. "Ok class...how would you all like to learn about the history of carriages."

Snips, taking the question seriously, let's out a "But that sounds boring!"

Cheerilee groaned and looked down right towards him as she went to get her history book. "That wasn't actually a question Snips. Even if it's boring, the invention of carriages is actually very important. And made travelling,trade, and moving supplies so much simpler."

........wait huh?
hold on..
You raise your hoof, there was a question you wanted to ask.

"Anon? Do you have a question you want to ask?"

You nod
"Yeah, I get that it probably made moving supplies easier. But, how did it make travelling easier? Don't ponies have to pull them anyway? Doesn't that ruin the point of riding them? Especially when we have trains?"

"That's actually a very good question Anon. And to answer it, I can start by saying. Yes, you'd be right that it's not very useful for travelling if you are by yourself. But there are ponies who are fairly strong and pull carriages with passengers along for bits. Usually four or six ponies will gather together to pull a carriage. Depending on the weight. And they will pull their cargo and passengers to their destination. Some of these very destinations being rather far away from any train stop."

Well fuck. You should have realized there was probably companies that run carriage pulling. Or just getting the strong earth ponies together to pull carts and carriages. Well played technicolored ponies, well played.

"Now, let's begin." Cheerilee rolls over the chalkboard to start the lesson. "I expect you all to take notes. After the lesson is over you are all to take a test book and complete the exam on page fifty six. Don't worry, if you all pay attention. This will be easy."

Cripes....this was going to get boring. But, as long as your adrenaline drain didn't overly affect you. You'd do fine.

And the lesson began. You took out a piece of paper like everyone else and wrote notes on anything important sounding. She talked about the inventor of the carriage. How she managed to get the wheels attached to a barrel to make the first wheeled cart. Yadda Yadda. Despite the lesson itself, there wasn't too much to the lesson. Though the explanation of carriages made out of special cloud material to make them much easier to pull in the air for pegasi was pretty neat. Though that was made by a female pegasi apparently named "Cloud Niner". And from her description, she was definitely a dreamer who reached her destiny of better carriages.

The lesson then ended, Cheerilee thanked all of you for paying attention, even if not all of you did. She goes to sit at her desk as she allows all of you to grab a test book.

they were lined up in a bookcase. You actually didn't know which one to take. So you just followed along. However, there was one little filly who noticed your hesitation.

"Anon? it's that book right there." Sweetie Belle points to the books all the other ponies are taking. "the one labeled "History in inventions,gadgets, and gizmos” "

...Right, you could see that. But, well...the only reason she must have spoke up was because you backed off from taking a book.
"Thanks Sweetie Belle"

"You're welcome!" Sweetie Belle gave you a sickeningly sweet smile as she took a book of her own. You knew she didn't have a crush on you...but still. You couldn't imagine her reactions to you if she did.

You take the book and sit down at your seat.

Cheerilee takes the time to look up and say "And remember, once you open your books, you're not allowed to study your notes anymore. So only start when you're ready"

Right. Easy...you took a glance at your notes to memorize names. Because the more technical stuff was pretty easy to remember. And then you got to work.

the test book's instructions only told you to write down your answers to the questions. numbering each one. probably for Cheerilee to match question numbers with answer numbers. This test however, was a total breeze. Maybe too easy, but that's thanks to your average but functional adult mind.

It didn't take long at all to finish. It almost felt automatic when it came to writing the answers. And upon finishing up, you spit out your pencil, leaned back, and smiled arrogantly to yourself as you waited for everyone else to finish.

Cheerilee, who had already started checking the homework, looked up and noticed you were sitting back doing nothing. She found that odd, considering it hadn't been too long since the test started. "Anon" She puts down the current homework to look directly at you. "What are you doing?"

This also catches the attention of the other students. Who stare at you as if you were causing troubles.
Oh...maybe you finished TOO fast?
"Uhh, I finished my work Miss Cheerilee."

"All of it?" There was no way.

You nod
"Yup"

You were starting to feel a sense of self satisfaction though. You were actually getting eager to see her reaction.

"Hmmm..." She had a huge doubt about this. No student she ever had could finish a test that fast. She even brought out her answer guide for this one. So she could review your answers quickly. "Then please bring your work to the desk. And..I know I forgot to mention this. But in the future. When you are finished with a test, you bring it up to my desk. Alright?"
You nod, hiding a smile, trying to pretend to be a little panicky instead of actually being panicky
"O-oh, s-sorry...here.."

You got up and grabbed your homework, placing it on her desk.

Cheerilee noted your reaction. And now was sure that you just sped through the test. Already she was disappointed. She didn't like having lazy students. "Ok, you may go to your seat and I'll check your work"

You almost giggle. But hold it in. You could see on her face that she wasn't too pleased. You could guess why. You dropped your ears a little and looked at the class. A few were back focusing on the test. But Applebloom and Diamond Tiara were looking at you as if something went wrong....perfect.

You sat back down down on your seat and waited.

Ohhh damn, this was gonna be sweet. You had waited for this one. A chance to see what would happen when Cheerilee doubted your abilities.

Cheerilee was dutifully looking through your work. You watched closely. And as she went through your work, her expression started to change. She muttered under her breath. ".....a perfect score"

She didn't say anything directly. Instead, she took your homework and started looking it over. You had this in the bag too. If for any reason she had any questions about it. You could just say "Y'know Discord"

And she looked like she had questions to ask. Because soon after reading your report. She was looking directly at you. She looked pretty serious about it too. "Anon, can I have a word with you, privately?"

Hold it in Anon, hold it in. This was gonna be sweet. ugh...you hope hanging around Discord didn't make you more excited for this than you wanted to be. And yet, it felt right. And besides, once it's acknowledged you're damned smart of a pony. You could probably breeze through class without question.

You nod, acting nervous "O-ok"

School was no big deal to you. It was much easier to remain calm here. You had nothing to worry about. No villains, no traps, no crazy shenanigans. It was all kids stuff....relatively speaking.

You got up and followed Cheerilee outside. Some of the students looking at you. Wondering what was going on.

Cheerilee steps aside and waits for you to step past her before closing the door. Boy, it was a nice morning today. But, you only gaze up at the sky for a moment before turning to Cheerilee.
"Is something wrong Miss Cheerilee?"

She actually had no idea how to answer that. She found your speed, perfection, and the subject matter of your homework. concerning. "I just want to have a talk with you Anon. I decided to grade your test."

"And what did I get?"

You look at her with cute curiosity. For this...lying had never been so easy. It was still difficult for you when it came to Fluttershy and some of the others. If only you had at least one of the Mane 6 to who you could confide to about the truth...

Cheerilee looked unsure. She couldn't even get an inkling on how you truly felt. She found it strange. Were you just modest? Did you cheat..somehow? No, she didn't see you doing anything that would be considered cheating. "You got a perfect score."

You acted as if it was nothing. Just smiling a meek little smile.
"Oh? Umm..ok. Is that bad? Was I supposed to get something wrong?"

Cheerilee shook her head "Well, no. Not at all. It's just..."
She couldn't just grill you on it. It wouldn't be right. She stopped, and moved on to your homework. "Nevermind, I also decided to check your homework"

"Oh, you mean my report on changelings? What did you think?"

And that was what struck her the most off. The report was detailed. There was even things in it she was sure that wasn't documented. Such as on the actual way the love draining works. "I thought it was very....insightful. But Anon, how did you come across that kind of information?"

You look at her, and then give her the happiest grin you could muster
"Dad of course. he provided me with the stuff I needed to study up on changelings"

"Stuff?"

"You know, ancient stuff, like texts. Stuff nopony would be able to get. Unless you're my dad of course."

She couldn't argue that. Though it made her curious. She wouldn't mind reading some actual source material on changelings. "Well, you have been busy then. I'm very impressed Anon." Cheerilee gives you a gentle rub on the head. "I never had a student who took their work this seriously."

You giggled
"Oh you know, I just want to do my best."

Just from that, Cheerilee grew a newfound respect for you. Not just from your disposition. But the fact that you had been with Discord for a while, and you were nothing like him...at least from what she's ever seen of you thus far. "Anon, you wouldn't still have any of your study material would you? I wouldn't mind borrowing it and giving it a read"

..ahh shit
"O-oh, uhhh..Dad put it back where he found it. Said it'd be no fun if ponies knew everything about changelings. Whatever that means"

You give an actual nervous chuckle

Well for Cheerilee, that was disappointing to hear. But that also sounded like a legitimate reason to her. Maybe next time. She let out a sigh. "Ahh well, let's head back inside. You can put your head down and get a little rest on your desk until recess. I don't usually allow it. But...It's not like there's anything else for you to do."

Bonus points...
"What about the work for after Recess? I wouldn't mind doing that."

She would give it to you, but she feared the other students would get jealous if she handed you work that early. "No no, just get some rest...umm"
Cheerilee takes a hard look at you. You did seem a little disheveled. "You look like you need a little more, are you sure you're still not sick?"

You weren't. Just a little tired.
"Nah, I'm fine. But ok. But if you just want to hand me more classwork. I'll be right on my seat."

You nodded happily to Cheerilee and headed back inside.

Cheerilee...was confused. She never expected that to happen. She even gave herself a little slap. "....No, not dreaming. I actually have a ridiculously dutiful colt as a student...who just happens to be Discord's son. Maybe I should lie down....no..no, Cheerilee, you still have homework to grade. And classwork to look over."

And so you waited. Putting your head down until recess rang. You prepared yourself. Because no doubt five fillies were going to gather around you for yet another cutie mark attempt. You'd have to tell them you're not in the mood today. Maybe just play a cute childish game and indulge in your young age.

Finally, the bell rang. With only Snips and Snails not finished yet. They seemed to rush the final answers on their test as they rush it up to Cheerilee's desk.

And as Cheerilee let you all out to go frolic and play, the five fillies came up to you, as expected.
"Heya Anon, how are ya doin' to-...what the?"

”What the?” indeed. You started to float upwards as an aura started to envelope around you.
and it was catching the attention of every pony in the room.

"Anon? How are you floating?" Diamond Tiara asked, she wasn't worried. Surely there was a reason for this.

"U-uhh...I dunno."
You really didn't.

Scootaloo checked your back for wings. But nothing. "Well, it's not a pair of wings."

But Sweetie Belle started to notice the aura getting brighter. "Oh my gosh! OH MY GOSH! IT'S HAPPENING!"

"What's happening?" Silver Spoon adjusted her glasses to get a focused look at you. But she couldn't tell what was happening. and it was getting worrisome.

But Applebloom realized what was going on, and was struck with awe. "OOHHHH ANON IS GETTING HIS CUTIE MARK!"

"Woah Really? That's amazing! He didn't even do anything!" Scootaloo remarked.

"I am?! I AM?! BUT WHY?!"

Cheerilee stepped up to you. She thinks she figured it out. And gave you a warming smile. "Oh...I think I know what it is"

Cheerilee expected you to figure it out yourself before it actually appeared. She thought you were getting one for your obscene intelligence.
"You do?"

"You do?" the five fillies ask

"Mhmm, it's obvious that Anon is gett-" But Cheerilee is cut off as the cutie mark event finally happens.

Or rather it didn’t; you explode instead.

The entire class screams in terror. Even Cheerilee is screaming like a little girl. While Diamond Tiara faints.

"GYAAAHH!!"
Even you heard the explosion of your body. You immediately rub yourself to make sure you were all together. You were...oh god. What happened?!

"Really Anon? Can you save that inappropriate touching for your bedroom?"

That was...
You look up...Discord.
"Dad?! What are you doing at my school?! What just happened?!"

Discord looked around, he seemed confused. "School? What school?"

You look around.....you weren't at the school anymore. You were at the end of a hallway. infront of some double doors. Given the many shades of white and light blue. And the banners....Canterlot Castle?

...ohh...you didn't get your Cutie Mark...it was just Discord being impatient.

You put your hoof to your face.
"Are you serious? You couldn't wait until after school like we planned?"

Discord shrugged "That would have taken like, a thousand hours Anon. I felt your recess is the perfect time to talk to them instead. Then I can plop you back to class right after."

class...OH SHIT?!
"Wait..wait..hold on. Speaking of class. What exactly happened? You usually just immediately poof me to places. I started to glow this time, and then I thought I heard some screaming....there wasn't screaming right?"

Discord gave you a gentle pat on the head "Of course not, it was probably just the wooshing noise of magic. As for the glowing, I thought i'd give you a little time to tell them where you were going before you actually appeared here. You did give them that courtesy, right?"

"No! I didn't know what was going on. We all thought I was getting my Cutie Mark. Are you sure there wasn't screaming. Because I felt like I exploded."

"Ugh, yes yes. I'm sure. Don't worry about it Anon, I'm sure nothing bad happened. My magic is always a cut above the rest."

...fine...fine..teleporting was never a problem before. Everything should be ok...but this door.
"Ok...but..what about this door? It doesn't look like it leads to the throne room"

"It doesn't, but the princesses are just beyond it."

"Both of them? Really?"

You looked at the door carefully, it had a knob with a keylock on it. waiiit...
"This isn't their bedroom, is it?"

Discord shakes his head. "No, that's a few floors up."

You try to turn the doorknob. But it's locked.
"Discord, the door is locked. I mean, I don't have to ask how we're gonna get in. But, what's behind this door? Planning room? Study? What?"

"It's just a room Anon, just like any other room." Discord turned one of his claws into a key and opened the door. It led to...a smaller hallway with another set of doors. But..there was steam in the room. and..towel racks...oh shit no.

You had an idea of what was behind the next set of doors.
"Discord...what the hell? This is some sort of bath or something. We can't go in there!"

"Why not? It's not like ponies aren't always naked anyway"

Goddammit.
"Discord. These are women we're talking about. They are going to get pissed if we just burst in there."

"Ohhhhh...can you guarantee that? I wouldn't mind a special bonus for coming to visit our dear princesses."

You plant your butt outside the first set of doors. And look at him sternly. "We're not stepping in there Discord, and that's final."

"...ohhh...we have been growing more of a backbone...haven't we? But how do you plan to stop me Anon?" He beckons to you with a talon, making you slide into the room. "Besides, aren't you curious to see the princesses up close? With their manes nice and wet. I know you're into that"

.....
......hmmmm
That's tempting.
Very tempting. You might not get another chance to see both of them like this. And besides, you were a cute innocent colt. It'd be all Discord's fault for trying to corrupt you. Oh the ponenanity.

You look up at Discord, and point to the door.
"After you...Dad"

Discord chuckled, he was having a thought of his own. "If you insist"

Discord opens the door like they were saloon doors and steps inside, you following him. kind of anxious to see this sight for yourself.

Woah...the room was...kinda big. it was like an indoor swimming pool. But smaller, and steam everywhere. It seems royal bathing was pretty much first class luxury relaxing. Though, there was one thing missing.

"Where are the princesses? You said they were here."

Discord was rubbing his chin, even he was confused. "I was sure they were. I couldn't have missed them. They were right there"

you stepped closer to the water, and dipped your hoof in it...ooohhh...warm...and kind of soapy. Taking a dip in that...would be so awesome. But...was the water always there? or did it have a drain? You dare not step inside if it was somehow stagnant. Though it shouldn't be given that lavender smell, Discord did say they were here recently.

"Hmmmmm...where could they..."
As Discord pondered on if he missed anything. You dipped your hoof in again.....ohhh..it really was so nice.

Then suddenly, from the middle of the bath. Celestia popped out taking in a deep breath.
You looked up at her, and you could feel yourself instantly smitten. She looked..woah, her mane down, yet still waving gently, with a little in front of her face, her coat glistening clean. Her eyes, gentle.

"Well, it looks like I lost." Celestia put her hooves to her mouth, giggling. She then let out a shout "Sister, you've beaten me. You can come out now"

Now that Celestia had popped up. You didn't know what to say. It had been forever since you seen her. And that was when you just got to Equestria. And she looked...just..wow...you wouldn't mind cuddling up with her.

"Oh...there she is. HI PRINCESS CELESTIA! HOW ARE YOU DOING?!" Discord waved and yelled her way.

Unlike the last time, Celestia wasn't calm and ready for this. She immediately turned to the both of you in surprise. "Discord? Discord.....Why are you in our bath chambers?" Though, she didn't seem too upset. Just annoyed.

"Well, Anon here wanted to see what it would look like when princesses takes baths, and how could I deny my smart and curious little colt? hmmm?" Discord chuckled wickedly as he gave you a glance before looking back at Celestia.

WHAT?! HE DIDN'T! NOT IN FRONT OF CELESTIA! OH GOD!
you blush heavily.
"Liar! We didn't come here for that!

"Ahh, but didn't we come in here because you wanted to see the princesses instead of waiting for them? I couldn't just come in here without you, you know. This was your choice."

That fucker! GODDAMMIT! HE PISSES YOU OFF SO MUCH SOMETIMES! Even if he was your buddy and partner.

Celestia looks at you with a disappointed look "Anon..is this true? I didn't think you'd be such a little peeper. Not after the letters I've received about you."

NO! NO!
You open your mouth to defend yourself. Until another familiar princess bursts out of the water, taking a deep breath...It was Princess Luna...oh shit...OH SHIT. SHE WAS HERE TOO! AND YOU HAVE YET TO MEET HER!

Luna noticed that Celestia was above the water before her. and immediately started to cackle "Haha! It appears that I am the winner! How do you like that sister....Sister?"

Luna notices Celestia gazing away from her. She looks over to where Celestia was facing and sees you and Discord. You were worried as Discord silently waved. And unlike Celestia, Luna was more than annoyed. She was angry. "Discord! What is your reason for intruding upon our royal bath time!"

oh god...that was actually kind of funny.You didn't know whether to laugh or run the hell out of there. As you step back, Luna takes notice of you. "Is that a colt? Is that Discord's son?"

You say nothing, you look up at Discord. gritting your teeth.
"...tell them already"

"Tell them what? I already told Princess Celestia that you came in here to peep at them."

And that...that set Luna off. "HE DID WHAT?!"

oh lord... As you back up however. you begin to float upwards. You look over, and Celestia's horn was glowing. She was...OH GOD SHE WAS DRAWING YOU CLOSER.

"Anon...." She brings you right above the water, right in front of her. Something had already clicked in her head about all this. "Did you really come to just peep at us?"

You look backwards
"Dad......do you mind?"

Discord shrugged "Not my fault Anon, you should be more mindful about the princesses's privacy"

"...?" Luna was confused "So...it really was this colt. That came in here of his own free will? To do just that?"

You started to shiver.

"It seems so sister." Celestia said as she brought you even closer, she dipped you in the water just a little, so you could be at eye level with her. Then, she started to smile gently. "Of course, him being so young. I'd just call it cute curiosity." Then Celestia outstretched her front hooves as she brought you closer, and hugged. Oh god...she was super soft. and the water was so warm. "After all, what's the difference between us being wet or dry?"

Discord was caught offguard, he wasn't expecting her to hug you. "Excuse me?"

Even Luna was confused "Sister...what are you doing?"

And you.....you couldn't even speak.

"I'm giving our guest a hug of affection. Do you think his father ever gives him any? That's probably the real reason he came in here. You know Discord, always thinking about himself."

"EXCUSE ME?!" Discord couldn't believe it, they were supposed to be heavily offended.

Celestia then holds you up to Luna, you were blushing, nervous, even embarrassed.

"U-umm.." You were utterly stunned with embarrassment

"Besides, could you resist giving such a cute little colt like him a hug?" Celestia giggled.

Luna just stared at you, then she gave you a gentle pat. "I...admit. He is rather adorable....but still. He shouldn't be in here."

"Oh don't be so uptight. Here, try hugging him." Celestia hovered you over to Luna, who found herself catching you, and in turn hugging you. Ohhhh...she was also super soft...ohh...

"...hmmm..." You could feel her easing into it, her hug becoming more tender with every passing second. "...I suppose I could overlook this." Luna looked down at your face. She felt a little heartbroken now. She felt she had frightened you. She started to speak in a tone as soothing as a lullaby "...Little colt. Please don't be afraid. I will not harm you."

....ok...they....they weren't angry. And...they were so gentle. You didn't even know what was going on around you. And the way they were acting. It made you feel like an actual child looking for affection. You actually cuddled up to Luna,

Discord cleared his throat to their attention "Ahrm....excuse me, but I came here because there's a very important matter I'd like to discuss with the both of you."

Celestia moved over to you to give you a gentle pat, not even looking over to Discord "Discord, you already mentioned what it was. You can go now. We'll have your son cleaned and ready to come back to you in about twenty minutes."

CLEANED?! THEY WERE GOING TO CLEAN YOU?!

Discord exploded, growing multiple heads that bellowed all at once "I'LL HAVE THE BOTH OF YOU KNOW THAT I AM MORE POWERFUL AND COULD DEFEAT THE BOTH OF YOU IN A FIGHT RIGHT NOW! DO NOT IGNORE ME!"

Luna held you close, she looked at Discord with a death glare. She only knew so much about your relationship with him. But in her eyes already, she saw an abusive father.

Celestia calmly turned and looked to Discord. "Yes...I am aware you could. So, there really isn't any point of you mentioning it...is there?"

Discord grimaced...there wasn't. He just wanted them to listen. He knew he could win in a fight at any time. No...what he cared about was thrashing them at pranking. He went back to his normal form as he grit his teeth. Being silent.

Celestia waits for a moment, then raises her eyebrow at him "Well, you have our attention Discord. We're waiting."

"Hmph, I don't think I want to tell you now. A shame, because this would be something in which you have a chance to completely defeat me in. Something very important to the two of you, I would think." Discord crossed his arms and looked away.

Celestia shrugged and turned back to you. "Suit yourself Discord, You know the way out the door. I'll be sure to send Fluttershy a letter about this intrusion by the way."

....ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
Hearing that, you had to look back, you had to see his face for this.

and it was glorious, he was sweating hard. He didn't need any of that kind of publicity. but he only showed his fear for only a moment before setting himself to neutral. Damn, you'd have loved a picture of it. He was probably still quaking in his boots.

"hmm, fine fine. The real reason we are here is because I want to issue a challenge to the both of you. A challenge of family. Me and my son vs. The two sisters."

Luna answers first, looking up at Discord with annoyance. Unlike Celestia, she was ready to try to blast him if he tried anything. "A challenge? Why? So you could just humiliate us? I will not accept. Especially since you are involving your son in this. No doubt to torture him too."

Discord was not enjoying the fact that you were on the princesses side. Though, you were just kind of shoved in there by his own whim. He just didn't want to take responsibility. "Oh no no, he would be my equal in this. And it's funny you mention humiliation. Because that's exactly what it's about. You see, I challenge...WILL YOU STOP THAT?!"

While Luna was still looking at Discord, Celestia took you in her hooves as she floated above the water. and began to gently cradle you. Hell, you didn't mind. This was soothing.

Discord snapped his talons, poofing you from Celestia to the ground next to him. "AS I WAS SAYING! I CHALLENGE YOU BOTH TO A BATTLE OF PRANKS!" Discord was heavily panting in rage.

And that deeply confused Luna once again. "Pranks? That's an unusual battle. And you can't expect us to just accept. We're not even prepared."

"Yes, I'm aware ponies such as yourself require "preparation". That's why this battle will take place on Nightmare Night itself. As the pranks will all be horror themed. It should be easy for you Princess Luna...you being Nightmare Moon before."

and that set off Luna "YOU INSOLENT!..."

Celestia put a hoof on top of her sister's leg to calm her down, to let her know she was there for her. "Calm yourself sister...."

"I will not! He comes into our home! Into our royal bath time! and demands such a challenge from us? We can't just let him do what he wishes!"

Celestia understood her sister's rage, she took a look at Discord and nodded "And we won't...Because we accept the challenge."

"What?!" Luna was losing her cool so fast and so quick. It was scary. "Sister! How could you?!"

"It's a battle of pranks..." Celestia looked to Luna "Are you saying we have no experience in that? That we would give up our title to...well..him?"

It took Luna a moment, it didn't even actually register what the challenge was until Celestia told her. "...."
Luna then looked at Discord, gave him a glare, then glared at Celestia with an expression that would know no defeat. "Of course not....but it's been so long."

"You never forget a good prank. Will you join me sister? Will you help me defend our title?" Celestia asks.

Luna nodded. Of course she would. For her sister, She'd do anything. "Yes...yes..I accept the challenge as well."

Celestia then turned to Discord and nodded with a smile "Well, that's that then. But Discord...is your son really up to the task to handle us? He is..inexperienced. Probably slow on the uptake. And would probably fall into any trap we might set up near instantly."

Woah what the fuck? First affection..now insulting?
and insulting your perceptive abilities of all things?! you weren't some simple colt.
"Hey!"

you wouldn't let her talk about you like that....sorta.....she was a princess.
"I'm as good a prankster as any. I'm Discord's son and partner. I think I can hold my own!"

Celestia starts to giggle

...ahh man..come on.
"Don't laugh! I don't care that you're a princess! If you're going to be that way. I'll crush the both of you myself!"

Celestia giggled again. Luna was rather shocked by your reaction however.

"I'm sure you'll try. now come back here, I want to scrub your back." Celestia playfully taunted

.......you immediately start to blush.
"U-ummm..."

Luna notices your reaction. and suddenly has an epiphany. "Sister....does this young colt have a crush on you?"

Celestia laughed, oh she was laughing. "You know, I think he actually does. That's very adorable. Discord, maybe I should adopt your son from you. How does that sound?"

...you backed off. ogghh....Worst thing is you knew Celestia probably did want to give you actual motherly affection.

"If we're all done. I'd like to explain the rules now...if you don't mind." Discord was growing more and more impatient with this. He tried to ignore them.

Part of you wanted to go back in there. But you didn't want to become too wrapped up with the affection. You were still Discord's partner. And you still wanted to go into this full force. You owed him that much. Especially since he was giving you unlimited charges for the day tomorrow. You were sure they'd understand your feelings. If it came up.
...but damn..were they soft and cuddly. You wondered how soft Fluttershy would be from those waters. You could probably instantly fall asleep on her tummy from it all.

"Alright alright" Celestia giggled "We're listening. Explain the rules."

"Good. The rules are as follows. The battle with take place inside your castle. To give you SOME sort of home advantage. You will of course have a day to set up anything you might need for tomorrow since it's obvious me and Anon will require no kind of preparation. To keep with the theme, these pranks will be meant to scare. So the scarier the better. The first team to give up or be frightened beyond recognition will be the winner. Now, as a courtesy. Since beating the two of you would be empty without letting you have a say. I will allow you to impose any rules of your own. So...what will it be?"

"...." Luna looked hard at Discord "what's the point?...you will not follow any of our rules."

Discord frowned at Luna, he at least felt good knowing he could still get under her skin. "Luna, that hurts..it really does. I'm reformed remember? You can trust me."

Luna wasn't convinced, and so she looked to you "Young colt...Anon. I can trust you to try your best to make sure your father doesn't cheat. Right? You would merely need to tell either me or my sister if he does."

Discord didn't like the sound of that "Excuse me, but he is MY son. not your snitch."

AND..you could also speak for yourself.
"I'll do it"

"Anon...remember who your partner is" Discord looks down at you. He didn't like what he heard.

"Dad, you want the satisfaction of winning? Then we have to abide by their rules. Other than that...yeah..I'm with you all the way. I promise, for the sake of competition, I won't hesitate to bring us the win"

Celestia nods "That's good to hear. I'm glad to know your loyalties lies with your father. A son and father should never be torn apart. Even if the son does have a crush on me" Celestia giggles again.

You cringe, it wasn't a crush. IT WASN'T A CRUSH! it was just...attraction.
"Grr! You'll see. You want a crush, I'll give you crush!"

Celestia giggled "I'm sure you will Anon" she winks at you.

oohhhh..ohhh..she was getting under your skin now.....you also kind of wish she'd sort of actually do that in the kinky way...no DAMMIT NO! GET THAT THOUGHT OUT OF YOUR HEAD!

"ugh, just tell me your rules so we can be done with it. Anon does have school to get back to"

Celestia began to think. "Ahh, I was wondering if he was actually out of class or not. But let's see...rules...rules...Can you give me and my sister a moment to discuss this?"

"Of course, I'll wait right here" Discord says as he starts balancing himself on his tail.

"Privately Discord...as in. The both of you leave,"

"...oh....oh of course. I'll come back in in ten minutes then...come along Anon" Discord scoops you up and heads outside the bathing room . He wanted to have a chat with you himself anyway.

Chapter 129

You both left the bathing room and the room before it back to the corridor. Discord looked down at you, with doubt and suspicion in his eyes "What was that Anon?"

The hell he talking about? "What was what?"

"That! cuddling with the enemy. How am I supposed to trust you as my partner when you can be so easily entranced by the wiles of a princess?"

Oh hell no, he was the one who tempted you in the first place. "Hey! Don't even! You're the one who was like "Look Anon, naked ponies, woo woo". So don't. And besides, I never said I was NOT on your side. I did say we would take them down."

"And can you, Anon?" Discord gives you one of the hardest, deepest stares he's ever given you as his voice became dark and serious "Can you pull the trigger, Anon? If Celestia was right there, pleading for her well being, would you do it? Would you toss that worm filled pie into her face?"

..Oh..oh geez, you almost thought he was talking about a gun. "If it was part of the competition...and if it scared her. Then yes, because Discord. We're partners. You and me....even if you're a gigantic douchebag."

"What if she was cuddling you? Hugging you, trying to get you on her side through that affection you seem to love so much. What then?"

If it was still in competition. Then it'd be obvious Celestia was just trying to turn you against him. "Then I dunno, I'd turn myself into Leprechaun"

That actually confused Discord "What now?"

"It's this freaky, ugly little midget that kills people to get his gold back. But you know, I'd be all pony about it. I promise. To any pony in this world. It'd be one of the scariest things in the world."

Discord pondered, then made your horn appear in front of you. He wanted to see this. "Show me, and don't worry about wasting today's charge. This is of course, a freebie"

Hah....this might actually be fun. For even getting a shot of what's to come already put you in a better mood. You slap on the horn, and concentrate. Turning into a horrible, dry skinned pony, with no coat, just skin. You had a green tunic, leggings, curled horseshoes, and a green hat with a little golden buckle. Your teeth were sharp and yellow, your breath wreaked the foulest stench, and your eyes were cruel and beady. Your tail had larger than average flies flying around it. And your voice… "Top of da mornin' to ya Discord, can't wait to be workin' with ya to scare some princessy welps."

Discord could see boils, and even a few holes in your skin, and they were.....beating, and letting out pus. He found it disgusting, foul, and twisted. He loved it. "Well now, that certainly is quite gruesome."

You give him a cruel toothy grin. "This ain't nothin boyo. The horrors of the world of humans awaits all who challenges us."

Discord loved the sound of that. He started to rub his talons and paw together. "Well then, perhaps I was too quick to judge after all. Ohhh...I knew I picked the right partner. Go on Anon, I want to see one of your better horrors. " Discord snaps his talons, making your horn glow for a second. "Another charge for another horror. Show me what you got."

Discord looked pretty damn excited. Made you feel pretty good that he was actually eager to see what you had to give to the cause. Let's see...ahhh. You got one, it might even get him.
you point ahead, down the other end of the corridor. "Well my chaotic friend, just have a peek, let's just hope you don't spring a leak"

Discord looked to where you were pointing. as a familiar face turned the corner and spoke in a gentle voice. "Hello Discord, Anon, how are you doing today?" It was Fluttershy...oh boy..nehehehe, it was Fluttershy.

But Discord looked unamused. "I...wouldn't say Fluttershy was terrifying Anon, perhaps...adorable. But nothing to write home about."

"I'm not...terrifying? But Discord" Fluttershy's voice started to slowly warp, as one of her eyes fell in backwards. "I thought we were friends...why did you have to say such a mean thing?" Her mouth started to break and widen, as some of her coat fell off. Her forehead started to tear through the middle as goop and tentacles started to reach towards Discord. "Discord...come..let's be friends...together...forever."

Discord rolled his eyes, snapping his talons to make the horrible figment of Fluttershy go away. "I'll give you this Anon, Nopony would ever...EVER..be able to look at that and have good dreams ever again. But if you EVER use Fluttershy for any kind of example again. I'll show you what real terror is...do you understand me?"

Oy geez, cripes. You were just making a pony version of the "thing". You didn't know he'd actually get upset. Mission accomplished though....you guessed.

As you change back, you look at Discord in a way to suggest to calm down. You meant nothing by what you did. "Alright, geez. I was just doing what you said."

"I know" Discord zaps the horn away "Just the same, I expect some professionalism in the chaos you wreak."

.....Right. "And by that, you mean anything goes aside from making Fluttershy look bad, right? What about me?"

"Anon, I like you, I really do. But I have too many friends to try to defend altogether. Priorities need to be set."

WHAT?! "You only have two best friends. Me and Fl...ahh forget it. You're just going to give me a bullshit reason. Whatever, it's fine. It's just you being you."

Discord picks you up and gives you a pat on the head as he smiles at you. "Oh come on Anon, don't be boring.You know I mean what I say with the deepest and most sincerest feeling in my heart." He hugs you close, gently, as he strokes his talons softly through your mane. "Come on, lighten up...I know you like affection~"

.....You grumbled. Him doing it didn't even have near the same effect as Chrysalis or Celestia. "Yeah yeah, whatever"

"Anon, Discord, you may come back in!" That was Luna, using her Royal Canterlot Voice to beckon the both of you through the door. Geez, that shit really was loud.

"Ahh finally, let's go see what restrictions they've come up with" Discord just straight up drops you as he heads back to the princesses.

You check yourself to see if you were in normal form. You could feel your coat. no pus, no holes. Yeah, you were back to your normal self. You were still a little sore though. You wish Discord would be more consistent like everyone else you knew. He was the only one who treated you with varying degrees of friendliness. And it was always jarring. But it's fine, you had bigger fish to fry..even if they were nice and gentle, beautiful fish. You follow Discord in.

"So then, Have you both decided on your rules? I'm very eager to hear them. The harsher, the better. It only serves to make my victory that much sweeter." Discord was already loving this before they even spoke a word.

"We each have a rule. Rules we expect to be followed to the letter. No tricks, or you will be considered an enemy of Equestria once again." Luna said, in a commanding voice, fit for a leader.

Celestia turned her head to her sister and shook it.

"Hmm?..Oh" Luna realized she went too far. "...I meant you will be considered the loser, and will be shamed in even your own art. We shall even base a day off of it."

Celestia turns her head to Luna again, and shakes her head.

Luna sighs, she just wanted something to humiliate Discord in the way he humiliated the both of them long ago. Also for his treason. She wasn't exactly over it. Luna had trouble getting over things. "...then we shall just declare you the loser, and laugh."

Celestia turns her head again...and this time nods.

"I'd be shivering from the utter shock of losing if it was actually a possibility. Now then, the rules please?" Discord was so ready. These two rules must be pretty big ones.

"First, my rule. It is clear that you have the power to avoid and deflect any trap or prank we play on you. In fact, I'd wager my rulership that even if you fell into one. That it wouldn't phase you. Am I correct to think this?"

Discord gave her a gentle but mocking grin. "Oh don't sell yourself short Luna, you two might come up with.......something."

Luna let out a soft and annoyed "mmm". She definitely did not tolerate his taunting as much as Celestia. "No, you will play on a level equal to our own. You are...before entering our castle...to leave your magical power outside the door. You are only to have enough to be able to set up your own pranks and manifestations. Are we clear? Because we'll know if you cheat."

Discord smirked and shrugged "Of course I can follow that rule. I don't need ALL my power to defeat the likes of you two."

"Outside the door Discord. I will not tolerate your shenanigans should you cheat. Do I make myself absolutely clear?" Luna wanted to be sure.

Discord bowed in false respect "Of course your majesty, as you wish" he let out a soft snicker before looking to Celestia. "And your rule? Princess Celestia?"

Celestia looked to you as she spoke. "Actually, this one is more for Anon. I'd like for him to wear his costume he plans to wear for Nightmare Night. Which of course, for him to even enjoy Nightmare Night. This challenge would have to occur during the day."

Your costume? You sort of decided on Dante...sorta. You weren't finalized on it yet. But why did she care to see it? How is that even a rule? "Ummm, why?"

"You can say that I'm curious...as to the kind of costume a colt like you would wear." Celestia was smiling at you, a sweet motherly smile. And for once, it was unsettling. She didn't even say it was "because it's cute" Maybe she was messing with you, trying to embarrass you. That'd be kind of low if she did.

Whatever, it was a day to wear costumes anyway. So why not. "Alright, no problem."

"Good...now, Discord. If you'd like to impose any special rules on us. We'd like to hear it. It's only fair"

What? That's it. You expected a forgotten slip of them wanting to make sure he couldn't cheat. Or perhaps something more about you. Hmmmm. Guess you're off the hook on that.

Discord chuckled cruelly to himself "Only fair she says..." Discord then looked over to both princesses and brushed back his own mane..hair..whatever. with his paw and acted benevolent. "Do not worry Princesses, I do not wish to impose any rules other than the ones stated. You two could try whatever you wish to defeat us. The only thing I can even think of adding is also, if you leave the castle...for any reason..at any point...you lose. And I win"

Mnnn… You smack Discord on his side. "..Oh right..yes..we win" Discord rolled his eyes. It was all relative...to him.

"You may be as arrogant as you wish. That does not mean anything to me. And since your business is over now. We'd like it if you leave so we can finish our bath." Luna pretty much demanded this, she wanted her private time.

"Very well your royal highness, I Discord, your humble peasant shall be on his leave. Come along Anon, you have to get back to school"

Fuck..yeah thats right. You were only on recess. You hoped that you didn't over do it. You go to follow Discord, and as you do, you hear Celestia call out. "Wait! Why not let Anon stay with us for a little bit. I'm sure he'd have more fun with us than boring old school."

Before anyone could react. Luna is actually the first one. "SISTER! How could you?! you know a colt's education is important! You should definitely know this, you have a school of your own you know. I don't even need to mention Princess Twilight Sparkle."

Discord actually agreed, moreso the fact that he didn't want you alone with Celestia. He felt she would corrupt you. "I agree, Anon's lessons are EXTREMELY important. He doesn't have time to lounge about and get wet."

"Well you two, I think it should be Anon's decision. I've gotten a few interesting letters about him. And yet had only had a chance to meet him once. I think the "hero colt" deserves an audience with the princesses. Don't you think?" Celestia asks.

Luna shakes her head. "An education is more important than a meeting with us. Perhaps after the battle." Luna says. Huh, she was pretty old fashioned in that stance.

"And me being his father, I take away that choice. Luna is right Celestia, listen to your sister."

Something was striking you as odd. Celestia doesn't do things unless she has a reason. Or at least, that’s how you remember it. You also remember her being a bit of a troll. As much as you'd enjoy her affections. You had something, almost like a whisper from your own mind, telling you to avoid it for now.

"Yeah...I should be heading back. But yeah, I mean. I wouldn't mind talking with you after the battle. umm.."
You bow in good measure. "Princess Celestia"

Luna smiled at you "I like this colt, despite being Discord's son. He actually has manners. Perhaps he should be the one teaching you to be an adult, Discord"

Discord reacted for just a second, his expression twisted in anger, but he turned around, and cleared his throat. "Don't say such things Luna, since you'll be crying like a little filly when we're done with you. Remember that Anon is on my side..."

"You need not remind me whose side your son is on. I'm actually glad to hear that he remains loyal to you and seems to be well taken care of. Or perhaps.." Luna smirks "He's taking care of you instead. Are you having trouble adjusting to harmony and order, Discord?"

Discord does his best not to let it get to him, but he was still facing away "I'm doing just fine...thank you very much. Come on Anon, we're leaving."

Ogh, Luna and Discord together was not a good thing. They seemed to bring out the worst in eachother. Luna seemed pretty fine regardless. She was playing a game with her sister afterall, before you arrived that is.

"Ok..umm.." You go to the edge of the bath and bow. "Thank you for your time Princess Luna, Princess Celestia. We'll see you tomorrow, and good luck"

"And good luck to you Anon....and to your father as well...I suppose." Luna said.

"Indeed, don't go into this thinking it'll be easy Anon. Just because we're mares doesn't mean we're pushovers. It might surprise you, But my sister's trickery can be pretty legendary." Celestia commented

"Oh? Really?" Luna nodded. "I don't mean to sound arrogant, but once upon a time, my kinds of tricks we're renowned all across the kingdom. And...hey!"

Discord grabbed you. "Let's go Anon, you don't need to hear this nonsense. It's all relative anyway"

You didn't even get a chance to say anything, nor did Luna. He just teleports back to your room. Not even to the school. And let's you go. And you give him a mean look, you weren't happy. "What's wrong with you? You're acting butthurt over nothing. Seriously, why do you got to be a jackass?"

"I am not "butthurt". Can't you see what they're doing?"

You raise an eyebrow. "You mean being friendly and just giving us a little bit of a hard time because we just barged into their bath time to issue them a challenge? Yeah, it's reaaaallllllyyy unsettling." You were being sarcastic.

"Anon, they are trying to get under my skin. They are trying to make you lower your guard. It's all a trick! They are trying to sound better than I am. They are using their mind games to try to tear us apart."

Oh holy shit...he was serious. Oh my god. He was being a dumbass. This was "Treehugger rawr" tier. You didn't think you'd ever actually see him like this outside of that. "Discord, they already got under your skin. You're overreacting over NOTHING. All because of a title that you didn't even know they had until you snooped in their journal. Which they could have made up for all you know."

"But it's an IMPORTANT title. One that should only belong to meeeee!" Discord said, he was upset. He really didn't want to lose. His cool and arrogant demeanor shattered. Doesn't help that he was being selfish.

You start rubbing your temples. "...Discord, I'm on your side. one hundred percent. I'm not going to lose because Celestia turns on the charm or anything. I'll do my best to help you win. But for the love of..something. Stop being a twat. Because if we end up losing, it'll be your fault for sperging."

Discord picks you up and stares at you with crazy eyes, then begins to shake you. "WE..CAN'T..LOSE"

"wawawawawaargghAGH!"

You slap Discord's face hard with your hoof. He stops, gently puts you down, and rubs his cheek.

"Discord, get ahold of yourself. is being the top prankster in Equestria worth having this kind of meltdown? Ugh.." You facepalm "It's so childish"

"You hit me..." Was all Discord said. He was now staring at the wall, blankly.

Oh god...what now? "Uhhh..yeah, you were kind of being insane. You uhh...you ok now?"

Discord nodded, but he was still staring into space. "...I am, hrnnn." He looked down at you, he had an apologetic expression on his face. "Perhaps I have been childish." He puts his talon to his bottom lip as he looks at the wall. "Yes, I think I actually did let them get to me. All the years of being the Spirit of Chaos...and then being turned to stone, all because of a miscalculation. Yes, yes. I see." Discord looks down back at you "I've got it Anon!" He was now looking a lot chipper

"You do? What do you got?"

"Isn't it obvious? I've got "it". I realize I was brought down by them because I thought there might be a possibility of me losing to them. A "miscalculation", as it were. I lost my confidence because I felt my reform may have made me rusty. No, it hasn't. It's just I haven't been able to stretch my powers completely for a very long time. And even though I will be limited, thanks to their rules. That doesn't mean I can't be clever and cunning about it." Discord chuckles "Oh yes, I simply can't wait to get my claws on those two, we'll scare them so badly that Celestia will turn another shade of white. Hehehehehe"

What? Well, yeah. that's good that he was confident, but… "You got all that from me hitting you?"

Discord nodded "Well, yes. How else would I have come to such a fantastic conclusion? And it's all thanks to my little partner" Discord gives you a congratulatory pat on the head. egh...still didn't feel as nice as when a mare does it.

"Well, it's good that you're all confident again Discord. Good to see you in better spirits."

"I am...but." Discord wanted to be sure. "You are sure I can expect your best tomorrow? What about your fortitude. Can you yourself handle their tricks?"

You nod, you were confident that even if they had something even remotely scary. That it'd bring you no harm. These were two innocent princesses who are probably going to toss spiders or pits or some crap. Too easy. "It'll be a piece of cake. Come on Discord, you've already done so much crap to me already. Whatever a couple of girls have will be easy peasy. Nothing to worry about."

"Ahh yes, I nearly forgot all the torment I've brought upon you. But at least it now all has a point. Truly I am a genius. Not even realizing myself all the preparation I've given you for this moment. I truly am a master of foresight."

...Yep, he was back to his old self. "Ok champ, whatever you say. But, you mind sending me back to school before I get in trouble? Recess has to be over by now."

"I suppose, I wouldn't want your teacher having a reason to call me in for some sort of meeting. Take care Anon...and I truly mean that."

Awww..that was a nice. "You take care too Discord. Seeya"

Discord raises his talons and snaps. Making you reappear back into the school.
And as you look around to reorient yourself. You notice things are different. The children are gone, Twilight and Applejack were in front of your desk, examining your seat. And Cheerilee was crying at her desk with Rarity comforting her, giving her a handkerchief to blow her nose on. What the fuck happened?

You approached your seat to where Twilight was investigating. She didn't look well either. She looked like she was feverishly trying to figure something out. "There has to be something. Nopony just explodes from getting their cutie mark. He can't just be gone. That doesn't make any sense!"

Applejack gave her a few pats on the back "Relax there sugarcube, I'm sure you'll figure it out. But I still say this is Discord's doing."

"It can't be, Discord should have no reason to scare a school full of foals." Twilight said as she continued to scan the area. She was even using her magic to do some sort of actual scan of the area.

"Does he need a reason? Ya know his head ain't screwed on straight" Applejack remarked.

"I know but....I've managed to refine my abilities to detect different forms of magic and I can't get a sense of anything matching his chaotic powers. I'm worried Applejack, I'm really worried. What if this was my fault?" Twilight was scanning, and rescanning everything.

"Now don't talk like that Twilight. We all make mistakes. Anon forgave ya right? Then I bet this and that are completely unrelated." Applejack said as she waited for any more results from Twilight's scan.

Ohhhhhhh....oh no....you did explode. Goddammit Discord...if it's not one thing it's the other. But, that was odd. She couldn't detect it was Discord that did it? Was it him that caused the explosion?...Hrnn...you'd have to ask him what he did. Because now, you had to let everyone know you were ok.

It's a good thing Fluttershy isn't here. She must have not heard what happened. Because you could only imagine her searching all over, and then maybe even automatically blaming Discord....yeesh.

But what to say. The scene was grim looking. Everyone was in low spirits except for Applejack. Who was doing her best to keep Twilight from spazzing. You had to say something. "Ok, before you all even notice me. Let me say I'm sorry, because I didn't know I exploded and yeah...that's me letting you all know I'm ok."

Smooth.

Everyone looked up at you. Cheerilee was relieved as all fuck. Rarity smiles, Applejack was wondering where you came from, and Twilight? "Anon, not now, can't you see I'm doing something important? I'm trying to figure out if you actually exploded and not just teleported somewhere." ...well, she was certainly dedicated.

Applejack shook Twilight to turn around. "Uhhh, Twi. Turn around, the mystery has kinda been solved already"

Twilight shooed Applejack's hoof away "No it hasn't, I haven't figured out where Anon is yet!"

Is she serious? Was Twilight that absent minded? Oh wait. She could be...but still, this was cartoon tier...oh wait...goddammit.

"Princess Twilight, if I may, she is telling you the truth and...and.." Cheerilee started to get tears of happiness in her eyes as she got up to rush towards you. She grabbed you and fell to the ground as she nuzzled you tightly. She was so damn happy you didn't explode. That could have been her job, her life, and she couldn't handle losing any student. They were all her responsibility, and she liked every single one of them. It was like an instinct.

"Waggghh..u-umm. Miss Cheerilee...I'm sorry I worried you."

But Twilight didn't notice, she was getting annoyed actually. "I need quiet please, I know everypony is on edge. But if we lose ourselves in our worry, it could cause some terrible psychological effects. Like hallucinations."

"...Are ya kidding me sugarcube?" Applejack raised an eyebrow at her.

Rarity sighed as she rolled her eyes "Allow me Darling, there's only one way to unfocus a pony as studious and dedicated as Twilight."

Rarity walked up to the front of Twilight and smiled at her "Twilight, sweetie, have you really not heard what has been going on for the last few minutes?"

Twilight didn't even time to look up at her, instead inspecting specks of dust that have a magical signature on it. "Hold on Rarity, I think I'm on to something. If I can just figure out what this is. We'll be that much closer to finding Anon."

Rarity sighed. "That's what I thought...forgive me everypony for what I'm about to do.." Rarity took a deep breath. So deep that when she stopped, her cheeks puffed out like balloons.

"Hit the deck Everypony!" Applejack dives down, covering her head with her hat.

Cheerilee didn't know what was going on. But she ducked her head and covered her ears as well. You had no fucking clue what was going on, and just looked on with curiousness. What, was Rarity going to blast Twilight or something?

Rarity finally released. "EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK!"

She released an extremely annoying, loud, bursting, high pitched squeal. Both you and Twilight were blown back from the sheer pain it caused in the ears. Oh god...oh god. you now felt for the diamond dogs, their pain was truly suffering.

Twilight fell backwards covering her ears, as you walked around without much balance in your step. Your ears were ringing. You trip and fall on Twilight's belly. Stick a fork in you, you were done.

Twilight shook her head, she was now angry "Rarity! what in the name of Celestia was that?! Why would you.....Anon?" She noticed you fallen on her belly. She then looked back to Rarity, confused as all hell. "Rarity...how did you get Anon to appear? I didn't know you could do that."

"Twilight...he had been standing there for awhile now. You were the only one not to notice. I simply did my best to get your attention. Though, I do have to apologize for it. Even my ears are ringing from the noise."

Chapter 130

"Ugh...my ears. I don't think I was ready for that..." You say as you rub your hoof in your right ear.

Rarity helped you off Twilight's belly with her magic before producing a another handkerchief to clean you up. "It's a good thing I brought a lot of these with me. A lady must always be prepared."

Applejack carefully lifted her hooves off her hat and ears and looked around "Is it over?"

"What? I haven't been able to hear anything since Rarity yelled" Twilight said in a slightly louder voice as she rubbed her inner ear with her hoof.

"What? what is everypony saying?" Even you had trouble hearing. You were still reorienting yourself. you didn't even notice Rarity cleaning up your face. You didn't even need a clean up really. not by your standards.

"Rarity, ya didn't make em deaf did you?" Applejack asked.

Twilight was giving her inner ear more pokes as you started to do it do it yourself. That ringing was annoying.

"No no dear, just enough to cause some disorientation. I didn't mean to deafen them, honest." Rarity said, a little worried more for you than for Twilight. as younger ears are more sensitive. "Anon...can you hear me?"

You look at Rarity, you were sure she was saying something. You could barely hear her from the ringing. Though thankfully it was going down, it wasn't going down fast enough. Though, you were sure you could make out what she was saying. "I sort of fear you, that was super loud, yeesh"

"No I said can you hear me." Rarity cleared her throat so she could speak louder "Can you hear me Anon?"

Still not clear enough, you thought you heard your name...or she was asking to take you out for a drink of bourbon.

Applejack took the time to check on Twilight "Hey Twi, ya ears stop ringin' yet?"

"For the most part. How long was Anon standing there? Was he hiding? I don't understand"

"Well,when he gets his hearing back, maybe he could tell us. Because I want to know why there had to be a big heap of trouble goin' on" Applejack took a look at you rubbing your ears. She was wondering if you yourself even know what happened.

"I don't think he knows either Applejack, when he was floating up in the air. He looked as scared and confused as anypony else." Cheerilee said, as she worried about the state of your ears.

"He didn't know what was going on?" Rarity asked

Applejack started to narrow her eyes "...I think I know exactly who the real troublemaker is now."

Twilight nodded before all three of them said "Discord"

You caught that, you're ears cleared up right at the sound of that word. "What about Dad?"

"You can hear now Anon?" Twilight asked

"Yeah, I can now. the ringing is pretty much gone"

"Good, then, would you mind telling us if you know anything about you exploding? The whole schoolhouse had to be closed down and the students had to be sent home."

Ohhh shit. your disoriented status had momentarily made you forget about the situation at hand. "Oh, um. It's kind of. It's a little bit of this and that."

"This and that? Anon, you exploded in front of an entire class. If you're scared..." Twilight wasn't going to blame you, she wasn't going to perform a repeat performance this time. "Then don't be, we just want to know what happened. We know you wouldn't do this"

You don't think any of them would be happy to hear Discord was the cause of it all. Specially for the reason as to why, or even possibly accidentally why, he did it. "It's complicated. uh, before I even say anything. I need the four of you not to get mad. Because uhh...technically. Nopony should be because this all happened during recess."

"Anon, all ya gotta do is be honest with with us. We ain't gonna go flyin' off the handle or nothin'." Applejack was trying to assure you, the unassurable.

You sigh. This was going to be interesting. "Discord teleported me all the way to Canterlot because he wanted to have a meeting with the Princesses. A meeting that had to do with the both of us."

"What does that brute want with the Princesses? Anon...he didn't threaten them, did he?" Rarity asked, already fearing the worst.

You shook your head. You needed to get that idea out immediately from everyone's heads. "No, nooo, no no. This was actually more of a social visit. See, he was wanting to meet with them to issue a challenge. It's sort of a duel of pranks. Set to happen on Nightmare Night. Me and him facing off against the princesses....pretty cool right?" You smile sheepishly as you let a "squee" escape your lips.

"Are you telling me the entire school went into an uproar because your father's methods of teleportation are horrible explosions?! Anon, I really....really need to have to have a talk with your father about using his magic during school time. And furthermore, I'd like it if Fluttershy was there too. Because Celestia knows he won't listen to me without her present" Cheerilee said. Utterly annoyed and aggravated at Discord's chaos.

"Well, um. Technically he did do it during recess. I mean, in the spirit of Nightmare Night, right? It is tomorrow and all." You tried to defuse the situation the best you could.

"Anon, are you actually defending him? This is serious. We thought something terrible had happened. I was going to write a letter to Celestia herself about this if I couldn't find you!" Twilight could not condone Discord's behaviour. Nightmare Night or not.

You really didn't need another fight with Twilight. Discord was still a friend. And considering the circumstances. Especially after you promised him. Then you'd consider Twilight into the promise, and defend him. Whether he appreciated it or not. "He's my Dad Twilight. He really didn't mean to cause any harm. So yeah, I'm going to defend him. You know how his magic is, things just happen. He was at least nice enough to wait till recess. Come on, can't we just give him a break. Just this once?"

"......." Cherilee sighed "I don't know what to say. Technically, Discord didn't break any rules." She still intended to have a chat with him though,

"Well somepony has got to say somethin'. Even if he didn't break the rules. My sister came a runnin' scared to death at the whole thing." Applejack wanted a decision to be made.

"So did Sweetie Belle. I could only imagine every filly and colt having nightmares about the whole thing. The poor little things. But, if Discord actually didn't mean for this to happen. We can't just condemn him for it." Rarity said. She wanted a decision too. But the fact that she was defending him, even a little. Caught the attention of everyone in the room. Even you. "What? He didn't break any rules. I know this may look like a time to be upset for what he has done. But Miss Cheerilee already has a way of handling it and the way I see it, we're now just wasting time here instead of letting everypony know that Anon is ok. I think letting the children know that everything is alright should be our top priority, don't you think?"

Woah, that was actually really logical. Then again. It was also a very polite and proper thing to do. Letting everyone know everything was ok was more important than being angry at Discord.

"Hmmm, You're right Rarity. The more time we spend here. The more time all the students will be worried and scared. Alright, I say we all personally go and tell the students and their parents that everything is ok. The quicker we move, the better we can ease everypony’s minds. If all four of us work together. We should be able to wrap this up before it gets out of hand" Twilight states

Cheerilee,Rarity, and Applejack nod "Right"

But wait.. "What about me? Can I come...I was actually wondering. since you're here and all Twilight. If we could have that talk."

Twilight cringed, she was half hoping that perhaps you'd have forgotten about it. But you hadn't. She was just afraid of touching upon any sensitive ground. "Anon...this is more important. If you want, you can wait at the castle until we're all done. It shouldn't take too long."

That was good enough for you. You were sure you didn't need to get involved in letting everyone know you were ok. Since four of them already were going to do it. The class wasn't that big. They should be able to handle everything in no time.

You nod. "Ok, good luck everypony...and I am sorry this had to happen." Ugh, the only thing to worry about really was how this was going to make Discord look. You'd have to play some defense if any of your classmates come to ask about it.

Before they went off however, Rarity wanted to make sure everything was fine with you. "Anon, there's nothing else troubling you at the moment right? I'd rather not leave without you being ok"

"What do you mean? Miss Rarity?"

Rarity giggled at that, all the trouble going on and you were still polite. That already eased her mind. "Well darling, Discord is your father. I can bet you're worried that this would tarnish his reputation. Am I correct?"

Oh holy shit what?! "....y-yeah, but how did you know I was worried about that?"

"Well, as a pony of high status. I can understand the fear that comes from your reputation being destroyed. And I don't know about anypony else. But every time I meet with you. You are always courteous and well mannered. And you are the kind of pony who always tries to right that which is wrong. A commendable trait indeed. Though I personally do not know Discord's efforts of raising you, I can at least appreciate it. Since all things considered, you aren't a little beast like he "can" be. And I like to give credit where credit is due....with that being said." Rarity turns to her friends. "Would you all mind if we try to make it sound more positive? Just a little bit of sugarcoating is all I ask. If not for Discord, then for Anon and Fluttershy. Remember, Fluttershy associates with Discord more than any of us. So this matter will also affect her as well."

Wooooooah, Rarity. Outright going the distance for Discord. This makes you think of the reasoning he gave you when it came to "adopting" you. It was actually taking.

"....I didn't even think of it that way. But, yer right Rarity. I can't think of any real wrongdoings Anon here has caused. Ya would think with Discord being his dad n' all. There would have been somethin' off. But there ain't nothin' but a good heart in that little body of his. Though, he could stand to do some hard work. He's a little too soft, if ya get my drift." Applejack was in.

"I still want to have a talk with him. But, I'm not going to argue with one of the elements of harmony. All I want is for my students to be at ease" Cheerilee was in.

".....you’re right Rarity. Even on the few meetings I've had with the both of them together. Anon has always been a good colt. " Twilight stated " Anon. Just wait at the castle for me. I'll be there as quick as I can. Alright everypony, let's not waste anymore time. Let's go!" And Twilight was in.

And with that. They were off. Cripes....you were so damn lucky. Saved by fashion horse really. That could have gone a lot worse. "Wellllll......that...could have gone a lot worse. Geez and all fuck. Thank you Rarity...thank you. I know you weren't really my favorite pony. But I'm really starting to reconsider it...somewhat. I dunno...I'm talking to myself again..."

You take a deep breath of relief, and head off to the castle. trying to get other thoughts in your head. "Huh....I can't believe I haven't run into Trixie yet. I wonder how'd she react if I pretended to be a unicorn and just did some crazy magic trick. I wonder what she's even doing. Season 3 was so long ago. Man...I hope she's ok. Then again, Gilda turned out fine and we hadn't seen her since Season 1. It'll be fine."

You reach the castle and head towards the doors. You try pushing them and...yup...still unlocked and easy to break into. Twilight...come on.

You walk through the entrance hall and into the cutie map room. Looking at the thrones. You decide sitting at Fluttershy's was probably the most appropriate. She was technically family after all.

And so you do. You plant your little butt right on it and take a look at the map itself. It was..amazing really. Was that really all of Equestria? or maybe not. It being fit onto a table made it seem so small. A globe may have been small too. But it was to at least a certain scale. You could see pieces of the actual world on the map.

"Twilight! Are you back yet? This Jewel Gelatin isn't going to eat itself you know. I spent all morning making sure there were no jewels on your side. So come on, let's dig in!"

And there was Spike, in an apron. He was bringing in a gigantic platter with a huge purple gelatin glob on it. Half was encrusted with jewels...the other, stuffed with hay and flowers. You didn't know if you wanted him to see you or not. But hey, you were gonna be alone with him for awhile. Maybe he wouldn't be so bad one on one.

Spike spots you on the seat however, kind of taking away your choice to be able to walk out. "Anon?..what? What are you doing here?"

"Twilight told me to hang out here until she got back"

You expected a bigger reaction from him. considering the current dilemma. "Oh, that's kind of weird. Applejack and Rarity were here earlier yelling about you and explosions. what did you do? set off a firecracker at school or something?"

You shook your head. "No, I was the firecracker."

"Uhhh, you're gonna have to be a little more clear about that buddy. What do you mean you were the "firecracker"? "

"I mean I was the one who exploded. Nopony told you what happened?"

Spike set the gelatin down on the map table and sat on Twilight's seat. "Nah, I was busy making this gelatin treat. When I came out to ask about it, everypony already left. You look pretty good for having exploded though. I wouldn't be able to tell the difference."

"That's because I was actually teleported by my dad. We had some business with the princesses in Canterlot."

"Is that so?" Spike rubbed his chin, intrigued "Huh...You're already rubbing elbows with the big wigs huh? Or did they just want to see you and Discord because he was up to something again?"

"Actually, it was Discord who wanted to see them. And it went rather well. We'll be seeing them again tomorrow." You didn't feel inclined to tell him any specifics. You just wanted to pass the time until Twilight got back.

"Seriously? They want to see you AND Discord again? Wow Anon, you got some crazy charismatic thing going for ya. How about lending some of that kind of luck to your good ole pal, Spike." Spike leans over, and wiggles his eyebrows at you...ehhhh, you automatically knew what he was up to. He seemed to be fixated on the fact that you had this charm that he didn't have. But why the fixation?

"Spike...I barely know you. And whenever I run into you. It's always something. Why me? Why not anypony else?"

"Pfft, Anon. What are you talking about? I don't do that"

Oh really? ...Well, you had a way to prove that wrong. "I guess you don't, oh by the way, Rarity gave me a kiss when I saw her at the school. Lots of kisses. She was really worried about me. I think she likes me...alot" And then you stare, right into his big baby dragon eyes. You were waiting. Because if that didn't get him to crack. Then you would be the one who was wrong.

Spike didn't even resist. He just broke down and fell on his knees, begging at you profusely. "Anon...Anon come on. I can never ever get Rarity to do that. You can't just do that to me. Come on, help a bro out. Tell me your secrets! I've known Rarity longer than you and it already sounds like you got her eating out of the frog of your hoof. How can I do that!?" He grabbed your leg and started to cover his face in it, crying. "Tell meeeeeee"

...You knew it, it was obvious Spike was jealous. you actually felt sorry for him. He didn't have the kind of charm you had....even if it was mostly Discord's doing when it came to the cuteness of it and the situations brought upon you.

"Spike, she didn't actually do that. I just said that to prove a point. You seem to think that I'm some sort of magical walking mass of charisma"

Spike,realizing his own foolishness, stood up, brushed off his arms, then turned away to hide away his embarrassment. He tried to act all cool about it."N-not really. I was just uhhhh...testing you"

"On what?"

"uhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh...." Spike could come up with absolutely nothing.

"I knew it. Spike, what's the deal...really?" You sit back on Fluttershy's seat, ready for his explanation.

"you're not gonna judge me right? I'm not gonna tell you anything if you're just gonna laugh at me." Spike pointed his claw at you, being direct on wanting your word that you won't laugh.

"You want me to Pinkie Promise?"

Spike nods "Definitely, because if you break that. Then all I gotta do is tell Pinkie Pie and you'll be in a big heap of trouble"

"Is that a threat?" No seriously, was he threatening you with a Pinkie Promise?

"I'm just covering my bases, this is some pretty sensitive stuff I'm gonna tell you. And I don't want it leaving this room"

Right, you shouldn't be surprised. The way he's been acting. he had his own personal "good" reasons as to why he's been acting that way. So you do it, you make the Pinkie Promise. "Ok...now what's up? Why do you keep treating me like I can be your own personal tool"

"Oh come on Anon, I wouldn't say "own personal tool". That makes me sound like , I dunno, Discord."

You just silently stare at him.

He started to rub the back of his head as he realized that actually may have been the case "Ok...maybe I was a little heavy handed. But coooome on. You have to have noticed at least one reason why I keep bothering you about it whenever I see you."

"I don't, that's why I'm asking."

Spike sighed, more like he didn't want to lay it all out. "You have all this charm coming out the wazoo! I know you've had Applebloom and Diamond Tiara after you, I first noticed it when you came by the castle with Diamond Tiara that one time. and who knows who else you got fallen for you. And Rarity, come on! After you gave her those gems for the dresses. It was "Anon is amazing all things considering" this and "I wonder if Anon could be my personal assistant" that! She told me she wanted you as a personal assistant! WHYYYYYYYY...why....why did she have to say that!? It's insane. I'm supposed to be her personal assistant!"

Oh good lord, it seems you had been putting him through the ringer without even knowing it. But there were a few things he said that irked you. "Spike, you do know I turned down and Apple Bloom and Diamond Tiara right?"

"What?"

You nod. "Yeah, I'm not interested in them. As for Rarity, I-"

Spike suddenly hopped up on the map and pointed at you. "No you don't, I won't let you"

What? "You won't let me what?"

"Take Rarity's heart. I saw her first!" Spike started putting up his claws like a boxer "I saw her first!"

If you had ever had to facepalm harder...this would be the time for the hardest facepalm ever. "Spike, I'm not going to fight you."

"Y-you better not, I can kick butt and throw fireballs all over the place. You wouldn't stand a chance." Spike makes a few "threatening " kung-fu movements at you. "Now are you gonna lay off Rarity or what?"

"I'm not even on her Spike. Weren't you just trying to employ me to help you before?"

"I did, until.....ugh..." Spike looked down in shame, putting down his stance. "What's the point? I've been around Ponyville for a long time and she doesn't ever really look my way. You just got here and you got all sorts of admirers and ponies crushing on you. It's not fair!"

...Ah, it was jealousy alright.. Poor guy. You didn't mean to make him suffer. You can't even call him immature for it. He was just a baby dragon after all.

You sigh. "Spike, I understand how you feel. It was pretty overwhelming for me too. But I turned down Applebloom and Diamond Tiara as I've said. As for Rarity..and let me finish this time..I highly doubt she has any sort of crush on me. How many times does she even mention me in front of you?"

"A few times. I mean, maybe I over exaggerated a little on how much she mentioned you. But still, the moments she did. She was really really happy about it. I even asked her sister Sweetie Belle what she thought of you, and you know what she told me?"

…Oh no...you had to gear up for this one. Because you actually had no idea how she felt. Was she keeping anything secret? "Uhm..what?"

"She said "He's alright.." GYAAAH!" Spike held his head in horror as he screamed ""He's alright"? That's practically next to "heads over hooves in love". Why can't I attract Rarity like that, it just isn't fair!"

..Uh.....ok, now he was just overreacting. Sounded like Sweetie Belle wasn't into you at all.
"Spike, did you ever consider that she meant that she just wants to be friends? Because I've never actually seen her attracted to me. Same with Rarity. Rarity is just really friendly, that's all"

"Are you serious Anon?" Spike walked across the map towards you. putting his claws to his face as he shakes it in disbelief "Maybe I shouldn't have been worried after all. You don't know anything about the ladies."

Oh hell no, he didn't just say that. "Excuse me? And you do? You were the one freaking out. Spike, stop being a dunce and start using your head. If I wanted a marefriend. I would have taken one of the ones available to me. But I didn't. So don't even assume you know more than me. Especially since you're the one having the trouble. And as for Rarity. Drop it, the only reason you're having a spaz now is because I did something nice for her and she complimented me for it. The only reason I did it was because I made a mess of her dress in the first place. I was fixing a mistake. That's all there is to it. Now, can we stop this...please? It's really starting to get on my nerves."

"Wait..hold on. You mean you did all that because you ruined her dress? You were the one who did that?"

You nod. "Yes,"

"And, so you didn't do it as a gesture of love or anything?"

"Uh huh"

"So you aren't interested in Rarity?"

“Yep"

"And so, the only reason you turned down Apple Bloom and Diamond Tiara because you really just aren't interested?"

"That's what I'm saying."

Spike had tears form in his eyes as he fell to his knees, clenching his claws. "Oh thank Celestia, I still have a chance."

In hell maybe, but hopefully this ends that nonsense. "Yeah...so, you gonna stop pestering me about all this?"

Spike looks at you, and nods. "Alright, I will. But you gotta promise that you'll never ever EVER go after Rarity. Got it?"

You don't even ask, you Pinkie Promise...again. "Ok, now that we got that settled. I think we should clean up that gelatin from the floor. I'm sure Twilight doesn't like messes in her castle."

"You mean I'll clean it up." Spike insisted as he hopped off the cutie map table.

"You don't want any help?”

Spike started to stuff his face with the gem stuffed part of it first "Nope, I'm good."

...Course, he's just wants to eat it. Well, he did make it. And it would go to waste if it wasn't eaten. But off the floor?

"So....Anon. what's it like being Discord's son...really. What's the scoop?"

"Eh" You weren't going to disclose anything important. But you would at least indulge him. maybe try to have a normal friendship with him. "It's not bad. Dad's pretty cool. You know about my horn right?"

Spike nods "Of course. Is that thing really that powerful?"

You nod. "It's pretty powerful, I don't really know if it has any actual limits. But I can use it once per day and so far I can do whatever I want with it"

"Anything you want huh?...hmm"

Nnnooooopppeee. "Don't even think about it. It's not something I just lend out."

"Alright alright, can't blame me for wanting to ask"

"Ok, I got one for you then. What's it like being Twilight's assistant?"

"The best job ever!" Spike grabs some glob covered gems and slams them into his mouth and chews. "Besides being the only dragon trusted to be Princess Twilight's assistant, and that's before she even became a princess by the way. I also get to go on a lot of cool adventures. Makes life pretty interesting. Fighting monsters, fixing friendships, smashing up bad guys. Yup, it's the life. Especially if it pays out in these juicy babies" Spike munches on another gem. "Yup, handling all the important stuff behind the scenes is real work. But the rewards are worth it."

"You mean in your friendships too right?"

"Well duh, of course I mean that....and also gems."

"So what do you think of Twilight herself? Like a sister, a mother? What?"

"A mother? Nah. But sister is what I'd like to think of it. But like my younger sister. Twilight wouldn't be as far as she is now without her number one assistant. Yup, I've had to keep her in check a ton of times. You wouldn't believe how many times she goes off the handle."

........You could believe it, and then there was the time he did manage to cool her down enough to be reasonable when she was sealing you. Infact. "Actually Spike, I wanna thank you for something."

"Thank me? For what?" Spike wiped his face with his arm, he finished off the gelatin. even Twilight's side. Well, it was clean at least.

"For believing me for me being me back when Twilight was trying to seal me. You kind of saved my butt there. She probably would have done it if it was just me and her. In fact, I kind of want to start our friendship from there."

Spike stood up and sat back on his seat. "Huh? ahh don't sweat it Anon. I couldn't leave you hanging you know. Like I said, Twilight has her moments. That's why I'm here to balance her out. But what do you mean start our friendship from there?"

"Because it's much better to start it out where there was actual friendship rather than you trying to get my "dating" tips"

Dating tips...ugh. You weren't even that good at it. You keep getting teased and toyed with. And you can't even say it's annoying because the attention of the opposite sex...it's always nice. Sometimes.

"Ohhh, I getcha. ha..." Spike was actually feeling a little unsure about that "So you really wanna be my friend huh? Even after all that?"

"I wouldn't have asked you about Twilight or thanked you if I didn't."

A small smile formed on Spike's face. Relieved that he didn't actually ruin the possibility of your friendship. He knew you had managed to ingrain yourself among the mane 6. And so he knew, especially from Twilight being the social worker at the time, that you'd be around more than any other pony usually would.

"Yeah, I guess I should have realized that. Well..." Spike leans back and puts his leg over the other. "I guess since were actually bros now. We can hang out, do stuff, and if you ever need any help, just let me know. Especially if it comes to helping Rarity."

Hah...should have expected that. But he seemed a lot more relaxed about it now. In more of a friendly manner than another way to get into Rarity's "pants". "Alright, cool. I gotta warn you though. If you're gonna be my buddy, you're also gonna have to deal with my dad whenever he decides to show up. Think you can handle it?"

You were serious about that question. Discord could do some serious messing about with Spike in the fray. You were sure he had zero respect for the little dragon.

"Pfft, of course. If you can handle him, I can handle him. Noooooo problem" Spike said with confidence as he leaned back further, closing his eyes with a cool smile across his face. Resting his arms behind his head. You probably couldn't trust him on that. But what were you to do?

And that’s when the chamber doors opened. It was Twilight. And she was looking pretty frustrated...hopefully not at you.

"Hey Twilight! woah...what happened to you?" Spike noticed as well.

"I had to shake off a filly who wouldn't let go of my leg..." Twilight then looked at you "Anon, did you promise a filly you'd marry her?"

...Oh goddammit... "What?! No...sorta...I know who you're talking about. And I told her if I never ever fell in love with any other pony then I'd sort of kind of...you know. Actually try dating her. And...ahh geez. What did she do?"

"Well, besides yelling at me that it was my fault that you exploded, because apparently I wasn't doing my job as a princess. She also started to grab at my leg when I told her you were ok. She wanted to see if I was telling the truth. She even grabbed onto my wings, And...well..." Twilight lifts her right wing....oh geez, looked bad. "She held on pretty tight" a lot of her feathers were either out of place or straight out missing. "...Yeah...luckily her father managed to get her to calm down. I told her I'd send you her way when I was done speaking with you."

Agh....dammit. You tried to play it straight though. You couldn't imagine what kind of pain a pegasus or Alicorn goes through when their wing gets fucked up like that. "Oh..haha..sorry about that. Yeah, she's sort of attached to me, sort of not. I'll a, yeah..I'll go see her when we're done. But Twilight, I mean. If you just want to go and relax. I'm ok with that. You look like you had it rough,"

"No..." Twilight moved over to her seat and immediately planted her butt down on it, putting her legs down in front as she looked at you with a serious, yet oddly adorable expression as she retracted her wing. "We're doing this now. You've waited long enough. I will not do anything else until we've had this discussion."

"Gee, Twilight. Are you sure you don't wanna get some rest? Maybe a drink? I mean, how serious can this talk be?" Spike was already worried. This was a chat with a colt after all. In his mind, not worth stressing over.

"You're right...Spike, get me a drink. And get Anon a drink. Just a cup of water for the both of us" Twilight never took her gaze off of you.

"O-ok Twilight...but uh..don't go crazy while i'm getting some water, ok? I don't wanna have to hit you on the back of the head."

"I'll be fine Spike. I promise everything will be ok."

"..Ok...then I'm just gonna get some water for the both of you.." Spike stepped off his seat, and slowly, walking backwards, keeping his eye on Twilight, hesitated leaving the room "yup...gonna get some water...help cool you down....make sure nothing happens… yup… water… right.... Ok… leaving the room....opening the door.....going through the door...." And he was gone.

Wow, you actually felt nervous as Twilight looked at you. You didn't fear her trying to banish you this time. You knew she knew better. But that expression. She wasn't going to take you lightly just because you were a colt. She was ready for a serious debate.

Chapter 131

"So Anon, where should we begin? Don't feel intimidated just because I'm a princess and...I.." Twilight sighed, she still felt really bad about it. "..tried to seal you before. I'm calm, I'm cool, I'm fine. The only thing I should warn you about is that I have personal and book read experiences with Changelings. So, since this is as I assume, a serious talk. You won't mind me correcting you when necessary. Right?"

Hrnnn, correcting you huh? You wonder how much she knew when compared to you. It was a little annoying she'd even mention that. Considering your current situation with the whole changeling hive itself. But you couldn't blame her, how was she supposed to know?But...if that was going to be the case.

You nod. "That's ok, but if that's going to be the case. I want to skip the straight into the heart of the subject. The changeling queen herself"

The queen? hrn. Twilight didn't know what to think if you wanted to go straight to that. She couldn't accuse you of BEING the queen of course. But it did make her wonder what you actually wanted to talk about. And what you wanted to talk about? exactly what you wanted to try last time. Try to have her come to an understanding, and maybe even willing to give changelings a chance.....of course if you ever manage to reform them.

"Ok, then let's start with that." Twilight was eager and ready. And curious as to where this might be leading. She wondered, even after her screw up, why you seemed interested in the changelings. Especially, to her, after they tried to frame you.

Ok,so far so good. "Twilight, what do you personally think of Queen Chrysalis?"

Well, that caught Twilight a little off guard. She was sure you knew her personal feelings on the matter. Or perhaps, the conversation was being restarted from the beginning completely. Nonetheless, she would answer it, if only to keep her word. "She's a menace. She's conquered towns and even kingdoms in the past. She has no care for any beings other than herself. She uses and abuses anypony she sees fit. And I don't think I have to mention my run in with her, nor the fact of her attempt to frame you."

That was the answer you were expecting. Predictable as ever. "Right, thought as much. But, what would you say to actually reforming her? Or do you think that's impossible?"

Like before, red flags were being set off in Twilight's mind. Again she grew suspicious. But this time, not of you being queen Chrysalis. But she couldn't quite put her hoof on what was bothering her. "Anon, she's a criminal of pure evil intent. She's no better than Sombra or Tirek"

And here comes the slapshot. "What about Dad?"

"What about him?"

"Come on Twilight. You know what I'm getting at. Are you going to tell me you never had the same thought about my dad too?"

Twilight cringed. She could remember when Celestia suggested reforming him in the first place. She had thought the same thing as well. That it was impossible without some sort of spell being cast. She also found it almost scary that you even had a possibility of knowing that, as if Discord had been feeding you more information than a colt should be thinking about.

"I have, but Discord I would say...was never actually evil in the first place. only extremely selfish to the point where he thought messing with the entire world was the only good feeling he could ever feel in his life."

"And did you think that too when he committed the act of the highest treason imaginable? And possibly doomed all pony kind?"

Twilight nodded. "I did, that's why I forgave him. I admit, I was angry at him at first. But I could see in his eyes he regretted everything he did. And the fact that he could even feel remorse for betraying us, that led me to believe that he was in fact, capable of good. But Anon, you can't expect me to say the same thing about Queen Chrysalis. She's actually evil, she understands the cruelty and pain that she causes."

Twilight was right about that. With your own conversations with Chrysalis. She delighted in the fact of causing pain and misery and being evil. And yet, you managed to befriend her on a neutral level. Despite her using you, abusing you, teasing you, and nearly killing you. You still managed to do it. And that was a start. "So you don't think it's possible to even befriend her?"

"No, she would never accept friendship. It's not in her nature." Twilight sighed, her next words were a little hard for her to say, considering her general dislike of Chrysalis. Especially with the more recent events of her trying to ruin her sister in law's parenthood. "...but if I was given a chance, I would attempt to try to reform her. As the Princess of Friendship, it is my duty to at least try."

"What about as Twilight Sparkle?"

"What do you mean? I am Twilight Sparkle."

"What I mean is, if you didn't have the title of princess. Would you still try to reform her? There's a difference between duty, and wanting to try for yourself."

Who was this colt? He clearly wasn't normal. He was smarter than any colt she had ever seen alright. Able to hold his own and somehow, through Discord or otherwise, have an insight of going ons he wasn't there for. And then there was his fascination with changelings. What was the deal with that?

"I...hmmm. No, I'd still try. If there was even a single shred of possibility to try to reform Queen Chrysalis. Then I'd do my best in trying. Anon, but you have to understand, I don't think such a possibility exists. I don't understand why we are even talking about this. You do know me and the other princesses sealed up her and her entire hive. Right? So even if there was a possibility. It's too late. She's in Tartarus, serving her sentence for her crimes. Why do you have this weird ..I dunno...thing about it? She's not the kind of friend you'd want. Come on, there's Applebloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle...and....Diamond Tiara.... "

Twilight looked at her damaged wing for a second, that filly held on hard, ruffled feathers with a few torn."I know their your friends, and in my personal opinion, that's what you should be focusing on. Friendship with your fellow foals."

...You had to stop to think. you couldn't go any further on that without revealing that you had already made a friendship with her. She already looked like she was getting suspicious. "...maybe you're right. I dunno, maybe I just thought she could turn it around. Banishment seems just...really scary. Hey Twilight, what if though. She was to escape banishment, and then become reformed and good. Would you give her a chance then?"

Upon hearing those words, Twilight gave you a hard, deep, stare. As if she was peering into your thoughts. "No..."

"No? Wait..so you-"

Twilight shook her head. "No, as in you better not ask your dad to break her out just so you yourself could attempt to befriend her. It's not safe. And she'll surely use you to meet her own ends. She might kidnap you Anon, just to manipulate Discord. With that kind of power, who knows what she could do. Not to mention the trouble we'd have with Discord. We wouldn't know what'd we could do fighting him on the notion that he'd only be fighting back because you're being held hostage."

"I don't think dad would have trouble breaking me out himself if anything were to happen. But, no. You don't have to worry. I never intended on asking my dad to break her out or anything like that. I was just wondering, if she came to you. Willing to try and be good. To help ponykind, and live peacefully among ponies. Would you give her that chance."

Twilight stayed silent, started to think, silently murmuring to herself. As she did, Spike came back holding two tall glasses of water. "Hey everypony, got the water....nopony is hurt right?" Spike put your glass of water in front of you, and then placed Twilight's glass in front of her, on top of the cutie map table. He then looked at the silent princess. "....uhhh, did I miss anything? Or did you guys wait for me to get water?"

Twilight didn't answer though, she just magically brought the glass to her lips and took a drink, then went back to thinking. Spike walked over to you, to see if you'd say something "What's going on? I don't usually see Twilight think that hard unless she's either trying to figure out a really hard scientific or magic problem or she's trying to decide whether she needs to organize a bookcase or go to the bathroom."

...huh, that's..uh. An interesting tidbit.

"She's thinking of a decision to a question I asked her."

"What question is that? Come on Anon, it couldn't be that hard a question. Stumping Twilight like this is next to impossible. She's a really smart mare."

"I asked her if she'd be willing to give Chrysalis a chance if she'd be willing to be good."

"oh is that a-...." Then it hit Spike as soon as he remembered who that name belonged to. "WHAT?! Anon, are you nuts? She's like..the queen of all things evil. There's no way she'd ever be good."

You didn't want to have this discussion with Spike. There was no point, he didn't really have the power to do anything and it looked like he had the same, if not stronger opinion on it than Twilight.

"....I would." Twilight said, with extreme consideration behind it. "But the conditions would be harsh. And it would only be with her, her hive wouldn't be allowed anywhere near civilization. But if she could prove that she'd really be willing to change. Then despite everything, even the fact that she escaped to do this. Then yes...I would give her a chance....just one chance."

That's all you needed to hear. if she'd be willing to try. That just means you'd have to get Chrysalis to that point....if you ever could.

"Anon, I know you're smarter than you look. So I'm going to ask you a question, and I want an honest answer. Whatever you tell me, I'll believe you. So please be honest."

Oh geez, well, you shouldn't be surprised. It is a discussion. but your honesty would depend on the question. "Sure, what's the question?"

"Have you ever made contact with Queen Chrysalis? Especially after her banishment. I feel like there’s something you're not telling me. Nopony gets an interest like yours unless they actually had contact with the subject matter"

Well...that was...quite the question....quite the question indeed. And unfortunately for you. You couldn't just tell her "lardy da, how'd ya guess? I'm keeping her in my basement". You'd have to lie, and try to get out of here. Conversation was over at this point. You got what you wanted. "No, but with the fact that she tried to frame me and my Dad. It just got me curious as to the kind of being she is. I'd like to think everypony can be reformed if given the time and effort. And after doing some studying myself on the subject of changelings. I just don't know. I think they are getting a bit of a bum deal just because of the kind of food source they need to survive"

"You mean love?....hmmmm..." Twilight started to think on it herself "You mean the fact that they'd have no choice but to prey on ponies just so they can survive. Right?"

You nod. "Yeah, it pretty much forces them to be evil. Because what pony would just be willing to give up their love to them willingly, right? I think it's sad. If there was a way to convince the ponies to just give up just enough love for them to be still fine and ok. Or perhaps a sustainable food source so nopony would have to suffer at all; While at the same time the changelings lending their own culture and abilities to help out ponykind. I think everything would be ok. In fact, I'd think life would improve in Equestria. Changelings seem pretty powerful in a group. The queen did beat Princess Celestia. They'd make some awesome knights if ever a threat showed up. Don't you think?"

"Hmnnn..." Twilight wanted to think hard on this. The fact that they did need to feed on love was rather unfortunate. But..to her. Their fighting prowess was irrelevant if they couldn't be tamed. "Anon, if there was a way to coexist. It would have to take a lot of time for it to actually happen. Their queen would have to be willing to be good, and then it would require everypony accepting the fact that the changelings would be willing to try to be good. And that's really hard, not a lot of ponies would be willing to just let changelings move right in on the chance that they were being truthful. It just doesn't happen that way. They wouldn't just have to prove it to me, they'd have to prove it to everypony. Especially the other princesses. Unless all of us allow it, then there's not even a chance other ponies would."

"Well..I doubt they'd be willing to actually live with other ponies anyway. They do have a hive for a reason. In that sense, it could be their own little town. The way I'd think this could work is that all the princesses accept them. They get to live on their own. They'll show up from time to time and show their good tidings. Maybe giving ponies gifts, or teaching them about their culture, and even helping out with projects...like building new houses or being actors in a play. And if a threat ever shows up, say...along the lines of Sombra. They would be more than willing to answer the call to arms. And join alongside ponykind to defend their home. I'm not saying full integration here Twilight, just enough forgiveness for coexistence."

Twilight had clearly underestimated you. Whenever she came up with a way to deter you, you just came back with a logical reason. She didn't know what you actually wanted. She was beginning to think you lied to her and actually had contact with the queen. She just couldn't prove it. She was actually expecting you to ask her to find a way to unbanish her, just to give it a shot. But...why?...she couldn't figure out the why. To her, even IF you had contact with her, she had no leverage on you to make that kind of request......not unless.... "Anon, I'm going to admit right now. You're not smart. You're a genius. A prodigy among foals. I've never EVER met a colt like you. I know you've probably heard that a lot. But, wow. I honestly can't believe you don't have a cutie mark yet. Because that kind of genius is talent within itself."

You smile to her, a warm smile. Hiding the fact that you think you won this debate. That wasn't tough....though you did have to lie....again. But this time, it didn't feel so bad. Maybe it was because you felt you were trying to save an entire race. "Thank you Twilight, but I'm just a regular colt like everypony else. I just umm...like to think a lot"

"I've noticed. Your parents probably would have been very proud of you if they saw you now. Anon, do you know exactly what happened to them?"

...Ahh crap what do you do? Do you look depressed? Do you look like that angers you? Fuck...no, go for sad..

You look down, trying to drum up sad depressive emotions in you. "I don't, I don't remember them even. I was really young. I just remember them existing."

"...Oh geez" Spike said, already feeling bad for you. He walked up to you and gave you a pat on the back. "Yo Anon, I know that feeling. I don't know my parents either. But hey, that's ok. You wanna know why?"

"Why?" You say, already knowing the answer.

"Because my friends are my family. Besides, other dragons stink. All they like to do is beat things up and pull mean pranks"

"Thanks Spike" You smile, like it was part of a script. "I really needed that"

"No problem bro, that's what friends are for"

Well, that ruled out you having "seen" your parents lately. So that only left one other possibility. Twilight was thinking it was impossible anyway for you to have had contact with Chrysalis post banishing. That would require Discord taking you straight to her. She thought that would be too ultimately far fetch'd. Discord wouldn't do that, he'd have no reason to, not even for kicks. So what? The spell didn't get all the changelings? What if there were a few stragglers outside the old tower. She didn't even think of that. What if you had come in contact with them, and they promised you something large in return of convincing her to let Queen Chrysalis out....but no, how could that be it? You didn't actually ask if they could just be let out for an attempt to be made. You said if she'd be willing to give her a chance if she's willing to be good. A decision that would have to be made before actually letting her out. But that would require contact with her. But the way you spoke, it was all hypothetical. Nothing was making sense. The only way this would be possible is if you had constant contact with her. And again, she doubted that was the case.

There's just no way. So Twilight just accepted it, you really just were a curious colt who wanted to try to bring peace among races. A noble thing to want, no doubt, but next to impossible to accomplish. "Anon, I know what you want from this. But please understand. It's not as simple as taking their word for it. It was decided they needed to be banished because of the actions they were trying to take. I can't just overturn it...."

Twilight couldn't fathom why you wanted this anyway. Maybe...just maybe you were to order as Discord was to chaos. An odd combination indeed. Or maybe you were just as naive as you were smart. So maybe..if that's the case. She could leave you with some reassuring words she knows would never actually come about. "But, if you're really keen on all of this. Then maybe, if Chrysalis was to ever escape captivity. Which could happen. Heh, it's not like it hasn't happened before with...others. And she was willing to turn over a new leaf. Then I'd see what I could do. How does that sound?"

Well, you accomplished what you essentially needed from Twilight. Now all you needed was Chrysalis actually wanting redemption. You smile excitingly, from actual excitement that you managed one of your goals, and speak in a cheerful tone "Gee Twilight, that's really great! No wonder you're the Princess of Friendship. The fact you're actually willing to try just shows how benevolent you really are. But, you're not just joshing right?"

"I give you my word as the Princess of Friendship, Anon. But don't give your hopes up, ok? I'm not saying any of those things will actually happen. I'm just telling you IF it happens."

You nod. "I understand. I hope, if Chrysalis ever does get out. That she's willing to be good."

Ok, everything seemed to have gone ok. It was essentially the same conversation as last time. But this time, it went very well. Twilight felt she had done a good job. She still was very impressed with your knowledge. But, thanks to your "naivety" that any child would have. She managed to end the discussion in such a way that wouldn't upset you. She felt like she had done an excellent job. She didn't even have to worry, no way Chrysalis was ever gonna get out. Because deep inside, Twilight felt there was surely no way she'd ever truly reform. Although, another part of her did want it to happen. She did think about the whole thing about their source of food. Something like that would force a race to become forceful if there were no willing beings.

For you though, it was just another step in your plan. "Well Twilight, thanks for the talk. It was real fun having a debate with you. I know nothing will ever come of it. But, I just really wanted to know your thoughts. And I'm glad you're not as mean as I thought you were. You have a real big heart."

Twilight felt her heart skip a beat when you said "mean as I thought". Ugh, she was never ever truly gonna get over the fact she nearly sealed a colt because she thought Chrysalis had avoided banishment somehow. "Anon...I'm glad to hear that from you. But, what I did to you. I had no right, even as a princess, to enact a banishment on a whim."

"It's ok Twilight, i'm over it. Really." Oh geez, come on Twilight.

"Yeah Twilight, come on. Don't get yourself down again. You nearly fell apart last time" Spike ran over to her, and jumped up to give her a hug. "Anon forgives you, so don't, ok? For me Twilight? Can't go upsetting your number one assistant too right?"

Twilight gently embraces Spike in a hug "I'm sorry Spike, it's just. I guess I felt like I was a tyrant. That I was no better than somepony like Sombra."

You still had a few hard feelings. But, you couldn't hold on to them. Twilight lost sleep over what she did, she got sick over it. That was enough, you thought. In making it up to you. So, with that in mind. You got off your seat and joined in on the hug. "It's fine Twilight. Like I said, don't worry about it. Just forget about it, and move on."

Twilight embraced the both of you as tears slowly filled her eyes. "Thanks you guys. I, I wouldn't be anywhere without friends like you. And I mean that for you too Anon. I know we don't know each other too much. But you're as good a friend as any. Especially.." Twilight giggles as she takes a moment to wipe a tear away. "Since you seem to have a handle on your father. He's been so much better since you've been around. He still has his quirks, but he seems to understand more and more everyday what it means to be friendly and good."

Ooohh boy, how wrong she is. "Thanks Twilight, I'm happy to hear that. And thanks for the talk, really. It was really interesting."

"It was, wasn't it? I was just impressed that you managed to keep up the whole way. I even thought about some of the things you said. I hope you thought about a few of the things I said too Anon, I know there’s always a chance for redemption . But just remember, Some don't want to become good. But if they want to reform,The best we can do is give them a chance if they are willing."

You nod. "Yeah, I got it...and.." Oh crap.. "Diamond Tiara! AGH, I totally forgot about her!"

You knew Applejack would calm down Applebloom, so you didn't need to worry about that. But Diamond Tiara was beyond stubborn. You atleast just wanted to calm her down if she was going that crazy over it. ...Though..you should see Applebloom too just in case. If only to make sure there was no bias.

"No problem, just hop on my back and I'll fly you over to her." Twilight got off of her chair and spread her wings wide.

"Uhhhh...Twilight...umm..did you forget-" Spike tried to warn her

"Not now Spike, I have to get Anon to that filly! She was freaking out so badly. I actually forgot about it myself. And as the Princess of Friendship, I must right that wrong!"

"Twilight..I don't thin-" Even you knew she couldn't do this

"Anon, there's no time for words! I'm telling you, I've never seen a filly that upset before. She jumped really high. Enough that when I was about this high off the ground..." Twilight lifted herself off the ground with her wings, but her mangled wing couldn't keep lift, and she fell face first on the ground. "....ogh....."

You and Spike both spoke at the same time. "We tried to tell you, Twilight"

".......Right...I'm just going to lay here for a little bit and contemplate why I thought it was ok for me to try and do that." Twilight said as she laid in her own failure

Chapter 132

Welp, with that. You had to go on your way. You told Twilight that you could get there on your own and to take care of her wing. She accepted, still wanting to find a way to transport you there faster. But hey, it'd be fine. It'd give you time to think of what the fuck you're gonna do when you actually get there.

Hell, as you dashed off to her house. You were trying to remember exactly what you promised. Was it marriage? Did you say marriage? You know you said something if you couldn't find a mare that you'd pick her. But that far? Uggghhhh, you were just wanting out of the relationship so much that you said yes without too much thinking. You felt like you were in some kind of harem anime that just wouldn't end.

And what of Applebloom? You didn't even know what she thought of the whole thing or if Applejack could even calm her down. Fuck, you were going to have to be careful with all this. Diamond Tiara first though, she was obviously the most affected.

You could see the manor along the side. Good thing you still remembered where it was because it's been some time. It has been some time. And as you walk over to the door. A thought occurs. "...ahh shit...what if her dad is home?....nahhhh, he would have probably raised some sort of fit and had a group looking for you or something. He's not here....talking to myself again." You knock on the door, and wait.

And the door begins to slowly open. Was it DT? Her maid? Your pupils shrink the moment you see who's at the door.

..It was Filthy Rich, and he didn't look too happy to see you. Though, you thanked your lucky stars it wasn't Spoiled Rich...that would have spelled doom.

Well, the chance of him being busy somewhere else in Equestria was out the window. Whether he came home to comfort his daughter, or he was already home was now irrelevant. You put on your best smile, while sweating bullets. This was not a guy you wanted to piss off. "Good afternoon Mr.Rich..u-umm, is Diamond Tiara home."

Filthy Rich steps aside, to open the door wider for you. "She is, but Mr. Anon, would you please join me in my study for a private talk. I'd like to know more about this little promise you had with my little darlin'."

........Ooohhh god nnoooooo. You nod slowly and silently and slowly step inside as Filthy Rich leads you into his study. Man, you've only ever been in there when you were in trouble.
"Take a seat Mr.Anon." Filthy Rich pointed to a small seat set up right in front and facing a much bigger, comfier seat. He had really been waiting for you afterall.

You gulp and nod, your ears drooping down. "Yes sir..Mr. Rich" Ahh shit, no magic in the world was going to fix this. What was he going to say? What was he going to do? Maybe you shouldn't have come at all.

You sit down on the seat. Now feeling ashamed you made a promise to her at all. If you just resisted a little more. If you just had more confidence at the time. You probably could have told her off completely. It's too late now. Filthy Rich takes his seat. And looks at you, silently for a moment. Looking directly into your eyes.

You stare right back, doing your best to keep your cool, you weren't going to spaz. It was like he was analyzing you. After spending another moment staring at you. He began to speak. "So Mr. Anon, is it true you promised my daughter your hoof in marriage if you could not find another marefriend in your time growing up?"

You cringe slightly, you couldn't lie your way out of this one. And without knowing exactly if it was dating or marriage. You just decide to agree with him. And nod. "Yes, and...Mr.Rich, let me just say that I'm really sorry about that, and that I am sorry about what happened earlier. My fath-"

Filthy Rich held up his hoof and shook his head "I know, already heard it from our dear Princess. Don't need to hear it twice. Wastes time and distracts from this here topic of interest. Now, Anon. You are aware how frightened my little pumpkin was when you suddenly exploded, don't you?"

You sigh, and nod again. "I do. Again..I'm sorry. That's why I'm here. I wanted to personally talk to her about it so she doesn't have to worry. I heard she didn't exactly fully take Princess Twilight's word on it."

"She didn't, but she's a tough filly. She's been handlin' it better and better with every moment passed, but she's still hurtin'. As her father, I want nothing but her happiness. But you gotta understand Mr.Anon, I can't let you see her until I know your intentions. And that brings me to my next question. Did you intend on keeping your promise?"

Keeping your promise was something you did intend to keep. What good would being alone as a stallion be anyway if you couldn't get a mare? It was sort of a back up thing that just sprung up. Unless, by chance, you actually fell in love with DT somehow. In which that pretty much guaranteed a hook up. "I do sir, I didn't want to upset her."

"I see..." Filthy Rich looks to the side, looks like he was taking a moment to think on those words. "You didn't want to hurt my daughter. And yet, you intend on keeping the promise." Then he looks back at you, and says nothing more.

You raise your hoof to speak, you didn't want to sit back and take all of it. Surely he'd listen to reason if you spoke up. because the "and yet" part struck you odd. Wouldn't that mean that he meant that keeping your promise would hurt her? If that was the case...

"Mr.Rich..sir..please understand. There was a lot of pressure on me at the time, I didn't mean to get her hopes up like that. And I'm willing to call the whole thing off. An-"

"Hush Mr.Anon, I'm not done. In fact, you do realize who you are dealing with don't you?" His tone started to get angrier "Do you realize who's daughter you have been manipulating with your "adorable" wiles and silver slick words? DO YOU?!"

OH SHIT! DANGER! DANGER! "W-wait! Hold on! If I had said no. She would have been crushed. I was only thinking of your daughter..y-you can't-" Nope, fuck it. It was beyond repair now. So you tried to take the offensive. Because really, you were beyond him judging you at this point. "You can't do anything! I did my best! and if you can't accept that then fine. I don't need your validation! I've gotten far in Ponyville on my own merits! I don't need you telling me how good or bad I am. I already know it! I'm sorry Mr.Rich, but I'm going to do what I came here to do and then leave! And you can't stop me!"

But Filthy Rich didn't even flinch. He just sat there calmly, and raised an eyebrow "....except the fact that this is my home and I can have you thrown out. Mr. Anon, I am the lord and master of this home. And while you are in it, you will abide by my rules or so help me I will ruin your reputation so badly even the flies will shun you. How does that sound?"

That makes you go wide eyed...holy shit. That was just as bad, if not worse than his wife. Could he even do that? And this wouldn't just be on you, this could affect Fluttershy and Discord too. You cringe, not knowing how to proceed. But, still questioning. "You couldn't do that....you're...you'r-"

Filthy Rich stood up, looking angry, and yelling his lungs off. "I'M WHAT?! A TWO TIMING! BIT PINCHING! MONSTER! HMMM! MR.ANON, THAT'S IT I'M GOING TO-"

Oh shit, OH SHIT. He was yelling. and it made you flinch. What could you do? You couldn't just slap on your horn and blow him away or make him bow down to you. Who knows what he would do afterwards? Or how'd that affect DT. You were actually shaking. You fucked up. You tried going against him and you fucked up.

"GO TO MY OFFICES AND… AND… NGh.. HEHEH… HAHAHAHAHAHAHA" Filthy Rich suddenly broke into a laugh, and fell down, laughing hysterically.

.......What? "......" You didn't know what to say. Should you leave? Should you get angry? Why the fuck was he laughing?

"HAHAHHAOHMr.ANONHAHAHAYOU'RE...Hhahahaa...haha....hmmm.." Filthy Rich gets off the floor the moment he realized he fell down and slowed his laughter to titters before clearing his throat and looking at you with a softer looking expression of seriousness. But, you were stunned. What the fuck just happened? What was the joke? Why wasn't he trying to tear your head off? WHAT HAPPENED!

".....uhmmm...." You were so confused.

Filthy Rich smiled, stifling a laugh as he calmly sat down "Relax Mr. Anon, I just wanted to test your resolve. Although your reaction nearly made me have to call my own personal nurses from the fact that I nearly busted a gut. Now sit down, relax, I got a story to tell you"

.....What? "But...weren't you..what?...just..." Then it clicked...agh goddammit. he played you. So much for finally drumming up that confidence.

You sit down, annoyed with yourself. In which Filthy Rich notices. "Don't look so glum now Mr. Anon, I meant no disrespect. In fact..." Filthy Rich called out for his help "Sugar Lumps! Two hot cocoas , and don't make our guest wait too long!"

And you just sat there, and blinked, still not fully comprehending what the fuck happened. "I know what you're thinking Anon. Why isn't the rich and scary Filthy Rich not turnin' somepony like you to rags n' beans. Well son, I'll tell ya. It's because you ain't bad. In fact, when ah heard about the promise. It took all of my willpower to keep myself from dying of laughter."

Wut? You shook your head to get yourself out of your stupor. Why would he laugh? You seriously thought that would piss him off. "Why? I..sorta thought that kind of thing. You know, me and your daughter. I thought you would have been against it"

Filthy Rich let out a hearty laugh "Against it? What's there to be against? It possibly won't even happen Mr. Anon. You don't know much about a filly's whimsy now do you?"

Well...you thought you did...but fuck. What did he know that you didn't? "I...sorta thought so. I mean, I thought it was kind of a silly promise. I mean, who knows who the future holds."

"Ah, wise Mr. Anon, wise. But you seemed to believe somewhere in that mind of yours that the promise was set in stone. Don't tell me you didn't, or else that would have been your excuse from the start of our visit"

As he said that, that cute maid from before brought in a platter with two cups of hot cocoa. She expertly lowered her head to slide them onto the table without even a single spill. "Will zat be all Mr. Rich?"

He nods "That will be all Sugar Lumps, you may take a break if you want. Me and this little colt here will be a little bit"

"Very good sir" The maid, Sugar Lumps said as she stepped backwards out. Not even needing to look back to exit the study.

You take the cup, blow into it, and take a small sip. "I uh...well, I guess after awhile it seemed kind of definite. Especially after hearing about how she nearly ripped the Princess's wing off."

"Well, that's true. I suppose one would think that after that display. But Mr. Anon, what if I told you that a filly's promise can definitely change with time?"

"Well, I thought it could. But you mean the promise me and your daughter made specifically, right?"

Filthy Rich nodded "Mhmmm, you see Mr. Anon" Filthy Rich takes a sip from his cup. "That kind of promise making is something that comes from her mother."

What?! oh god.... "Wait...is that how you and Missus.." Ugh, that tasted bad in your mouth. "Spoiled got together?"

"Let's not ask questions Anon, I still got a story to tell. And I tell you, it's a good'un. You see when I was a colt, about your age I would think, I had barely nothing but a dream in my heart. See, I used to be one of the poor...or rather, not very poor but not exactly filthy rich. But I had big dreams and aspirations. I would frequently go to the richer areas of the town to learn their trade and secrets. And mix it with my own "can do" attitude and want to bring better prices and items to all the ponies of Equestria with the family business. Along my many" Filthy Rich let's out a chuckle "Many adventures, I happened upon a young filly who had fallen into some deep mud. Of course, I was raised to be a gentlecolt. And I'd eat my tie if I was going to let a filly try to get out of that grimy mud on their own. So I sprung into action, and saved her."

"And that was....Missus Rich?"

Filthy nodded. "You betcha. And I couldn't tell you how instantly stricken I was with her. And as it turned out, She was stricken with me. It was love at first sight."

Oh boy.... "What about the promise?"

"Hold your horses Mr. Anon, I'm gettin' to that. Well, as I said. We fell in love. And we would do everything together. She was much livelier back then. Saw the beauty of everything around her. Then one day, she had to move away. When I met with her one last time. She sprung the promise. That if I had never found a mare by the time we meet again. That we would marry, and be together forever. She wanted me to be happy after all. But our love was also near unshakable at the time, and she definitely wanted me to be hers if she could help it."

You just kept quiet, and continued to drink your cocoa.

"Well, as you can imagine, time passed. And I never saw her for quite some time. So I refocused my efforts on my other goal. And one cutie mark and an idea later. I started my own economical empire through Barnyard Bargains. But Mr. Anon...money isn't everything. That's how I felt anyway. So with my accumulated wealth, I sought her out to keep the promise we made long ago."

"And you found her? And got married?"

Filthy Rich shook his head "Actually....when I found her. She was on her eleventh coltfriend, And, I don't want to say much about it. So all I'll say is that she had changed since she was a filly. She had matured in a way. But, I being the chivalrous stallion that I was, waited. If she would not drop her coltfriend at the time, then I would not step in. But..well..that only lasted a day. So I met up with her face to face. She didn't recognize me at first, but when I dabbed some of the chocolate mousse from the table on my nose like the mud that was on me when I was a colt. She had recognized me instantly."

"It seems like she didn't wait it out like you did though, sir."

Filthy nodded "That's exactly my point. She had moved on from the promise long before I got to her. I even had to wait two more coltfriends before she would take me. And I was the one who stuck. We had a beautiful daughter together and with her help, we effectively tripled profits within the company and our affiliates beyond Ponyville as well"

But then he sighed, his enthusiasm in the story dropping as he frowns. "Of course, she wasn't exactly the same filly I was smitten with from long ago. Especially with recent events. But… ahrm..I won't trouble you with that Mr. Anon. All I have to say now to you is if you truly like my daughter, then don't give her up. But if you just want to be friends, then do not worry none about that promise. It'll fade as she matures. Do you understand, Mr. Anon?"

...Wow, so apparently Spoiled didn't used to be a bitch. But, the way she is now. You wonder if someone like her could even be reformed. Though, that was Mr. Rich's dealings. Not yours. You could only wish him luck, silently.

You nod, putting down your finished cup of cocoa on the table in front of you. "I do Mr. Rich. and umm...Thanks for not ripping me apart."

Filthy laughed "Haha, don't even worry none about it, son. But uh....can you go see my daughter now, let her know you're actually ok? She's waited long enough I think. She's upstairs, go down the hallway and make a right, then down that hallway it will be the third door. Got that?"

You nod.

"Good, now get. Before I start to ramble on about my younger days."

"Yessir, and thank you" You get up and go off to Diamond Tiara's room. While keeping in mind the words of Filthy Rich. No doubt the worry he caused you will be forever in his mind to laugh about. But, despite that. He was pretty based. Just trying to run his businesses while maintaining peace among his own kin. He was obviously doing his best with both worlds. Poor guy.

Even as you leave the study, you can hear another hearty laugh from Filthy Rich. He must have really found your reaction funny. Ugh, you're gonna have to read ponies better so you don't fall for something like that again...too bad you'd probably fall for something like that again anyway.

You head upstairs, down one hallway until it junctions to the right. Then get to the third door . This had to be the right door. Your memory didn't suck that bad. You knock.

No answer.

You knock again. No answer.

You press your ear to the door. No sound.

This had to be the right room. He didn't say the third door to the right or left. So by count. This was the right door. You decide to slowly open the door. Not like you could walk in on her naked.

The room was dark, with very little light. But damn was it grand. It was like a room fit for a princess. Tea set, dolls, grooming fashion mirror, and the bed was pretty damn big. Looked comfy too. But she didn't seem to be on it.

You begin to slowly and methodically look around. There were dolls, magazines, regal fixtures, all sorts of crap. You look over to the windows letting in the light. Most of them had their curtains closed but one. The windows themselves were tall. The whole room was tall. Even as an adult, unless you could fly. You'd never be able to reach the roof.

As you draw nearer to the window. You spot Diamond Tiara facing towards it, cuddling with a little pony plush. She was sleeping. her mane looked ragged. Poor thing, she must have been really worried. She didn't bother to fix herself up.

You sigh, you knew if you walked away without waking her. She'd probably wake up worried sick and....well, you realized you didn't know what she'd do. So yeah...better wake her up.

You step lightly towards her and put your hoof to her side and shake her gently. "Diamond… hey..Diamond… wake up."

She wasn't waking, she just groans and cuddles deeper with the plush.

"Diamond...come on now..."

She still wouldn't wake.

"Ugh..ok, how to wake her without scaring her. Let's see...oh...god. let's try something cliche. She probably won't actually remember it. But like any cartoon land that hopefully abides by cartoon rules, a kiss to break the curse will do the trick....talking to myself again..."

You lean in slowly to give her a kiss on the cheek. And as you do, her eyes open up to see your lips close in on her.

"A-Anon?" She says in a weak and tired voice of adorableness as she blushes and looks up at you. "A-are you going t-to.."

You go wide eyed oh shit, too early, too early! "Goingtocheckyourheartbeattomakesureyou'reokyesthat'sexactlywhatiwasdoing" You say in a hurried exasperation. No way, no fucking way you're gonna let it get in her mind that you were going to kiss her.

"O-oh...oh..Anon..wait..ANON?!" Then it hit her. She dove at you and cuddled on you hard, rubbing her head on your chest! "Anon, I'm so glad you're ok! I was so scared! I was going to force the entire class to go out looking for you!"

Ugh, why did this have to be so comfy and gentle feeling?! it made it harder to just shove her off when part of you didn't want to. Also...force? "Uhm..but, didn't Princess Twilight tell you that I was ok?"

"She did..." Even as she cuddled on you, her voice grew a little angry just from the thought of it. "But you weren't with her! How could she say you were ok if you weren't there for me to see that you were ok! I wanted her to take me straight to you. But she said she had to go tell other students! She could have done both!"

Ahhh..there's the classic selfish Diamond Tiara you knew and loved....who wouldn't stop cuddling you. "Well, you know. Letting everypony know I was ok is pretty important. I mean, we're not exactly together, you and me."

And that didn't stop the cuddling. "I know, but we still don't know what the future is gonna be like. Right?"

.....Right...ugh. "Yeah..well, as you can see. I'm ok. And I actually have to go make sure somepony else isn't having a freak out."

And that gets her to stop as she looks at you, with unaccepting eyes. "You mean Applebloom, don't you?"

...Ugh...the cuddling was actually better than that stare. Full of disapproval. "Well, remember. She liked me too. And well, you gotta admit. The way you're acting kinda makes it look like you and me are still a thing."

"You're point?"

...Oy geez. "Well, she's both our friends. And despite the fact I'm also not with her, but she liked me. Well, could you really let a friend suffer the way you did?"

Diamond Tiara got off of you as she pondered on that. And pondered she did. "...........Well, I guess that sounds right. But remember, you broke it off with her too. So don't you dare try to get back with her behind my back! Because I'll know Anon, I always know."

You didn't even get with her in the first place. You didn't even break it off. You just prevented it from being a thing. God, you couldn't imagine what Spoiled was like when she was a kid. The picture Filthy painted probably wasn't the one that you were thinking of. "Diamond. come on. Look, I told you. I just want to be single. I'm not looking for anypony right now. You remember the full promise though, right?"

She grumbled, she did. "Yeah...but still, if you ever do want a special somepony who isn't me. She better be worth it Anon. Or else..."

Her eyes...full of determination and darkness. It was actually frightening.

"Or else what?...."

"Or else I will crush them! I won't let nopony who isn't good enough be with you. I won't EVER let it happen. A pony like you deserves better than that....even if it isn't me."

Oh geez, that last part, you could tell ripped her heart in two right there. You could feel it. You better not press on it...in fact...

You get up and move up to her, and give her a kiss on the cheek. "Thanks, I'm not really good at picking anyways. So I know I can count on you to keep me in check in case somepony tries to use me." That should work right?

From the looks of it, it did. It didn't even look like she heard you. She was blushing hard as she held her hoof to her cheek. It took her another moment before she started to speak in a dreamlike tone. "I know daddy won't like it....or mother...but..I'm never washing this cheek again...ever..." And then she fell backwards with a moanful sigh.

Scary how much sway you had on her affections....oh god...Applebloom was gonna be something worse you bet. "You ok there Diamond Tiara?"

"Mhmmmm..." She just laid there, looking at the ceiling with a smile on her face, eyes half cocked and dreamy looking.

"Well...uhh...gonna go check on Applebloom now. Umm..seeya tomorrow for Nightmare Night I guess.."

"ok.." She said in a dreamy state "I'll see you at....WAIT!" Suddenly, she sprang up. "BEFORE YOU GO!"

Woah, that made you step back, startled. She did it so suddenly. "W-what?"

"..can I...umm...see your costume?" She looked pretty eager to see it.

Costume...ahh shit right...costume...you didn't actually have one. Though, that could be fixed pretty quickly. Ehhh..why not? You were going to have unlimited charges for the night tomorrow. In fact...tomorrow. You were going to pretty much be sneaking around, trying to get the drop on the Princesses...perhaps...a more fitting costume built for espionage was in order. And you knew exactly who to be...even if the entire world of Equestria didn't get it.

You nod, giving her a confident smile as you step back. "Ok, but you might not know what it is."

"That's fine, whatever it is, I bet it'll look amazing on you, Anon"

Yeah, course. Ok... You pull out your horn, and slap it on your head. No doubt this thing was public knowledge by now. Even if the extent of it's power was not.

"That's your magical horn your father gave you right?" Diamond Tiara said, excitement growing within. She expected something grand.

"Yeah, I'm gonna use it to show off this costume."

"I can only expect it's going to be really high quality then. I can't wait! It's going to look so cool!" Oh yeah, she was at the edge of her seat.

Well, here goes nothing. You blast yourself with an aura of magic. Your mane changes color to brown as it grooms itself smoothly backwards. An eyepatch appears over your right eye. Your face becomes hardened, as a camo bodysuit with a weapons vest appears on you. A patch with a stylized fox, representing FOXHOUND, appeared on the shoulder of your left foreleg. You even grew a beard and mustache. as a bandanna appeared on your head. You looked like you had been in many battles. You looked older without actually growing in size. You looked brave, strong, and good with tools. You looked like a leader. You were.....Big Boss.

"This is good...isn't it?"

Ha, stylish..you hoped. You didn't have a mirror. But...it should be fine. Right?

Diamond Tiara looked like she was about to fall over from the spectacle. Her eyes were wide from amazement. "A-anon..you look.."

"How do I look?"

"Amazing!..You look like you fought in a war. Are those cuts and wounds even real?" She moves over to you, and rubs her hoof gently along your cheek. She only feels that your face is much tougher than before.

"I..don't know actually." Hrn...You actually had no idea how well the costume really was. As you think about lifting your eyepatch, Diamond Tiara inspects your mane.

"And your mane, it actually changed. It looks so...dashing" Oh geez, you didn't even feel a wig on your head. Did you overdo it? That made you definitely afraid to check under your eyepatch.

"But...who are you supposed to be? I've never seen any kind of pony wear that kind of outfit before." She was a little confused by it

You shrug, she'd never understand the complicated world of METAL GEAR. "Just a soldier who had it rough. In my head, he's this big tough soldier who is a master of stealth. Taking out super powered units of...ponies and blowing up specialized...chariots with crazy weapons on them"

"Oh....does he have a name?"

You nod. "Just call me....Big Boss"

"Big Boss?" And that..THAT is when it killed her enthusiasm as she rolled her eyes "That's kind of a stupid name isn't it?"

What?! "It's not stupid! it's a good title. Show's how great the guy was!"

Diamond Tiara giggled as she shook her head and patted your back "No Anon, it's stupid. But don't worry, I already thought of a much better name."

......

"And..what would that be?"

"Omnipotent Soldier. It's catchy and means you're good at everything. I think it's much better than Big Boss. Big Boss makes you sound like a mobster. And you don't look like a mobster to me, Anon. So, what do you think? It's a good name right?" Diamond Tiara awaited your obvious approval.

Although, you wouldn't exactly give it to her. But you didn't want to upset her either. Time for indifference! "Yeah, it's ok. I'll think about it. But uhm, I'm gonna get going now. You're going to be alright, right? Everything's ok?"

"Mhmmm, I feel a lot better now" Diamond Tiara giggled "Thank you for asking Anon, I know you really care about my well being. So of course it makes me happy to tell you I'm ok...though..." She begins to rub her stomach. "All that worrying did make me kind of hungry..."

"Well, you get something to eat ok? I'm gonna go and uh..do my thing."

"Ok, and..try not to explode? Ok...Omnipotent Soldier?" Diamond Tiara giggled, she thought the name was very heroic sounding.

All it did was annoy you...you were fucking BIG BOSS. "Right, no problem...you just get yourself something to eat, and if you need to, get some extra rest. You looked like you really tuckered yourself out with all that worrying."

"Ok, whatever you say...It'll just let me see you in action...in my dreams" She looked at you and batted her eyes. She actually was loving the prospect of going back to sleep. To dream of you saving her from some monster.

....Ohh ohh god. You really hoped this was a phase like Filthy Rich suggested. This was not sounding good for you.... Though, of course. You had to admit. Her admiration was adorable. Maybe she wouldn't make a bad marefriend?....ugh, even if you wanted to. It was still too early. Especially since..well..Applebloom. Last thing you need is her having some eternal grudge and being the...well...Season 23 villain.

With that, you packed up your horn, bid Diamond Tiara a farewell, and made off for the Apple farm.

Chapter 133

"Omnipotent soldier? come on, I can't believe she doesn't think the name "Big Boss" is cool. Ugh, ponies just don't know what good gaming names are." You lament at the new name Diamond Tiara had given you as you rush over to the Apple Farm.

You also were wary about the costume you now donned. But you realized there wasn't anything you could do. You had no charge in your horn so you couldn't just take it off. You're just going to have to say that you wanted to show her your costume. That should be fine, Applebloom shouldn't see any problem with it.

You manage to reach the farm without much trouble. And you spot the house that also was a barn. it was getting a little late. The sky was still alight from the sun, but the sun itself was definitely heading down towards the horizon.

You walked up to the door, it opened from the top, bottom, or both. You didn't see a real reason for it. But whatever, cartoon world. This should be easy. Go in, let her know you're ok, walk out. Easy.

You don't even take a breath. You were Big Boss. You don't need to prepare for the worst. Because you're always prepared for it. Always. You lift your hoof, and knock on the door. Then you plant your butt on the ground like a dog and look up at the door while you wait for either Applejack or Applebloo.......Oh no..

The door opened alright, but it wasn't those two...it wasn't even Big Mac.

"Well , well, what do we got here..hrnnnnnn" It was Granny Smith, she had opened the top half of the door and leaned over the bottom. Not that you hated her or anything. But everytime you see her. She somehow mistakes you for a fucking bear. In fact, it's for that very reason that you start to inch back a little as she peers at you. You were ready to make a run for it the moment she yelled "BEAR!"

But she didn't, she smiled at you instead. And began to open the bottom door. "Howdy there Anon, good to see ya again after Big Mac gave you such a big whoopin'. Hope you ain't sore about that."

.......You didn't know how to react. What the fuck? Whatever was fucking with you, it did a good job. Because how the fuck did she even recognize you? Did she seriously only notice you as NOT a bear when you were disguised? Did the costume, which made you look completely different, somehow do that for her? Oh god, this was almost headache inducing.

"Oh..um, nah. I'm not a sore loser or anything. Ummm, Granny Smith, ma'am? You don't see any bears around...do you?"

"Bears?" Granny Smith looked around "Whatcha talkin' about Anon? There ain't no bears around for miles and....hmmnnnn..." Granny Smith took a closer look at you, closing her left eye as she eyed you up and down with her right. It made you feel uncomfortable. "Well ain't that a kick in the neck..."

You were so confused, not only did she somehow recognize you. But she was looking at your entire body at an uncomfortable proximity. You just wanted to go inside and see Applebloom. Now you were just wondering if you should just go home. "What...do you mean?"

She then poked your neck, firmly enough to make you gulp automatically, but soft enough for it to not hurt. "Yer throat, it's lookin so dry that it looks like ya got battle scars. And yer face, why it's crustier than a loaf of bread left on the beach on a hot day"

Well, this was definitely the first female to touch you to not give you "those" feelings. And what was wrong with your neck?! Costume or not. No, actually. With the costume, your neck should look toned and tough. So where did she get the idea it was crusty? "Granny Smith, I don't thin-"

"And yer mane, call me crazy, but ah don't think ya ever worked hard enough to get it all...." She runs her hoof through your mane. "tough and grimy"

"Granny Smith, I'ts my nightm-..you know what..Can I-" She then yanked your tail and stopped you at your words, and geez. You didn't even know that could hurt. Nobody had ever yanked your tail before.

"And this tail, I've seen this before, hmmmmmnnn...." You look back at her, with your face scrunched from annoyance as she stares at you casually. "Anon, have ya choked anything with yer tail lately? This looks like a chokin' tail. A tail you would have groomed to grab ponies by their neck and give em such a yank that their eyes roll to the back of their heads" She gives it another yank, making you yelp again.

"Do you mind?!" You bend around just enough to grab your tail and hold it from her. "I'm trying to te-"

But then she just lightly pushed your mouth closed as she moved up close to your face, and looked at your eyepatch. "And when did ya lose yer eye? What, did ya get in a fight with a cat?"

Lose your eye? How could she even say that? She didn't even move your eyepatch. "Granny Smith! Come on! stop...please. I just want to see Applebloom"

"Well, ya better see her quickly before ya lose that other eye." She says as she continues to look you over

You were indeed losing your patience. Maybe if you just showed her it was just a costume. She'd back off. "Look, I get it. My costume looks really real. But it's just a costume. See?" You lift your eyepatch.

"Yep, that's an eyehole alright"

What? But you noticed your depth perception didn't even improve when you lifted the eyepatch...and if she said there was an eyehole.....ooogghhh..

You slowly close the eyepatch. Ok....ok. Cripes, you really shouldn't have gone overboard with the magic. Yeah, tomorrow. Gotta make sure to make it less real...more costume. What really got you was how calm she was about your missing fucking eye.

"Yep, you're a real mess Anon. Doesn't even look like ya have been eating right. But yer in luck, we we're about to have some dinner. So come on in already before you waste away to bones."

Dinner? Actually....maybe you could stay for that. You were pretty hungry. And no doubt a home cooked meal from a southern style family like the Apples would do your body good. "...umm..actually, I w-WAHHH!"

"That's all ah needed to hear, now get in here before I yank ya in by the ear." Granny Smith gets behind you and pushes you in with her face. Aye geez, she wasn't even going to let you walk in. You at least wanted time to prepare in case anyone inside asked about the eyepatch. But she wasn't even going to let you have the chance to actually answer.

And she just pushed you inside as your hooves dragged across the ground. You were feeling pretty humiliated that you couldn't even get a word in on the old pony. What's worse is that she was actually pretty tough when she wanted to be. You wanted her to stop so you could just walk in normally. But she just pushes you into the room they were eating at.

And man, what a fucking spread it was. Besides the usual apple related items. There was mashed potatoes and peas and carrots and biscuits and all sorts of other things. Applejack, Big Mac, and Applebloom already sitting at their seats. Waiting for Granny Smith.

"Hey Everypony, look who came to enjoy a family dinner with us." Granny Smith announced

All three of them look at you, and none of them seemed to recognize you.

"Granny Smith, who's that supposed to be? I never seen that pony in my life" Applejack said

"Yeah, me neither, what about you Big Mac?" Applebloom looks over to her brother for confirmation

Big Mac simply shakes his head "Eenope"

"Don't make me send ya all to the hospital to get yer heads examined. You all should know who this pony is, don't go insulting our guest like that, it's rude" Granny Smith says in an angry tone. You couldn't believe it. Sure she was defending you, but dammit. Couldn't she see that you were in a costume made of magic? Sure...you know, why are you even making sense of this? Old people always see what they want to see....even if they can see through the veil of deception...somehow. The problem was, however, that they obviously didn't see through it.

"But Granny Smith, we're tellin ya, we've never seen him before in our lives" Applejack said, sure she's never seen you.

You try to say something. But Granny Smith, on cue, says something before you can. "Applejack, I'm surprised at ya. Trying to play your Granny Smith a fool. And you, Applebloom. I'm especially ashamed. We all know ya had a crush on this colt. Ya told us, remember?"

"WHAT?! Granny Smith, a-are ya kidding?! I'd never get with a colt like him! He looks like he'd choke me in my sleep or somethin, or hold me up and demand I give him ma bow or something before hitting me in the back of the head and knockin me out. Heck, I get this creepy feeling of balloons and boxes from just lookin' at him."

"Applebloom! What in tarnations are ya saying? Ya don't talk like that about our guests!......" Applejack says. She may have not recognized you, but she didn't take insulting others lightly. She then takes a hard look at you, and notices that despite your size, you had markings of an old strung out stallion.

She mutters silently "Even if he also gives me the heebie jeebies."

Granny Smith started to get real boiling mad at the rudeness of her own family. She looked at you as you tried to say a word. And again, spoke first. "Anon, grab a seat and sit down. Ah can feel mah blood curdlin deep inside and I'd much rather just start eatin' before I give mah ENTIRE family a great big whoopin'. I've never seen such disregard for a guest in all mah years. Ponies these days....and mah own family too."

"B-b-" You tried to defend them.

But again, she spoke. "Ya don't have to say anything, just get yer little ole' behind on a chair and start eatin'. Ya can watch how an Apple disciplines the younger generation."

And all three of them, finally catching on. say. "Anon?!"

Applebloom points to you "That's Anon? But that can't be right. Granny Smith...we're tellin' ya. That's not Anon, he don't even look like him. Anon doesn't have a mane color like that"

"Yeah, and what kind of colt has a dried up coat like that? Anon isn't that old, remember? Granny Smith?" Applejack adds.

"Oh really? And yer gonna tell me he ain't missing an eye either, hmmm?!" Granny Smith walks over to you, OH GOD NO!

"Uhhhhh...Granny Smith...are ya sure yer ok? Maybe we should-" But Applejack get's stopped as Granny Smith grabs your face before you could flee. And lifts your eyepatch.

"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" Applejack and Applebloom scream as they grab each other from fright, Big Mac unable to handle it at all and falling over unconscious.

Actually, for all the shit that just happened. This was kind of funny.....maybe you could use this for the challenge tomorrow. Yeah, never mind. This wasn't annoying anymore.

Granny Smith herself was now confused. She looked at your eyehole, then at the screaming girls. "What? ya never seen a pony with a missing eye before?" Granny Smith rolls her eyes as she walks over to Big Mac "Back in my day, ponies would lose their eyes all the time from all sorts of horrible things. Timberwolves, manticores, low hanging doors. It was normal, but now with all your fancy smancy safety whatchamacallits. Nopony gets the grit and toughness of the ponies from my day" Granny Smith slaps Big Mac's face "Wake up Big Mac, yer embarrassing yerself."

You just plant your your butt on your seat and look at all the food while the conversation goes on.

"Granny Smith, that's definitely not Anon. And I'm gonna prove it!" Applebloom looked over at you with a stern look "If you're really Anon. Then you'd know where ah first found ya when we met."

Now that you were enjoying yourself. And needed some practice in not being a punk in the face of adversity. You just give Applebloom a smile, with a hint of arrogance. "The clubhouse right? Where my dad just put me there for reasons. I forget what they were, but this was a while ago. Before you girls got your cutie marks"

Applebloom's eyes went wide. It was you. But then that meant… She let out a sigh of relief "Ohhhhhhh..." She laughed in relief even. "IT IS Anon, hahaha. He must be wearin' his Nightmare Night costume. Ya just wanted to show it off right? It's really good. Ah almost thought ya really gouged yer eye out or somethin'"

You could see Applejack calming down as Big Mac slowly got back up. Due to Applebloom's confirmation, and the fact it was a costume. She was able to slowly calm herself down. She even felt silly about the way she acted. "Well I'll be a daughter of a cow, it really is Anon. Well, I gotta say. If yer were plannin' do go about scarin other folk tomorrow. That eye trick ya got is one of the best ah ever seen"

You smirk, part of you hated what you were about to do. But another part of you wanted to see their reaction so bad. Should you do it? Granny Smith did set the stage. you wanted to see them all react to the horror of your missing eye. If you didn't get some practice now. Then when? You needed this. For Discord's sake..and yours. "You're right Applejack, and all it took was me gouging my eye out to actually do it"

You take your hoof and lift your eyepatch as you stick your other hoof into the eyehole...it was..squishy..and actually hurt a little. But the effect....oh baby.

".....oh...it's a real...hole...ya actually-...." And with that, that was enough to knock Applejack clean out from fright.

As Big Mac got back up, he witnessed your poking, and fell back down. Making Granny Smith put her hoof to her face "And ah just got him up too"

Applebloom just calmly looked at her fallen siblings then looked back at you with a smirk "Well how'd ya like that, I lasted longer than them"

"What? You're ok with me missing an eye?"

Applebloom shook her head "Nope!" And then she fell too...geez. This was gonna be much easier than you thought.

Granny Smith grumbled at the sight. But you?....you felt pretty good about it all. Well, Applebloom didn't react like DT did when she knew it was you so she was obviously fine. So that's ok. But what you caused. Knocking out one fourth of the Apple Family like that so easily. It actually really felt...good. Even though they were your friends. You felt validated in your ability to scare. You felt happy that you stood a chance. And hell, it felt great just sort of being a dick for once.

But still, you could see Granny Smith was upset about it all. You could at least apologize to her for what you did. "Sorry Granny Smith, I didn't mean to scare them like them"

"Awww..." Granny Smith walked over to you and gave you a gentle rub on the head "Don't you worry about nothin' Anon, you ain't did nothin' wrong. What we got here is just a lack of iron will and integrity. Takes a lot of apples to gouge yer eyes out for a Nightmare Night costume. Ah commend ya for your bravery to the art of the scare. In fact, we're settin' somethin' up tomorrow. Wouldn't mind tryin one of mah older tricks on ya to see if I could scare the coat off of ya skin. How about it?"

How could you deny her? She was the only one able to see through everything. "It's a date. But uh........oh." You just realized something. Even though Applebloom seemed ok. What about Fluttershy? Did she even know you exploded? "Granny Smith...I'd really love to stay for dinner..and um" You look at the fallen ponies. "...yeah...But, I really really need to check on my Aunt. I'm worried about her"

"Worried about yer own kin, huh? Well, if it's important enough to skip a good meal then ya better get a goin' Anon. Also, ya really need to work on yer muscles. That fight with Big Mac was just embarassin'"

You nod to her respectfully. "Will do ma'am, and thank you. You take care ok?"

"he he" Granny Smith gave a cronish giggle as she patted your head again "Ain't you sweet. But don't call me "ma'am". It makes me sound old. Now git before you're too late for whatever it is ya gotta do" And with a farewell, you left off to Fluttershy's cottage to make sure she was ok. And even if she had never heard the news of you exploding. It was fine, you wanted to visit her anyway. Not to scare her. But she always put you in a good mood. As she was always happy to see you.

You'd have to make sure not to lift your eyepatch though. If that knocked out Applejack. It may kill Fluttershy. Like literal heart attack.

But you were grinning as you trotted. You felt, good...no..great...no..fantastic. With just a little overuse of magic. You were able to scare three ponies into unconsciousness. And you weren't even fucking trying. Celestia and Luna were going to be easy as hell. Woah..this feeling. "Huh..." You stopped mid trot as it penetrated your head deep. The feeling of.. "I wonder if this is what it feels like to be Discord? Having a good laugh at the chaos caused on a whim."

You didn't feel bad at all really. You'd know they'd all be ok. And the way Applebloom went down...damn..you wish you could have recorded that. "No wonder Discord got off from all the chaos. It's not that bad a feeling actually...haha. Yes..YEAH! Cannot wait!" You started bouncing along now, almost like Pinkie. "Gonna take them down so damn hard even Discord's brain is going to do loops trying to figure out what happened."

You stopped and looked up at the now orange sky. And smirked. "Oh man Discord, you're gonna see it. You're gonna see just how much chaos I can really wreak. Hope you don't get jealous that I'm better than you. HAHAHAHA"

You were talking to yourself, but you didn't care. You were feeling more pumped by the minute. This is how villains must feel when they feel close to a certain victory...luckily for you. You knew you wouldn't choke. Especially with unlimited power at the tip of your hooves. And that power..you could already feel it. And it felt good. You just couldn't wait.

And you bounced with these feelings all the way to the cottage. Stopping right at the door. You raise your hoof to knock, taking your time to look at the statues set to the front left side of the cottage. And as you look at it. it makes you feel a little hurt. Seeing the calmness and happiness of the scene.

You knew you got yourself psyched. And that you should calm down. Given where you were now. No....you'd save it for the Princess's. You take a moment to calm yourself. Then raise your hoof, and knock on the door.

Chapter 134

The door opens slightly, with Fluttershy peering out the slit of the door. She noticed you. But she too did not recognize you. "Hello? Can I help you?"

You wave to her, and smile. "Hey Aunt Fluttershy!"

Fluttershy had to take a closer look, she opened the door just a bit more to get a better view. She could hear that was you. But that look. "Anon? Is that you?"

You nod. "Mhmm! Check out my costume! Pretty nifty huh?"

She opens the door completely, relieved that was you and not someone else. But, she didn't know who you were supposed to b. So she decided to give a general praise for it. "Anon, it's very realistic. It's for tomorrow right?"

Well, that settles that for you. She didn't even hear about you exploding. Your only guess to that was that no one told her as to not worry her. Thank goodness. "Mhmmm, I know you don't know who I'm supposed to be. But I look pretty cool, right?"

For some reason. You really wanted her praise. Including on a very particular aspect. Fluttershy stepped out and gave you a better look. "Wow Anon" She was impressed. "Some of this looks pretty real. You look like some kind of secret agent...that's also a pirate"

...dammit.. "Actually, as the character I'm pretending to be. I sort of lost my eye when I was captured and...um..never mind."

Didn't want to go too into detail. But the "losing eye" part caught her attention. "Lost your eye? Anon, what have you been reading? It sounds very violent and not appropriate for a colt your age."

"Oh uhm...it's something I read back at the orphanage called "Metal Gear". It's pretty cool. I'm one the main characters. Big Boss! Pretty cool name huh?"

Fluttershy was astonished that there'd be such reading material for foals in an orphanage with soldiers and eye gouging..or in your case. Accidental gunshots. But that name... "Anon, I'm confused. Are you supposed to be a futuristic mobster?"

......ugh. her too?

"No no, it's a name of extreme prestige. It pretty much means I surpassed my mentor."

"Your mentor? Oh...you mean "Big Boss's" mentor? Who was he?"

"It was a she actually. She went by the name "The Boss" "

"Anon..are you sure these aren't futuristic mobsters?"

....."ahm...never mind....hm?" You notice that behind Fluttershy, there seemed to be a scramble of animals preparing for something. You use that to change the subject as you were also interested on what was going on. "Hey, what are all the animals doing?"

"Oh?" Fluttershy looks backwards, then back at you with a smile "Oh, they are helping me prepare for Nightmare Night"

Oh hey, that's pretty cool. "You mean like a haunted house sort of thing? That's pretty neat Aunt Fluttershy. I didn't know you'd be up for it."

Fluttershy wasn't though it seemed. As her next words were spoken with a more timid tone "I'm not...I'm actually preparing to avoid it altogether."

"...oh" A part of you actually wished that once the challenge was over that she'd join you for some night candy gathering. But, because it was Fluttershy, you felt like you couldn't just push her.

But that "oh" made her feel that you were disappointed. "Anon, don't feel bad ok? I'm sure you can have just as much fun if you go with your friends. I'll be fine right here until the night is over. So don't feel you can't have fun just because I'm not going. I'll be having fun reading stories and playing little games with all my animal friends."

....Ouch. In your mind, if that was a human saying that. That'd be all kinds of pathetic. But to each their own. Unlike a human, she could actually hold conversations with animals. "Do you need any help setting up?"

"Awww Anon, that's very sweet. But we're just about done. And..." Fluttershy looked up to the sky and noticed the sun was halfway down. It was getting late. "Anon, maybe you should be getting home. You don't want to worry your father and.." She giggled, she almost felt like a mother with her next words as she gave you a stare and joyful yet inquisitive smile "Don't you have homework you need to do?"

That was adorable but.. "Nah, you could say that today was so bomb diggity that none of us got any homework today."

"Bomb Diggity? Is that slang? Oh my, you're really adapting here in Ponyville, aren't you? I've never even heard that before. It must be new." She gave you a gentle pat on the head. And noticed that you're mane felt much tougher than before. It almost felt real. But she wouldn't comment on it. She didn't want to be rude. She didn't know if it was supposed to be like that or not.

"It's just...a slang we used at the orphanage."

"Oh. Well, wouldn't it be...umm..cool if it spread across the foals around town? I bet all the fillies and colts would really find it...hehe..bomb diggity" She smiled and giggled to herself "Look, I think even I got it. That's the way to use it right?"

That was....cute and cringy at the same time. But you smile anyway, if a little uncomfortably. You'd really rather that not spread. "You sure did Aunt Fluttershy. But...yeah, I guess I should be getting home. I want to get a lot of rest for tomorrow. You know, my first Nightmare Night and all. I want to be ready"

"Well, I didn't necessarily say you needed to go to bed. Isn't there anything to take up your time at home before you actually need to go to bed?"

Oh boy...was there. "Yeah, but I want to make sure I'm super ready. Who knows? Dad might have some day plans for me. He can be like that sometimes. Just springing something out on me out of the blue."

"Oh, I didn't even think of that. hmmm..I hope if he does, that it doesn't tucker you out. I wouldn't want you to miss out on your first Nightmare Night"

"Oh...I'm sure he'll be considerate. Well...you have a good night Aunt Fluttershy" You move up to her to give her a hug...ahh...she was always so warm. "If I have time, maybe I can swing by tomorrow night and keep you company"

That warmed Fluttershy's heart. To know that'd you still come over during Nightmare Night just to spend time with her, hiding until the day arrived. "I don't mind. We can make it a sleepover. Just make sure your father knows where you'll be before you come over. Ok?"

You nod. "Got it. Seeya tommorow Aunt Fluttershy!"

"See you tomorrow Anon,...OH WAIT!"

Hm? "Yeah?"

"If you get frightened of something. And want to call it a night early. I'll..uhm..I'll leave the door unlocked for you. Ok?" You looked a little worried about doing that. But she'd rather you have a safe haven over you being stuck outside while she hides.

"Thank you Aunt Fluttershy, I'll remember that in case anything happens" You were sure everything would be ok for her. Even if there was an episode based on Nightmare Night. It was possible she wasn't even in it. So, her locking or unlocking the door wouldn't cause any trouble.
With that, you headed off to the nearest source of water. The little stream by the bridge of Fluttershy's cottage.

You toss your map in like you always do, and end up back at home. On your comfy bed.
Nothing was amiss. Chrysalis wasn't lounging around. Discord wasn't mucking about.
It was peaceful.

Perfect.

With that, you lay down and close your eyes. The sooner tomorrow comes, the better. You were already ready to scare the shit out of some princesses.

Time passes.

As you sleep, you can feel soft movements coming from the end of your bed. It was....annoying. You were trying to sleep.

You wake up slowly and groggily, and kick your leg down. "...come on Chrysalis...it's too late for this...seduce me later." You turn, covering your face with your blanket. You knew it couldn't be Discord. He likes the more...sudden...approach.

"....how....dare..you..." Said a scratchy, youngish voice....a barely familiar voice. You raise your head and look down the bed. It was the fucking scrappy Changeling. And he looked fucking pissed.

"....are you fucking kidding? What do you want?" Ugh, he was ruining your sleep.

"REVENGE!" He yells out, making you put your hooves to your ears.

"Geez, come on kid. Just go away. I got shit to do tomorrow."

"kid...KID?!" He growled "I AM A PROUD CHANGELING SOLDIER! AND YOU WILL SHOW ME RESPECT" He announced obnoxiously as he hovered upwards, staring right into your tired eyes.

you stood up on your bed, tired, taking a stretch. Of all the changelings. one little one that seemed to be a klutz was nothing to worry about.

"What revenge are you even after? You do realize you can't even destroy me right?"

"Foolish little pony! You may think I can't. But I am actually very VERY powerful. Now, for the glory of the queen in which you have defiled. I shall destroy you! HYAAAAAAAAAAAH!"

You just hop off your bed as he crashes straight down, bounces up, and falls on his back.

You just roll your eye as you turn to him. "Sheesh you're annoying. How do you even recognize me anyway? I'm still in costume."

The scrappy changeling quickly got up on his hooves. and glared at you a death glare. "Do you think I'm stupid?! No disguise you wear can avert my eyes. You may think you're clever...but I'M CLEVER...ER...ER...erm...hmm" He confused himself for a moment, but then… "....NOW PREPARE TO PERISH"

Geez, this guy was a kook. He didn't seem to realize the barriers set in place to avoid murder.

He dives blindly at you again. And it seems he didn't learn the first time as you step aside. Causing him to crash head first into your dresser.

As you turn to him, you notice where you threw your saddlebag. The saddlebag itself.....had a glow spewing out from inside.

"...How is he so quick? Pony! I demand to know how you are so quick!" He points to you angrily, but you ignore him as you walk over to your saddle bag. Nearly entranced. And reach into it. You pull out what was glowing. It was the Sombra horn. But now it was bright, and golden… No way… It couldn't be just now… could it?

"I'm talking to you pony! or should I say...Human!...actually.." The scrappy changeling sits down to ponder on that. "Now that I think about it, despite being this human thing. You look like a pony. It's really confusing..."

As he ponders and talks to himself...you dare to try....you place the horn on your forehead. And it becomes a unicorn's horn. It....was time to test it out...

You now try to mimic David Hayter's voice. "Can't figure it out, huh?"

"Yeah, it's really....hmm?" The Scrappy Changeling turns to your attention, and gets really angry. "DON'T TELL ME I CAN'T FIGURE IT OUT. I CAN! JUST LIKE I KNOW EXACTLY HOW I'M GOING TO DESTROY YOU!"

"Huh, destroy me? How do you plan to do that?"

"By pummeling your stupid face in. That's how!"

"Pummeling my face in? huh....Well.." Using your hopefully more than once magical power. You lift yourself so you can stand on your back legs like a human. And then ready yourself. Using your forelegs like actual arms. "If you think you can beat me, go ahead. it may be a different battle. But war is always the same. And we just fight in it. That's our job, our life, it's what we do"

The little changeling was confused by that "...What? War? Huh?....GRRRR, YOU'LL PAY FOR CONFUSING ME! FOR THE QUEEEEEEN!"

And there he went, rushing right towards you. But you wouldn't sidestep this time. You dig your legs into the ground. And wait for the right moment. And to your luck… Your horn… It was still on your forehead. And you could feel its power flowing through you. As if your mind was using it. It was like taking diazepam in metal gear. You were focused..and calm. You could see his movements like water.

You muttered under your breath. "Remember the basics of CQC..." And then the moment came. You manage to sidestep at a more opportune moment. Slam your hoof on the back of his head and knock him out. making sure it wasn't too damaging a hit to set off the barrier shot. Something you now somehow knew, perhaps through the horn's power.

And he slid across the floor and hit the wall. Knocked out cold.

"...holy shit.....HOLY SHIT I DID IT!" You cackle as you lift your forelegs up in the air in victory "HAHAHAHAHAHAHA! Yeah!"

You trounced him so easily. You could have toyed with him so much, get him real riled up, but you had to make sure the horn had unlimited power first. You looked around for Discord. Was he watching? If he was, he wasn't making a move. "...hehhe...fucking badass....now..let's see..."

First priority. You zap your dresser. And reset it to the best memory. An alarm clock, mirror, family photo, chrysalis photo, and no explosion marks. Horn still stayed on top of your head… and the clock… was reading 12:30 AM. "Haha, he was being literal. Oh maaaaannnnn.....I can't waste this..I gotta do something, gotta do something...but what? WHAT?! DAMMIT, ALL THIS POWER AND I DUNNO WHAT TO DO WITH IT!...think Anon..think."

"...Hmmmm....I could abuse this power to collect an actual folder of ponies in lewd or doing lewd things. Octavia is pretty hot..." But as that thought crossed your mind. You realized that if anyone other than Discord were to come across it… "Eh, nah. If anything, I can get actual pony booty later. I am cute...nehehe..but let's get serious."

You started walking in a bipedal fashion as you rubbed your chin. "let's see......wait..." You look at yourself in the mirror. and then give yourself an evil smile. "....Anyone can become Big Boss.....and I'm gonna do what he does best."

It was time...to train your skills against an actual princess. You step towards your portal door, going back on all fours, and step through. Ending up near town hall. "Here we go....hmmm....I wonder..." You concentrate on your own body. Creating a red aura around yourself. "Here we go.....NYHAHAHAHHAAHAAAAA!"

You blast off into the sky, looping around town hall and flying above houses and through alleys. Laughing, with such control over magic. It was fucking easy. Control over chaos magic was fucking easy as fuck once you set your mind to it. "WAHAHAHA, THIS IS THE FUCKING BEST!"

You were having a great time, you went straight up into the clouds, loop de looping and corkscrewing. Then you stopped. To enjoy the night view from the sky. "Ha… haha… geez… Equestria..it looks...really beautiful from up here. I can see everything...." It was breathtaking really, to take in the sight on your own, just hovering up from so high.

You look up at the moon. It's size, it's shine...it was...breathtaking. A tear almost hits your eye. ".....no wonder Luna got pissed off. it really is nice...hmmm.." Of course you meant the night. In which many a pony just sleep through.

As you look back down, you can see the target castle. Twilight's castle. "There it is...Ok, let's go!" You zoom downwards at breakneck speeds. Once you reach the castle, you swirl around it at every window until you spot Twilight's bed chambers.

You peer into Twilight's chambers....she had a modest bed for being royalty. And hell, even her room was lined with books. And then there was Spike, even during sleep. He was at her side.

You silently hover inside, and sneak around right up to her, standing on your hind legs. You stand beside her bed. Looking right at her face. She looked....really cute while she slept. Oh man, this was insane. You were so close....god, if you were really evil. You'd use your magic to keep her asleep as you fuck her silly. But you were above that, you were above your primal needs.

Besides, scaring the shit out of her was going to be much more fun in the end. But...you did have to do something first. You lean in, and carefully kiss Twilight right on the lips. Twilight herself let's out a cute sigh as she turns around in her sleep.. "Haha...now I'm the closest person ever to cumming inside a pony...now that I've managed at least that. Time for scares....now let's see."

You went through your mind. Thinking of just what to use on her. You walked forward, then back, then forward again as you thought out your plan. "Let's see...attacking books is kind of lame and obvious. And she'd think things through in the end. No..maybe just blow all her books up? Nah, that wouldn't scare Celestia or Luna if I did that to them....wait....Celestia......ohhhhhh Anon… that's just too cruel… I love it. I'll just consider this full payback for trying to seal me."

You go back to the window and hop out. Then, materializing a mirror, You look into it until you were one hundred percent invisible. Then, you vanish away the mirror as you aim your horn into the room. And create a lifelike hologram of Celestia.

"Twilight.....Twilight, please. I need you to wake up" The false Celestia says in a soft but ultimately frightened voice.

And Twilight, as if attuned to her mentor's very voice, wakes up. And upon seeing her visage. Hops to attention immediately. "Pr-Princess Celestia?! W-what are you doing here? What's the matter?" Twilight noticed the terror in her eyes "....What...What happened?"

"It's terrible Twilight...something awful has happened in Canterlot. And only you can help me fix it."

Twilight put on a determined face, and tried to quell her mentor's worry. "Don't worry Princess Celestia, whatever it is. I can fix it! You can count on me! So what is it anyway? A monster has shown up? Somepony ruined Starswirl the Bearded's archives? Did somepony you banish long ago come back?"

Celestia looked down, her mane covering her face "...it's something worse.....Twilight..please come closer"

"W-what is it? What's...w-wrong? I've never seen you like this before." Twilight drew closer, worried for Celestia.

"Gotcha.." Celestia raised her head. Her eyes were red now. Her teeth were sharp and bloodied to the point it was dripping. Her mane, the top part has fallen. Leaving her bald as the sides of her mane puffed up and curled. And a red puffy nose replaced her normal nose. And her voice became that of Pennywise the clown. "I'll tell ya what it is. I never got to kiss ya goodbye Purplesmart. Now come here and give yer teacher a smooch!"

"g...g....P-P-Princess Celestia?!.W-What?!" Twilight was stepping back, unable to make sense of what was happening.

"Awwww, what's the matter bookhorse? Don't like the teacher student fetish? That's not good cuz it'd really blow your mind if ya gave it a chance. HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" And as she laughed. Celestia's head started to inflate like a balloon. Then exploded into blood, gore, and tootsie rolls.

Twilight's face and front part of her body had been washed up with blood and gore, even the sleeping Spike had a few bits on him while Twilight screamed the highest pitched scream she could muster while falling back. Amazingly. She didn't faint from shock. She was babbling though. Like a madman.

And that scream, was enough to wake up Spike. And as he woke up. You broke the illusion. Making everything you conjured disappear. Blood, gore, and all.

"What the hay?! What's going on?! Are we under attack?!" Spike jumped up, looking around, scared of what was probably or maybe attacking the castle "I knew we should have locked up the pla-WAGH!"

Twilight grabbed Spike with her magic and hovered him up in the air as she yelled in fright. "SPIKE! SOMETHING HAPPENED PRINCESS CELESTIA...SHE'S....SHE...."

Spike looked down at his disturbed friend as he took a moment to look around. He didn't see any sign of Celestia. "Twilight, calm down! what happened?!"

"SHE EXPLODED SPIKE.....SHE EXPLODED INTO BITS! AND I COULDN'T STOP IT. SHE'S....EVERYWHERE!" Twilight started to cry as she yelled right into Spike's face.

"What?" Spike looked around. But he didn't see anything. No blood, no gore, no Celestia. "Twilight....what are you talking about?"

"WHAT DO YOU MEAN?! CAN'T YOU S-" But as she turned. She saw nothing. No Celestia...no blood...no nothing. "B-but..."

"Yeah....Twilight. you're still tense about everything that's happened. Aren't you?"

Twilight just stared.....was it..all a nightmare? "Spike..I swear..I saw"

"Twilight, whatever you saw. It wasn't real ok? come on, put me down already..." Twilight does, without every breaking her gaze at the scene....she was so sure. Spike comes up to her and starts to gently rub her back. "Come on Twilight. Let's get you into bed. If you want. I'll cuddle up with ya and I dunno...be like a nightmare warder or something."

"Spike...I..I just...was that?"

"Yeah Twilight, I'm tellin' you. It was a dream. You're just really stressed. What, with what happened with Anon. And the fact that Starlight Glimmer pony you talked about is still at large. And having to go around today to tell ponies that Anon didn't explode must have been really annoying with all those angry parents and scared foals. Come on...you really need your sleep."

"Right...sleep...it was..just a nightmare...haha" Twilight let out a small crazed chuckle. That was the most realistic dream she ever had. And it scared the shit out of her. She had trouble calming down. Even as she went back to bed. Spike, as he went to cuddle with her, got pulled close like a plushie, even letting out an audible "YAGH" as she squeezed him tight.. But he didn't protest. In his heart, all he wanted from Twilight was for her to calm down and try to get some sleep.

....Mission accomplished. You didn't even feel bad for what you did. You accomplished in making her think it was just a nightmare. It was all too easy. You even let out a little chortle. "Yeah, Discord's got nothing to worry about.....mwhahahaha"

You put your two front hooves together and rubbed them evilly as you cackled. Just as you felt a rush of power, you decided to release it by jetting back into the air like a rocket. All this excitement, all this fucking power. It was a rush.

Chapter 135

You span like a bullet back into the sky.

You flew right into a cloud. And using your magnificent powers. You span more, and more, and more within it. Until finally the cloud swirled like a tornado around you and exploded into a flurry of bolts that flew all over the place.

You lit up the night sky for a few moments as the bolts traveled in random directions before dissipating in various spots.

It was quite the light show.

you decide to drop the costume for now. Zapping it out of existence . No, you wanted to enjoy everything else now as you.

You look down on Ponyville. It was so far down, and from up here, it was so small.

As you looked down on the town, a thought occurred to you. Twilight was too easy...

You needed to scare someone tougher. Someone brave...

"Hey, you! " Yelled a familiar voice

......someone like...Rainbow Dash.

She was calling for you from behind....perfect.

But you couldn't don the Big Boss costume again, if you did, Rainbow Dash would recognize it when you go out for nightmare night. No, you couldn't let that happen. So you'd just don the costume you were originally going to use. And play the part.

You turn around as your mane turns white and a red coat appears on you. Your sword, Alastor, hung on your back. And your trusty slingshots, Ebony and Ivory, hung on either side of you.

Ok..maybe this wasn't going to be so much as scaring but testing the limits of your newfound power.
"Well well, and here I was thinking this was going to be a one pony show"

"What the....?" Rainbow Dash peers hard at you, besides your odd look. The most noticeable feature she notices about you is your lack of wings. "How are you flying like that?"

You shrug with a cocky smirk
"Baby, when you're this cool, there's nowhere else to go but up. Now, unless you came to party. Then you should go somewhere else."

Rainbow Dash cringed at that. That sounded really uncool to her. "Seriously? That's what you're going with? Ok, I don't know who you are. But you better explain yourself fast"

You snicker at her as you move up closer to her, making her slowly hover backwards.
"Explain? All I need to explain is that I'm looking for a good fight. and well..."
You gaze at her body up and down, then turn around and hovered forward
"Looks Like I came to the wrong place. A fat and slow pony like you? I'd rather face a donkey with two legs. No challenge there either, but at least they can fight back."

And that did it instantly. Rainbow Dash got instantly pissed. "Fat, SLOW?! Do you even know who you're talking to!?"

"I just said it...." You turn to her with a very arrogant smirk "A fat and slow pony"

"That's it! Forget who you are. You're going down! Nopony calls me fat and slow and gets away with it! Especially when they are the slow one! A Unicorn? Faster than any pegasi? No no...the FASTEST Pegasus pony? Yeah, fat chance. So, how about a race? huh? three laps around Ponyville! now!"

"ehhh, a race? That's boring. Why don't you put up those hooves of yours and show me what you're really made of. And try to keep that flab out of my face, will ya? I don't do the greaser look."

Rainbow Dash growled at you. A fight..yeah, she was perfectly willing now. "You asked for it. I was trying to be nice, but you reallllly asked for it. But I'll give you one last chance. Because I'm telling you pal...you have no idea what pony you're messing with."

You roll your eyes at her
"if it's not just fat and slow...then I'm gonna take a guess it's all that ugly you got on you too. That's the idea right? To scare me off with all that ugly? Because it's almost working"

"THAT'S IT!" Rainbow Dash rushes right at you, at a speed that made the scrappy changeling look like a turtle. But as you focused. You could see it coming before it came, and you zipped almost instantaneously to the right..almost like a sky star maneuver.

"Too slow" You chuckle

"...why you...." Rainbow Dash turns around, and tries a more coordinated attack. The moment she rushes you, you dodge to the side, then she quickly shifts her momentum to follow you. But you are easily able to ignore physics to just side dodge again. Making her spin out. She was able to easily catch herself though. "Geez..." Rainbow Dash turns to you. Although angry, she tried to play it off, she didn't want to show off that she was growing more annoyed by the second. "Look at you, it's gotta be REAL HARD to use magic to cheat."

but something about the power you had. It made you feel superior. You shrug off her insult.
"hey, magic is really hard to learn lady. But once I learned to fly with it. It showed me the ultimate conclusion that pegasi suck. We could do your job in our sleep if we wanted to."

"...you smug...little.."

You yawn and lay on your back in mid air as you spin your sword around you lazily. "smug? yeah, but that's a luxury you get when you're this good. Here, check this out."

You lazily wave your hoof as Alastor flies straight into a cloud. Causing it to turn black and shoot out a purple bolt of lightning straight towards Rainbow Dash. With a quick movement of her wings, she manages to dodge away from it as it heads towards you. But you just lay there, catching the bolt on your right hindleg's hoof and kicking it up into the air like a ball. Making it go straight up before exploding into a purple ball of sparks.

"Ahhh, see? Too easy"

Rainbow Dash wouldn't let her resolve die. Especially to the upstart that lazily hovered in front of her. "I don't know who you are. But a unicorn can never replace pegasi. You don't know how hard our job really is. an-WAH?!"

You zip like lightning right in front of her, and give her a smarmy bedroom'd eye look as you wiggle your eyebrows.
"Come on, are you just talk? Why don't you show me some real action, huh? I'm getting bored"

"GRRRRRR! I'LL SHOW YOU ACTION!" She immediately tries slugging you, but you manage to royal guard it. In other words, you parry it perfectly. It causes her to fall back.
"Saw that coming."
"GRRRR!" She rushes back up to you and tries multikicking you. You can see all her kicks. and managed to Royal Guard them all.

"and saw that, and that..and that and that..and that..that one too, and that, and JUST RELEASE!"

Upon her next kick, you release a quick jab that glowed with fierce power. You made sure not to put in too much power into it. But you did put in enough to make her fall downwards towards the ground.

You use your magic to pull out your Ebony and Ivory slingshots and use Rain storm. An attack that rains down your pellets straight down in quick succession. Each pellet hitting Rainbow Dash square on her nose.

As she fell, she made annoyed grunts with every pellet hitting her nose. She flipped, and flapped her wings hard to fly straight towards you.

Too easy. You just slip to the side the moment she reaches you. But she doesn't over fly it this time. Instead she stopped flapping her wings to stop her climb right before reaching where your position was. And instead immediately changes her heading to where you would be. And that was enough. No amount of focus prepared you for it. And she slams right into your stomach. making you flip backwards and fall as you lose concentration.

"S-shit....."

"Ha! Take that!"

You catch yourself midfall and look up at her. Now you were a little pissed. You were supposed to be better than that. You wanted that SS Stage Ranking.

Rainbow Dash could see that you were actually not too pleased with what happened. And sticks her tongue out at you. "What's wrong? Not as fast as you thought you were? Maybe if you stopped packing on the snacks, you'd be able to dodge better."

"Is that supposed to be some kind of comeback?"

Rainbow Dash shrugs and smirks at you "No, it's just the truth. You're the kind of guy who let's his magic do everything for him. I know an Alicorn and a Unicorn who are a lot better at magic than you are. And I'd introduce you to show you how bad you really are at it....but.....you'll be in the hospital for awhile. That is unless you call it quits now and admit I'm the be-WOAH!"

You threw your sword at Rainbow Dash. But she manages to lift herself and narrowly dodge it. You were only mildly annoyed with yourself. And the sword itself was made not to cut her. But it would give her quite a shock.

"Hey, what's the big idea!? Are you trying to cut my head off?!"

"No, I'm just tired of your yapping. All you did was get a lucky hit in. But now..."
You equip Ifrit. A pair of fiery gauntlets remade into the shape of horseshoes.
"It's time to heat things up!"

Rainbow Dash was becoming more careful as time went on. She noticed not only was your magic above average. But you had a bunch of crazy weapons. She was trying to wear you down with taunts and try to either get you to give up..or if she had to, If you were a threat to her beloved town and friends, put you down enough that you'd need a hospital visit.

You just wanted to either beat her or get her to admit you were better. You had all this power and control. You couldn't lose to her. You had to be better than her.

You take charge this time with a straight punch. But just as you could royal guard her, she was able to slap your punch away with her hoof. But the heat you were generating. It was enough to make her feel a burning sensation. "ngh..woah.."

For you, you couldn't believe she blocked it. maybe you needed more light speed. You switch Ifrit for Beowulf, a pair of light gauntlets. And fly up higher than her and use Killer Bee, a lightning quick downwards kick. Rainbow Dash, being a master of speed herself, could see through your attack. She couldn't dodge it however. So she hovers quickly to the side. She was now taking this fight much more seriously. But you were moving so fast, she couldn't counter it either. Only dodge.

You couldn't believe she dodged it at all. It was a kick at super sonic speeds. How could she see it coming? You quickly cancel out of the Killer Bee and try your own flurry of kicks , coming upwards at Rainbow Dash.

But she would not be outdone. Again, Rainbow Dash enters her own flurry of kicks downwards at you. This time, much more furious than before. It was now becoming apparent to you. That she is now giving her 100%.

And your kicks met. And despite your magical enhancement. She managed to keep up. Dammit. How?! You had the power to do anything. You could probably get her to break her kicks with a well timed magical blast or a trick from behind. But you wanted to do this with the kicks. You fueled more magic into it. More magic into your kick speed. But with every increase you gave. Rainbow Dash was able to match it with her pure athletic ability.

You couldn't do it. And Rainbow Dash realized she would eventually get tired if she kept it up. Something that didn't seem to affect you. She noticed that you must have expended a ton of magic by now. But you were still going. So she too, would continue.

But as time went on,she now assumed you had unlimited magic. and on that notion. She breaks off her attack and increases her altitude a little higher.The breakoff was so quick that you continue kicking at nothing. She then does a flip, hitting you on the back of your head as she comes down. "hah!"

Again you fall down, having to catch yourself with your magic to maintain altitude.

Dammit, as you look up, she was making faces at you. DAMMIT.

Even with this power. You couldn't keep up with Rainbow Dash

You flew back up to her eye level. Staring at her, looking pretty annoyed. Though, in your head. You forgot one important detail.

"Gonna give up yet? This has got to be pretty embarrassing. I mean, losing to a fat,slow,ugly pony like me? I guess that just makes you the worst pony ever, huh?" She snickered.

You stare at her as your sword finally returns from it's round trip and back to your back.
"I'm gonna tell you right now, I'm giving you one last chance. Back off now, or things are gonna get ugly."

"That's funny, that's exactly what I was gonna tell you"

you smirk
"You asked for it..."

You started gathering as much magic into your actual body as possible. Into your body, sword,and slingshots. Enough that you started to change color. You could feel the chaos within you. bubbling, wanting to get out. But you wouldn't let it...not yet.

Rainbow Dash got tired of waiting for whatever you were doing. "Yeah, that's it. I'm just gonna give you a quick bash to the head. catch you in mid air, then turn you in to the proper authorities. You're obviously some escaped nutjob. Here I go!"

And she rushes you, and the moment she's about to make contact. You release your magic through your sword, which surges it through your slingshots, then it goes back to you. Magic escaping at a very quick rate as a massive amounts cycles through you and your items. Your look changed too. You looked like a blue demon horse.

"Devil Trigger!" You yell out as the actual trigger word to initiate your full transformation.

"What in the hay? OMPH!" You knock her back. The power you felt was tripled. You gathered a huge amount of magical power and used to to power up even further.

You weren't going to lose, even if you had to use a cheap method. Losing to Rainbow Dash?...just...no.

Rainbow Dash gets back at the ready, as you again try a flurry of kicks. Rainbow Dash doesn't even get a chance to say anything. But she gladly obliges once again with her own flurry. Only planning her flip when necessary.

But she didn't get the chance this time. Your kicks were so fast they were actually producing lightning. You quickly overpower her and give her a few kicks to the face and body. Sending her downward.

You dive down after her, and Killer Bee right into her gut. Sending you both diagonally downwards.

She couldn't get out of it. It was too heavy a kick.

And as you both started to head down into town. Something clicked in your head. Enough to break your Devil Trigger.

You were overdoing it. If you came down on her. It would most likely kill her.

You wouldn't allow yourself to go too far. You loved the power. But by now, you proved you were crafty enough to make use of it the way you needed, even when limiting yourself. It was fun. It really was.

You bounce off Rainbow Dash and toss Alastor downwards past her. And use your magic to turn it into a floating net. Catching her safely.

She was knocked out cold from the blow though. You didn't need her remembering what actually happened. But you didn't know if you should be mind wiping. So instead. You singed her wings a little, making it look like a lightning bolt hit them.

You then float down to the ground with her.....hmmm

You make a dragging motion with your hoof. Causing the ground to open up and look like something crashed and slid on the ground. You then carefully place Rainbow Dash down at the end of it. Then...being a little sore that she made you have to Devil Trigger. You slap some mud on her face.

You then look upwards into the sky. And finish the illusion by generating a small storm. Rain and all.

Yeah...the illusion was complete.
"Well...that was fun. Rainbow Dash is better than I thought she was. I guess that means maybe I shouldn't underestimate Luna and Celestia either."

You look around...
"hmmmm...."

You go behind Rainbow Dash and give her butt a squeeze. You're disappointed on it actually being rough and toned.
"Ehh....I prefer squishy butt."

Ok, the scene was set. She'd wake up. See the storm. See her wings. And think she just got hit by a stray bolt and dreamed up the rest. Nobody, not even her, could honestly believe there was a small unicorn flying around Ponyville doing god knows what. Perfect cover.

You sigh, you had enough training and fun for the night. You yawned. Yeah, it was probably for the best. It was getting really late now. And the rain you created was starting to come down.

If you ever got this power again. It'd have to be for a day you had free. And didn't have a goal in mind. Just a day where you could have fun with it. For now though. Your testing and training was done. And nobody would ever realize what actually happened.

you had to commend Rainbow Dash though. She had to make you think on the fly. You were sure magical augments at a normal level would have stopped her.
"Seeya around Dashie."

You open a portal back to your room. No map needed. And hop inside, shedding your costume as you hop through.

You look around, and could see the scrappy Changeling was still knocked out. geez. Now that you thought about it. This guy was super easy to beat compared to bluefast. There wasn't even a comparison. You could probably fight him without your magic if you ever needed too.

After teleporting him away into the living room,You manually remove the horn from your head. It was still glowing. So you stuff it deep into your Saddle bag to prevent it from being noticed.

You were ready for the challenge.

As you hop into bed and cuddle in your blanket. You imagined all the horrors you were going to cause tomorrow. There wasn't going to be a physical fight sure. But not only did you know to what degree you could scare a pony. But you knew you were crafty enough to think of alternatives should you fail at any point.

......you were pretty good at this whole chaos thing.

Chapter 136

The next day comes, the day… Nightmare Night.

Of course, due to last nights antics. You find yourself sleeping through the morning. Not something you'd want, considering the battle happens during the day so you could enjoy the night with your friends. Good thing you have Discord. And that itself varies. Because around one, you find yourself waking up screaming as Discord bangs a gong right next to your ear.

"Rise and shine sleepy head! Today is the day!~ the day of victory!~" Discord says in a sing song way as he dings a tiny gong that generates enough noise to wake up a country.

"WAGGGGGGGHHHH! HOLY SHIT!" You spring up to the side of the bed and fall on the floor on your head. "u-ughhh...d-dammit...."

"No damnings today Anon. Today is the day we show those Princesses the meaning of terror" Discord said in a happy excited giggle "They are surely going to wet themselves on what we have in store for them, won't they?"

"...Ughhhhh....what time is it?" You weren't really paying attention to him. You yourself were waking up, and rubbing your head. It had been what? Maybe a day or two since you last hit your head. That was a new world record.

"Haven't you been paying attention? It's victor-.....hmmmmm?" Discord noticed that your dresser was fully repaired. With the alarm clock and photos back in place. "Well now.....someone was having fun last night, weren't they?"

As you stand and brush yourself off. It had seemed to you Discord actually had no idea of what happened last night. "What gives you that idea?"

Discord smirks and points to your alarm clock "Well, I doubt you could find another one of these digital clock things in Equestria, ahh but then again," Discord sighs and materializes a briefcase as he starts filling it with a random assortment of junk. "Knowing you, you just put on the horn. repaired your dresser, and went back to bed. I like you Anon, but I think you could have done better."

Yup, he didn't know. and instead of acting asspained at his comment. You actually snickered at him, and gave him a cocky grin. "Sure about that "dad"?"

And that action alone was enough to make Discord stop packing and look down at you, interested from your tone. "Come again?"

"Let me lay it out for you. I went out to Ponyville last night with the horn. And had some fun. Flying, blasting, I even got into a fight with Rainbow Dash and won. Pretty cool, huh?"

"No, anypony could do that with a horn of near limitless power. Again, I expected better from you..now get in costume. We have to get going"

As Discord resumes packing. You feel a little miffed that he didn't find that the least bit interesting. But you'd shrug it off. Because your next tidbit was sure to get him. You walk closer to him and give him an adorable yet arrogant look. Eyes closed, as you sway your body left and right, and flick your tail. "Weeelllllllllll, what if I told you I got some real practice in and scared a certain purple princess."

Discord stopped packing the moment you said "purple", and lowered the top of the briefcase so his eyes met directly with you. But he said nothing...just...nothing.

"Uh...Discord?" But Discord just continued to stare. "...Discord?"

Discord just eerily whispered "Go on...." as he stared at you from behind his briefcase.

Well, you did have his attention then. You clear your throat. And explain to him detail by painstaking detail of your little escapade with Twilight.

But even by the end of it, he didn't laugh, he didn't even crack a smile. "Discord?...hey. Come on, you have to admit that's hilarious right?...buddy?" But he just stared at you.

You approached him, and as you did. He....fell down and crumpled up. As if the bones had left his skin. The briefcase floating in place fell to the ground. You step back a little from mild shock. But this was clearly another of his shenanigans. You then hear a knocking on the window.

You look to it, and you could see a skeletal Discord knocking on it.....how spooky. You had nothing to fear though, you were just wondering what he was pulling. You walk over to the window and open it as his bony self slips inside. "Apologies Anon, I simply couldn't keep it together. That was simply too good a story. Ahh..there's my skin"

You gag a little as he slips his skin on like a suit. Then pokes his eyeholes to make his eyes roll back into place. "There we are..so, you scared her out of her mind, then managed to pass it off as a nightmare without ever getting caught." Discord had a tear come to his eye, and he wiped it. "Priceless...if only I was there to see it"

"Yeah, Discord. You have no idea. She was squeezing Spike like he was the only thing keeping her away from what she saw. She was definitely scared out of her wits. And you want to know something?"

Discord closes his briefcase as he focuses his attention completely on you.

"I loved every second of it. Flying, messing with Twilight, fighting Rainbow Dash. I didn't know having that much power could be so much fun. I...really like chaos. In a way that I think I can understand why you were the way you were before Fluttershy. It's just all kinds of fun. And that's what gets me the most. Ever since I got here, chaos has always been around me. And a lot of the times, I thought anything out of my control was a bad thing. But look at what I've managed. I fixed Starlight, I made friends, I am on the road to fixing one of Equestria's biggest villains ever, I helped you with your plan, and that's just the start. Chaos...is great. I just gotta take the good with the bad. Especially if I'm purposely causing it."

Discord gave you a wide grin as something seemed to have caught his eye. "Is that so Anon? Is that so.......then tell me, would you say that you have a certain mastery over chaos?"

You raise your right hoof and wave it as you go… "Ehhhh, sorta. It still blows up in my face sometimes. But yeah, considering all that's happened. I think I got a good handle of it. Whether it's within my power or not. More good things have happened than bad. And look at me now, I'm pretty confident we can beat those princesses. Together." You giggle to yourself. "As father and son, of course." Then you slowly start to rise as you begin to glow.

Discord just taps his digits together as his smile grows. "Well...that's good to know that you've realized that. Took you long enough."

"What?! Hey!...oh goddammit. Discord, really? There's not even anyone around to see this. Just stop and let's get going."

Discord opens his talons and paw to you "Not my doing Anon. See, no magic whatsoever. This is allllllll you. Shame your little crusader friends aren't here to see this. But father takes precedence over friends."

The hell, what was he talking about? "...what?...WOAH!" Suddenly the soft glow around you turns to black and spins all around you in a crazy fashion. "W-what's going on?! What's all this?!"

Discord gives a quick snicker "Relax Anon, it's not everyday a pony gets a Cutie Mark. And given all this chaos around it. I can already guess what it's going to be"

"Cuti-...." But your voice cuts out as you are enraptured in black and red. And then it explodes outward......making you fall down....on your head again. "Agh!.....ow! Geez.....What the fuck just happened?! Did I die? I..just saw a flash of light..geez, my head."

You rub your head to try to relax the pain, dammit. Twice in a row. Fucking annoying. You stand up and look at Discord. But you didn't know if you should be angry or not. You were confused. And so spoke in a slightly annoyed yet soft tone. "What's the big idea man? What the hell was that all about?"

"I think you're looking at the wrong thing, Anon. This of course, is entirely your fault"

"..huh?" Your fault? but you didn't even have the horn on. What the h… OHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH... "OHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH"

Discord put his talons and paw to his cheeks and yelled "OHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH"

IT WAS YOUR CUTIE MARK NIGGA, a spread of arrows pointing in every direction. "WOOAHHHHH, how...what?! It's...."

"The symbol of chaos, Anon. Welcome to the club." Discord looks at his arm "I'd do a whole song and dance number over it but we gotta go. We mustn't be late."

"B-but Discord, I...What do I do now? Like...what does this mean for me?" You were confused.

"You said it yourself Anon. It's your "Thing". There's nothing more to it than to go with the flow. What you saw when you were watching us back in your world is exactly what it is. Nothing more, nothing less. The only difference now is the fact that I'm now sure there's no wayyyyyyyy we can lose."

....Wow....you finally managed to get your cutie mark. And..it was in chaos. You didn't know what to say. You had wondered what it would be. And now, you didn't know what to think. You still felt like you, and the only thing that changed was you now have a butt tattoo. Despite it all, you were still you. ".....so, how do you think Fluttershy will react to this?"

Discord shrugged "She'll be happy for you. Ponies like her have this odd sense of "positivity" when in reality that Cutie Mark would cause a lot of second guessing of your character. But I suppose that's a good thing. I admit, I would actually feel quite sour if Fluttershy had a negative reaction to your cutie mark. But come on, what are the chances of that happening?"

"...You're right, well then. You said we were going to be late right?" You grab your saddle bag, and grab your horn. Placing it on your head as you become Big Boss once more. "Let's finish the mission"

Discord smirked. He loved the fact you were focused and confident. Not letting your Cutie Mark distract you from the major goal. Of course, it did bug you in the back of your head. But it was fine, the mark in reality would mean nothing until you were with your friends.

Discord snaps his talons as you both appear above the castle of Canterlot. It was a bright sunny day, and the both of you could see the royal guards pouring out of the castle.

"I guess they are ready for us, huh?"

"It seems so, and look at that. They are sending out every guard they have to make sure we get to have our private time." Discord was loving it, every second that passed by filled him with unbridled excitement.

You could tell this meant a lot to him, you shifted to the side of him and bowed. "After you, Spirit of Chaos."

Discord already caught on, played along, and bowed "Oh no no, after you. You did just get your Cutie Mark after all."

That made you smile, that he was actually going along with it instead of being difficult. "Age before beauty"

"Technically, if we were to go by human rules. You'd be older than I am. So...after you"

Oh ho, is that how it was. "Well, considering Equestria had always existed regardless. I think that makes you older, so after you"

Discord rubbed his chin, and observed the situation as it was "Hmmmmmm, it seems we are at an impasse."

You smile at him, and lay your back to the air as you put your hooves behind your head. "Seems so, but if one of us doesn't go down. We'll miss the challenge. So, Age before beauty, right?"

Discord nods "Right" Discord reaches over and plucks your horn from your forehead, and waves to you.

"...ahh....you're such a piece of shit." You tell him before you begin to fall.

Discord just smiles at you as you plummet to the ground. You weren't even yelling though. You weren't scared. He wasn't going to let you splat.

And you fall, right to the front of the large entrance to the castle. As you fell, you could see the horn below you, flying right at you like a rocket. Yeah...just as you thought. The horn slams into your forehead. In which you subconsciously take immediate action to gently land on the ground like a bird.

You stare at the door as Discord appears beside you, looking at the doors himself. "Shall we?"

"Ye-...wait...WAIT..." You had just remembered something. "Discord, remember what they said? You had to give up certain aspects of your powers. Or else we lose by default."

Discord slapped his forehead "Right! Haha! Almost forgot about that. No, I wouldn't want to break the rules"

"Says the natural cheater. so..are you going to just hide it or pretend or something?"

Discord shakes his head "No, I can't be sure precisely of Celestia's or Luna's ability to sense chaos. So, I will abide by their rules. Of course...there is one thing"

"What's that?"

"A moment please..." Discord takes your horn again and holds it near his mouth. Then, with his talons, he turns his ear like a faucet as he pukes a glowing yellow liquid into the horn. And then slaps it back on you "There we are"

You shiver and gag. You could feel it on your forehead despite the horn becoming a part of you. "Ogh, gross. Why the hell did you do that?"

Discord began to lightly wipe his mouth with a handkerchief. "Well, I can't be walking around with that much power. But YOU can. They never said you couldn't. See where I'm going with this?"

Oh shit... "So you're trusting me with all your power?"

Discord shook his head "No, just most of it. I still have enough to play my tricks and not break the rules handed to me. As I said, no matter what. Our victory is guaranteed."

Hmmmmm, it seemed like it. But just in case...just to be sure. You aimed your horn at Discord and zapped his ear as a very small piece of technology latched on to it.

Discord tapped it "Anon, what's this gaudy looking thing? Don't you know it's rude to make somepony like me look like trailer trash?"

You sigh, but still smile. Typical. But, that was no ordinary piece of technology. You even zapped your own ear to create one of your own. "It's called a Codec Receiver. It basically allows us to communicate at long distance without the use of magic. I put our frequency at one eight seven point zero. Just tap the button to call me when you need me, and vice versa. I don't know how limited you are. But just in case something does go wrong. I'd like to still be able to keep in contact with you. We have to be strategic about this Discord. I know we're going to win. But let's not underestimate our opponents, ok?"

Discord gave it a gentle rub. The fact you suggested not underestimating them annoyed him. He was sure everything would go dandy fine. But, he felt a certain trust in you. A true connection of partnership. It was enough to make him agree, if reluctantly. "Fineeeeeee....But I'm telling you Anon, it's in the bag."

"I know, I know...but just in case."

Discord grumbled "Yes yes, fiiine. I already said fine. Now then, let us open the doors to victory!"

"I'm ready! Let's do this!"

You and Discord both open the doors to the entrance hall of the castle. And the moment you both do. You both end up with pies splattered on your faces.

Chapter 137 - The Nightmare Night Arc

The pie tins slips off both your faces. You rub the banana cream off your face as you look at your cream covered hoof.".......are they serious?"

Discord, instead of wiping it off. Circles his tongue like a fan capturing all the cream and swallowing. "It seems they are. It appears to me they don't seem to understand the concept of this challenge." Discord smirks "Makes things all the easier"

You lick your hoof. mmm, it was pretty good. But still.
"that or they think this was seriously going to scare us. I'd think Celestia would be more on the silly side, but damn. Luna too? That's pretty bad"

Discord shrugs "Bad for them, good for us. Though, if I was at full power. I would have avoided that altogether. All things considered, I think we're going to have a good day"

A good day, hmmnn.. Actually, as you looked around. You noticed the lighting inside the castle represented night time.
"I think they understand the concept, it's night time in here"

"Ohhhhh, night time. So scary." Discord puts his paw near his mouth as he calls out "You're going to have to do better than that to beat us! Oh, you wait until you see what we have in store!"

"I just don't get it, why bother with the whole nightmare night theme if they are just going to throw pies. In fact..."
You notice that within the Entrance hall. There were no triggers, no catapults. The pies just seemingly came out of nowhere.
"Discord, I think they are close by. They must have waited by the doors for us to throw those pies."

"You're not the only one who noticed, Anon. If they are close by then that means we can win this all the sooner." Discord nears the large set of doors leading to the Throne room. "Shall we take a peek?"

You nod
"But just a peek, I have a feeling that entire room is probably booby trapped with all sorts of pies."

"Fret not dear Anon, I'm not a simpleton. I'm just going to crack the door just a little" in which he does "and we'll have a peek"

Both you and Discord take a peek through a small crack The throne room was darker than the entrance hall. The princesses weren't on the thrones and the room looked empty.

"Celestia, you sly horse. I don't need powers to see all those pressure plates."

"You see something? I don't see anything"

Discord taps his own head, expressing the fact that he has a eye for these sort of things. "Anon, traps like these are simple to spot. thin strings, pressure plates having indents on them, very sensitive catapults that release at the slightest of motion. The only thing that surprises me is how they managed to set up so many booby traps in one room. The clean up is going to be horrendous."

"Those are the types of traps in there?...ok, step back then. I got an idea"

Discord steps back as you open the door a little more. and manifest a shitton of marbles and blast them all over the floor. In seconds, the throne room is covered in various pies and creams. The throne room becomes a decadent mess within seconds.

"...this is really disappointing really." You said. You couldn’t fathom why’d they use such weak traps.

"Agreed, so much for prank masters. But we can't secure a win without finding them and scaring them witless. I say we split up"

"Ok, sounds like a plan. I just got to keep an eye out for triggers and pressure plates right? I would have thought my horn would have made them a little more visible to me. I remember when fighting Rainbow Dash that I could actually have this..like...sixth sense."

"I find that a little odd myself. But that can simply be attributed to lack of experience." Discord chortles "Not really a problem since our little princesses absolutely reek at this"

"Well, it should be fine. I'm an adult. I've watched the show. And I've seen things a lot scarier than a barrage of pies. I'll take the west wing. And Discord, when we split up. Let's do a Codec check ok? I want to make sure this thing works"

Discord rolls his eyes "Anon, really? We probably won't even need it. But fine, I'll indulge in your plan of action. Just don't be surprised if I end up bagging both Princesses"

You let out a little "ha".
"Come on, I have all the power in the world. All I have to do is get a princess in sight and it's done. "

Discord leans down to you "It's not about the size of the horn Anon" He flicks your horn, causing you a tinge of pain. "It's how you use it"

You rub your forehead around your horn as you look away at him.
"Yeah yeah, whatever you say. Let's just do this"

"Yes...let's"

You both took your doors. Discord to the east wing. You to the west.

The corridor was vast and wide. You made your horn aglow as you looked around for either princesses. Thinking of what horrors to bring upon them.

"I wonder if Pinhead would work. He's a scary guy. Xenobites everywhere. mmmmm..eno....maybe the aliens from alien. They are scary motherfuckers. Or maybe something from a video game. Pyramid Head maybe...but but...HAHA...like a pony pyramid head. That'd be hilarious."
you pass by doors, T junctions, and even a stairway upwards. But you stay on the floor you're on. After making more distance. You click the Codec on your ear.

But Discord doesn't answer.

"...agh...come on Discord. Answer the codec" You say in a sing song way.
You try again. and again. Clicking the button multiple times. Finally, he answers. Rather annoyed.

"Anon, stop that. I could hear the ringing. The test was a success. You don't need to blow my ears out!"

You roll your eyes. Even when cooperation is needed. He can be a dick.
"ugh, Discord. The test was actually answering the Codec. Not just listening to the ringing. I was getting afraid that something happened."

"oh....hmmm....well, sorry then. As for anything happening. There's nothing to report."

"Gotcha, just keep me posted if you spot a Princess"

"If I spot a Princess, I'll call you to let you listen to her shrieking"

You silently smile from that. You don't know why, maybe it was because the thought of Celestia or Luna being scared was actually kind of funny.
"Well, I'll be ready for that. I'll do the same for you when I got both of them scared."

"ohho, getting arrogant are we? I like it, let's me know you have drive."

"Oh you bet, just keep me posted though, ok? Anon out"

You ended the call, and continued to explore. Until you heard hoofsteps.

The moment you did. You leaned against the walls on your hindlegs. And slowly and silently moved along it. until you reached the end of the corridor.

You take a peek around the wall, and who should you see? Princess Luna, walking casually away from you. Seems she hadn't noticed you. Or noticed anything really.

"...oh man....there she is...let's see..."
You look at the end of the hall and see a T-Junction.
"...ok...here we go..."

You take a breath, and use your magic to teleport to the other end of the hall. Hiding behind the wall on the right side of the T-junction.

"Let's see....she should be here soon. Let's try something basic."
You raise an army of Zombie Ponies behind you. Some missing limbs, hair, eyes, some bleeding profusely.
"Alright men, save your moaning and creep walking until the Princess reaches the end of this corridor."

The zombies slowly nod. one of the nodding ones dropping his head.

"ew....yeah...that's gross....anyway..."
You float up to the ceiling and duck and wait. Blending your suit colors to the ceiling color.
"And now...we wait"

And finally, Luna arrives at the T-Junction of the corridor. And....takes the other direction. Without so much as glancing at the zombies.

Your zombies don't even attempt to moan or give chase
.......
You slowly descend and give a hard stare to your zombies.
"What gives! You guys were supposed to moan and freak her out when she reached the end of the corridor!"

But the zombies don't respond, they just stare at you blankly.

"Guys?"

The zombies weren't even paying attention. They were just nodding.

You put your hoof to your face.
"......ugh......useless."

You zap them away and make haste to trail Luna once more. This time, she was aimlessly walking to a corridor with a right turn only. Perfect...

You teleport ahead of her again. And think of something more....terrifying.
"Let's see...AHA!"

You create a single sleeping foal on the ground. As it silently coos and rests.
"Nothing like a necromorph of a baby to freak out ANYTHING."
You stifle a snicker
"...that thing is going to go apeshit the moment it wakes up. Good thing it can't actually hurt anyone...woo..could do some real damage if it was the real deal."

And again, you wait.
You can hear her stepping closer
soooooooon
And then...you hear her stop.

"hrmmmm, I don't think Discord or Anon plan to come this way. Perhaps I should check the second floor, and make ready the pie traps" Luna says to herself before turning the corner.

And then she turned away.

"....."
You plant yourself to the ground.
"...you gotta be fucking with me..."
how was this hard? All she had to do was turn the corner and you'd have had her.
"....and what the fuck is with the pies? Christ..you'd think..."

You hear a snarl behind you.
"And what the hell is..."
You turn around, the foal necromorph was snarling at you as it raised it's tentacles.
You scoff at it
"Oh please, don't even, you can't do..Ouch! hey! don't...HEY!"
He was snarling at you as he bitchslapped you with his tentacles.
"STOP!...You!..Peice!..DAMMIT!"

You get angry and blast the thing to bits.
"...fuck...ow..stupid little...hmnngg..."
You rub your cheeks, that thing may have been a tamer version. but it could slap.
"...better see how Discord is doing"

You call him on your codec. It takes him awhile, but he answers. "Another test, Anon?"

"No, status report actually. I found Luna, but she keeps walking away from my traps. How are you doing on your end?"

Discord just moans an annoyed moan. As if things weren't going good for him either.

"Discord?"

".....I'm having some trouble myself."

"What? is Celestia giving you the slip or something?"

"That's exactly it. I had no idea weakening myself would cause this much trouble. She's just aimlessly walking around, and whenever I teleport to scare her. I am met with a pie as she appears at the complete other end of the corridor. It's impossible I tell you, Nopony could predict my movements. With or without my full power. I can't even catch her!"

...Christ. You both were getting really annoyed. But getting annoyed didn't mean scared. So you both were definitely in the clear. And Celestia....the hell was with the fucking pies.

You pondered. Thinking through the earlier seasons of the show. And then come up with something.
"Discord, I think I got an idea on how to get Celestia"

"You do? Well out with it then. Because I swear, if I get hit with one more pie"

"Relax, trust me. This should work. She wants to hit us with pies? Fine...let's hit her with cake"

"Cake?...really Anon? I thought we discussed that pies aren't scary. Cake certainly won't be much better. She would probably go and enjoy it. And unless you suggest me poisoning it. Then you can forget about it. Not because I care or anything, but I can't torment what's no longer among the living."

..well..that was grim.
"No, look. Her going to eat the cake. That's exactly the plan"

"...........Are you serious?" Discord was befuddled by this

"Yes, look. Hear me out. Put out a really delicious cake. She'll get curious. She'll probably not eat it. But she'll definitely get curious. Then, SNAP. The cake comes to life and eats her! I call it...cake mimic."

"HAHA, that's a wonderful idea. And to think you thought of it before I did. Amazing. Then I assume we wait for her screams of terror, right?"
“
Exactly"

"Good...good....well, I'll be sure to set that up the moment I catch sight of her again. I'll keep you posted Anon....Good luck."

"Wait!...WAIT!...don't you have any tips for Luna?"

"Oh..yes, I happen to have one actually"

"What is it?"

"Stop stinking. cheerio Anon"

WHAT?!
You growl...goddammit. Why can't he be nice for at least a moment. Hell, it wasn't like he was doing any better.

Whatever, you'll just take it out on Luna. You'll get her next time.

Again, you trail and stalk Luna. This time, you'd wait for her to make another turn. And she would walk straight into a wall of moaning flesh. Ponies screaming in pain from becoming part of a wall. Screaming and moaning for help despite how pointless it'd be. They were already assimilated. And if she happens to turn around? Bam, another wall blocking the way. No way to escape. Perfect.

you followed her into another single turn corridor. Man...this castle was pretty big.

You again teleport to the end of the corridor.

You set up the flesh wall, using your magic to keep them silent until she makes the turn.

There'd be no failure this time. Only victory.

You hid yourself on the ceiling like a stealthy spider.

....and this time
THIS TIME!
She was..SHE WAS.

Luna turned the corner, and was face to face with the flesh wall. The moment she sees it, you activate it as it screams and moans in pain, screaming her name for help.

You gently land behind Luna as she stares at the wall, she must be petrified with fear.

You turn yourself into a melting flesh being. Your skin actually bulging through your coat. Your eyes blistering and deranged. If she tried to run, she'd see you. And that'd be it. At least you hope so. If not. The other wall you’d set up would clench it.

But as you stood there, she did as well. Just staring at the flesh wall.

Was she that frozen with fear? She must have not been used to this kind of thing before. You walk a little closer to her. To meet her face to face when she eventually turns around.

And when you were a few more steps closer. She turns around.

You step back in a startled fright, enough to break your current form. Her eyes were empty. Literal black. With blood pouring out of it. The FUCK?! THAT AIN’T TV Y!

As she stepped closer to you, you stepped back. she was hissing, the hissing was the sound of multiple banshees screaming. There's no way!

You jump back as it screams at you. And put up a huge thick wall between the both of you and duck into one of the doors.

The room you were in seemed to be some sort of guest room. It had a bed, a dresser. Everything looked nice. But nothing royal. This was probably for visitors to the castle.

Not that you cared. There was a fucking R rated Luna out there for some unexplainable reason. You locked the door tightly as your ear started to ring.

Goddammit, it was Discord...if this was his doing...actually...that would kind of make sense. But why?

You lean your back against the wall and answer the call.
"Discord, what the fuck do you think you're doing?!"

"What? What do you mean? I was calling to tell you the good news."

"The good news?! that you sent a fake Luna to scare the shit out of me?! I thought we were a team!"

"What are you talking about Anon? I don't even know where yo-..ohhhhh"
He laughed

"What's so funny? What, did you get a giggle out of me freaking out?"

"I am actually. But it wasn't my doing. Or did you forget that Princess Luna is capable of illusions of her own. It's one of her special talents you know."

"What?...."

oh shit...THAT'S RIGHT. Besides the shadowbolts as Nightmare Moon. There was also making spiders come to life and still being able to disguise herself as Nightmare Moon even after being saved. But still...THAT?!

"You get it now Anon?"

"Yeah...but, what she did Discord. There was blood coming out of her eyes."

"....hmmm, I admit. That's a new one. But perhaps she's actually taking the game seriously. Her sister certainly didn't."

...oh no way.
"Wait, Celestia actually fucking fell for the cake trick?"

"Oh, ohhh she did. I think I made the cake too thick however as I don't hear any yelling. But I'm sure as she realizes her situation becomes hopeless that she'll scream and cry for us so loudly it’d pierce steel. Don't worry, we're already halfway there"

Ok, then that just leaves Luna...good.

"Ok, so. How can I tell Luna from her fakes?"

"Shadows Anon, Shadows. If her illusion doesn't have a Shadow. Then it's not real. And if it does. Then it's either her herself or it's a magically induced shadow. But those are also easy to spot. Just look for inconsistencies such as direction and form. I know you'll do fine. Make me proud...son"

aww....he genuinely sounded like he wanted you to succeed.
"I will, just leave it to me"
You sigh, and close communication. Ok...illusions...got it.

You unlock the door, and peer outside.

The corridor was clear.

you step out, ready for anything. What did you have to be afraid of anyway? You were more powerful.

You carefully stay along the walls, looking for ANYTHING that moves.

And if anything did, you'd check it's shadow. Not like this would be hard. There were a ton of video games that did it.

As you proceed through the corridors of the castle. You come along the complete end of the left side of it. Windows shining in moonlight from the outside. Even though it should be daytime. There attention to detail was spot on. No doubt Luna was taking this challenge much more seriously than her sister. No doubt about it since Celestia got caught.

As you step down the hallway. You can hear it. The snarls.

Through the shining of the moon. Multiple Lunas started to appear around you. All freaky in their own way. From empty eyes to decrepit melting wings. Each one a horror....and only one with a shadow.

"hmmm...not this time."

You light up your horn, and blast the entire area with a gigantic blinding light. destroying all the Lunas but one.

"Gotcha this time Princess..."
She was rubbing her eyes. as your own voice became distorted and ruined.

"You can't escape....YOU CAN'T ESCAPE!" You bellow at her.

When she looks, the corridor was gone. replaced with a thin hallway that bleeds all around her. As you step closer to her. You're body starts becoming more deformed as you grow flesh wings that turn to hands that reach for her throat.
"YOU WILL DIE HERE!YOUWILLDIEHERE!"

If this doesn't do it. Nothing will.

You can see the fear in Luna's eyes. She immediately cries for her sister and runs...right through the wall.

Goddammit...you didn't know she could do that.
"Ugh.....gotta trap her next time."

You hear another ringing in your ear. You answer it.
"Discord?"

"Anon! Anon! It's terrible!"

The hell?! why was he sounding frantic?
"Discord, what happened? Why are you sounding like someone died?"

"it's worse than that Anon! Celestia escaped!"

wut?
"How the hell did she escape?! There's no way!"

"Yes, I thought that too. So I went looking for Luna to see if she came by. And when I couldn't find her. I went back to Celestia. And...she's gone."

"What did she do? eat through the fucking cake?!"

"Worse....she ate the entire cake"

You slap your face with your hoof. How....HOW?! There's gluttony. And then there's that shit.
".........dammit"

"Yes..it is quite the damnable thing"

Discord sounded like he was trying to be calm about it. But you could hear the disappointment in his voice. "How are you doing on your end?"

"I found her, and I gave her a scare that made her call out to Celestia. But I didn't think to actually trap her. Look Discord. I think we should regroup and meet back at the Throne Room."

"Yes, I was thinking the same thi-ng,A-non"

You started to hear a buzzing sound coming from the Codec...interference? from what?
"Discord, are you hearing me fine?"

"O-f cou-rse I a-m, it'-s just thi-s ann-oying -buzzing so-und com-ing from the thr-on- OH MY HEAVENS?! WHAT I-......"

Discord cuts out.
"Discord.....Discord.....DISSSSCCCOOOORRRRRDDD!"

You kept calling, hoping he was joking, hoping he knew about MGS and was just doing it as a joke.

Nothing but static.

....what could have possibly got him? What was that buzzing noise? No way he'd let a Luna illusion get him. And unless Celestia went on the offensive with battle magic of some kind. Then..no, that's not possible.

You start using your magic to zip through the corridors. You get a little lost. But eventually find one of the doors that lead to the backside of the throne room.

You hug along the wall. and try the codec again.
It was dead.

....what could be in there?

"Well, took you long enough Anon. What did you do, get lost?"

"Yeah actuall.....what?"

You can hear Discord, but you don't see him.
"Down here Anon, if you'd stick to four legs instead of two. You'd see what is below you."

You look down

It was Discord's.....head.

You raise an eyebrow in confusion.
"Why are you just a head?"

"You tell me. Just because I gave you ultimate power doesn't mean you could play such nasty jokes on me. Do you realize how dangerous the creatures you summoned are?"

Creatures you summoned?
"...uhhhh....I didn't summon anything."

"Oh really, then what do you call the things in there, hmmm?"

He pointed his face at the door.

You slowly open the door, and peer inside.

What you saw.........was nothing short of pure horror.

".....no..."

"Yes, as you can see. My body was mauled and even tainted by those....things."

Discord was awfully calm about what was in that room desecrating his body. But what you saw...you knew what those bugs were......and there was a shitton of them,...there's...no...way. Horrid man sized bugs that were a mix of butterflies and mosquitos. Capable of terrific speed and murdering a human in seconds.

You slowly close the door. And start to sweat.
"...Discord.......I...Didn't summon those bugs..."

"And might I ask who did then? Certainly not Luna, those things are vicious creatures. Much beyond Equestria's usual set of beasties. Even the Everfree Forest has safer creatures than those things."

"Discord..I'm telling you. I'd never ever fucking summon Cazadors"
Oh shiiiit, where did they even come from? Never mind the fact they were fucking real. You were sweating bullets.

”Oh, so they have a name do they? Anon, this joke isn-"

"IT ISN'T A JOKE!"
Your scream can be heard echo across the castle. And then...the buzzing noise increased.
"....oh shit"

"Anon....why do I get the feeling you didn't summon these things?" Discord could see the utter horror in your eyes.

................Well...no….shit.

"......we gotta go"

"Go where? I'm not leaving without my win"

Fuck that, you could hear the bastards getting to the door. You get on all fours. Grab Discord by the ear with your mouth and toss him up. Catching him on your head. then using your magic to keep him there, you start running for your life as the menace that is Cazadors burst through the door.

"oh my, they are quite fast."

"DISCORD! HOW COULD YOU BE SO FUCKING CALM! THEY ARE GOING TO KILL US!"

"Oh yes...they are going to kill us, never mind the fact that I essentially gave you unlimited power. Nooooo, that's useless."

...oh....right....
"Do you think it could stop them?!"

"It can stop ANYTHING Anon. now about face, and show those things what for!"

ngh.....he was right though. If you let them spread. They could kill the princesses, they could destroy Equestria. But how...How did they get here?

You turn around. Shit, they were already nearly to the both of you within seconds.

You had to brave this though. But my god. Were they super ugly in person.

You just go wild. You shoot blast after blast after blast at them. The most powerful you could muster.

Eventually there was nothing but a smoke cloud. And the buzzing had stopped.
"......are they all dead?"

"I'd hope so, I want my body back. I can't seem to summon it on my own. Would you be a dear and summon it for me?"

"Yeah...sure"
You were breathing hard, that was the most terrifying thing you ever had to deal with in your life. It also should have been completely impossible.

You try summoning up Discord's body. But your horn only sputtered, and smoked.
"W-what's wrong?"

Discord moved his head up a little to look at the horn. "I.....don't know. The power is there, it can't just burn out. Is it incompatible with my own body?Perhaps you having my power made it impossible for you to summon OTHER pure chaotic beings....how odd."

Great, even he didn't know what was going on. And if he didn't know. Then that means shit was getting real. But..if the cazadors are dead then...everything..should...be...

Your eyes widen in horror as more of them. Even larger in size, start flying through the corridor in droves.
"OHHH SHIIIIIITTT!"

You just immediately start blasting again. Harder and faster than before. But even with your best efforts. These particular Cazadors were making progress, slowly, but they were getting through your blasts, and they seemed endless this time.

"Goddammit! They won't stop coming!"

"...."

Discord was just staring, assessing. But he couldn't figure it out. He realized this wasn't your fault. There had to be another reason. "Anon, Make a very very thick wall. Now!"

"R-right!"

You do it, you make a thick wall of pure steel between you and the Cazadors since blasting them wasn't working.

You were just staring at the wall. Breathing hard, panting, freaked the fuck out.

"Anon...take off the horn"

"W-why?! I-I need it..."

"I need it more, I need my power back. I think I figured out what the problem is."

"W-what is it?"

Discord remained calm the entire time. He needed to. But inside, even he was worried about the circumstances of the situation. And you certainly weren't going to be calm about it.

"It's a theory, but it's possible your body isn't capable of containing the near full power of chaos. If you give me back my power, I can end this before it REALLY gets out of hand"

Right, that made sense...
You put your hoof on your horn and try to pull it out. But no matter how hard you try. It won't pop off.

"A-ahh..shit..it's stuck"

"annoying...but not hopeless. Head up, if you don't mind. Just look straight up."

You don't say a word. You felt you knew what he was doing. You just look straight up like he says.

Discord uses the little power he does have to detach himself and float up to your horn, and starts sucking it like a baby's bottle..or a.....well...lewd.

"What are you doing?"

Discord stops sucking for a moment to speak. "What does it look like? I'm sucking it out"

You tilt your head in confusion...that was possible?
"You can do that?"

"Of course I can" Discord goes back to sucking, but after awhile, he stops, and looks back down at you "nevermind, it appears I can't"

Your eye twitches as you scream out at him
"YOU CAN'T?! THEN WHAT THE FUCK ARE WE SUPPOSED TO DO?!"

"Calm down" Discord sticks himself back to the top of your head. Sort of like a hat. "we still have a solution"

You take a deep breath to calm down.
"And...w-what's that?"

"We wait a day. My spell on the horn itself will be gone by then. And everything will return to normal." Discord chuckles to himself. That sounded perfect to him.

"EQUESTRIA WILL BE KILLED BY THESE THINGS BY THEN YOU MORON!"
You just burst out. An entire fucking day?! That's insane!

"hmmmmm...I didn't consider that an-" Suddenly he is interrupted.

"Boo!" A voice comes out from behind the both of you.

It made you fucking jump.
"GYAHH DON'T KILL US!"

You turn and cower, hiding your head.

"Kill? huh? Anon...I don't think that was part of the challenge. Are you two ok? Discord, why are you bodyless?"

You look up, It was..Celestia...in a Chrysalis mask. A very bad one, But thank christ you found her.

You jump up and hug at her leg.
"You're safe...oh thank everything you're safe!"

"I am" Celestia chuckles nervously "Did I miss anything? Or did my sister get the both of you already?"

Ahhhhhh" Discord chuckles "So Luna is responsible for those cazador things...oh..oh thank goodness." Discord felt absolutely relieved, he was actually scared there really was danger.

"Cazador...things?" Celestia sounded cutely confused.

But that wasn't cute at all.

"L-Luna didn't summon...bugs?..like...big ones?" You didn’t like this.

Celestia shook her head. "No, not that I know of. I do want to commend Discord though for that giant cake. It was terrifying at first. But then like all cakes. It ended up being delicious."

NOOOOOPE

"Celestia, we have to get out of the castle. NOW! Get Luna...we gotta get out. And seal the whole thing!"

"Why?...ohhhhh" Celestia laughs "It's a trick"

Discord shook his head "It's no trick Princess. we have a real threat on our hands. Even I must concur. Postponing the challenge is regrettable. But quite necessary"

"Discord, excuse me if I say I don't believe you...also.." Celestia looks at the wall. "I don't think we agreed to renovations to the castle either"

GODDAMMIT! GODAMMIT!

"Now isn't the time for this! Celestia we gott-......."

You gasp, even Discord gasps as a huge purple menace turns the corner right behind Celestia.

it was...A Chrysalid. A large bug like alien, purple in color, with a humanoid top with vicious claws and the ability to put it’s eggs into anything it kills. Turning their corpses into zombies.

No..you couldn't let it.

It was like slowmotion.

You shot a laser that would blow the thing apart from the inside. Almost like it was reflex.

But even with reflex. It was too late. The Chrysalid had stabbed right through Celestia, before your laser shot had caused it to explode from the inside. Celestia’s now lifeless corpse being thrown to the wall.

You were too late.

You and Discord look on in horror. Discord could no longer keep a calm and cool head.

"A-Anon.....w-what was that thing?"

But you couldn't say a thing. You were too late. And you already knew what was coming up next.
"........"

And like clockwork. Celestia began to clumsily raise from the ground. Her eyes were soulless. Her body had a huge puncture right through the stomach. All she could do was moan, hiss, and step close to the both of you. Slowly.

"A-A-Anon...."

Tears went down your eyes. You fucked up...you fucked up badly.

And even though you knew you what she was now. You couldn't do it. You couldn't blast her to bits.

"Anon..w-why is she....what's wrong with her?" Discord was confused. Not too used to this kind of violence. Worried that things truly had gone way too far.

You don't say anything more. you just take another step back. You knew what would happen if you let her live.

With a heavy heart. and tears streaming down. You blast the laser again. Blowing Celestia to bits. Her crown falling down where her body once stood.

"ANON! WHY DID YOU?!"

"SHE'S DEAD DISCORD!...She's...fucking dead..."

You fell down...crying.....oh god......this was a mistake.

...this was a mistake.....such a huge fucking mistake...

Discord didn't know what to say....He even realized this was a mistake...and he knew he had no way of fixing it. He didn't know what to do.

And neither did you.

".......what do we do now...?"

"I don't know......I just killed Princess Celestia. And Luna is probably dead too....And..I don't even know what could be going on outside....shit...we fucked up...Discord.....can't you fix this somehow? I mean..after tomorrow"

Discord gulped "N-no...I can't bring back the dead Anon...I can't fix this...I..didn't even know I'd cause this....this is my fault..this is..."

Discord started to well up in real tears. "I.....Don't know..wait..WAIT!...F-Fluttershy! We need to go get her!"

...dammit....even if it was selfish to save only her.....you couldn't imagine what would happen if she died too...

"What about Luna...we have to get her"

Discord was about to say forget it.....but he knew how that'd sound. "F-fine...but use the magic. Just teleport randomly until we run into her."

"Right...right......ok..."

You take a deep breath and try teleporting. But the horn sputters, spits...and then pops off your head.

.....WHAT?!

"IT...Discord...the horn!"

Discord looked down at it, he had no fucking clue why that happened...but he then grew silent. his face full of dread.

"Discord, Do it. Send these fuckers back to hell! Come on!"

".....I-I can't"

"What do you mean?! Just do it man!"

The power was gone...completely vanished. "My power...it just.....it's not there."

"..come on...."
You chuckle nervously, almost crazily
"T-that's a terrible joke..."

Discord looks down, hope...was lost.
"It's no joke...the only power I have left is what I have in my head. And it's not much....And I can sense that the creatures that are about. Are still about..."

You gulp...
"But...no more new ones should pop up, right?"

"Yes, that would..." Discord choked up, thinking of Celestia "...that would be the case..." Discord sniffed, starting to cry "I-if only..I could turn back the clock"

"m-me too...i-if..."

You went silent.

Turn back the clock.

TURN BACK THE CLOCK

YESSSS!

"WE HAVE TO TURN BACK THE CLOCK!"
your eye twitched, pupils shrank as you began to laugh madly.

"Anon...this...this is no time for jokes"

You almost fell over laughing, you had a way to fix this. To fix all this.
"No..I'm serious. We can go back in time!"

"...Anon...nopony can go back in time. And the one pony that could is long gone."

"Noooope, I know a pony who was most likely on their way to perfecting it. As far as season finales go. We need to go back to Starlight's town and get her to finish that time spell she told me she was working on. Then, we go back in time. And we fix this shit!"

"W-will that really work?"

"....yes...if I know my saturday morning cartoons. Then yes"

You were filled back up with crazed hope. Discord himself started to be filled with hope again. He trusted you on this. "Then! Let's get going! Those bugs should be stuck behind th-"

Then suddenly, you could hear a roar from behind the wall.

A familiar roar as you could hear fighting from behind the wall.

You step back away from it.

"....Discord...didn't you say there wasn't gonna be anymore monsters?"

"I....well...umm.....they'd..not be able to get through that wall right?"

It was odd hearing Discord without his arrogance or confidence. He was even weaker than you now. And in the same boat. But the roar from behind the wall....That..was a Deathclaw. A vicious and large brown devil looking creature with large horns and even larger claws.

"N-no...but...no..we should be fine. I know what that is. It's a Deathclaw. But all those Cazadors should kill it pretty fast. Come on"

You turn around
"let's get out of here. I don't want to leave Luna behind.But if we fix time. Then it won't matter. We have to do this be-"

You hear a smash on the wall, and a very warped version of the Deathclaw roar.

"...what was that?"

"What was what? That roar? I'd assume it's as you say. The Deathclaw being ravaged by those horrid insects." Discord guessed

"....that's...not a death roar..."
You turn back around. The wall had a crack. And with another bash. A claw tore through. connected to a purple arm. The claws dripping with poisonous liquids.
"...you...got...to...be...fucking..with....me..."

"Anon..what's wrong....How are they getting through that wall?"

"T-they didn't...shit..SHIT..WE GOTT-"

But it was too late. What burst through the wall was the ultimate horror. It was....a fusion of Deathclaw and Cazador...It was..

A Cazzaclaw.

and the moment it saw you. It came coming at you at near sonic speeds.

No fucking way!

You don't even think. You just dive to the left as the Cazzaclaw darts at you.

You dive right into another room. It seemed to be the royal kitchen. You close the door, and lock it and back off. Frightened for your life. Even if you were to run. You'd never get away with it. You had to sneak away.
"S-s-sh-shit...t...that was.."

"Anon, what was that thing?! It almost looked-" Discord was freaked out. He was helpless. And he almost saw you die. He'd never felt this kind of fear before.

"IT WAS A FUSION OF THE DAMNED THINGS. D-Discord...we gotta get out of here fas-FUCK!"

The Cazzaclaw slammed his claw through the wall, and ripped the wall apart.

Nope.....there was no way you could get away from it now.

"Discord...dammit...i.."
You had trouble getting the words out.
"I..It..was...r...real....ngh....mnnnnnn"

You didn't have time to finish as you cover your head.

But just then, the cazzaclaw gets hit by a gigantic blast.
"AWAY WITH YOU FOUL CREATURE!"

you uncover your face slowly. You could see the cazzaclaw trying to block the laser. But, amazingly. It was no match. Through the destroyed wall, You could see Luna blasting the fuck out of it until it disintegrated into nothing.

It was over. Luna was breathing hard. "Sister?! Anon!? Discord?! Where are you!? Make your presence known! Please!"

"Luna! Over here!"
You wave to her. Thank christ she showed up.

"Anon? Oh thank goodness and..." Luna tilts her head, adorable, confused "Why is Discord a hat?"

Discord doesn't say anything, instead he whispers to you "Anon....I think it'd be best we either convince her to come with us now...or we run"

huh?
"Why..what's the matter? She just saved us. "

"Yes...but considering our plan. It'd be best if we got there quickly. Luna would never leave without her sister and-"

Suddenly Luna screeched in pure horror.

Discord cringed hard, harder than he ever had before. "and......this won't be good. Anon, we need to leave"

You stood up slowly though. You could see what Luna was looking at. The remains of her sister.

You ignore Discord. She was obviously going to be very upset regardless. If you explain to her the plan..then maybe.

"Luna..I know what it looks like and-"

Luna turned to you as tears already well up in her. But her face was of pure, unbridled, ultimate, anger. "SILLLLLLLLLEEEENNCCEEEE!"

You step back, and gulp hard.

"Anon...we...need to go" Discord whispers

Luna walked over to the bits that was Celestia. Nothing was recognizable but the horn and the crown. The rest was red and white bits.

"Sister.....my dear sister...how? why?...This was not supposed to happen. This was to be merely a game. Just a little game. But.."

"Luna...Luna please listen. We can fix this." You try again to explain

You approached her slowly, Discord trying to convince you otherwise.

"I...can't Siser..I can't lose you. I can't be alone again. I'd rather be sealed for another thousand years, knowing i'd come back eventually to see you..but….but THIS. No......no...Please...say something to me....please.."

How could she, she was just bloody gore and bits.
"Luna..please.."

"I see...so I am to be alone....and to think. I let my guard down against one of our most hated enemies...and his son...."

..ok, her voice was becoming darker, and evil sounding. That made you start stepping back. Time to listen to Discord.

You start to leave, fearing what might happen as Luna starts picking up every last bit of her sister with her magic. "But fret not sister...I can still feel your magical essence within this obliterated form. I will not let you perish. We will become one. And sentence those villains to the emptiness of oblivion. But that will not be enough. We will silence anypony who dares questions us. We are the sun, the moon, the beginning, and the end. Anypony who wishes to disrupt the natural order will be dealt with."
Luna started to glow, as she began to fuse with the remains of her sister.
"Nopony will question our authority, nopony will be allowed to even think of this kind of treachery ever again. We will become their everything. And they will knowl suffering from our blazing hooves of justice. BEHOLD! WE ARE NO LONGER LUNA AND CELESTIA"

Luna began to change, her coat became pure black. Her horn became three monstrous devil horns. Her mane and tail became that of pure blue flame. Her eyes demonic. And her wings large, expanding, making the galaxy visible itself within it.
"WE ARE NIGHTMARE GALAXIA!"

The entire castle began to shake, rumble, and even warp around you. You lost your footing, and fell to the ground.

"Ngh..w-what's happening?!"

"I don't know! But I can feel it. Surges of magic that I've never felt before. Well beyond Tirek....well beyond even the power Twilight and her friends hold." Discord had never felt such monstrous power before.
As you get up to run again. Discord turns around on your head and sees the wicked nightmare being coming towards the both of you. "And...I think it might be whatever that is! RUN ANON, RUN!"

Oh, this wasn't even a time for hesitation. You could hear the evil cackling behind you. You get back up and make a mad dash back to the throne room.

The interior of the castle had turned to red. The walls spiked and jagged, pillars twisted and warped. And as you run through the throne room. The stained glass windows themselves changed to that of what seemed like a new world order under this new being that chased you.

"WHERE ARE YOU GOING ANON? WE STILL HAVE A GAME TO PLAY! DISCORD...TEACH YOUR SON MANNERS!"

The throne room's length seemed to get longer and longer as you ran. It was like you were making no progress.

"Anon.....run....I'm going to do something...I never thought I'd ever do..."

No...he didn't mean. THIS WAS NOT THE TIME FOR A SACRIFICIAL MOMENT.
"Discord, are you fucking serious? You can't. I need you!"

"No you don't. And I won't be going anywhere when you succeed. I'll be right back with you. Good Luck, Anon....good luck"

Discord pops off your head, and rolls towards Nightmare Galaxia. You try turning back for just a moment to catch him. But he flew off too far. Shit....you didn't want to leave him. But if you stayed...

"You think you're big and bad?! Ha! You don't seem to realize who you're OOMPH!" It seems Discord was immediately clobbered.

Well, that didn't last long. But Discord's distraction of whatever happened behind you seemed to have stopped the magic in the throne room.

You get through to the large doors and reach the entrance hall. Almost there.

But....the doors..they would not open.
"Fuck..fuck...fuck...fuck..FUCK..COME ON..FUCK!"

That's when you hear it....a ringing on your codec...

Your hoof was shaking, more than it ever had before....you slowly reach to the codec. and press the button.
"D-Discord?"

".....Anon....are you trying to leave? And here I thought of you as kind and gentle. But you're not. You leave your father behind, you murder my sister, and you don't even say goodbye to me. That's alri-"

You don't even let her finish. You grab the codec and throw it to the ground as you bash at the door.

And with luck..FINALLY..it opens...

But what you see...is pure hell.

Everything before you was a giant flaming hellscape.

"w-what?! No...NO!"

"Yes......YESSS!!! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA WELCOME TO MY EQUESTRIA!"
You hear her voice boom through the entrance hall as the entire castle starts to crumble and fall around you. You were standing on a platform. below you was pure flames and lava.

"This can't be happening...this can't be!" You were pure white from fright

"Ohhh...but it is...It's over Anon..."
Everything begins to shake, as Nightmare Galaxia, the size of a mountain, rises up from the lava. the molten rock dripping from her galactic wings.
"...Hello...Anon...were you going somewhere?"

Nightmare Galaxia looks down at you with a cruel smile.

You just cower. You couldn't believe this. Holy shit..you were gonna die....

"Hmm..not talkative I see...Well, that's a pity. I wanted to know your final words before I destroy you. Are you sure you won't speak? If only to last a few more measly seconds?"

You don't have words. You just have tears streaming from your eyes as you shake from utter despair.

"Goodbye Anon, I hope you feel what my sister must have felt in her last moments."

And her horn glowed. and within seconds she was blasting you with a giant laser. You were screaming.

And then....

You woke up...

Chapter 138 - The Nightmare Night Arc

"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"
You immediately spring up and cover yourself with your hooves.
"AHHHHHHH!"
You swing your hooves upwards, still screaming. Despite the burning sensation of the laser not existing at this point.
"AHHHHHHHHH!"
You continue to yell, until you open an eye and realize there was no laser hitting you anymore.
"AAAHhhhhh.......ahhh?"

No laser, no hellscape, no burning death.

You shiver as you look around. The room you were in had a very stylized sun painted on the ceiling. Various royal items are around the room from a regal carpet to a table made of the finest wood. Scrolls neatly piled upon the side of it.

And a exit that led to a balcony. Where the afternoon sun was high in the sky and the sky itself was nice and blue with happy little clouds scattered about.

You look at your hooves. They were fine, though no longer in costume. You tap at your forehead. No horn. You look down to your right side to see you were on a soft regal bed. Not your own.
There was only one logical conclusion.

"....oh no....I died...ohhh crap. I killed all of Equestria and now I'm in some sort of horse heaven. Why am I even here? ah geez, the only thing that could make this worse is if Celestia was here to wreak some sort of holy vengeance on me an-"
As you turn to your left side. There she was, laying on her side, covered in a blanket. Her body as beautiful as it was before it blew up. And she was sleepily looking right at you.

"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"
You jumped to the side and fell off the bed. Pulling the blanket with you and getting wrapped up from your wild movements.

As you struggle. Celestia yawns and gets onto her belly, inching towards the side of the bed as she watches you struggle.

"DON'T KILL ME! I'M ALREADY DEAD! DAMMIT! I GOTTA GET OUT OF THIS!"

Celestia just smiled and shook her head as she wrapped the blanket in her magic, and made it rise slowly straight up to eye level.

You were too busy trying to escape to see what was happening as Celestia silently waited.

after a moment of struggling. You manage to pop your head out, coming face to face with Celestia once again.
"............."
a moment of silence and...
"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"

You scream right in her face in surprise and hide back in the blanket. The yell was enough to make her cringe just from the pitch of it.

"I'm sorry! Oh god...please!"

Celestia calmly speaks to you. "Anon, you're not dead. And I'm not angry. Though I do admit. My sister did do a rather good job in blowing me to pieces. I can only imagine she had thought of it a few times herself during her time on the moon"

you stop your struggling the moment you hear that sentence in full. Sister....sister as in Luna...waking up in a bed. Her being the one who blew her up even though you shot the laser?.......oh no...it's worse than death.
You pop your head out of the bundled up blanket and look right at Celestia, with a face of frustrated realization.
"...it was a dream?...that was all...a dream?"

Celestia nodded "Yes."

oh.....god.wait...
You stare at her inquisitively. There was no way you could have fallen asleep.
"How could it be a dream? Me and Discord walked into the castle, rested and refreshed to win. It's not like we'd just forget that we didn’t take a nap. And then there was all that...craziness. Craziness that...umm..."
You stop yourself. You didn't want to reveal anything.
"Just...well, there was a lot of crazy....and....."

...SHE did mention she blew up. But how…?
"....oh no…."
You grimaced, and lowered your head as you realized that the only way Celestia knew about blowing up. Is if she also knew about the creatures that were in that apparent dream.

You hide your head back into the blanket. You didn't want her to see you now. You didn't know how much she knew. But she must know something. And if she knew. Luna knew.
You stayed silent.

Celestia just continued as you hid yourself in the floating blankett. moving to the front of the bed as she brings you over and hovers the bundle of blankets over the middle of it. "Trapping Discord and you in a dream? That was simple. I had baked some pies and put in a very potent sleeping potion into both. Once you both were sleeping. My sister and I took you into separate rooms where you both can rest comfortably. With that, I too had to fall asleep. So I cuddled up with you, and gently went to rest using the same potion. Luna did the rest. Does that answer your question, Anon?"

That did...but that didn't remove the fear that you knew. You just knew. That she knew. So you continued to hide.
"Y-yeah...umm......"

You go back to staying silent. You didn't know what to do. You didn't know what'd she say. You were slowly piecing together that if it was a dream. Then just like the episodes with the CMC and Luna. That Luna must have been manipulating everything from the background.

"I know why you worry Anon, the abominations in your mind that we now know about. Added to the fact that not only could my sister hear and see your every movement, but so could I. You're afraid just because I know you are an adult from another dimension that I'm just going to send you back,Aren't you?"

You pop your head out. Just hearing that made tears burst from your eyes. But you couldn't let her know that was the truth of it. That you weren't a pony. So you just look at her, try to make an angry face, and puff your cheeks out.
"I dunno what you're talking about. I'm an orphan from Fillydelphia"

Celestia just looked at you and smiled, even giggling a little. a very beautiful giggle. No malice at all. "Yes, I know. So you then must know that I'm actually a clown who likes to make her head explode for giggles."

ohhhh...hell.
You cringe hard. How? How did she even know about that?
"..........How...do you know about that?"

"Well, My sister and I had a look see through your dreamscape. I admit, it was nothing like the both of us had imagined. Terrible creatures everywhere, as far as the eye could see. Including a familiar face lounging around with an odd bipedal clown. That familiar face of course, being me. Just like Twilight's letter described."

....ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhh......ohhhh nooo. Twilight actually wrote a letter?
"Y-yeah..well...that doesn't prove anything."

Celestia couldn't help but laugh at your adorable resistance. "No, I suppose it only proves that you become a little troublemaker the moment the opportunity arises. I would guess that's why you have that Cutie Mark. But if you want proof...well, I can't say I have any. Especially since upon making a visit to Fillydelphia, that I couldn't find a trace of the orphanage described in all the legal papers."

...ohh dammit Discord.
like many times before, you slam your hoof to your head and shake.
"Seriously?....He didn't even bother making a fake one?"

"It appears he thought none of us would ever go and check. He'd had been right if not for the numerous letters I've received about you. You being a hero, you being smart enough to be in my school despite the lack of magic, you and your interest of changelings and your near banishment at the hooves of my student....." Celestia's face shows a little bit of shame as she mentions that one. "I apologize about that. Twilight can be a little jumpy sometimes. I know that's not an excuse. So all I can say is that I'm glad that you don't hate her for it. Aside from your little trick of course. I know it must be difficult. But I am glad there is no ill will between you two"

You put your head back into the blanket bundle. Even if you couldn't believe how dumb Discord was. It didn’t overtake the feeling that you felt you were done for.

"You don't want to talk about anything Anon? Or do you want to reaffirm that you are from an orphanage again" Celestia smiles as she gives the bundle a few pokes. causing you to shake a little inside with fear.

"ngh..w-what's the point? You're probably angry at me. Knowing I've been lying the entire time about everything...you're gonna send me back. Aren't you?"

Celestia stops poking. and just looks at the bundle, waiting for you to pop your head out again. "Well, I don't want to skip ahead to that just yet.I'd actually like to talk about how me and my sister cemented that we are the superior pranksters."

You don't say anything. You just hide. You didn't want to say anything that would make things worse. You didn’t realize that you didn’t seem to be in that much trouble.

Celestia smiled, and now tried to work on making you angry enough to pop your head out. "Yes, I thought it was actually quite humorous when you and Discord saw me explode the way I did. I actually couldn't contain myself."

You still didn't react. But you couldn't believe how cruel she was being all of a sudden. That wasn't the Celestia you knew.

"Oh yes, and not to mention when you were screaming during my laser blast." Celestia laughs a little evilly "You were acting like it was the end of the world."

...that cocky laugh...the fact that you were played so badly. And she...just laughed. Forget being scared of being sent back. Being mocked for something you swore was real really set you off.
You got enraged and popped your head out. And yelled at her.
"You little..NGH...YOU KNOW WHAT?! I'M GOING TO SAY IT! YOU'RE A REAL-"

Celestia just leans in and kisses you on the nose gently "Now Now Anon, no need for language. I think I had enough of that for one day. I sincerely hope you don't say such things in front of your aunt."

"ah...ah.."
You were momentarily stunned by her kiss. But only for a moment before getting angry again.

"YOU CAN'T JUST KISS ME AND-"

She does it again, and giggles.

"STOP! THAT'S NOT GOING TO-!"

Then Celestia gives you a very gentle and very quick peck on the lips. Nothing sexual. But enough to make you blush deep and forget your anger.
You...were very confused by this point.
"Why does everypony tease me like this?

You hang your head, still blushing.

"Because it's cute. I have to admit. Discord did do a good job on making you absolutely huggable. And given you managed to gain a Cutie Mark. He must have done some very extensive string of magical spells to turn you into a real pony. My only real question is...why? I never managed to figure that out"

You look up at her. your eyes, even after your anger spat, still had tears running down.

But you had to look up at her. She must have had access to almost everything. And yet, she didn't know the why?

You sigh...you weren't exactly in a positive mood. You’re just going to tell her. Since she seemed to have discovered near everything.
"He did it for Fluttershy. according to him, she was getting flak for still being his closest friend despite the whole Tirek thing"

"And you know about the Tirek incident. Because in your world, we're a sort of show. Am I right?"

You cringe hard...ogh..she even heard that.
"...right....so now you know how I'm able to fit in so well, I'm a little surprised you're not freaking out about that"

Celestia shook her head "What happens in other dimensions is out of my control. So there's no sense in worrying. But I could tell you of a theory that could explain it. It's a theory my teacher once taught me"

"...the idea and dimensional line theory thing? right? Yeah..Discord told me about it"

"No surprise, I figured you'd be curious enough to ask how he managed to figure out how he pulled off his plan in the first place. But I just wanted to make sure. Now, would you like to know exactly how we won? I think you'll find it funny" Celestia cheerfully says on the last sentence. Trying to make you a little more cheerful with her radiant smile.

You sigh
"Aren't you wondering if he lied about the whole Fluttershy thing? Because if you were, I'm telling you right now. It's the truth. Discord is a good gu-"

Celestia gives you a gentle rub on the head with her hoof, and continues to rub your head in a massaging fashion. "I'm not worried about that Anon. I believe you. And I have already acknowledged that as a wonderful act of friendship. Despite how extreme it was to pull it off. Now, about that competition."

You look up at her, confused, why did she want to explain what happened? What, to rub it in? Why wasn't she pissed?
"...aren't you angry at me? I've lied to everypony and used my knowledge to make everypony love me. I'm not a real pony. I...I....ugh...why aren't you angry?...just why?"

Celestia looked up, trying to think of an actual reason to be angry. "I suppose it's because despite your lying. You have a genuine relationship with your friends. It's already clear your mind has regressed just a little bit to that of a foal, so it's not all deception. It's just enough to make it more convincing. It helps you fit in with the other foals. While your true side allows you to befriend adults. And not only that, it also allows you to strategically perform amazing things. Speaking of amazing things. I do believe you had a hoof in the reformation of Starlight Glimmer. Am I right?"

holy shit...how did she?
"H-how did you know about that?"

"We found the cave where she had hid a few items stolen from the Canterlot archives. I found it odd that'd she leave it all there for no good reason, given the letters I had received from Twilight about her visit to her town. I admit, what I'm about to say is a little uncharacteristic of me. But I decided to sneak into the town myself and have a look see. And to my surprise, everything was not only fine. But upon looking into Starlight's recent entry in her journal. Your name came up."

Now you started to become more intrigued. You had no idea she had been snooping.

"So, if you wanted a definite answer to your question. No, I'm not angry at you. I'm actually trying to ease your mind. But you're a little bit of the timid sort when you don't have an advantage. I bet I could do all sorts of things to you and you'd just sit there and take it."

As Celestia said that, she moved her head closer to you, and looked at you seductively, wiggling her eyebrows.
You freeze, and blush hard. She was so much bigger than you. And oh god..she was looking awfully sexier

"L-Like what?"

Celestia leaned in closer, like she was going for a deeper, sensual kiss. Her voice seductive and soft. "Something...like.....this!"

Celestia starts bopping the bundle of blankets as it continued to hover in the air. Giggling all the while as you started to spin around.

"H-HEY! T-THAT'S NOT! GYAH! STOP! THAT'S NOT FAIR!"

"Are you going to loosen up and stop acting like I'm going to banish you? Because I can keep this up for the rest of the day if I have to." Celestia giggled as she continued to bop away.

you would, but then you felt something snap. It didn't seem to matter who it was. But they always seemed to love to play with you. to mess with you. As if you were some kid. Even Celestia seemed to love to do it. You felt a certain anger, a familiar anger, that adrenal anger.

You growl as you hop out of the bundle and right on Celestia's neck. making her fall back without actually making a sound.

You grab her by the neck, you barely had your wits about you. You try to wrestle out of her that you weren't a colt to be messed with. You don’t choke however. You just want to piledrive her somehow.
"I'M NOT A TOY! I CAN FIGHT! AND IF YOU'RE GONNA SMACK ME AROUND THEN I'M GONNA BRING YOU DOWN! PRINCESS OR NOT, YOU ASKED FOR IT! "
You struggle at her neck as you pull, trying to somehow flip her to her side.
"ADMIT THAT I'M NOT "TIMID", I GOT YA! I KNOW YOU CAN'T EVEN MOVE. I'M GOING TO THROW YOU OFF THE BED BY YOUR LEG UNLESS YOU...."

But you notice you weren't grabbing her by the leg.

you were indeed grabbing her by the neck. You actually hadn't noticed.

And she wasn't moving. You knocked her backwards. Her eyes looked dead as her tongue hung out.
You immediately back off, you couldn't have. D-did you snap her neck?
"..I..no, what? I didn't mean..oh no.."

You carefully stepped closer and gave her a shake.
"C-Celestia? come on...this is a bad joke. Right? You're not dead..right?"

As you step a little closer to check her face. She blinks, looks right at you, and yells "YOU'RE RIGHT! IT'S A TRAP! HAHA!"

Celestia immediately grabs your with her front hooves. hugs you tightly. And rolls around the bed and falls off on her back. Laughing all the way as you yell in fright.

You were now on her belly. Your face on her chest as it bounced from her laughter. Well...at least she was having fun.

You groan, and look up at her face as she just giggles.
"Anon, you're the most fun I've had in awhile. I can't do this with any other pony. They always get so upset and leave or they just accept it because of my title."

You roll off of her, and lay on your back next to her.
"....ugh, good to know that I'm everypony's punching bag"

Celestia, upon hearing that, stifles her giggling and uses her magic to plop you back on her chest so she can look at your face. "You're not a punching bag. You're just trying too hard to be careful. Besides, it takes a lot of bravery and patience to be around Discord for more than a few minutes. Let alone your whole life."

You just lightly groan, not feeling any better. It actually didn't seem that hard.
"....it's not that hard."

"Tell that to Twilight. I could actually feel her sanity chip away when he's around her. I know I shouldn't laugh about it, but it is a little funny. As long as nopony goes too far."

You roll your eyes
"Yeah but Twilight is a sperg, everything freaks her out."

"Hmm, if a sperg means to freak out. Then, I have to agree with you. She does tend to "Sperg" "

wut?
"...did you just agree with me that Twilight, YOUR pupil, was a sperg"

Celestia nodded "Mhmmm, why?"

"Isn't that wrong to say about your student...especially since she's an Alicorn Princess?"

Celestia frowned a little at that "Oh Anon, don't get boring on me. You should know I think very highly of her....but she is a sperg."

You tried to hold in a smile. You didn't want to. You didn't feel it was right.

But Celestia saw it. and she wanted to see you smile. So she snuck her hoof, and poked you on the side. "I bet she really sperged when you scared her, huh?"

You gasp, then giggle as she pokes your side. You would have fallen off. But she used her magic to keep you in place as she gave you a few more pokes.

You giggle and snort as you whap her hoof away, the tickling being too much for you.
"Yes! yes! fine, hehe! mnnn...."

"Are you ok now? Anon?"

"mnnn..I don't know..." There was another thing bothering you. The lying, and it was clear on your face.

You sigh

Celestia could see you were still a little bothered, she had seen some of the doubt in her adventure through your dreamscape. So she once again tried giving you a gentle smile.
"Anon, I know lying bothers you. I understand that it must be difficult balancing your new life with how you actually are. But I think, if the letters are anything to go by. That you've been doing a fine job showing who you are without compromising everything.

"But, it just feels wrong to act all kiddish in front of the friends I care about. Especially Fluttershy, she's so proud of me....proud of what's essentially a fake."

"Well, I don't think of it as fake. Do you try to do your best for her? Do you genuinely do things that are worthy to be proud of? And do you love her as your Aunt?"

you did....but
"I do....but..I'm not really a colt. I'm supposed to be much older than this."

"And yet you haven't let that get in the way of your friendship you also have with her. Anon, I want you to understand. I'm not telling you to lie forever. But I know how other ponies are, so I know telling the truth may not only be difficult. But even unfavorable. But, I can say that this is definitely something that can be considered a "second chance" at life.Something you can live out and enjoy, even if you do have some advantages from your knowledge of our world and former life. You know you'd grow into your new mindset eventually. So, you could still have everything you've gained, and still be an adult....you just..like I said. Need to grow into it."

woah...the god princess pretty much gave you a free pass to lie. You didn't expect that. But that way she put it...
"So, I should just treat it like I was reborn?"

Celestia nodded "Mhmmm, and if you ever need somepony to talk to about it. You can always send me a letter. Or, come visit. I know distance is no trouble for you."

...wow....Celestia was pretty based.

"How do you feel now?"

You finally smile, a genuine smile.
"I feel....a lot better now actually."

Celestia beamed a much happier smile at you as she gently picked you up off of her with her magic and planted you on the bed as she slowly climbed onto it. lied back on her belly. And looked at you, still smiling. "Now that we've got that over with. We do have to talk about how that competition went. A winner does need to be officially declared you know."

You look at her with a shit eating grin.
"You just want to tell me how you two pretty much cheated a win, don't you?"

Celestia returned your shit eating grin with one of her own "Cheating?" She chuckles "Anon, I do believe I gave you both a chance to set rules on us. And since you didn't impose any. Then what we did was quite fair."

"Oh come on! how we're we supposed to see those pies coming?"

"Well, you could have slowly opened the doors and checked. You could have ducked. A number of things really."

"Why do it at all then? It clearly gave you two a massive advantage. How did you even manage to pull everything off? You two don't strike me as the type to really be that malicious in scaring."

"Typically, we'd never do such a thing. But before I explain that. Let me explain why we put you both to sleep. The reason is actually simple. If we didn't, then you most definitely would have brought on terrible horrors upon us. Something we both couldn't stop. And after actually seeing your dreamscape, something I was actually very glad I planned beforehand in preventing."

Wait...if she was afraid of that. Why did she have you limited on magic too?
".....why..didn't you just limit me too? If you knew that was going to happen."

Celestia looked a little embarrassed on what she was about to say next. "Well...the truth is, Anon. I had actually completely forgotten that your horn was capable of that much power. You'd think I'd remember after you shifted the sun and the moon but...well. We're only ponies after all"

wuttttt.....WHAT?!
"You forgot?! How do you forget something like that?!"

You were between the border of surprise and imminent laughter.

"It just happens" Celestia shrugs "I've lived a long time Anon. There's a lot of things I have to remember. A slip of mind happens. But still, you can't say I cheated. If you or Discord had even realized it was a dream and woken up. Then the both of you could have turned the tides. Especially since I'd be in slumber."

You begin to giggle.
"I..I just still can't believe you forgot. But ok..if you say so. But go on about the reason on why you went so far on the dream. How you managed everything. I'm actually super interested."

Celestia nods "Well, believe it or not. Luna didn't want to go so far. You see, she didn't have the same thoughts I did about you at the time. And thought you were one hundred percent innocent. She actually thought I was insane to actually use anything from your dreamscape. She wanted to help you sort them out. Even after I pointed out to her that the clowns in your mind matched the description from Twilight's letter. She was still combative about it, and thought we should just use a normal strategy. So that's how things started, Of course, with the way you two talk. She slowly started to understand the truth of it herself. And so she eventually realized if you both had the chance, you would have done the same thing"

....she was right. dammit..
"Yeah...I mean..that was the point. To scare one of the teams witless. I guess what really surprised me was seeing all those monsters."

"Indeed, I can't imagine how dangerous your world is to have beasts like that. Many of those things...I really must admit. I could see much of Equestria falling to even a small army of them. How did your kind survive?" Celestia was genuinely curious, the creatures she saw. Many of them were more powerful and beastly than anything she had seen before.

You chuckle, and shake your head.
"Oh no no, nah. They don't exist in our world either."

"They don't?" That confused Celestia. Luna had even told her that these things must have existed, the way they roamed your dreamscape wasn't like something like a silly ghost tale or fear of shadows. They were all deeply ingrained within your memory and mind. Too deeply to just be some imaginative manifestation. "How can that be?"

"Well...um. To explain it simply. I played a lot of video games in my world. A whole lot. That was a huge aspect in my life."

"Video games? Like an arcade? So, that's something our worlds share. But, arcades don't have the level of detail we saw."

"Ahh, well. In our world. Our games are so advanced. They practically look real."

"Amazing. If a little terrifying.......ahh..." Celestia stopped herself "I'm getting very curious, but I can't let that happen. I still have a story to tell of my own."

"Actually, can I ask you something?"

Celestia nods "Of course you can"

"...how...uhh..I mean I know it was a dream. But, how did it feel to get stabbed the way you did? And become a zombie?"

Celestia shrugged and smiled "Oh, I wouldn't know. I wasn't there for that"

what huh?
"But, I saw you get stabbed in the dream. You were in the dream. Right?"

Celestia nodded "I was"

ok...
"But you weren't...yourself. Ok, I'm confused. I'm going to need an explanation on that"

Celestia giggled "Well, that's what I was actually getting to next. My sister Luna, as you may know, is a master of illusions. Multiplied a million fold inside dreams. Everything you saw in the dream was her. The creatures, me, why, even the castle itself was her. Nothing escaped her sight and ears. That's how she was able to keep track and control what happened at every moment."

"Ok...then, if you were also in the dream. then what were you doing?"

Celestia giggled again "Oh, I was Luna. Did I do a good job? I admit, I didn't get to practice for my role as Nightmare Galaxia. We came up with that idea together after "I" exploded. she thought it'd be humorous if I tried being evil. We both got a big laugh out of it."

She was Luna...christ. You never would have guessed. She did a fucking fantastic job.
"Was it your idea to call on my codec too?"

Celestia nodded "Mhmm, Luna showed me a few simple tricks I could use to manipulate the dream for when I assumed direct control." Celestia sighed "I must admit, I'm a little jealous that she can control dreams the way she does. I know it's part of her work. But it does seem like a lot of fun. I couldn't even properly control it, So...I just brought the whole castle down and grew a couple million feet. And ended everything with a bang."

"Well, to me. you did a fantastic job. I really thought you were gonna blow me and Discord apart, and for that..."
You raise your forelegs and clap with your hooves
"I commend you...because geez, that was just over the top"

"Thank you, I really did try my best. "

You start to trail your hoof along the top of the bed in circles. Feeling a little nervous on your next words.
"So..uh...just to be clear. You're absolutely ok with me? And I can stay in Equestria?"

Celestia nods as she gives you a warm smile, to reassure you things were fine. "Yes, you have nothing to worry about. Not unless you give me a reason"

you sigh in relief. It was true. You were in the clear.

"Wow..wooo...I, that really is a big relief for me. You have no idea. I mean, I really thought for sure that the one thing that would have definitely did me in was the fact all the changelings are living with us."

Celestia looked at you with deep confusion "What? What do you mean the changelings are living with you?"

Your eyes went wide...but only for a moment before you chuckled.
"Ohhh hahaha, that's a good one. Real good. But I'm not falling for it."

But Celestia only stared at you "Anon....I didn't know that"

You start to get more and more nervous
"Come on, that's. That's really not funny...right? You're just gonna go "Gotcha"!...right?"

Celestia shakes her head

You cringe, oh...damn..do you. Because this.......became scary.
"...atleast let me explain, please?"

Celestia nods, but her face...it looked serious. She definitely didn't know. "I'm listening, Anon. I'll believe whatever you have to say. Just please be honest with me. I've enjoyed your time thus far. I've been honest with you. So please, be honest with me"

....oh joy, you’re dead.

Chapter 139 - The Nightmare Night Arc

Where to start?...where to start. This was either going to turn out really good or really bad. But, Celestia seems like a caring, motherly type. She shouldn't get too angry if you explain things properly. "Well, it's quite the story actually. It actually depends if you want to hear all the details"

"I need to hear everything you know." Celestia says very bluntly. She was looking at you with a soft sternness, like a mother looking at their child after they did something wrong. But was already willing to forgive. You really hoped nothing bad was going to come of this. But that was wishful thinking.

"Well, you remember when you and the other princesses sealed all the changelings up?"

Celestia nods "I do, but. I have a feeling there's a little more to this tale than that. Something that tells me that the incident in the Crystal Empire wasn't exactly their fault."

"H-how do you figure that?"

"The queen of the changelings is a lot of things. But I doubt she'd come up with something as convoluted as sending in a drone to disguise as Twilight. Only to then slowly disguise himself as you. And leave various pieces of evidence that it was you and Discord's fault. Doesn't that seem a little too farfetch'd?" Celestia gives a small giggle to try to lighten the mood, she noticed you were a little tense "Or perhaps I'm just looking too deep into things"

No..she was right...you sigh, and lower your head. resting your head down on the bed. and looking up at her face. "No...you're right. That drone was not a drone. That was me. Discord sent me in there as Twilight to find out what Cadence was hiding from Twilight. But...he already knew about that. The real reason he sent me in there was because of something to do with my skills or..something. I don't know. The point is when everything went wrong. He spinned the story around to blame the changelings."

Celestia nods "I see. I knew there was something suspicious about him just handing us the location to their hive. But, I let it slide because it needed to be done"

"But...they didn't do anything"

Celestia doesn't even say anything. She just looks at you, a little confused. It was like she just wanted to say "You can't be serious".

You look down again, and clear your throat "...Right, except for all their past crimes....well, it turns out you guys didn't actually seal her up. She had a proxy inside the tower to pose as her as she went out and did other things. And when she found out what caused the banishment of her hive. She came to my house to..welllll...." You slide your hoof along your neck, and make a "hhhhccckkktt" noise

"But Discord intervened" She says

You nod. "He did. And against even my own advice, he brought over ALL the changelings and sealed them up in the basement instead. He even plans to let Chrysalis out as my sister. Sort of a joke on both of us. Of course, he'll put a spell on her to severely limit her powers"

Celestia shook her head slowly, and frowned "Anon, you know I can't just let that happen. I'm going to have to order Discord to rebind them back in Tartarus. They are too dangerous to be left under his care."

That, to you, actually seemed like a good idea...if it wasn't for the fact you were already befriending Chrysalis more and more with each meeting. You felt conflicted. Yeah, she was a villain. But you'd feel awful if you just let her get sealed now. Especially when there's a chance to redeem her.

Celestia notices that her decision troubled you instead of relieve you."Anon, is something the matter? I would have thought my decision would have made you happy."

"...." You sigh, you wondered how'd she react to you being Chrysalis's friend. "....Look, I know. I know their track record with you all. But..."

"But?"

"But...I sort of made friends with Chrysalis."

Celestia shows more concern in her face. Now she was extremely worried. Her immediate thought was that she was using you. But for what? she didn't know. She knew Chrysalis couldn't hold you ransom. Discord was too powerful for that.

So, instead of guessing why. She decides to inquire into it, and gain more information. "Friends? Anon, I know you must know that is a little hard to believe. She's manipulated and tricked many ponies before you. How can you be so sure she is actually your friend?"

"I just feel that she is. It was rocky at first I'll tell you that. She WAS fooling me at first. But, we managed to find some common ground a little later on. All I had to do was look past the fact that she's evil. And we just sort of hit it off. She drains me of my love sometimes, but that's fine. The effects are only temporary. And all things considered. She's actually fun to talk to. In fact, I think I could redeem her."

"Redeem her?" Celestia had to stop to think about this. She had never known Chrysalis to be upfront or actually friendly with anybody without an ulterior motive. But what could she get out of you?...Unless. "Anon, has she asked you for anything? Has she tried to take anything from you...even once?"

You shake your head. "Aside from my love? No. And I know what you must be thinking. You mean my horn right?"

Celestia nods "That horn has a lot of power in it Anon, even if it has a single charge per day. That's enough for her to cause some serious damage should she get her hooves on it"

"I know, but. She's never actually gone for it. Princess Celestia, your highness. I mean this with the utmost respect." You take a breath. Hoping this wasn't going to tick her off. You hesitate. and look into those soft eyes. She did say be truthful. That's what you were doing. And it was clear. Just like Twilight. she was going to want them banished. And she had the authority to do it. But those eyes..they reflected a protective nature. "But...I can't let you banish them. I think I can reform Chrysalis. I think I could make her see the pony side of things. I think I could make her see that friendship is magic without her having some ulterior plan to just use me and anypony else for some evil plan. It's going to be a slow process. But I already have her friendship. And I believe...I truly believe...it's genuine."

You raise your head, and look at her. You didn't want to seem like you were purely going against her. That wasn't it. You just wanted the chance. You managed Starlight, how hard could Chrysalis be?

Celestia said nothing at first. She slowly got out of bed and walked towards the archway leading to the balcony. She was looking outside, to the beautiful sunny day. She was looking quite majestic when she was lost in thought.

You hopped off the bed, and slowly stepped up to her. You didn't know if you should say anything. Or reaffirm your position. She was obviously thinking deeply...carefully.

"Anon, you do know that if Chrysalis is planning something. That it could endanger all of Equestria. Right?" She doesn't turn to you. She just looks on ahead. into the sky.

"I...know. I know what she's capable of."

"And you think I should risk everypony's well being over this? Just because you feel you can change her."

Well..when she puts it THAT way. That did make you feel a little hesitant. But still. "I know that sounds bad. But, think of all the good that could come if I manage it. I already genuinely feel a connection with her. Who knows? me and her can become best buddies and she and me and Twilight, you, Luna, Discord, we could all go out for drinks one day..right?” You chuckle nervously. "Just a little thought, yeah...you know..good humor...stuff....mnnnn"

She didn't laugh, she didn't turn her head, she just continued to look. She didn't answer for awhile. You were wondering what she was going to say. You felt a tenseness in the air. You knew you couldn't go against the final word of a princess. You couldn't just use your magic or have Discord do something about it. This was the near literal god of Equestria. Or whatever passes as an immortal god anyway.

Finally, Celestia speaks. "I'll make a deal with you Anon. But only because I too have made such a risk. I'm sure you know I was the one who decided to let Discord free. Right?"

"Yeah, I know about that. I admit, that seemed a little crazy...umm..no offense."

Celestia let's out a small dignified laugh. "Of course...but" she stops for a moment. "This is just as serious, and I haven't the proper insight to know if this is even a good idea. But...I'd like to put my trust in you. Though, don't think it's because of just what I've gotten from the letters. Since I know some of it WAS acting. No, this is from the fact that you've managed to reform somepony who if left to her own devices. Could have brought devastation to this land. What she took from the archives were texts only a master in magic could actually find useful. So I could only assume she had the ability to use them. So, this is the deal..." You stand to attention, not wanting to miss a single word. "We will keep this between us. Just you and me. Nopony else is to know, though in time my sister will have to learn of this as well. I will allow you and Discord to house the changelings. And I will allow you to attempt to reform her. On one condition"

"What's that?"

"If she so much as plans an escape or a conquest, or it turns out she was using you or Discord to make her own evil desires a reality. You are to tell Twilight immediately. And answer any question she asks truthfully."

Ouch, that would no doubt lead to major sperging. "But, what if she only does it because she needs the space..or something. You know, if she left, but then came back. Or had one of those moments where she realizes she can't carry it out? You know..Discord..sorta had that type of revelation too."

You knew you were overstepping, but come on. That's how it usually happens. That big final revelation. Shit, it even happened to the Grinch.

Celestia unfortunately, shook her head and turned to you. "I'm sorry Anon, but one of the major differences between her and Discord is that Discord was never necessarily evil. Cruel, yes. But he was the same as a child with too much power. Only looking for the next pleasure. The Queen of the Changelings is a malicious monster who takes great joy in causing suffering...and understands the suffering she causes. Anon, you need to understand that even I know I shouldn't be allowing this. That is why I need your word. On the first sign of trouble, you need to tell Twilight. Do you understand?"

Damn, that's fucking heavy. She was clearly struggling with her own decision. She didn't truly know you. She knew you weren't a real pony. But she was trusting you in a way that if you fucked up. You'd probably never be able to re-earn it. If you kept your big mouth shut. Then she'd never have to know. Though, if she ever did find out after so much time had passed...well. You were lucky she was doing this much for you.

You'll take it, it's the best you could ever hope for. "Yes...and thank you, Princess Celestia, for the trust." You bow respectfully to her, you know that was a decision made as a Princess, and not as just Celestia. And given all what you've seen from documentaries and shows and all that shit. That was something you show respect to.

"It's a large trust Anon. one, that I hope will never be abused or tarnished."

Hell, you'll even give a salute. To show you could be trusted...despite the fact you blabbed in the first place. "Yes Princess. I thank you for the honor." The only thing left on your mind was...well..Luna. Considering she knows everything Celestia knows sans Chrysalis. You were wondering how she felt about all this. "Umm, Celestia..if you don't mind me asking. What does your sister think of all this?"

"Luna? Well...." And without warning, right behind her beyond the balcony. The sun and moon started to cycle crazily. Day night day night day night day night. Geez, it was like a slot machine. You could only guess who was doing that.

Celestia looked upon the ever changing horizon. "Anon, all I can say about my sister is that you'll see her in time once she knows of it. She'll want to speak to you as well. For now however, it seems your "father" has regained all his power."

You could hear screams of terror coming from the ponies in the castle city..or was it a town? You never really knew. Seemed more of a city anyway.

"CELESTIAAAAAAAA!" Discord appeared in a burst of flame. Hovering above the city town and at least one hundred times his original size. He looked pissed. His voice boomed across the land.

oh geez, welp. He knows he lost.

Celestia stepped forward to face him. "Discord, really? Is that necessary?" She did sound a little agitated. But what did she expect? How could she see him not reacting in a big show of chaos and anger.

"You bet your frozen garter belt it is! How dare you claim victory over me in a dream! You cheated! You dirty, dirty, dirty, dirty, dirty, DIRTY CHEATER!" Discord pointed his humongous talon straight at her.

"Discord, I'm sure my sister explained to you that the venue was still in the castle. That you didn't place any restrictions on what we could do or not do is entirely your fault. And thus, causing terror among you and your son was all we really needed to win."

Discord bared his teeth so hard they shattered, then immediately regrew. "NONE OF THOSE ARE GOOD POINTS! THE POINT IS I WAS SUPPOSED....oh, hi Anon" Discord happily waved at you, his vicious visage disappearing instantaneously. You nervously, cringily smile and wave back.

Discord then looks back to Celestia, Fire bursting from every which way "...TO WIN! YOU WOULD HAVE NEVER WON HAD YOU FACED ME PONY TO PONY!"

Celestia was showing some extreme patience because she could clearly see and hear her subjects being scared shitless. "You had your chance Discord. You could have realized it was all a dream and taken the win. It's not mine, nor is it my sister's fault that you and Anon didn't realize it." Then Celestia smirked at him "How could you? You never even realized you were asleep. So you tried to think of everything as a logical occurrence. And do you know what I find funny about that Discord?"

Discord was shaking with rage, his eye twitching. "Don't say it....DON'T SAY IT!"

"What? That logic, your very vice, was your downfall? Or was it the fact that me and my sister enacted more chaos in what would be considered moments compared to the chaos you cause in a day? Oh I know!" Celestia's smile became more smarmy for what she was about to say. "Or maybe it's the fact that scaring you is as easy.......as pie"

"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOoooooooooooooo!" Discord grabbed his head and fell back screaming as he started to deflate like a balloon and fly all over the place until he fully deflated off into the horizon.

After she was sure he was gone, Celestia looked down on her waiting, scared subjects. "Greetings everypony. I know what you have just witnessed is very frightening. But as you can see everything is alright. And if you were scared in anyway. Then that's good. It is the eve of Nightmare Night after all. Now please, everypony go along their day. And prepare for a very frightful evening."

You slowly walked over to the edge of the balcony next to Celestia. You could see many of the adults either scared still, some chuckling, some going back to their normal day. And a lot being pretty snooty about it. The foals though. They were jumping, clapping, and seemed to be talking among one another about the event.

"And then they all went about their day. That's a lot of trust they have in you Princess Celestia."

"It comes with time, leadership, and managing to keep the balance of harmony for many many years, Anon. It is a trust I never want broken. If ponies can't trust in their leaders. Then all it brings is chaos."

You couldn't help but feel the double meaning to that. She obviously was putting major trust in you, and really doesn't want it broken. And she was clearly emphasizing it.

Celestia walked back into the castle, you silently follow her. She pulls your saddle bag from the side of her bed and brings it over to you using her magic. "Here you are Anon."

You take it, and put the saddle bag around you. You were guessing it was time to go. "Well...um, thank you Celestia...erm..Princess Celestia." You bow again in respect.

Celestia looks at you, confused. "Oh..did you think I wanted you to leave?"

"Sortof...I mean, you just gave me my stuff back.”

Celestia nodded and smiled "I know, I'd actually like a chance to see your costume outside the dream. To get a good look at it. I actually thought it was interesting. No doubt there's a great backstory to it. "

She wanted to see the Big Boss costume again? Hmm..well then. You reach into your saddle bag for the horn. "You're actually interested about the costumes background?"

Celestia nodded "I am"

Celestia plops her butt to the ground, and gets ready to listen to your thrilling tale. She looked quite girlish, she was beaming with anticipation. "Considering what we found in your dreamscape, I have no doubt that humans have very exciting stories to tell."

.........to tell....hmmmm. You don't say anything. Instead, you just take out the horn. Plop it on your head. And wait, wait until she was confused and intrigued. You didn't even go into costume yet.

She did tilt her head a little at your pause. But she politely sat there. Waiting.

Good enough. You didn't know if you could actually do what you were about to do. But first things first. The costume. You cover yourself in the aura as you once again become Big Boss.....This time, while having the eyepatch. Making sure you actually keep your eye this time. "So, if you're wondering. This is Big Boss....but as a pony."

Celestia nods "Big Boss...got it. Though, You humans have very odd attire for what essentially is a crime lord"

........ugh..

You do your best to ignore it, ignoring your overwhelming desire to scream how he wasn't a crime lord. Just sorta a warlord. "Yeah...well, he's actually a lot of things. He's got a really REALLY complicated background. Hearing it from my mouth would only be missing a ton of details."

"Well, start from the beginning. I won't mind if you miss a detail. I'm sure in the long run I'm in for a very exciting story."

...Heeeeeerre we go. "Yeah, but. I think there might be a better way to learn the entire story of Big Boss...and others."

Celestia was now genuinely confused. "Another way? Ohhhh, you mean there's books?"

"Uhmmm...let me just show you" Here goes nothing.

You focus, you focus on the one thing from your old world that always brought you joy. Right in front of Celestia's eyes. You create a huge flat screen HD television with a battery attached to the back, a Gamestationbox....just because, and the entire Metal Gear Collection from the MSX to the PS4. Hell, the thing will even play ghost babel.

Celestia was amazed and confused. She's never seen anything like this before. It almost looked like a black projector screen to her. "Anon, what's all this?"

"It's something that would let you experience the entire story.....cause um....it's all from a video game series."

"Video games? You mean like our arcade games?" Celestia was even more deeply confused. As it turned out. Arcade games in Equestria would appear to be Frogger tier of graphics. Well, you didn't know that. But given Equestria's random state of technological wonders...

"Sort of...but uh...just watch. Trust me on this, watch..and be amazed" You say the last bit like a showman as you use your magic to slide in MGSV. If only to show her the graphics. "So..what you're about to see is the fifth game. But it comes right before the actual first game."

Celestia says nothing. This was beyond her knowledge. And she figured it'd be easier to learn if she just watched. And would save her questions for afterwards.

You get the game running. On this machine, it just boots instantly without load time like an SNES. And as the intro gets going. Celestia just stares in amazement at what she was looking at. She even puts her hoof on the screen. "Anon....this is incredible....it's like watching a memory. But...how is this all a game? I don't see how it's possible."

You use your magic to skip right to a playable section to the game. The quick change is enough to surprise Celestia and question what she was seeing when she saw Big Boss...or rather...Venom Snake just standing there. First, before she even mentioned why he was standing there. She realized something rather important, something related to you. "Anon, is this Big Boss...a human?"

You nod. "Yep, that's what humans look like. Though, video games tend to make them look a little cartoonish or just really good looking."

You start controlling the controller via magic to move Venom Snake around.

"He's moving now....are you doing that?” Celestia asked. She couldn't not ask questions. She tried not to. But it was just amazing to her. In all her years, she'd never seen anything like this.

You nod. "Yep."

"But how do you make him do so many motions at once? His legs and arms. Or when you are looking closer through that odd telescope" Celestia was moving closer to the screen, edging ever so slightly.

You made sure to avoid enemies or anything violent. "This controller, it allows me to control Big Boss and do whatever I need him to do within the game's programming. I'm...not going to show off too much...but you see how I'm sneaking up on that sheep?"

She nods. "I do...Anon, the more I look at Big Boss. The more I realize. He's almost like a minotaur...but his head. and his legs. Are utterly different. Are humans descended from Minotaurs? Or do they not exist in your world?"

You would think she would automatically assume there we're totally different creatures in your world. But given the similarities and your ability to adapt. Aswell as it being the same language. And hell, even with the Sheep on the screen. No....yeah...that's probably why she'd assume that. further noted by the fact she knows of the inter-dimensional theory. "Sort of. In our world. Minotaurs are myth. And the story for that is because a human....sort of...you know.....with a cow. and well...yeah"

Celestia stifled a giggle "That's some interesting mythology you have in your world Anon...oh..you've reached the sheep. What are you going to do with it?" Celestia was beside herself. She was expecting some amazing human magic. Instead, you just manage to attach the Fulton and let the sheep fly in the air.

"And there we go, I got a sheep"

Celestia didn't know whether to gasp or to giggle. That seemed hilarious..but the poor sheep. "Ahrm...I hope I don't sound idiotic Anon. But this all never truly happened right?" She was doing her best to be dignified, holding back that grin.

You nod. "Yeah, none of this ever happened. It's based off a few things. But it's all generally make believe."

Then Celestia started to laugh "Good, because that was really funny, hehehe"

You giggle a little bit with her. But you knew in your gut that maybe, in all actuality. This was actually a shit idea. "Actually Celestia..." You shut off the game. "Maybe this wasn't a good idea..."

"Why not? I thought that was amazing. I want to see more! Please?...pretty please? I'll give you some of my cake" Celestia bats her eyes at you and pouts.

HNNNNNNNGGGGGGG....but no. You gulp, and stutter a little. You didn't want to disappoint her...but damn. "No, Celestia seriously. I don't know why I thought this was a good idea. These games. They have a lot of things you wouldn't enjoy."

Celestia was genuinely curious on what you meant. "What do you mean? I know attaching a balloon to a sheep is a little mean. But it is all make-believe"

"Yeah but...it's a little more complicated than that. You see, these games have a lot of death. And killing. I mean, their nowhere near as bad as some other stuff we got. But, there's a lot of things in this that a princess of your stature would find horrible."

Celestia didn't say anything for a little bit after you said that. She just looked around a little, aimlessly. Thinking deeply. She looked a little concerned. Of course she would. This world is pretty innocent. You didn't want to introduce such a thing. "So then, in these series of games. there are terrible acts that are committed."

You nod. "Yes"

"Including death.."

You nod. "Yes"

"Anon.....I've....lived a very long time. I have fought in many battles. I have witnessed friends pass away while I live on, I have seen how war can destroy lives. I don't know how much you know about the first battle with Sombra. But it was a battle we nearly lost. And even then, we had thought he had gotten the final hurrah by taking away so many innocent lives. And although the Crystal ponies were never truly gone. All those who fought and were lost will have only known the terror of seeing the empire vanish. The atrocities I've seen are things that I would wish upon nopony else. Even I am not innocent. I banished my own sister. And had things not gone the way they did, I shudder to think of what would have happened...but whatever I would have to suffer. It would have been deserved"

.....goddamn...that's heavy.

You were dead silent. The way Celestia just said that was in a deep and serious tone. To emphasize that the shit she has seen is on par with any human. She could see how stunned you were. For a moment more, she looked at you with a regal seriousness. Then she smirked, and tapped the shoulder of your foreleg with her hoof. "Also I've seen your Dreamscape...and also, technically, my sister turned me into a zombie. So tell me again how a "princess of my stature" isn't ready to see what a game holds"

........

Well, then.....you had no idea how to counter that. You just stood there, as Celestia smiled at you. a sweet motherly smile. "Come here Anon."

You don't move at first., still a little stunned at that. But then you slowly stepped towards her. "Celestia..I..just wow...I..Didn't expeWOAH!"

Celestia grabbed you with her magic and slipped you right in front of her. Resting you against her chest and neck as she once again plants her chin atop your head and nuzzles you.

You blush, once again, a warm feeling. But goddammit it was so sudden. "C-celestia...I..come on. You know I'm not a kid right?"

Celestia just continued to nuzzle. "Anon, to me, all ponies are my children. They are my responsibility to take care of and try to make their life better."

"Y-yeah but..I'm not ori-"

Celestia reaches and puts her hoof gently on your mouth. "You're not human anymore Anon, and as long as you are a trustworthy, good, and loving pony. I will treat you just the same as I would any other."

.......

She really did accept you. Despite seeing your dreamscape. Despite knowing the deception. Despite everything. She was comforting you as if you were her child. And it felt really nice...to be accepted. To be officially accepted.

So you nuzzled back. Gently, under her neck. And just let the good feelings roll into you.

Chapter 141 - The Nightmare Night Arc

Author's Note

There are actually people who enjoyed this chapter...

I hated this chapter...

I have no idea why I wrote it...

Enjoy it as you will...

Chapter 141 - The Nightmare Night Arc

You fly above Ponyville, circling it a few times in blistering speed until you are sure you see BonBon's house from overhead. Also because flying is fun. Why wouldn't you fly?

Once you spotted it. You enter a free fall. Just outstretching your legs as you let the wind run through you as you drop from dizzying heights. And you just don't stop. You plummet to the ground right in front of her house. And land on your feet as if it was all good. A smile stretches across your face as you chortle. "God this horn rules, I don't even care that I'm talking to myself. I can do anything with this fucking thing."

After a little self admiration. You look to Bonbon's door. There were some lights coming from inside. So she had to be home. And that made you think. It would be officially Nightmare Night soon. Why not show them the full awesomeness of your costume?

You lift your eyepatch and hold out your hoof as you shoot out your eye into it. Then upon feeling the gooey viscous liquid upon your hoof and seeing your own eye look back at you. It makes you gag heavily and toss away your eye. "Ok...that wasn't as cool as I thought it would be.....yeesh...ok..." You sigh and walk over to the door to knock. "Man, this is gonna be great. ..I mean I know...I'm being a bit of an attentionfag. But hey, cute horses." You knock on the door. "Bonbon, hey Bonbon...can I come in please? It's me, Anon"

No answer.

You look at her front window...and there she is...or was. The moment you took a look, she ducked down. Is this episode related? What was she afraid of? Even more peculiar, the lights in the house suddenly dimmed. You could hear movements coming from the other side of the door. No voices though.

"Bonbon? You ok?" You looked around to make sure there wasn't an evil entity around you. Nothing seemed to be around.

You knock again, and as you do, the door slowly opens from your tapping. But nobody was behind it, and the setting sun's light only lit what was in front of you. You pop your head in and look left and right… Nothing.

You light up your horn and cautiously step inside. "Bonbon?...Lyra?....Anypony?" You step into the house completely, and as you do. the door shuts completely behind you. "Woah what?!" Before you can even turn, a dart hits your neck. "...agh geez! what was that?!"

You can't even see it, you spin in circles a few times trying to look at it. But it was stuck on a blindspot on your neck. And as you tried to find it, you started to feel woozy. "....ugh...what the hell?...wait....right...hoof"

You take your hoof and pull out what hit you. It was indeed a dart. ".....guh?" You look up, and see in your blurry vision, Bonbon. Hanging from the ceiling with some sort of device. a Blowgun on her hoof. She was staring down at you with a serious "You're pretty fucked" look. ".......why?"

You try to focus on using your magic. But you fail and fall over, hitting your head. "..g-goddammit...m....my......uhhh" Your body and mind gives up as you fall unconscious.

Just as quick as you were knocked out. You awake with a light flashing in your face. Whatever light it was. you thought you spotted three little fireflies within them. You had to turn your head away as the light was tilted slightly away from your eyes.

"Ughh....what happened?" You were still in a woozy haze, you tried to move, but you found yourself unable to. You were tied up. To a chair, it seemed.

You looked around, the room you were in...was empty...save for a single door. And then finally...you hear a voice coming from behind you. "Thought you could just waltz into my home, did you?"

"What?"

The voice neared your ear. "You heard me. You must have thought I was a real dainty pony. Didn't you?"

"Bonbon?"
someone walked in front of your view from behind. And yes, it was definitely Bonbon. "Bonbon! What gives?!"

Bonbon just smirks at you and starts rubbing her hoof on the strange, bug filled light. Looking at it intently. "Very convincing voice of a foal, and a body size to boot. Whoever hired you did a pretty....decent...job. But a uniform that good can't be any Nightmare Night costume. What? did you think you could just pretend to be Anon and just invite yourself in? You may have had a better chance pretending to be my bestie."

What...the fuck....was she....talking about. You shook your head to try to get a little of that haze in your brain out. "I AM Anon. And this is my costume! I wanted to show it to you guys"

Bonbon shook her head and gave you a sarcastic smile. "Suuuuuuuure, and I bet you wanted to have tea too." Bonbon then scoffs. "Nice try, but you should have really put some lotion to your coat if you wanted to fool me. Waayyyyyy too rough. I mean, you didn't even bother to put in a matching glass eye. You're by far the sloppiest criminal I've ever seen"

........Seriously?.....Christ. You just wanted the scare the girl a little. Instead she has mistaken you for some sort of mastermind or something.

"Bonbon, listen to me! It's me, Anon. I swear!"

Bonbon took the light and shined it in your eye. Geeeeez, did it get brighter?! "Gyah! HEY, DON'T DO THAT!"

Bonbon turned the light away, keeping her eyes on you. "Ok, if you'll level with me. You play nice, and I won't have to resort to more.....torturous methods." Bonbon says in a dark....yet...at least to you...enticing way.

...ugh, your dick wanted to actually know what she meant...given your position. But no, nooooo. It probably meant bad shit. "Fine, ask me anything."

"Ok....what's your name?"

"AnoAGHHH!"

She shines the light on you again. "Wrong answer"

"THEN WHAT AM IAAGGHH!"

"Wrong answer" Bonbon says as she shines the light on you again.

"IT'S BIG BOSS! IT'S BIG BOSS OK! GEEZ!"

"See, was that so hard?.....Big Boss huh? Kind of an odd name, considering it sounds like.."

You immediately cut her off with a growl, if you had to hear it ONE MORE TIME! Geez, you don't know what it was. But it was like. they saw the costume, and somehow couldn't connect the name to anything close to what it should be. "Don't say it..."

Bonbon looks at you, legitimately confused. "Say what?"

"....you know what..."

Bonbon smirked at you. "Ohhhhh, you mean what I think of your name?"

NO DAMMIT NO! FINE, YOU'LL SAY IT BEFORE SHE CAN! JUST SO YOU DON'T HAVE TO HEAR IT FROM HER! "YEAH, A MOB BOSS, HUR HUR VERY FUNNY!"

Bonbon's ear twitched as she looked at you confused. "What? Don't flatter yourself. The name you have just makes you sound like you're compensating for something. I mean, Big Boss? come on. That's the kind of name reserved for only the best agents. You, you probably got it because of how small you are."

"WHAT?! SERIOUSLY! WHAT?!"

Seriously?! Only now that you're her fucking prisoner for whatever reason do you get the answer you wanted to hear. But nooooo, she also had to throw in that the name apparently also meant you had a small dick....or something about your actual body size....whatever, it was insulting either way. You'd rather she'd have just said the mob boss thing. But nope, you got exactly what you wanted. The thing that made it truly insulting is that she figured it out WHILE you were captured. As she said, reserved for the top agents. If you knew she was going to go all Sweetie Drops on you. Then you would have fought back.

Bonbon had no idea what you were getting THAT excited about. It was confusing to her. "What's wrong with you? Or did I actually hit a nerve with that whole compensation thing?"

"Yes! actually. You could have just said the whole top agent thing and I would have been happy. But why'd you have to throw that in? Do you know I haven't even seen my own dick since I got here! I just lean over the toilet and bam!"

"You're....what?...What's a dick?" Bonbon was confused and intrigued. If it was a secret gadget or weapon. She wanted and needed to know. Obviously a pony's grasp on sexual lingo was pretty awful. You should have said penis. In fact...

"What?! REALLY?!..You know..A dick...A schlong..MY FREAKIN' PENIS!"

"You're....WHAT?!" Bonbon was thrown aback in surprise from such lewdness. "I WASN'T TALKING ABOUT THAT! WHAT KIND OF SICK PONY CARES ABOUT THAT SIZE OF THEIR PENIS!"

"I DO, YOU S.....wait...did you actually say the word penis?" Noooo way. did she actually say the word? As angry as you were. That struck you as hilarious. In fact, it lightened your mood almost immediately...you had to get her to say it again. Forget being prisoner. YOU NEEDED THIS.

"What else could I have said? What are you...some sort of pervert?" Bonbon says. Which makes you think of something even better.

You wiggle your eyebrows at her. and smirk. "Maybe, maybe not. Why don't you let me out of these ropes and I'll show you why they call me Big Boss"

Bonbon cringed hard "...Creepy...especially since you're still imitating a foal's voice."

"Oh come on, don't beAHHGHH! CAN YOU STOP THAT!...ugh...." You cry out

Bonbon, disgusted by your advances, shines the light upon your eye once again.

"No! Not only was that the most pathetic pickup line I've ever heard. But you're my prisoner, remember? Now answer my questions!"

You smirk at her, oh yes. You were going to milk this now. You don't know what it was...or maybe you did. But actively sexualizing a pony was really fun. Besides, it wasn't like she was going to put a bullet in your brain. "Ohhhhhhh.....I wasn't aware you were into that stuff"

Bonbon raised an eyebrow "What stuff?"

You tried to lean is as much as your bondage would allow. "Y'know, domination...." You say your next words slowly, seductively. "Sexxxxuaaalll domination"

Bonbon got really angry, you could swear fire came from her nostrils as she came up and physically slapped you. "I am a MARE! Not whatever hussie you're used to. I already know you're from some organization called FOXHOUND. Fitting, considering how much of a dog you are. So what are you here for? Larseny? Foalnapping? Or did you come for the Princess herself?"

Geez, that actually hurt....but one more....ooonnee more. You could take it. This was too good to pass up. You'd never ever get another chance. "Only thing I'm guilty of is how much I want that sweet butt of yours. And considering that cutie mark, it must be extra sugary"

Bonbon went into overload. Geez, she must have never been hit on before. Then again, most ponies were 9/10s to you.

But while she turned red with rage. You just wiggled your eyebrows again. Finally, she got up and turned away from you. Trying to act cool and calm. She was even cursing herself in her mind. Losing it over just words. "Well, since you don't want to cooperate. I'll just leave you here to starve. And don't even bother escaping. I don't know if you noticed or not. But I put a high end magic inhibitor ring on that horn of yours. You're not getting out anytime soon unless you tell me everything you know. If you ever heard about how you should never mess with Sweetie Drops, then you're going to learn it now"

....Ohh shhiiitttt....that's right. Your horn....yeah.......the horn on your head....the one you could have used the whole time....right. Must have slipped your mind when you got darted. You also couldn't let her leave. Oh god...OH GOD. Fuck scaring her, you were going to wig her the fuck out. You were going to fucking record this. What could stop you? You had god magic. But...did the ring stop you?

You try...and sure enough. You make a camera sneakily appear overhead as a small black hole in the wall. You smirk a very wide and evil smirk. You loved Nightmare Night.

"So agent Sweetie Drops, you're just gonna let me die here huh?" She wouldn't , it was just a scare tactic. And she slowly turned, hoping you'd talk.

"Unless you start talking, then yes. I'm going to leave you here."

"But I'm hungry, can't I get a little something?"

Bonbon shook her head "I told you, you aren't getting anything. Not unless you talk."

"....But Sweetie Drops....I'm hungry...for you!" Before she could say another thing. You blast off from your bindings and jet right to her lips. Giving her a kiss before flipping backwards.

Bonbon was stunned. She couldn't believe it "N-no way..how did you..." Then it hit her as a little of your drool dripped from her lips. "DID YOU JUST KISS ME?!"

"You know it!"

"Who are you?! Nopony has that kind of ability. Nopony but an alicorn or a.....oh no" It finally hit Bonbon. She just realized everything she did was wrong. Her eyes, her pupils. They couldn't contain the astonishment. The only horn she had learned of that would even be able to bypass that kind of ring was... ".........You're really Anon"

You nod as you revert yourself to normal. "Yep, I got you good. Didn't I?"

But she failed to realize the joke. Instead, to her. This was serious. "ANON! ARE YOU INSANE?! DO YOU REALIZE WHAT YOU HAVE JUST DONE?!"

"Woah woah, relax. I won't tell anypony. And I'm not angry about the whole slap or light shine thing. Or the fact that you put a dart in my neck."

"ANON!...AGH" BonBon put her hoof to her face and pulled down. She was having a hard time with the situation. "Anon...." She took a breath "Anon...Nopony is supposed to know about this. About my secret!"

"But you've Told Lyra, right?"

"Yes...I MEAN NO!...I MEAN....AGH!" Bonbon didn't know how to handle this. "WHAT ARE YOU EVEN DOING IN THAT KIND OF GETUP!?"

You narrow your eyes at her, and start rolling your front hoofs around to emphasize your next words. "...Nightmare Night...you know..costume"

"....right..." Bonbon slapped her face with her own hoof "...right.....and you have that horn that let's you use draconequus magic. I really screwed up. "

"Hey Bonbon..." You move up to her, and give her a gentle hug. The fun was kind of over now. And it was worth it. It's not like knowing her secret was going to change anything. You already knew before.

Bonbon didn't know what to do. She didn't know your history. And she knew she messed up big. "Anon...you have to forget everything you saw here today. Ok? You can't tell anypony. Not a soul..promise me Anon...Please. It's not just because it's a secret. It's for your safety."

"I promise, you're just Bonbon to me anyway. My friend who helped me out when I was in trouble."

Bonbon sighed. She still didn't know. She'd have to keep a closer eye on you. But for now, it'd be fine. So she did her best to relax and hugged you. But she really really hoped you could keep a secret as good as Lyra could. She was still running the situation in her mind. How she could make such a mistake. Then another thing hit her, which made her break the hug. "Hold on a second....Anon"

Why did she break the hug? What was wrong now? "Yeah?"

"............you hit on me. Do you even realize how vulgar your come ons were?"

You look up at her, first with a look of remorse. "But..." And you gave her a gentle look. A gentle look of sorriness.

It makes her drop her guard a little. "Anon..."

But then you smirk. "But the only come on that matters is when I come on you!"

"ANON! I DON'T EVEN KNOW WHAT THAT MEANS BUT IT'S MUST BE BAD!"

Ok..that was enough fun. You jump away from her and shake your hooves in forgiveness and worry. "Hey hey, It was just a joke ok? Woah, you gotta relax. I didn't mean any of it. You're wayyyy too old and I don't even think that kind of stuff is good. It's gross and nasty and stuff." What a lie, even though telling that kind of lie didn't bother you.

Bonbon scans your face to see if you were lying. She felt she'd have to go to Discord himself as a concerned mare if you were actually that vulgar. Still, she wondered where you even learned such things. ".........."

She couldn't detect any lying from you. So, she slowly began to cool down again. "....I believe you. But...where did you learn to talk like that?"

.........

"...uhhhh...some weird magazines I would find back in Phillydelphia"

"Well Anon, you need to forget about what you read. That's not the kind of thing mares like to hear from a colt like you. Do you understand? it's things even proper stallions would never say."

You nod. But Bonbon wouldn't take just a nod. She came closer, and looked down right at you "....do you? Because I will tell everypony if you don't"

....geez, harsh. "...I do..." Sheesh.

Bonbon nods, and goes and gives you her own little hug. Then leads you out of the room. "Come on, I'll take you back upstairs. I've got some candy to give out for the night, you can take some if you want."

"I do, Kind of want to start ahead of the curve before Nightmare Night officially starts....you're really not mad at me?"

"No, as long as you're not mad at me. Still....you never pulled any of those "moves" on your filly friends....right?"

You shook your head deftly. "nononononono, it'd be....rude...and bad...and nasty if I ever did."

Bonbon nods with a happy, understanding smile "That's right, good for you. I guess I can't be mad. Because I was in the wrong first."

"Don't worry about it. We'll just say it's even. Oh hey, where's Lyra?" You say, as you cast a final bit of magic. Hoping you did it right. It was a magic to make a disc appear in your saddlebag with the footage you taken. Where your saddle bag was. You didn't know in all actuality. But just the same. The magic should work. Hopefully Bonbon would actually know where the bag is.

"She's in Canterlot. She knows I get a little antsy around this time so she goes spends her time there. I don't mind." Bonbon leads you into a room full of low tech gadgetry and papers. Folders and files, cabinets, all sorts of shit. And she walks to the wall and knocks on a certain part of it as a secret door opens.

Bonbon leads you upwards through a secret staircase which leads into her kitchen. Right through the pantry door. Bonbon looks to the side as she heads through first. and points. "And there's your saddlebag.....I feel really silly too. I should have had a look inside it. But I thought it could have been boobytrapped. Nothing but school supplies in there right?"

You nod. "Yep....hmnnn"

You really wanted to show Lyra your costume. You still could...but you wanted it to be on Nightmare Night itself. Because as you looked outside. It looked like it'd begin very soon.

Bonbon went and opened a cabinet and pulled out a bag of candy and slowly poured some into your saddlebag. "There you go, that should get you a little bit of an early start."

"Thanks Bonbon, And umm...sorry about the come ons...they were pretty good though, right?"

Bonbon stopped to actually think about it. But then she shook her head. "Good?...I wouldn't say that. Clever? Yeah, you had some pretty snappy ones......now never do it again. Those are things you shouldn't know about until you're older."

You nod, showing her you had an understanding. "Yes ma'am....can I ask you one more question?"

"Ok...what is it?"

"....What exactly do you do again?"

"........Anon.....if I told you, there'd be a search party looking for you tonight. " Bonbon gives you a very....very serious look.

....man..was it that serious?...fine....boring....would have been cool to know. "Y-yes ma'am...well uhhh..." You secure your saddlebag, and start to walk towards the door. "...so....just to uhh..make sure. None of this ever happened?"

Bonbon nodded. "Right". And as she said that. You could swear the devil itself appeared in her eyes.

"..Just making sure" Oh, it will always be a rather permanent memory either way.

And with that. You bid Bonbon..or rather Sweetie Drops. a farewell. Considering it was now getting dark. It'd probably be best to find your friends.

...Damn that was fun...and scary.

Chapter 142 - The Nightmare Night Arc

It really was. Sure your eyes hurt. But for some reason, an otherwise innocent looking pony actually saying anything out of the norm was funny. And just pressing on to her like that. It was perfect. Though, she now knew that you knew she was a secret agent. But things should be fine. You didn't know who her enemies might be. But whatever, they'd never target you.

And this horn....This horn is goddamn glorious. You had to get one more in before you met up with your friends. But who......?

You hover upwards and start stealthily flying through Ponyville using an invisibility spell. Looking for a juicy target. Though, you did notice something a little off as ponies started to come out for the night and festivities were beginning to start. The mane six didn't seem to be about. Fluttershy, well...you knew where she was. But the others? Not even a Pinkie in a chicken outfit. How odd…

The thought troubles you as you fly about. Did something happen? Are they in danger? Or was this a CMC related episode in the first place? Or maybe it was Fluttershy centered...who knows. But you do know one thing… That those two ponies you just spotted could use a scare

Yes, you spotted Snips and Snails hiding out behind some bushes. Seems Snails was helping Snips put on a rather spiffy knight helmet. Snails himself was masked as a masked super hero with a cape and underwear ensemble. Well damn...seems after all this time. They were still on about being heroes. Well......we'll see about that.

You dart right into the bushes beside them. And observe...

"There, I got it Snips...I think" Snails said as he released his hooves from the helmet.

"I think you did! Yeah! How do I look? Pretty heroic, right?" Snips made a heroic pose in his golden knight armor. It seemed due to slight pudginess, some of his coat poked out from a few edges. Otherwise, it didn't look that bad. Even had a hole for his small horn.

Snails nods "Yeah buddy, you look super duper cool, eh"

......Hmmm, so far. these two dunderheads still wanted to go the whole "cool" hero route. Well then, if they wanted to be heroes. They were going to have to fight a real villain. Oh god. The idea you had, it was perhaps too video gamey even for you.

But it had to be perfect. You wanted to make sure those two couldn't escape what you had in store. First...you'd entice them into action. So, with your magic. You change your voice into that of.......Bowser, from the Mario series. "So, you two are the chumps I heard about. The two great heroes?"

The moment they hear your deep dark voice. They go frantic, looking around for the voice, asking who was there.

"Who do you think it is?! It's me, the greatest basher of heroes that's ever existed. And the best looking to boot"

Snails started to shiver violently. Scared out of his wits. "S-s-s-snips. There's a real bad guy somewhere. w-w-w-what do we do?"

Snips backed up onto a house wall. And looked around. "I-I dunno....I'm..I'm scared...."

You do a bowser laugh. "BWHAHAHAHA, I guess there's no heroes here. Just a couple of chickens. I don't waste my time with puny idiots like you. I like to dine on the finest of heroes. Though their brains never taste too good. Too dull, I mean. They think they can take me on so that should be obvious."

"Y-you're right. We're chickens" Snails said as he ducked down, covering his head and making clucking noises. Goddammit, they weren't taking the bait. Or Snails wasn't anyway.

Snips eyes were glistening. Suddenly he went from scared to starstruck. "Snails wait! we might not be chickens afterall!"

“What are you talking about Snails? I feel like I'm gonna lay some eggs, eh"

"No Snails! Think about it. If we can beat this big villain guy by ourselves. We'll be even bigger heroes than not only Anon, but even the elements of harmony! Come on, we can do it! I mean there's two of us and one whoever that is. And you know what means?"

Snails still cowering, looks up slightly to his armored compatriot. And then shook his head. "That he's gonna blow us both up?"

"Wrong! That we're going to blow him up. If Anon can beat down two guys! We two guys can beat up one!" Snips stood bravely, at the ready for anything.

"Wait..." Snails had an epiphany. "duhh..Snips.....isn't the fact that there is two of us means this one guy can beat us?"

Snips shook his head "Nah, I got this sweet armor and he doesn't know who you are, Snails. you got that mask on to hide your secret identity"

"......Oh right.....I forgot...ok, let's do this!" Snails fear immediately leaves him as he stands with his stalwart yet stupid friend.

"So, you both accept my challenge? BWHAHAHAHAHA! You both think you have a chance to beat the great King Bowser? Oh boy, this is going to be easier than sucking down a bottle of jalapeno peppers"

"I think we do! You're the one hiding! So why don't you come on out so we can pound you!" Snips said bravely.

Snips and Snails...Round 3. You disguise yourself as Bowser himself. Not even a costume. But actual Bowser. Even your size grows as Snips and Snails spot the spiked green shell emerge from the bushes.

They immediately start to panic again as you emerge in full form. And roar at them. And with the perfect spell casted. The last part of the magic happens. The entire area flashes. As all three of you appear in a very similar area of Ponyville.

You standing a few ways away from the pair. Both facing each other. And neither of you could move… You enacted....An RPG battle akin to one from the Mario and Luigi series. Complete with a theme only you three can hear. Even the immediate area itself begins to warp to accommodate your magic. As does the physics. No one was even audible anymore.

SNIPS: WHAT IS THAT THING SNAILS?!

SNAILS:.....

SNIPS: SNAILS?!

(the pair looked to each other)

SNIPS: Snails?

SNAILS: Snips?

(they were confused)

SNIPS: Why can't we talk? And why are there words above our heads?

(Snails shrugged)

SNAILS: I.. don't know. Snips, I'm scared! I can't read that good! I don't need everypony knowing
that!

SNIPS: I'm scared too! Let's get out of here!

(But they couldn't run)

SNIPS:I Can't move!

SNAILS: I Can't either!

BOWSER: That's right chumps. You're in the Bowser Zone now. Prepare to get schooled!

(Bowser points to the two heroes)

SNIPS: Two heroes?...Hey Snails....this...whatever those words are says we're heroes.

SNAILS: It did? I thought it said Sandwiches......I'm kind of hungry.

SNIPS: And what's with the music? It's kind of wigging me out.

SNAILS: I dunno, I kinda like it.

BOWSER: HEY! YOU TWO! CAN WE GET ON WITH IT!?

(the two heroes snap to attention,Bowser himself is annoyed)

BOWSER: Of course I'm annoyed! I just want to get on with this....maybe this spell was too perfect.

SNIPS: I don't know what's going on here! But for some reason. This music, this...everything. I feel like...I can win!

SNAILS:...I dunno...He's really big and scary.

SNIPS: So? It's still two against one! Let's get him!

(But the brave heroes realized they couldn't move)

SNIPS: What?! WHY?! HOW CAN WE ATTACK IF WE CAN'T MOVE?!

SNAILS: Snips...His mouth is glowing!

BOWSER: That's right, I'm faster than you two. Hope you like losing the moment you faced me! Prepare to be burned!

(Bowser launched his flame attack)

???:HOLD ON! I'M HERE TO HELP! FREEZE FRAME!

(all three combatants were surprised by the sudden adorable voice)

BOWSER: What in the?! Seriously! What in the...HEY MY FLAME!

(Bowser's flame was halted in place)

SNAILS: Who said that?.....mom...is that you?

???:Don't worry Snips and Snails, I'm here to Help! WAZEE!

(Out of thin air, a blue Parasprite appeared.)

BOWSER:....what in the.....

PARAPARA: Hey Heroes! I'm Parapara! You're guide for this fight!

SNIPS: A guide? You mean. You're here to help?

PARAPARA: Yup! I'm here to help you against mean ole Bowser! You just need to learn to attack and defend! And I'm gonna teach you just that!

BOWSER: ARE YOU SERIOUS?! YOU'RE NOT EVEN SUPPOSED TO EXIST! I DIDN'T MAKE YOU!

PARAPARA: *giggle* Silly Bowser, you're the one who wanted this to be perfect. And you are technically the first boss.

BOWSER: *mutter*Discord?*mutter*

PARAPARA: NOPE! WAZEE! I'm part of your perfect spell! And as such, it is my job to help out the heroes! And you can't desummon me either. That's not how chaos magic works after all!

BOWSER: Please...don't....not a...

PARAPARA: TUTORIAL TIME!

(Bowser freaks out)

SNIPS: Tutorial...

SNAILS: ...Time?

BOWSER:....just kill me...please...

PARAPARA: Yup. See those?

Snails HP 31/31 FP 41/41
Snips HP 53/53 FP 22/22

(the heroes nods)

PARAPARA: Those are your stats! Health points are how much life you have. And Friendship points let you use Buddy moves! WAZEE! Isn't that exciting.

SNAIL:duhhhhh..............I don't get it.

BOWSER: JUST SKIP THE TUTORIAL! NOPONY WANTS IT YOU STUPID FLY!
(Bowser was heating up)

SNIPS: I don't get it either. Can you tell us how not to get burned by that big flame thing?...pleeease?

PARAPARA: Oh that *giggle* That's no problem. Just time your attack. And hit it back with your hoof. And since the fireball is red. It's going to go after you Snails. So give it a good bashing!

SNAILS: Just hit it?

PARAPARA: Mhmm, just hold your hoof and then let it fly! Also, if an attack can't be hit by your hoof. You can jump to either dodge or counter. But be careful when countering with a jump. It won't work on spiny things.

SNAILS: o-ok I'll try...

PARAPARA: Don't worry. I can use one more FREEZE FRAME to help you with your timing!

BOWSER: THAT'S CHEATING!...ugh..why can't I cancel the spell!

PARAPARA: Sorry Bowser *giggle* Gotta ride this one out.

(time resumes)

(Snails freaks out as the fireball nears him)

PARAPARA:FREEZE FRAME!

(The flame stops near Snails)

PARAPARA: Now Snails, Give it a good smack!

SNIPS: You can do it Snails! Listen to the creepy bug thing!

(Snails stares at the fireball, gains bravery, and hits it back)

BOWSER: tch, whatever. I'll just smack it back...hey!

(Bowser cannot dodge or counter, he is a boss after all...also...tutorial)

BOWSER: I REALLY HATE TUTORIALS! AND WHAT'S WITH ME BEING UNABLE TO COUNTER ANYWAY?!

PARAPARA: They are the heroes! *wink*

(Bowser takes 11 damage)

PARAPARA: Do you guys think you got it?

SNIPS: I think so...

SNAILS: I think I do, just counter with the right attack move thing! right?

PARAPARA: Right! now you guys gotta do it on your own! And about the blocks that are gonna appear above your head? that's your menu. Just use them to attack bowser with a normal or buddy attack move! Oh, and if you're wondering about those numbers? That's damage...you don't want that...... Good luck! WAZEE!

(Parapara flies off)

BOWSER: I can't believe this.......

(SNAILS gets first move)

BOWSER: ARE YOU SERIOUS?! HOW IS HE FASTER THAN ME?! CANCEL! CANCEL! CANCELCANCELCANCELCANCELCANCEL!

SNAILS: this is really weird...um....let me try......a buddy move...I think.

(Snails chooses heroic peirce.....but he can't understand the instructions)

SNAILS: Snips, this looks realllllllllly tough....

SNIPS: Hmmm, I think all I gotta do is grab you, and run really far back, then run really far forward. and toss you into this Bowser guy....I...can I do that?

SNAILS:....Should I try it? What if it hurts?

SNIPS: Go for it buddy! They have to call it a buddy move for a reason.

BOWSER:.........this is getting really stupid....

SNAILS: OK...I'M DOING IT!

(Snails activates the buddy move for 8 friendship points. He successfully jumps on Snips back, Snips starts to run back as far as he can. Then starts running forward. Achieving a perfect hit)

BOWSER: how is this even perfect? I don't remember text describing anything. I feel like I'm inside a story. Whatever, the chump's going to fail the move anyway. Nobody gets a bro move the first time. And there's no way....

(GREAT)

BOWSER: What...?

(Snips tosses Snails into Bowser like a missle, Snails spins and drills into him with his horn repeatedly, GREAT!)

BOWSER: THIS IS NOT HOW I IMAGINED MY FIRST TIME!

(Snails drills right through bowser and appears on the other side of the "screen", back to his original position, EXCELLENT!)

(61)

BOWSER: HOW?!

SNIPS: You did it Buddy! You got him!

SNAILS: I did?....uhm..why is he still standing there?

SNIPS: I think it has to do with the numbers...I think we gotta do more damage!

SNAILS: This is really weird Snips, Are we even in Equestria anymore?

SNIPS: I dunno, but if we bring this guy down! Then we're gonna be superstars for sure! It'll be a saga to remember!

Snails HP 31/31 FP 33/41
Snips HP 53/53 FP 22/22

BOWSER: Whatever, It's my turn now. And dodging attacks is always the hardest part!

(Snips turn)

BOWSER: ARE YOU SERIOUS?!

SNIPS: Ok...let me try...Snips and Snails?...but we are Snips and Snails...I don't get it.

SNAILS: What does it say?

SNIPS: It says we toss Snips and Snails at Bowser...but....how do we throw ourselves?

SNAILS: I know! let's try grabbing each other and throwing ourselves!

BOWSER: THAT'S NOT HOW PHYSICS WO....you know what...do that. Just do it so I can have my turn and get this over with.

(Snips uses "Snips and Snails")

(Scissors and Snails appears on both their hooves)

SNAILS: oooohhhh....Snips

SNIPS: And Snails...Let's do it buddy!

BOWSER:.........I hate this spell

(EXCELLENT)

(Bowser was buried under scissors and snails, use of 7 FP)

(57)

BOWSER: THIS IS GROSS! THIS IS SO GROSSSSSSS! I HATE MYSELF FOR THIS!

Snails HP 31/31 FP 33/41
Snips HP 53/53 FP 15/22

SNIPS: This...isn't really that hard. This guy is a chump.

SNAILS: *giggle* yeah..and he's fat too. Snips, we really are gonna be heroes, huh?

SNIPS: That's right buddy!

(Bowser gets enraged, and outstretches his arms. Making the Scissors and Snails fly away in various directions)

BOWSER: THAT'S IT! IT'S MY TURN!

(Bowser's turn)

BOWSER:......that's.....that's what I just..You know what..that's fine...EAT FIRE!

(Bowser spits a green flame out )

SNIPS: Green? Gah! does that mean it's coming towards me?! WHAT DO I DO?!

SNAILS: HIT IT BACK! HIT IT BACK!

SNIPS: Oh...right...

(Snips successfully hits the flame back at Bowser)

(11)

BOWSER: NO WAY! GIVE ME ANOTHER TURN!

(Snails Turn!)

BOWSER:GYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!

SNAILS:..should I use that same move?

SNIPS: Yeah, he really really hated it!

BOWSER: USE SOMETHING ELSE.....gads...I'm gonna have PTSD from this I swear.

(Snails chooses heroic pierce, 8 FP)

(He successfully jumps on Snips back, Snips starts to run back as far as he can. Then starts running forward, GREAT)

BOWSER:....Why can't I counter. WHY!? IT'S MY SPELL! I AM JUST IDLING HERE LIKE A MORON!

(Snips tosses Snails into Bowser like a missle, Snails spins and drills into him with his horn repeatedly GREAT)

BOWSER:I'M BEING VIOLATED!

(Snails drills right through bowser and appears on the other side of the "screen", back to his original position EXCELLENT!)

(LUCKY! 92)

BOWSER: Even though that hit my chest...I..I feel like I can't feel my rear anymore.....ogh..

Snails HP 31/31 FP 25/41
Snips HP 53/53 FP 15/22

(Snips turn)

SNIPS: I think we got him on the ropes. Lemme see if I got some sort of super super duper move!

SNAILS: What's that one for Fifteen Friendship points?

SNIPS: uhhmm...says here that you toss me into the air. and I aim my horn down and rain a lot of fireballs. But I gotta do a few move things to summon them first.....umm....Fireballs sounds cool.

SNAILS: I didn't even know you could shoot fireballs.

SNIPS: Me neither...Let's try it!

(Snips activates Angelic Fire Dance)

(Snails tosses Snips high into the clouds, OK!)

SNAILS:...wow...I didn't even know I was that strong.

BOWSER:.....this is gonna hurt...isn't it?

(Snips tries doing the dances, but doesn't feel the groove, and starts plummeting back down)

BOWSER:BWHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

(Snips lands on Bowser's head, and bounces back to his original position)

(32 LUCKY!)

BOWSER: AGH! OW!

(Bowser rubs his head, he was getting a splitting headache)

BOWSER: NO I WASN'T....now I am...AND IT HURTS! FORGET THIS! FINAL ATTACK TIME. NOT EVEN GONNA WAIT!

(Bowser jumps high into the air)

BOWSER:NOT THAT YOU GUYS WOULD KNOW, BUT I GOT THIS FROM DBZ. SAYANORA CHUMPS!

(Bowser opened his mouth and started charging a huge ball of fiery death)

SNAILS:.....Snips...That said spicey bread...right?Not...fiery death?

SNIPS:........*gulp*

(Bowser throws down his giant fireball.)

(Snips and Snails both don't counter it)

(99)

(Bowser lands back to the ground)

BOWSER:BWHAHAHAHAHAH EAT THAT! I KNEW I'D STILL WIN!

(Snips and Snails fall to the ground)

???:DON'T GIVE UP GUYS! WAZEE!

BOWSER:....uhhh....what do you mean don't give up...it's over. Their HP is 0. If my spell is perfect, then that means game over. I win, it's done.

(Parapara appears again)

PARAPARA: But Bowser, you forgot one thing.

BOWSER: No I didn't......

PARAPARA: Are you sure?

BOWSER: IT'S MY SPELL! I KNOW GAMES IN AND OUT. GAME OVER IS GAME OVER! DON'T ARGUE WITH ME!...Why can't I cancel it anyway?

PARAPARA: *giggle* because chaos magic doesn't work like regular magic. Once you've cast it, it goes on until it's fulfilled its purpose.

BOWSER: then why can I cancel my other spells? Why can Discord do it?

PARAPARA: Because some spells fulfill their purposes instantly, everything after is just superfluous. Discord is the master of Chaos of course. So he has control of everything regardless. Anypony else who uses this kind of magic are bound by it's rules...or lack thereof.

BOWSER:....fine..i get it. Whatever, what does that have to do with the battle not ending?

PARAPARA: Because you're about to lose....as be the laws of RPGs.

BOWSER:.....I..what? I just dropped their HP to 0

PARAPARA: Well, you know how you're the first boss right?

BOWSER:....yeah

PARAPARA: And would there be any boss after you?

BOWSER: no....

PARAPARA: So that makes you the last boss too, right?

BOWSER:..ugh yes...get to the point!

PARAPARA: *giggle* I'm getting there, you know how they did enough damage for you to do your instant kill attack?

BOWSER: no...I dunno. I'm the boss, I can't see my statistics. But whatever yeah, I blew them away with it. Why does that matter?

PARAPARA:Well, what happens to the heroes after getting hit by an unavoidable super attack from the final boss?

BOWSER: they come ba......ohhhhhhhhhh.....you're a bitch.....

PARAPARA: SO LONG BOWSER!

(Snips and Snails revive, levels reaching 99)

Snails HP 999/999 FP 99/99
Snips HP 999/999 FP 99/99

SNAILS: Snips?....what happened? We're up again...and we're glowing.

SNIPS: I dunno....b-but..look at our numbers!.

SNAILS: Is that a good thing? hey...the buddy move box is glowing!

PARAPARA: That's right guys. Now you can use your ULTIMATE Buddy move! Use it to put that mean ole Bowser in his place!

SNIPS: OK!

SNAILS: RIGHT!

BOWSER:....or here's a thought...you two could maybe...click FLEE. And we can all walk away from this. Like nothing happened.

(Snips Turn)

SNIPS: Not a chance, after we beat you. We're gonna be hailed as the greatest heroes ever! I'm sure everypony around us is watching!

SNAILS: Oh boy oh boy! I can't wait!

BOWSER:.......crap

(Snips chooses ultimate buddy move)

(Snips and Snails fly up and turn golden, creating a giant super ball of energy that extends out from their horns and turns into a beam)

(Bowser holds out his claws to block it)

BOWSER: Come on....

(OKOKOKOKOKOKOKOKOKOKOKOKOKOK)

BOWSER:.....noooo it's one of those....

(GREATGREATGREATGREATGREATGREATGREATGREATGREATGREATGREAT)

BOWSER: I...NO! THIS IS WHY JRPGS ARE STUUUUPID!

(FANTASTIC)

(999 CRITICAL!)

BOWSER: GODDDDDAMMMMMMITTTT!

(Bowser blasts off into the sky)

SNAILS: WE DID IT! SNIPS! WE DID IT!

SNIPS: WE DID! WE'RE HEROES! WE'RE BETTER THAN EVERYPONY! WE'RE GONNA GET SO MUCH PRAISE AND FOOD! LOTS OF CANDY FOR SURE! MAYBE THEY CAN RENAME NIGHTMARE NIGHT TO "HEROES SNIPS AND SNAILS" NIGHT!

(The heroes dance with joy)

(9999999 EXP)

SNAILS: What's Expee?

SNIPS: I think that's how many ponies are going to praise us! That's a lot!

(the area fades in black, and everything returns to normal)

Snips and Snails appear back in the alley....and.... "Hey...we can talk again! and....wait a second..." Snips looks around, something was disappointingly off.

"Yeah! I can hear me! I love being able to hear me....words are scary.." Snails hugged himself, and then tripped during the hug, falling to the ground with a "oomph"

"...Where's the battle damage? Where's the crowd? Where's Parapara?....oh no..." It his Snips like a sack of bricks.

"What's wrong Snips?"

Snips fell to his back knees as he raises his hooves in the air and screamed "IT WAS A DREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM!"

Snails rolled to his back and looked up with a dopey smile "Oh....it was a nice dream though....I don't even remember falling asleep."

Snips just cries that it seemed that whatever happened didn't actually happen as Snails dumbly looks into the sky.

As for you… You had changed back to your normal form, out of costume, still being launched into the sky. you didn't even care. You just stared blankly as you rose to the clouds. "...I can't believe I lost to those two due to the dumbest cliche ever. HUURR DURRR FRIENDSHIP… DAMMMMMMIIIITTTT!" You scream in mid air as your velocity lowers, and you begin to fall.

"......." You then smile, and then start to laugh. "...That was cool though, I didn't even think that'd work. But that parasprite. It was like the magic itself was talking to me. The magic has to do it's purpose before I can call it back. Maybe that's why Discord limited me in the first place. So I could get used to it. Hrnn… Well, I guess I shouOOOOMPH"

You crash right into the ground outside of town. Leaving a crater. Luckily for you, your magic activated upon impact and absorbed a lot of the fall. It still left you utterly smashed however. "U-ughhhh......o-ok.....next time....talking to myself...while...falling....don't...do..that...."

Chapter 143 - The Nightmare Night Arc

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

Chapter 144 - The Nightmare Night Arc

And the rest of the night went about the same way. With each house you and your group visited. There was either a pony waiting for you or the house was empty due to its occupants also out enjoying the night. All in all, you all only got a modest amount of candy. Nothing to brag about. But enough for your group to be disappointed.

"Well, this Nightmare Night is a total bummer. We aren't gonna have a lot of candy after we offer it to Nightmare Moon." Scootaloo looked in her bag with a frown.

"Well......do we really have to offer it to Nightmare Moon? I mean...Luna is Nightmare Moon and last I checked, the elements of harmony blasted that part of her into nothingness." It seemed pointless to you

"Anon, we have to make an offering every year. Even if Luna is good now, it's part of the tradition." Sweetie Belle stated, a little surprised you didn't seem to want to follow along with it.

"But... eh...." The looks of your friends really dissuades you from giving your opinion. You'd just have to respect their ways. Even if it didn't make sense. In fact, you'd have to ask Celestia about it when you get the chance. The whole day seemed sort of demeaning now that you thought about it. "...Ok, well then. What do you all want to do now?"

"Well, we all could go to the town square and see what everypony else is up to. Then we can go to Granny Smith's spooky maze. That's what you wanted us to do anyway, right Applebloom?" Sweetie Belle asked her friend.

Applebloom nodded "Yeah, you all will love it. Granny Smith is actually really good at setting up some spooky scary scares!"

Riiiight, you forgot Granny Smith had mentioned something about that to you. "That actually sounds like a good idea to me, everypony else is good with it right?"

The rest agreed.

"I just want to let everypony know that if you get too scared. Then I will give you all encouraging words like a real Princess would." Stated Diamond Tiara, trying to sound like a Princess.

"I dunno, you didn't have any words at all when you thought Anon exploded." Scootaloo said in a slightly mocking tone. Smiling a arrogant smile at her. Way to be like your idol Scootaloo.

Diamond Tiara gruffed and walked passed her with a "humph". "I'm sorry that I cared about Anon so much that I lost consciousness. If you were really Anon's friend. You would have fainted too" Diamond Tiara stated, using her adoration for you as a reasoning for her fainting.

"I am Anon's friend. That's why he gave me these wicked wings. What did you ever get from him?" Scootaloo started to get annoyed again. In fact, you could tell everyone was getting annoyed from their fighting.

"Nothing, but I'm the only pony here who's actually been to his house!"

"Wha?!" That catches Applebloom by surprise "Anon, ya let Diamond Tiara into yer house?! How come ya never invited us?" The look on Applebloom's face. It suggested some serious hurt. She was doing a good job of holding back her feelings before. But apparently not being invited to your house was a trigger. Because you knew "Us" meant "me".

"You all.....never asked?"

Applebloom stops to think. She couldn't even remember if she ever did. And considering she had never seen your house. She'd have to believe you. She didn't think you'd lie about that. "Oh"

...Bullet dodged. "Ok." And as for the two squabbling fillies. "Can you both please not fight? I don't want to remember my first Nightmare Night as a test of patience. Especially If I have to separate you two from a fight. We talked about this, remember?"

Scootaloo just hovered ahead with a huff "Finnnneeeee"

Diamond Tiara had to stop however. It actually terrified her that your first Nightmare Night memory would be an unpleasant one.

"Diamond Tiara?...are you ok?" Silver Spoon asked. She could see, absolutely tell, something was wrong with her.

Diamond Tiara nodded and gulped "Y-yeah. Silver Spoon...as my best friend, can I ask you something?"

Silver Spoon smiled wide from that. She enjoyed it at anytime Diamond Tiara acknowledged her in a positive light. "What is it? I'll do anything for you! All you need to do is ask!"

Diamond Tiara nods "Thank you...ahrm..now...if I ever fight with any of my friends again. Including you, give me a big slap on the face. ok?"

Silver Spoon didn't know what to say to that. She was off put by those words. She couldn't just slap her. "O-ok?...B-but can it just be a nudge instead?"

Diamond Tiara shook her head "A slap. It's gotta be hard enough to knock some sense into me in case i'm in the wrong. Ok? You got it?"

Silver Spoon began to grimace as Diamond Tiara's stare became harder, trying to gauge an answer out of her. "......ok"

Diamond Tiara then turned back to you and nodded "Ok Anon, you don't need to worry about that anymore."

Dammit, there had to be a way to get her disinterested in you without crushing her to bits. The poor thing. If she even knew a bit of the truth about you. You don't think her heart would take it. You'd just have to hope Filthy Rich was right. and that it was just a filly's crush.

The six of you continued on to the town square. There were a few booths set up. A few games. and all the ponies were in costume and having fun. They all looked pretty happy actually. Though… again, no sign of the Mane six. But...you do see a larger crowd of ponies, both adult and foal, at a booth. Next to the booth was a giant bag. But you couldn't tell what it had inside. Only that the bag itself was as big as the booth. The booth itself looked pretty extravagant and looked like it had some sort of steam engine for it to move on it's own.

As for the ponies gathered around, every moment there was a pony walking away from the booth with massive disappointment on their faces. Including a familiar little pony who once again decided to be a pirate this year. Pipsqueak.

"ahh bugger...." Pipsqueak said, yeah..geez. he looked pretty damn upset.

"Hey Pipsqueak...you ok? What happened?" Sweetie Belle asked. "Does it have anything to do with that weird booth over there?"

"Hmm?" Pipsqueak looked up to the group, and then sighed again. "Hey everypony....yeah, it's got to do with the booth. But it's really more of my fault. I got caught in all the excitement and I ended up spending all my bits I did."

"All your bits? On what? Candy? It doesn't look like you got very much" Sweetie Belle took notice of Pip's nearly empty bag.

Pip nodded. "Sort of. you noticed the bag, right friends?"

You all nodded.

"Well, it's full of delectable treats straight from the Crystal Empire. And to get it, all you need to do is win a ball toss game. I tried really hard I did.....but I couldn't hit the last target. And I used up all my bits. So I couldn't try again."

Sweetie Belle then realized Pip pretty much gambled all his money away. "Pip, what are you doing spending your bits like that in the first place? If you knew you were going to need your money, then why did you use it all?"

Pip gulped, and felt a nervous pain in his tummy. "I..I...I just wanted to win really bad. It's a lot of candy. I just got caught up is all. And not to mention each game was really expensive. It's fifteen bits per play. I just thought...maybe once, that's all I needed...and then, before anypony knew it. I had spent all my bits. all thirty of it."

"Fifteen bits for a single play?! What?!" Sweetie Belle was astonished.

"Fifteen bits is alot, but ya say that bag is full of candy?" Applebloom asked

Pip nodded "It sure is, and it's got so many good candy treats. Really, they let us have a sample and it was soooooo heavenly. I knew I just had to have it......but I messed up pretty bad, I think" He looked down. He felt pretty ashamed of himself. He even began to cry.

Sweetie Belle now started to feel sorry for him. "Come on Pip...don't cry."

"But it was my entire allowance!...." Pip dug his head into his hooves and cried louder "And I only have myself to blame"

Poor little shota horse. He gave in to whatever hype was going on over there and spent all his cash. You know you shouldn't...but. "Heya Pip, you know who I am right?"

You stepped up to him, he looked up with tear soaked eyes. Poor thing.

"....are you going to hurt me?" He suddenly began to shake as he looked up at you.

.....oh right..your costume.

"No no..it's me. Anon"

"o-oh....mnnn..if..if I can say" he sobbed "That's a smashing good c-c-c-ostume. I didn't recognize you.....I'm sorry if I don't sound very enthusiastic about it....."

"It's fine...look" You open your saddlebag. and put about sixty bits on the ground next to him. "Will this cover your losses?"

At first Pip did nothing but sob, but after a moment. He looked towards the direction of the bits. and his eyes went wide "W-what's this?"

"Money, I want you to have it."

"A-Anon...I barely know you. And this is easily double the money I had. I can't possibly..." Pip felt in his heart that he couldn't just take it from you. He didn't even know if you needed it.

"Just take it. I've got a lot more in my bag. This is nothing. You’ve just got to promise me something."

"But good sir, I just can't. What if you need it?" Pip didn't want to screw you over.

You roll your single eye, then look at him with a threatening look. "Take it or I'll beat you up"

Pip gulps "W-well, when you put it like that....I'd be very happy to take it" Pip starts to scoop up the bits and puts them in his bag. "But what's the promise?"

"Easy, don't spend your money so stupidly. Got it?"

Pip nodded profusely, a small smile started to appear on his face. And then...he dove in for a hug. "Oh thank you Anon, sir. You have no idea how happy you've made me! Now my mum won't get angry at me for spending all my bits like I did. You really are the hero colt that everypony talks about."

....awwww.......adorable.

You give him a gentle pat on the head. Amazing really. what really added to his cuteness was that he was even slightly smaller than you. "Don't mention it, now why don't you go enjoy the rest of your night?"

"I will sir! And thank you again sir! I will never forget this!" And then Pip went off happily, with a skip to his step. Trotting away merrily.

"Woah Anon, that was amazing. You didn't even have to do that. Considering he spent his money like that." Sweetie Belle said, seems she wanted Pip to be stuck bitless. Was it because she felt it would have been a lesson learned? Even then, she also seemed relieved that you made him so happy.

You shrug. "Poor guy got swept up with whatever was going on over there. I felt he deserved a break"

All the fillies around you looked at you with amazement and adoration....especially Diamond Tiara. She found your actions to be very sweet and heroic. But you tried to ignore that.

"So..what do you want to do now?" Sweetie Belle asked.

You look over to the booth.....you wanted to check it out. "I'm gonna go spend my money stupidly." You walk over to the crowd to get a better look at what was going on. But then you feel a yank on your tail.

You look back. Seems they knew what you were going to do because all five of them were looking at you as if you were crazy.

"Anon, what are you doing?" Diamond asked first. She didn't want to think you were going to go do the same thing Pipsqueak did.

"I'm gonna go see what's up with that candy bag."

"You mean yer gonna try to win that bag by blowin' yer bits. Anon, you got the same eyes mah sister gets when she gets competitive...well...eye" Applebloom warned, she didn't want you to blow all your cash.

"Trust me Applebloom, it's going to be fine. I got plennnnntttyyy of cash. And besides, I wanna see what's really going on here. Every pony that steps away from here hasn't won that bag yet. I wanna see if it's even possible."

"But the line is so long. We're gonna be here all night if we wait. Anon, I'm with you all the way if you want to spend your bits. I can certainly compensate you if you spend too much. But I don't want to sit here all night" Diamond Tiara whined, in truth. She didn't want to wait at all. She wasn't too interested to see what's going on. But she stayed for two reasons. You...and the possibility of you winning the bag. In her mind, she thought it'd be princely if you offered it to her. She didn't care about the bag itself. Just the action.

Silver Spoon rubbers under her chin with her hoof thinking, then stepped up and took a deep breath. "LISTEN EVERYPONY. DIAMOND TIARA IS HERE AND AS YOU KNOW. SHE'S THE DAUGHTER OF FILTHY RICH. SO STEP ASIDE, OR THERE WILL NEVER BE A DISCOUNT EVER AGAIN!" Silver Spoon yelled, announcing her best friend's presence.

Many of the ponies ahead of you gasp and step aside for your group to step up to the booth.

Silver Spoon nodded, happy with what she managed to do and steps aside for Diamond Tiara. "How was that?"

"That was perfect!" Diamond Tiara giggled, a little evilly even, Then looked to Silver Spoon with a cheerful smile "You did a really good job Silver Spoon."

Silver Spoon was very happy to hear that, and stood with pride upon doing a good job. "Well, it wasn't anything too special. We are a cut above most."

Diamond Tiara nodded. "We are."

...Huh..it seems they forgot who they were standing next to. In fact, as they went to walk up to the booth. You and the CMC were staring at them. Hurt and baffled that they'd just say that so freely.

"........oh" Silver Spoon said, cringing

"....well...come on, you all know we didn't mean you. You all knew that right?" Diamond Tiara put her eyes on you, especially hoping she didn't hurt your feelings most of all.

And because you didn't want any fighting. You just let it go, and nod. "Yeah..we know. Otherwise you wouldn't hang with us. Though you gotta work on that a little Diamond, that's kind of how your old self would talk. Don't you think?"

"...Y-yeah...Sorry..I'm.." Diamond Tiara looks to the whole group, and hangs her head a little "..I really am. I just got caught up in the moment"

Silver Spoon does the same, of course, she also got caught up in the moment and apologizes for the same reasons.

"Well, it's fine with me. I mean, just don't let that kind of stuff get to your head. What about you girls? You forgive them?"

They nod. "Ah mean, they did kind of got us to the front. Ah guess I can understand getting caught up in the moment....we sorta did once, so ah remember what it's like" Applebloom said. You could guess what moment she was talking about. But you knew it was more than once...like with the whole Gabby Gums fiasco

"Well, let's not dwell on it. We gotta stay positive. Since we're gonna be swimming in candy in a few minutes." You smirked. This shouldn't be too hard either way.

The moment of truth had arrived. The six of you walk up to the booth. What you saw was some sort of ball toss game themed after the moon. There were nine targets that looked like some ghostly bats. And the two owners of the booth. The runners....were none other than...

Well..you couldn't be sure. It looked like the Flim Flam brothers. But their manes were black. And they had beards. Though the one that looked like Flam still had a mustache. And then as they looked upon your group. They began to smile.

"Well now cousin, a group of foals have come to challenge our game" The Flim looking pony said. In fact, hearing his voice. You were now sure it was him. They both must have been wearing a disguise. Too bad they couldn't fix up the way they spoke. But...you'd run with it for now. You did have candy to win.

"Indeed cousin. Though, I hope you all have the bits to play. It's fifteen bits a ball." The Flam pony said, sounding a little dickish about it.

"Now now cousin, don't sound so dishonest. You know there's more to this game than just tossing a ball. Yes, that's right my little ponies. The benefit for this game is that everytime you hit a target, you get another ball! so you basically get free chances if you couldn't hit all the targets at once. In fact, the game is very simple. All you have to do is hit these nine targets to make Nightmare Moon appear. And once you knock her down. That big BIG bag of candy is alllllll yours to do with what you wish. Top of the line, premium goodness straight from the Crystal Empire itself. Well worth over a hundred times more than the simple fifteen bits it costs to play. Whaddya say? Come on, give it a try. It is very simple"

Applebloom stared hard at the both of them "Haven't I seen you two before?"

The Flim pony seemed to have recognized Applebloom for a split second, but then relaxed, leaned over and gave her a gentle pat. "Perhaps, maybe you've heard of us. We're the Ring Ding Cousins! I'm Ring Ding..."

And then Flam spoke "And I'm Ding Ding. And we're just here to bring joy to everypony here. But we do so love games. So we couldn't possibly give away this prize without a winner."

More like a couple of Ding Dongs. But whatever, you were game. "I'll play, just don't be surprised when I win first try." How bad could it be? Just use your magic, aim, fire. Done. Candy...easy.

"Indeed young sir, We have no doubt that you will win your first try" Ring Ding said...even though you KNEW he was Flim. "Just put your bits on the counter and the ball is yours to toss."

You reach into your bag for the bits, but as you go to put it down. Applebloom stops you. "Anon, maybe you shouldn't. Ah dunno, but somethin' about these guys don't seem right"

You give her a reassuring and warm smile. "Hey, look. I got plenty of cash. So it's not hurting me any. Let me just give it a shot. If I win, We'll have so much candy. That we can all just get fat and roll home."

Applebloom smiled a little from that, she found it humorous. But just the same. She wouldn't let go of your leg. "Anon, are ya sure? Ah don't want ya to spend all yer money just cuz you got an itch to win"

"I'll be fine Applebloom. Trust me. ok?"

Applebloom reluctantly removes her hoof from your leg and steps back. She didn't seem so sure. But she had no reason not to trust you. "...ok..ah trust ya Anon. And I'll be rootin' for you."

"Me too! I don't want to get fat or anything. But having enough candy to last a few years sounds pretty sweet!" Scootaloo cheered!

Sweetie Belle sighed "I don't think Rarity will let me keep it all. She'll probably whine that'd it'd be too unladylike to eat so much candy..but...I can still eat a ton before going home" Sweetie Belle giggled "You can do it Anon!"

"Well, I have no doubt. It is Anon after all." Diamond Tiara said with a absolution.

"Yeah, it doesn't look that hard. I can't believe so many ponies have been losing to this." Stated Silver Spoon as she gazed at the targets.

"Well then" You slam the bits down on the counter, and lean up so you can get into a ball tossing position. "Let's get this over with"

Chapter 145 - The Nightmare Night Arc

Flim places a single ball on the counter "Well then young colt, here's your ball. Keep hitting the targets and the prize will be yours! Good luck!"

Ok, should be easy. You try picking the ball up with your magic. But the moment you do. The ball let's loose a burst of blue powder that gets on your face. You spit out a little of the dust, and wipe off your face. The hell? "What happened?!"

Flam stepped up and replaced the ball. "Well, it's a special measure against cheaters. Sorry my boy, you're going to have to use your hoof. Any magic used on the ball or our targets let's loose this blue dust that let's us know that you tried to cheat. We'll let you have a free try since you didn't know. Again, good luck to you!"

Hoof?.....shit..well..wait..it shouldn't be too hard. You pick up the ball with your hoof as your friends cheer you on from the back.

"Yeah....yeah I can do this. No problem. HERE I GO!"

You toss the ball hard at one of the night bats.....and miss.

You hear the sounds of "ooohhhwwww" from behind you as your friends and the audience cringe from that terrible display.

"Ohhhh, tough luck" Flim says

"Better luck next time, eh?" Flam says as he picks up the ball and wipes it off.

You slam down another fifteen bits. "That was a practice throw. I've got it this time!"

Oh hell no, you weren't going to let yourself give up from missing the first shot.

"Practice throw eh? Well, remember. It's fifteen bits a ball. So don't go blowing your bits on just practice" Flim warns, trying to sound honest and caring as he puts down another ball.

"...Yeah whatever...ok..focus...there's the target. Grip with the frog, and flick the leg...ok..HERE I GO!" You throw the ball.....and miss. You grit your teeth, dammit. you couldn't be that bad. you were starting to get angry as you slam down another fifteen bits.

"Anon...umm....are ya sure you want to keep doing this? We could go to the ma-" You cut Applebloom off, you were sure you could do this.

"Hold on, hold on. I've got this this time, third time is the charm after all."

"Mmmmnn" Applebloom was already getting worried. Sooner than the others in fact. She didn't know how many bits you had. But she could already tell you were wasting it. Though Diamond Tiara had nothing to say, she wasn't even worried. She was just waiting for you to inevitably win. She chalked up your losses to just as you said. "practice throws"

You didn't plan to screw up this time. You'd just have to adjust your throwing style to be.......wait.
You couldn't use the horn on the ball....but you could on yourself.

"Are you ready?" Flim Asked

"Gimme a second.." You use your magic to slowly stand and perfectly balance yourself. You were gonna toss this shit human style.

"Well well, that's a very odd stance. In fact, I'd say that would be the oddest stance for throwing a ball I've ever seen. Right cousin?" Flim said

"Indeed cousin, but let's not put doubt in our young future winner. We must believe in him. For eventually we know he could win" Flam said, a little bit of a dirty smile showing on his face. He was going to try to milk you for all your worth.

The crowd and your friends we're intrigued by this. You were having a very easy time balancing on your two back hooves. Other ponies could do it sure, but staying up like that required a lot of effort. And you were doing it with ease.

You focus as much as you can on the targets. And toss the ball at the closest one and....HIT! "YES! DID EVERYPONY SEE THAT! I HIT THE TARGET!"

None of them applauded though...it was just one target.

"Come on Anon, any one of us could hit a single target. You gotta hit em all. We all know you can do it! So do it already!" Scootaloo yelled out, a sort of mocking praise.

"Ok..ok..I got this..."

Flim passes you another ball. "Keep going, only eight to go before Nightmare Moon appears"

You take the ball, and toss again. Another hit! There was a few cheers from your friends for that one, and a few from the audience.

You get another ball, and hit another target...and another...and another...AND ANOTHER

You were getting hyped to win, and you weren't the only one. The crowd started to cheer more and more. Three more to go!

"Come on everypony! Let's hear it for Anon!" Sweetie Belle tried to rile up the crowd.

Scootaloo flew up, pumping her hoof up and down "Yeah, let's hear it for Anon!"

The crowd started to slowly rise up with the hype, calling your name......yeah..you were gonna do it. You toss the ball.....HIT! Two more. Though, despite all the hype, Flim and Flam didn't looked worried. Now you knew something was up.....or did they just think you were going to fail? So far...things were pretty legit.

Toss the ball......Hit! The crowd was cheering, the mood was set. one more and you'd go toe to toe with Nightmare Moon. Yeah, awesome! "THIS ONE...THIS ONE IS FOR EVERYPONY WHO LOST SO FAR!"

You rev up, and let the ball fly........and you miss. You couldn't even speak...how the fuck...did you screw up?.....UGH! You were so close. You could hear the crowd's disappointment behind you as you go back on all fours.

"oohhhhh, that's bad luck...Anon was it?...I'm sorry to say, but perhaps you should have put that throw into something luckier, right cousin?" Flim said

But Flam said nothing. He looked at you with shock.....and then a smile formed on his face as he looked to Flim. "Right cousin. But can I speak to you in the back for just a moment?"

Flim was surprised. It didn't seem like it was part of the act. "Hm? What about our customers?"

"It will be just a moment, and then we can continue the game." Flam turns to the crowd "If you will excuse us for just one moment."

And then they went, behind the booth. As it turned out Flam recognized who you are. Or was supposed to be anyway. He figured your costume was top of the line, given how much you paid for the Radiant Gems. And he couldn't quite figure out how you could do magic. As he and his brother had not bothered themselves with that kind of news. But he recognized the name, and your yelling. And he was about to discuss how to properly milk all those sweet sweet bits from you.

Meanwhile your mind was curdling with anger. You reached into your bag to slam down another fifteen bits. But again, Applebloom stops you. "Anon, ah really think we should go. Yah gave it your best shot."

"Wait..hold on...I just need one more shot and I can do it., I got like..over ten thousand bits in this bag."

"Woah..." Applebloom didn't realize you were loaded....then again..Discord. She almost thought it'd be ok to give it another try. But, she could tell you'd probably never stop until you won. "...Anon...come on, please?"

"One more game, I promise...." You yell past the counter, trying to get the brothers attention. "Hey Ram and Dong or whatever your names are! I'm ready for another game"

Flim came out first, looking more dishonest than ever. "Sorry about that, and the name is Ring Ding. But, there's no reason to get hostile over a name. Not when there’s fun to be had.."

And then Flam comes out. "And prizes to be won. Mr. Anon, we'd be very happy to see you as tonight's winner. So please, play on."

Despite how full of shit that sounded. It made you want to win all the more. Applebloom said nothing more. She couldn't hold you back. She just didn't want to see you consumed.

The rest of your friends however we're now on your side, considering how close you got. Diamond Tiara especially. She wanted to see you win and get that prize.

But with this game? You only get so far, you hit five targets before missing. And like before, get goaded into another game. Three targets. Five targets. One target. No matter the amount of games you played, you lacked the proper skill to even get Nightmare Moon to appear. The crowd was getting restless. And the brothers continued to urge you on. You were making them bank.
you once again fall to four hooves. At this point, everyone was losing hope. Even Diamond Tiara.

Applebloom could see you reaching for more and put her hoof down on yours. And this time with force. "Anon, we're gonna go now. yer gettin' a little too obsessed with this game."

"Applebloom, come on. I have almost unlimited tries. Let me just keep going until I win. Ok?"

Applebloom shook her head and kept her hoof down on yours rather hard. "No. Anon, yer forgetting that we're all here together as friends. We're supposed to be having fun and gettin' scared. Ah know ya really really wanna win. But we're gonna be here all night if you keep going."

......

....Dammit. You looked towards the rest of the group. Besides the costumed ponies wanting a chance at the bag. Your friends we're just looking down and upset. "Hmmm....ok.....sorry..." You we're being an idiot. If there was a scam here. You didn't see it. And you, even with the advantage of standing on two legs. Still couldn't hit your mark.

"What's this? You're going? That's quite the shame..." Flim cut in, looking down at you with a false expression of sadness.

"A real shame...you were soooo close too. Perhaps a few more games and you will be ready to take down Nightmare Moon. How about it Anon? Just a few more? Or are you going to let your little marefriend tell you what to do?"

"MAREFRIEND?!" Diamond Tiara puffed up with immediate rage, hopped up on the counter and grabbed Flim by the collar "SHE'S NOT HIS MAREFRIEND!"

Flim gulped, unable to say a thing, actually frightened from Diamond Tiara's fury. The rest of you looked at her...stunned. Yeesh, she reacted damn quick.

"Woah..woah..Diamond, calm down now. We knew that...but...hmph" Applebloom looked at Flim as Scootaloo gently pulled Diamond Tiara off of him. "You all got some real nerve egging Anon on like that. ya just want him to spend more money."

"Preposterous!" Flim cried out as he straightened his tie and hat.

"Unthinkable! We are just trying to run a fun game here. It's not our fault that he lacks a certain set of skills to win. But with enough practice..." Flam proposed "He could surely manage it eventually"

"Well, he ain't gonna. You two remind me of these brothers that showed up here once or twice. And they were no good" Applebloom stated "And ah think you two are trying to do the same thing. Trying to take ponies for a ride and rob them of their hard earned bits."

Flim snickered. "Little filly, as you can plainly see. Our game is one hundred percent legitimate. your friend here was able to knock down targets just fine with his varying skill and multiple chances. But the only way to win is with a simple proficiency of tossing a ball straight. Now, unless you think you can do any better. Then how about you step aside and let him hone his skills?"

Ok..now you weren't liking the way they were talking. You finally realized that they were using you......wow...you felt stupid.

"Ah think ah could. In fact, ah think I could win yer stupid game first try!" Applebloom challenged, she seemed pretty sure of herself. "Tossin' a ball is the same as tossin' an apple. And I'm plenty good at that!"

"Well then, we'd be happy to let you have a turn. Of course, you still have to pay." Flam said, now trying to goad Applebloom into playing.

"Ah would....but..." Applebloom grit her teeth a little in shame and frustration. "Ah don't have the bits. But that don't matter cuz we were leaving anyway"

..........wait...THATS RIGHT. It also hit you that Applebloom was an all physical horse that would definitely have the skill to toss a ball accurately. She works on a farm after all. And if she's as sure as she says.....

But you knew you weren't just going to be able to convince her with just words. So you quickly grab the next set of bits and slam it down on the counter.

"Anon, what are ya doin?! What did ah just say!" Applebloom cried out, astonished at your sudden action as Flim grins, passing you a ball.

But you don't get ready to throw it...no...you hold it to Applebloom and smile. "You said you could win this game first try. All you needed was the bits"

"Anon, I ain't doin' it. And you ain't doin' it either. And if you don't wanna leave, then ahm gonna drag you out. Ya got that?"

Flam looked over the counter, he didn't want to lose you. You had too much cash "Mr. Anon, why don't you forget about her and come try again instead? Isn't it obvious that she's just one of those boring country hicks? She doesn't understand the importance to a game like ours. Now come on, the candy. It calls for a winner! And the winner will be you!"

Applebloom however.....she wasn't going to take that. "'scuse me? Did ya'll just call me a "boring country hick?"

"He did, but I must agree with my cousin. He's already paid for a new game. You might as well let him try. Hmm?" Flim said, but all it was doing was goading Applebloom to try instead of you.

"........Stand back Anon.....ahm gonna win this thing first try, just you watch"

You believed her.

"Oh ho, really? Well, just the same. You could win. But if you don't. You're always welcome to ask Mr. Anon there for another try. I'm sure he won't mind" Flim said.

Applebloom starts eyeing all the targets. "Ah don't need another try......"

Chapter 146 - The Nightmare Night Arc

Applebloom was absolutely focused. Looking at each target and internally calculating what she had to do to hit them. All eyes were on her, could this platypus dressed little filly really manage it?

She takes a breath, readies herself, and throws the ball.

HIT! But nobody says a word, not even a gasp. She's given another ball. And once again throws it towards a target.

HIT! Her accuracy was amazing. She was hitting all the targets straight in the center. Each one falling, one by one...until there was one more.

Everyone held their breath. She throws the ball....IT HITS! Everyone cheers, including you. Nine of the ten targets are hit. The final target emerges. A rather crude cardboard cutout of Nightmare Moon sticking her tongue out forward. The target itself was in the far back. But was four times larger than the smaller night bat targets. Applebloom should be able to do this just fine.

"Remarkable" Flim claps.

"Inspiring! This little filly is the first to make the final target appear...." Flim said as he congratulated Applebloom

"Indeed, truly a remarkable feat. But remember, unless you can defeat Nightmare Moon. then there will be no prize. Good Luck to you young filly!" Flam said, neither of the brothers seemed worried.......that was suspicious.

Scootaloo started to chant "Applebloom, Applebloom, Applebloom!" As she chanted. others started to join in. You, the group, and even the crowd called her name. She was the hero in this story. And she was going to win.

Applebloom could feel the weight and the pressure press on her. She just had to throw the ball at the target. And victory would be hers. She readies herself. Pulls back her leg and.... She let's the ball fly. It rushes right towards Nightmare Moon and slams right into it. The ball smacks into the target and bounces off, landing on the ground and rolling just a few feet.

"Ah..AH..AH DID IT! DID YA'LL SEE!? I DID IT! I DID IT!" Applebloom was excited, she managed to win the game.

The crowd cheered, stomping on the ground was abound, smiling ponies everywhere. Truly, it was a sight to see. You could even see a tear coming from Applebloom's eyes as she waved to the crowd behind her as Scootaloo picked her up and hovered upwards.

"Truly a satisfying sight. Wouldn't you agree cousin?" Flim said as he looked upon the cheering crowd. Everyone, absolutely everyone was ecstatic over it.

"Indeed, a beautiful display. It brings a tear in my eye....that's why it burdens me with a heavy heart to say...." Flam looks to the crowd "That this brave and charming little filly.....lost the game"

"WHAT?!" The crowd gasped. It was seemingly such a huge blow that Scootaloo's wings started to give out and revert back to cardboard wings.

Applebloom landed on her hooves and immediately scrambled to the counter. She knew what she saw. "Whaddya talkin' about! Ah hit the target! everypony saw it!"

"Yeah, what gives. All she had to do was hit the target right?" Sweetie Belle also saw that the ball hit

"Hit...and knock down. And as you can see, Nightmare Moon still clearly stands. I'm sorry, but did you think it'd really be that simple?" Flim said, he gave a rather smarmy smirk as he pointed to the Nightmare Moon target.

"Now now cousin, don't be mean. I'm sure the little filly didn't think to put any power into that last throw. I'm sure she could manage it this time. Though, you still have to pay" Flam said, trying to be the kinder one of the two again.

Those assholes. But...fuck...you couldn't be sure if it was a con or not. The target was bigger...maybe....

....You'd need to make sure. Before anyone could say anything about it. You slam down yet another fifteen bits. "Go for it Applebloom, knock Nightmare Moon back to where she came from!"

Applebloom was looking unsure of herself. She didn't think she had the power to knock down the final target. she felt sure that final throw was one of her best ones. "Anon..ah dunno.."

"Oh please...Applebloom, you're going to lose hope now? After you came so close?" Diamond Tiara stepped up to her, looking at her with a snooty sneer. "Disgusting."

"Hey Diamond come on, don't do thi-"

But Diamond cuts you off. "HUSH!..." Diamond felt a little uncomfortable doing that to you, but she had a plan to motivate Applebloom. to give her the power she needs to knock out the final target.

"Ah didn't give up hope!" Applebloom exclaimed...looking firm until she realized she didn't have a reason to be. Not to her anyway. She was losing hope, and it was like a poison. You could see her feeling the pain of knowing she let everyone down. Diamond Tiara could see it too. And she had this urge...just this sudden urge...to help her out. To be a friend, and to take charge of the situation herself. "Ah just..." But Applebloom didn't know how to finish that

"Just what? So you didn't knock out the final target. Who cares? You know how to knock it down NOW! All you have to do is step up there, knock out the targets, win the candy and stop making Anon waste all his money!" Diamond Tiara pointed towards the ball. "You can do it!"

"B-but...what if ah don't throw it hard enough?"

Damn, it wasn't losing that got to Applebloom. It was the losing and letting everyone down that was really killing her.

"....Do you remember that one time I nearly ruined your relationship with your cousin and made you and your friends hate her into near oblivion?" Diamond Tiara asked.

"Yeah...why?" Applebloom found that...unrelated to the current situation. Why would Diamond bring that up?

"Imagine Nightmare Moon is me from that time. Imagine all the bad things I ever did to you." Diamond Tiara was practically demanding Applebloom to pull up energy from past hatred

"But we're friends now, we all know you we're like that because of yer mom" Applebloom just wasn't feeling it.

Diamond Tiara sighed and put her hoof to her face "...This would be easier if that didn't happen. Ok...how about this. Silver Spoon, come over here."

You realized what she was doing. And after doing so, thought maybe it was a good idea. But it didn't seem to be working. Applebloom just couldn't get into the mindset.

Silver Spoon stepped up, and stood at the ready. Willing to do anything Diamond asked of her. "What do you need?"

Diamond Tiara started to whisper something in her ear. Silver Spoon nodded a few times. and when it was over. They both turned to Applebloom and started chanting "Blank Flank, Blank Flank!"

Applebloom was now heavily confused "Err girls, ah don-"

"BLANK FLANK BLANK FLANK BLANK FLANK" They both chanted

"But, how does that...? ah alre-" Applebloom gets cut off

"BLANK FLANK BLANK FLANK BLANK FLANK BLANK FLANK"

The confusion was starting to anger her, how could they call her that after she had already gotten her mark? But that was the plan....it had to be. It was just to frustrate her.

"Ok, NOW YA'LL ARE-"

"BLANK FLANK BLANK FLANK BLANK FLANK BLANK FLANK!"

No matter how she tried to insist that their words didn't even make sense. They just wouldn't stop. They were, in a sense, trolling her on purpose to get her riled up. "THATS IT! AH DON'T KNOW WHAT GOT IN YOU TWO'S MINDS. BUT AH HAVE HALF AH MIND TO KNOCK SOME SENSE INTO BOTH OF YOU!" Applebloom bared her teeth at the both of them. She looked ready to tear them both apart.

Diamond Tiara raised her hoof to Silver Spoon to get her to stop. And then looked to Applebloom with an insidious smile. "Good. Now you're angry. Now, turn around, get in there, and win the candy already!"

But Applebloom wouldn't budge. She was still looking at them rather angrily. Sweetie Belle. Who also realized whats up. Walked up next to her. "Uhmmm, Applebloom. You know they only did that to get you riled up so you could hit the last target better, right?"

"They did?" Applebloom turned to her, still...confused..woah..that's some major cluelessness there.

Sweetie Belle nodded "Mhmm, now get in there. And win! We all believe in you!"

"Ok...but." Applebloom looked towards the faux malicious duo "ahm still angry at you two"

Diamond Tiara sighed "Well that's the point dummy. Now will you go win already? Or we'll miss going to Granny Smith's STUPID hedge maze of horrors....thing..."

Applebloom growled and went to the counter, and took to the game once more. Like before, she started knocking out targets one by one. In fact, she hit a target so hard it flew off it's stand. The crowd was really feeling it. And everyone started cheering for her once more. Applebloom's blood was boiling, using every ounce of anger to power her throws. And then finally, it came, the Nightmare Moon target rose up once again.

"YOU CAN DO IT APPLEBLOOM! KNOCK HER FREAKING HEAD OFF!" You cheer

Applebloom didn't see Nightmare Moon though. She saw Diamond Tiara..the old Diamond Tiara, mocking her and her friends. Laughing at her.

Applebloom pulled back her leg, ball in hoof, and roared as she tossed the ball straight at it.
Everyone held their breath, the ball sped right into the target at blinding speed. This would be it. THIS WAS IT!

But the moment it hit, everyone let out a horrified gasp. The ball..once again...bounced off the target. "Ooohhhhh, toooo bad. So very close" Flim said as he stifled a chuckle, picking up the ball and giving it a rub to clean it.

"....How heartbreaking. Even with all that power, you couldn't knock the target down. It pains me to say it, but little filly. This might not be the game for you" Flam said, reaching out to pat the utterly crushed Applebloom. But she retracted.

She looked down, disappointed with herself "...Ah put everything ah had into that..."

"Applebloom, hey..it'll be ok" Sweetie Belle tried to comfort her, but Applebloom moved away from her the moment she tried to give her a hug.

......Fuck this. You walk up to the booth, you felt genuine anger. Anger...and the want to protect that smile. "OK! WHAT THE HAY! SHE HIT THAT THING AND SHE HIT IT HARD! THIS GAME IS RIGGED! ADMIT IT!"

"Rigged?" Flim chuckled. "You're very VERY wrong. This is a legitimate game with a very very big prize. We couldn't allow it to be THAT simple. But children like you couldn't understand that. If we made it too easy, then there'd be no challenge. And we'd make no money. For the business side of things, we had to make it difficult to knock it down. But rest assured...it can be knocked down."

.......

"Then show me"

"But of course, but alas. I lack the kind of strength my brother has. As you can see, his mustache and beard are of the highest class of horsehair. A tip top physique of athleticism is he" Flim says as he passes a ball to Flam.

"You're too much cousin, I am but a simple stallion with a good tossing leg. Observe!" Flam tosses the ball at the nightmare moon target and knocks it down. "See? It can be done."

...Something still didn't seem right. They had to be cheating. That ball didn't move nearly as fast as Applebloom's. In fact....fuck it. You had a chaos cutie mark for a reason. You might as well live up to it. But how?...you didn't want to do this yourself. Poor Applebloom. She could really use a confidence boost.

...Even if you did do it yourself. They might find out that you're Discord's kid. They didn't seem to really know about you or your current going ons. So you had a sort of advantage. And if you did have Applebloom do it. You couldn't just up her strength. She'd know and feel like she cheated.

Then it hit you… Why not just manipulate the fabric of reality itself?....HAHA....yes, that'd be perfect. You slam down your entire saddle bag. "I bet everything"

That caught EVERYONE's attention.

"ANON! ARE YA NUTS! YA CAN'T DO IT! I CAN'T DO IT! NONE OF US CAN!" Applebloom tried to grab your bag, but the brothers nab it before her with their magic.

"Interesting, and you said "bet"? Well, I think we can arrange a bet. What are the terms?" Flim looks at the bag intently, he knew there had to be a shitton of bits in it.

"Anon, Applebloom is right. Don't do it. It's....really stupid." Sweetie Belle says bluntly.

But you ignore them.

"One more game, if Applebloom manages to get the win. I get ALL my bits back and the candy, you'll also return the bits to everypony you took them from."

"Most interesting, and we win your bag if she loses. That would be the terms, correct?" Flam says, opening the bag to take a peek inside. Met with a ton of golden coins.

"Yep....."

"ANON! ARE YA NUTS! AH CAN'T DO IT! YA JUST PUT A BET ON A-"

You look at her, and put your hoof on her foreleg shoulder. Giving her a look of absolute trust and certainty. "Applebloom, I know exactly what I did. just consider this a final push. incentive really. Everything I have is in that bag. That's how much I trust you."

Applebloom started to tear up. She knew she couldn't do it. "Anon..." She cringed, then looked down in absolute shame "Yer a real idiot....ah can't win. I already messed up twice."

“Anon...I actually have to agree. What are you thinking?! I was already going to compensate everything you lost. I don't think daddy would be willing to replace EVERYTHING you had! Are you insane!?" Diamond Tiara was having a bit of a freak out. She actually thought this was unlike you, and was too crazy, even for her. Betting everything on a no go? That was absolute lunacy.

You giggle, oohhh man. If only they knew. "I live with my Dad, remember? I already made the bet. So anything any of you have to say is moot. So if you don't play, I'll lose everything anyway."

"You're crazy Anon, ah think yer dad finally got to you...ah can't do it. ya-"

Well....she wasn't going to listen. So you pull out a last resort. and give her a kiss on the nose.

Applebloom steps back, blushing, unable to say anything as she stares at you. "a....ahm..."

You give her the softest, gentlest smile you could. Was it dumb to kiss her while DT was present?...maybe. But you knew AB still had to have some feelings for you. And that reaction proved it. You felt a little terrible exploiting it. But whatever works, works. "You can do it....I believe in you"

"...o-ok..b-but...mnn..." Applebloom shook her head, and tried to get her mind to be positive. "Ok...but..I hope ya know what yer d-doin...and don't kiss me again...that was w-weird.."

Applebloom went back to the booth. To once again try her hand at the game. You glance over to Diamond Tiara, who looked like she wanted to rip someone's throat open.

She couldn't even be patient. She walks up to you to find out what the fuck that was. "Anon.. ANON! Why did you do that?!" Diamond Tiara was red in the face. Angered beyond relief.

"Hey hey..relax. Ok? It was just to get her motivated."

"MOTIVATED! I SAW TONGUE!" Diamond Tiara was going nuclear.

.....Though..she was wrong...you didn't use tongue. "..Oh come on, it was a tiny kiss. You're both not supposed to be in love with me remember? But you both clearly are, especially you. Am I right or am I wrong?"

"YOU'RE WRO...ng...you're wrong." Diamond Tiara couldn't just admit it. In fact, as she looked around, she realized she was pretty much letting out her feelings in front of the whole crowd. Luckily, Applebloom was too focused on the game. She really REALLY wanted to win. "Ahrm...you're wrong. I don't love you, but I just don't want to see my good friend make any bad decisions. Both you and Applebloom. Applebloom could do a whole lot better than you...."

Oh shit, what?...that's fucking hilarious. "So you're saying I'm not good enough for you?"

"Yes...I MEAN.....ye-..n...SHUTUP!" Diamond Tiara was befuddled. She didn't want to admit anything. But she didn't want to give the impression you weren't good enough for her either.

You roll your eyes in a joking manner, and laugh.

"What's so funny!? HMM! HUH!" Diamond Tiara was turning red again. She was getting super pissed. And it was just adorable.

You give her a kiss on the nose. "There, now you got one too. Satisfied?"

Diamond Tiara's anger came to an immediate halt. "u-...uhuh...mmm..mmnnn..y-e.....mnnn"

God...you had to have a little more fun with this. This was adorable. The poor thing didn't know what to do anymore. So you look to Scootaloo. "Yo Scoots...want a kiss too?"

"WHAT?! NO..EWWWWW. Geez Anon, when did you get mushy!" Scootaloo gagged, there was no way she was gonna let you kiss her.

"Ooookkk" You smirk, and look to Sweetie Belle.

"Don't even think about it. I'm not getting caught up on whatever this is. Besides, we should be rooting for Applebloom. She's already on the eighth target" Sweetie Belle points to the focused filly.

...Right...time to prep.

Applebloom was a dynamo at this. in every attempt she made. She had managed to hit the nine targets. You had no doubts. You knew she'd hit that final target. And since you had a firm belief it was rigged. You'd make sure that ball utterly wrecks the final target.

The crowd still had hope in Applebloom yet. And cheered for her. They had hope that she would succeed. You just stood there, finalizing some final thoughts in your head. You knew what to do. As long as Applebloom's aim was as good as last time. You would create a tube of immense horizontal gravity. The ball would be thrown into it and be propelled right into the target with enough force to knock it down. You hoped anyway.

Applebloom hits the final target. Making Nightmare Moon once again appear.

"The final showdown once again,surely this time this filly will knock down Nightmare Moon" Flim says, his tone perpetuating no doubt. Even if it was a farce.

"Surely she will, somepony needs to end the tyrannical hold she has on all this delicious candy. Wouldn't you agree, cousin?" Flam says, looking to his brother with absolute smug

"I agree wholeheartedly, I can feel it in my very bones!" Flim exclaims with all his might. sitting on his rear to lift his forelegs in the air to empathize his false excitement.

.......Oh, yes...you could feel it in your bones too.

Everything fell silent. You could hear a pin drop at this point. Applebloom readied the ball. The Flim Flam Brothers showed no fear. They knew they had this in the bag. Of course, you'd make sure you were the one holding the bag all along.

As Applebloom musters all her strength, you cast the spell. Setting the invisible tube of gravity on her projected arc. She tosses the ball. The moment the ball hits the gravitational tube. It speeds up to a velocity faster than any bullet. And goes through the Nightmare Moon Target. Blowing the entire top half to tiny bits.... And yet, the target still stood. That was a cheat if you ever saw one.

Everyone was just staring. Applebloom, the group, the crowd, you, and the Flim Flam brothers.

".....hey....." Applebloom looked at her hoof closely. "Ah never knew I was that strong"

"HEY LOOK!" A stalwart, tall, wizard dressed pony called out. Pointing at the target. "IT'S STILL STANDING! WHAT GIVES!?"

It took a moment to register. But Flim and Flam just realized the huge problem with having a partly smashed target still standing would cause.

Flim jumped in front of the target in a hurry, to guard it from view "You all must be tired, it is quite a late night. She actually did manage to knock down the target...." The faint sound of wood hitting something can be heard. Flim steps out of the way. "See, c-completely knocked down." NOW it had fallen

"HEY LOOK, THAT DING GUY HAS HIS HOOF ON SOME SORT OF LEVER! I BET THAT’S WHAT REALLY KNOCKED THE TARGET DOWN!" Whoever this pony was....he was pretty observant.

"Preposterous, as my cousin has already told you..." Flam took his hoof off the lever to point at the pony "You're all tired from all the festivities, and to add on, used to seeing the target stand, so of course...." But then Flam hears it, the moment he took his hoof off the lever. The target stood back up. He dun goofed.

The moment Applebloom sees it. She fills both with rage and with pride. She knew she hit that target fair and square. And to get cheated like that...ooohhh noooope. "Ah knew ah hit the target right! Ah just knew it, ya'll a bunch of cheaters! You owe everypony everything you took from them!" Applebloom demands as she hops up on the counter.

"Of course, we are b-but simple cousins. Although we do take offense to being called cheaters. The target itself is merely tougher as we said. But, you did destroy it either way...so..." Flim pulls another lever. Detaching the candy bags stand from the main booth.

You step up to the counter, and look at them with the smugiest smug smirk you could muster. Oh, you were enjoying this so much. "And what about the cash? oh fine fellows of falsehoods." You say that in such a smug, jovial, and old timey way. There was no way you were losing this time.

"Yes!...right! Of course, Ding. Would you please prepare all the bits into a bag for these fine fellows?" Flim said as he edged himself to the left of the booth. The crowd was being patient, but they all looked like they wanted to tear them limb from limb.

"Of course cousin Ring" Flam pulled out a puffy looking purple bag. "The bits are right here. If you all will just take a moment to open it and count. You will see it's all there."

Flam gently put the bag on the counter. The bag was big to be sure. But it couldn't have had all the bits. And even still. They had yet to return your saddle bag.

"....what about my saddle bag?"

"Of course, allow me to fetch that for you" Flam said as he slowly backed away from the counter and magically hovered your bag up. He was moving it veeerryyyy slowly towards the counter.
Fucker probably just realized how much money he just lost. Shouldn't have cheated.

"Ah wonder how many bits really are in here." Applebloom slowly opened the purple bag. and the moment she did. a little spark flew up and blinded everyone with light, including you.

"NOW BROTHER! WE MUST FLEE!" Flam yells out to Flim. Flim quickly pulls another lever, opening and transforming the booth and launching Flim and Flam forward inside a carriage powered by an apparent steam engine for forward movement..

"Agh, what happened!? I can't see!" One of the ponies in the crowd yelled out.

"I think they used something in the bag! Are they still there! Somepony check!" Cried another.

Applebloom's eyes adjusted first. She was still on the counter. But all it was was a skeleton now as the entire interior was gone. The only thing left was the giant bag of candy. "oh no......."

"Applebloom? Can you see what's going on? I'm still blind!" Sweetie Belle yelled out as she continued to rub her eyes.

"T-they're gone.....and they took the bits with em'' Applebloom was crushed. Even with her winning. She was the one that opened the bag that let the brothers get away.

As your own eyes begin to adjust, you could see that they had managed to make an escape.

Applebloom looked to you, her expression...man...was it heartbreaking. "A-anon...ah...ahm really sorry...ah lost everypony's money." She then looked to the crowd "Ahm...really sorry everypony"

"That's ok, you didn't know what was in that bag" one of the crowd ponies say

"Yeah, we all fell for their trick. What matters is that you still beat them at their own game"

"Yeah, and did you see that throw! Because I sure didn't. The ball was just.....so fast"

The crowd was praising Applebloom. She managed to do what everyone else couldn't. Even if it was your magic that helped it along. The rest of the group grabbed Applebloom and held her up as a hero. Asking for a chant for Applebloom.

"Come on Everypony! At least we still have the candy! And we can all share it AND still have plenty for the offering to Nightmare Moon! Right Applebloom?" Scootaloo says with excitement and cheer.

"Ah course, there's gotta be enough candy for the whole town to share." Applebloom says

"Let's hear it for Applebloom!" Sweetie Belle cheers.

And so the crowd cheered. You gave a few cheers out yourself as you flew up to inspect the bag. You were glad to see Applebloom so happy even after what happened. You'd never tell her the truth of course. This was something you'd let her have. She deserved it.

....Those arrogant fucks. There really was candy inside. No doubt to make sure that if anyone actually did get a good look that they couldn't call shenanigans right there.

And speaking of shenanigans… You couldn't let those two just get away. So while the crowd was cheering Applebloom on, you slipped away and went after the brothers.

Chapter 147 - The Nightmare Night Arc

"It was late at night. Applebloom had just won a game rigged harder than the Obama election and we we're all ready to reap the sweet reward. But those Flim Flam brothers pulled a fast one on all of us. With a flash of light, they made out like bandits into the darkness."

"I used the light of my horn and the magic I had to follow the trail made by their steam powered jellopy, or whatever it actually was. But as I traced the trail, I realized that my costume may not be appropriate for the situation. It wasn't that it was bad. But it's grizzled feeling on my body made me feel like I had to question everything I see and hear. In the exact way I see or hear it."

"So I used my magic to put on a yellow fedora and trenchcoat. It just felt right."

"The trail wasn't hard to follow. It was only a matter of distance. I knew this was going to be a long trip. So I conjured up a cherry lollipop and put it in my mouth. I loved cherry lollipops. They reminded me of sweet dames back in Ponyville. And just like any cherry flavored goodness, I was going to pop this case right open.”

"The trail led me down the road to the outskirts of town. Seems they we're making a beeline to another place. Probably back to the Crystal Empire. The Crystal Empire, I had only been there three times. None of them what I'd call a good experience."

"Then I saw it. Seems their ride had ended early. The machine was dead and smoking. they didn't crash into anything. So my instincts told me that the thing broke down. That means they must be making it the rest of the way by hoof"

"I go to investigate their steam powered tin can a little closer. And just my luck, they really were smart enough to make out with the goods. Troublesome to be sure, if they weren't dealing with a colt with a magical horn and a heart full of retribution....a good hat helps too. Let's them know I mean business."

"I notice their tracks leading down the road. they were hoofing it fast it seems. I can't imagine those two crummy con artists having gone too far. But they were crummy as they were crafty. I had to keep my eye out for any slick moves they'd try to do to throw anypony off their trail."

"I felt rather comfortable as I followed both set of hooftracks. The night sky was beautiful, and the air was clean. Took me back to days of my actual youth. That is, when I used to imagine what clean air smelled like. them were the breaks for a city kid like myself. but something about this setting set the mood just right. I could swear I was hearing jazzy music in the background as I made my stride. everything in sight looking like an old movin' picture show. Heck, even talking to myself felt natural"

"Of course, I then realized that I may have subconsciously set myself up for a Noir detective setting. Chaos Magic, it's like a woman. You never know what they are gonna do, and right when you got them figured out, they pull a fast one on you. Of course, being thrown for a loop was sometimes a good thing. Kept things interesting. a sense of danger always keeps a good man...or rather pony, on their toes"

"I could just teleport up to them. But they'd no doubt be ready for anything. My senses told me to let them get as far as they need to get to feel like there was nobody going after them. I was going to let them do the opposite of sweat. I was going to let them ease their minds, make them think they managed to get out without a hitch. It's funny actually, I guess you can call me a brick wall. Course, there ain't anything funny about being a brick wall. One minute you're high up, doing your job and minding your own business. The next, they tear ya down and leave you as rubble. I already learned that the magic I have isn't a toy. So to prevent myself from getting torn down, I was gonna have to be the wrecking ball instead."

"’Course, I had to make sure to keep my head on my shoulders. I had two dames after me after all. Probably everypony's dream to have two fillies fighting over you. Truth is, if things were different. I'd probably take them both and let the devil deal with the consequences. But that ain't me. Yeah, I'm a dirty guy. But I have standards and morals. And a taste for the twenty year models. Human years to be exact. Don't exactly know how a pony ages. But if Mayor Mare is any indication, at least they age like fine wine. ‘Course that Granny Smith is a bit too old for my tastes"

"The trail was anything but cold. There was no wind, no snow, no animals mucking about on the road. The case of the stolen bits was going to be open and shut. Easier than writing an episode of Family Guy. I kept my eyes peeled for the slippery pair. Had to make sure they didn't get the bright idea to go off the road. Nothing looked too dangerous sure. But all you had to do was go into a forest and BAM. Timberwolf dinner. Not a good way to go."

"And wouldn't you know it. those two palookas were just beyond a bend on the road behind some trees. Though, I did find it curious that they just stopped in such an obvious place. I hid behind a tall tree to make sure they didn't spot me. Didn't need them trying to split up. I ready my slingshot, ready to hit them right between the eyes on the word go"

"But dang, if that ain't a kick in the can. They were in a panic. runnin' around like a butcher just sliced off their heads. Yeah, I should have known. But it didn't hit me until just now. They got sucked into this little world just as I did. And they didn't know what to do. Police Chief Discord, who wasn't actually a police chief, would have found this hilarious if he was here. He would have literally busted a gut. And, as luck would have it, they managed to hang on to all the bits. Even my trusty saddle bag."

"While I watched them panic, I realized I myself was flapping my lips like some mad bird. I was narrating my movements, my thoughts, my cunning and clever quips and cuteness. I could only hope there wasn't a bunch of readers or watchers seeing this, it would have been embarrassing. A man doesn't like to air their dirty laundry like a dame would. and isn't that the problem with them anyway? They never know when to keep their lips from flapping."

"With a grasp on the situation. I step out, cool and calm. I wanted them to know immediately that I was in control of the situation. I leaned my head down, so my fedora covers my eyes, making sure my delicious lollipop stick sticks out upwards. I was the big boss around here, and I was going to be calling the shots"

"Heya boys, ain't it dangerous to be walking this side of the road at this kind of night? could be bandits around."

"BROTHER! WHAT'S GOING ON!? EVERYTHING IS COLORLESS! I'VE GONE COLORBLIND!"

"I'VE GONE COLORBLIND TOO! AND I KEEP HEARING VOICES! SOMEPONY OR SOMETHING IS FOLLOWING US! WE'VE BEEN CURSED!"

"Cursed? that was a good one. They were so panicked they didn't see me. I was right under their nose. But I guess the color loss made me look like some sort of statue. I guess they could hear how the story was going to go down. That was just fine with me. I liked being a storyteller, and stories were always nice when they had a happy ending"

"Gonna tell you guys, I didn't think you were weaselly enough to run off with the loot. Considering that your business in the Crystal Empire was kind of legit. But I guess ya can't kick that nasty habit you both have. So, are you going to give up quietly? Or do we have to have some sort of western showdown?"

"They noticed me this time, and it seemed even in my new digs that they remembered who I was. That was fine by me, I wanted them to know that I wasn't some small time town pony"

"I gave my slingshot a twirl with my magic, this was a pony detective's best friend. Could even be his nightly lover. Then I looked them right in the eye. I wanted them to know that it was the end of the line."

"I wouldn't try anything if I were you, I'm pretty good with this thing, I'd have you both in the hospital before you even knew what hit you. Now, I think I asked you before. Why don't you give me back all those bits, nice and easy."

"It was either the fact they could hear my every word, or the fact that I had a horn on my head. Maybe both, I wouldn't know. But Flam seemed to be realizing that I was the one who arranged this jazzy shindig. Though Flim didn't seem to have caught on."

"Or it could be the fact that you're standing right in front of us. I gotta say, I've seen a lot of magic tricks in my life. But a colt that could manipulate reality? That's something I've never heard of before."

"...Flam, you can't be serious. You can't tell me it's that colt that's doing all this. The color, the music, the voices. No colt has that kind of power"

"It is true Flim,I had heard something about our loony Draconeequs resident having a son. I didn't piece it together until I realized that there had to be a trick to that saddle bag of his. And I'd take a guess he's doing all this with that horn. Truly a con of cons that must be respected. I bow to you. For you have bested us"

"It was hard to think of what was going on. They could hear my every thought as if I spoke it. And although Flim was looking like he was going to have a heart attack. Flam seemed to be trying to run a con on me. Of course, you'd always have to expect a trick from no good flimflammers like the Flim Flam brothers themselves. Made me sick"

"Then why don't you give up the goods? Why do you both trick ponies out of their bits anyway. Don't you make enough at that gem shop of yours?"

"Ahh, you see Anon. Flim and I have been in quite the pickle as of late. Haven't we brother?"

"Brother....have you gone mad? The explanation you gave. It still makes no sense. Do you remember that Princess Twilight lives in Ponyville? Surely she wouldn't let this colt wield such massive power. I'd sooner believe a cursed bag over this. Can't you see he's just trying to con us?"

"And a good con he's been playing brother. Mr. Anon here has clearly kept things under control and not done anything to raise ill will towards him, Unlike his father. But....Mr. Anon, you can't expect us to just give up the money now. I could give you back your bag if you wish. And then we can go on our own ways."

"Sorry ratfink, I'm either going with everything or not at all. And my little buddy here is just itching to take some shots at you. So unless you have something better. I'd just drop the bits and go. Trust me, you don't want me using this thing. And you REALLY don't want me using my horn. Then it'd be like drinking water in mexico. And if you knew where I came from, you'd know that's a fate worse than death."

"Mr.Anon, please listen to reason. Our workers have been demanding more and more of us as we make less and less. It seems ponies don't seem to like their brutish manners despite getting their packages in on time and without issue. And brutish they are. They have threatened to destroy the store and take what's left if we don't pay them the bits they want."

"That seemed pretty fishy to me. I didn't have to think about it too long to figure out that sounded like a con. a not a particularly good one either. It was like a joke out of a joke book. It just wasn't good. Of course, what really got my oven burning was the fact that he'd think I'd fall for such malarky"

"...you really are causing all this...aren't you?"

"I am, come on Flim. Don't be like your brother. just put the bits down and go. We'll forget this ever happened. Trust me, you do NOT want me to use force. I don't think ponies like you are ready for things like a Cazzaclaw"

"..I-I don't know what that is...B-but my brother speaks the truth. We are but simple business ponies at the end of our ropes. Those griffons will take everything from us if we don't pay"

"Now that Flim, he sounded much more genuine than his brother. But I wasn't no southtown hick. I knew that there was a hole in their explanation. I spit out my lollipop stick to the side and gave them the eye of reason. Eyes that should tell them that there's no going no further."

"Sorry to tell you this fellas. But if you needed the bits to pay them off, then you could have just given them everything else and everything would be just the same. It's not like you'd be able to run the business anymore if what you say is true. Now, last chance, the bits."

"Mr.Anon, please understand two things. One, my brother does not like the illusion that you have created and I think he'd like you to stop. as understanding gentlecolts here. I'm sure you could do that much for us."

"No dice, what's the other thing?"

"Well, the other thing is the fact that those dastardly griffons plan to take our family heirlooms as well. Generations going back to the pioneers of the craft. from our great uncle Mountebank to our great great great great great grandfather Double-dealer Mchosenmeier. Anon, we've always treated those as precious commodities. Something we'd never give away, even if the deal of the lifetime were to come upon us. It was either the money or the heirlooms. Anon, I ask you as a pony who is in desperation. please do not take the bits."

"That Flam was seeming pretty genuine. Gotta admit, even knowing what these two we're capable of. They were tugging at the right strings. But lady justice carries a fickle scale. and their words only had so much weight. And lady justice was not the type of dame you wanted to take lightly."

"You mooks really want me to take your word for it, don't ya? But you know those bits belonged to innocent ponies who trusted in that game being legit. Gotta tell ya both, your story almost moves my heart. But not enough to just let you walk off with the goods."

"Anon, I bow to you. Please...let us keep the bits. There is simply no other way."

"Anon, my brother speaks to you one hundred percent truth. Let us keep the bits. and please, let us out of this infernal illusion. I feel as if I am in a waking nightmare. And this music. it makes me feel as if I won't be leaving alive. It's docile sweet tones hide a bittersweet story of torment and woe."

"They went on their knees pleading. If I were any other pony, I'd just take the bits and go back to Ponyville. leave them with some creepy crawlies that would leave them scarred for the rest of their lives. But my detective instincts were itching. Made me feel there was some truth to it. But the cop part of me couldn't let these guys off scott free. Was gonna have to disappoint the girls on this one, but my gut was telling me that I probably should have a look into things. See if these guys weren't pulling the wool over my eyes"

"I stick another cherry lollipop in my mouth and stare up into the moonlit sky. Yep, it was gonna be another one of those nights. I'll never catch a break, not while I'm doing this job."

"I take a look at the sorry state the brothers are in, poor slobs...well, if they were telling the truth that is. I'd feel sorry for them if they were. I give them an example of what's to become of them if they double cross me. heh, double cross. I'd bet that was a name of one of their ancestors."

"......great Aunt twice removed actually"

"...right...well anyway. I crunch my lollipop into bits and spit the stick out onto Flam's mustache. A form of symbolism you see"

"That's what's going to happen to you two if I find out you're lying to me. I'm still taking the bits, but if you're really telling the truth. I'll take care of your griffon problem too."

"But how? Unless your magic can do more than just illusions, those griffons will tear you limb from limb. Surely just leaving the bits with us-"

"Put a sock in it will ya? This baby has enough magic to deal with some surly type nobodies. That includes the both of you if you're conning me, don't forget that. Now, I'm gonna go check it out and get your stuff back. I want the two of you to turn around, give those ponies those bits back, and make the cute little apple horse feel reeeaaalll special. Like she had just won the award for being the best pony ever."

"But those ponies will surely attack us! You can't possible expe-"

"That's what I AM expecting. Dem's the breaks. I'm sure those stained silver tongues you fellas have will keep you from being ripped to shreds. Because if you don't do it..."

"I decided to give them some real incentive. Called my good buddy Mr.Deathclaw from out of thin air. Course, I had to be real careful with this. Didn't need him causing a real commotion. A lesson learned from the realm of dreams"

"Hey Mr.Deathclaw, why don't you show our friends here what will happen if they don't do the good and honest thing"

"Gotta tell you, He sure was convincing. He took up a giant log and clawed and shaved it until it looked like the brothers. Then he crushed it to bits between those massive chompers he's got. I couldn't tell because of the lack of color. But the look of the water that was pouring underneath the two brothers certainly wasn't a clear liquid."

"I think they got the point, thanks for the favor"

"Even after I got rid of the Deathclaw,They didn't speak a word. Was it a mistake to show them I had that kind of power? Maybe, but they knew to keep their mouth shut about it. I had to actually slap them to get them to pay attention. I guess they never seen a bruiser like a Deathclaw before. Heck, I'm sure just from knowing my thoughts that they knew to do the right thing."

"We'll meet right in this spot in an hour or so.No tricks. Or you won't need to worry about any more generations"

"They nodded without a word. Had to be firm with these type of ponies. Give them an inch and they will take whatever not nailed to the ground, never mind the mile. Sad they weren't dames looking for help. But that's my life. Realistically, there's never a dame looking to be my client. And if there is, their the kind of dame you don't bring on a fishing trip unless you need an extra anchor."

Chapter 148 - The Nightmare Night Arc

"With the Flim Flam brothers going back to Ponyville, I looked into the night horizon. Teleporting to the Crystal Empire was a no go. Had no idea where that place even was. But I could just teleport back home. I didn't know where that place was either, but I knew I could get back to it. I'd wager it's the fact that chaos always knows how to get back home."

"And so I return back to my office back home. Well, it was more like a bedroom more than it was an office. But either way, it was home to me. I straightened my coat and looked at the time on my alarm clock, it would be midnight in another hour. And just like any Cinderella story, I go back to being an ordinary colt at the stroke of twelve. Isn't that just my luck?"

"I set the dial to to the fourth setting. Next stop, Crystal Empire. City of formerly lost crystal ponies. It seemed like only a few years ago that Twilight and her gang managed to stop that no good King Sombra from conquering Equestria. I would have given my badge to see how that looked like in person. But that was in a time where it was all a dream. No use moping about it now that I can forge a new reality"

"But, just as I open the door to leave. I heard my floor door open. I turn around to see if it was dear ole pops. But wouldn't you know it, it was the queen of schemes herself, Chrysalis. What a broad, not the kind of girl you want to give all your love to. As most likely, there wasn't any kind of return policy to speak of."

"Anon...there you are. I've been looking for either you or your fa-....ther....hn. Is there a reason everything is monochrome?"

"Chaos magic baby. Sometimes.,It just does what it wants. What do you want anyway? Sorta busy on a case"

"Busy on a case? Since when did you play dress up?...you know what. Never mind, I'm bored. And since you're here. I was wondering if we could finally watch that documentary you mentioned. I'm curious to see some of your old culture. Yes, I know. That sounds odd. But when you've just sat down watching your darling children put on multiple plays of my conquering of Equestria. You get bored."

"Sorry dollface, like I said. I'm on a case. Got some wrongs to right. But when I get back, maybe I can set something up"

"I felt sorry for the gal. Being stuck here is enough to give anyone some major cabin fever. Though, by my guess, her children are a lot more simple minded and get along fine with it. Must be a real shame being of a higher intelligence sometimes. Also broke my heart that she was a pretty nasty customer, a real femme fatale. Those beautiful emerald eyes we're enough to even give my heart a few extra ticks."

"....oohhhhhh, I get it now. You've cast some sort of spell that made everything into a noire.....cute. And are those your actual thoughts? You are aware that I can hear them, don't you?"

"She was looking at me with one of those seductive smiles of her. the kind of smile that could bring down entire kingdoms. There wasn't enough towels in the world for the kind of feelings I get deep inside when she looks at me like that. The worst part was she could hear all of this, and there was nothing I could do to stop it. It was times like these where I wish I had paid just a little more attention to how my horn works."

"hmhmhm....Anon, do I reeealllyyy make you feel that way? Wouldn't you rather cuddle up with me and watch the documentary rather than go out on some silly errand?"

"Every part of my body told me I should. But my heart, what really mattered, told me that I had to set the whole score straight. I knew that'd disappoint her. But if those brothers were telling the truth. Then they we're just as much a victim as any other pony. And I already gave them my word that I'd look into this"

"Sorry sweetheart, I really got somewhere else to be."

"I see....well then"

"And right before my eyes, that crafty queen materialized a large hat with a veil and a feather boa around her neck. even a button up blouse that the high class like to wear. Well, It shouldn't come to any surprise to me really. I knew changelings could make clothes appear on themselves."

"She put herself on my bed and laid on her side. I think she was trying to seduce me. But I couldn't be sure"

"Anon, you're always on the job. It's either one of your "big" cases or some stupid kid losing their pet cat. I come over to your office every night and you never seem to pay attention to me. Alotta nerve for some small time nobody like yourself to ignore a girl like me"

"It's not that I ignore you, it's just that I don't have any time for you. I already gave my word didn't I? Just wait up for me and we can have the rest of the night to ourselves"

"But you allllllways say that. I'm the kind of girl that needs the glitz and the glamour and you ain't giving me either of those things. If you keep this up then I'll just have to settle for that handsome stallion down the street, he knows how to treat me like a queen."

"I couldn't say a word. I knew what she was doing. But I didn't know if I could keep up with this whole Noire thing or if this Noire thing was just sticking to me. Whatever it was, It was already clear to me that the spell I cast prevented me from breaking out of this cool facade I've put on. I'd have to put up with it. it at least let me keep focus on what I needed to do."

"I took a sour cherry lollipop and started sucking on it. It was kind of funny, that lollipop summed up all my feelings on the current situation in a nice delicious treat."

"Only gonna tell you this once, when I took on the badge I took an oath to make sure Equestria would be free from as much crime as I could prevent. That means when there's a case, then nothing else matters. And as long as I'm able to walk and down my coffee every night. Then that's exactly how it's gonna stay. Ain't got no time for dames."

"Some stallion you are. It's not that you don't have no time. It's that you don't know how to handle sophisticated and beautiful ladies like myself. Sometimes I think that you wish you could marry that filing cabinet of yours with how many cases you take"

"You know, dames like you is why stallions like me are always going out. You're nothing but trouble with a capital T."

"I know I am, that's a quality I know you LOVE about me. But fine, go do your silly stupid case. Don't be surprised if I'm asleep when you get back. I'd dream about you, but then I have a feeling that even in a dream, you'd walk out halfway through"

"Yeah yeah....Dames, can't live with em, can't live without em"

"I stepped through the portal. Chrysalis still in my thoughts. She really was trouble. Hope I actually didn't have those kind of feelings for that bug. Would make things more complicated than trying to explain the Kingdom Hearts series. And wouldn't you know it, it was raining. For any other pony, they'd be running for cover. But this heavy rain, that crashing thunder, it was like a siren's song. Calling to me."

"Unlike Ponyville, there wasn't any crystal ponies about to brave the storm. Course, they wouldn't know anything about Nightmare Night. Poor shmucks, being locked up for a thousand years"

"I made my way to the brothers' jewelry store. Only thing to keeping me dry was my coat and hat. And they weren't doing a good job."

"With nobody to interrogate, I'd just have to do a investigation based on evidence."

"Of course, the door is locked. Why wouldn't it be? Course, my trusty horn also worked as a trusty lockpick. Just a little zap and the door was open."

"This place was pretty gloomy looking at night. I gave it a good look around. There were two doors behind the counter. I decided to try the left door first and it took me right into the brothers' office. Looked pretty swanky. There was even one of those old style safes with the combination lock"

"I opened it and had a look inside. And whaddya know. It was filled with thingamabobs and whozitswhatsits. I had expected a bag of bits. But, it seemed their family legacy really was more important to them"

"Or that's what I thought until I saw the wall safe. Well, it wouldn't be an investigation unless had a peek inside"

".....empty"

"Seems they weren't lying, they didn't have anything to give the griffons at all. But, it could have been their own fault. This room even had one of those fancy smancy carpets."

"I decide to look inside the other room. See what clues I could find."

"Storage room, well. Of course it'd be. They had to stash the merchandise somewhere. marked cabinets with various kinds of gems as far as the eye could see. Looked like everything was still here. I remember the brothers saying the Griffon's talons didn't effect the radiant gems. Maybe that same reasoning was why there didn't seem to be any kind of special handling tools for any of the other kinds of gems. Or maybe the rest didn't really need special handling"

"I scour the room for clues. I didn't know what I'd find. Maybe there wasn't anything at all. But I had to make sure all my facts were straight and every nook and cranny was searched"

"They had a poster of some broad up on the wall, a griffon singer. I didn't even know Griffons sung songs. But then again, they are part bird"

"Then I felt the gears in my head turning. There wasn't any other kind of griffon memorabilia in this dump. Just that poster.....I better check it out"

"And whaddya know, there's a hole behind it. And woah....there we're gems behind it. But why would there be gems when this room was a gem storage room. That didn't make any sense. Unless..."

"Well don't that beat all. This hole must have been here for awhile. The griffons must have been using this hole to hide gems during their work inside the storage room. Then they probably snuck em out during quitting time. Looks like the Flim Flams have been getting FlimFlammed. That explains why they have also been making less and less, aside from the griffon's less than lovable attitude."

"Case closed, as far as I'm concerned. I took a few pictures of the scene. Wasn't my place to make any actual arrests. I'd leave that to the princess herself. I'm sure these pictures and my word would be good enough"

"Then I hear it. Of all the place,of all the time, it had to be right now. the front door of the shop opened up. And I was stuck here in the storage room. It couldn't be the brothers, they were all the way in Ponyville."

"Alright boys, seems the brothers don't wanna pay up. Take the loot, take their things, and make sure this place looks uglier than Greg's backyard"

"Hey....I don't think my backyard looks that bad Gary."

"How many time do I gotta tell you to not call me Gary, I'm Sharpclaw, got it? On the account that I'm sharp smarted and sharp...clawed"

"Yeah Greg, don't insult the boss. But er....why are we here exactly? I thought we gave em' til tomorrow"

"Yeah well, today is yesterday's tomorrow and it's time to pay up"

"Boss, erm..did ya notice that everything looks grey all of a sudden?"

"Yeah..and what's with the music?"

"Are you boys morons or something? It only looks black and white because it's dark. And the music? They probably left one of their stupid jukeboxes on for when they sing that stupid song to new customers. Stop yer bellyachin’ and get to lootin. Greg, ya bust open the safe. Divebeak and me are gonna take all the gems"

"...How come I don't get a nickname?"

"Because you ain't ever asked for one dummy. That's why it's Sharpclaw, Divebeak, and ugh....Greg"

"I was in a real fix now, seems the griffons came to clean house early. You got yourself into a real jam this time, Anon. "

"Did ya hear that?"

".....Everypony spread out...there's somepony in here"

Chapter 149 - The Nightmare Night Arc

"I was in hot water. There was no back exit and these griffons already sounded like they wanted to pick a fight. I had to think fast. But what was I going to do? There was no place to hide, and I had a feeling they didn't like ponies snooping around and eavesdropping on their plans. I really didn't want to get my hooves dirty, but what else was I supposed to do? Sometimes when you find yourself back against a corner, you had to fight for your life. I had a lot I had to weigh on.”

“There was three of them, and one of me. But, I did have some fight experience. You don't live as long as I do without knowing how to get out of a few scrapes. I remember this bar my pops took me to once. It was a griffon bar, smackdab in the dirtier parts of Manehattan. They weren't the type to take anything lightly. Nah, I was caught up in a bar fight. And while the way I won wasn't what I'd call classy. A win is a win."

"I decide to face them head on. I open the door and go back to the main room where all the merchandise is displayed. Definitely three of them. There was a dumb skinny looking one, that was most likely Greg. That burly fella had to be Divebeak. Because the griffon in the middle was the biggest, meanest, and evil eyed griffon I've ever seen. That one, he had to be Sharpclaw"

"Yeah I'm Sharpclaw, what in the hay are ya doin' here kid? Can't ya see the place is closed? Why don't you run along and go home. your parents are probably worried sick"

"Too late, I already heard everything. You three are under arrest. Now, are you going to give up quietly or does this have to turn into a massacre?"

"A massacre? HAHAHAHA. Greg, Sharpclaw. get a load of this kid. A massacre he says....Listen squirt, we aren't the types to pick on no kid. So, if ya promise not to say anything and go on yer way. We don't have to rough ya up. You don't wanna rat us out. These guys are con artists. They rip ponies off. That's why we're here, to take what's ours"

"And what about the hole in the wall with the gems in the storage room back there? Looks to me like you we're taking what you thought was yours for awhile"

"So ya saw that, huh? Last chance kid. Forget what ya saw, and vamoose. Because I'm always willing to make an exception."

"He raised his talons up, bearing his sharp claws. He must have thought that was going to scare me. Well, you can't break the resolve of a detective who is worth his salt, beans, taters...heck, the whole dinner plate. No, the only way I'm gonna give up on this case is when my heart stops beating"

"Hey boss, what's up with this kid? He's doing some creepy ventriloquist thing. Gives me the willies."

"Grow up Greg, it's just a kid. And sheesh, are you talkin' actual murder? Listen kid, I don't know what's going on with you. But you're looking like the type who'd actually rat us out"

"Could have sworn I already said that, like I said. You're all under arrest."

"...We're all under arrest....you're really gonna pull that, huh? Ok then copper, we'll do it your way. Divebeak, close the blinds. Things are gonna get a little nasty"

"The room got dark, the only thing lighting it now was the strikes of lightning and the glow of my horn. What a place to have a brawl. Small, no where to go, and with these big bozos? There wasn't that much leg room. Sorry Chryssi, but I might have to put a permanent hold on that movie date."

"Alright you punks, let's see what you got"

"Greg, yer up. Just give the kid a few slaps until he starts crying for mommy"

"Yeah...but can I have a cool name afterwards?"

"...Greg..yer about to beat up a kid. Do ya really want a name based off of that?"

"Y'know...maybe?"

"...Just go slap the kid till he cries...."

"I actually found this insulting. This guy was a real nobody, a "who's who of who the who is that?". He came up to slap me as if I was some little kid. Sad for him, he didn't know what he was dealing with. When he raised his talon to slap me. I gave him the old one two right in the face. Then a jump and a kick in the noggin finished him off, right on the ground. Pitiful, even the Doopy duo back home we're tougher than this"

"Sharpclaw...is he really narrating how he took down Greg?"

"Ah don't care that he's narrating. It's the fact that he actually did it. Geez Greg, you didn't even touch him."

"Of course he didn't touch me, never send a fledgling to do a griffon's job. So, which one of you fledglings wanna go down next?"

"This kid is really funny. So you took down Greg, big deal. Greg was always a big wuss anyway. Only reason we we're willing to split the loot with him was because nopony would suspect a doofus like him of hiding everything at his house. But ok kid, ya got yer wish. I just hope you like hospital food. Divebeak, I don't wanna dull my talons."

"With pleasure, kinda sick of him talking all weird. And after I'm done with him, I'm gonna find out where that music is coming from. It's driving me nuts"

"This Divebeak guy, what a class act he was. Had a wicked smile to go with that long beak of his. I thought he was going to treat me lightly like his meek buddy. But I was wrong, dead wrong. I wasn't ready for a massive slug right to the kisser. I flew to the wall and fell down on my face. Y'know, I never like falling on my face or head. It's like listening to a broken record. It just repeats itself and it makes you wanna blow your brains out."

"I quickly got on my hooves and jumped on the counter to give the guy a buck to his face. But he was fast. They didn't call him Divebeak for nothin'. He snapped his golden beak on my leg and threw me across the room and into a glass case. Ugh, it shattered and pierced me in a few places. I wouldn't have minded if it didn't give a few scratches to my hat too"

"Niiiice, didn't know you actually had it in ya to beat up a kid, Divebeak."

"I am not going to jail because of some kid. He asked for it. So why not oblige him? Hehehehehe"

"This was bad, before I can even get up; He grabbed me between his talons and slammed me into the ground. Pain, thy name is Anon"

"Give up? Or am I gonna have to squeeze you like a chew toy?"

"I still....have one...trick up my sleeve...."

"Oh? And what's that?"

"Why my trusty sidearm of course. I whip out my slingshot and peg him right in the eye with a pellet. Magic, ain't it somethin?"

"WHY YOU LITTLE! YOU-AGHGHHHH"

"Of course, with him preoccupied. I let him in on the secret art of Break balljitsu. But it looked like he couldn't handle it. Just screeched and went to sleep like a comatose patient. This wasn't so tough. Looks like I'm gonna see some bug blastin' action tonight with my favorite gal"

"Just me and you now pal, ya sure you wanna rumble?"

"Wow, just...amazin'. I should have known those two couldn't hack it. Kid, let me let you in on a secret. Those two guys? They were just some mooks I met when I got the job. Me? haha...well, I've tangled with Princess Celestia's best guards and they still couldn't take me. you think this is my first job?"

"I know it's gonna be your last job. Come on, you ain't any tougher than these two punks. Are ya sure you wanna take me on?"

"Hehehehe, with pleasure kid....with pleasure"

"This guy, he didn't know what he was getting into"

"I aim my slingshot and let out a stream of pellets. Like a tommy gun really. I didn't even know I could shoot this fast. Real wild west stuff"

"But I may have overestimated this guy. He was using a single claw to deflect my barrage."

"Yeah, ain't happening kid. There's a reason they call me Sharpclaw."

"Darn it, the guy was fast. I try a trickier maneuver of throwing my slingshot at his face while I rush up to give him a helping of ball busting pain."

"But the guy could multitask. At the same moment he slices my slingshot in two, he flaps his wings right at me. creating a gust strong enough to sweep me off my hooves and right into the wall. I had no idea how he was able to deduce my fighting style. It was a mostly secret art in this world."

"Give it up kid, you're gonna meet yer maker if you keep trying"

"Meet my maker? Not an appointment I was planning to make any time soon. I try a more dazzling approach, some real circus stuff. I start running up the wall and along the ceiling and try a drop kick on the guy."

"You know, you'd probably have an easier time if you didn't make yourself so obvious. The ventriloquy doesn't help. So you can run along the ceiling. So what? Yer only way down is well...going down"

"He was right, he grabbed my leg and flung me back into the wall. I know they say pain only makes you tougher, but I was feeling pretty broken right now. Only thing keeping me together was my resolve"

"I force myself to get back up, I couldn't let my career end here. There was a lot on the line right now. I wondered how he handles punches powerful enough to send him to the most northern star in the sky."

"I juke in like some old time boxer, get up on my back legs and release my hooves of fury right at his chest. But this griffon, he really was something else. He just stepped back, and deflected all my punches with a single claw. Matching my speed without any effort. Then he....oh, well...this might hurt."

"You ain't kidding"

"He grabs my leg and twists it until there's a loud snapping noise. My eyes went wide, It's like I could see everything and nothing. I was down for the count. I never felt this kind of pain before. Not very child friendly if you asked me."

"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"

"Gotta hand it to you kid, that was almost a fight I'd remember. But yer like every other pony who thinks they could take on a griffon. Though, gotta thank ya. I get to keep all the loot to myself. So don't feel bad, two out of three ain't bad"

"I felt like a kitten without it's mother, while a bunch of kids terrorized it with bags and bombs. I couldn't move my right foreleg. It hurt something fierce. I tried to get up for another fight. But he was ignoring me at this point. Ready to take the goods and skedaddle"

"Too bad you're not better at magic kid, but a colt is a colt. And sometimes they need a little discipline"

"Magic...oh right. For being classy and smooth. I sure was a blockhead sometimes. I try to focus my leg to aim at the guy. I could barely move it, and even trying made me want to just sleep and not exist anymore. Yep, if I didn't do something spectacular then it'd be the one two count for this investigator "

"Aim? With your leg? Gotta admit, I'm surprised you can do that little act of yours without screaming and stammering. But what is aAGH!"

"Direct hit! nothing like a literal rocket leg to even the odds. Yeah, somethin you'd see right out of those fancy smancy science fiction comics. And with the launch of my broken leg meant the pain was gone. Yep, like a lizard letting go his caught tail."

"Like a pugilist who doesn't know when to quit. I was ready for another round. Balancing on three legs was kind of tough though."

"What in the hay?....what are you?!"

"Detective, Child of Chaos, and an avid lover of ponuts"

"....What's a ponut?"

"Don't ask....Anyway, I ain't gonna give you the chance this time. I'm gonna take you down."

"You know what? That's funny. I was thinking the same thing. Nopony gets a leg up on Sharpclaw and gets away with it"

"A leg up, eh? I can oblige that."

"I called back my leg and snapped it on to my body. Now that it was made of metal. That pain was just a dream. I get on my two back legs and put my two forelegs forward. Turning them into a drill. And I dive right into Sharpclaw. I didn't plan to go through him or nothin'. Because the moment I made impact, I was gonna uppercut him right on the beak. And this time, it'd actually do somethin'"

"Now that's some crazy magic. But my ma taught me to never get caught by surprise. I've waited a long time for a challenge like you. I'd say it's pathetic since it's a kid. But you ain't no normal kid. En guarde!"

"He brandishes his claw once more as I drill right at it. This was a clash of legend. His claw was actually strong enough to defend against my drilling abilities. If I didn't know any better. I'd wager that he's somehow augmented his claws to deflect magic. Because it was harder to crack than a wall safe"

"Good guess detective, Magic isn't anything I have to worry about....GRAWR"

"He deflected me, I land on my hooves and stare him down. He just clenched his talons a couple of times and kissed one"

"Yeah, these are the pride to any griffon who wants to fight. So I have to make sure they are sharp and ready. And since I know you ain't no normal colt. I'm gonna have to slice you to ribbons."

"He charged at me with a growl, I slammed my metal hoof into his claw with enough force to send us both back. And when we rushed back into the fray, we started clanging our hoof and claw like they were swords. Sometimes I'd make headway, but it's obvious he had much more experience then I did. Like a newbie swordsman against a professional fencer, I was getting the point that I needed to sharpen my skills right quick. "

"You know, I'm really gettin' to dig this commentary of yours. It's good to know that yer out of your league"

"Buddy, if only you knew the real power I got"

"It's impressive, but ya don't have the power to beat me.You must of come from that princess's fancy smancy school of losers"

"I jump up in the air and do a spinning slash with my headpiece, making my horn longer and sharp like a sword. But his claws, they wouldn't break. He just deflects me back into the wall. But I was ready this time. I bounce off the wall like I was a ball and dive for his rear. A pain that would last a thousand years, or so I was told by an ole' travelling ninja"

"Maybe, if ya didn't tell me what you we're gonna do..."

"He jumped up in the air, dodging me as I stick right into the bottom of a display case. Well darn, I was sure that'd be it."

"Oh it's gonna be. I've had fun kid, but that horn has got to go"

"He plucked me from the display case and held me up by the tail. Felt like a darned veggie at harvest. He smirked at me as he put his claw to my head and traced it painfully along to my horn."

"This is gonna be the worse pain ya ever felt kid. You should be happy, if ya survive you'll definitely be tougher than any stallion I know, HAHAHAHAHAHA"

"He tried slicing up the horn like it was a loaf of pepperoni. But he couldn't do it. The horn itself was just as tough, if not tougher, than his claw. What a relief, I didn't feel like screaming like a little sissy girl tonight."

"What? No horn is durable enough to survive my claw.....WHY...WON'T...YOU...CUT?!"

"I had my chance, my trump card, an attack that'd you'd only see from the east."

“What in the hay are ya talking about?!....WHY WON'T THIS THING CUT!?"

"Ka"

"NO HORN...NO HORN IS TOUGHER THAN MY CLAW!"

"Me"

"Maybe if I crush it....c'monnnnn"

"Ha"

"Shaddap kid, I'm trying to focus"

"Me"

"C'mooooonnnnn...GRRRR! What are ya even doing anyway?"

"HAAAAAAAAAAAA!"

"And like the light given by the angels above. It descended right onto Sharpclaw like sweet sweet retribution. Sure I was slammed into the ceiling and started to sink upwards into it as I blasted a continuous beam of energy. But I wasn't the only one being plastered."

"NGGGHHH, W-WWWHAT IS THIS! MY CLAWS..I GOTTA!"

"He brought up his claws, his sharp talon claws, to block the shot. And to my own amazement. He was able to split the beam...but only for so long. Eventually those fabled claws of his snapped to a superior power. And the beam finished him off. Sending him through the wall and into the storage room. Lights out"

"I stop firing my beam and flip off the ceiling back to the ground. I dusted off my trenchcoat and straightened my fedora as I stuck a victory lollipop into my mouth... Felt kind of bad I couldn't beat him with my own wits and strengths. But hey, this horn was just like my slingshot. A tool to help me close this case. I went over to Sharpclaw first. Yeah, he got knocked out cold"

"Now, as I was saying. Yer all under arrest for extortion and grand larceny. Nopony move!"

"Course, none of them we're in the position to move. But ya always gotta do it by the book. Heck, after getting slapped around a little. Gettin' the chance to officially put them under arrest felt better than a hoof massage from your honey"

"I cuffed em, and made sure they wouldn't be going anywhere anytime soon. I take a couple of snapshots of the scene and start writing a letter to Shining Armor. He was a stand up guy that Shining Armor. A lover of justice and a guy who would stand up for anypony in need. I knew he'd be the right guy to inform to get this all cleared up"

"I put the letter and the snapshots into a bag. I even throw in a stone with voice recordings of the entire incident. The only thing I leave out is my name. Hate to be all mysterious about it, but I felt it was best if he didn't know who actually deserved the credit. It's a thankless job, but somepony has got to do it"

"Case closed"

And with that, color began to return in your immediate vicinity. The case was solved. And so the spell was complete. The music stopped, and your thoughts were no longer broadcast to anyone close by to hear.

Chapter 150 - The Nightmare Night Arc

"...shit..."

You give your leg a look. It looked fine now. You didn't expect that guy to actually be violent enough to break it. You were so damn lucky you had the horn.

You look back at the fallen griffons. You felt pretty good about beating them. Sure you had unlimited power on your side. But you beat the first two no problem, and you held your own against Sharpclaw up until you needed a clencher move to finish the fight.

Flim and Flam did indeed tell the truth. As you teleported the proof away. You took a look around the room. It got pretty fucked up. You wanted to fix it up, but you felt it was best to leave the crime scene untouched.

You zap yourself with the horn. You wanted to dress normally for once...in which you'd not be dressed in anything at all except for your saddle bag.

"There we go....I'm sure Shining has got this. I just hope those brothers are back at the meeting spot. I reeeaalllyy hope so. Because If I have to chase them down past midnight, I'll make sure my single charge will be a nightmare they'll have a hard time running from."
You could remember where you were supposed to meet. So you zap open a portal back to the road where you ran into them, and hopped in.

And there they were. Seemed they also dragged their broken down escape carriage with them. They were trying to repair it.

"It seems it's impossible brother. We used too much power to escape. It blew the entire engine"
Flim said as he looked at the steam engine. Using a lantern to light up and inspect it's parts.

"That's troublesome....And we really did what Anon told us to do. A colt, really brother? We could have at least saved one bag to try to get this fixed. Now we are to walk home. We don't even have any money for a train."
Flam closed the latch to an open spot with gears and sprockets. Then pulled the lever a couple of times, trying to get the engine to start anyway.

"Flam, normally I'd agree with you. But you saw what he was capable of. He is definitely a colt that would be our final mark if we bamboozled him. And did you not see the reaction of the little apple filly when we returned everyponys' bits?"

...and that's when you move in. You could have waited to hear what they had to say about Applebloom. But you wanted to see if they could tell you the truth to your face.
"....what about the little apple filly?"

"Only that..." Flim's ears drooped as he realized that wasn't his brother speaking, but you. It seemed Flim was a lot more terrified of you than Flam was. Hell, the fact anyone was terrified of you made your night. At least you scared someone before it all ended. "Ahhh! A-Anon, a good evening to you once again!"

Flam nodded, but had no fear or stutter to his voice. Flim, was just afraid of you doing anything like the noir thing again. Flam felt safe enough that you wouldn't. He hoped so anyway. "Indeed, a good evening to you."

You had a look around the carriage, no bags. You even zapped it to see if there was any hidden cabinets or secret latches. And although your magic opened quite a few, they we're all empty. Not a single bit to their name.
"Evening gents. I'm happy to tell you that I solved your griffon issue. You're probably going to have to give some statements when you get back to the Crystal Empire though"

And that made Flam gulp. "Statements? Whatever for?"

"Oh...nothing bad"

Flim didn't believe that. And was getting ready to make a run for it by throwing a single flash bomb. He feared there may have been some trouble with the authorities there. "N-nothing bad you say?"

"Yep" You felt so high and mighty right now. It felt so good to feel on top. Maybe it was a little bit of an evil side in you, but you kind of liked having the Flim Flam brothers fearing what you could do to them. But alas, the night is nearly at an end. And you didn't want to be too much of an asshole considering you just solved their problem.

You started to fiddle with one of the levers to the carriage. it made the nightmare moon target, still snapped in half. go up and down.

"Well....?" Flim was getting impatient quickly. he wanted to know if he had a reason to throw down the bomb.

"oh...right..."
You chuckle
"The griffons decided to pay a visit to the store tonight. One of them tried to beat me up, even broke my leg. But ehm. He didn't really understand the kind of power I had. So I beat them all down. Oh yeah, they had also been stealing your merchandise on the side. Apparently you guys made the mistake of hiring a criminal named Sharpclaw...know anything about that?"

"We...hired THE Sharpclaw? no, we couldn't have. Our hiring process was very thorough." Flam insisted. He felt sure he wouldn't have hired a known criminal. Especially since he felt he could sniff out any villain thanks to his experience and know how.

"Did you ever think that maybe the Flim Flam brothers could be...I dunno....flimflammed?"

Flam gave a gruff, he refused to believe he or his brother had made such a mistake "Can you prove that it was Sharpclaw? Do you have any evidence?"

Of course you did. Well, you didn't. but all you had to do was memorize a few things and....

Pop comes the broken claw that you snapped off with your beam of energy.
"The guy said that his claws could resist any magical force. Obviously he was wrong, but since I think I'm sort of exempt given who my dad is. I figured if you want proof. just try using any kind of magic on this thing."

"IF...that is even a griffon claw." Flim tried to hover the claw over. But he couldn't. "hmmm..."

Flam, still not convinced. Just takes the claw with his hoof instead. And tries zapping the claw with any and all spells he knew. And nothing affected it. His eyes grew wide, when he realized his mistake "...We really did hire him. That scoundrel tricked us!"

"A scoundrel and a cheat!" Flim slammed his hoof, now angry that the entire business was destroyed because of a criminal they accidentally let in.

"You mean like you two? With that cider machine or that snakeoil you were selling?"

Flam, realizing what you were getting at, cleared his throat and tried to make himself sound more innocent. "...Well, me and my brother have done a few....questionable things in the past...But we did our best to learn from our past mistakes. Our business may be gone, but it WAS a legitimate business."

".....yes, but now what are we supposed to do brother?" Flim sighed "we have no bits, we have no way to get around, and I fear we cannot use our usual methods to drum up any extra money just to get back to the shop"

"I...Don't know what we're going to do. We can sell the gems we have when we do get back. But considering we are behind on payments for the improvements on the store itself. Well, we won't have much left after we pay." Flam looked like he was actually giving up hope. As was Flim. They felt like they couldn't drum up any money through manipulation as long as you were around. Especially since apparently you stopped what seemed unstoppable to a normal unicorn.

You poof away the claw. And look to the both of them. There was something you still wanted to hear.
"Look guys, sorry to say. But that isn't my problem. But the deal between us isn't done yet. What exactly happened when you guys went back? Details..."

"mmn, I suppose a deal IS a deal. Flim, would you care to start?" Flam asked. Internally, he was actually surprised how cold you were to their predicament. But he wouldn't say a thing about it. He figured you didn't care and would probably get agitated had he said anything..

"I will, Mr.Anon. When we returned to the town. They were of course still rather hostile towards us. Particularly Miss Applebloom"

"Indeed, we almost thought they would not listen to reason. But we begged and pleaded. We knew upon returning that'd we'd not be able to make an escape. So it was a reasonable strategy"

"Very reasonable. Though, they did not think so. They descended upon us like hawks....until miss Applebloom actually came to our defense. Though, not without reason."

"No, she wanted to know why we were apologizing and returning their money. Now we knew we had one more part of the deal to seal. So we did what we did best. We lied"

Flim cringed at his brother's words. "Now brother...I wouldn't say lying is what we do best. I'd say more....stretching the truth"

"I fear brother, that such sweet words would fall to deaf ears. Mr.Anon wants to hear the truth of it all"

you nod
"I do, I don't care if you lied. Just as long as you did what I wanted you to do"
You gave them a cold look.

Flim tapped his hooves. He felt helpless. He just wanted this to end. "...yes...well. Although we did lie. We did mean in our hearts what we said. You see, we had told her that it was her that made us come back. That her honesty, her determination, and that last impressive throw of the ball. A throw powered by nothing but hope, dreams, and friendship. Had moved our hearts."

Flam nodded "My brother is correct. When we had said our own lie. We did feel there was some truth to it. It just required some thought. And just like that, our hearts had opened to the plight we caused. we then further explained to her that due to her; we would mend our ways and become honest salesponies from now on. That she herself, on her own, had redeemed us"

"....but you don't really intend to. Do you?"

"Mr.Anon, could you at least give us the benefit of the doubt? We truly tried. We simply made a mistake." Flam said, in a way to plead for some manner of care from you

"Indeed, Mr.Anon. we really did. As for your friend. She was truly happy and enthused by our words. From her reaction, we really would love to give it another shot. It's what we do, This is our talent. We don't know any other way." Flim did the same.

Both the brothers had never seen such a cold colt before. They remembered how you acted back when you first saw them at the shop. And the way you were acting now. It seemed so off to them.

But what was really going on? You were just having a little fun with them. You felt they deserved to sweat things out a little more for what they've done. In both of the episodes they appeared in, they pretty much managed to get away scott free and never learned their lesson. You wanted to make sure that this time, that they did. Even if you did have to be delightfully mean about it.

"Yes...I'm aware it's your talent. But how can I be sure you're really telling the truth? How do I know that letting you go wouldn't be a mistake? For all I know, you'd just move on to another town and swindle them"

"Mr.Anon, you have our words." Flim persisted

"...And the honor of our very names" Flam added
"
I see.....then, if you want to prove it to me....Then I want you both to do one more thing"

You turned away from them as you spoke, to hide your malicious smile.

"Anything!"

"Just name it!"

You turn around, a very evil smile on your face.
"Kiss each other"

"WHAT?!" They both yelled out

"YOU CAN'T EXP-"
You raise your hoof to stop them and then chuckle

"I can expect whatever I want. Unless you guys want me to do what I did to those griffons. Now...do it. Make it good"

They both said nothing more, and looked at eachother.

"...Well Flim....h-how are we supposed to do this?" Flam started to blush from the sheer embarrassment of it all.

"P-perhaps...if we imagine ourselves as the Princesses?" Flim suggested, as he began to sweat.

"BROTHER?! WHAT ARE YOU SAYING! THEN WE'D BE KISSING AS SISTERS! THAT DOESN'T HELP!"

You started to laugh at that. That's too much.

"NO!...no!..I-I meant we'll be ourselves to ourselves...but we'll see each other as one of the princesses..i-it's simple" Flim gulped

"O-oh...w-well...I suppose I should imagine you as our mighty Princess Ce-celestia. I always did fancy her g-gentle voice" Flam said, trying...trying so damn hard..to get through this.

"A-and....I shall imagine you as P-princess Twilight. I-I think she's rather, ahrm...I think she's....rather darling" Flim said...trying to see his brother as purplesmart

oh.....christ..was he a twifag? You actually cringed a little at that. Even if it was still hilarious.

You stared intently at them. Waiting....you'd take a silent picture too. Perhaps even start a scrapbook on special moments in your new life.

they were both hesitating. only half puckering their muzzles. They closed their eyes. but didn't move their heads forward.

...This was taking forever. at first it was hilarious. having you giggle and chortle at it all. But they weren't moving. even after two minutes. They just stood there in that position.

You took matters in your own hooves and enchanted their heads to push forward into each other. It was so fast and sudden that both their hooves swung forward. making it look like such a sweet and loving embrace. Perhaps even a bit lewd with the way Flim’s tongue accidently made its way into Flam’s mouth.

You we're laughing your ass off, rolling on the floor as they turned away and spat.

"Vile!" Flam said as he continued spitting

"Disgusting!" Flim followed suit "...There....will you now stop torturing us? A-as we said. We've learned our lesson. There is no more need to torment us so!"

"I don't think so, there's still one more thing to do"
You gave them a most evil smirk, the cruelest you could muster as you began to float up. covering yourself in a black energy that made them tremble just at the sight of it.

"Please!"

"Have Mercy!"

Both the brothers hugged onto eachother and ducked their heads as your horn grew brighter and brighter with evil looking energy.

"Flim Flam brothers!"
You say in a loud, booming voice, magically thunderous enough to generate terrible winds. making them cower further.
"You have incited my will. And now, I cast my judgement!"

they began to beg and bow on their knees. throwing themselves at your mercy as you aimed your horn at them.

"You both shall be leaving....."

"PLEASE! DON'T DESTROY US!" They both yelled.

But you said nothing. And they looked to each other. crying.

"Flim...You weren't just a brother....but you are also my best friend. For the time I have lived. I'm glad it was with you"

"And I you Flam....No matter what came to challenge us. As long as I was with you, we would face it together..."

They wished each other goodbye as everything went dark for a few moments from your magic enveloping the area.

"You will be leaving..."
Then you giggled cheerfully
"....with this bag of bits I conjured up for you. It doesn't look very big. But like my bag. It should help you both out"

You we're still chuckling as they both looked up and looked at the bag.

"Y-you're not going to destroy us?" Flim asked, still pale white from fright.

"pppfffft, no. I was just messing with the both of you....though if I find out you both went back on your word. I'll seriously mess with the both of you. Like, super seriously. Take this as a sign of good will. And hope that you won't be tricking anypony anymore."

"......."
They both didn't know what to say. Flam just looked around as Flim took the bag and began to count. He was pretty quick. By the time he was done, he realized the amount of money you gave them would be enough to get them back on their hooves.

Flim and Flam didn't want to doubt or question you. They didn't want to give you a reason to be violent. And as Flim whispered to Flam how much the bag contained. Flam began to feel low. Realizing how being fooled like that really....really hurt. It made him feel foolish and stupid. No doubt, Flim felt the same.

"...Thank you Mr.Anon...for the mercy, and the bits. You are truly more of a generous pony than we have originally realized." Flim said as he wrapped up the bag around his neck.

"Indeed...we surely thought our goose was cooked."

They were just trying to cement being on your good side at this time. They didn't want you demanding anymore humiliating actions. Though, they were also genuinely thankful.

you just give them a warming, yet, smarmy smile.
"Yeah yeah...just don't go and do anything I wouldn't do. Anyway, I got places to be. So, you guys just make sure you do what I told you and we'll be alright."

"Right...yes...of course...and...you'd never tell anypony about our kiss...correct?" Flim asked, cringing . baring himself for the answer.

"Yeah fine...I won't tell anypony. Now seriously. I gotta go. Just make sure you're at the Crystal Empire when Shining Armor starts that investigation. Seeya!"

Oh....that was fun. You loved this fucking horn. Sad that only a few minutes remained before it'd pop off your head.

You leave the brothers and take a portal to Ponyville, hoping you weren't too late to finish the night with your friends. You'd have to prepare an explanation for them when they inevitably questioned you on your whereabouts.

Chapter 151

You teleport yourself in the middle of Towns Square and take a look around.

"....shit.....I missed everything"
The booths were packed up or gone altogether. And there was nary a pony in sight. Nightmare Night seemed to be officially over for the population of Ponyville. Which sucks for you. You really did want to try out Granny Smith's maze and hang out with your filly friends a little more.
"Fuck...what time is it anyway?"

You use your horn to shine a digital display in mid air in front of you.
“eleven fifty nine. Yeah....looks like my fun with this thing is over."
You sigh, and decide to make a portal to your room before the magic wears off completely.

As you step through, thoughts of the night go through your head. Where Discord went off to. Introducing Celestia to video games. Celestia in general really...considering she knew. That Noir moment you had. And then...there was the way you messed with Flim and Flam. You didn't know why you messed with them so badly. And yet, you had so much fun doing it. Just like you had fun messing with Twilight and Rainbow Dash. The kind of fun that was not too unlike....Discord.

You look back to your flank. The chaos cutie mark. hrnnn...Maybe it was well deserved.

You realized when you had power, that you loved abusing it when it suited you. it was fun.

Somehow, this both bothered you...and yet didn't. You didn't want to become an asshole. But, being an asshole was actually kind of fun. You'd have to be careful not to let that kind of power overcome you. You still had single day charges. And now that you had a much better handle on chaos magic. You knew for sure getting in over your head could prove dangerous. And yet.....that thought of pure chaos filled you with an odd sense of excitement.

The horn popped off your head right at the stroke of midnight. You caught the Sombra horn before it hit the ground and took a look at it.
"....I gotta really be careful with this thing. I broke that Griffon's claw clean off and sent him through a wall. What would have happened if I did worse? Like..when I had that rage at the bar. mnnn. Just...just gotta be mindful is all. I should probably use the doofus duo as practice.....still can't believe I lost to them. Geez."

You walk over to your bed. Only to see it preoccupied by a sleeping Chrysalis. half covered in a blanket. She wasn't in her Noir garb. But....sheesh...she actually waited for you.
"Ahh geez...I actually forgot about her."

You look at your horn. And then sigh.
"If it's a new day, then that means I only get a single charge......I reeeaaalllllyyy hope she appreciates this."

Though, the "Documentary" was originally meant to be a joke. It also, at this point, meant bonding time with the bug queen. To get closer to her, to be more of a friend, and hopefully. Redeem her.
You just hope she didn't chew your head off for what you were about to do.

You gently put your hoof on her hanging leg, and give it a gentle shake.
"Chryssi......pssst...Chryssi"

She only mumbled, and turned her head. Prompting you to try being a little louder and more forceful as you shake her leg slightly faster.
"Chrysalis...Hey!..Chrysalis Com-OMPH!"

She kicks you in her sleep, right in the face, and raises her leg to the top of the bed. muttering something about destruction and imprisonment.
"
...why....why always my face or head? IT's...gotten old..and my poor no-no-oooCHOO."

You sniffed and sneeze a little from the impact hitting part of your muzzle as well. But even that didn't wake her.
".....coooome onnn"

You put your horn and saddlebag down and climb up on the bed and move next to Chrysalis's face.

You start whispering right in her ear.
"Chrysalis...I'm home. do you still wanna watch the documentary?"

You ask her, but she isn't responding still. You give her left ear a gentle tap, and it just cutely wiggles.
"..come on Chryssi, I can't do this all night. I'm getting tired"

You try breathing into her ear. But that just causes her to turn and grab onto you rather tightly. making you squeak.
"O-ok...t-that's a little t-tight"

She nuzzled her head onto you, and held you close to her chest. You tried squeezing out, but geez. She had some monstrous grip. And this was in no ways comfortable. You even had trouble breathing.
"C-chryslais...y-you're killing me...c'cmon..w-wake up already"

You wiggled your forelegs to try to latch onto something to pull. But with every struggle, she just hugged you closer. And if her body wasn't so damn hard and her grip so fierce.....you'd probably just go to sleep with her.
"I'm..gonna die....I'm...ngh....a-atleast...I'll...die...in..between...a...girl's...legs.."

You started to lose consciousness, until something caused a noise. it came from your floor door.

"MY QUEEN! ANON IS SOMEWHERE NEARBY! I CAN SENSE HIS LOVE ALL OF A SUDDEN!"

Chrysalis wakes up, startled, and flies straight up to the ceiling, Dropping you onto the bed. You take a few breaths and lay there as Chrysalis crawls along the ceiling. orienting herself and trying to find out what the source of the noise was.
"Discord..I SWEAR! If you woke me u-URGH!"

"MY QUEEN! MY QUEEN! IT'S ANON! DON'T WORRY! I'LL DESTROY HIM THIS TIME!"

Chrysalis looks straight down to see you, still laying there. recovering your breath. Her ears were ringing. She could see what changeling came up and disturbed her slumber. And you knew just from the way he spoke who he was.

It was the damned runt.

"You woke me up for THAT!? HOW MANY TIMES HAVE I TOLD YOU YOU CAN'T EVEN DESTROY HIM! STAND DOWN!"
Chrysalis was pissed. She didn't even know or care where you came from. She was enjoying her sleep. Even more so, it had turned out she was subtly and subconsciously draining you when she cuddled you terribly. In other words, it made for an extra comfortable sleep for her.

But the runt refused. Right when you were recovering and preparing to stand up, he scuttled and rushed right up onto the bed and pinned you down.

"ngh...geez..you're persistent" You whined

"You have dishonored our queen for the last time! Prepare you-.....self?...my queen?!"

Chrysalis crawled from the ceiling and down the wall. staring at her little drone with anger and abhorrence. "Yes...your queen..me...who commands...you. And I AM COMMANDING you to stand down...and leave him alone."

The scrappy little changeling backed away from you. Staring at Chrysalis with confusion and hurt. He didn't know what he did wrong. "B-but my queen. Y-you ordered his destruction...."

"Yes....ages ago...when I actually wanted him destroyed." Chrysalis was keeping to a low growl as she put her hooves down to the bed and stood over and in front of the both of you. Looking downwards. She...was not pleased. "But things have changed...."

"B-but...my queen..." The changeling began to schooch back at the end of the bed.

Chrysalis began to step over you, following him, looking down at him.
"I'm going to make this clear. Because you are the only one who doesn't seem to understand. " then she began to growl and yell at him "I AM THE QUEEN. EVERY WORD THAT LEAVES MY MOUTH IS LAW. AND UNTIL I ACTUALLY TELL YOU TO DESTROY HIM. YOU WILL STAND DOWN. IS...THAT.....clear?" She lowered her voice, her last word though. sounding especially venomous.

The changeling gulped, and saluted, shaking in fear "Y-yes...m-my queen. I underst-understand"

"Good...now come here" Chrysalis beckoned to him.

The changeling slowly approached her. fearing her, he felt awful that he disobeyed her. and feared her wrath. But he would never deliberately disobey her either.

Chrysalis raised her hoof, making the changeling flinch. But she didn't hit him. Instead, she gently stroke his cheek. "Now now, you mustn't fear me. I know you were only trying to please your queen. Now, I want you to say your mantra I've told you to repeat. And remember the order."

The little changeling looked up to her, and nodded. He looked pretty soft now. like a little child. "A-ahrm. Obey my queen, destroy her enemies, and feed from the helpless"

Chrysalis gave him a gentle smile and gave him a rub on the head "Very good, you're my most loyal little drone. you know that, don't you?"

The changeling tapped his hooves together, looking down, feeling modest from the praise, and yet still ashamed that he displeased his queen. "T-thank you...."

"I have to speak to Anon now, he's obviously in his room for a reason. But do not worry. I won't allow him to shame me. Why don't you go downstairs, practice your mantra, and work on that little plan you have to take down Princess Celestia." Chrysalis gave him another gentle rub. Her smile becoming motherly at this point.

The changeling saluted "Yes, my Queen! I promise you, when we have our time. That the plan will be perfect. I'll make you, the captain,and the rest of the hive proud!"

Chrysalis chuckled lightly "I'm sure you will"

The changeling, feeling much better, left the room. excited to repeat his mantra and work on his plan.

Chrysalis chuckled to herself "Not the best of my children, but definitely the most loyal"

You just laid on your back from where you we're pinned on the bed. That was........unexpected.

"Now then, since that's sorted out...." Chrysalis turns to you, and looks down upon you. Given she towered over you. You almost felt like a trapped rat. "You'll be wanting your bed back. Right?"

You shifted your eyes left and right. Was that a joke question? Because that was very...normal..and non threatening. Nor was it sexual. She wasn't trying to feed off you either. It was eerie.
"Actually..umm..I was hoping you'd watch that documentary I mentioned. I know it's late. But hey...we could call it a midnight flick. Whaddya say?"

Chrysalis just looked down at you silently for a moment. Saying nothing.

You just looked up at her. She..well, you didn't know if she was thinking or if her brain wasn't clicking due to just waking up.

Chrysalis hopped off the bed "Let's go before I change my mind"

What? that's it? You expected her to be difficult about it. "Really? Just like that?"

Chrysalis looked back at you and shifted her eyes upwards as she sighed and shook her head. "Yes, just like that. I'm already awake after all. And I'm not going to waste my time toying with you either, so don’t worry. It's late, I'm tired, and I want to get this over with while my interest is still high" She sounded annoyed. Well, you couldn't blame her. Considering what just happened.

You flip to your belly and stand up. Ready to grab your horn and set everything up.
"Alright, let me just get my horn and..."

As you reach for your horn. Chrysalis opens your floor door and then looks back at you "And.....we're not going to be watching it here."

"What?"

"You heard me. Do you think I want to hear you whining if I happen to fall asleep on your bed while watching? No, you're coming with me down to the basement. Where not only I, but ALL my children can watch. Your queen demands it"

"Wait, wait!" You hop off the bed, you didn't want to go down there. You knew you couldn't be killed. But that was a hive full of changelings. They could still fuck with you.
"Why do we have to go down there? Isn't that kind of distracting? and annoying? What if they make noises, or...uhhh....be really obnoxious?"

"Because at least if I fall asleep down there, I won't have to get back up. Now come along" Chrysalis's horn began to glow as you began to hover above the ground.

It seems you didn't have a choice in the matter.

You could barely even struggle within the confines of the magical aura as you drifted towards the floor door.
"But what if I happen to fall asleep? Do you really want to go through the hassle of bringing me back to my room? the stairs to the basement are pretty long."

Chrysalis hovers you over to her face, and gives you a condescending smile. "I appreciate your concern, I really do. But you should know that I could just cuddle you in my legs, rock you gently, cuddle next to you, and have a delicious snack for the rest of the night. No hassle at all for me. See? Everything works out. Now try to argue that. I dare you"

You're expression turned to that of frustrated grump. You cross your forelegs and grumble.
"You know taking my love whenever you want is a bad thing to do right?"

Chrysalis gives you a tiny smooch on the nose. Then snickers as she sees you blush. "But you don't mind as long as you feel that warm feeling you love so much. Face it, you have a thing for affection. You crave it. It's a weakness that I have experience in exploiting. Now then...any more arguments? hmmmmm~?" Chrysalis half closes her eyes as she smiles at you.

.......

.......she's right.

".....finnnnnnneeeeeee, we'll do it in the basement."

Chrysalis giggles "Are you sure you want to phrase it like that?"

You blush harder, realizing exactly what she meant. Even surprised that she knew what it could be taken as.
"O-ok..d-don't do that. You knew what I meant! Geez, can't you go one second without teasing me?"

"But it's fun...and delicious" Chrysalis gently puts you down as she goes down through the floor door. "Now come along, before I decide to feed on you all night"

You follow her, annoyed and yet...a little aroused. hell, why does she have to do that? Really...
"Yeah yeah....mnnn...But you're not MY queen."

Chrysalis stands by the trap door of the basement. "Don't be silly. Of course I am. That's why you're going to be a gentlecolt and open the door for me. Go on, do it"

"You can open it yourself. Just use your magic. It's practically the same as a unicorn's"

"But Anon...I'm tired" Chrysalis expresses herself as a weak and fatigued being "I really want to watch that documentary...I really do. But...unless you open that door. Well...I don't know what we'll do. Don't be so meeeaaannn" She whined falsley

you sigh, walk over to the trap door, and open it.

You hoped this was worth it. One of the major reasons you wanted to show this to her was to freak her the fuck out. But as time went on. You also were hoping you'd actually be able to consider it bonding time. But now?...it's mostly freak her the fuck out. She was being annoying.
"There..."

"See, now was that so hard? Now, follow close Anon." Chrysalis begins to descend down into the basement.

You could feel her slowly drain you. She's essentially tasting you. You could only figure that she does this both for the chance to mess with you and to have actual love going through her instead of whatever came off that piece of the Smooze.

You follow her, keeping an eye out for any Changeling that decides to get in your face.

"So Anon, I've noticed you have a cutie mark now. I find it quite strange that it's the symbol of chaos"

oh...is that a chance of REGULAR conversation you detect?
"Hmm? oh right..yeah..the cutie mark. Why do you find it strange though? If you saw what I was doing all night. You'd think otherwise. I mean, don’t you remember the Noir thing?"

"Yes, it was rather basic. Now tell me, convince me."

Convince her? At first, you thought that would be tough...but then. There was a moment that you felt, would definitely make her change her mind.
"What if I told you I scared Twilight?"

Chrysalis scoffed at that "Is that supposed to be impressive?"

"Let me rephrase...I horrified Twilight to near insanity by showing her beloved teacher Princess Celestia as an evil clown monster before having it's head blow up in blood and gore"

Chrysalis stops, the sudden stop makes you bonk into the back leg and step back.

Chrysalis slowly turns her head towards you, filled with doubt and intrigue "You didn't, nopony would go to such extremes"

Now you had her attention. and what's more. you were starting to feel proud. If even this big bad bug couldn't believe it. Then maybe...that cutie mark really was well deserved.
"Chrysalis, you say "Nopony". But do I have to remind you that I didn't used to be a pony? We humans are much more extreme than what a pony is capable of"

Chrysalis completely turned about. Looking down at you. She didn't know what to think.

You just smirk at her. enjoying the moment that you legitimately surprised her.

"Why exactly did you do this?"

"For fun. I felt she needed a good scare"

a cruel smile slowly began to form on Chrysalis's face. "It's a shame you aren't evil. You'd make a fine prince if you're willing to go that far for a "scare". "

You raise an eyebrow at her
"Are you teasing again?"

"Partially, you could never actually be anything more than what you are. I was just dancing the thought that if there was a being with your level of thought, but actually had backbone and willing to bend to my will....Well, it'd just be nice to have somepony like that around. As for you, It's just a shame you'd rather be a goody four shoes and frolic with the other ponies when you aren't really one yourself. That makes you closer to a changeling than anything else."

"In other words, you wish I had unlimited power with this horn while also being your subject and potential love battery"

"You make that sound like a bad thing"

"Considering our relationship, all I can say is it's a matter of perspective. You worry about the survival of your hive. And while your ambitions are a little...say...cruel. It's all just part of how changelings conduct themselves. So in my position....that's a big yes."

"a simple "yes" would have sufficed. You don't need to be all analytical about it."

"I just wanted things to be clear, so you wouldn't be all like "But Anon, you'd love it if I was just being all cuddly with you all the time" "

"Some things are just a necessity Anon. You act as if you're special and my "affections" are exclusive only to you. If you wanted to see me at my best, well, you should have seen me work my magic on Cadance's little stooge of a husband. If I had succeeded...well, he would have been alllllll mine. His love is MUCH better than yours. But, like any other pony, he just HAD to have morals. Such as things usually go"

That made you think, and so you stopped. You didn't want to proceed further unless she answered a question.
"So let me ask you this, because I just thought of it. Why EXACTLY do you want to be my friend?"

Chrysalis stops, and looks at you. She wasn't visibly insulted. Nor did her tone suggest it. She just spoke normally, with that ever so present hint of smug "Why do you ask? Do you think it's because I see it as a ticket to escaping somehow?"

You shake your head
"No, because Discord wouldn't let that happen. And neither would I"

"Then what?"

"the whole love battery thing. I'm asking for the truth. Are you using me just as a source of food, and nothing more? only humoring me because you KNOW that affection is something I like."

You didn't want to call it your weakness. That made you feel as if you were helpless against her.

Chrysalis confidently shakes her head "No, otherwise I would have put in the effort of putting you completely under my control, only letting you live what you call "a life" at my leisure. This is how I look at things. I never became friends with any other being that calls themselves evil because matching interests tend to cause friction. Therefore, they are only good for temporary alliances. And I never became friends with anypony that called themselves "Good" because aside from agitating me to no end. They either try to have me "mend my ways" or fight me in the "name of justice". What I actually find interesting about you Anon is the fact you are neutral. You don't hate me for what I've done, nor do you have any actual reason to betray me. And...."
Chrysalis sighs, losing a little of her confidence on her next set of words "And....I admit. Having a pony to converse with at a respectable level Is something I'd not be willing to give up anytime soon."

So, that was really it. Despite all the teasing and draining of your love. She also enjoyed the social aspect of it. But then...
"What about your captain? Isn't he smart?"

Chrysalis turns around and continues the trek downward, leading with a big "hmph"
"He's capable of tactical planning and leading my children into combat. But he himself is just another drone. It's both a blessing and a curse. My children, being the simple beings they are, can tolerate being stuck here, they usually stay in the hive anyway unless I send them out or they venture out to collect food on their own. That applies to the captain as well. Though, he has been a little troublesome lately."

Troublesome?
"What do you mean by that?"

"He seems to have a firm belief that the hive might be weakening."

"And is it?"

"Of course it has. But that should have been obvious the moment we ended up being trapped here. I don't need a reminder that we're currently in a state of weakness. But that's what I mean by simple. He's merely stating that we have weakened because that's his job. And being captain, he also tries to find ways to improve the situation. And that's what I find annoying. There's actually no way out of here. So, it's become a matter of biding my time."

"I'm surprised you're being that open with me. Considering I'd actually have to try to stop you if you actually found a way out"

"In which you'd have no way to stop me. You can't exactly do any fatal harm. And even with your horn, you'd never be able to use it in time. It's a shame, you'd be a welcome addition to my hive if you would just choose to become mine"

"You know I can't"

You really couldn't. For what it was worth. You were actually enjoying having a normal conversation with her. And given her words, she was enjoying it too. But the conflict of interest; you'd just have to hope you could convince her to be good before something big and bad really happens.

Chrysalis nods, she actually gives you a look befitting nobility, a look that suggests sorrow in her heart. "I know, And you know that I won't be held back just because you care. Should you get in my way. I will crush you"

You nod, she was probably right. Sadly enough
"I know"

"Good..." Chrysalis switches back to an arrogant, yet this time, sisterly sweet smile. "For now, you will continue to be my both my friend, and a source of nourishment. And on that note..."

Chrysalis put her hoof on your head and gently began to rub. "maybe after the documentary, you and I could get to know each other a little better......in a more....private way"

she said it so sensually, so seductively. That, combined with the head rub made you blush deep.
"D-don't do that. D-didn't you say lust w-was empty?"

Chrysalis snickered and went back to walking down into the hive. "It is, but....there's a little love in there. I think it's adorable really. That you have a crush on me, despite a lack of disguise"

......goddammit. GODDAMMIT! You knew she had years of experience, but fucking christ. It wasn't your fault that she was hot.
"We r-really have to talk about personal s-space"

"Why? Do you want to invade mine, Anon?"

Again she speaks in a seductive, almost ignorant tone. She was just hitting the notes just right with that alluring voice of hers to pull you in.

Still blushing, you look down and sigh. You felt you should have better willpower than this. But then again, any other person back home, Specially Chryssifags, would have most likely completely given in and let her suck them dry every moment she wanted. With that in mind, at least you could put yourself above them. Maybe...
"Let's....just get down there and get things set up already...oy..."

Chapter 152

Author's Note

Of course, a little knowledge of the movie itself would help with the following chapters. Though it's not needed really.

Chapter 152

You follow Chrysalis down to the bottom of the basement.

Still a twist of dark dank cavernous darkness. In any normal circumstance. This large a cave wouldn't make any sense. But given you are in a world of chaos. It was the most sensible type of basement there could ever be.

Chrysalis led you to where her throne sat, with two torches on either side. They were alit with green flames, The orb of Smooze in front of the throne as it glowed it’s purple glow.

The Captain sat patiently beside the throne. He shifts those big blue eyes of his towards you. but remains in place.

Chrysalis plopped herself on her throne, and looked upon you. Waiting for the magic to happen. "Ok Anon, I leave it to you"

The Captain's ears actually perk up to those words. He turns his head to Chrysalis, confused. "My queen. May I ask what that means?"

"No, you may not. It'll become obvious once Anon has done his work." Chrysalis said, as she awaited your magic while resting her head back.

"My Queen, I...don't know what's going on here. But should we let that pony do....whatever he's going to do?" The captain was concerned. He had no fucking idea what was going on. The other changelings were gathering as well as you pulled your horn out to do your thing.

Chrysalis leaned her head back and sighed in annoyance. "Captain, this isn't a battle or a need for your "invaluable" advice. Now, unless I am in need of you.....keep..silent"

"B-but my q-"

"CAPTAIN!" Chrysalis flipped around on her chair and brought herself closer to the captain; looking him dead in the eye. ".....are you questioning MY orders?"

"I...no...I" The captain was sweating. It was almost the same situation as the runt. But Chrysalis wasn't showing the captain affection. Nor was the captain bending as easily as the runt.

"...you what?" Chrysalis moved her head a little closer, causing the captain to lower his down.

The captain didn't say a word. Chrysalis just continued staring at him for another moment until she decided his silence was enough;The captain himself looked flushed. He really didn't know what to do.

"Now Anon, if you don't mind" Chrysalis continued to wait. Waiting for the magic to happen.

Well, here we go. But considering the audience. You had to think bigger, badder, more theatrical........OF COURSE!

You slap on the horn. It once again binds itself to your head and transforms into a unicorn horn.

You don't even need to aim the horn for this. You let your magic flow out all across the cave as it began to shift,shake, and roar.

The changelings didn't seem to know what to do. Some even began to fall off the walls, others panicking.

The captain looked to Chrysalis once again. "My queen..." He was internally freaking out

Chrysalis didn't even react. She was actually waiting in anticipation as the walls began to transform. "Hold yourself Captain....hold yourself"

The cavern begins to transform. Rock turns to carpet and wood. Lights appear on the walls as a projector screen of mass proportions appears in the distance. Chairs, upon chairs, UPON CHAIRS appear, nicely put in lines. You even make a concession stand in the back. Putting the Smooze in a specialized slush machine to make "Liquid love".

Chrysalis's throne now sat in the front. Another throne sitting right next to it.

Chrysalis was amazed. She didn't know what to think, she was NOT expecting this. "What kind of palace is this?"

And, just as you thought. Despite your single charge. Your horn still stuck to your head. You'd only be able to cast theatre related spells. And the horn wouldn't pop off until the movie was over. HA, you were getting a real handle on this. You even give the horn a flick as you float over to the other throne.

You plant your butt right on the throne next to Chrysalis. HAHAHAH! YEAH! yeah...this was a great fucking use of a single charge. It almost felt like home.

You lean back and raise a single hoof upwards and wave it around to point at everything.
"This palace, is called a "Theater""

"Theater?" Chrysalis looks around. Everything looked nice. But there was a lack of balconies, drapes, and a stage. "I thought we we're just going to watch a film reel. and this theater...it's nice. But not on the level of sophistication of the likes of the ones I’ve been to in the past"

you cuddle into the throne and chuckle.
"Oh, we're still going to be watching a film reel. This is the type of theater used in our world for the express purpose of watching movies and documentaries. And unlike those fancy smancy theaters. You can eat and drink during the movie. Look..."

You point to the concession stand
"I made it where you can get popcorn, candy, and look, I even made it that you can get literal liquefied love. Pretty cool huh?"

Chrysalis was amazed. She became comfortable with the transformation. She even thought it was neat. All this, just for her. In fact, when she thought of all this being for her. she turned to you with a gentle smile. Though, still with the intent of warming you up. "Anon, you know how to make a queen feel special. I didn't think you'd go that far for me"

You gaze at her for a moment. Dammit, why does she have to look at you like that. Why did she have to have such pretty eyes? It just made everything so conflicting.
"Well..you know. I just wanted to show you as much of the human experience as possible. Umm..you better get your children in their seats with the snacks they want. The documentary will start soon."

"Hmmm....." Chrysalis turned her head, watching her drones fumble and trip around. Still dazed from everything. "My children, Hear me! Collect the snacks you wish to eat and take a seat! Tonight, We shall be learning of humans........Also, Captain...bring me a slushie."

And just like that, the changelings began to scramble without question for snacks and seats until each one was filled but one. The runt, even slipping into the chair next to the other side of Chrysalis's throne.

The room began to dim as a light began to shine in the back, way up near the roof.

The changelings were murmuring to themselves. Not knowing what to expect.

Chrysalis herself sat silently as she awaited the main event. She had never seen such a grandiose use of a projection machine before.

You were excited yourself. You loved this movie. Being able to share the experience with someone who has never even fathom it's existence made it even better!

However, the moment is ruined when the Captain hovers over you and kicks you in the back of your head as he takes your seat. "I sit next to the queen....not you!"

As you rub the back of your head, the captain holds the slushie towards Chrysalis. "My queen, here is the drink you have asked for."

Before you could even react angrily towards the captain. Chrysalis actually takes the first shot at him. By merely staring at him angrily, not even reaching for the slushie.

"My q-queen? Here's your slushie..." The Captain holds it out, even shaking it in front of her to get her to take it.

But she doesn't, she just stares at him.

You nor the captain make another move. She did not look pleased. "Captain...Who told you you could take that seat?"

"E-erm. My queen. I...I always sit next to you. I'm your captain. "

"Indeed you are....And yet, you only sit next to me to serve as my shield or as an adviser of war. So Captain, that being said, I want you to answer me a couple of questions"

The Captain gulped, he was so confused. He didn't know what was going on. "..yes?...My queen?"

She snatches the slushie away from him, and takes a sip before continuing. "...Am I in immediate danger?"

The captain looked around. Nothing seemed amiss. "...No"

"And am in need of war counsel?"

The Captain shook his head "N-no"

Chrysalis chuckled "right, you're right on both counts. Good for you.And Since I am in no need of your services at the moment, that makes your title of captain moot. In fact, since Anon is the one providing us this little show. He no doubt needs the space and ability to do his work...wouldn't you agree?"

The Captain didn't want to disagree, not with her. So he just nodded

"Good....now that we understand each other. Promptly remove yourself from that seat, and go find your own."

"B-but my queen. He's not even a changeling, he is no-"

Chrysalis exploded with rage. "CAPTAIN! DO....NOT...QUESTION ME! I will not allow disobedience in MY hive...not even from you. So unless you want your title removed PERMANENTLY...you will do as I say...and remove yourself from that seat!"

The Captain said nothing. He knew he had to comply. But before he moved. He turned to you, and gave you a look of absolute murder. He himself was feeling betrayed. But he couldn't dwell on it now. So he complied, and flew off to find another seat.

Chrysalis then looks upon you, instantly changing her mood to that of a curious and jovial nature. She was ready for the damn movie already. "Well Anon, take your seat. We don't have all night you know."

"...right..ok...let me just.."

You got up from being tossed down and dusted yourself off. You didn't know if you...no..you definitely shouldn't question what just happened. Chrysalis was eager for a show. It was about time she got one.

You climb up back onto the other throne that was your seat. Ahhh, it really was comfortable on your tushy. And warm like your bed. Your horn began to glow as the movie's film reel went and attached itself to the projector as you hovered over a slushie drink and some popcorn...you never had liquid love before. You wondered what it tasted like.
And finally, the projector started to show something on screen. It was a pony's muzzle with a big X on it.

"Thank you for choosing Anon theater..." A voice that sounded suspiciously like Morgan Freeman said. In fact, the voice itself seemed to have been driving a few changelings a little nuts. They were looking around. Hearing the voice coming from all sides. "For the best experience in enjoying the feature presentation, we ask you to please not make any noises, don't buzz your wings, or try to destroy the manager of this humble theater. Thank you"

The runt, who had gotten comfortable on the normal theater seat next to his queen's. Looks around, confused. "My queen, who was that? Should I seek out and destroy it?"

seek out and destroy...huh...the little runt really took that mantra seriously.

Chrysalis turned to him and shook her head. "No need, I'm sure this is all part of the experience...." She then turns to you, for reassurance "Right?"

"Yeah, the sound comes from high quality speakers located all around the room. It's to kind of make you feel like you're right there."

"I see..." Chrysalis takes a sip of her slushie. She doesn't make a comment on it. "So...when does the documentary start?"

"Right...."

The screen says "And now, our feature presentation"

"...now!"

The theater went from dim, to near darkness. The only thing really visible being the screen itself. You almost felt at home...almost. You were among creepy bug ponies after all

And finally. the movie started, You leave out the opening parts with the filmmakers intro bit. You felt it was unneeded.

"Starship troopers...hmn, i'm unimpressed with the title. I thought a human title would have had a little more pizzazz to it."

"...just wait"

The movie opens up with the military ad to join the mobile infantry.

Chrysalis's eyes go wide as there is a multitude of gasps from the audience.

"Those are humans? Walking turtle monsters without...turtle features? I...I can't comprehend this. How can they move so fluidly? And what is...wait...this is a military ad? I thought this was a Documentary"

"Woah woah, relax. That shell is actually the armor we wear to protect ourselves. designed to let us move around as if we were naked while protecting us from a multitude of offensive strikes. As for the ad. Just watch. This Documentary has a quirky way of telling everything."

The movie then goes on to explain bug meteorites and the battle against Klendathu.

"...There's no way. You can't tell me that you have those kinds of machines. Those rocks must be as big as...no, larger than any kingdom in Equestria. That can't actually be possible"

"Oh..it's possible. See, where ponies mostly made advancement in magic. We as humans made advancements in technology. See, that rock may be big. But our guns can blast it into nothing. Imagine if we used it on...say...Canterlot?" You humor her, see how'd she react to a little "positive" reinforcement. She was gonna need it. Because this movie was gonna blow her the fuck out later.

Chrysalis smirked, looking straight at the screen as it explained the human mission. "Yes" She chuckled evilly "just imagine..."

It then gets to the newscaster soldier.

"Ahhhh...one of those useless soldiers who report the news to the useless masses. What a waste. I didn't think humans would need one of.....hello, what's this?"

The bug comes out, and grabs and begins to crush the human reporter. there's already thunderous applause in the audience.

"....so those are the bugs of your world. I'm..intrigued and disappointed. I expected them to be of a higher intelligence considering you humans have waged war on-......" Chrysalis's eyes go wide as he gets mercilessly split in half. She's silent for a few moments. ".............so much...for that armor."

The other changelings themselves seemed horrified by what they just saw. They were against the humans sure. But it seems they never saw something so violent before. The runt however, was glued to his seat. Munching on popcorn and sipping his slushie.

"....I take it back. What they don't have in intelligence. They make up for in pure brutality, What's the point of those weapons and armor if they can slay you humans left and right?"

"it's better than nothing... Just watch. things will get interesting soon"

"It's already interesting. I've never seen such brutality in my life. It's almost....frightening. If those things were ever allowed to come here. They would tear into every being, every kingdom, every forest...and rip them into itty bitty bits. I don't even think I could stop them. They don't look like they'd be willing to make an alliance either. It also leaves no question why you'd prefer here to there. Your entire race must be extinct by now."

You stifle a laugh. Oh god, she was so cutely ignorant. And it was nice to see her a little fearful of the bugs....can't wait to see when the humans demolish them.

"Oh yeah, the bugs are pretty scary, but don't count the humans out just yet. This documentary hasn't even begun .”

The movie then enters the beginning class scene with Rico. Chrysalis doesn't seem to find this part too interesting. Being silent to absorb the information. Now seeing that it was indeed armor humans were wearing. "Anon...do humans always wear clothes?"

"Yeah, why?"

"Clothes are usually used for formal events to accentuate one's features. But they seem to wear it out of....necessity. oh....OH" Chrysalis starts to laugh. "Don't tell me i'm right. That's too much. You humans have no external protection whatsoever. That's incredible!"

You just stay the course, being cheerful and explanatory to every question she asks.
"yeah, we wore it for necessity. We also wore it because we considered being naked very lewd."

Chrysalis sees the affections flying every which way as the scene ends. with the kissing and relationship building among Rico and his sweetheart. "I see.....ohhhhhh"

Chrysalis gives you a very evil grin. "So then......does that mean every female you see in Equestria makes you all...hot and bothered"

fuck
"It's n-not like that. It's just...you know. they have a coat at least.that's something..so..no..I don't get hot and bothered"

Chrysalis chuckles as she sees the lies practically circle you. "so, if I say.....changed into one of your closest friends and wiggled my butt in your face; that you'd just be perfectly ok with it?"

you gulp. You had a feeling she would do it, right now, during the movie, and taunt you in front of the entire hive.
"Chrysalis...can we just focus on the documentary please?"

"I can still hear it Anon, I don't think I have to........OH MY BROOD?! WHAT ARE THEY DOING TO THAT POOR CREATURE?!"

It was on the scene where they we're dissecting the bug. she happened to take a glance right on the scene where it was being taken apart.

...that..for you..was a close call.
"Their dissecting it. to understand it better"

"WHY?!"

"I thought you didn't actually care too much about the bugs" yes..yes..you were hoping for this reaction. hehehehe

"THEY ARE STILL A WONDERFUL BREED OF BUG, ANON! AND WHAT YOUR RACE IS DOING IS WRONG! HOW WOULD YOU LIKE IT IF I OPENED YOU UP?!"

"Oh come on Chrysalis, you saw those bugs rip my kind in two. fair is fair."

"grrr..that's a matter of war, Anon. Just because your kind are a brutal and violent race doesn't mean you should go opening up an innocent bug that probably only meant to make a small meal of your useless young."

"different universe Chrysalis. And bugs aren't so innocent. They are killing machines in my universe, They see something different form them, they kill it, then eat it. No politics exist. So it's not like we can go and talk with them."

".....I see....I still don't like it. I don't even understand how your race can have trouble with theirs. If I watched everything correctly. The distance between your races is almost like a dimensional rift of sorts."

"Close, galaxies are actually really big. If you were to make a road to walk on to get from our planet to theirs. Well....I hope you could live several million years at a walking pace."

"Millions of years?....then.." That didn't seem feasible to her "...so your mode of travel moves you at speeds several times faster than any pegasi?...is that what I'm hearing?"

"Several times?...try more like over a million times. Pegasi ain't nothing compared to human engineering"

Chrysalis, for the moment, kept a few doubts in her mind. "....until I see it in this documentary, I'm going to just...hold off on that thought"

things continue on. everyone watching silently as the movie goes on. up until the dance.

"...you humans and your absolute need for romance. It's no better than a pony's. If it wasn't for the need for love, then I'd abolish it all together. It's so....stupid"

"Well. All things need to be able to love Chrysalis. Not just for a mate, but for their young. I know we've had this conversation before"

"I'm just commenting. I know there needs to be a degree of love. Especially since we feast on it. But there's just a limit to how much i could take on a visual level."

...wut?

You look at her with disdainful surprise
"Are you serious? Then why do you always try to seduce me? You know, even if it's fake, you're showing a gross display of love and lust, right?"

"But that's exactly it Anon, it's fake. it's skewing the notion of love into a twisted idea of extracting nourishment. It's diabolical really. I love it"

you sigh and focus your eyes on the movie.
"Yeah yeah...whatever.."

Chrysalis gives you a gentle rub on the head "Don't be moody Anon, just think more before you try to argue on a subject I know much more about. now hush, I want to concentrate on the documentary"

You slump on your throne. And look at your love slushie. Hmm....You wondered what it actually tasted like. You went through the trouble to liquefy it. Might as well see what the big deal is.

You take a sip through the straw.

The taste....was sugar sweet. It didn't taste like anything you've had before. And yet, it tasted...soothing. and despite it's chill. It made you feel all warm and snuggly.

Chrysalis could sense a small change in you. you were suddenly letting out vibes of love for no reason.

"Anon...Is something the matter? or does looking at human females affect you that much?"

"I dunno....it's...I think it's my drink. I feel all...cuddly..like..I want to nuzzle into something."

Chrysalis slowly hovers your slushie away from you, she can see you eyeing her. but not in a seduced way. But in a "cuddle me mommy" way. "I...think I'll be taking this away from you. I really don't want you getting all emotional."

You really wanted a hug.
"...ok..but...umm..can I..ask you something?"

Chrysalis rolls her eyes and immediately slaps you.

"OWWW!"
You rub your cheek
"what was that for?! geez!"

"Feel worse? unloved, cynical, willing to lust over something?"

"I am now..sheesh"

"Good, you're back to normal."

agh, you now realized why she slapped you. crap, you didn't think the slushie would affect you like that. Weird....

"You know, I'm surprised you humans can be so numerous. This is your military recruits right?"
You both we're at the part where Rico joins the mobile infantry.

"Yeah, what do you mean by numerous?"

"Well, if I've understood everything so far. you have citizens and civilians. And if these are just civilians who wish to become citizens. Then...well...Those are more recruits than Celestia's precious royal guard and those useless Wonderbolts put together. I could only imagine the numbers of your actual military. Then again, given the opening of this documentary. I assume one of the many tactics humans have is to throw waves of your own kind into danger until either you or your enemy is defeated. Primitive..."

She...wasn't wrong.
"yeah, that's kind of how we do things. the smarter guys do all the background work while the grunts pretty much go and die."

"I see, and given how this instructor is just breaking their arms and throwing blades into their hands. I surmise they only take either the best...or the most insane. Effective. I like it, I wish the captain had that instructor's tact. He seems to actually know what he's doing. Disciplined, goal oriented, knowledgeable. He would have made a fine drone."

It then gets to THAT scene. The shower scene
"And....ohh...ohhh...oh no. Is that what you humans look like without your clothes? IT reminds me....hold on."
Chrysalis squints her eyes. "....you're like minotaurs. but without the legs or head. That's...Why is that?"

"Well....aren't you just a bug that looks like a pony? and what about the breezies? They are like....teeny tiny ponies"

Chrysalis didn't even stop to realize that. She was a bug..and yes, she was shaped like a pony...in fact, she can turn into ponies...right. "...hmnnn, touche Anon, touche. I suppose some creatures evolve to look similar to others. Ok then, with that out of the way, The only other question I have is why is it focusing on this Rico character? Is he that important?"

"Very, it'll become clear why later"

"It better, I want to see more of the Klendathian bugs"

"We're not getting to them just yet. Right now, you're gonna see the chariot...of the humans"

Chapter 153

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

Chapter 154

You sleep as normal

Or...you thought you were

You felt as if the bed was rough and cool. Instead of warm and nuzzly.

You shiver and reach for your blanket, in which there is nothing to grab.

You slowly open your eyes
"...ugh Discord...come o-"

Your eyes go wide when you immediately notice you were outside. Nothingness around you as a planet floated over head...was that?

You quickly stand up and look around yourself, nothing but grey rock and craters.

.....you immediately figured out where you were, or where you thought you were.
"Am I...on the moon?"

You look around for Discord as you recollect your thoughts.
"Discord...Yo Discord? What the he-....wait a second"

You remembered your last action before ending up on the moon.
"...I went to sleep. And this is the moon. And..I haven't even seen Discord since he popped back in Canterlot....This isn't Discord"

You look around, it could only be the work of one other pony.
"Princess Luna! Heeeey!"

You call out for her, but....still no answer.
"Come on now, I just figured out I'm asleep. And I don't usually do the whole lucid dreaming thing. I know you gotta be here somewhere."

Indeed, normally, you have no control of yourself or the dream around you when you sleep. But you could feel the dust under your hooves, the slight weightlessness of your body, and you could say your own words. You weren't randomly on the moon. Someone had to be here.

You continue searching along the surface of the moon. Holding in any panic until you were sure you were alone and even possibly awake.

it was...actually really pretty. Shooting stars, the beauty of the planet above, a blanket of constellations, and best of all, breathable air.

and as beautiful as it was, it was also really lonely.

man....you couldn't imagine keeping your sanity here for longer than a couple of weeks.

Your trek continued for a little while longer until you finally found her. That dark blue, starry night mane. that lunar cutie mark among the darkness of night, that majesty. Luna stood ahead of you, looking up at the planet.

You carefully approached her. Now that you knew you were dreaming, you stayed at caution in case she decided to try to freak you out. You couldn't think of reason why she would. But you never know.

"Good Evening Anon, you needn't be afraid. I do not plan to scare you. Nightmare Night has ended."

You stopped as she spoke. She wasn't going to scare you? Ok..good. But, what was with just standing there? Why not just turn around then or have the dreamscape be in a more cozy spot?

"Hi..erm..Princess Luna. Can I ask why we're on the moon?"

"I thought it an appropriate spot." Luna just continued to look upwards to the planet "..It is a place where one who was appropriately judged to be a threat was sent to once"

......oh boy
"You mean you, right? When you became Nightmare Moon?"
...something about this, it was, it felt, really eerie.

"Indeed, I do mean myself. Hence why this place is most appropriate for your evaluation"

.....wut?
"Evaluation? What do you mean? I thought we were just gonna talk."

"We are..." Princess Luna finally turned around. Her expression was that of a regal ruler, ready to judge those who may have committed a crime. "We'll be doing both"

oh...what the fuck brought this on?
"But why an evaluation? Your sister seemed pretty ok with me. This isn't about where I'm from, is it?"

"It's much more than that. Understand this, Anon. If you are of just heart then there is nothing to fear. But I cannot let you continue living in Equestria when you have demonstrated ill intent, falsehoods, and cruel tendencies.Not without an evaluation at least."

....oh fuck, what!? Why the hell is she being so serious? You thought this really was gonna be some sort of social visit.
"Come on..."
you were going to be calm, and try to reason with her some of those points.
"I couldn't just tell the truth. There was a lot at stake and I was kept on a leash. But, even with my lying, I also always meant what I said. My friends are my friends, and I'd give my life to protect them. As for cruel tendencies and stuff...do you mean what I did to Twilight?"

"I mean everything you've done that can be considered that of malice..."

As she says this, many doors start to spring up. Including a few that are locked.

You look around, a little startled from the doors that were springing up.
"W-what are these? What's up with the doors?"

"These doors leads into your memories. I have not looked into them all. Only the ones that have the symbol that matches your cutie mark."

Matches your cutie mark?
You walk towards one of the doors....yeah, a few of them had your mark on them. The rest however, were normal looking or locked with some pretty strong looking padlocks.

"You may open one if you wish to see what I mean."

....so you do
You open one of the doors. Inside you see a memory.
It's when you threw Snips and Snails for a spin back in the barn. You could see it as if you were a spectator to the very event.

....oh shit, she's been peeping inside your head. for reals.

You wondered if she knew about Chrysalis. That was a secret only Celestia and you should know. Maybe that memory was behind one of those locked doors?
"..I see...so uh..what's up with the locked doors?"

"Those are memories you wish to keep far away from anypony. I have not tried to peer through them as they usually contain memories most dear and as such, must not be tampered with so lightly. Those other doors were enough."

....hopefully then, one of those doors had the changelings behind it.
"So you looked into these chaos doors? Come on Princess Luna, these don't make me evil. Whatever you saw was me just doing things out of necessity or having a little fun. Nopony got hurt."

"Perhaps, but the way you conduct yourself through these memories doesn't match what your peers think of you. Many have come to know you as the "Hero Colt". And yet that too is a lie; a lie you and Discord has since kept. Would you mind explaining that?"

oh....dammit. you knew there was a good reason you were getting sick of that being brought up.
"We kept up the lie because it made him look good, in which him looking good meant Aunt Fluttershy wouldn't have to deal with other ponies telling her and harassing her that she's hanging out with some jerk. Being the father of an adopted hero tends to get you all kinds of respect. I feel bad that it's a con, yeah. But if it means Aunt Fluttershy benefits, then I'm all good."

Luna never dropped her regal stance. She was going to take this all the way. It was quite the contrast from when you saw her in the bath. But maybe she didn't take it all too well from learning the truth about you.

" "Aunt" Fluttershy. Even when I know the truth, you still refer to her as your aunt?"

"Well, yeah. Like I said. I actually care about her. Even though she doesn't know the truth of it all, she treats me like i'm her family. So yeah, If it means her being happy, then I'm all for it"

"But if you could tell her the truth, would you do it?"

"........." You had to think about that for a moment, you had to choose your words wisely.
"I mean, yeah, course I would. But I can't. It'd break her heart to know it was all just a lie. Besides, it's not like my old body exists anymore. So it's not a complete lie either."

"Because you were reborn, hmnnn. I suspect my sister has already had a similar discussion with you that lead to that reasoning.” Luna seemed to take a moment to deeply reflect on that. “Curious, I may have to ask her a few things tomorrow. Well then...moving on"

All the doors close and sink into the moon.
"Come Anon, let us walk and talk. Even in the dream world, standing idly for too long can give one quite an ache in the legs."

Luna began to walk past you, expecting you to follow. You do so.
"Anon, do you miss your old home?"

"Earth? Not too much, there were a few cool things I left behind yeah. But after living in Ponyville, it all seems pretty empty now."

"How so? Isn't there somepony you miss? Or would go back to had you the chance to go back?"

That question sounded a little loaded. Or more so, it made you sound like you didn't enjoy being plucked out of your world by Discord.
"No, there's nopony,or rather, no one worth going back to. Friendship and warmth isn't something humans do really well in the time and age I live in. Nowhere at the level Equestria has it anyway."

"And you value those things?"

You nod
"I do, I know it sounds dumb considering how those doors made me look. And I admit, I had a lot of fun causing a little trouble, especially during Nightmare Night. But I also enjoy snuggling, or helping my friends out of a jam, like when the Flim Flam brothers scammed us earlier."

"So why not focus on those things? You needn't be a troublemaker as well"

Now hold on, was she actually expecting you to not be able to enjoy being a little bit of an ass? Well, being an ass isn't a good thing. But you came to like it, especially after last night. It was fun messing with Twilight, it was fun messing with the brothers and beating those griffons. And furthermore , by admission of her own journal, she was capable of being a trickster as well. Maybe not as big as her sister, but still.

"Now hold on there Princess. I know this is an evaluation and all. But you REALLY can't expect me to change who I am for the sake of pure goodness. I'm Discord's partner,friend, and son. And I actually like causing some chaos now and again."

"Only because of his influence on you. I remember descriptions of you being rather meek unless there was a pressing matter at hand, now you actually enjoy causing chaos?"

"Only if it's fun and harmless. You know, like you and your sister"

"What do you mean?"

...you wondered, this was a dreamscape. If Scootaloo could fly around within it. Maybe you could make some visual examples.

"I mean things like this..."
You show a few moments you could remember of Celestia being a troll. And even create a few images of others being rather tricky or wrong.
"...Unless you're going to tell me none of this happened"
Checkmate. Screw her evaluation. Her sister may have been the previous holder of the Element of Laughter, but Luna, according to the journal, had pulled pranks herself. You wouldn’t let her escape her hypocrisy.

"So....this is your counterargument?"Luna was looking around at it all, but her expression didn't change.

"It is, everypony has a little bit of chaos in them Luna. From..."
You make a "Lesson Zero" Twilight appear
"Even Equestria's golden girl here has her moments. As long as I don't become an evil jerk, then it shouldn't be a problem."

"Anon, what if you were to delve deeper into chaos?"
Suddenly, a dark shadowy you appears over a small illusion of Ponyville.
"Would you be able to resist the temptations of conquering Equestria with that power your father gave you? I've seen the surface of your dreamscape. I know what horrors you could conjure"

The dark version of you shoots a black energy into Ponyville, utterly destroying it as the shadow form laughs maniacally.

That's some 80s style cartoon tactics she was using. But that's something you had. knowledge of cartoon cliches and tropes. She was either trying to deter you from chaos altogether or she just wanted to know you'd be responsible with your power. She knew that you weren't as much as a pussy as you were in your first days in Equestria.

"You assume I'd let the power go to my head. Princess, I don't know if you know or not. But the horn is just one use a day. So even if I did go mad with power. It wouldn't last."

"But what if your power was absolute?"

"Even if it was, I can't see myself destroying everypony I care about just to conquer the world."
And now you wondered. Why all these questions? Was she really afraid you were going to go off the rails? Did she really just want to send you back? Was it an evaluation? This was starting to become confusing.
"Princess Luna, can I ask you a question?"

Luna nodded "You may"

"Why all these questions? Are you really afraid I'm gonna go nuts or something? You remember Discord could cut me down himself if he wanted to. There's no way he'd let me go and do something like destroy Ponyville. Aunt Fluttershy lives there you know. He'd end me instantly for that."

"I'm aware"

"Then why?"

"Because this is an evaluation. Even if I knew the answers before you said them. There's always a possibility that I could be wrong, or the chance that you will realize something you may have not thought was important before. It also reinforces the fact that just because you have such power and status. That you are not above being dealt with should you gain a lust of power"

........it just hit you. Possibly, the real reason she was doing all this.

She had no reason to evaluate you, all the information was already right there. And she had a sister she could have discussed this with.

So that left one thing that would be on her mind. The reason the setting was up on the moon.
"You just don't want me to become another Nightmare Moon. You're afraid that from what you've seen, and my Cutie Mark, and my recent actions would lead to me trying to destroy everything"

That had to be it. Which meant that the only reason the evaluation exists is because of her own fears. A fear of you becoming some sort of megalomaniac. Man, it really amazed you when your cartoon knowledge actually worked out a conclusion like this.

"You really are well spoken...." Luna was impressed. She was thinking you'd just go along with her faux evaluation until she came to her own conclusion about you. But instead, she was figured out rather quickly. "Yes...I was afraid you were on a road none should ever tread. Everything I witnessed from your dreamscape, your memories, and learning the truth about you. I wanted to take extra measures in making sure that leaving you to your own devices was not a mistake. But now that you've figured it out. Can I really trust you? Are you being sincere? Or are you trying to fool me into leaving you be?"

You couldn't fault her. If it's one problem Equestria did have was beings suddenly becoming evil because of.....reasons. You surmised that with access to your human memories that she may have felt sure of her thoughts. None of the old world memories must have been too pleasant to view. Still, it also felt like sort of an honor thing. Having the bigwigs of Equestria looking upon you like this. You just had to make sure that you didn't fuck up.

You look up at her, and try giving her a gentle smile. See if that would ease the mood.
"Would giving you a hug help? I did mention I like affection. Can't have affection if I wanna blow everything up, right?"

Chapter 155

But Luna did not ready herself for a hug. She just continued to look at you, judging you.
"Anon, now is not the time for hugs and affection. Nor will I be swayed by it."

Well...shit. She was really serious about this.

This was actually difficult. She was more of a wall than her sister. And she has the advantage of looking in on some of your memories. In all actuality. That made you feel kind of violated that she'd just do that. There could have been some serious shit you didn't want her seeing. Or rather, there is some shit she should never ever see. But you couldn't just argue with her....Well you could, but that wouldn't end well for you. Especially since the dream world was her turf. No, you had to think smart.

….
…….
………..
.....you got nothing.

"..ok..no hugs then. Princess Luna, look. I promise you, I would never ever do anything to actually hurt anypony. Unless, you know, they really really deserved it. I don't have any intention of conquering the world either. I mean,come on, what would I do with the whole world? That's way too much for somepony like me."

"All but words Anon, all but words. I too wouldn't know what to do with all of Equestria. But it didn't stop me from trying to conquer it....well...actually"

Luna rubbed under her muzzle with her hoof, thinking about her time as Nightmare Moon "I suppose wanting to cover everything in eternal night was one thing I wanted. But then, considering that, you could have an irrational desire to want to rule all and subject us to something insane. I know not how a human thinks, but it’s plausible nonetheless."

"But that's when you were Nightmare Moon and crazed by the want of revenge, I have no reason to want revenge on that grand a scale. I mean, heck, I actually sort of did an elements of harmony thing of actually reforming a pony that wanted just that, to conquer Eq....woah wait. Actually, wouldn't that count? I reformed a huge threat to Equestria on my own. And made her good. And I did it with the power given to me"

Luna didn't react to that. Instead, a huge door appeared to the right side of you. It had Starlight's cutie mark embroidered on the top, and a huge padlock with chains holding the door closed.
"Yes, I'm aware of that. It's something I wanted to investigate. to witness how you actually managed to do it. But, as you can see. The door leading to the memory is inaccessible by normal means."

Sheesh, it is....why?

You walk over to the door, and rub your hoof along one of the chains.
"You can't open it?"

"I could, but it'd take some time. Memories like these are usually the kind that ponies don't want anypony else knowing about. Hence why I don't understand why they'd be on this memory. I'd think you'd be proud of it. The only reason for there to be chains is if you had something you hide."

Had something to hide? What did y-.....oh shit..that's right. Within this same memory had to be the fact that Starlight knows about Chrysalis. Yeah, that'd be a very good reason why it couldn't be opened.
"Errr...yeah. There kind of is.."

You had to think fast, and had to be careful not to lie, you had no idea if Luna could pick up on it or not.

"And that is?" Luna asks, wondering what it could be.

"Well, you see. Ummm, I kind of turned Starlight into a filly to get her to calm down. I even zapped her horn away..and she kind of ...erm...."

You ham it up a little. If anything, what you had in mind was indeed the truth.

"...she did what?" Luna asks

"She, kind of clobbered me...a little"

Luna looks at the huge size of the chains. If that's what you were hiding, to her, that meant it was more than just "a little"
"I see. oh Anon, There's no shame in taking a beating if you still accomplished such a noble deed."

Luna's serious armor took a bit of a crack there, she actually felt sorry for you that you seemed embarrassed that you took a thrashing.

"yeah...but she was a girl..and I'm a boy...you know."

Luna raised an eyebrow "I know what?...is there a problem with being a girl?"

Ok ok...you didn't wanna go down that road. At least it looked like she was willing to back down from wanting to crack open the lock.

"N-no, I just mean that getting beat up...you know. It just makes me feel really ashamed."

Luna sighed "Anon, as I said. There's no reason to feel ashamed. Even the best of us will take a beating from the most unlikely of sources when it comes to accomplishing our goals. I can see however, that it affects you most deeply. So...If my sister can trust you. Then I'll take you at your word."

You sigh heavily...thank fucking god.
"Thank you Princess Luna, you are most kind"

"Your most welcome. Anon, my intention is not to frighten or shame you. This visit serves two purposes. One, it is to make sure that you are not going to put any of my subjects in jeopardy. And two, it is to make sure you yourself will not come to harm or self harm. I know of ponies care for you through my pass through your friends’ dreams. And I know you care about them as much as they care about you. The only thing I find saddening is the fact it's built upon a lie."

you cringe a little at that. That's...one way to summarize it. Not the way you like to hear it.
"I know..but, my feelings for them really are true. I'm being honest about that. I truly mean it. Heck, if Applebloom, or Sweetie Belle, Diamond Tiara, Aunt Fluttershy, all my friends...even Discord. If I had to choose between them and ultimate power. I'd choose them"
Cheesy as fuck...but you meant it.

"I believe you Anon, but mark my words. You will be dealt with personally if you have a change of heart. The power you are allowed to wield is not something we take lightly."

You bow to her, wanting to show her you both understand and respect her decision. Damn, this was a little humiliating to be honest.Not even Chrysalis dominates you this harshly. Well, she threatens destruction on you sometimes. But she's usually really seductive about it.

You look up at Luna, if that was all to be said. Then you try again for that hug. That way you can cement the fact you liked affections. Also plus you'd really like to hug her. You knew she could be a softee if she wanted to be. You thought if you appealed to her softer side, maybe the next time you see her it wouldn't be all...well...whatever you call this.
"So uh....if we're done then...how about that hug? hmm?"

"Now is not the time for hugs, Anon. There is still one more matter to discuss before my departure." She says with stern seriousness. Sheesh, what else could there be?

"What is it?"

"How do I defeat the ice cave?"

.........wuuuuuuuuuuuut? Out of all the things that made your mind wig out. That had to be the most fucking random.

"....What do you mean by that?"

"The ice cave. In world six of the Super Brothers Third game that came on your strange box. There is an ice cave in which I keep going right and yet keep finding myself in the same spot. It vexes me"

.......
................................
...................................................................................
"..........uhh..."

"Do not toy with me Anon. I know you know the secret to obtaining victory. I have crushed the other two games before it within the night and I will not be conquered by a mere loop. Tell me the secrets that I must know!"

.......so..first super serious business....and now you were a game guide? Holy shit Luna, was this really a priority after she just fucking scared the shit out of you with this bullshit?

".....u-uhmm..well. If it's the stage I'm thinking of. The reason why it loops is because it's giving you the racoon tail. In which you need to use to fly up in the near beginning of the cave with I think a turtle shell. So you can enter this pipe and beat the stage"

Luna rubbed under her muzzle. Thinking. Pondering. "...hmmmmm, I had not yet tried such a strategy....I must make sure to do that before my next night."

....seriously....she just SERIOUSLY asked you for game advice after suspecting you of eventually going villain mode.......Very classy.
"I hope it helps, so...did you try the lost levels?"

"The lost levels?...oh ahhh, you mean the other first mario game. No, it looked too much of the same. I wasn't interested."

...oh ho...OH HO. She wasn't interested she says.

Actually, this might be a good thing to take advantage of. It seems she had taken to video gaming like her fan depictions would imply. Did it have to do with the "idea" theory?

It could also be cute. Though, you hope the suggestion you were about to make wouldn't make her go all Nightmare Moon due to massive failure.
"It is the same as the first. But with all new levels, poison mushrooms, wind, and the difficulty is the hardest of the mario games."

That caught Luna's attention. "The hardest you say?"

"Without question"

Luna scoffed "Then I accept the challenge of the "Lost Levels". And will crush it as soon as I am done with Super Brothers Third."

..yeah..that was actually pretty adorable. She looked so sure of herself. She must have really taken to the gaming thing. and hopefully, this was taking out any ill thoughts she may have of you in the process.

"Good luck Princess Luna, you're really going to need it. But I'm glad you're having fun with it. The mario series was one of my favorite game series of all times when I was human."

"I can see why. It's superior to our games by an astronomical number. I have to pace myself to make sure I do not forget my duties...oh yes...ahrm"

She clears her throat. She had forgotten that she still had business with you. One more matter to be exact.

She looks at you once again with a serious look and hardened tone. "Anon, I, Princess Luna, am putting trust in you. Trust I hope to never be broken. Do you understand?"

You nod "Yes, thank you"

"Good....now then." Luna sits herself down onto her belly, and gives you a gentle smile "Hugging and affection can now commence."

She was serious? hopefully. that was the most official sounding way of having affection you ever heard.

"Anon? why are you standing there? There isn't too much time until you awake. If you wish for some affection, it must be now."

Whatever, fuck it, moon princess hugs.

You move in and hug and cuddle under her head, Luna's affection wasn't as good compared to her sister. But she was trying.

For Luna, she was indulging you to see if wanting affection really was something you'd want. It even surprised her when you actually went for it and began rubbing your head under hers. She did her best to be affectionate back. To you, It was adequate.

you didn't really understand why you enjoyed affection so much. Did Chrysalis fuck you up? is it because ponies are super cute and huggable? or perhaps it was just the feeling of being loved and cared for. Probably all of the above. You never got this feeling much, if ever back in your world. And even when you did, it never felt real. It never felt as if the person showing affection ever truly meant it.

as you nuzzle, everything begins to shine white and turn to nothing.

You wake up

Chapter 156

You open your eyes.

You give your forehead a gentle rub. Woah, that was wild. You weren't used to waking up from a dream that was somewhat real. And knowing it was Luna visiting you right from the get go made it all the more awkward.

It's a good thing you passed that evaluation. Everything should go smoother now that your business with the princesses were done and that Nightmare Night was over.

You get up out of bed and stretch as you yawn. Yup, today was gonna be a normal day.

You go to your floor door and open it, expecting the usual delicious and nutritious breakfast.

You look down....nothing. hrmm.

You travel down the gravity stairs and look around the living room.

Empty

"Discord?...yo...you around?"

No answer

...in fact, yeah, you really haven't seen him since you both lost the challenge.

"Discord? Come on man, it's morning.....hmmnnn"

Still no answer.

You look towards the trap door leading to the basement. You would have asked Chrysalis if she's seen him. But….maybe not.

.....shit.....no question. He must have taken the loss really hard.

But, what could you do about it? Unless you knew where he was, you couldn't know for sure.
"Dammit Discord...come on. I hope you're not doing anything stupid"

You walk back up into your room. And grab your saddlebag. The horn was gonna be useless for the day. So even if you thought of an advanced tracking measure. You'd have no way of using it.

Maybe...hrmmm.

You walk up to the dial of your portal door and switch it to the second setting, Fluttershy's cottage.
"Maybe Fluttershy has seen him..."

You open the portal door and step through.

In an instant, you found yourself in front of the cottage. But things did not sound peaceful. You could hear someone sobbing inside the cottage.

And you recognized those sobs anywhere. It was Discord. ahhh shit. Was he here the entire night? christ, how long has he been crying?

You go and knock on the door. No answer.
"yeah, not like they'd be able to hear me over all that crying"

Poor guy, he really took that loss too hard. Maybe you shouldn't put too much thought into it. Considering how much he really wanted to win.

You put your hoof on the door handle. Maybe the door itself was unlocked. Maybe a little dose of Anon could cheer Discord up.

What luck, the door is unlocked!
"haha! thank....oh....well...shit"
Your ears droop as you open the door, a wall of water greeting you as you step back in fright.

You have enough time to gulp and raise your hooves to block your face as you’re hit by a tidal wave of tears and sent flying backwards.
"SGFGFGFGFD"

Your words were flubbed by being underwater as you are taken several yards backwards until the water is low enough for you to slide across the ground on your back.

You lay there as a little boat carrying Angel passes you by. And as you spit up a stream of water like a park statue. Fluttershy, holding onto a chair, lands right next to you.

"..oh my....maybe I should have opened the door sooner" Fluttershy muttered, feeling nervous as she clung on to the chair, looking back at the cottage while she hears Discord's continued sobbing.

"U-ugh...t-that was such a bad idea." You mutter

"Hm?" Fluttershy turned her head, and noticed you laying on the ground.

"Anon? What are you doing out here?"

You sat up, got on all fours, and started shaking like a dog. Trying to get dry. "..ugh...going for a swim apparently. My head is spinning"

"Spinning?..Oh no..did you get hit by the water?" Fluttershy asked as she hopped off the chair and started to inspect you, looking for injuries.

"Yeah...I'm ok though, just a little wet behind the ears."
Your head was still rattled from the wave. Sheesh. Well, at least you knew where Discord was now.

"Are you sure you're not hurt? Can you see straight? do you feel any pain when you move?" Fluttershy was checking your body and even lifting your legs one at a time, inspecting for any injury whatsoever.

"I-i'm fine Aunt Fluttershy. Umm, is my dad ok?"

"Discord? oh...well..." Fluttershy sighed "I don't know, he woke me up this morning crying about some sort of competition. I've tried to get him to calm down so he can tell me the whole story. But he just won't stop. I thought if I let him cry it all out then everything would be ok"

"How long has he been crying?"

".........three hours"

....christ.

"....Anon, do you know what's going on? I don't know what else to do. I've tried hugging him, talking to him, giving him a hoof massage, I even tried a lullaby. But he won't stop. It's very very worrying. He's doesn't usually get this upset."

"Yeah, I do.."

You explain to Fluttershy the challenge Discord made to the princesses. Omitting the gory or suspect details as to not upset or frighten her.

Fluttershy pondered on that "I guess for a chaos spirit like Discord, that would be very upsetting. But, you don't seem all too upset about it. And....wait...How did I miss that?"

"Miss what?"

Fluttershy noticed your cutie mark. She gave it a gentle rub. Thinking maybe it was some dirt. But..nope...it didn't come off. It was the real deal. "Your cutie mark, Anon. I didn't know you had gotten yours yet.......what does it mean?"

Ohhhh, "what does it mean" she asks. You wondered how'd she react if you told her what it meant. You couldn't lie to her about this. Nor..did you want to.

In fact, it would be interesting to see her reaction. it'd let you know how much she actually cares.
"It's the symbol of Chaos. It means I'm kinda good at it. That's not a problem..right?"

"Oh no no no, I'm actually very proud you have your cutie mark. I just don't understand why it'd be chaos. I don't remember you doing anything chaotic." She seemed both worried and proud at the same time. She didn’t really seem to know exactly how to react.

...how to explain this.
"Well, it's probably just the stuff I do with my horn. Like last night I..."

"FLUTTERSHY! FLUTTERSHY WHERE ARE YOUUUUU!" Discord cried out for his friend. Looks like the story would have to wait.

"Oh no....Anon, can you hold that thought and help me with your father? Maybe if he knows he has the support of the family, he'll calm down." Fluttershy turns and starts to walk back to the cottage.

You follow her. Well, looks like the cutie mark didn't shake her opinion of you any. She was just curious as to the why. She probably would have been celebrating right there and then had it not been for the situation at hand.

"Yeah, of course. If Dad's in trouble then of course I'll help"

That made Fluttershy smile "Oh Anon, you're so sweet and caring. I'm sure the moment your father sees the both of us, that all that badness will just disappear."

You hoped so.

You both enter the cottage. Cripes, it was a mess. Everything was thrown about and dripping from the sea of tears. Discord laid himself on the couch, tears coming from his eyes, he was in complete despair.

"Ohhh Discord, look who came to see you, he's been very worried about you" Fluttershy said in her soothing soft voice.

"Fluttershy, I don't think Mr.Bear cares for me very much at all..." Discord whined as he wiped his eyes with an ice cube.

"Discord,it's your son. Doesn't that make you happy?"

"My son?......hmph" Discord leans up and looks at you with hate filled eyes. "...I have no son...traitor"

woah what the fuck?!
"What? what are you talking about?! Dad, are you messing with me?"

"No, I would think you're messing with me. I saw you fraternizing with Celestia. Who I remind you was one of the two opponents that we lost to. Tell me Anon, did you enjoy all that cuddling?"

.........

………

…….yes

But come on, that was AFTER everything was done. You didn't know he'd interpret that as betrayal. It was just socializing really.
"Geez Dad, come on. Don't take this out on me. I mean, what the hay! I haven't seen you since last night and that's how you react?"

So much for "Oh Anon, how I missed you". Seems he suddenly didn't trust you.

"Discord, is that anyway to greet your son?" Fluttershy went to your defense "He came here to try to cheer you up, not hurt you!"

"Could have fooled me, You should have seen him Fluttershy. He was nuzzling, and cuddling with her. Even gave her a gift. He didn't care about losing at all"

"Dad...geez. I did feel bad for losing but it was still a friendly competition. You're not supposed to automatically hate and be angry at your opposition, that's just being a sore loser."

"...Discord, I agree with Anon. I thought something was really wrong. But if this is over you losing a game then you need to calm down right now. You're a father, can you imagine the example you’re setting right now for Anon by acting this way?" Fluttershy, now knowing what happened, shifted gears to try to get Discord to realize he was acting like a child.

Discord whimpered like a puppy at those words "...Fluttershy...don't say things like that. It makes it sound like you're not on my side."

"Discord, I care about you, I really really really do. But this is silly. You can't sulk on this forever. So what if you lost a silly competition? In my eyes, you're still the master of chaos and disorder. Though...ummm...it's good you don't do that too much anymore"

"Yeah Dad, come on. We only lost because they duped us with a stupid trick. Had we both been awake, we would have had the win for sure"

Discord turns around and hugs his face into the couch as he whined. "...but we still lost."

"Awww Discord....come on, please?" Fluttershy would attempt one more gentle assertion to try to get him to calm down. She hovers up to him, and gives him a gentle pet along his head. "So what if you lost? Really...you're a winner in both our eyes. Right Anon?"

you almost sigh. You didn't really want to admit that after he blamed you for no reason. But if it helped… "Yeah, without you Dad, I wouldn't be here, or have my cutie mark, or have so many friends. That makes you the bestest Dad I could ever have!"
You smile so hard you squee involuntarily.

"You're both just saying that. How could you both care about me when I'm a failure?" Discord whined once again.

"Discord, you're not a failure. If you wanted to, you could send all of Ponyville into a crazy vortex of chaos and craziness! The princesses can't do that." Fluttershy tries to reassure him once again.

Discord turns to her, and raises his talons, ready to snap "...Do you think I should send Ponyville into a crazy vortex? It might make me feel a little better" He gives her big puppy dog eyes.

Fluttershy panics and quickly yet gently puts his talons down with her hooves. "Let's....not and say we did." She giggles nervously

You cringed hard. Sheesh, that would have been something he'd never be able to recover from when Twilight would come around to bark at him.

"Well...if not that. then what? Without chaos, there is only harmony. And that's so.....boring"

Fluttershy was doing her best to convince him "Oh Discord, Harmony isn't so bad. It's nice, and relaxing, and nothing bad happens. It's really quite nice"

Discord crosses his arms "Really quite boring you mean"

goddammit, come on. He was being a baby.

"Dad, it happened in a dream. A DREAM! You know you could take them easily in the waking world. What else do you need?"

"I don't know...unless it comes right through that door, I may be like this for a very very long time." Discord says, his voice nasally, he had to take some of Fluttershy's mane to blow his nose.

Well you doubted that was going to happen.

.....or...what if it does? There's suddenly a knocking on the door.

All three of you look at the door, then you and Fluttershy look back at Discord with suspicion. You more so than her, that seemed TOO convenient.

Discord shrugged "W-what? I didn't do that. That's just pure coincidence. "

Fluttershy hesitates, but she flies over to the door to answer it as you slip next to Discord and whisper to him.
"Seriously? You seriously can't get over this?"

Discord rolled his eyes at you "I'm dead serious Anon. Being out chaos'd, even in the dreamworld, is soul crushing. Especially when I won't be getting another chance at it any time soon."

"Well, I lost too you know. And you don't see me being a whiny baby."

Meanwhile

"Hello? who's out there?" Fluttershy asks

"Oh....urm, it's me Miss Fluttershy. Diamond Tiara. Can I come in?"

.......wut?

Your ears immediately perk up the moment you hear that voice.
"What the...Diamond? What's she doing here? Why?"

Discord's tears began to vanish as he grinned "Well now, this could get interesting."

"Diamond Tiara? Oh, I know that name...but, can I ask why you're here?" Fluttershy asked, her voice as soft as a pillow.

" Oh! Um, I just want to drop something off for Anon. He kind of disappeared last night, so I volunteered to drop off his share of the candy....can I come in?"

Awww that's sweet......wait...WAIT

That was DT, her love for you was pretty obvious. She couldn't keep it contained. You didn't want her to get all googly eyed with Discord present.

"...oh Anon, I can see it on your face. You don't want to get all embarrassed in front of me and Fluttershy, do you?" He whispers to you. Seems he recovered fast.

"...come on Discord, you wouldn't fuck with me on this one would you? I'm asking for a freebie here."

"A freebie?...hrn..." Discord shrugged "Alright"

Alright?

"What do you mean by "Alright?" "

"It means I won't interfere, not like I have to. The way she dotes on you is simply precious. It's the chaos of the heart. Just good enough to lift me from this dire mood."

You looked towards the window. and contemplated running. But...agh, you didn't want to just run out on Fluttershy and worry her.

Discord gives you a fist bump on the cheek "Oh buck up Anon, and take your lumps. I'm doing you a favor.Do you know how many of your kind would love this opportunity.....as sick as it is"

"That's exactly why. She's too young Discord, and it's your fault she fell in love with me!"

"Uhhhhhh...no. If I remember correctly, I wanted to kidnap her. You stopped me with your less than favorable fighting maneuvers, therefore winning her affections"

Meanwhile

"Oh...that's sweet of you to come by. You're in for a surprise actually, Anon happens to be inside right now!" Fluttershy opens the door and greets her with a smile "So you can give him the candy yourself if you want."

"Really! he's here!" Diamond Tiara looked so excited and happy. She was already darting her head about trying to spot you.

"Mhmm, wow, I didn't think you'd be that happy to see him. Did something happen between you two?" Fluttershy asks, confused.

"Oh..no no, I umm..just returning the candy and was just happy nopony would have to hold on to it for him." Diamond Tiara said as she hid her smile. And stepped inside.

Shit...it was too late to think of a plan.

"Helllooooooo Little Tiara, how are you this morning?" Discord waved happily at her.

"Mister Discord! Hello! and..oh" Diamond Tiara blushed when she saw you "Anon, I brought your candy for you. I thought you'd appreciate it."

She had a saddle bag on, and she reached into it with her mouth to tug on a little piece of rope that was wrapped around a smaller sack. And she put it down right in front of you and smiled. She was like a puppy dog bringing the stick back to it’s master.

"Ohhh, I bet he appreciates it greatly. Don't you Anon?" Discord says as he floats off the couch and flips upside down above you, giving you a pat on the head.

.....she was admittingly cute, while she waited for the answer. But man, you could tell she only agreed to this because it gave her an opportunity to do something good for you. Why couldn't it be a few years later? Then maybe..
"Yeah, I almost forgot about it actually. Thanks Diamond, but you really didn't have to. you know"

"Don't have to? Then who was going to do it?" Diamond asked, actually interested in the answer. She felt she was the only one who could.

mmnnnnnn....And you could tell she was gonna get a little snobby if you mentioned anyone else.
"Well, I guess I don't know. Since nopony else stepped up, I suppose you really are the only one who could do it. Thanks again"

"And you're welcome again!" Diamond Tiara goes back to having a happy grin. "You're going to be so thrilled about the candy inside, it's all the kinds you'd never get to eat if you were poor...umm..I'm not saying you are. I'm...just saying the candy is expensive."

smooth.

Fluttershy looks upon the both of you and smiles, she couldn't help but find the moment adorable and heart warming "Anon, is she your marefriend? She's very nice"

ngh...

You grimace for a quick moment before smiling nervously, sweating a little.
"Ohhh Thank you miss Fluttershy! But I'm not Anon's marefriend"

...oh....ok she took that-

Nope, she moves up next to you and gently rubs her head at the side of yours "I'm just one of his closest friends. I care about him very very much. But.." She stops and smiles at Fluttershy, then at Discord. "If I ever did become his marefriend, would it be ok if I married him? Just asking."

You cough...goddammit!

Chapter 157

Discord didn't hesitate to take advantage of the situation. "Would it be ok? oh ho, little Diamond Tiara. I would be absolutely honored if you married my son. If he became your coltfriend of course."

....that..son of a..

"Wait..Shouldn't Anon have a choice in this?" Fluttershy asked, she noticed you were looking pretty flustered.

"Oh my dear dear Fluttershy" Discord slithered through the air next to her and positions his talons with his paws to make it look like she was looking at a portrait. He aimed right at you and Diamond Tiara. And between his paw and talons. Fluttershy could see you in a tux and Diamond Tiara in a wedding dress with the area looking like a wedding chapel. "Don't you think they'd make such a lovely little couple? I can't think of a cuter pair"

Fluttershy just stared through Discord's paw and talons. Thanks to the change in scenery, she started to come to the conclusion that it wasn't a bad idea. "Well....they do look like they'd make a very cute couple. and......and...." Fluttershy started to tear up.

Discord lowered his arms. He didn't mean for her to cry, he didn't even know why she was.

"Miss Fluttershy, are you ok? What's wrong?" Diamond Tiara had noticed her tears and grew worried.

To you, you think Discord did something...you..just didn't know what. "Dad?! What the hay?! What did you do?!"

"Hey! Don't blame me! I don't even know what I did!" Discord was astonished. He really didn't know.

"A-anon, d-don't blame your father. H-he didn't do anything wrong.." Fluttershy sniffed, and wiped her tears away with her hoof. "I j-just....c-cry at weddings...I'm sorry"

CRY AT WEDDINGS?! BUT THERE WAS NO WEDDING! WHAT DID DISCORD DO!?

Your eye was twitching as Diamond Tiara walked up to Fluttershy and nuzzled onto her "It's ok Miss Fluttershy, if you're thinking about how the wedding would go. I promise i'd make sure it'd be the best and most glamorous wedding you ever saw."

"O-ok...I..I just don't know why I feel so sad. I guess it's because I-I've only k-k-known Anon for so long and now...now..." Fluttershy starts to cry "He's going to get m-m-married sooooooon!"

......oh sheesh..SHESSH...DWFDSES
You were going to have a meltdown.

"I-t's ok Miss Fluttershy. I'd never move far away or anything. You could still see him whenever you want. I promise it'd be ok" Diamond Tried to reassure her

"....yo-you're so s-s-weeeeeet..ngghhh" Fluttershy grabbed Diamond Tiara and sobbed right into her.

......good fucking christ. All three of them were acting as if there was going to be a wedding tomorrow.

You shifted your eyes to Discord. Who then gave you a thumbs up and a toothy grin.

.......you were now beet red with anger.

You growled and grit your teeth as you spoke.
"Dad....can I speak to you privately....outside?"

Discord nods "Of course son" Discord turns to Diamond Tiara and gives her a gentle smile "Little Diamond, would you mind tending to Fluttershy while I have a word with my son"

Diamond nodded and continued to console Fluttershy as you and Discord stepped outside.

You both step a few feet from the cottage. And the moment you both do...
"What...the fuck...was that!"

"Hmmm?" Discord tilted his head and rested it on his arm "hmm.....ohh...thaaaat. That was me toying with you while at the same time securing you a nice girl for you to marry for when you get older."

This fucker...going from depressed about losing to messing with you with a big smile as quick as a switch flick. godfucking dammit.

"Nice girl to marry?! WHAT?! I Don't know if you noticed. But she's utterly obsessed with me. And you...YOU...if you remember. Told me NOT to go that far with any of the fillies. So what happened?!"

Discord shrugged "I also told you not to use foul language but that doesn't stop you. I simply stopped caring Anon. I don't know why you're surprised. I stop caring all the time.You're fine as long as you aren't kissing and rubbing on her rump. I trust you, though I'd like to be the one to do the decorating for the reception if you don't mind."

your patience was thinning.
"Look...You can't just fucking expect me to just shack up with her. Even if it's a joke. She doesn't think it’s one. Did you ever EVER think that maybe things would change when she and I get older?"

"Of course I did, I just hope our other guest doesn't hide under your bed while you both mate"

........
You jump up at Discord's neck with all your might and try choking him
"I'LL FUCKING KILL YOU!"

Discord just snickers as he grasps you gently from his neck and rubs your head with his other hand. Stopping your choking as you mutter and groan. He holds you up at eye level with a more sincere smile on his face "Anon, I'm just trying to make sure you have a chance with a girl. I know your habits and luck while you were a human and I highly doubt you'd have ever found companionship alone."

You continue to groan. Why did he have to bring that up?

"It's not like you have to marry her now. Just treat her like a good friend until you’re both teenagers. Then, sweep her off her hooves. It's not that hard. It happens in all those romance novels"

You sigh a heavy sigh. It seems the odds were against you. If you were a full blown asshole you would have just left her to Discord's devices that time ago. But nope, you saved her. And you could never tell her why. Not only because it'd reveal the truth, but you didn't think you could even handle her having a breakdown. it'd be world ending to her.Well, maybe it wouldn't be that bad, maybe you were overreacting? But if this went on, you could end up with her following you around like a little puppy.

ugh.....this was difficult. your more instinctual needs are even telling you that it's not that bad, since it's a girl. But your mind, you knew, just from watching the episodes, that fillies have a tendency to get into trouble.

Well...actually. the CMC do. Buuuuut, you were sure now that DT was good that she could end up in her own mess of trouble.

Your ears begin to droop as you just silently think of a solution, but can think of nothing.

Discord starts to gently pet you gently on the ears like a dog "Take it from me Anon, given all the study I had to do to even select you as a candidate, You should definitely keep yourself open to the idea. Lest you end up like your fellow humans you interact with on that image board of yous"

You grumble, you almost forgot about that place. Full of lost souls who jack it to all things pony. Forever alone, and bitch about anything whether it's good, bad, or even makes sense.
"...I hate to admit this...but you have a point...I guess"

"Splendid! Splendid! I'm glad you're willing to listen to reason. Now that we have that settled. IS there anything else you'd like to discuss?"

.....yes actually. There was.
"Yeah, how is it you can cry and whine for hours then cheer up the moment you have a chance to mess with me. I almost thought you'd never be able to pull out of that depression spiral at all"

"Oh that, well. I couldn't miss an opportunity like this.It's practically a once in your lifetime chance. So I just thought of a funny little joke and sprang into action."

...a funny...little...joke. This guy will always be too much. That was his explanation....that was it. No, not the fact Fluttershy, his best friend, had been consoling him all morning. Or you also came to try to help him, since you were there....but nope, a funny little joke. Which translated to him just loving to mess with you. as usual.

"Right....fine. The situation can't get any worse anyway. But just ease up on it at least...Alright? ok? as your pal..can you do that for me?"

Discord sighed and hovered over to the cottage door. "Fine, but only because I don't want to get TOO into this and agree to something stupid such as allowing her into the house while we have our bug infestation."

You walk over to the door with him.
"Yeah, exactly. And I doubt she'd keep her mouth shut about it. But yeah, let me just handle this from now on."

Discord opens the door "Yes, I know, I'll let you handle it. Just don't expect me to be able to help when you eventually screw up and have her in tears."

as the door opens, you see Diamond Tiara sitting in front of Fluttershy. They were both...giggling?

"Well I do know Anon likes to be cuddled with. He becomes so gentle and sleepy when I put my wing over him, it's like he was a little baby foal...."

....oh...what the hell. Shit..SHIT...leaving them alone was a bad idea!

Discord also heard these words, and looked at you with a sinister smirk.

You look back at him with puffed up anger, you knew what he was thinking, and right as you were going to announce that you were back.

"I'll....have to keep that mind." Diamond giggled, almost mischievously and cunningly "but...what about you and Mister Discord? Why haven't the two of you gotten married yet?"

Discord's smile immediately left his face upon hearing that, and as his left, you began to grow one insidious little smile of your own. And interrupt the conversation with a "innocent" question.
"Yeah Dad....why haven't you gotten married to Aunt Fluttershy? I think you're both super cute together!"

The question itself made Fluttershy a little blushy from embarrassment. The thought never seems to occur to her, and she would decline, but it was still a rather stunning question. And as she and Diamond turned to notice both of you have re-entered the cottage. She only blushed more in embarrassment, knowing both you and Discord had heard the conversation. "O-oh, I-I didn't hear you both come in..."

"Well, we did...hello..hi..Who's up for breakfast. I've got pancakes!" Discord quickly tries to cut the conversation short by making a small table with huge pancake stacks appear in the middle of the room.

...oh no, before anyone has a chance to even react. You give Discord a little nudge.
"Dad...what about my question? Why don't you ask Aunt Fluttershy to be your wife. I think I'd like a mommy..."
You give him huge puppy dog eyes.

Discord stayed silent for a moment, suddenly all eyes were on him. He was not expecting this. He thought he could handle it if it was between the three of you. But having Diamond Tiara around, who he believed, would start spouting the same kind of question or spread rumors around town.

The silence was almost nerve racking for him. So much so even Fluttershy noticed and walked up to you and gave you a hug. "...Anon, I'm really sorry. I really am..."

Ah shit, she sounded upset. She didn't even know what to say after that. You've been through it once before. So no doubt she was upset due to the fact she was thinking that you still wanted a mommy. Not realizing you were just fucking with Discord.

You quickly hug her back "It's ok Aunt Fluttershy. I understand...see" You step back and point to your face "No tears, I just thought it'd be a nice thought. I'm ok..really"

Fluttershy took a good hard look at your face and saw not a single instance of moisture. She sighed in relief, smiled, and gave you a pat on the head. "I'm glad you understand Anon. You have a very strong heart" She gives you a gentle poke on the chest. eliciting a giggle out of you.

She then looks up to Discord, who was now taking the time to recover, wiping his sweating head with a dirty rag,

"Discord...are you alright?" Fluttershy gave him a gentle tap. "Are you still upset about what happened on Nightmare Night?"

"Hmmm?..oh...yes...yes! that's exactly why I am feeling like this right at this moment, y-yes. B-but I'll be fine." Discord continued to wipe. "Just something I'm going to have to get used to."

Well, you knew he wouldn't learn his lesson. But any chance to turn the tables felt pretty good. And besides, you get rewarded with a huge stack of pancakes. hahaha! what a "delicious" victory.

As Fluttershy consoles Discord, you walk over to the table. as you look upon the stack of pancakes, Diamond Tiara steps closer to you. She looked...a little disheartened.

"Anon....can I talk to you in private?"

...no..the pancakes.

"E-erm. What's wrong? is your pancake stack too big? Because I wouldn't mind some extras " You give her a half grin, prompting her to maybe laugh or smile...none of those happened.

"....umm...It's something else. Please, can we talk alone?" She gives you huge soft sad eyes.

..dammit.

"Ok, let's just step outside"

And so you both step outside. What happened? She was being happy and bubbly seconds ago. What got her so sad suddenly?

"What's wrong Diamond? Did...somepony say something wrong?"

She shook her head, and looked down, she looked like she was ashamed of something. "..."

...shit. as much as you didn't want her to become closer to you. That sad look was killing you deep inside.
"Hey Diamond, whatever it is. You can tell me. I'll always listen to whatever you gotta say. So..."

You gently give her a quick head nuzzle
"..Buck up"

She smiles for just a moment as she raises her head. But it was only for a moment. "....It's...just about. You and....Fluttershy"

"hmm? Why? What's up?"

You and Fluttershy? Was....no..she couldn't be so enamored with you that she's jealous....what? no no no. That doesn’t make sense.

But...it seemed that wasn't the case.

"It's just. When we were talking. She said some things. And, it already seems like she treats you like her son."

"Huh? Well, I guess. I mean, I don't call her mom or anything. But she does care about me, you know. Making sure I'm happy and behaving. She's the one that managed to get me signed up for school"

"Do you really like her, and enjoy her company?"

oh shit..ok.maybe she was jealous. The fuck?!
"Well...yeah.......why?"

"...It's...kinda hard to explain. I've been doing a lot of thinking. And...I couldn't talk to daddy about it. So I tried to get it out of my head. But...talking with your aunt. I just...is it bad that I don't like my mom?"

....oh shit....maybe this was worse. "What?..."

Diamond Tiara took a deep breath. Holding back her tears. "It's just, when you said you wanted Fluttershy to be your mom. I sort of thought...well...what if she was my mom too?..I mean..you know..mom in law....in case we get married. I thought it'd be nice...is that bad?"

fuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuck

cute problems? you could solve

Villain redemption? doable

moral of the week? you were a saint

some lame philosophy to save the day? you were the hero

Mommy issues? might as well put a bullet in the brain.
" I um...Well..um..what..about your mom? You love her right?"

Diamond Tiara hesitated, sat on her butt, and looked down, feeling shame that she had to think about it. "I....think"

.....oygh.
"Come on Diamond, your mom can't be THAT bad. She took care of you all your life, provided for you, and all that good stuff."

".....When I was really little she would. But when I started to get a little older, she would go on more and more trips. So daddy thought it'd be better if I stayed with him. Sometimes when I go visit my mom while she's on business. She'll just have somepony foalsit me.”

That's...not good.
"Well, ummmm. What about when she is around?"

"When she is around, she always wants me to act a certain way, and only interact with ponies she wants me to interact with. She would tell me which kinds of ponies were scum, and who I should hate. She would say anypony without a cutie mark is substantially poor, dirty and smelly, or was some hick , idiot, or criminal that wasn't worth my time. That I was better and will always be better than them. That I was the crown jewel and future of the family. She said I was important"

Well...at least..she made her feel important...ahh..who were you kidding. that's why DT was a cunt before her reform.

"I meant more along the lines of...you know...does she hug you, read you stories, go out and have some bonding time with you? Stuff like that"

"She would read me the business papers, take me out to these boring business parties, and...only hugged me or told me she loved me if she remembered to....she would never forget to tell me how important I was though...how without me, the entire Barnyard Bargain Empire would crumble in the future. That the regular business here and all of our extended business stuff would totally crumble. She says she doesn't want to become old and see everything her and my daddy worked for end up ruined."

Ok...that's...pretty bad.
"ok..that's...sorta something..What...about recently?"

"I don't know. I haven't really wanted to talk to her or send her any letters. I guess it's fine, because she hasn't sent any back aside from the usual business reports for daddy."

not good....
"And..have you talked to your dad about all this yet? About how you feel?"

She shook her head "No, I can't. If daddy knew, it'd make him sad and he wouldn't be able to focus on his work. He'd be too worried about me."

Well...atleast Filthy would care enough to bring near financial ruin for his little girl. By her word anyway. But fuck, it must really be shit to be seen as just an extension of the family business rather than....a daughter.

"Diamond, you know it's not...mnn..."You need to be more delicate "Diamond...mnnn...."

What were you going to say? her mom won't reply and isn't even in Ponyville. And she doesn't want her dad to know. Maybe you should go talk to him? The guy seemed sensible. Surely he wouldn't bring down the whole business. He still needed to support his family too. Diamond had to be overblowing it.

So, for now. You move in close to her, and give her a gently nuzzle around and along her neck.
"It'll be fine Diamond, if anything, I'll do the best I can to help you...and if we do end up getting married. I'd..."
think of your words carefully
"I'd…Like it that both our families we're ok with it. and that we we're all one big happy family."

Diamond Tiara stopped, she was frozen, and blushing. You pierced her heart once again, but the moment was quickly fleeting as she thought again about her family. and then you. and then began to tear up as she began to nuzzle back, even pressing deeper, hopping up, and wrapping her legs around you as she cried in a desperate hug.

Ok, that was obviously not the right choice of words.

You reached your right foreleg and gave her a gentle rub on her back as she cried.

"I-I j-j-just want...mn-ngh. I..I just w-want a m-mom who is l-like...y-your aunt..." Diamond whined

"mnn, Diamond, look. That's your mom. And I know you probably don't think so since everything kind of went topsy turvy for you. But, I think deep down inside she loves you. It's just she has a real real hard time showing it."

Diamond Tiara just sobbed more and more, and hugged tighter. ".....Anon, that's what m-my Daddy would say...th-that she loves me deep inside...b-but..she won't even write, or anything, s-she's angry at me....b-but." Diamond Tiara stopped hugging, her face was red, her mane was getting disheveled, her tiara was crooked. "I don't...k-know how to f-feel. I like being the pony I want to be...i-it's nice to have friends. Why can't she see that?"

....god dammit. if you just didn't feel the need to get back at Discord. This wouldn't be happening. You didn't realize she was internally upset about what happened. But...yeah..why not? It's her fucking mom, and despite being a total bitch, she helped raised her. And, god help you, what if you were wrong? What if she hated DT? No..right?...nahhhhhh

Chapter 158

"Diamond It'll be ok. I promise. You don't have to change to any pony you don't want to be. If she can't see that you being the real you makes you happy. Then...."

...ahh shit...how do you end that?

Diamond Tiara looks up at you with tear filled eyes. "T-then..?"

Errrghhh...You wanted to say "then she can fuck off"....but that was still her mom.

"Theenn......whatever" You shrug "She'll....see it one day. For now, all your friends like you the way you are now."

yeah! good recovery!

DT gulped, and smiled just a little as she sniffed and wiped her tears. "....I-i'm really glad that they do. You have no idea Anon, the way I was before. I even managed to convince myself that forcing everypony to adore me was one of the best feelings I could ever have, All I had to do was offer something or threaten them and they'd bend to my will...and.." DT looked down, feeling ashamed "I realize they never liked me for me, they only fake liked me or liked me because of what I had. Not for who I was."
Diamond Tiara then stepped back, and looked off into the horizon as wind blew through her mane. "I...just wish my Mom could see me for who I am now, instead of wanting me to be how she wants me to be. I don't want to be mean, nasty, and cruel..."

"..is that how she actually is? Is your mom those things?"

Diamond Tiara hesitated answering. Then she started to fidget a little nervously. "She doesn't put it like that herself...she says it's just business. You can't let potential investors or business partners see you sweat..or something like that. She tells me that if you don't stay aggressive and fight for what you want. Then you might as well find a barrel to live in. She pretty much forces other ponies to see things her way. She'll even buy them out if she thinks they are in her way."

Sheesh....her mom was a fucking shark.

"....so, she's always doing this? What does she even do for the company? I thought your Dad ran most of it"

"My Daddy, he runs the commercial aspect. Stores, products, And of course the original Barnyard Bargains. and he keeps good relations with the public and most of the investors. And then mom runs the private aspect, she invests into other businesses and does promotional things, she looks into producing specialized and very expensive products for rich ponies, and handles the companies they both own that she feels are "for real ponies". Things like fashion lines and catering, she has to manage a bunch of other ponies during all this making sure they all do their job and not cause any friction with the customers. She says "our" kind of customers could ruin us if we ever gave them less than excellent service. So she's always firing ponies for every little thing. That's why she's always away. She's always working. Daddy works too, but he never worries too much because the ponies he deals with are usually friendly, and he doesn't fire nearly as many ponies as mother does. Everypony under him are usually very grateful and he's really good about finding out how to sell a product a pony needs or wants. And he sometimes gets into some business venture things that always manages to turn a profit. Sometimes Daddy has to go to where Mom is because an investor or partner got angry. He's never failed at calming them down. So, I guess, the only reason we're rich is because both my Mom and my Daddy work very hard. So, to answer your question. They pretty much run it equally in their own way"

...oh man, that was A LOT to take in.
"Ok....erm."

Sounded like her mom was a cunt at work, foooor suuureee. What the hell did Filthy see in her?

"Well.."

And you had no idea how to continue again. So all you could do was reaffirm that she was a good pony and not to worry what her mother thought. "Diamond Tiara, look. You're a great girl. Destined for great things. You have me, and Applebloom,Scootaloo, Silver Spoon, and Sweetie Belle backing you. I mean, if you want to look at things realistically...."

.......or..as realistic as a pony world can be....

"Twilight was just some pony who lived in a tree library. And now? She's an alicorn princess because of her friendship and uhh...."

THANKS M.A. LARSON....well not really. Maybe... you weren't sure if he ended up giving Equestria that idea or if Equestria tossed it in his head.

"...her goodness. And then there's your mom. Who isn't a wise alicorn. So, I think your mom being all judgmental and telling you to be this way or that way is a bunch of hooey. Business is important yeah, but if you don't have friends. Well, what's the point? Being alone stinks. I can tell you that much. Making friends with everypony here in Ponyville is something I'd never trade away for anything else. Not even unlimited chaos powers."

Diamond Tiara looked at you with awe. Those words, while not the best, to her were an astounding boon of confidence. "....wow...so...do you think I could become an alicorn one day? Maybe?"

....ok, not exactly what you wanted her to pick up from the conversation. But you were sure she must have understood somewhat. Just the alicorn thing must have seemed the most appealing.
"Y-yeah, anything's possible."

Suddenly, despite her smiling, tears began to run down her eyes again. "So..do you think if I become an Alicorn. Mom wouldn't have to work so hard? Do you think I'd be able to show her what friendship is like? If I was an Alicorn, she'd listen to me for sure....right?"

...ahh shit. it was worse than you thought. Good job Anon, you gave her some ridiculous false hope.
"Ummm...Diamond. Look, I...."

"Y-yes?...." Diamond started to shiver, you could see all that hope starting to drain as you tried to mention to her that was likely not going to happen........ugh..you couldn't do it.

"I think it can happen"

And she dove at you, nuzzling and cuddling. Knocking you down to the ground as she just cuddled up against you. "I knew it! So all I have to do is find out how to be an Alicorn. And I can fix everything!"

"u-ummmm"

Geez her grip.

Then she suddenly loosened up, an idea hit her in the head. She got off of you and looked at you intently.Looked like she was wondering something. "Anon......you could make me an Alicorn"

.......you know...you thought Luna making you "wut?" back in the dream was ridiculous. But that's ok, because you were the one that provided her the video games in the first place. THIS...THIS WAS ACTUAL INSANITY.

"W-what?! Diamond..I don't th-"

"You could!" There was desperation in her voice "Your horn. It can do anything."

"...Y-yeah but..."

"You could make me an Alicorn! and I can fix everything. Just like you said"

Shit..SHIT! FUCKING..CHILDREN...you almost had forgotten how simple minded they could be.
She was waiting and willing. Prepared for you to zap her into an Alicorn.

But....you couldn't. You had an understanding of your horn. But you didn't know what would happen if you made her an Alicorn. Her magic couldn't.....no, couldn't be natural. It'd be chaotic. And even without that factor, she wouldn't be a real princess. Her mom would likely be horrified when she found out you used chaos magic on her daughter. And that'd make things worse.
"Diamond...I can't do that."

Diamond Tiara nearly felt offended, but she held back, she figured you had to have a good reason. At least to her, on why you wouldn't. "W-why? You just said it could work."

"Exactly...could. But there's a big chance that there won't too...or....something could go wrong. It's not regular magic Diamond, it's a magic even I don't have a full understanding of"

She wasn't willing to give up just yet."I trust you Anon, I know you know enough to get it to work. I believe in you. I'd rather try than just sit here and do nothing. I need to convince my Mom that's she's wrong. I need to show her how friendship can make things better. I....need..." She starts to tear up again "To...show her that she's wrong. And even though I have friends she hates, that I can still be her daughter, that we can still be a happy family. So do it...DO IT ALREADY!" She stomped her hoof as she demanded you change her into an Alicorn.

You wince "....Even if I could. I can't..."

You open your saddle bag and put on your horn. It just gives you Sombra's aura instead of changing into a unicorn's horn.

"..Anon?..." Diamond Tiara stepped back, a little frightened "W-what happened?..a-are you alright?"

hmnn, she wasn't used to the horn's natural form. It was just it's normal magic infusion making it a flashy nightmare night piece.
"I am, this is the horn in its normal state. It's a costume piece. It only does this when I've already used my day's charge for it. So...I can't. I'm sorry" despite your sincerity, she wasn't willing to back off.

"Then...we'll do it tomorrow. First thing right after school. That should work."

you had to find a way to deter her. This wasn't a good idea. It wouldn't work, and that was the best scenario. God help you if you accidentally turn her into an eldritch horror.
"Diamond, look, please. Listen to me alright, are you listening?"

She nods, hanging on your every word "mhmmm"

"This isn't a good idea...at all. If you became an Alicorn naturally? sure, yeah. it'd work out. But I...I need to tell you the truth. and truthfully? You becoming an alicorn isn't going to happen overnight. It's a long process. And I CAN'T use my magic to just make you one. It just doesn't work that way. It's too dangerous. And there are other and better ways of going about this. If I made you into an Alicorn, there'd be a huge heap of trouble coming both our ways once everypony else finds out. And That's EVEN if it works. " You take a breath, and give her a gentle smile. "Come on, let's think of a normal way to do this. Maybe we could go talk to her together, or your dad. How does that sound?"

But she just stood there. For the first time in a LONG time. She was looking at you with contempt.
"Do you know how many times i've tried?"

....you didn't like that look. She went from upset to just...cold. in a near instant. Yet her eyes still glistened from tears.

"I know, but now we have a foothold. And if we do it together-"

"Then she still won't listen! I've already told you! Why can't you at least try to change me into an Alicorn? Why would you not try when it's the only way?!"

b-but..you just told her why.
"I told you, it's dangerous" You try to remain calm, and cool. You didn't want to sound harsh.

"It's not that dangerous! It's just a horn and wings. How hard could that possibly be? That's all you have to do. Then I could do the rest."

You sigh "Ok...suppose I do turn you into an Alicorn. Don't you think there'd be consequences? Nopony would let that be. It'd cause trouble for all of us. A colt changing a filly with magic given to him by his chaos god of a father? That wouldn't be good for anypony Diamond, come on.. be reasonable."

Diamond right eye twitched for a moment, and she shook, she was now...building up anger. "...did you say... "Be reasonable"?"
you grimaced. you now came to the full realization that Diamond Tiara still had some of her old tendencies, and was still a child. All of this hitting you as she starts stomping towards you, making you step back as she glares angrily right into your eyes.
"Do you know how much I've tried? I've tried..so...MANY...times. Daddy doesn't really understand, Mom won't listen, and none of my other friends cared. So I thought I was wrong, I had to be. Mom was successful, she was always right. So I became like her because it made her happy, and it felt right after awhile. But I was wrong, It hurt, it hurt everyday and it took the ponies I thought I hated to show me that my Mom's way was the wrong way. And even with ALL of that. She didn't change....She refuses to be reasonable, So why do I have to be?! It doesn't work!"

Oh yeah, she was angry. Angry and upset. That rage couldn't hide the fact she was crying her eyes out again.

"Listen-"

"No, you listen!" She points her hoof angrily at you "You wouldn't know how I feel at all!" She puts her hoof down, but still stares at you as her sadness slowly overcomes her anger. "You're an orphan who got lucky. Your Dad seems to really care about you, and even trusts you with that horn. And your aunt is practically your mom......She's......" And now she begins to break down."She's...nice..and sweet...and cares about you so much. She hasn't even been your aunt for that long and..." She looks over to the side of the cottage. where the statue of you,Discord,and Fluttershy sat. "You're already a happy family..." She looks at you, with big soft, crying eyes. Her soul being crushed with every moment. She makes one last desperate attempt. "Anon please...do it...for me..."

.....you couldn't. You weren't some naive kid. And unfortunately, you weren't a mary sue either. You didn't know if you had the correct answer. Diamond could be right, and the spell could work. And fuck, maybe the ponies wouldn't even care.

But you knew better than that. And even though you knew, it didn't make it any easier. No matter what...this was yet another situation you were going to lose.

you sigh, your heart grew heavy. "I'm sorry...I just can't. Diamond if you'd just liste-"

Again she cuts you off, but this time. She lets out a rageful yell of hate and frustration. She hated the situation, and she was frustrated with you.You, who she thought would understand the most. You, who was smart as a stallion. You, who saved her life. You, who she had grown to love. Now she felt betrayed. And she'd have no more of it. "YOU DON'T CARE! YOU DON'T! YOU DON'T! YOU DON'T! GRRR!"

You didn't know what else to say. She was beyond calming at this point.

"I GUESS AS LONG AS YOUR FAMILY IS OK THEN EVERYTHING IS FINE! HUH?!"

"No..I-"

"LIAR! IF YOU CARED YOU'D ACTUALLY HELP ME. MY MOM DOESN'T LISTEN TO ME, SO IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN PRETTY EASY TO FIGURE OUT SHE WOULDN'T LISTEN TO YOU! SHE HATES PONIES LIKE YOU. SHE HATES PONIES LIKE APPLEBLOOM AND SCOOTALOO AND SWEETIE BELLE! AND THE ONE WAY WE'D HAVE FOR HER TO LISTEN...A-AND YOU.....YOU..." finally, her rage piques. as does her sorrow. "I TRUSTED YOU! I THOUGHT WE COULD DO THIS TOGETHER! JUST ME AND YOU! I...." She stopped. and gulped hard. Her eyes were reddening. her voice strained. "I....loved you...."

...ahh man....come on.

"Diamond...come on..please. You're beating yourself up over something we can fix. We can still do it together, all we have to do is try"

But your words went unheard. She was done. Her voice became low, and emotionless. ".....I'm going home...."

...ugh..UGH. why couldn't she just listen to reason?! Why did she have to be a damned spoiled brat?! god fucking dammit! Your heart couldn't process this shit.

"....Diamond..come on. Don't do that."

"....I'm going home Anon..."

"At least let me walk you home."

She shook her head "I'll be fine by myself...I've always been fine...by myself."

mngr....you go in for a kiss. That ALWAYS works.

But as you move in, she moves away. "Anon...don't. I know what you're doing...you don't even mean it. You never did...just..leave me be and go spend your time with your family. They’re probably wondering what you're doing out here for so long instead of eating pancakes with them..."

"Diamond, please just listen to me!"

You try to be assertive, but she just backs off more and more. And how could you stop her? Tackle her? Grab her? Talk her into submission? What a shit situation this turned out to be.

"goodbye...I'll.....see you later..I guess."

And she turned, and began to walk away. But you wouldn't give up.

You trotted over to her, and put your hoof on her back to get her attention. "Diamond, come on. Don't be like this, we could at-"

You stop as she moves to the side, away from your hoof and continues on her way "leave me alone..."

"Diamond..."

"LEAVE ME ALONE!" She turns to you, her eyes now fully red from crying. She screams out her words. And runs away. past the little bridge.

.....and you just stood there. There was nothing you could do.

You were powerless. You thought, maybe if you had the horn's power. You could have come up with something. But you didn't. You were just a colt. A colt with an adult mind that couldn't reason with a filly.

you let out a scream of frustration as you slam your hooves into the ground.

...Why couldn't they just listen for once?
You know what? Why should you feel guilty? You didn't do anything wrong. It was her mother that was a cunt. And the harsh reality was that life wasn't fair and you had to deal with the hand you were dealt. That's how it was in your world, and that's how things should actually work here. Sometimes there's no happy endings.

And yet as you walked back to the cottage, you couldn't help but feel the nagging frustration that was guilt.

"...Come on Anon, you know she's just trying to guilt you into turning her into an Alicorn. It's a cheap way out. It won't work. And shit will hit the fan if that happens. It's a fucking terrible idea."

As you walk to the cottage door. You look over to the statue.

it showed the image of a happy family. And maybe in certain spots. An actual family unit was there. But in truth. It was built upon a lie.And yet, you felt justified. Nobody's family was perfect.

Yet it still nagged you...

"Ok....ok..." You take a deep breath. "Alright Anon, all smiles. Don't want to give them a reason to worry"

You put on a false smile and open the door and step inside. "Hey everypony! I'm back!"

Fluttershy, who was munching on one of the stacks of pancakes looks over to you and smiles. "Welcome back anon...hmm?" Then she noticed DT didn't step back in with you. "Where's your friend?"

"Oh..uh. She had to go home, she only came to drop off the candy"

Discord. who was floating above the stacks looked at you suspiciously for a moment "Is that so...." Then he smiled as he grabbed DT’s stack and crammed it down his throat. "More for me then!"

He then extended out like an accordion, with sound to boot. Fluttershy giggled at his melodious antics. "Oh Discord, you can be so silly sometimes."
"I can, can't I? In fact I'm so silly...." Discord stares at you with a slippery smirk. "That I simply can't contain it!"

Discord opened his mouth and pulled back his horn as he shoots a thick stream of silly string right into your face.

Discord chuckled as Fluttershy fell silent looking at you. She didn't quite know how'd you react. As she wasn't fully used to knowing how you and Discord interact.

And you know what? Why should this bother you? This was the least shittiest prank he's ever pulled on you. It was actually cute, and because you didn't want to be a stick in the mud. You laughed.
"Hahaha, good one dad. You're lucky my horn doesn't have a charge. Or else this'd be a mighty old school styled silly string match." You made your voice sound all westerny on the last part.

That put Fluttershy to ease at least, she smiled, went back to eating, and said a word of her own. "Well, as long as you both don't overdo it. I'd love to see a silly string fight between you two...erm...not inside the house of course"

You go to sit down and eat your stack of pancakes.

And upon hearing those words, you turn to Fluttershy, that sounded a little odd to you.
"Really? You'd watch us throw silly string at each other?"

Fluttershy nodded "Mhmmm, it's cute,safe, and is a great way for a father and son to bond. A little competition is a great bonding exercise as long as nopony is a poor loser...or poor winner, or a spoiled sport, and erm..nopony should be cheating either, and I guess as long as you or your father doesn't take it too seriously...oh, and of course you both shouldn't overdo it. I know how chaos magic is and I would hope you both would show enough restraint as to not cover all of Ponyville in silly string"

Well, that was a mouthful.
"E-erm, yeah. no worries on that. I wouldn't overdo it."
Discord was smirking, pressing his talons and paw together, thinking about it "Fluttershy, that's actually a devious idea. I like it, especially since nopony could get too mad at something that could easily be washed away with water."

"Discord.......no" Fluttershy looks at him with a cute motherly pout face.

Discord sighed "...of course...But Fluttershy, you can't expect me to not cause a little chaos every now and again. All this friendship business and having to raise Anon has tied me down!" Discord drops like a rock as a ball and chain gets magically attached to his leg. "......surely you can overlook a little widespread havoc, pllleeeeeassse?"

Fluttershy shook her head "Discord, you know that's a very bad thing to do. And such a bad example for your son"

....mnnn, you know. Maybe if you threw Discord a bone on this one you'd feel a little better about the whole DT thing. "Actually Aunt Fluttershy...I don't think it's too bad either. It's just silly string. Wouldn't it be cool if everypony got a bottle of silly string too and everypony just blasted eachother? Then everypony could join in on the chaos. Everypony wins!"

Discord warped right above you and gave you a gentle calming pet on the head "Why Anon, that's an excellent idea. Fluttershy, don't you think that would be fun? If everypony was in on it?"

Fluttershy started shifting her eyes and looking to the side. She didn't know how to react to that. If everybody was in on it, who was she to say no? But still, it could still be seen as mean...in her eyes anyway. "I don't know...what if somepony got hurt?"

Discord wiped off some of his silly string off of you with a duster and held you up "Does it look like this sweet, loving, caring little colt has suffered any harm?"

Chapter 159

Author's Note

By suggestion of my Editor. He'll be making these little note things from now on.

Tonight!
Fluttershy is a square.
Cutie marks exist.
And Anon yells at the sky.

Chapter 159

"Well......no" You were clearly fine.

Discord then drops you on your butt as you let out a little gasp of pain. "See! Nopony would get hurt. It'd be oodles of fun! It'd probably be therapeutic. Perfect for the soul. Everypony should have a dose of good natured chaos in their lives at least once."

Fluttershy tapped her hooves together. She felt herself nearly budging to the idea. But as she thought about it. She saw the look of many unhappy residents instead of the fun loving ones Discord described. And thus, she comes up with a new, even better idea. ".....actually Discord, you know what would be better than everypony taking in erm...some chaos in their lives?"

Discord raised an eyebrow at her ".......water balloons?"

Fluttershy shook her head "No" Then she smiled "You taking a dose of Harmony instead, how does that sound?"

"......" Discord looked at her, unamused "Harmony? Fluttershy, do you realize how bad that is for my skin?" He raises his talon as it turns to stone "It makes it rough,tough, dead, and stiff....why would I ever want that?"

Fluttershy shook her head, then looked to Discord with a calming yet slightly serious look "No Discord, what I mean is a day where you'd not only spend time with me. But all our friends. Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, and even Twilight. And, to make it even better." Fluttershy turned to you with a smile "We could wait for Anon to come out of school so he can join us, doesn't that sound like fun, Anon?"

You weren't really paying attention anymore. You were nibbling on your pancakes, trying to keep your mind off things.

"Anon? would you like to spend time with all of us?"

...Oh shit, she was talking to you.

You look to her with a false smile. "Yeah, sure, why not? I'd love that." You didn't sound too enthused, but you made sure not to sound too disinterested either.

"Yay!" Fluttershy cheered softly. "I'll just have to talk with all the girls and make sure none of them have plans for a particular day and we'll all be set....unless you have any objections Discord...you do..don't you?" She began to sound disappointed and gave Discord a sad pout.

"As a matter of fact, I do. Besides that sounding like a suspect idea. I doubt there could be any fun when none of them can take a good joke." Discord crossed his arms in refusal.

Fluttershy sighed, and looked down in disappointment.her voice quivering. "O-ok....I just thought it'd be nice." Fluttershy then gently pushed her stack of pancakes away so she could rest her head on the table. ".....I guess a day where I could spend time with all my favorite friends was asking for too much..."

You start to feel a little uncomfortable and try cheering Fluttershy up "It's ok Aunt Fluttershy, I'd still be willing to hang out."

Fluttershy smiled a little, then sighed again. "That's nice...but without your father, it just wouldn't be right."

Discord looked to Fluttershy, losing his stubborn position when he thought she was implying something. "Are you saying that your get together, one you'd normally have with your friends anyway, wouldn't be complete without me?...Is that what I'm hearing?"

Fluttershy wasn't sobbing, there wasn't a tear in her eye, she just...looked sad. "mhmmm" she slowly nodded her head.

"...Am...I really that important?" Discord began to soften up as he asked that question, as narcissistic as it was.

Fluttershy nodded again "mhmmm" She looked directly at him with those big soft eyes.

Discord chuckled, feeling absolutely wanted. "Well then, then who am I, the Spirit of Chaos, to say no? I always did say a get together isn't a get together without me. Of course I'll go. It'd be criminal not to"

Fluttershy lifted her head and smiled at Discord. A big cheerful one. "Thank you Discord, And I'm sure everypony will be glad to have you"

Discord smirks. "Well, that goes without saying"

...Ohhhhh....now you got it. That's a pretty classic ploy. You didn't think Fluttershy was capable of it. Or you couldn't remember. You knew she could be crafty or even give a sick quip sometimes. Though rarely. Still, you couldn't find the enthusiasm for it. Diamond Tiara was still on your mind. No matter how many times you told yourself "that's how it is".

"So Anon....your Cutie Mark. Can I talk to you about it?" Fluttershy looks back to you.

"Huh?...ummm..what?" Again, it didn't take long for your mind to become preoccupied until your attention was called to again.

"Your Cutie Mark, are you ok with it? Do you like it?" Fluttershy seemed to be curious about it.

Of course, Discord had to butt in. As usual. "Why wouldn't he like it? It's the symbol of chaos. Just like his old man." Discord said with genuine pride. He really was happy that your Cutie Mark turned out to match his whimsy.

"Discord. I know your proud. But a Cutie Mark is a very very big thing for a pony. And I want to make sure he's absolutely comfortable with it. I-I don't want to sound intrusive.....but...I think it'd be better if a pony with experience with cutie marks talks to him about it"

".....And what makes me inexperienced?" Discord raised an eyebrow in distaste

Fluttershy shifted her eyes, looking sheepish as she pointed to his side. "Well....you're lack of a cutie mark kind of proves my point..."

"Hmmm?" Discord stretches and bends to look at his flank. "Well, what do you know. And here I thought I always did. Well then. If that's the case..." Discord magically produces a clipboard and pencil and starts writing things down. "I might as well make some preparations for when we all have our get together. So...carry on"

Maybe this could get your mind off Diamond Tiara, you never got to really talk about your new mark with all the shenanigans of Nightmare Night going on. You didn't even get a real chance to contemplate on it. So this was perfect.

Fluttershy looks back onto you and smiles "Anon...you don't mind if we talk about your Cutie Mark, right?"

You shook your head "No, not at all. I'm actually sort of interested on um...how talking about a Cutie Mark usually goes."

Fluttershy smiles "Well, it's not too unlike any other conversation. But if you feel uncomfortable at anytime. Let me know, ok?"

You nod. "Ok" You were already feeling at ease. Fluttershy's soft tone and overall friendliness was helping wash that guilt away.

"So....I noticed it's a mark of chaos. Are you comfortable with that? I ask because...well....I wouldn't want anypony giving you any trouble over it"

"Huh? I guess I didn't think about it too much. My friends seem ok with it, sorta. They didn't make that much of a big deal over it. But, none of my class has seen it yet. But, yeah...it's fine. I can't see it being a problem"

Fluttershy sighed in relief and smiled, that was a load off her mind. "That's great Anon! And you understand what it means to have a Cutie Mark, right?"

You nod. "It's supposed to be my special talent, right?"

Fluttershy nods "Mhmmm, I guess you'd already know that. All ponies do. I guess the reason I'm asking is because...well...You don't see a lot of ponies with that kind of Cutie Mark. A-and before you ask, no..I'm not ashamed or think it's bad....but...I just don't want other ponies to make you think it's bad either. I-I'm just really worried about that, I don't want anypony to make you feel like you've earned the wrong Cutie Mark"

Well, you were sure you didn't have to worry about that. Things didn't seem to change so far. You smile a big smile at her and rest your right foreleg on the table as you give her a chillaxed and cool look. "Pfft, hey, you don't need to worry about that. I think this is a pretty great Cutie Mark for me. Means I could show everypony that chaos isn't all bad. Besides, if my friends aren't giving me any trouble about it. Then I don't have to worry about anypony else. Their opinions don't bother me."

Fluttershy seemed to like that answer. It filled her mind with relief. "That's good. And I'm glad you're comfortable with your Cutie Mark. But what do you mean showing the "Good" side of chaos?"

"Oh, you know. Nothing big really. I mean, something like..with my horn...."

......hmmnnn. What to say. What to say. Maybe you could get some insight on Diamond's problem indirectly.

"...turning a pony into an Alicorn...for erm...fixing their problems because a certain other pony wouldn't listen to them otherwise...that doesn't sound bad right?"

Fluttershy wasn't smiling anymore. She seemed worried now "...Anon..you can't just turn other ponies into Alicorns or even other kinds of ponies. What if something goes wrong? or worse....you'd never actually do that...would you?"

You shake your head, and point at her with a quick chuckle "haha, no nah..it was just a joke...juuuust a joke. What I actually meant was like...shaking a tree to get a pony's ball off of it. or fixing a barn by making it explode and then reform as a......barn....that's not broken down.."

Fluttershy sighed rather than giggle, that wasn't a particularly good joke. She was just relieved that you weren't going to morph any ponies. Or so she thought. "Ohhh...ok. Well, I...don't see anything wrong in things like that. I bet Applejack would appreciate that kind of chaos magic."

"Ahrm...." Discord cleared his throat loudly. "Is there a problem with the way I do things?"

"....erm...how to put this nicely...umm" Fluttershy looked up to him "...was turning Applejack's barn into a bouncy castle a good thing?"

"Yes! I made her into royalty!"

"....Of...what?"

".......hmm" Discord rubbed his chin as he couldn't actually think of anything. "....Fluttershy, I must ask you to not bother me" He taps at his clipboard "Can't you see I'm planning?"

Fluttershy giggled "I'm sorry, it won't happen again"

...shit. ok. So Alicorn idea would upset her. Which means it probably would upset everyone else....why did you even ASK THAT?! FUUUUUUUUUUUUUUCK. "Aunt Fluttershy......ummm."

"Hmm?" Fluttershy turns back towards you "Is something wrong Anon?...I didn't make you feel uncomfortable..did I?"

You shake your head. "Oh no no...I.just was wondering, if you don't mind, if I can go out and play with my friends"

"..Oh. Ummm. Well, it's up to your father really. But why so sudden? I didn't bore you..did I?"

You shake your head profusely. "Nonononono. I was.....actually wondering If.....I could spend the night here too. So we can talk about stuff. I want to get to know you more as my Aunt at a time where it'd be nice and quiet. That's fine right?"

Fluttershy felt touched that you wanted that. "Of course!...erh........umm..actually. Discord.." She turns to him "You don't mind any of this..right?"

"Hmmm? Ohhhh. No I don't mind. If I kept Anon all to myself then you wouldn't be his aunt. Of course he can stay the night"

Fluttershy smiled "That's great! thank you so much Discord!"

.....Good...good.

You take a few more bites of your pancakes. To help take the edge off. Then take your saddlebag and candy bag. You put the candy inside. Hug Fluttershy. And bid them both a farewell.

You were of course, not going to meet your friends, but instead just wanted to be alone. You wanted to think things through. You were just lucky Fluttershy was so understanding.

You started to step away from the cottage. Your mind muddled with the possibility that you could have handled Diamond Tiara better. "Dammit, why does this shit have to ruin my day? I could have spent the day with Fluttershy maybe. Actually have one whole day where nothing happens. Just relaxing with the nicest horse. But noooooooooooooooooo, Diamond Tiara just had to waltz in and get in on my business then complain over something she should know that wouldn't work..."

You put your hoof on your face then gently brush it through your mane. Frustrated. "Why should I even have to be the one to fix it anyway? I wasn't there. She should of asked Applebloom and the others. Then they could have gone on some wacky adventure and leave me out of it...."

But you remembered. It then hit you. You remembered how vicious DT's mother actually was. She actually made you feel like utter trash. She was the nastiest pony you ever saw. ".....fuck..." You looked up to the sky to yell. "FUUUCCCKKK!"

............

.....You were breathing hard. It hit you. You couldn't think of many humans you personally knew who would call children such vicious names and treat them like utter shit in public. It was like some sort of cutie mark racism with her. And even the children weren't spared. Yeah....that's pretty bad.

".........I gotta find a way to fix this for her. But where do I even start?"

You then hear a voice in your ear. "....I knew there was something up with you. You wanting to leave Fluttershy's company to go "play with your friends"? Who do you think you are? A pony? Well, you are a pony. But you know what I mean."

Chapter 160

Fuck, It seemed Discord had followed you. And what's worse, he heard you talking to yourself.

"Anon, has anyone told you how creepy it is to talk to yourself? It's unnerving to those who eavesdrop on you. Such as myself"

You look around, but you couldn't see him. "Discord.....Can we not do this now? I'm in the middle of something important."

"Oh Yes, I can tell. So important that you scared your poor little lover away."

You sigh, looking all around for him. You could feel your anger building.
"Look asshole, don't fuck with me right now. This is a real issue that I'm dealing with. And I don't need you fucking it up. Go bother someone else!"

"On the contrary Anon, I actually am willing to lend out my services once again."

wut?
"Once again?...what?"

"Yes" Discord chuckles "Don't tell me you forgot about Manehatten. I was the "Magnificent Q"...remember?"

...oh shit....that's right. That happened.

You let your guard down a little. You remember him being genuine during that whole fiasco. He actually really cared to try to do it right and treat you like his partner. It ended in failure....but still.

"......Yeah.." You calm down a little more "yeah....so, you want to help me with this? Really?"

"I do, how else am I supposed to rub it in Twilight's face that we can solve friendship problems too if we don't actually go out and do it. And I'd rather not do it alone. That's why we're partners."
Of course he'd have a reason to have that'd try to ruin another person's day. But, you had no idea how to do this by yourself. And he'd probably not be willing to give you any extra charges on your horn. You had to make sure he was going to stay on point. This was delicate. This was a family issue between a sensitive little girl and an indisputably monstrous megabitch.
"....So you're really gonna help me with this?....and you promise not to bail on me or sabotage it?"

"Anon, Anon. That hurts. I thought for sure my previous performance would have convinced you that you could trust me. Do you really need to question me? Do you really think I'd up and leave you? I'm....really am hurt..." You could hear Discord lowly sobbing. and as you did. you started to sniffle and nearly sneeze as a liquid booger streams out your nose.

oh god...he was in your nose. "Ok! Ok!" You sneeze, step back, sneeze, step back, then fall backwards sneezing "I-'m sorry ok! Geez! G-g-g-geACHOO!" You wipe your nose and try to get the boogers to stop "Y-you can get o-o-out of my nose no-w. G-g-gACHOO!"

You sneeze again as Discord pops out as a tiny little being. He does a spin, lands on his head as he scrunches up, then springs upwards as he grows to normal size quickly and raises his arms as confetti flies everywhere. "Ta Daaaaaaa!"

You were wiping your nose as you give out another sneeze. geez, ugh. He did that on purpose.

Discord span around and looked down at you. "Well, how rude. If you were going to be sick then why did you even show up?"

You give a little cough and finish off wiping your nose with your leg. You look back up at him.Angered, but...not enough that you'd shun away his help.
"Don't even. geez, You can't resist fucking with people, can you?"

"Anon, if there's something fun that you liked to do. Would you keep yourself from doing it?"

.....that's a loaded question
"No..but if it was something bad or dangerous. Then I would"
"Let me rephrase, do you enjoy fun at all?"

You got what he implied by that. He wanted to hear you say yes to unbiased fun. No matter how chaotic it was. "...I do...Ok, I admit. When I had the horn, I did do some pretty cool stuff with it. Stuff other ponies would probably not really like if they knew it was me."

Discord smiled and zipped towards you, giving you a gentle shake on your shoulders "There see? Was that so hard to admit? Now then." Discord held out his talons towards you "Shall we give this friendship problem solving thing another go?"

You looked up at him. You could never tell if he was being genuine. But if it was going to be anything like last time. Then...you felt you could trust him. He wasn't all bad about it really. You two were great together when it came to upsetting Chrysalis the first time.....although that did lead to her eventual stay in the house.

You reach up and shake his talons. "Let's do it. But where do we start? You can't just teleport us straight to Spoiled Rich. Can you?"

Discord shook his head "'fraid not. But don't fret. We get to do one of my favorite past times to figure out where she may be"

hmm? "What's that?"

Discord outstretched his paw to an amazing length. And literally pulled reality apart and then together to pull the both of you into Filthy Rich's study. As if he was grabbing the background to a scene, you both appeared right there. And thankfully, there was nobody around. ".....sifting through other ponies's mail."

"W-woah...that was weird"

You were a little disoriented from that. You never warped in such a way before.

Discord was opening the drawers to Filthy Rich's desk and pulling out everything he can. Then when he got everything. He started shuffling everything like a deck of cards.

"What are you doing?"
Discord started to throw the mail down on the desk in two stacks like a poker dealer. "Dealing the cards. Just look until you find one on our target."

"What if we get caught?"

Discord started to pick up envelopes and tearing them open. "Then we better hurry, shouldn't we?"

Not an especially good plan. Considering you had no idea if Filthy or one of his maids would come in at any second. But, it was a plan nonetheless.

You started looking at the envelopes with haste, then stop to take attention to Discord.

hmmm, he had the ability to tear them open like a human. And some of these letters didn't have the sender on them. You had to use your teeth to tear them. Time consuming yeah. It made you panic and tear in abandon. even if it ruined some of the paper inside.

After a few moments of tearing. You finally find it. "Aha! Discord look, I got i-...huh?"

You look up at him. He was looking at a letter. You didn't know what it was. But it couldn't be the right one. "Discord, yo....I got the letter"

"hmm? oh yes, good job. hmm.." Discord puts the letter he had in the envelope, and seemingly rewinds time on it. Making the envelope like new and unopened. He then pockets it.

And you take notice "What was that?"

"Nothing, Just a letter I found interesting"

"Well...then put it back. You're gonna put everything back as if we never touched it right?"

Discord nodded "Indeed, so if that's the letter..." Discord snaps his fingers. making a copy of the letter and making everything else self repair and go back into the desk. "Then we're done here....so then, what does it say?"

...did he put back the letter he had? You couldn't tell...whatever it was, it caught his interest. Ohh..wait. It might be whatever Filthy Rich is still trying to ask him about. He has been persistent about that.
"Let's see....hmm. Apparently there's problems going on with the Fiillydelphia branch. Loss in profits...yadda bla. Seems she is going there personally to make some changes. Though the way she worded it in this letter was pretty extreme. I didn't think Filthy had these kinds of problems with his workers. Didn’t really know much about his business really other than it being Barnyard Bargains"

Discord shrugged as he took the letter and slipped it back in it's envelope, repaired it, and placed it with the rest inside the desk. "Everything falls apart in some way or another. And while I love chaos. Others prefer order. And so they try to fix the problem"

"...Actually, I think it's just because she wants to make more money."

"Yes, well....that too. In any case, we should move on to the next phase of our little adventure"

"What's that?"

"We go to Fillydelphia and make ourselves known of course."

woooah nooo
"Yo woah woah...let's not get hasty. This isn't like last time. She's probably going to be very disagreeable about meeting in a private spot. We're gonna have to take this to her in a place we wouldn't be bothered. And we need to have good disguises."
"Hrn? Anon, come on.that didn't work the last time. I say we go in and show her true horror for the atrocities she has caused.....it'll be fun" Discord grins a toothy grin

You shake your head. You'd really WOULD love to do that. You really would. But Diamond Tiara's well being hung in the balance. And even if you forced Spoiled to be a better parent, she would have never done it of her own will if she was forced.
"No, look...I've got a feeling I know where she's going to be. There's probably an office she's sitting at while she's barking at other ponies to get work done. We need some good disguises to get up into that room without alarming anypony. Then, once we're in there. Bam, we lock everything and make sure we can't be heard."

"Then why not skip everything? Why would we need to go through everypony if we can just teleport right into her office?"

"Because, if we don't get a private meeting with her. Then somepony that needs or wants to speak to her will try to get in. And once they can't. They'll know something is up. We gotta get in there and make sure nopony would have a reason to disturb us."

"ohhhh...I see. How........utterly boring and a waste of my talents."

You sigh
"Discord, this isn't supposed to be entertaining. We're supposed to be solving a friendship problem here. Not causing chaos. This is serious."

"Nothing is too serious Anon. I know what I'm doing...."

Discord raises his talon and snaps, making you both instantly appear above Fillydelphia as Discord looks around with a telescope.

The city from this height looked...not really as happy and clean as most of Equestria. It looked like a regular old city from back in the industrial days. Low tech and full of brick skyscrapers. Even Manehatten looked better.

"...I understand that it's serious. And for you, I'm willing to play by the rules. Just understand that if your plan goes south then I'm going to do things my way. Understand?"

You had to take some time to think. You couldn't not ask him to back out now. You both were already this far and you'd doubt he'd like being asked to jump ship. The best you could do is if that scenario became a reality. Was to not go to crazy with it.

"...ok, but don't do anything that would cause a public outcry ok? Spoiled Rich, I think anyway, is pretty powerful"

Discord let out a small chuckle "Pfft, are you serious? She doesn't even have a horn"

You shake your head "No, I mean she's financially powerful. Discord, she could ruin everything if we piss her off.To a point that I don't even think Celestia could fix. She'd be like a dirty politician and run a smear campaign so powerful that, well, it wouldn't be good for either of us. We really REALLY gotta be careful. Ok?"

"....you do know I could just toss her in another dimension and be done with it,correct?"

You knew he could. And under any other circumstance. That'd be ok. But if that happened. You'd be ruining both Diamond and her father.
"Yeah..I know. And I totally wouldn't mind if you did. But, we need her to change for the better. We need her to see how much she's hurting Diamond Tiara. That's why we gotta trust each other on this. Use our strengths, and make up for our weaknesses. This has to be a total reformation thing."

"You're really taking this seriously. Does Diamond Tiara really mean that much to you?"

You...couldn't really say she didn't. Your guilt was too great to say no. And you were going so far as to risk a good thing as your current life to go and fix hers.
"Y-yeah, she's a friend. This is what friends do for friends.It's that simple"

Discord smirked evilly at you "You want to try answering that again in front of Chryssie? I wonder what'd she say?"
You narrow your eyes at Discord
"What are you implying?"

Discord's smirk turned into that of a cruel smile as he pokes your chest "I think you've grown a soft spot for the little filly. You know the kind of soft spot I mean."

nooope, you shake your head profusely.
"Nope, noooo, eh eh. Nah. She's too young for me remember? She isn't my type"

"She WASN'T your type you mean. But considering how boyish you are. You both make the perfect couple. Or are you going to tell me Fluttershy is wrong? Because this time, it seems to be quite the real love connection"

noooo....nah. You didn't have any kind of feeling for Diamond Tiara, impossible, poppycock, utter bullshit. She was just a friend. Juuust a friend. A good friend. One of your best at this point. But nooooo....
"Fluttershy IS wrong. I'm just trying to help a friend and you're being a colossal ass. Partners...remember? We gotta focus."

"We have time, Come on Anon. You don't like her just a little? You don't find anything about her adorable? Are you going to honestly tell me that on a quiet, romantic evening that you wouldn't enjoy her naively cuddling against you until she fell asleep?"

....that did sound sort of...NO!
"NO!...geez! come on, she's a damned kid Discord. Christ. Remember the rules? The rules you yourself set for me?"

Discord nodded and gave you a toothy grinning chuckle as he rests his head on his arms, looking directly at you. "I do. And it mostly had to do with doing the business. There's nothing wrong..."

Discord's voice began to change as he turned into his femalish counterpart again as he gently wrapped around you."....with a little cuddling"

For just a moment, looking at his now sexy self, you felt a gentle warmth...But that was still him. And upon that realization. You struggle like prey caught in a snake.
"DISCORD STOP! THATS CREEPY! YOU'RE A GUY!"

"oohhh~ I can be whatever I want to be~" He whispers gently in your ear.

"....let me go, now!"

"You suuuure~"

damn he sounded hot. But god...he's still a dude. And you had a job to do.
If Discord was actually a girl...maybe..you'd let him wreck you.....woo...bad thoughts.
"Y-yes I'm sure! L-Let me go!"

"Alrighty~ bye bye anon!"

Discord waves to you as he unwraps from around your body. Causing you to plummet downwards. Screaming along the way.

"....huh....you'd think with all that cartoon knowledge he babbles about that he would have saw that one coming. Oh well" Discord shrugs

You fall screaming, spiraling downwards towards the pavement until suddenly you stop. Coming to a crash but with no actual impact. You couldn't see a thing. You had your eyes closed for your supposed final seconds.

"....I swear Anon, how do you keep falling for such ruses? I'm starting to think Twilight has a better handle on them than you do....and that's just sad."

You slowly open your eyes. In front of you was Discord....sort of. He was in disguise as some sort of pony with a four leaf clover in his ear and money bags for a cutie mark.

"...D-Discord?" Your voice was still shaky from shock

"Only to you, remember? We have a job to do. No time for dilly dallying like you have been. Yelling with your eyes closed" Discord rolls his eyes "Really, how childish"

....typical. He would never be able to resist taunting you. At this moment you tried not to get too butt flustered over it...but you still felt butt flustered.
"Whatever..."

You look around, you were in the middle of the city. There were ponies all around. Waling, ignoring, pushing through their day.
"...Where are we exactly? Shouldn't we be looking for wherever Spoiled is at?"

Discord points silently upwards.

"Wha?..." You look up, you are in front of a tall building with Filthy Rich's face plastered on it. Along with his company name and logo. This was a much fancier Barnyard Bargains alright. Or Maybe it was something else. "....oh"
You began to calm down. He was just fucking with you. You couldn't let yourself get too riled up. You had a mission to do. And you knew that he knew that too.
"Discord..look. Please, just relax ok? Please? I want to do this without any chance of us screwing up. I need you to be serious"

Discord looked at you with a stoic yet slightly annoyed face. "Very well. But seeing as I have the advantage of magic. You will follow my lead until an opportunity arises where we must shift focus...understand?"

You thought about making him Pinkie Promise. But there was a serious tone in his voice. One of preparedness. He didn't fuck you over the last time you both did this. He even defended you when Suri made light of you. You were just still a little annoyed with him. But if you yourself didn't stop. You'd be the one ruining the mission.
"I understand...so, what's the plan?"
"Easy boyo!" Discord went into an irish accent. "When you're the owner of the eastern island conglomerate of businesses. Ya can get anywhere!"

You raised an eyebrow "Are there even a thing as Irish ponies?"

"Don't be daft, course they are. Just, we don't call em Irish ya see. Annnnyyhoo. Allow me to introduce meself. I'm Oodles 'o Moneybags. Owner of the Conglomerate High Association Of Superiority!"

......you weren't even sure those words went together.
"....ok then. And who am I? I can't exactly see myself."

"Ahh, no worries. Ya see, you're my stalwart young ward,apprentice, and son...Gold Coin. Now how does that sound?"

"Ummm....that works. Fits the theme I guess."

Discord grumbled at you and gave you a poke "Yer accent my boy, yer accent."

Oh right..
"Oh...erm. Top o' the mornin' to ya dad. This be the building we be goin into this wonderful day?"
Not perfect, but, you hoped it'd be good enough.

"....it'll have to do. Now, let us make haste as to not miss the old hag." Discord steps towards the large double doors of the building. And as you take a step forward. You come to a dead halt. You can't move forward. "Dis-..a-ahmm mean Ood-..Ah mean Dad...I can't move"

Discord looks back at you with a glorious smirk of smug. "Course not, ya gotta try harder if ya want to lug around my pocket money"

pocket money?

You look backwards. You could see you were attached to a wagon with huge bags of bits.

...god fucking dammit "Are you serious?"

Discord let out a sneering chuckle ".....have to fit the part Anon...have to fit the part"

You pull, but goddamn, this shit is heavy. You were moving at a slow as shit pace.
"Could....you....at...least...make...it...lighter?...geez...laweez.."

"Sorry, can't make things look too easy. It'd look suspicious. Now come along Anon. We have work to do"

...dammit

You struggled, and pulled, and sweated just to get the damn carriage through the front door. All the while you suppressed the urge to just say fuck it. You had to trust in Discord. No matter how smarmy he was being.

As you enter. You take a look around the entrance lobby. There was a single effeminate male earth pony behind a desk, with a long blonde mane, glasses, and a revolving door as a cutie mark. Typing on a typewriter, talking on the intercom, and shifting an eye towards Discord every now and again.

"....can I help you?" The pony said. Never actually making eye contact.

"Indeedy you can, my little lad and I have a two o' clock with the runner of this fine establishment, a Mrs.Rich. She's in, I suspect."

The pony took a quick look at you, then down at a rotating notekeeper. After a quick full rotation. He looks back at Discord. "Sorry, but she doesn't have a two o' clock."

"No two o' clock? NO TWO O' CLOCK! i REALLY HOPE YOU'RE NOT TELLING THAT TO ME! DO YOU KNOW WHO I AM?! DO YOU SEE THOSE BAGS OF MONEY MY YOUNG WARD BRINGS INTO THE ROOM?!"

The pony scootched back as Discord leaned close with an angry growl.

"I'Im S-Sorry! B-b-b-b-ut you don't have a 2-2-2 o' c-clock. I-I don't even know w-who you are!"

Discord scootched back, and made an expression of pure embarrassment. "ooh, well excuse me manners, I be Oodles o' Moneybags. My card.." Discord pulls out a gold card and slides it across the pony's desk.

The pony, still in fright, stays still for a moment. Making sure Discord wouldn't confront him again. Then he gulps and slowly takes a look at the card. "I-I s-see...erm...Mr.Moneybags...erm." He takes a look at the bags of bits on top of your wagon "Are...those even real?"

"Are they even real? Goldie! The pony asks if they are even real? Ain't he a card? Why don't ya pull down a bag, and show this gentlecolt how real it is"

You nod
"Righto dad!"

You say in a cute, near irish way as you try to get your head through the pull ring. You struggle, but after some time. You get your head out with enough force to fall backwards, bump into the wagon, and a bag of bits lands on your head as it spills bits everywhere.

Your eyes spin as you groan in pain. If it's not you landing on your head, it's something else landing on top of it,

The pony kept his eyes on the coins, almost hungrily. "W-well, I'd like to give you an apology Mr.Moneybags. And I'd also like to apologize that I can't fit you into a two o' clock as Mrs. Rich is very busy. But we have an opening at five if you'd like. Though that's if she hasn't left yet...is that alright?"

Discord smirked and pointed to the spilled bag. "I don't know about that boyo. How about instead I give ya all those little gold pretties and the bag that goes along with it if ya let her know we're coming"

Chapter 161

The pony eyed all the gold rather hungrily, even licking his lips. He whispers to himself "Think of all the shirts and glitter I can buy..." He then looks to Discord with a smile "Tell you what I'm going to do. My intercom doesn't link to Mrs. Rich. But I'll let upper management know you're coming for your "two o' clock"...They should let you through.......that gets me the gold right?"

"You do it and on me mom's life, it's all yours." Discord said with a wide happy smile

And so it was done.

The pony made the call on the intercom and alerted them he was also taking a break. He took the moneybag and bolted. his last words being "They'll see you on the fortieth floor". And then he was gone.

"See Anon? That wasn't so hard now was it? Come, to the fortieth floor!" Discord cheered as he made a turn on the hallway looking for the stairs.

"Woah hey wait!....I don't have to pull all this stuff with me do I? How would I get it all up the stairs?"

Discord smiles at you and giggles "Of course you don't. That was just the bait after all. Just leave it there. It'll be sure to distract anypony else who might even have a chance to interrupt us."

Thank christ...he was being reasonable.After dropping off the goods, you both start making your way up the stairs. "So, we just have to get past upper management right?"

"We shouldn't have to. He said we were coming up to see their boss lady. And besides, how could you even question one of splendor and bedazzlement."

"Easily, I'm sure the ponies they deal with are snooty and calm. Not the eccentric type like you."

"Can't you be a little more optimistic? That kind of thinking isn't going to get us anywhere once we confront our target. If you think we can be dominated then we will be. You need to go in expecting nothing to go wrong"

".....er, isn't that exactly the reason you lose to the mane 6? Because you thought nothing would go wrong? In fact, isn't that how you lost to the sisters too?"

"Those are more like......calculated setbacks"

"......That made you spend generations as a stone statue."

Discord starts to get a little annoyed with you. "And your point is?"

"I'm just saying expect the unexpected. We're not in the clear until we get to Spoiled Rich. I doubt upper management is going to take the word of a front desk worker on an appointment we never made."

"...You worry too much. I'm telling you, things will be fine"

"...I just dunno. These type of ponies could be real professional. The type who'd not even understand what a joke is and is always calm under the heaviest of pressure. I'm just saying we gotta be careful"

"And I'm saying you worry too much. All we have to do is act rich and powerful and everything will be fine"

"..Mnn...If you say so"

You both reach the 40th floor. Where upon opening the door. You both enter a large office room with cubicles filled with cabinets and typewriters. But that's not what catches your attention. You notice a bunch of ponies in suits gathered by one of the windows. A frantic pony yelling at them to stay back as he looms over the open window "...If you come any closer! I'll Jump..I swear!"

A female coworker urged him not to "Don't, think of your wife and kids! C'mon Staples, you don't want to do this!"

“Oh but I do! Day in and Day out, all I do is staple everypony's work! And now that Mr.Rich's wife is calling the shots I'm expected to get everypony's coffee too?! It's not worth it! I've spilled five cups on me in a single day! It's driving me nuts. I'm not even brown! I'm supposed to have a blue coat!"

Discord looked over intrigued "What's all this?"

....Oh god.... "Holy crap....he's gonna commit suicide. Holy crap! I didn't even know ponies were capable of that kind of stuff! We gotta do something!"

You try to step forward, but Discord holds you back with his magic "Hold on, I want to watch this"

Was he fucking nuts? "Discord...what are you doing?! We got to save him. HEY! HEY! OVER HERE!" You yelled, but nobody was taking notice. Nobody but Discord.

"They can't hear you right now Anon, just be patient. I want to see how this ends"

"Discord! Holy shit man! The guy is going to kill himself. That's how it's going to end!" You struggled, but to no avail.

"Staples! Come on, just calm down. If you do this, everything is over." One of the pony's coworkers cried

"It's already over! I already didn't get her the right coffee three times! It's the pink slip for sure. And she'll make sure I'll never get another job if she remembers my name! I'm outta here. You chumps can stay if you want. But it's over for me!" Staples started to lean out the window, preparing to drop. You yelled for him to stop, but to no avail. One of the workers reached out to him, but it was too late.

"Noooo! FUCK! DISCORD WHAT THE FUCKING HELL! AREN'T YOU......"

"I'M FREEEEEE!" Staples yells as he opens his wings and flies away. The coffee stains didn't make his wings apparent until after he opened them.

Discord started to chuckle, trying to stifle his laugh as you just stare at the window. One of the ponies telling everyone else to get back to work and assigning someone else the new coffee position.

You were utterly stunned. "............You fucking knew the entire time that he was a pegasus..."

Discord couldn't talk, he started to laugh near maniacally. He got you riled up for no fucking reason but a quick laugh.

You facepalm. "......Why...why do I never expect these things?"

"Excuse me....but who are you and why are you laughing like that?" A mare with a white coat, blue eyes, her mane tied in a bun, and a sleek red business suit stood before the both of you. Unamused by Discord's laughter.

You grumble at him nearly ruining everything with his laughter. "He's being a jerk, that's what..."

"Hmmm? A jerk about what? If he's laughing about the loss of one of our workers then he...and you..can leave. We don't allow children up here and we do not allow....ponies like him"

She had a rather snooty way of talking. Almost like Spoiled, but not as callous or mean.

Discord quickly composed himself and cleared his throat. "Calm down lassie, We be here for the two o' clock apointment. Allo-"

"There is no two o' clock appointment with you Mr.Moneybags. I don't know what you did to convince our receptionist. But I checked and rechecked and even triple checked all appointment accounts. You are not on there."

....well fucking great. You give Discord a look of absolute disapproval. You wondered why he didn't fucking use his magic to just throw in the appointment. It would have made things easier. or maybe this pony would have noticed.

"Miss...." You say, but stop. realizing you didn't know her name.

"Orderly...Orderly Books. And if you're going to try to convince me to let you see Mrs.Rich, then I'll have to call security to throw you out." ...she did not look like she was going to budge.

Discord tried to be sleek and slick walking around her, eyeing her "Listen miss Books, we only want to meet with yer boss for just a wee minute. We have a business proposal she couldn't refuse. Now if ya would just let us pass"

She raises an eyebrow at him "We?....you mean the colt? Don't you think he's a little young for this kind of business?"

"Not at all, he be my son. And best partner I ever had, he is. Now, if you'd let me speak, I have this multi billion bit d-"

"I will not. You made no such appointment and I'm not the one who accepts or denies deals of any sort. Now, I won't say again....leave"

Well fuck. This...sorta hot but business oriented pony was gonna kick the both you out. And fucking Discord, SPIRIT OF CHAOS, was having trouble getting past her. Fucking christ. You had to think of something. What would a human do to get past this situation?

......what would a child do?

......oh god....it was sick and twisted enough to work.

As Discord and Orderly argued. You plopped on your bottom. Put your hooves to your eyes. And started to whine. "W-w-whh--whhhhaaaaa-WHAAAAA!" You start to cry, getting the attention of all in the room.

Even Discord didn't know what you were on about.

Orderly shifted her eyes towards you "..What's wrong with him?"

Discord shrugged "I don't know. erm..."

"D-daddy..I-I'm soo....s-ssorryyyyy...whnngmm" You do your best to think wretched terrible thoughts to get the tears flowing.

"....What are you talking about An-...err...Gold." Discord was heavily confused

"I-I'm s-sorry for not getting the appointment...ngh...I k-know I was supposed to. I...I...got scared by the receptionist and lied...mmnnghhh...lied about getting the appointment."

Everyone was now confused. Orderly tried to make sense of the situation "...You've been here? And you were scared of our receptionist...wait..." She looked towards Discord "You sent your son to make an appointment?"

Discord shifted his eyes left and right, confused "...err...yes?"

"...if y-you want to beat me...p-please..c-can we wait till we get home? Ba-back to the eastern isles? I don't want e-everypony judging me on my failure...p-please daddy?"

There was murmuring in the room, as Orderly looks back to Discord with disgust "You beat your child?!"

".....e-errr.....yes?" Discord said as his confusion and indeed, his embarrassment increased.

"D-don't g-get mad..miss..please?..i-it's our custom....if..we do good...we get..ngh...rewarded...but..if we do bad...mnnngh..it's just to help us to learn..but..it hurts so much..it hurts.." You fall to your side and start shaking.

"oh no no..shhh.." Orderly steps over to you as she gives Discord a death stare.

Discord just stood there, dumbfounded. He had no fucking clue what was going on.

Orderly laid on her belly and scootched next to you. and started gently rubbing your head with her hoof. "Shhh, I didn't know it was like that...I'm very sorry...I didn't know you had tried to make an appointment. What does your father usually have you do?"

You nuzzle and cuddle into her as you whimper. "H-he makes me carry all his money around on a wagon...it's sooo much..so much...I nearly broke my back once pulling it...b-but I do my best...T-that's why w-we need to see...Mrs. Rich"

Orderly fought with herself. She knew she'd be putting her job on the line if she let you in. But… you were so cute, so innocent...and she didn't want you to get hurt. She had never even heard of the eastern islands. But it sounded barbaric.

As she tended to you, she looked over to Discord with much disdain. "....And you have something worth Mrs. Rich's time?"

Discord started to sweat. He truly was lost. He didn't even realize that he himself felt humiliated on being outdone "....y-yes..I er...do. It's umm..something I call a cellphone. It's a new product from the eastern isles that allows anypony to talk to one another from any distance."

She seemed skeptical "...and you have a working model?"

Discord nodded. "Ready to go"

Orderly looked to you, and spoke to you in a gentle voice. "Ok little one, I'm going to let you see Mrs.Rich. I'll lead you to that door there, and when you go through, you'll have to go through one more office to reach her door. Just ignore the big guy behind the desk and very quietly go through Mrs.Rich's door. She hates sudden knocks while she is busy. When you walk inside, just be patient until she addresses you..alright?"

You nod, giving her your cutest, teary eyed look you could, smiling at her. Your smiling made her smile. "Thank you miss Books. You're the nicest pony I've ever met!"

You brightened up, and gave her a smooch on the nose.

She giggled "What was that for?"

"It's how I show my appreciation to nice ponies, its another tradition"

"Oh...well..I don't want to insult your traditions so" She gives you a smooch back. You blush...nailed ittttt "Oh..and..please don't mention who "made" that appointment, be very vague. Mrs.Rich is...not as agreeable as her husband."

You nod and salute. "Yes ma'am"

Orderly stood up and then looked at Discord with major scorn "And you....you can be sure that if a deal is made, that I will have an investigation done on your company. Nopony works for the Riches without a thorough check once we make our deals and mergers. Mrs.Rich will surely explain it to you when you sign the contract....IF you sign the contract. And even if you don't get the opportunity. I'll petition the princesses for an investigation anyway. Am I clear?"

Discord nodded, he still looked a little shaken up by the whole ordeal. "....Yes.."

"Good...now, that door there will take you to our usual manager's office, beyond that is the "Rich" door, an office reserved for only Mr. or Mrs. Rich. Remember, do not knock on any circumstances. And do not be loud when you enter..."

You both nod, you thank miss Books. And she smiles back to you, wishing you good luck.
as you both near and pass through the door. Discord whispers to you a few words. "What in Celestia's name was that?"

"It's called acting, hit me up if you want me to teach you how to actually do it"

"......You're lucky we're on a mission. or else unfortunate circumstances would be happening to you right now. You upstaged me"

You could taste his disdain for you at that moment.

You chuckle. "You could do whatever you want to me, but that will never take away this moment...hehe"

Chapter 162

You both pass by the manager of the building. He was busy on a typewriter. He was a grey, oldish looking pony with a balding mane. He paid the both of you no mind as you both very carefully slipped through the final door. The door to Mrs.Rich's office.

The office itself, well, every expense was made on it it seemed. The walls were nice and made of high quality wood. It had a small chandelier, a red carpet leading to the gold rimmed desk, a couch at the side, exotic potted plants, and a large window to survey the rest of the city. And right in the front of the window was Mrs. Rich herself, furiously typing away at her typewriter.

Despite her focus and quick movements. Not a single part of her purple mane was out of place. She didn't look up, nor did she address either of you. Should you sit? Should you say something? Should you get angry?....hrn.

You look to Discord to see what he was doing. But he wasn't beside you anymore. Oh..god..he was right behind Mrs.Rich, eyeing her work. Well, this was already going to go swimmingly.

Though, Mrs.Rich was just typing away. She hadn't even noticed Discord at all.

"You know, If I be a robber. I could have taken everything from this room before you even noticed. I even think I could snatch you and you'd still be pounding away at that typewriter of yers. Yer an odd old hag, aren'tcha?" Discord said, commenting right behind her.

Mrs.Rich stopped right there, right then. But didn't turn her head. Didn't get startled. But her face twisted a little. You don't think she liked that comment very much. "I don't remember an appointment for two. But you're already on the way to a declined deal. If you could please compose yourself and walk into my view" Her eyes never left the paper she was typing on. She was reviewing it with her eyes as she spoke to Discord.

Discord smirked and stepped to the front of the desk, beckoning you to his side with a gesture of his hoof. "Hello there missy, how are you this fine day?"

Mrs.Rich finally looks up at the both of you. She is definitely not pleased. She eyes you for a moment, but doesn't seem to recognize you. No, instead she takes notice of other things. "Where are your papers? Please don't tell me my staff let you through without some sort of presentation ready. How did you even get allowed up here without a look over?"

"I can't help that my charisma is a wee higher than most. As for a presentation, I actually got more of a proposal for ya"

"A proposal?..." Mrs.Rich looks down at you, then back at Discord "And let me guess, you plan to use this colt to try to sway my heart"

"Aye, you have a good eye. That is mostly the plan."

Mrs.Rich goes back to typing. "You both can leave. I don't have time for charities or proposals based on manipulating the weak of heart."

Fuck...nope. Time for you to say something. "We're not leaving until you hear what I have to say."

She stops again, and looks at you directly. Now her annoyance was becoming apparent. "I don't think anypony gave you permission to speak." She then looks to Discord "...you should learn to control your colt. I'm not in the mood for this. MY train ride here was appalling and I will not tolerate insolence from a child"

Discord's voice starts to change to it's normal self, but in a menacing tone "Oh, I'm so sorry. But unfortunately for you, he's the one who has some business with you. I'm merely the observer and guard."

"Excuse me?"

Discord warps and twists into his original form as he floats up and lays belly down in mid air as he rests his head on his arms and kicks his feet. "Helllllllllloooooo! I'm Discord, Spirit of chaos. I don't believe we've had the pleasure of a personal meeting"

Mrs.Rich looked up at him with disgust "I should have known. What's the meaning of this?"

You could feel your mane pull and change. Whatever disguise Discord donned on you must have vanished. Not that you cared at this moment.

Discord pointed down to you "Ask him. He's the one who dragged me here"

Mrs.Rich scoffed in disgust as press her intercom "Security!....." No answer.

"Oh....no no no. We're not having that. See, we're not even in Equestria at the moment. If you'd take a look behind you please." Discord said with horrid glee

Spoiled Rich slowly turns her head to look out the window. For that moment, she could feel a sense of fear in her heart. You all were in the chaos dimension. The whole room had been placed in a interdimensional pocket.

Spoiled Rich did her best to remain composed,calm, and professional. She looked back at Discord. Then at you. She had no idea who you were, it actually took her a moment to remember who you actually were. And when she did ".....I remember you now."

Discord slides a stepping stool in front of you, closer to her desk. You consciously step up on it to meet Mrs.Rich right in the eye. "Good, then this is going to make things a lot easier"

"So, are you here for revenge? Because I hurt your insignificant feelings? Do you realize you're bringing businesses to a halt with your petty vengeance plan? No, of course not. You're too simple minded to realize the consequences of your actions." She then looks up at Discord "And you are a terrible parent. I demand that you take care of your son right now, you foul creature."

Discord grins at her "Flattery will get you nowhere my dear. Besides, my son is calling the shots at the moment. I'm just waiting for the word to send you spiraling through that window behind you"

Mrs.Rich narrowed her eyes at him "You wouldn't..."

You speak up again to shift the conversation towards you. "He would, and it's funny you call him a terrible parent. That's actually why I'm here"

"What do you mean?" She looks back at you. Genuinely confused by your words.

"What do you think? You're a terrible parent"

Mrs.Rich loses her cool just a smidge, enough for her voice to be noticeably agitated. "....You better be careful with your words. You do realize your old orphanage is somewhere in Fillydelphia, don't you? Do you know what I can do if you cross me. Because I already know you both won't throw me through that window. Not unless your father wishes to be a garden ornament while you are put in a juvenile detention center for, and I assure you, for the rest of your life"

"Hmm Fine then, I know you're a pony of business. So let me get straight to the point."

"Please do so this waste of time can be over and done with"

"Ok then..." You pause, and look her right in the eyes. "You're a terrible mother, and most of your daughter's suffering is all your fault"

Now she's set off. She leans forward over her desk, slamming her forelegs onto it. "How DARE you! HOW DARE YOU! WHERE DO YOU GET OFF?! WHERE DO YOU, AN ORPHAN BRAT, GET OFF TELLING ME I'M A TERRIBLE MOTHER! YOU AND YOUR FRIENDS ARE THE ONES WHO RUINED HER!"

"And how's that? By actually being her friends? By actually making her happy by NOT having to fake our emotions just because she's loaded with money?"

She doesn't answer. Instead, she takes a few breaths. And tries to calm down. But there is still noticeable disdain in her tone. "You're not her friend. You're a poor delinquent adopted by a criminal who managed to spirit her away from what's really important"

You raise an eyebrow, feeling insulted by those words. "And that is?"

"Continuing the family lineage of course. Learning to become a dignified and first class mare such as myself. She's now confused because of all of you. She doesn't know what friends she should actually be keeping and it's bringing her down. Of course she'd be miserable, but you're already pinning the blame on me. You're so naive, so stupid. I'm surprised you can even walk."

...Now you felt some of your own anger bubbling up. A little from her insults, but mostly from her arrogance and ignorance. "You're an idiot. Have you even talked to your daughter since it happened? I know she's sent you letters"

"She has, and the moment I see that it's about that incident I immediately discard it. To reply would just fan the flames. She needs to realize her choice is wrong on her own and then apologize."

.........ohhh.....you were trying so hard not to curse her out. "..No...She doesn't. Did you even talk to her at all after what happened?"

"Of course not, she was being emotional. She was not thinking straight. Nothing I said would have gone through."

"..Well, I have spoken to her. She's a mess. She's happy with what she has now, but there's something that she lost that's crushing her deep inside. Do you know what that is?"

She looked at you with curious disdain. "No, what is it?"

"It's you, her mother. She's afraid that you hate her. She hates that you can't see that the choices she's making for herself is what makes her happy. That's why I'm here. That's why I don't want to fight. I'm trying to fix things for her. She misses you, and that tells me that somewhere...there was an actual mother inside you. I personally can't see it, but I think it exists."

But it wasn't enough. She wasn't moved at all by your words. "And whose fault is that? Children are naive, even my own daughter. That's why it's a parent's job to guide them. I did my part, as did my husband. I never thought in a million years that some fillies and a criminal colt would ruin all that. But she'll realize her mistake soon enough. From your words, it seems she's already coming to that conclusion. See, you can't hold back my blood. Eventually we always head back in the right direction...that's why we're successful...and you're not."

.......Suddenly that window would look better if it had a hole in it. But...you had to be patient. You had to find a chink in that armor. "You're so full of yourself. Hell, you're more arrogant than he is. And I used to think that was impossible"

You point to Discord, who was sitting on a floating chair. He was eating popcorn, seemingly enjoying the show. "Booo, you're breaking the fourth wall"

"You're confusing arrogance with insanity when it comes to him. As for me, it's simply fact. We all know it. I didn't make this fortune by being an emotional wreck or a dirty troublemaker. I made it through hard work and perseverance. And I'll let myself be thrown into Tartarus before I bend to the likes of you"

"....What does Filthy see in you?" You just couldn't see it.

"That's Mr.Rich to you....and as for what he sees in me, it's the same thing I see in him. We work good together, and despite what you may think. I love him, just like I love my daughter. But I also love this business. Everything has to fall into place, like cogs to a machine. And you...you're the monkey wrench who's trying to clog everything up. Why are you still bothering? I'm sure I've taught you enough with this little meeting that my life is important and separate from yours. Giving you no right to interfere. I'll even overlook all of this, if you stay away from my daughter. She doesn't need an influence like you"

.....what..a fucking..bitch. She was geared to fuck you and Discord over now. You can't falter. YOU CAN'T....there's gotta be a way. "Look..." ...Maybe..if you leveled with her a little..maybe if you bent..just a bit. "...look, I don't want to fight you. I really don't. What if you at least showed her some motherly affection? You know, take a day off to see her. Give her a hug. Let her know you still love her? If you did that, I'd back off...how about that?"

Mrs.Rich chuckles a low chuckle "How quaint, You think you know how to make a deal. No..that's not how it works. I already gave you an offer that's MORE than fair. It'll cover this transgression and the threats made towards me."

You tried, you really did...but you couldn't hold it in anymore. "YOU KNOW WHAT?! YOU'RE A STUPID HEARTLESS BITCH! I TRIED TO BE REASONABLE, I TRIED TO SHOW YOU YOU WERE WRONG, THAT SHE NEEDS YOU. BUT NOW I CAN'T SEE WHAT SHE SEES IN YOU. YOU'RE A FUCKING CUNT. GO AHEAD AND DO WHATEVER THE FUCK YOU'RE GONNA DO. WE'RE FRIENDS WITH THE ELEMENTS OF HARMONY. SO GOOD LUCK YOU CRUSTY CUNT! YOU KNOW!? YOU KNOW WHAT'S GOING TO HAPPEN TO YOU?!"

Mrs.Rich was utterly disgusted with your behavior, but couldn't help but smirk that she managed to win out in the end. Even thinking herself to be a hero for having a "just" reason of having Discord sealed. "I'll humor you...what exactly is going to happen to me?"

You we're breathing hard. You don't even care if what you were about to say was going to end up true or not. You just wanted her to emotionally suffer in some way. "You're going to die alone.....nopony is going to care about you, and you'll end up old, alone, and depressed for the rest of your life...and....a-and.."

The room slowly began to change around you and Mrs.Rich. The both of you ended up in some kind of white walled entrance hall. And what's worse, Discord was nowhere in sight… what the fuck just happened?

"What is the meaning of this?! Where are we? Ohhhhh....the deal is off now. I will not suffer this kind of indignity!" Mrs. Rich wasn't used to this. For all she knew, she was teleported to some sort of prison. You were just silent, trying to figure out what was going on. You look up, and saw a mare behind a desk. She looked pretty bored.

You walked up to her and whispered. "Discord..what the fuck is going on?" No answer, she didn't even glance at you.

"You there, what are you doing? Tell me where I am. I demand to know, THIS INSTANT!" Spoiled demanded

You look back, She was yelling at a nurse pony who was pushing around an old senile coot of a stallion. Where were you? And old folks home? Actually...as you looked around...there were old ponies everywhere. And lots of nurses.

.....Holy shit...you we're in a old folks home. But nobody was able to see or hear you, nor were they able to see or hear Mrs.Rich.

Mrs.Rich stomps towards you, she was flared up now. She didn't think she'd actually get locked away somewhere. "You! YOU'RE FATHER DID THIS! I DEMAND YOU LET ME OUT OF HERE NOW! NONE OF THESE DEGENERATES ARE ANSWERING ME. SO THIS MUST BE YOUR FAULT, YOUR'S AND YOUR FATHER'S. OOOHHHH, YOU CAN BET THAT ONCE I AM RELEASED FROM HERE THAT YOU BOTH WILL NEVER BE ABLE TO FUNCTION IN SOCIETY AGAIN!"

Your ears droop as you slide backwards from her getting closer. Shit, you had no idea what was going on. "I didn't do this! I don't know where we are..."

"YOU BETTER FIGURE IT OUT RIGHT NOW!...RIGHT NOW!"

Sheesh, she was pissed. Did Discord make due on his threat?...If he did, you didn't think being thrown into the dimension would end you up in a place like this… Wait… A place like this; An old folks home...

....Discord did do this. But, you couldn't be absolutely sure why. But...there was only one reason he would stick you both in a place like this...well actually there could be a thousand reasons. But..if he was being a partner, like has been...then you hoped you knew what you were doing because this was going to be one hell of a shot in the dark. You could only hope it came to the cartoon conclusion you were thinking of.

You stand up and brush yourself off and give her a dark yet confident look. A look of patience and understanding for one who is damned. "Nevermind, I know where we are."

"Good...now get us out. Now..."

"Alright...but to get out, we have to meet somepony first. Follow me.." You turn and head towards a hallway full of doors. with elderly stepping in and out of rooms.

"Follow you? Into what..my doom? Do you think I'm that stupid?" She refused to move.

"....I don't care too much. You can stay here if you want. I just want to meet a certain pony here before I go." You continue your trek.

Spoiled Rich just sits there, but she starts to grow worried as she looks around. So many Elderly, drooling, sneezing, grumbling ponies. it was making her nervous. "Hold on....I'll come with you. I realize progress can't be made if I just sit there...but this better take us back. Or else I'll make things even worse than what I said before"

You...didn't even know how that was possible...but whatever. You stopped at a door, and took a breath. This could all be for nothing. Or, there would be a pony in there that she would be sure to listen to. It was a randomly chosen door yes, but you were sure...if you we're right...then it didn't actually matter what door you chose.

Behind the door was a gloomy and lonely looking room with a single bed, dresser, lamp, and a desk. There was a large window on the opposite end of the room. Sitting there was a elderly pony. She was sitting right in front of the window. looking through it. sitting on a wheelchair.

.....You felt a calm in your heart. You really had to thank Discord after this. He set the stage for this final play. You just had to follow through.

Mrs.Rich peers into the room, eyeing the back of the old pony. "Is that the pony we're here to meet? You can't be serious. She's a relic. This is just an illusion...isn't it? Why would we have to meet a pony when it was your father that sent us here. He did..didn't he?"

You sigh and shake your head as you step inside. "It's more than that Mrs.Rich...look, I just want you to meet this pony and keep your thoughts to yourself"

"Hmph..." She didn't say anything. But she was sure something was off. But she also wanted out. So she'd comply until it became apparent to her you were fucking with her.

She stepped close to the old pony, and spoke with a more respectful tone "Excuse me, I am told you know where the exit to this place is. Is that true?"

The old pony doesn't answer. She had a coat color that matched Spoiled's. But her mane was pure white, and very nappy.

"Excuse me..." She speaks louder. But nothing.

The old pony just continues to look out the window with hope in her eyes. "...Any day now, my Diamond will come visit me...such a sweet girl..."

"Diamond?" Spoiled found that a bit queer. "What is she talking about? What does she mean by "my Diamond"?"

Spoiled got familiar..and haunting vibes from this old mare. Enough of a vibe to subconsciously think that she was connected to her daughter...but why? How?

"She knows her. They are related after all" You say as you came to the full understanding your guess was correct.

Mrs.Rich was confused and felt insulted. "What? This old mare isn't related to me. I've never seen her before. And a Rich would NEVER find themselves in a dump like this"

"Probably not..." You we're going to ride this naturally. Everything seemed to fall in place as you spoke.

You started to sift through the drawers. and pull out an envelope. Before speaking, you took a look at it to see what'd you need to say. This envelope came from Diamond Tiara...and it was for her mother. Well of course it would be. That was the entire point of this illusion. "At least..not in this day and age"

"...What do you mean by that?" She looked at you, wanting a clearer answer.

"Have a read" You hold the envelope towards her.

She quickly swipes the envelope from you. It was already open. She slips the paper out, not even reading who it was from or who it was for. "This better be good"

You hoped so too.

The letter read as follows

Dear Mother,

I'm sorry for making you mad at me. I didn't want you to be mad. I just wanted you to see that I found my own way, and that it made me happy.

I didn't want you to think I hated you for it or that I was throwing away everything. I just wanted to have real friends, and be happy. And I want you to be in my life too. Please, please answer. please don't be mad.

I want to be a family again. I want you to be happy too, not just with me, I just want you to be happy.

You're never happy anymore...

Love, Diamond Tiara.

Mrs.Rich still wouldn't budge. But her anger subsided into worry. "...Why would this old mare have this letter? It says it's from my daughter. But that can't be. There's no reason to send the letters here. Who is this old mare? Tell me!!"

Before you can speak. A nurse steps in. "Mrs.Rich?"

"Finally, somepony who actually can hear me. Yes, I'm her. Would you care to take me...to...the....exit?"

The nurse walks past her, ignoring her. "Mrs.Rich, it's time for lunch. we have some veggie casserole today."

The old mare responded with disdain "I hate veggie casserole..."

"I know..but it's good for you" The nurse pony was a unicorn, she used her magic to turn the wheelchair and started wheeling it towards the door.

"Who cares..it's commoner food....at least I know I'll see my Diamond will be here today"

The nurse shook her head, in disbelief of those words, but agreed with her anyway "I'm sure she will. I'm sure this will be the day for sure"

"Of course it is, or my name isn't Spoiled Rich. Head of the Rich estat-" The old mare started coughing, heaving, and nearly fell off the chair. falling unconscious as the nurse catches her and gently puts her back on the wheelchair.

"...She's really losing it. I can't believe she still thinks her daughter is going to show up. She hasn't been here in years. Doubt she even cares anymore." The nurse mutters as she rolls her out of the room.

Mrs.Rich was stunned. There was no way. "...What was all that? Why did she call that dried up husk "Spoiled Rich"?"

Finally, it was all coming together. "Because, that's Spoiled Rich.....that's you....in the future."

"The future? That's impossible. I wouldn't be caught dead in such a place in ANY year. I would never willingly submit myself to this."

"You're right. You wouldn't. Your daughter put you here when you started going senile. You became unfit to continue heading the Rich family empire."

"...S-she wouldn't dare. She'd never subject me to such humiliating conditions" Finally, Mrs.Rich was finally on the defending end.

"She would if she felt she had to. As for this place, it was probably the cheapest place to stick you. It's not like she should have a reason to care at this point in her life. What, with her father gone and all" That was bullshit. But in this dimension. It might as well be true.

"B-but I'm her mother! Look at this letter! She clearly cares! I-it just looks like I may have been...a little too stubborn. But not enough to keep her away" She holds the letter and envelope towards you, you take it, and take a look. Oh man...it was dated from way way way back.

"........Mrs.Rich, this is from years ago...when she was a filly"

She gulped. "No.."

You hold the envelope up to her. "Yeah, see? It has a date"

And when she noticed. She started to turn white. "...T-this is a trick..you c-can't tell me this is real..."

"It is, I don't have control over this. Dad sent us here for a reason. I guess he just wanted to get you back for what you said. I'd never imagined he would be so petty as to show you your future. Man, it's pretty sad...pathetic really."

Spoiled rich's ears drooped, she just sat there on the floor, silently. She slowly began to shake. "......this can't be my future...I...I've done everything right. I have a family, a successful business, I'm renown across Equestria..."

"I guess...But what do I know, I'm a future criminal." You just shrug.

".....I don't understand. I tried to put her in the right path through life. Why would she leave me here to suffer?"

You roll your eyes. "Wow...really? Even after seeing your future self, you still are making this about you? No wonder you're called Spoiled Rich. Whatever, you can do what you want. The exit should be here somewhere. At least I tried. I'd ask if you'd at least let me say goodbye to my aunt....but no..you don't care, do you?"

But she didn't reply. "She really hates me...." Mrs.Rich finally broke, little streams of tears started to form on her eyes. "...Why? I just wanted her to be the best pony she was capable of....why?"

You don't answer, you just observe. Damn..Discord outdid himself this time. This was amazing.

"Why would she feel that I hated her? I am doing this FOR her...."

"Yeah, I wonder why your daughter, who is pleading to you through her letters to show her motherly love, affection, forgiveness, and understanding would eventually grow to resent you. It's almost as if you were more of a controlling monster instead of a mother. But...you know. I'm an orphan. I could be wrong"

She didn't reply. She instead laid on her side. On the dirty ground. She didn't care. The thoughts of her daughter hating her now flooded her mind. "I drove her away… I made her hate me. I didn't know...I didn't know she was in so much pain. I didn't abandon her, I just… Oh Celestia....I did. I did hurt her...I did it on purpose..I wanted her to see how wrong she was. I didn't know it'd make her hate me. I didn't know she was suffering that much. I thought it was a rebellious phase.."

And then..it hit her. "I was wrong...I was wrong about everything..." She started crying, bawling even. Shaking on the floor like a scared child. "I'm sorry...I'm sorry...My Diamond Tiara..I'm so sorry...I..I wish I could make it up to you..It's too late."

....Oh man...oh man..it fucking happened. Mrs.Rich cries, still rolled in a ball as she pathetically calls for you. "..P-please..please don't tell me this is my future...I want to change..I want to fix things. I don't want my daughter to think she's alone...I..I don't want to be alone.."

"I don't know...can you really change?"

"I can! I can! I promise I can! Please...please give me another chance..please tell me this isn't my future..I'm sorry!"

"...No, this is only the future of what could be, not what will be. You...might still have a chance."

Might?! Hearing that, Spoiled rich crawled up to you, and groveled at your hooves. "Please no..please..let me have a chance to make things right..I don't want her to suffer...please"

Ok...ooook. You pull your hoof away gently, she was getting tears all over it. Tears and snot. "Ok, yeesh. You'll have another chance. What you do with it is your responsibility though."

"I promise...I promise I'll change..." She begs desperately.

With that, you look upwards towards the ceiling. "Ok Dad, we're done. Pull us back to the present"

And with that. everything began to glow white. Both you and Mrs.Rich got enveloped in a bright white light.

Chapter 163

You had to cover your eyes. "Ogh, come on...it didn't need to be that bright....huh?" You open your eyes, it appeared you were on the roof of the building. "What the?...why am I?"

You look around for Spoiled Rich or Discord. None of them were nearby. But....Discord had to be there somewhere. "Yo Discord, what's up? Why am I up here?"

Discord popped in in front of you, holding an empty popcorn bag. He tosses it away and looks at you, and shrugs. "It's because we're done. Mission accomplished. We actually did it. No need to busy ourselves with the emotional baggage"

"What?! Wai...So that's it? What if she thinks none of that happened? OR worse...what if she went insane or decides to call in the cops or something anyway?!"

"I'm not worried, as I said. Mission accomplished." Discord shrugged

But you had your doubts, even if the illusion was pretty convincing....if it was a illusion. "Ok...hold on, you say mission accomplished. But you refuse to actually make a check on that. How exactly are you so sure then? Unless, that wasn't the actual future is it? I thought you couldn't do time travel"

"Oh no, it was an illusion." Discord materialized a director's beret and tossed it on top of your head as he leaned back and put on sunglasses. "A masterly crafted one at that. I was the producer, you were the director. And together we created a true work of art that would leave a lasting impression on any idiot. Of course, it wasn't complete without a little extra spice added by yours truly"

So, it was an illusion. But… "Extra spice? What do you mean? What? Did you mess with her mind a little to make sure she'd never find out it was fake?"

"A good idea, but no. Within the illusion, there was a single solitary piece that was quite real."

A single piece? "What?"

"The letter of course, It actually exists."

IT did?! "Really!?.....well..." Now that you thought about it... "I guess that makes sense actually. I doubt you're capable of writing something that sappy. Was that the letter you were looking at back at Filthy Rich's place?"

Discord nodded and gave you a pat on the head. "Indeed! Very observant of you. Yes, it seemed our young filly's letter got mixed into her father's received letters, so it never got sent. At first I thought nothing of it. But once we had a set up going with the illusion. The letter made the perfect story piece to bring it all together. In fact, it's so important that once mail call is announced, it will be sitting on Mrs. Rich's desk, ready to read and have tears fall upon itself. Hold your applause though Anon, I already know I'm a genius"

Shit....you actually felt like applauding though. That was, really really good. If that's the case, you really didn't have anything to worry about. "Well....still, that's amazing Discord. I would have never thought of that."

"Oh I know, but I admit. You were quite good yourself. The emotion, the anger, the passion!" Discord shook his fists as he closed his eyes and bit his lip "mmmmmm! It was magnificent"

You grin, nice to have some praise for once. "Well, heh. It's how I felt. Besides, I'm not gonna be all "holier than thou" about it like a certain purple princess. Yeeaaaahhh, I did pretty good. We...did pretty good."

But then a thought occurs to you...right then and there; about the letter. "But..wait wait. If I directed the illusion. Why the letter at all? You couldn't possibly have known I was going to mentally suggest she was going to grow old and alone ahead of time. In fact, why did you even bother reading it at all?"

Discord hesitated, and shifted his eyes before confidently saying his next words "Well duh Anon. I like to peek at other ponies mail. And that particular letter just proved to come in handy later."

You look at him with judging eyes...but. You couldn't be sure if he was telling the truth or that the letter actually touched his heart. For now, you'd let it go. You didn't want to spoil the moment because you just knew that if you poked at it, he'd poke back. "Well, ok then. Discord, thanks for helping me with this. I couldn't have done this without you"

"Oh I know. But, If I had to say something about this whole ordeal. It's that this wouldn't have gone even half as well if I had any other pony as a partner"

Well, at least that was something. But there was still something else. You remembered that Diamond Tiara was still really upset. Maybe you shouldn't care too much knowing things we're about to be fixed. But, DT and her mother were quite a distance apart. So Diamond Tiara finding out that her mom is willing to change is still a ways away. "Thanks...so what now? What about Diamond Tiara? I...feel bad just leaving her hanging."

"Awwwwww" Discord picks you up and cradles you, poking your chest "Is my Anon worried about his little marefriend? Hmmm? I could send you directly there if you're really worried about her"

And....the equalized partner goodness of praising each other comes to an end as he once again patronizes you. That didn't take too long. You look at him with an adorably angry look. "Really? We just pull off the reformation of the century and we're back to this?"

Discord nods "Uh huh, like I said. We're done. Why are you complaining? Most of the things you watched on television always went back to the status quo. You should be used to this kind of thing"

........eggghhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh. His logic really annoyed you sometimes. "You're a shit Discord. You're cool...but you're also a shit. You can't show me some respect the entirety of at least one day?"

"Anon, I could treat you like I would a regular nobody..or worse..Twilight. Would you like that instead?"

......No. "Fiiiine, yeesh. Ok. Alright, I guess drop me off at Diamond's"

"Alright, but..I am curious. What exactly are you going to talk to her about? Or are you just going to tell her that we handled it?"

"No, I'm just going to try to cheer her up without mentioning it. Come on, you're a master of surprise. What do you think would make her happier? Me telling her, or her mom just showing up and giving her that warm hug she's always wanted?"

"Oohhhh, Well, if I had to choose. I'd choose that I think it's a little more than that. Are you sure you don't have a crush on her?"

You put your hoof to your forehead, rubbing it as you sigh. "Look, if you saw her you'd know why I'm doing this. She was falling apart. And she's a little bit of a drama queen. I just want to cheer her up so she's not an emotional wreck when all of this comes together."

"Whatever you say Anon, whatever you say. Well, I have a few things to do too. I have to make preparations for when we finally break this to Twilight and show her we're just as good as her. You plan to join me on that, right?"

...Ehh....no. Twilight was a twat. But, double teaming her on something she'd really believe herself to be best at is probably not a good idea after all. "Nah, you can have fun with that.. I don't want to give Twilight the wrong impression about me. I also don't want her telling Fluttershy that I joined in on mocking her. It sounded fun at first, and I'd totally do it. But yeah, the consequences can be pretty sucky I think."

Discord sighed in disappointment. "She would tell Fluttershy. Wouldn't she? I don't mind when she tattles on me. But I don't want Fluttershy thinking you're a delinquent. Mnnnn...darn. It would have been great fun. But you're right, if Fluttershy ever got wind that you aren't actually a little sweetie pie then she'd be very very disappointed and sad. I honestly can't see why she'd care too much. I personally would be proud. But, well..you know how it goes. Well Anon, I wish you good luck with your marefriend. And try not to get into one of those cliche moments of "passion"."

You nod. "Thanks Dis-...wait. Goddammit! She's not my marefriend and I would NEVER-...huh?" In a blink of an eye. You were in front of Filthy Rich's place. but something was off. You were still on your back from Discord holding you. But the top of the door was at eye level. "......oh shit"

You fall to the ground, hitting your head. "NGGHHh...ngh....of course. ugh...mnngh. of course he'd do that. Sheesh." You slowly get up, giving your head a gentle rub as you stare at the front door. Ugh, your head still sort of hurt. "Can't even have a victory conversation with the guy. Fuck....whatever. At least he actually sent me here. ugh...."

You sigh, you can't really be mad at him though. It's just him being him.You could always get back at him later. Still, for what it was. He definitely saw you as his partner. You both worked off each other as a team and successfully managed to reform Spoiled Rich. Even if his sole reason was to fuck with Twilight later. He still treated you with a respect he'd only ever give to one other pony. So despite his stupid shit, you knew he really did value you. That his words before of you being his friend and partner wasn't just a ruse. It's just he was also an egotistical asshole.

"Ok...I'm coming Diamond." You raise your hoof, and knock on the door.

It didn't take long for the door to be answered. "Hello?" It was a maid, man...you loved maids.

"Oh umm. Hi. Can I come in? I'm here to see Diamond Tiara."

The maid looked down at you, studying your face, then she came to a realization "Ah, you muzt be ze master Anon, pleaze pleaze come in"

Master Anon? You don't know whether to feel smug about that or wonder if that was some BDSM thing. Nah, just ask. "Master Anon? Why am I master Anon? Is somepony expecting me?"

The maid stepped aside so you could step in. "You are ze one who rescued the young lady Tiara, yez? Ze one Mazter Rich is fond of?"

"Yeah...umm..that's me"

"Zen that'z why. Mazter Rich wishes for uz to refer to you az if you were a member of the family. Az for being expected, no. But ze master and miss are out and the young miss iz very upzet about.....zomething. And if she iz not happy, the mazter is not happy...and then we are not happy."

....Ohhhh. You got it now. It was just your timing on the matter. She was looking for any way to cheer Diamond Tiara up. Well, lucky you showed up then. "Well, umm...if I can help, then I will gladly try to make her happy. Where is she?"

"In her room.." The maid bows. "Thank you Mazter Anon, we have been trying all day to raize her spirits but to no avail. You'd be doing uz all a zervice by cheering up the young miss"

"Hey no problem, if the young miss needs cheering up. Then cheering up is what I'll do." You ham it up a little. The situation made you feel pretty important.

"My my, you are zuch a chivalrous and honorable little colt, no wonder ze family is so fond of you...well..mozt of them anyway. I wizh you luck, for all our zake."

The maid leans over and kisses you on both your cheeks. making you blush deep red. "Ahrm..y-yeah..ok..umm...going..to do..that now.."

You quickly turn around to hide the your flushed face. Oh man, her kisses weren't just pecks. They we're a little longer than that with a sensual "mmmmwha" sound that rang in your ears.

But you had to get your mind out of the gutter. Diamond Tiara didn't deserve to be sad anymore. And you knew you could cheer her up. And then...well, you hope Mrs.Rich arrives as soon as she could. And you even hoped to see her and Diamond meetup. It was warming your heart already.

As you reached the door, three other maids we're standing in front of it. Each with one with ear to the door. "She's crying again...What happened?"

"I don't know. I thought she was going to be with that Anon pony the whole day. But she came back crying, and....demanding things. Did Sugar Lumps get the plushie she wanted yet?"

"No, it's rare and out of stock. I don't even know where we are supposed to get it. This is bad, usually she gets angry when she doesn't get what she wants."

"But that was a long time ago, she's been a lot nicer lately..."

"Do you think it's that Anon? Do you think he did this to her?"

"I don't know, I've seen him once. He seemed like a good colt. Mr.Rich likes him...ahrm..Master Rich"

"I don't think he minds us calling him Mr....that's really more of his wife's expectation"

"It's a good thing she's not here, we'd all be fired if she saw Diamond like this"

Oh lord, they we're not liking the situation at all. "Hello ladies, is Diamond in her room?"

The three maids looked at you. Two of them were confused. But one recognized you immediately. Although, you kind of had trouble remembering which maid you met at all. "Hey, you're Anon right?"

"Yeah, I'm here to see Diamond Tiara. I can see her right?"

She nods. "Yes, of course..."

But then another one speaks up "Hold on..."

She then looks at you with suspicion in her eyes. "....Do you know why she's upset?"

"Hey yeah, you did mention she went to see him" The other maid mentions.

...How to approach this? They were maids, so it should be easy not to piss them off. But if you fucked up here. They may not let you in.

You take a breath. "If you want to know the truth..." You hesitate… "...I did this. She was asking something really really unreasonable from me. And I told her no. I didn't think it'd be this big a problem. I came to cheer her up because I thought she was upset. I didn't think things would get so bad as to scare all of you. I'm sorry"

You use the truth. You even hang your head down in shame, not because you felt it. But to add in for effect. You knew in the end. Everyone would be just fine, especially when Mrs.Rich shows up.

"....oh..Um...well, I guess...if she was being unreasonable" A maid said, feeling unsure of herself.

"What?! What does that matter, what could she had possibly asked of him to be so unreasonable?!"

"Maybe it was a date?"

"A date?! WHAT?! WHY WOULD THAT BE UNREASONABLE?!"

"Erm.....because they are foals?"

“That's right, you can't expect them to jump in that early"

"Well she clearly did"

"...I dunno, I didn't get many dates when I was a foal."

"I didn't either, but that's because...well...colts thought that stuff was icky"

"...ugh, why? This is why she's upset. He should have said yes"

"Are we even sure it was a date? I did say maybe"

"What else could it have been?"

..Oh good lord. These must have been the type to gossip. If you waited around for them. You'd be standing there forever. You decide to check the door handle while the maids yammered on to one another. Unlocked. Good, you decide to carefully open the door to Diamond's grand bedroom and, slip on through, and gently close the door as you hear Diamond Tiara's sobs ring through your ear.

You duck your head, her bed was rather tall. And you didn't want her to see you yet. You wanted to assess the situation. You near the bed and press your side into it. You could hear her crying up above. Suddenly, a pillow flies from above your head and hits the door. "I CAN HEAR YOU OUT THERE! I WANT MY CELESTIA DOLL! NOW!"

You could hear hurrying and apologies coming out from the other side of the door.

"...Why is it so hard? I could fix everything if I was an Alicorn...why would anypony care? If I became an Alicorn Princess...then all the better. I could help everypony ever, and they'd all look up to me and call out my name. Then she'd see that I'd be a pony worth loving. They'd all love me." She holds her pillow to her body tightly as she tears up more "...even Anon"

........shit. You wish you didn't hear that last part. Yeah, she still loved you alright. And we're talking full on love. FUCKITY FUCK FUCK. It was obvious, but to actually hear her say it. Fuck fuck fuck.

This was going to be difficult. If only due to the fact that no doubt she'd accuse you of hearing her say that last part.......wait...the window to her balcony. Perfect...

You slide along the side of the wall. and then sneak, low to the ground, towards the window. Then...you carefully open it and slip outside. She didn't notice. She was too busy sobbing.
Ok..now it would look like you were trying to sneak in. Not exactly the optimal strategy, but better this then her realizing you heard her.

Now then… You knock on the window.

"W-who's there?!" She cries out

Chapter 164

"It's me, Anon. Can I come in?"

Diamond Tiara raised her head and looked towards her window. With her curtain open, she was able to see you on the other side. But she looked at you with confusion. "..Anon?....what are you doing up on my balcony?"

"I wanted to see you, so I snuck up here"

"You...snuck up here? Why? You're allowed to come in anytime....OH!" She hid her face and her shame to wipe her tears away, and beamed a smile at you while she hopped out of bed and trotted towards you "Did you reconsider turning me into an Alicorn? That's why you're here, right?"

Oh man, you could see all that genuine hope on her face. If it wasn't for the fact that you essentially reformed her mom. You'd feel heartbroken for what you were about to say next. "Ummmmm, no. But I thought I could come see how you were doing..you know t-"

Her eyes go half closed with stoic unenthusiasm over your words. "Leave"

"W-what? Hey come on. I thought you'd be happy to see me if I came to see if you were ok"

"Why would I be happy? It's not like talking to you is going to fix my problem. And I don't want to hear any more reasons on why you can't make me an Alicorn. I don't even see what the problem would be. It's not like I'd leave you out of it. You'd have benefits too...you know, I'd be a princess eventually. Princess's need....umm.." She was starting to dote over you, and shook her head to regain her senses. "You know what? just go!"

You can see her eyes start to glisten with tears again as she put up a tough front.

"Oh come on..." You were half questioning yourself why you bothered coming. But if Diamond was upset when her mother arrived. Well, there could be a misunderstanding. You've watched enough cartoons to see what happened when an upset kid meets up with the target of their rage. Even if the target was willing to make amends.

"Look, I'm sorry about the whole Alicorn thing, I really am. But I'm telling you, Nothing good would come from it. But, maybe there's something else. If you let me in, we could talk. Trust me, if you listen to what I have to say. You'll feel a lot better"

"What else is supposed to make me feel better? I already told you there's nothing else we can do. I know you've met my mom. She hates you, just like the rest of our friends. So don't tell me one of your plans is to talk to her. Because it won't work"

Oh, the irony in that statement. "Well, I'm sure we can figure out a surefire way if we just..hang out and talk with each other. I'll be all yours until you want me to go or if I get kicked out. How does that sound?"

"I told you. There's no other way! If you don't want to help me then go!...leave me alone..." You saw a few tears start to drip from the bottom of her face. She quickly wiped up her face with her hoof to hide away her tears.

"Come on Diamond, you don't want to be alone in here do you? Just let me in, ok? I promise you'll feel better. I'll do whatever you want me to do"

"No you won't. You just want me to let you in so you can tell me how wrong I am." She turns away, and heads back to her bed. "Just go back home already, I was busy....doing things"

Fuck, you were crashing and burning. "...Do you know what a Pinkie Promise is by any chance?"

She stops, then turns around. She still didn't looked too pleased. "You mean that stupid promise thing that's supposed to be unbreakable? Yeah, what about it?"

You sigh. "I Anon, Pinkie Promise to do whatever you want me to do, cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye." You then give her a cheerful smile, and whip your tail to and fro.

".....mmnn........mnnnngh........ok" She sighs and goes to her window, and opens it for you. Well, that was easy.

You step inside and take a small stretch before turning to look at her, keeping that cheerful smile on your face. "See? That wasn't so bad. So, whatcha wanna talk about?"

"Well......you're not lying to me when you said your horn won't work right now, right?"

You nod. "Yeah, I used the charge on something sort of dumb really. Just to bring back something from my old life"

"Oh...Well...then I want you to do something for me" She looked really unsure all of a sudden, she was blushing deeply. Ohhhhh shit. OHHH SHIT. She was even rubbing her leg with her other hoof. That shit was adorable enough to even get you blushing.

"Yeah? Sure, what is it?"

"....you can't say no, you know, you promised..." She started to blush even more....oohh shiiiittt...OHHH SHIIITTT. AND SO SUDDEN TOO! YOU JUST STEPPED IN AND SHE SHIFTED GEARS ALREADY!

"Y-yeah..I g-guess I can't...s-s-ooo..what is it?"

"Marry me."

......ABOOOOOOORT! ABOOOORT! AREA TOO HOT! "U-uhmmm...repeat that."

"You heard me...marry me...right now. Or are you going to break your promise?" She started to slowly approach you.

You gulp, saying nothing. nononononononoo....ok...you were expecting lewd. maybe you'd have danced with it for a little bit.....but NOPE...NOT THIS..NOOOOOO.

"Anoooon, cooomee onn" She whined. "You said you'd do whatever I said"

What do you do?! WHAT DO YOU DO?! You can't marry her! That'd ruin everything....and probably ruin your own life in the process. Ohh shit. OHH SHIT.

...No, she can't just marry you. right?...RIGHT?!...her dad would have to give her away...or maybe that’s not how weddings work here. You know there needed to be a ceremony at least. "uhhh sure...ok...but you know, there's gotta be all that ceremony stuff. Your dad would have to-"

"You can stop now Anon" She was blushing deep, a little sheepish smile on her face as she looked at you shyly. "I...just wanted to know if you'd really be willing to keep your promise. I didn't know you'd go and try to plan the wedding out too....ummm..."

Oh no....it was a trick...and she thought you were trying to plan it?! no....NO..you we're trying to find a way to avoid it...ARGH. SIMPLE MINDED KIDS........even...if she was cute… "...ummm..yeah..well..you know me....I'm a pinnacle of truth..heh..."

Oh god..what a bold faced lie. You accomplished your mission in seconds...but the results were not in your favor.

".....I-I don't want you to get the wrong idea or anything...I..know we're not a couple..I..just wanted to know if you'd marry me now. B-but..." She didn't know what else to say.

"Diamond...uhh. erm...you wanna talk about something else maybe? I d-don't ermmm..think we should be talking about marriage"

She still didn't say a word, she looked like she was half in a day dream. It took her awhile to finally get out a few more words. But the way she said it was with a rich sense of arrogance. "Y-you're right. hmph," She composed herself "We're not even together and you had plans in your head. That's kind of pathetic really. Did you think I'd just take you in after you're the one who broke it off?"

Woah..where did this come from? You were oblivious actually. But she was just trying to act high and mighty and pretending to be uninterested and insulted.

"I was just answering a question..." Yeesh, she's flip floppping all over the place. You thought so anyway. "It was just hypothetical stuff really." Woo, you needed a towel. that was close.

"Oh....erm. Well..umm..ok. I mean, it was sweet of you to keep your promise, but remember. You already said no to me...I mean...if you changed your mind...maaaayyybbeee I'd take you back...maybe"

...wait....ohhhh....she was being passive aggressive. Funny how you missed that. But you had to stick to your guns. She was just too young...even though...she did look a lot cuter than usual. "Sorry. but I do remember my promise. About if I don't find anypony else that'd well....me and you would be a thing"

"Mhmmm, I remember too. I don't think I'll ever forget. I mean, who knows? There might be another colt who'll come along and sweep me off my hooves. But..." She gulps, and steps closer to you, and lowers her head to rub the top of it under your muzzle. She was gentle, and her mane was soft and warm. "...maybe not"

Good job Anon, good fucking job. You forgot that you were A: dealing with a growing young filly. And B: she has a gigantic crush on you. "W-well umm...I er...guess."

You chuckle very nervously. And yet, you don't find yourself moving away from her gentle touch.

Diamond Tiara could sense that she was pulling you closer to her. It's one of the things she wanted after all. She wasn't completely doing it on purpose, but she absolutely enjoyed the attention. It was distracting her from her problems. Still, she thought. Now that you were being more agreeable and she knew she'd have you for as long as she wanted. She wondered what you'd like to talk about in relation to her mother.

She stops her nuzzling and takes a breath. "So...umm, you said we might be able to come up with some ideas? Did you have any in mind?"

.....You were still blushing. And half your mind was gone from it. Fuck, were you giving in?

"Anon?"

....Ohh..right right right...fuck...shit. You gave your head a quick shake and rubbed your forehead. "Sorry, had other things on my mind for a second. Erm..ideas.....ideeeaass. Well, I was thinking that maybe, when she came home. You try the peaceful approach. Give her a hug, ask her how she is, show her that you at least still care."

Suddenly, all of Diamond's pent up "feelings" for you dropped as she raised an eyebrow at you. "...Really? My mom isn't exactly the huggy type. She'd only tell me I was being too sappy or something and then say something like "You must be stern and a jerk and treat everypony like they’re scum and bla bla this and jerk stuff that" "

"Ahh come on Diamond, things can change. I think it might be the best idea we could come up with."

"...No..that's the dumbest plan we could come up with. And I'd be even dumber to actually try it"

"Woah, relax. Trust me, I actually think it'd work."

"....Anon, come on. It's not that easy. You don't know her. She cares more about making me into her than....just me being me" Diamond Tiara started to feel the hurt again just from saying that, and as she tilted her head down.

You reached out and put your hoof under her chin to raise it back up. You were giving her a confident smile. Despite the situation you found yourself in, you were still very devout in cheering her up and making sure she'd make the right move. "Hey, I'm making this suggestion because I really think it'd work. I need you to trust me. I know it sounds stupid. But, if you'd just try it...well....you'd be surprised."

Diamond was blushing a little from your touch, but the sadness she was beginning to feel again was becoming overwhelming. "Anon...it won't work..it just w-"

You interrupt her, you move your hoof back from under her chin. But you don't relent on your confidence. "It will work Diamond, you just gotta believe in me"

“Anon, why are you so sure? How can you be?"

"I...just am. Look, if things don't work out. Then, if you want to stop being my friend. Then that's ok. I'd deserve it"

No..she wouldn't want that either way. But Diamond comes up with an idea of her own. The idea she wanted. "I have a better idea"

"What is it?"

"Well, I decided I will try your idea. Since you seem so sure. But...if it doesn't work. You have to turn me into an alicorn." If it was any other time. You'd react, and even refuse. But there was no way that wouldn't work. So you give her a serious look and nod.
"Ok....if it doesn't work. Then I'll turn you into an alicorn the first chance I get."

Diamond Tiara found that surprising. She was expecting you to fight it in some way or form. "Really? You'll actually do it?"

You nod. "I did promise to do whatever you say. And since you're willing to meet me in the middle on this. Then yeah, I'll do it."

"...Wow...you really took the whole Pinkie Promise thing seriously. O-ok then, the moment my Mom comes back...whenever that is. I'll try your idea, and if it doesn't work. Well....you better not say no later. You got that?"

You nod. "I'm a pony of my word Diamond, you know that"

"..I know...mmmnn." Then...she smiled, and even giggled "Thanks Anon, you really cheered me up. I'm even excited actually"

"Really? What are you excited about?"

"Because now I'm guaranteed to get my mother's love and respect. Plus...a few other things." She fluttered her eyes at you.

You chuckle nervously. "Y-yeah, wooo. So um...what now?"

"Well...I'm feeling a lot better now...and you're here..and I'm here....alone" She giggled.

Oh good lord. your plan worked too well. Why couldn't this be Applebloom? She didn't seem the type who'd try to do these kinds of things to get your attention. "....ummm...yeah. So you're...feeling better now?"

She nods "Mhmmm, you always manage to cheer me up Anon. You're always there to rescue me. You could be my knight in shining armor...or my prince"

You gulped, she was stepping closer to you. A near drunken smile on her face.

"I...uhm...I just really care about you Diamond, I felt bad about what I said..and erm..just uhh..wanted to cheer you up. And ummm..erm...what are you planning?"

"Ohhh" She giggles "nothing~" She looks at you, with love filled eyes. "I'm just going to give you my "Special" attention"

OHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

"W-w-w-what?! D-D-D-iamond..I" You back up into a wall. No where to go.

"Shhh, you don't need to say anything...just..hold still"

OHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

She was just staring at you, and she was positioning herself. You were gulping in tandem. OH NOOOOOOOOOOOOO. You couldn't get any words out.

And then..it happened. She dove into you, and snuggled onto you like a pillow. But she didn't try anything sexual. She was just...cuddling.

"D-diamond?" Oh god....it felt so warmmmmmm~

"....shhh...I-I'm trying something. We're not supposed to talk"

W-what?! "What do you mean? What are we doing?..c-can't you tell me?"

"....It's. Well, my Daddy would tell me that when he and my mom were younger. That if she ever failed at something. She'd become a mess...she'd even be scared to see my Daddy. But he'd always go to see her anyway. He said he'd cuddle with her. and just not say a word the entire night. And when they both woke up. She'd be ok again. But they don't do that anymore....My mom sounded like she was much nicer when she was younger. I wonder what happened sometimes...I wish I could go back and meet her when she was nice..."

...So that's what it was. Diamond just wanted to wash away any more worries she would have had. This special attention was....just special as in the way her dad told it to her. It was special because you were there

"...And I know you're worried too. you made so many promises that I know goes against what you were telling me earlier. So I thought maybe I was pushing you too hard. And..." Diamond Tiara now started to feel bad about forcing you into the alicorn thing. And while she still wanted it that badly, she also believed in the faith you had in the plan. "If...you don't want to turn me into an alicorn. You don't have to...I'd like it...but. If you really really don't want to...then..I guess...I won't mind if you don't."

Mmnnn....you start to get a little into this and cuddle her back, nuzzling your chin onto the top of her head. "It's ok...I'm a colt of my word. But, I just want you to trust me ok? I promise everything will be ok."

She nuzzles back, and looks towards the window to her balcony. "Anon...you don't think I'd become like her...do you?"

"Nah, I think you'll grow up to be as nice as you are now"

You could feel her press herself a bit closer "Do you really think I'm nice?"

"...Yeah, whatever happened before. I mean when you were...you know..mean. That doesn't matter. Because that wasn't you. That's not who you really wanted to be."

"Mmnnnn....Thanks Anon...you're...a real good friend" You don't say anything. you just respond with a warm hug. "....I wouldn't mind if we just laid here forever. I feel like nothing could go wrong"

"Yeah..it's..not bad really."

You both just lay there for a little while more, embracing each other in a bundled up cuddlehug. Though, it didn't last forever. No...it was ended when the maids...the three who apparently never actually left from the door, could be heard speaking loudly. Almost in a scream.

"Oh no! Mrs.Rich is home!"

"What?! She's not expected for another two months!"

"Oh my Celestia! We're doomed! She must have come home early to fire all of us! I just know it!"

"Mr.Rich isn't home either! OHHHHHH We're gonna get fired for sure!"

Diamond Tiara's ear perks up, hearing the fear of the maids through her door. Her attention being caught the moment she heard "Mrs.Rich"

She breaks off the embrace immediately in fear. "A-Anon, Get up! Get up! Quick!"

"Wha, huh? What happened?" You didn't quite catch what happened. You were in a lulled gentle daze.

"My mom! She's home! She's home early!" Diamond was panicking crazily "If she sees you here...OH MY CELESTIA! YOU GOTTA GET OUT!"

Oh shit. Mrs.Rich must have made a first class beeline home after you and Discord was done with her. That’s fine, you knew things would be ok. And you...wait...how were you gonna get out? "O-ok ok...how do I get out?"

"What do you mean?! Just go the way you came in! Go gogogogogogo!" Diamond Tiara started pushing you out to the balcony, and near the edge even. You tried to get her to stop. But dat adrenaline

"W-wait! Diamond! DIAMOND! THATS THE EDGE!" You didn't actually get up to the balcony. so..you didn't exactly know how to get down. But Diamond wasn't thinking. And she didn't stop. She pushed you off the balcony. And watched you fall.

And before you can even let out a yelp. You fall..again..on your head..and flip onto your belly....oohhhggg....this one........hurt. Not even the fact that you landed on grass could help it.

"A-anon..A-are you ok?! I-I didn't mean to...oh no"

No...you were ok...your head was seemingly invincible despite the fact everything was spinny. You raise your head up, and try to stand, but you just end up finding it difficult to keep your balance. "ayt's aok Dermond, ah feel like er million bits. ah bet I could take on Tirek's dark in mah booty"

You had no idea what you were saying, and neither did she. But seeing you down there made her feel relief since you didn't get seriously injured. "O-ok...j-just get out of here. I-I'll see you later and tell you how things went, ok? Go..Go now!"

"...But I don't want hot cocoa..."

"ANON GO!"

"Ohhhh......ok" And you turned and walked off. tilting from side to side as your head took a few moments to reboot. Man...everything...was so damn spinny....and your head hurt...so bad. It's a good thing you'll be ok....hopefully.

Chapter 165

It took you another moment to get your vision from blurring and spinning. When you looked around. You realized you were in the backyard instead of the front.

...Luckily for you there was a pool. It had been over a day since you got to do this. Going home didn't sound like a bad idea actually. You could use the time to check yourself and steady your mind. Last thing you needed was Fluttershy asking what was wrong. That entire meeting with Diamond didn't exactly go as planned.

You take your map from your saddle bag and toss it into the pool, and immediately hop in.
However, as you fall through the portal. You find yourself stopping in mid air once you cross.
You look down, and...huh...It was Discord. He had reading glasses on and was writing on a little notepad. Resting on your bed.

He didn't even look at you as he busily wrote. "Welcome back Anon, I didn't expect you to come home so soon. Did you get chased off and needed an exit? Or are you taking a shortcut?"

You look down at him. But you didn't get angry or flustered. There was no reason to. He didn't seem to want to do anything mean to you. And he probably just had you suspended in mid-air as to not to drop on him. "Huh? Oh...actually, everything went ok. I just wanted to come home to sort my thoughts." You hovered towards the opposite end of the bed. Your butt being planted gently, your body facing Discord.

"Sort your thoughts?" Discord stopped for a moment and glanced at you "Did things not go the way you wanted?"

You readied yourself. In case he tried anything. "Ummmm, it just turns out she reaaaallllyyy likes me. She got a little too close."

Discord goes back to writing. "I see, well. Good on you for keeping your staff in check then."

..He wasn't doing anything so far. Odd… "....So, you're still planning the whole reveal to Twilight, right?"

Discord nods "Indeed...I want to make sure we spring it on her on the most opportune moment"

You look at the notepad. "And...that notepad just has doodles on it. doesn't it?"

Discord slowly smirks as he flips the notepad over. Revealing an animated, poorly drawn you and him dancing around a Twilight with the top of her head exploding like an atomic bomb. "I don't actually like writing out plans. But this is the projected results. What do you think?"

You...didn't find it appalling or bad. You were still in a slightly hazy state of mind about what happened with DT. But also, the fact that your opinion of Twilight still wasn't that high made you smile just a little. "Needs steam coming out of her ears."

"Ohhh..that's good" Discord snickers as he taps the notepad, making steam come out of the Twilight drawing's ears. "Complete and total meltdown....but enough about that." Discord tosses the notepad into a portal. "You're off to Fluttershy's, aren't you."

You nod. "Yeah......you feeling ok Discord?" So far he hasn't tried anything on you. He was acting......normalish.

"I'm quite fine. I'm just taking the day to unwind. Doing honest work takes a lot out of me you know"

That makes you chuckle a little. It was like the reverse of a dark joke. "I guess fixing other's lives instead of destroying them would tucker you out, huh?"

Discord took the moment to stretch himself out and yawn. "It's hard work, that's for sure. Better reserved for ponies who are into that sort of thing. Still, thinking back on it. It wasn't all bad. It was actually fun working with you. You made it almost as fun as when we terrorized Chryssie. Buuuut, I think the next time we go out on a venture. I'd prefer it leaning towards chaos rather than harmony."

Wow...he really was in a relaxed state. He wasn't being an ass. He wasn't torturing you. He was being normal.....scary. "Well, just as long as it's somebody who deserves it. Or if it's somebody who doesn't, then let it be a few light pranks."

"Can do."

Can do? "Are you sure you're ok? You're being very agreeable. It's kinda weirding me out man"

Discord stretches his arm all across the bed and gives you a gentle pat. "I told you, I'm fine. Really Anon, I have my relaxed moments too. If I didn't, I couldn't be friends with Fluttershy. Believe it or not, but my conversations with her actually border on normality."

That does sound like it kind of makes sense, You don't think Fluttershy would be as warm as she is to Discord if he was just causing chaos around her whenever he visited. And from what little you remember from their interactions in the show. It seemed....docile. "Sorry, just not used to it."

Discord smirks on that note "Interesting. Are you saying you want to be tormented? I didn't know you were into that sort of thing. You want me to whip up something?"

Woah.....no. "Nononono, I was just saying...I...ugh" You sigh. "I guess I'm still a little tense..."

"Relax..." Discord makes a sandwich appear, floating in front of you. "Eat something. Enjoy the reprieve. You won't get it in my company very often"

You look at the sandwich, and take it in your hooves. You knew you didn't need to test it. Discord never really ever did anything to your food but make it super healthy. You begin to eat it. "Discord...can I ask you a question?"

"You may, I may not answer it truthfully depending. But that shouldn't stop you from asking"

That was the best you were going to get. The question you had though. You wanted answered with truth. So, here's hoping he doesn't lie. Because you'd probably not be able to tell. "Why don't you try actually dating Fluttershy? It's obvious that you like her more than anyone else."

Discord was already showing signs of being dodgy "What's that word you use?...Shipping. Anon, please. This isn't one of your "fanfics". Ponies don't just fall in love at the drop of a hat"

"Oohh hoo...I beg to differ"

"She doesn't count. If you had let me kidnap her as planned then she would have never fallen for you. She is a naive filly afterall. I like her attitude though." Discord said as he adjusted his glasses.

"Well then, what's your reason then? Don't dodge the question."

Discord gives you a stare for a moment, he takes off his glasses and pulls out a drink. He smashes the glasses into the drink, stirs, and drinks. "Because, she is a representation of Harmony. And I? A representation of Chaos. Two things that could never truly coexist together. I wasn't lying when I said I couldn't stand making that kind of commitment. With the irony being that I actually enjoy her company and stories on our free time together. "

That again, seems he wasn't going to budge more than that. Maybe if you push just a little. "And that's what you always say, more or less. Are you telling me you wouldn't like her cuddling against you every night? Her telling you that she loves you. You don't want to personally protect that smile?"

"I could get most of those things without being married to her Anon, Chaos wasn't meant to be tied down in one spot. But I'm sure you need a simpler reasoning as to why I wouldn't. Let's see....hrmmm....ahh, well. How about this? I see Fluttershy, aside as my best friend, as my younger sister who happens to...not be a big fan of chaos. While we have our differences, we like each other just the same. Actually, I like that analogy a lot. It proves that I'm her best friend. I've never heard her other friends ever refer to her like that."

Heh, you were pretty sure he wasn't paying attention if they ever did. But, it seems he really wasn't going to budge. That's fine. This was actually pretty entertaining in and of itself. Just...talking. "Well, you convinced me. But I'm going to give you hell if I ever notice you trying to be more of a friend to her. Just saying."

"Fat chance that'll ever happen. But ahhh, it's my turn to ask a question. It's a little personal. So I hope you don't mind if I ask because I'm going to ask it irregardless of if you'd want to hear it or not"

You think you can handle it. "Go ahead, there's nothing I can't answer that you probably don't already know"

"Well then...interesting, because this is a question I'm actually not sure of the answer to. And that's why I want to ask it. Tell me Anon...." Discord paused. But he didn't take a breath or even really move. His facial expression just became a little softer. "Do you, or have you ever wanted to go back home?"

......oh… Well, of course you didn't want to go back home. Especially not now. Your life was much better here than it ever was there. But Did Discord not really know that? Did he think he was driving you away? Or that you felt homesick?

You shake your head. "I'd have to be an idiot to want to go back there. Besides, we're partners. Isn't that what you said? Plus, I don't think you'd let me go home anyway. I mean, what would Fluttershy say if I suddenly disappeared huh?"

Discord snickered."Good guess, you'd be here for the long haul whether you wanted to go back or not.....but" Discord gave you a genuine smile of care "I'm glad you'd want to stay anyway. I've said it before, but you've really grown on me"

"Same here buddy, you're an asshole. But you're a likable asshole...sometimes....kind of." You both share a laugh right there and then. And as you do, the floor door slowly opens.

"....There's a large abundance of love in this room. What are you two doing in here?" Chrysalis slowly poked her head up. Eyeing the room, clinging to the ceiling right under the door.

"Ahhh, Chryssie. Did you want in on our conversation? Feeling lonely perhaps?"

Chrysalis shifts her eyes towards Discord, she didn't look pleased. "Can it, I'm here for the buffet and...wait..." Chrysalis then shifts her eyes towards you with odd curiousness "Anon, is something the matter?" She doesn't say it as if she cares, she says it in a way that makes her sound a little sinister.

"What? I'm fine. If you mean me talking to Discord. We're just having a friendly moment. I wouldn't mind if you joined in. It'd be really cool to just sit down and chat with each other. Maybe tell each other funny stories"

"No...I'm not talking about your "moment" " Chrysalis slowly crawls completely into the room and nears your bed in a low crawl. Looking up at you. "...........interesting"

You start to get a little nervous. "W-what?"

Chrysalis stands up on all four hooves and looks at you very closely before turning her head towards Discord. "So, he's actually on the precipice of falling in love. Tell me...who's the lucky mare? Is it the Pink one? Did he fall for her? Or maybe he's taken the yell-"

Discord wiggles a single finger of his talons at Chrysalis "Ah ah, don't mention her in that context while I'm around. You wouldn't like the results. But if you must know...it's a filly actually"

"W-what?! HAHAHAHA" Chrysalis starts laughing and turns to you "A filly?! Seriously?! I thought you were an "Adult". What happened?!"

Ohhh....goddammit. Well, the comfy moment didn't last long as Chrysalis crashes the moment. "I am an Adult! geez, and I am not in love with her at all. It's just I care for her...like...a sister! That's it"

Discord snickers at that, Chrysalis taking that as a cue of it being a lie. She could tell you were lying anyway. or morso just in denial. She definitely tasted actual love. Though, not fully bloomed.

"It's definitely more than a sister. I think it's cute....and delicious" She snickers

You grimace at that, then sigh. "Come on Chrysalis, don't be like that. Can't we have a normal conversation? Isn't there a subject you'd like to talk about. Hell, if you want. We can talk about how Twilight is dumb."

"I do like that idea. Alright Anon, I'm game...but first. Since I now know your preferences..." She floats upwards. And shrinks down to filly form and glomps and gently nuzzled behind you. "I'd like it to be that of a social gathering. Both of grand topics and scrumptious meals. You're such a generous host"

You just lean your head down and sigh, blushing a little as she cuddles and feeds. "...fantastic. Ok, fine...whatever. So, since we are actually going to talk about Twilight. Discord, when are we going to spring the news on her?"

"News?" Chrysalis asks "Did something terrible happen?" You can feel her bounce gently in excitement "Did somepony get destroyed?"

"No no, we managed to solve a near impossible friendship problem. One that affects an entire family. It's a problem nopony could solve. Not even Twilight and her friends. Anon and I did such a good job actually...." Discord snaps his talons. You and him both grow horns and alicorn wings. "That I believe an ascension is in order, hurrahs all around"

Woah, was he serious? Ahh nope...you give your horn a tap. and it just shoots a small stream of confetti. "We did do pretty damn good. Trust me Chrysalis, if you thought I was bad. This pony wouldn't have had a drop of love to feed on before we reformed her. A real demon of a mare."

She nuzzles along your neck "I believe you, but what does this all have to do with Twilight Sparkle?"

Wooo, you kept your wits about you as best you could. Sometimes you wondered if making the decision to let her just feed on you like this was a bad idea. She always had to get so touchy. Your mind had a hard time deciding if this was a good or bad thing. "Oh, we're just going to rub it in her face. She'll go crazy over it."

Both you and Discord let out a bit of an evil chuckle. But Chrysalis was actually confused. "......How is that supposed to drive her crazy? Ponies do that kind of nauseating task all the time, don't they?"

"Yes my dear, but for us, a couple of chaotic characters, solving a friendship issue of this magnitude would be momentous and absolutely nonsensical. She'd be stuck on it for Celestia knows how long, ruminating on what should be impossible."

Chrysalis had her doubts. "Or she'll be like every other simple little pony and smile. Clap the ground. And congratulate the both of you on a successful reforming because going insane over something like that doesn't make any sense."

"Yeah, but this is Twilight. I mean, how would you react if say...your changelings just went out on their own and started doing social services for the ponies like cleaning their house or cutting their lawns or babysitting foals?....and not doing it for the love?"

Chrysalis stayed silent and unmoving for a moment, "I see your point. But is it that wild an idea to solve a friendship problem?"

Discord nods. "When it deals with me? It makes no sense. And when it makes no sense. Twilight goes absolutely bonkers. Though Anon, we do have to watch our wording. If she gets the idea that it was your idea to solve the problem. Then she'll most likely conclude that you convinced me on it."

You nod. "So, all your idea?"

Discord nods "Exactly, good to know we're both on the same chaotic wavelength."

"Well...if you both succeed. I demand film and pictures of the moment. I want to see that miserable worm writhe in agony at every moment I can get"

"Noted, I'll do my best to remember anyway." Discord said as he started stuffing dirt beneath his talons.

"Actually, Discord. Ummm...H-hey!" Your stopped when Chrysalis began nibbling on your ear.

"What? Stop fidgeting and moaning about this. Sheesh Anon, at this point I might as well be your mother; Grooming you to be better equipped when a mare shows you something more than a filly would do."

You were blushing as she gave your inner ear a little lick. Making it twitch. "Y-yeah but you're not my mom or my marefriend! You're just doing this for food! You don't see me getting touchy on you."

"That's because I wouldn't let you. Now what question did you have to ask?" Chrysalis goes back to hugging you from behind. Expertly clinging and massaging your backside.

You sigh as you start to feel more relaxed. You look at Discord. But he speaks before you do. "Anon, I was actually wondering. What if you and Chryssie actually had a child of your own? Ohhh..I wonder what that kind of hybrid would look like. Oooohh...makes me shudder just thinking about it, so interesting"

"WHAT?!" Chrysalis suddenly fills with fury

You make a whimper of pain as Chrysalis slams you down with both hooves so she can angrily look at Discord.

"HOW DARE YOU! YOU ACTUALLY THINK I'D BREED WITH THIS SCUM I CALL A FRIEND?" Chrysalis growled at him

Discord nods up and down like a happy child. "Mhmm. From the looks of it, you could take things to the next level fairly soon and make me a granddaddy. Of course, since he or she would be under my roof, then I'd get full rights to him or her."

Chrysalis stomps over you and steps towards Discord with intense rage. "You listen here you amalgamation of all things stupid! I am feeding off of him. I'm not prepping him for the deed of child making! And if you make another comment on it. I swear I will strike you down right here and....HEY!"

Discord gently picks up the fillified changeling queen by the tail and gives her a spanking. "I will not tolerate threats in my home....unless I'm the one making them."

Chrysalis whined as she tried to fly away or change back. But she could do neither as Discord gave her a few waps.

You sat yourself back up. And stretched. ouch, geez. "Well that escalated quickly...heh" You chuckle as Discord lays down one more whap and puts her down in front of you.

She just looks at you with an angry pout. "....What are you looking at?"

"You, come on. It was kind of funny."

"IT WAS NOT!" Chrysalis yells at you. "I'D SQUASH YOU IF I COULD CHANGE BACK!" Then she growls and turns her head slowly towards Discord "....cheater"

But it only makes you laugh all the more. She couldn't do shit to you even if she tried. And it made you feel pretty good that she was subject to Discord's pranks. the same as you.

"STOP LAUGHING!" Chrysalis dives at you as you both fall off the bed and roll. You actually manage to end up pinning her. It seems her strength was matching her current form as well.

"Gotcha!"

"This isn't a game you idiot! We're supposed to be friends, remember?! But no, it seems you have a death wish!"

Actually....you were feeling a little pranky yourself. You were caught up on the moment. And for once, you wanted to dominate Chrysalis. "Maybe...oh hey! Remember how you like to feed on my love?"

Chrysalis slowly cringed as she slowly turned her head, eyeing you "....yyesssss....why?"

You give her a smooch on the nose. "That's why"

"THAT'S IT! HOW DARE YOU KISS ME LIKE THAT! THAT'S NOT HOW IT'S SUPPOSED TO W-" You give her another smooch. "DISCORD! CALL OFF YOUR STOOGE!"

Discord however, was prepping a camera and taking photos. "What? And ruin the moment? I don't think so."

You grin at her. Hell, this whole situation actually was pretty fun now that Discord was working in your favor. It was "mess with Chrysalis" take two. But it was a lot more light hearted than before. And a lot cuter too. "Want me to let you go?"

"YES! NOW GET OFF OF ME!" She barks

"Say I'm your best friend!"

"What is this childish nonsense? I'm already your friend.......though by a very small degree at this point"

"Really? Well, that isn't really best friend material is it? Guess I'll just lay on you until you admit that. Because right now, I've managed to dominate you for once"

"You're cheating! Disco-" You give her another smooch. "STOP THAT! I THOUGHT YOU WERE IN LOVE WITH THAT FILLY!"

That made you hesitate for a moment, it made you think of your next words. "I'm...not in love with anypony. This is called playing. It's been awhile since I've done something like this. But, this is the perfect time and you know I don't mind a nice cuddling. So, ready to give in?"

"I'd rather be destroyed..." She groaned

"Suit yourself. Cuddle time!" You bring your head down and start nuzzling on her. Despite her tough carapace, cuddling was still possible. And she wasn't as tough and hard as she was when he's in normal form. And her struggling did her no good. Discord was definitely putting things in your favor.

"A-ALRIGHT, ALRIGHT! YOUR MY BEST FRIEND! NOW STOP! STOPPPP!"

That was good enough. You get off of her and grin.

"See? Was that so bad?....Chryssie"

Chrysalis quickly zipped to the wall, then to the ceiling like a bug. "You are both monsters!"

You look up at her as she flits her wings, looking down at the both of you angrily. "Come on. Don't be like that, you tease me EVERY time. Now you're gonna get angry because I teased you once?"

"Yes! And technically this is twice! You're supposed to be my friend remember? Friends don't do that to each other!"

You chuckle and shake your head. "But Chrysalis, friends do mess with each other from time to time. But always in fun. I just wanted to mess with you a little. I dunno why, I just..felt more confident. I just wanted you to see how it is to be on the receiving end of all that cuddling you do. You know, how you always mess with me anyway? Which kind of contradicts your statement?"

Chrysalis scoffs. "Queen trumps friendship status. Plus I can feed off what I do to you, you however have no reason. And the reason you came up with is pitiful."

"You gotta give and take Chrysalis. You can't just mess with me and expect me to do nothing."

"But that's what you usually do is nothing! It made it easy....ugh. I refuse to have this conversation. Just apologize to me and I'll be on my way. And be glad I only ask for an apology. Consider it an act of good will due to our "friendship"."

Or she just wanted compensation for something she didn't deserve. She couldn't assault you. Just as you can't assault her. And she probably still couldn't change back and was still subtly weakened. You could push it, but. You didn't want her to get stubborn and hold this against you. Even if it was fun. "I'm sorry Chrysalis. How's that?"

"That will do...." She flies down in front of you and eyes you as she walks sideways towards the floor door. "Know this Anon, just because I enjoyed your company and the movie does not mean you can do those kinds of things to me. And once you realize this, then I shall grace you with my presence once more." That was code for. "We're friends, but I get to be the one in control"

You sigh and give her a gentle, well meaning smile "Ok, but Chrysalis. Sooner or later you're gonna see that friendships really are a give and take sort of thing. If we work together, I be-"

She cuts you off "Don't...don't go sounding like one of those self righteous dregs. Now, the next time I see you. I expect a little more obedience and respect. Am I clear?"

For now, you'd let her have this. Maybe...you got too confident. But you were only having a little fun with her. Something you could never usually get by yourself. But if you continued to piss her off. Then it'd be back to square one with her. "Yeah, but Chrysalis, I'm just saying, I think your capable of caring as much as any other pony. That's all I really wanted to say."

"Save it, just be glad that I still can find some enjoyment in your company....and you." Chrysalis points towards Discord "I expect to be able to change back to my excellent original self when I leave this room" And so she left. Irritated with how things went.

You climb back onto the bed and rest your head down, chin first. "She's so testy. Geez, sometimes I wonder if she ever not has world conquest on her mind."

"Well, she is still a bug. They infest, scatter, and take over something else. It's just that she's of a high enough intelligence to know that holding a place that she took over is actually advantageous."

"I guess...thanks for the help by the way. I mean that"

"No need, I had to take advantage of somepony. Chryssie was just the one with the bad luck that time."

Ever the prankster, that Discord. "I see....ehhh, still. Thanks anyway. But she may have had a point. What if Twilight doesn't spaz out?"

Discord smirks as he snaps his talons. Producing a purple, bulging, brain. It drops right in front of you. Making you jump back in surprise.

"Oh geez! What's that?!"

"It's Twilight's brain of course. Isn't it big? No wonder she flaunts it around. It's really a sight to see"

"WHAT?! THAT'S HER BRAIN?! WHAT THE FUCK DISCORD! SERIOUSLY!"

Discord snickers "Oh did I say that? I meant it's a replica. Color coded to represent our favorite purple pony princess."

You let out a annoyed gruff. "....You did that on purpose"

"I did!" Discord says joyously "But the time of shock is over, now is the time to learn. Now..." Discord puts on a lab coat and glasses. Then zaps you with a bolt of magic. Putting you in a lab coat as well. "We experiment."

"How exactly? It's just a brain. I don't even believe it's a real one" You move a bit closer. It was pulsating like a real one. And had a very distinct smell.

"Of course it's real. A replica copy to be sure. But still. Now then, let's just say this..." He holds up a cube "Is what happens when our dear Twilight Sparkle solves a friendship problem"

He drops the cube on the brain. The brain hops up and starts doing flips. Making you move away from it and duck. Then use your blanket as a shield from it's flying liquids.

"What the hell is it doing! ugh, it's getting everywhere!"

"It's jumping for joy Anon, what does it look like it's doing? Now then..." Discord pulls out another cube as the brain suddenly stops "Let's say this is Twilight knowing we solved a Friendship Problem....but it was you at the helm and lead everything" Discord drops it on the brain.

You hold up your blanket again. But the brain doesn't really move this time. It just shifts about. "What's it doing now?"

"It's suspicious. It believes that you'd want to solve a friendship issue. Which is no surprise considering your reputation. But it doesn't understand why I'd involve myself. It's a very mild reaction. Obviously there can be some very rational explanations to it"

You move in very slowly to get a good look. then cringe. "...ugh..it's juices are all over my bed..."

"Hush Anon, now comes the final part of the experiment" Discord produces one last cube "This doozy of a cube contains the same information as the last. The only difference being that this cube assumes that it was all my idea and that I talked you into helping me with this friendship problem." But Discord doesn't drop it in. "That is fine with you, isn't it?"

You shrug, still a little grossed out by the gooey brain. "I..guess. I only cared about the results. So if you want to tell Twilight it was all you. Go ahead, I kind of want to see her reaction myself. Not like she'd ever actually find out whose idea it was."

"Indeed, it won't even be the act itself that sends her wild. It'll be the fact that I did it. Now then, let's see what happens" Discord drops the cube.

At first nothing, the brain just becomes a slightly darker shade of purple. "Interesting..." Discord says as he stares at it.

You tilt your head, confused. "Huh? What's it doing? I would have t-AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" The brain suddenly leaps and attaches to your face, shaking and vibrating as it gushes onto you. Making you scream and gargle.

"Experiment over! If this replica is close to the real thing. Then we can expect a total meltdown! haha! Simply brilliant! Wouldn't you say?"

You couldn't answer, you were still screaming.

Discord takes the brain from your face and eats it as you fall on your back. Heaving, taking deep breaths.

"T-that....was...the...grossest....thing...I've....ever.....touched....u-ughhh"

Discord gently sits you up and starts cleaning your face with a rag, making you struggle and release muffled yells. "Science is never a pretty thing Anon, but it is necessary for the advancement of ponykind. And that experiment was doubly important. There we are..." Discord stops cleaning you. Your face and mane was all puffed up and furry. Like you just came out of the dryer. "Adorable, you're ready for your good time with Fluttershy"

".......Right" You straighten your coat and mane with your hoof. Annoyed, but not angry. But you never wanted to feel brain juice on your face again. "....Can we not...ever do that again?"

"Oh don't be so serious. Didn't you have some fun of your own with my present yesterday?"

.....You did. "Yeah...but...nmmm" You did mess with Rainbow Dash, the Flim Flams, and most notably...Twilight. "I..guess I did"

"Then? You're only being so boring because you lack the kind of power I have. Still, as much as that pains even me. The limit on the horn still stands. Now then?" Discord snaps his talons as the portal door opens "Better get going before it gets too late. And try to get some rest. You do have school tomorrow"

....Right..school. Damn, you did forget about that. "Alright, just don't go freaking Twilight out without me, ok? I wanna be there too"

"No worries Anon, I won't leave you out. Oh and...." Discord pulls out a picture frame of you and filly Chrysalis and puts it on your dresser, it's of you smooching her nose in fact "There we are, another happy memory."

Looking at it now. It...did look kind of....in the bad sense of weird. Even if it was also cute. "Erm...thanks. But won't she get angry if she sees that?"

"And I care why?"

"...Right..ok...anyway. Umm...seeya tomorrow I guess."

"Ahh before you go Anon, I have one thing to say"

"What?"

"Be sure that if I come up in conversation that you make me look good. Or I'll rearrange your face for a day"

............To think, this whole thing almost went semi-perfect. "R-right, gotcha."

Discord gives you a happy and ignorant looking smile as he waves "Bye bye then!"

....That smile. Hiding the fact that he pretty much enjoyed threatening you like that. Well, you knew what you were doing. You we're sure you could handle not making him look bad. And besides, this was Fluttershy. Unlike most everyone else you know. You've only ever really known soft cuddles and the feeling of true nurturing care from her. Nothing could possibly go wrong.

And so you step through the portal, and stand before Fluttershy's cottage once more. You take a breath. That whole experience wasn't a bad one by any means. But every moment with Discord meant there was a tense aura around the room. He could do anything at anytime based on a whim. Even during a friendly conversation. It was never wise to relax. You needed a moment to properly unwind.

Chapter 167

Shit, you didn't know much of anything on this. Some of this shit was history on stuff like the minotaurs or the breezies. Or pop culture shit like Countess Coloratura, Who the fuck even was that? Probably something that never gets mentioned ever.

At least you could answer questions on normal animals or shit you seen on the show. But just, some of this other stuff. It was beyond you. You decide to look at the children's cards.

hrnn...no, they were dumb. Questions like "What makes a pegasus different from a unicorn" or "Who is the Princess of the Sun".

...fuck

You put away the cards. Whatever, it was fine. It's not like you could have possibly known some of this shit anyway. The show never covered it.

Then there was the cutouts too. That was still bothering you. You decide to take a look at those too. Either Fluttershy has a secret career as a anime artist or she really did make all of these just by a thought in her head. Absolutely crazy.

you push the board aside and put away the cutouts. You decide to look into your saddle bag. Just the usual stuff. You were just bored now really. But you didn't want to hurry her along with dinner. She was already making you a shake along with it.

After awhile more. Fluttershy was done. She pulled up a little table and set down two plates. Mashed potatoes, some plants, hay, and veggies, a carrot. And a banana shake, just for you. She just had a glass of water for herself. "Dinner's ready Anon, I made us both a healthy and delicious dinner. I hope you like it."
If you weren't a pony. This would be pretty shit. or, just shit to you really. But with change of body came change of taste. What really caught your eye was the glass the shake was contained in. It was pretty big.

"It looks pretty good. And...wow, that's a lot of banana shake"

"Well I don't know exactly how much you can actually drink. So I made enough to put in a big cup. So that way you don't feel like there wasn't enough. But if you don't think you can drink it all then don't force yourself. Tummy aches are not fun. If you can't drink all of it I'll put it away for tomorrow"

Man, it's a good thing you're not an idiot kid because you could totally see yourself doing that.

You decide to take a sip of it first though. To see how it tastes.

Your pupils shrink, you're surprised at how good it is. Super surprised.

Man, you sure do think you're manly enough to handle the whole cup. Because it was too good to let sit in some fridge
"Woah, what did you put in this?"

"Nothing special. Just ice, bananas, sugar, milk. The usual. Do you like it?"

"Y-yeah, it's super good. I was just wondering if there was anything extra....are you sure there's not anything extra?"
Fluttershy shook her head gently and smiled at you "If there had to be anything extra, it would have to be love. I always make sure to put the right amount of ingredients in whatever I make. For you, for my friends, and all the cute and loving creatures of the forest that come to me for food when they are hungry."

.....d'awwwww

You both eat the dinner that was laid out before you. You took a swig of the shake for every three bites of dinner. Fluttershy reminded and warned you a few times not to over do it. But you told her you'd be fine.
And now dinner was out of the way. You even finished the shake.

Though, much to your dismay. Fluttershy was right about not trying to drink too much. Luckily for you, you could grin and bear it......though it still sucked that your belly was hurting from something so delicious.

Fluttershy smiled as she put the plates together to put them in her sink to be cleaned. "wow Anon, I didn't know you could actually finish all of that."

You lean back a little to rub your aching tummy. But act as if you're just giving it a after dinner rub.
"Yeah, that's me. The quadruped garbage disposal."

Fuck, you really shouldn't have taken in all of the shake.

"I noticed" Fluttershy said as she took a moment to clean the plates and put them away "I'll have to remember to give you bigger portions of food next time to fill that belly better"

ooooghhh...
"You don't have to do that..." You decide to stand. lordy, you could see the plumpness of your belly just by bending your head down to look at it.

"I don't mean by a lot if that's what you're worried about. Just enough to make sure you're nice and full. You don't need to worry, I always have enough food for everypony."

.....eggghh
"ok, but not too too much. I mean, you never know. maybe just a tiny bit more would be enough to make me feel real full"

"You're not full? Well, I could make you a quick after dinner, before bed snack if you'd like"

NOPE
"N-nah, I'm good. Really, Don't want to eat too much and have trouble sleeping, r-right?"

"I guess so" Fluttershy said in adorable ignorance "But if you wake up with the grumbly wumblies, you can help yourself to whatever you want, alright?"

"Yes, thank you Aunt Fluttershy...mnn"
...she really was nice, so nice that you felt that there was a sudden offset in your own feelings. You felt like a terrible person who was just using your cuteness and backstory to take advantage of her. Every fucking time you felt like this, and it barely got any easier. Especially when she was being that super nice.

"Is something the matter Anon?" Fluttershy asks as she walks over to you, noticing your sudden shift in mood. But then she gives you this "mother's eye" look, as if you did something wrong. "You don't have a tummy ache do you?"

You decide to tell her the truth, no way you couldn’t with that look.
"Yeah, it's not too bad though..."

"mmnnn....Anon" Fluttershy shakes her head and looks at you with disappointment "What did I say about drinking too much of that banana shake? You could have had some tomorrow before school. Now you’re going to be up all night..."

"I'm sorry. I guess, I just got ahead of myself. I thought I could handle it."

"Anon....mnnnn...here, follow me to bed. Maybe I can help with that"

No lewd thoughts Anon, no lewd thoughts. This was Fluttershy, and you didn't want to take that in that kind of way.

You just nod,a nod as you apologize again.

Fluttershy leads you upstairs to her room and asks you to hop on her bed.

You do so.

"Now, lay on your back, and relax your body."

.....it was getting harder to block the lewd.

"What are you going to do?" You say as you comply to her every word.

She hops onto the other side of the bed. and starts gently kneading and rubbing your belly with her hooves. "A tummy massage. We need to get those little groanies out so you can get a good night's sleep for school tomorrow. Just don't focus on it, think of something....relaxing"

fuck. Her touching you with her gentle hooves WAS relaxing. It was so soft and expert in the ways of settling your stomach that you didn’t think a single lewd thought thereafter. And as she rubbed. You could feel your mind start to wander. It went back to Diamond Tiara.....hmnnn...You really hoped her mother showed up to make amends with her.
Maybe if you wake up early, you could rush over and check before school starts.

You close your eyes, and as you do. Fluttershy begins to hum, and sing a little lullaby to you. And right when you're losing it and about to fall asleep...

"Anon" You feel a poke "Anon, is your tummy feeling better?"

You slowly open an eye and yawn. Your mind now dulled.
"W-wha..huh?"

"oh...did I wake you? I-I’m sorry, I didn't know you'd fall asleep during my rubbing. You're not upset are you?"

You looked up at her, she was worried that her efforts were maybe...too effective.
"Huh?..oh..no no..wait?..wasn't I supposed to be sleeping anyway?"

"Welll..yes..but...hrnn.." Fluttershy stopped to think about it "oh...sorry." She chuckles sheepishly "So...erm...how is your tummy feeling?"

You weren't even feeling any aches anymore.
"It....feels ok now...wow, your hooves are like magic"

"Oh no, it's just a regular hoof rub." She then smiles, noticing you weren't upset or cranky at all. "do you want to go downstairs now? I can set up the sofa for you to sleep on. And I've got some extra blankets for you if you need them."

...what? Fuck that. You wanted her cuddles.
"..oh...can...I sleep with you instead?"

"Are you sure?You know, boys usually sleep by themselves. They don't usually like sleeping with their aunts,dads, or moms."

noooo, you wanted the cudddlleesss
"...but...I feel safe when I sleep with you. I like sleeping with you. When I'm with you, I feel like nothing can hurt me"

...and that was the truth. You still couldn't pinpoint why. especially since Fluttershy is for the most part a chicken shit. But her cuddling made anything that tormented your mind just...go away.

Fluttershy felt worried. She really didn't understand your huge need for sleeping with her. Considering you seem fine living in another dimension. But, if you really did feel that way. Then she would be your guardian, and protect you from whatever haunted your mind. Even if simple cuddling was all it took. But...she just had to ask one thing.

"Ok Anon. Here, I know how you like to cuddle under my wing." She got on her belly, and tilted a little so you could nuzzle under her while she covers you with her wing. You don't hesitate to nuzzle your head under hers as you make yourself comfortable.

"Are you comfy?"

"Mhmmm"

"Good...Anon, can I ask you a question?"

"Mhmm" you say, already feeling a gentle warmth wash over you.

"I hope I'm not bringing up any bad memories. But, why exactly do you not feel safe when you sleep alone?.....it doesn't have to do with your father does it?...or the orphanage? Maybe if we talk about it. You won't feel bad anymore"

Shit

Actually, as you quickly thought about it once again. There was one more thing that when it hit your brain. terrified you. Usually, with all the chaos and hubbub you never had a chance to think about it. But now that Fluttershy was actually asking.
"I uhh....well. Have you ever got the feeling that because everything good in your life makes you happy, that it's all actually a dream? And you're afraid that if you go to sleep and wake up.....you'll end up back in the darkness?"

".....Anon....are you afraid all of this is a dream?"

"...sort of, I feel like sometimes things goes too easily my way sometimes. like, it really shouldn't be that way. I mean, I never in a million years thought I'd have a dad...or an aunt as loving as you an-"

Fluttershy shushes you gently, and turns over more so she can wrap her legs around you and cuddle you close. You can hear her voice quiver just a little. "A-anon, shhh. Don't say anymore. Don't even think that anymore. Because it's not true. I don't love you because it's fate. I love you because you are my nephew, because I can see in your heart that you are a good and kind colt. You've already suffered enough, you don't need to be thinking those kinds of thoughts"

...Fluttershy.

you do your best to hold back your tears. God, why did that thought have to go in your head? just flashes here and there. You thought about it, why would Discord even bother in the first place? It shouldn't make sense. But..you were here. And you hoped to god it wasn't some fucking coma. Because this warmth felt so real.

Fluttershy spent the remainder of the time you were awake gently nuzzling you. reminding you of your friends and the times you've had since you came to Ponyville...or the times she has heard of anyway. She does this to reaffirm the reality. You really had to learn to get over all this. You knew you could be better than this.And although she calmed your thoughts of Equestria being a fantasy. Nobody should feel this much guilt over simple lying.

You fall asleep however. too tired to sort things out in your mind. Or really, no longer caring thanks to Fluttershy's soothing voice and soft cuddles.

Another night passes

the morning sunrise shines it's rays through the bedroom window. Making you groan and turn to the other side.
"...stupid..sun..."

When you turned, you noticed however that something was missing.

You open your eyes and dart your eyes around the bed. Fluttershy was gone.

...fuck..it was morning.
"mmnnghh..."

"Anoooooon~, oh Anon~...breakfast is ready!"

You could barely hear Fluttershy's call. And you didn't feel like getting up. Too early...

After a few moments, you feel kicking at your backside.
"ogh...nmmmg...hey!...stop...stop it"

You turn around, and then get a rabbit kick to the face. Not enough to really hurt. But it startled you enough to jump back off the bed and fall on your back.
"oomph!"

It was Angel, he hopped to the edge of the bed and peered down at you.

You look back up at him, and just glare, annoyed.
"....Really?...what did I do to you this time?"

Angel shook his head, then tapped at his arm like it had a watch. Then pointed to your saddlebag, which was hung by the wall.
"...what?"

Angel grumbled and rolled his eyes. Then made eating motions and rubbed his tummy. If you didn't understand his motions for school, then maybe you understood...

"Oh...breakfast?..oh ohhh ok......Still, you didn't have to kick me."

You get up and dust yourself off. Then look through the window. Man, it was a little earlier than usual.
"...ugh...you don't think you could have told Fluttershy it wasn't close to school yet? I'm tired."

Angel just rubs his chin to that. Then he hops over. Grabs a pillow, and smashes it to the side of your face. Then observes closely.

"Geez! Hey! What was that for!?"

Angel made a sleep snoring gesture. then slapped his own face a few times, then opened his eyes wide. To signify he was slapping you awake. At least, that's what you got.
"Oh...you're just waking me up. Well...I guess that's ok. She did make breakfast. But still, I could have done fine with th-OW!"

Angel smacks you again, and grins.

"Ok! That was uncalled fo-OW!"

He just tosses the pillow to your face, then jumpkicks into it and bounces back on the bed.

"Ok! That's it! now you're doing it on purpose! c'mhere you little..."

You dive at Angel, but he easily dodges you, and hops out of the room and downstairs.

After grabbing your saddlebag,You give chase, but as soon as you hear Fluttershy's humming. You slow down.

When you get downstairs. You see Fluttershy setting down a bowl of cereal, an apple, and a glass of juice. Angel standing at her side. Smirking at you.

That little cowardly shit.

You take a deep breath and put on a smile.
"Hey"

"Good morning Anon" She turns and smiles, greeting you. "Are you feeling better this morning?"

You eye Angel for another moment, cocky shit. He was sneaking in a booty shake at you.

"Good morning! yeah, feeling a lot lot better. and I'm already ready for the new day." You lied. You were still tired

"I'm so glad. I've made you breakfast. and I even packed you a lunch for later." She looks over to the side of the small table she set up.
And there was a bagged lunch....aww...you couldn't stay angry. even if it was focused mainly on the rabbit. "Eat up Anon! it will give you the energy to get through the entire morning until l-"

There's a knock on the door. It was....a little frantic. But it catches everyone's attention.

"I wonder who that could be. hmmmm..." Fluttershy looked towards her door and called out "Hello? Who's there?"

You slowly approach the table to plop your butt down and eat. But you wouldn't start until you knew who was at the door. Was it Discord?...nah..he wouldn't knock. He'd just burst in.

"It's me, Twilight. Fluttershy, can I come in?"

"Of course..let me just.." Fluttershy opens the door to Twilight Sparkle. She....looked pretty disheveled. Like she flew in a panic and didn't even get her morning coffee yet. "T-twilight? A-are you ok?"

"No, Fluttershy. I have to ask you...Right now. Do you know anything about Starlight Glimmer? I mean recently. Has anypony told you what she has been up to?"

......what?...uhhh...were you in another episode? Was it an episode where Twilight was panicking about Starlight on an unfounded basis?....what did it have to do with Fluttershy? ohhhh, unless Twilight been visiting all her friends yelling out baseless claims. huh...you wondered if you should tell her. But, to respect Starlight. You should probably be quiet. You should give her a visit sometime. See how she's doing.

"W-what? You mean the same Starlight from the town we visited? No, why would I? D-did something happen?"

Twilight steps in, and slams a letter down on the table you were eating at. But she was so frantic. She doesn't even say hi, she didn’t even seem to notice you. "Fluttershy look, I got a letter from Sugar Belle saying Starlight came back to the town. She's said she's changed"

"She went back? She's changed?" Fluttershy was now confused "I admit...that's a little suspicious...well...maybe a lot more than a little....maybe a lot...do you think it's a trick?...you don't think she took all their cutie marks again do you?"

Oh no. It wasn’t so baseless as you thought.

you stopped eating. and started to sweat. You didn't like where this conversation was heading.
"I don't know, that's not even the weirdest part. look at this sentence right here. And please, tell me honestly, if you know anything."

Fluttershy looked at Twilight with a "wut?" face. She had no idea what she was talking about. "Twilight, I already told you I don't know about any of this. Why would I even-............"

Fluttershy looks at the note. And stops dead, her eyes widening when she reads the sentence Twilight was pointing at. "A nice colt named Anon helped her, he just came out of nowhere, weird huh?"

Oh man, OHHHHMANNNN

".....she can't mean..." Fluttershy looks up at Twilight. Utterly frightened by the possibility of you running into Starlight. "...it can't be my Anon...it just can't"

"How many other colts do you know with that name, Fluttershy? Also the fact that the letter says it WAS a colt. Look, I can see it was kept a secret from you. But it's clear Discord and Anon have been doing suspicious things behind our backs. Now, maybe it was just Discord manipulating Anon along. But I reeeaaaaaallllyyyy doubt Starlight is going to change because of Anon. If Discord is setting a trap up for kicks. It isn't funny. We need to talk to Anon. We need to get him alone, and ask him what happened. Does he usually come here before school or does he go straight there? I don't want to cause a scene."

"E-ermm..." Fluttershy didn't know what to say about that. But she didn't like the accusations. But...she couldn't figure out why you'd be on the letter. "Twilight...he's....right next to you"

Twilight turns her head and sees you, sitting there, sweating. It wouldn't be so bad. But this was Twilight, who already nearly perma-sealed you once. "O-oh....Good morning Anon, ummm....well...at least you know what we want to talk about now...I-I mean..." Twilight's mind clicks, she realizes now was not the time to watch what she was saying. She stood up tall, and her embarrassed face became one of sternness. Her voice becoming quite serious. "Anon, can you explain why you're mentioned in this letter?"

Chapter 168

Fluttershy could see you sweating. But she didn't know why. Her reasoning was that you were still scared of Twilight. She also didn't like the fact Twilight seemed all up on your face. "Twilight....how do you even know it's our Anon? Why would Discord do such a thing? Why Starlight? Even for him, it doesn't make any sense. Plus, I've told Anon about Starlight. I think he would have told me if he ever ran into her. And then there's the fact that Discord isn't mentioned anywhere in the letter at all. Meaning she would have only have met Anon...and come on Twilight. Even you have to admit she has no actual reason to talk to Anon. And furthermore, somepony would have noticed if he was ever in danger. What proof do you even have to go accusing Anon like that?" Fluttershy stares right into Twilight's eyes. a motherly stare that bordered on protective anger.

"I...uhm...mnnn. I don't have any evidence actually. I just saw the letter and assumed it had to be him. It just seemed too coincidental. He's the only colt named Anon that we know of. That's not even a normal name. If not him, then who?"

"Well, I think you owe somepony an apology. ESPECIALLY after what you did before. Twilight, i know you have good intentions. But lately it seems like you have it out for Anon. First accusing him of being the changeling queen, and now this? And without any actual evidence either....for shame Twilight...for shame.."

Twilight's ears drooped. and she cringed hard. After hearing it said out loud. She felt absolutely terrible "Y-you're right Fluttershy, I haven't been a very good Princess of Friendship lately. With everything going on, and even the changelings trying to frame Anon and Discord. Well...maybe I just got too suspicious with all the coincidences.I'll have to look into this myself then, to make sure nothing sinister is afoot...."

Oh shiiit. That's not a good outcome either. Starlight was still obviously angry at Twilight. Or at least did not want anything to do with her. For her to suddenly just show up, suspicious of her? No, that would cause a problem.

Twilight turns to you, she took a heavy breath. Took in her own faults. and looked you straight in the eye "Anon, I'd like to apologize to you. Not just for accusing you of this. But for the way I've treated you since I've met you. I'm really sorry"

You cringe, and hesitate. ugh...the secret was already out of the bag. If you sat back and did nothing. Something bad could happen.
"....erm, you may want to hold that apology Twilight"

"O-oh I...ok" Now she felt extremely terrible

"N-no..I mean.....ugh"

You look down, yeah...this was for the best.
"I...am the Anon in that letter"

They both gasp, full surprise that you admitted it. But of course, neither of them knew why or how.

"I Knew it! I knew it was you. and....wait...ahrm" Twilight still realized that she may have been being too much of an ass, and that this might not even be your fault. "A-anon..look. You're not in trouble. I promise not to hurt you. I just want to know why your father put you up to this. What is he up to? He should realize that this isn't a game. And I need you to do the right thing. I think in the end I could help Starlight if she's willing to listen. But if she's being ma-"

You put your hoof up, to signify to stop talking.
"You can stop right there Twilight..." You sigh again "Dad has nothing to do with this."

"Anon....look, you don't need to protect him on this. Whatever he's doing. It's wrong." Twilight tried to convince you

"I promise you, he has nothing to do with it.” You then look towards Fluttershy with a pout “Aunt Fluttershy, you believe me right?"

you just needed someone to believe you. You had to defuse this situation somehow.
Fluttershy looks directly into your eyes, and doesn't hesitate to nod "Of course I do Anon, it was very brave to even admit that it was you in the letter....considering" Fluttershy then eyes Twilight, a little more angrily this time "Somepony would make it a very scary thing to tell the truth"

"Fluttershy..I..." But Twilight couldn't think of anything else to say.

"Twilight, like I said. I understand that your days have been very stressful lately. Having to meet with the other princesses, having to make sure all the changelings were sealed, and having to look through all that evidence and trying to figure out what they were planning must be very exhausting. But Anon shouldn't have to suffer for it. He's a gentle and loving little colt. Now please...talk to him as if he's a friend, and not a criminal. And I'm sure he'll become more comfortable with you. I know this is very important, but I will..I....I..will...erm..." Fluttershy didn't want to be too harsh. But she couldn't let Twilight walk all over you. "...I will ask you to leave."

"I understand, I'm sorry Fluttershy. And Anon,again. I'm very sorry. I can understand if you don't want to answer my questions. but please understand, it's very important. How did you even meet her? That's what gets me the most."

You didn't want to not answer her questions. You also didn't want her to just go confront Starlight. No...in fact...If she did go, you had to make sure you went with her. You didn't even want to imagine what would happen if some cartoonish misunderstanding happened where Starlight thought the town was suddenly against her due to sending Twilight a letter. Man...that thought just hit your head and that seemed the most obvious conclusion to this dilemma.
"I'll answer it. You remember the party Pinkie threw for me right?"

"vaaaggueellyyyy...I was um. Sort of..well you know" Twilight gulped, remembering her state of perpetual guilt.

"Yeah, well after it. Starlight sort of..." You had to be careful with your words. "found me and led me into the cave she was hiding in the Everfree forest"

"O-oh my..a cave in the Everfree forest?" Fluttershy stuttered "That's dangerous.."

"Well, yeah but. She had a barrier to keep the forest animals out. She wanted to talk to me about the horn I have."

"...the horn?" Twilight gets suspicious "This wouldn't be the same horn I told your father to weaken, would it?"

You nod "Yeah, but at that point it was. But she thought it wasn't. She managed to figure out who caused the random shifting of the sun and moon and wanted to ask about how I did it and stuff."

Fluttershy was believing every word you said. even if it was mostly half truths. "Well...that doesn't seem so bad."

"Yeah, but. Things happened and-"

"What kinds of things?" Twilight interjects, becoming for inquisitive and suspicious

"Well....the barrier she had just happened to break. and some timberwolves came in and she couldn't stop them. So, using my magical map and a puddle. I saved the day by teleporting her and myself back to my house."

"Wow, that's amazing! I'm proud of you Anon, selflessly helping ponies like that is a very heroic thing to do.....just please don't get into those situations often please...and..Oh no..She didn’t hurt you did she?! Please tell me she didn’t..." Fluttershy said, the situation was so off to her she had nearly forgotten Starlight’s mean streak.

“She didn’t, it wasn’t really that bad a conversation actually. Until..y’know...Timberwolves.” You say, wanting to calm her nerves.

"Wait hold on, why did her barrier suddenly just break? Was there an actual reason?" Twilight asked

"I don't think that's important. Look, I just want to say this. I spent the entire night with her, and I even took her back to the town. She was hurting Twilight. Real bad. Relatively speaking, friendship pretty much stabbed her in the back. And that's why she was doing the things she was. She wanted to make Equestria safe and equal for everypony so they wouldn't have to suffer. And before you interrupt me, yes, I already know the way she was doing it was wrong. I managed to get her going down the right path. And since that letter doesn't seem to mention anything bad. I think she's still on the right track. Can't we drop this? please?"

"Wait...Anon. Does that mean, you weren't actually sick? But, then why did your father lie to me? Why didn't you at least tell me?" Fluttershy felt hurt that you wouldn't at least tell her the truth about when you were “sick”

You sigh...you didn't mean to upset her "I didn't want you to worry. And Starlight, well. She's still kind of upset about a few things that happened,namely with Twilight. So I kept her secret. Dad found out afterwards, and I managed to convince him to keep it a secret too. None of us wanted to see you hurt or worried Aunt Fluttershy."

"Oh...I g-guess that's ok...sort of. If she asked you to keep things a secret..Even though..erm...nevermind" Fluttershy looked like she was struggling. She wanted to stay on your side this time. But she mentally couldn’t believe that Starlight seemed so docile towards you, and yet. She remembered Starlight having some sense of care, albeit twisted, for those who followed her.

"Why would she need to keep things a secret though?" Twilight asks, finding the whole thing suspicious "Look, I trust you Anon. But Starlight has had practice manipulating ponies before. If she's really turned herself around, then I at least have to see for myself. It's not just because I want to check on her, but there are other ponies that could be suffering right now because she might have fooled you."

You couldn't figure out in your head if that was reasonable or just made her an asshole. Either way, you weren't just going to let her go see Starlight by herself.

"Fine, if you have to by duty. Then I understand. But I'm going with you"

"Anon wait.." Fluttershy chimes in, not liking that at all. "What about school? Don't you think you shouldn't miss anymore days? I can go with Twilight if you want. I'd actually like to see Starlight again, she didn't seem too bad" Fluttershy was making excuses with that one. She didn’t want you to be caught in anything dangerous if something did go wrong.

"Actually Fluttershy, I'd like to go this one alone. I need the rest of you here in case anything happens to me. That way, in case I'm gone for too long. You all can rally the rest of Equestria to come and help the town" Twilight seemed ready for battle. Geez, top notch work there Twi.

"Woah wait. You can't just do that. I'm her friend, I need to be there in case you screw something up. Yeah I said it. Because I know you will!" Nah, fuck that shit. You couldn't let her go alone.
"Anon...." Twilight puts her hoof to her forehead to take a breath and calm down. "Look, I believe what you had to say. So if Starlight has nothing to hide. Then everything will go well and there won't be anything to worry about."

You let out a patronizing chuckle "oh ho ho no no no."

You shake your hoof at her, in a "no" fashion. "I already know what happens when you go to do something by yourself. And just because you trust me doesn't mean I can trust you. Since you know, you tried to SEAL ME over a hunch! And I just happen to know that's not the first time that kind of thing has happened. I know stuff like the "Want it,need it" spell nearly destroying the whole town, the near war you all had with the yaks, oh, I even know when you used magic as a solution against vampire fruitbats, a solution that nearly turned my aunt into a permanent vampony! You couldn't even make amends with an old friend of yours, Moondancer, without calling in Pinkie for help which, surprise surprise, Pinkie had kept up her friendship with friends you had forgotten to make it all work. But hey, you managed to uncover the changeling queen and save Cadance during the whole wedding thing. Huh? There’s that I guess, compared to everything else"

Twilight cringed harder than she ever cringed before. It was like she never realized she fucked up that badly before. "....I...umm...I"

You could feel the tension in your nerves. You felt good, it felt good to finally tell the purple pony that she was a gigantic near world ending fuck up.

"Anon...how do you even know about all of that?" Twilight asked, she was again suspicious. But also emotionally devastated. Nobody had ever pointed out those things to her in such a way.

"How do you think? Dad told me. So yeah, You're not going alone. You either take me w-....."

You shift your eyes slightly, and look at Fluttershy. She was shaking. and muttering the words "please stop" over and over in a really low voice.
"Aunt Fluttershy? A-are you ok?"

Shit, you nearly forgot she was standing there. She looked like she was going to burst into tears.

"No...I don't like this. I don't like the fighting...I need a moment...I need...T-twilight..c-can you please step out..please...just for a moment?" Fluttershy was shaking, she had never seen you like this. And she couldn't fathom why Twilight was being like this towards you either, unwilling to compromise or even actually believe you. She said she believed you, but Fluttershy felt it wasn't entirely the truth. And she shuddered to think something sinister was going on.

"Fluttershy, I'm not go-" But Twilight is interrupted

"PLEASE!" Fluttershy lets out, her tears finally starting to flow.

"E-er...ok..." Twilight was now especially worried. But she could tell she was making it worse by sticking around. She couldn't figure out what set Fluttershy off. "mnnn."

Twilight went and stepped outside, glancing at you before doing so. She didn't like the turn this conversation took. She only wanted to check how things were at the town. At least that's how she thought of it. She didn't know why you exploded at her that hard. And what's worse, she was thinking of all the times she fucked up that badly. She was internally trying to balance it out with all the good she has done. But it was difficult. Surely it just sounded worse than it was...right?

"Aunt Fluttershy?"

Fluttershy slowly turned her head towards you, devastated. "A-anon....I'm not mad at you"

......goddammit....you completely forgot exploding like that in front of her would upset her.
"Aunt Fluttershy...I'm sorry I-"

"Don't be...I understand why you're upset. When I think about it. Twilight hasn't really been treating you right at all. It's very strange t-to me....but...at the same time Anon....don't you think that was a little....extreme?"
You grit your teeth a little. No..it wasn't...but

"Aunt Fluttershy...I. Just lost my temper.look, Starlight and I became friends. But she doesn't want to deal with well...Twilight..and you..and everypony else; But especially Twilight. Starlight had been spying on you guys for a while apparently. And she feels Twilight would be a suspicious snoop and ruin everything. And lo and behold, that's exactly what's happening. Come on Aunt Fluttershy, she nearly sealed me forever. She can’t handle this"

Fluttershy quivered at that. Now she felt bad due to her indecisiveness and worry "S-sorry...."

.....dammit. Now would have been a perfect time to be mary sue levels of perfect right now. Because if this was anyone else. then fuck, they'd probably be on your side completely. You loved the girl but damn, sometimes she's too sensitive.

You sigh. There had to be a way to do this without upsetting her.

"Aunt Fluttershy, all I'm saying is that I need a little support. Think about it. Just think. If Twilight goes alone, and I'm right, then we're gonna have one doozy of a battle in which really, nopony is going to win. Come onnnnnn. Think about it, don't you think it's a little weird she even became a princess by solving a spell that she herself invoked and nearly doomed you all with incorrect cutie marks?"

"Y-you know about that too?"

You nod "Yes....look, I'm not asking you to do anything bad. But Twilight doesn't seem to want to listen to me. She probably still thinks that despite all that, that she still should go alone. She probably thinks going alone would prove something now that I brought all this up. Please, just back me up in going. Please” You just needed her on your side. At least this once. You were scared she’d somehow side with Twilight. But goddammit, at this point, you were more her child than Twilight could ever be her sister….That’s how you felt anyway.

"mmnnnn...." Fluttershy began to stroke strands of her mane nervously. "....ok...but...I think I should go too...just in case."

"Aunt Fluttershy, I don't think that's a good idea. I want to show Twilight that everything is fine. And if you want to go, then probably everypony will want to. And that would just make things worse. Please...I'm asking you. Please, let me do this. And back me up. You know I'm right, right?"

Fluttershy didn't respond at first. She was having a hard time processing all this. She had been Twilight's friend longer than she has been your Aunt. But, she felt maternal instincts nagging at her. And considering how Twilight nearly sent you away. And how much sense you were making. She finally conceded, if only to get things to stop.

"...ok....I'll" She took a deep breath and wiped her tears away "I'll be behind you all the way....but Anon, can you please promise me one thing?"

"Anything"

Finally, she was jumping to the side of sense.

"...I don't want you or Twilight fighting. or arguing...or making mean remarks...sometimes she can be a little snarky, so erm..ignore that. But please, if you could do that. It'll make me very happy. Also...promise me you'll be careful...in fact..." Fluttershy leaves for a moment, and fills a flask with water and puts it on the table. "if...for any reason....I'm not saying Starlight still being evil or anything....but if something happens...you go straight home ok?" I know how your map works, so this should do"

"mnnn...I promise. But what IF something happens? What about Twilight?"

"If you couldn't escape with her, then we'd have to rescue her. and by we, I mean Rainbow Dash,Applejack,Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and myself. Plus the other princesses if we had to. But not you, I wouldn't want you to get hurt. But...none of this should happen because you said Starlight is your friend. But you never know, it's just a "just in case". Now Anon, I'm going to ask you one more thing. You don't need to do it if you don't want to...I know how upset you are, and you might not want anypony invading your personal space but....can I get a hug? So I know you're ok? Please?"

of course. No matter what, you'd never deny her a hug.

You embrace Fluttershy in a gentle hug. She cuddles you close, and you could feel the tears that soaked her coat, poor thing.

"Anon, You're a good colt. I trust you, I know you know what you're doing. A-and you know what?"

"What?"

after the hug, Fluttershy sits up straight and gives you a militaristic stare. She summoned up all the courage and good will she could muster for this one moment. "If Twilight makes you upset, and I find out. I'll make sure to give her a stern talking to. You're my nephew, I accepted you into my family, and I won't let anypony...not even Twilight...hurt you."

You felt both a sting and warmth in your heart....oh Fluttershy...
"Thank you Aunt Fluttershy"

with that, Fluttershy let out a heavy sigh, as if she really had put all her energy into that, and took a moment before calling for Twilight to come back in.
"Twilight...you can come in now."

But there was no answer....

"Huh? Twilight...hey!"
You try calling to her, as your voice is louder.

Still nothing.
......wait
....she didn't...She wouldn't...

You and Fluttershy go to the door and open it.

She did...

"She left....SHE LEFT?!" GODDAMMIT

"......" Fluttershy made a gentle soft growl. She was not happy.

You look over to her, and notice she was making a menacing stare.

"A-aunt Fluttershy?"

"ooooooohhhhhh, how could she just do that! I told her to wait! not leave! Ohhhhh! I'm so angry right now..I could...I could!"

Fluttershy flips over a pebble "There...now I'm slightly less angry. But I'm still angry. Anon..."
Fluttershy lowers herself and spreads her wings "Hop on, I'll fly you straight to the Train station!"

"ok!"

Goddammit, Godfuckingdammit. Why in the fuck would she do this?

You hop onto Fluttershy and grasp onto her.

"Hang on Anon, because here.....we....GO!"

Fluttershy hops up in the air, and flaps her wings as hard as she could......but she's not moving very fast...or high....and she was struggling.

"Ummmm...Aunt Fluttershy?"

Fluttershy had her eyes closed as she struggled hard. only making a few feet thus far. "N-not now Anon...we've got to get there in tiiiiimmmmmeeennggrrr!"

"Aunt Fluttershy...ummm...we're not really moving very fast..."

"We're not?...huh?" Fluttershy looks down, and then back........she was above her little bridge. the cottage not far behind. ".......I thought we were moving faster than erm...Rainbow Dash."

You move your head to see what could be making her that slow...and you think it was you. The way you were riding her wasn't allowing her wings to flap properly. You tried adjusting yourself, trying to sit on her like a human...but you couldn't quite balance yourself.
"We're not....Aunt Fluttershy can you land?"

"B-but...we have to hurry!"

"I know...but we're not going to do it this way. I got an idea though."
She lands

You hop off of her and sift through your bag for your horn....ugh...what a waste of a charge. Fuck you Twilight.
"I'll use my horn to catch up with her. It shouldn't be too much of a problem."

"Will it really work? I thought your father weakened it."

"He....did...but...erm...it should have enough juice to get me to where I need to go instantly. I can catch up with her with this."

"I hope so....Anon, good luck...but. Please, remember what I said. But also...mnnnnn...she shouldn't have run off like that. I...well...Anon, you know what you're doing right? You really think there's no danger in this at all?"

Again, she wanted to make absolutely sure before letting you off. It was almost baffling now that you thought about it. She was asking you, a “child”, if it was dangerous. You must have been fucking convincing. Or Twilight really did fuck up that hard by running off like that. Or both.

You nod "Yes, Starlight is my friend. And I really don't think she's going to hurt me or anypony else."

"Ok....then you go catch up with Twilight and you let her know that. But again...remember what I said."

"I know, I promise. But I'm not just going to let her walk all over my opinions. ok?"

"...ok...just...don't be too harsh"

You sigh and nod as you slap on the horn. "I'll try. I promise, for you, Aunt Fluttershy."

She gives you one last hug as you focus the magic on the horn.

...man, you hoped using today's charge on just catching up with Twilight didn't bite you in the ass.

Chapter 169

Using the horn, you appear at the train station. Already ready to stop Twilight in her tracks as you catch the horn and plop it back in your saddlebag like a pro.

"Alright Twilight, I kno....huh?" You look around, the place was actually filled with ponies today as the train was arriving and coming to a dead stop. But Twilight wasn't among any of them.

"....ssshhhii...guh...she's gotta be here somewhere." You take a quick look around, she wouldn't be too hard to spot. Thanks to ponies pretty much being color coded. You only needed to look for a purple one.

Unfortunately, among the few purple ponies you spotted. none of them were Twilight.

....oh god.

"What if she's flying there?...ugh, don't tell me she outsmarted me. Did she expect me to come to the train station?....ugh...I should have went straight to the damn town. All I needed to do was buy a map with it on it to set a warp point. Ok...ok..let's see then."

You look at the train schedule, oh shit. What luck, The train was actually heading there at this time. Good. If Twilight was flying there, then you could easily outspeed her by train. Last you checked, she was a shitty flier. Or a not very good one at least.

You walk up to the booth, there was a small line so you waited your turn. You could already hear the passengers of the last train getting off.

When your turn came, you quickly reached into your saddle bag with the bits to pay for the ticket.
"A ticket for the end of the line please."

But as you look up, you notice that rather pathetic pony who ran the booth last time. And he seemed to remember you too. He gazed at you for a moment, then pointed to a sign that wasn't there before. "No foals allowed during school hours unless accompanied by a parent. That means you kid, I'm not going to let you through like last time. And you can't kick in the booth either. We plated it with metal...so nyeh"

"What?! Look you...I'll easily give you double, just give me the ticket!"

"Look, I can't and I won't. Sure i get some extra bits, but my boss will fire me. Besides, you're supposed to be at school aren't you? Ugh, where's a truant officer when you need one." The stallion leaned his head on his hoof, annoyed with you.

"Look, I really REALLY need that ticket, it's really important, It's related to Princess Twilight Sparkle"

"Really? I guess that makes me Princess Luna then, huh? Look, get out of here and get to school. You're holding up the line"

"What if I triple it? Quadruple even."

"Look, you could give me all the money in that saddle bag of yours, it doesn't matter. I like my job. I'm good at it. Deal with it."

Shit....shit! This fucker wasn't budging and you needed that ticket. Cripes, why didn't you just think this through better. Ugh, you could have probably ran here and made a ticket with your horn if you knew Twilight was going to fly. Or really. Upon realizing your own stupidity. You should have REALLY used a map to track it with your horn and make a warp point. Ugh, how could you be so stupid?! Things were looking pretty grim...

"Two tickets please, for me and my kid."

You hear a cheerful voice beside you, you take notice and look....it was....Lyra?

"Your kid?" The booth pony looked at her with doubt. "He doesn't even look like you"

"Yeah well, he takes after his father. Geez, I can't even send my kid to get a ticket without some sort of security check?" Lyra rolls her eyes at the pony.

"Hey, look. It's my job ok? And did you even know your kid pretty much muscled me with some filly last time he was here?"

"err....yes? I needed him and his......sister to pick things up for me" Lyra grinned sheepishly as a squee escaped her lips

".....at the end of the line?" The booth pony was filled with even more doubt.

"Well yeah, duhhh.They got the coolest stuff there. Come on, you know....stuff?" She wiggled her eyebrows at him.

"All I know is you need to keep a better eye on your son and daughter. And fix that attitude of theirs, little menaces is what they are. Here" The pony punches out two tickets and slides them to Lyra, and then takes her bits. "And next time this happens, I'm gonna see what our policy is on calling in some social workers. Got it?"

Lyra didn't answer him directly, she just stuck her tongue out at him. And then looked at you with a big grin. "Let's go son, we got a train to catch"

She giggled at you, but...you were awestruck. Where the fuck did she even come from? Was this how ridiculous cartoon deus ex machina really was? Holy shit thank god for it.
"U-umm..yeah"

You follow Lyra into the train. She doesn't say a word yet, she just keeps close to you. even giving you a kiss on the cheek in front of the other passengers and tells you to mind your manners. This keeps up until you both find a rather private spot to sit at.

"Whew....that was a close one. " Lyra flipped over her little coin purse, only a single bit fell out. "cost me though. yeesh. Anon, what's so important that I gotta come in to rescue you, huh?"

"I..."
Just...amazing.
"I, have to help a friend out. It's really important that I get to her soon."

"Well it's a good thing I showed up then. huh?" Lyra grins at you.

"Yeah...where did you even come from?"

"From the train"

"From..the train? You were on the train?"

"Yup! just got back from my trip too" Lyra giggles "Would have been here a day sooner but I got the train schedules messed up. I hope BonBon isn't too sour about me not showing up at the station yesterday. Oh boy, just look at me. Just came back and already having another adventure. So, how about letting me in on this? You can't just expect me to sit here the entire trip wondering what exactly is going on. Does it really involve Princess Twilight? Because if it does, I'm all for excitement!"

You sift through your bag and pull out a mass of bits and place it next to her.
"I'll tell you in a bit. Does that cover what you paid by the way?"

"Awwww. Anon...thanks." Lyra chuckles nervously as she scoops up and starts counting the bits. Seems she felt rather silly giving away all her bits like that in the first place "Tell you the truth, that was my grocery money for the week. Wow, you're super loaded huh?"
you give her a light-hearted smile

"Well, it's just my allowance money actually. Ya know, when you're the son of a chaos god..."

"Lucky! oh hey!" Lyra takes notice of your flank "You got your cutie mark! Awesome!" She just stares at it with a happy smile, then her eyes shift towards yours while still keeping the grin "....what does it mean exactly?"

Dammit Lyra, you weren't in the mood to laugh right now. But dammit, that struck the right chord.
"haha, oh..mnn it's a Chaos cutie mark."

"No kidding? huh, now that I think about it. Your life does seem to be prettttttyyyy crazy. So, whatever is going on must be pretty "chaotic" huh?"

You nod, giving her a gentle grin. You actually felt pretty at ease around her. While not balls off the walls like Pinkie. She still gave off a relaxing vibe of overall friendliness. And right now, she was your hero.
"Yeah, I got a friend. Her name is Starlight Glimmer. She kind of did some bad stuff in the past that got Twilight's attention."

"What kind of bad stuff?"

You felt you could trust Lyra, she didn't have an affiliation to Twilight and therefore wasn't really something to worry about. Plus, she did just save your ass.
"She was taking everypony's cutie mark away for the sake of equality. Even though she herself kept hers."

Lyra grimaced at that "Yeeaahhh, that's kinda bad. So....why is she your friend exactly?"

"Well, to tell you the truth. She foalnapped me, it went wrong. We got stuck together for a night. I learned her tragic past. And..well, all she needed was an actual friend who cared and understood her. Somepony she could trust."

You rub the back of your head with your hoof as you grin nervously
"That doesn't sound too bad, does it? Because I know that sounds kind of suspicious"

"Yeah it does. But you're sure she's ok now?"

Huh, Lyra wasn't asking about her backstory or any extra details. That struck you as odd. But certainly helpful in keeping things simple.

You nod "Pretty sure"

"Well then what's the problem exactly? "

"Well, Starlight still kind of has a chip on her shoulder about Twilight. See, it was Twilight and her friends that managed to set things in motion to stop her plans. And she's kind of not over that yet."
You tilt your head and raise an eyebrow at Lyra "None of this sounds weird to you?"

Lyra shrugs "pfft, no. Your dad is Discord. If that guy can change then anypony can. You just have to believe in them. That's why me and Bonbon are such good friends. We believe in each other. And even if we go through a rough patch. We know we'll get through it in the end. And from the sounds of it, you believed in Starlight. And even though you're just a colt, you're pretty darn smart. So you got it figured out. Though, gotta admit. It still sounds a little sketchy if Princess Twilight is involved. What is she doing...exactly?"

"She wants to talk to Starlight. She's suspicious of her and thinks she may have fooled me in order to regain control. That's why I have to reach Starlight before she does. To try to make sure things don't go crazy. Twilight can be pretty insistent and she's always suspicious of something. I just don't want anything to happen"

Lyra laid back on her seat in a humanish fashion and bounced her leg on her knee "So it's a race. Gee Anon....I really don't want to be against any of the Princesses. But, if you really think you're right then I'm behind you all the way. Kind of have to anyway, already on the train" Lyra giggles again and reaches into the saddlebag she had been carrying around "And since we got some time to waste waiting to get to our destination. You wanna see some of the cool stuff I bought?"

You feel a sense of relaxation gently wash over you. Lyra was something else. Selflessly helping you out even when it took the rest of her bits. Being calm about the whole situation despite the fact of how you described it. And now she was just making a casual suggestion of just showing you stuff she collected on her trip. And it being so calm. You don't even answer. Which made it seem like you were tense.

While lost in thought, Lyra pulls out a small ball, it was perfectly clear and see through. "Come onnnn, don't be so uptight. Let's relax and enjoy the ride. I got this coooool ball. Wanna see what it does?"

You look back at her as she grasps your attention. "Sure"

"Ok, so when I put it close to my horn like this" Lyra, with a single hoof brings the ball to her horn. "And zap it with just a bit of magic..." Her horn glows for just a moment. The ball starts to grow a smaller ball of rainbow within itself. It floats gently away from Lyra's hoof and shines the immediate area with gentle rainbow colors. "It becomes a neato floating light. It doesn't really do much for anything, but it's cute."

It floats near you, the lights didn't make you cover your eyes or cover your face with your leg. Somehow, the light was soft and nonintrusive.

You give it a gentle bump of the hoof. and it begins to float in the opposite direction towards Lyra. She catches it gently and puts it back in her saddle bag. And pulls out another object, it was a pencil. "See this?"

You nod "Yeah, it's a regular old pencil."

Lyra gives you a shifty grin "or is iiittt?" Lyra uses her magic to spin the sharp end of the pencil like a bottletop and disconnects it from the pencil.

"Oh it's a fake?" intriguing "What does it actually do? ohhh"you chuckle "Is it a joke pencil? does it shoot something out or something?"

Lyra shook her head and took out a pack of sharp ends from her bag. "nope, it's still a pencil. But check it out! you can just replace the sharp end instead of actually using a sharpener. Pretty convenient if you're good at not losing your pencil. Just quickly replace the end instead of the whole thing!"

You knew your world had better things than that. But using those shitty plastic sharpeners was pretty crap. So, relatively speaking. That was pretty useful.

"That's actually pretty useful, I gotta get me one of those."

Lyra hovers the pencil with a few packs of sharp ends towards you. "There you go"
huh? wait...
"Lyra, didn't you buy this for yourself?"

Lyra nodded "Yeah, I bought a whole bunch for myself. But I realized I may have bought too much. So you can have that one and I can give Bonbon one of the other ones I got. OHHH, speaking of Bonbon. I got her something super special, wanna see?" Lyra seemed pretty giddy about this one. It was really endearing. It made you smile

"Yeah."

"Ok! sooooo....whatcha think of...." Lyra was sifting through her bag, trying to find it. When she does, she pulls out a bottle of small pink balls "of these!"

What in the? little balls? Why would Bonbon need those?
"What are they?"

Lyra giggled at you "Well, I can see you’re pretty confused. You must be thinking "Why would Bonbon need these balls?"? That's what you're thinking right?"

She was right on the money
"Heh...yeah, so. They must do something special right?"

"Yep, these are special little powder balls. You just toss them and they explode into a pink cloud. They are meant for most of the beasties you can find in the wilderness. One whiff of this and their senses give out for awhile, they can't even walk around. Well...that's what it says on the bottle at least. Pretty neat huh?"

"Yeah...but....why does Bonbon need them?" You ask as if you didn't know. It probably had to do with her secret agent work.

".....oh wait" Lyra just realizes she probably didn't think this whole reveal through "...well...you know" She grinned as she began to sweat "...pests"

You give a gentle smile to Lyra, you could probably mess with her alittle. but she was being very sweet. So you decided to be straightforward about knowing about Bonbon.
"You mean like.....bugbears?"

"Ermmm....are those pests? I mean...I guess" Lyra began to sweat harder, shifting her eyes left and right.

"Relax Lyra, I already know Bonbon is a secret agent."

".....you...do?" Lyra squinted her eyes at you "..if she was a secret agent...what would her name be?"

"Sweetie Drops"

".......woah..." Lyra just that there, motionless for a moment, then she frowned "...well, actually. now that I think about it. I knew her for years and she never told me until recently. I guess you must have done something really cool for her to tell you so soon..."

...oh...you could tell what she was feeling. She was feeling hurt thinking that Bonbon trusted you more all of a sudden.
"Oh no, it's nothing like that. Actually, it's a really funny story on how I found out"

"Is it?" Lyra says with a soft forlorn sigh.

"Yeah. I was dressed up as a secret agent. And she saw me at the door....and I guess my costume must have been really convincing because she kidnapped me and held me hostage. Lyra, you should have seen her face when she realized it was me. You would have died"

"W-wait" Lyra seemed confused "Bonbon thought you were some sort of enemy agent pony? Really? Did she tie you up or something?"

You nod "Yep, the whole tie up and interrogate dealie."

Lyra grinned, then sputtered, then started laughing out loud, uncontrollable mirth overtaking her as she fell over.

You smiled, her reaction was better than what you could have ever hoped for.

It took awhile for Lyra to stop giggling. "Woooo, so I guess we can be a little more open with each other now. Sorry if you felt left out on that, it's a real big secret."

You shrug "Eh, I don't mind. It's a pretty important job right? I can understand if even her own mom doesn't know."

"Awwww" Lyra found you adorable "You're so mature for your age. I guess that's why you've got all this pretty figured out then. So, is Starlight nice?"

You nod "She's cool, she's pretty smart too. And really powerful."

"Yeah, you said she could take cutie marks away. That's pretty scary. But if she's your friend then that means I can trust her too. In fact. I know what I can do when we get there"

What she can do?
"What do you mean?"

"Well you gotta make sure things don't go bad, right? Well...I don't think you can really stop a princess from doing what they wanna do. And the best you could do is just get Starlight ready for when she shows up, right?"

You nod
"Yeah, I'm gonna have to hustle with that. I need to find her before Twilight does. That's the most important thing actually."

"Well, then I'm gonna run interference for ya"

Wow, that was pretty cool of her.
"You’re gonna get in Twilight's way? Really?"

She nods "You bet, I allllwwways wanted to ask her a few questions anyway. And by few, I mean a lot"

"Ohhh, oh I get it...."
You sigh, and smile at her
"Thanks Lyra, you're a real good friend"

"you don't have to thank me Anon, I'm just doing what friends do and..." Lyra yawns "And this friend is a little tired. Didn't get any sleep on the way over to Ponyville so......I'm just gonna take a little nap. That’s ok with you right?"

You nod
"You go right ahead, I'm just gonna look out the window and enjoy the sights"

Equestria....

It really was a beautiful marvel to look at. Though sometimes you wondered if you just didn't give Earth enough credit for it's natural beauty. You never got to travel much. And whenever you did, it was always more city and more lights. Here, everything was virtually undisturbed and new things you've never seen before would pop out whenever you got to see it.

You look at the napping Lyra. She looked really cute and sweet. If it wasn't for your "Age", she'd probably be perfect waifu material. Though, you hoped that if she ever does end up with someone, that that pony makes her happy. Or if it...for whatever reason..ends up being Bonbon.....hmm...seemed to be getting some lewd thoughts mixed in there.

You sighed, shook your head of those thoughts and leaned back. You decided to sit more like a human yourself. If only to remind yourself as to what it was like.

It wasn't as comfy as you remember, or maybe that was due to your pony body. You look at your hoof...no fingers. You could remember when you couldn't even grip a cup. Now you can't even remember what it was like to have fingers. It was almost depressing.

You looked through the window again. Seeing if Twilight was anywhere nearby. She wasn't, maybe you both got ahead of her without noticing? or maybe she was flying another route. Whatever the case. You were sure you could reach Starlight before she could.

After a long while, the train finally comes to a halt. Though there was something different now about the end of the line.

There was an actual structure built around it now. It wasn't much. It just had waiting benches and all that. Were they building a train station here? How odd, considering the train literally has to go backwards to leave.

"Lyra...hey Lyra..were here." You hop off your seat and give her a little shake

"hmm?..huh? " Lyra yawns and looks at you with dreamy eyes "...we're there already?"

You nod "Mhmmm, you ready?

Lyra doesn't answer at first, she slowly leans up, takes a deep breath, and gives her face a few light slaps before looking determined. "Yeah! I'm gonna ask Princess Twilight so many questions that she'll probably get bored and fall asleep! Which I hope she doesn't because I actually want them answered! And-"

"WE HAVE ARRIVED AT OUR DESTINATION, ALL PASSENGERS PLEASE LEAVE IN A ORDERLY FASHION!"

You could hear the conductor over the intercom
"Huh?"

Lyra gets interrupted by the conductor, it makes her look around and notice there were no other passengers but you two. The rest got off at the other stops.

The conductor pony tried to hurry you two along "I mean you two. You better hurry along now, we don't usually stay here for very long since nopony usually gets on"

"Alright, thank you sir. umm..come on mom"

"Right...yeah. let's go son."

You and Lyra step out.

Lyra looks upon the empty landscape. The town was below down a cliff a few ways off. So her initial reaction was one of surprise and worry. "...Hey Anon...you sure wherever we're going exists? Because I don't see anything."

You nod and step ahead, beckoning to her. "Yeah, it's down this way. we just need to find a way down near a cliff and we're golden."

Lyra nodded and followed behind you. and put on a hopeful grin. "Alrighty then, I'll just follow along. and..." She puts her hoof over her eyes to block the sun's light while she looks around "I'll keep my eyes peeled for Princess Twilight."

Chapter 170

You both walk until you reach the cliff. You look over it, and there it was. The town...it looked a smidge bigger than the last time you saw it. There were more buildings.

"That the place?" Lyra looks around "Is there like a path we can walk down? Because I don't think going over the cliff is a good idea. juuust saying"

"Depends, are you able to float around using your magic?"

Lyra shook her head "Nope, that's some pretty advanced stuff.I can get a few inches off the ground, but that's it. If I tried that over a cliff then we'd be the cutest pancakes this side of Equestria"

....cutest...wouldn't be the word you'd use. She obviously didn't know what a broken body looked like.

"We're going to have to find a way around then, because I don't feel safe sliding down there." You said as you looked down the cliff

"Me neither, I thought you been here before though"

"I have....just, I never had to find the normal way to get down there."

Lyra looks around the area, but all she could see is more wastes "hmmm, I bet if we just go further down we'll find a path. There has to be some way, otherwise there's no way anypony could get anywhere"

"You'd be right about that, but the path is a little more ways away than you think. It's not too bad, but I think I could give you both a lift if you really need it."

Wut? Who said that?

Both you and Lyra look behind, only to see Night Glider, hovering above you. She grins and waves her hoof to the both of you. "Yo"

"Night Glider?" Well,damn.

"That's my name!" Night Glider grinned "And...you're Anon if I remember, and you must be his mom. Hello there, welcome to our neck of the woods"

Lyra waves to her for a moment then leans close to you and whispers "pppssst, are we still doing the mom son thingy?"

You giggle a little and shake your head
"No it's ok, Night Glider this is my friend Lyra"

"Hey! Always nice to see new friendly faces. So are you guys here to scope out our town?"

you shake your head
"No, we're here to see Starlight. She's around right?"

"Starlight? Yeah she is. She's also been keeping herself busy in the old shed."

"Really? What's she up to?"

"She's been working on the plans for the new town center. We figured if we wanted to be a proper town that we probably needed one of those. At first we thought it should just be a town hall. But Starlight said we needed to dream bigger. At first we thought it'd be too much but eh, Starlight said she'd do most of the work and it didn't look like she wanted to back down. She's been a little bit of a workaholic since she came back. But you know? She just wants to prove that's she's sorry and none of us wanna put her down. We're all just hoping she doesn't crack under the pressure."

hrn, it seemed Starlight wasted no time in trying to reintegrate with the town. You just hope nothing was up....especially with Twilight coming.
"Well, I guess it's good I'm here then. I bet she needed a break anyway."

"If you can get her out that is. When she gets really into it she just ignores the outside world. We can knock a hundred times and still no answer. Some of us are on edge about it, but I've been in there once or twice. Things seemed fine to me" Night Glider shrugged, she didn't seem really worried about it.

But that did worry you, that worried you all the more. mnnnn
"Oh boy"
You chuckle a little nervously
"I hope I caught her at a good time, but wait. Can you carry my friend here?"

"Huh?" Lyra gives you a peeved look "are you calling me fat?"

W-woah, that's not what you meant! But it sure seemed Lyra took it that way as she gives you a deadly stare
"I...n-no! I didn't mean tha-"

Lyra began to grin, then giggled, and nearly laughed before petting you on the head "Relax, I'm just playing. You take things too seriously sometimes. Maybe you're too mature. Somepony has gotta make sure that foal spirit doesn't die out. And If that's gotta be me, that's fine..." Lyra then looked to Night Glider "But seriously, you don't think I'll be too heavy right? Because that's a long way down"

"It'll be fine. I may look a little scrawny, but I'm actually really tough. You gotta be when living out here."

"Speaking of which, what are you doing out here anyway?" You asked.

Night Glider looked to the right, then to the left "Keeping an eye out for a caravan, we don't really have a way to grow crops or get water yet. So we just rely on trade to get by. Gotta tell you though, now that we can make better stuff, actually getting the things we need is A LOT easier."

"Neat, I never heard of a town that had to rely on trade before. Ohh ohh! hey! you wouldn't have seen any purple princesses around, have you?" Lyra asked, both worried and giddy that you both may have not missed Twilight.

"Purple Princesses? Oh you mean Twilight? Nah, why? I thought she was busy in Ponyville?" Night Glider was pretty confused

"Anon, you hear that? Twilight hasn't made it yet! We have time!"

"Woah woah...time for what? What's going on? Is there a surprise party? Because I wasn't told." Now Night Glider was really confused.

"No erm...it's just we want to talk to Starlight about something. actually..."
You sigh

"Look, I don't expect you to help us. But Starlight is still kind of angry at Twilight"

Night Glider raised an eyebrow "Why? She saved us all"

"Well it's complicated really. When Starlight was...let's say...bad. She was spying on Twilight pretty much the entire time. And she saw that Twilight was sort of...let's say....annoying, to say the least. She feels Twilight is more of a snoop that gets into others business and shoves her ideologies down others throats. Basically, at this point. Starlight would like to be able to prove herself without Twilight coming in to check up on her."

"woah...I didn't know all that. But it couldn't be that bad right? What's wrong with a little check up?"

"You'd have to be there, the moment she found out Starlight was back in town, Twilight showed up and questioned me up and down and even blamed my dad for it"

"Your dad? Now that's pretty weird. I've never met your dad, I don't think anypony here has....are you sure you're talking about Princess Twilight?" Night Glider had some doubt.

"Hey I believe him. I'd be pretty suspicious too if...I dunno the circumstances exactly...but his dad is always pretty suspicious." Lyra said, jumping to your defense.

"I...guess. This is all confusing really. So how about I just give you guys a ride down and you can sort this out with Starlight. Because really? I got nothen" Night Glider didn't know what to make of it

"Thank you Night Glider." You said as you sighed. This was getting heavy

"Hey no prob, you're first by the way. So don't shake too much."

With that, Night Glider gripped you tight and gently brought you down the cliff, she then went back for Lyra. It was actually humorous. Night Glider seemed to be struggling with her as Lyra smiled and let out a "wheeeeee!"

Adorable really.

When Night Glider was done dropping you both off, she went back to looking to see if the caravan was nearby. So you and Lyra made your ways to the town. Thankfully, the shack was one of the first things in sight. Being at the very beginning edge of the town.
as you approached the shack, Lyra stopped and began to look around.

"Lyra?" You look back, wondering what she was doing. "What's up?"

"Being super vigilant and looking out for Princess Twilight, especially since I now know she could be a snoop" She looked up, then right, then left, then up

"..oh..." You felt a little bad laying it down so thick. But, Twilight. Especially after her behavior. Probably didn't deserve your sympathy. So you do your best to ignore it.

"Thanks...though. I am a little surprised you'd just take my word for it like that"

Lyra looked back at you "Everything you said is true right?"

You nod "Yeah...it is"

"Then? Anon, I'm more friends with you than I am with her. Her being a princess doesn't change that. I mean hey, if Princess Celestia came down herself to do something bad to Bonbon, I'd jump in eyes closed; ready to defend her the best I can"

you didn't know whether to grimace or grin, so you let out a small giggle
"You know Celestia would never do that right?"

"Oh I know, she seems super cool. I was just giving an example. Now go do your thing, I'll distract Princess Twilight as much as I can"

You nod, and smile at her "Thanks Lyra"

You walk over to the door of the shack. You could hear mumbling and small click clack noises coming from the other side. You give it a gentle knock.

No answer

You knock again, harder this time
"Starlight? Starlight...it's me..Anon"

Suddenly, the mumbling and the noises stop. and in the next moment..the door opens slightly as Starlight peers through the door at you. "Anon?"

You give her a big ole smile "Yeeep! hey!"

The door opens , and instead of a hug, you feel a magical force slide you in. You yelp in surprise from the push and speed as Starlight closes the door behind you and locks it.

......ummm

You look back at Starlight, a little worried "Starlight?...you ok?"

She..looked like herself. But she also had a pretty serious expression on her face. "Anon, what are you doing here?!" She sounded frantic, she kept her voice low. da fuck?

"U-ummmm...I came to see you and.....what's going on exactly? Why are you acting weird?"

"Because!" Starlight looks around then leans in close to you and whispers "I'm working on a special project."

....oh god...please don't let it be bad..

"Ummm...what kind of special project?"

"If I tell you, you promise not to tell anypony else?"

this....was odd. Well, at least she trusted you...you'd just would have preferred a hi, a hello, or a how are you.
"um, sure"

Starlight stepped backward and pulled down a blind that was in the middle of the shack. Revealing a blueprint.

You were worried at first, but after a quick gaze. You could see it was some sort of blueprint to a building. The town center?
"What is that?"

"It's my fiftieth revision of my idea for the town center." Starlight was smiling, it seems she felt pretty good about...something.

That number to you though...was startling. No wonder Night Glider was worried.
"Fiftieth?! Starlight why?"

"Why not?..oh" Starlight slaps her face with her hoof "It seems I may have gotten ahead of myself. Sorry, I've been in here for a while. I just saw you and pulled you in. You don't even know what's going on, do you?"

Wow, she really was focused on this project.
"Sorta. Night Glider told me you were here working. and uh.....are you ok? You didn't even say hi"

"mnnn.." Starlight sighed, and took a moment to calm down "Sorry...I just been caught up in this project a little after I got here. I just want to show everypony I can do a lot of good. Not for myself, but for them. I want to make the perfect town center. So we all can have a place to talk and make decisions while also having a place for visitors and potential new townsponies to relax and experience our hospitality."

hrn, she was trying to make a big effort. you couldn't fault her for that. But you remembered Night Glider's words of the others being worried about her being in the shack for so long.

You take a look at the blueprints. It....was pretty big. there was even a recreational room in the plans. and a daycare for foals. Maybe...this was too much. At least for a town this small.
"Yeah I can see that, but Starlight. Don't you think it's a little much? This town center is huge."

"And?" She was confused by your words.

"I'm just saying, the town still kind of looks the same size. I don't think you need all this stuff yet. And...you said this is your fiftieth revision?"

Starlight nodded and looked upon her work with pride "Yes, I think I'm getting close to the perfect iteration for the town. Though, I could use a second opinion. I didn't want to show anypony in town because I want it to be a surprise. And I already know you're very smart, so I know I can count on you for a detailed and honest opinion."

This...was already awkward. It was almost like she was expecting you. or moreso. Maybe she kept making revisions because she thought she could make it better. Then the moment she saw you, she immediately wanted an opinion on her work....most likely hoping for a positive one.

"It looks great...it's just. Starlight"
You sigh, you could already tell what was going on. She was being overzealous and pushing the others away due to it.

"Yes?"

"I think you should just do the town hall instead of an entire center. The beds for guests and newcomers seems like a great idea to add. But that's about it. I know what you're trying to do. But I don't live here, my opinion shouldn't matter. You should bring some of your earlier revisions to the other ponies and ask them. Remember, this isn't just your town anymore. It's everypony's"
...you almost cringed at yourself. You sounded like Twilight.

Starlight stopped for a moment. Then looked at her blueprint. Then back at you. She was frowning. "Are you sure?"

You nod
"Yeah, they are really worried about you Starlight. They'd rather you go out and hang with them then spend all this time working on the town center. They just want to be your friend more than anything else."

Starlight again looked at her work. Besides the blueprint hanging there, there was piles of papers and rolled up blueprints all over the shack. She looked in a mirror, and looked into her own eyes. She could see her own desperate sadness.

She then looks back at you "Can I tell you something?"

geez, now she looked pretty awful. You hoped you didn't lay it on too thick....like Twilight.
"Sure, anything. You can trust me."

"ok...well, I...I guess the reason I'm even in here is because I'm a little scared."

"Scared? you mean of the other ponies?"

She nods "Yes, They've been really accepting of me despite everything I've done. But...now that I see what I've done wrong. I'm afraid of messing up again, or saying something wrong, or doing something they wouldn't like. I figured if I just locked myself in here and worked on my projects that I could make their lives better without having to actually screw up and ruin their lives."

poor girl. She's so afraid of losing friends again that she locked herself in here to avoid hurting anyone altogether.
"Hey Starlight, come on. This isn't like you. When I first met you, you were confident, tough, and prepared for anything."

Starlight gave you a passively awkward look "erm.....that's because I wanted to crush Twilight and make my old dream a reality."

"Exactly! You had drive, you were willing to risk everything to make it happen. But now I come to visit and you’re in here afraid and alone. Now I don't wanna sound like Twilight or anything. But your friends don't want to see you trapped in here working alone, they want to be a part of your life. They want to work with you and spend time with you. You gotta show them that you still have that drive. Only now you know exactly what to focus on."

Starlight didn't say anything at first, she walked over to the door and peered outside. Only to be met by the gaze of Lyra

Starlight just stares at her, caught offguard by this unknown pony who just stared back at her.
".......Hello?"

Starlight had only wanted to see what the others had been doing. She didn't expect this.

"Hi!" Lyra grinned at her "You must be Starlight, I'm Lyra. Anon's friend. I don't know if he's mentioned me or not but he's mentioned you. How are you?"

Starlight was at first...astounded by Lyra. Here was a mint green horse, right in front of her, just suddenly saying hi as if she had not a care in the world. She then felt..a little overwhelmed.
"Hi...I'm....in the middle of something actually."

Lyra only grinned more at her "Oh, that's ok. You and Anon must be pretty busy in there. I'd just thought I'd say hi since you popped your head out"

"You know Anon?...what...?" Starlight felt a chill in her heart "Has Anon told you about me?"

"Some stuff" Lyra shrugged "That you did some pretty bad things, stole some cutie marks, did some spying. Then he told me that you're his friend and that you're pretty ok. And if you're pretty ok to Anon then you're pretty ok to me. So, whatcha doing in there? Still doing that town hall stuff I heard that pegasus pony tell us about?"

You poked your head out under Starlight, you could hear the entire conversation, and already saw you could use this to your advantage. You could tell Starlight was still anxious about everything. It shouldn't be surprising to you honestly. Despite being her first friend in god knows how long, you couldn't expect her to make a full turn around in a day. So maybe you could take advantage of this situation to help her out.

"Yes...that's exactly what I'm doing.." Starlight said slowly and awkwardly with a sheepish chuckle

You smile at Lyra "Hey Lyra, you doing ok out here?"

Lyra nodded "Yep, everything's fine so far."

"Cool...so..Starlight..." You look up at her "This is my friend Lyra, she's pretty friendly. Maybe we can all hang out and...you know..give her a tour of the town?"

"Oh hey! a tour! That actually sounds like fun! I was getting bored wai-"

OH SHIT!
You had nearly even forgotten about that, you just let out a yelp the moment you realize what she was going to say to try to stop her from saying it. "YEEERP!"

Both Starlight and Lyra give you an odd look.

Shit, how the fuck could you even forget for a moment the actual reason you were there? GODDAMMIT!

But Twilight didn't seem to be around at all...maybe for a moment, you could try to help Starlight...then tell her about Twilight...
"S-sorry, accidentally stubbed my hoof."

"Well you gotta be more careful Anon, don't wanna go home early because you hurt yourself do you?" Lyra shifted her eyes to your hoof, she didn't see any kind of mark or anything. So she felt relieved, it must have been minor.

"Y-yeah..sorry" You look at Starlight again, and grin at her, then Lyra. "So how about we all get a bite to eat?"

"Oh hey! that doesn't sound like a bad idea! I didn't get to eat yet! Hey Starlight, does this place have any good places to eat?" Lyra asks, as if Starlight was already a good friend of hers.

"You're asking me? Just like that?" Starlight couldn't understand Lyra's friendliness "We don't even know each other"

Lyra shrugs "Well, that's why we can get to know each other over some brunch. Come onnnn, it'll be fun!"

"She's right Starlight, I don't get to visit everyday. And you look like you could do with some good eats. It doesn't look like you ate anything at all while you were in that shack."

Starlight had to stop and think.She at first thought it was a bad idea. But when she looked back at the shack, she could visualize herself being in there, Alone, trying to achieve something she'd just throw away and try to make better. She thought about you, and how you were the only one to understand her after all these years. And then the fact that there was a pony that knew of her past transgressions and didn't even seem to bat an eye. If she went back into the shack, and back to her work. She'd be alone. And after having contact with another pony again, especially one she was comfortable with. That didn't sound so comforting.

Starlight held her breath for a moment, then slowly exhaled as she looked to the left, further into town. "Well, we could go get some food at Sugar Belle's place. If that's ok with everypony"

"Sounds good to me, anypony with a name like that must make some pretty sweet food...she does make food right? I don't think my tummy could handle candy and sweets while it's empty" Lyra gave her soft stomach a rub.

"It's got more than just that. She bakes some pretty good muffins too. And..." Starlight stopped, she started to think, she was about to go eat not just with you, but with a pony she didn't know. At a place where a pony she subjugated will be serving them food. One of the troubles she had was despite them accepting her, she personally began to felt it was undeserved and that perhaps it was Anon's words in the first place that got her that chance. She didn't want to ruin it.

"And?" Lyra looked at her with curiosity

"And...why?" Starlight plopped down on her butt, and looked down, feeling terrible and scared. "Why is this hard? I want to show them I've really changed. But if I mess up once. They'll just hate me again. Maybe you both should go, I think I can make things better if I just finish my work."

"It's not hard. All you gotta do is walk up to everypony, smile, and say hello! I got a friend named Pinkie Pie who's like..friends with EVERYPONY. All that bad guy stuff you did in the past doesn't matter anymore. For example, Anon's dad is this guy named Discord. He was prettttyyyyy bad. Infact, he even committed treason on all of Equestria. But look at him now! Only a few ponies hate him instead of everypony. And considering Anon here is a pretty cool friend, Discord's probably been doing a pretty good job at raising him."

Those words pass through Starlight's ears. And as it does, she begins to think. and comes up with a single question. "I...heard about Discord. I heard about the terrible things he's done...I've...seen a few things even. Which, brings me to this question." Starlight looks up Lyra with serious eyes "Are you friends with Discord then? Despite what he's done?"

Lyra rubbed her chin on that ".....no actually, I've never really got to talk to him. But I'd sure love to. I bet he can be a pretty fun guy when he's not terrorizing ponies. Like I said, look at Anon. Anon has done a lot of amazing stuff ever since he showed up. He became the "Hero Colt of Ponyville" by beating up these two bad guys that were up to no good."

Starlight began to think again. She started to think logically about it. She remembered Chrysalis and how Anon actually seemed to be ok with having one of Equestria's truly evil villains living with him. Anon forgave her...or it seemed that way to her. Starlight considered something after that. If two villains, who she at least considered much worse than her, can be forgiven...even by a single colt.

Then...maybe she had been overthinking and over worrying after all. The ponies she had control over before had forgiven her. They never even seemed all too upset with her back, they all cared. And she just pushed them away....afraid that maybe it was all a facade. That they'd just eventually leave her...like Sunburst.

Starlight had a new resolve. She realized she had only made a half effort, and only because you intervened in the first place. She'd give it a shot. She'd go to brunch, and then afterwards. She would ask Sugar Belle if she'd like to see her earlier revisions of the town center. If what she was being told was right, then...it wouldn't turn out so bad. And it would make them happy while she also got to interact. She almost felt idiotic. before she was willing to talk to anybody...sure to convert them but still. She was a master of speech and manipulation. But now? she didn't ever want to go back to that.

For you, it was like a light just turned on in her. She smiled...genuinely. "Well Lyra, it looks like you're a really good friend then. So while we get a bite to eat. What do you know about the unicorn spells of old? Mostly those created by Starswirl the Bearded."

"Absolutely.....nothing, buuuuut! I do got this neato ball that shoots colored lights when you tap it with some magic. Wanna see?" Lyra asks with a happy smile.

Well, for Starlight that was disappointing. But she wouldn't let that put down her resolve. "erm....ok. That sounds nice"

"Ok, so when you tap the ball on your horn like this. It lights up with all sorts of colors" Lyra touches it upon her horn, making it glow as it did before. She then holds the ball towards Starlight "Wanna give it a try?"

Starlight hesitated, then slowly put on as good as a smile as she could and takes the ball. "Ok...so, I just tap it on my horn?"

Lyra nods "mhmmm, remember to put some magic into it. Or it won't work"

"ok..ok, I got it. So, tap it onto my horn and..." Starlight moves the ball to her horn. And when she puts magic into it. It doesn't just glow and release lights. The ball radiates like a mini-sun and blasts rainbow magic balls all over the place before the ball itself explodes into embers and dust.

Starlight was confused and momentarily erked, afraid she may have done something wrong "I-is it supposed to do that? Did I break it?"

Lyra looked upon the the remains of the ball, then nodded "Yup."

"I-I didn't m-mean to...I just." She was already having a spaz moment, thinking she angered Lyra "I.....I'm sorry..."

"Hey, don't even sweat it. I didn't even know that could happen. How'd you do that? That was super cool!" It seemed Lyra enjoyed the magical display

You did as well, it was like a magical firework shooting what turned out to be harmless magic balls of various color as the ball became a damned sun.
"Yeah..that was pretty neat, I wonder what would have happened if I tried my horn on it."

Starlight was confused, and then relieved. It seemed that despite her breaking something of someone else's, it was actually no big deal, especially after such a spectacular display. "I think maybe I used too much magic.....you're not mad at all?"

Lyra shook her head "Nope, those things were pretty cheap in the first place. Considering what Anon has said about your magic, no wonder it broke. Tch, I wish I was that powerful."

"Well...." Starlight began to calm down again, nothing bad happened. She found it strange but, she wanted to keep to her resolve, and she guessed that meant to be pleasant. "If you study really hard and practice your magic everyday for hours on end, you'll get pretty good at it in a few years."

"Hours on end?....eh, I'm good. I think I'll just leave that kind of magic to the professionals. Still, super cool that you can do that"

Starlight actually found that a little funny, she thought it was kind of humorous that Lyra gives up the moment she is told a ton of hard work would have to be put into it. It made her smile. "Well, it's not for everypony. Though, I have to admit. Maybe It does have to do with a little natural talent." Starlight felt a little smug about that, since she knew she was brimming with talent and skill at the same time. But once she sensed herself feeling arrogant, she mentally put a stop to it. And took another breath. "Anyway, let's go get some food. I'm sure there's a lot you'd both like to talk about, am I right?"

"Yeah, I wouldn't mind catching up a little. Actually, I got a story for you when we get there Starlight. I know you have interest in my horn, how'd you like to hear about a whole day where I got to use it?"

Now that caught Starlight's attention. While she kept her urges down from wanting to use the horn for herself, hearing about its uses and limits did interest her greatly. Not to mention that the care she did have for you made her want to hear what you personally did that day. "I'd love to hear about that. And don't skip any details, no matter how boring. Any and every detail, no matter how small, can actually turn out to be very interesting."

you nod, you take notice that she's still very interested in the horn. But unlike Twilight, you'd put faith in her. It was very possible that it could just be that, interest. She's studied magic all her life. Of course the power of the horn would make her curious. Besides, you already used up today's charge, so nothing to worry about really.

With that, the three of you head deeper into the town. The town wasn't much better than the last time you saw it. The only real difference was the more vibrant colors and the townsponies being even more outgoing than before.

When you all arrive, Starlight picks the closest table to the door. You all sit down, relax, and wait.

Chapter 171

"Well, here we are...So Anon, you mentioned you got to use your horn for the whole day. Does that mean you had unlimited power during that time?" Starlight was curious, maybe a little too much. But she couldn't not be curious, not about the horn that got away. Like Twilight, she also had knowledge of magical spells and artifacts that most other ponies wouldn't know. But unlike Twilight, Starlight had the uncanny ability to master magics that any other pony would never be able to understand within their own lifetime.

You nod "Yep, it was weird and neat. I could do practically anything I wanted. I could fly, make objects and even near living illusions, I could even warp some of the reality around me. It was pretty darn cool...I guess you could say..." You give her a shit eating grin "That I could have brought Equestria to its knees, and made everypony equal in everything"

Starlight glares at you, her eyes half cocked "...that's a bad joke"

ergh...

You tap your hooves on the table nervously "S-sorry...I thought it'd be funny..."

You peer over to Lyra, she seemed confused. Yeah......that wasn't a good joke. Funny, that usually works on her. You never got called out like that. At least she didn't get too offended.

Right..ok, try again. "Well...ummm. Yeah, the horn..right. Anyway, yeah..that's what it can do. Actually, I do have something that will make you laugh."

"Will it?" Starlight was already put in a sour mood by that reminder. But she didn't want to be, she was internally trying to pep herself up from it.

"Yeah, It's gotta do with Twilight."

Starlight didn't know what to say to that. She didn't know what you were getting at. so she just gazed at you, silently, waiting for you to finish.

But to you....that seemed to just insult her more......hopefully, she'd laugh at this. "....erm...well"
You tapped your hooves on the table, and took a breath.

"I made her think this illusion of Celestia was an evil clown, she freaked out.and then nearly had a heart attack when I made Celestia's head explode. It was, er, funny, right?"

At first, Starlight didn't react. But you could see her mouth curling into a smile, and she began to vibrate. Then she burst into laughter, falling forward on the table. "HAHAHAHAHA, REALLY?! A-ANDHAHAHA...MNNHAHAHAHAH." Starlight couldn't stop, she wanted to ask why Twilight couldn't even figure out an obvious illusion. But she was overtaken by the hilarity of it all.

"...that's not very funny, that's actually kind of mean" Lyra didn't seemed too pleased. And she was even surprised by that. She looked at you with a look of disappointment. "And I can't believe that came from you. You really did that?"

...fuck! FUCK! WHYYYY!? You didn't think Lyra would find that offensive. what the shit?!
"Well, it was Nightmare Night you see. I wanted to give Twilight a fright. That's how that rhyme goes right? Nightmare Night, what a fright?"

Lyra now seemed confused with herself. It was a terrible prank yeah...but....scaring others is kind of a thing of Nightmare Night. "I...well. You're right, but don't you think that's overdoing it?"

"I don't think so, have you even ever even met Twilight before?" Starlight asks Lyra

"Yeah, I used to know her back in Canterlot...but...barely. She'd usually be stuck in her books. We've never really talked. That's why I kind of wanted to ask her a lot of questions when she..."

"AAHHHHHHHHHHH!" You scream out suddenly

Lyra and Starlight stop, and stare at you again.

you chuckle nervously "My hoof again..."

Starlight was now getting suspicious "...is there something going on? How could you stub your hoof when you're sitting down"

Shit… "Well I..."

"Hey, is everypony ok? What was that yell?" Oh...thank...god....Sugar Belle finally came out, she seemed pretty sweaty, she must have been cooking all day.....but why? Whatever, didn't matter, she came out right when you needed her.

However, before you could say a thing. Sugar Belle saw Starlight, and beamed a happy little smile at her. Stopping Starlight's thoughts dead. "Starlight, hey! You came out of the shack. Did you manage to finish your plans? We haven't seen you in awhile, we were getting worried"

Starlight now became meek as she turned her head to look at the busy sugar horse. "You were? Really? Why?" Even though you told her they you’re all worried, she still wanted to know for herself from Sugar Belle. "I was in the shed, it wasn't like I went anywhere"

Sugar Belle wiped her brow and stepped closer to the table, taking a seat. "True but, we didn't see you once you went in there. If you had gotten sick or if you had a problem we wouldn't have known. I know you said you'd do the most work on the project but we don't want you to do it all by yourself, that's why we're here. We're a community Starlight, we all have to do our share, no matter what."

Starlight cringed, then looked down in shame. She didn't fully realize she was actually worrying and hurting her newly gained friends by hiding herself. She thought it was actually better that way....seemed it wasn't afterall. "But you don't, I should be the one to do the most work. I'm the one who forced you all into that life. I know you've forgiven me, but I know I don't deserve it. Not until I can do something for all of you."

"Starlight, you already have. Your teachings had a lot of good in it, it's just...everything else was bad. You came back asking for forgiveness and we gave it to you because we believe in you. And we still want to trust you. But we also do things differently now, and that means you shouldn't be doing this work all by yourself. We're all here for you. So..."

Sugar Belle gave her a hard look, with a gentle smile to it. "Are you going to let us help you? Or do I have to chain you to this leg? Because I'm not going to let you go back to that shed alone, and I could use some extra help getting my goods ready to ship"

"....Sugar Belle" Starlight started to tear up, and the moment she did, Sugar Belle gave her a boop on the nose

"Don't even start, it's too early in the day for tears." Sugar Belle gave her an adorable smile

"...You're right, actually. I do have some blueprints for the town center that we could all gather and have a look over. Decide which one is the best to go with"

"You have multiple plans already? You really did work hard, hehe. I'd be happy to look over them, as would the rest of the town I bet. Oh, how rude of me. Hello again Anon, and erm...."

Lyra was actually enjoying this, she was happy to see this all unfolding in front of her that it made her nearly forget about the nightmare night thing. "I'm Lyra! Anon's friend, just came to pal around and visit and try some of your food, I heard it's prettttyyy good"

"I hope so, been getting back into practice and I'm ready to see how it sells on the open market. Ohhh! Anon, do you know if Princess Twilight got my letter yet"

Immediately your pupils shrink as your ears droop, you could feel a painful lump in your stomach.

"....Twilight?...you sent a letter to Twilight?...about what?" Starlight asked

"Oh about everything, you coming back and the town being better for it. I thought she'd like to know in case she got worried " Sugar Belle said with ignorant glee

"Really...." Starlight shifted her eyes at you and Lyra

"Yup, she's telling the truth. That's why we're here actually. We came to see you before Twilight could. It was Anon's idea really" Lyra also said...ignorantly

Starlight seemed remarkably calm, but her speech was stilted "I see...Miss Lyra, can you order for us all? I want to talk to Anon alone for a little bit and catch up, if he doesn't mind of course"

"Yes! Awesome! Can I get a menu?" Lyra asks

"Sure! We have a growing selection everyday, let me just go back inside and get one for you" Sugar Belle says with a smile as she goes back inside.

oooohhhhhh...fuck. Maybe you should have told her outright. But things were going so well, and there was no sign of Twilight, everything seemed fine.
"mmnnn...ok, Well erm. I don't mind..Let me just...get up"

You get off your chair, and try to keep your nerves in check.

Starlight got up, and smiled at Lyra "Don't wait up for us ok? We might be awhile" Starlight twitched at the final word, but it went unnoticed by Lyra.

"Ok! I'll try to make some bigger orders to give you two more time. Have fun!"

Starlight doesn't answer back to that, and instead leads you down behind one of the houses within the straight line town.

You followed, if only because shit would get worse if you didn't. ogh, you should have been honest with her. But you didn't want that to be the first thing you said, you didn't want to worry her.

Starlight doesn't even turn to face you as she speaks in a calm yet angry tone. "Anon, why didn't you tell me Twilight was on her way here? Why did you lie about stubbing your hoof?"

ergh
"Because, we apparently managed to get ahead of her. And...I was going to tell you, but, I didn't expect to see you, Well, I dunno how to put this but, alone still. I just wanted to talk to you as a friend and try to keep Twilight at bay until the time was right. That's also why I lied, I didn't want you to get upset, I'd rather Twilight had just minded her own business."

"So you didn't want her to see me at all?

"Nope,the moment she found out I even had anything to do with it she actually blamed my Dad first."

Starlight let out a sarcastic and angry chuckle as she turned around to face you "Ohhhh, let me guess. She thinks this is all a ruse and that I'm trying to take control of the town. That's it, isn't it?"

...it wasn't...sorta.....that direct
"Well, kinda. She wanted to make sure nothing was wrong."

”Of course...OF COURSE!" Starlight was angry, and started to pace "Miss Perfect Princess has to make sure everything is running her way. Yes, Ok..I did that too. But I don't do that anymore, and let me tell you, after spying on her for so long. She's probably worse! Did you know she was so into herself that she ruined an old friend of her's life?"

Was she referring to Moondancer?
"Do you mean her friend in Canterlot?"

"Ohhh yeah, basically left her to rot and never even went to check up on her. I actually felt bad for her, the poor thing got abandoned because she felt her studies we're more important than a friend. And then she tries to force herself back into her life. It was pathetic really...but of course, because this seems to be a trend with her. Everything seemed to work out in the end for some reason, all because that pink friend of hers showed up. Do you understand Anon? She couldn't even fix that problem by herself. She had to drag in a pony that had NOTHING to do with it! I don't even see how she can be the Princess of Friendship after doing something like that. Pinkie, was that her name? She seemed to at least care about everypony she knew. She even kept in contact with Twilight's other friends she had forgotten. How do you like that?"

oh man, she was really ranting.
"Yeah, I thought about that too when I found out. Starlight, look. I'm sorry. I really am, I should have said something. I just wanted to try to make your day brighter since you seemed pretty down. And when she gets here, I'll have your side. One hundred percent, you can trust me"

"Can I? You'd really stand up against a Princess just to defend me? I know you also have a lot of friends in Ponyville, you are the "Hero Colt" afterall. What if the worst happens and she decides to become overly self righteous?"

You stop to think. and think you did. Fluttershy was on your side, and Discord would be on your side if it was against Twilight. DT would, the others might think heavily on it. Lyra and Bonbon? hopefully. Maybe even Rarity could see the logic in it. At the very least, Celestia should. And if she did, you'd have a major advantage. Hell, she had to. She knew the secret before her.

You look to Starlight with determination.
"Then whatever, I'll still defend you. Look, I have my own chip about Twilight.You know she tried to seal me up. And considering it would have been a permanent affair. Noooo, I don't care if I even turned out wrong. You're more of my friend than Twilight would ever be. And I only knew you for a night and a train ride.You can count on me...I promise"

Starlight was still angry, and worried about Twilight's arrival. She looked down upon you for a mere moment. Enough to make you feel as if she was judging you. It...kinda hurt. But you brought it on yourself. Then she sighed "I believe you...considering you have one of Equestria's biggest villains in your basement, it's kind of hard not to. You're trying to reform her, right?"

You nod, and begin to calm down. thank goodness… "Yeah, it's hard. She's malicious at times, and teases me as much as my Dad. But sometimes we see eye to eye, and even have friendly moments every now and again. Only you...me...Dad........and...." You cringe.....but you didn't want to lie, and Starlight was so far back here. That maybe telling her this detail wouldn't be bad. "Princess Celestia know about it"

Starlight's eye widen to that last mention "Princess Celestia? You can't be serious. She would never allow it."

Ergh...she would if she had more than one reason to trust you and put a faith in you that would be utterly destroyed if you ever fucked up.
"It's true, and it's pretty much why now Chrysalis is my sole responsibility. I've pretty much doomed myself to a heavy punishment if Chrysalis ever escaped and wreaked havoc. I accept it though, I think if I do everything right. It shouldn't have to come to that."

No, the only thing you had to worry about is when and even if Discord intends to let her out as your "sister". It hasn't happened yet. But you had to be ready, Knowing Discord, he'd let her out at the WORST possible time.

After hearing that, Starlight let her anger she had on you slip away. That was a pretty heavy responsibility. Especially with the subject matter. She now became afraid for you, you were the friend that fixed her, and now she's hearing that you pretty much doomed yourself "Anon, are you insane? Why would you even do that? That's too big a risk."

You knew that. You probably bit off more than what you could chew. But everything happened so fast, and you thought since you were stuck with her. You should at least try. Learn more about her, level with her, compromise, be her friend. Celestia getting involved was really just a stroke of bad luck.
"I know, but I'm the only one willing to give her a chance. I gotta at least try. It's not that bad really, we sat down and watched a film the other day. And she even admitted to being my friend. So..y'know...so far so good."

Starlight let out a worried grumble, she thought you were being an idiot. But, she couldn't think like that. Technically she was once as power hungry as any other villain. And you were the one who gave her a chance, even after she slugged you a few times.

"No wonder you're the "Hero Colt". I really hope you know what you're doing. Because that is some serious deep water you've gotten yourself in, do you even realize how utterly stupid and reckless it is to associate yourself with somepony like her? She's evil, Anon,and she has no just reason for it. I know you're smart for your age, but you lack experience. You can't take something like this on and expect nothing but good results, it doesn't work that way"

You knew she was right, and you knew how deep you were in.
"I know, I know all of that. But Dad isn't going to do it, and nopony, especially Twilight is going to give her a chance to become good. I'm really the only one."

you actually wish you were in some story, and was the mary sue. It'd make things easier because it would mean Chrysalis would respect you. And you'd no doubt succeed. But that wasn't the reality. The odds were stacked against you and it was only going to get worse.

"...You really have a good heart Anon, even though you're being utterly ridiculous in taking on that kind of responsibility." Starlight relaxed herself, and looked up to the sky "So....when exactly is she going to get here?"

You look up with her "I don't know, if she's flying here then I think it could take awhile. I don't know how slow she is, but I can't even see her in the horizon, so we probably still have time to at least eat."

"Then let's go eat, and act as if this never happened. If Twilight has something to say to me, fine.Little miss perfect is in for a rude awakening if she tries to shove one of her morals down my throat. Also..." Starlight uses her magic to slide you over to her, she gives you a gentle hug.

"Relax, No matter what Twilight says, I'm not just going to up and make some evil petty revenge plan like going back in time and making sure she never gets her Cutie Mark..or something like that. I'm above that. I have friends, you...the townsponies. I don't want to abandon that because she decided to be a moron. And if she wants a fight? Well, I do have a few new spells I developed that could use a test run. If I could take her down, we wouldn't have to worry about anypony else ever attacking the town."

You return the hug...boy she was soft. But her attitude wasn't. You really hoped it didn't resort to fighting. It wouldn't look good for her. Though, it looking bad on Twilight you internally admitted you didn't give a shit about. But you didn’t want Starlight going evil again.
"I just hope everything works out, that's all. I think we should just try to show her how wrong she is."

"That'd be easy if she wasn't stubborn. But I guess. But I'm not above a fight. I'm pretty sure I could beat her."

...come on noooo "Well, let's just focus on eating right now, huh? I'm famished. And I'd really like to just try to have a pleasant day with you before she shows up."

"You know? I'd like that a lot too, with you and your friend.Especially since Twilight wouldn't be able to say anything when she sees I can be just as if not moreso friendlier than her. Yeah, that'll be fine. Come on, let's go see what your friend ordered us. She said she'd make a big order, and after being in that shed for so long. I could really use something to eat. Big time..."

Now Starlight was itching for a fight. You had to hope this could be resolved peacefully, with Twilight being buttblasted being a plus.

You both head back to Sugar Belle's ready to eat whatever Lyra ordered.

And what an order. The table was filled with food. Oats mixed with various flowers and veggies, muffins, and a banana split right in the middle of the table, with enough bananas,whipped cream, ice cream, and cherries to feed the three of you, along with three soda drinks as well....oh baby....you really hope this wouldn't cost you.

Sugar Belle waited at the side as Lyra was already digging into the main course. But...there's no way Sugar Belle could have made it that fast. What was going on?

"W-wow, Sugar Belle. How did you make all this so fast?" Starlight is the first to ask.

"Oh, I didn't. I already had it ready. These were some of the things I was going to ship out. But then after miss Lyra made her order. I thought that maybe a little taste testing was in order. I don't want to ship anything that doesn't taste that good so consider this on the house, for the sake of testing." Sugar Belle smiled with a little giggle "Just don't eat too fast now, or you'll get a tummy ache"

Ohhhh man. You sit down almost immediately. This was a fucking spread.

"But you worked hard on this. and..." Starlight sits down and tastes the oats. It was...fantastic. "...you could have tasted all of this yourself. I can't eat this.." Starlight wasn't expecting Sugar Belle to go out of her way give up what she was going to ship. In fact, she still had intended to pay for the goods she'd think Lyra was going to order. And now? She refused to eat, it was too much.

"Starlight, I already set it out. It's too late to put it back now."

Starlight looked over the food, Lyra had stopped eating, and you hadn't even begun yet. You and Lyra were looking at Starlight. For you, you would say something if she began to lose her confidence again.

"There's got to be a way, how did you preserve all this before?" Starlight asked

"Well, that's a trade secret Starlight. soooooo, I guess you're just going to have to eat it. Please? I'm worried that you haven't eaten at all since you went into the shed. You look very hungry..." Sugar Belle's happy and giving demeanor was starting to crack, it was hurting her to see Starlight so resistant. "You don't need to eat all of it. Just eat what you like. But just don't decide not to eat at all. Or...or..." Sugar Belle gives her a stern look "Or I'll feed you myself, how about that?"

Starlight cringed hard, she felt awful again.

Damn...she was more sensitive about this kind of thing than you thought. You wondered how badly she was affected by her own actions.

"It's not going to hurt you to eat a little Starlight. I said it was free, go on. Pretty please? With sugar on top?" Sugar Belle looked into Starlight's eyes with big adorable softness.

Starlight said nothing, she just looked nervous, she looked down at the food. lowered her head, and started munching reluctantly.

"So....what do you think?" Sugar Belle smiled at her

"It's....good. It's really good actually. Whatever you put in these oats, it's really tasty. I..." Starlight looked back up to Sugar Belle, who had a wide happy smile on her face. Starlight shifted her eyes left and right, she realized she really was pretty hungry. "..I...can eat as much as I want?"

Sugar Belle nods "You all can. Seeee? It's really good huh?"

"It...is. I..." Starlight was looking nervous again

"Just say thank you Starlight, trust me. You'll feel a lot better" You try to give her some advice. You didn't want to eat until she did.

"I certainly am thankful, this food is so gooood! I love it!" Lyra went back to feeding her face.

Starlight looked to Sugar Belle, and smiled, just a tiny cute little smile, and finally let it out "Thank you..."

"You're welcome....now dig in! I'm just going to go back and get everything ready. If you need anything, don't hesitate to ask." Sugar Belle gave a cute little wink before going back to her work.

You stared at her for a moment before she stepped back in....ehhh..you dunno, her equalization look was pretty damn cute too.

"...How're you feeling Starlight?" You ask

"I don't know. I don't know why I'm having trouble with everypony else still. I should be doing better than this..Maybe it's just because I know Twilight is coming."

"Well you know what you need to do then?" Lyra looks up, some of her food coming off her face.

Starlight wasn't expecting Lyra to mention anything about it, it catches her offguard "W-what?" She says in a low meek voice, almost like Fluttershy would.

"You need to sit back, look around, think about what you have, and then take a deep breath. Because you have a lot. Good friends, Good food, and a nice town to live in. I know you don't really like Princess Twilight, and I know Anon kinda doesn't either. But she isn't here. so, why worry about it? Why worry about your friends the way you are when they aren't worried? They just seem to want you to be happy Starlight. So, be happy. Nopony is going to let anything bad happen to you ok?"

You had just spoke to Starlight before, and it didn't seem to do much good for her mood. But, maybe it wasn't you she had to hear it from. Hearing it from Sugar Belle, and now Lyra. That seemed to have finally done it. "...you're right....you're all right" Starlight stomped her hooves on the table and lifted her head up high. "Sure, I did a lot of bad things! From enslaving the entire town to wanting to take over Equestria! But that's not me anymore! I'm not the Starlight Glimmer that made everypony suffer for her selfish ambition! I'm Starlight Glimmer, THE Starlight Glimmer who wants to be friends with everypony and strive to help the town flourish and be there for anypony who might need my help! Because if you...!" She points to you "Can help me, then why can't I help others?! That was originally my plan anyway, to save ponies from their cutie marks...well now I'm just going to help them, with whatever problem they might have! I won't hide anymore! I..I..." Starlight notices she's really yelling for nothing, with you and Lyra just staring at her, Lyra chewing her food as Starlight spoke loudly.

Starlight calmly sat down, a little nervous and cleared her throat "O-ok, I think everypony gets it...In fact...I'm going to prove it right now!" She pulled out a little more courage for her next action.

she was? How? "Really?"

"I want to see this! Go Starlight! Wooo!" Lyra cheered her on, at first you thought it was odd. the whole thing really...but hell, fuck it, you decided to cheer her on too.

Starlight almost genuinely thought there was a certain power in the cheers. She looked back, and called out for Sugar Belle "Sugar Belle! Can you come here please?" She called out in such a way that she was sure she would be heard.

Sugar Belle steps out, she looks worried already, especially seeing that the food was still there. "Starlight? What's the matter? Is everything ok?"

"It is..I just wanted to.." Starlight gets up from her seat and gives Sugar Belle a hug "I just wanted to let you know everything would be ok."

Chapter 172

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

Chapter 173

Author's Note

Tonight!
Starlight wins.
Lyra and Fluttershy worries
And Anon and Twilight have a thing going.

Chapter 173

Holy crap, Twilight actually stood down. You could probably thank Celestia for that. If Twilight had come without talking to her first, There could have possibly been a fight.

You look up at Starlight, unfortunately, she wasn't doing so hot. She was still staring where Twilight was standing.

"Starlight? you ok?" You give her a little shake.

She snaps out of her trance like state. She herself didn't realize it. But that took a lot out of her, mentally. She felt a little nervous, just dumping Twilight's possible friendship. And yet, she knew she also didn't want it. She was debating with herself if she made the right choice or not. "Oh..." Starlight looks at you with a unsure look, she was nervous. "I'm ok, just...calming down. I can't believe she'd still try something like that."She doesn't say that in a way that sounded sure, it was more in a way in which she was awaiting your opinion.

"Yeah well, don't worry about. You made the right decision."

"Yeah...You're right. If she really wanted to be my friend, she should have tried a letter first." Starlight gave a nod, as if to assure herself.

"Eh, I guess." You look at the train, you realized you would have to go back on it with Twilight. Well, you could use your map. But you don't wanna leave Lyra hanging. "Looks like I gotta go. It was good seeing you Starlight. And remember, just stay strong"

"No worries about that, it was good seeing you too Anon, I'll send you a letter about the town's decision when I show them some of my blueprints. Though...how exactly will I get it to you?" Starlight had no idea how to go about sending you a letter through subspace.

"Ummm...just...err...send it to my Aunt Fluttershy, she'll hold on to it for me"

Yeah, hopefully that'd work. You weren't too sure if that was even a good idea. But Fluttershy shouldn't mind if you tell her. You'd also have to explain everything that went on too. She was no doubt worried that it took you so long to get back. Poor thing.

You give a hug and a wave to Starlight, and go onto the train. You see the conductor waiting, the moment he gets sight of you he heads off. But...ugh, something you were hoping not to see was within your view.

Lyra was trying to give Twilight a pep talk.

Dammit Lyra...

As you walked over to them, you could hear Lyra trying to explain to Twilight that you meant well, you were just going off unupdated information. That you didn't mean to be so harsh and that you were just being protective. And that the important thing was that Starlight was ok and happy and good. Twilight was explaining there was actually something more to it, something about you. You step into their line of sight as you drew near.

However, you didn't feel too bad for Twilight. You felt as if she should have not come altogether. You sit opposite of Twilight and Lyra, and just greet Lyra.
"Hey Lyra, so...whatcha...doin??"

Lyra however doesn't answer to that, she just looks at you with a determined yet forlorn look. She wanted things to be alright. "Anon, you're not really that mad at Princess Twilight right? Twilight told me you forgave her, but you still seem super mad at her. What's up?"

"I did forgive her, It didn't mean I actually have to like her. I tried, I really did. But..." You look towards Twilight "You're still really suspicious of everything"

Twilight looks up at you, she looks totally bummed out.

"Anon, I'm really sorry. But you had to have been there to see why I was suspicious. She had the entire town in her control, and she attacked us and took our cutie marks. She wouldn't listen to reason. But for all of that, I didn't come straight here. I know I was wrong for wanting to investigate so thoroughly, but still. How can you be angry at me for just wanting to be friends with her?"

You raise an eyebrow at her "Are you serious? You shouldn't have come here at all. Celestia or no, Starlight is MY friend, and you should have taken my word for it."

"Anon...." Lyra gave you soft sad eyes "Why are you being so mean? You do know it's also her duty as a princess to check up on her anyway right? She is a princess after all, she has to worry about all the ponies who might be in trouble. Don't you think it's a good thing that she at least came to try to make friends with Starlight?"

You nearly grumble. That didn't matter. She had no business bothering someone who didn't want to see her.
"Not really, I already told Twilight that she wasn't wanted....and she still came. Do you think just because Celestia gave you some advice that you'd be wanted?"

"Anon...." Lyra didn't understand your attitude at all. "Why are you being so nasty?"

Dammit Lyra.
You did your best to explain your side to her.
"Because I fixed the problem, Starlight is ok, the town is fine, and she didn't want to see Twilight. That's why you went with me, remember? Why do you suddenly have a problem with this?"

Lyra looked down, now feeling a ashamed of herself. "I didn't know it was like this....I don't know why you have to be like this at all. Did you know Twilight forgave and became your father's friend even after he committed treason? If Twilight didn't do what she did, you wouldn't be here. So can't you forgive Twilight for everything. and try to be friends?"

Actually, that was....kind of a good point. Or almost good. marred by the fact that Discord still treats Twilight like crap. But then again, if not for Twilight. You'd not be here at all, that was an absolute fact. Being here today really helped Starlight out.

Dammit....you shouldn't falter though. You felt like you had to make sure Twilight would leave Starlight alone. "I don't know..."

Twilight looked up at you, she seemed a little nervous about what she had to say. "Actually.......about that. Princess Celestia did have something else to say."

"What?...what do you mean?"

Twilight took a breath. She was awaiting how'd you react to this, and would then react accordingly. "She asks you if you could stay at my castle for a week. Of course we'd have to ask your father to allow you to do that. That's fine. She wants us to learn and bond with each other. I know that sounds weird, trust me, I thought it was weird too considering how you...well..acted, but, it is Princess Celestia we're talking about. She always knows what's right"

.....fucking...shit....
Twilight was one thing. But you actually liked Celestia. Why in the blue blazes would she ask you this? She knows you have secrets. And bonding with a suspicious horse like Twilight would be nothing but trouble. Whyyyyyy?
"You're telling me Princess Celestia herself asked if I could stay with you for a week? Really?"

Twilight nodded "Yeah, that's what she asked. She said you didn't have to if you didn't want to. But, she'd really like it if you did" Twilight had uncertainty in her voice. as if she felt Celestia making that kind of request wasn't a good idea, but she wasn't going to doubt her. And therefore would do her best to make this happen.

"What about school?"

"Royal pardon, she feels you're smart enough to miss a week. And our bonding will be put towards your grade. If you and your father agree of course." Twilight lets out a nervous laugh
"You could look at it this way, if we learn to get along, then it'd be an easy grade to put on your record, right?"

.....dammit Celestia...You couldn't even get the words "No" or "Nope" in your mouth. You liked Celestia. You liked the way she treated you. She was motherly and kind, while mischievous and fun. Saying no would cause you trouble, not to mention cause guilt of disappointing her.

Then there was Lyra, who you were hurting every moment by the way you were acting. She helped you get this far, then you were shitting on her beliefs and care by being an asshole. You were already on the train, and Twilight was being passive. There was no need to continue. Not unless you wanted to seem like a jerk.
But goddammit, a whole week?
"If my dad says yes, fine."
You then look to Lyra, and sigh.
"And...I'm sorry Lyra. I guess I'm being real high strung about all this. But you at least understand my point of view, right?"

Lyra shook her head "No....but, you're still my friend. I'm still your friend right?"

...dammit Lyra....just...
You give up emotionally, you don't smile, you don't frown, you just...give up.
"You're still my friend."

Lyra could see your defeated look, and gives you a hug to try to cheer you up. "Anon, I'm not against you, ok? I just don't want anypony to be hurt. Your friend is fine, and you finished what you came here to do. You should be happy about that. Now you can focus on trying bonding with Princess Twilight. I mean, how bad can it possibly be?"

Something about being hugged by someone who actually cares about you always did your heart good. Even in the darkest of times.

You give her a hug back, and consider her words. You knew she wasn't against you. You knew she wasn't against Twilight. She just....cared.

You sigh "You're right, Lyra. I'll talk to my dad myself, see if i can convince him to let me stay awhile. You know, in case he says no. But I don't see what we could learn from each other. I really don't"

"Well, it never hurt anypony to try. And I bet the both of you will be really surprised by how much you can learn from each other. Like I do with Bonbon, everyday I learn something new. So I bet by the end of the week; you both will be such great friends"

That's sure is a lot of optimism Lyra had. But you could tell that even Twilight was unsure. But unlike you, Twilight really did want to give it her best shot.

The rest of the trip on the train was mostly a silent one. Mostly you and Lyra talking about what did go on in the trip, which of course caught Twilight's attention. Not to hurt or upset Lyra, you let Twilight in on the going ons of the visit.

When you all reach Ponyville. The sun was already getting ready to set. You bid Lyra a farewell and gave her a hug. You let her know everything would be fine. Of course, she still felt the need to tell you a few "encouraging" words through her own naivete, such as everything won't be as bad as you think and that you and Twilight will definitely be pretty good friends.

With that, Lyra got off the train and went on her way. Mentioning she'd go see Bonbon to let her know she was ok. This just left you and Twilight.

You both stepped out of the train, and looked at eachother.

"Anon, can I ask you a teeny tiny question?"

For Lyra and Celestia's sake. you'd be as friendly as possible with her until she herself did something that pissed you off.
"What is it?"

"Well, I was just wondering what your opinion on friendship is."

"You want to know that now? We just got off the train"

"I know, but. I feel it's important to ask this question so I can get a better understanding of how your opinion differs from mine. That way I can adequately prepare myself for the week."

wut? "Are you serious? You have to make preparations?"

Twilight nods "I do, Anon. You really are like no colt I've ever seen. In more ways than one. You have views and opinions that are different from any other pony I've ever met. And I don't think it's because of your father either. Princess Celestia wants us to bond for a reason, thats why I want to ask you this question before I walk you back to Fluttershy's"

"I guess it's not too far off from yours. The only real difference is that I don't want to make friends with everypony. I don't even want to try. I like the friends I have and anypony looking to be my friend is fine as long as they are good and nice and all that. It's just I'm not gonna go out of my way to make friends with just some random pony."

"Well, I can understand that....but just for reasons, why is that?"

"Because I don't want to have a friend pool so large that I can't handle it. The only pony I've ever seen who could handle it is Pinkie Pie. It's amazing really. But it's not for me. Does that answer your question?"

"It does...soo um...ready to go?"

You shake your head "No, I can walk myself back to my aunt's. I'd like to be alone to think about all this, that's not a problem, is it?"

"No no" Twilight says nervously "I just thought you'd like some company, so we could talk a little more."

"Look, no disrespect or anything. But I need to talk to her by myself, and I have some other things to do right after. Don't you have others things to do too?"

"I uhm, maybe?" Twilight realized she may be pressing too hard, she already got you to agree to it. She just had to hope Discord did as well "No, you're right" Twilight smiles, a false smile anyway "I better go see what Spike's doing. Well, erm....see you soon then. I'm sure we'll have the best of times. Just.." Twilight's smile lessened "be open to some ideas ok? I really am sorry Anon, about trying to seal you, and everything I may have done to make things worse. But, let's keep an open mind alright? We both might find things really surprising if we do"

She apologized again. Ugh....fine. For Celestia's sake, you would keep an open mind. You never got to spend a whole lot of time with Twilight. Hopefully, maybe, goddamn wishing this won't turn out bad.
"It's fine Twilight, and yeah...maybe. Anyway..."
You start walking away, but you don't even look back at her when you say
"Seeya later"

She replies, but she doesn't follow. Good. Damn, Twilight really was annoying. You couldn't put your hoof on it, but she just wasn't a pony you could see yourself being friends with. She's always doing something shitty, and yet she gets forgiven. And when she's not doing something shitty, she's just being either cold or dumb about it. But maybe you were just thinking too much on her negative qualities. She at least cares when she remembers, and tries the best she can. And really, Equestria could have been doomed by any of the mane 6, whether it be Pinkie,the Tantabus, or Rarity and that cursed book thing. egh.....you were getting that naggy feeling that maybe she really deserved a better chance.

Damn you Celestia....

It was already getting pretty late. And after Fluttershy, you wanted to rush back to Diamond Tiara's home. You wanted to see what was going on with her and her mother. You hoped you weren't too late for that.

After some time walking, you reach Fluttershy's cottage. your mind filled with growing doubt about Twilight. Egh...she really did forgive Discord after that whole shit with Tirek......and as heavy as being sealed in Tartarus is, Discord nearly doomed the entire world to a fate worse than that. And you yourself was forgiving of Chrysalis, an actual evil force in this world.....fuck...

You sigh as these thoughts riddle your head, you look over to the family statues by the cottage.

Yep......good ole Discord,Fluttershy, and you...posed as if you were one family unit. When really most of it was a ruse. But it was a ruse with heart put into it.

You knock on the door

"H-hello? Who is it" You hear from the other side, the sweet soft voice of Fluttershy.

"it's me Aunt Fluttershy, I'm back"

The door immediately flies open as Fluttershy zips at you and hovers up. hugging you tightly

She was in tears "Anon! Oh Anon! you're ok! Why didn't you come back?! Where did you go?!"

Fuck...she really didn't expect you to go so far out of the town.
"I, went to see Starlight,"

"I...oh" Fluttershy sniffed, "B-b-but, I didn't expect you to go that far....d-didn't you catch up with Twilight?"

You shook your head "No, I thought she was flying towards the town, so I took the train. Turns out she was heading towards Celestia's instead. Aunt Fluttershy..." You give her a hug
"I didn't mean to worry you, I was just trying to help a friend"

Fluttershy cuddles onto you tight while hovering in mid air "A-anon, I know you meant well. But don't you think it was irresponsible to go on the train by yourself? You could have come back for me. I would have joined you, you know that right?"

You probably did… "I know, but. I thought I had very little time. But another friend came and helped me instead."

Fluttershy looked directly into your eyes, a motherly look of concern behind her tears "Anon...two foals isn't much better being out on their own than one foal. Do you know the kind of trouble your friends have gotten into when they go out alone? There was this one time where they encountered a cockatrice, and Applejack told me about this time about her sister taking it upon herself to make a delivery. It's not safe."

"Oh, well actually it was a mare who helped me. Do you know Lyra?"

"Lyra? oh, erm..a little. She seems nice....she helped you? Really?" Fluttershy was confused, it seemed awfully weird for an adult to agree to something like that just out of the blue.

You nod "Yeah, she just got off the train and saw that I was in trouble. We got to the town, everything got sorted out. And now everything is sorta ok."

"Sorta ok?" Fluttershy hovers downward and gently puts you down before landing. "what do you mean by sorta?"

"Well....Twilight did eventually show up. And, I...I don't really want to talk about that part. All I want to say is that her and Starlight didn't become friends. And now, on Princess Celestia's request, she wants me to stay with Twilight for a week."

"mmnnnnn...." Fluttershy wanted more details on what happened, but...the fact that Celestia was involved seemed more intriguing to her. But...then there was the fact you didn't seem comfortable talking about it, yet it involved her friend Twilight. "....Anon...why don't you want to tell me exactly what happened?"

"I just.....don't want to. I don't want this to become a bigger thing than it has to be. Please?"

"Anon, I can just ask Twilight. You know that right? This involves her as much as it does you. And I'm your aunt, I need to know these things"

mnnnnnnnn " Aunt Fluttershy....nnnn"

She gave you those eyes, big soft and sad eyes as her bottom lip quivered.

Dammit...

"Well, ernmm...Things were fine for awhile. Me and Starlight and Lyra, we got along well, I even managed to teach Starlight a few friendship lessons of my own. But when Twilight came by, there was a disagreement. Starlight didn't want to be her friend and I backed her up. Lyra...didn't fully agree with this..you know how ponies usually are. They don't like conflict...not that I d-do or anything. It's just. well...that's how that visit ended. Then Twilight told me Princess Celestia would like me to stay with her for a week. Her as in Twilight I mean. So...I agreed, because I'm not gonna deny a request from Princess Celestia. I just need dad's permission. And that's pretty much the whole story"

Fluttershy didn't say anything at first. She was busy processing that information. Of course, if you told her your exact words on the matter. she might have found it wrong. And you didn't need that right now.

"I'm not going to question Princess Celestia's motives. If anypony knows what's right, it'd be her. I just find it very weird that all of this happened. I actually thought that if you all talked things out, maybe things would have been fine. And then there's the fact Princess Celestia wants you and Twilight to stay together for a week. It's all so strange. Anon, is there any other secrets you haven't told me? Because....this seems like this might involve more than what I know already. You know you can tell me the truth, I won't judge."
Fluttershy gave you a reassuring smile as the last of her tears dropped. She was just glad you were ok, but still worried about all this.

Dammit.....

You hesitated, surely something would come in to break this conversation.

"Anon?"

But nothing did...
".....Well, other than a few secrets my dad has. Nothing really."

You gave her a big...fake...smile.

"Ok, I believe you" Fluttershy smiled, she felt relieved "Just as long as you're ok. And, thank you for being honest with me. You're such a good little colt." Fluttershy gave you a peck on the cheek "I know in the end, you'll do the right thing. And I know that once you spent time with Twilight that things won't be that bad. Though....." Fluttershy suddenly felt a dreadful thought. "....Anon, let me ask you something. Twilight, isn't upset at you about anything, is she?"

She was upset, but not in the way she seemed to be suggesting.
"No, why?"

Fluttershy had a fear that Twilight MIGHT try something out of the ordinary if she was actually upset at you. Even if not in the same tier as banishment, she knew how Twilight could get when she tries to get something done or confront something she deems a problem. And she felt she couldn't let something like that happen on you. But she ALSO didn't want to worry you. So many complicated and conflicting feelings. "Oh...nothing, I just wanted to know." Fluttershy then looked at you, she knew as well that there still has to be some sort of conflict between you and Twilight. "Anon, I want you to act your very best when staying with Twilight....but, if Twilight DOES try something you don't like. Let me know ok? I'll try my best to talk it out with the both of you."

That actually might be for the best, but Fluttershy is also a pushover. ugh, it was better than nothing. You thought you could act your best. It shouldn't be that hard to survive the week. If Discord allows it anyway.
"Don't worry Aunt Fluttershy, I can do this. I promise I'll be on my best behavior"

"I know you will, so, do you want to stay for dinner? Or do you have to go back home? I don't mind if you do have to go back home, I'm just glad you're safe."

Actually....there was one other thing you wanted to check.....you hoped she was still there too.
"Actually, there's something else I want to check out. You don't mind if I go somewhere else do you?"

"Well no....as long as your father doesn't mind you wandering around. ergh..." Fluttershy thought she knew the answer, and she didn't like it "He does, doesn't he?"

You nod "Yeah, he trusts me enough for me to go out on my own."

"Right...he would...ok" Fluttershy felt like she should have a talk to Discord about that, but for now, his word would go over hers. As much as she didn't like it. "You just be careful...ok Anon?"

"I will, trust me Aunt Fluttershy, I'll be fine...I promise"

Fluttershy pulls you in for one more hug "I know you'll be careful..." She just didn't trust others to be so caring.

After that, with another hug and a goodbye, you headed towards Diamond Tiara's. Fuck, you really wanted to catch Spoiled before she had to leave. You had this hunch she'd still have to go back to the business sooner or later.

It never fully left your mind of what you did, how could it? You still had to rub it in Twilight's face. But as you rushed over to DT's, you wondered if that was even a good idea to do anymore. For Discord, it's another thing to laud over the purple princess. For you? eh.....but it did make him happy.

It was also starting to get kind of late. You hoped you didn't pull yourself into a sleep over.

Chapter 174

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

Chapter 175

Author's Note

Tonight!
A filthy reunion.
A spoiled future.
Anon's future is fucked.

Chapter 175

you just started thinking about it, sweating, just...bite the bullet and continue...DON'T DO IT!.

"Errr, Anon, are you alright? you're looking like you're about to crumble. I was only joking about the grandchildren."

You snap to attention, geez, you almost lost it.

"Oh...err, right sorry. Yeah, two is a little much huh?"

"Depends on your mettle. Speaking of which, are you saying you're actually willing to marry my daughter? I never heard a "no" on that one, son"

EEEEGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH
"....e-erm, maybe?...I d-dunno still.."

Shit, was he being serious or joking?

"Well, I suppose you're still too young to decide. But you ain't gonna shake her off so easily now, I'm just sayin' Anon. you may have sealed the deal already" Filthy Rich has a laugh "It's fine though, rather a pony I know to be a good'un than some no good varmint."

You nearly cringe in guilt...well...You....weren't exactly bad. You had good intentions, and you fixed up a season villain by yourself. That should mean something, right?

You chuckle nervously "That's me...a good'un."

you pick up your tea cup and take a sip, hoping the tea would calm your nerves.

And it doesn't, the door to the study opens...and she comes in.

"Are you in here dear? Diamond Tiara is asl-" Spoiled Rich spots you, her eyes going wide the moment she does.

You freeze in place yourself. Even with the knowledge she changed, she still has a presence. and the fact the topic was on marrying Diamond didn't help.

"Hello my sweetie pie, Now I know you remember Anon, do you want to join us for tea?" Filthy Rich looks at her with a smile.

".........hrn..." She looks directly at you, she didn't smile, and her astonishment lessened with every moment until she finally said "Of course..."

But she doesn't move, and a few seconds after of not moving, Filthy Rich clears his throat at you and tilts his head towards the long couch like seat to the side. "Ahrm...hrm..."

Wut?

Filthy Rich tries it again, but Spoiled Rich just lets out a small laugh "Oh don't worry, I'll...just sit here." Spoiled Rich takes the seat instead.

......oh shit.....you got it now. You were supposed to give her your seat...like a gentlemen.

"hrn...Well," Filthy Rich doesn't take offense, he figured you may have just been nervous. Considering the friction that there must have been. He then smiled towards his wife "How was your day?"

"oh...hrn" Spoiled look towards him and put on an awkward smile...it's like she never normally did that before. "It...actually went superbly. I managed to spend all my time with our daughter without once.....thinking..of..work...or the spa...ahrm" She cleared her throat, she was struggling "I never realized how important friendship really was to her, and I've never seen her so happy....and.." She turned her head a little, hiding her frown. "I’ve never seen her so happy in my company before."

Filthy Rich turned to her and lifted her head gently to give her a muzzle rub on her nose "Well darlin', you don't have to look so down about it. Of course she's going to be happy to be with her mother. Why would you even doubt such a thing?"

"I...hrn" Spoiled blushed a little, she even smiled a little more naturally, but still seemed at a loss for words. "I suppose I shouldn't doubt it. She's just never been that happy around me before, and all I did was talk to her and...listen. She had so much to say"

"Well that's good then. here" Filthy Rich passed her his tea cup "You look nervous my dear, why don't you take my cup, I'm not thirsty anymore."

Spoiled took the cup, both you and Filthy could see she was nervous from the way the tea cup shook in her hooves. Now he knew for sure she felt uncomfortable. "What's on your mind honeybunch?"

".....I'm at a loss of words. In all my time i've been with her since I came home, I've learned more about her than I ever did when I tried to raise her to be the way I wanted her. It was like I didn't even know her, and she didn't know me. She could have completely forgotten about me and nothing would have changed with what she wanted to do with her life. As if all I was was one of the very obstacles I told her to crush beneath her hooves."

"Don't be ridiculous. She'd never forget about you, just like I never have. you're one of the cornerstones of this very family." Filthy Rich said in a way to pep her up

You and Discord must have done more damage than you thought. She smiled at his words, but she felt so awful for what she had done. Family wise anyway, she still believed she had the business part down pat. "Maybe I am, but I don't think I should be here. How can I be? I'm no good here. I haven't done any good for you or our daughter."

Filthy Rich just gave her a gentle smile and put his hooves on one of hers, like holding her hand. "Well that'd be the reason I'm leaving tonight to go finish up your work, wouldn't it? Gives you plenty of time to catch up on all that family time you been missing with our little darlin'."

Spoiled looked down at his hooves, then at his face. "...how can you love somepony like me?"

"Well, it's hard not to when you've stolen my heart and refuse to put it back on sale, now isn't it?" Filthy Rich gave her a gentle peck on the lips

Spoiled blushed "...you've always had a way with words. I'm sorry you have to catch up on my work, you'll have a lot to do you know. They are a bunch of slackers over there"

Filthy shrugged "It'll be alright, all ya gotta do is show em respect. And if they disrespect that, then it's time to start downsizing. It'll be fine, I've done it a million times. Besides, if I do make some sort of mistake, it just means you'll be here a little longer. That ain't a problem, is it?"

She slowly shook her head and smiled at him "No...I suppose not...."

Spoiled Rich then took another sip of her tea as her face became neutral, she was still nervous, but her face became contorted to that of a snooty rich snob. "And don't think I haven't thought about you Mr.Anon"

oh come on, how could she look at you like that? "erm."

"Hmph...Still low class I see, can't even address a superior properly. How disappointing"

oohhh...come on....

You look to Filthy, but he just sips his tea. observing.

fuck

"....Mrs. Rich, I well...I'm just. Sort of nervous is all"

"Clearly, you can't even sit on that chair properly. You speak with uncertainty, and your mane is messy. If you were my employee I'd fire you on the spot"

OHH COME ON "Hey...come on, don't be mean." It was like a switch was suddenly flicked.

You didn't want a reason to explode in front of Filthy, but fuck. what was she on about?

"Hrnnn...judgement is judgement. It's something I do best, and you can't expect me not to judge you when my daughter shows me terrifying things...such as this."

She puts down on the table a paper, it had a drawn in picture with high quality crayons and pencil....it was you in a tux and Diamond in a wedding gown. a big heart above the both of you.

EEEEEEEEEEEEEGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

Filthy Rich looked like he was gonna burst into laughter, but he was expertly holding it in despite his smile and small jerks of his body.

"To think, she actually wants to marry somepony as filthy as you.......takes me back" She sighed, then smiled a little. But then immediately stiffened up again. "I very much hope you don't actually plan to marry her with the way you act now, I won't allow it. And if I have to take a year's vacation and hire a substitute just to make you "Rich" quality...I will."

...you stay silent, and look to Filthy again.

"Don't look at me Anon, she's my wife. And if she says you're needing some fixing up, then you're needing it."

"That's right, he does need it.I happen to know you know my husband and I's history. I hope you don't think that gives you the right to not be the least bit civilized when it comes to our daughter."

...god shit...no no no....cruel fate. Now the entire family was expecting you to marry Diamond. Holy shit, you wondered what would happen if Applebloom knew how far the rabbit hole went on this little problem. "Mrs. Rich...e-e-erm...to be fair. I think she likes me for me, and I think I'm a little to young to think about marriage"

She shook her head "One, you can never be too young to think about marriage, managing a business empire is difficult to do alone. And you're insane if you think I'm going to let you inherit anything with your current...."skills". And two, I don't mind you being who you are, but you're still an uncouth and barbaric colt who uses force and trickery to get their way without any semblance of class or wit. And that will not stand"

Filthy Rich takes a sip of his cup, then looks at you "What she's saying is son is that you just need to have a little discipline in your life. I know your cutie mark says otherwise. But chaos is like any other skill, it takes discipline to master. And if you can master chaos, you can master a little proper mannerisms. It ain't so bad"

"But that's the thing. I'm not even Diamond's special somepony, I know you know that Mr.Rich."

"I do, and I let my wife know too. Or did you forget that for the longest while I wasn't my wife’s special somepony either"

"He did, it was a lot for me to take in that our daughter had this deep of a crush on you. I won't lie, the first thoughts in my head was running you over with a carriage and hiding the remains....but that's not something a mare such as myself is capable of..."

no, that's why you hire fucking hitmen...geezes christ.
"But as I calmed down and thought about it, I realized that it's possible it won't be as bad as I thought. You went this far just to make her happy, you somehow even convinced that criminal of a father to help you in your cause. And you stood up to me. You have the fortitude and the courage to make a good husband to her. And for you to go so far convinces me that you WILL most likely end up marrying her. We can both deny it, but it's most likely true. And I happen to know you're more intelligent than the average colt too. Another fine quality I wouldn't let go to waste when the time comes. I will have you ready for it."

.........ergh...they both were so sure it was going to happen. It made you, at this point, lean towards it yourself. But she's so damn young still. Maybe it was a selfish thought, but she's overbearing at times and you can't even give her the D.

And yet....the fact that she seems to love you so unconditionally did make you happy somewhere in your heart. and the logic that did spark in your brain told you you'd be an idiot to give that up.

Goddamn it.... "..I guess...I just need some time to really think about it. I mean, don't you two think you're pushing it a little? I'm still a little colt."

Filthy takes a turn to speak to you "A little colt who's proven time and time again how much you care about our Diamond Tiara, but don't feel like we're pushing you. We just happen to have a thing to be prepared for any situation. And you can't blame us for wanting you prepared too if this happens, now can you? Now if it never happens then it never happens and we can just make sure whoever she does marry is as pure as gold. We're her parents, Anon, we want the best for her" Filthy Rich let's out a laugh "And you just so happen to fit the bill at the moment. Like I said, if ya really didn't want this, you should have kept her at a distance. Now you’re the prize in her eyes, and our family has always had a thing for always getting what we want...no matter what"

You expected Spoiled to follow up on that. But she didn't. Something about her eyes as she looked at you. It put you on edge.

hrn...you couldn't put your hoof on it. but the way she seemed to be so adamant to "improve" you made you feel that she was only following along with her husband. And in fact felt that you really weren't worth her daughter's hoof in marriage if you couldn't meet a certain standard. Because it seemed Filthy would just let it slide just to make his daughter happy.

But that couldn't be it either. Because she WAS going along with it. She may have wanted you to be her pick, but the fact she still calls Discord a criminal meant that she wanted you to be away from him and his ways. From her point of view anyway.

Yeah, it seemed you managed to impress them with your unintended dedication to Diamond Tiara. You both were still just so young. But you made one hell of an impression. You must have seemed like such a catch that even her parents wanted to secure you into the family. They must have thought that if you were like this now, you'd be amazing as an adult.

....would it be so bad though? This was every horsefuckers dream. To belong, to have a waifu, to have a life set up for them. Sure, it wasn't the RIGHT waifu and...yeah, eventually heading this business is scary as fuck. You could very easily bring it to its destruction.

You couldn't say anything either. you didn't want to seem like you'd be willing for this, nor did you want to insult them by fully denying them either.

Luckily, a maid knocked on the door and spoke through it "Master Rich, your luggage haz been prepared, and the train, it leavez soon."

Filthy Rich looked towards the door, then back at you two "Well, looks like I have to mosey along. Anon, just think about what we said. It'll be many a moon when you finally decide on that decision, and we'll accept whatever it may be.For now, just focus on your schooling and being a kid. You only get to be one once. "

Filthy then turned and happily said his goodbyes to his wife. Letting her know how much he truly loved her as he gave her a kiss, a long one right on the lips, And then went on his way.

She just stared as he left, a small smile on her face, it was if nothing else mattered at the moment after that. It almost looked like she wanted to stop him from leaving. But she didn't, her business instincts were still better than her family based ones. Or...she just understood the importance of it all.

Chapter 176

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

Chapter 177

Author's Note

Tonight!
Bugqueen advice
Discord saw a show
And Anon has sex!

Chapter 177

"eggh, you don't have to say things like that. Why do you even care?" You kept your senses high, you wondered what she was up to.

"I can't help a friend? I help you, you feed me. Come on Anon, trust me. I want to help. At least I'm being honest. You do make a good meal when you have those lovely feelings of yours out in the open."

...she was being honest, it also seemed she really did give no shits about the ex captain. Not even phased.

"Well, I mean...eh, are you sure you can even help with my problem? How do you even know it's a problem?"

Chrysalis gave you a gentle rub on the head "I'm a mother, Anon, and a queen. I know a thing or two about the problems of the young and stupid. And I can definitely sense something wrong. Don't make me say please..." She looked into your eyes, her eyes glowing as she gave you such a sweet look.

you look to the side...was this really a good idea? She was more of the manipulative type. Maybe...
"...I dunno...maybe I should go see Princess Cadence, she's the Princess of Love after all..."

"what?!" Chrysalis is actually frustrated from that suggestion "How could you even choose her over me? You barely know her!" Chrysalis looks into your eyes angrily "She won't even take you seriously. But I know your secret. I am the ONLY one qualified to help you. The ONLY one"

G-geez. She really seemed to take offense to that...for some reason. Why? what got her so upset?
"...I just thought she'd be more objective. And have more selfless motives in helping me. I mean, don't you only want to help me to feed off me? I don't mind the feeding, but it sounds like all you want to do is tell me things that'll get my emotions up."

Chrysalis looked at you silently for a moment, she looked...insulted. "And this is why you have problems, your social abilities are severely lacking. Do you know how insulted I'd be if you weren't so stupid sometimes?"

Well, she looked insulted now...
....and now you felt bad too. egh, what was wrong with you? You were suddenly being a real asshole all of a sudden. Maybe it was just Twilight. egh...you still had to talk to Discord about that too.
"...sorry, I've just had a real rough day. I'd...love to have your help. But, how exactly are you going to help me?"

"Well first..." Chrysalis eyed you closely "...you could give me a better apology than that" She then smirked at you, well...that feeling of being insulted washed away from her quickly.

....and you weren't going to deny her either. She was right, what would Cadence even say? She'd tell you "You're too young" or "those are....really odd thoughts you have Anon.". And the help you needed was, well...even you didn't exactly know. You didn't know if you should be with DT, accept her love..or anything...she was really young but. as Filthy said, you might be stuck with her.

You took a deep breath. "I'm......really sorry."

Chrysalis shook her head, then lifted her left foreleg and pointed downwards. "Kneel...and address me by my proper title."

You grimace at that "...Really?"

"You hurt me Anon, and I won't help you with whatever you need unless you do this." Chrysalis was waiting, she wanted this.

.....dammit.

You sigh, and kneel, and let out a half hearted "I apologize, my queen, for my insubordination"

Chrysalis chuckles "You may rise, that was good enough. Now, for me to be able to help. I need all the details. Don't leave out a single one"

Although that was you humiliating. you decide to play it straight and tell her everything you've been through with DT. Recounting from when you saved her, to the part where you reformed her mother.

Even Chrysalis herself seemed baffled by it all. By the end of your tale, she shook her head "Impressive Anon, you somehow managed to win the heart of a filly to the point where she will most likely stick with you until your death. And yet, you aren't even sure if you want it? How dumb could you be? Just go for it."

but you couldn't. "Chrysalis....uhhh. I'm a colt, and she's a filly. You do realize we're too young to "Just go for it" "

"Age is such a poor excuse. Especially when it comes to you. You have the advantage, why not take it? She loves you, and I can sense that deep down...you have feelings for her as well. But you let your skewed sense of morality get in the way."

"but that's exactly it. It's just feelings anypony would naturally get, but those feelings die eventually right? Especially for an actual kid, they move on. I don't want to get into a relationship with a filly and then end up getting dumped by a mare."

Chrysalis looked at you with unhumored disbelief "Do you listen to yourself sometimes? She's HOPELESSLY in love with you. You've saved her life and you saved her family. She wants to shower you with her affections and love. But no, you are refusing her because she's a filly. Anon, you don't have to take her to bed. Just love her back, how hard can that be?" Chrysalis rolls her eyes at you "I can't believe this is your problem. I thought this was something such as you wanting to ask for her hoof in marriage or you not knowing the right thing to say. But no...no...it's just you being idiotic as usual."

"Yeah...b-but you see, there's also this other filly who likes me. And I broke things off with her and told her I'd break things off with Diamond. How bad would it look if I just up and ended up with her for some reason. Applebloom wouldn't take that lying down."

"Why does that even matter? She'll just have to accept that she got passed up by a superior pony. Besides, you haven't done anything to clench her love..have you?"

....you....couldn't think of anything.

You shake your head "Not exactly, no. She just sort of fell for me. Same as Diamond"

"Then she'll fall out of it just as easily as she fell in. I can't believe how difficult you're making this, I'm not even getting a good meal out of this. It's time to change tactics, for both our sake"

"Change tactics?....wait"

You back off from her, fearing what she was going to do. You could see her eyes glowing again. "You're not going to hypnotize me, are you?"

"Tempting, but that's not going to help you in the long run. No, I thought of something better. Something....that demonstrates how wimpy you really are. And to demonstrate that, we shall do some roleplay"

You raise an eyebrow, roleplay? Sounds more like seducing… "...why roleplay? I don't think it's going to help if you pretend to be Diamond Tiara. You'll still just act like yourself."

Chrysalis groans "Your assumptions are simple minded. Roleplaying as your future lover is useless if you're still a wimp. No...I'm going to..." Chrysalis glows in a light, and transforms into......you. "Show you exactly how you should be acting. I'll be you, and you be Diamond...whatever"

What?! how could she even think she could be you? Never mind having to be DT.
"excuse me? Hold on, HOOOLD ON. What makes you think you can be me? You don't know how intricate the human mind can be."

"That's probably a good thing, because that's exactly what's causing your problem. You let all these complications control you instead of just stepping up to the plate. Now then, shall we begin?"

Eh, she was still talking in her manner of speech despite being you. It felt...odd. But whatever, if she wanted to try this then so be it. She was going to see how hard it really was to be you.
"Ok then, I'm game. But I'm not going to make this easy"

"Good, I could use a challenge. One can only watch "Changeling medical theater" for so long. The plot has become obvious. Now..Diamond, you go first."

You step up to...yourself...with a big happy grin. Let's see how she reacts to this.
"Hey Anon, I was uhhh..thinking. Do you want to go on a date?"

Chrysalis nods "Yes"

...wut? "huh?! You can't just say yes. Did you forget that we're foals? What about our parents?"

Chrysalis looked at her legs Then looked at you with a confused look "Yes...I'm aware. And? What's the problem?"

"...uhhh, you can't just say yes. You'd have to make sure the parents are ok with it first."

Chrysalis rolled her eyes "Your father would most likely say yes, and her parents sound like they'd say yes...so...with that in mind. A non wimpy version of you would take up that offer."

"B-but what if Discord said no?" ....would Discord even have a reason to say no?...wait… "What if he was planning something and needed me for it? huh?"

Chrysalis groaned "That's why you schedule the date......"

"But Discord is spontaneous"

"Not spontaneous enough to take up twenty four hours of your time. And he certainly doesn't take too long with any of his endeavors. So, I win..you lose...move on"

You cringe.....dammit...was she really right? Was it that simple?...well..what about.. "Ok...how about this?"

You make a happy smile as you bounce about. "Hey! Hey! Anon! You wanna get married....right now!?"

Chrysalis nods "Yes"

WHAT?!

You give Chrysalis the angry eye "Now you're just being impossible. How the hell would that even work!"

"Well, by accepting her offer and then getting married at the proper age. I know some pony cultures have arranged marriages...it'd be similar to one of those"

Goddammit........the worst part was..she was probably right. Who were you to question pony culture?

"So, are you understanding now Anon? The simplicity of relationships shouldn't be beyond your grasp. Just take it. And reap its benefits. Now, anything more you have to ask?"

You don't even nod, there had to be a way to show her that your point of view was best. Because her way just seemed. too direct. "Yeah..."

You grit your teeth, preparing yourself for what you were about to do. And after two breaths, you look at Chrysalis with half cocked eyes and your own brand of seductive smiling. "Anon...." You rub up against...yourself, and gently nuzzle your head behind.....your neck. "I'm feeling feelings...I never felt before...I..want to go to bed with you...i-is that ok?"

Chrysalis nods "Yes"

WUUUUUUUUT?!

You immediately back off, there's no fucking way she could rationalize that. "Ok...no way, no fucking way you can rationalize that! I dare you to try"

Chrysalis clears her throat as she hops up to your bed and lays on her side ".....done, and then we snuggle and fall asleep"

....no, she should know that you meant fucking sex. "You know what I mean....."

Chrysalis raises her head and smirks arrogantly at you....sheesh..is that what you look like when you look smug? it looked....villainous. "Ohhhh, Anon.If you mean it that way...Why don't you come up here and..." She turns into Diamond Tiara "Let me show you the answer instead"

You blush and gulp, blushing red as she bats her eyes at you.

...oh shit...did she just offer....actual...

ooooh boy. "...it's...not right. You know..erm..remember? t-too young? How can you p-possibly rationalize t-that?"

"Ohhh...no no...my answer to that would be to seriously just cuddle with her and ignore any of her advancements...which she'd never make anyway until a certain age." She flips upside down and leans her head over the side of the bed as her mane lowers to the ground, she kicks her back legs up and down cutely. "This is just for practice.....what?...you don't want to practice? hmmm?"

You turn the brightest shade of red. You could feel yourself getting hot.....oh lord..noooo "I.....I ummm..."

"Don't deny your future lover Anon...." Chrysalis's eyes begin to glow "I've shown you how easy it is to just accept her love. To be happy instead of constantly stressing over something that nopony else would stress over. I just want you to be happy....don't you want to be happy?"

....her eyes...they seemed...much softer than usual.... "I....want to...be happy"

"Good....." She giggled sweetly, licking her lips "Why don't you come up here...and we can begin"

It was like you were in a trance, lost in nothing but happy thoughts as you walk over to your bed and climb up. Chrysalis moves to the front of the bed, and lays down, her legs open. Looking deep into your eyes. "You love me, don't you Anon? You're just trying to avoid a heartache you'd felt time and time again back in your old home, aren't you? Aside from holding the belief you are too young, you don't want to get into something that could eventually blow up in your face..don’t you?"

You just nod, silent, your eyes hungry.

Chrysalis, still as Diamond begins to rub her chest gently, and giggles at you "Cute.....but deep inside, you just want to have the love of somepony, and somepony to love, don't you? You just want to have a marefriend who actually cares about you...again..am I right?"

You nod

"mmmmm, I thought so...you should heed my words well Anon, you'll end up alone if you keep up these foolish moralities. That other filly...Applebloom was it?...she'll get over it. If anything, she'd have been the one to forget you if you stuck with her. Now....how much do you love me?"

You don't reply, drool just comes out of your mouth.

Chrysalis cringes at you "ooookkk....didn't realize humans we're as lustful as they were loving. That explains this bounty being more delicious than usual though...I suppose that's not too bad. Ahh well, go ahead Anon...take me.....I'm yours"

"B-but...." You could only resist...just a little

"shhhhh....don't talk" She opened her back legs just a little more, so you could get a better view "just do..."

That was it..your mind was hers..you dive into her to make sweet sweet love.

Chrysalis however, immediately rolls to the side as you grab your pillow, and mindlessly hump into it.

"D-diamond....mnnnnnn" You moan as you begin fucking your pillow.

Chrysalis just sat at the side of you. feeding, and saying things in a bored fashion. "Yes Anon...oh...right there...oh yes....right...ehhh.."

You continue to just mindlessly hump and lick at your pillow like a horny mongoose. unaware of the truth that you weren't fucking Chrysalis or Diamond, and that all she was doing was faking the excitement of it.

Chrysalis pats you on the head gently. "Remember what I told you Anon, and you'll do fine. Just err.....tone down that libido of yours. It's scary...even to me"

Chrysalis even leans in, and gives you a gentle kiss on the cheek. "Sweet dreams Anon, and..." she licks her lips again. The love was intense, as was the lust. "Don't ever stop loving..."

Chrysalis looks at you one last time, then shakes her head both in disbelief and a little in shame.

But as she walked away, she noticed something about herself "...Well, this is quite a problem...."

She looks back at you, slowly transforming back to her original form. "It seems my heart has room for somepony else after all....."

Chrysalis stopped, to recollect her thoughts.

Why did she even care? She put a lot of thought into it. Maybe it was the fact she was stuck here in the first place. But as she gave it more thought, she realized that it was because you genuinely cared in a way that didn't make you totally ignorant...despite still being ignorant.

She realized that in the end, you could speak to her as if she was someone true rather than the scary villain she loves to be. That'd you would show her one of those "Documentaries" and set up an entire theater just for her, despite knowing she's evil. That you somehow care, and can overlook her cruelty now that you've gotten to know her....despite still being an ass sometimes.

then she smirked at the absurdity of it all "Well well, how interesting..I care about a outworlder's well being. How rich. Well...that just means one thing..."

Chrysalis opens the floor door, and looks back upon you again "I'll just have to make an offer you won't refuse once I've taken over Equestria. I hope you don't deny me when the time comes Anon, you'd be such a waste..."

She flew down through the door, leaving you to your sexual machinations.

This went on for about half an hour. Sweet, beautiful, pillowy sex. Up until Discord showed up.

Discord appears above your bed out of nowhere. Eating popcorn and wearing shades. He looks down at you with a happy smile on his face. "There you are Anon! good. Because I'm about to spend four hours explaining why "Griffon on a hot tin roof" is the best play I've seen in eons, sure you won't get any sleep. But you'll appreciate the culture I bring upon you this night."

Discord flips around to float along his back, but as he makes himself comfortable, magically putting a water bottle within his grip to hydrate himself during his long talk. He notices you have said nothing verbally. He just hears grunts and groans.

"Really Anon?" Discord lifts his sunglasses to look at you with dismay "You could at least wait until I start as I force you to...listen...to....now what is going on here?"

You were still furiously humping your pillow.

"huh...." Discord leaned up, and stroked his beard as he analyzed what's going on "...well, I....suppose that's one way to fluff a pillow....Annoonnn...oh Annnooonnn."

You don't reply.

Discord reaches a talon to you and taps your back "Anooooonnnn...what are you dooooinngg?" He says in a sing song fashion.

You immediately freeze, you could feel your entire body on fire as you look back at him in a panic. You then turn and hold the pillow tight as you hold your right front hoof towards Discord.
"Don't worry my love! I'll protect you!"

You start blindly swinging your hoof at Discord as he just looks at you, perplexed."...hrnnn...as much as I'd enjoy two shows in one night. This particular one is...." Discord looks deep into your eyes, and sees a green emptiness within them. He immediately figures out what's going on. "....a little phoned in. Anon, do you know who I am?"

"Stay back evil cur! I will end you with my hoof of justice!" You panic as you thrash your hoof about.

"Right....just as I thought. And tell me, who is that you are protecting?"

"I will never tell you, you monster! She is my everything! My princess! and I will never let you touch her!"

"Well, far be it for me to separate an idiot from their pillow but..." Discord makes an airhorn appear in his talons and holds it towards you "..it's time to wake up......wait.." Discord looks at the small can, and then tosses it away as he chuckles "Well, that certainly won't be enough"

He snaps his talons, making a seven foot, huge airhorn appear at the end of the bed. Aiming directly at you.

Discord snickers as he glides over to it "...much MUCH better"

You just look at him with frightful,scared eyes as he screws off his own ears and eats them before pressing in the airhorn’s button. Releasing a deafening megablast of sound directly at you.

You flip right into the backrest of your bed. Slamming into it headfirst and falling back on your face.

oggghhh..the pain...the ringing in your ears.

What happened? You lift your head up in a daze, looking around, you could barely hear anything. Your balance was so off that you ended up falling off the side of your bed.
"w-what...o-oghh....w-what's going on? w-where am I?"

Discord holds his own nose and blows, popping a new set of ears out of his head.

He then looks over to you. as he pieced together some of what must have happened in his head. "Anon, how long have you been disappointing your pillow with your weak performance?"

You look over to him and yell, you could barely hear him. You didn't even realize it was him who blasted you. You just thought..something..happened. It was like waking from a dream.
"What! I can't hear you! What happened?!"

Shit..what did happen? You barely knew where you even were. Did Discord rescue you from something..or....no..he probably did all this.

Discord groaned. "No use having fun if you can't even hear me..."

Discord points at you with his talon finger and lifts you up using his magic, and plops you on your bed before making your ears pop again using his magic. startling you and giving your hearing back at the same time.

after giving your head a shake to try to regain your composure, you think you have things figured out, you cross your forelegs together and look at Discord, agitated. Especially since you can't remember anything since you....got advice from Chrysalis...oh... wait...never mind...she did this.

"Well, how are you feeling Anon? It seems like somepony got into your head " Discord could see the uncertainty in your eyes, he knew you were trying to piece together exactly what happened.

Chapter 178

"I...don't know..I...ergh" Your mind was mostly a blank

"I....don't remember anything after Chrysalis helped me. She....she...err..."

Discord shaped himself like an L, sitting in mid air as he gazes at you "Take your time Anon, though I could give you a knock on the head if you need some help remembering"

..yeah no, that probably meant him taking a hammer to your fucking skull..

"...I remember...that she helped me with my feelings for Diamond Tiara...it's weird actually. I remember being very happy with what she told me..."

"Now that is unbelievable"

"huh? oh...it's because she's a villain right?"

Discord shook his head "No, it's because you're too much of a wimp when it comes to girls. I'd have expected you to reject all of her advice. Whether it be good or not."

....ugh...but that's how you remembered it....then...blank. "Yeah well, apparently she's really good at relationships. I should have known though. She's manipulated ponies for who knows how long...but the problem is I don't remember anything between that and you showing up...maybe I'm just tired...I did have a rough day.."

Discord nodded, then slowly shifted his eyes towards your pillow "Well, I wouldn't know how your day has been, but as for what happened between then and now? I think your pillow will remember it very well ....poor thing..."

Wut?

You look over at your pillow, and then your eyes go wide...holy crap. It looked stained,milky, and beaten. "W-what did I do?! That's not......oh god...."

Discord snickered as he moved in for a closer look "It is....Anon, I swear to all things chaotic, if that thing bears me grandchildren i'm going to kick you out of the house. I already have to feed two million mouths, I can't possibly feed one more."

You scootch away from your pillow. oh lordie...what the hell have you been doing? And to what? for why? "...I couldn't have done that. I-I don't even remember humping my pillow.."

"Well you were, but that's fine. We can burn it later. So...are you ready for my review now?" Discord dons a tophat and monocle "I promise every word that comes out of my mouth will be of the highest of class, something to be appreciated and adored."

you were still bugging out that you actually jizzed all over your pillow. And the amount of jizz itself was startling, you didn't know...or even felt you could produce so much. "Wait! shouldn't we figure out what happened? Or do ponies just suddenly black out and fuck the first thing they see. I'm serious, I don't remember doing this!"

"Oh relax Anon, sheesh. You act like I'm going to punish you or something. I don't even care..." Discord pulls out a bundle of sheets of paper and puts them together like a transcript "Now...are you ready or not?"

"Discord...isn't it a little late to be telling me your review for four hours? Also....I'd kind of like an explanation for why...you know..."

Discord removed his monocle, and looked at you, annoyed "Anon...when a colt likes his pillow very much. Two things can happen...either you fall asleep on it, or...that. There used to be only one thing but you set a new standard in degeneracy" He claps slowly, still looking annoyed, and speaks in an unamused fashion "hurrah....yippee.....and congratulations..now..the review."

...goddammit! "Screw the review! This is serious! I don't remember doing this to my pillow. Now do you have an actual explanation or not? This could be really important!"
Discord sighed at you. But as he released his breath, a fun and sinister idea went into his head. And then he looked at you with a slick smile. "...are you sure you want the real answer?"

You nod, wanting to know over anything else "Yes, I do"

"Are you sure?"

"Yes already, come on Discord...please."

You look at him with desperate eyes, wanting to know. It scared you even. You never thought you'd do something overly sexual and then forget about it. What if the pillow was Diamond Tiara? Oh god....was your repressed mind blacking you out and turning you into a sex fiend?

"Alright...." Discord reaches over and taps your head, causing your mind to warp. Discord didn't worry too much about the resistance to chaos you did have. As long as he maintained the chaos surrounding the change in your mind. You’d be locked into being...Discord'd.

"..Oh my....this place looks very nice.." You get up, and look around, your mind was now changed by the power of chaos. Becoming the reverse of who you used to be.

You smile happily as you look at your pillow "Joy! a dirty pillow for me to clean! Though, I'll have to go to Ponyville to get the cleaning materials I need...and...oh..Mr.Discord...how are you? Isn't it a nice evening to clean a pillow?"

Discord groaned...He didn’t expect this much of a change in you. But he did have a reason to do this to you. He held up a cute blue dress that he poofed out of thin air. "Anon, how do you feel about this dress?"

You look at it, it looked really pretty. So pretty that you wanted to wear it. "I absolutely love it! Can I try it on?"

Discord nodded as he grinned, and passed you the dress as you slipped it on "Of course, only the best dresses for my son. How does it feel?"

"It makes me feel like the prettiest colt in Equestria"

Discord put his paw and talons together and put them near his head as he found the entire thing absurd and silly "Simply adorable, I've never seen such a cuter colt such as you. You are the cutest and most sissiest colt of them all. How could anypony not fall in love with you"

You hop about daintily and happily on your bed "Yay! I love being the cutest and most sissy! No other pony could compare to me! wooooo!"

Discord reaches over to you again and taps your head as you hop towards him "Well...that's enough that. One could only take so much before it becomes creepy..."

And then Discord waits a few moments as your mind reverts and returns to you. You groan as you grab your head, your memory once again fragmented and foggy. "U-ugh...w-what happened now…?"

"Oh...not much. I warped your mind for a little bit. It was...interesting. I didn't expect to peel your mind back that far, but I hope that answered your question on how you traumatized your pillow"

..what?..what did he mean that answered your question?...unless...You do remember slowly losing your mind to a blankness once again when he touched you. And that could only mean… "..Are you saying she hypnotized me?...That's impossible, I can easily resist that no problem...Heck, I think with my natural resistance to chaos I got, that you couldn't even warp my mind for too long.....how long was I out anyway?" You said with absolute certainty, despite being wrong.

"Enough...about a whole two minutes"

"See? Told you. You couldn't even maintain it for two freaking minutes, so there's no way I could be hypnotized by her, I resisted it before"

"Oh..you think so?" Discord put on a pair of scientific glasses and a lab coat as he pulled down a screen, then produced a pointing stick as a picture of himself and Chrysalis appeared on the screen. "Let me explain this scientifically...yes..I know..it sounds like something Twilight would do but I feel you need this lesson. First, there's chaos magic" He points to himself "Yes, you have a resistance...but not an immunity. I can keep you in any state I please as long as you are in my proximity. So don't get too cocky about that....anyway. We then have changeling magic" He points to Chrysalis "There's various stages of changeling magic, the highest tier being held by our very own Chryssie. This includes the ability to twist a pony's love using her powers of hypnotism. The moment you focus your actual love on her, you become hers to do with what she pleases. It's very difficult to escape once she has a firm grasp on you. Which brings me to my third point..."

He slaps the screen, turning it into a mirror. But you're looking at him, confused as to what the third thing is while also being a little doubtful on his other points. There's just no way you'd be so easily hypnotized...you'd think you'd know when your mind was getting away from you. "Which is?"

"Well..just take a look in the mirror, Anon, and the rest will be explained"

hmm...fine then. You shift your focus to the mirror, and saw yourself....happily waving at you...and wait..why was he in a dress..or you in a dress...or....eghh.. "What's going on here? Is that really me? Why am I waving to myself?"

"I'm waving because it's the polite thing to do. Howdy Anon! I'm Anon, it's very nice to meet you"

you cringe "The hell is this?..a joke? I..Don't get it..."

This didn't seem to have any sort of punchline...was Discord slipping?

"There's not much to get. I'm your positive side. I exist in the happiest parts of your mind. Isn't that great?"

"...errr...yeah..but why are you in a dress?"

Your mirror self giggles "Oh that's easy to answer silly, that's because I put it on when Discord brought me out. Doesn't it make us look adorable?"

wut?

You take the time to look down at yourself. You were indeed...in a dress
"What?! no way?! H-how?!" You jump back in absolute surprise. How?!

As you quickly take off the dress, Discord laughs as he poofs away the mirror,glasses, and lab coat. "Haha! Now that was worth it. I can see it in your eyes Anon, you now know you aren't as MINDFUL as you think you are, Nahahahahahaha!"

No...no, goddammit. You were sure with a strong mind and steel-like fortitude that you'd not only be able to resist but also completely notice if you were being mind raped.....guess not.

You manage to get the dress off as you look down at it, then at your pillow again. You didn't like the situation at all. "...Discord this isn't funny. How many times have you done this to me? Or her...I can't even remember when it actually happened. This could have been my fiftieth time for all I know...n-ngh"

"Oh relax Anon" Discord chuckles "This would be the first time both her and I have done this to you"

No..you needed his absolute word. You felt terrified that it was more than that. That had to be how Chrysalis did it. You remembered that you agreed with her, you must have been so agreeable that she was able to take your mind. Not once did you fight her on anything. And if you don't fight..then...well...you realized you must have left yourself vulnerable.
"No, I won't relax! Tell me the truth. How many times has this happened?"

Discord sighed "Such a killjoy...I promise you this is the first time, the same for our insect mare as well. There isn't much point for me to warp your mind anyway.There's only so many times "I don't remember doing this" can be so funny. Now, anything else you're worried about?"

.......Hopefully you could believe him. You thought you probably could. Discord, for all things considered, could be nice and truthful when it mattered. For you to be suspicious of him at every turn was overdoing it at this point.You'd just have to try to get over it, and be VERY wary of Chrysalis.

Although, even if you were to be wary. You couldn't outright distrust her either. With her help, you actually felt more confident that you could handle DT better. Hell, you were actually a little anxious to see her again. You felt that if you gave things a better shot...you might actually be completely happy with her company. As for her hypnotizing you. She either did it to feed, or as a joke. You'd have to let that slide and be of good humor. You still had a mission to do.

And as for anything else bothering you...there was one thing. "..Yeah..actually...you see, I kind of ran into Twilight today and......She kinda wants me to stay at her castle for an entire week.."

Discord acted in a way you didn't expect. He didn't complain, he didn't smirk, he didn't scheme. He went silent, his eyes...you could tell...had genuine concern.

"....why?" Discord said, with no bells and whistles attached.

"...well, it's actually a little bit of a story."

Discord magically pulled up a chair and sat down, tapping his paws and talons together patiently. "I have the time....go on"

...you wondered what he was thinking. Was he worried about something? About you?
"Well..it kinda started.."

You explain to him the details, from the start of your day with Fluttershy to right before visiting the Riches.

Discord sat there, pondering, scratching his claws along the arm of the chair. "....And Fluttershy would want this to happen too...am I hearing that right?"

You nod "Yeah...Discord, what's up? You don't usually act so serious."

"I don't like it. I don't care what our dear Celestia says, and I don't even care that Twilight is my friend...I don't like this idea"

Was he afraid she'd try to seal you again? At this point, even you felt that you knew there was no chance for that to happen. "Discord, I highly doubt she's going to send me to Tartarus. She was pretty subdued when I spoke to her. And....I kind of agree with Fluttershy, I think this needs to happen. Twilight is probably going to be in our lives for a while. Might as well get in good with her, right?"

Discord leans back, resting his head on his paw as he lifts and spins his talons at the wrist. "It's not that Anon, it's the fact you'll be stuck with her for a week. Besides it being a maddening experience, you yourself would find yourself in a bubble of friendship. One that, given Twilight and her friend's track record, could turn you into a complete goody two shoes. Or even worse, she'll snoop her nose where it doesn't belong and uncover the truth about everything. Then who knows what could happen..." Discord lifts his head up and looks right into your eyes, then sighs. putting his paw on your shoulder. "I could end up losing you"

Woah...He was really worried about this. “Discord, it'll be ok. Come on, we're partners remember? That means we're in this together, right? I'm not going to change just because I'm stuck with her. But I really would like to get along with her better, We'll all be better for it, I promise. It should even make her less of a snoop if that's what you're worried about"

".....You underestimate her."

"..No..I know. I remember when she followed Pinkie due to her Pinkie Sense. Snooping on her to the point of heavy injury. I know how she can be, that's why you shouldn't be too worried. I got a leg up on her."

Discord looks over to your dresser, he pulled over the family photo and looked over it as he answered "I suppose...I still don't know..Even if Fluttershy likes the idea, I simply don't see the point. I'm only looking out for our best interest you know."

You nod "I know...hmmmm"

As you think, you do remember something he really wanted to do...maybe that'd cheer him up?
"Well...how about this then. Why don't we go wake up Twilight right now and drop me off? While also bringing up the fact we solved a friendship problem. I bet you her mind will have a meltdown considering how tired she must be, Sound like fun?"

Discord slowly lowers the picture frame as he eyes you, a small grin growing on his face "Anon....that's a beautiful idea, but..." The hope in his eyes slowly dims. "You'd still be stuck with her for a week after…”

Wow...he didn't want to be apart from you. That had to be it. He didn't even want the chance that you yourself could be "reformed" or found out. You don't know what it was, but you felt a determination build up within you.

You give Discord a snarky grin "Hey, don't worry about it. I have my cutie mark in chaos, that means I'm not changing anytime soon. It's destiny. Besides, I know you reaaaaallllyyy wanna get at Twilight with this. Come on, what's a better time than now? We even have an excuse to just barge in on her sleeping. Not a good one, but a great chaotic one. Come on Discord, whaddya say?"

Discord thinks deeply. He looked into your eyes and saw for himself that determination you felt. He thought back to when he realized Chrysalis hypnotized you. He thought that perhaps you did remember things. But you remembered things differently than how they actually happened. The determination and willingness you had seemed a little out of place...and he liked it. He wouldn't actually thank Chrysalis for it though. Discord always admired your moments of confidence, no matter what caused it. "I say..." Discord snaps his talons, immediately transferring you and himself to the front of the castle "Let's make sure a certain princess doesn't get her beauty sleep"

Woah...that was disorienting. You had to shake your head a little to straighten your sight. It was also fairly dark. The entirety of the town and beyond being lit up by the millions stars in the sky. It was quite beautiful. "Woah..geez, you could have warned me first."

"Oh come on Anon..." Discord hovers over to the door "You should be ready for everything by now. Speaking of being ready. How should we approach this?"

"How about we just trade off between the story? Twilight might not believe it if you tell it all yourself."

"Ahhh...very good. I like that..Ahh, my dear sweet little Princess" Discord taps the door very gently with his paw "It's time for a very rude awakening....” Discord's grin grew evil as he put slight pressure on the door "Anon, you may want to stand back"

....uh oh...

You step back as you can see a ripple go through the door, like distorted reality. After a few moments, the entire castle rings out like a bomb. Followed by the screams of both Twilight and Spike. Geez, you could feel the force from here.

"And now we wait..." Discord chuckles

Oh man...she was gonna be pissed as fuck. You actually wanted to see this go down. This was probably the last time you could get any sort of backsies on her. So you had to make it count. And Discord started things off quite well.

"You think her mind might blow from this?"

Discord snickers "I think her entire head will blow up from this. Twilight absolutely hates conundrums, she'd never be able to theorize why I'd ever stick my neck out for a random pony. It's absolutely perfect."

Oh man, this was gonna be pretty sweet.

Finally, the front doors of the castle open up. Revealing a frazzle maned Twilight, her eyes red. She looked pretty pissy.

She looked up at Discord, not even noticing you and huffed. "Discord......this better be good" she groaned

"Oh my, did I wake you? Terribly sorry Princess Twilight. But I'm here to drop off Anon to your care." He points to you, and you look over to Twilight and wave with a big grin on your face.

Twilight's gaze never leaves Discord "...And you waited until this time of night....why?"

"Oh? ohh..no no, I didn't wait. I came here as soon as I found out. I thought you might appreciate a quick and steadfast response."

Twilight raised an eyebrow at him "Steadfast?"

"Yeah, he erm...agreed pretty quick to this. Like, immediately after I told him" You added
Twilight could feel her suspicious nature begin to flare up already. And at this point. She didn't care..she was too tired to think properly. "He did?....." Twilight then looks upon you "And why are you up so late anyway? Shouldn't you be asleep?"

You shrug...yikes "I was worried about Dad, he hadn't come home yet...." You make a frowny face at her. a cute little frowny face.

Twilight makes a noticeable tinge of regret on her face. And immediately backs off. "O-oh..I....I didn't realize you....never mind. Hmmm...sorry..I...just....well..." She thought of her words as carefully as she could. She could berate Discord for the way he woke her up but....no..she couldn't. Not at this moment. "I'll....take him in. I already had a bed set up for him...Just in case" She yawns, she looked dead tired.

"Oh thank you Twilight.." Discord gently encircles himself around her and rubs his paw under her chin before rubbing up her cheek with a single digit. "From my understanding, this is for the good of the relationship between you and Anon. That's sooooo good. In fact, I'd like to tell you something that might do your sweet little heart some good."

Twilight leaned her head away from his talon before teleporting a few feet away to get away from his inappropriate touching. She started to wobble after teleporting.She was super tired. ".......Discord...Can't it wait til tomorrow?.....please?"

"Ahh but Twilight, this is a very special "Something"...for you see" Discord's grin became toothy and twisted. "I, with the help of my son, have solved a friendship problem"

Twilight stops, and has all her focus on Discord. All of it. "...What do you mean? "You solved a friendship problem" ?" She feared the worst.

"Just as Dad said. We saved an entire family from being destroyed . We did it with the magic of friendship."

"What?..." Twilight looks at you, then back at Discord "Is..this a joke? It's a joke right?" Twilight looked around "There's a water bucket somewhere right?"

"Oh Twilight, if you're think we're lying. Then you'd be wrong, even moreso to disbelieve my son." Discord glides over to you and gives you a gentle headscratch on the head, then a few pats. "I don't think he's ever lied to you, only withheld some information that he swore to withhold."

"He....hasn't...B-but. Which pony? Do I know them? What exactly happened?"

You and Discord go into detail of EXACTLY what happened. Describing Spoiled Rich and her mannerisms. Twilight seemed to have known her reputation, and she looked more astonished and puzzled with every word. The only thing changed in the story was that it was now all of Discord's idea due to the fact that he wanted to help you and Diamond as it was his civil duty to try to make Equestria a better place for all.

"And so, with that. I saved the Rich family, Anon, and the friendship and love between them all. and...oh my.." Discord slapped the side of his face with paw as he looked blankly with surprise "That is quite a feat! ohhhh, I...I can't think of a moment where even you..Twilight...has managed to save an entire family's friendship,through natural means of course. My my..oh my...no....Not on this scale...I don't know what to think..." Discord looks over to her with a grin "What do you think?"

But oddly enough. Twilight didn't have a meltdown. She didn't explode. She didn't go trying to figure things out. You move in for support.

"Isn't that wild ,Twilight?...right?"

Twilight shakes her head, and smiles "Not at all, I almost thought this was impossible....But I had a lot of time to think things through thanks to Princess Celestia's advice. And I actually understand exactly why you did this Discord."

Discord looked confused, and disarmed. "W-what? What do you mean you understand?"

yeah what the fuck? There's no fucking way...

Twilight smiled a happy, near ignorant smile. "Yeah. I didn't realize it at first, but I see now that my seven hour seminar actually did sink in. You adopt a colt to give him a new and happy life and now you went off on your own to show that you could in fact change and do good...Discord..." Twilight nearly tears up, and gives Discord the biggest smile she could. She saw hope and good in Discord. "I'm proud of you...I knew you could do it"

The moment she said that,Discord shriveled up like a prune, stiffened, and fell over "I....can't...breath...."

Oh shit!

You rush up to him, and worry. He got the complete opposite reaction out of Twilight. "D-dad, you alright?"

Twilight also steps up to him, utterly confused. "Discord? I hope I didn't make you nervous or anything, I know you like your reputation but I really do think you did a good job by taking my advice to heart."

With those words. Discord shriveled up so hard he lost color, turned to dust, and blew away in the cool breeze.

...oh good lord, Twilight was taking the fucking credit for what you and Discord did. You completely fucking forgot that before you were adopted that he had to sit through a seminar of some sort. His old explanation was out of mind at this point. Well, what a disgusting reminder. Nobody could have seen this coming.

Twilight looked to you with worry. "A-anon, I didn't hurt his pride did I? ohhhh Discord.." Twilight sighed "I know you enjoy your chaos, but you really did do a good job. I'm glad I was able to help you truly accept the magic of Friendship..."

...ogh...you wanted to puke.....now your hope for the week dropped.

...poor Discord. You now felt really sorry for him, wherever he blew off to.

Twilight then turned to you as she rubbed one of her tired eyes, yawning again. "Anon..are you alright? You know he'll be ok right?"

You force a nod, you knew he'd be ok. If anything, Fluttershy would be there for him. But fucking still...he looked so forward to sending Twilight up the wall with that one. You didn't think that seminar would ever be relevant....it was clear he never did.

You sigh. "Yeah...he just isn't used to that kind of praise.."

You mumble to yourself...dammit Twilight.

"I know, but you'll see. He'll get better at it for sure. I never thought I'd see it so soon though. I'm just glad he's finally learning and understanding the harmony of friendship and love. Good for him." Twilight lets out yet another tired yawn. "Come on.." Twilight gives you a gentle headrub "Let's go inside and get you ready for bed, huh?"

....Dammit, she didn't even take the fact that he turned to dust too seriously. Well, maybe she didn't because Discord doing anything was something she was getting more and more used to. And with the belief that he's bettering himself. She clearly thought that he somehow wanted to retain his rep despite his increase in good deeds. Twilight thought eventually he'd get over it. You actually felt a tiny bit of anger for this whole thing being botched. Twilight noticed, and interpreted it as worry.

"Anon?...oh...you don't need to worry. He's probably just cooling off somewhere" Twilight had a giggle "It's actually kind of cute he reacted like that. But, he's just going to have to get used to it. Anyway...he'll be alright"

Right....
"Yeah...I know..ok..."

You resign yourself from the ruse. There was no point now. You nod to Twilight, and follow her back into the castle. Discord has been surprised by ponies before and he's done ok. He'll do it again....still..poor..poor Discord.

Chapter 180 - Twilight Week Arc

You decide to sit back on your seat and eat the rest of your waffles. There was still some from the extra stack. so you took a few of those and started munching.

"So...Anon, It's just you,Spike, and me now. And I was thinking,well, how would you like to do something that'd you would like to do?" Twilight was immediately trying to charge into a bonding moment.

Something you'd like to do? hrn...Welp, time to immediately milk this for all it’s worth.

You poke at a waffle, then take a bite, then look at Twilight right in the eyes.....this could be fun.
"Belching contest."

"What?!" Twilight reacted exactly as you thought she would "Isn't that a little..."

"Hey, I'm game. Let me go get some sodas!" Spike ran off, then gets magically held as Twilight stops him.

"Spike, wait. Isn't this setting a bad example? I don't want to do that."

Spike turned his head to Twilight, he looked eager to play. "What are you talking about Twilight? He's the one who suggested it, it's too late for that. Besides, I got a win streak to keep."

"What?! You do this too?!" Twilight had no idea

Spike shrugged "Yeah, it's called fun...you know...fun? Now come on already, let's do it! I promise you'll have fun"

You nod in agreement "He's right you know. Besides, you did ask the question"

You give her a little surly smile...you don't know what it was. But you felt like you had to avenge Discord in some way before giving this the good old college try. And as things are right now, you had no closeness or reason to be meek around her. "You're not going to back out on me now are you?"

Twilight looked to you, then Spike, then back to you, Then back to Spike. Then hung her head as she let Spike go. "Ok, let's do it......"

"Alright, Be back in a jiffy! nehehehe, This was a bad game to say, Anon. You're gonna lose sooooo hard!" Spike announced as he ran to grab some drinks.

You just snickered. You were always good at burping, and even if you lose. it'd be no big deal. It was gonna be pretty funny to see Twilight try.

Spike comes back with three tall cups. puts one in front of you, Twilight, then sits on his seat and holds his cup as he shifts his eyes to you and Twilight. "Alright, you know the rules. Right?"

"Drink the whole cup and burp? Yeah. It's all universal right?"

Spike nodded "Yup, we all drink, then take turns burping. Who wants to go first?"

"Why don't you go first, I want to see what I'm dealing with" You say, wanting to see if he really was all that.

"Spike snickered "oook, not my fault if you give up. You ready Twilight?"

Twilight sighed, and magically held her cup up. "Yeah, but...I'm just telling you both. I don't like this"

"Come on Twilight, just give it a try. I mean, you'll still lose. But at least you can say you tried. Ok?" Spike failed at comforting her.

Twilight grumbled at him, and held her cup close "Fine...let's do it. I'll go after Anon.."

Spike grinned, then held his cup up to make an announcement "Ok everypony, it's time for yet another burping contest. The amazing Spike will go first, and make his ninety nine win streak into one hundred...bottom's up!" Spike guzzles down his soda, slams his cup down, and wipes his mouth...staying silent, focusing hard on his next....movement.

And then Spike releases a burp, a mighty burp, a burp so powerful that he shoots out a good sized green flame from his mouth that continues to burn in mid air until finally it goes out. Spike wipes his mouth again, snickers, and rubs his claws on his chest as he looks at you with a smug look "Your turn Anon"

Damn....that was.good...too good. You had burping skills, but....not that awesome...but maybe..MAYBE with your pony body. You could outclass him. You had no logical reasoning as to why, but you could..right?"

You swig down your soda, take a deep breath and swallow...then go for it.

You release a great burp. But you couldn't get it nearly as loud or as long as Spike. It just....wasn't enough. But that was fine. You didn't care too much for winning. You only cared that Twilight participates and loses.

"Well, we already know who's going to win this one" Spike smirks.

"Yeah yeah, I'm just out of practice" He didn’t need to be so smug though

"Well, I forfeit then. No point in me doing it since Spike has already won" Twilight insists on quitting.

"Oh come on Twiligh! I already burped. I liked doing it, I don't think you'd be setting a bad example." JUST DO IT PURPLE HORSE!

"You know you both shouldn't be doing burping contests right? It makes for a bad habit" She does her best to try to concede.

"Who are you, Rarity? Come on Twilight, all you gotta do is burp and be done with it. This is guy stuff. Guys do this all the time" JUST DOOOOO IT!

"He's right, it's too late about the whole habit thing.. Come on already. You could at least give it your best try, it's ok, better to lose with dignity than to be a big chicken." Spike was being ultra smug. It seemed he wanted his one hundredth win to be a real victory, with no one giving up.

Twilight could feel a rage building up on herself. A coward? at a simple burping game? "Fine! Since you care about your stupid win record more than your well being then I'll give it my best shot. But we're going to have a serious talk about this afterwards Spike"

"Yeah yeah, come on Twilight. Don't take it so personal. It's a contest. I just didn't want to see you quit, just smile and have fun huh? It's not like we go and burp all the time...." Spike looks at you "You don't do that, right Anon?"

You shake your head "Nah, no. I don't really do it too much. But Spike, how do you have ninety nine wins if you don't do it too much?"

Spike eyes widened, then he began to sweat as he smiled sheepishly "o-oh...erm..i-i'm just...talented...at this...eheh.."

"Sure..." Twilight rolls her eyes before drinking her soda, and slams her cup down onto the table "talented....." Twilight's anger turned into raw determination. She leaned back, then released forward.

Her mouth opened wide, and out came the most heinous burp you ever heard...and it just wouldn't stop. You could swear you felt the castle vibrating along with its constant wail.

And..it...just...won't...stop

Twilight was still blasting her burp to the point that the empty cups on the table fell over.

And this went on for a whole minute and a half. Long enough for Twilight to fall forward onto the table and pant. "...There....how was that?..."

It seems she didn't even honestly know....that she won.

You blink, your eyes wide. No way...no fucking way...

Spike teared up, then slammed his face on the table and started slamming his fist on it multiple times as he cried "MY PERFECT RECORD! MY HUNDRED STRAIGHT WINS! HOW?! HOOOWWWWWW......." Spike raised his fists in the air and screamed "NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!"

Twilight, hearing Spike's yelling, becomes alert and raises her head. She herself was surprised at what she had done. "Wait...I won?"

You were silent.....how? fucking how?! What bullshit was this?!

Spike put his head back down and began to sob. "...I lost....to Twilight.....h-how?"

Twilight smiled, a smile that slowly became arrogant, as if everything she said was now moot to herself . "W-well. You see what I mean Spike? Not only is it a bad habit, but the way you made it into a contest? Well...you should know the old phrase "You can't win them all". I hope you both learned a valuable lesson."

"........" Spike did nothing but sob

You were speechless, how...fucking how?...just… "I demand another challenge!" You had to beat her at something. But it had to be something she either hated...or maybe..

"Another challenge? Anon, wouldn't you like to do something else? We could read a book together, or study up on the ecosystem of the Everfree Forest"

Studying huh? Maybe… "I challenge you to a study off! How about that?"

"A....study off?" Twilight put her hoof to her muzzle and thought to herself....that didn't sound bad. It could even be...EDUCATIONAL! "Anon, that's actually a great idea. Could I make the rules?"

You could see Twilight's face light up with this challenge, like a cute little school girl who just got asked out on a date. Ergh…...dammit. She actually wants this...
"Uh..yeah sure."

Twilight nodded "Ok! I propose that we study up on something we both know very little about. And despite there probably being a million things we actually don't know about. It has to be something we both can actually study on without it being too dangerous or obscure. So, the subject we should study should be...." Twilight gently puts her hoof on the cutie map table "This map" The moment she does, it lights up. making the entirety of mini-Equestria more vibrant than usual.

wut?

"Twilight...this is YOUR map. Besides, we already know what it does. it points out friendship problems that need to be solved."

Twilight nods "Right!...but we don't know the WHY or HOW. I haven't even scratched the surface on how the map actually works. I wouldn't mind having a study partner to try to figure it out. If we fully understand it, we might be able to help even more ponies! Doesn't that sound great?

"Partner? I thought it was a challenge?"

"It is a challenge, and the winner would be everypony! I know you're smarter than most colts, and you do seem to have a knack of thinking outside the box. So we might find something. And if not, at least we can say we had fun trying. Right?" Twilight gave you a big grin.

oh good lord, you didn't even think she expected results. She just twisted this into a partnership for friendship reasons. "...but...aren't we supposed to be against each other?"

Twilight nodded "We would work separately as well, compare and share notes, see what we can find as individuals as well as a team. But, the winners would be just the same. Everypony. Come on Anon" Twilight gives you a big happy grin "You said I could make the rules, and you can't back out either. I didn't back out of the burping contest afterall. Trust me Anon, you'll have a lot of fun. Promise!"

Ogggggggggggh

You sigh, you weren't getting out of this. Not unless you wanted to seem like an asshole.

you look over to Spike, who had decided to walk off. probably to contemplate on what he should do with himself at this point. Then look back at Twilight. And reluctantly accept.
"...ok"

"Great!" Twilight's horn lights up as she makes pencils and notepads fly through a door behind her and land both in front of you and in front of her. "let's get started!"

Twilight didn't expect to find anything too revealing. But she saw this as a great moment to do some bonding with you.

You look at the cutie map. What the fuck were you supposed to learn from it? It barely even showed up in the show. unless every episode centered around it after the hiatus.

Twilight sat next to you on Fluttershy's chair and looked intently at the map, using her magic to tap the pencil under her chin. "Hmmmmmm....So Anon" She looks at you with a gentle smile "How do you think we should tackle this?"

....goddamn it. that cute dork grin, that pencil under her muzzle....h-hhh--hhnn...DON'T DONNNN'T.

.....dammit, you could feel yourself softening up already. She tried to seal you.....but now?.....egghhhhhhhh. Can’t fully resist her in adorkable mode.
"Erm...well.."

You felt unsure, about more than just the map, you look over to it, and eye it for a moment.
"It's a map of Equestria, right?"

Twilight nods "Mhmmm"

"And it points to friendship problems, and even tells you which one of you should go check out, right?"

Twilight nods "Yes! You really do know the basics...which is funny...because" Twilight chuckles a little "That's all I know about it too"

"Well...the thing is. There's always a friendship problem that's going on somewhere. But then, even when that's true. Only the problems you and our friends would need to solve would be pointed out. So the question is, how does it detect friendship problems? How does it even know what a friendship problem is?"

Twilight smiles and then looks at the map "That's a very good question Anon. One I wish I knew the answer to. If I knew, I could perhaps use my magic to make it's power more potent. So we could help ponies that maybe...just maybe..the map might miss. I don't want to try to take the map apart though...I don't even know if I can. All I know is that the magic of the map is very powerful."

"Hrnnn...Well,.." You pass your hoof through a hologram of a mountain.

"Maybe the map is connected to every living thing? Don't take my word for it, but I've sort of...seen that kind of thing before. Sorta" Yeah, in old cartoons about fairies and magic.

"That's a good theory Anon, and that very well could be true. Actually..." Twilight starts to write something down, then smiles like a lightbulb just went off in her head "I'm going to take note of it, because now I have a theory to add on to yours"

Woah what? she actually liked the theory?
"Really? You think that's a sound theory?"

Twilight nods "Mhmm! In fact..Now that I think about it. Look at the map closely"

You look at the map...but...nothing comes to mind.
"It's er...what am I looking for exactly?"

Twilight giggles "Anon, the entire map is what I mean. Think about your theory. Now expand upon it."

........er "uhm......uhhhmmm.. I....got nothing"

Twilight gives you a motherly smile, then extends her hoof out over the map. "It's not just every living thing Anon, it's possible this map is actually showing Equestria as it is at every moment. It'd be hard to notice since nothing changes that quickly and Equestria is huge. But look, there's the farm Pinkie grew up on. Griffonstone, Canterlot....but then look at Cloudsdale. It's moving really really slowly right now. And it wasn't even there yesterday. I never noticed that before until you mentioned it. Anon, this might not be theory. This might be fact! We have to write this down, now! quick quick!" Twilight immediately and furiously started jotting down notes, she was getting excited over the whole thing "I can't believe I overlooked something so simple! Oh gosh! Just a few minutes in and we've already made monumental progress! Isn't this exciting, Anon!?"

Huh...not exciting..but...you actually felt pretty good that you lead Twilight to a seemingly simple discovery. You decide that maybe it'd actually would be worth writing down.

"That makes me wonder. If we're right, and..I really think we are. That means the map possibly knows about the friendship problems it detects because it's connected to the world. And if that's it. Then I wonder how it decides which of the six of us should actually go and try to solve it." Twilight wonders

That.....would be more difficult to think of something for.
"Maybe it's got a mind of its own? You know, a little brain in there?"

Twilight shook her head "No, I don't think that's it. I was thinking maybe it was tied to our cutie marks. But maybe it's something more. Or just.....hmnnn. Now this is a toughy. I have no idea how it would know when and which of us would be needed. And it's definitely not random."

You look more closely at the map as you start to get more and more into it. You felt proud that you figured something out before Twilight...even if she did expand upon it.
"Well, if it is connected to everything. Then maybe that's the simplicity of it. It is connected therefore it feels. You know, since Cloudsdale can be seen moving on the map, it doesn't sound too crazy to think that maybe it's connected to everypony and therefore would know who is having a problem based on their feelings. And since it would also be connected to you and the others. It would know exactly who to call upon to try to fix the friendship problem"

"Very interesting theory Anon" Twilight, you noticed, was jotting everything you said down "Is this also based off your past experiences?"

Err, well yeah actually. It was almost care bears esque in nature...actually..ironically...care bears was also a hasbro product. ...ok ok..maybe that's TOO deep.

You nod "Yeah kinda. You think it holds water?"

Twilight nods as she finished jotting down notes "It really does. I have to ask though, what kind of experiences have you had to come to these conclusions?"

"Errr....you know. Living with Dad...you see a lot of things in a short amount of time. Plus, I used to read er...some things back in the orphanage"

"Oh right...right." Twilight felt a little stupid "I should have figured that living with your father would expose you to things out of the norm. Still, it seems really oddly specific to our situation. I'm...." Twilight realized something, and cringed "I'm being suspicious again....I'm sorry..." Twilight looked down in shame.....

...ergh..why is it now that it hurt your heart?...fuck...she was actually trying this time....dammit.
"I-it's ok...I mean. It does sound a little weird I admit. But hey, I guess that explains my cutie mark too. Right?"

"...You really forgive me? I know I've...well....not been really good with you. I tried to seal you, I thought Starlight may have been planning something, I even thought you and Discord we're actively lying and manipulating things together...I don't know what things...but things..But I can see, I was wrong. And I am sorry"

You nod...and even hop off your seat to give her a hug..A hug?!.....oh god...any will you had to try to get under her skin was very quickly leaving you.
"It's ok, really. Let's just forget about it and erm...continue the challenge"

"Anon..." She was reluctant at first to show you affection, thinking you'd move away despite you hugging first. But then she wraps her hooves around you, and hugs you gently. In her mind, at this moment, she thought of you with less of Discord, and more of Fluttershy. And it warmed her heart. She figured, and even thought that despite you having some traits that would seem mean and bad. You also had a softness to you. Or maybe she was just really relieved to be forgiven. "...y-you're right. Let's see how far we can figure this out....together"

Chapter 181 - Twilight Week Arc

And so you and Twilight worked on unlocking the secrets of the Cutie Map. She made theories that it was able to determine friendship problems through a magical enchantment OF friendship placed upon it. She didn't exactly have any proof. But she reasoned that since it's most likely connected to the world. It could sense the emotions and feelings of other ponies. That it could figure things out through those feelings to pick the right pony for the job. With that, it could be possible that the map isn't just connected to ponies in general. But connected to their very being, and everything that comes with it.

That seemed a little too spiritual to you. But she meant it as some sort of sentient magic. Could it be like that? You're in a world of magical ponies after all. But....hrnnnn.
"Isn't that a little much Twilight, it almost seems like you're saying the map is alive"

Twilight shook her head "Not alive, just able to work out what a friendship problem is. Your theory holds a lot of water, Anon, and this map came out of nowhere, along with this castle, shortly after we defeated Tirek. It was born of the Rainbow Power we used to defeat him. And the box itself was locked tight and could only be opened with keys that revealed themselves when we learned a valuable lesson in friendship. It's not far fetched to think that since the keys themselves revealed themselves upon solving a friendship problem, that the map could have a power related to it."

Ohhhh shit...you forgot about that fucking box from Season 4...that's right......the keys...
"Woah, I didn't even think of that. I mean er, I knew about the keys and all. But I didn't even think they could be related."

"They COULD be, but it's all conjecture. For all we know, we both are really really wrong. So...if we look over our notes." Twilight holds her notes up, and also begins writing. "Together we have a theory that the map is powered through a sort of friendship magic, a magic that you say connects the map to everything and everypony. Which, it's possible that all of this is the same magic that forged the keys that unlocked the Rainbow Power. But..."

You look to Twilight, she looked a little frustrated all of a sudden
"Twilight? What's up?"

Twilight gently put her notebook down and sighed "We have no way in testing the theory, It's too risky to tamper with the map's magic. It's a good theory...a great one actually. But we have no way to test it. In fact, we may never have the chance..."

hmmm

You started to think deep. Wasn't there a way to check? You could perhaps wait for a friendship problem to occur for further testing.

.....no, even if a friendship problem occurred. What would you do? what spell could be cast? And she didn't want to tamper with it, so..it was all a no go.

"I...can't figure anything out either. Not without taking it apart in some way or finding some sort of lore on it. But since this map came with the castle, I can't imagine there being any lore on it at all. Are you sure there's nothing we could do? Maybe something we could mess with?"

Twilight shook her head "I'm afraid not...and.." Twilight then smiled at you, a cheerful smile, one of the more cheerier smiles she'd give if she figured something out or was being merry with her friends. "..I'm perfectly fine with that"

huh? "What do you mean? You said we have a fine theory. Shouldn't we at least figure out something? maybe? What is there to be happy about?"

Twilight shook her head "Anon, if we could. I'd love nothing more but to figure it out. But I knew that in the end, we'd never be able to actually test our theory."

"What? But you were just frustrated. If you knew? Then why get flustered?"

"Because, I still wanted to try and succeed. It was a good theory after all. But that's how things are sometimes. I've learned that sometimes things just....are. Pinkie taught me that."

"Then...what are you smiling about then?" Even if things “Are”. There’s still no reason to smile

"Because, in the end. You and me worked together to come up with the best and most possible answer for how the map works. We did it together. And I can tell you this. I had a lot of fun doing it. I was even surprised that you were able to come up with that kind of theory so quickly. This is a moment I'll always remember, because of how great it was. And because of how well we worked together. It doesn't matter if we found the solution or not. It doesn't at all"

....that's it? That's...

she looked so happy to have gotten along with you. hell, it took you a moment to realize you were bonding with her. having a discussion with her as if everything in the past never happened. And, you had to admit to yourself. It was exciting getting that close to solving a big mystery. Maybe it was part of the season ender too?....who knows, you probably vastly changed Equestria's future at this point.

You couldn't hold any ill will towards Twilight now. mostly because you didn't notice any ill will at all when you were teaming up with her. Was that the point of the challenge rules? Well goddamn, it worked. Because it made you smile too.
"Yeah..I gotta admit. I had fun too. I actually liked trying to figure this out. Huh..."

"I'm really glad to hear that Anon. I'm...well...actually..." Twilight calmed down, she didn't want to get ahead of herself either. "I know it shouldn't need to be asked. But...we had fun together, right?" Even as she said it, she seemed down all of a sudden.

You’ve never seen Twilight so unsure. Then again, you remember how she looked after she tried to seal you. You couldn't imagine how many times she played that scene in her head. Her nearly sealing a colt. Even in this world where she was pretty much forgiven for something so heinous, it still must have haunted her mind. Enough that even when following Celestia's advice to spend time with you, still must have troubled her. And given what you just did with her...

You nod "Yeah, we had fun together. You ok, Twilight?"

Twilight tenseness left her as she broke out in a small sweat. “So far so good”, those are the words that now rung in her head. "O-oh, I'm fine. Just fine. So then..." Twilight swiftly switches the topic "What else would you like to study? I know the whole map thing was a challenge. But now that we had fun with that, maybe we could sink our teeth into something we could ACTUALLY solve. Or maybe, I could give you a lecture on something you'd like to know. I don't know if you know, but I love giving lectures!" Twilight was getting back into a cheery mood, getting excited and even anticipating getting closer to you with every activity. If you admitted to having fun with her, then surely she's doing alright.

A lecture? That sounded boring...but. Maybe it could be useful. Twilight was a compendium of knowledge. You could learn something about Equestria that you didn't know through her. At least it'd help you not lose in a silly trivia board game. Hell, let's give it a shot.
"A lecture...actually sounds pretty good. There is a few things i'm a little rusty at, or just kinda don't know about. Do you think you could teach me a little about how unicorns cast different spells?"

"Oh that's easy, are you sure you want to know about that because...well" Twilight tries not be rude "You could read about that in any basic textbook on magic casting. Maybe you'd be in for something a little more advanced?"

Now you felt a little embarrassed for asking. Sheesh, how stupid could you be? Of course that'd be basic. Foals like Sweetie Belle probably already know how it works. But then again, you weren't a unicorn. You were a basic Earth Pony. ergh...at least she didn't make you feel dumb for asking the question despite being it being trivial.
"I'd just like the basics. I know I'm an earth pony, but I actually was never taught how any of the magic works and I've always been interested in unicorn magic. Please? I think I could understand it better if you explained it to me."

Twilight now felt obligated to teach you, she didn't expect you to say please. That orphanage, it didn't seem like a very good one if it wasn't teaching the basics of every pony to each pony. She wondered if you even knew how earth pony magic worked. "Alright, I'd be happy to teach you. and since you already have a pencil and notepad. You could write notes so you won't forget anything. Just tell me when you're ready, and we can start the lecture"

Twilight didn't need any special tools for this. Her horn was enough and the explanation was basic. She'd be done in no time and you'd be a smarter pony for it.

You put the pencil in your mouth and nodded to her, ready to write down anything important she had to say. Finally, you'd at least know how unicorn magic works so you could just throw it off the list of "usual deus ex machina". Unicorns did seem pretty overpowered, only nearly trumped by Pinkie's ability to break the 4th wall.

Twilight cleared her throat, and readied herself "Alright Anon, now listen closely. Because I'm going to explain everything that you need to know. Even things you may already know. Now, let's start with the unicorn horn. Every unicorn has one and that's what we use as a conduit to perform various magic spells. From simple telekinesis to the much more advanced magical art of teleportation"

You actually write this down, then gently spit the pencil out to ask a question. "But how does casting spells work? Like, how do you cast one spell that's different from another?"

"Oh, that's very simple. Let's see..." Twilight's horn begins to glow "Since the horn is a conduit of magic. It is, of course, not only the source of output, but also the source of input. A unicorn actually has many MANY magical components within their being. How one combines these components and one's skill and stamina to cast it determines the kind of spells one can use and how effective that spell happens to be. Think of it as a inner alchemy lab. And of course, some spells are easier than others. For example..." Your pencil rises from the table, covered in a purple glow and spins before being put back down. "Telekinesis requires very little management of one's magical components. And very little skill to use. So basically any unicorn can use it. But then there's something like...." Twilight suddenly poofs away "....teleportation, which requires a very particular and vast mix of internal magical components and a very high skill to be able to manage it effectively. There's actually not many unicorns who are able to do it. I myself took a long time to learn it myself, it's not just something I picked up after becoming an Alicorn. And yet, there are spells even beyond that even I don't know or have trouble mastering. Though, one should take caution." Twilight makes illusions appear as she disappears. These illusions consisting of things like that of the Alicorn Amulet or that cursed book Rarity used that turned her a little...nutty. There was also an illusion of Flutterbat. "There are spells and augmentations one should never use. Or at least not take for granted. Spells that change one's behavior should only be used in the most DIRE of situations, and even then...should never have to be used at all. Some items will augment a unicorn's power...but at a terrible price. There's even some spells that must be documented as words and incantations. These spells tend to hold a mighty power, but if taken lightly. Disaster can happen, Disaster that could end up being irreversible"

huh? where did she....

You look up, she was hanging off the backend of your chair, hovering to keep the chair from falling backward. She gave you a closed eye smile. "Did you get all that Anon? Do I need to slow down?"

no..you got it. just...huh...that explanation actually makes sense..this was actually really cool and informative. "No I got it, do you mind if I ask another question?"

Twilight hopped backwards and walked back around to the front at the other end of the table. "Of course you can, the more questions the better!"

"Alright, so you mix magical components in your horn. That's what causes the glow right?"

Twilight nods "Mhmm, just the act of manipulating them causes luminescence. So I guess you could say generating light is probably the easiest spell to cast in Equestria"

Huh… "So, what would be the point of potions then? To a unicorn I mean. Or...in your case, an Alicorn"

You knew this wasn't THAT good a question to ask. She did need a potion to see into the past after all. But whatever knowledge you could pick up, obvious or not, seemed like the right thing to do. Hell, all of this was just really interesting. You could imagine many a horsefucker wishing to be in your horseshoes right

"Good question, it would seem potions would be useless to us. But think back when I said it's dependent on a unicorn's skill and stamina to cast spells. Well, that's the great thing about potions. A potion's potency depends on the ingredients used to make it. Even an unskilled pony can make a powerful potion if they follow a recipe or have a talent for it. For example. Let's take an aging spell that makes you younger versus a de-aging potion. The spell's potency depends on the skill of the unicorn. And usually...it's not very good. any Unicorn that CAN manage it can only sustain it for a few seconds or sometimes it'll even backfire on them. With a potion, it could make any pony younger depending on ingredients used, how much, and general potency of the potion through it's ingredients in general. Basically, the potion will usually always be better than the spell. Usually anyway" Twilight takes a breath, then looks upon you as she wipes her brow "woo, that was a mouthful."

You finish writing up everything you learned and slip it into your saddle bag. This is something you wanted to keep. Easy to remember, kind of useless, but it was more of a memorabilia type of thing. "Well, I never really knew that's how Unicorn magic worked."

Twilight nods "It's simple, isn't it? And yet so hard to master. Actually Anon, there's a question I'd like to ask you. It's a question that I know i'd never get a straight answer out of your father for." Twilight felt rather comfortable with you right now. Maybe it was the lecture, but she was really in the zone.

And you yourself felt pretty fine with her company. At least for the moment. Something about Twilight seemed...different. Or rather, she was being the same. No..that's not it. She was acting like, as if she was conducting herself in a casual fashion. As if she was speaking to one of her friends while also in a moment to learn something at the same time. It was actually endearing, and you enjoyed her company. At least when she was like this. It was like the Twilight you got to know wasn't here, replaced with a Twilight you actually did know from the show...yet never knew personally.

"Oh...uhm.I don't know if there's anything I could tell you that you already know. Heh, you're pretty smart Twilight."

"Don't sell yourself short, Anon. as I said, you're very smart for a colt you're age. I bet if you were a unicorn, you'd probably have quite a knack for magic. But instead, you seem to have a knack for problem solving. Which is good too! It's actually a little worrying what would have happened if Starlight was left to her own devices, or if those two ponies that attacked you have managed to get their way...though.." Twilight's ears droop "It's a shame what happened to them. Nopony deserves that, not even ponies like them."

"Well er, they were pretty bad guys you know. And...hmm" What were you saying? This was pony land. WHERE EVERYTHING GETS FORGIVEN. You can’t argue this.

"I know what they tried to do was bad Anon, but there was still a chance to help them. To have them see what they were doing was wrong and try to change their ways. Even prison is better than....that" Twilight actually did seem pretty upset about this.Ergh, you could feel guilt creep up on you. This wasn't just about being everyone's friend. She just wanted to change the world for the better. One pony at a time. To make it a friendlier place. Gay as fuck...but a noble cause nonetheless.

"I know Twilight...I guess I just don't wanna think about it too much. It's kinda sad really..erm..what was that question you wanted to ask?" You try to hint that you didn't want to think about it. make it seem like it makes you depressed to think about their fate. Twilight seems to get the hint. Thank god, you just didn't want to hear anymore about it.

"Oh..Oh right right! Well" Twilight composes her thoughts, she takes a moment to get over the loss of the two "villains" and then asks her question "I was actually wondering if you know anything about chaos based magic"

...wut? "Chaos based? Really?" That seemed...odd. To you anyway, you didn't think she'd be interested in chaotic magic. You only knew a little bit about it yourself. from experience and a few things Discord has said and hinted at.

Twilight nods "Yes, it's not fair for me to be the only one teaching." Twilight walks up to her seat, readies her notepad and pencil, and looks at you like an eager student "There's still a lot about magic we don't know about. And chaos magic is a kind of magic nopony in Equestria understands. Not even the other princesses. But you have some experience and knowledge of it. You've even used it...though...." Twilight taps at the table. her expression nor tone of voice was threatening, she just sounded like she was wondering. "Your horn is still limited, right? As in, nothing close to as ridiculous as shifting the solar and lunar phases, correct?"

...errrrrr

You nod "Yeah, still limited."

Twilight takes your word at face value. She felt she could trust you. "Good, but just the same. If there's anything you can teach me in that kind of magic. I'd LOVE to hear and learn about it. I am Twilight Sparkle, and I will be YOUR student this time. So teach away...erm...hrm...would you prefer Mr.Anon or Professor Anon?" Twilight looked so damn cheerful and eager to learn.

D'AWWWWWWWW

Well damn, was she expecting you to be an expert or something? eh, sure why the hell not.?this could be pretty adorably fun. You were really getting into this.

...infact.

"Give me a moment, and I'll answer that"

"Ok!" Twilight just sat there, adjusting her pencil a couple times, looking left and right. Ready for anything.

You pull the horn out of your bag. This was going to be super fun. You couldn't do anything outlandish of course. Had to keep it tame. But what else could you use the thing for today? You were with Twilight.

You slap the Sombra horn onto your forehead once more, it changes to that of a unicorn's horn as usual. Twilight looks at you, confused "Errr..Anon, what are you doing?"

"nothing too much, just setting the mood"

"What?" She looked so adorkably confused and yet interested.

You activate your magic. You didn't know how long it'd last. But if you got it right. It'd end at the end of the lecture.

You are instantly garbed with a black necktie and circled spectacles as a giant blackboard appears behind you. The room turns into a large empty university classroom. And of course, you grow a mustache. Twilight appears in the center as the only student. This spell should hold...yeah..until you were done. "Call me Professor Anon, I...like the sound of that"

Twilight looked around. She was amazed, astounded, and yet...worried. "Anon, I thought you said the horn was limited"

"It is, or are you going to tell me setting up a classroom is dangerous. I thought it'd make you feel more at home."

Twilight couldn't deny that. She did get that old fuzzy feeling of being an eager young student. And it didn't seem like you were going to pull some dirty trick. No, you wouldn't do that. That's what she thought anyway. She slowly eased into it. to the point where she really did look like an eager student. "Ok, I'm ready Professor! Teach away!"

Welp, she was going along with it. thank god.

Now that you had the power of your horn. you should be able to do things, like write, a little more easily.

You magically hold up a piece of chalk and start writing on the board. The first thing you write is your name.
"Good morning class, I am your teacher. Professor Anon"

"Good morning Professor Anon!" Twilight giggles

....ok..that was cute.

"Ahrm..yes..hello...miss Sparkle"

Twilight thought she was doing it right. She found that incredibly funny as she still was stifling her laughter.

Well..you were playing a role. "Something funny, Miss Sparkle?"

"Oh um...sorry" But she was still smiling. She found the whole thing amazing. Unlike Discord, she actually felt comfortable about this form of magic being used by you. She was taking everything in as well. Tapping at the long table she sat behind to measure just how real it really was as she paid attention to your every word. Maybe she'd be lucky enough to even get a sample to test on later.

"Right...anyway, today's lesson will be on chaos magic. Chaos magic is actually quite different from a unicorn's magic....as I er....learned just a few moments ago."

You could hear Twilight stifle another giggle.

"Anyway...Chaos magic actually works on the pure will of it's user. In other words, unlike unicorn magic. All one needs to do is imagine what they want to happen and it will happen."

Twilight actually found that a little confusing, so she rose her hoof.She was hoping things played along enough that you'd recognize it as her wanting to ask a question. And thankfully, you did. You did go to school yourself.
"Yes Miss Sparkle, do you have a question?"

"Yes actually" Twilight went into an actual serious mode for this question. For her, the pursuit of knowledge of this magnitude had to be taken seriously. even if the rest itself was just a cute joke. "Are you saying chaos based magic doesn't require any kind of skill or combination of components?"

You nod
"That's exactly what I'm saying. But it doesn't mean chaos magic is easy. The magic of chaos is to cause either calamity,a vast change. or make something out of the norm to happen. Or any combination of the three. This classroom and everything in it is caused by chaos magic. Seems normal yes, but a colt as a professor?..."

"So what you're saying is. Chaos magic can't be used to say...fix something? There's no way at all to mend something or repair or even change something back to normal?"

"Actually, chaos magic er..." Shit. you've seen it repair things. But Discord also said it couldn't heal....Well, just go with your observation. "It...can repair things. Though I suppose it's on the basis that nothing should naturally repair itself as if it could heal a wound. Chaos magic doesn't work through logic after all. As for actual healing? No, it can't do that. Not unless it was actually making a limb regrow where it normally wouldn't. Though....one with chaos magic can also easily take back something they had cast. Although...."

Twilight looked on, hanging on your every word and writing notes. "Although?"

"Although chaos magic actually has its own set of dangers. If you get overzealous or make things too literal and exact. You can't just take it back or revert it, the spell has to follow through. Only a true master of that magic...that being my Dad...would have the ability to call it back."

"Why does that happen? Why can't you call it back"

"Errr...I.."

You really didn't have an answer for that. "I actually don't know. It's just apparently a thing about chaos magic."

And the lesson went on the best you could. Though, you hold back from mentioning that chaos magic can't do time travel. You had a feeling Discord lied about that one. Given that if several MLP dimensions exist. Then comic discord, who CAN time travel, does so through chaos magic.

You then finish the lesson stating that while chaos magic is powerful. introducing it to a powerful and harmonious force will cancel it out. You didn't need anyone to tell you this one. It just goes with the fact that the elements of harmony stopped Discord.

After the lesson was over. Everything shifted back, and the horn popped off your head. changing back into the horn of Sombra. You pick it up, and put it back in your bag. and look at Twilight with a self satisfied smile. "Did you understand the lesson, Miss Sparkle?"

Twilight nodded, smiling from the whole experience "Yes, and it was actually very wonderful. It really shows that chaos magic is its own class of magic, totally unique in it's own way. And yet, if utilized properly, could do so many ponies a lot of good. It just depends on how it's used and who uses it. Though....some things do seem a little sketchy"

"Yeah erm...truth is, I don't know everything about chaos magic myself. But I know enough to get by."

Twilight give you a gentle headpat "Well Anon, it was still, in this pony's eyes, an amazing experience. Not only because of what I've learned, but also the fact that now I know your father can do some real good for Equestria. I know he and you solved a friendship problem. But I also know with a little more effort, he could do so much more."

Chapter 182 - Twilight Week Arc

He probably could. but of course he won't. You just agree with Twilight anyway however, because it's still right.

After that whole thing, Spike steps back into the room, newspaper under his arm. He seemed weirded out. "What just happened? One minute I was reading the paper, the next I was in some kind of creepy hallway with doors and lockers....lockers..EVERYWHERE!"

Twilight greeted and giggled at Spike "It's nothing to worry about, Anon and I have been teaching each other some subjects we both had very little knowledge about. He used his horn to generate a classroom...or I think he may have made the entire castle into a university"

yeah....it seems you did overdo it.

You chuckle nervously "Yeah, like I said. sometimes it goes a little too far. I didn't think I'd have to be too careful with that spell. But, it's not like it was gonna hurt anypony...right?"

Twilight nods "Right, I trust you have good control of your magic. It was probably just a slip up"

Awww...she was defending your screw up....that felt nice....and weird...

"So Spike, how are you feeling? Are you ok?" Twilight asks, concerned about his earlier spat about losing his record.

"Oh..erm..I'd rather not talk about that. But hey, check this out. I was reading the newspaper and found this article. I wanted to ask Anon if it was true" Spike holds up the newspaper.

The fuuuuuuck? You were on the newspaper?

Twilight seemed to have the same reaction. Why would you be on the newspaper? "Let me see that Spike"

Spike passes it over "Sure! I mean, just read it. If it's true, then that means Anon really is a hero colt. Like, near super hero levels. That's awesome!"

....Wuuuuuuut?! "U-uh...I..what? I...don't know what you're talking about"

"Ohhh come on, how could you not? Are you telling me you don't go around saving other ponies with your..ern...it's chaos magic right?"

.....oh god.....wait...

Twilight finishes reading the newspaper and gently lays it on the table. She too, seemed rather surprised. "Anon, according to this. The owners of the gem shop at the crystal empire named you as the hero that stopped the bandit griffon "Sharpclaw". Apparently the two owners...who seem to want to remain anonymous... even mentioned you being Discord’s son. That’s er...that would be you alright. I mean, right?” Twilight asks the question in a calm, yet curious way.

......fucking...shit.......you forgot the news existed, you barely even remembered that happened...goddamn Flim and Flam. You could only imagine what was going through Twilight's mind.

And, wait...hold on. What was going through YOUR mind right now is how Twilight has acted towards you before this morning. as of right now, you both were actually having a good time....maybe...hopefully...this won’t go bad.
"It's...true. It happened during Nightmare Night."

"OH GEEZ! IT'S TRUE! THAT'S SO COOL!" Spike started to sperg...why was he sperging?

Even Twilight was confused "Er...Spike, you do realize we've all done heroic things. Right? Including you?"

"Yeah but now we have like..a whole set of heroes on both the side of Harmony and Chaos. We could form our own super hero squad like the power ponies! I'd of course be the leader, heheh. We could go around saving ponies and solving friendship problems and even get a super cool theme song!" Spike was pretty excited about all this.

"Errrr....no Spike....just no. It's a nice thought though" Twilight found his reaction a little funny, but overall not something she'd ever do.

"Awww..." Spike hangs low now, disappointed, but not devastated

you gulp as Twilight turns to you....here it comes. "So it happened during Nightmare Night? after your challenge with Princess Celestia and Princess Luna?"

..oh god..she knew..well...you guessed everyone knew something, Discord did have that outburst. "Yeah, so you were told about that one?"

Twilight nodded "mhmm, though they never gave me the full details. It made me so curious...but..I'm not going to go against the words of the princesses. I don't even know what happened. I was just told that it did happen."

Ok, so she was also kept in the dark..good. "Well, things just happened. I don't want to get too deep into that. I'd rather stay on topic. Anyway, My Dad let me have the horn pretty much at full power and unlimited use that day. I didn't use it for anything bad...instead, I just used it to help my friends out. And then, I took on the case for those store owners. I didn't know who Sharpclaw was nor did I think I was going to get into a fight."

"And you used your magic to subdue him." Twilight says, as a statement. She was already figuring out the rest on her own.

You nod "Yeah, but come on. You're not going to berate me for that right? I only wanted to help."

Damn them, you were almost sweating. They probably let the story out just so they could get some publicity...fucking shit.

Twilight looked upon you, then slowly, she donned a more regal and respectable look. Almost...motherly. "I understand. As much as I think it was reckless and dangerous to let you have that kind of power at all. It's also clear to me that you understand how to use it safely. And instead of using it for mischief...like your father. You instead used it to help others in need." Twilight, internally, was holding back...something was rubbing her the wrong way. As if it wasn't the whole story. But so far, she figured you had no reason to lie. And she did promise Princess Celestia to not be suspicious of such things. And she felt, who was she to denounce such a good deed? Especially when you put yourself in danger, magic or not. The only thing that truly irked her was Discord’s irresponsibility as a whole.

But she'd hold it in. one more reason holding her back was the way she connected with you. She didn't want to throw that away. "No Anon, I think you deserve an official commendation. Would you stand straight please?"

eheheh...yeah..no mischief....god...you hope she never finds out what you did to her that day.

You swallow your fears, now that there didn't seem to be a threat, and reluctantly stand proud...you reasoned with yourself that a simple prank or two is easily outclassed by all the good you did. Yeah, that sounds right.

"Anon, I, Princess Twilight Sparkle, commend you for your valiant heroism...and..erm..." Twilight sheepishly smiles and gets a little nervous "Actually, I've never done this before. Spike, do we even have any medals for this sort of thing?"

Spike shook his head "nuh uh, we're usually the ones who do everything so we never really needed them."

"Oh.....well" Twilight chuckles "Anon, how about we do this later when we get a medal for you?"

Aww...she was trying to be all princessy...cute.
"Ahh it's ok, I don't need a medal or any commendation. It was just a thing...you know...a thing"

"Are you sure? It'd be a pretty big honor...I...think" Twilight wasn't sure actually. She had never done this before. And kind of wanted to now, for the practice.

You just didn't want it at all. The news already made it a big deal. and you didn't want to make it into an even bigger one....though...awww...the thought of Fluttershy being proud of you enters your mind....those hugs. Man, maybe it wouldn’t be so bad.
"A-actually, do you think we can have like a ceremony for this? You know...it doesn't have to be big. Just...erm..." Actually...you thought of Diamond Tiara too...which was weird. And yet...you kind of wanted her to see you get a medal. "Erm...just invite a few ponies is all. Does that sound ok?"

Twilight nods, she found your 180 pretty cute. She figured nobody that young would refuse that kind of thing anyway. And she felt you deserved it. "Of course, we can do it when we get that medal. Spike can you..."

"Already got it marked down" Spike smirks, feeling rather smug that he already thought to put a reminder for it. Only a number one assistant could be so quick, he thought.

Ok..de-stress Anon,de-stress. There was nothing wrong with a medal. It would be a nice thing. Twilight was being pretty cool. Nothing could go wrong. In fact..things were going to finally go perfectly your way. And ironically enough, it'd be through someone you initially didn't like.

And as this thought went through your head. there was a knock at the front door.

"hmm? Visitors?" Twilight looked towards the door, then called out "Just a moment!"

that made you smile a little, that wasn't something a princess would do, holding up a visitor for something so small. You were actually glad Twilight was still...well..Twilight.

Twilight went over to the doors to open them for whoever it was. Actually..

Now that you thought about it. You thought it was a little odd that they'd be knocking on the doors to the cutie map room rather than the actual front doors. Twilight might have thought it was one of her friends being polite.

But as you think back into cartoon basics....only one thing follows after finding out there's a news article of yourself. Combined with something off about where someone would knock.

.........oh no

"TWILIGHT WAIT!"

Twilight was already at the doors, she looks back at you confused. "Huh? What's the-OOMPH!"

The doors burst open, as a huge stallion followed by a swirly maned, glasses wearing, peach coated mare steps into the room. Slamming the door into Twilight and into her own wall. The mare was of earth pony variety, while the stallion was a rather buff unicorn.

The mare looked to her huge assistant with a disinterested look. "see? why would we have to knock on these doors if we didn't on the front doors? I told you, the princess here doesn't keep them doors locked. Now, keep a lookout for that Anon. That yellow pegasus said he was her....ahh, there he is."

Noooooooooo....you knew EXACTLY what this was.

Spike, already angered at their intrusion, steps up close to them, pointing at them "Hey! Who said you can come in here!? Do you even realize what you just did? You just smashed Princess Twilight! I don't know who you both are, but if you came for a fight. You're gonna have to get through me!" Spike then put up his dukes.

"Smash? smash...oh...hmm.." The mare looked to her side and slightly moved the door, to reveal a very dizzy Twilight. Who lets out a "I like books" before falling unconscious.

"Hrnn, that can make us look bad. Quick Press, make sure to blame the "Stables News" for this disrespect on our Princess. Can't have any bad publicity."

The silent stallion nods. And pulls out a notepad using his magic out of the mare's swirly mane. The moment he does. Her hair unswirls and goes straight. coupled with her purple eyes...she...was kind of cute.

"Helllllooo! did you hear what I just said? Or am I gonna have to throw you out myself. I'm a dragon you know! I blow fire and stuff!"

You could already see the stallion looking at him menacingly for looking at the mare with the same kind of look. This..could be bad.....time to put those cartoon knowledge skills to the test.

You walk up beside Spike, and put your hoof on his shoulder "Woah woah, hold on Spike. I think there's a better way..."

You look at the duo, you hoped this work "You're a news reporter right?"

"Reporter? No, I can't think of any pony able to actually report the news. Is that a thing? Whatever...Look kid, I'm Good News. Not the best name I know, but perfect for the job. And I'm here to get the scoop on you, Anon. Son of Discord, Hero Colt extraordinaire, the colt who can surpass the princesses, got a nice ring to it I think. Your Aunt told us you were here."

You resisted asking why Fluttershy would tell them where you were. No doubt they fooled her in some way. You'd have to ask her directly when you got the chance.
"Well err...sorry to say. But there's no Anon here. I'm uh....Lotsa Arrows. Yup, and I was just visiting Princess Twilight because she said she could help me with my schoolwork. She's very nice...right Mr.Spike?"

"Mr.Spike? wha are y-OMPH" You give Spike a swift kick while smiling at Good News. "Ohhhh riiiiiiiight. Yeah yeah, that's what he's here for. Sorry, that Anon you're looking for is long gone."

Good News just looked at the both of you, unamused. "Yeah, sure. that's why your cutie mark is the symbol of chaos..right?"

GODFUCKING DAMMIT. YOU FORGOT YOU HAD THAT. "I....don't know what you're talking about"

Good News rolled her eyes at you, she didn't want to be taken on the run around. "Look kid, I ain't here to hurt you. I just want to do an interview with Equestria's rising super hero. I'm here to give you an opportunity of a lifetime, because I swear, after this. You're gonna be swimming in Bits,Fillies, and fame. Ya want the fillies and fame don't ya?"

Oh noooo, you knew how this worked. this would probably lead into one of those "rise high, fall hard" type of situations. Besides, you didn't need the bits or fillies. Hell you didn't need the fame either. You sorta had all that already. "I would, but I'm telling you. I'm not Anon, I'm Lotsa Arrows. My cutie mark just sorta means.....I'm going places"

"Yeah....uhuh.." Good news wasn't buying it "Come on kid" She tries to sound sincere as she draws slowly closer "Just one interview and I'm out of your mane. Think about what this could mean for the both of us. Everypony loves a hero....specially the type of hero that comes from a broken home...probably literally now that I think about it"

...you didn't like that particular comment. But, but getting her out was first priority. If you just had a moment to think.

"Woah woah, hold on there Miss News. My pal Lotsa is an Earth Pony, the newspaper here says that the Anon you're looking for is a unicorn. So uhhh..." Spike does a "shooing" motion with his claws. "get out, you're sorta trespassing"

"In a minute kid, in a minute, yeesh. Hey, Quick Press. What does the notes say about that Anon kid?" Good News asks her burly assistant

Quick Press quickly started looking through a book he made appear using his magic. His voice was deep and heavy. But not thuggish as you thought it'd be. "Says here it's a unicorn's horn. As in, he can take it off and on. It's pretty powerful too. Some sources says he was the one who shifted the sun and moon recently. That's all there is though. So that's probably him"

Good news smiled, a near evil, greasy smile "Realllllyyy? Well then" She looks at you, arrogantly "Looks like you're running out of plays kid. Now come on, just do the interview, it's not gonna hurt. We're just trying to help you is all."

Spike looked like he wanted to punch the both of them. But that Quick Press was keeping a close eye on him. Probably a unicorn that's best not handled physically. You had to think.
"Look, I'm telling you. I'm not Anon. What do I have to do to convince you?"

Good News eyes slowly shift to your saddle bag "Hrmmmm...well...show us the goods. I know that "Anon" always carries that horn around with him. If you ain't got the horn, then you ain't Anon. So how about that, sound fair?"

...you took one more moment to think about it, your hesitance only visually making Good News believe you less and less. You do realize though they said Unicorn horn, they didn't say WHAT KIND of horn though. Sombra's horn changes into a normal horn whenever you put it on.....as long as you have a charge. Did they even know about the limited charges?....this might work...yeah. "Yeah, just give me a moment."

You reach into your bag and pull out the horn. And hold it up to them. "This is the kind of horn I have."

Good News takes a close look at it and groans "Come on kid, that ain't the right horn. Stop holding out on us. Quick Press, you know what to do"

"Right, boss" Quick Press's horn glows as your bag gets tugged off and slipped upside down infront of Good News, she starts sifting through your stuff as they fall. looking for the "horn"

"Hey! What in the hay are you doing?!"

"Relax, just doing what we do. Investigate and......hrnn...nothen" She seemed pretty disappointed. "Any suggestions Quick Press?"

He nodded "Put on the horn" He looks directly at you "If I'm right, it'll become the unicorn horn when he puts it on. Heard a rumor that that's probably how it works."

"Yeeeeaahhh, good thinking. Ya heard em, you wanna prove it, put on the horn."

Spike looked at you, he was visibly starting to panic. He didn't know what was going to happen now. He thought you might throw some sort of chaotic fit at this point.

But you held fast. You now realized you had them. The Sombra horn was going to remain...a Sombra horn.

You put it on. Your eyes release a greenish flame as your pupils turn red, Like Sombra's. Your mane becoming a flowing black evilmist.

Good news grumbled as she put her hoof to her face "Darn it! This really ain't him. That's not the horn. It's just some Nightmare Night prop. Ugh, of all the luck. How did we end up screwin' up this badly?"

Even Quick Press looked baffled, he started sifting through more of the notes as quick as possible "H-hold on, there might be something else in here about this"

"Hey! You just said you'd leave if he proved it! What gives?!" Spike crossed his arm, looking at them with a disdainful look.

"Yeah, didn't I just prove I'm not him? You said you'd leave"

"just be patient kid, we ain't done here yet."

At that moment, a purple aura began to envelope the both of them. making them both hover a few inches off the ground. Then then get turned around. Face to face with a angry yet patient looking Twilight. "I think the both of you are done here. I don't remember inviting you two inside. You didn't even wait for me to open the door!" Twilight was actually really angry about that. among other things.

Good News immediately tried to pull up an innocent act in front of the angry princess "Woah woah, hold on. Hey, we didn't come here to cause no trouble your highness. Just a simple interview. We didn't know you were behind that door."

"Even if you didn't. You don't go barging into other ponies homes! It's rude and it's wrong. And you especially don't go drilling into a colt like that. I want you both to leave...now.." Twilight’s eyes narrowed as she spoke.

"Hold on there Princess. Are you threatening us? I don't know who you think you are, but we're ponies of the press. You could be Princess Celestia yourself and we could just make you look like Nightmare Moon. So uh..I suggest you put us down and let us do our job. We'll be out of your mane when we're done"

Twilight shook her head. "I'm not threatening anypony. And I don't plan to hurt you either. I don't support violence. But if you don't want to leave, then at least let me give you my official royal permission before you do your work."

Good News almost let out a cruel snicker. "Well now, that's how you do things. Proper respect for the press is more like it" She says as Twilight lets them down.

"Twilight, what are you doing?!" Spike calls out, confused as fuck.

Hell, even you were confused. Did that bump in the head ruin her judgement? She should have just thrown them the fuck out.

"I'm doing my duty as a princess...now" She looks to the sleazy duo and nods "If you both can come a little closer, so I may say my royal decree"

They both listen. Ready to get the permission to drill you.

But the moment they step close. All three of them vanish. Twilight reappears a moment later. Looking quite pleased with herself "There we are, that should take care of them for awhile. Spike, could you write a letter to the Equestrian Word about the treatment we've received from their investigators?"

What the hell....what did she do to them?

Spike nodded, grinning, he knew immediately what she did "Right, so..how do you want me to word it?"

Twilight smirked at him, and then shook her head with a smile "Sorry Spike, nothing rude. Keep it nice and formal, just describe the treatment they showed to me,you, and Anon. Keep it concise and honest. Alright?"

Spike was pretty disappointed with that. "awwww...alrrrighht. Still, that was a pretty neat trick Twilight. I didn't think you could get them that close for a teleportation spell"

ohhh, thats what it was. Course...
"Teleportation spell? how come you didn't just bring them close in the first place and teleport them out?"

"Oh, that's easy Anon. I had to make sure they weren't a threat. Spike's safety, and your safety, was the most important thing. I didn't want to underestimate either of them. So...I tricked them into letting their guard down. I used my brain. Sometimes you can't win a confrontation with just brawn you know"

ahhhh, yeah. that made sense. "Nice, you almost had me and Spike worried"

"Worried? pfft, come on Anon. I wasn't worried" Spike tried to seem pretty cool about it. But Twilight eyes him with an eyebrow raise.

"Really Spike?"

"....well...maybe I was a little worried. But, hey Twilight. Where'd you put them?"

"Just outside the front door. I couldn't really put them anywhere else. I also gave them a warning about bothering anypony else about it."

...woah, Twilight actually laying down royal authority? "What'd you threaten them with? Prison, public humiliation, community hours?" You ask

Twilight shook her head, it seemed she had a better idea "A twenty four hour lecture, given by myself of course, on the ways of proper journalist ethics and morals. I've never actually been a journalist, but I've read many a book on it. Enough to know that what they were doing was wrong"

"That's our Twilight, teaching everypony a valuable lesson, even if she doesn't have any experience herself. Alright, I'll go get started on that letter. But let me guess, nothing that'd get them fired, right?"

Twilight nodded "Right, just something that will get them to change their attitude."

Spike nods, and go off to write the letter. Then Twilight turns to you, and takes a breath. That was over. "Anon, are you alright?"

You nod "Yeah, thanks for the save Twilight. Those two were pretty much as-...ermm.dumbys"

She nods "Agreed, though I'd say just rude and mean."

"Yeah..hey, how's your head. You ok?"

"Mhmm, just got a little surprised. That's all. But I'll be ok. Let's just try to forget about it. We still have a whole day left to do things together and learn more about each other."

But something still worried you "What about Aunt Fluttershy? What if they go annoy her again? They didn't look like they'd actually listen to you"

They definitely probably wouldn't. Those fucking assholes.

Twilight thought on it for just a moment. Then nodded. "You have a point Anon. I want to trust those two. But, now that you mention it and given how they were, they won't listen...ugh. Come close to me."

You do so, you knew what she was going to do. Dammit, you didn't want those two fucks going anywhere near her. Not with how things just went down. They'd be a lot more aggressive now.
"We're going to make a few hops to get to the cottage. You're used to teleporting around, right Anon?"

You nod "Yep, I gotta be. I never know when Dad is going to warp me around.So let's do it already, I don't want to waste a second."

And with that, Twilight warps you and her to the cottage. Not all in one jump. But enough to get you both there while leaving her a little fatigued. But nothing major.

The moment you orient yourself, like a dog ready to sniff out it's target. You look around for the two journalists. "ergh...."

If only your horn had a charge, you'd show those two some real chaos. "I don't see them."

"Hold on, I'll take a look" Twilight flew upwards and looked around the vicinity. She managed to spot them in the horizon. Actually heading towards the cottage. "...oh..darn it. Why don't they ever actually listen! Don't they understand how terrible it is to be so snoopy?"

..................you keep your words to yourself on that one. "So...what do we do? Just stop them? Do we tell Aunt Fluttershy? What's the plan?"

You seriously didn't know what the plan was. You were powerless. Goddamn did you hate being powerless in this kind of situation. You were almost sure you could pull a Discord and toss them in a wormhole or something and nobody would give a shit.

"Thinking..Thinking. Obviously just putting them somewhere else and telling them what they are doing is wrong isn't enough.....We got to think together Anon. if not, the best we can do is just confront them again, and hope they listen to reason."

"Yeah, but they won't get the hint. Hrnnnmmm. And I don't want to worry Aunt Fluttershy with this either. Can't we just...you know...threaten them?"

Twilight wasn't having any of that "No Anon, we shouldn't act like them. We have to show them that there's a better way"

Dammit Twilight, they were obviously not going to listen.
"What better way? Look, I know you're the princess of friendship and all that. But I don't want those two anywhere near Aunt Fluttershy. If not threaten them, at least lay down some authority. Or else they'll just wait until you're gone and try to come back at another time. These journalists, they think like piranhas do."

Twilight seemed to silently acknowledge that as she began to frown during her pondering. She didn't want to do anything to brash or harmful. But she also wanted to do SOMETHING that'd make them listen. And with each moment, they drew closer.

You couldn't think of anything more advanced, all you could think was to just tell them off and threaten them with something like death. "Can't we just be really aggressive at least? Like threaten to report them to Princess Celestia herself?"

"No Anon, we have to do this diplomatically."

God fucking dammit. Come on brain, think....think.....WAIT! "Hold on, wait. I got an idea."

"What is it?"

"Their after a story right? Why not just give them something bigger to sink their teeth in? They'll get what they want and will leave Aunt Fluttershy alone"

"Anon, that's genius! So, what story are we going to give them?"

...........shit "Errrr....I hadn't thought of that part yet. But, come on Twilight. You know like...everything. Isn't their something juicy and big that you could tell them so they just f-....ergh..just leave?"

Twilight rubbed her hoof under her muzzle as she gently lands on the ground. "As a matter of fact....I think I do have something. I remember way back, my friends and I had a bit of a run in with a plant called "Poison Joke". There's not too much known about how it works. Maybe we could convince them to do a investigative article on it? That might get their interest"

...goddfucking dammit. That's a terrible idea. "Twilight....I think we're going to need something more interesting than that"

"What? What could be more interesting than figuring out the exact nature of Poison Joke? Especially if somepony can figure out exactly how it works."

"Doesn't Zecora know how it works?"

".....oh right...wait, you know Zecora?"

Dammit, that wasn't important right now. They we're almost here!
"No, only by name. Please, Twilight, can you think of something else?"

"....Anon, the only other thing I can think of is...Ahh! I got it!"

come on, don't let it be a dud. "what is it?!"

"An investigation and documentation report on the rise and fall of King Sombra. Very little is known about him, and I'm sure they'd be distracted for awhile trying to scour any library on the subject. We wouldn't have to worry about them then"

Not exactly what'd you'd call a good idea, but..King Sombra huh? That gave you an idea of your own if Twilight's plan failed.

You look up at Twilight. She looked as determined as you were to make sure Fluttershy wasn't alerted or bothered by these two assholes. But dammit, she was incapable of putting any true deviousness or umph into her plan. If you had Rainbow Dash here, or even Applejack. You'd probably have a much better means of getting rid of them. Hell, even Rarity probably has a way to get them to lay off. She's probably dealt with shit like this before.

".....huh, what are you two doing here?" Good News says as she crosses the bridge, visibly annoyed "You do know you can't stop me from interviewing other ponies. You gotta let me do my job. And my job is trying to get this story. Tell em Quick Press"

He nods "She's right. Even as a Princess, it's unlawful to keep anypony from doing their job."

Good News nods to that "Yeah, so step aside. She's free game. She can decide if she wants to have an interview or not."

You nearly growl, underhanded, piece of shit cunts.

"I know, so what if I gave you something more interesting to investigate. Something bigger?" Twilight asks them

"....go on" It caught Good News's interest.

"You know the evil King Sombra, right? Well. Very little information is known about him. How amazing would it be to your career if you could be the first to chronicle his past? Pretty great right?" Twilight does her best, even smiling at them to try to get their interest in Fluttershy to wane.

"Stupid" Quick Press says

"And pointless, nopony cares about that guy anymore. He's old news. Now step aside Princess" Good News steps side to side, trying to get past Twilight, who was trying to physically halt her progress "Come on already! this is getting ridiculous!"

Fuck it, your turn. Twilight fucking failed.

"Princess Cadence is having a baby!"

That stops everything. as if frozen in time. Twilight couldn't believe you let that out. But....it did catch Good News's interest. "....you serious?"

You nod "Super serious, she's pregnant and everything!"

"Anon! That's not public information yet!" Twilight was astonished that'd you'd even make mention of that

"Yeah, but it eventually was going to be, right? It's the only thing I had!" Hrn, maybe you should have thought of something better that wouldn’t upset Twilight. But goddammit. Fluttershy’s psyche was more important to you.

"hrn" Both of the journalists noted Twilight's reaction and nodded to each other. "well, you convinced us Lotsa. Come on Quick Press, we gotta get tickets to the Crystal Empire"

"But you can't just do that! Don't you have any integrity at all!?!" Twilight tries to stop them

Good News rolls her eyes at that as she turns around "Integrity? I don't even know the meaning of the word. Who cares about stuff like that when there's a big story to be found. Now, we gotta go before the train arrives. So uh, seeya. And have a goooooood day" She chuckles as her and Quick Press walk off. To hunt down their next big story.

Chapter 183 - Twilight Week Arc

Twilight was shifting her her head towards the pair, then you, then the pair, then you. She was visibly frustrated. "Anon! Why?!"

"Why what? I got rid of them, didn't I?" Eghh..here we go. You knew why she was upset.

"That's not the point! Anon, we we're supposed to get them to investigate something that wouldn't bother anypony!"

Well, that's fucking boring. Why would they do that? It was clear they wanted the juiciest story they could find. It was the only thing you could think of! "Twilight, they we're never going to investigate something that actually required work. They want an easy story that would be sure to get attention. Besides, Cadance is a princess. She can handle it."

But Twilight was still upset. "Anon, she's pregnant. Do you realize how bad it is for her to get stressed? Not to mention the effects it could have on the baby. Nopony else was supposed to know!"

"Yeah well...erm...What about your brother? He's a tough guy. He could keep them out." It started to think in slowly, that you darn fucked up.

"And if they use dirty tricks to get past him? Darn it, I have to get to the train station. I've still got time to stop them"

You started to feel guilt now. But goddammit, you didn't want them bothering Fluttershy either. But....yeah, you did know stress was pretty bad for a pregnant woman. Who knows what kind of damage it could have on a horse. "Alright, alright. Let's go, we can come up with something else before they get to the station."

Twilight shook her head "No, you can wait back at the castle. I'm going to go fix this by myself"

"Twilight come on, I'm sorry. I really am, I didn't realize the whole stress thing. Let me help"
You really were. You only thought they'd be a nuisance. it completely slipped your mind how much stress could actually affect an unborn child.

"Anon, I'm not going to argue with you. I understand your heart was in the right place. I really do. But I have to fix this on my own. Just wait for me at the castle. I'll fix this and we continue our day. Alright?" Twilight was now trying to calm down. He was just a colt, she thought. He was just trying to protect Fluttershy, she thought. You didn't mean any ill will. She was doing her best to force herself to believe this.

"Twilight, I'm sure we can think of something else. Just le-"

She doesn't wait. She just teleports off midsentence.

God...fucking dammit… "Dammit Twilight come on...geez..dammit. I'm sorry. I'M SORRY!"

Fuck, it wasn't just the fact you fucked up that was bothering you. It was the fact you upset Twilight. You were actually having fun with her, laughing with her, even learning with her. And you botched it instantly with your selfish action.

You sit on your rump. Annoyed, frustrated. Ugh, you wanted her to wait and listen. Or at least take you with her if she was just gonna warp out. The only reprieve you had from total frustration meltdown is the fact that she seemed to at least understand what you were trying to do. You just didn't want Fluttershy to be bothered. If this was the show, this could have made for an entertaining episode. But, it wasn't. And you didn't want to see her brought to tears or hiding from the press in fear. But still...she was right. You shouldn't have replaced one target with another.

Suddenly, you feel a tapping at your back.
"Now now Discord, I actually fucked up."

No answer, just more tapping.
"I'm serious Discord. Unless you're gonna help me..."

You turn around, you don't see Discord. Instead you see a certain white rabbit.
"oh....it's you"

It was Angel, he must of been outside to hear your frustrated yell. He was giving you a rather mean look.

"What's your problem? Can't you see I'm moping?"

He just nods

"Then? Look. I just need some time to myself, ok?"

Angel didn't listen to you, instead he was hopping in place. grumbling and pointing at his forehead. Then starts to make wooshy noises.

"what?..wait. You heard everything, didn't you?"

He nods, then points to his forehead again. He was trying to help you. It seems you trying to protect Fluttershy made him think he had to help you in some way for your own fuck up.

"My horn? that's a no go. I already used it's charge for the day."

Angel stopped to think. Then he started pointing to his paw. Then put his two paws together and stretched them out. Then made a focused look as he looked slightly to the left then right, left then right.

"....I...don't follow"

Angel slapped his forehead. Then he spit on the ground and made a tossing motion. Then fell backwards. Then stood back up and looked at you, slightly annoyed.

"..wait...THE MAP! THE MAP, AND MY PORTAL DOOR GOES TO THE CRYSTAL EMPIRE! ANGEL, YOU'RE A GENIUS!"

You pick him up and kiss him on the lips. making him gag and spit and kick you In the face. his smack didn't hurt. but it made you realize how stupid you felt for doing something so cartoonish.
"Right...sorry...erm...yeah..."

You start reaching into your saddle bag to get the map.
"I'm..not gay ok? Just got a little exc....oh no"

When they dumped all your stuff. You forgot to put everything back. It's back at the castle.
"....dammit! DAMMIT!"

You didn't really care about cursing in front of the little fuzzball. He already seemed to know more than he let on.

As for the situation. You had plenty of time to get to the Crystal Empire. If you couldn't stop the press. And neither could Twilight. You could at least warn Cadance.
"I owe you one Angel..Just er...I mean that figuratively ok? I gotta go"

He just does a short salute to you as you rush off back to the castle.

All you had to do was warn Cadance. That's all. Super easy. Or actually. Warn Shining Armor. You remember them being rather inviting last time you saw them. So, they'd probably would give you audience if you asked.

"Hey Anon, what are you up to?" Says a young voice above you.

"Rushing back to Twilight's castle. I got something important to do"

"Neat, mind if I come with. Kinda bored and I was looking for something to do while Sweetie Belle and Applebloom finish whatever they are doing with their sisters."

"I dunn....wait..."

You come to a screeching halt as you see Scootaloo above you. Flapping those artificial wings of hers. "Scootaloo?! No....just no. I gotta do this on my own."

"Yeah, that's the thing. We actually wanted to invite you along in uhmmm.....well we haven't worked it out. Ever since we got our cutie marks. The things we do together....are kinda....not as much as it used to be. And now that you got your cutie mark...well..we don't really have a shot at that either..So, you know. We we're just gonna go to the clubhouse and plan things out for the week. So...since I have nothing else to do til then, I'm just gonna stick with you for awhile."

God..she wasn't listening.

You stop, making her zip ahead a little before she realizes you stopped. She zips backwards and hovers over you. confused. "What's wrong? we gotta stick together, remember? I know we all got our marks. But we're still crusaders." She looked both upset and annoyed. She didn't like the fact you were trying to shrug her off.

You sigh. She was gonna be on you until you could give her a valid reason to leave. "Scootaloo, I gotta fix something I screwed up, ok? I gotta go ALL the way to the Crystal Empire. I don't think you nor the others are willing to travel that far."

Scootaloo landed, excitement already filling her eyes "Are you kidding?! That sounds like the perfect thing we can all do together! But...." Scootaloo then realized the oddity to it. "Why are you going all the way over there? What did you screw up?"

...Well, you didn't have to say Cadance was pregnant. Maybe you could discourage her with the truth of it though. "ohhh, nothing really. Just sent a couple of journalists towards Princess Cadance's way and now I just gotta tell her to stay away from them. You know, boring stuff"

"Boring? That sounds even more exciting!" Scootaloo was about to nearly hop about in excitement.

"Uhhhhhhhh.....why is it exciting?"

"Well duh, that means we all have to come together and figure out how to sneak past the guards to get to Princess Cadance!"

Guards? Sneak....GUARDS?! AHHH SHIT! You forgot about them......but wait.
"Ohhh yeah, I forgot she had guards. I even think Twilight forgot that. There's nothing to worry about then. Trip cancelled, eheh."

"Why is the trip cancelled? Didn’t you say you accidentally sent a couple of journalists to Princess Cadance?"

"Yeah...but..you know...guards."

"Anon, let me tell you something" Scootaloo was recounting her days when she and her fellow crusaders were gabby gums "I was a journalist once. And I...we...could get anywhere we wanted. We got the scoop on like, everypony in town. If these journalists are professionals. Then they can get past the guards. That's why we have to do this! We have to beat them at their own game of....erm...Guard getting...pastings...or something like that"

Good god...she was right. If you knew and understood anything. it was the fact that you knew the guards were pretty incompetent.

And you didn't have any charges on your horn either...FUCK. How were you going to get past the guards? If Cadance noticed you, you'd be lucky. But fucking shit. she's pregnant. she's not gonna be out and about.

...as much as you hated to admit it....you were probably going to need some help....fuck...
"Ok Scootaloo...you've convinced me. Can you round up the others?"

"Sure I can! With these wings I c-" And then her wings pop off...her charge was done as well. "awwwwww, nuts! Well..I can still get Applebloom and Sweetie Belle pretty fast. They should be done by now!"

"ok good, just have them meet me near town hall. And we'll get down to business.I gotta pick some stuff up back at Twilight's castle."

Scootaloo nods, she's getting all kinds of excited to do a spec ops type of mission. "Oh gosh! This is gonna be soooo awesome! I'll be back as soon as I can!"

With that, you both split off.

You rush off to Twilight's castle to reclaim your items. When you get there, you have to knock for Spike to let you in. The door was locked. You tell him that you're in a hurry, and go to grab your stuff. Which it seemed he organized and put onto the table of the cutie map to be picked up by you.

"But where's Twilight? Why isn't she with you?" He asks/

You start stuffing your saddlebag with your stuff as you try to hurry along. "She's at the train station trying to stop those journalists, I'm going to err...act as back up."

Spike wasn't having that. He wanted to stand by Twilight as support, especially after seeing her getting whapped by the door. "Well then I'm going there too, she may need my help! But, how are you going to get to the Crystal Empire before those two dumbys do? They'd be at the train station long before you got there."

You get everything and start walking with Spike back to the exit of the castle.

"Son of chaos remember? I got a shortcut back at the house to go straight there. It'll be cake. If you're gonna help Twilight, you're gonna have to really run for it."

Spike was pretty determined to back her up "Right!" He immediately made a mad dash towards the station. You knew he'd never actually make it in time though. But god..or rather Celestia bless him for trying. He was a good guy, even if he was an ass sometimes. or a wuss. You wondered if there was ever going to be an episode where he gets to be a true badass, girl getting bro....probably never.

You keep a steady pace towards the town hall. not too fast, not so slow. You didn't want to get there too soon and actually have to wait. You were already planning in your head how to proceed, since they'd all have to enter your room for just a moment to get into the Crystal Empire.

You manage to reach Town hall, all three fillies were already there. Actually, thank god it was only three. You didn't need DT getting mixed up in this. IT'd just make things more complicated.

But as you went to sit in front of the three of them. You noticed...none of them looked pleased. Not even Scootaloo...what the fuckkkkkkkk? "Girls? You all ok? because it looks like I did something wrong...and I don't even know what I did..."

Sweetie Belle tosses a newspaper onto the ground in front of you, it was...THAT..newspaper. The one with you in it. "Are you going to explain this Anon?"

Errrrrrrrr........was that it? did that piss them off?....what exactly pissed them off?
"Explain what? I beat up a bunch of griffons. I stopped a criminal. erm...isn't that a good thing?"

"Actually, that is a good thing girls. Why exactly are we angry at him again?" Sweetie Belle asks, confused now as to why she was supposed to be miffed.

"He did it on Nightmare Night, when he was supposed to be hanging with us" Scootaloo said, seems she must have found out about this when she went to get the other two.

Applebloom nods "and do you know what the worst part is?"

Are you serious? ARE YOU SERIOUS?! "Woah girls, come on now. Seriously? I'm sorry that I just upped and left, but I had things to do. It wasn't a hero thing, it was a good deed sort of thing. How can you get angry at me for that?"

"Because...we're supposed to be a team. If you we're gonna fight ah no good villain like that "Sharpclaw". Then we should have done it together, ya could have gotten really hurt, ya know?" Applebloom was both worried and angry at you "Yah can't be doin' this hero stuff all the time. what if that horn of yours goes out? Ah already know ya can't beat big tough ponies"

ohhh, god. That was it. They were angry that they didn't get to come along for that venture. With the added worry that you could have been hurt. "Applebloom, my dad gave me an unlimited charge for my horn that day. I wasn't gonna get hurt."

"Well then, why didn't ya take us with ya? We could have helped you with whatever you were doin'" Applebloom looked absolutely hurt that she was left behind like that.

"Applebloom.." You sigh, dammit. single minded children. "I didn't want to involve any of you, you all could have gotten hurt. The guy was a serious criminal. He even broke my leg. And then I shot my leg at him..or something like that. Point is, he was willing to break me in two. He probably wouldn't have hesitated to use any of you as leverage or just send you all to the hospital. Only reason I was ok was because I was basically as powerful as my dad."

All three of them just gulp from that, then Applebloom speaks, she did NOT like the sounds of that "Ya mean he would have hurt us realleh bad?"

You nod "Super bad,broken limbs everywhere"

Scootaloo chimes in first after hearing that "Well, I guess that explains that."

"I wouldn't mind borrowing that horn sometime. Actually..." Sweetie Belle looked over to you. Both dissuaded from wanting to be in on that particular adventure, but intrigued by the horn's power "Anon, do you think you could let me borrow it sometime?"

nope, for the sake of shit not exploding. you'd have to not let that happen "Sorry Sweetie Belle, the horn is kind of a me only thing. Dad wouldn't like it if I lend it out"

"Awww...ok" Sweetie Belle accepts it, just like that. But Applebloom looked like she had a question.

"Anon, ah think I understand now. But can ya atl east tell us before you do something like that? What if somethin' happens to you and nopony knew?"

Well...now that you were limited again...mnnnn
"Right...sorry...you’re right. Look, if I worried any of you, i’m really sorry. But you all understand why I didn't invite any of you right?"

They all nodded.

Good....now you could finally proceed. "Ok, now with that out of the way. If anypony wants to go now, you can go. I doubt there's not too much danger in what we're doing since the worst that'll happen is we'll get tossed out."

"Pfft, that's not even gonna happen. We're too quick" Scootaloo says with a smirk

"And smart" Sweetie Belle adds

"and crafty, lookie what I brought" Applebloom, you noticed, was wearing a saddlebag of her own. She opened it up and took out a bottle filled with a red liquid that caught everyone's eyes. including yours.

"Woah, what is that?" You asked.

"Knockout potion, Zecora taught me how to brew it. Ya just toss it and wham, lights out. She said ah should only use it when ahm in danger. So ah guess this would be the perfect time to test it. Cause ya know...this could be dangerous"

Well then, maybe this wasn't gonna turn out too bad afterall. Applebloom was at least equipped for the job.

You then turn to Sweetie Belle "Are you in Sweetie Belle? You don't have to join if you don't want to"

"Of course I'm in, Somepony has to make sure none of you panic." she points to her own head "Besides, I'm the one who comes up with the backup plans. which..erm..speaking of which. How are we going to get to the Crystal Empire?"

"Oh..that's easy. We're going to go into my room to get there. It has a door that will take us straight there."

As you walk over to the fountain. the other three follow. amazed that'd you'd even have such a door.

"You have a door that will take you to anyplace you wanna go?! Why haven't you ever told us about it before? That's pretty selfish Anon, do you realize how useful that kind of door could have been if we all knew? Think about it, we could always go to all the coolest spots in Equestria or go to a place to get a bite to eat or something without having to walk all the way" Scootaloo whines.

"It doesn't go everywhere Scootaloo, it only has four settings. Town hall, Aunt Fluttershy's,Crystal Empire, and the Everfree forest"

Sweetie Belle seemed confused at the last one "Why would it lead to the Everfree Forest? Unless you were interested in what being a snack would be like..."

"I actually don't have the answer to that either Sweetie Belle, Dad never actually told me why that setting is there. It's probably just a joke that never came to be. Then again, he never bothered to remove it either....can you girls step back for a moment?"

"Whatcha gonna do Anon?" Applebloom asks. Confused as to what you were doing.

"I'm just gonna toss my map in the water, it creates a portal to my room"

"Yeah ah know that, but...wait...yer not gonna trick us and just leave us here are ya?" Applebloom was getting ready to jump into the fountain the moment things got suspicious.

"No no..." You just wanted to look through the portal to make sure no changelings were in your room before the jump. If it's one thing they didn't need to know. Was the fact you were harboring an enemy race.

You toss in the map, and take a look as you speak. "It's just I like to make sure it's safe before we make the jump. Dad can be a little crafty sometimes..."

It looked clear. "Ok...so everything looks fine, all we have to do is jump in an-"

Before you could tell them "and go into the portal door", they all hop in like it was a pool. squealing in joy as you panic.

"WAIT. I DIDN'T EVEN..." You don't even get a chance to finish your sentence. the portal was closing fast, you make a dive and barely make it in as you bounce off your bed head first and land on your stomach on the ground. "Ogh...."

They had all hopped in at once. All of them had come to worry you were going to try to jump out on them. You weren't. And they seemed to stop caring about even that as they all started to spread out and investigate your room as you rolled on your back from pain.

"Why is there a door on the floor?" Scootaloo asked as she tapped at the door knob. "Shouldn't it be on the wall?"

Your eyes open wide as your ears perk up.You realize you now had three curious fillies in your room. Oh god, you didn't need them poking around or wasting too much time.

You immediately get on your hooves and rush up to Scootaloo. Holding the door shut.
"Don't worry about it, it leads into the living room. Which is not where we are supposed to-"

"This bed is amazing! It's so comfy,snuggly...and it's so warm...like...weird warm..but a nice warm. I could fall asleep on this forever" Sweetie Belle was giggling and rolling around under your blankets.

"S-sweetie Belle, I'm glad you're enjoying my bed and all. But we do have things to do. Remember?" FOCUS DAMMIT!

"Hold on Anon, I'm never gonna get another chance to lay down on this bed. It's like resting near an open fire. It's just sooooo comfy!" Sweetie Belle was having the time of her life just snuggling in a blanket.

"Sweetie Belle, I'm tell-"

"Hey Anon, what's with these pictures? And.....what is this?" Applebloom takes a picture down from your dresser to take a closer look.

You turn around. And notice....oh shit. there was even more pictures on your dresser than before. Each a moment from your current life in equestria. And.....OH GOOOOOODDDDD

"Anon....is this you snugglin' with a changeling?" Applebloom asks, irked by the picture

"What, hey, let me see that!" Scootaloo says, totally intrigued in what Applebloom was looking at

"Yeah me too! That can't be right." Sweetie Belle states as she unbundles herself and rushes over to take a look.

DAMMIT DISCORD. You had no idea why he added more pictures. More memories to remember perhaps? Well fucking shit, things just turned awful since there was a picture of you getting snuggled by chibi Chrysalis. How were you going to explain away that!?

Chapter 184 - Twilight Week Arc

You started to sweat profusely. the hell was with all the pictures? You recognize the scenes...but...you don't remember Discord taking so many pictures, or taking pictures at all on most of these. And yet, there it was. a whole plethora of pictures. From moments like falling in gelatin to you slamming into a wall. "I-it's a p-p-prank. Yeah, that's it. My dad is just trying to spook whoever I might bring over here. H-he's such a card..hahaha"

The CMC easily buy into it, especially when Sweetie Belle spots a picture of you and Mrs.Rich. She didn’t look herself. in fact, it was when she was worried sick inside the illusionscape, she looked like an ugly wreck in this picture. Was she really that blown away? "Yeah it's gotta be, girls, look at this picture"

"Is that...Diamond Tiara's mom?" Scootaloo asks

"Ah think so....ewww. Yeah, that definitely never happened. She hated all of us, she’d never agree to a picture from Discord or Anon. Wonder what's goin' on in Discord's head to make all these pictures....hrnnn.." Sweetie Belle wondered

Nope..fuck this. you had to get them out of here before anyone showed up. Whether it be Discord or any goddamn changeling. "Girls. We're on a time limit, remember? We gotta go!"

You rush over to the door and immediately set it to the Crystal Empire and open the door. Trying to hurry the CMC along. "Come on! Quick!"

Scootaloo goes back to the floor door and taps at it. "Hold on, what's behind this door? You never said why it was in the floor"

Fuck it, she didn’t pay attention the first time you mentioned it. unless you lie. This was going to take forever. "It explodes Scootaloo...it's an exploding door. I opened it once and nearly got blown to bits. It's to make sure nothing from the outside actually gets into my room"

Scootaloo's eyes widen as her pupils shrink. She slowly steps back away from the door and gulps. "O-o-ok then...erm.....yeah..l-let's go"

The three of them walk towards the door. Sweetie Belle though has to comment on the ridiculousness of the floor door. "So...if the door explodes? How do you go down to the kitchen to get something to eat? There’s no other door around."

"Chaos house, things happen, food leaks through the ceiling. Can we go please?" COME ON!

All three cringe at that as they enter the portal. Each commenting on how gross that is. The idea of ceiling food didn’t seem appetizing to them.

"Yeah well....er...whatever, just go. We're running out of time!" COME ONNNNNN!

You step behind them as you all go through the portal and enter the Crystal Empire. Immediately the CMCs look around and take in the sights. Anything that wasn't Ponyville was instantly eyecandy to them. Even if they had been there before. The visitation of the Crystal Empire was a rare treat after all.

"Woah...we're actually here..." Scootaloo states as she looks about. smiling.

"Ah know, it's crazy ain't it? We just took two hops and a shake of the tail and suddenly we're in the Crystal Empire" Applebloom was also in total awe.

"Yep, it's neat. But remember...remember...we're on a very important mission. We can't fail." This was a mistake. THIS WAS A MISTAKE!

You look around, making sure the journalists weren't about. of course they wouldn't be. The trip here must take forever.

"Geez Anon, relax. There's four of us. We're not gonna screw up if we all work together." Sweetie Belle was getting aggravated with your constant rushing. It seems the CMC wanted to have a good time while also being a service to you.

You weren't too sure about that. But for the sake of them not getting anymore agitated. you calm down. "Sorry....it's just been a little bit of a rough day."

"Well that's why we're here with you. To make that rough day a little less rough." Sweetie Belle gives you a reassuring smile, but then she gives you a gentle bop on the head while her face twists to one of slight agitation "But stop pushing us, we aren't slaves, ok?"

"Right...sorry. Ok, when you're all ready. Let's go to..."

As you look up from the initial bop, they were already walking towards the castle. Applebloom looks back at you and waves for you to follow along. "Come on. Ya said we had to hurry."

B-but..you just got bopped for being in a rush....u-gh...nevermind...Don’t question it.

The four of you reach the front of the castle. but stick to the side. out of sight. There was indeed guards guarding the front of the castle. Oddly enough, the doors to the castle itself under the tower were lightly guarded compared to the guards near the heart itself. Still, it made for a tight defense.

Dammit...even with the four of you. how the fuck were you going to get through? The front doors were still guarded, and finally when you have a chance to use your grappling hook. the towers above are also swarming with guards. "Anypony got any ideas?"

"ahh shoot, ah got nothin'. ah didn't think it'd be this guarded. Didn't ya have a plan on gettin' in Anon?" Applebloom asked

"No..I...thought it'd be a little easier than this."

"What?! How are we supposed to get inside if we don't have a plan?!" Scootaloo was agitated with you, she was blown away by the fact that you somehow didn't have a plan.

"I'm thinking. Hold on, just give me a moment." Come on Anon, use that saturday morning logic.

"Well, ah could use mah potion. Ya think that might work?" Applebloom asked

At first, it didn't seem like too bad a plan. But as you looked around… "No, it'd be a waste. Somepony would notice that the guards were knocked out cold. Darn..come on Anon, think"

Sweetie Belle smiles as she raises her hoof "I got it!"

All three of you look at her in surprise. you all even say "...you do?"

Sweetie Belle nodded "Mhmmm, All I have to do is act like my sister and you all will be able to go inside."

"Us?..wait, you mean you're gonna distract them or something?" Was that her plan?

Sweetie belle gently smiled as she shook her head "Nope, I'm gonna do one better. They won't be able to take their eyes off me. You three just get ready to rush in the moment they leave the front door. Got it?"

"Ahhhh, Sweetie Belle, ah don't think you're their type" Applebloom mentions. Finding the whole thing odd. In fact, you all did. She had no sex appeal…..in this world anyway.

"What?...nooo ewww noo..I'm not gonna try to hug them. Just watch...it'll be..as my sister would say....Marvelous" Sweetie Belle steps forward and then around, entering the line of sight of the guards.

All eyes were on Sweetie Belle now...holy shit..what was she going to do?

She went in front of the guards. Who didn't seem to react too much. They just looked down at her. They actually seemed a little worried that she was stepping so close. But they'd never attack a child.

Sweetie Belle sits down in front of them.

She looks up at them silently for a moment. Swishes her tail twice...then. "WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHH!!! HHEELPPP! I'MMM LOOOOSSST NGHHHHH!"

The guards immediately panic, at first they don't move. just watching Sweetie Belle whine and cry as actual tears come out. She was screaming how she lost her sister and had no idea how to get around and that she was going to get lost forever and starve to death.

It only took another moment for the guards to leave their post. Sweetie Belle moved away from them, leading them to the side, explaining they were very scary. But the guards tried to calm her, telling her they were there to help.

"I think that's our cue. Come on!" Scootaloo says as you all rush over to one of the entrances, staying away from the guards' sight as they tend to Sweetie Belle.

Fucking incredible. IT actually worked.

the three of you get inside the castle. But goddamn. The interior was going to be tough to navigate. It was mostly vertical in some spots. and there was hallways with endless doors. And boy, was it shiny.

"You think we should check the throne room first?" Scootaloo asks

"Or maybe we should split up?" Applebloom suggests.

"No not yet, we should try Scootaloo’s idea. But we gotta be careful, it's over if we get caught." God, active camo would be nice right now. But if Cadance is in the throne room. This would be easy.

You all nod, and begin to sneak towards the throne room. Slipping behind any wall on a turn or going through a door if a guard drew near. It was a difficult trek. Albeit a short one.

The three of you notice an opening. And rush over to the center of the throne room. Deciding that if Cadance or Shining Armor was there. You were in the clear.

But instead. The entire room was empty. Not even a guard was in sight...at least not yet.

"Empty?" Damn, you didn’t expect that. Good thing there weren’t any guards here either.

"hrnn..well, ah guess ya can't be expectin' them to be sitting on the throne all the time" Applebloom mentions.

"But where do we look now? There's guards scouring the place. And Princess Cadance or Prince Shining Armor could be in any one of these doors!"

Dammit, how could you not plan this better?! Even Sweetie Belle was doing better than you and that was right at the fucking start! "Hrnngh..if only we had an ide-..oh no!"

The doors open behind you. a few guards stepping in to patrol the throne room.

Before anyone else could react. Applebloom freaks out and tosses the potion at them. Breaking the vial and releasing a small white cloud that immediately knocks them all out.

"Applebloom! What did you do?!" GODDAMMIT! THAT AIN’T GOOD!

"A-ah panicked. Ah didn't want us to get caught."

Ergh, ok..no..it's fine...just… “Gngh! Ok ok, just...help me out here!”

You lead Scootaloo and Applebloom to push and shove the knocked out guards to either side of the doors. At least this way, they wouldn't be immediately noticed.

"Now what do we do? What if they wake up?!" Scootaloo was shaking, she was scared of getting caught.

"Relax Scootaloo, they'll be knocked out for at least an hour. We still got time, and we didn't really hurt them none. But where else should we look?" Applebloom wondered, trying to get her head back into the game.

"I guess we're just going to have to check the higher levels. I bet the more guards we find. The closer we are" Logical deduction if you do say so yourself. Of course there’d be more guards if Cadance was nearby.

You were sure of it. So sure that even they agreed that was actually a sensible conclusion. But at the moment, you were now out one member and a potion. The three of you would have to be more careful now.

You and the rest of your party venture higher and deeper into the castle. Running from door to door. Using them as cover incase any guards pop up through the long hallways.

"Anon, are you sure it was smart to leave those guards back at the throne room?" Scootaloo asked.

"We don't have time to hide them Scootaloo, that's why I pushed them behind the doors. Nopony will notice, even if they open the door."

"Yeah, but Anon. If they actually GO into the throne room and turn around, they'll notice them. What then?"

You reasoned that by the time that happens. you'll have found Shining armor or Cadance by now. "Just trust me, everything will be fine. Just keep going. We just need to find the prince or princess."

Applebloom was getting a little fatigued herself "Anon, we don't even know where they are. Ah don't even know why this castle has so many doors. Why does every castle have to have so many doors? What if ya have to go to the bathroom? How would you know what door to go into? It's crazy ah tell you."

"Yeah, it's a little nuts. But hey, it's actually kind of funny that there's this many doors." Actually, you hated the doors too. But you could tell your compatriots. While not willing to give up, were becoming impatient and very worried about getting caught.

"How do ya figure?" Applebloom asks

"Well, if we do get caught. we'll probably be running through so many doors that we might be coming out of other doors. Heck, we might even come out of the doors riding a tricycle or riding a giant spinning bagel or something"

You chuckle at that. maybe it could happen. Who knows?

"Erm.....that's not funny" Scootaloo disagreed

"Yeah...that's kinda dumb. Why would there be a giant bagel?" Applebloom agrees with
Scootaloo, seeing no logic in it "Ahh think you've been hanging around yer dad too much Anon."

Well fuck you too! That’s classic humor….egh. Children… "I...guess...I just think you guys don't understand the complexity of it."

"What's so complex about it? You eat the bagel, not ride it. The whole door thing only works if you can teleport. And uhh..I don't think any of us can do that" Scootaloo just didn't understand the art of slapstick. That's what went through your head.

"IT's.....eh nevermind" It wasn't worth explaining if none of them got it. Plus, you had to focus on sneaking around. Something Applebloom was already doing after she had given her word.

"Hold on you two. Look, there's a split" There was, the path forward was still there. But it also went right and left. Three ways......god dammit. how fucking frustrating.

"So, do we split up?" Applebloom asks.

"No, too dangerous. Well...semi dangerous. We need to stick together." That to you was the superior plan.

"Well we gotta do something. I don't see any guards down any of these paths. Maybe we need to go..." Suddenly Scootaloo's ears perked up.

Yours did too, as did Applebloom's.

some of the doors along the different paths we're opening, guards coming out of the woodwork. With guards having either a casual conversation with one another or getting back on duty.

"Oh no...what do we do now? We're gonna get caught" Scootaloo said in a low voice. shaking.

you only had seconds to react. With no chaos magic and nobody else coming up with a plan. You look upwards for something. And then..come to a realization. "Girls...grab on to me..don't argue..just do it"

Applebloom and Scootaloo, already frightened, do what you say immediately and...ohhhh....it felt kinda nice. But you needed to focus.

You reach into your saddlebag as quickly as you can and grab your grappling hook and attach it to your leg. Finally, time to use this out on the field!

You aim directly upwards and shoot the hook up.

You look up to see what part of the ceiling it will attach to.

It doesn't...

It instead bounces right off the ceiling and speeds down towards you. The flat part of the hook smashing right into your face. "AGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH ANNGGHHH FFFFFUUUUUUUMMNFNSRRFEFJEDJD"

You fall backwards, your hooves on your face and you whine and yell in pain. Fucking dammit! always the face or head...ALWAYS "NGH...ERRRGGHHH..MY FACE..GGGGNNHHHH"

"Anon! Anon...get up quick!" You could hear Scootaloo

"Anon, ya gotta get up!" Applebloom was shaking you hard.

You sit up, planting your bottom on the floor as you put one hoof on your forehead to give it a rub as you reorient your vision. "Ngh...w-what is it? Can't you see i'm in pain? cripes"

"Anon......errrr" Scootaloo was looking really worried, as was Applebloom.

You decide to take a look around...

oh..well that's a perfectly good reason to be worried...you were all surrounded by guards. "oh."

That is quite the shit......... "EVERYPONY SPLIT UP!"

"Hey you three, stop where you are and come with u-HEY!" One of the guards try to step up to apprehend the three of you. But with the three of you in a panic. You all make a mad dash out of the circle of guards...all choosing the same direction.

"Ah thought yah said split up!?" Applebloom said as she ran, heading towards another turn that led to a staircase.

"I did split up! It just happened to be where everypony else was splitting up!" Scootaloo calls out

"Oh man, OH MAN THEY ARE RIGHT BEHIND US!" DAMMIT! DAMMIT! THIS DIDN’T LOOK GOOD!

"Hold it right there! You're not supposed to be in the castle! Come back!" The guards call out.

They were gaining. and turning to get on the staircase didn't make things better. The steps were slowing you all down. You needed to come up with a plan. and fast.

You think of using the grappling hook to get to the top. But what then? If you miss, you'll have to take the time to retract it. and if it bounces off something. that's another possible head smack.

But wait....you were in the Crystal Empire....the horn...it still had one use.

The three of you reach the top of the stairs with the guards coming up after you. already a few moments from being in grabbing distance. "Girls, I've got a plan. Just follow my lead ok?"

They nod, they didn't say anything. they were too scared of getting caught.

You grab the horn and slap it on your head once more. Your eyes lighting up with false green and purple evil as your mane blows up in fake black flame.

"Anon, what are ya doing?" Now Applebloom was curious. “What is that nightmare night toy going to do?”

"Just watch..." The plan was simple. You WERE King Sombra. And you were going to scare these incompetent guards into running the other direction.

When the guards got up into your view from the lower part of the stairs, You looked down at them with evil, dominating eyes. "Foolish ponies. Did you really think you could chase I, King Sombra, around my own castle? I have possessed this colt and have these two fillies hostage. And you will do what I say, or else!"

The guards immediately stop. Scared, yet still standing at the steps. They didn't know what to do. Some were in disbelief. But none could fathom how you'd have the face of the evil king that once bound them.
"It can't be"
"That monster"
"I thought he was gone"
"What do we do? We can't leave those fillies"

"I can see you don't fully believe me. Perhaps destroying ONE hostage will persuade you. LEAVE NOW.” You bellowed.

But they refused to back off, Their eyes were filled with determination.
"We can't just leave"
"We have to protect everypony"
"We became guards to protect everypony, we can't run now"

uh oh...they started to slowly approach. "Back off! OR ELSE!"

They did finally start to take a few steps back. All of them looking pretty angry with you. But you needed them to back off completely. Shit...this may have not been the best of plans after all.

And what's even worse...they now suddenly started to approach again.

"I...SAID...BACK...OFF" But they weren't. They were marching upwards.

"Fine! You'll all pay when I..." You look behind yourself...the girls weren't there.

What where when what what WHAT?!

You look upwards. The pair was being held by a pegasus guard that must have come from behind. Applebloom smiles sheepishly at you as she waves.

The guard himself seemed pretty pleased with himself. "I've got you girls, everything will be ok now!"

The rest were now ready to full on capture you."W-wait..d-didn't I say I was possessing this colt? B-back off!"

But it seemed they were assuming it must be a trick. oohh shit, they thought you were just THE King Sombra...body and soul...NEW PLAN

"LOOK, IT'S THE CHANGELING QUEEN!" You point behind them. Making them look back.

Works...every...time

You turn around and immediately bolt the other direction. Applebloom and Scootaloo would be fine. Right now you had to get the fuck out. You could already hear them telling the others to get more guards and to find Shining Armor.

You rush towards a large set of doors. Maybe those were the doors you were looking for? Because goddamn, no other door was it.

You slam right into the door and is met with a blast of sunlight.

You were outside on one of the castle tower walls. And....

Well...there were pegasi guards everywhere too.

And the guards that were chasing you were already coming through the same door. Looks like there was nowhere to go. "Stop where you are King Sombra, we won't let you reach your full power!"

Goddammit..GODDAMMRWFMDSFDF THEY ARE SO DUMB AND NOW THEY ARE GOING TO FUCK YOU UP

But wait....the grappling hook. MAybe if you...

You step to the side of the wall as they slowly converge on you.

You get up on it, and the moment they got close enough… "So long cockfags!" you hail them, then you shoot your grappling hook back to a higher side of the castle right on the main tower, and jump. Taking a huge swing.

You were now screaming for dear life as you swung from one end of the castle to the other.

Or rather, you were heading straight into a wall. "OH SHIT! OHH SHIIITT!"

You shifted your body and all the weight it carried to try to reangle your swing. You manage it. and fly straight into a window instead.

You end up detaching the hook and rolling on the ground. tying yourself up on the rope as you slam into the wall of the room. "e-errrghhh.....p-painn....so...much....pain"

You couldn't even move. You were essentially rolled up and tangled in the grappling hook's rope. the hook itself hanging at the end like a tail.

Suddenly, a voice "Anon! Anon! Are you alright Anon?!"

you were dizzy, battered, and bruised from that landing. everything was a bright light. "God...is that you?..why are you a girl?"

"God? Who? Anon.."

You feel something give you a gentle shake "It's me Sweetie Belle, are you ok?"

You slowly begin to regain vision. You were in some guest room., pretty lavish with red walls with golden little triangles and lines. everything you'd need for living like a bed and a drawer and a closet and all sorts of stuff. The bed itself looked comfy..And..your horn..it was right in front of you. it must have come off during the landing.

"Princess Cadance, i-is he going to be alright?!" You heard Sweetie Belle ask

A familiar pink candy butt alicorn stepped over to you. She gently lifted you up with her magic and put you on the bed. She didn't unravel you yet.Why? You don’t know. "I'm not a doctor. But let me see if I can do something. Anon..can you hear me?"

"Y-yeah...ergh....C-Cadance?"

Your senses were starting to fully return. Ugh, it's a good thing you always usually take your lumps in some way. You were getting used to this. Even though it still hurt. You were pretty sore.

"That's right. It's me. Your friend Sweetie Belle is here too. Anon, are you hurting anywhere?" Cadance looked really worried.

"Sorta..egh..I'm us...WAIT...SWEETIE BELLE?!"

You immediately lift up and nearly fall off the bed. Cadance catching you with her magic and gently putting you on the bed again. "Anon, watch out. You almost got hurt."

"He sorta doesn't listen sometimes. He's got this bit of a high and mighty attitude." Sweetie Belle explains.

"High and Mighty? What? No..wait...How did you even get here?!" Seriously, she didn’t even come inside with the three of you!

You raise yourself up again. Yup. you were fine. and greatly baffled.

"Well, remember those guards? Well, then I told them who my sister was. They said any family of the elements of harmony were allowed inside. And they just sorta took me to where I wanted to go. Who knew? All you had to do is wait and we would have been here in no time...wait...Where's Applebloom and Scootaloo?" Sweetie Belle realized they weren’t with you.

Shit....they were with the guards. god, you caused such a commotion. "A little tied up at the moment..speaking of which can y-"

Suddenly the door burst open, a guard charging right through. "Princess Cadance, Lady Sweetie Belle. The castle has been compromised. K-King Sombra he's somehow....Wait..THERE HE IS. DISGUISED AS THE COLT! Y-you caught him?"

Both Cadance and Sweetie Belle was confused. You just laid there, annoyed....godfucking dammit. This didn't make you look cool at all.

"Ummm, would you mind explaining what's going on please? Where's my husband?" Cadance was confused and very intrigued why she could see her entire guard rushing around past the door.

"Your highness, that colt is the reincarnation of King Sombra. He had foalnapped two innocent fillies related to the Elements of Harmony. We have not asked them anything yet and they are being kept in a safe place. Your husband is en route. What should we do with this vile creature?"

Vile creature?! "Hey listen, pal! I'm not the idiot who actually thought I was King Sombra! I was using a Nightmare Night horn to fool the whole lot of you. Geez, you didn't think for a second that I was just sneaking into the castle to find Princess Cadance?"

Sweetie Belle shifted close to Cadance to whisper in her ear "See what I said? High and Mighty attitude."

Princess Cadance giggled "I see what you mean, Well.." Cadance looks to the guard "It's a false alarm, he is who he says he is. Can you bring his friends here as soon as you can?"

"B-but your highness...are you sure?" The guard wanted to be extremely careful.

She nods "I'm sure, besides. He is currently tied up at the moment. I think we can take it from here"

"As you command" The guard does not question her word any further. And leaves.

You groan...goddammit. "So..about untying me? please?"

"Now why would I go and do that?" Princess Cadance smiled at you and slowly drew you closer as she hopped onto the opposite end of the bed and carefully, very carefully laid down on her belly.

OH GOD WHATS THIS NOW?!

"Princess Cadance? What are you doing?" Sweetie Belle asked. hopping up on another part of the large bed to observe.

"Practicing, besides. I think he's a little tense and could use some motherly love" Princess Cadance, adjusted herself slightly so you'd be laying on her forelegs like a baby.

"What?!" You felt like she was patronizing you "I don't even know you that well. What's..why?!"

"He's kinda got a point. This is a little weird." Sweetie Belle said

"Well, you said he had a high and mighty attitude and that he's always stressing or whining about something. If I can calm him down, imagine what I could do with my own baby." Cadance explains.

"Ohhh, hey. That actually makes sense. Hey Anon, you can pretend to be a baby right?" Sweetie Belle asks with pure wonderment in her eyes.

"WHAT?! HELLO! WE CAME HERE TO WARN HER ABOUT THE JOURNALISTS" You screamed as you bounced up and down

"Oh, I already did that. She said she could just hide in this secret room where the throne is." Sweetie Belle giggled, she was finding this cute.

"Ergghhh...can we not do this please?....I don't want to be a baby" How humiliating.

And for once..FOR ONCE. as per your request. You can feel yourself get unraveled as you are gently and magically pushed aside. "There you are Anon, I don't want to force you into anything you don't want to do. I just thought it'd be good practice."

"awww..Anon..why do you have to be such a party pooper? I wanted to see her mom skills. She does need to practice, you know? She's going to be a mom soon" Sweetie Belle....really wanted to see this. both because it was cute and for Cadance's mother skills.

Chapter 185 - Twilight Week Arc

You plant your butt on the bed and start looking over your forelegs like a cat looking for bigger injuries. Nothing seems hurt. Just achy. So you press the button to retract the grappling line. Cadance has a little giggle at your adorable self assessment. You don't react to it, you didn't feel the need to ask what was funny. You could probably guess the way you looked did look rather silly. But she does look at the grappling hook launcher strapped to your leg with curiosity.

"Anon, where did you get that?" She asks

"This?" You hold up your leg, to give her a better view. "A friend gave it to me"

"I see" Cadance looks back at the window, then back at you with concern. "I hope you don't go swinging through everypony's windows with that thing"

"What? No no no. It's...well I had to use it. Your guards thought I was King Sombra, I had to escape somehow."

Cadance notices your saddle bag. She had word of your horn and more or less how it works. And she knew about today's headlines. "I wonder whose fault that was" She says as she looks at you with an accusing smirk.

"Ok.....so maybe that was part of the plan. But come on! I didn't know I could have just asked to come in"

Sweetie Belle giggles then looks to Cadance "Oh yeah, he's also thinks he knows everything. He never shows up at school even."

"Oh I figured he was kind of like that." Cadance giggled again....goddammit...you were being mocked.

"...Aren't you supposed to be the Princess of Love?" You cocked an eyebrow at her

"I am, I just also find the whole situation funny. You don't need to be such a sourpuss Anon."

....oh...nononono "I'm not a sourpuss. I just don't think you understand the situation. I wanted to make sure you'd be ok. You know that right? That's the whole reason we're here. It was a high stress situation."

"Well, why don't you tell me the whole situation then? I only know so much from what Sweetie Belle here told me. Start from the beginning." Cadance didn't seem at all too stressed about anything. She was very calm and collected. a fine contrast to your worry and spazzing.

Was that a good idea? Well, it probably wasn't. But you were an adult. You had to own up to a mistake and it'd probably be good for her to know that Twilight is involved. "Alright....just, don't say anything until I'm all done. ok?"

Cadence nodded, interested on what could possibly be so bad as to stop you mid story "Alright. You have my attention Anon, go ahead."

You look over to Sweetie Belle, who had decided to lay on her belly exactly like Cadence. The moment she notices you were looking at her, she lifted her foreleg and shook it at you as she gave you a slightly snooty look "Come on Anon, we don't have all day"

That just made Cadance titter a little...that just annoyed you. "Alright..." And so you explain it. Starting from having to explain you're staying with Twilight. It seems she already knew about that. Celestia probably must have sent a letter to keep her in the know about her sister-in-law.

When you were done with your tale. You expected Cadance to give you a lecture of some sort. But instead. She simply reacted with a "Hrn"

""Hrn?"...that's it?" wut?

Cadance nodded "That's it. What, did you expect me to lecture you on what you might have done wrong?"

....You did...sorta.

You nod. "Kinda, it's what you princesses usually do after all"

Cadance looks over to Sweetie Belle "Definitely see what you mean about his snarkiness too."

"Told you" Sweetie replied.

You groan, you felt like you were being judged now. And you felt they were being a little too harsh. "Well, you two had been talking a lot. Haven't you?"

Cadance nodded "Well, it was something to do while we waited for you and your friends....and wait for my Shining Armor to bring me some ice cream. Now as for your story. I’m not Princess Celestia, I don't think I have to lecture you on something you already know. Besides, it'd be redundant since I think Twilight might have her own lectures on the subject. buuuuuuuuuutttt...." Cadance sighs ".....If it's one thing I do have to say, it's the fact that somepony needs to tell her to lock that door. One day it could be the press, another day it could be the latest menace." Then Cadance smiles at you "Or it could be King Sombra, risen from the darkness to claim revenge on her number one assistant."

"Ok, ok...I get it. I should have asked to come in. You don't have to rag on me for it. yeesh."

"Awww Anon, I'm only having a little fun. Being pregnant hasn't really allowed me to do what I'd like lately. I'll stop. In fact, if you stick around, you can have some of the ice cream I'll be having."

....ok...never mind..ice cream was always good. Sweetie Belle was curious, she didn't know what flavor the ice cream was. "What kind of ice cream is it? I can get some too, right?"

Cadance nodded "Of course..as for the flavor. I was actually interested in trying this obscure one called "Breakfast" flavor"

"Breakfast?" what kind of fucking flavor was that?

"...flavor?" You and Sweetie Belle say one after the other

"Yeah, it's supposed to taste like orange juice, eggs, and milk all in one. Doesn't that sound delicious."Cadance licked her lips at the appetizing sentiment

"...yeah sure..erm. But I think I'll pass. I shouldn't spoil my lunch." Gross

Sweetie Belle agreed "Me too. Rarity wouldn't like it if I had ice cream before lunchtime" clearly she wasn't interested as well.

Cadence shrugged "Well, more for me then....mnnnn..." Cadence lays on her side, "I don't want to put too much pressure on the baby now, I'm actually surprised. It's pretty spry despite it not being born yet"

"Ohhhh! Is it kicking!?" Sweetie Belle got excited, she wanted to feel the baby kick. And this seemed like the most opportune time.

"It is, I can already tell this one is going to be a hoof full" Cadence bent her head down a little, looking at her belly with motherly loving eyes. You could tell she really cared for her unborn foal.

"Can I?..you know" Sweetie Belle asked, wanting to put her head on her tummy.

Cadence nodded "Go ahead"

Sweetie Belle squeed and hopped over to Cadence, she slowly put her head on her belly. putting her cheek right on it. "OH MY GOSH! IT'S KICKING! THAT'S SO COOL!" Sweetie Belle was beside herself "Do you know if it's a boy or a girl?"

"Not yet, we'll know soon though. Anon, do you want to feel the baby's kicks?" Cadence asks you, she genuinely thought you'd be curious about it as well.

Hrn...well, you didn't want to be a party pooper. Plus, it might be interesting to feel how a baby pony kicks. Nah, you'd do it. Despite getting teased. It was all in good nature. And saying no would also reinforce the whole "sourpuss" thing. "Sure, Sweetie Belle can you move over a little?"

Sweetie Belle scooches a over a little. Allowing you room to place your head on Cadence's roundish belly. Wow, candybutt sure had a nice and nuzzly fat belly. You resist the urge to make yourself more comfortable. Though, it didn't take long for your head to feel a few thumps.

You move back a little. That was....actually kind of cool. You gently put your hoof on her belly, it was still kicking. You don't know what it was. But, knowing there was another life inside that belly. Innocent, defenseless, needing care....oh man...whatever was in there, it had an alicorn for a mom, it'd be ok. But then, when it's born...

...You knew would cause a shitstorm within the fandom. Errr...maybe that's not the right thing to think. Rather, whatever it was. You kind of wanted to have a hand in raising it. You knew you never could. But you could just imagine, A pony as smart and cool as you are....ohhhh man. That'd be awesome.

"Anon, you ok?" Sweetie Belle asked, giving you a gentle shake.

"Wha huh?..."

"Is something the matter Anon?" Cadance asked, she was concerned that something worrisome had crossed your mind, since you seemed to have zoned out.

"Huh..oh no no..I was just thinking"

"About what?" The curious Cadance asked.

..About what? Well, actually, thinking about it, maybe in the future...nah....Nah..you can't have a kid. right?..maybe?...there was Diamond. And...hmm

Maybe you should ask Cadance about that. You figured Chrysalis's advice was already sound and doable. But you knew she didn't take age into consideration. Maybe Cadance's advice would be more beneficial.

"About.....ab-out..actually" Yeah, you'll do it. But, you didn't want Sweetie Belle to hear you. You felt she'd not only mock you, but tell the others the moment she saw them. "...Sweetie Belle, would you mind leaving the room for a moment. So I can talk to Cadance privately?"

"Uhhhh...why?" Sweetie Belle was confused

"It's...really private"

Cadance was just as confused. She understood the importance of privacy. But what could you have that warranted her undivided attention?

"Really private? Anon, whatever it is. I'm sure it's not that bad. Who knows? Sweetie Belle might be able to add to....uh..whatever you want to talk to me about" Cadance was sure it was no big deal.

Oh yeah, they were both confused. "It's really complicated, and something that needs to stay in this room"

"Ok, are you saying I can't keep a secret?" Sweetie Belle now looked pretty insulted. "We're supposed to be friends, but you always seem to not want to hang out or even try to avoid us all together"

Oh come on! "Sweetie Belle, come on. It's not that. It's just....grrnn...fine...but you can't tell anypony, like...anypony!"

Dammit, you gave in easily. But only because it'd be an even bigger fuss if you kept her out of it. Dammit, why did she have to be in the room at all? You knew...you just knew..that if she really wanted to, She'd rally the others to find out what the secret is.

"You can trust me Anon" Sweetie Belle slowly swipes her foreleg across her muzzle. "Lips are sealed, now what is it?" Sweetie Belle smiled a big wide...innocent...smile

......Dammit. "And don't make a big deal about what I'm going to say, ok?"

"I won't I won't, promise" Sweetie Belle was getting impatient.

"Alright...alright...Princess Cadance, ma'am....please don't make fun of me for what I'm going to say, please?"

Cadence found that request odd, if it was that serious. of course she wouldn't tease. "Of course, Anon. I know we haven't talked much..err..hmm..Just think of me as your friend you've known for years, ok?"

Right...right....righteooo. Here we go. "So...erm...I'm having love...issues"

Before Cadance can say anything. Sweetie Belle blurts out "WHAT?! AGAIN!? WHO IS IT THIS TIME?!" Real smooth there Sweetie Belle

You give her a mean, nasty look. "Can I talk?"

"Sorry..just..you know, this kinda went badly for you last time, you know" Sweetie Belle explained.

...Yeah...real vote of confidence there. "Yes...I know..." You nearly hissed out that last sentence. "Anyway...if you want to know, it's Diamond Tiara"

Cadance tries to say something, but again, Sweetie Belle butts in. "Again? AGAIN!? ANON, REALLY?!"

Ohh noo, not again. because last time you weren't actually into it... but now?.. "Ok hold on, first off. She was into me last time, and you know...so was Applebloom. But things happened, and now...I like her..and she likes me..and-"

"ANON, ARE YOU A MORON?! YOU LET GO OF APPLEBLOOM FOR HER!? THAT'S HOW IT'S GONNA LOOK, YOU KNOW THAT RIGHT?!"

You let out a low growl within your words, you were getting really frustrated with her. "Yes Sweetie Belle...I know that...that's why I'm asking Princess Cadance for advice..."

"How is that going to help Applebloom?!"

"I don't think she even really likes me like that anymore"

"How do you know?"

"How do you?"

Cadance raises her foreleg "Uhh...can I talk"

Both you and Sweetie belle turn to her and let out a "HOLD ON!"

"Listen here Sweetie Belle, we're not all "all for one and one for all" in everything we do. Stop acting like a child and let me ask Princess Cadance these questions so we can get out of here and go home, k?"

Sweetie Belle however, had her own idea of what was going on. and how this conversation should proceed. "Well Anon, it's funny you think that because we worked really hard to try to help you out and be your friend since you're an orphan. And I don't know if you noticed, but I AM a kid, we both are. And oh, just to let you know, this would have been ok if it was some other filly. But nope, you ousted Applebloom for Diamond Tiara. Do you realize how bad that looks?"

Ohhh reallly? She thinks she can act high and mighty now? Well fine then, time to live up to that little rep she was building up on you as. "Well excuuuse me Sweetie Belle, I didn't know you suddenly wanted to be my mom. Listen, and listen good. This is MY life. Applebloom has no reason to like me the way she does, IF she even still does. Diamond Tiara had been trying all this time, and you know what? What am I supposed to do about that? Just tell her off? Things happen, this happened, and I need expert advice on it."

"I'm trying to HELP you, everypony will hate you if you just go with this!" Sweetie Belle wouldn't let it die

"No, that's an overreaction. there's a possibility Applebloom will be upset. BUT I don't think other ponies are going to care too much. Besides, as long as you don't say anything. Things will be fine. And even if you do say something, what then? Who's going to care but you, Scootaloo, and Applebloom?"

Sweetie Belle put her hoof to her face, she couldn't believe what she was hearing. "You're missing the point. This is still wrong, Really wrong. You should have chose Applebloom."

You raise an eyebrow at her...oh good god...please don't let it be that. "And WHY should I have chosen Applebloom? And please..PLEASE..don't tell me that this entire argument is based on the fact that you think I chose wrong"

Sweetie Belle hesitated, it seems you were right. That may have been the reason. But why would she even care? "Erm...well...ummm...because Applebloom is also a good friend and I thought you two would actually make a good couple...together. Diamond Tiara is ok, I guess. But technically, Applebloom saw you first. So erm...she kinda had dibs"

DIBS?! "REALLY?! DIBS?! REEALLLY?! Sweetie Belle, she didn't even like me first. Diamond Tiara did, if anything she got dibs. So how about that?"

"Err...that's not exactly....true" Sweetie Belle tapped her hooves together

Wut? "What do you mean, that's not true?"

"Well...uhhh, Applebloom kind of actually started to notice you when you...errr...stood up to Diamond Tiara that time."

Wuuut? "No, she seemed pretty against what I was doing. Remember?"

"Yeah, I do. And how she acted kind of different than how she felt. She didn't know what to think really."

Oh good lord. Even if that's true… "Sweetie Belle, it doesn't even matter. That was a while ago. Things changed, and you can't just speak for Applebloom like that. I like Diamond Tiara, and she likes me. And there you go. Ok? Alright? Understand?"

....Ergh, something about saying that you liked Diamond Tiara felt...forced...as if something in your mind wasn't exactly quite sure on it. But you ignored it, you wanted Sweetie Belle to understand that things change, and that things happen. And you and DT essentially happened.

"Well hold on Anon" Sweetie Belle looked to Cadance "What do you think Princess Cadance?"

Cadance shifted her eyes left and right, she didn't think she was going to be part of the conversation at all "I'm not going to be cut off am I?"

Sweetie Belle narrows her eyes at you "Not unless Anon has something to say"

Maybe you should say something. Considering how Cadance would most likely side with Sweetie Belle..maybe..wait..why would she? No..you know what? Don't say anything. If Cadance was an adult like you..then she should agree with you. "Nope"

Cadance couldn't believe what she was seeing, but she definitely understood it. And she didn't look pleased with either of you, you both pretty much were making scrunched angry faces at each other. But the thing that she found most odd was your view on it. She's been around a lot of foals, and knows quite a bit about love. She thought you'd be complaining that Applebloom was "icky" or had more vain reasons to like Diamond Tiara. But...it all was pretty sound. "Sweetie Belle, Anon is right"

"See! I knew Pr-...wait what?" Sweetie Belle double taked, she wasn't expecting that.

"Just as I said. Anon has a right to choose who he likes. And he shouldn't have to be guilt tripped into a relationship if what he says about Applebloom is true. If that's over and done with and she doesn't care about him in that way anymore then I don't see the problem. All that matters is that you're all friends, and you should support his decision. Sweetie Belle, are you sure Applebloom has any feelings for Anon still?"

"Well...erm..I actually haven't asked. I didn't want to remind Applebloom that it..you know...happened. But it seemed kinda obvious that she still sorta likes him..I think" Sweetie Belle was starting to falter.

...REALLY?! "YOU THINK?! YOU THINK?! SWEETIE BELLE! ARE YOU AN IDIOT!? ALL THIS OVER THE FACT THAT "YOU TH-"

"Anon, that's enough!" Cadance says to you in a firm and commanding fashion. You immediately hush up, Sweetie Belle herself had her ears down, she looked like she just got a piping hot glass of reality in the face. "You don't need to act like a jerk, even if Sweetie Belle is being a little bit of one herself. You're smart, I understand. You don't need to flaunt it around as if you're better than anypony else. And the BOTH of you shouldn't even be arguing like this. You're friends right? Because at this moment, I feel like somepony pulled some wool over my eyes."

Ergh.....ERGHHH. What could you say now? Dammit, ok maybe you we're being a little bit of a shithead. But goddammit, you were in the right. Sweetie Belle shouldn't have been acting like a little shit.

"I'm sorry Princess Cadance..." Sweetie Belle let out first, feeling awful for how she acted.

"I'm not the one you should be apologizing to." She tells Sweetie Belle, still firm in her tone.

Sweetie Belle looked over to you, she looked pretty upset, she took a moment, composed herself the best she could as she held back some tears from being berated. "Anon, I'm really sorry for how I acted..."

Why should you even accept it? She was being a little shit first, she should have kept her mouth shut. Fuck this friendship bullshit...

....

.....Dammit. You looked at Cadance, who seemed to be expecting you to accept the apology. Or, at least say something about it.

..fine, but you'd have to find another way to settle this later. And only if it needed settling. "It's ok...and I'm sorry too. But Sweetie Belle, please PLEASE understand. This has nothing to do with hurting Applebloom or giving up on her or trading her up. It's not like that. It's a separate issue, and it's an issue I'm having trouble with and need some advice. Ok, please..please. Don't go spreading this around, ok?" Hopefully..she understood.

Sweetie Belle nodded in agreeance "It's ok Anon..and..I promise not to tell anypony else."

You sigh in relief, finally, she was being reasonable. "Thank you"

"See, don't you both feel better now? It's not worth risking your friendship over things like this. Just do like I do. Take a deep breath, lay down, and relax. Sweetie Belle, you don't need to act for Applebloom. If Applebloom has a problem or wants to speak up. Then she will, and it will be hers and Anon's business. And Anon, you need to understand that you shouldn't treat your friends like you're better than them. And you can't be so argumentative. From what Sweetie Belle has told me, you get in quite a few arguments, am I wrong?" Cadance knew the answer to that already.

.....Dammit.

You looked up at Cadance silently. Your mind going back through time to any and all moments you had on Equestria. Cadance gave you a stern look, but waited patiently for you to answer.

...ugh… You had been a little bit of a dick lately...and, you never actually showed the CMC any actual respect befitting their age. Well, you have..just...not lately. Or rather, always having in the back of your head how simple minded they were. You didn't mesh well with it at times, hell. You'd even argue with Discord, even if it left you at a disadvantage. And then there's Twilight.

.....fuck. "...You're not wrong.." You hang your head in shame, you just wanted to integrate and live your life happily. But..you were still you. Being a colt didn't change that. But, you didn't want to be "you" all the time. At least, not this part.

Cadance smiled a gentle smile at the both of you now. You both we're now covered in a magical aura as you were brought close to Cadance's head. Once there, she gave you both a gentle nuzzle "I hope you both learn from this experience. And learn to be better friends. If you both...no..if you all just listen to each other, and treat each other fairly and with respect. Then I promise, life will be a lot more fun and wonderful. But for now...Sweetie Belle, can I count on you to give any kind of helpful criticism?"

"W-what? on what exactly?" Sweetie Belle didn't understand, and she didn't want to piss off Cadance.

"Well, your friend still needs advice. And you seem to know "Diamond Tiara" better than I do. So if I say anything that sounds wrong, or if Anon here acts a little goofy. I just want you to give your own friendly advice on the subject, or any criticism you might have. Ok?"

Sweetie Belle nodded slowly. "Ok"

Cadance then looked to you "Alright Anon, when you're ready. ask whatever questions you might have"

Wow...she was...still willing to do this. You look over to Sweetie Belle. She looked pretty nerve wracked after all that herself.

You've been such an idiot. And to still be given this chance. Damn, Cadance really did have a lot of love in her heart. But pissing her off?...yeah...you didn't ever wanna do that. "Are...you really sure it's ok to ask, after all that?"

"Do you still need advice?" Cadance asks

"Err....yeah..bu-"

"Then ask me, I'll put my good faith on the both of you that this won't happen again. Because if it does, and I find out, I know I can practice "other" ways to be a mother on the both of you. I'm sure Rarity won't mind. And although Discord might be difficult, I know Fluttershy would probably mayyyybbeeee convince him to let me have the practice. I know Twilight won't use her princess title, and I don't really like forcing mine. But for the sake of foal education. I'll make an exception"

Cripes...that's...fucking scary. You never thought you'd be scared of lovebutt. Celestia was a lot more playful and gentle than this. You actually preferred it. Yet, at the same time, Cadance had an aura about her that just made you have a form of respect for her. She definitely could be serious when the time called for it.

"Ok, so....umm..ok." You take a breath. "Diamond Tiara likes me...like, she really likes me. She's happy whenever I'm around her, and she's always rubbing up against me or trying to get me to hang out with her. I recently helped her mother and from what I understand, she really wants to marry me...in fact. There was kind of a promise that it'd end up being like that if I never found anypony else. The thing is, I didn't really sorta kinda have the same feelings for her until....ummm...a little while ago. And I was wondering, since I am a colt. What's the best approach to er....treating her good..and stuff...you know...boy and girl stuff."

"Wow, I...didn't know she liked you that much. Is it really that much Anon?" Sweetie Belle seemed really surprised. To her, she knew Applebloom had liked you. but from the way you told it. Diamond Tiara sound like she was fucking obsessed with you.

You nod. "Yep...every moment she can get. she wants it to be with me. It's kinda weird but...I've..grown to like it..sorta..kinda....it's weird"

"I..didn't know she liked you that much. Applebloom doesn't even act like that around you, or when you're mentioned. Well, not anymore. Wow...I can't believe I never noticed" Sweetie Belle says, feeling awful about how she's acted.

God, you yourself was feeling pretty bad about it. If you had mentioned something to the CMC. or tried to hang out with them more. No, don't worry about it now. you can fix it later. "Yeah...it's really like that. there's always a smile on her face the moment she lays her eyes on me."

"I see" Cadance gives you gentle smile "Anon, the answer to your question is very simple."

"It..is?...what is it?"

"Take her out on a date." She suggests

Your pupils shrink the moment she says that. "d-date?"

"Well yeah, just ask her out. it's very easy. You bathe, make yourself look nice, bring her some flowers, and ask her out on a date. And that should be able to tell you if she's "the one"."

She can't be serious "B-but..don't you think we're a little too young?"

"I don't think so, it actually sounds very romantic....well, as long as you don't act like you're better than her. Just saying, I don't mean it in a bad way" Sweetie Belle put an emphasis on her trying to be truthful and helpful with that.

Cadance agrees though. "Anon, I honestly don't think you're going to do anything bad to her. I've heard you could be quite the gentlecolt too. You just need to be respectful of a lady. In fact, I'm sure Sweetie Belle could give you a few pointers. She is Rarity's sister after all."

Good lord, GOOD LORD. A DATE?!..could you even do that? What if it did end in...no, no. You were sure Cadance didn't mean "bad" as in rape or sex or..whatever. But fucking christ. Chrysalis said she'd be mindful of your age. But NOPE, it was pretty close to what Chrysalis told you to do. Oh good lord. And pointers from Sweetie Belle!?...dammit. She wasn't anything like Rarity...but she was a filly. ergh...this was gonna be harder than you thought. But..you at least had to try.

Chapter 186 - Twilight Week Arc

"Ok, so...you just...want me to go over to her, and ask her out on a date?"

Cadance nods "Yes"

"And, that's it? nothing else besides the usual prep work?"

Cadance nods again "Yes"

"And say the date goes well, I just take her home and drop her off, right?"

Cadance nods a third time "Yes"

...This was eerily familiar. "What if she wants to sleep over?"

Cadance almost had an inkling that you meant something more to that last question. But nahhh, you couldn't mean anything more than something innocent. "Well, aslong as she has her parents' permission and you don't mind. Then let her sleep over. And then drop her off in the morning, or if you both have school. Go to school together. "

"Princess Cadance" Sweetie Belle looked to her, Sweetie Belle wanted to ask a question since this seemed to be more adultish than she expected. "What if she wants to kiss Anon right on the muzzle?"

You step back in surprise. "WHAT KIND OF QUESTION IS THAT?!"

Sweetie Belle shrugged, she was genuinely curious "I just wanna know. It's a very important question. Two ponies who really like each other kiss all the time. I just want to make sure you're ready for it. And since Cadance is an adult, she'd know the best advice for it. See? Pretty logical huh?"

...greeee..dammit. "Mnn...fine..ok, so, what happens if she decides to...err...kiss me."

Cadance seemed a little hesitant on this one. There was just something about you that now struck her as odd. But she couldn't figure out what it was. "Well...Anon, kissing is a very natural act between two ponies that like eachother. But only if they both want to kiss, so as long as one of you isn't forcing the other, then it should be fine. If you don't want to kiss her, just, let her know." And Cadance reasoned if that was the case then eventually things would settle down, like all schoolyard crushes do. Though she did find it cute that it was blooming at all. The only thing nagging her was just...you...something about you

You planted your face gently to the bed. Well then, it seemed you were destined to at least take up trying to date her. Goddammit, and you knew that with her, you we're nearly mary sue levels of her liking you. Hell, you MUST BE a mary sue at this point when it came to her. You ask her out on a date and you could bet she was gonna jump right at you screaming "YES!" multiple times.

"Ok...t-thanks, I think I know what to do now" You really did, not only on dating. But...you had to watch yourself from being a colossal asshole. Women are always super sensitive when on a date.

Cadance put on a sweet smile and looked over to Sweetie Belle. "Sweetie Belle, I'm going to give you a royal task. a task that if you complete, I will grant you one royal wish."

"Woooooah, really!" Sweetie Belle's eyes grew wide and she began to hop about excitingly. "What is it!? what is it?!"

"I want you to make sure Anon is ready for his eventual date. Furthermore, I want you to write to me if he acts "out of place", so to speak" Cadance speaks as if she was making a royal decree. It irked you.

"So you want me to train him?" Sweetie Belle was now especially excited "Because I think I can do that! But, I thought you just wanted me to give him some pointers."

"Changed my mind, Anon's going to need a full education on how fillies are." Cadance felt that one of the things that was irking her. That somehow your inexperience with fillies was well beyond your own years.

Wuuuuut. You raise your head, looking at her with a confused and near belligerent look. "woah woah woah woah woah! what?! Now that's insulting. Are you saying I don't know how to act at all around a filly?!"

Cadance gave a single nod "Yes, that's why I decided you're going to need more than a few tips. In fact Anon, by my power as the Princess of Love, I ORDER you to let Sweetie Belle educate you." Cadance then lowers her head enough to be at your eye level. "Got it?"

What?! "Y-you can't just-"

"I just did. Of course..." Cadance looks to Sweetie Belle "That doesn't mean you can go overboard either"

"Hey, I got it. Trust me, I promise everything will go" Sweetie Belle stopped for a moment, and then prepped up her mane with her hoof "Everything will go splendidly, darling" She does her best to mimic her sister, despite the squeaky voice.

"Well, then there's nothing to worry about then. I know the both of you will do absolutely fine." Cadance felt pretty confident about it.

You didn't, you just put your head back down and groaned. "..I don't know about this anymore" You didn't. You already had it in your head the possibilities of a screw up. What did Sweetie Belle know that you didn't?

"Anon, it'll be ok..." Cadance lifts you up with her magic so she can look you in the eye again. "And even if something does go wrong, you can come here and ask for more advice. I already know you can get here without a problem. And if you need anything just ask my husband. He knows a thing or two about wooing a mare" Cadance let's out a cute giggle

"Mmm" You just hung there, her smile was a little comforting. But still, it's more success that made you worry. Not failure. "What if I succeed? I don't think I could handle a relationship right now. I'm staying with Twilight for a week and then there's school and Dad.....and Dad..."

Cadance gently puts you down, her tone turning to that of a more motherly tone. "Anon, you don't have to take this so seriously. I promise you this is the kind of relationship that will work just fine with whatever schedule you have. If there's moments you won't be able to spend time with her. Then I'm sure you'll understand. Same with her. There's no need to be nervous. You have the support of your family....mostly Fluttershy. And I know that if you decide to date Diamond Tiara during your time with Twilight, then I'm sure she will support you too....oh wait, speaking of which..."

Cadance nearly forgot you were staying with Twilight. "Anon, Anon. I just realized something..oh no" Cadance was suddenly reacting in a negative way, she was stressing about something.

"W-what's wrong?" What the hell could get her so worried? What did Twilight do? This instantly made you tense.

"Did Twilight know you were going to be here this long?" Cadance asked, she was already having it in her head that Twilight might sperg out, fearing that something could have happened to you.

"Actually, she didn't even know I...we'd be here. I told Spike where I'd be. But I don't think I told them the rest of my friends would be here" .......oh wait...that could be a problem.

"Yeah, she's going to worry herself sick. When the rest of your friends arrive, you should all get going. And make sure, if Twilight does ask...which she will… that you were talking with me and that everything is fine. Ok?"

You nod. Yeah, hey, that should be good enough for Twilight. Geez christ, how could you forget about her? That whole chase, and this whole love thing really made you forget about Twilight. Sweetie Belle understood too. Though not directly affected, she was wondering if Rarity was going to be worried about her whereabouts.

And then, as if on cue. There was a knock on the door. Oh shit...was that the press? Or..was it.. "Princess Cadance, the two fillies that accompanied the colt are here" A voice said from the other side of the door. "Shall I let them in?"

"Yes, let them in." Cadance replied.

The door slowly opened. And Applebloom and Scootaloo stepped in. Excited as can be. "Princess Cadance! Hey!" Scootaloo greeted, excited to be in the company of a princess.

Applebloom however, took notice of you and Sweetie Belle. "Sweetie Belle, why didn't ya get us sooner?"

Sweetie Belle shrugged "I didn't know where you were. I was taken to Princess Cadance the moment I said we were here to see her. Then I...kinda forget to ask her about you guys until there was a commotion."

As soon as Applebloom and Scootaloo arrived. All the conversations came to a halt to more of a relaxed casual shift. Namely, princess worship, how everyone's day was, lots and LOTS of wonders about the baby, and talks of aspirations and dreams. Even Cadance stealthily asking Applebloom a few relationship related questions. Which, it seemed Applebloom had very little interest in that anymore. Seemed anyway. You could sense something was amiss. But you'd hold off for now.

After that was done. Cadance hurried the four of you along to go home. Of course, you had to ask to use the bathroom to make a portal back home. Luckily, she seemed to have already known about the map. And to your major luck, your room was still empty...though the amount of pictures on the dresser had increased even further than before.

By the time you all got back to Ponyville via the town hall portal. It was already getting dark. Fuck, well..you had been there for awhile. And that chase must have spanned nearly half the castle or so. You knew Cadance still had time to hide if Twilight failed however. It must take the train forever to get to the Crystal Empire. Maybe...hopefully.

Everyone rushed back home with goodbyes and happiness in their hearts that nothing went wrong. The only ones who hung back was you and Sweetie Belle. Sweetie Belle hung back with you to set up a day for you and her to spend some time together. So she can help you. "So, tomorrow Anon?"

"Err...you mean the whole "date" help thing?" Of course she meant that. But, eggghh...Sweetie Belle, really? Could she really do anything?

"Yup! I'm going to make you into an actual Gentlecolt." Sweetie Belle felt pretty confident, arrogantly so "I'm gonna read all of Rarity's magazines tonight to get ready for tomorrow, so you better be ready"

You had to stop and think for a moment. enough so that Sweetie Belle's arrogance turned to worry. "Anon?"

Was there a reason to be hesitant? She liked you, you liked her. And it's not like you were human anymore. You weren't. You haven't felt human in awhile either. The only thing that stuck from the "old" days was your knowledge and mind. Cadance was right...Chrysalis was right. Decisions were already made. There was no use in fighting it.

You look to Sweetie Belle and apologize before looking at her with determination. "Sorry, I was just thinking. But yeah, I'll be ready tomorrow. Thanks for the help by the way."

Sweetie Belle nodded, then nudged your chest with her hoof "Don't mention it, but uhhh....you're gonna name one of your foals after me right?"

WHAT THE… "WHAT?!"

Sweetie Belle nearly fell over laughing from your sudden spaz, after a few giggles, she looked at you with a coy smile and said "Just kidding...but yeah, tomorrow, be ready."

Ugh, you almost felt your stomach drop with that one.. "Yeah, got it...eheh..." Egh, that wasn't funny. Oh lordy, please, don't let this be a bad decision.

And with that, you and Sweetie Belle say goodbye and go your separate ways. As you walk over to Twilight's castle. You..actually began to wonder about kids again. A little Anon, just like you. But..what if it was a girl? A cute little filly who looks up to you. Oh good lord, what if she ends up like DT? What if she falls for a colt? What if that colt turns out to be an asshole? Fuck, you now try to get that out of your head. Thinking of kids was already getting worrisome and in need of some asshole colt touching your future daughter getting an assbeating.

Then, as you approached the castle, something really worrisome hit your mind. You started to imagine an older Diamond Tiara, teenage years, With the dedication she had now. You began to imagine her coming to you one night, laying on her back as she looks at you with her slanted bedroom eyes, a black laceband on her left hindleg. It was so inviting, you could imagine an older you, ready to make her the happ- "OOMPH"

You smash your head at the front doors of the castle and fall backwards. "Aggh...geez, dammit..."

Well, that's what you get for imagining lewd thoughts. But ergh..it was so good, her mane was sprawled all along the bed...and NOPE..stop. you don't want to hurt yourself again. You get up, rubbing your head with your hoof, and go to knock on the door.

No answer

Hmmnn.....you could only guess.. Yup, you give the door a nudge and it opens. Of course.

You step into the main hall, gathering your thoughts as you walk over to the next set of doors.

Twilight was probably going to scold you, she was probably exhausted and stressed. Oh man....

It didn't matter though. Cadance was right. Just...take your lumps, apologize, and try to get through the evening.

You open the doors to the chamber with the cutie map. But....Twilight wasn't there. Well of course, she'd probably not wait up for you either. But what was on the table of the map is what caught your eye. There was a pile of colored....things.

You go up for a closer look. Upon further investigation. these were.. "Jigsaw puzzle pieces? Geez!" You look slightly up. there was a mountain of them. "What's all this then? Did she get bored?"

You say to yourself. you thought Twilight would be panicking. Not doing jigsaw. Though, it looks like the puzzle hadn't been started yet.

"I see you're back"

You jump forward. nearly hitting your head on the table. "Gyah...ugh..T-twilight?!"

You flip around. It was indeed Twilight. She had a large plate of..lasagna? Well, it was odd looking. Probably had something else in place of the meat. there was also two empty plates. and two cups..and....was that a bottle of apple juice? What is going on? Why isn't she angry?

"That's my name" Twilight said with a smile....why is she smiling?

She placed the plates, food, and drink on the table of the cutie map and looked over to the pile of puzzle pieces. "That's going to take me awhile to get it all together. Do you want to help Anon?"

Wuuuut? what is this creepy as shit vibe she's giving off? "Twilight..umm, can we talk, please?"

Twilight simply nodded. She used her magic to separate a piece of lasagna for herself and you on two separate plates. "Of course we can, are you hungry Anon? We got lasagnnaaaaa, Spike made it" She says in a sing song way. Did....did her mind break?

Your ear twitched from the caution you planned to take. You stepped one single step towards her, curious..and cautious. "Twilight, aren't you angry with me?"

Twilight lets out a sigh and frowns. Seems she was trying to keep up some sort of front. Or....errr...you couldn't figure it out. "Anon, I was. I was very upset with everything that happened. Even after managing to get those two to go back where they came from. I couldn't get over the fact that you just blurted out that my sister-in-law was pregnant...."

And you were sorry for that. if you didn't get so high strung… "I'm sorry that I did that. I really am.."

You look down, letting in the humility of your actions. Though, you had a feeling those two didn't actually go back. And instead tricked her. You weren't going to make any mention of it though. You were sure Cadance had it covered.

"I'm sorry too Anon, I didn't really think Princess Celestia's request over enough. You're not here to be babysat, and I shouldn't be the one to scold or discipline you at all, in any way, shape, or form. We are supposed to be here together, as if we were equals. As if you had already grown up. So...I realized we need to start over. I'd like to do this puzzle with you. It's my favorite one. But, if you don't want to. I'd understand." Her voice was so serene. Calmed yet with a tinge of sorrow.

Oh man..you knew what was going on now. Just like how you got told how you were fucking up, Twilight must have realized her own fuck ups when it came to you. And even though she wanted to try to fix it personally, she wanted to give you your own space to let you think and relax, even if it broke the point of you being there. Even willing to look past your blurting of Cadance's pregnancy. Maybe she really did believe she got rid of those two. And was able to calm down due to that belief.

You hop up on a nearby chair, it being Applejack's. And reach over to the pieces, you touch them, but you had no idea what this was or how to get it together. The amount of pieces was ridiculous. All you knew that it was a jigsaw puzzle.

You also, now understanding what was going on, didn't want to leave Twilight alone. You wanted to follow through with what Celestia wanted. You wanted to try not being as much as a douche as you have been, and most importantly. You wanted to be friends with the purple horse. For all the shit she has done, she also has been adorkable and always tries to be friends with everyone. You could still give it another shot.

"No..no, I don't mind. I like these kinds of puzzles. And you know, I don't hate you right? It's just...y'know...I'm not exactly what you'd call "happy go lucky". I have a more realistic view of things. I kinda have to, you know, staying with Dad and all. It isn't easy"

Twilight's ears perked up with hope. But she wasn't smiling quite yet. "I can only imagine. I never put too much thought into it but it must be pretty crazy being his son. I'm guessing he never acts "normal" around you, right?"

You let out a weak chuckle. "Y-yeah, he's always up to something. And yeah, sometimes it's something mean. And...I'll admit. sometimes being a part of it is fun. But he also does a lot of nice things. I don't think I could have done much of anything without him. Of course, unless it's for his benefit, he'd never admit to doing any good."

Twilight passes you a plate of lasagna with her magic as she starts organizing the jigsaw pieces while looking for edge pieces. "Well, I have to admit. He's been doing a very good job raising you. I'm sure you've heard this a million times already. But, you're...no, I want to say this instead. You're very intriguing. I don't know anypony, from anytime, that has ever come close to having a personality like yours. And the things you do? I never would have thought anypony could stand Discord's company for so long, much less be able just do what you did with Starlight. And then it makes me think. It's no wonder Discord adopted you. You're not part of the norm, you're very VERY unique. To the point that even your cutie mark shows it. And you're just a colt too. I can only imagine how you'll be when you grow up. And.....and....erm..."

Twilight started tapping her hoof on the table "I know I had a point, but" She laughs, she relaxes, and lets out a cute laugh "But I can't remember what it is. I guess my mind is still a little strung up, good thing we have this one hundred thousand piece puzzle to help get both our thoughts together, huh?"

Holy fucking shit, is she serious?! That many pieces?! Still, even without a point. You could tell Twilight was trying to accept not only you, but Discord as well. Well, she already accepted you. She just didn't accept how you were.

You start munching on some of the lasagna and looks over the pieces. "Yeah, sooooo. What's the puzzle gonna look like when we're done?"

Twilight shrugged, still smiling as she slides over your apple juice. "I don't remember, it's been so long. That's why I can't wait to get this done! This used to be my favorite puzzle when I was younger. It managed to survive, well..." Twilight looks up at her tree trunk chandelier of memories. "Ahrm...mmnn..well, I just want to get it all together to see what it is. And, I'm glad you're here to help me. I don't think I ever asked any of the girls to help me with a jigsaw puzzle before." Twilight lets out a small giggle "Not like Rainbow Dash would have the patience for something like this." Twilight's tone was kind of snarky with that last one

That made you smirk. You could imagine Rainbow Dash smacking the entire pile in rage from not even being able to find...hey! There's a corner piece. "Twilight, look!" You put your hoof on it and slide it close to you. "I found one of the corner pieces!"

"Good work Anon! the corners of a jigsaw puzzle are an important foundation to build from. We'll be done in no time now! Especially if we can find the other three corners."

...That praise, even though it was simple, it actually felt pretty good.

Chapter 187 - Twilight Week Arc

Both you and Twilight start looking for the corner pieces while at the same time, putting aside pieces for the edges of the puzzle. As you and Twilight sorted through, slowly finding the pieces needed, she decided to pull out a conversation starter. "Soooo, Anon. What do you and your father like to do for fun?"

You look up at her for a moment before going back to sorting. "What do you mean?"

"Well, I've noticed you and him seem to do a lot together. So I know he takes his role as being your father seriously. But, I'm interested in the kind of things you two like to do together."

You manage to find another piece, you set it aside. "Well, it depends on our moods. Sometimes we go out and actually do some good, we help others....sometimes we pull pranks."

You stop for a moment, realizing what you just said. You look to Twilight and put your hoof up. "A-and what I mean by that is a sort of...you know..innocent..fun sorta thing" You roll your hoofs about to put an emphasis on the word innocent. But Twilight doesn't seem to buy it, yet at the same time, she doesn't seem to want to berate you about it either.

But the tone of her voice still has hints of disapproval. "I see, well. It's good that the both of you are bonding. Yup, really really good. And i'm glad that you're causing the innocent kind of chaos..erm" Twilight quickly shifted topics "So what about you and your Aunt then? How do you like her?"

You smile a small smile at the thought of Fluttershy. She was so loving and caring. Even in the darkest days. She would do her best to make you feel better. "She's great! I'd actually prefer her to be my mom. But Dad is such a weenie sometimes. Just the thought of him being shipped together with her scares him"

At first, Twilight was giggling at the fact you called him a weenie until she noticed something about your sentence wasn't right. "Wait...you mean, being stuck on a ship with her? But, I don't think that's right either. He enjoys her company"

You said "Ship"...didn't you? "E-err, sorry. slip of the tongue." You chuckle nervously, then realize there was nothing to worry about. Not like she'd ever know where that word came from. "I meant..you know. He doesn't want to marry her, he's afraid of it."

You take a sip of your juice and a bite of your food. Noticing Twilight slowing her search as she grows curious. "You mean, your Dad has no romantic interest in Fluttershy?" Then suddenly, "something" hits Twilight, making her nearly giggle again "Oh Anon, that's adorable. You're trying to push him to admit his feelings for her, right? Wait.." Twilight leaned in a little towards you, curious. "....does he have romantic feelings for her?"

Huh....even you didn't really know. As much as any fan theory pointed to yes. The actual truth seems to be that it's his bane. He doesn't want to lose her friendship, but it seems actual commitment scares the living fuck out of him. Perhaps enough for him not to have any actual romantic feelings for her at all. It made you wonder what would happen if Fluttershy pursued him instead. Maybe then he'd slowly but surely give in.

"He doesn't, I think it hurts him or something. Like, literal hurt...oh hey!" You find the rest of the pieces you need. "We can actually start filling things in now."

Twilight nodded with a smile "Yup, all we have to do now is make the frame and start filling it in. But we have to make sure each piece is actually going in the right spot. Here..." Twilight takes all the edge and corner pieces and uses her magic to separate them from everything else. and then make a pile all its own. "Let's work on making the frame together!"

And so the both of you do. But goddamn, even with the edges, there's so many fucking pieces. And it's even bigger than you thought. You were taking your sweet time getting your part put together.

Twilight is having an easier time. She's both able to concentrate putting the puzzle together and speaking to you. "So, your father is allergic to love?" Twilight gently shook her head with a smile. "That's a new one."

You smirk at that, that was a funny way of looking at it. "Yeah, heh...oh hey Twilight, I got a question for you"

"What is it?"

...The golden question.

In fact, you can't believe you didn't ask this question before. Many MANY a fan had questioned if she herself was in love with anyone...notably....Flash fucking Sentry...now was the time...to ask… ".....do you have a special somepony?"

Twilight blushed just a little at the question, then looked at you with her nose scrunched up, she seemed both flattered and insulted. "Anon...you're too young for me."

WHAT?! "N-no! no no no! I don't mean me. I mean somepony else"

"Oh...OHHHHH" Twilight felt stupid thinking you meant that she liked you. She didn't think of you as anything more than a friend. But the question caught her off guard and embarrassed her. Making her think you liked her instead. "ohh....erm...I guess not...I...can't think of anypony. Is this even proper "jigsaw puzzle solving" conversation?"

Oh really, she's comfy talking about if Discord and Fluttershy can be a thing. But not her?... You give her a dirty little smile. "I think it is, that's what the topic is isn't it? Ponies that love other ponies? So....do you have one or not?"

Twilight tapped her hooves on the table. It was like she was thinking of something. Something to say? Or to dodge the question? Oh god....please no..PLEASE NO "Twilight?"

Twilight gulped "Does Smarty Pants count? He's my favorite doll you see. and erm...ugh..." Twilight puts her head down on the table and groans "...I don't have a special somepony. Let me guess, you have one right?"

Before you can even feel relieved. the fact that she now deflected the question back to you made you feel uneasy. Yet, that’s all you felt. Uneasy. You knew she'd know sooner or later the moment Sweetie Belle came by. For once, you didn't feel a need to panic. "Actually, I sorta do. I'm kind of working on it at the moment and...you don't mind Sweetie Belle coming over to give me some help. Right?"

Twilight groans again, her face right on the table. "Oh Celestia, even Anon has a special somepony"

......She actually cares about that?... Did she...ever care? Now you were worried again, but more for her. "T-twilight, I didn't think you cared about...things like that. You don't...do you?"

Twilight lifts her head slowly to look at you, she wasn't crying. She just looked frustrated. Frustrated for all of a moment until it hit her that she didn't actually care...she just got caught up in the moment. "Wait....I don't. I have too many things to do and so many things to learn that I don't have time for that. Besides, we still have this puzzle to finish and we barely even started. Ahh but I do see a few pieces already that we can...just.." Twilight magically gets a few pieces to fit into each other consecutively "There!"

So did she want one? Or didn't she?...so confusing sometimes.

Twilight then gives a wipe of her forehead with her hoof "I must still be a little stressed from today. And to think, I should have relaxed about everything by now. I know! let's try another subject. How about how you're doing in school?"

....God, Twilight was weird sometimes. "Er.....I wouldn't know. You know, things kind of keep happening that keep me from going."

Twilight bites her bottom lip and breaths in through her mouth, making a "fsss" noise. Yeah, she forgot about that too. "....right..ok, ummmmm. Well, what about future schooling? Is there any particular field of study you'd like to partake in?"

"Future studies? Ehhhh, not really. I'm not really looking for anything too ambitious. I'd rather live a easy and chillaxed life"

"Chillaxed?"

Ehh fuck, gotta watch your lingo. But it was getting late with this whole jigsaw thing. And really? Only Twilight was making actual progress at this point. It just seemed she didn't want to mention it to avoid making you feel bad. "It's just some of the lingo we foals use. It means relaxed. Chillaxed, relaxed, chill....You get it?"

"Oh..ohhh!" Twilight felt a little silly not realizing it before "I can't believe I didn't make that connection. But Anon, what do you plan to do if you don't want to pursue anything?"

"I dunno, shouldn't I worry about that when I'm older?"

"Well, yes. I guess..." Twilight growled and smacked her face with her hoof when she realized she was treating this maternally "Right, treating you like a foal. Not supposed to be doing that"

"It's fine, let me guess. You don't want me to grow up to be a chaotic troublemaker right?"

Twilight flinched from that "T-that obvious?"

"Like I said, it's fine. That's just you caring about me. That's how I've come to understand it." You look at Twilight with a raised eyebrow. "Has anypony ever told you you need to relax?"

Twilight pulled back a little. She reserved her feelings for a moment, not wanting to show that when she says "yes" that it may have been more times than she's willing to let on. "Yes, kind of. What, you don't think I can relax?"

"Well, you still seem kind of tense. Or is it really that hard to treat me as more of a stallion than as a co-" You sigh, that statement might be a little too assholish. "What I mean is, maybe WE should just try to focus on bonding better. Maybe then things will roll a little better"

Twilight gives it some thought, wow...that was actually a good idea. "You're right Anon,that might be the best way to do it. And I think I have the best way of putting that theory to the test."

That quick? "What? But, we're doing a puzzle together already. That'd be a good start, right?"

"Well, I mean later on Anon, And the idea itself is very simple. All we need to do is go on a field trip" Twilight, almost autonomously, starts to forge the puzzle together as she lists off and describes what she means. "We can go to a place and do things together like I'd do with my other friends. We could go to Apploosa or Manehattan. Anywhere really. And due to it being an environment where circumstances would most likely be out of our control. It would then end up being, and I mean this with every fiber of my being, a very fun and educational experience for the both us. How's that for a chance to bond? Hmm?”

Twilight gave you an arrogant smile. Why arrogant? You could only guess, but she probably thought her idea was the fucking best in the universe......though..it didn't sound so bad either.

"Hey, that's actually a great idea Twilight. I like it" It could be fun. Not like anything could go wrong. And being outside the castle could be best for the both of you.

"Good! then tomorrow I can start further planning and make travel arrangements and the day after will be our big big day!" She cheered

You gave her a warm smile. You felt that would show her best that you approve. Who knows, it could be even more fun than even you expect. Besides, her excited cuteness was giving you heart fuzzies.

The rest of the night went towards a more focused approach to solving the puzzle. With Twilight doing much better than you. But never calling attention to it. You have small conversations still. usually about how you felt about Ponyville, or asking Twilight her opinion on her other five friends. Things went great, so great that you didn't notice the puzzle was complete at some point until Twilight let out a big happy "Done!"

Done? "We're done? I didn't even...." Whatever, who cares. You were actually interested to see what picture the puzzle actually made. "Oh man...So what did...we...huh?"

You tilt your head, but no matter what angle you looked at. the picture was clear… "Books? all these pieces for...books?! That's the picture?!"

Twilight nodded, delighted and ecstatic that she managed to solve the puzzle with you. "Mhmm, one of my personal favorites really. You can never have too many books. Well..actually" Twilight puts her hoof under her muzzle and rubs, pondering "I guess if you have too many then it could be a problem. You'd have to sell some if you couldn't put up books on shelves anymore. Still, my point stands"

....Books. Well, at least it was fun. So fun in fact that you didn't even notice the time, or how tired you were. So tired that the surprise immediatly blacked you out, making you fall from the chair and slamming your head on the table before falling to the floor.

"A-Anon? A-re you...."

Sounds just drift away, as does the usual head pain as you drift off to sleep.

Day 2

The morning comes for you once again. The sun shining through the window....of Twilight's room. You actually get up on your own this time. Slowly, and groggily. "ughh...books...huh?"

You lift your head up and look around. You were back in Twilight's room. You found yourself on the bed she made for you. The blanket was carefully placed over you, tucked into you in such a way to keep you nice and snug.

Twilight must have brought you back to bed after you, well, you could only remember the chat you had with her and the results of the puzzle. So you must have fallen asleep. In fact, as you hop off your bed and look upon Twilight's, she was still sleeping in her bed, heh...she looked pretty cute when she was sleeping.

Spike was sleeping too. That actually got you thinking. You wondered what Twilight cuddles felt like. You walked over to her bed and hopped up like a cat to the top of it. There was no way you could position yourself under her wings. She was on her back, covered by a blanket, and facing upwards. Letting out little puffs of air with every breath.

Yeah, no real good way to snuggle with her this way. You give up, and decide instead to go to the cutie map room. Of course, grabbing your trusty saddlebag. A full horn charge once again being at your command.

You trek into the Cutie Map room. Wanting to see the puzzle's complete form once again. If Twilight still had it there that is. As you looked upon the table. You could tell it was still there, she left the box out and opened still. But as you drew near, a familiar blue pegasus was sitting at her chair. She looked bored, she was just resting her head on the table, as if she had been waiting for something...or someone..for quite awhile.

"Rainbow Dash? Heya, good morning. Is breakfast soon or something?"

Rainbow Dash lifted her head to attention, a little startled by your greeting. "Huh, what?...ohh.." She sighed at her own surprise and then turned her head towards you, her expression was of course, her usual sense of self importance. "oh, naah, I didn't wake up THIS early for breakfast. I actually came to see you Anon. I figured you'd be up early before Twilight woke up. Gives me plenty of time to check ya out"

Wut? "Uhmmm...what? I usually sleep in for one. So I guess that makes you kind of lucky. I probably just woke up because...hrnn.." You did notice your head hurt a little on the front, you didn't know why, but it was only a minor nuisance at this point. "My head, I think. And...why are you here to see me? What did I do?"

Like really, what the fuck did you do? Why was she here? and dat timing. What the fuck was this all about? Rainbow Dash hopped off her chair, she seemed to want you for something, but what could it be? "I came to see you because I decided to actually read yesterday's paper to see if there was any bad guys causing any trouble lately. And who do I see on the front page?"

...Wut? It had to be you, but why was that important? "Me?"

"Exactly, now at first I thought that was kinda cool. You being the hero colt and all, it didn't seem too weird that you'd eventually save somepony else from some creep. But the paper said you were using that horn of yours to beat up a couple of griffons. And then TODAY'S paper says one of them said some really weird stuff happened"

What was her point? Did she come just to tell you what she read in the paper? And what about your horn? She should have known it did that already. "Well, yeah. Chaos remember? Of course my takedown was going to be a little unusual. I gotta admit though.." You chuckle a little arrogantly "I must have looked really cool doing it, especially with that fedora and trenchcoat on. Yep, I admit. I did pretty darn good."

"I bet. I gotta admit, that sounds like something I would have really loved to see" Rainbow Dash was visually showing that she was impressed, but there was something irksome about it. Especially when it shifted to something that resembled that she was suspicious of something. "But, see. It's that kind of thing that bothers me Anon, the way you go heroing around and stuff, with that horn I mean."

Why would that bother her? "What? I'm not trying to steal your spotlight or anything. I was only doing a good deed is all." Was she jealous?

"And that's awesome, ain't nothing wrong with being a hero. I mean, just look at me" Rainbow Dash lifts off into the air and does a few tricks while speaking "I'm fast, strong, and most importantly, Super cool. I mean, top notch awesome"

She lands with a chuckle, before going back to that serious suspicious look. "Yeah....but, see. There's something that irks me about you now...so, I wanna ask. That horn can do anything right?"

...Did...she want to borrow the horn? "Sorta, but Rainbow Dash. I can't just lend you the horn if that's what you're asking. I don't even see why you came this early just to ask that."

"Woah, slow down there squirt. I didn't come here to ask for the horn. I don't need magic to be awesome. But, see. I was thinking. You see, right before Nightmare Night. I remember fighting this really weird unicorn that could do stuff even Twilight couldn't do. Everypony told me I was dreaming, but Anon..." She moved in closer, bringing her face close to yours as she shifts her eyes up and down, judging and analyzing you "I'm not so sure that was a dream"

Chapter 188 - Twilight Week Arc

You do your best to hold in your sweat, but you can feel a bead or two trickle down your neck. But you couldn't just tell her you "rekt" her shit… Well you could. And it would be funny. But this could snowball. First her, then Twilight, and given how last night went, you didn't want her coming close to thinking you had anything to do with that clown.

You quickly compose yourself and turn your head dismissively. "What are you talking about? I was in bed the night before. I had to be rested for a visit to Canterlot. I had no time to..err...what was it exactly?"

Rainbow Dash was still looking at you with suspicion. But she wasn't too clever, she wasn't Twilight. She couldn't come up with anything logical to beat that. So instead she came up with a crafty trick. "Ok, I guess you're right. You aren't as cool as that guy was. Nope, you're just a shrimp. I could just do this to ya.." Rainbow Dash uses her hoof to knock you to the ground on your side. Not hard, just a bit of a shove "And make you look like a total dweeb. But that guy, he was super cool. I would totally switch from the Wonderbolts to wanting to be that guy's partner in a second if I just knew who he was."

You let out a small yelp as you fall over. But it didn't hurt, you look at her with a scrunchy annoyed look. "I just told you, I don't know who you're talking about. Sheesh" You stand up and dust yourself off. "It was probably just a dream. No wonder you decided to try to come early. You just wanted to bully me into some kind of confession. That's pretty low."

You were on to her game already. A cartoonish trick to get you to say something about the event. But you knew not to make a goof up this time. Especially since she was trying just a little too hard.

But Rainbow Dash wouldn't relent, she just shrugged and went on. Continuing her ruse "Maybe it was, but wouldn't it be awesome if it wasn't? Whoever that pony was, I'd hang out with him every second I could get. He's cooler than Spitfire and Daring Do combined"

You raise your hoof to get her attention, but as you were about to speak, you realize something.
Oh shit, you almost said "I thought you said he was lame or something" Nope..NOPE..don't fall for it. don't say anything about it. DON'T. "Welp, good for you. I'm going back to bed. I'm still kind of tired. Seeya."

As you turn to leave, wanting to get out of there before you said anything stupid. Rainbow Dash calls out to you again. "Wait, hold on!"

You groan, stop, and turn around. "...What?"

"I have one last thing to ask before you go to bed. I want you to say...mnnn...what did he say again? RIGHT! right...I want you to say "Devil Trigger". I remember him yelling that out. Say it, and then I'll leave"

Whatever, not like you had to call it out. "Devil Trigger..there, seeya" You say it in an annoyed and unenthusiastic way. Prompting Rainbow Dash to stop you again.

"Wait, you can't just say it. You have to like, announce it"

Noooooope, that was another trap. "I'm going back to bed Rainbow, I'll see you later. I already said it, ok? I'm not him."

"Bah, come on Anon. Just say right and I'll go. How hard can that be?"

You wish Twilight would wake up right at this moment. You knew if she saw this, she'd probably get angry at Rainbow Dash bothering so incessantly.

"Rainbow Dash, don't you think this is a little..I dunno...abusive? In a foal sense?" Maybe that would get her to go away.

"I'm just asking a simple question. So are you going to do it or not?"

......

You turn around, and take a deep breath. If you were going to do this. You'd do it as wrong as possible. So you strike a pose, and say, in an overly, almost super heroish manner, a big loud and deep "Deviiiilllllll Triggggggggerrrr!....ahrmm....was it something like that?"

Rainbow Dash shook her head, that wasn't the way she wanted you to do it "Nuh uh, you gotta just like. Say it, but in a way that you're announcing it too"

Goddammit. "Look, that's the way I'd say it. Ok? I don't even know what a Devil Trigger is. What is it? Some sort of camera or something?"

Rainbow Dash was at this point, believing your counter ruse, or so you thought. But she still couldn't figure something out. That unicorn was clearly more powerful than Twilight and could fight at her level. If not you with that horn. Then who? "Fine..I'll leave you alone. And uh, Twilight doesn't need to know about this right? I mean, really. It was just a dream. And I WAS just asking questions"

Dammit..whatever… "Yes..ok..fine, it was just questions. Can I go to bed now?"

"Sure, and remember, I was never here...."

And with that, Rainbow Dash departed, frustration in her heart. She was sure you were the pony that she fought with. She was sure that fight was a reality. What other pony could do anything like that unless they had some magical bullshit horn? She was reasoning to herself that it wasn't any dream. It was just too out there. But she was determined to find out. Even if she had to take more drastic measures.

But she left. That's all that mattered to you. You took a moment to bask in the relief that you got her to leave without incident. "Dammit, that was close. That should be it though. I gotta be more careful with the damned thing if their gonna start getting more suspicious..." You let out a little yawn "Urgh....whatever...tired..sleeeeeeeeeep"

You groggily walk back to Twilight's room to catch a few more winks of sleep. You reach to open her door, but...it opens first. A re-energized, non tired Twilight already up to greet the day stands before you. She looks down at you, surprised, but ultimately happy that you're already up. "Good morning, Anon! Already up to seize the day, huh?" Twilight let out an excited giggle "That's great! That means we can spend some time right now before I do any major planning for tomorrow! In fact!" Twilight almost jumped in giddiness "We can go out for breakfast. I know a place in Ponyville that we can get some quick food. It's not too healthy, but colts love it! a perfect place for us to plan together."

....but.....but....beeeeeeeddddddddddd. You look up at Twilight with groggy, tired eyes. She looks back at you with happy, hopeful eyes.

fuuuucccccckkk....but you were also hungry. DAMMIT! THE FEUD OF FOOD AND REST!

You smile at her, as cheerful as you could make it. Your body straining at the thought of not getting more rest. How could she be up like this? She must have been awake longer than you with that damned puzzle. "S-sounds great Twilight. Haha, totally awesome idea"

That just made Twilight smile even more. Awwww....you actually felt pretty good making her smile...too bad that was only in mind. Your body was getting more achy by the moment..you just wanted a nap...just a nap.

"Great! Oh..wait...Anon..." Twilight notices you aren't looking as good as you could be. But she didn't think it was because you were tired. Rather, she thought you were sore or hurt. "Are you ok? Does your head hurt?"

You moan a little, dropping your act. It did a little, but your entire body was getting sore at this point. "Yeah, I think it's the reason I'm up so early."

Twilight looked pretty concerned. "Darn, Darn it! I knew I should have taken a closer look after you fell asleep. I didn't see any marks so I thought you'd be ok. But that thud I heard...mnnnn"

Twilight looked pretty frustrated and disappointed with herself. If you didn't have any marks on your head. That means you must have really been getting used to it. The headache must have been a natural one then. Ugh, you have been stressed lately..well..usually. It must finally be taking its toll.

"It's alright Twilight, I think it just might be a regular old headache. You got any like..pills? or something?"

"Anon, I don't think it's a headache. That's too coincidental. Maybe you should get some rest."

"No trust me, I hit my head..allloooottttt...please, just trust me. It's a normal headache. And I just need some pain meds or something, that's all"

Twilight held back, she wanted you to rest. But for this to work, she also had to let you make your own decisions. But she knew to still keep a close eye on you just in case. "Ok, if that’s all you need. Then I will help you with just that. But I don't have any medicine for headaches. But what I do have is a spell that reduces the pain of certain types of aches. I use it whenever I get..well...really really into something and end up not getting any sleep."

That sounds good actually. "Sure. let's do that. Whenever you're ready."

For Twilight, she had an ulterior motive for this. Although she was letting you have your choice, she still wanted to be a responsible adult. She felt this was a moment that letting you have a complete decision may actually not be as good an idea as she previously thought. Using this spell would determine if she would take you to the hospital. Because if it didn't work, then it was an injury and that was something she was going to take seriously if need be. "Alright, just hold still Anon. This will only take a second"

And like magic, your headache was gone. Well it was magic. You stepped backwards, and tapped your forehead. You were actually pretty amazed how the pain just vanished. Sure, you've seen a lot of crazy shit in your stay in Equestria. But for some reason, this fascinated you. "Woah... I don't feel anything anymore. Cool"

Twilight sighed in relief, you were right. And there was nothing to worry about. You notice her sigh, and give her a light hearted nudge. "See? Told ya, nothing to worry about" Except the fact you were still tired. But, nothing a little enthusiasm and the promise of food can't fix.

"I'm just glad you're ok. Do you still want to go out for breakfast Anon? Or are you not up to it?"

...Fooood. "No, I'm good to go. Really, super fine now. But hey, um. About the field trip. Did you have any ideas come to mind?"

Twilight nodded "Mhmm, we could talk about it on the way. And of course if you have any suggestions. I'll be completely open and willing to listen to anything you might have."

Perfect...because you had nothing.

With that, you and Twilight made off to that fast food joint to talk and eat. The morning sky of Equestria, was of course, always a sight to behold. The air was clean, the sky was clear, and nothing but pleasant faces as far as the eye could see. You and Twilight walked alongside one another. You started to think about Sweetie Belle. She'd most likely show up later in the day. You had to be prepared for that. Not because you felt unsure, but mostly because you were sure at least a quarter of her suggestions were going to be retarded.

Meanwhile, Twilight had some thoughts about that headache that hit you. It made her think to ask a certain question. "Anon, have you ever been to the spa?"

The spa?...ohh right. The spa twins were there. Lotus and Aloe...if you remembered their names right. "No, why?"

Twilight looked away from you for a moment, a smile on her face as she spoke in a tone that was meant to entice you. Not sexually of course, just in a way to get you interested. "Weeeellllll, considering magic alone doesn't completely help with a headache. I was wondering if you'd like to see what being in a spa was like. It's very relaxing"

.....Weird. A part of you is saying "FUCK YES, THE TWINS! MASSAGE ME EVERYWHERE", but another part was telling you "That sounds nice, it'll help destress me when things like Sweetie Belle happen. I bet the spa ponies are nice, Wonder how Diamond Tiara is doing".

"Sure, I wouldn't mind. Ogh..” You give yourself a stretch. "I could do with a relaxing massage" Then you realized something.... "Wait, Twilight. You don't have to be that nice you know. Remember? Equals?"

Twilight nodded "I know, but this is how I'd treat any new friend. It's perfectly natural for me to want to show you a good time. Relax, Anon. I promise you, everything is going to be just fine"

Hmnnn..maybe you were worrying too much.You'd just have to take her word for it. She didn't seem to be sperging out. So...yeah. ok. Things should be good. No problem.

And so Twilight and you went on your way. You both make some small talk on your way to the fast food place. You could never remember the name, was it Hayburger? And it still seemed odd to you that Ponyville even had a fast food place. But then again, they also have a bowling alley and roller rink.

You both enter the establishment, and go to make an order. You let Twilight go first as you think of what to get. As she makes an order of eggs, milk, and buttered toast. You took a look around the place. There was something amiss. While many of the ponies were quietly eating their food. A few were eyeing the both of you. But was it the both of you? Was it Twilight? or..was it you?

Twilight stands aside after making her order to let you make yours. You made an order of milk and eggs, but you ask for waffles and syrup. Waffles and Syrup is a damned good, why wouldn't you order it? From the bit amount that it seemed to cost off the breakfast menu. It was just a trifle to you.

Twilight made no mention of paying for your food for you. Though, you knew if you asked. She probably would. But, of course. You could easily pay for it.

Twilight didn't need to use her mouth to carry her tray of food to a nearby table. Of course, you did. You had to take your steps carefully as to not have everything go to one side. Sometimes you wonder how anyone can do this day in and day out. Handle things with their mouths. Then again, you were used to it after your first days bumbling with your hooves and such. But you could imagine most humans going mad from having to even try.

Finally, you could sit, relax and talk with Twilight. You look down at your food and start munching away. Ehhh, it was ok. Not as good as when it's made at home though, But what is? "So, that field trip thing. I was giving it a little thought. And I was wondering if...well..."

Actually you weren't giving it much thought at all. But you wanted to be the first to suggest something. "The Everfree Forest? Maybe?"

But Twilight lit up, it seems...that was a good idea? Maybe? "That's actually a really good idea, Anon. Of course, planning a safe route is key to make sure we stay out of any kind of danger. And as long as we don't go too deep inside, we'll be fine. Many a pony both old and young have camped within the forest without any trouble. So I'm sure we'll get along just fine." Twilight could feel a certain feeling build up within her, it was excitement. She was delighted that you had an idea to mention before she did. And it was a darned good one too.

"So, you really like the idea?"

Twilight nodded "Of course I like it. I can even introduce you to my friend Zecora, I really think you'll like her. And then we can go and camp, make a fire, and tell each other spooky stories and erm.....uhhh..." Twilight began to feel stumped. "Hmm..I might have to read a little on how to camp properly in the woods. Or ask Applejack for some advice. It shouldn't be too difficult to learn if foals can do it."

You begin to smile. She was really trying. You were actually looking forward to this now. If you were in the woods with Twilight. That meant nothing could bother you two. Nothing could just spring up to cause an argument. And you and Twilight had more than enough firepower to handle anything in the forest. Even if you only had one shot at it.

But your smile began to wane as you took a look around. There were ponies staring at the both of you. It made everything feel...irksome. Why were they doing that?

Then suddenly, you feel a nudge and poke at your right flank. You look down at your seat. And right next to you with a small filly. Probably younger than the CMC. looking up at you with great big eyes and a notepad in her mouth. Her tail wiggled from left to right. What in the?

The filly was peach in color, with a yellowish and well kept mane that curled at the front. Her eyes were blue. Her tail had a cute little ribbon tied at its base. The filly puts her front hooves right at the edge of your chair to lift her upper body high enough to spit the notepad onto the table. She then gets back down and looks back up at you with a cheery, sickeningly sweet smile.

"Are you the hero colt?" She asks.

Wut? "Uhhhh, what do you mean?"

"Are you the colt that beat those meanie foalnappers and those griffons that were in the crystal empire?"

"W-where did you hear about all that?" Well, you figured how she knew..but dammit. What did she want? Given the notepad, could it be an autograph? Why?

"My parents, and the paper. I can read and write all by myself. And I really really like heroes! But the heroes are always adults who don't really want to talk to us foals too much. Always busy. That's why it's great to finally have a hero close to my age!" She giggles happily and bounces to the left and right in excitement "Would you mind signing my notepad please? And can you make it out to Star Prancer? That's me by the way! It's so cool really, you are even hanging out with Princess Twilight....I wish I could hang out with a princess and a hero like you"

........FUCK

....GODDAMMIT, THOSE EYES. THOSE ADORABLE SOFT EYES!

She was nearly tearing up from just being near you and Twilight. It seems Rainbow Dash wasn't the only one curious about you from the recent news. And while you found Snips and Snail's hero worship annoying. This adorable little filly's attention was just fine. You just wanted to pick her up and give her a big hug.

You scooch over on your seat to give her a place to sit with you for awhile. You even pat the spot to let her know it was ok to jump up and sit.

A big big big smile forms on her face "R-really?! I-I can?!"

.....Awww. "Sure, you don't mind, right Twilight?"

Twilight was just silently enjoying the moment. While internally she was a little worried that the sudden attention could get to your head. You seemed to be handling it just fine. "I don't mind at all, though. You can just call me Twilight. "

Twilight giggles at the adorableness of it. The little filly hopped up and nearly fell off. She then took the moment to nuzzle into you gently before looking up at you, her tail still waving

"Look at that Anon, you have a little admirer." Twilight said cheerfully

You felt..kind of uncomfortable that she was getting this close. But, she was just a very young filly. Nothing bad could come of this. "Yeah...so erm..your name is Star Prancer?"

"Uh huh! You remembered, yay!" She cheered. Yeah...it's not like she just said it or anything. Still, her naive cuteness was endearing.

"Heh, hey. Well, it's a beautiful name. So, do you have anything for me to write with Star Prancer?"

Star Prancer pointed at the rings of the notepad. a small pencil was in between them. "Mhmmm, it's there..and..erm.." She looks up at you with big glistening eyes "Do you really think I have a beautiful name?"

D'aaaawwww. Whatever this was. It was clear you had somehow become an important hero in her eyes. "I think so, so let's see....hmmm"

You reach your mouth towards the pencil and grab the end, then holding the notepad firmly down on the table with your hoof you write "To my biggest fan ever, Star Prancer. Yours truly, Anon"

You then slip the pencil back into the ring and look towards the young filly, who was beaming with joy. "There you go! For my biggest fan, which would be you Star PrancGYAGH!"

She hugs onto tightly, such strength for such a tiny filly, and speaks quickly to the point you have a hard time understanding her. All while Twilight is having a giggle.

"thankyouthankyouthankyouthankyou"

"N-ngghhy-y-yyour...w-w-welcome" You didn't want to push her off. But dammit, you were going to die at this point.

After giving you the hug of both your lives. She nudges the notepad towards Twilight. "And erm...c-can I have your autograph too Princess Twilight? Please?"

Twilight didn't seem to mind. Probably because there weren't three fillies trying to ride off the fact she was a princess. And she seemed innocent enough. "I don't mind at all. Let's see..." Twilight's horn lights up as the pencil is enveloped in a purple aura, Twilight writes "You're destined for great things, Star Prancer, always be studious and kind, So decrees Princess Twilight Sparkle"

Twilight makes an audible chuckle as she writes that. She thinks that will get Star Prancer to smile and to work hard to achieve her dreams.

Star Prancer takes her notepad and gazes upon the signatures. She was as happy as can be. She even does a little bow to Twilight "Thank you so much Princess Twilight, it's a super big honor to have this"

"I'm glad and.." Twilight gets up from her seat, and stands in front of Star Prancer. Giving her such a gentle smile "As I said, you don't have to call me Princess. You don't need to bow either" Twilight moves her foreleg a little to invite Star Prancer for a hug.

Star Prancer just looks on with awe "C-can I really?"

Twilight nods, and before she can get a word out. Star Prancer goes for the hug. Twilight let's out a puff of air. But thanks to her size, she's capable of handling the vice grip of the hug. It was such a heart warming sight. It made you smile.

Internally, you also thought that maybe. Being treated like a mary sue....just a little...wasn't so bad.

Star Prancer was very thankful, and taking her notepad, she giggled happily from being able to meet the both of you. "Thank you, the both of you. Thankies Thankies so so much. You're both super inspiring. And I bet, with these autographs. They'll let me into the club now! All thanks to you. I want to bow to show my respect...b-but. You know, you don't like it when I bow. B-but thank you both. Super duper much! Bye!"

Club? Wut? Twilight didn't seem to react. So she either didn't hear it, or she didn't connect it to anything. But a club? Through autographs? Now, you could tell she was happy to meet the both of you. But....you needed to know the story on what she meant on that. Why would a club not let her in without those signatures. "W-wait! Star Prancer. Can I ask you a question?"

She quickly made a 180, excited, what question she thought, could you possibly have for her?

"Y-yes? I dunno if I can answer any question you might have. But I'll try!" She was...extremely eager. Even Twilight seemed confused as to what you wanted to ask her.

"You mentioned a club...what kind of club?"

"Oh! Yeah, it's the hero colt's club! Based after you, the Hero Colt! Isn't that great. It's new and it allows all future heroes but...." She sighs, her smile finally breaking. "They said I was too small, and too girly to be a hero. B-but now? they should let me in now that I have both yours and Twilight's autograph! They gotta! I wanna be a hero just like you!"

You look to Twilight, to see what facial expression she was giving. To see how she thought of that. And it didn't look good, she looked pretty damned irked.

"A fan club based on Anon? Am I hearing that right?" Twilight's expression began to dim more and more as she began to feel a familiar dread.

Star Prancer nodded "Mhmmm"

....who the fuck would open a club based on you?...it couldn't be Discord. He wouldn't do that to get a rise out of you. "...uhhhh...who exactly started up this club?"

"Snips and Snails. They are weirdos, but, they already have a few members and since it's based off of you. I wanted to join too. And now that I know how great you truly are, I REALLY wanna join."

Chapter 190 - Twilight Week Arc

This lasted for some time. Lotus asked if you had anything you'd like to talk about to help you relax. But you were already there. Holy shit, this place must make a lot of money because you'd be willing to throw in whatever money you actually have to spend a week in here.

After it was finished, you felt refreshed. Your hooves felt soft, clean, and...ehh..you kind of didn't want to step on them now. You got the feeling of perfection in your mind. Woah..actually, this is how Rarity must feel when it comes to staying clean. You didn't want to get your hooves too dirty. But...they were hooves. So as long as you didn't step into mud or anything.

Next up was apparently the massage, the big one, the real reason you came here. Lotus leads you into a private massage room. Private...heh...the thought kind of made you a little lusty. And her ass as you followed her, If only you could have a touch. It looked..so..perfect.

The room looked like one of those massage rooms in the movies, white all over and yet luxurious just the same Though it was smaller to accommodate ponies. Lotus asks you to lay on your belly on the massage table found in the middle of the room.
You hop up and stretch yourself out on your belly. Oh man, now was the time… Actually, you wondered something. You were pretty small..has she?.. "Can I ask you a question?"

Lotus closes the door behind her and pulls a lever under the massage table to adjust it for your size, making it bend just a little and lowering it down so she can reach your back. "Of course you can.”

"Have you ever had a filly or a colt as a client before?"

Lotus looked over your back carefully, it was like she could visually see every tense spot along your backside "But of course, many a pony visits the spa. And of all ages, it is my job and a pleasure to be able to spiritually heal all who steps beyond the door."

Oh....well ok then. "oh...do you mind if I ask you another que-eeeeehhh" You feel something cold along your back. You turn your head and you could see her pouring a bottle of liquid along your back using her mouth to squeeze the bottle.

After pouring enough of the massage oil along your back. She gently spreads it along your coat with her gentle hooves. "Did you mean to ask me another question, Anon?" She giggled, finding your reaction amusing.

Oh god..she hasn't even started and you got the urge to just stick a dick in it. You try to get your thoughts composed, you had a question alright. You wanted to know if she… "E-ermm..I j-just wanted to ask..."

Actually, you should put that thought out of your head. She was out of your league, and as you got more of your mind back. You realized it'd be stupid since you got Diamond Tiara to woo....sooo. "It's about a girl, and well..you're a girl who seems to be of umm...rich taste. What do rich girls like?"

Lotus became a little worrisome on that question. She hoped she hadn't done something to give you a crush on her. "Anon, what exactly would you mean?"

"There's this girl I like...and I know she likes me. But we've never dated and I kind of want to make sure that she likes my more natural side. So, ummmm..that's why I wanted to ask." You felt both nervous yet relaxed. It was an odd sensation to be mentally worried but physically soft.

"Anon, I am but a simple pony who works at a spa with an eye for the luxurious. Nothing more,"

"But, you're a girl, and you've been around rich girls. What do you think they like?"

Lotus put a little more thought into it since you were being insistent, and you were the client after all.

And this was a question you felt Lotus was more qualified to answer. Because for fucks sake, Sweetie Belle was probably going to put you through the ringer in the nonsense carnival. "Well, if you really care about this filly. And she already cares about you. Then I imagine all you have to do is be yourself." Lotus gives you a sweet grin with that squee sound.

...Dammit, that's a damned generic response. You already knew about doing that and that was something you couldn't even do completely. You needed cheap workarounds that'd impress Diamond without having to resort to "dur hur hero colt". "Gotcha....anything else?"

"No, that's all I have, are you ready for your massage?" .....she says it in such a way that it just makes you make a silent sigh. Dammit...whatever, it's fine. It's not like you were a terrible sperg or anything.

“Yeah, I'm ready to go" And the moment you let her have at it, your mind explodes in tingles. That oil, her skill, her soft hooves pressing, patting, and rubbing your back. This was it...perfection.

And while it was perfection to you, Lotus seemed rather troubled as she continued to massage your back. "Oh my..every part of your body has the tenseness of an old stallion. How does one so young accumulate such stress?"

You can't answer, you were in too much bliss. Holy fuck..was this better than even sex? You didn't know. Lotus didn't let it stop her work. But she didn't know anything was truly wrong until this point. When she was massaging your head. She could feel several bumps. As if you had incurred many many injuries. but she said nothing as to make sure you wouldn't be troubled. But this? It was almost like you had lived as an adult already, due to the worries one must have to be so tense.

"Anon, if I can ask YOU a question. I just..have to ask...." She wanted to ask if you were abused or something. Just..what she was feeling...it was odd. But she knew not to be too direct. "What exactly do you do with your time?"

What kind of question was that? What you did with your time? Ohh..ohh..she was probably making small talk. Not like your mind was completely focused on answering anyway. You just hugged onto the small pillow on the massage table. nuzzling your face into it. "Aaaahhrrmmm..." You let out a satisfied sigh "I just..do thing..I-I guess. Hero stuff, school stuff, and then there’s my Dad..hehe. You can say my..ermm..nnnmmmmmmm." You almost couldn't finish your sentence. "I...live..a life that never stops..I-I guesssssmnnn"

Lotus just nodded as she massaged your back. Huh, that's right. You were the famous hero colt that was gaining fame across Equestria. Maybe she was overthinking, she just hoped you weren't into anything that was actively ruining your delicate body. But she was an expert. Throughout the entire session, she massaged you into being such a cuddly, babbling, soft bundle of fluff that you were left unable to speak words. "All done, how do you feel Anon?"

"......mmarrnnnggmmnnnnddddaaa” Your eyes almost rolled to the back of your head, it was that good.

"I'm glad you're satisfied. When you're ready, you can get up and meet with the princess. I'll leave you to your thoughts. Please don't feel rushed, you may leave whenever you are ready. And it was a pleasure being of service." With a small bow, Lotus left you by yourself.

You look slightly upwards, you could see the wall..it was a nice wall..you wanted to touch the wall. Your mind was lost. Lotus's handiwork left you in a euphoric haze. You try flipping about to lay on your back, but instead you end up falling off the table. And right on your head. And yet, this time, you didn't whine..you didn't complain. You just picked yourself off the ground and walked forward, out of the room, dazed and relaxed. As if your head had not incurred a single injury.

Outside, waiting on a seat in the lobby, was Twilight. When she saw you, she gave you a wave and called out for you. You barely heard her. You just followed the sound of her greeting and walked right up to her and nuzzled on her side. "I love you Twilight...hnnnnngmmmmm"

Twilight was weirded out by your demeanor. What was going on with you? "Errr..I...love you too? Anon, are you alright?"

"Massage good...good forever...nmmmm" You just continued to nuzzle into her. Enough that she got uncomfortable and scooched to the side, away from you.

"The massage? Anon, are you alright?" Twilight puts more of an emphasis on asking if you were ok. You weren't really responding...normally.

You looked up at her with a goofy smile and nodded. "Best..thing...ever" You never had that kind of massage before. You never ever spent time at a spa or had anyone touch you in a way to hit all your pressure spots. It was like every bit of tenseness in your body was gone. You felt like a new man.....horse...pony.

Twilight didn't know whether to worry or laugh. She looked over to Lotus, who had returned behind the counter "Did..you do anything different in his massage?"

Lotus shook her head, she found your reactions a little odd as well. "No...I think he's just like that"

Or rather, you were so relaxed that nothing else really seemed to matter. Nope, you were either nuzzling on Twilight or that nice soft waiting couch..it was nice...that couch...maybe you should ask it on a date.

"I'm just.....going to take him home now....." Twilight lifts you up with her magic as you giggle at the fact you were hovering above the ground.

"Yes..and...thank you for choosing our spa for your relaxing needs. Please, come again" Lotus just..didn't know how to properly say that. Did she do too good a job? She was irked.

Twilight takes you outside the spa and holds you at eye level with her magic. You were still smiling. "Anon...are...you ok? Really? What happened?"

"You're cute..." You giggled

"I..uh..Thank...no never mind. This needs to be done" Twilight gives you a small zap with her magic. Making you flinch and it instantly puts you out of your daze.

"Ouch! Hey, what the hel........" Wait....oh crap, that's right...you were a pony..in Equestria...riiiight....and..woah. "abalu...was..that for? haha"

You chuckle nervously, but that only irks Twilight enough to give you another zap.

"OUCH! fine fine, I'm awake, i'm mindful...geez!"

Twilight gently puts you down as your mind returns. yeah, all those stressful things coming back to you. As well as everything else. Damn, you could remember the massage. But how good it felt? It was like a dream you loved but easily forgot...you just remember it being the best.

"I'm sorry Anon, but you were acting all weird and uhh..invading my personal space a little too much. What happened?" Twilight asked. She didn't realize that really. It was just the massage that put you in the dreamy zone. In all actuality, the fact that RD made you miss some extra sleep didn't help.

"I...I don't know" You shrugged. "One minute I was at the spa, next..it was like a dream. It had been so long since everything felt...nice"

Ohhhh. Twilight started to think that she understood. "Well..that certainly confirms what your aunt has said about you"

Fluttershy? "What do you mean?"

"What I mean is you have a soft spot for affection. I thought she may have exaggerated, but I guess she didn't. You become like a little baby foal when you're loved on...and thinking about it." Twilight lets out a cute little laugh "That's actually kind of adorable, considering it's you.”

Considering what now? Hold on, you weren't..well...you were cute. But not to be mocked like that. You frown at her, slightly annoyed at her insinuation. "Hey!..come on. I'm not that bad..I just got too much into the moment. You know, like you do when you're reading a good book."

But Twilight was still letting out small titters at the thought of it. "Maybe so, but it doesn't make it any less cute. It's no wonder Fluttershy is so attached to you. I think she really thinks you're just a little foal who needs protecting all the time."

What?! come onnnnnn… "I-I'm not that bad. It's not that bad..it's just...I already said it, I don't need to say it again!...argh..let's just go."

Your reaction intrigued Twilight, enough that she thought back to when she invited you,sorta by force, to read with her at the end of the day. She intelligently put two and two together. And wanted to tease you a little. Since you weren't reacting with too much animosity and it was just so darn cute. Plus, she just wanted to experiment...make a test."Alright Anon, but...let me ask you this. When we read Daring Do. Instead of laying next to each other. How about you cuddle next to me under my wing. As I hear, you really enjoy that"

You stop..... that bitch...THAT...BITCH......fuck....that sounded nice "...I.....erm...I mean....that's your call. It doesn't matter to me. I'm a guy, I don't need to get comfortable like you do"

Twilight smirked, but she wouldn't pursue it further. That pretty much confirmed you had a weakness for affection. It seemed to butter you up. It made her curious as to see how you'd react when nestled under her wing. She hoped it would make you be more cooperative and friendly.

For you however. You were both internally cursing Twilight and yet.....curious as to see how...dammit don't be curious. It's Twilight. She's gonna make you read a book. You didn't need a book. You had done tons of internet reading. You didn't need horse books. Especially since Daring Do was fucking real. Yeah....yeah...right...

You both travel back to the castle. You don't say much to each other at that point. Or...you actually are the one avoiding too much conversation. She was up to something. You just knew it.

....Speaking of up to something. When you both get back to the castle. There were mannequins set up around the cutie map...small mannequins...colt mannequins.. And then behind one of them, was Rarity.

Rarity? It seemed she was adjusting the clothes on one of the mannequins. Sweetie Belle was there too, sitting on Rarity's seat.....she looked.....really annoyed.

....Joy...

Twilight noticed Rarity and the mannequins And she didn't understand what the hell was going on. But because it was Rarity, she also wasn't distraught. She was merely curious as to what was going on. As for you, you knew why Sweetie Belle was here...but why also Rarity? And why did Sweetie Belle look annoyed?

You walked over to Sweetie Belle as Rarity spoke to Twilight. "Heya Sweetie Belle....what's up? You look er...unhappy about something."

Sweetie Belle looks at you, she was sitting on that chair with her head laying on her hoof. She looked so grumpy. "You think?"

Ouch, that was a little venomous...was she mad at you? "....Not anything I did right?"

Sweetie Belle shook her head, then lifted her head so she could point at her sister. You look over to Rarity, who seemed to be discussing something about you with Twilight. She looked pretty excited....and if she was pretty excited. Ohhhhh...it's that trope. "Let me guess, she found out what you were doing for me and you're annoyed that she wants to help. Right?"

Sweetie Belle blinked in confusion. She was surprised and utterly confused that you managed to get it exactly. "How did you know?"

You almost smirk about managing the guess. That's pretty good stuff. But you hold it in. Didn't wanna piss of Sweetie Belle. "Ehhh, well. You didn't mention anything about her coming along. So...I'm guessing she sort of kinda imposed herself."

Sweetie Belle let out a groan and bent over onto the table. Annoyed. "Tch, yeah. But she said she'd be my assistant. And SHE better keep it that way. This is a royal mission given to me by Princess Cadance. And I want to show that I can do this."

You look around at the mannequins. "And what are those for?"

"Oh that?" Sweetie Belle looks around at all the mannequins, then looked upon you. Eyeing you for some reason. As if she was trying to imagine you as something else. "She wants you to try on a few things. Saying that a "Filly of Diamond Tiara's position" should have a colt with "visual flair". It's kinda a good idea. But she's gonna make you look like a dork."

You were right. Rarity probably just wanted to help though. And really, Rarity was probably the better choice. Especially when it came to clothes. You felt pretty confident she could make you look stylish.

Sweetie Belle then notices something odd about you. You seemed shinier and cleaner than usual. "So what were you doing all day?"

"Oh..er, I was at the spa."

"Oh. Well that's good then. That should help you get super prepared for the date. But remember Anon" Sweetie Belle hopped off her sister's seat and looked at you with serious and hardened eyes. "You have to pass my test before you're ready. Or else you're just gonna screw things up."

Wut? You actually take offense to that. You weren't THAT bad. "Woah hold on, Diamond is already head over hooves over me. I just need some sprucing up. Not some sort of major change."

Sweetie Belle sighed as her horn began to glow and spark. Her eyes were half closed. "It's a good thing I brought this..."

Brought what? You took a quick glance to your right only to be whapped with a newspaper on the left side of your face. "Wha! HEY! What was that for?!"

"For talking back to a lady like that. You're being high and mighty again. Nopony likes it when you're being a jerk"

But...BUT, she's the one that… "What?! how am I the jerk when you j-OWW!"

She whaps you again. This time on the head "Just accept it Anon. I gotta be hard on you or else you'll just screw things up"

Grrr...how humiliating. Being smacked up by the marshmallow of the fucking group. And you were the one being high and mighty apparently… "Fine..ok" You take a moment to rub where she hit you. Dammit, who would of thought getting hit by a rolled up newspaper would sting.

"Good" Sweetie puts the newspaper onto the seat and starts to eye you over. Then she starts circling around you "Anon, this isn't going to be easy. I gotta somehow make you into the sweetest and nicest colt ever. You may be a hero, but you're also kind of a mean guy."

.....You nearly growl.. Where does she get off? "But that's why I'm he-"

"Anon, darling! can you come here a moment. I'd like to talk with you about something" Rarity called out for you. And already you could see Sweetie Belle getting further frustrated.

Sweetie Belle looks over to where her sister is, who stood at the far end of the room with Twilight, using her magic to cycle through outfits. "Rarity! hold on. I already started."

Yikes, Sweetie Belle seemed extra agitated. Seems she really did want to do this on her very own. Maybe she just wanted to prove she could complete a royal request by herself?

"I can see that Sweetie Belle, but you can't just expect Anon to follow along unless he's well dressed for it. He needs to practice while in the clothes he plans to wear. That way if there's anything extra to learn, he'll be ready to learn it. It's what all the young gentlecolts do to prepare themselves for these sort of things" Rarity explains

Sweetie Belle let out a groan, then whined at her sister. She walked up to her at a slow pace while rolling her eyes. "Rarity, you said you'd be my assistant."

"And I am, You'll still do whatever you want to do. But you can't expect me to let you teach him what you..erm..." Rarity actually did feel she'd be the better teacher. But, she promised her sister she'd take an assistant position. And in her mind, she was doing just that. She also had a little doubt in her sister's abilities. "..plan to teach him looking like that. It's just a teeny tiny miniscule detail in the grand design."

Twilight just stood there, observing. She didn't know what she could add to this now that it was actually happening. But she was definitely intrigued by it. You, needing girl training? She found it fascinating due to how abstract it seemed.

"You promise? You'll let me handle the major stuff?" Sweetie Belle asked, she really… REALLY.. wanted this. Yeesh, her and Cadance must have really bonded during their short time together..

"But of course, I already promised haven't I? I am your assistant....." Rarity does a courteous bow, Then looks to you, snapping back to her luxurious self. "Now then, Anon. Can you come here for a moment?"

...Oh lord. so this is how it was going to be? Well...it shouldn't be too bad. This was Rarity afterall. As long as you don't bitch and complain, she should do a damned good job. Just gotta remember not to step over Sweetie Belle's hooves too. You had to act as if Rarity was part of the smaller picture. "Yes, of course miss Rarity. Ma'am"

You walk over to Rarity, who immediately gives you a gentle pat on the head "I don't even see why you need any conditioning, you seem to be the gentlecolt you always are."

To Sweetie Belle, that was a threat to her cause. But to Twilight, the fact that at this point she was getting used to who you were. She found the fact Rarity considered you a gentlecolt at this point very....off. "Rarity, you don't think Anon needs a little help with his attitude?"

Rarity scoffed at the very thought. She only really thought you needed a better wardrobe. "Whatever do you mean? Anon has always demonstrated a sense of class and respect. Even if he does do something less than proper from time to time, he still acts with the utmost of respect towards his fellow ponies. I've never seen him ever need an attitude adjustment. Don't tell me you let that whole Starlight fiasco sour your opinion. Remember, He was only helping a friend. And yes...I completely remember what she did to us. But that was then, and this is now....."

Rarity looks to you and raises her hoof above you, in a presenting manner. "And our little hero colt, on his own, has demonstrated both amazing bravery and remarkable diplomacy by making friends and even rehabilitating Starlight Glimmer." Rarity didn't seem to understand at all why Twilight seemed doubtful and Sweetie Belle was agitated. "I don't understand, you both act as if their's a problem."

You nearly blushed from embarrassment. Wow, Rarity held you pretty high up in that pedestal. You couldn't really think of a moment where you acted in a very offensive way towards her. And making up for the fact you ruined that dress must have really blown her away considering how well you compensated her. Speaking of dress, you had a hard time remembering what that was for. Wasn't it for some festival or something?...huh..

"So he's never acted in a way that would. You know, make you angry with him? At all?" Twilight asked, she found it hard to believe she never noticed. Considering the way you interacted with her was completely different and animosity filled as compared to the respect you were showing towards the white pony.

Rarity shook her head "No, he's always respectful in his manner of speech. He has a slip up here and there but nothing to fret over. Is there something I should be aware of?"

Twilight didn't know if she should say anything. But Sweetie Belle did. She wanted to get things started. And she was surprised at how ignorant Rarity seemed. "Rarity, I know he acts like a gentlecolt towards you. But he's like...the total opposite with everypony else. That's why Princess Cadance asked me to help him with his dating issues. I'm going to be the one to make him into an actual gentlecolt."

Oh come on Sweetie Belle...

you weren't that bad....sorta...maybe. You frowned, hearing how she thought of you compared to how Rarity thought of you was a mood killer. What made it worse was that Rarity was right in front of you. It made you feel like a fake smuck.

Twilight then chimes in. Feeling Sweetie Belle's assessment might be a little harsh. "Sweetie Belle, you make it sound like Anon is, as your sister would put it, "a brute". Anon is just very... He just… has a different outlook on life. You have to understand that it could take him months to even years to fully adjust to his new life. And, despite a few setbacks, Anon has been doing rather well for himself. He just has a few issues here and there."

That save by Twilight seemed to have put Rarity in a better mood. She nodded in agreement with Twilight. "Indeed, Anon here is still rather young and impressionable. And the life he's lived before coming to Ponyville must have been very unpleasant. So, in my opinion, I wouldn't say he's the exact opposite of a gentlecolt. I'd say he just has a few loose threads...and speaking of threads..." Rarity uses her magic to float over a cute little black tux with a very nice bow tie. "Twilight, would you be a dear and hold Anon up for me so I can dress him."

Sweetie Belle grumbled. She wanted to say something. But now she felt it was three against one. She felt she knew better than Twilight or her sister. And she thought that if she could just fix you in her own way. Not only would her observations be the truth. But she'd also have some royal cred to her name. "Mnnn..just remember, when you dress him. It's my turn."

"Yes, yes. I know, no need to repeat yourself Sweetie Belle. I fully understand my role. Now then. Anon, I want you to be perfectly still. Can you do that?" Rarity asks you

That shouldn't be too hard. You knew you were in good hooves in Rarity's presence. "Yes Miss Rarity, and can I say something before we start?"

"Of course you can"

You hesitate, you thought that maybe it wouldn't be the best idea to defend yourself. But, you just wanted to let Rarity know that Twilight and even Sweetie Belle were right. You felt that if she got it straight from the horse's mouth. That this could prevent some sort of major disappointment in the future. Or maybe it was just you nervously covering your bases. "I'd just like to say. That Twilight and Sweetie Belle are kind of right. I sometimes act out, or get a little mean. I know you think of me as a gentlecolt, but sometimes I'm just....not"

Rarity looked down at you for a moment, her expression not changing in the slightest. Then she smiled at you. and patted your head once again "Anon, your honesty and willing to admit your faults is very admirable. My opinion of you has not changed. So you needn't be worried. Alright?"

That actually felt nice. Unlike Twilight, Rarity didn't seem to be sperging over it. She understood… or at least was fairly forgiving. It felt nice to be treated like this. Treated like despite your shortcomings, you were still a good guy. "Thank you, Miss Rarity. hmm..so..umm..all I have to do is just relax right?"

Rarity nodded "Mhmmm, allow Twilight and myself to do the work. Twilight, you don't mind being an assistant to an assistant do you?"

Twilight shook her head "Not at all Rarity, I'm always here if you need my help. You know that. Besides, I want to see how this all comes together. It's all too interesting to just walk away now. So..just lift him up? That should be easy enough" Twilight aims her horn at you, and covers you in her purple telekinetic aura.

You let out a soft squeak as you slowly lift off the ground. It always felt a little scary being lifted like this. But it was easier to also get relaxed shortly after.

Rarity looked you over as you hovered about. "Hmmmm...before we get him in the proper attire. Let's..." Rarity's own horn starts to glow as various brushes, combs, sprays, and other such items lift up from a bag set down beside her. "Close your eyes Anon"

"Ok...mnn, what are you going to do?"

"I'm going to style your mane into one that no mare could resist looking over. Then after that, it's only a matter of making sure the clothes I pick out for you fit the style. Now close your eyes for me, please" She asks you in a polite manner. She looked pretty primed to get to work on you. But again, this wasn't some cheap makeup floozy. This was Rarity. An expert in her craft. There was nothing to worry about. No, the only thing you had to worry about was Sweetie Belle.

And....maybe Rainbow Dash. It wasn't connected to the situation in any way, but no fucking doubt she isn't going to let what happened die that easily. You'd have to watch yourself. Especially now that your exploits are becoming more known.

Chapter 191 - Twilight Week Arc

You close your eyes. And suddenly you feel yourself spinning at a rate that makes you uncomfortable. But before you even feel sick, you suddenly stop and are gently put back on the ground. Your vision span for only a moment. What happened? "W-what was that all about?"

"Rarity, that's amazing. He looks completely....he's like...." Twilight couldn't come up with the words for what she was seeing.

"I-I gotta admit. I-I didn't expect him to look that good. H-how did you do that?" Sweetie Belle was reluctantly impressed. She didn't want to be upstaged. But whatever she was looking at must have been amazing.

Rarity just smirked as she circled you to admire her work. "It's simple really, he's small. Much smaller than your average colt. So I just dressed and groomed him like I would a doll. And viola, a colt fit to be a prince"

A colt fit to be a prince? What exactly did she do? "Can I get a mirror please? Miss Rarity?"

"Why of course Anon" Rarity floats a mirror towards you to look into "After looking in this mirror, you're guaranteed to feel as good as you look." Rarity felt a child like giddiness in her. She just wanted to see you be proud of how good you look. She wanted you to be happy with the work she had done for you.

And when the mirror comes to a point that you could look at your reflection, your eyes widen. "Woah..." You looked.....totally fuckable in your tux. And your mane, it was adorable. It was combed back, with each strand of hair was next to each other in a uniformed yet stunning way. You looked like you could mingle with the rich class. You even had a flower in your lapel. "Miss Rarity...this is amazing. I look...wow...is that even me?"

Rarity giggled, she was so happy with the reaction she got from you "Why of course darling, that is indeed you. The best looking you you can possibly be."

You tapped the little red flower. Then tapped your bow tie. It was all real. Holy shit. Why did you even need Sweetie Belle's help again? Diamond Tiara already had unconditional love for you. This would just floor her instantly. You gave yourself a spin to look at yourself all around. Absolute perfection. "I think I'm ready already. There's no way Diamond Tiara is going to resist this."

Sweetie Belle cleared her throat in a loud manner to get your attention, then the moment you look over to her, she says in an annoyed fashion "...Excceeepptt you're not ready. Just because you look really good doesn't mean you're gonna act really good. But that's ok, that's what I'm here for." She points to herself with a proud smile.

...Ergh. At this point, you didn't really need Sweetie Belle. You knew you could do this. "Sweetie Belle...I...erm..."

"Nope" She cuts you off. "You heard Princess Cadance, you can't just try to get out of this now"

Twilight nods, as does Rarity. Seems Rarity must have been told the full details and told them to Twilight as you spoke to Sweetie Belle. "She's right Anon. If my sister-in-law has something to say when it comes to love. Then you probably should listen."

"I hate to say it Anon, but I'm going to have to agree. I've never seen you act in the way I was told. But if the Princess has something to say about it. Then it might be best to just to do what she...and my sister says."

Sweetie Belle nods "See? Even my sister agrees"

Course Sweetie Belle would be agreeable with Rarity if Rarity actually agreed with her on something. Otherwise she'd go right back to being frustrated. Furthermore, you weren't going to win 3 vs 1 on this. "Ok...alright… So...Sweetie Belle, what should we do first then?"

"Well, first we have to work on your attitude. You need to be positive, polite, and....erm..." Sweetie Belle looked to her sister for help "Umm, Rarity. What's the last "P"?"

"Punctual, dear, the word you're looking for is punctual." Well, Rarity was actually sticking to her assistant role well. She hasn't overstepped aside from getting you dressed up. And while Sweetie Belle still seemed a little on edge about it. Rarity seemed absolutely fine, and most likely ignorant to her sister's feelings.

"Right, punctual. You gotta be punctual too. So we're gonna have to start right from the beginning. In fact, the only way TO get you doing this right is if I act like Diamond Tiara. All you gotta do is be...well...yourself...but not as rude."

Wut? Was she serious? Besides the fact that you felt uncomfy being any kinds of romantic towards her. Something about her being Diamond Tiara irked you. Something from a faint memory having to do with something...sex? Nah. "Sweetie Belle...I don't really feel too comfortable about that. Isn't there another way?"

"Nope, It's not like we're going on date anyway Anon, I just want you to ask me out to one to see how you'd do. And then we'll work it out from there. Now...get ready...get set...and GO!"

.......ok then. "Errr..Sweetie Belle"

Sweetie Belle shook her head and then looked at you with adorably annoyed green eyes. "’Diamond Tiara', Anon, ‘Diamond Tiara’"

...You sigh..fine.... You open your mouth, but you don't sound too enthusiastic in your words. Although you do try. "Diamond T-"

"No Anon, not like that" Sweetie Belle says, already unimpressed with your supposed poor performance.

Ok, now you started to get annoyed yourself. "Then how? I don't even usually get a chance to greet her first. She's always hugging onto me the moment she sees me."

"Awwww, that's adorable! It's just as I told Fluttershy. Sir Anon is the knight that rescued his princess from yonder castle of brutish unicorn vagrants. It's like something out of a fairy tale" Rarity more directed her words to Twilight. Who she herself started to assess the issue. In which she could not draw any conclusions other than you were kind of adorable yet needing of an attitude adjustment in some way. She wasn't too good in the issues with love.

Sweetie Belle was too focused to make a comment on it. She wanted to do this so badly. You didn't know why she wanted the prestige so bad. She had her cutie mark. What more could she want? "Anon, try harder. Try nicer. I know you can do it. Really sell it to me."

Polite, nicer....Gentlecoltish. If that's what she wanted, surely you could manage, if only to get this out of the way. All you had to do was pretend she was Diamond Tiara and things should go fine. Though having two onlookers didn't help either.

You made a small bow and gave Sweetie Belle a pleasant smile "Good afternoon my dear Diamond Tiara, how are you? Doing well I hope" You make a small bow, you eye Rarity for a moment. Seemed she approved.

Then you look back to Sweetie Belle. Who didn't seem too impressed yet. "I'm doing well Anon, what are you here for?" Sweetie Belle wasn't even smiling. If she was going to do this. She should at least smile.....Diamond would smile.

"Well, I've come to ask you out on a date."

Sweetie Belle smacks her own face with her hoof in disappointment "Stop stop stop, that's all wrong!"

How could it be wrong? That'd definitely work.

"Wrong? What's wrong with it? It'd definitely work"

"Yeah....maybe" Sweetie Belle rolled her eyes at you "But you have to really MEAN it, put some body motion into it. Be more sincere. Make it sound like it's the last thing you'll ever do"

That all sounded.....terrible. "I...don't think that's the way to do it. Why can't it be simple?"

Sweetie Belle groans at you, you seem to be missing some sort of point. "Because this would be her and YOUR first date. You gotta make it really count....mnnnn..." Sweetie Belle started to bob her eyes up and down to examine you. "And to make it count. Maybe you should be...well...cute about it. Cute yet....dashing! Yeah that's it! Cutely dashing! That'll work for sure."

Cutely....dashing? "Uhhhh...what do you mean by that?"

"I er...I don't know how to explain it...erm..." Sweetie Belle looked to her sister. "Ummm.. Rarity.. can I get a little...help, please?" Sweetie Belle sounded more sincere that time. It seemed she wasn't as much as a master at this then she thought. But she was giving it her all.

"Of course...ahrm" Rarity cleared her throat "Anon, to be "Cutely Dashing" in your approach. All you need to do is stand valiantly, a little to your side if one were to be facing you, then raise your leg like this." Rarity raises her right foreleg up to a bend. almost to her chin. "Then give her an inviting yet modest smile. As if you had confidence, and yet were a little unsure. Trust me darling, she'll melt like butter"

"Yeah...so do that thing. And I'll...actually. Ermm.." Sweetie Belle looks for help again. "Twilight, Rarity...you don't mind helping me judge his style. Do you?"

"Of course not, I'm not very good at judging "Style". But I'll do my best" Twilight says, ready to help the little marshmallow horse

"Given I'm your assistant, dear. Of course I'm obligated to say yes. And I will give my best judgement on the matter. So Anon, please give it your best."

...right...ok....cutely dashing. "..ok..here..I...Go!"

You jump and raise your foreleg up, give an unsure yet "trying to be" confident smile. "Diamond Tiara, would you like to go on a date with me, please?"

Sweetie Belle smacks her hoof to her face. "Ugh...that "please" was terrible"

Rarity herself cringed at the "please". "Indeed, I'm sorry Anon, but I'll have to agree with my sister. The "please" was a tad too much. It makes you sound desperate"

Twilight however looked to the other two marshmallows and shook her head "I disagree, I think it was polite"

Welp....Twilight's opinion is auto tossed out.

"Twilight, sweetie....you never ask a lady "please" in regards of asking them out. Not only does it make you sound desperate, but it also makes you sound, and I mean no disrespect, well.....pathetic" Oh damn, that did sound harsh coming from her.

Sweetie Belle nodded "Agreed, Anon, keep everything you just did. But just don't say "please". Got it?"

Well..if Rarity and Sweetie Belle said so… You nod. "Ok, got it"

"Wait, hold on" Twilight interrupted "Saying "please" is fundamental to being polite to any question you have to ask. How is it pathetic and desperate?"

"Twilight, I know your not well vested in the ways romance. But how would you feel if a stallion came up to you and begged you for a date?" Rarity asked, a little perturbed at her friend's reasoning.

"I.....I would...well it depends on so many factors" Twilight seemed rather nervous answering the question. Her dating newb was showing. "You know, do I know the stallion? Is he smart? Does he have a good heart? Erm....I mean...yes? Yes..." Twilight nods a confident nod. "I would definitely give a stallion a chance if they said please. Granted I know them already"

Rarity looked dumbfounded, that was probably the worse answer she ever heard. Worse than anything even you can give "I see...Twilight, when this is over. You and me simply must have a chat about the ins and outs of stallions and mares."

As Twilight and Rarity have a little chat, Twilight now going on about what's so bad about her reasoning. Sweetie Belle continues with you the ways of wooing. "Ok Anon, next, we're going to work on what you'll talk about with Diamond Tiara. And the answer to that is actually simple. Talk about what she likes the most. You can talk about other things later. But she'll like you a lot more if you talk about what she likes."

Huh...that makes sense. Of course it made sense, women from your world were the same. "Yeah, I got that I think."

"Good...now...what does she like?" Sweetie Belle asks.

.......oh shit...that's a good question. ".....uhhhh....erm."

Sweetie Belle grimaced at your response, she didn't like where this was going. "Anon...please tell me you know something that she likes."

Fuck...it's usually mostly her being infatuated....wait..hold on. "Wait! waitwaitwait! She likes princesses."

"And what do you know about princesses?"

"I think I know enough. I've been around the four alicorn princesses after all. So I think I'm good on that."

"Well...maybe. But that doesn't sound like something that would net you a win...hrnn...give me a second" Sweetie Belle stepped back to Rarity's seat. She seemed to be rustling something up from behind it.

Meanwhile, you were wondering why you couldn't just go in and do whatever. She already loved you. It was going to be super easy to just take her out somewhere. Whatever, just get past this and go set up the date. There was nothing Sweetie Belle was offering that would help you in this endeavor. And fighting her on it would only make things more annoying.

Sweetie Belle came back from behind the chair, a box of chocolates in her mouth as a bouquet of roses floated above her, held by her magic. The box was in the shape of a heart.

The fuck was all this? She wasn't going to suddenly...wait no..that wouldn't make sense. She puts the box and bouquet gently on the cutie map table and turns towards you. The look on her face was of "Boy, I hope this can help him". You didn't know how to describe it really.

"Here Anon, this should get you in with Diamond Tiara, and I mean big time."

Ohhhh....so that was it..

You walk over to the box and bouquet. The roses looked fresh, and were of a deep red color and a lovely deep scent. The box of chocolates. It...did not look cheap. "Sweetie Belle, where did you get these?"

"I got them from Canterlot..well..an express delivery really. Rarity helped me with the order. But I paid with the bits. And..erm..don't worry about the cost. I just thought you'd probably need them since..well..you're kind of bad at this whole "dating" thing."

You didn't know whether to thank her or smack her. How could she call you bad when you haven't even dated yet? That's some ridiculous clairvoyance she seems to have. But from her words..it seemed these two items were really expensive. And a box of chocolates and roses? That's classic. That'd definitely win Diamond over. You didn't even think about bringing her gifts. "...thank you Sweetie Belle, I don't know what to say."

"Well, don't be like...wait" Sweetie Belle's ears perk up "Did you say "thank you"?"

You turn to her and nod. "Yeah, I didn't even think about giving her any gifts. And I know girls like gifts...right?"

Sweetie Belle was in awe that you actually gave her a "thank you". "Y-yeah, girls actually really like that. Anon, that's how you gotta be by the way. You have to be polite like that. Do you think you could keep that up?"

What...being thankful?..or..err. "...keep what up?"

Sweetie Belle groans "Well...we were close. Look, Anon. All you have to be is a nice colt. But with a sense of intrigue. Be modest at the start, be cutely daring when you ask her. And don't… DON'T..whatever you do, EVER act like you're better than her. Girls...HATE...that. Got it? Anon, I mean don't try to fight her on anything unless she tries to pay for something. Then fight to pay for her...but don't actually fight her. Physical fighting is bad. You got all that?"

Errrr...given you had forgotten to even bring a gift. Maybe all of that should be something you should keep in mind. Sweetie Belle was a filly, like Diamond Tiara. So there was...by chance...some truth to her words. As who else but a filly know how to be wooed?

You nod. "Yeah, I think I got it. And..." You wanted to give it a shot right now, right here. Polite, punctual, and whatever that other one was. "I thank you Sweetie Belle, from the bottom of my heart." You bow to her. "You are truly an amazing teacher"

Sweetie Belle blushed a little. Given Rarity's makeover on you. And how adorable you looked being thankful AND bowing. It caught her by surprise. "Oh...erm...well...you're welcome Anon. Just...mnn.."

Sweetie Belle gave you a gentle smile. "Just do me proud ok? Just tell me the results when you get back. You have a time in mind for the date right?"

Hrnnnn… "I guess later today. Maybe even tonight if I can get her mom to agree. Night is the time of being romantic and all that, right?"

Sweetie Belle nods profusely, being both proud of you and proud of her "handiwork". "Right, yes! perfect! Wow Anon, you're really getting it now. Good thing I was here to fix you up, huh?"

Well...most of her help anyway. "Yeah, thanks Sweetie Belle"

Sweetie Belle already begins to put the box of chocolates in your saddle bag. But not the bouquet. "Don't mention it. Here Anon, open your mouth"

"Hu-gDGSDRGFS" She stuffs one end of the bouquet into your mouth for you to hold.

"Don't drop it! ok? And don't worry about thorns. These came clipped. Now get out there, and get that date!"

You nearly swallowed the end of the damn thing. Fuck..goddammit. Why'd she have to do that so suddenly? You gave her a quick angry look before adjusting the bouquet the best you could with your teeth so that you could hold it on it's side in your mouth. After that, you nod. and start to get determined. It was time....holy shit...it was fucking time....oh god...don't blow it...ogh...

Sweetie Belle leads you out of the castle, Twilight still trying to defend herself from the fact that she didn't seem to really have a good idea or handle on dating. "Good luck Anon, really. I'm rooting for you. Go and make me proud!"

You turn and nod a single nod, with determined eyes and muffled voice. You head off to Diamond Tiara's home....Remember.....cutely dashing.

You manage to reach Diamond Tiara's home in your dash over. Hell yeah, finally...FINALLY. Wait..why were you this excited? Well...maybe because her company was...erm...well..cute..and stuff.

You look around. Hrmmm...how were you going to speak with this thing in your mouth? As you look at the bouquet itself. You notice something very alarming. Enough to make you shake and freakout.

It seems in your dash to reach your destination. The roses had become damaged and the petals, most of them, had fallen. You weren't being careful at all. You spit out the bouquet and immediately start to curse yourself. "Goddammit! GODDAMMIT! What happened?! How the fuck could I be so fucking stupid? Of course running with this thing in my mouth would fuck it...wait..WAIT..."

Solutions already started to dart through your head. "Ok Anon, calm down. You still have the chocolates..that's good. Maybe if I...no no..I can't waste the horn. I could..Oh man, I could use that to really impress her. Ok ok...wait..." You slowly peer around..and say in a small, quiet voice.. "Discord?"

No reply

...You haven't seen him in awhile. You started to miss him. You wondered what he was up to...well...as long as he stayed away from you now and during the eventual date, it'd be fine.

Ok...the chocolates would have to do for now. You still had your charms..and...oh god...what did your mane look like?! You hadn't checked if Rarity's work still looked fine.

OK..OK.. Deeeeep breaths. Rarity is master, no way a simple run would ruin her work on your mane. Right? "Ok...let me...just..dammit..ok..No mirror..that's fine. Everything is ok..."

You knock on the door after taking a moment to breath......oh lordy. You stand at the ready. If it was Diamond, go for the kill. If it was a maid or even the butler. Modesty and cuteness.

Actually, you wondered if Mr.Rich was back home yet. That guy was pretty dudebro. And he'd probably be happy for you to be dating Diamond and......oh shit. The door opened, and...it wasn't any of them. It was...Spoiled Rich.

Now, despite the fact she was "Reformed". It didn't seem to stop her from giving you a disdainful look the moment she laid eyes on you. "...hrn..."

Erm..

You step back slowly, you tried not to act nervous. But the way she towered over you. With that disapproval in her eyes. "Good a-afternoon Mrs.Rich. C-can I come in?"

She was looking at you, judging you, assessing the situation. "Anon....please tell me you're not dressed like that for some sort of special event..an event having to do with my daughter..."

The way she said that. Was she worried? You couldn't tell. There was almost a grinding to those words. As if this was already the wrong move. You chuckle nervously. Because that's exactly what it was. "Well, erm..it's funny you should say that. I actually came to...well...ask your daughter, Diamond Tiara...erm...well..can I tell you about it inside?"

She shook her head "No, because if I don't like what I hear. Then you're not putting a single hoof in my home. You're already lucky that you're this far. Now stop cowering and tell me exactly what you're here for. I hate it when ponies cower at me for no reason. Makes them suspicious...as if they want something from me"

Good lord, was she even going to like what you had to say? Was she?! Well..you can't lie, because she'd notice that her daughter was out. And you don't think you could charm her. So..just be..less meek and to the point. Because it seemed everything had just reverted back to zero between you and her. "Mrs.Rich, I just want to let you know that I'm here with the best intentions. For you see.....you see..erm...I've...come to ask..." You were having trouble getting the words out.

"...To ask....what exactly?" She says in a harsher, inquisitive tone.

.....shit....ok..just..let it go… "I've come...to ask......your daughter out...on a...date? ehehe....heh..."

Welp, she didn't react. Her face didn't twist to that of raw anger or disgust. She just...stood there for a moment or two.

Finally, she sighed, a sigh of pure disappointment. "Oh Celestia...it's already happening. You couldn't have waited a few years? Preferably ten?" She puts her hoof slowly to her head. She then closes her eyes and shakes her head, she did not see this coming. Nor did she like it....yet..she wasn't actually contesting it.

"Well, I...just. I just thought it'd be nice to take her out, and show her a good time. So she knows somepony is there for her when she needs them.."

"She has a best friend that fills that role, she's here right now." She says in a "matter of fact" sort of way, A cold way.

Ugh....come on. Why did she have to be this way? You just wanted to get this over with. It was getting harder to breath already. "Mrs.Rich, I just. I kind of like her and-"

"Yes..Yes" Spoiled Rich says with an exasperated sigh "I'm aware, we had a talk about this. No need to state the known. It's just a waste of time. I can't believe this...ugh" God...it was like....actually killing her. You could see the pained expression as she steps aside to let you in. "Come in, and for Celestia's sake, do something about that mane of yours. I don't understand how you can be in such high quality wear and yet not even bother with your mane."

Ugh, great. Your mane was fucked up. Also, it seems Silver Spoon was here with Diamond. But they both must be upstairs. You step inside and walk into the main room, Spoiled Rich close behind, already motioning maids to descend upon you while you weren't noticing.

"His mane...fix it" Spoiled let's out all of a sudden

"My..wHEYAAAHHH!" Suddenly, you had a maids using their sides to hold you in place as another with a brush in her mouth starts to go at your mane like some sort of mad slasher. Ugh, your mane felt like it was being pulled and pulverized. you yelped and whined. But it didn't do any good at stopping the assault.

And just as suddenly as they came, they left the moment Spoiled Rich motioned them away.

Spoiled Rich looks you over. Your mane must have been alright now. "Much better....hrn. So Anon, now that that's over with, would you mind telling me EXACTLY what you plan to do?"

Ugh, she couldn't even give you a second to recover? That maid assault wasn't pleasant. Even if the maids themselves were hot.

Spoiled Rich steps up to you with a stomp in her step. She demanded an answer with just her movements. Her eyes looked down at you, as if you were an insect. "Well?"

That snaps you into it. You step back, you actually felt frightened. Goddammit, was she reformed or not? You didn't even have exact plans yet. "I...like I said. I..just want to show her a good time. I didn't really plan anything out. But I'm sure I can figure it out before we actually start the date...which..erm...is it poss-"

"You want to know if it'd be ok. And what time to have her back. Hrnn...of course.." Spoiled Rich could already tell what you were going to ask. She cuts you off as she turns away from you and looks up the stairs. "Anon, we are not your typical family. The night is just as important as the day to us. So if you want to know when to have her back. That would be at your discretion"

...Woah..wut? "Really?" That surprised you too much to keep you in your nervousness....the hell?

Spoiled Rich nods "Yes, you could bring her back the next morning if you'd like."

WUT?! ".....ummm...are you...is that a joke? Are you joking?" Was she trying to be funny?

She shakes her head as she turns back to you "It's no joke. I mean what I say. My daughter deserves the best, even if it'd take longer than expected. And of course, since I expect the best. You should know that there will be consequences should she return less than satisfied"

....Ohhhh...geez. Oh fuck. What did you get yourself into? Less than satisfied? Wait..wait no no...you could handle that..right? Diamond adored you. You just needed a little more info.

You steadied yourself. You had to. "Can you elaborate, please?"

"It's just as I said. If she comes back and is not happy. Then you won't be happy. You have the honor of being allowed to date my biggest treasure. But, like anything important, it has to be treated like a business. And in this business, there is a verbal contract to it. I want my little filly to be happy. I expect you to make her happy. And if you can't do that...well....we'll leave it at that. Don't think of it as me being harsh. I'm actually letting you have an opportunity many would never have. And..."

Again, Spoiled Rich grimaces, then looks upwards in a way that suggests she felt she was losing her mind "To think, I've become this soft to let this colt even near her. I hope I'm not putting on the years...I don't think even a day at the spa could clear my head this time"

Chapter 192 - Twilight Week Arc

Well, it seems she wasn't all too comfortable letting you do this in the first place. But you could see she cared too much now, too much for her daughter, to turn you away and make her unhappy. Even with your "Hero Colt" status. She still wasn't fully comfortable with the whole situation.

Spoiled Rich took a deep breath as she looked up the stairs. "Diamond Tiara! Come down here this instant!"

Her voice was angry. Very angry. Not only did you step back, startled. But so did all the surrounding maids. Spoiled Rich just continued to stare up, looking away from you "Well, that should give her a false sense of worry. She'll come down, she'll see you, and she'll most likely be more surprised than she would have been just coming down. Consider it a repayment, for the good you've done."

Woah..ok, you got it now. That was..kinda cool. even if it was kind of scary.

"Now stand at the ready Anon, she'll be coming soon."

You turned towards the stairs, oh lordy. She was going to see you. Looking all nice, your mane straight. Your tux cute. You hoped you knew what you were doing.

Then you saw her. Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon were low to the ground at the top of the stairs. Popping their head out from the top step. Diamond Tiara's voice shaking in fear. "Y-yes mother?"

"Diamond Tiara, what are you doing?" Her mother looked up at her with sharp vicious eyes.

Diamond Tiara was really worried now, she slowly backed her head down to half visibility. "P-playing with Silver Spoon.....we we're playing "Princess"."

"I see..." Spoiled Rich then stepped to the side to make you visible "Well, could you please deal with your friend here before returning to your play time? He bothers me....and you know how I hate to be bothered."

You look up to Diamond Tiara, you couldn't do your dashingly cute offer of a date at this point. But you could still just being dashing and cute just standing there. Yeah, why not? This was the start of your first date. Hell, maybe something more. Why not be a little anime about it?

You lower your head then slowly look up at Diamond Tiara with a cocky grin. "Heya Diamond, what's up?"

Diamond Tiara popped her head out again, as did Silver Spoon. After a bout of confusion. The moment Diamond Tiara realized it was you. Her face went alight with a big smile. "Anon? Anon! Hi! Hi hi hi!" She waved at you. She looked pretty excited to see you. She was shaking, and nearly hopping in place. To the point it was noticeable even by Spoiled.

Spoiled sighed at her daughter. "Diamond, a little more dignity please? At least in front of me?"

Diamond stopped immediately with her happy bouncing. But she couldn't stop smiling. Ideas were cycling through her head already as to why you'd be dressed like that. She then turned to Silver Spoon and whispered to her, in which Silver Spoon whispered to her back. And all it seemed to do was make her more excited.

Then Diamond cleared her throat and tried to walk down the stairs as calmly and dignified as possible. "Good afternoon Anon, may I ask why you have come to see me today?"

You try raising your hoof anyway in the way you were shown, and turn to your side as you begin to speak and give her a meekish yet brave smile. "Well Diamond, I've come to ask you out on a date..."

Nope, she couldn't contain it. Diamond exploded and hopped down the last of the steps. Then looked back at Silver Spoon with a big happy grin. "You were right, He did come to ask me out! I-I never thought that could happen. Ever!"

Silver Spoon gave an arrogant grin of her own as she spoke in a tone that suggested she knew everything "Well of course it'd happen. He couldn't resist somepony like you. Not always anyways. You're gonna say yes right?"

"Of course I'm going say yes!" Diamond looks at you, she comes close, looking dreamily at you. "Very...very yes." Her half lidded, bedroom eyes and soft smile almost made you sweat. Her face was close to yours now.

You take a step back, a little nervous and nod. "G-great. So, when do you want to go then?"

"Now" She says, in full confidence and love struck awe.

"Now?!" Both you and Spoiled let out at the same time.

Diamond nodded "Now, you're already dressed for it, right? And mother.." Diamond turned to Spoiled "Wouldn't it be ok to do it now so we can have a little more time before you leave in the morning?"

Now?!...NOW?! You didn't even have anything set up yet!

Spoiled's stance finally breaks. She didn't want to disappoint her daughter. But goddamn, even she knew that having nothing planned could put a damper on things.

But she could see how happy her daughter was. It confounded her even. She knew Diamond cared deeply for you. But..this deeply? She didn't know what to say. For once, she didn't know what to do. She could just easily say she'd have to wait. But this was her last day, and she just wanted to see her happy. "...Yes...that would be advantageous"

"See? And.." Diamond turned towards you "You did come to take me out right now, right? You're all dressed and ready to go. " She then gives you huge, soft, sad eyes. "You are ready to go....right?"

....GNRNAENNNFS..RFWDF...NGH....ogh....c-come on...no… "...Yes...erm. Totally" You nod. "Definitely"

"Anon" Diamond's heart then began to melt. She became softer, and nuzzled her head under yours just once "I knew you cared about me"

...the way she said that. you knew exactly what she meant. She meant in terms of boyfriend and girlfriend....oh geez...

Spoiled Rich did her best to come to terms that this was happening. But she couldn't. At least not while it was happening in front of herself. "I wish you both well..and..I'm going to your father's study to... Have a few drinks of cider. You both have a wonderful.." Her voice was becoming more strained by the second "Time..."

Silver Spoon walked up to her best friend, almost excited as she was. "You're going to tell me about this after you come back, right?"

"Oh, I'll tell you everything. Absolutely everything. I can already tell Anon is going to show me the best time ever! So why not share it with my best friend?" Diamond Tiara giggled, so sure everything was fine.

But ohh lord. All she was doing was raising expectations on the whole damn thing. And you had to make sure she was happy. You didn't know what Spoiled would do. Even as she walked off, she still had a scary demeanor as the maids followed her.

With that, Silver Spoon had decided to go home. Excited and already prepping herself to listen to all the juicy details upon her friend's return.

As for you and Diamond? you both also departed. To where? Who knows... For now, you were walking. Trying to think of something as your date walked close to you. A little too close at times. Not like your body nor male instincts minded.

Besides, this was also about trying out being her actual boyfriend, or rather coltfriend. In fact, as you both walked out of the gate. You remembered you had something. "Diamond...hey...do you mind closing your eyes for a minute?"

"Closing my eyes?" She then blushed deeply, and walked back as she turned her head in a bashful manner "A-anon, we haven't even gone anywhere yet. It's t-too soon"

What? too soon for what? You just wanted to give her the box of chocolates. "Just trust me, close your eyes. And I'll tell you when to open them"

Diamond Tiara complied, but you noticed she was also puckering her lips....oh shit. That's what she meant. And..you would but...too early.

You open your saddle bag, and take out the box with your teeth. But now you couldn't actually speak. No problem, you just gave her a tap on the nose with your hoof. Diamond opened her eyes upon the tap. And saw it, the box of chocolates in your mouth. The moment she realized what they were. Her eyes lit up, she was in awe. "A-anon...is...did you get me a box of chocolates? Did you....just for me?"

Well...it wasn't the truth. But given how the box was given to you. Saying yes was probably the thing they all wanted you to say. You nod. And slip the box back in your saddle bag.

"I'll hold on to them for now and give them to you when we come back. I hope you like them Diamond..." But Diamond didn't respond. She just looked deep into your eyes. "Diamond?"

"Huh?...ohh..oh sorry..I.." Diamond quickly shook her head to get out of her haze. She was so lost. She was on a date with her hero, her friend...her love. "I was looking...at something."

Then before you can ask about it. She steps past you and looks around "So where are we going Anon? You have something big planned, right?"

....no....but wait! Hold on… The next step, maybe to rectify this, is to ask her what she likes. "You'll see...but, you wanna just take a stroll through town and talk?"

"Stroll through town? With you?" Diamond asked as she stepped closer to you.

"Yeah, we can talk about...ahh!" This could work what you like, that sounds like a pretty great topic."

"I'd love that...a-and..it'd just be with you right? Nopony else?"

"Well yeah, it is a date right?"

She nuzzles one little nuzzle under your head again. "Mhmmm...Just us"

You blush, and try your best to ignore the feeling you were getting. Dammit, why did she have to be so affectionate towards you?

You both begin your trek into the center of town. Ponies were bustling in the streets. Happy, healthy, having their chats.

"So..Diamond, what do you like to do?"

"Ohhh you know. I like to do a little of everything. My mother kind of made it a point for me to be good at everything. But...well..you should know the biggest thing I'd like to be by now"

You did… "Being a princess, right?"

She nods. "Mhmmm, I'd love to be a princess and lead my subjects to prosperity. And of course the perks that come with it too. Like free ice cream that they could never tell me not to eat because I'd be of royalty. And of course...I'd like it even more if I had a prince by my side." She looks at you with bedroom eyes again. "I do have one in mind"

You.

.....Dammit. Why did you even need the date? Well...the date was needed. It was the proper way to court her that even Spoiled would have to agree with. But dammit, you knew she loved you. But...this devotion. It almost made you wish you were human again. She'd make an adorable daughter.

"Eheh...well..erm" You didn't want to say something like "We're not official yet". You knew that would just piss her off. Especially since that could change by the end of it. "If I could Diamond, without there being any consequences. I'd totally use my magic to make you a princess"

Diamond sighed, she was remembering when she was being a little too harsh on you when it came to that. "Yeah...but. Using that kind of magic probably wasn't a good idea anyway. I shouldn't have bothered you about it."

You could tell that she was still hurting over that moment. The way she tried to force you into it. It made her feel ashamed. "Hey...don't even worry about it. The past is the past and it hasn't bothered me...and.." Then something hit you right in the brain. "Besides, I may not be able to turn you into a princess....but I know the four alicorn princesses...maybe you'd like to meet...ohhh sayyy...Princess Celestia?"

Chapter 193 - Twilight Week Arc

Diamond Tiara frowned at you. "Anon...don't tease me"

Oh man...could this be an opportune moment to charm her? You lean in and give her a cocky grin. "Who's teasing?"

"Wait" Diamond looked at you, her entire body building up with excitement. "You...mean it?"

You nod, giving her a joyous, reassuring smile. "I always mean it"

Diamond Tiara's stance and expression changed in an instant. She lunged at you at the power of a Pinkie Pounce, knocking you on your back. She hugged and cuddled you with uncontrollable hype. "OhmygoshohmygoshOHMYGOSH! ANON! YOU'RE AMAZING! YOU'RE THE MOST AMAZING COLT EVER!" She hops off of you and starts zipping around, unable to contain her excitement at all "THIS IS AMAZING! I'M GOING TO MEET PRINCESS CELESTIA! WE'RE GOING TO HAVE TEA TOGETHER! WE'RE GOING TO AMAZE EACH OTHER WITH OUR VIEWS AND HIGH STANDING! IT'S GOING TO BE...GREAT!"

You get up slowly, and as you do. You can see a strand of your mane hanging on your nose. It was knocked out of place. And your tux...agh..it had dirt on it. Brushing it off with your hoof was barely working. But...then as you look at Diamond, you can feel her happiness piercing your heart. It was nice to see her this way. Plus...this was easy after all. You had this in the bag.

"Anon! Anon! We have to get to the train station quick! We gotta go now!" She was hopping forward and back, facing you then the train station's direction then back to you. It was cute. She was being spastic.

You have yourself a giggle. You were planning to use your horn. But...a train ride would give you a shot to talk to her one on one...maybe..romance her.. "Alright Alright, but are you sure you want to take the train?"

She nodded profusely Then started hopping forward "Of course I do!" She gives you a look as if you were insane for a moment before smiling again "It's the only way to Canterlot that's quick! besides! We can enjoy the luxury of first class.....oh wait."

Diamond turns to you with a cringe. She didn't want to make it sound like your poor. She knew you had money...but enough for First class? "Anon....I didn't insult you. did I?"

Wut? "What do you mean?" No seriously...wut?

"Well....it's first class...I mean...we can just pay for a regular-"

No, you immediately got it and smiled at her. A sweet yet arrogant little smile.

As if you didn't have the cash. Hah! Even if you do eventually run out. You could summon more with the horn. "Nope, first class. And I will be buying BOTH our tickets"

"Both?!" Diamond Tiara's eyes went wide "Anon, you don't have that much money....do you?"

"Just trust me on this, we're going to go the ways of royalty. I promise."

Diamond began to blush, and she couldn't look at your face anymore, she felt too embarrassed. "Anon..you're always nice to me. I...I wish when we met. That....mnn"

Awwww… "Hey, it's nothing. That was the past and you had a lot of things you had to deal with. Besides, if we never ended up punished. We wouldn't be here right now. So, let's just focus on getting you to that princess. Huh?"

You step past her, leading the way to the train station. She doesn't follow at first, she just looks at you longingly

"You make me feel like a princess...." She says under her breath, she was stricken with you, that she found it hard to even contain those words.

She then follows you. Admiring you, loving you more than she ever had.

You both walk to the train station. You tell Diamond Tiara of how you're hanging out with Twilight for the week as well. saying how it's giving you experience to be more proper. She just looked in awe, impressed. To this filly, you were amazing. Getting to stay with the princess herself? Truly amazing.

When you both reach the booth. You already recognize the pony behind it. You wondered what he would have to say this time. Because upon looking at you, he already has disdain in his eyes. "Back again, are we?"

You nod, something about this guy always rubbed you the wrong way. You know he was doing his job. And maybe Starlight kicking in the booth was a little much. But it's like he could never forgive YOU for that. Whatever, that's fine. He had no reason to stop you this time. And you had a yearning to show him up and impress Diamond Tiara with your cash. "I am, and I want two first class tickets this time."

"What? You can't expect me to believe you have enough money for two tickets. Or do you have another convenient excuse? Are you going to try to get free tickets from me?" This guy. Still salty against a colt. Sad really...

Before you could say anything. Diamond, feeling a rage for the fact that he just insinuated you were both poor and a swindler, started to yell at him. "Hey! Hey you! How dare you!"

The pony's attention shifts to Diamond, but it seems he didn't recognize her as a daughter of the Richs. And just sighed "Listen kid, no offense. But I don't have time for games. I got tickets to sell."

Diamond, in her anger, pushes you aside and leaps up onto the booth to look at the pony straight in the eyes. He actually flinched from her approach. "You listen here! That's Anon, the hero colt. So you better show him some respect! Speaking of which, I am Diamond Tiara, heir to the Rich estate. And unless you want me to go to my mother or father and have you downsized. You will show us BOTH the respect we deserve. AND....you will give us free first class tickets as forgiveness."

She throws her head up in the air, with a "hmph" and faces away from the stallion, brushing off dirt from her back hoof onto his chest before hopping down next to you. Damn, that raw anger. You hoped never to be at the end of it.

The teller stallion behind the booth seemed to have realized who she actually was. He didn't even question it. He just printed the two tickets and passed them over. "Here you are Miss Tiara...Anon...ummm....ahrm" He didn't seem to know what else to say.

Diamond Tiara took the tickets in her mouth and walked triumphantly to the train, her tail swishing in happiness. You follow with a smile. Free tickets..that's awesome.

You follow her into the first class car. This would be interesting. You never noticed or even knew a first class car existed on the train. Then again, Rich ponies have to get about somehow. So it wasn't far fetched either.

And as you both enter, it was both as you expected and a little overwhelming at the same time. The seats had super soft velvet cushions. A small set of chandeliers hung up. Each one adorned with a small glowing orb in the middle. Probably to keep them in place. The car had more room than any other car. And it had waiters and food and even passengers of all kinds. They even served..woah..meat. But it seemed only the rich and snobby griffons were eating meat. The car itself had beautiful rose red walls and cush soft carpet on the floor.

You and Diamond choose a private seating at the other end of the car.. Instead of sitting across from you. She sits next to you...closely..very closely. And then she looks at you with a bright smile "So Anon, is this your first time in first class?"

You nod. "Yeah, this is my first time. It's really nice. It's like a rich restaurant in here."

"That's because it pretty much is. You don't ever have to get up for your food either. And the food? Well, it has all a pony could ask for. Speaking of which, are you going to make an order?"

"Are you hungry?" You ask

"A little, but. The food is also expensive and-"

You put a hoof gently on her mouth. a move you've seen work in the movies and cartoons many a time. And as expected, it makes her blush and just..stop talking. Hahahahaha...this was too easy. "Then let me make an order......uhh.." Then you realized....there was no menus… "So..do we wait for somepony..or?"

Diamond Tiara giggled "No, we have to call upon a waiter when we're ready to be served. It's not like those cheap restaurants where you have to wait or when those waitresses come at the worst time. No, here. They work on our time. Come on, go ahead. give it a try."

That easy huh? You raise your hoof up in the air and start calling out "Can I get a waiter here please? We're ready to order"

You take a look back to see if there was any waiter who heard you. But as you look back, it seems a waiter from your side had heard your call and rushed right over. "Heya, what can I get you two?"

You stop....what kind of fancy smancy waiter says "Heya"? And why was their voice tomboyish? You turn to your side to see your waiter.

.....oh......god...NO.

It was Rainbow Dash...with a shit mustache..a shit disguise....what the fuck...was she...how she..WHAT?! Why...WHY?! WHAT REASON!? WHAT?!

You look upon the light blue colored winged horse with absolute dread. Why? Was that her? It had to be her. Despite her mustache being black. Her mane was still that distinctive rainbow color. Did no one else notice she didn't belong? No..of course not. You forget that ponies can be fooled by simple disguises.

Though Diamond Tiara didn't seem to feel the waiter was right either. She just looked at her up and down with judging eyes. "You're a waiter here?"

Rainbow Dash nodded "Course, been working here for years. Now, can I get your orders?"

You let out a near quiet, but dreaded "Rainbow Dash?"

It was enough for her to hear and answer accordingly. Rainbow Dash rolls her eyes and looks at you with a smirk "Rainbow Dash? Never heard of her, but she sounds like the coolest pony I ever heard of. Now..your orders?"

".......Are you sure you work here?" Diamond Tiara had never seen such unprofessionalism from a first class waiter.

"I told you, I've been working here for years." Rainbow Dash says, putting confidence in her voice.

"It's just....well...where's the menus? And....why aren't you speaking more respectfully?" Diamond narrowed her eyes at her. She could tell something was definitely off.

"Menus? Oh right..menus..." Rainbow Dash uses her teeth to pull out two large menu sheets from her vest. She places them down in front of you and Diamond. "There you are, and let me just say. You both look wicked cool today. I bet you all would like to hear a cool story, right?"

Diamond Tiara shook her head with disdain. "No....we'd like our private time"

Where was Rainbow even getting at? Whatever, you nodded to Diamond's words. You didn't want Rainbow anywhere near you. "Y-yeah, I'm sure you need to go take other orders."

"What? Come on, I have this really interesting story about...clowns." Rainbow Dash looks at you with inquisitive eyes "You wouldn't know anything about clowns...would you?"

Oh no.....that's what she was here for?! You don't know what the fuck gave her the idea of clowns...no..oh god. Did she come to the conclusion that you freaked Twilight out with the whole clown thing? Fuuuck. That's what she was here for, she was still investigating what happened. Dammit...you had to find a way to get her to fuck off. While not compromising your guilt. "Wouldn't know anything about clowns other than the ones you can see at a circus. What does that even have to do with food anyway?
Can't you leave us be while we make our order?"

"Geez, you're snobby. I just want to make a little small talk, that's all." What Rainbow Dash didn't realize however, was that was a bad idea to say in front of Diamond Tiara.

"Snobby? Did you just call my Anon...snobby?" Diamond's eyes narrowed to a point to pierce Rainbow's very soul "I want to talk to your manager."

But Rainbow Dash did her best to keep her cool, but she didn't expect to be immediately called out in such a way. She was surprised at how snobbish the both of you were being right now. Or her definition of snob was anyway. She backed away slowly. "Yeah sure...just gimme a minute"

And she walked off into the door that leads to the kitchen car. And so you and Diamond waited. But nobody showed up. Was she stalling? Mnn..you lean your head down on the table and gaze out the window.......and then see Rainbow Dash following the train high high up in the air.

The fucking bitch bailed and changed tactics.

You keep your eye on her. That Rainbow Dash… Sure she was right, but goddammit, you weren't about to compromise yourself and make yourself seem like a big asshole just for her satisfaction of being right. Stupid fucking Rainbow d-

Your thoughts get broken when Diamond gives you a shake "Anon?"

You turn to her, she was frowning. She didn't feel comfortable with the fact that you seemed to be visibly upset. "Anon, forget about that waiter. Let's just ask for another one, ok?" She then noticed you were staring out the train window, she didn't notice Rainbow Dash, so she assumed you must have been upset. "Are you ok?"

......darnit. Stupid Rainbow Dash...don't let her ruin this.. "I'm ok, sorry. Was just a little peeved. That waiter is probably getting a talking to right now anyway." You give her a confident, yet false smile

"Ok, let's get another waiter." Diamond scooches closer to you. And rests herself at your side. Her head nuzzling just under yours. "Does this make you feel better?"

Seems she could see through your fake smile. And wanted to replace it with a real one. It hurt...and yet felt right at the same time. She was young, naive, and loved you because you saved her. And then you forgave her for what she had done in the past. And of course, everything in between.

You were once an adult. This should be wrong. But...when was it supposed to be right? ugh...you'd have to figure it out later it seems. Because for now, she was right. even if the thought hurt. Her affection did soften you up. and make you feel better.

"Yeah.." You nuzzle your head so the bottom of it rubs upon the top of hers. She lets out a small giggle. Then moves her head out to give you a quick kiss on the cheek.

...Shit...woo..didn't expect that one. You were blushing deep. She was being loving. Almost too much. But she noticed your blushing, and giggled once again. "Anon...you're blushing. Does that mean you really really like me?"

............

"Y-yes"

Diamond Tiara didn't expect to hear that so soon. She thought you'd be a little resisting, but you weren't. You did really begin to like her and her company. Maybe that made you a fool. Either way. She was beaming a smile so bright that if it was a power source, it could power Chicago for months.

"Anon....I...erm..." She began to get embarrassed herself, and blushed. "Can I...try kissing you on your lips? Just once? I read in books that it's supposed to be super romantic. And I'd like my first real kiss to be with you....Y-you don't have to. I-I mean..I know it's soon...b-but.."

Holy shit...the food hasn't even been ordered and she's speeding things along quickly. WHAT DO YOU DO?! WHAT DO YOU SAY?!

"E-erm" If you say no...you might be insulting her....if you say yes.......FUUUCKKK WHYYYYY?!

Wait… "Erm...doesn't it say in books that a first kiss should be in a super romantic...erm..spot?"

Diamond Tiara stopped for a moment, then looked around. None of it was really what anyone would call "Super romantic"

"Oh...OHHH..." She chuckled nervously "S-sorry, I think I over did it...ahmm..."

It seemed she just wanted that kiss period. But now she realized that it probably wouldn't be special unless it was....just right. She looks to one of the waiters, and tries to get the subject to shift to food immediately before you can say anything more. "Waiter, can you attend to us please?"

It only took a moment for one of the passing waiters to come forth. This Stallion was definite class; His mane was curled back and shiny, his suit was perfect, and his speech was nothing but polite. Hell, even his cutie mark, a table with a candle in the middle, suggested dining class. "Good afternoon madame and sir, aren't we having a lovely day?"

Diamond Tiara looked up at the waiter, and composed herself to being more calm, collected, and...of course... rich. "Very lovely"

The waiter nods and takes the menus from his vest and sets them down on the table "Very good, here are the menus for this trip. May I suggest the Saddle Arabian Special? we have exquisite and rare plants, herbs, pastries, and a dessert from their culture ready to be prepared and served if you'd like"

Diamond Tiara looked to you, she was more serious now. Trying not to act too lovey dovey or pushy. "Anon, is that alright with you?"

You nod, hey, if it was a special and food. You were on top of it. Being in horse form, you had the opportunity to taste a whole bunch of new things. "Yeah, and don't even worry about the price. I can pay for it. No matter how expensive it is."

"Very good sir" The stallion takes the menus and expertly slides them back into his vest "I will place in your order immediately and bring you and the miss an appetizing basket of freshly baked bread." The waiter does a small bow, and walks away.

"Wow, he didn't even question the fact we are foals." He didn't seem to care at all.

"Of course not, if you're in the first class car, or really, first class anything. Then it's assumed you have the money to pay, no matter how old." Diamond explains to you

Huh....That seemed about right. You take a glance out the window for Rainbow Dash. She was out of sight now. She's either on the other side or waiting someplace in Canterlot.

When you turn your head, you look on the table to already see the basket placed. Holy shit, that was quick. First class service indeed, they must have had the bread already baking and ready to go.

You take a whiff....woah...for just bread, it had such a pleasing aroma. You also took notice of two filled cups of what seemed to be some clean high quality mineral water. "Hey...huh? What's with the water?"

"They aren't allowed to serve the drinks they usually serve here to young ponies like us, so that's why drinks are never mentioned in the order. It'll always be water. But it's not bad. It's always the freshest water anypony could ever drink." Diamond Tiara states.

Huh...mineral water. You were probably paying for it too. The most expensive glass of water you'll ever drink. You both start to eat the bread and drink the water. Though, knowing the rules of enjoying an expensive meal. Never fill up on bread. It seemed Diamond knew that as well.

She looked at you, she was becoming more passive now, trying to restrain herself and be more proper. but keeping in mind her chance for a "special moment".

"Do you really know Princess Celestia?" She asks you

looking at her. She was very visually anxious.

You nod. "Mhmmm, though I guess you can thank my dad for that. She's a very pleasant mare. She's loving, caring, a bit of a jokester if you can believe it. But I can honestly say that she and me are friends."

Diamond Tiara was just amazed with that that she had to ask. "And I know you know Princess Twilight. But do you also really know Princess Luna and Princess Cadance too?"

You nod again. Man, really, too easy. "Yup, Princess Luna is a little too serious sometimes, even when she tries not to be. And Princess Cadance, she's alright."

"Wow..." Diamond Tiara was always impressed to hear anything like this from you. "You've really gotten around. But I guess being the hero colt let's you have a chance to meet all kinds of ponies." Diamond Tiara was envious as well. The one time she tried to really get in with Twilight. It went awry due to how she conducted herself.

"It does, but..." If this cheesy line doesn't further seal the deal. nothing will. "I'd never have been the hero colt if I didn't have a beautiful filly like you to rescue."

Yeah..you know what? As this went on, you fully began to recognize how easy this actually was. And just seeing her smile, blush, get shy, and even fly off the handle into a cute version of her original self was all so satisfying. You could get used to this. Though, there did seem something odd about this. You'd think you'd have more qualms with this date. But...you didn't. Maybe Chrysalis and Cadance were right after all. Huh.....You'd have to thank bugbutt next chance you get.

Diamond Tiara blushed hard, she didn't know how to feel. She looked away again, she couldn't hide that smile though. "Beautiful?..W-well..I know I am. B-but, It's...erm...it's really nice to hear you think that."

...Yeah..you could really get into this...odd. Maybe some Mary Sueness wasn't bad. "It's not just think, it's something I know. I can't think of a filly more beautiful than you."

Now she was really red. She gulped and then turned around to hide it. She couldn't even speak. You could just hear silent squees.

"Is there a problem young miss?" It was another waiter, a unicorn. With two dishes ready to be served to you and Diamond floating above him. He took notice of Diamond, and thought something was wrong.

Diamond, realizing she definitely gave the wrong impression to him, immediately sits straight and does her best to act dignified, but her face was still deep red. "Nothing...nothing is wrong. T-thank you for bringing our meal"

The waiter bows. "Of course, it's a pleasure to serve you. Please enjoy" He steps backwards and then turns to tend to the other passengers

You look over the meal. Rich people eat this? It was like some plant salad with some brown sauce mixed with little green stuff. Then there was the odd looking dessert fruit. And then there was a cooked layer of...something under it all, it too was brown, but it was shiny and smelled sweet. You didn't know what it was....but..hey..its rich pony food. And the dessert was just a large cube. Given Saddle Arabia must be mostly desert. they probably had specialized sugar cubes or something to have licks at during travel.

Diamond Tiara started to eat, and stayed silent for the most part, but she was still red. Did she not know what to say? Probably.

"How's lunch?" You ask

Diamond Tiara turned away slightly, she was being so cutely shy right now. "I-it's good"

"That's good. I wouldn't want anything less than that. You deserve to eat good." Good wasn't even that good. But if you keep laying on the compliments. Then it'll be a-ok.

She went back to full red, and stayed silent as she continued to eat. Letting out a very quiet "Anon". Just your name. Nothing else.

You taste, and then start eating yourself. It was...damned fucking good actually. First class food..wow..totally different from the slop you had been eating as a human. Though, Discord's meals were damned good too. But of course, he cheats with magic to make those.

And the rest of the train ride went like this. Diamond became mostly silent at this point. She didn't know what to do or say at this point. She was completely mesmerized by your "charm". Paying for the meal was easy enough as well. Though, perhaps it was a tad too expensive. You're miraculous spatial saddle bag was finally showing a noticeable hit in funds. Nothing too major. You could definitely do another first class trip. But then that'd be it. So you might cheap out on the return to Ponyville and use the horn to "dazzle" her.

Then there was Rainbow Dash, the top cunt herself. Wherever she was hiding. She was scheming. Why does she care so much anyway that you fought and beat her? She should just accept it as a dream. If you really wanted, you could have smashed her shit in on the word go. So she should be happy and just fucking accept it.

The train came to a halt. You both had finally arrived.

Diamond Tiara followed you as you stepped out of the train. She was still mostly silent. But her face still had a pinker colorization than her coat. At least you yourself felt re-energized. Lunch was delicious, you were hydrated. Yup, and Canterlot was a bustling royal capital with plenty of possible romantic spots. But first....

You turn back to Diamond Tiara. "Ready to meet Princess Celestia? Annnndddd maybe Princess Luna"

Diamond Tiara just looked at your face, her expression frozen in awe. "Anon...y-you mean. We might be able to meet both of them?"

"Well yeah, they live in the same castle. So it's a possibility"

Both.....both....Diamond was getting overwhelmed. Usually she would do something to make you like her more. A cuddle there, a nuzzle here. But you finally outclassed her. And she had no idea how to really react. She couldn't even leap in joy at this point. It overloaded her mind.

"And then after that, maybe we can find a nice quiet spot to relax before we have to go home. Like under a tree. We could probably view the stars for a bit" That's romantic to ponies...right?

Diamond Tiara was starting to sweat. "J-just the two of us? just...laying with each other and viewing the stars?"

"Yeah, who else would be with us?"

She swooned at the idea, she couldn't hold it in. She let out "T-that sounds...r-romantic" in such a girlish way.

Oh you bet. Chrysalis was definitely right on being more forward. You couldn't imagine what would happen if you sperged out. Oh wait...WAIT...you got a real clencher. "Well...my princess...let's go to the castle."

And just as expected. Her face went from pink to full on red again. "D-did you say..m-my Princess?"

"Mhmmm"

That was it. She fell over, near fainted. The other ponies coming out of the train took looks at her but moved on. Given she was smiling, they didn't think it an issue. You didn't know whether to be worried for her or not. Hell, you didn't even know if you should be worried about yourself. Were you being too forward? Maybe, but you felt confident. this particular confidence almost felt like it was planted in you. But that didn't make sense, you were always sure you was you.

As for Diamond, she was a bit....in thought herself as she seemed to be imagining herself at a wedding. You could hear her say "I do". It was both cute and a little cringy.

"Diamond, are you alright? Did something happen?" You say, being sly about it. Knowing what was going on.

Diamond snaps to attention, then stands up and brushes herself off. She took a breath, started walking forward towards the castle "O-of course I am,I was just a little train sick. That's all."

You nearly let out an arrogant chuckle, train sick, sure. "Oh..does that usually happen?"

"N-n-no. Erm..let's just get going ok? I want to spend as much time with the princess as possible."

Heh, seems she was conflicted with the fact it was a date and the fact she was about to meet and mingle with Princess Celestia. You just follow her, readying yourself for her next spaz. And this time, unlike with Cadance, you'd do the smart thing and tell the guard who you are and that you seek audience with the princess.

But...you still had to keep your eye out for one particular blue cunt.

Chapter 194 - Twilight Week Arc

You both approach the entrance to the castle. Beautiful as always. It always captivated you how everything looked in real life. You felt genuinely happy. Seeing Diamond Tiara smile warmed your heart like no tomorrow. And boy was she smiling big. Every step towards the castle filled her with unbridled excitement.

You also still kept your eyes peeled for blue cunt. Never know when she might swoop in. Dammit, why was she being obsessive?

As you both approached the castle, it seemed the door was being guarded by a pair of white pegasi guards in golden armor. The usual royal guards of course.

Diamond Tiara looked back to you, wondering what to do next "So, do we just walk past them? Or....what exactly?"

Cutely Dashing....let's try it…

You give her a gentle smile as you raise and slide your hoof along the bottom of her head, starting midway from her neck and moving up in a very slow manner. "Don't worry, I'll just have a little chat with them and we'll be in in no time"

She just blushed, and closed her eyes to enjoy the rub, when your hoof came off from the bottom of her chin. She nearly fell forward. She caught herself, and then looked at you dreamily.

.....Oh yeah...Oh fucking yeah...And now..for the clencher. You walk over to the guards in one of the most confident demeanor you've ever displayed. And grin as you speak to them. "G'day gents, I was wondering if we could have an audience with Princess Celestia today"

The guards looked at eachother, but made no sign of budging. Then the guard on the right of you said "State your business"

Heheheh. "Just here to see my friend, Princess Celestia."

The guard on the left narrows his eyes at you "And who are you exactly?"

You chuckle. "Well, I'm the hero colt. Anon."

The guards have definitely seemed to have heard of you. But seemed skeptical as well. They now both speak at the same time "Do you have any proof you're him?"

"Of course....just give me a second..annnnddd" You pull out your horn and plop it on your head. Once again, the Sombra horn changes into a normal looking unicorn's horn.

The guards still seemed skeptical, and one of them gave it a tap. You could feel it, and his tap was rather rough. It made your head tilt. "Hey, watch it!"

"Hmmmmm...." The guards looked to each other and nodded

"So, what's the verdict boys?" You say with a smirk

"We believe you are him, but we still just can't let you in without permission from the princess" The guard on the right says.

You turn back, you could see Diamond Tiara was already getting a little antsy. You look forward, and ask. "Could you ask her if we can come in?"

The guard on the right nods, then nods to the other guard. The guard on the left go into the castle as the guard on the right continues to watch his post.

You walk over to Diamond Tiara with a smile, unfortunately, she did indeed look rather worried.

"What's wrong?" You ask.

She looked up to you, she had such hope, she just didn't want to see her chance to meet the princess be destroyed. And neither did you. "N-nothing, you seem to have everything under control. I guess I'm just still train sick"

..Awww........Might as well… You give her a peck on the nose. As usual, that makes her blush, and become silent and astonished. She just stares at you, marveled by your charm.

"Just relax alright? We'll be in in a moment." You tell her, with a gentle and reassuring tone.

"O-o-ok"

God, you were never going to get used to how cute a filly can be. yeah, this ultimately had to be the right decision. It was backed by a princess and an evil bug queen afterall. You walk up to the guard again, awaiting the inevitable. You also kept in mind that Celestia was a bit of a trickster herself. So you couldn't let her get the better of you.

Finally, the guard returned, and whispered something to the other guard. Hmm....

"So what's the word?" You ask

The guard on the right shakes his head "We cannot give you entry"

Wut? WHAT?! NO! "W-what?! why not?!"

The guard took notice of your irritated tone. But kept calm, so he could explain why. "The princess is in a meeting. And is not to be disturbed."

....Meeting? "Meeting with who?"

"A meeting with the leader of Trotssia. That's all I'm allowed to say for the sake of the meeting."

Trotssia? Was that in the show? Probably yet another parallel...probably to Russia "And there's no way we can go in to see her?"

The guard shook his head "No...."

Fuck...fuckfuckfuckfuckfuck.... WAIT! WAIT! "What about Princess Luna, is she free?"

The guard looks to the guard to the left. The guard shrugs, meaning he knew not of her activity. "Hmmm....we shall have a look for you." The guard nods to the guard to the left again, and he goes off.

The guard to the right, even if he didn't visibly show it, gave off a hint of irritation from your initial reaction. Probably not a good idea to piss these guys off, so you try some conversation. "So....do you guys just stand here all day?"

The guard nods "We are guards....we guard the door....that's our job"

Huh… "Do you ever..go out? For yourselves?"

The guard nods "Yes, we guard in shifts. The Princesses requires full day and night protection. So of course there are more than enough of us to cover all spots while the off duty guards get some rest and relaxation."

Hmmm..so that’s how it works. At least that means they are never not ready for anything. The guard returns, and whispers once again to the guard on the right. the guard nods, then looks to you "It seems Princess Luna is getting some rest, she seems to have come down with an illness."

Illness? Do alicorn gods even get illnesses?...Wait...that’s a good question to ask. "Woah woah...hold on, the princesses can get sick?"

The guard nods "Yes, just like any other pony. And, I'm sorry to say. But we will be having no visitations today."

What?! NO! "B-but...I could maybe see Princess Luna, she's my friend too. Maybe seeing me would cheer her up?"

Maybe she was fucking about on the goddamn game console, feigning fucking illness. You didn't need this shit right now. But the guard would not budge. "We can't let you in. And that's final."

Now you were really getting agitated. "Listen buddy, I wanted to show this little filly right there behind me the time of her life. Can't you make this exception at least once?"

The guard shook his head "No, and there's nothing you can do to convince me otherwise"

......

You give the guard the evil eye, but he just stands, stalwart to the end.

....Fucker.

You turn around grumbling, already you can see Diamond Tiara was disappointed. But she also saw your expression, and was worried that you were angry. More worried than the fact she wasn't going to see a princess.

"Anon, Don't be angry. We can still go do other things, really...i-it's no big deal." That disappointment in that sentence, you could feel it....ohhhh no. Celestia's reason was justified. But you just knew, you knew Luna had to be faking it. How could she suddenly be ill?

"I know it's not, we're still going to see a princess" You didn't look at Diamond Tiara when you said this, you just looked with dark eyes, at the horizon as your horn began to glow.

"What do you mean? The guard just said we couldn't see either princess." She says, she sounded defeated. But she tried not to show it for your sake.

You turn to Diamond Tiara, you were smiling an arrogant smile now, a hint of dark smug within it. You then tilt your head a few times to get her to follow you away from the guards' sight. If they saw you teleport. They'd probably figure out where you'd end up. "You don't mind if we just teleport right up to Princess Luna, do you? I'd like to know if she's at least alright."

Diamond Tiara could see your horn glowing. Now, you thought she would probably need some coaxing. But, she didn't seem too hesitant on the idea. Of course, she wasn't the CMC, who'd all but probably Sweetie Belle would have a moral objection to this.

No, Diamond was dead set on meeting a princess. And she agreed near instantly to the idea of going to see Princess Luna directly."Let's do it"

"Thatta girl, ok. Get close to me."

And she does..very closely, again nuzzling on your side. ......Ahhhh, just concentrate...You don't want to botch this spell and end up......lewd....

You knew exactly where Luna would be, up in Celestia's room. Playing the damn system. You could easily explain the game away to Diamond, there was arcades in Equestria....for some reason.

And in an instant, both you and Diamond flash and disappear. In an instant, you both appear in Celestia's room. The horn pops off your head. Changing back to the Sombra horn as per usual. You stick it in your bag. And then make an announcement to Diamond. "And welcome Diamond Tiara, to the room of Princess Celestia!"

Her eyes went wide, she was taking in everything her eyes could gaze upon. "T-this room...is amazing.."

"It is, and behind us should be Princess...." You turn around, the console and tv was there....but no Luna… ".....Luna...."

Oh...shit.... There seemed to be a miscalculation.......to your plan.

You looked on in horror at the empty spot as Diamond Tiara just looks at it in confusion. "I...don't see her. Why would she be right there? Oh..wait..maybe you meant to point at the bed." She looks to the bed, but it to was empty. "No..wait...she's not there either.. Anon, did you mean to teleport us into Princess Celestia's room? Shouldn't we be in Princess Luna's room?"

......What the fuck were you going to do now? Holy fucking crap. The only way back is with the map, you'd need to find the bathroom. But if you use the map, then the date is over. But the date is going to be over anyway if you both get caught. What's worse is there's still a chance for Chrysalis or any of her children to be waiting in your room. Hell, it's possible the little bastard one has set up a trap for you by now. Probably still wanting to destroy you.

Huh....actually, you wondered what happened to the old captain...eh, probably best not to think about it. The guy was a total cunt and not even Chrysalis gives a shit about him. "Diamond, I think we sho-......Diamond?"

You looked around....oh.....no. She walked out of the fucking room while you were thinking of what to do. Fucking....fillies. "Oh..shit...oh...fucking..GODDAMMIT!"

How could she just walk out like that?! Fucking...GYAAHHH. You rush out the door, and smack your face along side it, making you slip and slide into the hallway and crash into the wall. You quickly get up, shake your head to steady your vision, and look around. No guards, they must be near Princess Celestia and Luna. But.....where was Diamond?.....mnnnngggrrr

You whisper a low whisper as you hide behind various objects along the hallway. "Diamond? Diiiammmonndd? Hello?"

Well, this was familiar. Familiar twice over. Sneaking around AND being inside Canterlot Castle. You barely remembered the layout...not like it'd probably do any good since the dream version was probably not even close to how the castle actually is. How could you let Diamond out of your sight? Fucking...why would you even think Luna was faking? Dammit, how could you let yourself get so cocky? You'd rather deal with RD than this.

What's worse, like every other castle, there was a shitload of doors. You didn't have time to look in them all. If Celestia's meeting ends, then the guards around her might go about their regular rounds...or something.

Or Celestia herself might spot you...and...no, she wouldn't care too much right? There was a guard every so often patrolling around, but nowhere near the level of the Crystal Empire's castle. Yeah, most of them had to be protecting Celestia.

Then again, there was also Luna's guard ponies. They were bat ponies, but more importantly, if they were around, then Luna had to be close by. And then you had to wager that wherever Diamond was heading. She probably knew a great deal about the princesses given her apparent obsession. So, she should also come to the conclusion that Luna would have her guards about near her.

Would she get caught though? That's the problem. You had to find her, and you had to make assumptions to where she may have gone. You hoped she wouldn't be foolish enough to seek out Celestia during whatever meeting she was doing. So, it had to be Luna.

And so you went on your search. You just needed to find one bat pony, or just spot some pink or a tiara or some shit. fucking dammit...why did she have to walk off? She also must have been moving quickly, you didn't spot her at all. You didn't spot any bat ponies either. Maybe they just hung around at night.

....Come on Anon.

You travel randomly, using your small size to hide behind any structure or object you could on any passing guard. After some time, you notice a hallway that was much darker than the others. Ohhhh....was that a hallway to Luna's room? Seemed a little much? Eh, probably just how it's themed. She must still let sunlight into her own room and such, just as she would the moonlight.

...Could Diamond have gone in here? How long did you space out anyway? Christ...wait...WAIT... You slap yourself really hard. "Ow..nghhh.." You look around. Everything was the same. "...damn...not a dream."

.....Here we go then… You enter the darkened hallway, you noticed it curved downwards...down and deep, like it was going under the castle. you remember the crystal caves being under the castle. Hmmm...actually, that made you think. There was probably some of the castle that was underground. Those three bridesmaids that went to stop Twilight and Cadance have to have gotten down and out of there somehow.

And it was getting darker too, and more maze-like as you went in. Luna can't possibly have her room in here. Could she?...Maybe.. You look around the corner...and ....oh crap...there was one...a bat pony guard...And he was already heading your way.

You take a gander at a standing set of pony armor, and quickly dive behind it. No way he'd notice you. "......." You stay quiet, and wait for the bat pony to pass by. You keep your ear up to listen for the sound of his steps. There was no steps.....

Hrn? You pop your head out from the side of the armor to see where the bat pony guard might be.... He wasn't......anywhere. ...That's odd.

Probably went another direction. You slowly and carefully step out from behind the armor, and very carefully start to move forward. Where the fuck did he go? You look around the corner, you look back, but...nothing. And as you look for where he may have been. You start to hear noises. weird noises.....coming from above?

You look up, and immediately, your body runs cold. Many of the bat guards were hanging from the ceiling, all eyes on you. They knew where you were the entire time. Some of their wings opened and closed, others looked at you with unblinking eyes. This was unsettling as hell. You gulp hard...what do you even do?

You run..that’s what. But the moment you even try, they descend upon you like a hoard of, well....bats. Everything goes dark as you feel yourself being slammed to the ground. you hear screeches coming from them, some say a few words such as "halt intruder!" and such, but you couldn't make out that or anything else they said due to their screeching and being smothered by them.

You could barely breath,it got to the point that the smothering and panic made you black out.

Oh no...you were fucking dead. So ends the journey of Anon. Game over....

Or..not.

You wake up on a bed, groaning....the hell happened? Wait..bed? What bed? You lay upwards, but..the room was dark....oh shit...Luna's bed? No...as you looked around, even though it was night. You could tell it was Celestia's room, there was enough light to see the sun based decor, and of course, the console and tv.

No Diamond either....was it a dream?....Was it?....Hopefully?

"You're awake...that's good"

That voice, that soft velvety voice. That was...Celestia. "Princess Celestia?" The moment you say that, the lights to the room turn on, you had to close your eyes for a moment. As the light burned through your vision. "Ngh....even as a pony. I'll never get used to that." You say casually, feeling at ease, you look around to where she might be. She was standing some ways away by the door. "So hey, how are you......."

.....She....was not smiling. She....didn't even look like she was holding back a grin. She....looked annoyed.

"U-ummm...so y-yeah...hi...h-how are you?" You ask again

Celestia just stood there, majestically, but not as a princess, but as majestic judge. "What are you doing here Anon?"

".....I..came for a visit..."

"And the filly that was with you?" Oh lordy. Nope, her voice was pretty serious. You dun goofed...or maybe she was pretending to be mad?

"She's...erm...you know. A friend, who might be more of a friend..sorta..kinda." You tap your hooves nervously together. "Princess Celestia, ma'am. W-we actually came to visit your sister."

"Is that why my guard came to ask if you could come see me? Or did you just opt for my sister when it turned out I was unavailable"

...Oh god… "Well, yeah it was like that. But..umm..you see, Diamond really wanted to meet one of you, and I thought Princess Luna may have been faking illness..and was playing video games. Silly idea, right?" You chuckle nervously.

"There's nothing silly about it. You could have waited until I became available, but instead you decided to abuse your power. A power I had hoped you'd be more responsible with" ..Ouch. The way she said it, It cut through you like a knife. Her voice was not that of a scolding mother, but as a serious judge. "No, if anything. I'd say this was an arrogant display of trying to get what you want. Without thinking of others. You only wished to satisfy your wants. I can tell that not once did you think about my sister's health nor the fact that my meeting was very sensitive."

Geez, there she goes. twisting that knife. "I.........." You didn't know what to say. "Princess Celestia, I....erm..." Fuck......hold on..was...Diamond ok? "B-before we continue..d-do you know where my friend went?" You had to prolong this in some way while also finding out what happened to Diamond.

Celestia nods. "She's fine, I'm letting her nurse my sister...who's room happens to be next to mine by the way."

....................Fuck, so that’s how Diamond was able to get ahead of you so fast. She entered the room while you fucked off somewhere else. "O-oh..well..haha...that's kind of funny right? Me going...completely in the wrong direction."

Celestia expression just became more serious than before "It's not funny Anon, you can stop"

....Ohhhhhhhhh.....crap. "...Can I at least say I'm sorry? I just..overdid it, that's all."

"You can be sorry, and I'll accept your apology, but that doesn't change what you have done."

....You once again didn't know what to say. Celestia knew you couldn't come up with anything now. You couldn't even state something against her.

"Anon, I'd like to think of us as friends. I'd like to think of anypony in Equestria as a friend. I know the hardships you must have gone through" Celestia was becoming soft all of a sudden, was she...did she think she was going too far? "And I know adjusting to our world must take a great deal of effort."

You almost started to relax, until she said the word "But" and became hardened again. "During your stay here, you have made many friends. Even a friend everypony, including myself, would consider undesirable. You have done some good things in Equestria, you even reformed one who may have had the potential to destroy us all. And that tells me you know very well how things work. And yet, you chose to disregard my words. And force yourself into the castle despite the fact that your presence could have caused disastrous results with the leader of Trotssia. Did you honestly think there'd not be consequences to your actions?"

Consequences?......Oh god no.. "Princess Celestia..c-come on. It's not that bad..right? I mean, it's me...I know we haven't talked with each other too much..very little...but. I said I was sorry"

"And I accepted it. But I cannot let this go unpunished....and so.." Celestia's horn began to glow, as your sombra horn floated up next to her, as did a golden box, embroidered with a royal symbol. "I will seal away your power, until your visit with Twilight is complete...AND if her letter she sends to me shows that...hmnn..No..I shouldn't explain it. You'd be the type to just act a certain way to get what they want."

....Ok..now that one really hurt. She also...was taking your horn...dammit...you needed that thing..YOU NEEDED IT. "Princess Celestia..come on, don't take my horn away. I mean, what if Discord finds out?...Wouldn't he try to take it?"

"He might, or he might make a new one. No...you're right." Celestia returns the horn to you, but...no..that was too easy. And you were right. "Anon, I'm going to give you a choice." She then floats the box over to you "You can give me the horn willingly, or you can give me the queen of the changelings. Who, as you know, should stand trial for all of her crimes."

...Oh hell what?! Was..Celestia doing this to you? "That's...blackmail."

Celestia shook her head, she didn't think so. "No, that's letting you choose what's more important. I've told you before that her exile is deserved. And I trust in what you are trying to do for her. But it's also clear that your horn is giving you the belief that you can do what you wish. I can only hope that your time without it, and with Twilight, will have you learn a thing or two about respect. Or...you can keep the horn, and turn in your friend. Who deserves to answer to the crimes she has committed to everypony in Equestria. A fiend that most deserves to see banished for all the pain, anguish, and turmoil she has caused in their lives, all for the sake of "food" and "conquest". So decide Anon. Or I shall decide for you."

....Goddamn...damn....You couldn't even be mad at her. But your horn. It was, it let you do everything you needed or wanted to get done in a blink of an eye. But then there’s Chrysalis, you felt she was improving. She was becoming nicer...sort of. Celestia did say you could get the horn back. But..you'd never get Chrysalis back.

...You actually cared...

.....Fuck…

You sigh, and place the horn in the box. You just laid there on the bed, silent as Celestia moved the box away from you with her magic and put it up on a shelf. "Like before Anon, no pony will know what happened. I don't wish for you to suffer humiliation, or lose the trust of your friends. But I hope this serves as a lesson to you as well. Next time, I will not be so kind. And yes, I am fully aware Discord abuses his power as well. And would have probably done the same thing you have. But you and I both know that he does have somepony he must answer to for his misdeeds. And even if he acts like he doesn't care. He does."

.....Mnnnn. And so far, he hasn't interfered with you and Twilight at all. Fluttershy must definitely have a handle on him. ....Dammit..you could feel some anger inside you. You didn't do anything too wrong. No one got hurt. You were on a date...dammit...

"You may go now. Go see your friend, and if you wish. Tend to my sister with her. They both seem to be having a good time and I'm sure you'd be able to make it better." Celestia gave you a smile, a wary smile, a wary..yet weary smile.

.....What else could you do? What else could you say. Considering she just said you could go. She was probably done with the subject now. And with it...your horn. "What about you? What are you going to do now?"

"I was supposed to get some early sleep from the exhaustion of the meeting. But I couldn't go to bed immediately after, it seemed a foal had decided to venture near the barracks of my sister's guard. Now..."

Celestia gently lifts you with her magic as she walks towards her bed and gets on as she puts you on the ground. "It is time for my rest. I wish you a good night Anon, and do not worry. I do not hate or think less of you. I just think you need to be disciplined."

........

You turn around to say something. But you could definitely see it now. She was exhausted. And yet she waited for you to wake up.....

.....Fuck.. "Good night..Princess Celestia." You meant it. Even if deep inside, you were still angry.

With that...you go off to see Luna and Diamond.

Chapter 195 - Twilight Week Arc

You leave the bedroom, stepping into the hallway. You look back at Princess Celestia before closing the door. Even if your goodbye was genuine, your anger started to grow, you didn't try to stop it though. Your reasoning felt justified. What right did she have to take your horn? You needed the damn thing just in case there was an emergency. Or maybe you would have to fight a big monster. Or just...dammit!

And that was totally blackmail. No way around it. She gave you an ultimatum that would doom Chrysalis if you didn't choose the horn. And you bet that meant not getting a new one either. Or else.... Dammit...it couldn't have been that important, that meeting. She's Celestia, they'd listen to her anyway.

You step towards Luna's door...how stupid could you be? It had a moon on the door itself.
Celestia...dammit. Whatever, this is Luna now. Surely she wouldn't be angry for what you did.
........that's some dumb thinking, isn't it? Who knows? You slowly open the door without knocking, and peer inside.

"Haha! Young Diamond Tiara, now is your doom!" You hear Luna call out. ...What the fuck? You open the rest of the door in a flash and look forward, ready to jump in to battle if you had to. What the hell was.....oh..

You look ahead, Both Diamond Tiara and Luna look at you. A chess board sitting in front of both of them. They were playing chess....Chess.....in horseworld...well..there was also bowling.

"Ahhh Anon! you have come to join in the fun. Good, you will now witness the doom of your fellow friend as I move my queen to E5!" Luna says with a sniff, despite her dark blue coat and flowing mane, you notice she has a red nose, and a box of tissues sat beside her. Alicorns....get colds?

Diamond Tiara looked like she was having fun as well. They were both sitting on the bed to play the game. Luna's room, was actually lit up. though dimly and with a blue tint...to represent the night? huh.

Diamond Tiara smirked at Luna "Yes, after I've beaten you ten times straight"

"A minor set of losses caused by being dazed by my current illness, you will n-" But Luna is stopped as Diamond moves her Rook straight down to a king who could only move right.

"Checkmate" Diamond Tiara calls out

"...and of course, this loss is caused by Anon slamming my door open for whatever reason. I lost my concentration"

Diamond Tiara let out an arrogant giggle "Oh? I guess. Would you like to try one more time? maybe with a little bet?"

......What the fuck is going on? How long have they actually been at it? Ten games? That doesn't sound like too much. What were they doing before? How long were you out?...Goddamnit.

"I am enticed by the very word, what can a filly offer one such as I?" Luna asks, in a regal tone. Very obviously in the groove of things.

"If I lose, all my wins don't count and you'll have a win against me" Diamond Tiara states.

"Interesting, I wouldn't want word to get out that I was bested by a foal in chess. But what if you win?" Luna asks

"I want to use your castle for my wedding. And I want you and Princess Celestia to be there when it happens" Diamond Tiara says, her voice filled with a soft excitement, in a way that the idea made her smile happily, but she kept it contained.

"Oh ho! for one so young, you already have an eye on a suitable colt." Luna seemed impressed. You however....oh good lord Diamond, come on. You're overdoing it.

"mhmm, you could say I have my eye on him right now" Diamond Tiara turns her head to you, looking down at you from the bed with a half lidded, bedroom eye filled smile.

You gulp...Oh lordy.

And that definitely caught Luna's attention as well. Her cheery and competitive demeanor changing to that of questioning her decision "Anon?" Luna then looks at you "Anon is your special somepony?"

"Mhmmm, isn't he the cutest?" Diamond Tiara says, letting out an audible squee. Oohhh good lord.

"U-ummm, Diamond...uhh. I.....I.." You couldn't do it. You couldn't tell her you and her weren't an official couple yet. She was just.....imposing herself into it.

Diamond tilted her head, wondering what you were talking about "What is it?"

....Dammit. But then Luna speaks to Diamond Tiara, speaking to her in a very gentle tone. "Young Diamond Tiara, could I ask you to vacate my room until you are called. I wish to speak to Anon privately"

.....Oohhhh.....ohhhh......ohhh..shit. Why did she have to speak to you privately? Why so sudden?

"Why? wait.....you're not into him too are you?" You could tell Diamond Tiara was now having mixed reactions already. She jumped to her crazy conclusion. And now she was being wary. She'd certainly never backtalk the princess....but you were hers....you were..hers..

Luna let out a hearty laugh. "Fret not, he is much too young. I just wish to have a word wit-ngh.." Luna quickly pulled up a tissue with her magic to sneeze into, and then wipe her nose. "This illness, I curse it to Tartarus! TARTARUS I SAY!....but yes...I'd just like a small talk with him. And then I will take you up on your wager"

Diamond Tiara nodded triumphantly at that notion. "Good" she felt she could take the win easily.

She hops off the bed and looks at you, she then felt a little worried, she didn't know what Luna wanted to talk to you about. So Diamond gives you a little passing nuzzle with her head before stepping out the door.

As soon as the door closes. Luna looks at you, and taps her hoof on the bed. "You look frightened Anon. Please do not worry, I mean what I say when I only wish to talk with you" Another talk...great. What was she going to mention. Your past? Your original age? Or was she sour about what happened too?

"I dunno Princess Luna...I don't think I'm up for a talk right now"

"Hm, it must be due to my sister, correct?"

"Actually, it's just things. But, yeah. Also that."

"Her punishment is not extreme in any way I think. Surely you realize that losing the item you used to intrude upon our castle is a fair exchange, isn't it?"

......even if it was.that horn was something you treasured. "...I guess"

"Do not be childish Anon, we could have done worse" Luna's horn begins to glow as you are covered in an aura, and begin to levitate. ....Ugh..she was going to put you on the bed anyway. And she does so "We could have decided to foalsit you for a week instead of Princess Twilig-" Luna sneezes again, and once again enters a rage. "I SWEAR, I WILL DISCOVER THE ORIGIN OF THIS ILLNESS AND SEND IT AND ALL IT'S FAMILY TO TARTARUS! ALL OF IT!" Luna was groaning, and visibly wincing as she wiped her nose. Her nose must sting from wiping it so much. It actually made you feel sorry for her. Despite her irritation, she was reasonable enough to play games with Diamond...and not hurt you. But..what did she mean by babysit?

"But yes, my sister and I foalsitting you would have been much worse" Luna snaps back to a calm state. though, her voice was nasally.

"I thought you were going to say you could seal me up for a thousand years"

Luna shakes her head "For invading our castle to try to visit one of us? I would never, nor would my sister. You have rather grim thoughts about things. Don't you?"

Grim?...ehhh...no..wait...were you that pessimistic? "I d-don't think so. It just seemed logical since you both have a history of doing that"

"Only the cruelest and most deserving are sealed away Anon....." Luna stops for a moment after that. She was thinking back. Back to when she was Nightmare Moon. And although she still felt bad about it. She had already overcome the Tantabus she herself created. She couldn't let herself fall in despair. "...but, only the most arrogant and....to take it from your friend...cutest colt gets to be foalsat"

W-what...ok, what the hell was she getting at. You nearly blushed when Princess Luna, Princess of the goddamn night, called you cute. "Cutest?"

Oh good lord. Was she actually a filly fiddler like in them eroge comics?

Luna nodded, a smile growing on her face "Of course, in by which I mean we would treat you like a prince."

....What?! No wait, you're used to this by now. "Ok...I see. you're teasing me aren't you?"

Luna sighed. "I would imagine that you are quite the jester at banquets. Yes, I was indeed teasing. But I do speak the truth. You would be groomed to be a prince as a punishment."

...How is that a punishment? "Uhhhhhhh, how is that a punishment?"

"Because somepony such as yourself would fold to being told what to do, how to do it, what to eat, when to eat, and learning various trades while also going through grueling or very boring tasks. Even your linguistic skills would be tested. And given the truth behind your life. You'd be begging for mercy in mere moments." Luna nods to herself as she gazes at you, again, a small smile on her face "Yes, I do believe you'd fail quite miserably"

Eggghhh...you know, losing the horn doesn't sound so bad now. Being a prince sounds like it's pretty fucking shit. Then again...it must be....OH GOD. "D-did.." Your eyes widen in surprise. "D-did you just teach me a moral by teasing me?!"

Luna doesn't nod, she doesn't laugh. Nothing. She gives you a look of that of a mother. A mother who waited to hear what her son had learned. "It depends on you Anon, what did you learn?"

It must be hard to be a princess. You never really considered it. There was so little of them on the show and it didn't seem like they had it too bad. Hell, Luna got to go spook all three of the damn CMC. And Celestia? She always seemed to find some way to spice things up. But hell, since you never seen them do anything truly important. Or the fact they usually job pretty hard to shit. You never thought their day to day life might be difficult. You were mad at Celestia sure. But this is the same Celestia that knows you have bugbutt in your basement. And still, despite your intruding. She only took the horn. And not even permanently as long as you don't fuck up. You just got "End of the episode" moral'd

What did you even have to make a comparison? Nothing. But thinking about it, these two probably do their best to keep Equestria united. Hell, they must be good at it too considering how happy the world is. Sad Twilight seems to suck at it. Or maybe Yaks are just disagreeable most of the time.

Well...you were still angry at the fact you lost the horn. But, ugh....it was no one's fault but your own. "That I was being too arrogant. I shouldn't have imposed while you and your sister were busy. I mean, I knew that. But I guess now...I really know that. I could have done a lot of harm. I never considered the fact that both your jobs and lives were difficult"

"Or could have gotten harmed. Your friend was very considerate not to mention the fact that your clothes are ripped and your mane muddled. I apologize about my guards. They are zealous in their job. But good natured nonetheless."

Ahh shit, that's right. You had a tux on. Or what was left of it. It was torn to shreds. And yet, not a single injury on you. Did they think you had a weapon under your clothes or something? "Ah geez, Rarity worked really hard on this."

"I'm sure she'll understand if you explain the circumstances. But Anon, there is something else I wish to talk about. And I wish to get the subject done with quickly." Luna looked to the door, her competitive spirit was shining through her regal expression "I have a wager to win after all. And I'd like to do it before I must begin my work."

Oh man, good on her for staying dutiful despite a cold. Still.. "...What about exactly?" Here it comes.

Chapter 196 - Twilight Week Arc

Luna's tone and expression becomes serious, but she doesn't say a word. How...irksome. Then Luna puts a hoof under her chin, it seems her thoughts went kerplop. "Hrn, actually. I don't think there's actually a problem with this arrangement."

Arrangement? Dare you ask? "...What do you mean by that?"

"The little filly, Diamond Tiara. It's clear she fawns over you yet she does not know the truth of who you are. And yet, who you are might be different from who you used to be. You have been granted new life, and although we expect you to conduct yourself better than any other foal. It's hard to ignore that you must live a foal's life before you grow into a stallion."

This was becoming more curious by the moment, you looked up at Luna, wondering what she could possibly be getting at. "I'm having trouble following Princess Luna, can you be a little more specific, please?"

Luna took a moment to wipe her reddened nose, and take a sniff before continuing. "I'm merely wondering what would happen if she knew the truth. If it's even necessary for you to tell it. Your old life was full of strife and pain. And it is now the past, beyond dimensions and physical form."

....What? Was she just talking, thinking out loud, or giving you advice? What was she talking about exactly? You only had some idea. "Are you saying I shouldn't tell her?"

Luna just closed her eyes, and looked out her window, to gaze at the stars. "I'm merely saying that if I was in your place. I'd probably never tell her of the past, or anypony really. It's irrelevant. It is a past that has nothing to do with Equestria, or even yourself at this point. It only seems to dictate your actual intelligence and mannerisms. Although, that is not to say that if you ever felt comfortable that you would let her know."

Well, that makes things clear. "I don't think I want anypony else knowing about it. I'm in too deep, and I could only imagine how hurt some of my friends would be. And then there’s Fluttershy....I really, REALLY don't want her to know....I kind of like being her "nephew"...so to speak"

Luna nods and looks back to you, giving her nose yet another wipe. "Indeed, this entire situation is quite volatile. Usually, my sister and I wish for all our subjects to be honest and just. But a secret like this is best kept buried. It is not even an awful thing to keep a secret. We all have a few, some that are ours to know, and know alone"

Well, that was actually reassuring to hear. Luna being on the same boat as you when it came to the whole secret thing made you feel comfortable. Or rather, less guilty about it. She's been alive since forever, so you thought of her opinion being super valid. She was...being pretty damn based all things considered. "Wow, Princess Luna, that's. That actually takes a load off my mind. I always felt guilty just holding it in all the time. It felt wrong. knowing that you'd keep it a secret too. But, well...it really helps me."

Luna smiles at you, giving a small nod "Indeed, it's a secret that must feel like you are lying at every moment. But do not worry, as long as you are still you, then it is merely a secret. With that being said, I only have one further question to ask you"

You nod, and smile back at her, yeah. Sure. Whatever question it was you were glad to answer it. "Anything, whatcha got?"

"Well, as it seems this is the natural course of things. I wonder if I'd be invited to your future wedding."

...goddammit! DAMMMIT LUNA! You chuckle nervously. "I...don't wanna think that far ahead yet.."

Luna's smile turned into a grin, then she laughed "Haha! You were not expecting to be teased after such a serious talk, but I have made you feel comically uncomfortable. And therefore, hearty chuckles are to be ha-haaaa--HACHOO!" Luna nearly falls backwards as she sneezes hard into the air.

You duck the snot as Luna looks up into the air with rage, her face became as red as her nose. "VILE ILLNESS! TIME AND TIME AGAIN YOU THINK YOU CAN CONQUER ME! BUT I SWEAR! ONE DAY, I WILL FIND A WAY TO ERADICATE YOU FROM EXISTING....FOREVER!"

That strikes you as funny, and you double over in laughter. Served her right, adorably cute night horse.

Luna just narrows her eyes at you, miffed at your laughter "....That is not humorous, this is a very serious illness"

You raise your eyebrow at her, you were smirking, still letting out a few titters. "What? A cold? Ohhh scary."

"YES A COLD!" Everytime Luna yelled, it was "Canterlot voice" levels of loud. Luckily, you were used to such things by now. "HOW COULD SOMETHING WITH SUCH A SIMPLE AND MISLEADING NAME CAUSE SUCH MISERY!? IT IS NOTHING TO SCOFF AT! YOU WHO ARE NEW HERE KNOWS NOT THE HORROR OF THE COLD!"

"Accctuaaallllyy, we have colds in our dimension too. I've gotten them a a lot. And given your reaction. You...probably barely do and.." You let out a chuckle. "You're such a baby foal about it"

Now Luna was showing visible frustration at you, she growled a little as she let out a "A baby foal you say? YOU DARE TO SPEAK TO ME THIS WAY?!"

Oh shit...OH SHIT...you may have overdone it. "W-woah, wait a s-second! WAIT!"

You start backing up as Luna hovers upwards in the air, looking down at you as her eyes glow white, shining like the moon. "I SHALL NOT WAIT! YOU HAVE TAUNTED MY CONDITION, AND NOW YOU WILL SUFFER THE CONSEQUENCES!"

"I-I'm sorry ok! Don't hurt m-WOAH!" You backed off so far off the bed that you actually fall off, falling on your head and landing on your back. "Ngh..." You look upwards, and try to flip off your back to get on your hooves. But you are suddenly grabbed in a dark blue aura.

"LUNA NO! LUNA NOOO!" You start screaming in fright as you are lifted up into the air with a sudden jolt. Holy shit, this wasn't Discord. This was Luna, so she could suddenly actually… Actually… She just puts you back on the bed as you fidget and put your forelegs over your head to protect it. "Don't hurt me! I'm sorry! Ok?!"

You take a chance to glance at Luna while you shook in fear. And she had sat back down on her bed at this point. Annoyed, she was wiping her nose again. Practically getting the tissue up in her nose. "Grrr, confound this contemptible disease. Even when I wish to strike terror in the heart of somepony for the fun of it, it must get in the way."

Fun of it? You look up at Luna as you move your forelegs down onto the bed to sit up. Then you narrow your own eyes at her.

"Do not give me that look Anon, I've been ill for two days. Fun is scarce and I will indulge in it. Or need I remind you that you have done the same thing?"

.......Egh...she got you there. "Ok ok...fine" You say begrudgingly.

"Good, because your face will be one to remember. Now then.." Luna's horn glows again as the chessboard resets itself "It is time for my victory, can you please go fetch little Diamond Tiara?"

You really should be better humored about what she just did. Discord's done it, you've done it, she did it. Bah, whatever, let it go. Accept that she got you. "Sure, gimme a moment. Though, you shouldn't get too cocky, she's already seemed to beat you a whole bunch"

"I'm not too worried, I am focused this time"

Was she? who knows. You go and get Diamond Tiara, and let her back in the room. Diamond Tiara stops in front of you, she heard the yelling. "Is everything ok? What happened?"

"Oh nothing. Princess Luna just having trouble with her cold" You give her a reassuring grin

"Indeed, but this will not hold me back from victory, young foal. Come, our final battle awaits!" Seems you and Luna were at least on the same page of not explaining the extra fluff. Yup, despite even her joke. Based Princess...maybe even more based than Celestia after all.

Diamond smirked at her as she climbed up onto the bed "Oh, is that all?" She sits in front of Princess Luna, still smirking, but with admiration in her tone of voice "Princess Luna, let me say that it's been a real honor to spend time with you, to hear your stories, and to play chess with you. But I also have a goal in mind" Diamond Tiara looks to you, her smirk then turning to that of a loving smile. She then looks back to Luna, with determination. "And I'm not going to lose, even if you are a princess!"

"Good! Then we shall play at the peak of our abilities! Prepare yourself young Diamond Tiara, for victory will be swift!"

....and it was pretty swift.

You didn't even get a chance to really get into the game and cheer Diamond on as Diamond nearly immediately demolishes her.

"And checkmate, I know it'll be awhile, but I'd like the cake to be taller than a building, and the wedding itself to be royally themed. You can remember that, right?" Diamond says arrogantly...christ, old Diamond was bursting through on that one.

Luna just looked at the board. Astonished that she still lost. "Yes.....well.I shall.....do well...to...remember that.... Ahrm..." Luna then looks to Diamond and gives her a congratulatory nod. "Well done, you have bested me in tactical combat. Furthermore. You have shown me that I need to improve my skills. Excellent young Diamond Tiara, truly a skilled player if I've ever seen one"

"Yeah, geez..I couldn't even really keep up with all that. It happened so fast." Note to self, never challenge Diamond to Chess.

"Of course.." Diamond Tiara looked to Luna with respect. Now that she had her victory, she acknowledged the princess as a worthy opponent. "Princess Luna and myself are probably the best chess players in Equestria. Like I said, I was trained to be the best at everything."

"Verily, I am inclined to agree. Again, I thank you for the time we have had. The both of you. I will remember my promise. But, I now must ask you two to vacate my room. Although I know I need my rest, there is work to be done" But Luna leans back enough to open her forelegs up for a hug. "Although, if we could part with a friendly hug. As I have found the company of both of you to be of both a fun and healing experience. It would be appreciated."

Diamond Tiara's eyes entered that usual state of awed wideness. "O-oh my gosh..I-I'm actually going to h-hug...t-touch..." And she couldn't even finish her sentence as she went in for the hug. As for you.....ehhhh...you dunno. She did have a cold.

But the moment just seemed...too happy and energetic? Ehh, why not a small risk. Not like Luna was disgusting enough to just wipe snot wherever like a slob. You join in on the hug, and all three have a gentle and hearty laugh at how adorable the moment was.

Yeah...everything went fine.

Luna has a bat guard personally escort the both of you back to the train station. With a written note to allow you both free entry onto the train. Something both you and Diamond appreciated.
Though, as you left her room. You couldn't help but have a little giggle at Luna once again going on a rage rant over a sneeze.

You summarized things in your head as you both were lead back to the train station. You look up at the stars, lost in thought. You lost your horn for a while...yeah. Celestia was probably right to take it from you...maybe. As for keeping the secret? Yeah...for now anyway, that would be best. And then...there was the date...It was...actually successful. It was clear she didn't get to spend time with Celestia, if any. But she still got her wish with spending time with a princess....but goddammit. She still won that wager.

And as the bat guard dropped you both off at the station. You noticed Diamond Tiara taking the time to look up at the stars. "Anon, you know. When I was with Princess Luna. She told me the story of the night sky. That stars are said to hold the hopes and wishes of everypony everywhere. And if a star falls, it means that star has been filled with so much hope and wishes, that it gets too heavy. And so it falls down to release itself upon Equestria. Granting the hopes and wishes of everypony that sees it. I thought it was beautiful but..."

Diamond Tiara notices a falling star, as do you. Diamond Tiara then sighs. She didn't hear you...not once..acknowledge her as your real special special somepony. And while she got what she wanted. She didn't really get that "Romantic moment" with you. "I don't think it's true, stars fall all the time and nothing really seems to happen"

.....Well. It seems you really do have to make due with the life you have now. Luna was definitely right. Your old life is dead. Dead and gone. The only thing that came with you was...just you. This wasn't a simple move of dimensions. You were essentially reincarnated. And yeah..you weren't perfect. But you were you, and you have managed to make friends that actually care about you. And that’s all it really was about.

As for the falling star...

You silently walk over to Diamond Tiara and plant a gentle kiss on her lips, making it last just a little longer than a peck. And then, Diamond went completely red, and silent.

Now was the time....for the actual move. You lift your leg, and give your best "Cutely dashing" look. "Diamond Tiara, would you be my special somepony?"

She just looked in awe......before falling over, unconscious.

"...Ah shit"

Chapter 197 - Twilight Week Arc

You had to dive in to catch her, nearly slamming your face to the ground just to make sure she didn't fall on hers. You know what hitting your head was like.

And there you laid for a while. Luckily, she didn't fall too hard. But you both did have to get home. You didn't want to worry everyone, even if Spoiled gave you the ok to take awhile. Besides, the train wasn't here yet. But it would be soon, given it's schedule.

"w-what happened?" Diamond Tiara slowly opened her eyes. She then noticed she was laying on something soft.

"You fell down after I kissed you." You said as you looked forward, laying on your belly. "..you ok?"

"y-you saved my life again?" Diamond Tiara got up, that never ending awe never once leaving her face.

"I wouldn't exactly saWFEDSFADS"

Diamond Tiara once again gets you in a legged death grip as she nearly squeezes the life out of you. "Anon! You really are my knight in shining armor!"

You had to squirm a little out of her grip to get some breath. She wouldn't stop hugging, ignorant to your gasps. After you got some air, you turned over to her, who was still nuzzling and hugging on to you. Totally unaware of the rest of the world. This was fine though, this is what was going to happen once you actually pursued a relationship with her. But, you also knew you had to be careful. Her feelings were most likely delicate, and she's probably the jealous type....definitely would be the jealous type.

As you both lay there, you could already hear the sounds of the train as it came stopping at the station. Again, your luck was pretty good, there were only a few other ponies waiting to get aboard. And they didn't really seem to care to pay attention to the antics going on beside them. "Well, looks like the train is here."

"..Awww, I kind of wanted to lay here and cuddle with you a little longer." Diamond giggled as she slowly got up and dusted herself off with her hoof "But maybe not. Mother is a little uppity when it comes to me doing anything that'd get me dirty."

"I can imagine" You say as you get up. You then decide to give her a little nuzzle of your own as the train comes to a complete stop.

She blushes heavily and steps away from you. "A-anon, what are you doing?"

"Giving my special somepony a little nuzzle, is that wrong?"

She gasped, blushing deep red, as if...oh goddammit. She didn't even remember when you said it the first time. "I-I'm y-y..ohhwww" And she started to faint again. Good lord.

You quickly jump to her side, standing to make sure she'd still be on her hooves when she tilted towards you. "Woah woah woah Diamond, don't faint on me again now."

"O-ohhh" Diamond nearly went out again. But when you caught her, she was barely able to stay conscious. She was in a true dreamlike state. "A-anon...did you..is this why I fainted?"

"Yeah, you alright?" You wanted to laugh. It's weird how this relationship thing was with her. Did she see you as unobtainable? Or maybe this struck her so deep as you were her first, her hero, and maybe even a colt who didn't care about the money she had.

"Y-yeah..mmnnn" Diamond pushed off against you gently to get back on her hooves. She then took a breath to get her head together.

She then felt a small tingle on her muzzle. Her lips. She slowly began to remember. "...We kissed?...We did"

"Mhmmm, was that your first kiss?" Heh, it was a literal knockout it seems. Plus, of course that was her first.

"...Yeah." She looked to you again. And then slowly smiled. She was happy, as if she was already married. "Anon..."

You started to blush a little yourself. She was pretty cute, and all this realization was starting to truly get to you. You even started to give her the dreamy eyed look. "Yeah?"

"You're......you're going to make the best husband ever"

Goddammit...GODAMMIT. You still didn't want to think that far ahead. There was still a fucking chance of failure but...at the same time. It was a nice dream to think about. Plus, you didn't want to ruin the moment. "And, you'll make the best wife ever"

And she just lit up from that. She joined you from the side, nuzzled her head close as she yawned, and closed her eyes. "Come on, let's go home."

Awww, she was getting tired. You started walking forward into the train with her. The tickets you both were given were for a private car. 101 it seems, shouldn't be too hard to find. When you both enter the train and enter your private room in the train. You were a little underwhelmed with it. It was just an ordinary room with bench chairs and a place to put in luggage. Ahh well. You'd have to make due.

Especially with your sleepy "Fiance". She had grown tired, and has asked if she could use the whole seat and if you'd mind if you sit at the end...and be her pillow. Of course, you obliged her. And for the entire trip, she had rested on you. Her cute little puffs of air making a sweet soft noise every time.

The date was a success. At the cost of your horn. Still, you weren't really angry anymore. It was your fault. You'd just have to do better. The train ride gave you time to think. Twilight, you'd have to try even harder with her. Sadly however, it was getting late

....oh wait. Yeah, Twilight probably wasn't expecting it to take this long. And Sweetie Belle? You wondered if either of them got worried about you.

When the train stopped at Ponyville, you gently wake Diamond before the both of you head off. As you walk her home, she tells you of a wonderful dream she had. With you, grown up, running the Rich estate, and having two loving children.

Outwardly, you were smiling and nodding to everything she said. Inwardly, that was a little frightful just how far her mind was going ahead with this.

When you drop her off, giving her a hug as to not knock her out with a kiss, you knock on the door. It's Spoiled who answers the door. Seems she had been waiting for the both of you.

Not many words are shared. But it seemed she could see the happiness in her tired daughter's face. She opened the door wider to let Diamond inside. "Are you alright. Diamond Tiara?"

"Mhmmm...I have so much to tell you, mother..." Diamond was really tired at this point. Her mane was a little undone.

"You can tell me all about it in the morning my dear, go upstairs and get some rest."

Diamond nods, giving her mother a little hug before going upstairs. It seemed Spoiled wasn't quite used to hugs herself. Or hadn't done it enough in awhile to be comfortable with it. She grimaced a little, but did indeed did her best to return her daughter's love.

You didn't want to be a bother, so after you said your goodbyes, you turned to leave. Only for Spoiled to let out a very neutral sounding "Wait..."

Hm? "What's wrong? Uhm...unless you're worried about how late I brought her home..." You gulped. It couldn't be that, right? She did say...

"No...your tuxedo. What happened to it? I hope you didn't put my daughter in any kind of danger.....you better not have..."

Oh shit...well...yeah...probably would have been smart to actually take the damn thing off before arriving. "Um, to make a long story short. I took your daughter to see the princesses. She got to meet Princess Luna...and I sort of went the wrong direction..Alone mind you...and got mauled by her guard." You chuckle nervously. "Pretty funny huh?"

She wasn't laughing "And where exactly was my daughter while you were being "mauled"?"

"Playing chess with Princess Luna."

And there it was. The moment you mentioned Diamond actually interacting with Princess Luna, you saw, for just a tiny moment, Spoiled Rich give a expression of genuine surprise, one that showed a sense of proudness. "I..see. Hmmm, I have to admit, being able to meet one of the princesses of Equestria is indeed a very high honor. Perhaps I have misjudged you in how civilized you truly are. I..." Spoiled Rich looked to the stairs, to make sure her daughter was not watching. And then, after she was sure she wasn't. Spoiled Rich...smiled. A genuinely happy one....it was almost creepy. "I thank you Anon, really. For making my daughter happy. And for making one of her dreams come true. I wasn't expecting anything like this just from a simple date. And yet you went beyond what WAS expected just for her. Even I could never manage such a feat without it relating to important business."

..Well then. You managed to impress Spoiled Rich herself it seems. Fucking nailed it. "It wasn't anything much Mrs.Rich, your daughter wanted to meet princesses, so that’s what I made sure she would see."

And then, her smile went to a scornful frown "Your modesty is annoying. Now that your business is done here, you can go."

W-what?! "what did I say? I d-didn't mean to insult you or anything."

She shook her head at you, still looking pretty peeved. "You didn't insult me. I just hate undue modesty, it's unbecoming. The next time I compliment you, I expect you to just accept it with a "Yes ma'am, it was my pleasure" or a phrase close to it. Saying it was nothing reduces the compliment's value to nothing. And don't argue with me that it doesn't. You try being modest in the high end of business and you'll be eaten alive by those who will see you as weak and arrogant. Now...good night Anon."

Before you could even reply. She shuts the door on you.

Christ, if it wasn't for the fact she was letting you see Diamond and being overall nicer to her, you'd never be able to tell you reformed her. Welp, you went in deep this time. No going back… You sigh, and head off towards the castle. You thought about knocking at it's door. But it'd probably be best if you just silently go in. Not like it'd be locked anyway.

But as you walk along the roads of ponyville. You hear a noise of someone landing behind you. And then a voice. "F-f-f-inally...y-you're alone...now it's just you...you and me Anon...come on...you ain't gonna get away this time.."

You tensed up. No way...NO FUCKING WAY. You turn around, yep...It was Rainbow Dash. And holy shit, she looked like a mess. Her mane was every which way, her wings crooked, her eyes darkened. She looked drunk..or extremely tired given her sweat. "Cripes, Rainbow Dash?! What are you doing here?!"

Rainbow Dash was also not standing still, she was tipping, and struggling to keep her balance. "Y-you know why I'm here. I've been waiting outside that castle since you went and teleported in...and then I followed you all the way back to Ponyville..I haven't even eaten yet...or drank anything ...I-I don't want to miss you when I finally would...would..erm..have you alone..and stuff. I know you're him Anon, and I'm...gonna find out...now. Now put up your hooves and fight me."

Holy crap. She was out of her goddamn mind. Was she just..hanging out, flying every which way around the castle for hours?! She didn't even fucking nourish herself and now she was out of her head. "Rainbow Dash, I'm not gonna fight you. I'm a colt, remember?"

Rainbow Dash almost sounded drunk with her speech. "Yeah...well..I don't believe it. Something really off about you Anon. I m-mean really....what kind of pony goes around attacking other ponies like that?"

......

"Didn't you almost destroy Cloudsdale because you didn't want to lose your pet turtle for the winter?"

"You leave Tank outta this!..He..he doesn't..wait...Did I do that?..oh..I did"

You nodded as you started to give this some thought. It was obvious that Rainbow Dash was obsessed with this whole thing. But why? Why did it bother her so much? "Why are you going through such lengths over this anyway? Didn't everypony tell you it was a dream?"

Rainbow Dash groaned dismissively at you. "Yeah....but that's because they weren't there. A-and why am...am I so obsessed?...wellll..I'll tell ya. Because I don't trust Discord...and I don't trust you after you attacked me. I'm a pretty smart pegasus Anon, I gotta be considering how awesome I am. And..my...er.....smartness is telling me that you and Discord are probably planning something pretty bad. And I'm gonna find out...right here..right now. I don't even think you're an actual kid...now...put up yer hooves."

.....Well then. Wow actually. That was her reasoning? She was worried...she was worried that something bad was going to happen. Nobody believed her and she thought you were planning something awful. Did she think you were trying to get her out of the way?

You thought back to Luna at this very moment. And Celestia as well. You..and your arrogance with your horn caused this...well, that and the fact Rainbow Dash was kind of dumb considering the others just dismissed things. And, this was part of your new life. And maybe, not even a secret worth keeping.

Celestia herself, she just wanted you to be a better pony. And that horn...wow..you could now see it really wasn't all good to use it so nilly willy.

You sigh....might as well tell her the truth. Now that you realize the kinds of lessons that Celestia and Luna have imparted on you. This was probably a good time not to be stubborn. "Well.. Rainbow Dash. I might as well tell you then. You were right all along,.."

"Well of course I was ri...wait.." Rainbow Dash shook her head quickly to regain some of her senses, she was in genuine surprise "Did you say I was right?..so..does that mean.."

You nod. "Yeah...I'm sorry for lying to you. I didn't know you were going to go so far with this. I just wanted to mess with you a little, that's all."

“Mess with me?..s-so..you weren't gonna try to take over Equestria or something?"

Goddammit… "No, it was just a prank,"

"...And the whole clown thing?"

"Prank..."

"...Oh..." Rainbow Dash didn't know what to say now, she wasn't expecting that at all "....Really? so no big evil plans? It was just a prank? What about your dad?"

"He had nothing to do with it. I did it on my own. And I know, I shouldn't have done it. I just...kinda wanted to mess with you and Twilight. You guys are kinda smug, ya know?"

But Rainbow Dash didn't say anything. No, instead she smirked, then smiled, then fell over in laughter.

Why was she laughing? Goddammit...what the hell was wrong with her? "What's so funny?"

"HAHAA IT'S...IT'S TOO MUCH. A PRANK?! REALLY?! DO YOU KNOW HOW SPOOKED TWILIGHT WAS?! HAHAHA, IT'S LIKE SHE WAS SEEING BOOKS GETTING TORN APART. NOW THAT I KNOW IT'S A PRANK, THAT'S JUST TOO...HAHAHAHA!"

Wut? "And what about when I kicked your butt?"

Upon hearing that, Rainbow dash stopped laughing immediately, her eyes going wide before chuckling nervously. "...Oh right...you did that too.....hmm" Rainbow Dash stood up, looking around, then up at the night sky "Huh...you know, how about we both just pretend it was just a dream after all. Don't want this getting out. "Element of Harmony loses to the Hero Colt" DOES NOT sound like a headline that ponies should be reading. It ain't cool or awesome in any way."

........Godfucking dammit. You told her the truth only for it to go back to it being a secret. Fuck your fucking life. Although, it did strike you as funny since she was going to be the one wanting information withheld this time.

"Sooooo....does that mean we're cool now?"

Rainbow Dash nodded. "Yeah, we're cool now. Just don't tell anypony about beating me in a fight. A champion like myself shouldn't be losing to a colt no matter how much magic he has. It just doesn't happen. But eh, If you wanna fight next time. Let me know. I'll be happy to kick your butt and show you that horn is no match for the Dash. Oh...also. Since it's just you and me who know about what really went on. I gotta say, what you did to Twilight wassss pretty funny. I'll admit, since I laughed and all. But you lose points for making her think it was a dream. If you wanna learn how to really prank ponies, come to me, I'll give you a few pointers. Just don't go overboard alright? I know you're stuck with Twilight right now and she could be a nag, so pranking her now would be pretty dumb"

Wow, it actually fucking worked. Though, for now. You wouldn't be taking Rainbow Dash up on that offer. You couldn't really anyway. Since the horn was taken away. "I'll remember that whenever I want to try another prank..I guess. So uhh, it's kinda late, and I need to get going. You going to be ok there Rainbow Dash?"

"Yeah..." Rainbow Dash lowered herself to the ground, and sort of rubbed herself against the dirt before lying still "I'll...be ok..."

"Errrr...are you sure?"

"Yeah...just kind of tired. Don't feel like moving..besides. Real ponies sleep outside and deal with it. Makes em tough.........and.....a-an.." And she conked out. snoring.

Christ...

Well, that really did feel "end of episode" tier. You were almost disillusioned from feeling like an actual cartoon character. Simply because in the old world, that wouldn't have worked. You would have been slammed to the ground or something for admitting the truth. And poor Dash, you did kind of feel sorry for her.

Your tux wasn't in good condition anymore. But maybe… You slip it off, and do your best to get it under Rainbow Dash's head. so she'd have something softer to rest on. After doing so, you nod at her..smile..and head back to the castle.

You slip inside, it was pretty dark, and upon entering the room with the cutie map. You could see none was waiting for you. You do your best to remember the layout of the castle, and through a little trial and error, you find the right door, and quietly slip inside into Twilight's room. But to your surprise. Laying on her belly, on the bed. with a familiar owl perched on her head. Was the purple princess herself, invested in a book.

Still awake.

"Twilight? You're still awake?"

"Anon?" Twilight turns her head towards you as Owlowiscious flies off her head and perches himself on top of a bookcase. It also seemed Twilight had prepared herself not to worry too much about you and your whereabouts. She tried not to. She didn't want to ask you any personal questions and make you feel uncomfortable. Though...she was curious about something. "How did your date go?"

...Wut? You look at her inquisitively. "You're not wondering what took me so long?"

Twilight shook her head. "Nope, well...unless you didn't come back, then I'd be worried. But I know you can handle yourself. You are the hero colt after all" Twilight giggled, she felt that was a tad teasing. "Come on, hop into bed and tell me about it. Or do you want to keep it private? Either way is ok with me because..." Twilight horn begins to glow as she pulls out two copies of a Daring Do book. "If you don't want to talk about it, then we can get to reading that much sooner! We'll make a whole night out of it. It'll be like a book slumber party."

......Fuck....you forgot all about that. And really, after what happened, you didn't feel to up to it. Hell, you were surprised she was. But… Goddamn, she looked adorkable and eager. Bah, why not? You'll probably fall asleep before you finish anyway. She won't mind as long as you try.

You walk over and climb up onto her bed, nearly falling back off with your first hop and shaking your back legs like a cat to shimmy on up. "The date went really good actually. But I kinda don't wanna talk about it. A lot went on, some private stuff too, and er. I just wanna get to reading. So, Daring Do right?"

That was satisfactory to Twilight. She wasn't Sweetie Belle or Rarity. Who would have probably demanded details...fuck...Sweetie Belle will probably do that when she sees you again. "Yup! And feel free to take small breaks whenever something exciting or requiring deep thought happens. That way we can talk about how great that part is, we could even do a little criticism if you like. I don't mind pointing out some of the bad parts with the good. Though, with Daring Do, there's never really any bad parts."

You almost laughed at that. That's cute. "Thanks, I never really read these books, so if they're as interesting as you say, I'd love to have some discussion about them."

"I'm glad to hear that Anon, one of the most important parts of reading a story is discussing it as well. It could bring real insight where one would have thought nothing of it before. Especially when you notice neat little tidbits that reveal more about a character than is initially let on. Ohhh, especially when there's clever and subtle foreshadowing. Then you get that "Wow! how did I miss that!" feel. It's always a great feeling when you can't see something coming! Even when you read it again, it just has this "I can't believe I missed this" feeling to it. And trust me, Daring Do has a LOT of that." Twilight was very obviously giddy. "I'm already excited to read this book again, aren't you excited too, Anon?"

Chapter 198 - Twilight Week Arc

Twilight puts one of the books in front of her, and one right next to her. But then she did something you didn't expect, she raised her right wing.

"Twilight? Why are you raising your wing like that?"

"Oh. I thought you'd be more comfortable if you laid close to me while we read. Fluttershy told me that you always feel comfortable when you rest under her wing...soooooo, I thought you'd feel more comfortable and relaxed reading with me if I blanketed you with my wing." She gave you a grin "I even made sure to give you the large print version of the book so you'd have an easier time reading it. We're going to have a lot of fun Anon, you just wait and see!"

.....But you were still stuck on the whole wing bit. Twilight, being a nurturing pony by blanketing you with her wing? It was hard to see in her a mother of any kind. And yet... The invite was quite tempting. You liked being close to a warm and loving body of fluff. And Twilight did look cuddly… And all things considered, considering how everything went, and the whole reason you were here with Twilight in the first place...? Yeah, it'd be best to accept her offer. "That's a nice offer Twilight. You really don't mind if I snuggle close?"

Twilight shook her head, in a way to suggest that what you said was rather silly "Of course not, we're friends right? And as your friend, I want to make this the most entertaining yet informational and, due to this also having a discussion, intellectual reading of Daring Do anypony could ever have. Not to mention the most comfortable. Now get yourself settled and we can get started!"

Well shit..ok then. You move in close to Twilight and snuggle up next to her. She wasn't quite as soft as Fluttershy. But her wing. As it wrapped around you. had a warmth similar to Celestia...but not quite there. This was actually...more relaxing than you thought it'd be.

"Comfortable?" She asks

"Yeah." You say in a soft low voice, still a little surprised by how warming she was.

She then brings your book closer to you, and then opens hers to the first chapter. "Ready to get started, Anon?"

You open your book, it was odd actually, seeing english in a book in a world of ponies. Sure, they had english words written up in the show. But, this was the actual world. The parallels always seemed more staggering seeing them in person rather than through a screen. With that, you both start reading silently...but then, reading silently actually kinds of irks you. It's not that you needed help. No, that wasn't it. And oh no no, it wasn't because you were some actual kid....nononono. It was the fact that it actually felt a little impersonal. You wouldn't know where Twilight was at in the story, and there'd be no way she'd know, so how was there to be a discussion if one accidentally ends up ahead of the other.

You stop reading, and look at Twilight. "Twilight, can we stop for a moment?"

Twilight puts down the book, and looks at you, she seemed a little worried that you stopped so soon. "What's wrong? I hope it's not too boring. I know nothing exciting has happened yet. But the beginning is always used for character developme-"

"Nonono" You interrupt her. "There's nothing wrong with the story. Actually, I'm kinda wondering if you could read out loud. So I could follow along and make sure that when we discuss the chapter, that we both actually reach it at the same time."

Twilight nodded, that actually sounded like a good idea to her. "Alright, just make sure you're also reading along so you don't accidentally mishear anything, ok?"

Easy enough. "Ok, gotcha"

"Alright then..ahrm" Twilight cleared her throat "Chapter one..."

And so she read, enthusiastically actually, putting emphasis on certain actions and doing her best impressions of the characters. She does it in such a way that you smile, and nearly giggle a few times when she tries to speak like Daring Do in a more serious moment. The first chapter would have been utterly boring without Twilight. But you still managed to read through it as she read along. You could swear you had read it once before. But it seemed so far out of memory that it didn't matter.

Discussion time was also a little overwhelming, but that was probably because you were tired and didn't see much to talk about. Twilight brought up topics about archaeological studies and why it may seem Daring Do isn't acting like a pure professional. Bringing up points that the book actually is very close, and highly accurate on information on some of the artifacts Daring Do makes mention of, and bringing up her character herself in being more knowledgeable than her more higher class colleagues.

Well of course it'd be accurate; It all most likely really happened. She was real. Though, you wondered if telling Twilight that you knew she was real would cause any real problems. Nah, best to be ignorant. But you didn't want to be a slouch in discussion either. You used your "fabled" ability to criticize anything like any good imageboard frequenter and to bring up points that the other archaeologists don't have the depth and knowledge Daring Do has due to the fact that they don't deal with any of the artifacts or their cultures first hand like Daring Do does. This actually makes Twilight stop for just a moment to think if you've actually HAVE read at least one of the books, but then comes to the conclusion that Daring Do is actually pretty popular and that you probably had a good idea of how the stories usually go.

The first chapter's discussion goes well. There was nothing really to criticize other than that and Twilight and you both basically agree with each other on the current going ons of the first chapter. Which was really just an introduction. You actually expected it to start like "Raiders of the lost ark". But considering this really happened. It probably wouldn't start mid adventure. Also, it seems your little body couldn't handle getting to chapter two, Which was Daring Do learning of the whereabouts of the Sapphire Stone. It was interesting, but not interesting enough to protect your senses from the late night and gentle tone of Twilight's voice. You fall asleep, nuzzling into Twilight just a little to get some warmth.

Twilight stops when she hears the tiny thump of the book tilting onto the bed. She looks to you. And sees your sleeping form. Then she looks up to see her pet owl, Owlowiscious, just letting out a little hoot as he observes Twilight and you from his perch. He wasn't thinking too much. Just being an owl and relaxing. And Spike of course, was already asleep by the time you even got to the castle.

Twilight uses her magic to put the books away. She then gently raises your head so she could move a pillow under it for you so you could be more comfortable. And since she wasn't going anywhere. She gets one for herself as well. "Goodnight Anon, dream of friendship and family tonight. And maybe a little adventure of your own" Twilight gave you a warm smile before snuggling up on her pillow. Tomorrow would be another day.

Day 3 begins.

You wake up slowly, your eyes opening. The first thing you were gazing at was the ceiling of the room. Hmm? "Twilight?"

You look around, she was nowhere to be seen. The room was void of occupants in fact. Huh, nobody bothered to wake you up. Was breakfast just starting or something? "Huh..."

You hop up out of bed and take a look out the window. Another beautiful day in Equestria it seemed. You decide to head downstairs to the Cutie Map room, that’s usually where everyone eventually hangs out. But when you get there, all you saw was Spike, eating a bowl of gems. "Spike? Hey, good morning!"

Spike looks up at you, and then swallows the mouthful of gems he had in his mouth. "You mean "Good Afternoon" Anon, you overslept again. That ain't healthy you know."

....Dammit. Again? "Oh...err..why didn't anypony wake me up?"

"Well, I thought you'd like the extra sleep. And Twilight and Fluttershy got called up by the map and now their off dealing with a friendship problem. So it looks like you get to spend the day with good ol' Spike" Spike chuckles to himself, feeling a sense of grandeur. "So, how did that date go? It didn't crash and burn, did it?"

......Hmmm. Funny that's what he assumed happened first. A little insulting to say the least. "Actually, it went perfect. Me and her are actually coltfriend and marefriend now."

"Wooooah" Spike stopped his eating, astonished by your words. "Seriously?"

You feel a sense of smugness from Spike's reaction.. Fuck yeah you managed it. "Yep, all in one date. Pretty good huh?"

"Yeah, sheesh." Spike claps, congratulating you on your achievement."Good job, I don't think I heard of anypony managing that in one date. I guess being the hero colt gets you some real cred with the ladies, huh?"

He wasn't wrong there. It was because you "saved" DT, and Applebloom was just from the fallout of it all. "Yeah, I guess. Speaking of which. Wait..." Hold on, it just hit you. You were going to ask why he doesn't get a girlfriend his age. But then you remember, he himself is the hero of the Crystal Empire. "Why do you go after Rarity again? You're a hero too you know, you could probably get your own special somepony back at the Crystal Empire."

"Yeah....no" Spike crossed his arms as you looked at you, dismissing your words as absolute garbage "Dunno if you know this Anon, but Rarity is PERFECTION. She's better than any gem. Not even all the gems of Equestria can compare to her. There's not a single crystal pony that is anything close to her"

You raise an eyebrow at him. "....have you even tried?"

"No...but" Spike huffs stubbornly "As I said, perfection."

Well then, if he wanted to be stubborn. Then you'd let him. You had better things to do than listen to how Rarity is so great. "Alright alright, don't have to get angry about it."

"Not angry, just saying. And before you think she's out of my league. She actually isn't...I just haven't found a way to romance her yet." Spike stops for a moment. He softened up, tapping his claws together nervously "You.....wouldn't have any surefire advice, would you Anon?"

"As I said, forget Rarity, go crystal."

"Nope, anything else?"

....Well then. "Sorry, that's all I got. You really should consider it. I'm just saying"

Spike shook his head "Bah, what do you know. Rarity is the kind of mare you have to work hard to get. If you knew her a little better, you'd know why I can't quit now."

...Welp, he's a lost cause. Just agree with him and be done with it. "Ok, Whatever you say. So uhh...changing subjects.." You look around, trying to think of something else to say. Then realize...you haven't written to Starlight yet. "...Actually, where do you guys keep your quills and scrolls or whatever. I want to write a friend of mine a letter, let her know I'm ok and such."

"Hm? Oh, I can get that for you in two shakes of a pony's tail. But Anon, I was thinking. You and me, we don't really know each other too well. And I've always felt that maybe you and me got off on a bad start, y'know? Being Discord's son and all did make everypony kinda suspicious. So I was wondering if you wanted to hang out, and...I dunno...we could go bowling or something. They got a special going at the alley today that anypony who bowls a perfect game, team or otherwise, doesn't have to pay for that game and gets an all you can eat buffet of whatever we want! I bet you and me could win it for sure"

You had to take a moment to think about it. Really? Spike wasn't a bad guy. And this did seem pretty genuine. He could be pretty based when he's not being arrogant or greedy...or a love struck cuck. Plus, you haven't gone bowling in Equestria yet. Who the fuck knows? You might actually be good at it. "You know, Spike? Sure, I'd actually would love to. Besides, I kinda wanna see everypony’s faces when we manage a perfect bowling score."

Spike seemed to get pretty pumped from those words "You mean you've done it before?"

Oh...wait. No, but you thought maybe..offscreen. That he was at least really good, or came close. He could be, right? He's got fingers. "Ahh, no actually. But I'm kind of good at bowling. What about you? I mean, we can't just say we'll bowl a perfect game and....you know...fail at it"

"Not with that attitude, come on Anon. I know you're smarter than that. We're both heroes after all. If we can beat a couple of baddies, then how hard is it going to be to win that sweet sweet prize?" Spike said, standing up in a noble-like stance.

Well, at least he was confident. And, there was nothing wrong with that. How the hell were you supposed to know if you'd fail or not? This is the land of ponies. Bowling might be easier here than in the human world. Easy enough to nab that perfect score...hopefully. "Yeah, you're right actually. Bowling shouldn't be that hard, all we gotta do is roll the ball hard and fast right? Even if we screw up a few games, I got enough cash to keep us going for a few hours."

You snicker arrogantly. Yeah, you were sure you could do it. Pony Bowling was probably easier due to ponies not even having fingers. All you have to do is adjust and you'd be able to do it in a few games. "Though we'll probably do it in less than half an hour."

"Now you're talking. Ohhhhhh yeah, this is gonna be so sweet! Ok, let me get you that quill and parchment. I'll even mail it for you if you want"

"Yeah, that'd be swell. I didn't even know your fire could send the letter to other places other than Celestia"

"...It can't. I meant I could drop off the letter in a mailbox on the way to the Bowling Alley."

....Huh… "...Oh"

With that, Spike goes and grabs you the parchment and quill. He also gives you an ink bottle. Warning you to be careful with it as he didn't want you spilling it on yourself or the cutie map. In fact. He goes back to grab a board to place under the parchment in case there was any accidents. You didn't complain, it was probably a good idea. Though....writing with a quill proved to be more difficult than you thought. You may have gotten used to a pencil, but using your mouth on the quill was difficult as fuck to even get right. How did everyone else do it?

You could also tell Spike himself was doing his best not to laugh at you "Need some help buddy? If you want, I could write down what you say. It'd go a lot faster. Trust me"

...Now you felt insulted. It shouldn't be that hard. Fuck pencils..you can do this. "No..I got this...Let me just..try this way? Maybe.." It was no use, no matter how hard you tried. using a quill was more difficult than a pencil. ".......fine. Whatever." You spit the quill out in red faced frustration. Screw quills.

"Hey, don't sweat it Anon........pf...PFHAHAHAHAHAHA" Spike falls over laughing, he couldn't help it anymore. To be defeated by a simple quill. Too hilarious.

You look down at the giggling dragon and grumble in frustration "...Whatever, at least I can get a girl"

Spike immediately stops and gives you a mean look "Hey! Like I said...perfection takes time..sheesh. Not my fault that was hilarious." Spike gets up and grabs the quill and parchment, the moment he prepares to write, he has a quick snicker. "Ok ok...start saying what you want me to write and I'll write it down."

You take a silent moment to regain your patience. Because really, you might need it. You were taking things too personally. This is the world of friendship and caring. In the end, Spike probably actually cared about you. A trait a human wouldn't truly give in such little time. Friendship is magic after all.

"Dear Starlight Glimmer, How are you? I...wait...hold on don't write that I..I mean. Write this down. How is your project plans going? I'd like to hear about the progress of that and the progress you've made with your friends. I'm super interested in hearing all about it. If you want to know what's going on with me, I'm sorta hanging out with Twilight for the entire week, getting to know her. Now I know, I know...you have your problems with her. I kinda do too, but in the end. She isn't that bad. Maybe you could give her a chance too? When everything calms down of course. Just saying, not forcing you or anything. Also, I got a marefriend. Dunno how I'm gonna get that fully worked out, but hey, I got friends here who I know I can count on if I hit a roadblock. So, yeah. That's it for now. You take care Starlight, can't wait to hear from you. Your friend, Anon.....You got all that?"

"Yep" Spike says as he rolls up the parchment after letting the ink dry. "I'll just get this prepped up and ready to go. Just..." Spike sighed. "I wish the envelopes were with the parchment. But, it's Twilight, all mailing stuff has to be sorted into its own category. And that's nearly on the other side of the castle. But I'll be back as soon as possible."

"I'll be right here...and er. Thanks Spike" Despite him being an asshole, he did also write that all down and offered to have it sent. He was a good guy, just had to get over it. That's all.

"Tch, no problem. What are friends for, huh? Be right back!" And Spike goes off, to get the parchment ready to be sent.

When he leaves the room, you sit on top of Twilight's chair and looked upon the cutie map. You could see Twilight and Fluttershy's cutie mark over two hills with homes on them. Huh....weird. Wonder what was going on with that.

..even weirder...you started to hear "Winter Wrap Up" repeat itself over and over.....in a kind of lowish quality.

Lowish quality? Wut?

You look over to the source of the sound...... "what..in the...fuck?” A cell phone. There was a cell phone ring and vibrating to the side of you. Ringing with a "Winter Wrap Up" ringtone. ....only one person knew of this kind of technology, aside from yourself. "...Discord?..."

You say his name, but nothing happens, the phone just continues to ring. You pull the phone close. It appeared to be a jet black flip phone. You flip it open, but then realize. How the fuck are you supposed to press any button with hooves? ...Ehh...there was your tongue....fine...if only to answer the phone. God, you hoped it wasn't a bomb. You use your tongue to click the green phone button, and then you press the speaker button because there was no way you were holding it to your ear.

"Discord?" But it wasn't him. It was an electronic voice

"Hello, this is a collect call from..." And then the familiar voice of bugbutt came out "Stop shoving that thing in my face before I tear YOUR face off you idiot! I don't even know what that thing is!"

Then back to the electronic voice. "Would you like to accept the charges? Press one for yes and two for no"

Charges? You were reluctant before, but you KNEW this was Discord, he just was using Chrysalis as...what a joke, just to torment her? Whatever.

Who knows what the fuck would happen if you clicked one. Then again....who knows what would happen if you pressed two.

....Yeah...better press one. You press one with your tongue. "Hello?"

"Ahhhhh, if it isn't my friend and "Son", Anon. You know, it saddens me greatly that you never call, never write. Next thing I know you'll be putting me in the old folks home and trying to collect on the inheritance."

It was definitely Discord. What the hell was he doing? "Discord?...what are you up to? What's with the phone?"

"Isn't it obvious? I can't interfere with your visit with Twilight...well I could, but at the cost of upsetting dear Fluttershy. But, there are loopholes to everything. I don't think it counts if our bug friend was the one to make the call and you yourself accepted the charges.”

You don't really think that'd fly. But you weren't going to really rat him out either. One because he was your friend and the one who made it possible, and two, you didn't want to piss him off. Besides, as long as he himself didn't act TOO much of an asshole, then you'd be fine with it anyway. You actually missed him, and also wanted to know what was going on with those pictures in your room. "Whatever you say "Dad", so, I know this sounds generic. But, what's up?"

"Oh you know, the usual. Chaos, but..And I know this would surprise ALL of Equestria, namely because not uttering my name in a conversation is cause for alarm, buuut, I'd rather hear about how you are doing. Namely, you and Twilight. Everything fine?" As he spoke, he went from his usual smugness to sounding a little concerned.

"Actually, yeah. We've been ok together. It had a bit of a rough start. But everything is fine now, we even read the first chapter of Daring Do together. Ehh, I think I fell asleep during chapter two, but you know, it was late night."

He then sounded uninterested in what you had to say. "Uhh huh, sounds fascinating. But tell me Anon, what is the answer to two plus two?"

.......Wut? "Errr....four?"

Suddenly Discord's voice booms through the cellphone, he was suddenly angry. "Ohhhh, I knew it! I KNEW IT! I JUST KNEW SPENDING TIME WITH HER WOULD TURN YOU INTO A COMPLETE LITTLE GOODY GOODY! AND NOW I KNOW FOR SURE THAT SHE HAS BEEN DOING JUST THAT! BECAUSE THERE WAS NO WAY YOU WERE SMART ENOUGH TO KNOW THAT ANSWER BEFORE! OH NO......oh no..." He then sounded saddened, and like he lost hope. "...she hasn't had you singing songs and helping senior citizens....has she?"

What in the… "Discord....First of all, no, she hasn't. And two, I always knew what two plus two was. I'm not an idiot. Geez."

"....Hmnnn" Discord sounded unsure. "I don't think that's the truth. But I'll take your word for it for now. Anon, just remember what's important. In fact, let me remind you. Chaos. Chaos is what's important. You're my chaos buddy, a friend I can pal around with and wreak havoc without anypony being the wiser. Don't ever forget that."

So that's it. He wanted to make sure you didn't completely turn into some angelic dweeb.

"Discord. You know me, as long as we're not going too far, as long as no one is going to actually get hurt, as long as it's all in fun, then I'm with you. Though, really, you know we could just go mess with whatever evil villain is around if you really wanted. We could mess their shit up and you know I wouldn't care. So what are you worried about? What's with the pictures in my room?"

"Ahh, you've seen my growing collection of memories. They aren't much, just a collection of reminders of the "you" I care to like. I want to remember you as you are now, In case you decide to fully embrace the magic of friendship. Don't get me wrong, it truly is a wonderful thing, my time with Fluttershy...I'd even say when Twilight forgave my wrongdoings made me feel a soft warmth inside...yes, friendship is truly magic. But, you know what they say about having too much of a good thing. So, of course chaos and disorder is still a major part of my life. And I've grown quite attached to having a partner in my endeavors, yes, even when it turns out we're helping somepony. Chaos is chaos, whether it helps or hinders. Which brings me to this question. Are you sure you won't come back to me a broken pony?"

You groan a little at that. Yeah, he cared about you deeply it seemed. But he also cared about the fact that he didn't want you to not want to cause chaos anymore. "Come on Discord, Chaos is my cutie mark. Destiny, you know? Look, the only thing that's probably going to change is probably just a little less chaos making. At least to Twilight and her friends. I mean, if you want, when I get back, we can go mess with....you know, didn't Celestia have a shitty nephew or something? Cousin?...I don't remember anything about him but his name being Blueblood and the fact that he was an asshole to Rarity. We could probably torture him for awhile."

"Oohhhh, a relative to Princess Celestia you say? Yes..I think I know who you're talking about. I did take the time to watch the episodes myself after all. Though, there is a certain taste lost when you cause chaos on one who actually deserves it, so I expect us to cause a complete meltdown. I can count on you, right Anon?"

"Yeah, you can count on me. The guy is one of those smug, rich, and self obsessive types. Trust me, I'll enjoy every second of it"

Discord lets out a evil chuckle over the phone. "Good, good. Glad to hear that you're still you. I suppose I won't be needing to hold on to those memories after all. Well Anon, I don't want to take up any more of your time lest somepony happens to walk in on you during our talk. You take care, and remember. Chaos over order"

You nod. "Yeah, I got it. But hey, before you go. I kinda wanted to know your opinion on something."

"Hmmm? You're asking for my opinion? Now that IS interesting. Do tell Anon, do tell"

"Well...I sorta have a marefriend now. You know, Diamond Tiara? You spoke to her once or twice. I know at least once."

Discord starts laughing over the phone. "Are you serious?! You went for it?! Really....Oh Anon...oh....ohhhhh Anon. I feel sorry for you, I truly do. A filly, really? How silly. Especially since you could never act on those barbaric instincts of yours. Well, not unless you wanted to be in the most trouble in your life. And your original age Anon, wow...just wow. You would be thrown in prison so quickly. If you wanted me to be proud of you, I suppose in some sense I am. But I'm not impressed. Nor am I disgusted. I just find the whole thing humorous. So how exactly do you plan to keep this little infatuation with her up? Hmmm?"

...Huh, you never actually gave that too much thought. Shit. You felt stupid. Yet, with Discord's words, you also realized a few things.

"Well..err. That's the thing, I haven't really felt human for awhile, well, I haven't even felt my actual age in awhile, I dunno what it is. But some things seem and feel different. I dunno, probably just hormones or something. The point is, it doesn't feel wrong to me anymore. As for my inhibitions, I can abstain until we’re adults. It shouldn't be that hard."

"Oohh Anon, wait until you go through your teenage years. But, I'll leave it at that. No fun in explaining what I mean when you'll eventually figure it out and mull over it for awhile."

...Oh...you knew exactly what he meant already. "I was a teenager once already Discord, I think I could handle hormonal changes again."

"Maybe, but can she? Can you or her resist? Yes, ponies tend to be more moralistic. But, I wonder what happens when an outsider is thrown into the mix. In fact, I'll let you contemplate on that. It seems the call is about to end. Ta ta Anon, I really do miss you, and hope to see you again soon. And I'm glad you're doing well." His voice softened up just a bit "I mean that"

...What the hell did he mean "Contemplate on that"? Ahh fuck, he wanted to make you worry on purpose. That shitbag. He couldn't once, JUST FUCKING ONCE, not try something during any interaction. He always had to mess with you in some way, even when he was being nice. Fuck, you should have just kept your mouth shut.

"Discord wait! You can't j-"

You're interrupted by the monotone computerized voice. "Thank you for using Chaos Collect, this phone will self destruct in one second"

Fuck it, you didn't have time to throw it away. So you just closed your eyes and braced yourself. "...bastard" You say as the phone explodes in a bright white flash and loud noise. Shit, it wasn't a regular explosion. It was a damn flashbang. You fell over yelling, covering your eyes. They were flashed with a bright enough light to pierce your eyelids.

Chapter 199 - Twilight Week Arc

You cover your eyes as you whine from the eye pain. You could only hear a loud ringing in your ear as you fall off the chair and roll about on the floor. "Gyaaaahhhh!"

It didn't take long after for Spike to rush into the room due to the sounds of your screaming, he throws the envelope onto the map table as he rushed up towards you. By this point, you had finally stopped yelling. But you couldn't open your eyes, and you still only heard a ringing in your ears. "Anon? Anon! Are you ok?! What happened?!"

You didn't answer, you just turned to your side as you tried to open your eyes, only to see a burning white light. Dammit, You had forgotten that no matter what the situation is. Discord can and will prank you. You whined and grumbled, unaware of Spike's presence.

"Oh geez, Anon, come on. You're scaring me here. Don't just lay there, answer me! Darn it!" Spike stomped his right foot in the ground in frustration "Twilight never mentioned something like this could happen. What is it?! Did something come in and scare you?" Spike took a look around, there was nothing "No....oh, did you fall asleep and have a nightmare? Bad memory...something? Don't just lay there, speak to me!"

But you did, you did just lay there. With the outline of the room slowly becoming visible through the white as the ringing slightly dulls. You could swear you could hear a panicked voice. Spike didn't know what was wrong. And he couldn't get an answer out of you. He thought you may have lost your senses, maybe your mind. There was only one thing to do.

"Sorry Anon, but you made me do this." Spike grabs your tail, something you notice, and before you could even ask who was there. You feel a painful bite upon it.

"YAGH!" You jump up and run around in a circle, thinking there was something clamped to it. There wasn't. But thanks to the pain, it seemed to have recovered your other senses faster. "G-geez! What was that?!"

You look around, things were still a little blurry. But you could clearly see Spike was behind you. "W-what happened? Spike? What happened to my tail. It felt like-"

"Somepony bit it? Yeah I did" Spike looked pretty concerned about you "What happened to you? You were screaming and whining, and on the ground like somepony punched your gut or something."

Ugh, it was the fucking Flashbang cellphone. But, despite the fact that you wanted to strangle Discord. You didn't want to make mention that it was him. ugh..time to make something up. "I dunno, just cramped up. Geez, you didn't have to bite my tail" You looked back at it, and plopped on your butt so you could give it a rub, it looked crooked.

"Cramped up?" Spike didn't believe that for a second. "Yeah, sure. And I'm Nightmare Moon. Anon, that wasn't any cramp I've ever seen. And if it was a cramp. Then why did it clear up when I bit your t.....ohhhh, I see."

Spike huffed, and crossed his arms "You know, if you didn't want to go to the bowling alley, you just had to ask. Geez Anon, all that just because you didn't wanna roll a ball?"

What?! Shit, did you give that impression? "Nononono, Spike, you got it all wrong. It was just one of those quick cramp things....I forget the name of...whatever. Point is, I'm fine. See?" You wave your legs about. "Totally ready to go bowling."

You actually felt pretty enthusiastic to go. That prize sounded pretty damn great. And, well, maybe hanging with Spike wouldn't be so bad. Spike was now confused, if you made it up to not go bowling. You'd have no reason TO GO bowling. But if it was real...

"Woah woah, hold on, maybe I jumped the haystack a little there. I mean, if it's a real cramp then we shouldn't go. We'd need to be in tip top condition to win that prize. You don't have to fake it for my sake"

....Goddammit. "No, really. I'm fine, see?" You hop around, even doing a small dance with a few "ratatatas" thrown in. "See?"

Spike was rubbing his chin. If you were able to do a small dance. Then...well..he still had one question. "So these cramps just come and go? Huh...weird. I've never heard of that happening to anypony before. I'm gonna have to ask Twilight about it when she gets back. She'd know about it. And if it's some medical thing. I'm pretty sure a doctor could help you out."

.....Goddammit, this was becoming more needlessly complicated by the second. "Spike, I'd rather not. Look, it just happened. That's all. It's super incredibly rare, there are probably a pony or two that experience once in their life somewhere. Can we just drop it?"

"Alright alright, if you say so. But if it happens again. Straight to the hospital with you. Got it?" Spike wanted you to understand. Although he was just a baby dragon. He now felt responsible for you, he felt he was the only one who could do something for you should anything happen.

It wasn't exactly a bad thing either. It meant behind that arrogant exterior was a heart of gold...or maybe silver. Just a good guy at heart really. But then again, you already knew that from the show.

"Got it." You nod.

With that, Spike grabs the envelope from the table as you both make your way to the entrance hall.

"This is going to be great Anon, trust me. We'll go in, play a practice game or two. Then go for the perfect game. I just hope you got your stomach ready. Because when they say all you can eat, they mean it." Spike started to drool at the thought of it "All those gems..."

You were smiling, even if it was Spike, you never really got to hang out with a male aside from Discord. You were kind of getting sick of holding back some of your male traits...such as...

You let out a small burp as you both walk to the front door. "Heh...it feels nice to let one out every once in awhile."

"Err...yeah."Spike seemed to be a little uncomfortable, due to his loss in the contest "I know what you mean..."

Y'know. Maybe you shouldn't give Spike too much shit or try not to lie to him too much. He did stop Twilight from sealing you up for good. You pretty much owed him your life. He was truly a hero. Yeah....he still could be a massive faggot sometimes though. As for the reason he felt uncomfy.. "Yeah...Twilight beating us in that contest was kinda...all kinds of weird. She's never burped like that before?"

"Nah, Twilight doesn't usually just burp out of nowhere. I still don't get how she managed to do it. My only guess is that since she never burps then when she does burp, it's like, a mass of all the burps she never does. Make sense?"

"Sorta, you mean like gas builds up in a pipe, and if it's let out, it just explodes outwards?"

"Yeah, kinda like that."

That probably wasn't it..or it could be. Who knew how some of the shit you used to know works now? Everything so far was mostly the same. Except being a horse of course. Spike puts his hand on the front door and prepares to push it forward. "It's fine though, because we’re about to eat like kings."

But as the door opens, both you and Spike see a small army of colts in front of the door and down the steps. All of them wearing a Sombra horn necklace. They let out a loud cheer. The booming sound and amount of colts make your eyes go wide in shock as you immediately close the door and begin to sweat.

Oh shit...OH SHIT. What was that all about?! Why are there colts there?! Unless...wait…

But as your mind starts to think back to the little filly back at the fast food diner. You notice Spike is also in shock, breathing hard as he holds the door closed. "Spike? So you saw what I saw huh?"

"Yeah! We gotta get outta here Anon. I never ever thought for even a second that a cult of midget ponies would come and try to avenge King Sombra. Ogh, I need Twilight right now!"

.......

"Spike, I don't think those are midget ponies. I think those are foals"

"Foals? Then what's with all the Sombra horns?"

"Because it's like my horn. I was told by a filly that I had a fan club due to my heroic acts. I think that's them. Ugh, this isn't good"

Spike didn't find a problem with that. He actually thought that was kind of cool. "What's the problem? That's actually pretty cool Anon. That pretty much makes you like me...almost, you still have to beat a big time villain like I did. Buuuuuuuut what you've done is close enough. Why not embrace it like I do. There's a lot of nice perks that come with herodom."

....Maybe...Except… "Spike, this fanclub is ran by Snips and Snails."

Spike cringed immediately upon hearing those names. "....Ehhhhhh, ok. I see your point now." Spike opens the door slightly just to peer outside, there was still colts. "Why don't we just use your horn to get past them?"

God fucking dammit.....You could if you actually still had it. Should you lie again?.....Probably not. You still had a few more days at the castle. And if there was any instance you had to use the horn and you didn't have it. You'd have to explain why. Might as well tell Spike, maybe he could keep it a secret? "Can you keep a secret Spike? I mean. I don't want you telling anypony"

"Sure, if we're gonna be close pals, then we gotta be able to keep each other’s secrets." Spike pumps his chest with his fist "Trust is important when it comes to friendship, so go ahead, what is it? Does it have to do with the horn?"

Here goes...you hoped this wasn't a dumb move. "Yeah, it does. During my date, I used the horn to barge into the Princesses' castle. You see, Diamond Tiara REALLY wanted to meet a princess. And I wanted to oblige her, since that would clench the date. Well, it did. And she was happy. But Princess Celestia took my horn away as punishment for what I did. I'll get it back, but not until my visit with Twilight is done."

Spike...actually felt for you. "Harsh. Well Anon, don't feel bad ok? If I was taking Rarity on a date and she wanted to see the Princesses. Then I would have totally done the same thing. So don't sweat it" Spike gave you a cool and confident look as he pointed to himself. "This dragon totally gets it, so don't worry. Your secret is safe with me"

.....d'awww..Spike. That was actually really based. "...Thanks Spike...mnn" You look back at the front doors. Should you just try? Try to talk to them? Maybe if you just tell them off. Or just try to get them to go away nicely..or something. You couldn't just let those colts hang there. Nor could you just hide in the castle. This had to be resolved in some way before Twilight and....Fluttershy came back. Oh man...you didn't want Fluttershy getting involved. Poor thing.

"Mnnn...." You let out a long breath. You had to do something. "Ok, so their fearless leaders are probably out there waiting too. I think I should just go out there and tell them...something. Just to get them to leave us alone. What do you think?"

Spike shrugged. "Dunno, but whatever you wanna do. I'm right behind you Anon, consider me your temporary number one assistant. It's like a regular number one assistant, but only until this is over. We still gotta go bowling"

Dammit Spike...you were making it really hard to consider you a massive faggot right now. Hell, you had to turn your head as you began to get a tear in your eye. "T-thanks, really Spike. Thanks...." You take another breath. "Ok.....ok....let's do it"

You push open the doors, once again standing before the small army of colts. The moment they see you. They cheer out your name. "Anon! Anon! Anon!"

You smiled sheepishly, nervously raising your hoof to hail them. You were thinking of something to say as the young foals looked at you with awe, chanting your name excitingly. The moment they see your hoof, they cheer all the louder.

"Everypony! Hold your applause! For we" You hear an arrogant, scratchy voice chuckle "the head future heroes wish to speak."

You and Spike look in the middle of the crowd. It was Snips and Snails. Wearing red sashes around their necks. And despite Snips asking them to calm down, they didn't. "I SAID HOLD YOUR APPLAUSE!" Snips yelled out

They stopped, all stepping away from them. Snails looked a little confused and whispered to Snips that they weren't applauding. They were cheering.

"Isn't that the same thing?" Snips asks Snails. Snails just shrugs. As dumb as fucking ever.

Spike whispers to you "How in the hay did they get so many followers?"

You whisper back. "I actually have no idea, when I heard about the club. I didn't think they had this many members. It's insane."

All this because of your status. Holy shit, everyday. Consequences and effects of your actions were coming back to haunt you. But even then, no matter what. There's no fucking way this many colts, and upon further inspection, a few fillies, could be following these two hacks.

"Anon the hero colt. We present to you your adoring fans." Snips smiles happily about it all as he works through the crowd to step closer to you, Snails following. "Pretty sweet,huh?"

"Uh huh.." You say sarcastically. "Snips, how exactly did you get this all together? Don't you remember what happened last time we met?"

"We both do. And we apologize about it too. We realized taking the items of a true hero was wrong. But...we also realize why you were so harsh to us"

Because you hated them? Please let them say that.. "What is that exactly?"

"That heroing is hard. Snails and me were really not ready back then. But we also realized that you only wanted to toughen us up! So we did, as for how we got this all together? Well, since we had managed to toughen up thanks to your teachings. We were ready for an unexpected fight against a spiked shell turtle dragon. And we won!"

No....surely they must had come to the conclusion that it was a dream. It seemed Spike, not even knowing shit about it, thought the same thing "Really?....reeeaaalllyy? You two? Sounds like a dream to me. Do you even have any proof?"

Snips arrogantly looked to Snails "Snnnaaiiillss?"

Snails presents a bag with a piece of claw, and some red hair. "This is the proof, all approved by the town appraiser, ay. We are totally telling the truth"

Snips nods "Totally.....sorta. Actually, we aren't true heroes ourselves yet. A talking parasprite helped us fight that thing...it was kinda weird actually."

"Yeah..." Snails was pondering on it. "When I think about it...it sorta seemed dreamish, but" Snails then gives you a dumb, vacant look "But it definitely happened, Definitely absolutely, ay. I just wish we didn't have help. Then we would have been heroes for sure."

"Yeah, but that’s why we need to train. So we don't need a magical parasprite's help next time." Snips then turns to you "And that’s why we're here Anon. So we can all train under you and be real heroes!"

Then another colt speaks up "Yes! And rightfully so! Anon is a true hero, when I had spent all my money during Nightmare Night, he came to my rescue he did! Gave me his money out of pocket so I wouldn't have to explain it to me mother. A true hero indeed! Hurrah for Anon!"

That was Pip, then a....familiar brown colt with a propeller cap spoke up. "I wanna be able to blow up and survive like Anon did in class! Hurrah for Anon!"

And then a pegasi colt spoke up, was that Rumble? You couldn't remember. "I wanna be able to protect my friends like Anon protects Equestria! Hurrah for Anon!"

"Hurrah for Anon! Hurrah for Anon!" The crowd cheered. And then they slowly began to advance.

Oh shit..OH SHIT! How?! How could you drop pieces of Bowser? Was your defeat that horrible that you got shredded that badly? Christ.

Spike was doubtful about all of this. Those two beating ANY dragon? It made no sense to him. "Woah woah woah, hold on. You two beat a dragon? With the help of a talking Parasprite? Are you serious? Does nopony see how dumb that sounds? The smart thing they did was probably trick that appraiser, there's no way it's real"

"Again, if I may speak sir. It is indeed real. The hairs of the dragon were put to the test in extreme temperature and they did not burn. It is indeed real" Pip speaks up again.

"....And just because of that you all decided to follow these two?" Spike's words were a little shaky now, the hair wouldn't even burn? That had to be a dragon. He himself didn't have full knowledge of dragons either despite being one. And he couldn't fathom anyone actually following these two. But the entire group nodded. It seemed since Snips and Snails were the apparent closest to being a "Hero", that they'd be the ones to follow who would then follow you....christ.

....You needed to backpedal. You look to the crowd and announce "Well ok then! I definitely see why you're all here and...err..could you all just wait here while I speak to my friend..thanks"

You start stepping back, beckoning to Spike to step back into the castle so you can close the doors. He does. "...Spike....you got any ideas on how to fix this?" Shit...those two. Those fucking two. You couldn't figure out how to fix this. If only you had the damn horn.

"No idea, geez, who would have thought ANYPONY would follow those two dumbdumbs. How could they really defeat a dragon anyway? I bet they didn't, must have been something close to it. But it couldn't have been any stronger than a foal."

Wait.. "Spike, you're a genius!"

Spike was confused. "Wha-huh? What do you mean?"

Oh man! If everyone knew you were the dragon, then not only would Snips and Snails lose credibility, but maybe you could shrug off some of your own growing rep as well! Finally, FINALLY. The truth will set you free!

Chapter 201 - Twilight Week Arc

You sigh despairingly as you look down at the discarded wings. "Scootaloo...."

Why did she have to be so fucking stubborn?

You ask Spike to take in the wings as you ponder on the plan further..

How exactly were you going to make this all convincing anyway? It had to be real enough as to not to disappoint Scootaloo. But you also had to be wary that you lacked the horn. Everything could look fake if you don't have a chance to "give it your all". And even then, will it even work? Or will those two faggots come up with something else to hold their adoration towards you. Really, Scootaloo shouldn't be sticking her nose in this at all. But with Snips and Snails ruining the livelihood of foals in Ponyville, it was really up to you to get things fixed up.

For this to work. You had to figure out a way to face Rainbow Dash at "Full power". That, or......or....What if "something happened"?

"..That's it..."

”What's it?"Spike asks as he returns from putting the wings in your saddle bag. He brought the bag back to you to wear in case you needed it.

As you slip on the saddle bag, you thanked Spike and began to explain your revelation.
"Ok, so this is what I got. Really, anything can go wrong for either me or Rainbow Dash if we fight each other. Especially since I don't have my horn. But what if during our fight, something attacked. And me and Rainbow Dash team up to defeat it because we couldn't beat it alone? Snips and Snails said I did things myself. But if I can't, and need Rainbow's help and vice versa. Then all we gotta do is ham up just how great we are and what a good team we made and, BLAM. Everything should go back to normal, especially since Rainbow Dash is definitely sure to show off. She'll dazzle them all with her super....speed...well you know, Rainbow Dash things. And more importantly, Scootaloo should be ok with seeing me and Rainbow Dash be all buddy buddy. Once her original members return, everything should be fine."

"Ok, I'm with you so far. And it sounds like it might work if you work in just how great Rainbow Dash is and maybe slip in some words that everypony should join in on Scootaloo's club. But there's still one problem Anon"

You think you were on the same page as Spike. "Snips and Snails, right?"

Spike nodded "Right, those two aren't just going to quit. They could even ruin the plan itself by making up something else to keep their members. We need to figure out a way to deal with them too"

"...we could.....put them in a bag and toss them in a river"

Spike rubbed his chin, chuckling a little "Maybe, but seriously. Their just dumb, and we can't actually hurt them. So we need to come up with something else....but what?"

It was hard actually. How could you demolish those two without actually demolishing those two?
"I can't think of anything, those two dolts think they can be real deal heroes."

"Yeah that's kind of...AHA!" Spike raises his claw, struck with an idea "I got it!"

"What?"

"It's simple. If those two idiots wanna be heroes. Then whatever is going to "attack" you and Rainbow Dash should go after them first. They'll run away and totally lose credibility. Then when all the foals get scared. You and Rainbow Dash swoop in and save them. Perfect. Genius really, I bet Rarity would think so anyway." Spike chuckled arrogantly at his brilliant plan.

You had to admit, it was pretty smart. "Yeah, that's pretty good Spike. Preeettyy guuuud. But now that I think about it. We do have one more tiny issue."

"What's that?"

the one last hitch was Twilight herself, or anypony really mentioning the fight. "What if Twilight finds out...or well, Aunt Fluttershy?"

"They probably won't be back for awhile. And besides, since Rainbow Dash will be on it. even if they do find out, we could just explain it to them and it'll be ok....but hopefully it never comes up. Nothing to worry about. Trust me"

Maybe for him, But there was something on your mind that WOULD make things worse.
"Yeah, that’s the thing Spike. It may be all fine and dandy for you. But for me, I'd have to explain why I lost the horn. Because you know those foals are gonna expect me using the horn. And I'm going to have to go into that fight needing SOME kind of flare"

"....why didn't you mention that before?" Spike thought it odd you'd not mention the need for the horn.

..because you sorta forgot for a moment, it's not often you are "hornless" "I'm still working out some of the finer details in my head Spike, I know those foals are gonna want a magic show to go along with that fight. And the more I think about it, the more help I think we're going to need. But..egh..I don't want to involve anypony else. It'll just get more complicated"

Spike pondered on that for a moment. "Then....why not ask your dad for another horn? Just temporarily, Princess Celestia will never have to know"

OH FUCK NO.... "Nope, Ain't doing. It's me using the horn that got me into this mess. If I use it again, then she's totally gonna find out."

".....Anon, how else are we going to do this then? We need the "monster", we need the horn, and we need a fight. We need ALL those things. How else will we do this?"

Did you really need the horn? Maybe not, you could just ask Discord to help directly. But that could be dangerous for EVERYONE'S' health if he overdoes it. No, you had to.....fake it. Wait..
"Wait wait, I got it. Ok, look. We gotta split up if we wanna do this as fast as possible."

"Wait wha? What do you mean split up? What's the plan?" Spike was confused.

"Ok, look. All you gotta do is get some fireworks and cherry bombs and basically anything with dazzle from Pinkie. Also, she's the only one I could think of who'd have or could make a nice looking prop unicorn horn of my color. Meanwhile, I'll go see Dash and get the fight set up and find out what we could use to "attack" us. Once we’re all done. We meet up before the fight, I slip on the horn, and then we make some magic. What do you think?"

"That's perfect Anon. And it's a good thing Pinkie has all sorts of crazy stuff to make things look ridiculously cool. Better still..." Spike lets out a small puff of flame "You don't have to worry about me messing up lighting them, hehe" Spike smirked at the fact he was a natural lighter. "But what if Pinkie asks why I'm borrowing all that stuff?"

...fuck...she would ask...or even snoop....wait..WAIT! "Tell her then. Then make sure she pinkie promises in keeping it secret. If it has to go as far as telling her about the horn and the fight. Then make her Pinkie Promise not to say a word.

"Got it...but Anon, you know they are going to find out eventually anyway, you know that right?"

That was true..you knew they would. Everything would have to go perfectly to prevent that.

"...Not if things go smoothly. It's not as if we have to tell them if they never actually find out. And even if they do find out, I never have to bring up the fact I lost the horn. They'll just assume I used it's charge....in fact, forget telling Pinkie about the horn. if Pinkie asks, tell her the charge on the horn was already used"

Spike nodded "Got it."

You'd just have to hope now nothing blows up in your face. If Twilight and Fluttershy ever asked for what happened, the truth that is. You could tell them then. It's better to tell them when things are calm rather than them stepping into the middle of the fight, thinking things were serious. You had to remember, this wasn't just for you. This was for Scootaloo too. As unreasonable as she was being.

With that, you and Spike split up. You head off to Rainbow Dash's House..or really.. cloud mansion . While he goes off to get the supplies from Pinkie.

You were fairly confident that the plan would work. And that the consequences of possibly explaining it to Twilight and Fluttershy far outweighed doing nothing, which would make Scootaloo enter a bout of despair. You don't know why you cared that much, she was just a dumb filly really. But, she was also your friend. And for her to give up something that let her feel whole. Yeah....you had to make sure everything went just right.

Of course, upon arriving at Rainbow Dash's home. You realized you had no actual way to get up there.

You took a deep breath, and yelled upwards towards her house. "RAINBOWWWW DASSSSHHHHHH!"

You look up waiting for a response. Thankfully for you, it didn't take long for her to pop out of her house. And she was sweating and wearing a headband. She hovered above you just outside her door, looking around.

"Rainbow Dash! Rainbow Dash, down here!" You called out

She looks downward. Spots you, and lands. She was wondering what you wanted her for. She was thinking that you came for that fight already,

"Anon? What are you doing here? You didn't come for that fight already did you? I'm in the middle of some exercise here. Then I gotta spend an hour resting up for some flight training. Knowing it really was you who beat me got me really going on my training regimen. I'm too awesome to be beat by magic created by Discord. He's sooooo lame, I can't let myself get beat again by anything even related to him. Y'know?"

You tilt your head back, narrowing your eyes at her, you just felt like she insulted both you and Discord. Hell, you felt a little offended despite you supposedly not caring too much about what others thought of Discord. "You are aware he's my Dad right?"

huh...something definitely felt off. Maybe it was being Equestria too long. But your range of caring seemed to be increasing. Hell, it did, didn't it? Every day you started to give more and more of a damn about the people around you. To the point that you want to see DT happy, and care about Discord's actual rep. Ogh, you had to tone that down a little. You didn't want to become the kind of person who could be duped by being TOO trusting.

Rainbow Dash chuckled sheepishly as she rubbed the back of her head. "Oh...right...So uhhh, did you come for that fight? Or to visit. I mean, if you're visiting that's cool too. I can show you how to do some actual physical training. You're a little flabby Anon, just saying."

You just narrowed your eyes further at her. Giving her a nasty look. "Excuse me?"

Rainbow Dash finally caught on that her words were probably actually agitating you. But, she also had it in her heart to not wanna see you become a flabby ball of fat. "Look Anon, I'm not going to take that back. You're an Earth Pony. You're supposed to be made of rough n' tough. All that magic you're doing is making you soft. Again, just saying."

EWFDSFDFD "Rainbow Dash..."

You grit your teeth, doing your best not to get angry at the fact she called you weak. You weren't getting fat. it's just that you were softer and cuddlier than most colts. Diamond Tiara liked it anyway. Soft colts were fine..

You weren't even fat. The hell was she even talking about? Soft maybe, but not fat. She was just subtly getting under your skin. "..Can we not talk about that? I have to tell you something important..."

"What? More important than getting into shape? Unless it's a sweet party, an autograph signing, or getting into the Wonderbolts. Then I can't think of anything more important. That said, you really should look into some basic exercise at least."

Must...resist....choking..Rainbow...Dash...

"..Rainbow Dash...can we just drop it? We have a real problem on our hooves.."

"A problem?" Rainbow Dash suddenly became really serious, especially since she mistook your annoyance with seriousness "What is it? What's the problem? Whatever it is, You can bet I can solve it in like...twenty seconds...probably less.....definitely less"

Wut? "You...are taking me seriously?" just..wut? After the way she was acting. You thought she'd talk down to you some more.

"Well yeah, duh. Your problems always seem to be really serious. Foalnappers, bandit gryphons, Changelings, and who knows what else. I already know you ain't like any other foal. Your problems are as chaotic as your dad. So of course, if you're the one having the problem. Then it's gotta be serious, so come on and tell me already so I can fix it for you."

She was...she really was being serious. Well then, at least your rep came in handy sometimes. She was also being a little impatient.

"Ok, so it goes like this..." And so, you explain to Rainbow Dash what happened. what the plan was. And even the fact you lost your horn. You also tell her of the consequences of Twilight and Fluttershy finding out sooner rather than later. You even tell her about Scootaloo.

Rainbow Dash nodded, and she did indeed, even when no one was in danger, took in all that information seriously. "All that cause of another Nightmare Night prank, huh? Sheesh Anon, your luck is really bad. I mean...really...bad. But don't worry, this is definitely a serious problem only yours truly can fix. Yeah.." Rainbow Dash then frowns upon her next words, and looks left and right, feeling a little down "Sorry about what happened with Scootaloo though. I didn't know she lost the entire fan club. It's gotta feel really bad when you think everypony is hating on your hero. Especially when it's the ones who used to think the same thing as you did. But..." Rainbow Dash gave you a confident nod "We're gonna get that fixed up too. There's no way I'm gonna let my number one fan down. Not in a million years. I'm with you Anon, I even managed to figure out exactly what we're gonna fight"

Rainbow Dash, while still being egotistical, was actually being pretty bro. She wanted to fix everything. even get Scootaloo back to her old self. But, what? She already figured out what you both we're going to fight? "....you do? What exactly is it? It can't actually be dangerous you know. No horn, remember?"

"I know, I know. I get it. It's nothing that's actually going to hurt us Anon. And he's very well coordinated. He's just about as cool as I am"

....who? What? "who are you talking about?"

Rainbow Dash smirks and looks up at her house "Ohhhhhh Tank, get out here, double time!"

...are you...what?! was she fucking joking?! the tortoise?!

As Tank popped out through the wall of her home, you just looked at Rainbow Dash with pure confusion. "Your pet? Are you serious?"

"Of course I'm serious. Anon, never underestimate Tank. He's smart, loyal, crafty, and always listens. All we gotta do is tell him what's up. Put him in this scary costume I have in my closet. And we have our monster."

"......but he's not even big"

Rainbow Dash smirked as she shook her head "Nope, but he will be once he's suited up. Tank is a total bud Anon, he's got our backs. Right Tank?" She looks to her tortoise with a confident smile.

Tank...actually responds with a slow head nod.

Right, you nearly forgot how smart equestrian animals can be. You really shouldn't forget. Angel can be a sneaky little fuck,

But you still weren't convinced. "Rainbow Dash, if we even so much as tap him he's going to go down. You can't seriously think he's going to be of any help."

huh, you must of hurt Tank's feelings. Because he receded into his shell while still hovering in mid air.

"Anon. Will you stop being so pessimistic. Look, it's me. Rainbow Dash, and I'm not only telling, I'm guaranteeing that'll work. Just wait and see. It isn't that hard. We don't have time to rehearse but you said there'd be fireworks to simulate magic and stuff. All we gotta do is throw a few hits, talk some smack, let Tank come in, and beat him up.....but don't actually beat him up...Really..Don't do it."

......Damn these stubborn ponies. "You can't just expect me to think your pet is going to make a convincing monster"

"There's that pessimism again. Anon, will you just chill? I told you, I got this. So does Tank. You'll see. Just relax Anon, I'm with you on this. But if you seriously can't focus on getting this right then of course it's gonna go bad. Just go back to the castle, relax, and wait up for me. And don't worry, I'll swoop all in like the awesome pony I am and really turn some heads."

No, fuck it, there's no fucking way, "Rainbow Dash, I can't trust your tortoise . It's just a tortoise "

And then Tank's propeller stopped at that.He fell to the ground, still hiding in his shell. Did..you really hurt it's feelings?

"Tank!" Rainbow Dash dived in immediately to catch him, and hugged his shell gently as she fell on her back. "....You alright?"

He only popped his head out of his shell a little to look at Rainbow Dash.

"Geez Anon..." Rainbow Dash gently put Tank to the ground as she got back up and looked at you, annoyed. "ease up, and apologize to him. Unless you have a better idea, then Tank is our guy. You're lucky I'm still even up for this after that. Sheesh, You really are Discord's son..even if you're adopted."

Apologize to a......dammit.....

Tank had feelings, you could tell. But he was still just a damn tortoise .

Too bad Rainbow was right. You couldn't think of any other alternative that'd work. And truth be told, she was willing to help you out. The consequences were dire, but if you didn't have her cooperation at all. Then everything falls apart.

Fine, you'd have to take with what you can get. Without Dash, this just turns sour. Though, given Scootaloo was in the mix. She'd probably still show up just for her. But, best not to try your luck.

you sigh, and ease up. That comparison to Discord also threw you a little offguard. You weren't that much of an asshole, were you? You just wanted to make sure everything would be ok. Not like she's much better at NOT being a dick anyway. "I'm sorry Tank, I guess I shouldn't let looks deceive me. I'd be really happy if you could help us."

That was sincere enough, right?

It seemed to have worked. Tank flew up and hovered towards you. and gave you a little nose bump. As if he could tell you were worried and everything would be ok.

It..made you smile just a little. "Alright, I'll go wait up at the castle."

"Ok, just trust in us Anon. We totally got this."

..and that was it. You return to the castle after saying your goodbyes. You'd have to trust in both Spike and Blue Fast. And not to mention the tortoise. You seriously....seriously hoped this all worked.

Chapter 202 - Twilight Week Arc

You sat at the castle steps. Alone.

Your mind began to wander. Were you being too much of an ass? Maybe not. RD herself was an ass. Were you being too pessimistic?...nah, you just wanted to make sure everything worked.

this was not going to be easy. You nor Rainbow Dash had time to choreograph anything. So how the fuck was everything going to go smoothly?

"Hey Anon....can I talk to you?"

That voice...

You look up, it was Scootaloo. Hanging back behind her was Applebloom and Sweetie Belle.

Scootaloo herself looked sad and repentant. She was having a hard time looking you in the eye.

"Scootaloo?" If she came back looking like that...then. "Yeah..what's up?" You spoke gently, you already guessed immediately what was coming. And yet, you could still feel your heart softening up.

"The girls and I have been talking. And, I think I get it now. You didn't want any of this to happen right? It was just Snips and Snails fault....right?"

It was. If they weren't just fucking idiots. This wouldn't have happened.

And looking at poor Scootaloo. Yeah, you could tell for sure she felt bad for what she did.

"Yeah..I didn't even know they took your club members or trash talked Rainbow Dash. Scootaloo, I'm sorry that it happened."

Scootaloo shook her head, saddened by her own actions, she starts to tear up. "Don't be, I shouldn't have gotten angry at you without knowing the full story first. It was my bad. I'm the one who's sorry for all this."

And before you could reply, she goes in for a hug. You could see Applebloom and Sweetie Belle reacting positively to the tender moment.

...dammit Scootaloo. You felt like you yourself was going to cry. Why did fillies have to be so fucking cute? It just made it harder not to be sad for them. "It's alright Scootaloo, really. You just got caught up in the moment. I'm not mad at you or anything."

Scootaloo stepped back a little, she still had something on her mind. "Anon...how could you not be angry after what I did? You do realize Rainbow Dash is going to pound you into the dirt right?....it's..." She looks down in shame "It's my fault that's going to happen."

....Well then..despite the sad moment. It was, sarcastically speaking, so nice to hear her vote of confidence in you. She really thought the fight was going to be real as well. Mission accomplished?
"Yeah....well..err, that's not going to happen b-"

But Scootaloo interrupts you. "What do you mean that's not going to happen?! Anon, she's going to grind you into nothing if you fight her. You have to tell her you're not willing to fight. Or you're just going to get hurt! I'm telling you!" Scootaloo was sure you were going to get pounded. And she just didn't want to see it happen. "I need to fix this somehow!"

No nonononono "No Scootaloo, you don't get it! I already spoke to Rainbow Dash. We're going to fake the entire fight to get your members back and hopefully put an end to my club" You speak to her frantically and quickly, nearly falling down the steps as you try to get her not to go.

She does indeed stop, and turns around. She seemed perplexed "So...the entire fight is going to be faked?"

"W-well yeah. Is that a problem?"

"......" Scootaloo kept silent at first. She actually did want to see the fight happen. But also didn't. It was a conflict of interest really. It was her wanting you to be ok versus wanting to see an awesome fight with her favorite hero in it. "N-no problem. I just thought it was weird that Rainbow Dash agreed to that sort of thing. But that's good....that's good...because everything will be ok"

You hoped to god it would be. "Yeah, it should be"

"Anon...can I ask you one last thing?" Scootaloo started to rub her right foreleg nervously. "Can I....have the wings back?..P-please?"

You chuckle, yeah. She could have them back now that she apologized. How could you deny such a cute face? "Yeah, hold on.."

You reach into your saddle bag for the wings, Spike seemed to have put them in there after all, and pass them to her "Here you go.."

"...Thanks Anon...So..can we pretend this never happened? Please...I kind of feel stupid about it"

You nod, of course. It was just her being a silly child. Easily forgivable. "What happened again?" You smirk at her.

She smiles back. But as she does, Sweetie Belle comes up from behind her and butts in. "Ok ok, now that THAT'S settled. It's my turn. Now Anon, you know what I'm gonna ask, right?"

"Hey, Sweetie Belle, what's the rush?" Scootaloo stepped aside, annoyed at Sweetie Belle's actions "Can't you see Anon and me are settling things up?"

"Did you already apologize?" Sweetie Belle asked, impatiently

"Well yeah..but you know. I mean..." Scootaloo then realized why she was being so pushy "Are you still on about that whole date thing? Come on, Anon probably never even went. Diamond Tiara is ok and all. But it didn't work out last time, it's not gonna work out now."

....oh lord. "A-actually Scootaloo...."

Scootaloo noticed the hint of hesitance in her voice. And as her eyes widened, Sweetie Belle's smile grew. "Anon...are you telling me...Really? Again?"

"Yes! YES! I KNEW IT! I KNEW IT WOULD WORK! NOW I CAN TELL PRINCESS Cadance AND-" Sweetie Belle was dancing around, but as she turned. She saw Applebloom. Who didn't look too pleased about the whole thing. ".....uuhhmmm..Applebloom?"

"Yeah?" Applebloom raised an eyebrow at Sweetie Belle, looking rather ticked about the whole thing.
"....umm...are you alright?" Sweetie Belle's excitement immediately dropped. Now filled with worry for her friend and for herself for her own actions.
"I'm fine...just ah-" Applebloom's eyes turned towards you. You immediately felt a chill go down your spine from her cold stare. "wonderin' why Anon and Diamond Tiara are together again. Y'know, after that whole "dumping the both of us" thing."
"Applebloom, I kinda told you that was the plan. You seemed fine with it before. What changed?" Sweetie Belle was now confused.
You weren't. You knew exactly what happened. She was thinking it wouldn't succeed at all. But holy shit, why was she acting like this?! Didn't she get over you? You were sure that she did.
"Oh no no...a'hm totally fine with it. a'hm just wonderin' how it all went" Applebloom was genuinely curious. But only due to the fact she wanted to know why you went with her at all. While also doing her best to tell herself that she never stood a chance anyway. And that in the end, like her sister told her, it was a crush...crushes come and go...they come and go.
"oh..Well Anon, how did it go? You remembered the cutely dashing thing, right?" Sweetie Belle started to feel that excitement again. Thinking her friend was alright.
"..y-yeah, everything went fine..."
You were going to regret this. You were sure of it. But dammit Applebloom. She had to understand that she wasn't first choice. Nor did she stand a chance at this point. God, you didn't need this again...not now.
"One date and she's already my marefriend. P-pretty good huh?"

"Yes! haha!" Sweetie Belle rushed up to give you a big pat on the back "I knew you could do it! Yay! Now I can report back to Princess Cadance and....and..." Sweetie Belle actually couldn't remember what her prize was, or if she was going to get one at all, she was so pent up with excitement all she could remember that it was an “important task” she was given and she would WOULD complete it. "And....ern..I'll get something. Whatever, doesn't matter. Because everything went right!" Sweetie Belle nodded in confidence.

You chuckled nervously....oh god..please somebody...ANYBODY...SOMEONE HELP!

"Yeah, ah guess everything went right for ya Anon. Ah really hope yer happy. Because I'm happy for ya..."Applebloom smiled, a smile that would make Pinkie's senses go off like no tomorrow. There was no way that was a real smile.

Dammit Applebloom.Just let it the fuck go. The hell?

What did she see in you anyway at this point? No, she was probably just afflicted with jealousy. That has to be it. She needs to fucking realize that she wasn't for you. And you weren't for her. God, she was stubborn. Stubborn as her sister. Stubborn as their granny. Holy fuck, the entire apple family is stubborn as fuck. You were sure you wouldn't have gotten this shit from Sweetie Belle or Scootaloo.

as you smile back nervously. Another familiar voice is heard in the background. "Anon! Yo, Anon! I'm back!"

Oh thank god....thank fucking god. You were never happier to see that purple dragon in your whole life. You immediately break from the three fillies and run up towards Spike.

He was wheeling a wheelbarrow chock full of stuff. Damn, Pinkie really let him have a haul.

"Hold on girls, Spike is back. Gotta get this whole fake fight thing rolling. So uh, seeya later. Ok? And no worries ok Scootaloo?"

"Yeah, no pro-...oh..ok" Scootaloo's words are stopped short as you just rush away without hearing her reply.

Sweetie Belle thankfully was already content.

And Applebloom would just have to get over her childish stubborn shit.

You walk up to Spike, trying to get Applebloom's mood out of your head.

you take notice of all the fireworks and party explosives in the wheelbarrow. "Wow, Spike. How'd you get all that stuff?"

Spike stops wheeling the wheelbarrow and walks to its side, he starts to pat the items on the wheel barrel. But he wasn't acting cocky. "Oh, all this? Well, it wasn't easy. I did have to tell Pinkie everything and make her Pinkie Promise not to say anything else to anypony."

Well, it didn't sound that hard. "Sounds like it went exactly as expected actually."

"Yeah...about that" Spike said, before he could even say what he means. Pinkie pops her head out from under the fireworks.

"Heya Nonny!"

Pinkie?! W-why was she? "Ponk?! W-why are you here?"

Shit. You already could figure it out. She wanted to help. And..that wasn't too bad. But dammit, she was as spastic as she was cute. If she was noticed during the fight. It might ruin the plan.

"Why not?" Pinkie hopped out of the pile and onto the ground "I figured you'd need my help since all these party fireworks are a specialty of mine. Annnndddd...I've got everything you need too! From cherry bombs to royal candles to sparklers to rockets to cracklers to spitfires and everything inbetween! Not to mention that I can set them off exactly when you need them"

"Pinkie, how many times do I have to tell you. I'm a dragon, I'm perfectly capable of doing that. We're also not supposed to be very noticeable. I think somepony might notice you dashing between the bushes. If they catch you, then they'll know the whole fight is a fake" It seems Spike was on to the same idea.

Pinkie waved her hoof dismissively at him "Oh Spike, you worry too much. And besides, do you know how to properly and safely set up fireworks so it doesn't end up making everything burst into flames?"

".......uhhh...don't you just point it all up in the air?" It seemed simple to him.

Pinkie shook her head "It's more than just that. You have to make sure it's set down properly so it doesn't burn the grass or go flying into other ponies...or I guess in this case I'd have to try to make some try to run into Rainbow Dash....point is. Do you know how to do that? Or even know the length of fuse to use or proper mounting techniques?"

"....point it...up? or at Rainbow Dash? Look Pinkie, it really doesn't see-Hey!" Spike gets surprised by Pinkie when Pinkie tosses him a rocket from the pile.

"Set this up and aim at me Spike." Pinkie looked at him with a goofy smile "one hundred points if you hit my snout"

"WHAT?!" Spike put the rocket back on the pile " I'm not doing that! You're crazy!"

"Crazy like a tree Spike, Crazy like a tree" Pinkie looked at him with a sharp grin as she pointed at her own head "If you can't aim this at me, what makes you think you could actually shoot it at Rainbow Dash"

She had a point actually. you needed some things shot at Rainbow Dash to make it seem real. But then again.....thinking about it now...

"I...err..." Spike came to the same conclusion. Shooting rockets at a pony was nuts. "Hold on...why did we even think this was a good idea again?"

"Uhhh...I think we didn't think how dangerous it could actually be...oy" This was getting to be too much.

Pinkie just smiled and took the rocket and set it down. "You two worry too much" She then started giggling. "Here we go!"

Wait what?! Holy shit! She was lighting it with a match she suddenly had in her mouth. Where did it even come from?!

Both you and Spike step back from the rocket as Pinkie dashes a few yards ahead.

"Pinkie?! What are you doing?! That's dangerous!" Spike yells out

"Oh geez! It's right next to the wheelbarrow!" Goddammit! She was gonna blow everything up!

You and Spike both dive away right then the rocket shoots off, it flips in the air, jets about, then heads right towards Pinkie. All without setting off the other rockets.

"Pinkie!"

"Ponk! Watch out!"

Pinkie just stands there smiling. And then she...closes her eyes?! What the fuck was she thinking?!

"Get out of the way!" You both yell

But Pinkie doesn't

Pinkie...what the fuck was she doing? She was gonna blow up!

"And....NOW!" Pinkie raises her right foreleg, smacking the rocket right before it collides with her. sending it straight up in the air, it then explodes upon careening into the upper sky.

S-she...deflected it? "How did you..."

"Do that?!" Both you and Spike was impressed. How?!

"Easy, being the party planner that I am. I familiarized myself with every type of firework and how they work and fly. I guess you can call it "Rocket" Science" “ Pinkie started giggling at her own pun. "Anyway, I know how to fire off anything at Rainbow Dash in a way that she could deflect it too. It's easy peasy and Rainbow Dash has the reflexes to manage it. So.....can I help? Plleeeeeeeeease?" Pinkie Pie gives you both huge adorable eyes and a pout. She really really wanted to help...and after that display.

"Spike...I think we might need her"

Spike nods "Yeah...geez, Pinkie never ceases to be amazing"

Amazing...or just fucking insane.

You let Pinkie in on it. You both do. With that, you all go to work to get ready for the fight. You do a few exercises while Pinkie and Spike get everything set up for the fight. Pinkie would make the call and Spike would light the fuses. It'd be perfect.

And then the time came. The club members started to gather back towards the castle to form an audience. The CMC decided to sit at the steps of the castle. None of them really wanting to be near Snips and Snails themselves. And Spike and Pinkie hid behind some bushes. Ready to go.

Snips and Snails stepped forth in front of you. Looking around. Then Snips looked at you with a smirk. Not anything towards you. He actually thought you were with him in his thoughts. "So she didn't show up after all huh? Figures, she is a girl. Girls can be pretty dumb."

"Errr, wouldn't she be pretty smart? I mean. This is Anon we're talking about" Snails stated, inferring she was smart for staying away

"Oh...right...yeah, that would be smart...wouldn't it? Right Anon?" Snips chuckles as he gives you an elbow bump with his leg.

...assholes.

"Will you two just step back please? If she does come, things are going to get real nasty real quick. And....wait..." Oh Shit....YOU NEEDED A HORN! "er....speaking of nasty. I gotta go to the bathroom real quick...behind those bushes."

"What? Right now? But what if she DOES come?" Snips asks

"Just..wait! Ok? It won't take long! Geez"

Of course you were lying. You immediately head towards the bushes Pinkie and Spike were hiding in and dive in. Only popping your head out to tell the group not to peek.

"P-Ponk...I forgot something."

Pinkie just smiled and immediately slapped on a unicorn horn of your coat color onto your forehead with a very thin, very unnoticeable string to hold it in place. "I heard, I also forgot to give this to you when I was setting everything up! Isn't that a funny coincidence?" She giggles

..that wasn't funny. that was worrisome. Could you have forgotten anything else? "No...Pinkie, this is super serious. I really don't want to forget anything else."

"Awww Anon" She gives you a little nose boop, admittingly, you couldn't keep yourself from smiling just a little. but only for a moment....she was just too cute. "You didn't forget anything else. Oh, can you hold out your hoof for me please?"

Hmm? "Like this?"

You hold out your hoof as Pinkie looks to Spike and gives him a nod. "Ok Spike, put it on him"

"Gotcha." Spike slaps on a rough feeling pad shaped for the frog of your hoof. "There we go!"

You take a look at it and tilt your head in confusion. "What's this for?"

"For your horn silly. The horn is actually a bunch of sparklers bundled together juuuuuuuust right to look like a unicorn's horn. when your ready to "cast some magic", rub that hoof on the tip of your horn with a quick swipe and you'll be good to go. Be careful though, the sparklers may be slow burners, but they will only last for about ten minutes. So make sure you and Rainbow Dash finish up quick. Got it?"

Oh, so it was like the surface you use for matches. Except it was for your horn.

Though, you weren't sure how long the "fight" itself would last. If you had to make it end soon. Then you had to hope either Rainbow Dash or even yourself don't end up overdoing it or showing off for too long. "Got it..thanks guys"

"No problem Anon, now go out there and...um...tie?...or something like that..." Spike didn't know exactly what to say.

"And remember" Pinkie gives a quick swipe of her forehead to show you hot to swipe your hoof on the horn, she then gives you a silent grin.

Then you hear something from the other side of the bushes. "Yo Anon, are you going to take all day in there are we gonna do this thing? I've got cooler things to do then fight some stupid colt"

It was Rainbow Dash. Well then, she was being quite in character.

"Don't talk to Anon like that! He's much cooler and a better hero than you. You stand nooooo chance" Snips says, trying to emphasize just how low her chances were of winning.

"Yeah, sure, ok kid. Look, why don't you just step back and let the real hero work. And by that I mean kick your hero's butt."

"Hmph. You'll see, Anon's gonna beat you down" Snips huffs as he steps back. Waiting for you to smash Rainbow Dash to bits.

You pop out of the bushes, brushing a few leaves out of your mane as you step up to Rainbow Dash. "Yeesh, someone is in a hurry for a pounding. So, you actually came huh?" You give Rainbow Dash a smirk.

"Of course I came. Dunno if you know this Anon, but there's only room for one big hero here in Ponyville. And you're looking at her!"

"Yeah yeah, so says the pony who can't win a single fight without her friends. What a loser"

"pfft, I've done plenty of heroing alone. Everypony knows that. And, I've done it without a stupid "can do anything" horn. What's wrong? Can't do anything yourself?"

"I can do plenty of things on my own. Like beating you to a pulp!"

"Yeah? Then bring it!"

Rainbow Dash readied herself for a fight.

"Sure thing, just don't whine when I make you look like a total idiot. Let's go!" You wiggle your butt as you ready yourself. Ready for anything Rainbow Dash might throw at you.

It was time for the fight to begin.

Chapter 203 - Twilight Week Arc

Rainbow Dash wastes no time darting right at you, planting her back hooves onto the ground as she tries to crush you with her forelegs. But something was off, of course it was, her stomp was actually kind of slow. Giving you plenty of time to jump back as the crowd oohs and ahhs.

"Ha! Too slow, take this!" You jump back in, jumping upwards to try to "punch" Rainbow Dash in the face. She just takes a step back, the human like action doesn't allow yourself to catch yourself like the shoryuken would. You immediately fall on your face and slide forward under her.

"What was that? Are you gonna fight like a pony or.....whatever that was?" Rainbow Dash taunts

The crowd gasped. But you weren't out yet. You try flipping on your back and slamming Rainbow Dash on the belly. But it only makes her giggle and step to the side. "Hey! hehe, that tic...I mean..Ohhhh, that was a good hit. But not good enough!" Rainbow Dash bucked at you, her hooves narrowly missing your face.

But you were just getting into the flow of things. You had to make the fight "even". So you jump backward, holding your face. "Ohhhhh, my face!" You fall backwards, and quickly get back up. Rubbing on your face as if you'd been hit. The only mark on it being from when you fell face first. "Good shot, but like you would say, it's not good enough. I hope you're ready for my super flurry rush! HYAAAHH!"

Rainbow Dash just smirked and rushed you as you rushed her. Both of you letting out a flurry of kicks and hits that....never actually hit anything. You both then bump your back hooves together, jump forward, and turn to face each other. Rainbow Dash then starts panting....it sounded pretty fake. "Give up yet?"

....Oh right..woah wait...ok, now you start panting. "No..you?!"

"Uh uh...hehehe" Rainbow Dash snickered as she flew up in the air. "Time to get serious" Ok, she was gonna be pulling out the good stuff now. Time to get sparkly.

"Come on Anon, let her have it with your magic!" Snips lets out.

"Hurrah for Anon" Screams the crowd.

You look towards Scootaloo, she was pretty excited despite knowing the match was fake...huh..maybe there was something to wrestling back on earth. "We'll see about that Krusty butt! Shwwwiinnggg baby!"

You slide your padded hoof across your horn. Making it sparkle, the crowd let out a cheer for this. Not knowing the truth. "Take this! BLASTER BARRAGE!"

Nerdy yes, but you had to make callouts so Pinkie and Spike knew when to do their job. In a near instant, the entire area lit up in a flash as rockets began to fly up towards Rainbow Dash, seemingly from nowhere. Rainbow Dash spots them immediately, she managed to dodge a few of them with her quick reflexes. There was only one she had to deflect. But goddamn, was it..OH SHIT!

You jumped out of the way as the rocket she deflected heads towards you. D-did she do that on purpose?! "Anon! are you alright?!" She calls out, noticeably worried

You get up, dust yourself off and look towards her. "Better than you"

The crowd cheers, Rainbow Dash herself goes from worried back to cocky "Good, because I'm not done yet"

"We'll see about that! GO FIREBALLS!" You yell

Suddenly, fireballs start coming from everywhere, with their heading pointed right at Rainbow Dash. It was quite the display. catching the eye of all who witnessed it. Rainbow Dash however easily manages to fly straight up, dodging the barrage. She then heads back down, darting right at you "Time for a real bomb!"

Holy crap, what was she doing?! You turn around to run for dear life as Rainbow Dash dives right at you and picks you up. The crowd gasps in terror as you scream for dear life as Rainbow Dash zooms high high up into the air with you in tow.

"IJREGFJFKRAINBOWDASHTOOHIGHTOOHIGHTFKDS" You were squirming like nuts in Rainbow Dash's grasp.

"Anon..Anon relax! Geez!"

Relax?..what? You look around...oh..hey..you WERE up in the sky. Hey, that's pretty cool.
Then you look down, and feel dread...oh god..thats a drop. You immediately hug onto Rainbow Dash as you shake and shiver.

"Don't let me fall! What are you even doing?! Geez, this is too much! Let me doooown!" Ypu scream in fright

"Stop whining Anon, and hold still. If I screw this up then you might really get hurt."

"G-get hurt?! What are you even going to do?!"

"I'm going to slam you into the ground of course, but not really. Then we fight a little more. And then Tank comes in and scares the horseshoes out of everypony in the crowd. Then we take him down together and...well..you know the rest. You ready?"

You gulp hard..nonononono. "W-wait, a-atleast let me get used to the h-h-height first."

"No time! Here we go, ready or not!" Rainbow Dash starts dropping down at incredible speeds. HOLLLYY SHIIIITTT

You close your eyes as you latch on tight. But goddammit, now she started to spin as she hurtled to the ground. You felt like you were going to hurl. Suddenly, Rainbow Dash comes to a dead stop. Using her wings to slam the ground with air to create a huge wall of dust.
She then drops you gently onto the ground. While rolling her eyes. "Crybaby"

The crowd was now terrified, afraid you had been hurt as Rainbow Dash just hovers over the dust cloud.

"Grrrr, That was a cheap shot! You're no real hero! Anon...come on Anon! Get up and show her what a real hero is made of!" Snips calls out

"I dunno Snips, I think this fight is pretty fair. Anon has magic, Rainbow Dash can fly. I just find it weird that Anon didn't teleport away.....Gee, I hope he's ok" Snails was actually making some pretty astute observations.

"He has to be ok! If he loses to a girl then....ohhh" Snips quivers at the thought "That's just bad. But he'd never lose to one. If he did, then it would all be some cheap trick she probably would use. Easily explained like anything else"

You coughed as you stood up. Holy crap, you weren't hurt at all. But you could barely see a thing.
You had to wipe your eyes and then keep them closed for a little bit until they could adjust.
As you open your eyes, the dust clears, and there you stood, heroically in front of everyone. Cheering coming from the crowd again. A cheer greater than ever from your apparent feat of surviving Dash's bomb.

"Wow, you're pretty tough Anon. But I hope you know, it's bedtime for you, right now!" Rainbow Dash taunts

"Bring it on Rainbow Crash!" You cry out

Rainbow Dash lands and starts running towards you, you just rush towards her, both of you letting out a battle cry. Until...suddenly...

"STOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOP" Let out a girlish shrill from among the crowd.

Both you and Rainbow Dash come to a dead stop. You however, knew exactly whose voice that was, making your eyes go wide as you let out a silent whiny little. "...Oh no"

"Step aside, move out of the way! We're coming through" Said another familiar female voice of the filly variety.

".....Oh no..." You turn around, and coming out of the crowd was...Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. "........Oh no...."

"See? I told you he was getting into a fight with one of Princess Twilight's friends" Silver Spoon points to you

.........w-wut?

"ANON!" Diamond Tiara growls angrily as she steps up to you "WHAT IN THE HAY ARE YOU DOING?!"

W-WHAT?! You gulp as your ears droop, you step backwards as she steps up close to you. Angry as a hornet. "D-diamond? W-what are you doing here?"

"What do you think?! I have to come here, interrupting my last night with mother before she leaves, to get you to stop doing something stupid..honestly, attacking one of the Princess's friends?! WHAT ARE YOU THINKING?!"

Diamond Tiara was near bursting with anger as you sit on your rump. Holy shit she was scary. "B-but..this is..you know..between me and her."

"Really?! REALLY?! YOU'RE GONNA TELL ME THAT?! OHHHHH" Diamond Tiara was now red in the face with anger

"Relax, it's alright. It's alright!" Silver spoon started to get a little scared herself as she gave her friend a pat on the back with a small rub to try to get her to calm down. "We got here just in time, right?"

The crowd seemed confused as fuck now. they were murmuring to themselves.

"....mnnngrr" Diamond Tiara growled "Right....Silver Spoon, please explain to Anon why what he is doing is bad while I go apologize to Miss Rainbow Dash"

Diamond Tiara gave you one hell of a mean look before putting on a pleasant smile for Rainbow Dash. You take a quick glance at Rainbow Dash, who was trying to hold in her giddy giggling.....that slut...

"Anon, do you realize what you're even doing?" Silver Spoon says to you as she adjusts her glasses, her expression stern, like that of a harsh teacher.

"Silver Spoon, look. I was just..."

"Hush, wow Anon. Just wow. You know you're totally Diamond Tiara's future prince and already you're making an act of war against an acting Princess. What do you have to say for yourself Anon, hmm?" Silver Spoon moves closer to you as she eyes you with a single eye, raising her eyebrow.

"S-Silver Spoon.." Shit shit shit, you could already see the crowd whispering, snickering, Snips and Snails seemed to be getting pretty angry. "I I was just.."

You shift eyes to Diamond Tiara, who seemed to be having a hearty little chuckle with Rainbow Dash.....oh god. "Yeah, no Anon...just no. I shouldn't have to explain this to you. Diamond Tiara shouldn't be wasting her time fixing things for you, this shouldn't have happened at all. You're soooooo lucky you're her special somepony or else this would be really really bad for you."

Funny....this already felt worse than what it could be if you WEREN'T her boyfriend. Oh god...

"Hey! Get away from him!" Snips rushed over, Snails following. "There's still a fight goi-GAH!"

Suddenly Diamond Tiara zipped right into his face. "Hey! You better not be yelling at my friend! and YOU BETTER NOT BE EGGING MY ANON TO KEEP ON FIGHTING!"

Snips and Snails suddenly backed down, shivering. "B-but, there's still a fight that needs to go on..y'know? To prove who's the best?"

"Puh" Diamond Tiara rolled her eyes "It's obvious their both the best in their own ways. They both know princesses after all. Just like I now know Princess Luna, making me the best too. So that automatically solves that problem. So...fight's over. Get it?" Diamond Tiara was a fucking demon, the expression she gave them was beyond dark. Her tone....it was like being stabbed.

They both gulp "G-got it"

"Good...Silver Spoon, I think I can get it from here." Diamond Tiara steps up to you, still visibly angry.

Silver Spoon nods "Of course, He's ready to listen too...Right Anon?"

You gulp again, shivering, you try to hold your legs still, but can't. This wasn't just scary...but hugely humiliating. "...R-right"

Silver Spoon nods with a smile, and steps aside for Diamond Tiara. Diamond Tiara eyes you up and down for a moment, she blushes just a little from being near you, but her more angered senses were still on top. "So Anon, you are aware I won't have you fighting friends and acquaintances of royalty, right?"

"Diamond, it was just a.."

Diamond Tiara raised her hoof and shook it in front of you. "Shush, I don't have a lot of time and I want to make this quick. Just nod if you understand or shake your head if you want me to yell at you"

.....Dammit… You nod.

"Good, because my future prince is much better than that. It was a good thing I was here to get things settled for you. Rainbow Dash and I agreed that this whole fight you started was unnecessary and your nasty attitude in need of adjusting. Though..." Her eyes become a little softer as she rubs her hoof once under your chin "I know I don't have to teach you to behave, right?"

Oohhh, it was soft. Wait.... You shift your eyes to Rainbow Dash.....that bitch, she was playing along with this?! She looked like she was gonna bust a gut.

"Anon?" Diamond Tiara says, getting a little annoyed.

You quickly shift your eyes back to her and nod.

"Good" Diamond Tiara smiled and gave a triumphant nod. "I knew I wouldn't have to teach you that. Let's just consider this a moment of dumbness. Anyway, I need to get back home. Mother is waiting, she let me come out to make sure you didn't do anything stupid. And I'm so glad she let me....now.."

Diamond Tiara gave you a cute little kiss on the cheek, she blushed herself as she smiled dreamily at you. "See you later Anon...be good for me"

She then shifted her attention to Silver Spoon. "Let's go. I don't want to waste anymore time here."

Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon make their way back through the crowd, giving Snips and Snails one more evil glare before departing. Rainbow Dash couldn't hold it anymore as she burst out laughing. What's worse, you could hear snickering from behind the bushes, the CMC were laughing too...even those of your own club was giggling.

Snips and Snails however, were in disbelief that this could happen. Then..the club members started to take off their necklaces, most tossing theirs to the ground and going home, some of the others walking up to Scootaloo to see if they could join back into her club. You just sat there...silent.

Snips just blinked, as flabbergasted as you are. "W-what just happened...?"

You....don't even know. You just stood there stunned. Hell, you didn't even notice the snake like dragon with a propeller on its head fly by, diving in and scaring Snips and Snails away. You ignored them as they cried for their mothers.

Nope....you didn't care...you were lost… What the fuck...just happened…? Rainbow Dash walked over to you, laughing her ass off. "Oh gosh Anon, that was too good. That's probably the most hilarious thing I've ever seen. And the best part is that it fixed everything! Isn't that great?"

.....you just fall over onto your back, looking straight up into the sky. "..........."

"Anon....oh come on, you have to admit that was pretty funny..right?" Rainbow Dash gave you a gentle tap.

You didn't think you'd care that much. But you did, you were made to look the fool. A laughing stock. Spike and Pinkie Pie popped out of the bush, walking up to you to have a chat with you. But you were in no mood to chat.

Spike looked up as the dragon started circling the castle. "..Rainbow Dash, that's all part of the act...right?" He was a little worried.

"Huh?" Rainbow Dash looked up and smiled. "Yeah, that's just Tank. It was the only thing I had that he could still fly around in, isn't he cut-..err..awesome looking?"

"Yeah, had me nearly fooled..but..." Spike looked down at you "Anon, you ok dude?"

"I can never show my face in school now...I just got publicly humiliated." You knew how these things go. Rumors would spread, people will talk, and you'll just be the "Whipped Colt" instead of the "Hero Colt". It was going to take forever to fix this mess.

"Oh come on Nonny! It isn't that bad. What's important is that we're all still friends and everything is the way you wanted it. Right?" Pinkie gave you a poke "Riiiiiiiight?"

You turn to the side.

"Oh come on Anon, don't be like that. So what if your marefriend came and embarrassed you? Everypony will forget eventually. Besides, you’re still the "Hero Colt". Nopony is going to forget that." Rainbow Dash says, trying to cheer you up. Feeling bad that she laughed at you.

"eggghhh..."

"You know, Rainbow Dash is right. Why don't you take a look over there Nonny" Pinkie points ahead of you. You decide to take a look to see what she was talking about.

The crowd was gone, but there was still one pony left from among them. Still wearing the horn necklace....it was Pipsqueak.

He stepped up, feeling a little timid "Are you alright sir Anon? C-can I come closer?" He...was still here?

"....I guess" You say, without enthusiasm.

"T-thank you sir, and please, let me say that it was an honor to witness your hero skills. It was bad luck on what happened, but I still feel very privileged to be in your presence"

Wut? You sit up, wondering what the fuck he was talking about. "....What do you mean?"

"Well sir, I'll never forget what you did for me on Nightmare Night. That was a very noble thing you did. You'll always be the "Hero Colt" to me. No matter what."

........Awww… You smiled just a little. "Thanks Pip...you're a good guy."

He bows "I'm honored that you think so highly of me...b-but I best be going now, I did delay my lunch time with me mum to see the fight. Take care sir"

Pip scampered off. Huh...even after all that. Even though you barely knew him. He still considered you a hero. You knew you had to end the club, and now, given everything that happened. it would seem things returned to normal. Ugh..you had to get your mind off this. Why the fuck did you care? You were already surrounded by good friends...mostly. What the fuck did you care what some shitty ass kids think?

You get up and dust yourself off, feeling renewed. Hopefully you wouldn't fall apart when the effects of Diamond Tiara's scolding took actual effect. For now, you'd focus on what you had. "....Well, that kinda went off course. So, do you think the plan worked?"

Spike looked around, then nodded. "Yeah, Look over there. Scootaloo is getting her club back. And after those two numbskulls got chased off AND saw what kind of "hero" you really were...no offense...I'd like to think the club is pretty much done...again..no offense."

You sigh. "It's fine, really. Those two probably would have come up with another excuse anyway. Diamond Tiara was probably the only way to do this...egh...I just wish she didn't get so mad at me...I'm definitely going to hear about this again later"

Rainbow Dash gave you a small hit on the back. "So what? You just gotta grin and take it. Comes with having a special somepony. Can't just wuss out now Anon, you're in for the long haul."

Mmnnnngh...at the moment, that just brought dread on you. "Yeah...but..” You look upon Spike, Pinkie, and Rainbow Dash. "Thanks guys...couldn't have done this without you. Because… well… there wouldn't even have been a fight for me to get scolded on without you all."

"Don't even mention is Nonny, that’s what friends are for. Speaking of which, It looks like Scootaloo might need a party to help with her club reopening. If you all will excuse me, this party planner has planning to do" Pinkie smiled happily as she hopped over to the now happy Scootaloo, who was busy retaking the members of her club that came back.

"Yeah, I'm gonna head off too. Tank's been flying around for awhile now and he's probably tired. Can't leave him hanging, seeya later!....Future prince" Rainbow Dash had a little giggle as she went off to get her dragon-clad pet.

.....You sigh...dammit Rainbow Dash. You take another look at the CMC, all of them busy with Pinkie Pie and the reformed RD club. And, you start to feel good about yourself. at the very least, shit worked out. It's all you could have asked for. "You know, good will and friendship is a weird thing sometimes. I probably would still be on the ground if it wasn't for you guys."

Spike just looks at what you're looking at. Then he stretches, and rubs the bottom of his chin. "It's how things are. At least that's how it's always been since living in Ponyville. I'm telling you Anon, you don't need to feel alone with us around. No matter what, your friends will be there for you." He then snickers "...even when you're getting chewed out by your marefriend"

......

You look back at him with your own smirk. "At least I have one"

Spike immediately stopped laughing and huffed in annoyance. "Yeah,yeah, don't rub it in. So...still up for bowling?"

Ok, maybe you were still a little fearful of stepping into public. With your luck, it could end up bad. You'd probably wait til you felt more comfortable. "Nah..."

You take off your sparkler horn. It's stop sparkling by now. You decide to put it in your saddlebag for safekeeping. "Not in the mood....I actually kind of wanna take a nap...my nerves are kinda shot."

"I can only imagine. Ok, I'm sure Twilight won't mind if you use her bed. Just try not to sleep the entire day away will ya? Trust me, you do not want to be sitting around for half an hour listening to the importance of a "proper sleep cycle"...eugh"

Oh lordy..no no...you don't want that. "It'll just be a small nap. Don't worry about it. Thanks again Spike."

"No problem...and remember, don't oversleep"

And that was that. You left everyone to their own devices as you went into the castle to take a nap. There was however, one thing that kind of bothered your mind. Applebloom. She didn't look happy at all.... Dammit Applebloom, everytime...everytime...she always proved how simple minded she was. You fucking bet she' probably still tries to get her cutie mark sometimes despite already having it. You didn't want that on your mind. Hopefully a nap would get it out of your head.

Chapter 204 - Twilight Week Arc

You had to get this out of your mind. You at least could take solace in the fact that you did indeed have good friends, and that actually being seen as a hero under normal circumstances wasn't that bad. Just not the overhype shit Snips and Snails was pulling. Hopefully, this ended that for good.

You wearily go into Twilight's room and look over to your makeshift bed. Noooope. You climb up Twilight's bed like a small cat. Use your snout to move up her warm blanket. And then lay on your belly under the blanket to get some sleep.

Time passes, but not the whole day, The sun goes down to the early evening.

You feel a gentle rub, and a soft voice entering your ear. "Anon...Anon...wakey wakey, we're home"

...That voice… You shift about, and poke your head out of your blanket, and gaze upon the yellowsoft face of Fluttershy. "Aunt Fluttershy?"

It was indeed her, she was smiling, laying on her belly in front of you. Giving you a head pat...ohhh..it was so gentle. "Mhmmm, did you have a nice nap?"

You felt like you did..did you nap? Huh, you must have conked right out. You sleepily yawn, and smile right back at her. "Mhmmm"

"I'm glad. Anon, I know you're just getting up. But Twilight and I would like to speak to you downstairs."

Speak to you? Downstairs? ......Oh shit, that's right. Shit happened today.

You give her a cute face, as cute as you could muster as you hide back into the blanket just a bit. "..Am I in trouble?"

Fluttershy was taken in by your cuteness. And gave you a tiny kiss on the nose to let you know everything would be alright. "No, you're not in trouble. Rainbow Dash, Spike, and Pinkie Pie let us know what happened today. I'm proud of you, Anon. You did a good thing helping your friend Scootaloo, and I'm very proud in the fact that you trusted in your friends...and...erm, I'm sorry about what happened...after that. Anon, if it makes you feel any better, I don't think you're a squishy pushover."

....Oh god...The beans were spilled, WHY?! And...wait...is that what they are saying about you now? What happened to "Hero Colt"? "W-what do you mean, squishy pushover?"

"Well..umm. When Twilight and I arrived in town to pick up a few things. We overheard a few foals mention you being a "squishy pushover". That's how we knew something happened. And that's when Spike told us about the fight, then we went and asked Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie. And...erm...yeah. B-but, I'm surprised actually. I didn't think you would have a marefriend. That's good."

Oh lord, so she pretty much knew everything, except you having a marefriend apparently. And fucking shit. It seems Diamond Tiara...ruined your rep...by...coming to end the fight herself. Wow, you actually gave a shit after all. Or at least you didn't want to be seen as a pussy. "....Great" You groan. "So everypony sees me as a wuss now because a girl talked down to me."

Fluttershy could now see how hurt you really were from being seen this way. She frowned, and tried to think of a way to cheer you up. "Oh Anon, it's probably not everypony. And besides, it's not important what they think. Really, it's important what YOU think. Oh, I know" Fluttershy smiled at you "Why don't you tell me about your marefriend. Have I met her before?"

Nobody told her, really? Christ...You thought Twilight would have at least. But maybe the whole friendship problem thing took precedence in her mind. "Yeah...it's Diamond Tiara, you met her before...mnnn..."

This wasn't helping, you still felt down.

Fluttershy was hurting. She didn't like seeing you upset. Especially over something that you never seemed to care about before. She...suddenly became stern however, it was completely out of left field.

She looked at you with a more serious look. "Anon, I want you out of bed. You don't need to worry about what others think of you, it's not healthy. I want you downstairs so Twilight and I can speak with you." She then sighs, and softens up a little. "I promise it'll cheer you up. Ok...?"

She gives you another peck on the nose and gets off the bed.

As she begins to walk away, she looks at you one last time. With both love and worry. "Anon, you really shouldn't be worried about it. Foals tend to just....sway to what they see and hear. If you're worried about how they might treat you when you go back to school, then don't worry. You have friends, remember? Applebloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie Belle will be there to make sure you aren't alone. And eventually they'll forget. And things will be fine. You'll see"

Fluttershy turned, and hid a grimace on her face, a look of despair. She didn't want you being picked on at all. She really really hoped that it wasn't just everyone that thought you were a "Squishy pushover". In fact... She looks back once again, this time with a smile. "Anon, I think the ones who do think you're a squishy pushover are probably just dumb meanies anyway. You are the "Hero Colt" after all, they won't forget that. So don't worry ok? We'll...see you downstairs..."

She felt a little confident now, as she headed out the door, she realized one more thing, and stopped again, turning to you with a smile "Oh, and if you ever want to invite Diamond Tiara to the cottage. You're more than welcome to. I'd love to have a chat with her...and erm..." Fluttershy was having trouble come up with words now as her confidence faltered. She really didn't think you cared about your rep, and she realized her previous words may have not been fully true. She took a moment and sighed "Anon, just don't worry about it too much. It'll eventually work itself out. If they can't see you in the same way your friends do. Then they are no friends of yours. And I promise you, it's not as bad as you think. And if you ever need support, you know where to look. You have friends and family. And you'll always have me, no matter what" She felt this was right, these had to be the right words.

Fluttershy had nothing more to say. She just had to hope you'd actually come down stairs.

You watched from under the blanket as she left the room. Maybe you were overthinking it. Maybe she was right? It was probably a few shitters who didn't even believe your exploits from before. And if that wasn't the case, surely it'd be forgotten over time. Either way, she was right about the friends and family thing. You had them everywhere. And that's what mattered.

You throw off the blanket as you have Fluttershy in your thoughts. She really was worried that you were worried about that stupid rep. Fuck the rep, and fuck any foal that saw you as a pussy. You weren't one of them. You were a goddamn adult. You don't need to deal with that shit. What the fuck do you care what some shit kids think? What the fuck did it matter if you were a hero or not? You got this far, didn't you? You are Anon, you already knew you were better than any fucking shitty foal.

You hop off the bed and hang your chest up high. That's right, you had to be confident. No way you were going to let that cute yellow horse worry about you. Do it for Fluttershy man, Do it for Fluttershy!

You step out of the room with newfound confidence. Wondering what Twilight and Fluttershy have to say that could cheer you up. Well, you didn't need cheering up now. You knew that whoever saw you as a pussy was a fucking shit.

You go down to the cutie map room. Keeping in mind you wanted to show Fluttershy that you were fine. When you step into the room, you could already see them sitting on their seats. Talking to one another. Perfect. You take in a breath, and let out a boisterous and confident laugh.

"Heya Aunt Fluttershy, Twilight. You both wanted to see me? Because I gotta say....ahhh" You stretch and then smirk. "I'm feeling really good right now. So..." You walk up to Rarity's seat and take a sit. "Lay it on me, what's up?"

Fluttershy and Twilight look at eachother, confused as fuck. Fluttershy then looks at you, puzzled. "Anon..are you alright?"

You just let out a "psha" and wave your hoof at her. "Course, just needed to get my priorities in order. To think.." You put your hoof to your forehead, laugh, and shake your head. "Me, getting all worked up about some foals thinking I'm some sort of a wuss. Never happened before, ain't gonna let myself be affected by that kind of thing now"

Twilight and Fluttershy didn't know if you were faking it or not. It just seemed sudden. Especially from what Fluttershy told Twilight.

"Anon? Are you sure you're ok?" Twilight asks. She wasn't going to push it if you said yes, she'd just stay at the ready in case it turned out you weren't.

You nod. Keeping your confidence. "Yep, trust me. Like I said, just had to get all my priorities in order. I don't need to worry about what others think of me. What matters to me is what my friends and family think." Christ..ok, tone it down. That sounded a little too much.

Well, you convinced them it seemed. Fluttershy smiled a warming smile. Feeling reassured from your sudden upbeat attitude. "I'm so so glad to hear that. I was worried that you were really affected by it. But then..." She has a little giggle. "I guess I forgot how mature you can be. You really are a little gentlecolt. Especially now that you have a marefriend"

Yeah, that's the stuff. Always fucking good to see Fluttershy happy. Fucking nailed it. "Eheh, well. You know." Time to find out what they wanted you for. "So uh, what did you wanna talk about?"

Twilight grinned, feeling confident that you did indeed feel better, "Well Anon, Your Aunt and I stopped by a friend of ours. And set up an entire educational tour of the more interesting...and safer...parts of the Everfree Forest. It's going to be fun fun fun!" Twilight said excitedly as she clapped her hooves happily. "And the best part is that we'll not only be able to bond closer, but also learn about the more mysterious parts of the forest. All this set up for tomorrow, and as an added plus..."

Fluttershy spoke up "I'll be there too! To teach you about some of the many animals of the forest. Won't that be wonderful Anon?"

...oh....it was just...educational..well..huzzah....?

Actually, it most likely wouldn't be boring. It was the Everfree after all. there was probably all kinds of cool shit you could see and learn about in there. Hell, if that friend they are talking about is Zecora. Then you were in for a real treat....though that rhyming might get annoying. Still, this could be pretty damn awesome. "You bet! You already got me curious!"

"Great! I'm really glad to hear that Anon. Trust me, it's going to both be fun and educational. In fact, if I was Pinkie. Then I would call it Funducation! But..ahrm" Twilight cleared her throat and calmed herself. "There's also something serious we'd like to talk about as well."

...Ahh shit. "Serious? It's not about what happened while you both were gone..right?"

Twilight shook her head. "No, it's something that, if you don't want to talk about, then we can drop it. But Fluttershy and I were talking, and we were wondering about your old family. Is it alright if I ask you a question about them?"

Old family?...What? No no. As far as you were concerned. You had no family. Or, at least no family member "yet". "Why do you want to know?"

"Well Anon, the reason we are asking is that we want to see if you knew or even remembered them. As far as we know. Your mother and father are.....mnn" Fluttershy looked down. It seemed. as far as they actually knew. That they may have been told your parents are dead. Crafty Discord, crafty. As for Fluttershy, she seemed to be waiting for you to say "I don't want to talk about it"

But instead. You'd just talk about it. Let them know you don't mind their questioning so they can see it didn't bother you. That way they won't worry about it. "Yeah, I heard they were gone. But I never knew them anyway. And besides, you and dad are my real family anyway."

And that made Fluttershy smile. "Oh Anon....I'm very glad to hear that. I consider you my real nephew too. No, not consider...you are my nephew"

...d'awww.

Twilight was smiling at the moment. And seeing that you seemed comfortable with it. She moved on with her next question. "Anon, do you remember if you had any other family member? A sister? A brother? We ask this because we thought you'd like to be able to meet them. We have very little information on your past. And we care about you. We know it must feel terrible that your past was being stuck in a orphanage. So we want to see if we can find another family member of yours. One who might be able to explain what happened, why you ended up alone."

Well then. That wasn't needed at all. Because they weren't going to find shit. "I don't remember, and I don't care. That's not my life anymore. My life now is being my dad's son, my aunt's nephew, my friends friend, and..." You chuckle, as to show you were ok. "The hero colt of course."

"Well then..." Twilight nods, she saw no more point in the conversation if you were comfortable with the current situation. "That's a good enough answer for me. Now, if you both excuse me. I have to go get an early sleep. I have to go see Zecora early tomorrow so we can plan a path for the afternoon trip. So....Good Night. And Anon, don't stay up too long alright? And if you want to read Daring Do for a while to help you sleep. The book will be right next to your bed, alright?"

You nod. "Alright, thank you Twilight. You have a good night, ok?"

She yawns and nods. "You too..and remember...don't stay up too long"

Fluttershy of course, also exchanges a good night. With that, Twilight went to her room to catch some sleep. Leaving you and Fluttershy alone.

"So..Aunt Fluttershy, what happened with the whole friendship problem?"

"Oh" Fluttershy smiled, actually happy to see you interested in friendship problem solving "It was a big one Anon, two families feuding with each other over...well...let me start from the beginning"

And so Fluttershy goes over the problem they dealt with. Getting the Hoofields and McColts, two families, to be friends and work together. Twilight apparently had a few spergs, and there was a lot of attacking, but apparently a realization was made when the source of the two families fighting was caused by a simple disagreement of valley preservation. The rest was gravy. You wondered if it was also an episode. But you couldn't ask her that.

"Wow, geez. That could have gotten really bad. Gosh, it was really lucky you could communicate with animals, huh?"

Fluttershy nods. "Yes, I would have never known what happened without my talent to talk to animals. Still, they would have never listened if it wasn't for Twilight's magic either. We made a good team. Anon, can I ask you a question now?"

"Sure, what is it?"

"It's about Diamond Tiara and you. I know you're both coltfriend and marefriend. But I just want you to know that can change at any time. And if it does, Don't worry alright? If it doesn't work out, then it never was meant to be. You're both young, so anything can happen. I just want you to know that IF something does happen. That it's not the end of the world, and you can always come to talk to me if you feel something is wrong"

You could see what she was doing. She was hastily making sure to tell you not to despair if you and DT broke up. Seems she didn't know how deeply in love DT was with you. But you wouldn't fuss. You knew she meant well and probably did put faith that things would work out. "I understand, and thank you Aunt Fluttershy"

With that, there wasn't much else to talk about. Fluttershy knew she also had to get an early rest. And so, with a hug, a kiss, and an excited "see you tomorrow", she vacated the castle, leaving you alone in the room.

Chapter 205 - Twilight Week Arc

There wasn't much to do now. If you went on another escapade, you might not get enough sleep. And although Applebloom's reaction was still irking you, at least everything else could be… hopefully… considered to have gone back to normal. The only other thing to worry about is seeing just how much you actually could care less about what happened at the fight. Could you really shrug it off? Or was it going to come back and bite you in the ass? You would never know until you stepped out in public.

"Hey Anon. You're awake, cool" You hear Spike's voice coming from behind. Hmm, it wasn't late enough for him to be going to bed yet it seemed.

"Spike?" You turn around. "What's up?"

"What's up?" Spike seemed confused by your question. "I should be asking you that, you looked pretty terrible after your marefriend showed up."

You sigh..goddammit. "I really don't wanna talk about that Spike. C'mon, it probably happens to everypony."

"I'm not too sure about that." Spike smirked just a little, it seemed he still found the whole thing humorous. "But eh, as long as you're ok. I wish you didn't nap for so long though. Too late to go bowling now."

That's right...the free food for the perfect bowl. Well, shit. "Sorry, I just wasn't in the mood anymore. Didn't help that you were laughing at me too you know"

Spike winced, he didn't think he hurt your feelings. "Oh come on Anon, you had to admit it was at least a little funny. I'm sorry about laughing, but come on, are you saying if the roles were switched between me and you, and Rarity showed up to save the day. You wouldn't laugh..even a little?"

You actually stopped to think about that. That would be sorta funny. But.... "A little, but what would make it more funny is right after that it turned out she was just chewing you out as a friend and that her date was right around the corner."

Spike grumbled and crossed his arms ".....That doesn't sound funny at all"

That actually gets a chuckle out of you. "Doesn't feel good, does it Spike?"

"Ok ok, you made your point. Well...you better get some early sleep . Considering where you're going tomorrow"

"The Everfree Forest? It's not too late, I think I could stay up a little longer."

"No, I'm telling you. Just go and get some sleep. You're going to be hanging with Zecora tomorrow and if you're tired, you're going to miss on everything she's saying. She rhymes all the time, and not only that, but she has this weird way of putting things that if you're not paying attention, zoop! Right over your head."

Was Zecora really that hard to understand in a full conversation? It seemed easy enough to understand when watching the show. But...given this is an educational thing. Things might get a touch boring at times, you could zone off. Spike might be right, if you're not paying attention, then Twilight might scold you. "Alright alright, But I'm just saying. Twilight said this is happening in the afternoon"

Spike looked at you with a hard stare. "And that's when you usually wake up"

....

"Alright, sheesh. I'll go sleep then." You didn't feel like arguing with him really. You didn't want to put yourself in an actual bad mood considering the incident was still fresh in everyone's mind. Spike was most likely right anyway.

You say goodnight to Spike, who let's you know that he'll make breakfast for you when you wake up so you'd be prepared. That was actually kind of nice of him. You ask him why he'd go through the trouble. His reply? "We're friends Anon, and you're really gonna need it. Trust me"

You go to head up to Twilight's room, until one more piece of business smacked you right in the head. "Waaaaaait! Spike!...the letter!" Indeed, the letter for Starlight.

Spike chuckles and waves his hand at you "Already sent it." Spike holds up a list and points to it. "I'm Twilight's number one assistant remember? Wouldn't really be good at my job if I didn't keep track of things I had to do."

You had to hand it to Spike, he was as much as a faggot as he was based. "Thanks Spike..."

It was time to get rest now. With another good night to the baby dragon. You head up into Twilight's room. You could hear the sweet soft coos of her cute voice whispering outward from her bed. The problem was, you weren't too sleepy, especially after that nap. But then, Twilight had figured that in by leaving you the book. So you grab the Daring Do book and decide to read off at Chapter 2. You hop on the bed Twilight set out for you, and begin reading.

You actually get two chapters in, right when her adventure is starting. But ahh, the two chapters to get there, while much better than chapter one. Left someone like you a little more bored than the average pony. Perfect for getting some Zs. And so you fall asleep, Hopefully ready for the day to come.

Day 4.

"Anon, how could you still be asleep? It's almost noon. Spike said you went to bed early...." Twilight was in disbelief as she looked upon your sleeping form. Twilight sighed, gently moved the Daring Do book away from your chest and then began to gently shake you. "Anon… Anon… time to get up"

You gently slap her leg away with your own. "...mnnnghhh...just a few more minutes"

Twilight groaned and slowly lifted you with her magic to eye level. "Anon, you need to wake up so we can get you fed and ready to go. If we don't do everything right then the whole thing will be ruined. Some of the amazing things we'll be seeing today only appear at a certain time. Doesn't that make you curious enough to wake up?"

You sleepily boop her nose with your hoof. "....Mnnngghaaa..."

Twilight sighed, and began to walk down to the cutie map room with you in tow. "I can't believe how much you sleep. If anything, I'm going to have to talk to Discord about your sleeping habits. I have no idea how he manages to get you out of bed in the morning for school...well, the few amounts you've gone, but my point still stands."

Twilight gently puts you down on her seat. But all you do is fall forward onto the cutie map and smash your face right into a bowl of Cereal and milk. "AESFESDDS. HELP I'M DROWNING!"

Twilight put her hoof to her forehead and shook her head. She didn't expect you to sleep hard enough to fall face first into your breakfast. She immediately uses her magic to slide the bowl away from your face as she gives you a snarky smirk. If you were going to be a big sleepy head. Then she might as well try to instill reasons as to not to be. "Anon, Breakfast time"

Oggh, geez. Your snout was cold and leaky with milk. You had to rub it off with your hooves. "W-what happened?! where am I?"

"You're in the castle still, and you fell face first into your own breakfast. Wouldn't happen if you had better sleeping habits"

Ahh geez, overslept AGAIN?! But you went to bed early this time. Dammit, you really were just really lazy when it came to sleep. No use getting angry about it. It was your fault after all...still, how could you sleep so hard as to fall in your own breakfast? You didn't even remember getting up for it.

"S-sorry, I didn't know I slept for so long. I did go to bed early this time. I even read Daring Do until I fell asleep"

Twilight's snark slowly washed away. She believed you, since you did have the Daring Do book on your chest. But still, she knew this wouldn't happen if you just slept better. She decides to ease up. "Anon, it's alright. But you really need to manage your sleeping habits better, it isn't healthy. It's actually worrying how much you sleep"

It's mostly because you were awake longer than most foals. But...mnn. You want to change it, but that want will probably dissipate back to your old habits after a while if you lose interest. "I'll try...sorry Twilight. I know we had something to do, but we're not late right?"

Twilight shook her head, and smiled a warm smile now. As long as everything was ok, she had nothing to worry about. "No, we still have plenty of time. Like I said, we have to go in the afternoon. But if you're not ready for it then the whole thing won't work." Then Twilight gives you a big smile as she lifts her right foreleg and makes a "let's mosey" styled action. "So eat your breakfast and get your saddle bag, because we're going on a super learning adventure!" She then giggles, both at the slight absurdity of her words and to lift the spirits.

It worked, you felt better now. Seeing Twilight being adorkable was always a mood lifter. "Gotcha...let's see" You look down at your bowl, lift it up, and just start having the cereal and milk flow down into your mouth in gluttonous fashion.

"Anon..y-you don't have to eat like that-" Twilight was perturbed by your action

Before she can even finish, you put the bowl down and wipe your face with your leg. and burp. "Done!"

"Ooook then." Twilight nervously grinned, that was a little crude. "Well, grab your saddle bag and I'll guide you into the forest....Trust me Anon, I promise you'll have fun"

You believed her. You go back into the room to grab your saddle bag. You even end up checking for your horn. No dice. Damn…woulda been nice.

You go back to Twilight, who was already waiting by the door. "Ready already? Do you have everything you usually carry around with you? More importantly, did you bring a pencil and some paper?"

You nod, you knew you had your school supplies in there.

"Good, now let's get going." Twilight opens the chamber doors to the entrance hall.

You both proceed down the hall to the front doors of the castle. But as you both go near, there is a sudden knocking on the door. Both you and Twilight stop from the sudden knocking. Twilight seemed very confused. "Fluttershy?..she was supposed to be waiting for us at Zecora's hut. Hmmnn...well..atleast she knocked." She then called out towards the door "Hold on, we're about to open the door now."

Twilight smiles, and opens the door to greet her friend. But, the pony that was behind that door....was no friend of hers. Before Twilight could say a damn thing, The familiar blue Unicorn, donned in a wizard's hat and cape, made a gran and boisterous introduction. "GREETINGS PRINCESS TWILIGHT! IT IS I! THE HUMBLE AND APOLOGETIC TRRRRRIXIE!"

“Trixie?!" Twilight said in surprise.

....Holy fuck....you hadn't seen her since season 3. Were you in another episode? What the hell was she doing here? And why humble and apol-...oh right, the whole...alicorn amulet thing.

"Yes...that's what I just said. Except with a "Apologetic" and "Humble" before it. Is it too hard to understand that I've come to grace you once more with my presence...and perhaps ask a favor?" Trixie, as rude as ever

No seriously, fucking Trixie? What the random buttfuckery did she want? Twilight looked at her with contempt, a look of contempt that was unnerving to be honest. "So let me get this straight, you've come all the way back to Ponyville. To ask me for a favor...Really?"

"It is only a small favor, yet one of great importance to Trixie. All I ask is the location of the spirit of chaos, Discord"

...Woah what..WUT?! "H-hold on, what do you want with Disc...my father?"

Your voice catches Trixie's attention. She looks down at you, noticing you for the first time. And..her attitude changing after hearing your words. "Wait....are you..Discord's son?"

RED FLAGS! RED FLAGS!

In fact, you weren't the only one getting red flags. You didn't trust Trixie, and thankfully. Neither did Twilight. "Wait...please tell me you didn't come for Anon"

Trixie gives an uncaring glare to Twilight. "As a matter of fact, I have. I have a very important question to ask him."

Both you and Twilight look at eachother, then back to Trixie. You both could already guess what she was here for. "The horn" you both say.

That catches Trixie off guard, weakening the confidence in her speech. "T-that's...actually right. But please, hear me out. Just hear me out. It is actually very important for me to ask for use of the horn."

"Really?" Twilight was sounding rather sarcastic "And why's that?"

"Why are you speaking to me like that Twilight? You're acting as if I am a monster" Trixie says.

"Not a monster, just somepony who's obviously trying to take advantage of a colt for once again....something beyond your control. There's no reason for you to have something so powerful." Twilight wasn't about to let Trixie anywhere near you.

And that was fine with you. It was pretty obvious she was here for just the horn.

"There is, I need it to start my Equestrian super apology tour.....it's a working title. But the fact of the matter is I need a strong opening show, in the town I subjugated, to make any headway. I truly am sorry for what I've done. I thought you were all about giving second chances." Trixie said, in her usual dickish way.

"That usually depends Trixie. I would never give somepony like King Sombra or Queen Chrysalis a second chance." Twilight says, with immediate disdain for the situation.

That made you wince. You really hoped that was a spur of the moment set of words she said. Considering what you need to have done.

"But you gave Discord, somepony who committed high treason, a second chance. All I want to do is ask Anon. And if he says no?...Well....." Trixie didn't finish her words. She didn't want to think about if you said no.

Twilight never broke her stern stare. But...she knew Trixie had a point. Compared to what Discord had done. Perhaps she was being a little too harsh. But even still. Going straight for the horn? Twilight knew she couldn't NOT keep her eye off Trixie.

"Well...what?" Twilight raises an eyebrow

"Then Trrrrixie will leave, I won't even try to put on a show for the town, as unfortunate as that would be. All I ask is to just talk to him. It won't take that long, or are you just going to condemn me right here, right now?"

Twilight was silent. Those words rang through her head. She was remembering how she almost condemned you just on a rather stupid whim. She never broke her stare, she just asked you. "Anon, we still have some time...what do you want to do?"

Man, fuck Trixie. You knew she was probably up to no good. She might even try to steal....wait… Again it skips over your mind. You didn't have the horn. Therefore, she couldn't steal it no matter how hard she tried. .....Maybe you could see what's up with her. She couldn't do anything to you. If she tried, Twilight would save your ass. But even then, Trixie's magic is pretty shit.

"That's really the mare who tried to take over Ponyville? The one who boasted about taking down an ursa major?" You just ask the question as to not seem too knowledgeable on her. You expected Trixie to buckle under those words. Maybe even leave. But she just gave a hateful and judging look to Twilight as she raised her own eyebrow.

"Already teaching young foals to hate me already, are we Princess?"

Twilight winces, she didn't know you knew THAT much. Yeah ouch, that was probably a dumb thing to say. It also made the situation a little more apparent. It might not be a good idea to just deny her. It was making Twilight look bad. "I-I didn't mean anything by it. Uhm...Hello umm...Miss Trixie?"

"Miss Trixie?" Trixie contemplated on that name, then nodded "That will..." Then Trixie realized something of her own. She was going to speak to a foal. She couldn't be TOO boisterous, It might turn you away.

And in a near instant, Trixie's voice became more meek, soft, and even...not "Great and Powerful" "What I mean is, you can just call me "Trixie" if you want. I'm sure you wouldn't want me calling you "Hero Colt Anon" with every sentence, am I right?"

Da fuuuuuq? When was she even capable of sounding like this?..it was..kinda cute. "I.. guess.. So, erm. You want to ask me about the horn, right?"

Caution Anon, caution. Just match her "niceness" with your own. and don't let her take advantage. Even if she can't take the horn. She still has the ability to maybe… do something… maybe?

"I would. But now that I think about it. That horn probably means a lot to you. Your father gave it to you, right?" Trixie asks

You nod.

"Then I guess...letting me just borrow it is out of the question. But.." Trixie lowers herself to her belly, and gives you a cheery smile "I'd like to get to know you better if you'd let me. I feel this connection, a connection between you and me. I think we're both destined for something great...and powerful."

Gyagh...she was being cute. Twilight immediately interjects. "Trixie...do you know how obvious you're being right now?"

Trixie tried not to break her current demeanor, she just looked at Twilight dismissively. "You can't even give me a chance? I could still be friends and not have the horn. Considering who his father is, I might just learn a few new tricks instead. It doesn't have to be about the horn....of course, you'd be the one to jump to conclusions, Princess."

Twilight winces again...goddamn, poor Twilight. You didn't think Trixie could hold her own against her. But there she was, using the very act of "Friendship" as a counter-weapon.

....Oh boy..ok, just, see what she wants. "I..guess that's ok. I mean, everypony deserves another chance, I wouldn't be here right now if it wasn't for my dad. But, can I ask what you even want the horn for? Ya know, if you really hypothetically wanted to use it?"

"Well, since you seem to know who I am. I don't have to go into too much detail. Let's just say I need it for the grandest..." Trixie rose up, and started getting a little excited all the way to near boisterous "Most spectacular trick that anypony has ever seen!"

Considering what Discord has managed, you doubt it'd impress you. But, just to keep up appearances. "What's that?"

Trixie calms down, and lays on her belly again, but the way she was looking at you, there was now a sense of pride in her voice. "A trick called the Moonshot Manticore Mouth Dive"

The wut? "....Uhm, what is that even?"

Trixie just smiles and pats your head as she speaks as if you were naive. "Ahh, to be a foal again. Well, it's a trick..believe it or not...that I didn't come up with. In fact, it comes from a great, and yes, even powerful unicorn known as Hoofdini. Basically, you launch yourself straight into the mouth of a manticore. And right before he chews you up. You "somehow" end up coming out of a box right next to it. completely unharmed. To this day, no unicorn has been able to replicate it"

"Probably because that's insane. The amount of skill and focus a Unicorn would need to pull that off is astronomical. Hoofdini was able to pull it off because of of his mastery of magic. It's a shame he never shared his secrets with anypony" Twilight adds, it seems she knew who Hoofdini was as well.

"Hmmm, So you know of him as well? Well, Princess" Trixie goes back to acting like her usual self when speaking to Twilight. "Then you can tell Anon here that what I'm saying is indeed true? That the trick itself is legendary?"

"..It is. But Trixie, that trick is extremely dangerous. You know that right?" Twilight, upon learning Trixie wanted to do the trick herself. felt a sense of worry.

"Of course I know. That's why I need the horn." And there she goes. Trixie was too obvious.

"...Erm..Trixie. The horn kind of requires skill to use. And, if you mess up. It sounds like you'd just be a meal for a manticore anyway." Or, as you thought, something worse.

"Well, of course I'd practice with the horn before I attempt the trick. Anon, please. I really need this to happen. I'd be more than willing to name you as the one who made it all happen. I.." Trixie sighed, she was suddenly..breaking up. She tried to stay composed. "Everywhere I go, somepony will recognize me and call me out for what I've done in Ponyville. It's harder and harder to pull off successful shows. I just want to start this apology tour with a bang, I just want to be "Trixie, the Great and Powerful" again. Not "Trixie, the Terrible and Tyrannical". This show isn't just for me, but to entertain those who've I hurt as well. You're the only one I know with something that can make it happen. The alicorn amulet, it corrupted me. But this horn, if a foal can use it. Then, maybe I can too.."

Oh shit...OH SHIT....she has a fucking tear in her eyes. Nope, NOPE. She was telling the truth. You couldn't think of a single pony who could fake a tear. Nothing came to mind anyway. But would she really? Were you and Twilight being too hasty? There had to be something more to this...but...

You look over to Twilight. "Twilight...do you think we can take Trixie with us?"

"What?! Why?!" Twilight, while at the point of giving Trixie another chance, wasn't expecting or even willing to let her tag along or have the horn.

"Well...she looks sincere, she sounds sincere. Why not have her come with us? See how things go. Heck, maybe there's something about manticores that would help make the trick even easier. We could ask Aunt Fluttershy or Zecora"

"Come along? Come along where exactly?" Trixie, not knowing about your day, was confused.

"It's a educational trip through the Everfree Forest. It's for Anon's benefit......" Twilight was gathering up her patience. She still didn't trust her. But, it was her duty to maybe give her a second chance. But she knew she'd have to keep a close eye on you. She had to make sure you didn't veer off into the wrong direction. In fact.. "Well, I don't think it'd hurt to let her come along actually. But Anon..." Twilight looks at you, as if she wanted something. "If you don't mind, would you mind letting me keep the horn for awhile? Just for the day"

.....Oh shit. OH SHIT.... Wait....you could easily explain this away. Nooo problem. "Oh...errr, actually Twilight, I put the horn in my drawer at home."

Twilight seemed to have trusted you completely. She didn't even question it. All she had in her mind that it was someplace safe. However, that did put something else in her mind. If you went home, did that mean you spoke to Discord? "Well, I guess that's ok. But..you didn't talk to your father right? I know you probably miss him. I really do. I miss my parents a lot sometimes too. But, well....." Twilight sighed, realizing what she was thinking might be cruel for a colt like you. She knew Discord had agreed to not influence or barge into the visit, but she couldn't be mad if you actually missed him enough to go see him "Actually, never mind what I said. If you both spoke, that's great. I'm sure he missed you as much as you missed him."

She was probably both right and wrong at the same time. Fucking Flashbangs man...

Chapter 206 - Twilight Week Arc

"Well then, if it means getting to know the hero colt then Trixie agrees." Trixie says in a high and mighty way. "Of course, if the princess is actually willing to give me a chance, then Trixie wouldn't mind...hrn.." Trixie stopped herself when she gazed upon Twilight's less than enthused expression. "Must you look at me like that?"

"Because it's still very shady. I'm giving you this chance just because you happen to be right. It doesn't mean I'm just going to look the other way and let you get too close." Twilight was being very untrusting and suspicious.

When it came to Trixie, you couldn't help but just see those red flags yourself. Yeah, Twilight was being a little too hard on her. But whenever Trixie spoke to Twilight, it was in a condescending tone. The tension between them was fucking ridiculous.

"Hmph, so be it, Princess. It only presents Trixie with a challenge. And that challenge is of course showing that I can in fact befriend Anon and surpass your less than generous expectations. Of course, if I was the Princess of Friendship, then I'd let anypony have an actual second chance. You know, the one where they don't have somepony hovering over them?"

You notice Trixie give a arrogant grin when she said that. Yeah, totally somethings up. You had to keep on your hooves.

".....Let's just go, we're wasting time. Just behave yourself, and everything should be fine.." And yup, Twilight's excited and adorkable mood was gone...oh so gone.

And so, the three of you made your way into the Everfree Forest. Taking a path that didn't go directly into town. Trixie didn't want to really be seen in public. At least not yet. She had to be extra insistent however to even get Twilight to agree to take this longer path. But didn't exactly state WHY she wanted to stay out of town.

"Thank you for taking us down another path Princess..." Trixie said, as she looked towards the buildings that lined the outer edges of the town. Trixie's tone was a little more worried than arrogant.

"I still don't understand why though, you do know cutting through the town would have been faster, right?" Twilight asked as she led the both of you towards the Everfree.

"Of course I do. But how am I supposed to bond with Anon if we get there too fast? By the sounds of it, it doesn't sound like we'll do a lot of talking once we get there." Trixie's tone that time however, had quickly switched back to arrogant.

"...That's because it's an educational sort of tour. You're supposed to be listening, and asking questions." Twilight tried to stay focused. This was for you and her, she had to keep this in mind. It was supposed to be bonding between you and her.

"Hmmm, I see...well then.." Trixie turned to you, her arrogance immediately washing away as she gave you a more gentle smile. "Anon, since we have some time, why don't you tell The Humble and Apologetic Trrrixie!.....ahrm..about your adventures?"

You didn't want to talk about that. You wanted to go deeper. Either Twilight and you had a reason to be suspicious...or this was actually genuine. "Ahm, actually Trixie. Let's talk about...you. I mean, how have you been since the whole..." What's a way to put it delicately? "Amulet thing?"

There...seemed to be a flash of regret on her face before she put on a smile. "Oh, Trixie has been doing....things. Mostly planning my tour...coming up with names. Oh, and of course practicing my routine."

Ok...but you knew that already.

"I mean, emotionally. How have you been doing?"

Trixie hesitated. ".....I've been...Humble..and Apologetic."

She was dodging the question completely. Now you knew something was up. But what? You needed to be sure if this was just her wanting the horn for the show...or for domination. If you could get her to spill it before entering the forest. All the better. "Ok, anything else? I mean, things must have been pretty hard after that. I'm surprised you'd come back to Ponyville at all....from what I heard I mean."

Twilight never dropped from staring at her. She knew something was up, and she was getting an inkling that you may have been actually interrogating her, but she didn't want to press it.

"Do we have to talk about this? Why can't we talk about something nice? Like....." Trixie was looking around, then she looked up at the clear skies "The weather?"

You look up, it looked fine. "It's nice I guess. But Trixie, really, I want to get to know you, but you're dodging my questions. I just want to know how you're feeling and how you've been. Haven't your other friends worried about you?"

Did...she even have any friends? Trixie was starting to shake, her expression was like she was trying to hold in a burst of emotions, she was squirming. That's when Twilight spoke "Trixie… don't you have any friends at all?"

"o....o...of course..T-Trixie does. Trixie...has...a lot..of...friends.."

Oh good lord...She didn't have any fucking friends. And the first time she actually tries...is to get something. And looking at Twilight, she immediately softened up as well. Seems she came to the same realization.

Not even one offscreen friend.

Trixie began to step back away from the both of you. She wasn't able to say a word.

"Trixie, are you alright?" Twilight asked, actually, truly, concerned for her.

Trixie at first looked like she was going to get angry, but, it was like she couldn't even come up with a reason to run away. She was too hurt by the realization that someone other than her knew. Even moreso, her hated rival. But then something entered your head. Something that didn't seem to click with Twilight. What if this was a master ruse? Like the ruse of ruses? Trixie was a performer after all. She came here looking for the horn. What if this was just an act to gain sympathy points?

Maybe she even had a friend, at least one. If not, her fucking family must still care about her. No, you'd proceed with suspicion still. You couldn't get tripped up by this....so it's time to lay the bait. "Trixie....I didn't know. We didn't know. I feel awful, I do. I'm really sorry for bringing this stuff up. In fact. How about I make a promise. If we become good friends by the end of the day, I'll let you have the horn for your show. No questions asked."

Trixie stopped, and looked at you with a meek expression "R-really?"

You nod, giving her a confident smile. "Of course, if I say something I mean. Then it's the truth."

Twilight however hesitated. She stood there in thought. But seeing Trixie's further confused and pained stance. She thought maybe it wasn't a bad idea. Second chances and all that. She was the Princess of Friendship. And if Trixie had no friends...that had to change. Even if it meant agreeing with the dangerous fact of her borrowing the horn. "And you don't need to worry about me Trixie, If Anon decides to let you have the horn for the show. Then fine. And it's very lucky that you're coming with us. Because you have a chance to make four friends. Doesn't that sound great?"

"....I-I see. T-then Trixie will..." Trixie turned away, and was taking short breaths. and from the motion of her foreleg. Wiping a tear. She then turned around, she still had no confidence in her face, But it seems she was willing to try. "I'd...like to just be able to have at least one friend....it's been so lonely for T-t-t...I've been so lonely."

Well, she took the bait. "Well, then you're going to have to be a little more honest. Now come on, let's get going."

Twilight moved up to Trixie with a sweet smile. and started to walk alongside her. "If you want, we could discuss the magic and abilities of Hoofdini. Maybe speculate how he managed to pull off some of his tricks?"

Trixie tensed up when Twilight drew near. But only for a moment. She seemed to be trying to get used to the entire situation. It took a little time for Trixie to agree. Which was good for you, you were able to observe Trixie and focus on how she was speaking and acting. She went from saying "Princess" to "Twilight" within a short time. And the subject matter put her at ease since she was very knowledgeable about the exploits of the great Hoofdini, even moreso than Twilight.

You just observed as the three of you entered and traversed the forest. They both were really into the subject. Trixie was even starting to act arrogant. Acting as if she was superior in her knowledge of Hoofdini. Which you could tell started to tick off Twilight. But, this was for friendship, so she held her patience.

"Actually, this reminds Trixie of something. Has Anon ever been to a spectacular magic show?" Trixie turns to you.

"Huh? Uh, no. I get enough magical shenanigans from my dad."

"Then you don't know what you're missing. In fact, I'd be glad to set up a special seat for you for my upcoming show" Trixie said with confidence and excitement.

"You mean the one you need my horn for, right?"

Trixie's eyes went wide, she then sheepishly smiled, laughing nervously "Y-yes...that one."

...Huh...already getting confident. "Well, if it happens. I wouldn't mind."

Is that all she actually cared about? Hmnn.

The three of you finally arrive at Zecora's hut. Twilight steps ahead and looks upon the both of you. "Alright. Trixie, Anon. Welcome to Zecora's. I hope the both of you are ready for a real educational and fun treat!"

"I am!" You shout, acting excited. While still gazing at Trixie

"As is Trixie! I will show all just how the FRIENDLY AND MOTIVATED TRRRRIXIE CONDUCTS HERSELF!"

Friendly and motivated now? Hmmmm. Twilight seemed to enjoy her enthusiasm, she turned and knocked on the door. "Zecora. Zecora! We're here!"

The door just mysteriously opened however. Without an answer. Twilight however was acting as if this was normal, and yet not. She was trying to fake being surprised. Which just prepped you to be wary. Why would she be acting this way?

"Oh? The door is open? Well, let's let ourselves in, shall we?" Twilight was being very cute. But now you had to be doubly suspicious as to why she was being all ignorant.

"Twilight? Are you...ok?" Trixie felt she had to ask. "Is it alright that we just step inside like that? That doesn't seem like something a friend would do"

Twilight stopped. and turned to Trixie with a grin. "Come on Trixie, she already knows we're coming. Just don't touch anything and we'll all be fine. Now let's go!"

....Ookkkkkk, now Twilight is being kind of..creepy. Both you and Trixie step inside the hut with caution. The door immediately slams shut. Both you and Trixie look back, then around. Only the two of you were around. In front of a bubbling cauldron.

"....What happened? T-Twilight?" No wait...don't panic. This is a trick of some sort; Part of the lesson?

"What's going on?! What kind of trick is this?" Trixie said, backing towards the door, worried.

But then you chuckle "Haha, Twilight. Come on....I'm not that easy. I didn't even figure you as a prankster. So what? Is there gonna be some potion juju? Aunt Fluttershy? You around?" You look towards Trixie with a grin. "Hey, relax. It's just a trick."

"A trick?" Trixie looked confused, until she realized Twilight had tricked her before. "What kind of trick? Why would she do this?"

You smirk and start looking about. "Probably some educational thing. I dunno...Hey Twilight! Come on, what is this all about?" Suddenly, you hear a gentle clucking coming from behind the cauldron. "Twilight?"

Trixie hears it as well. "...That doesn't sound like her"

You both take a look around the cauldron.

.........oh shit.

...OH SHIT.

It..was..a chicken head..on a lizardish dragon body. ...It..was… Both you and Trixie yell in fright as you back off from it. "COCKATRICE!!!"

You both try to bash open the door, but it won't work. "HOLY! DWFDS...AM I TURNING TO STONE?! I THINK I LOOKED INTO ITS EYES!"

It terrified you, holy shit. In a world where turning to stone can actually happen. Actually turning to stone was fucking scary as fuck.

"I DON'T KNOW! I'M TOO BUSY HAVING MY EYES CLOSED!" Trixie falls backward. using her forelegs to cover her eyes.

"It would seem my cockatrice has you both shaken, perhaps a second look should be taken" You hear a familiar voice behind you. And although Trixie wasn't willing to take a look. You take a peek. The cockatrice... wasn't even paying attention. It was pecking at the floor.

"Huh?....what th-WOAH!" Just by a small tilt of your head, you spot the zebra shaman right up on your face. making you fall backward onto Trixie. Making her freakout all the more.

"IT'S GOT ME! QUICK! SOMEPONY SAVE TRIXIE!" Trixie yelled, getting you in her bucking hooves and tossing you forward, making you slam onto your face and slide right towards the cockatrice. She didn't even notice it was you.

"E-eghh.." You look up, dazed, only to see the cockatrice staring right into your face. "AGH! AAAAGH! OOHHHH AHHHH....ahhhh....ah?" You were thrashing about, but...you weren't going stiff. "Ahhh....Am I...dead?"

"....Ok, that was probably a bad way to start things. I guess Fluttershy was right. This wasn't the best idea." You hear Twilight sigh.

"Twilight, you said yourself that Anon jumps into fights. It's actually good that the chicken has caused him fright" Zecora says

Chicken?

You take a good look at the Cockatrice.....it.....it… You get up, now annoyed with the whole situation as your heartbeat beats a million miles a second. "....It's...a chicken in a costume?"

Trixie raises her hoof from her eyes as she gazes upon the ignorant chicken. "What?! The Friendly and Motivated Trixie was scared by a chicken?! Why even a chicken?! What's the point of that!? Why would you even do such a thing?!" Oh yeah, she wanted answers as much as you did.

"Well, the thing I was worried about was Anon's problem of diving into trouble. At least from what it seemed anyway. I just wanted to see how he'd react to a Cockatrice. If he went to try to hurt it. I would have stopped him and explained to him why trying to directly fight a Cockatrice is a bad idea." Twilight chuckles nervously. "But I guess..." She looks at you. "...you already knew that"

Oh......that was really fucking dick. And it seemed even Fluttershy thought so....wherever she was. You dust yourself off as you look at Twilight, annoyed… Dammit, another slam to the head. as usual. "....That could have killed me you know..."

"Oh come on Anon, don't exaggerate. We just had to make sure you knew not to jump into a fight you might not only lose, but could lead into permanent consequences. I told you, this would be fun and educational. I thought you'd actually find this..y'know...exhilarating. Considering what you are normally used to, I thought just explaining things would bore you. And you can't learn anything when you're bored. It just doesn't stick."

"I...guess...egh" You had to put your foreleg to your chest, God it was thumping. You took a breath and took another look around. "So, where is Aunt Fluttershy? I don't see her."

Trixie was straightening her wizard's hat, which got crooked from her falling down. "Hmph, such a stupid trick. If I was at the ready, I could have easily taken care of a real Cockatrice" she mumbled to herself.

"Your Aunt will be on the trail of our tour, Of which I hope that none will be a bore." Zecora says as she gives the chicken a gentle pet.

You look towards Zecora, There she was, the one and only Zigger of the Everfree. Seeing her in person, The black and white stripes were a tad jarring to the eyes.

"Hello young Anon, I am Zecora, your host" Zecora then looks to Trixie. Unlike you or Twilight. She doesn't show a hint of suspicion on her. She just gently smiles as she says. "And I see you brought the one who likes to boast"

"Do I know you?" Trixie, who was still upset, put her hat back on and looked at Zecora with distaste. "How do you even know me?"

"I know many many things" Zecora reached her hoof for something, she had a sort of flask like bag slung around her. She puts her hoof out to put some chicken seed from the bag onto it, she then gently puts it down for the chicken to feed. "Knowledge is a power that gives you wings"

"......Ok..." Trixie was confused.

Zecora just looked down at you again, then you noticed that she seemed to notice something about you.

"...uhmmmm...miss..erm..Zecora was it? Why are you looking at me like that?"

Zecora didn't say a word. Instead she looked out her window, and took a breath, enjoying the fresh air. "Do not worry young Anon, I was just looking into a new chapter that has just begun."

Wut? "uhhh"

"Trixie doesn't want to sound rude, but what?" She would be. That made no fucking sense.

"Yeah...that kind of came out of nowhere Zecora. Do you want to explain what you mean?" Even Twilight was confused. You all were. What the fuck did she mean by that?

Zecora lets out a small giggle. "Forgive me, I was just thinking. Twilight, for the current lesson, would you mind doing the speaking?"

Twilight nearly forgot. "The lesson. Right. Let's see.." Twilight thought she'd just speak to Zecora privately later about what she meant. So, using her magic. she quickly brought together some notes Fluttershy wrote on the creature "The Cockatrice".

"Woah woah, hold on. What did you mean? We just met and you're already talking all weird." Well, weirder. You already knew she spoke in rhyme or in small single sentences. Trixie looked upon Zecora, Even Twilight stopped reading to gaze upon her. Waiting for an answer.

Zecora nods, and just..obliges your question without resistance. "An observation is all I made, with room for error, even with an eye much trained. Please, continue with the lesson."

...Goddamn her and her cryptic rhymes. What "observation" did she fucking make?

"Ok...Trixie, since you're technically here to learn too. Can you sit down next to Anon?" Twilight asked

"...I don't need to learn what I already know" Trixie, after all that nonsense, was not wanting to deal with having to move from her spot that she was already comfortable in. Moreso, she didn't want to move in case any other surprises were around.

Chapter 207 - Twilight Week Arc

"Oooook then..." Twilight said, not understanding why Trixie was suddenly being so difficult. Was the cockatrice scare that bad? "Well, let me just get these notes in order annnnd.."

You look over to Trixie, she was already being disagreeable? How disagreeable was she being? you wonder. "Trixie, are you alright?"

"Hmm?" Trixie didn't seem to understand why you suddenly asked. "What do you mean?"

"I mean are you ok? That fake cockatrice scared the both of us. I was just worried if you hurt yourself"

"...You actually care?" Trixie was taken aback.

"Of course I do, friends care about each other..right?" Sappy yes, but it always seems to work. If there was any faking, you should be able to detect it...hopefully.

"...That's what I hear. And does the Princess also care about Trixie's health?" She looks towards Twilight, actually wondering what she thought.

"Well...yes actually. If you were hurt we'd have to end this early to get you to a hospital. But you seemed ok. Are you ok, really? You did act a little snappy when I asked you to join along." Twilight was wanting to do her best, she had an inkling herself something was amiss. But she was the Princess of Friendship. She had to give her one chance, the arguments made were too compelling not to. But the moment she fucked up too hard, that's it.

"......I'm alright. I suppose Trixie was a little frightened. But only because Anon yelled so loud" Trixie tried to not be too sappy, and attempted to reason away her fright.

"So, do you want to sit by me then? Who knows, you might learn something new from this" You offer

"....." Trixie looked unsure, then suddenly she threw up her head in defiance, while still giving in. "Fine, I shall listen to Twilight's lesson next to you. But only because you seem to want Trixie's close company." Trixie was clearly still upset that she got frightened over a fake cockatrice and was trying to act like her usual self again. Which was fine, because it was better that than her trying to get the horn.

She walked over to you, sat down, and looked over to Twilight with a frustrated glare. "I'm ready"

Twilight nodded and smiled, she was ready to go herself. "Alright then" She cleared her throat, and began the lesson. "While this chicken isn't an actual cockatrice. It does represent what one actually looks like. They typically look like they have a chicken head while also having a small dragon body. While records say they are territorial and vicious, it would appear from Fluttershy's notes.,given she has managed to face a cockatrice eye to eye and came back unscathed...." Twilight sighed as she stopped midsentence, she couldn't remember everything, but the feeling of turning to stone...it really was a scary thought. And for Fluttershy to save the day...she was so very glad for that. "It says that they are also of a bullying nature. They will attack anypony they think they can beat. But when faced with a superior foe..like for example" Twilight then giggled at the thought of Fluttershy overpowering the Cockatrice. "One who can stare them down. Not only will you avoid petrification, the Cockatrice will vacate its territory, and it will likely never return. But, as a precaution. Should you ever spot a cockatrice, never ever make eye contact. As that's how it turns others into stone. It is best just to avoid them and run away. Trust me, nopony will call you a coward for running. And...that's the lesson of the cockatrice. Any questions?"

You and Trixie just blinked.

"None at all?" Twilight seemed surprised

"...Well...no, that all seemed pretty cut and dry. Though I didn't know they were territorial. I just thought they just go where they like" Y'know, like every other animal. How odd.

"No, they are territorial. Sometimes they'll even petrify a threat to take over the area if they want it. They are dangerous creatures. But, there are ways to avoid petrification. We do have specialized glasses and gears for dealing with them if they ever become an actual nuisance. And Petrification is definitely curable. So if it does ever happen, we can bring you back."

Well, that was...a pretty good short lesson, you guessed anyway. Damn, you really should be more wowed. Any other shmuck would have been floored by this. But after dealing with Discord and Chrysalis, this actually seemed kind of ho hum. And it seemed Twilight could see it. "Well, I thought that may have made you wonder a little more about cockatrices. But...I guess you already knew some of this stuff already. Ummm, let's move on."

Poor Twilight, it seemed she was really trying to make this fun. Zecora, could also tell you weren't too excited. Damn, something about her...did she suspect something?

"Perhaps a lesson with something live is what we need, come now everypony, to see something I have grown from a small seed." Zecora beckoned the three of you to follow.

Trixie just looked at Zecora with caution. "...Should we actually follow? No more tricks...right?"

"You can trust Zecora, Trixie. Besides, it was both of us that came up with the cockatrice idea. We'll be continuing the lesson as normal. Zecora actually has an interesting and usually volatile "live specimen" she'd like to show us, then we can move on through the forest to meet with Fluttershy" Twilight said.

Live specimen? You three followed Zecora to around the back of the hut. "What kind of "Live Specimen?""

"Just wait and see Anon, I was even surprised by this one. This kind of thing is usually found much much deeper in the forest."

"Much deeper? Do you mean the forbidden areas of the forest when it becomes too dangerous for even a timberwolf to walk around in? There's no way she can have something like that." Trixie refused to believe it.

Twilight nodded. "That would be it. But that's the neat thing about Zecora, she's very in tune with the Everfree Forest. She understands the risks and dangers and has a few ways to greatly minimize the risks. Magic can't solve everything you know, that's why knowledge is needed."

Zecora nodded. "Very true Twilight. Knowledge is a power that must be obtained, Through hard work and study is the only way to keep it sustained"

Dem rhymes man...christ. You wondered if she could even make the word "orange" rhyme. Zecora stopped by a few trees behind her hut, and had you all stop as she stepped a few steps ahead and moves some leaves of a tree to reveal something. "And now you all will gaze upon this plant, behold all, this Pony Eating Flytrap!"

Pony....eating?! You gulp, the damn thing was moving, it was like a green flat faced piranha plant from super mario, and nearly just as big. And it was fucking moving around it's "Body" from where it was planted..and odder still...it nuzzling on Zecora… wut?

"P-pony eating?!" The hell?! she can't be serious!

"Are you insane?! Why would you grow that so close to your hut?!" Trixie was again taken aback. She didn't want to be anywhere near that thing. Unlike the cockatrice, that thing was real.

Zecora just smiled and gave the plant a pet before removing a small flask from her bag and feeding a green liquid to the plant. "Although this plant may be something to be feared, in its current state, it is actually quite the dear. These kinds of plants are dangerous as they will eat you whole, and will eat mostly anything, from ponies to even moles. But this plant here is actually quite nice, instead of pony, it prefers this green spice. I feed it once every day and night, and never a pony, as it now considers them to be a blight."

"....What?" Trixie was confused.

"What she means is she taught it to not eat ponies...see?" Twilight moved next to it, and it began to gently nuzzle on her. "It scared me too when I first saw it. But Zecora taught me a lesson once, sometimes things aren't always what they seem. Actually, these are probably one of the plants that ate those foalnappers...mnnn, I didn't realize they ran that deep into the forest." Twilight seemed to feel for them a little, despite them being criminals...or in actuality, just Discord. "But.. let's not think about that now. Any questions?"

Trixie raised her hoof. "Actually, Trixie has a question"

Twilight lit up, she was pretty happy to see Trixie genuinely curious. "Oh? What is it Trixie?"

"You say "Pony Eating", how exactly would it attract a pony to actually let itself be eaten?"

"That's a good question" Twilight nodded, and cleared her throat so she could give a lengthy explanation "These plants generally have a quick reflex to snatch any nearby creature and gobble them up for nourishment, but should it have a hard time doing so, they will emit a sweet smelling and quite intoxicating pheromone to attract it's meal towards it. This particular plant has been especially raised without the ability to do that, and grown slightly smaller so it could not actually swallow anypony." Or rather, any adult pony. Because that thing could definitely fit you in it's mouth.

"Huh...how did Zecora even get one of these things?" You ask.

"Oh, it was not easy to obtain, many of my usual brews I had to abstain. I had to use natural movements to trick and deceive, and in that way I managed to secure a seed. For you see most of what I have will hurt the plant, and so too will the seed, and I couldn't have that. But with this of which I have nurtured, I treat it well so it may catch nuisances and burglars." Zecora said...geez, how does she keep rhyming all the damn time?

Wait… "You mean...it eats burglars?"

Zecora shook her head. "Only catch and scare away, I do not wish anypony to be slain."

...Huh. Well, it should make for a good defense system then. And, it looked pretty smart for a plant, in fact.. "How smart is it?"

Zecora tittered, she liked the fact that you seemed so curious "It can greet and show affection, and sometimes sniff out and steal one's confection"

It can say hi? "What do you mean? So, if I say hi to it...it'll just say hi back?"

Zecora shook her head "It cannot talk or say a sound, so why don't you hold your hoof out? and greet him out loud"

....wut? What will that do? Is that how you greet it? "I-I dunno...that sounds like a weird way to greet a plant"

"Give it a try" Zecora says, urging you to step forward.

....egh, whatever, fine. You had an alicorn, a unicorn, and a mojo voodoo zebra to save you if that thing even tried to get a nibble. Oh god.....you hoped it wouldn't even get that far. "Erm..so uh...hi" You step up to the plant and hold your hoof out. "Howya doin?"

The plant eased itself forward and sniffed the frog of your hoof for a bit. You wince just a little "Uhhh...what's it do-oooohhhhhhhhh" Inbetween your question. The plant opens its mouth and starts nibbling at your hoof, very very gently, letting out a cooing sound. "ooooohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh...it's eating meeeeee" You let out in a small squealish voice. Scared as shit to even move.

Trixie's horn started to glow, what she saw, it looked like you were about to get eaten. And for all intents and purposes. She couldn't have that. "Do not worry! Trrrixie will save you with her amaz-"

"Trixie Wait!" Twilight called out to her, stepping up in front of her to let her know nothing was going to happen. "Relax, the both of you, just relax..It's not eating him. It's just saying hi. I know it's weird. But according to Zecora, it says hi by seeing how gentle a pony will be with it before letting them get really really close. It's just seeing if Anon is an intruder or not"

"....oohhhhhhhheeeeeeee" You were still wincing. Oh god...oh god...you could feel the wetness of it's tongue. You could feel it's sliminess. Ooohhhhh noooo...you barely even registered what Twilight said. You were too scared to make a move. You whispered in a slow fashion. "heeeeeeeeelp"

Trixie's horn went aglow again, But Twilight gently put her hoof on her shoulder and shook her head. "Just trust her Trixie, you have to have trust if you want to make any friends."

Trixie cringed, she didn't know if what Zecora said was true. And you were her meal ticket to greatness. But if she made a move. That may upset everyone, and oddly enough...she felt..maybe trust was needed here. They seemed to be trusting her so far.

When the fuck was this thing going to let go?! "Ehhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh" After another moment, it did, and moved it's bulb head to your cheek and gave you a gentle lick. A… frighteningly… gentle… lick. Before cooing and moving it's head back. You just stood there, frozen, white from fear.

"Anon?" Twilight was now concerned, you were as white as a ghost. "Are you alright?"

"Alright as always, hahahaha, let's move on with the lessons huh? Do we go that way? Haha" You chuckle a little insanely as you wobble forward, slow down, then fall on your face. Too shocked to move forward anymore.

"Anon! Are you ok?!" Twilight rushed up to you first, Trixie close behind, and Zecora still standing by the plant, giving it a pet as she had a small laugh.

"Anon, speak to Trixie! You can't just...mngh" Trixie looked to Twilight with anger "You said he'd be ok!"

Before Twilight could even react. Zecora stepped forward to speak. "There is no need to cause a fight, Anon has been downed due to a case of fright"

Zecora stepped up to you and rolled you onto your back. Your eyes were still open, you were shaking and looking around. Unaware of what was actually around you. You had every good reason to be scared. It's not like you could reason or trick the damn thing. If it ate you, that's it, game over. Even Chrysalis didn't seem so threatening in comparison, and she was pretty fucking scary when she had the upper hand.

Zecora gave your snout a firm press. Making you sneeze, and instantly come back to your senses. "OW!...hey....huh?" You looked around...hey..you weren't dead...or part of someone's vore fetish. Holy...shit. Thank fucking christ. That was fucking scary...oh wait...you just made yourself look like a pussy didn't you?

You look up and around. Twilight, Zecora, and Trixie were looking down at you. All just...staring. "Can we never talk about this please?....Pretty please?"

Trixie nodded, wincing at how pathetic it actually seemed. "That may be best.."

"Yeaah..so..um. Well, at least you’re friends with it now. So you don't really need to worry about it actually eating you...not that it would and..I'm making this worse soooo.." Twilight just started stepping ahead. "Let's just move on, alright?"

You slowly get up and start moving along with the group. It was a good thing nobody else saw that. Christ, the thing didn't try to even bite your leg off. Did it really scare you that much? Really? Sheesh. No more little shop for you...like seriously at this point.

Twilight was taking the time to talk more about the Everfree during the walk. Talking about it's history as ponies know it. How more of the normal animals usually live near the outside of the forest as the more fantastical creatures lurk deeper inside. And explaining some of everything you all ran into. Until suddenly...

"EVERPONY STOP!" Trixie announces in a booming voice.

You all come to a sudden halt. Why did she want you all to stop? What happened?

"Trixie? Why are you yelling?" Twilight looked around, making sure nothing was coming. "We're not too deep into the forest but there could still be something dangerous around. It could have heard you."

Trixie waved her hoof dismissively. "Perhaps, but we are definitely more than a match for anypony who tries to fight with us. Besides, Trrrrixie has an important lesson of her own that she wishes to teach"

Wut?

"You do?" Twilight asked, confused as hell.

"Of course I do...Behold! these berries, two different kinds of three different colors can be found among these bushes!"

Berries? "...I don't want to sound rude or anything, but...what's so important about berries?"

Zecora nodded "If I were to make a wager, I believe there is an important lesson she wishes to address." It seemed Zecora was already interested in what Trixie had to say. "Trixie, I am very intrigued . So if you don't mind, please proceed"

Huh...both you and Twilight look on. Curious to see what Trixie had to say. Trixie makes a small bow to Zecora, acknowledging the fact that her curiousness also garnered yours and Twilight's.

"Thank you, now...Trixie would like to direct everypony’s attention to these berries. You will notice some red ones, some yellow ones, and some black ones. Now, whether you want it or not. There may be a point in your life where you will have to survive with only your wits and skills. When it comes to food, berries can mean the difference between life or agonizing death! Trixie shall teach you which of these berries is safe to eat, and which one will ruin you completely in the most disgusting of ways. Now then!" Trixie's horn glowed as she magically picked the berries and held them up in front of the group. "Now, I could already guess Zecora knows which berries are safe to eat. So Twilight, Anon. Can you tell Trixie which of these are safe to eat?"

Twilight tapped the bottom of her chin as she observed the berries closely. "Ohhh..I get it" She then took a moment to actually let the genuine feeling of being impressed about all this settle in "You're teaching survival in the forest! That's amazing Trixie, I didn't know you knew anything about this!"

Trixie actually felt humbled and acknowledged through Twilight's words. With a little added smug of knowing something Twilight might not know. "I do, I actually know everything about this..." She nearly frowned after those words all of a sudden, she was now actually remembering how it was to have no money, forcing her to find other ways to survive. But she kept up her front. she did not want to show any weakness.

"Now then...." Trixie started to make the berries spin in circles, forming one ring with 1/3 of it being one of each berry color. "Trixie will tell you that each one of these berries look delicious and safe to eat. But in actuality, only one is good for you and tasty to boot. One other is unripened and very sour, while the other, while also quite delicious, will make you go to the bathroom for hours upon hours! All three of these types of berries are actually very common. But, to see how knowledgeable and lucky you might be. I shall let you, young Anon, try to use your brain to figure out which of these berries are safe to eat."

Trixie has the berries group up by color and has them float over close to you. "Uhhh...I....Erm..." You look closely at the yellow, black, and red berries. You couldn't figure out which one was which. But if your cartoon knowledge told you anything, the worst looking berry was usually always the healthiest. So.... You pick the black berries. "That one!"

"Ahhh, the hero colt is very astute! Gaze upon him and applause for he is correct! The black berries are the safe ones to eat! And with that, I shall now explain and point out what the other berries are. The yellow berries are actually the ones that will rip your insides asunder! Truly terrible will you feel that you will have very little time to act, and as a FUN FACT!" Trixie eyes everyone with a arrogant smirk before speaking again. "These berries ALSO expand and then explode when introduced to certain liquids. One can surmise that this is one of the many reasons that it causes such...pain. And then there is the red berries, these are merely unripened black berries. So unripened that one bite will make your mouth pucker up from it's terribly sour taste."
Trixie then strikes a pose "And that, my fellow ponies, is the lesson to choosing what you should eat if you find yourself without nourishment!"

You also notice her putting the yellow berries in her hat with her magic....huh? Why would she be doing that? But before you could question it, Twilight smiles happily towards Trixie and congratulates her "Good job Trixie! That was actually very informative and helpful! In fact, it kind of made me a little hungry too. Would you mind if I..."

"Oh..oh..umm" Trixie was blushing in embarrassment, It really has been a long time since she has gotten praise. "Thank you...oh..yes..right..Would anypony else care to have some berries before we proceed?"

Zecora takes Trixie up on her offer, and....you were still kind of hungry. Cereal could only fill you up by so much. And since you figured Zecora may have already knew about the whole berry thing. You decide to take Trixie up on that offer as well since you could at least trust her word on this.

And....huh...it was tasty and sweet. So why take the yellow ones? "Trixie, can I ask you a question?"

Trixie was gobbling down the berries pretty fast. Geez, how much does she usually eat?...poor girl, she was probably hungry the entire time. She swallowed, wiped her face, and then noticed what a slob she was being, wiping her face before answering. "Huh? o-oh...of course, you may ask Trrrixie any question. It is a learning adventure after all"

Well, at least she was really getting into it. "Why did you put the yellow berries in your hat? "

"Oh" Trixie smiles a confident smile at you. Which, was actually reassuring because it seemed she had a non deceitful answer for you "As I mentioned, these berries explode when exposed to certain liquids. They are a perfect and cheap base for some pyrotechnics and smokebombs."

"Ohhhh, that's actually really interesting. In fact..Anon, can I get a pencil and write something in your notebook? I want to keep notes on all this in case I forget" Oh man, Twilight must have really been into that lesson. Because it looked like whatever ill will she had towards Trixie was melting away, and vice versa.

"Yeah yeah, sure, let me just get them out of my bag"

"...Out of your bag?" Twilight's happy and bouncy tone suddenly dropped into that damned "wtf you doin?" tone....that fucking tone she has...what did you do?

"Y-yeah...is that a problem?"

"Yes. It is. Why haven't you been copying down any notes? You do know you were supposed to be copying notes down, right?" Twilight was looking at you with that annoyed expression she gets as well. Well goddamnit.

"H-hey. come on. How.....erm...how...." Uhhhhhhhhhhhhh. "How am...I supposed to write on my notepad when we're out here? Where am I even supposed to write or how am I going to write on it? I'm not a unicorn you know, I don't have magic to just whip my pencil out and write on the fly"

"That's a terrible excuse Anon, we've stopped at every point where we've done a lesson. You've had plenty of time to write what you've learned down by putting the notepad on the floor and writing into it." Twilight sighed and shook her head in disappointment

....Well damn, now you actually felt bad. In truth, you felt like you didn't even need to copy down notes. But, you shouldn't be selfish either. Twilight did this for you after all. The least you could have done was copy down notes. "Sorry Twilight...If you want, I can write down everything now. I mean, I still remember everything I've learned so far. I'll even write down an extra copy of the notes from Trixie's lesson."

Twilight, while still disappointed, but she felt that would suffice for now "Alright, but please remember to copy down notes as we continue the lessons. Alright? I know writing notes isn't very fun, but it is essential for retaining and reviewing information." She had to remember as well that even though she is doing this for your benefit, she shouldn't berate you too hard given you were supposed to be her friend, and not just a foal who needs discipline or parental guidance.

....Way to be a buzzkill, Twilight. Fuck, whatever. Don't think that, you should have just done what you were told from the start.

While everyone fills up on berries, you take the time to copy down some notes. Or at least you did, as you were fumbling about with the pencil, trying to make sure your handwriting… Hoofwriting?... Mouthwriting?..Whatever, was legible, you suddenly felt a pull on your pencil. It then dislodges itself from your mouth and starts writing on it's own.

As you take a look upon the pencil, you notice a purplish aura surrounding it. Not Twilight's magic aura...but.. You look up to Trixie, who gives you a wink before going back to her berries. ....Awwww. Well, it's a nice gesture really. But Twilight would notice your handwriting wouldn't be yours.

But hell fuck it, you didn't want to write all this shit down yourself. So, not wanting to write. You just smile at Trixie, and wink back. Hmmm, as things went on. It was hard to tell if Trixie was faking or not anymore. It all seemed so genuine. She really felt like she was becoming one with the group. After the berries were bitten and the notes were notarized. It was time to go, this time to where Fluttershy had been waiting.

As the four of you traversed through the forest. You began to hear the soft sound of river water running downward through the forest. And two voices. A soft buttery one, belonging to Fluttershy...and.....oh good lord...is that?! Could it be?!

"I cannot wait to meet your nephew Fluttershy, from the sounds of it he just sounds simply fabulous!" That had to be...The rarely seen. Steven Magnet.

"Oh he is, he's nice and caring and very affectionate. Whenever I see him, I can't help but feel so proud for all the things he's managed to accomplish since he was adopted"

"Ohhhhh I know. Fighting off foalnappers and griffons? I would say how absolutely frightening that sounds, ohhhh, just gives me the willies just thinking about it. Too bad he wasn't adopted sooner, then you all wouldn't have missed the wedding due. I'm so so sorry you had to deal with that silly old Bugbear. But I have to tell you, Cranky Doodle's and Matilda's wedding was oh so fabuuuuulous and everything went so smoothly. In fact, on behalf of the bride and groom and myself, I'd like to take this time to thank you all for dealing with that nasty problem. It just makes me think though, do you think he could fight off a bugbear on his own?" Definitely him...had to be him.

Fluttershy looked down and frowned. "I'd rather not think about that....Anon shouldn't have to fight anything at all. He's so young, I sometimes get scared that he'll get himself into a fight he can't win. And...Well...mnnn. No, I'd rather he just play with his friends like any other colt. His father says he doesn't encourage it. But I know he chose to go and fight those griffons on his own....And he really really shouldn't be going into those type of situations. Especially by himself."

"Say no more, I won't mention it again! no siree! And....oh? Do my gentle ears deceive me?" Steven puts his webbed like hands toward his ears "Why yes! I hear four ponies coming this way! Oh Oh! I better get into posssiiittiiioonn!" Steven Magnet excitingly rushed back into the river. Waiting on the rest of the group to appear.

"W-wait!...." But he was already gone before Fluttershy could ask him what he meant "Four? There should only be three. Hmm" Fluttershy surmised it could just be one of her other friends accompanying you.

As the four of you came through the clearing, you could finally see her. That beautiful, cuddly cute, and soft aunt of yours. Even seeing from the distance, it made you smile. And just the same, it made her smile too.

"Anon! Twilight! Zecora! Trixie!.......wait..." Fluttershy realized in her excitement, that the last name she said wasn't...exactly right. "T-Trixie?"

Noooooope, you already knew what would happen. You better explain to her now before stupid cartoon antics happen. "Woah woah woah, Aunt Fluttershy, I already know what you're thinking. And let me tell you right now, it's nothing to worry about. Nooothing to worry about. Trixie is legit, she's here to learn, and even taught us a neat lesson about berries"

Chapter 208 - Twilight Week Arc

You rush up to her immediately, saying anything you can to try to diffuse anything that might be going through her mind. "Ok? She's not here to capture anypony or hurt anypony or anything like that. Look!" You bring out your notepad and show her the notes on the berries. "She even taught me about which berries are safe to eat and which aren't. Now you don't have to worry about me eating the wrong thing, see? See?"

Fluttershy was shifting her eyes towards you, then Trixie, then you, then Trixie, then Twilight. "O-ok. Twilight? What about you? Considering....you know" Fluttershy looked utterly nervous, she wasn't sure if there was some ruse or if her friends were suddenly hypnotized.

"He's right Fluttershy. Trixie is here as a friend. I know I know, it's pretty weird right? But you have to admit, no weirder than what you managed to do for Discord. You gave him a second chance, so...why can't I give her a second chance?" Twilight said as she walked over to the river and sat in front of it, trying to peer through it.

"Indeed!" Trixie stepped forward towards you and Fluttershy in a boisterous manner. "Trixie has mended her wrongdoings and has come as a friend to join in on this adventure! And from my understanding, the next lesson is from you.. So please..." Trixie sat on her butt, and waved her hoof at Fluttershy as to signal her to carry on. "If you don't mind, pretend that I have not tried to conquer your town, and please carry on." And then she just sat there.

Fluttershy then looked to Zecora, who shrugged and said "My opinion I'll make very clear, to Princess Twilight's decision, I will adhere"

"See Aunt Fluttershy? Everypony is ok with it. Please don't worry.." You move up to her and give her a gentle hug. "Please?"

You could feel her leg gently wrap around you and pull you a little closer. Fluttershy looked down to you, then looked to Trixie, and then to Twilight. She was concerned, but...if everyone else was ok with it...She'd comply...for now. But she was going to keep a close eye on you. "Ok....if everypony is ok with it. Then I'm ok with it."

"Great! Now then..." Twilight looked back at Fluttershy, wondering about something. "Fluttershy, is he ready yet?"

"O-oh! Right right!" Fluttershy turned to Twilight with a smile, until she remembered something, and suddenly felt some fright in her heart. "Twilight..did you say ready?"

Twilight nodded. "Yeah, why?"

Fluttershy stepped back, pulling you along with her "I wouldn't stand there if-"

Too late. Steven Magnet popped out of the water sending a small wave right into Twilight, making her yelp and slide backwards as she gets washed up by it. "OF COURSE I'M REEEADY! HELLO EVERPONY! IT'S ME! ST-....hmm?" Steven Magnet popped out in glorious fashion, but the moment he noticed Twilight, wet and soaked, he stopped, moved over to her and shook his head at the sight of her dripping mane. "Princess. Princess! What happened to your mane? Ohh nonononono, this simply won't do. I will not be doing my joint presentation on the kinder creatures of the Everfree with such royalty looking a mess. Everypony stand back! It's Magnet time!"

Magnet wut?

Each and every one of you step back as Twilight tries to step back, utterly in shock as Magnet moves up close to her. "W-wait. WAIT! DON'T!"

But it was too late. in some kind of flurry of fashion and joviality, Steven brings out a comb and some spray from god knows where and starts styling and drying up Twilight in mere moments. "Ta-Da, better than new! What do you think? Magnificent, no?" Steven holds up a mirror towards Twilight. Whose mane has been fluffed up like some kind of british wig, there was a little crown on top. Twilight's face had makeup on it, with some blue blush on her eyelids, heightened eyelashes, and little pink blush on her cheeks.

...Oh holy shit...that was too funny. And it seemed you weren't the only one who thought so. Everybody...everybody...was trying to hide their smiles.

"....ahaha...it...looks great Steven....t-thank you." Twilight said in fake gratitude, not wanting to hurt his feelings, but goddamn did she hate the look.

"Oh no need for thanks Princess, the honor is all mine. Ohhhh, it feels so great to help royalty. But ahhhh, we are here to help the young and beautiful. Ahh there he is!" Steven suddenly started to slither towards you.

Wait...OH HOLY SHIT! You immediately stop trying to snicker as you fall back, trying to get away. But he snatches you up and starts giving you....a really tight hug. Why the hell did everyone that's bigger than you had to crush you.

"Oh he's so soft and cuddly! Like a little stuffed bear!" He then held you out and up to his eye level so he could get a good look at you. You were taking breaths, your eyes were droopy and you looked a little sick. "And so sooooo adorable! I really hope Matilda has a little donkey as cute as this. Ohhh, I think he likes me. Hey there little guy, how have you been enjoying your little learning adventure? I bet it's been simply funtastic!"

"Nghhhhh, my chest..." Perhaps an exaggeration. But you were scared for this very exact reason. The bigger they are, the harder they hug.

"Hmmmm" Steven finally noticed you looking a little ill, he didn't realize it was from his own crushing hug. "He looks tired. Poor little guy, must be getting pooped already. Don't worry little fella" Steven Magnet puts you down gently and gives you a pet.

Fluttershy giggled from Steven's antics and walked over to you. Hell, everyone was giggling from your little "hug" moment. Fluttershy hovers over to you and gives you a gentle nuzzle. "Are you alright? Are you ready to learn Anon?"

...Thank god for Fluttershy nuzzles; The healing nectar of the gods. "Y-yeah..erm..." You pull out your notepad and put it on the floor. and get ready to write. You take a small glance around. everyone was calming down now, and yet it still irked you. Dammit, you actually felt self conscious about it. Damn you DT, DAMN YOU. If it wasn't for Fluttershy's nuzzles, you may have snapped at at least Twilight. "Let's just get started."

"Alright." Fluttershy nods and then flies over to Steven, who was settling himself back into the river. "This is a sea serpent, one of the Everfree's many inhabitants. As you can see, he is fully capable of speech and is quite friendly."

Steven smiled and put a hand to his chest as he spoke with a near royal dignity. "Ahrm..yes, I am quite friendly" He tried to stay serious, to act with poise and respect. But he couldn't hold it. "Oh who am I kidding? I'm too friendly sometimes...as soft as a kitten really. Look at all of you! I could give each one of you a hug and style all your manes. And you, little Anon, would look quite macho with a mustache. You'd get all the little fillies in an instant." But then he stopped, and looked at Fluttershy, wondering about something "Or is he not allowed to date yet. You know what I mean. It'd be a shame if he couldn't, or maybe it wouldn't. He looks like he could be a heartbreaker with those cute looks. Ahh, if only I was a little younger. I could demonstrate the proper techniques of winning the heart of a young sea serpent...or, I suppose pony. Whatever works" He shrugs.

..Oh ho, time to get some of your own dignity back. "Actually, I have a special somepony already." You smirk. "And she is totally into me."

"Oh hooooo, Tell me more. Tell me everything. Spill it, This is too juicy not to know!" Steven put his hands under his dragonish chin and leaned forward. Ready to learn everything.

"Ahrm..." Fluttershy looked at him with a disgruntled stare. "We're supposed to be teaching Anon about the innocent animals of the forest. Not gossip about eachothers personal lives. I'm sorry if I sound rude, but I don't want him learning that gossiping is ok....because it's not"

Steven sighed, miffed that he wasn't going to hear about anything. "Oooohhhh ok. Alright, now where did I leave off?...Hmm.." He slinked back a little into the river, and started to rub on his mustache as he thought. "Ohhh yes! now I remember. I'm Steven Magnet, the friendly sea serpent of the river. A pleasure to meet all of you. I'm just one of the many friendly creatures of the forest. Eating ponies? Wouldn't dreeeeam of it. Really, that's more of a nightmare. Could you imagine how fat I could get? Ohhhh nooo, can't have that"

"That's right. When we first met him, mean old Nightmare Moon had sliced off some of his mustache, making him very sad." Fluttershy added.

"Oh yes, but then these lovely little ponies came by. One of them even sacrificed some of their illustrious and beautiful assets to repair that of what was taken from me. Ohhhhh, I still remember it as if it was yesterday. Truly a beautiful thing when you can rely on friends. Because as I always say, a stranger is just a friend you haven't met yet." He gave his mustache a more loving rub as he remembered the events.

"He was so sweet, he made it possible to cross the raging river. It's situations like that that prove that friends can come in all shapes and sizes. Now, another friendly little guy of the forest are parasprites....but....they are something you don't want to get too friendly with." Fluttershy looked worried, remembering when she was the one that let them into ponyville.

"Is it because they'll eat you out of house and home and multiply like no tomorrow?"

"Actually...yes" Fluttershy smiles happily upon hearing that. "The lessons must really be sinking in, you're learning things we haven't talked about yet. Good job!"

You would have felt insulted if it wasn't Fluttershy saying that. Because you knew she wasn't making fun of you. She genuinely believed that. And that made you smile proudly.

"Errr, Actually Fluttershy. I happen to know learning doesn't work that way." Twilight looked towards you "Anon, was that something you already learned. From the orphanage maybe?"

"Oh...erm...yeah, sorta."

"I had a feeling. But our friend Steven Magnet, you didn't know anything about sea serpents, right?"

......Maybe it'd be best to say no. "Nope, news to me"

"Ok, good. I just wanted to make sure." Twilight lets out a little laugh "And here I thought something was off. But, now we're wasting time. Let's just finish the lesson" Twilight got the odd feeling that what you knew seemed rather convenient. Maybe too convenient. But she reasoned with herself that she was possibly worried over nothing once again.

And what a lesson it was. Well, mostly due to Steven Magnet actually being entertaining in the way he talked. Just as long as he didn't hug you again, you were having a pretty good time. Even learning about animals you never heard of. And Fluttershy? God, did it do your heart good to see her happy and enthusiastic.

You also learned about a few of the not so friendly creatures like hydras and cragadiles. Steven nor Fluttershy wanted to give the impression that EVERYTHING was friendly.

"And that's everything you need to know about the friendly woodland animals of the Everfree Forest. I know there isn't a lot. But many are completely willing to be your friend if you just show them that you're nothing to be afraid of. Even a Manticore, a animal that could be dangerous, can actually be as soft as a kitten. But like we said, you also have to be careful. Because some of these animals should stay where they came from. And should never be taken away from their home" Fluttershy said as she concluded the lesson.

"Too true. Tooooo true. Oh yes, since the lesson is done. I can finally bring out this little number!" Steven Magnet gleefully reached into the water and pulled out a waterproof box. He then opened it, revealing some kind of bottle. "I noticed how messy Anon's mane is, and being the observant lover of all things fabulous, have decided that this heinous crime to style must be dealt with!" He slips next to you and puts the bottle into your saddle bag. Sheesh, he moved so quick, you nearly jumped in surprise. "Here you go! This amazing little bottle will make your mane extra shiny, and not only that, but make it one hundred percent waterproof. Just look at what it does for my hair! I can go in and out of water and not a single little hair out of place. Why would you ever NOT use this? Make good use of it Anon, your little princess will thank you for it" He giggled flamboyantly. Giving you a gentle pat before moving back to the river "Well, This guy has to be going now. Things to do and food to eat! So long my pony friends, have a fabulous day! And Good luck on this whole lesson thing. It really is precious." Suddenly, there's a tear in his eye. "So many joining in just to help teach a once lost little foal. Ohhhh..." He puts his hands to his heart. "It makes my heart feel so nice. Knowing there's goodness in this world. I wish you all a fabulous FAAABUUULOUS day!" And away he went. Heh, he wasn't such a bad guy in person. A little invadey on the personal space. But otherwise, good hearted.

Of course, all of you waved goodbye back. It was only natural. Trixie got up from her spot and stretched herself "What lesson is next? I am wondering if it's something I might know as I would LOVE another chance to do some teaching."

And although Trixie didn't say it. She actually meant it in a form of bonding.

"Well Trixie, there isn't much more to teach Anon. We went over the more dangerous aspects on the way here. And learned about the peaceful animals. We learned about the forest and that the deeper you go, the more magical and dangerous it gets. And of course, you taught him which of the forest berries is safe to eat and which aren't. I think that covers all the basics and need to knows. All there's left is the special surprise."

A Surprise? Ooooohh...now that sounded neat.

"A surprise? Hmm" Trixie gave it and something else some thought, then moved towards Twilight. "And Trixie is also allowed to join in on this "Surprise?""

Twilight just smiled gleefully, she had already accepted Trixie into the group at this point. Something you weren't fully sure of yet. Ponies were gullible...you wouldn't be...you think. "Of course! It wouldn't be right to leave you out of it now. But we better hurry. If we take too long, then we won't have time to give it a good walk through before having to head back to Ponyville."

While that conversation was going on. Fluttershy flew up to you and gave your nose a little kiss, as usual. "Are you having fun learning Anon? I really hope you are."

D'awwww… "Yeah! I am! It really feels great being here with you all. You're all really going all out just for me. It kind of makes me wonder why."

"Well that's easy Anon, since the Princess wanted you and Twilight to bond better. This seemed like the best and, as Twilight probably said, most educational way to do it. You're learning and bonding with her and becoming very good friends. And from the looks of it, even Trixie is learning a thing or two about friendship. It makes me wish your father was here, he might learn a few things too. This wasn't just about learning about things in the forest, but learning to bond. And it really worked! It just makes me so happy to know that things between you and Twilight are getting better. Ohhhh! Come here!" Fluttershy couldn't hold it, and gave you a big big hug. ohhhh...her hugs were always so gentle and soft.

Everything was working out. Holy shit, everything was working out. While still suspicious of Trixie, it seemed she was finally getting into the groove. As for you and Twilight. Things seemed to be going fine, aside from you not writing your notes at first. Everything has been going fine. You didn't feel uncomfortable around her, and nor did she feel uncomfortable about you.

The only thing worrisome was Zecora, while she didn't have much to say at this point. She was always giving you a mysterious look. Surely she doesn't have enough mysterious mojo sense to figure you out. Maybe it was too extreme to think she may have seen something the others haven't. But when it comes to cartoon stuff, you should never take it lightly.

You all now went to the final destination, the bonus spot. Whatever it was, you did want to see it. Going to any place new in Equestria was always great, even if you seen it in the show.

Chapter 209 - Twilight Week Arc

As the five of you walked, Zecora started to step to the side of you as Twilight moved a little away to remove the makeup and fix her mane. It seems Zecora had something to say. "Anon, forgive me if this sounds like prying, but there is something about you I find very mystifying"

Wut? Once again, odd way of putting it. “What do you mean? I'm just a regular colt. Nothing out of the ordinary"

Zecora nodded, as if to agree with you, but her words were the opposite of what her expression was. Like she just wanted to make you feel comfortable while inquiring further into whatever she wanted to know. "Perhaps, but there is something that puts me at a bother, and that’s the fact that the one who adopted you was your father"

What did she mean by that? Dammit, if she stopped speaking in rhymes, maybe you could find an easier way to deflect this line of questioning. because you already had a feeling where this might be going. "What do you mean?"

"Ordinary is not something Discord would normally do, I just have this feeling that this is more of a mutual deal of two."

Mutual deal of two? What the hell? What made her even think that? Nope, NOPE.. Can't have that. "I...don't understand. Dad just came and picked me out of everypony else. If you mean the fact that I like him as a Dad, well, yeah. I consider him my dad."

"I see, well then Anon, please pay me no mind. I suppose thinking about it had caused my thoughts to become entwined."

Really now? You had half a mind to ask her what made her think there was anything different. But, you couldn't. You really shouldn't. But dammit, it was fucking curious. What did you do to even get her to think like that?

Whatever, it's fine, It's fine. She backed off. Just...act like a colt. Be curious about the destination. "So...where are we going? My hooves are getting kind of tired" You call out to the rest of the group.

"It's a surprise Anon, trust me. You're going to love it. It's a piece of history you might not have learned about back in the orphanage. And despite your father telling you about a lot of things, I highly doubt he cared enough to tell you about the great place we're going to!" Twilight stated, feeling anticipation build up within herself

"You mean the...." No, you stop yourself. Now you knew exactly where you were going. And it was probably best not to say where you were going. Twilight seemed pretty excited to "reveal" the old castle to you. "...deeper forest?"

"Maybe" Twilight giggles.

"Well, I hope it doesn't take too long. Trixie has things she must do back at her carriage. In fact.." Her horn starts to glow, making you float up and move closer to her. She then keeps you suspended in mid air, having you travel along with her hoofsteps. "Anon, if you're tired. Then allow Trrrrixie to assist you. No need for thanks, it is simply what friends do"

Well....it didn't feel too bad suddenly being lifted up. At least you didn't have to waste any energy walking. It didn't take long to get used too either, given all of Discord's shit. "Well, I'm going to thank you anyway. Thanks Trixie."

"...Hmm, well.. Your thanks is appreciated. But again, unnecessary...but.." Trixie eased up a little again. She was having trouble either being a softy or her usual boisterous self. "You're welcome.."

"You know Trixie, you don't have to be all "Trrrixie this" and "Trrrixie that!" All the time. Why don't you just relax. You were doing good some of the other times. Why not just be like that all the time?" You ask

Twilight looks back at her, nodding in agreement with you. "You know, he's right Trixie. You're really nice when you're not trying to one up anypony. Why can't you be more like that?"

Fluttershy however, was now focusing on you and Trixie in a different way. It seemed she was worried in the fact Trixie was using magic on you. "I think everypony has the right idea Trixie, and um...can you gently put Anon on my back? If he's gotten tired from walking, then I'd like to be the one to carry him the rest of the way. I am his aunt."

"....." Trixie said nothing, she was now thinking about the words told to her.

"Trixie?" Fluttershy asked, a little more worried than before. Trixie complied upon hearing her name, and put you gently on Fluttershy's back. Ohhh, this was actually much better. She was soooo sofffft.

"Can...I ask a question?" Trixie was softening up again, and something was definitely on her mind. "Am..I to believe that we're all friends now? Or is this a temporary thing? I know I came here for the horn. But...." Trixie holds off, making Twilight wonder what she was going to say.

"But? But what?" Twilight asked

"...I'd rather not say. It's probably better if I don't. I'm probably just fooling myself." Trixie looked down, feeling ashamed and alone. She felt like this was indeed something temporary.

"Trixie, if you want to be friends. Why don't you just ask us?" Twilight stopped walking, fully turning towards Trixie. No doubt about it now. Twilight was now in full trust of Trixie. Something you just couldn't do. It was too easy to fool ponies. And you would not be fooled. "It's easy. Look..."Trixie...do you want to be friends?" See? just do it like that, but...switch your name with mine"

"....." Trixie was eyeing Twilight suspiciously, she took a quick glance at everyone else, then back at Twilight. "...you can't be serious. You mean that when it comes to second chances, you're actually willing to look over everything I've done? Everything?"

Twilight nods. "I am. Isn't that what you wanted?"

"Yes...but..." Trixie was confused "......I only said it to get closer to getting the horn. I didn't know this is what friendship actually felt like...I feel like...I'm part of the group"

".....You only demanded a second chance to get Anon's horn?" Fluttershy was confused, and nearly jumped to conclusions. In fact, she was going to ask a question that would either confirm or deny Trixie's motives. "Why wouldn't you just ask for a second chance to try to make amends for what you did?"

"..Because I thought using the horn for my show would help make amends. And I still do, but. Having friends...is kind of nice too....ngh" Trixie put her hoof to her chest "I'm feeling a pain in my chest I've never felt before....d-do I need to go to the hospital?"

Fluttershy didn't get anything from that other than the fact that it seemed she was actually trying. But still, one day didn't mean she could just have you near her like that. She was still a little wary.

"Did this pain come around right now?" Twilight asked, immediately figuring out what it is.

Trixie nodded.

"Weeelllll" Twilight grinned and moved towards Trixie, wrapping her hoof around her. "I think that might be a little condition called guilt followed by the feeling of being cared about"

"Guilt? Cared about?" Trixie moved backwards, confused

Zecora chuckled. "It is no question that you are now feeling guilt in your heart, and with that, you can now give your new life of friendship a head start"

"...So then...you're all willing to be my friend? Really?" Trixie was holding back her tears. "Wait don't answer that, that was a stup-"

Twilight nodded. "Of course.....you know, as long as you don't try to take over the town again"

Fluttershy was a little more reluctant. But, she gave in just the same "I'm willing to be your friend Trixie, a-as long as you continue to be nice."

Zecora nodded "Before, we have never formally met, so I think I could put myself into a new friend mindset"

Wut? "Uhhhh...whatever she said. I don't mind Trixie, I don't see why we all can't be friends."

It was getting harder and harder to distrust her. But you've seen this before, the most elaborate of ruses. She now had everyone completely fooled. And although you were leaning towards friendship yourself. You had to be ready to make a jump the moment she showed her true intentions...if they were her true intention.

Trixie couldn't hold it in anymore, she started to sob and cry. She covered her face in her hooves as she whimpered and moaned. Ok...that kind of made it hard to be suspicious of her. ".....I've never felt such feelings before. I always strived to be better than everypony else at everything, I never knew how it actually felt to be treated like I WAS everypony else. It hurts...it hurts...but in a good way...I-I can't stop crying" Trixie just wouldn't stop.

...Ok...now it was definitely hard. Ergh....No...no....don't let yourself fully go in yet. Just play the part and bide your time. Ponies were dumb, but they could also be elaborate. What if Trixie was willing to do anything to get the horn?....Fuck...what if she really did feel this bad? You just...had to keep one eye open..thats all.

"...Trixie...hey" Twilight used her magic to lift Trixie up from the ground and then gave her a hug "You don't have to sit down there alone crying when you can have a mood lifting hug instead. Come on everypony! Big friendship group hug!"

And everyone joined in. Even the reluctant Fluttershy. You had to hop off Fluttershy to be able to get in on the hug. You were willing to do it, because if it's one thing that can happen in over complicated plots that fix everything, it's the sudden surge of FRIENDSHIP,

Trixie gulped, and cried, smiling as she did "T-Tr...no...I...I feel....I feel....I..." Trixie stopped, then hugged tighter "I don't know what this feeling is! But I like it a lot! I've never had any friends before, this is...A great and powerful feeling!"

It was quite the moment indeed. Trixie seemed so much happier. So much so that perhaps it was wrong to be suspicious of her. If even Zecora seemed ok with it. Why not you? Besides, maybe thats what was tipping her off in the first place? Maybe she noticed that you were untrusting of Trixie to a degree a naive colt wouldn't be...or something like that.

With hugs and cuddles. Everyone finally seemed completely comfortable with one another.
So with that, and with renewed vigor. You all made your way to the "surprise" spot. Though, you hopped back up onto Fluttershy's back. No way you were going to give up on getting a comfy ride now. Was that selfish? Maybe a little...but soooooo soft.

With cheerier travels, you all finally arrive at the surprise spot. You knew it...it was the castle of the two sisters. And seeing it in real life....yeesh. It was pretty damn rundown. No amount of cartoony bright colors from watching it from the show could get this out of your mind now.

"Trixie, Anon....Welcome to the Castle of the Two Sisters! A famous piece of Equestrian history, isn't it great!?" Twilight announced

It was...something. You hop off of Fluttershy's back and start looking around the outside walls. Seems the renovation for it stopped at some point.

"Isn't it wonderful Anon?" Fluttershy flew towards the front of the castle.

.......

"It's...really neat" You tried to muster as much enthusiasm as you could. But goddamn, what a mess. You could only imagine what the inside looks like.

"So this is the old castle of Princess Celestia and Princess Luna?" Trixie walked up to some of the vines on the walls."This is actually very amazing, the castle is so old and yet they look so young....I wonder if there’s a spell for that"

Fluttershy flew over to the doors, she wanted to go inside first and make sure there was nothing you would step on that'd hurt you. Her maternal instincts were kicking in.

You turn to Twilight. "So, is this going to be like..a history thing?"

Twilight nodded "Yup! Isn't that exciting?"

...No. "Yeah" You then look over to Fluttershy to see what she was doing, she was just..standing there. "Aunt Fluttershy? Are...you getting ready to start the lesson or something?"

Then Twilight noticed, and she noticed something very peculiar, Fluttershy was shaking. "Fluttershy?"

That's when everyone heard a growl, and upon attention, a large and fearsome paw was seen to be rising up to strike Fluttershy down from the other side of the castle doors. You felt it...something instinctual inside you. The need to protect, the need to defend. Fluttershy was about to be struck down...by a....Chimera.

You had no time to think where it came from or if it had found residence within the abandoned castle. No, you rushed up to try to push Fluttershy out of the way. You were the closest to her. "I'm coming Aunt Fluttershy!"

"Wait Anon!" Cried out Twilight. "Don't!"

Don't?! DON'T?! Was she crazy? In what realm of friendship was Twilight going to just stand there and let Fluttershy get smashed? Fuck dat, Anon to the rescue. You dive to Fluttershy right when the paw had reached it's risen peak and began to come down.

Well, no..you didn't dive towards Fluttershy. Because when you started your leap. She disappeared in a flash. Twilight had teleported Fluttershy to safety. Making you the target of the paw. And target you were, it smashed down right on top of you.

The Chimera came out from behind the doors, it had a goat, tiger, and snake's head. The goat head had small spectacles adorned on his nose. And spoke in a very intellectual and snobbish tone. His tiger brother was the opposite, brutish and stupid. And the snake tail?....It was asleep.

"How many times, HOW MANY TIMES..." The goat was annoyed, angry in fact, but took a breath to calm down as he looked to his tiger brother with a furrowed brow. "...do I have to tell you not to wind up for the pounce? They always manage to escape. And that’s why we always go hungry."

"But Bapho, lo-" The tiger spoke, but was cut off by his goat brother.

"Yes...." He groaned. "You caught something, BUT NOT the thing we were going to originally catch. It's just a unfilling young foal who appears to have some friends. Let me do the talking...and please..PLEASE...call me genius. I despise the name our mother gave us. I already have to deal with the fact that our other brother is always asleep and has a griffon's name for whatever reason."

You groaned, you could feel the pressure of the paw pressing on you to keep you in place. You weren't even aware what was going on yet due to being slammed so hard.

Everyone was at attention. Twilight was getting ready to teleport you, Fluttershy, upon realizing what happened went from frightened to a rage. Zecora was pulling something from her bag. Even Trixie was ready to try...something.

"You there, other ponies. I greet you and suggest that you disarm and disengage. I happen to know when a pony is going to cast magic and if you persist for even another moment, well....let's just say foal flapjacks is sounding rather delectable." The goat looks over to them, looking dignified as he spoke

Twilight still kept her horn going for another moment. But she could tell the goat was serious. She stopped her casting. "What is a chimera doing all the way out here?" Twilight says to mumbled to herself. Trying to figure out the why.

Fluttershy's eye was twitching, she was slowly drawing near the chimera "....Let him go.....Or else."

The goat chuckled "Or what? Are you going to predictab...oh she is...Brother, make sure you keep my balance as I coordinate a counter attack..right...there!"

Fluttershy, her maternal instinct piqued, pulls a you and tries to actually attack the Chimera. And fails. She gets smacked away back to the group.

"Wow Bapho! That was pretty good! How'd you do that?" The tiger brother was impressed.

The goat groaned again "One, don't call me that..I told you...Genius...Ge-ni-usss. Two, that pony is very weak and slow and predictable to boot, she doesn't look like she's ever done anything aggressive in her life, and three..I don't wind up like you do. I only make the necessary movements required"

"I-I guess...erm...are we going to eat the foal now? I'm hungry" The tiger speaks again. Hungry as hell.

"Yes...it would go without saying that I am as hungry as you are. But hold fast, we are about to enter negotiations."

The tiger growled a groan "..I hate negotiations"

Zecora was tending to the fallen Fluttershy, you were regaining your senses. And Twilight was pissed as hell, Trixie looked worried. She was scared, she didn't know what to do. She was even considering running...but something kept her there.

"...How could you just attack a young foal like that? What is a chimera even doing here? I've traveled and learned the routes throughout most of Equestria and I happen to know chimeras don't usually live near here." Trixie was trying to figure something out. She wanted to try a teleport spell herself. But she wasn't skilled enough to. She just..didn't know how she could be helpful.

"How astute of you to notice. Yes, this isn't our natural habitat. Which is why we're here. The brutal nature and lack of food in our own home prompted me to come up with a intelligent plan to move elsewhere where the food is plentiful and delicious to eat......and sadly, due to certain complications...I had to bring my brothers along. But fear not little pony, we are a very reasonable trio and are willing to make a trade. Surely one of you tire of being among the living and wouldn't mind trading your life for the life of this foal? Hmm?" The goat was as malicious as he was intelligent.

"...Why can't we just eat all of them?" The tiger head was looking at them hungrily.

The goat once again groaned at his brother. "Because that would require chasing them, which means we would have to give up the foal to give chase, and if we give chase, if gives them ample time to come up with a strategy of their own to make sure all five of them escape to safety. This is why making a trade is the better option. We don't get all five, but we do get a delicious meal out of it. Get it?" The goat smiled at his brother, a surly smile.

".......Why can't we have all five again?" The Tiger head asked again.

"........Never mind, just...follow my lead and you will...be rewarded..anyway" The goat looked back at the group. "I just require one of you to climb into my brother's mouth and we'll be kind enough to release the foal back into your care. Perhaps the purple one, She seems to be that of an Alicorn Princess. And I do like to have high class cuisine."

"You can't just expect us to do that! " Twilight was enraged, but she wasn't going to give herself or her friends up. But she wasn't going to let you get gobbled up either.

"..Ogh..what happened? Aunt Fl...oh geez" Your eyes go wide...you just realized where you were. "GHHH..Get off! You stupid..NGH"

"Please little foal, I don't need a headache" You feel a heavy pressure from the chimera's paw as the goat spoke.

Your yelp alerts Fluttershy, who calls out to you "Anon!..H-How could you!? How could you be so cruel?!"

"Cruelty? Oh no no, you mistake cruelty with necessity. If we were any simple chimera like our species dictates. We would have eaten the foal outright. If anything, I'd say we're generous and good natured. If you care about this foal so much. Why don't you come here instead? A little bruised, but still would make an excellent meal."

Fluttershy fell silent, she was shaking, she even put a hoof forward towards the Chimera.

"AUNT FLUTTERSHY NO! GEEZ! WHY WO-NGH." You feel more pressure put on your back.

"Do you mind? Really, no respect from the young these days." The goat said snidely.

"Come on, what if we crush the foal then chase em? We might be able to get more than one. And at least we'd have a foal to eat if we don't catch one. Pretty smart, right Bapho? Ri-Oww!" The tiger head yelps as the goat head smacks his brother with his horn.

"Think Bengal, THINK! A foal isn't going to feed us. This is the only intelligent way to do it. Now calm down. We're getting close to feeding time...and again...Do..NOT...call me that!" The goat growled those last words. Angered whenever he heard that name.

Twilight held Fluttershy back, she couldn't let her do it. "Fluttershy..don't. We can think of a way to get through this." Twilight then looked to the chimera. "Is there anyway we can make a trade that doesn't involve any of us getting eaten? As Princess.." Twilight had no qualms throwing her royal weight around this time. "I demand negotiations that does not end with one of us getting eaten,"

These fucking assholes. You could barely move. This would have been a perfect time to have the fucking horn...Thanks Celestia..christ.

"No...we won't be doing any kind of negotiation that doesn't involve us eating one of you. It's just not a thing we're willing to do. In fact, my brother can get very very impatient and to prevent a risk of him doing something stupid, I need to enact a time limit. If you cannot come up with a decision in the next two minutes. We will simply crush him and eat him and call it a day. The choice is yours princess. We are but simple animals....two thirds of us anyway" The goat gave her a cruel nasty smile. If the tiger was ruthless, the goat head was beyond so. Only god knows how the snake is like.

Trixie started stepping up to the chimera, annoyed and getting pissed. "No negotiations?! two minutes? When do you get to dictate what we have to do? Do you even know who I am? I am Trrrixie! The Great and Powerful! And if you do not release him in one minute. I'll turn you to dust with my fierce magic!"

Holy shit...Trixie no. Now is not the fucking time to ruse them. You actually appreciated the fact she was trying. But holy shit, that goat was one nasty motherfucker.

The tiger began to quiver a little "M-maybe we should do what she says...look at that hat..she looks great and powerful.."

Trixie smirked, feeling her plan was going to work. The goat hated his brother's naivete. He could tell by a glance that Trixie wasn't worth shit. "No....she's really not. Nice try Trrrrrixie. But I can tell you don't have anything significant in that little horn of yours. Now then, tick tock tick tock. Please make your decision soon, I'd rather not have to hurt a little foal. But, survival is survival I'm afraid"

Trixie's confidence was waning. Everyone's was now. What the hell were they supposed to do?
They didn't have a lot of time. And Fluttershy looked like she was going to put herself up for the trade.

"Tch...come on guys. Can't you just let me go?" You try to give them an adorable look. "Pweeeeeassseee? Theres these berrie-NGH" But you should have realized that was going to fail when they pressed on you again. That'd probably work on the tiger at least. But that fucking goat.

"....Why doesn't anypony listen to me? Not my brothers, not my food....ugh. I swear, I'm the only respectably intelligent thing in Equestria. Now then...have you ponies made your choice?"

As Fluttershy made another step forward. Trixie stops her. And steps a few steps forward instead. "We have......Trixie will be the trade for the young foal!"

What?! WHAT?! No seriously, everyone on the pony side reacts. Trixie...stepping up to fucking die?! Wut?! "Trixie...what are you doing?! That's insane! Any one of you coming up to be eaten is insane! Just co-"

"No Anon, I see now..." Trixie looks to you, then Twilight and the others "I see that you have friends and family that you need to go back to. While I...Trixie.....has nothing. Everypony hates me.....and the ponies who began to like me...well, it's only been half a day. Eventually, you'll all forget about me anyway. But....it was nice to have friends...for at least a little while"

"Trixie! That's not true" Twilight called out, "We'd never just forget about you!"

"Trixie..." Fluttershy was beyond words as she began to tear up.

Zecora nodded. But she looked like she was itching to get something out to attack with.

As for you.. "Trixie...come on, there’s gotta be another way. Come on everypony..think"

Trixie shook her head. "There is no other way....But Chimera, Trixie asks if you can give her three more minutes to say goodbye to her friends. Surely you can do that?"

"Three minutes...ugh..that's too long..." The tiger whined.

"Oh hush, it would be barbaric of us not to grant a last request. We are not monsters after all. Merely hungry. I shall grant you your last request. But...stay within our sight will you? Can't have your princess friend trying to cast a teleportation spell on this little foal, now can we? We'll be patient, we won't hurt the foal. " The goat snickered "But three minutes is all you get, a deal is a deal after all. We're still hungry you know. Now go, the clock is ticking"

....Fucking shit....fucking shit! She was really going to do it wasn't she? You were the one who probably suspected her the most. You didn't even have the horn. You were the one who stupidly dove in. You never thought it would happen....but...you killed an MLP character. You could see your friends walk into the distance, still in eye's view. Oh god...You wish you could spend those 3 minutes with her too. What the hell did you do? It wasn't supposed to be like this.

You lied to her about the horn. You lied to everyone....your lies...was going to get someone killed. Trixie didn't have to come along. You didn't have to be an idiot and just dive in.....You were the monster here...

".....Can't you just let me go? Or just eat me?......something.." You didn't really deserve to live now. If only you had just waited. But...you just didn't want her to get hurt.

"No..and tempting. But you are merely the bait at this point. Now then.." You feel pressure on you again, making you yelp. "Not another word, I'm busy meditating the taste of our meal"

You were depressed now....it was too late. Discord wasn't coming. You couldn't pull off a Deus Ex Machina....this was it. This was how it felt to be totally helpless..You couldn't even escape to go for his nuts. Then the time came....

Trixie stepped up, she looked scared and worried, but she showed no hesitation. "Now then, I'm ready to fulfill my end of the deal if you are willing to fulfill your end. Let the foal go and I shall make myself your meal."

"Cute" The goat chuckles. "But I'd rather not risk there being a trick. Do you think I didn't know that you probably have some plan ready to rescue the foal? No no no, we won't be doing it that way....Bengal...open your mouth wide please."

The tiger was excited, finally, he'd get something to eat. He opened his mouth surprisingly wide.

"Trixie...what are you even doing? This is stupid, This is ponyland....there's always some way out of this. Come on...Don't yo-" You tried one last time to save someone. Even if you knew you would die by telling her to stop. But alas...

She hushes you. "Anon, there's nothing more that can be done. I am the prime choice for this deal....As a performer, I must be the one to make sure to end the show with everypony satisfied. Even if it means my life. Anon...." She sighed "I thank you, and Twilight, and everypony for giving me my second..and last chance." Trixie began to tear up.

"Yes yes, how very sad. Less chatting, and more eating. We won't let him go until after you are swallowed up. So if you don't want us to suddenly make both of you into a meal. You will comply..and step inside" The Goat was truly heartless, behind all that intelligence was just another monster.

"Trixie! Trixie! D-DAMMIT! DON'T YOU DARE!" You scream at her, DAMMIT. SHE WAS GONNA DO IT!

She said nothing, she just took a breath and held it in as she walked into the tiger's mouth. Saying one last goodbye before the tiger closed his mouth with her inside.....holy shit...it really happened.... She was gone...just like that. No magical blast from Twilight, no trick from Trixie. Nothing.

You could feel your tears flow out as you stare in shock, this was your fault… "How could this happen?....This wasn't supposed to happen...nobody dies in this cartoon unless they were already dead or Sombra...so how?"

"Hrn...it seems we traumatized the foal. Listen and learn young colt, this is nature. You don't hear the chickens lamenting for their chicks when you have egg on toast, do you? It's how things are...now then.." The goat looked over to his tiger brother. "Bengal, flatten the dear colt will you? I'd rather not do it myself, it's too barbaric for a intelligent mind such as myself."

"W-what?! ....YOU LYING BASTARD!...Shit...SHIT! WAIT!" You now realize you were going to die, you try biting at his leg, kicking, anything. But it wasn't working.

"Yes...I can't honestly believe ponies would believe in such a deal anyway. We're rather large, we need as much nutrition as we can get. I shou...hmm? Bengal, just press on him already!" The goat was getting agitated "I don't wish to have a conversation with an idiotic colt!"

But he wouldn't. In fact, his paw slowly came off you as they stepped backwards. "B-Bapho… s-something's wrong...I don't feel very good...I think something was wrong with that pony." The tiger was looking dazed

"What?! If you're feeling it then I would....oh...ogh....w-what's going on? Why do I feel sick all of a sudden...This is illogical, ponies shouldn't cause this..." Now the goat was beginning to feel the pain.

What the hell?..Wait....Trixie had those yellow berries on her...You forgot about that. She never got to use them for what she wanted to use them for...a-atleast it meant you could escape.

But you couldn't look away, it looked like they were actually dying.

"C-curses! I had no idea ponies could cause such.....ogh...pain. And oh no....that feeling...b-bowel movements?" The goat was having trouble thinking, he was in too much pain.

"I don't k-kn..ngh..What bowel movements are....B-b-but..I gotta take a pooooooop!" The tiger whined

But the amount of berries Trixie had, if they were potent......oh god...OH GOD. But...even with the threat of literal shit imminent...Trixie still died. You were too filled with despair to move. Too surprised. and..a little too hurt. And it seemed the pain on the chimera was too much. It fell over, and as it fell over, you could feel yourself suddenly being grabbed and pulled away.

As the Chimera fell unconscious, the snake tail began to wake up, tired and woozy, with a voice of that of some stoner "...Hey Hey, fellas. is it morning already? Woah..." The snake looks at his fallen brothers, it seemed he wasn't affected at all by the pain of the berries. "Dude, lame. This is why Mom is always yelling at you two. You're both always asleep when we gotta get to doing stuff. What a drag....why'd I gotta be born the tail..?"

You were pulled away, behind the bushes by none other than Fluttershy. Who took the opportunity to nab you the moment you were in the clear. She gently put you down and started inspecting your body straight away, noticing some bruising on your back "Oh no...Anon..oh Anon.."She started to cry "He hurt you, I-if only I was stronger..."

Chapter 210 - Twilight Week Arc

But Fluttershy's worries were not heard by you. You were in shock. Deep shock. You silently looked around. Everyone was here....except Trixie. Your eyes began to water....

"....She's gone....She really sacrificed herself....It's my fault" You never thought you'd ever be traumatized in Pony world. You never thought this would ever happen

"A-anon..shh..it's going to be ok" Fluttershy tried to grab onto you to hug you, but you backed off from her. What the hell?

"What do you mean it's going to be ok?! How can it be ok?! She just got eaten! It's my fault!"

"Anon..relax, look, just listen" Twilight then tried to speak to you...what? Her too?

"Relax?! RELAX!? HOLY..ARE YOU BOTH SERIOUS?! ARE YOU ALL SERIOUS?! SHE....GOT...EATEN! AND YOU'RE ALL TOTALLY OK WITH THAT?! DO YOU REALIZE HOW BAD I SCREWED UP? DO YOU REALIZE...HOW BAD.......I..." You fell back down to your side, feeling major weakness and drain across your entire body. "....I...lied to her. I was suspicious of her for so long..I just faked it. I never intended to give her the horn...I don't even have it...Princess Celestia took it from me during my date, I used it to break into her castle despite being told she was doing important things. I just wanted Diamond Tiara to meet her and Luna....And now that I didn't have the horn..I...I couldn't do anything...How could any of you be so nonchalant about this?!"

Were they so used to returning to the damn status quo that death meant nothing? ...Even...Fluttershy? You looked at her, with the most hurt look, she returned the look herself. She didn't know what to do to calm you down. And the words you had to say surprised and saddened her. Twilight looked surprised as well, she now knew you lied to her...but you didn't care.

"Anon, perhaps it's not as bad as you make it sound, it might actually do your heart good if you just turn around." Zecora said, as she pointed behind you.

"...Zecora...you too? What good is that going to do? It's not like Trixie is go-" Your ears perk up as you hear bushes rustling, and a whiny set of grunts behind you.....

....No way.......No way.....

You slowly turn around, there's no fucking way. From out of the bushes came....Trixie?! She had saliva all over her, her hat and mane was drooping, her cape heavy. She had some bush leaves in her mane and coat. And was trying to get some grass and a few stuck-on branches from off of her hooves.

"Come on...Come on! How am I supposed to make a grand re-entrance looking like..." Trixie looked up, she didn't realize she had rejoined the group yet. "Oh...you're all already here. Ahrm..." Suddenly Trixie raised herself, to exclaim her survival. "BEHOLD! FOR THE GREAT AND POWERFUL TRIXIE HAS SURVIVED THE MIGHTY MAW OF THE CHIMERA!...Though a little off target. And...with the help of the Princess of Friendship...and.." Trixie sighed, she couldn't keep her confident composure "...Thank you Twilight..and...it's amazing really...I didn't think you c-"

Trixie stops herself and looked over to you, noticing how utterly confounded and dumbfounded you looked. "What's wrong with him?"

You slowly walked over to Trixie, looking up to her face as you rubbed and touched all over her chest....she was real. "....Trixie?"

Trixie felt uncomfortable with how you were touching her. "...Y-yes....It is Trixie...uhhhh..." Trixie looked to the others "What's wrong with him?"

Twilight looked down at you as the information you gave cycled through her head. She didn't like what she heard. But she wasn't going to say anything about it now. Not with how the situation was going. "He thought you were eaten"

"What?! That's nonsense! it was just a clever trick planned by yours truly. That stupid chimera could never see it coming." Trixie looked down at you. "Anon, as you can see, I'm doing fine. You no longer need to fret"

But fret you did.....you couldn't get over the fact that she was alive. "Gh..T-Trixie..."

"Anon...it's..it's alright, really. I'm ok. mmmnn..I didn't think I'd fool you too..." Trixie was now feeling sad, she didn't know you'd be fooled so badly. She couldn't even fathom how blown away you really were.

But when it finally all hit you at once. You started to smile rather eerily "I...I think I'm ok now....haha" You started to chuckle a little madly as you turned to Twilight. "...And I said all that stuff right? Welllll then...hahaha"

The shock from the damage the chimera did to you, added to the realization of what you said, plus the fact you thought Trixie died was too much for your little body. After a few more chuckles, your eyes rolled to the back of your head, and you fell over, unconscious. Everything was now a black swirl.

Some time must have passed by, because when you opened your eyes. You could see a window. With starlight shining through the window....and...stage lights? ...The shine was enough to make you open your eyes. You wake up......this room? You were in the hospital...again. How long has it been since you were in here? The first and only time due to becoming the Hero Colt...to be sure.

You slowly got out of bed. Your back was aching. That must have been due to the fucking chimera… You felt woozy, you couldn't fully think straight. But as you looked outside, your immediate memories of before you conked out was coming back to you. You could see Trixie's stage. It was set up, but nothing was going on yet, nor was there a crowd. Was she doing her show tonight?

Tonight?

You look up, it was night… How long were you out? Then you heard the creak of the door, prompting you to jump back into bed. Making you squeal from a jolt of pain. "Ngh… u-umm… w-who is it?"

"Anon?" It was dear dear Fluttershy, who seemed surprised you were up. "...Did I wake you?"

"N-no...I woke up right before you came in. There's a lot of light coming from the window."

"Oh...hmm, let me close the shades for you." Fluttershy walked over to the shades and closed them. Making the room dim. "Anon...how are you feeling?"

"I'm feeling ok. My back just hurts a little. But otherwise fine....I don't think you had to take me to the hospital."

"Anon, your back is bruised up. You need to stay in bed until it heals..." Fluttershy looked like she wanted to say something. and as she turned her head, you noticed it...she had a blemish on her face where the chimera hit her. Right along her left eye.....oh god..

"Aunt Fluttershy......you're hurt...." You now instantly felt abysmal...

"What? Oh...Anon, it'll be ok" She smiled, she immediately noticed your mood drop. And if it was her injury that caused it. Then she wasn't going to let you suffer over it. "The doctor said it'll clear up in a day or two....." Fluttershy then turned to the side, like she didn't want to meet you eye to eye "...Anon, I can go if you want."

Go? With the way you were feeling? With the guilt you had. No, you didn't want her to go...you just..wanted to cuddle up with her and make it go away. "Why would I ever want you to go Aunt Fluttershy?"

"Because...I want to talk to you about something...about the horn..about things you said. That's why, if you don't want to talk about it now. I can go, and let you rest." She looked like she didn't want to talk about it at all. Only doing it because she felt it was necessary

...You didn't want to talk about it. And you didn't want her to leave. You wanted her to stay...and cuddle with you. Cuddle the pain away… Cuddle your worry away. You were worried of course, especially with the fresh reminder that she wasn't the only one who heard. You wanted at least one of the pony's who knew of what you said to not judge you. It had to be Fluttershy. Because you knew you were going to get a talking to already...from Twilight.

"...Could you do neither? Could..." You shift over so she could have room on the bed. "...could you cuddle with me, please?...I'm scared.."

"...Of Twilight, right?" Fluttershy says, there was now suddenly a motherly sternness in her voice. "Anon...I can't baby you this time, you lied to everypony. I know what happened before was very scary...but, it's over now. You're safe...and..." She didn't want to speak anymore, she didn't fully agree with not showing you any affection.

You raised the blanket over your muzzle, looking at Fluttershy with big sad eyes. "But I'm hurt....please? Just a little.."

Fluttershy was visibly buckling under the pressure."Anon...I can't. Sometimes...sometimes you just need to be a big colt. I want you to think about what you've done...."

...D-dammit… "...Does Trixie know anything that I said?"

Fluttershy shook her head. "No, we thought it was better if she didn't know. After the show, she wants to come visit you." Fluttershy sighed, she was trying to keep face. She was trying not to cry and just cuddle and nuzzle you. "Anon...just get a little more rest. Please? It won't be that bad, I promise. But...it just has to be done...I'm going now..."

Nononono. "Wait..please....c-can...mngh...can I at least get a kiss...on the nosie?"

Fluttershy flinched....she could at least do that... "Ok" She hovers upwards above you, and leans down to give you a little kiss on the nose...it wasn't as comforting as you hoped.

"....Goodbye Anon...my little gentlecolt...I'll..come visit tomorrow. I love you"

"I..I love you too Aunt Fluttershy.."

Fluttershy gives you one last long look of sorrow before leaving. She didn't want to leave you alone. But she felt you'd never learn unless you handled what you've done on your own. Without her coddling you the entire way. "....Fucking dammit..." You stared up at the ceiling. Feeling abandoned. ".....Why did I have to spaz? I should have known Trixie was going to survive that..and I'm glad she did..but...What does Twilight care? It's between me and Celestia really. Besides, I just survived a chimera attack. I shouldn't be treated this way...Fluttershy...why did you leave?"

You felt anger welling up inside you. "...It's not my fault really. Nobody said not to try to save Fluttershy.....dammit...If only I had known." You were terribly torn between blaming yourself and blaming the situation. You didn't do anything wrong..you knew you didn't.

"Ahhhh...finally, a neutral place where I can converse with you without breaking my word. How perfect, how grand, how lovely....Now, one has to wonder what you're doing back here" You hear a familiar chuckle "You didn't try to break anyone else's private area, did you?"

.....Oh no...not now...why him?! "....Discord" You sigh.

"Ding ding ding!" Discord appears in grand fanfare, trumpets and confetti. "Correct! Long time no see Anon! I hope you're doing well, if not. Dear ol’ Daddy has come to cheer you up!" Discord leaned closer to you with a toothy grin. "Missed me?"

You just grumpily turn to your side. "Not particularly...can you leave me alone right now?"

"What? Days without me and that’s how you want to greet me? Wow...and here I thought we had a special bond." Discord frowned for a moment, then smiled as he shrugged. "Oh well, since that's the case. It'll just make it easier for me to have some fun with you. Ohhh..how I've missed our fun."

You just brace yourself under your blanket as you grit your teeth angrily. "Do you mind?...I just nearly got eaten by a chimera and everyone doesn't seem to care. They seem to care more on the fact that I lied about what happened with the horn. That's fucked up....I nearly died."

"Nearly isn't actually Anon. Now come on, get out of bed already. We have some royalty to rub with..the wrong way of course." Discord seemed pretty eager to get going. "We have time now, everypony else will be going to that silly magic show." Discord hovered over to the window, looking at the stage with jealousy "...Look at that, everypony is starting to gather for such amateurish magic...pft....Wait..." A light bulb appears over Discord's head. Shining bright enough to burn your eyes with the initial glow.

"GNmmm..Discord! What are....wait" He didn't...He wouldn't. "Noooooooo, no no no. You can't! That's gonna make everything worse. We can't just go and crash Trixie's magic show"

"Why not? You didn't trust her before, did you? Come on..." Discord raises his paw up, making another horn appear, it was spinning around slowly, above his paw "What do you care? Besides, surely you're sick of Twilight too, right? Now's your chance for some revenge. Now's your chance to put that busy body in her place. She doesn't have to know it was us...plausible deniability and all that."

NO...FUCKING NO. HE WAS GOING TO RUIN EVERYTHING! FOR WHAT...FUN?! "Discord...I can't. I really can't...My back hurts. and.."

Suddenly Discord pointts at you with a single talon and zaps you, and in an instant, you were healed. "And that should do it. Now then, any ideas on how we should crash their little party?" He says as he stares out the window.

....The hell?..he just..healed you. You thought he couldn't do that without there being chaos involved...or of course, he was just lying about that. He could have healed you at any time. "I can't Discord....You know I can't. What the hell is wrong with you? Do you realize how upset Fluttershy would be if we went through with this?"

"Hence why we don't get caught Anon, it's only for one night. It's not like anypony is going to get hurt. We're just going to ruffle their manes a little...and by little I actually mean a lot" Discord evilly snickered.

.......

"I can't Discord. I have to see Twilight later...she wants to talk to me about something I said."

Discord cringed in disgust from those words. "Really Anon? All the lying you've done so far and you're going to bend to her on the fact you lied about the horn? You lied to who? The one who tried to take over Ponyville and cast Twilight out forever? Didn't you think that she was playing you the entire time. She's a performer Anon, no doubt she was faking it every second of the way....I would have. In fact, I have...you know I have..." Discord turned blue all of a sudden. "Remember?"

"But what if she wasn't faking? We'd just end up ruining her life...and for what? To mess with her and Twilight?"

Discord nodded. "Seems worth it to me"

"It's not...IT can't..."

"It should...nopony cared that you were about to be a chimera's lunch, Anon. Like you said, they only cared about the fact that you did something wrong. That's not very caring if you ask me. So if they don't care about your life, why should we care about theirs?" Discord said as he started to put an assortment of items into a bag he conjured up. "Twilight has tried to forcibly change you into something you're not Anon. I know who you really are and..." Discord tosses the bag next to you, looking at with with such a sinister grin. "I know that you oh so want to bring the purple princess down a peg. She isn't always right."

She wasn't. He was right about that. Time and time again, Twilight has made mistakes, some nearly destroying Ponyville itself. But, you didn't want to put her down a peg anymore. You just wanted to be her friend. She wasn't so bad once you got to know her. Her better parts beat out the parts that made her annoying.

"She isn't...but neither am I....and neither are you"

Discord was not amused by your words. Looking at you with bored dismay. "And what of Fluttershy? Did she care that you were hurt? She just left you here. Despite the fact you truly, nearly, came to an end. That didn't feel very right, did it?"

It wasn't right...in fact. That didn't feel right....something wasn't right. "...Are you bad talking Fluttershy?"

"Well yes, of course. She was being rather heartless. Tch tch tch, leaving a poor foal to suffer. How terrible. Now then...take the bag, and let's go. We have some chaos to wreak"

......Something WAS wrong. "You're not Discord...."

Discord raised an eyebrow at you. "And what makes you so sure about that?"

"Because Discord would never just discard Fluttershy like that. Unless I suddenly became you're real number one, then you wouldn't just talk bad about her.....I'm dreaming. Aren't I?"

Discord sighed "You shouldn't be able to guess that you know, this is supposed to be a guilt ridden dream."

.....Oh shit, you were actually right? You leaned up, approaching the figment Discord carefully. "Luna....is that you?"

"Afraid not...no, this is just your typical regular guilt based dream. Of course, I don't need to tell you that the changes in your body have caused you to dream differently. More lucidly. Y'know...like a cartoon" The Discord suddenly changed into you. "And it looks like you're feeling pretty bad about lying. All that build up is pretty bad, huh?"

.......Holy shit, this was freaky. ".....So you're definitely not Luna?"

The other version of you looked at you like you were an idiot "....Really? No..I'm just a figment of your guilt which you are once again trying to dodge."

Wut? "Don't blame me, you're the one who played an unconvincing Fluttershy and Discord."

"...You totally believed it was Fluttershy"

"I did not!"

"You did too! You fucking idiot! Holy crap, am I really that stubborn? Listen doofus, this is you..you're mind..telling you that you can't just keep on lying. You should have fucking told Twilight what happened at the start. Y'know, what happened with the horn instead of hiding it."

"I can't just tell her I lost it. She would just start patronizing me and tell me what a bad thing I did. I already know what I did was bad"

"I'm aware that you know, but lying about it just shows that you're not really learning your lessons. Every time you do something like this, do you realize who become more like?"

"Discord?"

"...No" Your other self slaps himself in the face with his hoof and shakes his head "You're becoming the generic liar whom nobody believes. The kind that even if they had a single episode redemption, would go back to status quo like a day later."

Now you were getting annoyed. what the hell were you supposed to do? "And that’s what I've been doing since I got here. I have to do that. I have no choice! You should know that, you're me!"

"Yes, and I'm actually ashamed of it. You already know that lying about your life is ok because you're forced to start a new one.But, what you did was lie about something that's already in your new life. And that's what you keep doing, and it's piling on. I'm here to try to set you straight."

.....Shit… He was right...and he was you...you were right...were you right? You could be wrong. "...But you forget, I'm still a co-" Suddenly, the other you slaps you. Making you yelp. "Ouch! What the hell was that for!?"

"Because I can't fucking forget what you already remember you dumbass, holy fucking shit are you dumb. Look at what lying has gotten you, really. It's gotten so bad that Diamond Tiara had to bail you out. And look at what it did to your rep. And then you lie to yourself that you don't care, you totally care. You don't want to go to school and get mocked."

You gulp, and back off, looking left and right nervously. "I-I can fix that...."

"Oh I hope so, because it feels like utter shit, let me tell you."

"..So what?...are you here as a figment of my conscious to try to make me realize what I should do and fix?"

The other you shook your head. "Nope, you're too dumb for that type of shit. I'm just going to tell you the answer since you already know it but refuse to apply it. Stop lying to everybody about stupid shit and take responsibility for what you do. I mean seriously, You lie to Fluttershy even. And then beg for affection just to lower the guilt. That's horrible."

....You look down in shame, shuffling your hooves a little on the blanket. "But she's so soft..."

The other you sighs longingly. "I know...it's like cuddling a warm patch of silky fluffy goodness. But.." The other you had to shake his head a little to get his mind in the game. "That's no excuse for being a goddamn pussy. You do something wrong, you own up to it. Got it? Because I'm pretty fucking sure one of the things Princess Celestia wanted you to do was to be more honest about shit like this. And you're so fucking stupid that a dream, a dream not being manipulated by moonbutt, has to get your shit straight. And the thing is, I don't even think this will even fully work. Just partially...just enough to get you going in the right direction."

You look down and start to think about it. If you remembered correctly. You already let the beans out. You didn't know if Trixie actually knew or not. You should probably tell her the truth on your own, tell the truth to Fluttershy, and tell the truth to Twilight.

"....Fine...I'll do it." You look around the room, and sigh. Defeated by...yourself. "....So it took me this long to have one of those long convoluted dream sequences huh?" The other you nods. "And it only took nearly getting eaten for it to happen....so..where am I then? Are we still on the trail or something?"

"I don't know you fucking idiot. I'm you, if you don't know, then I don't know...but I know a way to find out"

"How?"

The other you immediately slaps your face with his hoof. making everything turn dark once again, falling into the dark void-like swirl. When you opened your eyes, you found yourself in....

"Goddammit..." It was still....the hospital. But there was something different. Fluttershy was on a bench that was pulled up to the side of your bed. She had fallen asleep it seems...waiting. You turn towards the window. It was much darker than in your dream. There was no stage lights or anything.

You sighed....glad she was next to you. But, you weren't going to be able to lie yourself out of this. And...after that dream. It was probably not good to. Even if, like in the dream, they didn't tell Trixie. You'd have to tell her...

You look over to Fluttershy again. And smile...at least you had her, she'd make sure it wouldn't hurt as bad as it could be. As you thought about it, you realized the comfort Fluttershy truly gave. She loved you, and no matter what, she'd be there to make sure you wouldn't have to suffer alone. If the truth did turn things sour, she'd be there to soften whatever blow you may have probably deserved. She was there for you, and she always would be. You were her little gentlecolt.

And Discord....heh, he'd probably get your back to if you needed it...maybe...hopefully.

Chapter 212 - Twilight Week Arc

Day 5

You wake up back on the hospital bed. You look around for Fluttershy, but it seems she was gone. That's fine, the doctor probably didn't want her ruining your rest or something. You look towards the window. Well....for once you seemed to be up in the morning.

"...Dammit..." You let out a huge sigh. You fell apart really badly last night. Or hell, in general. How could you let yourself just turn into a babbling mass of flesh? You hated it, you had to get your act together.... Not just for Fluttershy, but for when eventually Twilight confronts you...or rather...when you confront her.

You slowly get out of bed and walk towards the door. You slowly open it and peer outside. Doctors..nurses...no sign of your friends. And thank god, no sign of Diamond Tiara, you really didn't want her to see you like this. "Man...I don't want to be stuck here all day."

You open the door wide and start stepping around the doctors and nurses. Looking for the front desk. That is until a familiar nurse stops you....the prettiest nurse of all horse nurses that ever nursed. She stood in your path. She leaned her head down with a gentle smile. Her cute little nurse cap complimenting her pink mane and white coat.

"What are you doing out of your room little guy? Come on, let's take you back" It was Nurse Redheart...and as hot as she was, she was impeding your progress.

"Actually...I'd like to sign myself out please. I'm doing alright."

Nurse Redheart shook her head at you, she didn't accept that for a moment. "Sorry, I can't just let you go unless your doctor or your parent signs you out. You're too young to make that decision on your own." She gives you a sweet smile. "Come on, if you follow me back to your room I'll get you some sugar free ice cream. How does that sound?"

Sugar free? Fuuuuuuuck no. "Look, I appreciate the care. But I have things to do. Come on.." You were trying to juke past her, but she was blocking you with every movement. "Come onnnn...please?"

She noticed the bandages wrapped around your back,and again shook her head. her tone sounding a little more impatient. "I can’t just let you leave. Come on, if it's school you're worried about then you don't have to be. They'll understand that you're in the hospital."

Dammit, she needed to step off. you didn't care how plowable she was. "That's not what I'm worried about. I have to talk to Princess Twilight, and I can't do that if I'm stuck in bed."

Nurse Redheart would not budge, your resistance only made her more determined, even a little more annoyed to go along with it. "Well you're not going to be doing that until your doctor or parent signs you out."

You start to grumble...no fuck off, you needed to go. "I'm leaving..." You look her dead in the eye

"You're not..." She stares at you right back.

"I'm.....HOLY CELESTIA! IS THAT A HEAVILY DISEASED PONY COMING OUR WAY AT SUPER SPEEDS?!" You point behind her in fake fright.

"Well that's his business and...Oh, is that your father coming down the hall?" Nurse Redheart points behind you

"I'm not falling for that...." You don't even flinch

"Neither am I...do you know how many colts try that same trick?" And neither does she

She was too clever for normal shenanigans. You had to try something else. You jump to the left.

She jumps to the left.

You try the right, but she hops right with you. "Give up? Are you going to go back to your room now? Because the more you move around, the more you'll probably have to stay there. And if you keep this up, I'll just have you forced back into your room. Now, stop the silly games, go to your room, and I'll get you some of that ice cream."

You had the idea of just running. But without properly signing out, anyone of your friends could come to see you then worry the moment everyone realizes you bolted. "What if I give you one thousand bits?"

"...." Nurse Redheart stopped, then raised an eyebrow. ".....Go on."

Holy shit..really? "Oh...ok. So look, I'm Discord's son, right? I have access to a butt load of bits. You let me sign out andNGGHHH!" Suddenly you were gently lifted in the air by magic.

Nurse Redheart looked at you with a smug look as she patted your head, she then looked behind you "Thank you doctor"

"What?! You can't do this to me! I'm Discord's son! Let me go! I have things to do! I'LL CHANGE YOU BOTH INTO BETAMAX TAPES!" You growled in protest as you wiggled about in mid air

You can hear the doctor behind you pleading with you to calm down. "Please Anon, don't struggle. Your injuries are minor but they can still get worse if you keep struggling like this. Nurse, can you sedate him?"

"Gladly..." Nurse Redheart leaves for a moment to go get a needle.

"L-listen doc, I've got a buttload of bits here. Let me go and I can make you a rich rich pony! Come on! You know who I am, right?!"

The doctor turned you around so you could face him. "Mr.Anon, I can't do that. As the nurse told you, unless I or your parent signs you out, then you're going to have to tough it out here. Come on, it isn't so bad. You get a nice bed and all the sugar free ice cream you can eat. Sounds delicious, hmmm?"

Blegh..no

"....Are you telling me none of you are bribeable? That doesn't even make sense, I got bits...LOTS of bits!"

"And I have integrity, I can't just sign you out. That would ruin my reputation as a doctor" He then shifts his eyes for a moment, why did he...

"Ow!" You felt a prick on your leg… "....ngh...I...what's...why...ogh..." You turned around, Nurse Redheart had a needle in her mouth. She had pricked you with it. "...you're both despicable..." You started to feel woozy and tired.

"We're health givers Mr. Anon, we only care about your well being. Nurse, could you take him back to his room?" The Doctor slowly lets you down onto nurse Redheart's back with his magic.

"Yes Doctor..." She nodded, and took you back to your room and put you back onto your bed.

You couldn't struggle, you could barely see at this point.

"....ngh...Why?..Just let me go..."

Suddenly, Nurse Redheart chuckled as she slowly closed the door, her voice turning into that of a familiar draconequus. "Oh not yet Anon...not yet. Not until a certain something happens"

...W-wut?

"...N-nurse?"

Redheart turned to face you, her eyes yellow, her pupils crimson red. "Long time no see Anon, looks like you got yourself into quite the little situation. Don't worry about missing Twilight, I'll get you there in a hurry. But first, that little truth serum I gave you should make you quite the little element of honesty..."

What?....he stuck you with a truth serum? What happened to the real Nurse Redheart? "W-why are you even here?"

"Because my son is in the hospital. I have no idea why and for once, I don't care to hear any excuse or lie. So Anon, how did you end up here, hmmm?" The fake nurse sat down on the bench Fluttershy sat on. "Fluttershy seemed very upset, which meant something about an animal happened, or something about you happened. And loooooook, it happened to be you. My my my Anon, how did this happen? Tell me."

Whatever he stuck you with, it was pretty damn strong. You explained the entire day to him against your will, as if you were in a drunken stupor.

"Chimera attack?....Both you and Fluttershy hmm? Hm....." A little notepad appeared in front of him, as a pencil started jotting something down "Note to self, massive chaotic revenge against a chimera named Bapho and Bengal...and..snake..thing..hrn." The notepad then vanishes as Discord chuckled, pointing his hoof at you, and zapping you with a bolt of magic that made a white ooze come out your mouth. God..it was salty. It woke you right the fuck up.

"AUGGGHHH! Eww..geez! What the fuck is this?" You spit up some onto your hooves and look at it..the feel of it..is this?! "Holy shit Discord..what the fuck is this..is this jizz?!..is this.." You look at him frantically. "Your jizz?!"

Discord grimaced at the thought. "Always the dirty mind under such circumstances. No Anon, it's the truth serum. I forced it out of you..."

You wipe it on the blanket, god, whatever it really was. You didn't want it on you. You even spit out a few spitballs to get it out of your mouth.

"Well, I see the days with Twilight hasn't fixed your abhorrent manners." He chuckled to himself.

You lay back on your bed, disgusted. "Yeah whatever....though" You sigh. "I'm actually glad you're here..." You can feel yourself returning to normal. "I mean...as long as you're not here to go mess with Twilight and Trixie.."

"Twilight and who?...I know you mentioned that name in that story of yours but I couldn't care to actually remember. And as fun as messing with Twilight is, that's not why I'm here" Discord looked at you with a gentle, even calming smile...well...as Redheart, it did look like that.

That's why he's not here? What IS he here for…? Unless it really was the fact that he knew you were hurt.

You start to soften up.....awwww...that was actually...really sweet of him. "Discord....you're worried about me?"

He nods . "Well of course, if Fluttershy is worried about you, then I have a reason to worry about you. You're one of my best friends after all"

A-awwww.... "Discord...that's actually really sweet of you. I didn't know you came just to see if I was ok. I know we're supposed to be separated until this whole thing is over. But you didn't come to bother me at anytime until it was actually important. You know what that tells me? It tells me that deep down inside, you really are a sweet guy"

Discord raised an eyebrow at you, he didn't look amused or caring. "What in the hay are you talking about?"

You shifted your eyes around, confused. "You came to make sure I was ok....right?"

Discord started laughing as he shook his head. "Are you serious?! Well....Yes... And no. I came here because technically you're visiting the hospital, not Twilight. Which means LOOPHOLE....and since there's a loophole, there's something you said that I've been really wanting to do"

...Oh....god..what?! What the fuck was he saying? "....W-what are you talking about?"

"Ahh, don't try to get out of it Anon. You said we could go and humiliate Celestia's kin. Her, nephew or whatever. Bloodcell...or..something. I don't know. Point is, you and me have a playdate....in....should be a few moments now."

Few moments....what? "Discord...you can't just do this..." Suddenly, there is a slamming at the door.

"Whoever is in there, stop what you're doing now! Open the door now! Leave the colt alone!" Said a voice from behind the door, you could hear other voices too.

You look at Discord, frightened. What the fuck? "The hell did you do?!"

"Oh...not much" He chuckled to himself as he transformed back to his original self "I just kidnapped a nurse who went looking for a needle, and then stuck her in a closet. And it seems she was found because they all seem very riled up...tch tch tch" Discord shook his head at the shame of it. "Making such noise in a hospital, can you believe it? Nopony has any manners these days."

"WHY THE FUCK DID YOU DO THAT?! FOR WHAT PURPOSE?!" You yell at him

Discord shrugged. "Just because...Now then..." Discord swirled his talon around, your saddle bag went up from a chair to the bed as the bed itself shifted and changed it facing towards the wall. "Next stop...Canterlot! Ohhh, this is going to be fun!" Discord poofed towards the end of the bed, dressed as a pilot with a nice little scarf. He put the pilot's goggles over his eyes and bounced a little on the bed. "I've always wanted to fly a bed"

Fly...a...NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! "Discord don't, DISCORD DON'T, DON'T YOU FUCKING DA-"

Suddenly, the bed started to shake and sputter. An engine noise drowning out your yelling. "Ohh, can't hear you Anon...we're about to lift off, make sure you're comfortable and tucked in...or...well...you know..."

......You shiver in fear as you pull the blanket over yourself. "Please don't let me die, please don't let me die....please..don't..let..me.....AAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" And the bed sped off, bashing right through the wall to the side, You were screaming for dear life.

The doctors finally managed to get the door open, only to peer to where the empty bed was, and where there was a hole in the wall.

The blankets felt heavier as usual as you and Discord flew up into the sky at incredible speeds. While you let out incredible screams. He was piloting the damn bed like an airplane, the psychotic fuck! It took you several moments to even try to calm down as he zipped through clouds and birds, laughing the whole way.

You look at your saddle bag. It lacked the horn. When he induced you with the truth serum, you never mentioned the fact that you lacked the horn. That happened on another day and you never brought it up in correlation to Trixie. You wondered if you should tell him. But, you didn't wonder too much. This was Discord, who would most likely take the horn back by force the moment he found out. "Can't you slow this fucking thing down?! I can see the castle already!"

You also figured you'd have no choice but to help him on this little venture. You'd try to convince him to not do it once you landed. But, you already doubted he'd listen. Discord looked back at you with a happy and thrilled smile, he had to yell at you to be heard as the winds and engine noise made it hard to hear "No can do Anon! If we slow down even by a little bit, then we'll enter a tail spin and crash! Can't have that, can we!?"

You yelled back. "You can't be serious! Can't you just teleport us there?!"

"Yes! But this is much more fun! See? We can speed up even faster!" Discord pulled at an invisible throttle, making you both zip at speeds too much for you to handle, causing you to scream again.

"And we can slow down!" Discord released the throttle, making the bed slow down a significant bit.

You were holding on to the blankets tight, your coat and skin white as snow from the fright of the sudden speed. You had to take a breath from the bed slowing down. "Woah...geez...you didn't actually have to do that either..ngh"

The engine was humming now, making it much easier to be heard. "Anon, this is supposed to be fun for the both of us. Do you know how annoying it is to hear you complaining when you should be throwing your hooves up in the air like you, as they say, just don't care?"

Goddammit, at that speeds in an open fucking bed?! That would fucking scare batman. "Discord! We're on a fucking bed, Look, we're already above the castle so...." Suddenly, the engine sounds spurt..and then stop. "Put us down?...ahh, thank god.." You rest your head on the pillow. "That noise was annoying as hell...so are we landing?"

"So to speak, do you remember what I said about when we slow down?" Discord asked you, with an insidious smile.

"..Sorta....but you didn't actually...Oh come on, you're the one who works the m-MMAADWFEDSDDF" The bed made a nose dive straight down towards the canterlot castle gardens. "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"

The sheer drop speed and angle actually made your hooves fly up involuntarily. Making Discord giggle with delight. "There you go! I knew you could do it!"

"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"

Discord then rolled his eyes. "A little too much Anon, sheesh, who are you trying to impress?"

Oh god, there was the ground, the intense drop speeds was fucking with every part of you. You'd puke if you didn't think you were just about to die. And then suddenly..

The bed comes to a complete stop right before the ground itself, it just hovered in place. You would have fell off the bed itself, but the stop didn't seem to create any turbulence or momentum. Didn't stop your screaming though.

"Anon.....Anon...." Discord groaned as he tried to communicate with you. But you just wouldn't stop screaming. He gives you a quick slap to knock some sense into you.

"Ow! G-geez...agh..oh good lord.." You were breathing hard and fast from fright. "You could...have killed me! Geez! Why would you even do that?! Do you realize I can still feel the velocity and force?! I don't care who you are! That's scary as shit!"

Discord hopped off the bed and gently pulled you off and placed you on your butt. He then took a big stretch to work out them flight kinks in his joints. "Yes, and the drop probably didn't help either. But Anon, you should realize that I don't fly cheap. You were always safe with me, even during that drop."

"I thought we were going to crash!"

"I didn't. Like I said, I don't fly cheap. That's why it pays to invest in premium air brakes. Anyyyyywhooo, enough about that. We have a fun little job to do..."

You slowly went and rested on your side on the soft grass. It seemed you really had no choice but to help him. The only solace in this you could take in this was that Blueblood was a gigantic asshole. So no fucks given. But..how were you going to explain this one? No..fuck that, he'd have to explain it. "..Give me a second....let me enjoy the beautiful ground..."

After taking a few moments, you mention how this was going to be explained. "Discord, how do you even plan to tell everypony about this? They are going to find out you know."

"Well, we don't have to mention WHAT we did. And I can easily explain it away as my way of showing care and love over the fact my poor little colt was in a scary situation." Discord looked around the statues then took a gander at the castle.

So....he was taking the blame for this one? That's...odd...unless he was lying about it. Or, maybe he did care. Maybe the reason he was willing to take the blame was because he wanted to fulfill your "request" as a way to help you feel better. He'd have to deal with Fluttershy herself over this though., Something he'd normally not be willing to do. Maybe, in his own way, this was him being a friend.

Chapter 213 - Twilight Week Arc

"...By breaking through the hospital wall?"

Discord shrugged as he materialized a telescope and started looking around with it. "Different beings have different ways of showing affection.....hrnnnnn"

"What are you looking for?"

"Princess Celestia's nephew....he should be..." Discord pops the telescope's end through some very large bushes. it actually extends far out through many obstacles until he spots what he is looking for. He then retracts the telescope. "Right over there.......glorious."

"So..were really going to do this then? Egh..." You stretch yourself, then put on your saddle bag. Hoping he doesn't mention the horn.

"You shouldn't offer if you aren't willing to see it through. Come on Anon..." Discord looks at you with a serious, near desperate look. "It's been awhile since I've seen you. I'm bored, ohhh so bored. And I've come to enjoy causing mischief with a partner rather than doing it alone. The praise always makes me feel like I did everything right. Don't tell me you've fallen so into Twilight's ways that you're not willing to cause even a little chaos. It's your cutie mark!" Discord clenches his talons, then points in the direction where he saw Blueblood "And you have no emotional attachment to our target. You have no reason to say no!"

But he was still Celestia's and Luna's nephew.....The hell were you supposed to do here? How was he going to explain it to the princesses if you and him got caught? "..Fine...but you have to take full responsibility if you get caught."

You make a cute innocent face at him. Because fuck it, you weren't going down for this at all. You had too much on your plate already. "Because why else would an innwocent wittle colt like me cause swuch twouble?"

Discord found the way you said that positively gross. He even stuck his tongue out form disgust "Ech, fine...not like that's true. But if you want me to take the FULL credit, then so be it. But I would have thought you'd have enjoyed some credit for our royal and majestic venture.....now then....any ideas?"

You took a look around a pillar, but from where you stood. the greenery and statues in the gardens made it impossible to see him. "Well, what's he doing out here anyway?"

"He's having a statue made in his image. From what little I heard through the telescope, it seems Celestia gave him permission." Discord rolled his eyes. "One has to wonder what went through her mind when she said "Yes". Because I'll say this right now Anon. His self absorbed attitude annoys me to no end"

You roll your eyes and shake your head as you smirk. "You think? I dunno, it kind of sounds like someone else I happen to know"

Discord didn't seem to realize that you meant him as he started filing his talons. "Whoever that might be, I'd never want to meet him. Sound like a real boring kind of fella. Anyway Anon, we need an approach, a gameplan, a strategy of sorts. I don't want to just cause any kind of mischief. I want him to invite it upon himself. Don't you think that would make things oohhh so sweet?"

Invite it upon himself? "Hrnnn..." You rub your hoof along your chin, pondering. "Well...that does sound like an extra bit of fun. You mean like in a cartoon when they get rid of the guy doing something for someone, and replace him to do something that ruins everything?"

"Yes exactly" Discord chuckles as he pats you on the head. "I'm glad we're on the same page. And it's a good thing I have practice making statues too...but how to get rid of that pony he already has there without him being the wiser...hmmmm" Discord was pulling at his beard, thinking.

That shouldn't be too hard. Right? You just had to do it like they do it in the cartoon.....or you could cheat. "Did the sculptor have any drink with him?"

"Just a glass of water? Why?" Discord asks.

You smirk and even have a bit of a chuckle yourself. You actually devised something devious...and all in all. it felt good to actually think of it. "Well...if we mix a little something that forces him to the bathroom..."

Discord immediately continues right from there. "And then lock him in the bathroom, we can replace him once he wonders where he went....ohohohoho" Discord rubs his paw and talons together with devious intent on his face. "And here I thought Twilight had made you soft."

"Hey, I'm good with entire thing as long as I don't get in trouble. Blueblood is a total asshole with nothing redeeming about him. All the better to mess with him. But..I also don't wanna take too long with this either. I really need to speak to Twilight about something."

"We'll see Anon.." Discord snapped his talons. "And now...we wait"

You and Discord sat there until you noticed a pony rushing towards what could only be the direction of the castle. "Was that him?"

"It was...now then.." Discord changed into a completely different pony. One that looked dignified and wise. with a beret for a hat and a white coat over his… white coat. He also donned a curly mustache to match his green eyes. You yourself felt a change. While you still looked the same. You donned the same clothes as he did, and your mane color was made a solid gold yellowish color. "Just give it another few moments for our friend to find his way to the bathroom. He won't be able to leave once he does....and then..."

And now you finish his sentence off. "We move in, and totally give Blueblood shit, right?"

"Not the words I'd use....but yes, that's exactly what we're going to do" And so, both you and Discord wait quite some time. Discord putting a hoof to his ear, listening for something.

"...What are you doing? Shouldn't we go in?" What was he doing?

"Patience Anon, we can't go and do our thing until we hear the cry of the Whineinglus Annoyititiom"

Wut? "What....is that even word?"

"Of course it is"

"And what is a ‘whinamnabla’ thing?"

"Whineinglus Annoyititiom, Anon..it's basically what you would call a very very annoying pony. And they have a very distinct cry. One of-"

"Where is that Sculptor?! Listen here Sculptor! I may not be able to remember your name! But I can still remember your face! A perfect description is more than enough to have the guards arrest you for having me stand in place for well over two hours!" Blueblood bellowed

"Ahhhh..and there's it's wonderful wonderful cry" Discord had a sinister grin on his face.. Hell, you would encourage it this time. From just hearing that, Blueblood sounded like a real ass in real life.

"Two hours? The fuck? It's only been twenty minutes..." You said, well. it was rather confusing for him to state that.

"Yes, I know Anon" Discord chuckles "But to a Whineinglus Annoyititiom, ten minutes is an hour. Anyway..since that happens to be our cue. Just follow my lead...oh, and do put on your horn. I'd like to have some backup. I'll let off some of my own power so you can have an extra few charges." Discord straightens his beret as he prepares to step towards Blueblood.

Your eyes widen...shit...SHIT.... Should you lie? Dammit...ok..no. You could lie to Discord. Just think illogically...this is him. He'd never know. And he lies to you all the time. It goes back and forth. "Actually...I'd like to try causing chaos without the horn. Makes good practice actually. Right?" You give him a confident smirk. Rather than one of those goofy smiles. A confident smirk should show him that your game rather than trying to hide something.

Discord face went completely neutral as he looked at you with half slit eyes. "What happened to the horn Anon? I appreciate a good lie, but you're very very bad at it. Do you need a new one per chance? Hmmm..." Discord grinned. "I'd wonder what would happen if somepony found the horn you lost. Ohhhh, that'd be fun"

You sigh, and hang your head in shame...dammit. "...Princess Celestia took my horn actually."

Discord, still grinning, but obviously stunned, starts speaking through his teeth. "She....took your horn? Is that what you said?"

You nod. "Yeah...she took it. Because I used it to break into her castle to show off to my date"

Discord was still frozen in a grin, but his eye was twitching.. Then suddenly he stepped up to you, furious. "HOW COULD YOU LET HER TAKE YOUR HORN?! HOW COULD YOU LET ANY HIGH STANDING, DO GOODING, DISGUSTING!..." Discord then backs off and smiles for a moment. "Although has such a good sense of humor at times and really gets a giggle out of me when she has something over Twilight..Celestia could be so much more if she wanted to be really...but.." Discord then nearly slams his face into yours, back to his furious nature. "WRETCHED PONY TAKE YOUR HORN?!"

You take a few steps back, ok..so he was angry because Celestia took it. That's him..but still. "Look, sometimes doing things comes with consequences. I screwed up and she took my horn. And...I can't accept another one."

"You can't? Or won't?" Discord growled as another horn appeared in front of you "Take it and lets get on with the fun. I don't have time to deal with you suddenly being all moral." Discord tapped his hoof on the ground, waiting for you as you just stared at it.

...It was tempting. You even reached out to grab it. But you stop. You'd rather deal with Discord than with Celestia. Even if this whole trick somehow backfires on you. It shouldn't be so bad if Discord keeps his word and you refrained from the horn....god..somewhere you knew. Your logic didn't fully sync up.

You push the hoof away and shake your head, and look at Discord with a confident and hard stare. "I can't do it Discord. I'll join in on this. But Celestia didn't want me using the horn for a reason. Either you accept that or I'm outta here."

"Why Anon?! What about that Chimera? If you had the horn, things would have been different!" Discord attempts to subvert your logic with his own.

You sigh, you could have. But, if you hadn't dived in the first place... "Yeah, well. If I had waited, it would have been different too. So, no. Still not taking it."

"You can't do that Anon. I order you to take the horn!" Discord stamps his hoof.

"No! I gave you my offer. And I've known you long enough that you're not going to have fun if you force me into it."

"No, but I could have fun making you a part of it"

Both you and Discord locked eyes. You wouldn't budge.

"....Are you willing to lose me as a friend over this? Because I can still be your "son" and hate your guts. Hell, We got Queen Chrysalis, I could pal around with her if I need to." Hopefully, that use of Season 3 rhetoric would get him to back down. You weren't going to disobey Celestia. You just couldn't.

Discord groaned and stepped back. "A crude and harsh strategy, Anon. You're willing to follow Celestia over me. I can't believe I actually lived long enough to see the day"

You squint your eyes at him. "You're immortal..."

"Yes....but that's besides the point. Very well, if it MEANS that much to you..." Discord points his hoof at the horn and makes it vanish. "Then we shall try it your way, and see what happens...." Discord shakes his head, and turns around to hide a frown. "It's a shame really, I can see your time with Twilight is making you into a goody four shoes after all. The old Anon would have kicked Celestia's words to the curb and accept a new horn....which...what if I gave this new one two charges? Maybe three?" Discord turns to you with a smile.

You shake your head...as cool as that sounds… "Sorry Discord...I just...can't."

"I see." There was lament in his voice. You could tell he just wanted his time with you. He missed you. But, he'd just have to man up.

The situation's aura is then broken by another yell from Blueblood "Who is there? Is that you sculptor? I demand another statue for making me wait! That is the only way to make up for this abhorrent act!"

"Let's go....and remember...smiles" Discord says in a serious tone, stepping out and towards where Blueblood is.

You almost felt bad for him. But, you knew to hold fast. Discord was Discord. He'd get over it...He just had to accept that you had to be more accepted by your pony friends, and not by him.

You follow him as he steps up to Blueblood with a joyous smile "Ahhh, you must be Prince Blueblood, a pleasure to meet you" He bows. "A real real honor"

Blueblood looked at Discord, confused. "Who are you? Where's the sculptor?"

"I'm you're new sculptor. The old one is busy with some business and so I am here to take his place. Along with me is my son, a junior sculptor and my trusted assistant."

Blueblood just looked at you with disdain, then rolled his eyes and sighed. "I see, and how qualified are you? I won't just let anypony make my statue, especially one who brings their son. Foals can be disgusting and..ewww..uncouth"

That fucking… You took a breath, and bowed to him a gentlemanly as possible. "Prince Blueblood you needn't worry, I am taught in the ways of royal manners. In fact, it is truly an honor to be in the presence of the greatest prince of all Equestria. If I had known you were the client, I wouldn't have come..I am not worthy to even be seen by such marvelous eyes"

"Hmm.." Blueblood smiled and began to feel very proud of himself. "I like this one" Blueblood looks to Discord. "So well mannered and understanding of what makes my position so great. Very well, you are my new sculptors. Now..." Blueblood puts himself into an elegant pose "Continue your predecessor's work. and please, make sure you get my eyes right. This statue must be able to make anypony who glances upon it fawn over my very visage"

"Hrnnnn..yes. Well, my prince, perhaps you'd like to take a small breather before we continue. You mustn't strain your valuable and precious body" Discord looks upon the unfinished statue as he speaks. Only the head and tail remained to be finished it seemed. everything else was...perfect.

"You're right sculptor, I am parched. But the castle, it is too far away for a pony like me to get a drink." Blueblood looks upon you. "Surely you know somepony else who can fetch me a drink."

"Of course I do..." Discord looks down at you, and shoos you along "You, go fetch the prince a drink. And make sure it's of..."High Class"" Discord gives you a wink.

High Class huh? It seemed he wanted you to do something to the drink itself. Also, the fuck? The castle was right there. If it wasn't Blueblood, you'd seriously wonder how anyone could be so lazy. You bow, and make your leave "Yes sir, right away my Prince"

You head off to the castle. Good thing you had this disguise, or else you might get recognized. All you had to do was ask a guard where the kitchen was and you were golden. And finding a guard upon entering the castle wasn't so hard either. You just explained who you were, and the mention of the statue and Blueblood seemed to have convinced them enough. One of the guards rolled his eyes at the fact they sent a child to get a drink instead of Blueblood doing it himself or at least not sending a lost child to do it at all.

You follow the guard's instructions and find the royal kitchen. Easy fucking peasy. It seems the chefs must have been out for some reason. It was empty. Good for you, you just had to find the drinks and that's that. You find a door, and open it. It seemed to be some sort of huge pantry. But for different kinds of ciders...huh...it wasn't as large as a wine cellar. But perhaps this was just a room for ready to serve ciders and drinks? You just take one down with your mouth and put it on a table, closing the door with a kick of your back hoof..

You stare at the bottle intently...hmmmn. "...How am I going to screw with this? Spit?...Nah...too easy...Puke?...ehh..I don't feel like it.." Then you get an evil idea in your head. "Well Blueblood, you know what else is yellow?"

You chuckle evilly and take the bottle. Now you just had to find a bathroom...or maybe you could just quickly take a piss in the pantry. Egh...problem is though, the thing needed to be uncorked. You started to open drawers for a corkscrew. "Come on.....where is-"

Suddenly, you hear a door open and close. You get spooked for a moment. But only a moment, you sorta kinda had permission to be in here so you go back to looking for the corkscrew. If they had anything to say, you'd just explain it like you explained to the guard.

"Hello there, might I ask what you're doing in the royal kitchen?" said a motherly and regal voice

"Looking for a corkscrew to uncork a..." you look up, and then freeze....ahhh shit...AHH DAMMIT.
CELESTIIIAAAAAAA. "P-princess Celestia......ahh, just...looking for a corkscrew for your nephew. He wanted a drink. I'm the..." Fuck Discord, you didn't even give yourself a name! "I'm… Stonehenge's son. Your nephew's sculptor's assistant...yeah"

Celestia smiled and shook her head. "Your father could have done a better job of disguising you. And by that I mean your voice." She sighed "So, what is he up to this time?"

Oh goddammit..she knew who you were.. "You're not angry?" You fearfully ask that question. Both wanting to know and not know the answer.

Celestia looks down at your forehead. Even gives it a quick tap with her hoof. "Not particularly, nothing interesting is going on for the thirty minutes of free time I have. To tell you the truth, I'm here against the wishes of my chefs. They said that having leftover cake is not good for a Princess...but I beg to differ, and I was going to get myself a piece before they all come back from their carefully planned out simultaneous break that I may have suggested" Celestia chuckle, then looked upon your forehead once more "I can see you must have resisted whatever temptation Discord had of getting your horn back. Or does he not know?"

You look to the side, you couldn't look her in the eye. "He knows..."

"Hrnn. Well Anon, I'm proud that you haven't given into temptation. I'm sad to know however, that Discord couldn't resist seeing you for a whole week. So then, what are you two up to? Is it fun? If it is..I wouldn't mind joining in for just a little bit. Of course, it depends on what it is." Celestia gave you a gentle pat on the head. She didn't want you to feel shame around her.

And it was a gentle pat, followed by a rub...dammit. she was sooo...gentle.. You look back at her, feeling softened, but still ashamed. And..you couldn't lie to her… "We're about to mess with your nephew. That's ok, right?"

"Ohhhh..I forgot he came by." Celestia chuckled to herself. "It completely slipped my mind actually. I wonder why he came. Did he say the reason by any chance?"

"He said you let him have a statue of himself in the garden"

Celestia made a grim look, then put her hoof to her forehead. "...Oh. I did, didn't I...?he must have asked while I was busy. To tell you the truth.." Celestia leans down to whisper in your ear "I don't listen to most of anything he has to say"

You smile at that. and hold in your laughter. you didn't want to offend.

"Anon..." Celestia gives you a poke to your side, making you giggle "You don't have to hold it in. It was meant to be funny.....but it's also true."

"S-sorry..I just didn't want to offend you"

Celestia shook her head and gave you a "warm as the sun" smile "Anon, I'm not easily offended. so....what were you going to do with that drink? Were you going to switch it with water? or perhaps mix in an unsavory drink like Bitterroot Malt?"

.........

"I was going to mix it with something. But that Bitterroot Malt thing sounds like a much better idea." You don't dare tell her what you actually had planned

"Alright" Celestia's horn begins to glow as the pantry door opens once again,a new drink popping out. the Bitterroot Malt. "While I get this mixed. Why don't you tell me about your days with Twilight. Twilight has been sending me letters everyday...but I haven't received a letter for yesterday and I'm interested to know if anything happened."

Chapter 214 - Twilight Week Arc

Celestia starts to mix the drinks carefully with her magic. It was like she was a magical bartender.

"...Alot happened yesterday. I don't know if I could explain it all, you're nephew is pretty impatient." No doubt the asshole would be yelling soon about his drink.

"He can wait.." Celestia starts to shake up the bottle. "Think of this as a progress report; You have been with Twilight for four days now. I think I'm entitled to know your side of things."

Well...if she says so. Not too bad really, she had your back if Blueblood made a stink about it. You tell Celestia, honestly and truthfully, about the day of the chimera. The day with Trixie. She doesn't say a word throughout the entire story. She waits, until she's heard all of it.

"Hmnnn...So you're worried about a confrontation with Twilight about what you said. So much so you had a nightmare about it? Anon, I'll help you a little on this. If Discord doesn't fix it, then I'll send payment and a letter of apology for the wall Discord destroyed, and you may tell Twilight that you have spoken to me about what you want to speak to her about. That way, you needn't worry about me doing anything about it at Twilight's behest. But you still need to talk about this."

You look down a little, worried about that one thing. "You mean talking to Twilight herself about it. I don't know Princess Celestia, she's kind of hard to approach. And considering the whole chimera thing was my fault....on top of the whole Trixie thing....you know.."

"I know Twilight can be a hoof-full at times. But you can't hide from these fears and worries forever. All you have to do is do the right thing"

"....Just tell her the truth, right?" Did you even have to question it?

Celestia nods. "Mhmmm, of course. Actually telling her the truth is completely up to you. I cannot control how you conduct yourself."

..To you, that meant ‘you really shouldn't fuck this up Anon’. "..Ok...so er....what if you were with me when I talk to her? That'd probably help"

Celestia shook her head. "I can only do so much for you Anon, you must find the courage to do the rest. "

....You should have known she would say that. Damn, why did it even worry you? Telling the truth is usually the key to making things better anyway. But..what if it didn't? No..Celestia was right....goddammit..No, telling the truth will make things better. Better to tell the truth then just make the web even larger. It should be so obvious to you. But it wasn't at the same time. Telling the truth in the world of humans was not something you could or even should do....but that wasn't that world...was it? DAMMIT! You had a nightmare about it, why was it still plaguing you so?

"....Ok...I think i got it."

Celestia raises the now mixed bottle and a glass. And starts walking out of the kitchen "So do I..the perfect mix." She giggles. "Come along Anon, my nephew must be pretty thirsty right about now."

You join her at her side. looking up at the bottle. "And you're totally ok with this?"

Celestia smiles as she eyes the bubbles in the bottle. "I am, my nephew knows not to ask me questions while I'm busy and he decided to do so anyway so he could have a statue in the garden. When only statues of a special variety, those representing both the virtues and even the banes of friendship, are displayed. And I have those kinds of statues so one can learn and be inspired to follow the path of harmony. I suppose he doesn't understand the purpose of themes."

You smirk at a thought. "No, I think he got it right. He fits the "bane" part pretty good."

Celestia starting giggling to the point she nearly dropped the bottle. "That was a good one Anon, I admit. That's good, but we shouldn't be too harsh. He's still my family after all. Oh, by the way. I want you to step out in front of him first."

....Hrn, you think..you understood why. "You want to catch him talking bad about me for taking so long, right?"

"Exactly, I want to see how badly he conducts himself. It's hopefully enough to be able to give him a long lecture on manners. He really needs one of those."

You both walk out to the gardens to where Blueblood and Discord is. Celestia hides behind some of the greenery as you step forward towards Discord and Blueblood. Blueblood was in a very....awkward position. He was on his side, leaning his head up with his hoof while making a kissy face.

"Yes, yes, that's the pose. You have it exactly, the true pose of royalty. I've seen it many times before and nothing is superior to it." Discord says as he starts sculpting a new statue out of marble.

"I really don't see why we couldn't use the statue the old sculptor was working on. This pose feels so....vulgar to me for some reason. And you're sure this is the pose of royals?" Blueblood asked, looking confused and slightly insulted.

"Of course, of course! I've seen it many many times before." Discord says as he starts chiseling. "Nothing inappropriate or suggestive about it."

"You better be right, I'm already agitated by the fact I didn't get my drink...hmph, and here I thought I finally saw a foal with respect to his betters. But of course, like any foal, he was as useless and uncouth as...hrn?" Blueblood couldn't help but notice you as you step forward… without the drink. "And look who decides to show himself without my drink. I shouldn't have sent a foal to do anything really. They can't even do a simple task as fetching me a drink. I swear, for the pony who does bring me a drink, I shall consider them slightly above the annoying commonfolk...but only slightly" Blueblood's tone is that of a snooty and mean sort. God, you wanted to slap him.

Discord stopped as well, he looked at you with a confused expression, he wanted to know where the drink was.

"Slightly above the commonfolk?" Celestia stepped out, her expression was both regal and cold as she displayed the drink for all to see. It gave you chills when you looked back at her. "..Is that what you think of me, Nephew? Furthermore, do you just think of the ponies of Equestria as mere peasants?"

"A-A-Auntie Celestia!" Blueblood stood up, and nervously straightened himself out. "Not you my dearest Aunt, nor do I think of the subjects as such, never ever. It's just this colt! He didn't bring me the drink I asked for!" Holy shit, he was suddenly sweating bullets. Discord...he too looked on in utter astonishment.

"I know he didn't. That's because I have it." Celestia brought forth the bottle and glass. It seemed she had removed the label on the bottle to hide it's name, probably because it didn't resemble it's original color and would be an obvious tell. "I had been speaking with this young, intelligent, and very mindful colt in the kitchen. He was being very diligent in getting your drink until I stopped him. And I was impressed by how polite he is. Really, he acts more like a prince than you do"

Blueblood's lower lip quivered in shame and shock. "Surely you don't mean that...I'm an actual Prince...and your dearest nephew..."

"Hmmm, I suppose both of those might be true. But a prince is supposed to treat all their subjects with care and respect. Sending a colt to do something you could have done yourself seems rather lazy to me" Celestia was giving him a hard stare.

"B-but you do it all the time..." Blueblood gulped

"I only do it because my time is always taken up by important duties, if I am on my own time...as you are, I will go do it myself. And I certainly don't use colts to do the work. They aren't meant to be under anypony's stead but their caregiver or parent. How would you like it if I just decided to keep calling you down so I can have you serve me tea, or cake? Hmmm?" Celestia's stare became piercing at this point.

Blueblood couldn't hold it anymore, he stepped back in pure fright from the suggestion. "Y-you wouldn't...I can't do menial work! it's grotesque! Please tell me that's a joke"

Celestia shook her head. "It's not a joke. it's just a possible lesson you will have to learn should you keep this attitude up. But...seeing as I am already busy and you're looking parched. I thought I'd be the one to serve you a drink. And since you are of royal blood. I thought I'd treat you to the finest drink I have to offer. This drink, this special cider, is of the highest quality. One meant for only the elite, and even then, it must be drank at special occasions. Given you are my nephew, and will have to learn to appreciate such taste, I thought I'd serve you a glass myself. It's a high honor my nephew, one you will accept with utmost gratitude" Celestia words are said in a tone that would freeze the entire land. Cripes, it was scary. Even her expression as she poured the drink for him was icy.

Blueblood started to feel relaxed, and even felt a sense of pride for such an opportunity. "O-ohhh, Auntie..you are truly forgiving and kind. And, I am proud that you see me so highly as to serve me this wonderful drink yourself. Of course, as prince, I humbly accept such a prestigious opportunity to drink this drink. What is it called?"

"It doesn't have a name" Celestia holds the wine glass towards blueblood, which he takes with his own magic. "A drink as refined as this doesn't need one. Now then, the proper procedure for drinking this drink is to take it in all at once. Only those not of royalty will have trouble doing this...so don't disappoint me."

Blueblood put on an arrogant smile as he laughed. "Of course my Aunt, if only royalty is capable of drinking this drink then surely I am up to the task. The taste of this drink must be so divine that any ordinary pony that drinks it instantly faints from it's illustrious flavor. Well then, I shall waste no more time...." Blueblood opens his mouth and drinks the entire glass in one gulp. Discord looked on in confusion, unable to say a word. You...were anticipating a total meltdown. Celestia just looked on, never breaking her stare.

It didn't take long either. The glass fell to the ground and Blueblood started gargling and screaming. His face turning absolutly green. "GYYARRGGHHHHHH....THIS DRINK...ITS POSITIVELY...ABSOLUTLY...N-NGHHHH"

Celestia's stare finally broke into a gentle smile as you yourself began to giggle at the near dancing stallion. "It's what..nephew? Tell me...."

Blueblood wanted to say how putrid and vile it was, he was nearly choking. But to insult his aunt, Princess Celestia?...He did not dare...but he was having a hard time speaking through the need to puke. But for his social status, even with the witnesses at hand, he would dare not expel. "...nngmmdrgfs....dgrffgfd....t-t-t-truly...w-w-wonderful...n-nghhh..."

"Good....very good" Celestia stifles a laugh. "I expect you to drink that whenever you come by for practice. I'll serve you a drink personally every time, since, well, you don't want any commonfolk serving you."

Blueblood was coughing, he couldn't stand it. "nfnfdfdf...y-yes...o-o-of course..b-but if...if...iif...I may make..." He nearly puked. But he held his mouth closed with his own magic. But damn, he was turning greener as it became obvious barf came up through his throat and lingered in his mouth, he nearly fell over as he swallowed it back in. "...I-if I may make a suggestion...ngh....Perhaps I'm not actua-ac...actually ready for this....wonderful drink..yet.. I shouldn't..take what I am not truly ready for..y-yet"

"Suit yourself nephew, I suppose you really aren't ready...." Celestia had to stop herself, she almost laughed through her words "...mnnn...Well, I shall leave you to your....posing. When the statue is done, I will personally find a place in the garden suitable for it. For now, just know that these sculptors are also of nobility and class. And I expect you to treat them both with respect. Understood?"

Blueblood was doing his best not to fal backl to the ground. "Y-yes...A-auntie"

"Good, now. I must attend to my duties. Fare thee well to you all.." Celestia turned. But you could hear it as she walked off; Sweet melodious giggling.

"Y-yes...hrn.." Blueblood turned to the both of you, he was wobbly as shit. his yellow blond mane was less than perfect at this point and his perfect blue eyes were getting glassy. "I-if you t-two can excuse yourselves for a moment. I-I need to finish enj-enjoying the aftertaste of this....wo-wonderful drink."

With a smile, you nod and pull at Discord's shirt to pull him along. He was utterly confused on what just happened. He just follows along as he tries to piece everything together. When you find a suitable spot. It all comes out, you fall over to the floor. laughing like an idiot.

Discord looked at you, confused. "...I fail to see the humor. Is there something I missed?"

"R-really?!" You had trouble stifling your laughter. "How do you not get it? Me and Celestia upped the ante and totally made a idiot out of him. Did you not see his face?"

"Yes...but I fail to see the humor, as I said. You were supposed to do something to the drink, not Celestia. And yes, it was a good attempt at hilarity. But there's a certain something that keeps me from joining in on the fun you apparently had"

Your laughter slowed as you tried to figure out what the fuck he was talking about. "Really? and what is that? Because that was fucking top tier hilarity right there. What the fuck is the problem?"

"Oh..not much really. Just the ever nagging feeling that Princess Celestia is now in on our ruse and in actuality, she's actually fixing some of the chaos I had wrought, such as at the hospital."

"Really? You're not going to laugh because she was in on it? I mean, yes, she is going to fix your crap. All she's going to do is send money to the hospital to get the wall fixed. And that's it. Sheesh, I didn't take you for a stiff"

Discord sighs. "I'm no stiff Anon. But when you tell me she's going to fix something I caused instead of letting the chaos fester in a way that wouldn't get me in too much trouble while still troubling all the ponies then yes, I'm not going to laugh. Because let me tell you what's going to happen now. When I get back, Twilight will want to talk to me. And instead of me being able to give her a spiel on how I was worried for you and this was my way of loving you. She's going to be told by Celestia exactly what's going on. Which means I'm going to be in a bad mood. Understand? You ruined this entire outing."

You stop laughing. Oh hell no. This wasn't ruined, this was fucking awesome. "Discord, what the fuck does it matter if you get to mess with Twilight or not? We have free reign to do whatever we please to Blueblood. Come on, let's just wreck his shit and have fun about it. We can really make him suffer if we put our mind to it"

"It's not fun when we're allowed to do it Anon. The greatest part of it all is not getting found out by anypony while we playfully torment him. Heck, the entire point of busting you out of the hospital was when I put you back in with seemingly nothing amiss. Fluttershy wouldn't have a reason to worry and the doctors would have been further flabbergasted when I fixed the wall"

"Discord, come on. So what if Celestia knows? So what if you can't trick some doctors? Who cares?! This is still going to be fun as fuck. Come on....stop being a fucking spoil sport and let's ruin his shit. Even Celestia wants this"

"And if Celestia wants it, then I don't. You've changed Anon....but I won't give up hope on you. I will simply have to up the ante." Discord sighs in disappointment. "We're done here Anon. I'm going home, And you're going back to the hospital. I hope you have fun explaining what happened."

..Oh he really wasn't going to continue. The hell man? Why does it matter to him so much? It's still fucking with someone. "Discord, I'm your buddy. I mean that. Let's just do this and have fun ok? I promise it'll be great. We have free reign to do whatever we please! Come on!"

Discord changes back to his normal form, ignoring you as he sighs "Farewell Anon...I'll see you when your days with Twilight are over. Because as you are now, stuck with her, you're no fun."

You could feel a sting in your heart. It actually hurt to see him so disappointed. But christ, he was being a bitchy baby about it.
You didn't do anything wrong!"Discord..please..come on. Don't be like that." Discord continues to ignore you as he raises his talons. You already knew what he was going to do. "Discord..don't."

"...Just make sure you don't worry dear Fluttershy, Anon. That's all I'll ask of you." He said in a somber tone. And then, he snapped his talons.

You call out his name. But in a flash of light. All that was in front of you was the hospital room. ......What? You look at yourself. you were back to normal. Your saddle bag was back on the chair....

...was it all a dream? Just..an actually depressing dream? You suddenly feel a draft. You look to your right… Nope..there was a big hole in the wall..... "Discord...."

Did it really matter to him that much? It was still chaos, wasn't it? Also....oh god...how could you even explain this mess?

Chapter 215 - Twilight Week Arc

Do you get up? Do you...stay there? Did it even matter? You just sat there on your bed, thinking. "Discord...you know what? You're just being a big baby...we could have had a shitton of fun..whatever.." You look over to the door, it was closed. You could hear the usual sounds coming through it...huh.. "....How am I going to explain all this? Are they even going to believe me? Considering that Celestia's letter won't be arriving soon enough....ugh"

Then your right ear perks up as you start to hear talking from outside through the broken wall. "Princess Twilight, how can you be so sure it wasn't the horn? According to the staff, the colt wanted to sign himself out. He was being unruly, what else could have caused this?"

"I don't know" You hear Twilight speaking to what you presume is the hospital's director. "But he couldn't have done this. He doesn't have the horn with him."

"He doesn't? But isn't that what makes him the "Hero Colt"?" The other voice says.

"Yes and no. But even then, I don't think Anon did this. It had to be something else. It could all be a coincidence. If Anon wanted to leave, he could have just used the window, couldn't he?" Twilight says, but you couldn't see her.

"...I....suppose...but what if he didn't think of that?" The director says, doubtful that you didn't not blow a hole in the wall.

"He's actually fairly intelligent for a colt his age. Using his magic to blow a hole in the wall.....Anon?" Twilight comes out from the side of the other side of the broken wall. The bed, and you, were just...there. "Have you...have you been there the whole time? No..no you couldn't. The bed wasn't there earlier." Twilight looked really confused.

"You! Do you realize how much it's going to cost to repair this wall?! Hero colt or not, this kind of behavior cannot and WILL not be tolerated. We will be billing your father for the wall.....once we figure out how to actually do that." The director, a tall and meek stallion with a meek voice and pale coat. adjusted his square lens glasses with his magical horn as he looked to Twilight. "You can help us out with that, can't you princess?"

Twilight sighed. "I don't want to sound rude. But can I actually have a moment with him? He's still a patient and I don't think he needs this kind of stress right now....." Twilight then shifts her eyes towards you, then back at the director "Unless you're the kind who only cares about the money. You're not one of those kinds of ponies, are you?"

"N-no! no no..of course not. Of course not. I understand that he is still a patient. It's just the fact that he blew a hole in my wall...Most colts don't do that.." The Director didn't want to piss off a princess. Twilight just looks at him, raising an eyebrow. "I'm just...going to go..." The Director nervously chuckles as he walks off.

.....Welp...here we go, much sooner than you expected. Twilight was walking your way. You took in a deep breath. Because you had no idea how this was going to go, you could only go by what Celestia expects of you. What you should do...?

"Anon, I'm just going to assume you didn't actually cause all this. But I am going to expect some sort of explanation...but before anything else..." Twilight looks at you with growing worry "Are you alright? Are you hurt anywhere else?"

You look to Twilight with a somber look, then look forward, staring at the door. "I'm fine....look, I don't want you to worry about if I'm hurt or not. I just want you to say what you actually want to say"

Twilight stepped closer to you, even more worried, she went right next to your bed and looked to your face to see if it was red with fever. You looked fine. "Anon, I am saying what I want to say. I'm worried about you. What even happened? Why is there a hole in the wall? Where did you go?"

"To Canterlot. Dad showed up and sort of abducted me to play a prank on somepony else."

"Discord? I knew it!" Twilight taps her hoof to the ground, angered. "I should have known he couldn't hold back from his usual tricks....Wait hold on..." She realized what else that could have meant."You didn't actually do any pranks, did you?"

.....You take a few breaths, because this part...it was going to be hard. "I almost did. In fact, I was really wanting to, considering who it was. Even Princess Celestia got in on it and-"

"Wait...wait wait wait. Princess Celestia....was in on it too? Anon..." Twilight sighed "Are you lying to me? Really? Because that's really hard to swallow...I just can't honestly believe that can be true."

Ngh..she didn't? She had to...you didn't want her to think you were lying..because you weren't. "T-twilgiht! I mean it! I do...I'm telling you the truth. I...mnnn" But what's the point? You know the golden rule of lies. Get caught too many times and nobody will believe you. "...I guess it's hard to believe , huh? But I mean it....I'm telling the truth. Celestia even said she'd cover the bill for the wall."

"Anon..." Twilight could see that you were hurting. But, you had lied before. She knew that. And this sounded too fantastic. "Do you know how unlikely that all sounds? The Discord part yeah, I believe that. But you can't honestly expect me to believe Princess Celestia herself joined in on a prank. That's too far fetched..." Twilight shook her head, she couldn't just let it slide. "Anon....Just tell me the truth this time."

But it was the truth. "Twilight. It is the truth. All I can give you is my word." You frown more and more as you speak. The realization that the lies were ever creeping up on you, even in truth, hurt.

"Then, if it is the truth. What are you doing back here then? Let me ask you something, is what you said when you thought Trixie was eaten. Was that the truth?" Twilight's tone wasn't mean or forceful, it was just full of concern with a tad of authority.

....You can feel a tear run down your cheek. You quickly wipe it away as you sniff. Fuck, you were crying? Over this?...Have you really become this much of a wimp? "It was...Look Twilight. It's obvious you're never going to believe me until Celestia's letter to the hospital comes in. But it's the truth. And the reason I'm back here?..." You wrap yourself up in the blanket of the bed. Covering up your snout up to your eyes so you could look like you weren't crying. You did your best to stifle your sniffing and deeper breaths. "Dad didn't like the fact that Celestia got involved. He said I was becoming too ‘goody goody’ and just sent me back here. He didn't want to do the prank anymore."

Twilight didn't say anything. Instead she eyed your bag and walked over to it. She wanted to make absolutely sure of something. You were too busy hiding your shame to notice her sift through your bag. And the thing she was looking for, she couldn't find. The horn.

"Anon..." Twilight could hear you softly crying. She started to soften up as she realized she was being too hard, especially on an injured colt. And as fantastic as the story sounded, she knew you couldn't do anything like blowing up the wall without the horn. So it really was Discord, and maybe, the rest really was true too. "I trust you, and I'll believe you. But Anon, I will still send a letter to Princess Celestia herself to confirm. For now...." Actually Twilight didn't know what else to do...other than try to calm you down. But how was she going to do that? "Ermm...Anon. We should get you into another room actually." Twilight looks at the broken wall and winces. "Thisssssss one isn't very usable at the moment."

But you don't respond. You were whimpering. You didn't quite process what she said. Other than the fact it seemed she was going to stick you in another room and leave you. "T-twilight..." You remove the blanket, your tear soaked eyes covering your face. You didn't want her to think you a liar. Because that could mean Fluttershy would. And Fluttershy...she was like your mother. The mother you never had. The second chance… "Twilight...p-please don't leave me...I don't...want to s-stay here anymore.."

"Anon?!" Twilight was caught off guard. She didn't actually realize you were crying so much. "Anon..." Twilight walked back over to you. She didn't know how to be motherly, but she didn't want you to cry, and the one thing she could do was be a friend. "Anon, it'll be ok. Fluttershy will come to see you later, I promise. But you can't leave the hospital until we're sure you're ok."

"Twilight please...I've already been walking around. I think I'm ok...but I don't..I really don't want to be alone...please, let me leave with you..please? Nopony else is here, they are just doing their job...and I really need a friend right now...please?"

"A friend?...." Twilight looked towards the door, and the broken wall, then back to you. She couldn't think of any other time where you truly genuinely wanted her company and care THIS badly. But she could tell by your eyes, there was a sense of loneliness and desperation in them. It made her believe you all the more. She hoped, with what she was thinking now, that she was making the right decision. "Anon...you're able to move around just fine?"

You nod. "I-I just feel a bit achy at times..but I don't even really notice it..I-I swear.."

"....Then, I'm going to sign you out and you'll be under my watchful care. Sort of like what we've already been doing now. But the moment you feel any pain or discomfort, it's straight back here. Alright?"

Oh thank christ… "O-ok.."

Twilight turned to step through the door to go to the front desk to have you signed out, but you stop her, and reach out your front hooves towards her. "T-twilight wait!...can I ask you something?"

Twilight nods, and gives you a reassuring and warm smile. "Sure, what is it?"

"Can I just ride on your back? Please? Until we get to the castle?" You just wanted to be close. You wanted affection. and to show her you meant what you said.

Twilight didn't even hesitate to nod. "Anon...mnn, sure. Let me just.." Twilight brings your bag over to her and wraps it around her side. She then...very carefully, picks you up with her magic and gently places you on her back.

You immediately wrap your legs around her. She was so warm. You couldn't help but nuzzle. You were so glad she was giving you a chance. You knew Celestia would come through for you in the end when it came to Twilight's confirmation.

Affection..it was a rare commodity in the human world. Genuine affection anyway. In this world? Hell, it was almost like a drug. The fuzziness of the ponies coats didn't help at all with that either. it just made things more nuzzly. You quietly let out a "Thank you".

Twilight takes you back to the castle after signing you out. You notice, during the trek. That Trixie's carriage was parked at the front left side of the castle. She was still here?...She was still here....good. You wanted to talk to her too. "Trixie is still here?"

Twilight nods "Mhmm, I've been practicing as her assistant for the show. Giving her the publicity she needs to get her life on track. It's actually been very interesting. Performance magic is pretty fun."

You were getting calmer throughout the entire trek. Something Twilight noticed. "...That's good. I was worried, I really was. I thought she was just going to leave...unless.."

Twilight shook her head. "She doesn't know what you said. But she is very worried about you. But of course, her not being family or royalty made it difficult for her to arrange a visit..also her being loud...she was pretty loud."

That part made you chuckle, which was..in actuality..Twilight's intention. She steps into the castle with you in tow. She could feel you nuzzling and cuddling every so often. "Anon, can I ask you a question?"

"Mhmmm"

"Can you tell me why you lied the last few times? Was it because you were scared? Or is it because that's what Discord is teaching you? Because I didn't even know he took you out for "pranks""

Just tell the truth… "For Starlight? It was to protect her and her privacy, she really didn't want to see you again. For what happened with the horn? Well, besides not trusting Trixie. I also didn't want you to know what I did to lose it. I didn't want to be lectured or be told that I was a bad colt. I just didn't want to deal with it..."

Twilight starts heading up to her room, to put you in her bed. It wasn't dark out yet. But of course, she wanted to make sure you were at least at rest. "I see...Anon. You can't just lie like that. The more lies a pony builds up. The less likely others will believe them...even your family would have a hard time Anon."

A lesson true in the human world as well. "I know...but, I guess I didn't think I'd get caught. But I had been talking to Princess Celestia a lot about it. She said the truth would make things better and I guess...it really does. You don't look as mad as I thought you'd be."

Twilight let out a bit of a sarcastic giggle as she stepped into her room and gently put you on her bed. "That's probably because it's hard to be mad at you after you were nearly crushed by a chimera...but" Twilight sighs. "I'm really glad to know you're ok. And to know Princess Celestia has personally been speaking to you about this. Well, let me say this. Without her, I wouldn't have the friends I have now. We all care about you Anon. Your father does too...but if he ever EVER tells you to lie, then just do the exact opposite. Ok?...Also don't do other bad things he might suggest."

Ergh..that..might be a little difficult. Not lying though?...You could probably hopefully pull at least that off. Ugh, but you haven't been able to do that yet....Dammit…

Twilight herself, she felt like cursing herself for not realizing Discord was a bad influence in some form. She shouldn't have been so trusting with him.

"Ok..." You snuggle up under the blanket and look into Twilight's eyes. "Twilight..Thank you for being my friend. I'm really glad I got to spend this week with you. I know at first I didn't. But, you're really kinda cool. I bet if Starlight was willing to spend a week with you. She'd probably have some fun too."

"Well, that's a good thought. But I don't want to force her into anything like that. She'll have to make that decision on her own."

"Well, I hope she makes it soon. You two could make a pretty good pair. She's pretty awesome at magic. You probably could share some notes with each other sometime."

Twilight smiled at that. "I'd really like that. Starlight didn't really seem so bad, it's just she didn't realize what friendship truly meant. I know I didn't trust her, but..I trust in you Anon, and it's that trust that let's me trust her. That's why trust is very important; It allows us to believe and have no doubt in each other."

That really seemed to be the full truth for this world. “I can see that now. But...it's kind of worrying. My cutie mark is the chaos symbol. Doesn't that mean I'm destined to become like my dad?"

That really was worrying. Cutie marks pretty much set in stone what you were going to be. And your cutie mark? It was real.

"Cutie marks are a window to our destiny, that's true...but Anon. It's up to you to decide to be the pony you want to be. Chaos might be your cutie mark. But it's not who you are...in here" Twilight gives your chest a gentle press and keeps her hoof there. "You have a good heart. If I had to amount it to your destiny. Then all I would have to say is that it's a little wild, But still good. not many ponies could gather up the courage to attack a chimera head on. And you did it to protect somepony you care about"

"Yeah...but we both ended up getting hurt."

"Well....I didn't say it was the smartest move. But only a pony with a good heart would make such a selfless risk." Twilight removed her hoof from your chest. That press, it really warmed you. It made you feel like you weren't bad. It made you feel like the human world didn't even exist...it was all just a bad dream you finally woke up from. Celestia and Luna were right. That world was dead.

That's why it hurt that you still had to lie about Chrysalis. But it was necessary...a secret even Celestia herself is keeping for you...something she put her full trust into you with.. You could live with that. "Twilight, I don't know if it's the moment...but...I look at you now. And I see a mom. It sort of different from Aunt Fluttershy. With her, I want to be around her because she's nice, loving..she never lets me feel sad or alone. She always likes to see me smile. But with you, you lecture me, scold me, but in the end...just want what's best for me. Dad...he's ok sometimes. But he's really more of a friend I live with more than a dad..You and Aunt Fluttershy though? You guys feel more like what I imagine parents are like. I love having a family...losing all of that because I'm being dumb...I don't think I could live with myself if that ever happened."

Now you started to feel depressed, just at the mere thought of it. Until you felt a bap on the forehead from Twilight's hoof. "Ow! hey! What was that....huh?"

Twilight was giving you a stern look as she pulled over a Daring Do book. "If you thought I was going to let you make yourself depressed then you'd be wrong. That's not intuitive to getting better. But you know what will make you better? Some rest...and nothing's better than being read a good book." Twilight's heart melted from your words, but she wasn't showing it to you, but it did. She carefully hopped up on the bed and rested on her belly as she sat next to you. "So just relax, close your eyes, and let your imagination take you on a fun ride as I read off from.....how far did you get?"

..Wait..she was going to read to you?...That sounded pretty comfy actually. "Erm..a little past chapter two or three I think. But you can start back at chapter two if you want...I don't mind" You snuggle up close to her, prepared for a good listen.

Twilight silently nods and opens the book and begins sifting through the pages. As for you, there was still one more thing on your mind. "Twilight...do you know where Aunt Fluttershy is actually?"

"She's with Zecora. Zecora is keeping her mind at ease by making some home remedies you may not actually need at this point."

You moan in worry from that. "...I'm glad Zecora is helping her out. But shouldn't we tell her what happened at the hospital? Does she even know?"

"She doesn't, but I'll let her know when we're done. The most important thing for you right now is getting some rest. Fluttershy would be pretty sore at me if she found out I didn't do my best to help you recover… Now then, relax, and open your mind Anon...here we go"

Twilight clears her throat and starts reading the story to you. It doesn't take long for Twilight's adorkable reading. How she sometimes changes her voice or tries to make things sound as exciting as they are in the book, to put you to sleep. Given how early things were. You'd probably be waking up in the middle of the night. or perhaps even before.. You just hoped you'd be able to talk to Fluttershy and Trixie soon.

As for Discord...he was just going to have to get over it. Twilight...she felt the connection Celestia wanted for you two. You felt it too. But only time would tell how well the bond you two now shared would be maintained. Especially since Discord would probably be disapproving of it....but..as mentioned..he'd have to get over it.

Chapter 216 - Twilight Week Arc

Day 6

Wait...Day 6?!

Your eyes open as you suddenly jolt about. realizing the warmth around you was just a blanket.
"Twilight?..."

No Twilight...no Fluttershy...and looking out the window...you slept the rest of the fucking day away because the sun was up. Morning it seemed.

"...shit..." You look around, and see on Twilight's night table. a small vial. with a note

It reads "For Anon, Please make sure he drinks this when he wakes up"

The vial itself was filled with a nasty looking green liquid.

Did Fluttershy leave that for you? Where was she? Where was Twilight?...you were hoping you'd see one of them.

And that liquid. is that the medicine she was helping Zecora with? .......egh

Well...she did go through the trouble of making it. and if it helped with your back then...

You take the vial and pop the small cork. "Bottoms up...I guess"

You swig the vial, then drop it as you gag and moan. Holy shit, did it taste terrible. "Oh good god....nggghhhhh!"

ohhhh, this is how Blueblood must have felt when he drank that crap Celestia served him.
"F-for F-F-Fluttershy...god christ."

It took awhile, but after trying some techniques to lessen the aftertaste. such as putting Twilight's pillow in your mouth and sucking on it. You finally got the taste out...and remarkably...it did seem to be helping already. The pain in your back started to subside.

"egh..sheesh. I thought that would have tasted better, what with my horse taste buds n all..." You look around the empty room "...Said myself with nobody in the room to reply....Reeeaaalllyyy gotta...wait huh?" Your ears perk up. That sound...that was the sound of...singing?

And not just singing. That was an entire choir, the hell? What was going on?

It was coming from outside the window...

You take a peek. And what you saw both confused and astounded you.

The ponies of Ponyville were setting up tents, building small stages, and doing all sorts of hallabaloo while singing about… "....oh...no...fucking..way"

It was finally coming.... "I....what?! I don't even remember that being a thing anymore"

It was already being set up "Twilight never mentioned it...Nobody did.."

It even had a cute little song being sung by the ponies… "...The Friendship Festival.....woah"

It seemed it was finally time for the Friendship Festival to finally start. You didn't know when. But according to the singing. It was for tomorrow....damn man, how the fuck does an entire town just break into song like that? What's worse, you started bobbing your head to it. It was kind of catchy. "So...are Twilight and Fluttershy busy? They probably wanted to let me rest without waking me up. I didn't know I was tired enough to waste a whole day though...hrnnn. Let's see.."

You see the door, and decide to make your exit after grabbing your saddle bag. You went to the Cutie Map Main Room. Checking to see if anyone was there.

As you step into the room. You can hear the familiar humming of Pinkie Pie.

And it is indeed her. Her and her....really large tank of water. The hell was that for?

You just gaze upon her for a moment as she starts attaching an odd chair to the tank. A long pole keeping the chair suspended right over it. Pinkie was using several balloons to keep her in place and to give her an aerial ability of setting up the seat in general.

"Ponk? What's up..whatcha...doin there?"

"Nonny?" Pinkie Pie put her hoof on the now secure chair and span herself around in the air like a top. She didn't think of how to actually stop. so she just let out a "Wheeeeeeeee!"

That actually made you smile. Ahhh Pink horse. She found whimsy in even the littlest things.

Pinkie Pie, in the midst of her spin, stretched a hoof out so she could stop herself while facing your direction. When she did, you could see her eyes spinning for a little bit as she made a dizzied grunt. "Ohhhh, I think I span myself a little too hard." Pinkie then shrugged, giggled, and waved to you "Oh Well. Howdy Nonny! and a goooooooood morning to you! Hey, did you see the drink your Aunt left ya? Because I only have one thing to say about it" Pinkie looked left, then right, then brought her hoof to her mouth as she whispered "Doooooon't drink it, it's awful"

"I sorta already did" It's gruesome bitter taste came up in your mind. Making you shiver. "It was important though Ponk, you know. Medicine may taste bad...but it's good for you"

"Well...that's true...I heard what happened..." Pinkie frowned and started swimming in the air towards the ground. Although she managed to land, every step she took made her float up a few inches. "Are you ok? I heard you went face to face with a scary chimera"

"We all sort of did. I...really screwed up though" You frown at the memory of it. "All I ended up doing was almost getting Trixie and myself eaten."

"Awww come on Nonny, at least you still tried. Do you know how much bravery it took to even dive in to save another pony? That's like...so much guts that you'd be barfing it out and making a guts stew. The hero colt Nonny! Willing to dive in to save ponies in need!" Pinkie waves her foreleg as she said that last bit, to increase the grandeur of it

you shook your head at Pinkie. Yeah, you tried. You tried when Twilight would have already had the situation under control. "And nearly getting other ponies hurt because of it. Mnnn" You sigh, you didn't want that kind of praise. "I appreciate the enthusiasm Ponk, but I already know I messed up. I'm just glad nopony is mad at me for it."

"Well of course Nopony is mad at you. We're all just glad everypony made it out ok...Nonny..." Pinkie sighed, her happy demeanor was started to give. But she wouldn't give up just yet. "Hrnnn, it seems like somepony doesn't want a reason to smile. But I know one way to get that grin on your face. Nonny....can you resist Pinkie's Patented Positive Pug?"

Pug? "Uhhhhh...Ponk? I don't think I really want a dog and...HRN!"

Pinkie expertly grabs you, then falls on her back to give you a gentle and loving hug "Actually, I meant hug. But I didn't want to say it because then it wouldn't start with a P" She giggles as she hugs you gently and lovingly. "If you don't smile from this, then I've failed as your friend. Because nopony who is anypony can resist this hug! Nopony!"

...and...what a hug it was. She was as soft as cotton candy, and as warm as pastrami.

Pinkie then lifted you up in the air with her legs so she could get a good look at your face. And she could see it. The smile of one whose soul was pierced with goodness. "There we go! I betcha ya feel better now, don't ya?"

You look down at her, you couldn't help but smile at the pink menace of smiles. "Yeah...but it was still a stupid move on my part. Ok?"

Pinkie rolled her eyes at you "If you say so Nonny, I was only trying to make sure you don't blame yourself y'know. Because you shouldn't. If it was me out there, I probably would have done the same thing!"

You believed her. She probably would have. Though she'd also probably have driven the chimera insane at the same time. "Well, I guess if I wasn't the only one who would have gone in head first...then I guess that does make me feel a little better about that. But uhhh, let's just forget it happened at all ok? It wasn't really one of the highlights of the day...so..changing subjects. What's this tank of water all about?" You eye it, if you had to take a guess, it was one of those ball toss tanks where you hit the target to send a pony into the drink.

"It's a ball dunk game. Hit the target to send your friend in for a swim! It's for the Friendship Festival tomorrow! I almost got it ready and set up. I just need to get the target connected to a few doohickeys and those doohickeys connected to a hingethingy and that hingethingy connected to the chair and everything should work out just fine! Soooooo...are you excited for the Festival tomorrow Nonny? It's gonna be preeeetttttyyy biggggg"

But that was the thing that got you. It just sorta....sprung up. But then again, You couldn't even remember when it was first brought up anymore. "Yeah, about that Ponk. I don't remember Twilight or anypony telling me the festival was tomorrow. It just came out of nowhere."

Pinkie seemed surprised by that answer. "Anon, didn't you see the signs we put around Ponyville?"

You didn't...was there signs? "Uhmm..no"

"Oh...Well did you keep up with the town postings near the mayor's office?"

That existed? "....uhm....no"

"huh....Well didn't you wonder why I had a bigger than normal stockpile of fireworks when you had that fake fight with Rainbow Dash?"

Bigger than normal? Was there even a normal with her? "....nope"

"Wow....you don't really notice much, do you?" Pinkie was honestly surprised you hadn't noticed any of the posting or signs for the Festival.

"Well, I would have thought Twilight would have mentioned something. Since I'm with her for the week."

"Maybe, but I think she didn't tell you about it because she thought you may have already known. I mean, she has been doing nothing but trying to bond with you and making sure the festival hits off without a problem. She's been really really busy. Like, ultra super busy. Maybe even a mega ultra super heavy busy. Especially now that she convinced Trixie to stick around and do the show during the festival...also, can you believe Trixie's turn around? It's like she never had any friends before now. When I went to give her a forgiveness hug, she kinda wigged out. Too bad Rainbow Dash is still suspicious of her though, because I can see it in her smile. She's really trying to make a turn around." Pinkie then takes a huge breath "Woo...that was a mouthful"

Yeah really...that was quite the exposition. "..Yeah...Ponk, do you know where Twilight and Trixie are right now?"

Pinkie nodded "Yup, they are just outside. Twilight is practicing teleportation techniques with Trixie."

Yes! Trixie was nearby, that was good. Because at this point you thought she did her show and left...but then… "And where's Aunt Fluttershy?"

"Fluttershy? Oh, she's at home. Apparently, everytime she came over to see you. You were still asleep. You really like to sleep a lot don't you Nonny?" Pinkie Pie hovered upwards and flipped upside down, swimming towards you as she looks at you with a smiling stare "Have any good dreams?"

"Ehhhh....I don't remember my dreams much really Ponk, they just come and go. Like they never really happened."

"...huh...that's really really weird" Pinkie flips back up and lands back on the ground as she began to recall dreams in her head "Well, I dream lots and lots. If you'd like, I can give you a rundown of every dream I ever had since I could first remember having dreams."

Huh...that sounded cool. "How far back can you remember?"

"since I was a foal!" She says happily

Huh....that sounded not as cool anymore...that's a huge time waster you bet "Ermmm...uhhh....that's super neat Ponk. But...I'm gonna go see Twilight now. Kinda need to talk to her about something."

"Okie Dokie Loki! Hey, once you're done. You wanna test out my dunking game?"

Well..to that. How could you say no? "Sure! I don't mind"

"Yeah! I hope you bring your “A” game Nonny. Because the target is the kind that doesn't like to be hit!"

A moving target? Huh.. "Pfft, we'll see. I....oh..."

Actually, if you remember. your aim was shit… "...W-We'll just see...anyway. gotta go, seeya soon!"

"Alrighty! I'll be here!"

You wave goodbye to the balloon tied mare as you exit the room to the entrance hall.

Huh....you had a lot to think about now that you were more awake.

You started to feel a fuzzy feeling you normally don't feel when by yourself. You were thinking of all the care Twilight was giving you. and the care Fluttershy gives you. The fact that your friends seem to like a more truthful you. And that you can even come through for Diamond Tiara. And then there was Twilight herself. Before, you thought she was a bookcunt. Now that you spent time with her. She was actually pretty great. she was more of her kinder and friendly side you've seen on the show than you thought. So she made a mistake nearly sealing you. that time was said and done, and really? You were being kind of dodgy. If anything, it was Discord who was being kind of a faggot now. You were still capable of pranking....but, you didn't want to prank your friends anymore. douchebags were still on the table though. You liked the cuddling and love. All the deceit was just causing you pain and anguish. Celestia and Luna really were right, just accept your new life. The life you are supposed to live....as Fluttershy's beloved nephew.

You open the front doors of the castle. Taking a deep breath to enjoy the clean and positive air as Ponyville shimmered and shined in front of you. "Ahhhh! Good morning Everypony! Anon is here!"

Well of course, nobody is around. Except that of Trixie and Twilight, who were just a little ways beyond the doors. There was a plank set up as a diving board above the ground. From what it looked like. Trixie was constantly dropping down. As Twilight tried to time teleporting her back to the top each time.

"Twilight? Trixie! Yoooo, What's up?"

Twilight turns around as Trixie dives off the board again. "Anon? You're actually awake?"

"TWILIGHT!" Trixie shrieks as she falls to the ground.

”O-oh right! Trixie!" Twilight looks back to Trixie and zaps her with her horn. instantly zapping her......a little above the ground next to her, and upside down as well.

You both wince as Trixie falls flat on her face. ouch. actually seeing it seemed more painful than suffering it. Then again, you had grown accustomed to such a feeling.

"Trixie! I'm so sorry, are you alright?! Anon, didn't you see the sign? No distractions during practice!" Twilight says as she points to one of the ten signs that asked for quiet.......huh...you seem to be really bad at this.

"S-sorry...just woke up actually...erm..Trixie, are you ok?"

Trixie raises her face, it had grass and dirt on it and she looked a little starry eyed "Trixie is absolutely fine! a Performer like Trixie can take any hit and still be ready to perform..." Trixie then looked to Twilight, as she wobbled, oh yeah..she fell pretty hard. "Isn't that right mother?"

"U-uhhh. Trixie, are you sure you're ok. You just cWAHHH!" Twilight gasped when Trixie dove at her

Trixie suddenly grabbed at Twilight's face and started crying as she yelled "WHY DID YOU NEVER SUPPORT TRIXIE?!"

"Trixie! Trixie! Snap out of it!" Twilight yells as she gives her a quick slap.

"Ow!..huh..hrn?" Trixie looked around as she got her head together. She then went back to her usual but now friendlier self as if her little daze never happened. "hmm? Oh Anon, you're awake..finally. I've been meaning to speak with you...I..actually have a few words of thanks to you. I've already given my thanks to Twilight but I can't trust anypony to deliver my thanks to you in the exact words I'm thinking of"

"Trixie..." Twilight still wanted to make sure if she fully snapped out of it. that was a pretty hard hit. "Are you ok? Really?"

"Of course! You act as if Trixie just hit her head or something. As if" Trixie takes a glance at Twilight with dismissive eyes "...anyway..Anon" Trixie's voice becomes softer as she takes a step, takes off her hat with her magic, and bows "I'd like to personally thank you.....you and Twilight gave me another chance, and with that chance. I've experienced what friendship is really like. And for that..." A golden ticket pops out of Trixie's hat and plants itself right on the ground in front of you. "I present to you a special ticket to see Trixie backstage after her glorious show tomorrow."

Uhhhhhhhh......wut? Well, it was a nice gesture but...No, you better not say it.

"Trixie...couldn't he just come backstage anyway? Why does he need a ticket?" Twilight asks, she didn't know the reason for it either and asked her the question you refrained from asking.

Trixie let out an annoyed sigh "Because it's supposed to be a nice gesture! Come on, I don't have anything else to give him. I allowed you to be my stage assistant didn't I?"

Twilight gave Trixie an authoritative stare "Trixie...."

Trixie cringed "Oh..I did it again..mnnn" Trixie held her head down in shame "Sorry....I'm still getting used to this."

"Trixie..it's ok. Just be a little more mindful of your manners. Ok?" Twilight walked up to her, forgiving her instantly.

"Yeah, I appreciate the ticket. I could keep it as a memento..you know. To remember the moment." You take the ticket and put it in your saddle bag "There we go, ready for my wall of memories...which I don't really have set up yet except for a couple of pictures."

"You'll really keep the ticket?" Trixie seemed a little confused "I didn't expect that..."

"Yeah, I mean. you wanted to give it to me right? I know you probably have a whole Equestrian tour to do...so I want to hold on to at least one thing to remember you by"

Trixie started to tear up. "You really mean that?"

You did "I do"

Trixie couldn't contain herself. She immediately grabbed you and fell on top of you. hugging you tightly "Nopony has ever kept a memento of Trixie before! Anon...Anon....T-thank you."

Oh good lord, that hurt...thankfully she was loosening up

"THANK YOUUUU!" She then grips you tightly once again

Oh god...please let yourself die. Why, Why, Why does everyone have to hug so tightly? Especially since it seemed you were still a little sore "Gnhggfgfg...."

"Ooook" Twilight uses her magic to pull Trixie off of you "Remember, he's still recovering. Anon, are you alright?"

You didn't want to make Trixie feel bad, so you slowly stood back up, and smile at Twilight. hiding your pain. "N-never better." You had to make another stretch to work out the kinks. There you go, thanks to the medicine, the pain was near nonexistent after that stretch. "Actually Twilight...what's going on. Is the Friendship Festival really happening?"

Twilight nodded, her voice a little snarky "Of course it is. I've been planning it for weeks. I even mentioned it to you when we were just meeting each other. Did you forget already?"

"Sorta....I thought it just..wasn't gonna happen altogether."

"No, it is. It just got delayed a couple of times. Changeling antics and chaos beings tend to cause that. But we finally got everything together and I think it's going to be a success" Twilight looks up to the sky with hope "Ponies coming together just to spend quality time with the friends they have and the friends they will make. This whole festival is very important for everypony. Many ponies from across Equestria will be attending." Twilight then looked to the both of you, now being rather authoritative "So I expect the both of you to behave"

"Well, you needn't tell me. Now that we're friends. Trrrrrixie has no reason to enslave the town and try to show that she is the best!"

Twilight silently stared at her

"Ahrm...I meant...a-alright" Trixie backed down

"Hey..you're gonna have no problems from me. Promise! In fact. Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye!" You pinkie promise

Twilight nodded and began to smile, she was happy with that. "Good...oh, did you happen to drink the medicine your Aunt left for you?"

You nod "Yep, it's really helping. aside from an ache here or there. It feels like nothing at all happened to me. I feel great!"

"That's good! but.....don't strain yourself. If you need a little more rest then by all means, go and get some rest."

You shake your head. No, you wanted to see Fluttershy. You wanted to let her know you're ok. "Nah, I'm good. I just wanna go see Aunt Fluttershy. You know, to let her know I'm fine"

Chapter 217 - Twilight Week Arc

"Then at least ask Spike to go with you. I don't want you going by yourself." Twilight didn't want you to walk through town alone. Not in your condition.

Spike? Hmmnnn, y'know. You did need to get closer to that guy too. He did help you out. You might as well also use this as an excuse to hang out. Sad you couldn't go bowling with him today though. "Alright, I can do that. Do you know where he is by any chance?"

"He said he was working on something in the castle library. So he should be in there."

Welp, then time to go back in. Wait...you had to anyway. Pinkie wanted you to try something out. But before you could even do that. Trixie stops you one more time. "Ahh, Anon. Erm, before you go. Really..." Trixie sniffles as a tear comes down her right eye. "Thank you, for trusting in me when nopony else would"

You nearly cringe at that. You didn't, you were the one who originally trusted her the least. Ugh, one tiny lie won't hurt. It's for her. It's for her well being, you didn't need to break things up now by telling her how it really went down. "Trixie, heh, no prob. You're one cool pony"

"Ahrm" Trixie clears her throat nervously. "And you too. That is the right thing to say, right?" You nod, with a tiny chuckle. "Then yes. Trixie thinks you are cool too. I....think you're cool. And a great friend." Trixie then takes another bow. "Goodbye Anon. You stay..erm..cool!" She tried to be less boisterous and more "hip" like you would be. It was cute.

You say goodbye to the practicing pair and head back inside. and two seconds into stepping back into the cutie map room. Pinkie calls out "Nonny!" while she sits on the chair above the tank.

"Heya Ponk! so, is that thing ready to go? I mean..." You look at the tank of water...or. It wasn't water anymore. it was fucking red...like. Your pupils shrink at the surprise. "P-Ponk?! W-what's in that tank?!"

"Gelatin! And it's cheeerrrryyyyyy flavored. I realized that maybe some ponies wouldn't want to just get wet. So then I thought. Woooo gelatin! Everypony loves gelatin! And it's even better when you can swwwiiiimmm in it! Now come on! Let me have it!" Ponk swings her leg around in an excited manner, ready for the plunge of the day.

Well...if she wanted to. You weren't too big on swimming in gelatin. You could still remember the early days of coming to Equestria and falling right into Discord's gelatin. Tasty...but not very breathable. You spot some balls on the cutie map table, waiting to be tossed at the target at the right end of the room. "Alrighty then...this should be easy...." You take one of the balls and get ready to toss. "Here we go!"

You toss the ball at the moving target beside the tank....and miss… You grump at the entire toss. Considering the target wasn't that far away, closer than the targets on the flim flam brother's booth.

"C'mon Nonny! I know you can do better than that!" Pinkie cheered for you.

That cheering..that cheering from one as pure as ponk...now you knew you could do it. So you try again....and again...and again.....and you're walking up to the balls to pick them up so you can try again… And...Pinkie is asking you to take a step closer so you can get a better shot.. And...another step..

"Nonny...Maybe I don't know as much as I think I know. But, maybe another step might help?" Pinkie's enthusiasm was now nearly exhausted.

....Dammit..you were nearly at body's length at this point. "...ok...and..." You toss another ball...and miss.

Pinkie cringed at that toss. "...I-it's not so bad...erm..maybe another step?"

........

You take another step...you were nearly face to face with the target now. Sure, it wasn't as big as the first targets the flim flam brothers had. But did it make that much of a difference?!

.....

......

You toss the ball and easily hit the target this time. Pinkie let's out a small yelp as she drops into the gelatin, she then pops her head out and reaches to the edge of the tank to pull herself up so she can look at you. "Nonny...are you ok?" Pinkie was worried that your pride may have been hurt.

"It's fine...I just need to practice a little more is all." You look at the target with much disdain. You could feel it's spirit laughing at you. You let out a low growl. "Laugh while you can now...I'll destroy you one day with one hundred percent accuracy"

"What?!" Pinkie looked at you, confused.

Oh...shit..you were talking to yourself again. "Oh errr....I was just saying I'll do better next time. hehe"

"Okie dokie loki! Thanks for testing the target with me Nonny! Looks like I'm just gonna have to make it a little bigger."

"Huh? N-no, it's fine. Like I said, I just need some practice. Don't make it any easier. I'll get this mastered for tomorrow ok? I'm sure everypony else can do this just fine."

"...Ok, if you say so....WHEEEEEE!" Pinkie falls backwards back into the gelatin and starts eating as she swims around.

....goddammit....were you really..REALLY...that bad? "..yeah....ok.." You sigh as you go through the hallways and stairs of the castle. looking for the castle library.

As you do...you hear a familiar voice in your head. "Anon...you're being foolish."

Your ears perk up as you look around. You could already tell who that was. "Discord?...ugh..really? Now you're getting annoying."

"Me?! Annoying?! How DARE you! I'm trying to help you. Do you not realize what's happening at all? Are you truly that dense? Anon, how can you not see what's happening?"

You look around. But you couldn't see him...but you could hear an annoying buzz. "What are you talking about?"

"Pardon the human words Anon. But you are becoming a PUSSY! Mrrrooweerr" You hear Discord meow, it came from the ceiling.

You look up...well then, how wonderlandian. He was a purple cheshire cat painted on the ceiling, it looked rather....discordian.

You let out an heavier sigh. The fuck did he want now? "Discord....will you just go? I'll see you when the week is over. I don't even know what you're talking about."

"I could do that. But I won't. I CAN'T. As for what I'm talking about!" Discord zoops through the walls like a living blob of paint and heads into the ground. Becoming your shadow, but much more....wussified, it was shaking and skinnier than your current form. "You're becoming like every other pony ever. A goody goody, nice, friendly sort who doesn't want to cause any trouble whatsoever. Or do you not see that?"

You let out yet another dismissive sigh as you continue walking. "Not every pony is like that you know. And I'm certainly am not, I can still pull off a mean prank. If you mean me telling the truth more. Well...that's because it actually makes things better."

"Do you even listen to yourself?" The discordian shadow says, looking at you as if you were an idiot. "Think Anon, THINK! What tends to happen to every episode antagonist that gets stuck with a pony, NAMELY Twilight, for any prolonged period of time?"

They get reformed...easy. But, you didn't really need reforming. Nor did you feel you were being reformed. "Yeah....those are always the assholes getting reformed Discord. I'm not one of them. If anything, you're being the pussy. I don't know if you realize this or not. But you do remember that the only reason you're Fluttershy's friend is because it was pretty much forced? You may not fully be reformed, but you had to go through the process. I don't. It just so happens that being cuddled, nuzzled, and treated well happens to cause a good feeling. It's NORMAAAALLLLLL" You put an annoyed and slightly angered emphasis on the "normal" to display that you were already sick of his insinuations.

"Just because it's not the show doesn't mean the same rules apply. They do, and you're being reformed just like the rest of them. Me? I can still do what I wish, Fluttershy is the only MAJOR exception for.....reasons I won't discuss here." Discord slips out of your shadow and back to the wall as a disgruntled cheshire cat, his eyes warping about angrily as he spoke. "The point is, you're changing for the worst. You aren't taking the right risks. You aren't putting your hoof down when you should. You aren't causing as much mischief. You're not even getting back at ponies who deserve it. Did you forget what Twilight nearly did to you?"

Clearly he didn't know what he was talking about. Because you were sure it wasn't that extreme. "No, but I forgive her for it. Was it a huge mistake? Yeah, but I know now that I hadn't been honest with her in the first place. She was suspicious because I was lying...hell, I still have to lie about that part. But only because of the subject matter. Otherwise, I don't need to lie about everything else. When I don't lie, everypony treats me better. It makes me feel better. Everything is just.....better that way"

"You THINK it's better that way. Yes, I admit the adoration can sometimes feel....nice.." Discord scuttles up back to the ceiling. "But...." A shadow of a colt appears under him. "That is because they think you are truly a foal. So of course they are going to be nicer and shower you with love and adoration while forgiving you for everything you do...." Then a shadow of a stallion appears above him. "But if you were an adult. Things would change. You'd be held accountable for everything you do, eventually ponies would get fed up with you. Even Fluttershy, your dear Aunt, would get sick of you eventually....all you would have is me." The shadows then meld into Discord as he pops his giant mishapen cat head out of the ceiling and yells at you. "I OWN YOU ANON! YOU ARE MINE!"

You step back, a little startled from the sudden head lunge. But...he was wrong. You knew he was. You let out an arrogant chuckle. "Don't be an idiot. I know being an adult is different from being a kid. I already had to do it once. I'll just do it again and grow into it. And I don't belong to you either. In the end, we're friends..that’s all. But keep this shit up and well..I don't even know anymore. I still appreciate all the help you gave me when it came to Coco and Suri, and Spoiled Rich. And we can still do that if you want. But fooling around with innocent ponies? I can't do that anymore...I think that’s a sign of maturity if anything."

"MATURITY?! YOU WHINE ABOUT EVERY LITTTTTLLEEE THHHHHHIIIINNGGGG!" Discord head erupts into confetti. Blasting you in the face as you cover your eyes. You just look at the confetti with unpleasantness as you brush it off your face. You then feel something resting upon your neck.

"And besides, your destiny is chaos. Nothing you can do about that I'm afraid" A mini Discord rests upon your neck, suddenly calm and cool, as he begins blowing and wiping the claws on his paws. "My point is that you are being reformed. And if it continues, you'll eventually lose your way. And then you'll find that regular pony life is mundane and boring and eventually you won't even have the will to cause any chaos at all. You'll be a boring shell of your former self and then....even I won't be able to help you."

..Was that true?....No..nonono. He was just doing his whole manipulative bullshit. You could still live a happy and fun life as you are now. You didn't need to cause chaos to everyone. Just a select few...especially those who threaten your friends and family. "Nice try Discord. But you're just talking shit. Everything is better for me now that I have things in order. I'll still go on adventures with you, but not if it's going to hurt anyone innocent. Now can you leave me be? Like I said...I'll see you at the end of the week."

But he wouldn't budge. And hearing the words "I have things in order" really put him on edge. "Oohhhh how very wrong you are Anon. In this short span of a week you are giving up everything I gave you. And not only that, but aren't you forgetting something? A very special promise you made to somepony?"

A promise? "To Diamond Tiara?" Discord shook his head very slowly as he zipped forward, back to normal size, and flashed his eyes green. Green as… "Chrysalis? What about her?"

"Really Anon? You said you'd help her. Help her be forgiven by pony kind. How can you do that when the way you are becoming will make you ill equipped to handle all the difficulties you'll have with that? She needs your help...She can't get that kind of help from a sniveling goody goody. She needs somepony who can level with her and actually be her friend. She won't want to stay friends with you if this continues..." Discord outstretches his paw to you, giving you a look of despair. "Take my paw if you want to really live the good life Anon..."

You shake your head and push it away. "I'm sorry Discord, but I can't. I still think I can help Chrysalis...you're just being melodramatic. Just go home, ok?"

"....." Discord slowly pulls away his paw and looks at you with so much disdain, his pupils burn like fire. "...So that's how you want to play, is it? Well then....I will let you have your last two days. But when you're back in my care....you're going to regret this decision. But don't fear the future Anon..." Discord hovers backwards as he gives you a chilling and cold smile "I won't send you back. You're still my friend after all. And besides, I can't do anything that would cause Fluttershy to be upset.......but that doesn't mean you shouldn't look behind your back either. Once these days are gone, chaos will be the order of the day...everyday. And trust me, I have something for you that neither you...or even myself...could tell the truth about. Not even to dear Fluttershy...oh yes. And you will just have to take it....hahaha...hah..HAHAHAHAHA" Discord lets out an evil laugh as cloud envelope around him. Making him vanish in a bolt of lightning.

You just blink in surprise. In fact, that threat...it worried you. ".....Shit......" N-no..fuck it...he's just throwing you in a ruse. He couldn't go that far. Someone would call him out on it. Just..don't worry about it. He's just trying to get into your head. "Get it together Anon, he's being a selfish prick. That’s how he usually is. Just...don't worry about it. Dammit Discord..."

Why couldn't he understand? His weird way of caring about you was finally becoming abrasive to the life you were trying to live. It was getting more difficult at this point to conduct yourself the way you wanted without upsetting someone.

"You just can't control my life like that. I'm not a damn puppet....you hear me?! I'M NOT YOUR FUCKING PUPPET!" You let out a yell in rage. You could feel it in your very bones. You didn't want him to fuck with you. Not anymore. Dammit...he was supposed to be your buddy. Why can't he just be consistent? Why couldn't he just be happy for you?

You take a few breaths. You were just worried and upset. Hell, looking where he once stood, you could see small puddles on the ground. Tears? No..ignore it! IGNORE IT!. You were overthinking things, that's all...whatever..fine. Just...get over it and find Spike. The day will get better...you know it will.

You then hear the little pitter patter of feet behind you.

Huh? You turn around, hoping it wasn't Discord. and you were right to be in such hopes. Spike was rushing up to you, holding an oddly painted gem. "Anon?! Anon, What the hay is going on? You ok?! I heard some yelling and...wait..." Spike looked around, you didn't seem to be hurt...and there was nothing around "...What are you yelling at...exactly?"

...Spike?...damn, he must have heard your yelling. "The truth? I was yelling at my dad, who just decided to be dumb and try to cause something because he thinks this is a bad idea."

"Oh...." Spike rolled his eyes. "That sounds pretty typical Discord to me. Didn't know you were having any problems with him though. Should have known he couldn't play all nice and good forever."

.....Mnnn. "It's not that, he's just worried that I'm not gonna be the same when I come back, I think he thinks we're done being buddies. He's being a dad....I think"

"Well he's still not supposed to be poking around until the week is up. And hey, aren't you supposed to be resting? I heard about the chimera attack." Spike put his arms to his side as he shook his head "What made you think you could take on a chimera without your horn? You should have just let Twilight handle it. She always knows what to do"

....No fuck off Spike. You didn't need to be told how badly you fucked up. "Can...we not talk about that? As for me resting. Aunt Fluttershy made some medicine for me to help me feel better. Actually, I want to go see her but Twilight said I should ask you to come with me first. She doesn't want me going out alone."

"Yeah I'll come with. Twilight just doesn't want you being on your own after nearly getting mauled. But first..." Spike holds up the gem. It was a blue sapphire gem with a cute little "Ur my best friend" sentence painted onto it. "Pretty good huh? I know it's a little on the cute and girly side. But Twilight really wants this festival thing to go well and I thought handing these out would really help the cause...though..." Spike licks his lizardy lips as he gazes at the gem. ".....sometimes I just want to have a little bite and.."

"Ahmmm, Spike, look.." You could already see where this was going. And you wondered why no one ever gave him this suggestion. "I can see you want to eat it. But I also know you wanna help Twilight so....did you ever think of separating the gems into ones you'll eat...and ones you'll paint on?

Spike stopped..and just stood there for a moment before realizing how easy that sounded. "....Huh....I never thought of that...I guess I don't have to use ALL the gems...alright, let me just go put this back. Set a few gems aside, take a few with me, and I can get the rest done before the day is over. Just wait back with Pinkie ok? I'll get it all done, lickety split"

You wait back downstairs, taking a seat on Twilight's chair as you watch Pinkie swim and devour the cherry gelatin within the tank. You didn't want to disturb her. She looked like she was having a wonderful time. After many a moment, you rest your head on the table and just ponder some more on your throwing style. How could you fuck up so badly? Huh...

Then suddenly, you feel something very light slide into your mane. You lift your head up and watch as a letter falls back down onto the table, falling from your mane. "What?" You look at the letter's sender. And… "Hey!"

It was a letter from Starlight Glimmer. That's pretty neat. You wonder what she had to say. You look up, Spike was just observing Pinkie in the tank. Reaching his hand into it to grab some gelatin for himself to munch on. He must have tossed the letter at you while you had your head down.

You open the envelope and take a look at the letter. The letter itself was folded into three pieces. wow, she wrote down A LOT. She was happy that you were well of course. The letter boils down to the fact that she's doing much better thanks to your help and the help of the town. It seemed they decided to just make the town hall and put a library in it. The work on their train station seemed to have started as well. They are even making a road from the station to the town given that it seems some might get lost looking for it. But it's the last piece of the letter that probably nets your complete interest. It seems Starlight would wait on another letter from you. Asking you how your time with Twilight was as a whole. If things went well, she would actually come down for a visit. And see how things would be for herself....well then. You'd have to remember to send her a letter when this was all over.

You smile as you slip the letter back into the envelope and slip that into your saddle bag. You'd keep this as a memento, your first letter from a seasonal villain turned good. "Alrighty, all set and ready to go....wait,"

You look inside your bag and noticed your map...you could have used that to go to Fluttershy's to be honest. But, you sort of wanted to see what was going on around town. And fuck, Discord might have a trap waiting for you upon your return. Yeaaahhhh...never mind. "Yeah..ready to go"

Spike climbed down from the edge of the tank and rubbed his tummy before burping out a small flame. "Gotcha. Let's get going, and don't do anything I wouldn't do. Fluttershy would kill me if I brought you to her all banged up"

You let out a chuckle as you both step out and head into the town. "I don't think she's capable of killing anything...she might softly yell at you or something"

"I dunno, sometimes I think Fluttershy has this boiling anger inside her. Like, one day, she's just going to snap on whoever hurts a animal in front of her or something. When that happens, ohhhhh boy. Because let me tell you Anon, I've seen her raging. You wouldn't like her when she's raging"

"You mean when she was the Saddle Rager?" The Power Ponies episode came to mind

"Yup....hey wait a second" Spike looked at you, he didn't know you knew that. He didn't know HOW you knew that. "How'd you know about that?"

"Well Spike, she is my Aunt. Discord is my Dad. And erm...well. I get told things. Let's just say I've had a nice window into everypony's past stuff. It kind of helps actually? Helps me fit in better"

"Well, you're already "In", aren't you? Weird that you know that kind of stuff. But I ain't gonna question it, Discord probably likes to talk a lot." Spike then mutters to himself "Probably loves hearing himself talk too"

"Oh I know, but I learned this stuff before that. It's not anything I just learned and...woah...the town has a lot of tents being set up..." The town nearly looked more medieval at this point. Like a renaissance fair. Then again, it was probably due to all the tents. And there was some moderny stuff around too, like ladders, speakers, and strange contraptions.

"Well yeah, the festival is tomorrow. Everypony that is anypony is getting ready for it. It's supposed to celebrate friendship. So everything is friendship themed. I mean..I assume everything is. There's always that one pony who has to make it about themselves or try to make some money out of it" Spike rolls his eyes at the thought

You snicker as a thought comes to mind. "Or a dragon giving out cute little painted gems, probably having that one special one for that one special mare"

"....Geh?!" Spike snaps backwards, looking at you in surprise before his expression became that of a soft and adorable agitation. "Y-you don't know what your talking about. I'm making these for every and all ponies."

"Uh huh, and you'll have a special one for Rarity right?"

Spike crosses his arms and turns away. "No!"

You give him a little tap. "Come on Spike, you can tell me. Remember? We're buds, right?"

Spike mumbles a little before sighing, his defenses breaking. "...Yeah I guess...fine, I DO have one for her. She'll probably like it. But then....She'll just give me a hug and tell me what a great friend I am, as usual."

Damn, that focus on Rarity was pinpoint. You felt sorry for the guy. "Well, it's still the thought that counts right?"

"Yeah...but...Look, I don't wanna talk about it. I've done it a million times before already. And the way I figure it. As long as she's happy, I'm happy."

Spoken like a true cuck...poor guy. "Yeah...oh hey!...Well well, I haven't seen them in awhile" Two mares. A mint green one, and one with a pink and dark blue mane step into view. Both with cameras around their necks.

"Who?" Spike looks about

"Lyra and Bonbon...HEY! GIRLS! OVER HERE!" You call to them

Lyra and BonBon notice you as you call and wave to them. Lyra already gets a bubbly excitement as she looks over to Bon Bon and points towards your general direction.

"Oh, hey. They got cameras." Spike looks at the gem he was keeping with him, This one was some red sapphire, it looked even grander than the one you remember him giving to Rarity that one episode. He then looks back at them. "I wonder if they can take a picture of this."

"Hmm? Oh, is that the gem you're going to give Rarity? Wanna take a picture because it's special..right?"

Spike shakes his head. "No, I want to take a picture to remind myself that I'm AGAIN giving up this perfectly delicious gem in the name of perfection" Spike sighs. "Maybe next time I'll learn my lesson......but I probably won't" Ouch...

Lyra is the first to step up as she looks to you and Spike with an excited smile. "Hey Anon! It's been a few days, huh? You doing ok? How's that whole Twilight thing working for you? And uh...how's that other thing working out for you?" She wiggles her eyebrows at you in a near seductive manner.

Other thing? That was confusing. "It's actually going ok..but..what do you mean "Other thing?"

"Y'know...the "other" thing" She moves up to you to give you a few bumps to the side. Giving you a wink this time.

"Uhhhhh?"

"She means, how are you and your marefriend." Bonbon lets out a small laugh, both at Lyra's enthusiasm and a little at the absurdity of it all. "Anon, you're pretty smart. But are you sure you're old enough to be in a relationship already? If you don't slow down. You'll be married before junior final exams." In other words. Even Bonbon knew things were probably going too quick. In her mind, she felt she knew that like all schoolhouse crushes. It won't last.

"It's going fine. I mean, I already took her on a date and that went pretty darn well." All things considering anyway. You made sure to sound pretty damn sure of yourself.

"First date already? I didn't hear about that part. I did hear how she stopped a fight between you and an Element of Harmony. That must have been intense, what was that even about?" Lyra was confused about the whole thing. She wasn't there of course. And she had heard the fight was serious.

"Oh...geez. It wasn't even that serious. It was an exhibition match to see who was toughest. And even then, it was all staged.." You explained

"Ooooohhhhhh...that makes sense now." Lyra giggled. "I knew you'd never try to fight another pony like that without a good reason. But why would you have your marefriend stop the fight? That just makes you look bad."

Your ears droop on that part. Ugh...that part..

"Oh that part was real. Diamond Tiara totally didn't know the fight was fake and really embarrassed Anon good. It was kinda funny at first. But now looking back..it's just kinda sad.." Spike let's out, wanting to explain the situation since you hesitated.

...Fucking Spike.

"Ouch...I..can see why. Erm..Hey!" Lyra nervously chuckles as she quickly tries to shift the conversation. "Moving on from that...Bonbon and I are working on a friendship tunnel! But to make the interior, we need to take lots and lots of pictures of every group of friends we can find. We actually have quite a few from out of Ponyville… But silly us, we forgot to get some FROM Ponyville. We got some already. But how about a picture of you and Spike. And then a picture of you and me...and Bonbon and you..and then a group picture!"

"Hey, that actually sounds like a cool idea...wait..aww" You frown. "It'd actually be cooler if I could get all my friends huddled up here at once. But I don't see them around..."

Bonbon already figures out a way to solve that. "That's no problem, if you come early enough tomorrow with your friends. We could snap a group photo with them too. The festival starts in the late morning and ends mid afternoon. Gives you plenty of time to set something up. Now then...." BonBon holds up the camera with a single hoof. "Let's get this done. I don't want to hurry anypony along, but Lyra and I have a lot of work to do. But if you want, the day after the festival, I wouldn't mind some company while I test a few things I got yesterday, could be fun if everypony is responsible enough not to go overboard"

That didn't sound too bad. You wondered what those things were though. Were they things? Or "Secret" things? Since you and Lyra were in the know. She probably meant...cool gadgets?...Huh. You could tell she was directing that invitation towards you and Lyra. So it had to be.

And so photos were taken. it still bothered you that you couldn't get it with your other friends.
other friends...Applebloom. ..ahh shit, now you remembered. She wasn't looking too hot when Diamond Tiara showed up. Stubborn stubborn applefilly. She just...ugh..she just had to get over it really.

When the pictures were done being taken. You all said your goodbyes and went your separate ways. But not before Lyra gave you a big hug. You didn't want to inquire about your current social status. Best to leave it be.

So you and Spike continued your trek through the town. Everywhere, there was a new and fantastic sight. With every one of the ponies coming up with new and unique ways to represent friendship. From Friendship Fortunetelling to...oh hey..is that Vinyl Scratch and Octavia? Huh....you were almost tempted to walk up to them..mostly for Octavia...holy hell...did she look....Nope..NOPE..get it out of your head Anon. She's probably a lesbian anyway.

"So, Anon...I've been wondering something." Spike says

"Hmm? What is it?""

"It's..sorta about how you seem to know a lot about everypony. You know, Twilight, me, Fluttershy...I mean. It doesn't exactly make sense to me that your dad would go through all that trouble to explain almost everything about them. He's kind of a jerk that only really seems to care about you and Fluttershy. And I know he can't know everything. Otherwise he would have known that Tirek was totally going to betray him. So, Let's try something. I'll ask you a question and you answer it with the truth, and then you ask me one and I'll do the same thing. By the time we reach Fluttershy's, we'll know so much about each other that we might as well be best buds."

That was....unnerving. "That seems a little personal to me Spike, do you think I'm lying to you?"

Spike started to shift his eyes a little in the other direction. "...sorta..look..I don't want to hurt your feelings Anon, I really don't. But I know you tend to lie on a few things. Twilight has told me about it. I don't know why you do, but I kinda figure you don't have anypony that you can keep really really deep secrets with. I only want to do this because I feel bad for you, and I want to get closer to you as a friend. All your friends are either fillies or mares. You don't have a single guy friend aside from me. And guy friends are different from girl friends. I know you're really making an effort with Twilight. But it can't be easy. “Now I know what you're thinking... Spike doesn't really have any guy friends besides me and probably Big Mac, so what in the hay is he talking about?....well..that's my point really. We guys gotta stick together.. I didn't mean to make it sound too personal, I just want you to know that your friend Spike has got your back. And if there's a secret you need to keep. Well, I'm your dragon." Spike proudly puffs his chest out as he points to himself with honor.

...But that's the problem. He'd never understand the truth. And now you could feel that familiar sting. You knew he just wanted to be your friend. Maybe he was trying harder and being there for you because you were a colt...an orphaned colt. But this was one of the secrets you had to keep...

Before, you would have told him to leave you alone. Or you would have gotten angry. Now, you just had this urge to just tell him. Someone you could level with and visit often knowing your secret would be nice. Luna and Celestia knew..but they were rather on the authoritative side…

You'd like it so much....but you also knew that Spike could be made to tell secrets...you just...couldn't risk it.

"Spike, I really appreciate the sentiments. But...." You sigh. "Look, if I tell you one thing, then can we keep it at that? I've learned my lesson on lying. But there’s some secrets I gotta keep. And that's as far as I'll tell you with even that"

Spike turns around for a moment. This worries you as he doesn't say a thing. Then he turns his head slightly. "....Then I better not get you hounding on me if I happen to want to keep a secret or two. Ok?" Spike turns to you completely, with a smile on his face. He then leans in a little, giving you a cocky grin "But you still gotta at least tell me this one thing. Then I'll tell you one of my secrets ok? Depending on how big this secret. Well, you get it. Equal trade and all that" He shrugs.

That sounded a little more reasonable. But he wanted to know how you had so much knowledge...You couldn't lie. Or maybe you could? No..you couldn't. That would just put you back to square one..right?..But this was one of the big secrets. Could you even agree to this?

"..ermm..Spike. Would you believe that. Since I'm in a chaotic plane and all. That I have a magic box of sorts that shows me certain important aspects of the lives of Twilight and her friends? Because..that's the truth. It doesn't let me see everything. Just a lot of certain things..and yes..that'd include you too..like how you look in the mirror and.."

Spike panics and tries to get you to be quiet. "Shh! Shh! geez..ok ok. Only other pony that knows that is Pinkie Pie." Spike wipes his forehead of the sweat that quickly built up. "A magic box huh? I wouldn't believe it if it wasn't the fact that it probably came from Discord. But why did you have to lie about it? It doesn't sound like that bad a secret or anything."

....

"Well...it's more of the fact that when I think about it more and more. It's pretty invasive..don't you think?" Considering what you nearly said..it did

"..Yeah never mind...So you can look in on us whenever you want? That's kind of creepy Anon..I hope you don't actually do that."

"No..it just let's me see certain past events. Though I don't use it anymore, since I pretty much caught up. Sorry if it sounds invasive, but I promise it wasn't on anything anypony would worry about. On that note, since.." You chuckle. "I already know a secret you didn't want to let out. You wanna call it even?"

At first, Spike was the one that was unnerved. But as he thought about it, he thought it must have taken a lot of guts to just say that you had a window on everyone's lives. "Yeah, we'll call it even..but you only did it to learn about us right? Nothing sinister or anything? Because I think I get it now. You were afraid of not fitting in. Shoulda known Discord would have done something to help you out with that. He really seems to care about you. And that, is actually pretty cool.....just wish he'd care about us all like that because sometimes...sometimes he's a little much. Y'know what I'm saying?"

Oh boy did you… "Yeah...thanks for being a guy friend Spike. I think you and me are really gonna get along better from now on."

"Yeah, I can feel it too. I almost thought you were becoming a troublemaker like Discord. Heh, glad to know I was wrong."

A troublemaker like Discord? Is that how it was...well then. You felt validated then. Validated that you did, in fact, make the right choice..and there's nothing Discord can do to change it now. He's just going to have to get used to it.

Chapter 218 - Twilight Week Arc

you don't really say too much after that. contemplating instead on the fact that it seemed people may have actually thought you the troublemaker...well....they had reason to. It also made you think about your rep again with the fillies and colts. Did it go in line with what Discord was saying? Were you becoming a wuss?...no...just. If you were becoming like everyone else, but had the human edge on your side. Then you weren't one. you were above that. Perhaps even above the norm of this world.

You both also make small talk at this point. talking about past adventures. swapping stories. all the way up to the point you reach Fluttershy's cottage.

Spike took a look at the family statue. It still looked brand new. "I still think that looks a little creepy. I know everypony looks happy....but...ehhhhhh, it doesn't feel real. Y'know?"

Didn’t it? You know Discord made the statue out of the goodness of his heart. You knew that because there was nothing to gain or lose, it wasn't a trap, it was...perhaps somewhere in his mind,your mind, and Fluttershy's mind, the vision of the perfect family. At least...sometimes you wished that's exactly what it was. "well works of art are usually a concept. This depicts us as the perfect family."

"So what you're saying is that it's actually a total farce"

"What? no no...it's what..well, think about it. Discord made the statue right? This statue represents exactly how he wishes we all were...y'know...if he wasn't being a jerk most of the time."

Spike walks up to the statue and looks closely at Discord's face "I dunno...then again, I have no idea why he'd make this kind of statue anyway. He doesn't do "Nice and cuddly" "

"Yeah well...hrnnn?" You raise up your ear as you hear singing coming from inside the cottage. Bird and Fluttershy tones coming from the windows and door. "Is that Aunt Fluttershy?"

"Sounds like it" Spike turned towards the front door "She must be practicing for her bird singing choir."

"Bird singing choir?" That sounds familiar

"Or something like that..I dunno. She said she wants to do some singing during the festival. Something nice and peaceful to set the mood." Spike informs you

"Well that doesn't sound so bad...it actually sounds nice right now. So what, is there a problem?"

Spike shook his head "No not really. It's something she'd do. The problem is that it's a festival. I dunno how she's going to keep the birds in check once it gets started. But she says she has it handled so eh" Spike shrugged "None of us want to argue about it. Everypony is bringing their own thing to the festival and it'd be wrong to tell her no just because we’re worried about the birds flying off, who knows. They just might not"

"Well...it's Aunt Fluttershy. If anything, SHOULD have a handle on it. it's her special talent after all."

You look at the door and raise your hoof to knock.

Knock Knock

But the singing keeps on going

Knock Knock

Suddenly, everything goes offkey

Knock Knock

You can hear Fluttershy saying "O-oh..there's somepony at the door. Angel, can you please get it while I get some water for all the birdies?"

in another moment, the door opens, you see a very pissed off Angel holding a conductor's baton. He was also in a very adorable little tux.

"Will you look at that" Spike chuckled "Hey there Angel, why are you dressed like that? Got a date?"

As Spike's laughter grew, Angel got super pissed and tossed his conductor's baton right into his face before making indistinct bunny noises.

"Ow geez, I was just messing around." Spike rubbed his face as he took a few steps back.

Angel then looked to you, and made a few noises at you, pointing at something inside. You tilt your head and look at what he was pointing at. he was pointing at the birds...and at a bowl with a large amount of carrots in it....hmmnn..

"...Wait...are you mad because we interrupted your conducting? Which you only agreed to because it meant more carrots?"

Angel and Spike look at you with astonishment, Spike then says "You understood that?"

"S-sorta....I guess it was just from the stuff he was pointing at. It just all kind of made sense to me"

"Or more that you're learning a thing or two from Fluttershy. That's pretty crazy stuff.." Spike didn't think anyone else could even develop that talent. "I understand a little myself. But not enough for something like that"

Angel just stared for a moment and motioned for you to step closer.

Hrn?

You move a little closer. And he starts making a few motions as he smiles. You couldn't really tell what he was saying now. Until he started pointing to himself then you then back to himself. "..erm...yeah, I understood it..and I think I understand now. So yeah, I understood"

Angel then nodded, then he got angry again and slapped you as he made even more indistinct noises.

"ow! What the?! What was that for?!" What did you do now?!

Spike chuckled a little from that, he didn't expect you to be slapped "I think I got it. He's angry that we interrupted him. And he's even angrier at you because you understood and didn't even apologize...that's..THAT'S HILARIOUS" Spike falls over laughing at the entire thing.

...yeah...real funny

Angel wasn't laughing however. He knew that the more he practiced, the more carrots he'd get. and this was getting in the way. So he got behind the both of you and started kicking. Trying to get you both inside. How rude...

"Ok ok sheesh.."

As you both step inside. You could see Fluttershy putting out a waterfeeder for the birds. Smiling as they act behaved and take turns taking sips. "Awww, you're all so polite and nice. I'm very glad that you all took the time out of your busy days to practice with me. And to you too...oh?" Fluttershy turns to see both you and Spike walk in as Angel takes his position back on the little conductor's stand.

"Hey Fluttershy! Looook who I brought!" Spike presents you to Fluttershy

"Hey Aunt Fluttershy, are you doing ok? I noticed you got this bird choir thing going on. That's pretty cool" They all looked pretty well organized. How could anyone think Fluttershy would have any trouble keeping this all together?

"Anon...Spike?" Fluttershy then looked to Spike as she suddenly got..angry? "Spike! What is Anon doing here?! Why did you bring him over?!"

Wu-ut?! "A-aunt Fluttershy?"

"What?! What are you getting angry at me for?! He wanted to see you, and Twilight asked me to take him just in case he ran into any problems. Don't get mad at me! I'm just the messenger!" Spike stepped back in a growing panic

Fluttershy walks up to you as you wonder why the fuck she was flipping out. She gently puts a hoof on your head "No fever...any aches? Anon..are you aching at all, anywhere? Do you feel any pain at all?"

....ohhh...wait..nevermind..it was becoming clear. "Not really..I-I think the medicine helped. What's wrong Aunt Fluttershy? I thought you'd be happy to see me"

"I am..and I'm not. You're not supposed to be walking around that much Anon. You're still healing....mnnngh." Fluttershy tried to calm down, she sighed. She really was glad that you at least seemed ok "...mnnn, I'm glad you took the medicine. And I'm even happier that it's helping. I'm sorry if I made it look like that I wasn't happy to see you. I'm glad that you were responsible enough to take it but...." Fluttershy looked to Spike "Spike, can you tell me what kind of food Anon has had so far? I want to make a soup that has the rest of the essential vitamins and minerals he may need for the day"

....eaten?

"uhhhhhhhhhhhhhh" Spike was dumbfounded

"....I....uhhh"

Ohhhhhhhh, you both did it now. You could see Fluttershy's eye twitching before she let out an angry "What?! HE HASN'T EVEN EATEN?! OHHHHH! THAT'S IT! ANON!...." She points to her couch "Lay there, head on pillow, NOW!"

Wut?! "Aunt Fluttershy, don't you thin-"

She suddenly gives you the stare..oh geez. she was serious "...noooow"

"Well ok then!" You get up on the couch and rest your head..were you supposed to try to sleep or something?

"Spike...go up to my room and fetch Anon more pillows and blankets, no arguing, do it NOW!" She points up to her room.

"W-whatever you say Fluttershy..s-sir!" Spike reluctantly salutes as he rushes up to her room.

"Angel! Give Anon a carrot while I make him soup. No arguing, it's good for him!" She points to his food bowl.

Angel however, did not want to give up a carrot. he grabs onto one and holds it close. Looking at Fluttershy with protective and disdainful eyes.

"Angel....don't make me take it from you. Because that might be the last carrot you'll ever get..." She then softens up for a second "I don't mean I'd starve you or anything...just no carrots...but" She hardens up again "That isn't a threat, that's a promise...give it to him...now!"

Angel looked at his carrot, and whimpered, but he could see how serious she was being. everyone was...it was pretty scary. He hops over to you. and gives you the carrot. You just stare at it for a moment.

"Eat..NOW! FOR YOUR HEALTH!" Fluttershy barks at you

o-ok

You start munching on the carrot, just looking down to avoid Fluttershy’s intense stare.

Spike rushes back down with the blankets and pillows. "I-I got everything"

"Good! Now set everything up for Anon and come help me in the kitchen!" Fluttershy commanded as she went to make you a soup.

"Y-yes sir..I mean..Ma'am..I mean....ehh..ok..sir..." Spike stammers as he puts pillows under your head and throws blankets over you. "T-there we go, coming Fluttershy!"

...this was awkward.

You just sit there....silently...while Fluttershy and Spike make a soup for you.

After it was done. Spike pulls up a table next to the couch as Fluttershy puts the bowl of soup down on it. "There we are, a nice and healthy soup for my favorite nephew. If you'd like, I could feed it to you. You need to conserve all your strength Anon. I'd like you to be able to go to the festival tomorrow without any kind of issue whatsoever...in fact, don't even worry about it. I'm going to feed you" She smiles gently at you.

....ok..that's a little much.

You go to grab the bowl to drink the soup from it "I think I can-"

But she pulls the bowl away and nearly growls "I'm going to feed you...and then you're going to get some extra rest. This is for your own good, Anon. I'm your Aunt, And I think I need to take a more active role in your life. Especially if you're not going to take your injuries seriously. Not even eating today? How could you...and how could Twilight not make sure you were fed....mnnnn.." Fluttershy did her best to calm herself. She didn't want to be mad..she hated being mad. "Anon, please...don't make a fuss. Please?"

She looked so concerned now. She was so worried about you. Seeing you being attacked by a chimera must have really shaken her. You could only guess she was doing this whole song thing to get her mind off of it. Because this wasn’t how she typically would act. "ok. Aunt Fluttershy. I'm not upset. I was just worried from your reaction. That's all...see?" You open your mouth "ahhh, ready for food please"

Damn, you didn't think about eating at all. You didn't even feel hungry the entire time. But she was right, you were supposed to be recovering. All you wanted to do was let her know you were ok and make her happy. Well, if this was going to make her happy. then fine..

Though something else stuck out in your head. Fluttershy, she'd not treat you this lovingly at all if you were an adult. No way you could try to dodge that. But you didn't need to dodge it. As you told Discord, you'd just have to grow into it. and be a stallion, one she'd be proud of.

Fluttershy smiled, and began to feed you the soup. It was bitter, but you could bare it...you did it for her

After the soup was done. Fluttershy fetched you a glass of water. She then started to have a chat with Spike. Fluttershy wanted to go deeper into the reasons of why you weren't fed. Spike's explanation was just that everybody probably assumed that you'd feed yourself, ask for food when you were hungry, or get food from her when you both arrived. It could have been any one of those.

Fluttershy calmed down after that, it seemed sensible, she apologized to Spike for how she acted. Spike of course forgave her.

After a little more small talk. Spike wanted to excuse himself as it seemed you'd be with Fluttershy for the rest of the day. And he still had preparation for tomorrow to get to. And most of all, he didn’t want to be around in case she went super mom mode again. He says goodbye to you and Fluttershy. which of course the both of you return. And he goes on his way.

Fluttershy walks back to you as she grabs the bowl and goes to clean and put it away. "Anon, are you comfy?"

"Yeah...Aunt Fluttershy, can I ask you a question?"

"Mhmm, of course you can."

"....let's say...I was older. Like, a stallion. Full adult. Would you love me just the same?"

Fluttershy giggles "That's a funny question. You should know the answer would always be yes"

"...yeah..but, would things be different?"

Fluttershy suddenly got a little worried. "Why?" she wondered. "Anon, what's wrong?"

"Nothing...it's just I just kind of want to know how things would be between you and me"

"Anon..." Fluttershy stops, and comes close to you, leaning down so she can meet you at eye level. "You're a smart and loving colt. Not a stallion. So you shouldn't worry about being one yet.So don't worry, and let those thoughts just float away. It's nothing you have to worry about. Because...as I said...I will always love you just the same."

"I know...but..I'm just curious."

"Why are you curious? did you have a nightmare while you were resting at the castle? Did somepony tell you something?...Did your father say something?" Fluttershy gulped, she didn't want to hear that Discord had anything to do with this.

But dammit, don’t lie. Just say it… "......He said things would change when I grow older. And I know it's true. I was just wondering what would change. Don't be mad at him, please?" You don't ask her for his sake, you ask her for yours.

"He shouldn't be worrying you at all like that." Fluttershy sighed, she'd have to disregard that for now. And try to put your mind at ease while also being truthful. "Things would change yes. You'd have to do a lot more things for yourself. And I wouldn't be able to be there for you for everything that happens. But that's something every stallion and mare has to deal with. I'll still be here if you need any support, or if you need somepony to talk to. You can even stay here in the cottage for as long as you need. But, you'd still need a place of your own. It's not that I don't want you...it's just I can't support you forever. But that's just the truth of it. It might sound a little scary, but everypony goes through it. And they always succeed. So no worries..ok?" A image flashed through Fluttershy's head. She hoped...she dearly hoped...that you never ended up like her brother. That you never become like him. The sort to use others and give up on every little thing.

Fluttershy gives you a gentle hug. this hug felt more special than others. It felt safer...

You knew if anything. Fluttershy would always have your back. If you ever needed anything, even emotional support, she was the first pony to go to.

And so you spent the rest of the day at Fluttershy's. She practiced the choir, having Angel conduct through a very soft sounding song; one to help you relax and get more comfortable. The practicing went on for awhile. And when it was done, Fluttershy set up food for the birds and opened the window for when they wanted to leave. And she then decided to spend the rest of the day with you and you alone. Since she was adamant on you getting some rest, she decided it might be nice to tell you stories of her adventures. Of course, you knew most if all of them....but..what the hell. you weren't about to spoil the moment for your favorite Aunt.

it was actually very relaxing to hear the episodes brought up from her perspective. The way she spoke was so soft and yet so enthused. You could listen to her for hours. It was like a cute little audiobook.

And so you listened, up until nightfall began to hit. In which Twilight paid a visit. Again, this wasn't really anything of note either at this point. She had just gotten worried as to where you might be. She knew you were at Fluttershy’s, but she had wondered if you were still there. and if you were coming back. You told her, even asked her if it'd be ok to spend the night here. Despite it still being on her time, Twilight agreed, given the circumstances. She thought it'd be better for you to fully recover in a more familiar place than her castle, though she apologized for not bringing a book for you to read, you felt it would be alright.

And after she left. there was only one thing left to do..it was time for rest. And rest you did. As Fluttershy did as she always did. Course, the sofa had less room than a bed. So she just rested on her back. As you rested on her belly.

Day 7

A letter you have written to Starlight, about your week.

"Dear Starlight,
How are you doing? Yeah, I know. It's pretty soon to be sending you another letter. But my week with Twilight is over and I thought you'd like to hear about it. I know you don't like her much still. But, I can safely say that after spending this much time with her. This much time in Equestria without going back home, that Twilight isn't nearly as bad as we both thought. She's always eager to learn and she's actually very friendly despite her being like a naggy mom at times. And she only wants the best for everypony...even if she sometimes overdoes it. Twilight and her friends showed me that it's better to be virtuous and not to lie...I had been lying a lot to them lately. But I'm fixing that about myself. Oh, also, there's this pony named Trixie. Kind of reminds me of you but more...pronounced in some of the things she does. She hated Twilight too...but, heh, she saw the same things I did and she came around, we all became friends actually. I even pointed her your way, saying that the town could probably need a good magic show...just don't criticize that it's stage magic alright? She's kind of sensitive now that she has friends. And she could always use more. There was also this run in with a vicious chimera but...we all got out of that ok. I kinda don't wanna go into it too much. I also sorta kinda have a mare friend...also don't wanna get into that on this letter, because I already could tell you'll probably find that silly. There was also this friendship festival, I wish I knew about it sooner because I would have completely and utterly done something super cool for it but I sorta lost my horn. Again,don't wanna talk about that either..especially about it. But this festival, it was really cool. I went with my friends from school and we got to ride some rides. go through a friendship tunnel,
listen to music about friendship. and even dunk each other into cherry gelatin.we also listened to stories, Played games..it was a nice time. And you were always in my thoughts through all of it. That's why this letter comes enclosed with a small picture I had drawn of you and me. Sorry if some of the details are off. The artist did his best in capturing what I was describing..."

The Picture enclosed was of you and filly Starlight. In wizard hats, giving eachother a friendly hug.

"Anywho, everything went pretty great. And, if you can...drop by soon. I'd love to see you again and I'd like to see if you and Twilight could get along. I know you both could if you tried. I miss you, and wish the best for you always. As for me, you don't need to worry. I learned a few new lessons in friendship..none I'd soon forget. Your friend, Anon"

Chapter 219

The morning sun rose once more above Equestria.

"Anon....oh Anon...time to get up you little sleepy head. Time for breakfast." You could feel the gentle rubbing of Fluttershy, she was gently pressing along your side.

You open a single eye and look at her, moan, then shift to the other side of her bed. Although the seventh day was over, and Twilight was satisfied with how everything went. You opted not to go home. You wanted to spend the night with your aunt. And avoid Discord and his shit for as long as possible. Hell, you were already ready for school as far as being physically ready was concerned. That medicine really did the trick.

"Oh no no, not today Anon" Fluttershy giggled and pulled the blanket off of you. "You have school again, so no oversleeping."

You roll to your other side to look at her. You yawn, and slowly get out of bed, resigning to your adorable fate. "Ok...good morning Aunt Fluttershy, how are you?"

"I'm feeling great! Which you should be too. You had the same amount if sleep as any kind of colt. And you should be all better by now. Cooooommeee onnnnn, wakey wakey, school will be starting soon"

You giggle at that. That was too adorable. You slowly get out of bed, and follow Fluttershy to grab breakfast after getting your saddle bag. Mnnn, you still haven't gotten your horn back yet. It definitely must hinge on the report that Twilight would give to Celestia about the week. You just had to wait.

Breakfast was the basic cereal and milk. Not bad, it was healthy. Fluttershy was asking if you still had everything you needed for school. She did this as she packed you a bagged lunch for later. mmmm, hay sammichs and a juice box. You checked in your saddle bag, The grappling hook was a little much...and your cash? It was...getting kinda low now....hmmnnn. But it's fine, you had this. you had everything you needed. "Yeah, I'm good for school"

"Good! you should always be prepared. I bet all your friends are going to be surprised to see you. I know you had some problems staying in class due to...well..everything going on around you. But now, everything should be fine! And you'll learn so many new things, you won't know what to do with yourself!"

Probably only in Equestrian studies. You had everything else in the bag.

With everything ready to go and breakfast eaten, Fluttershy gives you a little kiss on the nose and bids you goodbye....ugh..you couldn't go without a hug though. You hugged onto her, rubbing your head under hers. It made her tear up, but she hid it. She didn't want to give you a reason to stay any longer. You had school afterall.

It was time again...time for school.

You take the roads back into town. You could already see the other foals heading to Cheerilee's class. Ahh, it's been awhile since you've done this. And now? You had new hope. It wasn't about showing them up, it was just being part of a group....though still, you couldn't help but feel arrogant should you come across anything you can easily solve.

"Heeeeeey! Anon!" You hear a familiar voice.

You turn....hey, it's Sweetie Belle...and no one else...and she had..a badge? "Sweetie Belle? Hey..uh..what's up?"

"Tch, I should be asking you that. You know how long it's been since you've been in school?"

"Over a week?"

"Yeah! You're not gonna explode or anything this time, right?" Sweetie Belle gave you a deep stare on that one. Huh, that explosion. You remembered it causing troubles before.

"No, pretty sure everything is going to go normal this time. In fact, you can count on it...so..what's with the badge? Where's Scootaloo and Applebloom?" Odd, they weren't around. Usually the three are always together

"Oh, they're probably still getting to school. I wanted to get a head start so everypony can see this. " She points to the badge "Before class actually starts"

....Ok...what did it mean? "What kind of badge is that? It looks fancy"

"This is an official badge of royal honor from her highness, Princess Cadance! ....That's what I'm going to say when I show it to everypony" She stood proudly as she said that.

"...Is that what it is though?" Really? She got it that fast?

"Duh, I got it for helping you. Isn't it shiny? And neat?" Sweetie Belle gave it a tap as she put out an arrogant grin

It did sparkle...but wait.. "Yeah..but, helping me? Does that really warrant a badge?"

"...Yes Anon...you were that hopeless without me"

.......Wut? "What?! She was already deeply into me. I could have done it without your help"

Sweetie Belle chuckles and shakes her head. "Tsk, tsk. Anon, there you go being all high and mighty and into yourself again. That would have ruined the date for sure."

You grumble...you know you didn't really NEED her help… You sigh..whatever..let her have her glory. "Sorry...thanks for the help Sweetie Belle"

"Nooooooooo problem" Sweetie Belle says near squeakily, and starts to step up her pace. "Now come on! The quicker we get to class. The more time we'll have to talk and show around my badge!"

....Sigh "Ok..." You follow her to the classroom. There were already foals getting to their seats. Socializing with one another in the corners. some talking with Cheerilee. No sign of DT, SS, or the rest of the CMC yet. "So, when are you going to bring out the badge?"

"Juuust wait. Gotta wait for at least Scootaloo and Applebloom. They haven't seen it either.....aaaaaaaand..no wait..that's Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon..shoot. Come on, Come on.....before class starts..." Sweetie Belle was getting pretty anxious.

Diamond Tiara, huh? Hmm, well. She should be pretty happy to see you. Haha, more like she'll swoon for you. "Well, while you wait. I'm going to go talk to Diamond Tiara..see how things a-..wait..."

You look around before stepping forward. You didn't notice it before, but some of the other foals were looking at you and whispering with one another. Some looked at you with admiration. Others, they didn't seem to look at you mockingly...they...sorta seemed afraid to.

"Anon!" Diamond Tiara rushes up to you and immediately rubs her head under yours. "You came!"

"Well..y-yeah, it's school." You said, nervous about how the other foals were acting...crap...this was about THAT day. Wasn't it?

"I know. But we were afraid you weren't going to show because of your dad...or something" Diamond said with a gentle sweet tone in her voice. She seemed pretty worried for you. You wondered if she knew about the chimera.

Silver Spoon adjusts her glasses, she notices something off about you, then giggles. "Diamond Tiara, do you notice anything different about Anon?"

"Different?" Diamond Tiara looks to her friend, confused.

"Look at his face..it's so cute!" Silver Spoon gushed.

Wut?

"Anon.....your face..it's all red" Diamond Tiara started to blush. "is it because of me?"

...WUT?! You tap your face...shit, why are you doing that nigga? You can't feel color. "U-uhhhh..." Were you blushing due to her attention?

She gives you a kiss on the nose..IN FRONT OF EVERYONE. "You're right Silver Spoon...that is cute..." She looks at you dreamily, which just makes you more red.

"........" you had nothing to say

You look around the class, now they were giggling...And as soon as Diamond Tiara heard that. She looked around with an angry expression. "What's so funny?! Hmmm? Because I kissed him? You better not be laughing at my prince! He's the hero colt, remember? If you laugh, and suddenly you get in trouble, he's not going to save you like he saved me! Got it?! Foalnapping ISN'T FUNNY!" Diamond Tiara says in anger. Looking around at the entire class. Was she keeping them in check after the whole club incident?

"Ooookkk..." Cheerilee steps in after that little rant. "Class...can we not start a ruckus, please? No yelling, no making fun of anypony, no making faces. If anypony makes fun of anypony else, it'll be straight to the corner...understand?"

They all look to her and nod with frowns on their faces. "Yes Miss Cheerilee"

Diamond Tiara raised her head up high. "Thank you miss Cheerilee for putting them in their places.I don't want you yelling at anypony like that, just come to me if there's a problem"

"That means you too Diamond Tiara..." Cheerilee then looks to her with an authoritative glare

"O-oh...ok...mnn" She backs down.

"And Anon...welcome back. erm...there's not going to be any exploding, right?" Cheerilee asks, being wary of you.

"...Oh..umm no. Trust me, I got it" Discord was probably not going to do shit now. You had this.

"Good...carry on. Class will start soon..I wonder where Applebloom and Scootaloo are. They are going to be late" Cheerilee heads back to her desk, she couldn't wait on them if they took too long. But she did worry about them just the same.

Sweetie Belle, being impatient and taking the opportunity, jumps in the middle of you, DT, and SS and shows off her badge. "Hey everypony...guess what I got!"

Silver Spoon immediately notices the shine of the badge piercing through her glasses. "Ohhh...what is that? That actually looks...totally neat and official!"

Diamond Tiara's attention on you is taken from a moment as she also notices the badge. "Hey yeah! That does look really good. It's shiny and crystally..... the type of crystals you'd see" Then she became enamored when she realized where that badge originated from "....are those..."

"Yeeep! Crystals from the Crystal Empire! This is a badge of honor from your highness, Princess Cadance..in fact.." Sweetie Belle leans in close to Diamond Tiara. "I'm the reason you got that date with Anon to go so well"

Diamond Tiara's mouth goes agape. "Woooooah...really?...Y-you're the one who got Anon to dress nice and stuff?...Wait...what does that have to do with the Crystal Empire?"

"Well..it was upon special request...from Princess Cadance herself mind you...that I get Anon all set up for you. I did a good job, didn't I?" Sweetie Belle was loving the attention.

"Yeah...T-thank you Sweetie Belle. You really..." Diamond Tiara looked to you, with another one of those dreamy smiles. "...Did a good job.."

....Agh..this was getting uncomfy now. But before you could even get a word out, the bell rang..and as it rang...

"Waaaaaiiitt for us!" Applebloom and Scootaloo come crashing in. There was a few laughs from the class as they stumbled past the front door.

"Almost late I see...What took you two so long" Cheerilee says as she hurries the students into their seats.

"Errrrr..." Scootaloo was at a loss

"We errr...was just dealing with somethin'. But we hurried along when we were done" Applebloom says with a smile that would suggest a huge lie.

"...Ok...well..you both barely made it... Take your seats, and we'll start the math quiz." Cheerilee said, with some sternness in her tone, as she went to grab the test sheets.

Math Quiz..already?..Well...it seemed everyone else agreed. They all whined as they sat in their seat. Sweetie Belle looked upset that she didn't get to show off her badge to her friends. You also hear the nearly late pair whispering to one another. It seemed Applebloom and Scootaloo were actually late because they woke up late...apparently from diving into their "Friendship" candy for most of the night...it was a candy you all got a bag from from the Sugarcube Corner during the festival. It was pretty good...but...eating enough to lose sleep over it?..Christ.

"If you all didn't study, that isn't my fault. I told you all the day before the festival that'd we'd be having a three hundred question quiz to cover not only how well you retained the lessons, but to make sure you're all attentive enough to actually complete it. The first hundred questions are all very very easy and should be gotten through very quickly. And then the difficulty will ramp up. You all have until recess to complete the quiz. Now come up and take a sheet and get started. Remember, this is worth ten grades...I know you all can do it. You just need to apply yourself." Cheerilee places a stack of papers on her desk. And let each classmate come up to take one...all except for you.

"No no Anon, you haven't been here to learn all the material. So you should actually feel relieved. I have this little activity math paper you can do. It's not much. But this side here will teach you some of the more advanced material, and the other side is where the questions are. If you need help, just come up here and we can learn it together" Cheerilee gave you a gentle smile. She wanted you to feel relaxed and calm. She had to consider you were at Twilight's and so you shouldn't be penalized. She felt this would be enough for you until you were up to speed.

And there...right there..you felt a little twinge in your head. Was she treating you like a child?....that all sounded....like a baby thing. "Woah woah woah, hold on Miss Cheerilee. I can take that test."

"Anon" Cheerilee shakes her head at you, nearly giggling from your bravado. "You haven't learned the material from the..well..much of anything really. I know you're smart. But you can't complete what you haven't learned"

You take a sheet anyway. "Watch me"

"Anon....No, give me back the sheet please. And take the activity book" Cheerilee frowned, she felt you were being too hasty

...No..NO..you knew you could do it! You didn't need a damn activity book. Dammit, you didn't need that much babying. You'd show you could do atleast that much. You weren't dumb. "Miss Cheerilee. I promise I can do this. Can't you just let me have a chance? I'll even take the grade hit if I don't do well"

"Anon..do you know what you're saying? Your grade is very important. You can't just throw it away because of your pride. You don't need to show you can do as much as the other students. I promise you'll catch up eventually" She was doing her best to dissuade you.

"Please...I really want to be part of the class, I want to show that despite everything that happens. That I can keep up"

Cheerilee can see the determination in your eyes. She sighs. She'd let you have your way...but if you screwed up, She'd still go light on you in terms of grading. She just wouldn't let you know that she would. "If you think you can do it...take a sheet, and then take your seat....good luck."

...Good....because you do just that. You take a quick peek at the questions as you ready your pencil into your mouth. Holy shit...this was all easy. The first hundred were baby tier...the rest was grade school. the last fifty was a little more complicated....at least for them. You snicker to yourself as you speed through the test. You didn't even need to work out your answers until the last fifty. And even then, it didn't take you long. You were well past your classmates. With a smile on your face, you put the paper on Cheerilee's desk...and wait.

Cheerilee didn't say a word. She didn't want to make a disturbance of any kind, even though she noticed some of the other students were looking at you as if you were crazy...it was crazy..at least to her....there’s no way your answers could be right after such a hasty finish.

....And yet...as she looked at them. She was once again amazed by your intelligence. It was just as sharp before as it is now. Even more so...how could you know all this? Maybe...when you were with Twilight? She thought this was beyond regular level..she wondered if she should even be teaching you anymore...perhaps getting you into advanced classes somewhere in Canterlot?

You just sat there. You could tell as you look around. You were way ahead of the other students. Good stuff.. This actually felt really nice. Until you just remembered once again..Diamond Tiara had to tell the others to stop laughing at you in terms of that day. You look around...was being mentally superior even something to be proud of?...Or would they make fun of it? Or were they just jealous of your obvious superiority? ...Why did you feel so anxious.. ...Dammit.

Some time passes as you ponder on what others might be thinking....and then......all of a sudden...the door opens...

The entire class looks back. Cheerilee looks forward…

You look back....

...A mare.

A teenaged mare....matching your eye color, coat, and mane color, stood at the door. She had tears in her eyes. She looked like she was in distress.

....And she was...beautiful...one of the most beautiful creatures you ever seen.

"Excuse me..Can I help you?" Cheerilee speaks in a calm manner, but she was staying cautious. It wasn't everyday a mare just busts into her classroom.

"Anon...Anon...a-are you here?" She stepped forward, looking around, some of the students were getting worried. Though the colts...they were looking at her in a different sort of way..a near lusty sort of way. Wait a second.. WAIT...ANON?! THATS YOU! YOU WERE ANON!

"...w-wut?"

Diamond Tiara was already near standing up. Some sense in her was flaring something fierce. And along with her, Applebloom was shaking...why was she shaking?...Come on...was she still not over you? Wait..why were you even thinking that..holy shit the MARE WAS RUSHING YOU! "GYAAGH!"

The mare just jumps onto you near violently. Hugging you tightly. Even Cheerilee barely had time to react.
“A-ANON! ANON IT'S BEEN SO LONG...I'VE MISSED YOU SO SO MUCH" She was crying, tears in her eyes. "I'VE COME SO FAR..JUST FOR YOU...YOU'RE OK..I ALMOST THOUGHT...MNNGGHHH..MY ANON!"

"MY ANON?!" Diamond Tiara hopped out of her chair and approached, her nose nearly letting flames out. "LISTEN HERE!....WHOEVER YOU ARE! HE'S MY ANON! NOT YOURS! NOW BACK OFF BEFORE I MAKE YOU UGLY! YOU HEAR ME?!"

Applebloom also stands, followed by Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo. "Yeah! If ya don't back off him him right now, yer gonna be in a load of trouble!"

"ENOUGH! EVERYPONY STEP BACK!" Cheerilee let's out. Pushing the Mare off of you, she didn't put too much force into it, just enough to separate her from you. "Everypony behind me! Now!" Cheerilee stands on guard. She didn't know who she was. But to her, it looked like she was attacking you. Hell, everyone was thinking that with the way she just jumped at you suddenly.

"MPH!" The mare lets out..and holy shit...she must have been weak because she smacked into the tables and fell over to her side with a thunderous crash. Cheerilee winced, it looked like she didn't mean to do that. She didn't think she put that much force into her push.

..Who..the hell was that mare?

Cheerilee didn't know what to say. Despite everything, she just stood at the ready to defend her students from any attack. That mare's movement was too sudden. She didn't like it.

"Anon...Are you alright?" Diamond Tiara asks as she pulls you back.

"Yeah...what happened?! How does that mare know ya? What did she mean by ‘it's been so long’ That sounds like ya met her before" Applebloom asks. She looked deeply concerned.

"I....uhh..I dunno..." You didn't. And while the confusion was growing. Nobody noticed a certain tiny colt rush up to the fallen mare. It was Pipsqueak.

"Are you ok Miss...?" Pipsqueak looked deep into her eyes, deeply worried for her. He then looked back "Miss Cheerilee, I don't think she meant any harm. I think she was giving Anon a hug.." Pip gave her a small nuzzle "...Miss...please be alright. You aren't hurt are you?"

"Pipsqueak! Get back here! You don't know what you're doing!" Cheerilee steps forward.

But the Mare looked to Pipsqueak. Then huddled into a ball and cried "I'm sorry...I'm sorry..I didn't mean to cause any trouble again. I..I just wanted to see my brother" Brother?

Now everyone was confused. They were all talking amongst themselves. ...Except for you...your pupils shrunk to tiny little beads.....it couldn't be...it CAN'T BE...

"Brother?!...Anon..you have a sister?!" The entire CMC and DT and SS say at the same time. Looking towards you...but you don't say anything.

...No...He fucking didn't....he did not...

"Brother?" Cheerilee carefully approached her, moving to Pip to at least keep him at a close distance. "I've never heard of Anon having a sister...do you have any proof? If you don't. Then you're going to be dealing with the proper authorities."

"I-I do..in my saddle bag..it's everything I have..p-please..I came so far...I don't want to lose him again..." She whined. This mysterious mare… She was wearing a saddle bag. It was rather large.

Cheerilee carefully..very carefully moved Pip back as she opened the bag and looked inside.

And the contents..? It was pictures...pictures of you, a younger colt you..with a female filly. Pictures of various ages of you and her. One as you as a baby foal as a younger version of the mare stood by your "parents". And there was a drawn picture that looked like it was done by two foals that said "Anon & Nymous. Family forever". Then Cheerilee finds a document, it's from the orphanage. It mentions the pair "Anon and Nymous" adoptees taken from a home upon parents death. It seemed you were very very young when it happened. "....Oh my.."

The mare...now known to Cheerilee as Nymous, just looked at you with sad eyes. "We were young when it happened. I tried to take care of him...but I was very young myself. They took us away. And then...they separated us. A family took me...I didn't want to go. But the orphanage told me Anon would have a better chance of being adopted by a nice family if he was on his own, instead of trying to give us to a family as a pair...The family I got turned out to be cruel...but I stayed so Anon would have more of that chance....After I learned he was adopted, and became the Hero Colt, I ran away..I wanted to look for him...I came so far...please...please...he may not even remember who I am...But I remember him..he's my little brother"

To Cheerilee...this was all real. She even saw tear stains on the drawing. And these documents....

"I'm so sorry..I..I didn't know" Cheerilee started to tear up. She looked back at her class. They all started to tear up..all except for you..you looked like you were in pure shock. "Let me help you up.." Cheerilee helped Nymous back to her hooves.

Pip then looked to Nymous with worry. "Excuse me miss, could I get you some water?"

"T-that would be nice" Nymous said, as she shook in her nervousness.

The other colts started nearing first. Very interested. "Can I get you some first aid?" One says.

"And can I give you a hug? My mom says hugs make anypony feel better" Said another colt in a rather excited fashion.

"Oh me too, me too!" Another says

"It would be an honor to hug the sister of the great Hero Colt Anon!" Snips says.

.....oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Nymous just blushed and looked shy. "Oh my...I didn't think I'd suddenly get so many little ponies who care...here..if you all want a hug..I'd like to give you one each...i-if you don't mind miss.." She looks to Cheerilee with broken, sad eyes.

"I...I don't see why not." Cheerilee was looking her over, feeling bad for what she had done. Nymous seemed long traveled, and despite her beautiful coat, seemed to have some old injuries. From her travels?...Or her old home?...The poor thing.

Chapter 220

Nymous then became busy hugging any colt that entered her vicinity. You were just silent.....what the hell was all this?

"Anon..how could ya not remember havin' a sister? Family bonds are like the most important thing besides friendship..." Applebloom said. She found it odd that you somehow just didn't remember. "Ah mean, she seems so nice. How could ya not remember that? You don't look too young not to remember in some of these photos."

........

"Anon?” Applebloom gives you a shake

"...Hrnn..." Diamond Tiara waved her hoof in front of you, garnering no reaction.

"I think he's stunned from all the joy he's feeling from finding out he has a sister. I guess it's really that overwhelming." Silver Spoon says to Diamond Tiara, taking notice that you were just staring at Nymous.

"Well he can't just sit there." Sweetie Belle gives you a push towards Nymous. "Get in there and say hi already!"

Oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo...

You were now directly in front of her, knocking a colt to the side as you got pushed forward. "...Hello Anon...I-I hope I don't scare you...." Nymous says with a shy stutter in her voice

Ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo...

You turn your head to Miss Cheerilee, eye twitching as you knew what this all meant. "Miss Cheerilee, do you mind if I have a private moment with my sister I never met?"

Cheerilee was crying, she blew her nose on a tissue, she just couldn't handle how depressing and yet happy it all was. "O-of course..j-just d-don't go too far..."

.....oooooooooooooooooo...

You walk with Nymous outside, through the front doors. A colt who was obviously lovestruck with the false mare jumps behind the both of you, but you push him back by the face through the door before slamming it shut."Egh..."

You then go for the moment of truth. You turn to Nymous "......Chrysalis?"

Nymous giggled "Is that my name now?" She looks at her legs with a mocking smile. "No, I think it's Nymous now."

You were still too surprised to sigh. How did she get here? Did she escape..or… "What are you doing here Chrysalis?"

"What am I doing here?" Nymous frowns. "Can I not visit my only friend at his school? I missed you, you know"

"Did you?" You didn't believe it.

"Ohhh I did. You're my only other source of entertainment and socializing after all, among other things" She licks her lips.

You let out a sigh, fucking dammit. You were gonna have a heart attack from all this stress. "Chrysalis...I can already tell you're here to mess with me. Did Discord let you out because he got angry at me?"

She shook her head. "Angry? He's delirious. The buffoon has no idea what to do. And given all his ramblings, I felt it was my duty as your friend to suggest my release...he was never going to actually do it otherwise. And because he's looking for any solution that might help, He agreed..." Nymous looked down at you, and then put her hoof under your chin to raise your head so she could get a good look at you. "Apparently you have become a moral pony like everypony else. That's sad to hear."

You grumble and step back. So she managed to get here through coercion. Discord didn't know what to do? Was he really freaking out that much just because you decided to take the more moral path? Why should that bother him?...really..he was being a baby. "Look, It's not really that. It's just that being a good guy feels better than being an ass. Trying to be better than anypony else just gets me into trouble."

"And? Are you telling me you'd rather live the life of a boring and bland pony? Being a colt has blinded you then. The only reason it's easy for you is because nopony is there to make things difficult. In other words, your "age" has made you deluded."

"Deluded?! Listen here. I just want to live a loving and peaceful life! With my friends and family. I don't need you or Discord telling me how to live my life! Understand?" She didn't understand. How could she assume such things?

Chrysalis just lets out a annoyed "hmph, Is that it?" Chrysalis gives you a cold hard stare. "I'm not Discord, you twit. I'm not going to step away just because you have a flawed ideology now. It's a weakness, that's what it actually is. Let me ask you, because it became very obvious. You want to help me, don't you? You want me to be able to live with the ponies in peace...right?"

.......You did. you were still her friend. It was in a neutral zone, but you actually found enjoyment in her company. Even the little noire moment during Nightmare Night felt special to you. "I do."

"Well sorry Anon, truth be told...I'm not interested in befriending any of these fools. And the way you're turning out, I have a feeling you'd turn me in to the princesses once you've settled into this new mindset. If you want to live this life you want...you need to get rid of me. You may have had some chance of getting me to see some good in them...but there's no way you're going to do it spouting shitty ass friendship lessons at me"

Shitty ass? wut? she just said that without it being a reminder of human language. "Anypony can see the light Chrysalis...and...what's with the cursing?"

"Oh, that? I picked up on it. I really did enjoy the documentary. Those humans are the true definition of warrior. The way you're acting. You'd just be a weak civilian rather than a citizen. You're unfit to be part of the roughnecks" Chrysalis's tone...she was dead serious on that. Holy crap...

You raise an eyebrow at her. "Are you serious? Do you really..." You now start to show your agitation. "REALLY think I can't balance my friendship with you and my friends and family? That I'm suddenly all weak and useless?"

"Think? I know....come on Anon, I know what happened with the chimera. It had you under it’s paw like you were a slab of meat." She lets out a mocking laugh "Pathetic. The Anon I knew would have used the horn or shot that grappling hook of yours right into it's eye..."

.....Oh shit....that was actually a good idea…

"But instead you ran towards it like a sentimental idiot. Tell me Anon, if that situation were to happen and you didn't have little Princess Do-No-Wrong with you, Do you think the yellow one or you would have survived? One of you would have perished for sure...you can't deny this. Go ahead and try" She waited for your response

"..I.....I....."

......You had nothing.

Shit...s-she was right. You just rushed in like a dumb colt. "..I..didn't realize.."

But she stops you with her own words before you can finish that thought. "I know you didn't. And that's why I'm here...to make you remember. And also to engorge myself. I trust you have no problem with that?"

You couldn't risk her just walking about. Not due to Discord's insane whim. "Chrysalis...you can't just go doing things the way you like to do. I know you'll cause trouble. You have to behave."

"Behave? I think I'm doing a good job of that so far. What, are you afraid of me ruining your life?"

.....Sorta. "Kinda"

She chuckles, she then lets out a hearty laugh before slamming you to the ground. She then starts digging her hoof into your side while speaking angrily as you yelp in pain. "Too bad, I seem to remember you having no problem ruining mine. You're my friend, but mark my words. I'm no pushover, I'm not some soft piece of shit that you can just flush down a toilet. Are we clear?"

"Yes! Yes..just stop. Get off!" You were whining in pain. Chrysalis rolled her eyes at how pathetic it sounded and removed her hoof. ".....just terrible"

You get up and rub your side, stepping away from her, now you were angry. "Fucking...Fine..sheesh..I'm sorry for ruining your life...you didn't have to fucking do that though"

Chrysalis put a hoof to her forehead and shook her head. "Apologizing now?.....uggghhhh...you're going to need a lot more work. It'll be alright though..we have plenty of time."

......

She wanted to convert you to something you didn't want to be anymore. And she was being harsh about it....fine then. You wouldn't reveal who she is. And you would play her game. If she was going to try to convert you, then you're going to convert her. She'll see that her entire hive could live in harmony if they just give it a chance. "Yeah we do...and I think I'm getting it now. But it works both ways Chrysalis. And you're in Equestria...in the very town that holds the Princess of Friendship. And you're going to see that I was right. You'll see."

"So are you telling me if you were put in another life and death situation, you'd just roll over and die? Because "in this very town" live a bunch of ponies who shriek at the littlest of things. That's what you seem to be inferring to me anyway." Chrysalis states...she wasn't wrong.

You can't give in "N-no! I'd try harder and do things more intelligently...Geez...You know I'm talking about in general."

"...We'll see about that..." She smirked at you. "But you're a fool"

Suddenly, you both can hear the door opening. Chrysalis immediately hugs onto you, holding you gently, rubbing on the side where she pressed on you.

"Is everything alright out here?" Cheerilee asks

"Oh...y-yes ma'am. I was just going to return my brother to you after this hug. He's accepted me...but..I don't want to interrupt his class time...I'll....find someplace to stay until you're done" Nymous says with a fake meekness.

"Oh no no...It's just my students are worried. And I'd like them to see everything is alright so they can continue their tests. If you'd like, you can wait in the back of the classroom until recess." Cheerilee offers her.

"I'd love that actually...i-if it's ok with my little brother.." Nymous says in a meek and nervous tone as she looks back at you

Mmnnnnn...dammit "Yeah...it's alright.." You give Nymous a big hug. As nice and nuzzly as possible. "I'm just soooo glad to have a big sister. She's so loving..."

Cheerilee started to tear up again. "O-ok..w-well....come in you two"

You both walked into the class, whispering to each other.

Chrysalis whispers "You're going to lose Anon...."

"You wish..." You whisper back with confidence in your heart.

You sat back upon your seat and quietly waited for recess. You could see the colts in the class taking glances at Nymous. Nymous...or really..Chrysalis...was loving it. She was batting her eyes and smiling at them. Piercing their hearts and sucking on the juices.

It was actually annoying how easily she was getting attention. She was making it harder for you to denounce her in any way. You knew what she was doing.... She was getting favor. That way, if you said anything against her, the rest of the class would jump on you. Clever, but it's from an old tired playbook. Problem is....you couldn't figure out how to counter it.

After the last of the tests were turned in. Cheerilee let you all go outside for recess. She felt it'd be safe to let Nymous be among the other students. You stepped out in a group with the CMC, DT, SS......and Nymous. Most of the colts kept a distance, but ogled her pure beauty. They didn't feel comfortable getting too close when ALL of them were trying to get to her now at once.

"So...Nymous. Ah noticed yer cutie mark is a gem shaped like a heart,what does it mean?" Applebloom asked. Yeah, you yourself didn't even notice her cutie mark. Why a heart gem?

"Awwwwwww....” Nymous dodged the question as she looked to Applebloom with gentle, motherly eyes. "You're so curious. Well, it's representative..and I only think this as even I'm not sure...It could be of my unbreakable love...especially for my brother. And you.....you must be his little marefriend? You're so adorable. I think you both make a great couple!"

You nearly puked...WHAT THE FUCKING FUCK WAS SHE DOING?!

"H-huh?..." Applebloom blushed deep and turned her head. "I-it's.....not like that" She frowned, but was already starting to feel a certain validation she thought she'd never feel. To instantly be recognized by a family member of you?...It made those old feelings heat up.

"Actuallllly...." Diamond Tiara stepped up and nuzzled into you "He's MY coltfriend, and I'm HIS marefriend."

...Ohhh..even you could feel Applebloom's heart break all over again.

"Come on Diamond Tiara, you don't have to be so...announcy about it." Scootaloo says as she moves up to her and whispers "Applebloom is still feeling some of those feelings...I dunno how it works...but, just don't mention it in front of her. Ok? Me and Sweetie Belle have been trying to get her out of this funk for awhile now. She's being really stubborn about it"

But Diamond Tiara dismisses her. "What?! And? I'm not going to hide my love for Anon because she can't get over him. I'm sorry, I know she's all our friend. But he already made his choice."

And you could tell...ouch...that made Applebloom feel even worse. But she held her head up high, and spoke. "She's right, ahm just being a big dummy. Like my sister says, ahm too young for those kinds of shenanigans"

"See? She gets it" Diamond Tiara points out.

You speak up. "Uhh..if I can speak. Maybe it's just not a good idea to show our affections at all during school. There are a lot of foals around. They could be jealous...and.."

Diamond Tiara gasps. "You're right Anon! They could get jealous! And if they all get jealous..they'd all try to get you even more...you're the hero colt after all." She shifts her eyes at the other fillies and gave them cold stares "There might be other fillies who want you."

Ok..that's not exactly what you meant. But if it eased Appleblo- "Woah! Agh" Diamond Tiara pushes you so hard you fall to your side and hit the side of your head.

"Right...no affection. In fact, I'll be mean sometimes..hmph. I don't need affections anyway...not during school" Diamond says as she looks away with a snooty attitude, trying to act uncaring.

...oooogghhhh

And while you were picking yourself up. You noticed Nymous whispering something to Applebloom. And whatever it was...it...it put a smile on her face?

What?! FUCK… You immediately step towards Nymous and whisper in her ear. "Ok..what did you tell her?" You could hear Sweetie Belle take up the opportunity to talk about her badge. You used that to make a soundscreen so they wouldn't catch your whispers.

"....I just gave her hope Anon..that's all I did" Nymous chuckled as she gave you a pat on the head.

"What?! You can't do that. I'm trying to get her to let go of those feelings!"

"Shhhh, don't get too loud Anon. They might hear you. I'll just say this...I could taste her dying love for you. She may have or may have not been close...It's one of the most stubborn senses of schoolyard crush I've ever tasted. It was a different type of taste...so I re-sparked the flame. If you actually step up to the plate then it should be easy for you to handle. At least you're not dealing with three hearts...only two."

Three?....what? WHAT?! "G-gnmm.. w-what do you mean three hearts?"

"Oh, nothing much. It appears the white one has very near dead feelings for you. Nowhere near as stubborn and probably died long before anypony could realize it, even her. I'd bet you turned her off with your self centered attitude you tend to have...or used to have." Chrysalis snickers

OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOooooooooooooooo

Y-you had to be fucking careful..Wut?! Sweetie Belle...really? "W-what about the other fillies?"

Nymous chuckled. "Are you asking for my help? Are you asking me to be your love radar?....do you want to admit defeat and follow my lead?"

Ngh. "Whatever...forget I said anything. You're not getting me that easily"

Son of a bitch. You nearly bit it hard. Asking her for help?! What were you thinking? If you put yourself in a way of owing her, she would take advantage over it like no tomorrow. She's worming herself into your life. She's making too many power plays. There had to be a way to make her see your point of view. Because the longer this goes, the more she'll fuck with your life.

And while you pondered, you hear the barks...of a puppy?

"Puppy!" you hear Twist say as her and a bunch of other fillies and colts gather around a...really really adorable puppy. Perfect, even she couldn't stomach something that adorable. It had cute little white paws..it almost looked like a smaller, more adorable Winona. This couldn't be more perfect. It was being playful and licking the faces of the other foals.

You take point "Awwww, look at that adorable little puppy. Hey sis, you like puppies, right? Come on, let's go pet it! Come on everypony! It'll be fun!" The rest of the group seemed to agree, but Nymous hesitated stepping forward. "Something wrong sis?" You give her an arrogant grin. She wants to be a bitch? Well, you could still pull off some asshole moves of your own to put her in her place.

"O-oh..it's nothing..I'd love to pet the puppy. I'm just wondering where it came from...I hope it's not lost." Oh yes..you could tell she didn't like that puppy at all. But she was going to see how nice it was to give love to a lost puppy than it is to just take it for herself. She'd have no choice but to join in, lest she make herself suspicious.

You all take turns petting the puppy, deciding to do it in a certain order, with Nymous being last right after Diamond Tiara. With each pony petting. You could feel Nymous's spirit dropping. You knew how the show works. All she'd have to do is show actual love to a animal and bam..the rest should work itself out.

But...as the turn actually came to Diamond Tiara...something went horribly horribly wrong.

The puppy suddenly became feral. It was growling maliciously at her, making her fall back, restricting her movement. "W-what's wrong with it? D-did I do something wrong? N-nice puppy..p-please..d-don't hurt me" But the puppy moved closer, the other foals were getting worried.

Fuck, it was about to jump. You were hoping the puppy just got startled. But no, it WAS vicious all of a sudden. You call out to Diamond to move...but it's too late...

...or...was it?

Nymous heroically jumps in between Diamond Tiara and the puppy. The puppy..holy shit...meant business and had power behind it's bite. it took a big bite at Nymous's chest. Making her yelp in pain and fall backwards.

You were stunned. Not only at the attack. But at who protected Diamond Tiara. Now, even worse. Some of the colts were trying to block the puppy or trying to grab it. But the puppy was barking viciously at all who approached it.

"Hey, everypony get back! Somepony get Miss Cheerilee! And don't worry, ahm gonna handle this!" Applebloom steps up as she takes out some food from her food bag and sticks some of it on a stick she found.

Nooope. "Applebloom, don't do it!" You step up next to her. "Everypony, get back..Applebloom, you too. That thing means business. Let me handle it. Get all the foals back to the classroom, ok?"

"No can do, Anon, ah got this. It's just hungry is all. There's no reason to hurt it. Just check on yer sister, alright?" Applebloom said as she bit onto one end of the stick and waggled it infront of the puppy "C'mon fella, get a smell of the stick"

You went to check on Nymous, hoping..fucking hoping Applebloom knew what she was doing. "Ch...I mean, Nymous..are you ok?...Seriously? Are you ok?"

But Nymous just wimpered as she spoke "I-I think..A-anon..you need to help your friend...that puppy..I don't think it's...ngh"

What?...no...wait...Chrysalis can sense feelings. The puppy must be..evil?...oh shit… "Applebloom get out of there!" You rush back towards her as she nearly makes contact with the puppy.

"...Ok now...fetch!" Applebloom tosses the stick, but the puppy doesn't go for it. Instead it dives right at Applebloom. Applebloom, not expecting it at all. Yelps and raises her front legs to either try to fight off the puppy or protect herself.

But she didn't have to do either. "APPPLLEEBLLOOOM!" You shove her out of the way of the puppy as it bites right onto your leg. making you howl in pain. "GODDAMMIT! NO..SCREW IT! NOT THIS TIME MNGGGHH!"

You already got beat by a fucking Chimera, fuck this puppy. You didn't care if everyone around didn't want to see it hurt. You weren't going to let yourself get torn up by a fucking baby dog. You raise then slam your leg to the ground, making the puppy slam onto it's belly. Making it let go and yelp in pain...but oh no..you weren't done. With a yell, you stomp on the puppy once, and then buck it away. It flies a few feet upwards before falling back down. Despite the damage you thought you did to it, the vicious fuck managed to get up and run away as if nothing happened.

You could hear the foals crying, some whining, some scared. They had no idea what happened. Applebloom got up, and looked at you, her hero. Although it was a puppy, it managed to bite into both a mare and you..the hero colt. That puppy was more vicious than any animal she ever seen..aside from that chimera she herself had run into.

Applebloom just looked at you longingly "Anon...you saved me"

You were about to ask her if she was alright, until dread hit your very soul when you looked into those sparkling eyes...

Chapter 221

You quickly look away, trying to act cool and uncaring "Yeah...it wasn't anything big. Just a puppy. Y'know, I am the hero colt"

As you tried to pass it off as nothing. You noticed the looks of some of your classmates. Some were relieved, others seemed off put by the fact that you hurt a puppy, and others saw you the hero.

You then turned to Chrysalis, trying to get out of your head that everything was now suddenly going wrong. You can't let it get to you. It's what Chrysalis would want.

But then...looking at her.

She was checking to see if Diamond was alright while she was checking her injuries....wow. That was actually amazing. You didn't expect her to just jump and save Diamond like that. Maybe there was hope for her yet...though..she was still soaking up the attention the colts were giving her as they moved up to check on her.

"Anon...I" Applebloom shook her head, she noticed you distancing yourself from her, she was trying to get her head out of the clouds, so she just tried to be plainly forward. "Ahh, thanks. For savin' me I mean. That was some quick thinkin'" But then she noticed your leg "..Wait..Anon.."

And you notice her looking at it. "I'm fine...I'm fine" You really weren't. your wounds were visible and it was clear that the puppy took a big bite out of you. and although you stopped bleeding, there was still trails of dry blood along your leg and coat. It stung too.

Before Applebloom could say anything more. Cheerilee charges onto the scene after being alerted by the other students. "What's going on? what's this about a mad puppy?"

Many of the students started to gather around her, telling her what happened. Cheerilee was stunned that such a vicious puppy would be skulking around the school. She then notices you and Nymous.

"Oh no....Are you both ok?" Cheerilee asks.

"I'll be fine...as long as the little ones are ok.." Nymous says, standing tall and brave.

"Same...It just that it bit my leg. Ngh" You let out a little whine as you step forward.

Cheerilee knew she had to move fast. If the puppy was out there and capable of that kind of damage. She knew she had to get her students to safety. She also had to do something about your leg and Nymous's chest. "Ok everypony. Gather around me and stay close to my side. Do not wander off and keep your eye out. We're going to go back to the classroom. Do not panic...everything will be ok" Cheerilee had to speak in a soothing voice. She wanted to let all her students know everything was ok.

You all stuck close as you all moved back into the classroom. Cheerilee closed the door and then looked out the windows to see if there was any sign of the puppy. None....She then went to get some first aid from her desk.

She looked to you and Nymous after announcing to the students to be alert and NOT to leave. And put the first aid box down next to you. "Hold still Anon, this is going to sting. But we have to get that leg handled."

"Ok, got it" You nod

You complied as she worked on and then bandaged your leg. It did sting, but it wasn't anything you couldn't handle. You just let out a small whine.

"How did this even happen?" Cheerilee asks as she bandages up and around Nymous's chest. "Was it really a puppy that did this to the both of you?"

Nymous nodded "It was....poor little thing must have been scared and alone. It attacked the other students. But Anon was able to stop it before it did any real harm...I wish he didn't hurt it like that though...It was just a puppy"

Diamond Tiara speaks up as she stands next to Nymous "They both did an amazing job miss Cheerilee! You should have seen it. The puppy would have gotten me if it wasn't for Nymous! She saved me just like Anon would! She's definitely Anon's sister!" She seemed pretty positive despite what just happened. Though her rally for Nymous seemed to spur on the other students.

"....but he still hurt that poor puppy" Another, slightly younger filly mentions. In which a few agree.

Yeah but the damn thing was insane! "Woah woah hold on. Excuse me.." You lift up the leg where you got bit "Are we forgetting that the puppy bit my leg?"

"Yeah...but it was probably just hungry.." The filly said with a slight stutter.

"Ah dunno, I thought that too and tried to get it to bite onto a stick. It didn't do it. So ah don't think it was hungry" Applebloom threw in her two cents "besides..." Applebloom then takes a small glance at you "ah never seen a puppy that could bite like that."

"Neither have I...." Cheerilee then looked to Nymous "Nymous, I know it may seem odd to ask considering you just got here. But I need a trustworthy pony to watch over the students. I'm going to go out there and get some ponies to help me find that puppy. I can't let anypony leave the classroom until it's found or we're sure it's gone. I'm also going to get a doctor to look at Anon and your's wounds. I can only do so much and it could be more serious than it looks."

Nymous nodded "You can count on me..." She wraps her front hoof gently around a colt, making it blush as she pulls it closer "I'll make sure to keep all these sweet little foals safe and sound."

Cheerilee felt a sense of relief. She felt she could trust Nymous...

You however...was conflicted. This was Chrysalis, what if she had some sinister plan or something?

But the way she saved Diamond Tiara....and took that bite. Maybe there was a heart in there. You just had to let it bloom by trusting her.

Cheerilee reminded her students to not leave the classroom under any circumstances and that everything would be alright. She hugged a few of the needier foals to calm them down. And then she left.

"Alright!" Diamond Tiara announced as she stepped close to you "Now that Miss Cheerilee is gone, I'm going to say one rule. One rule I expect everypony to follow. And that's not going anywhere near Anon or Nymous's bandages. Because I know you colts, you all think "battle scars" are cool and will try to take a look. And I swear, if I see one bandage out of place..." She shakes her hoof angrily at each and every colt in the room. They all gulped and nodded.

"Good..." Diamond Tiara then walks up to you, passing by Applebloom as she nuzzles onto you "Are you ok Anon? That puppy didn't hurt you too badly, did he?"

You wince, you wince because you can see Applebloom frown from the attention you were getting.
"I'm fine...u-umm. Diamond Tiara, I need to go check on my sister...errr...I have this overwhelming feeling to make sure she's ok."

"But...she's right there..." Diamond Tiara points to her, she was right. She was right in the room.

"What I mean is. I want to get a closer look...and...remember? Jealous fillies?" You explain

"oooohhhhh" Diamond Tiara backs off "Right..." She takes quick glances around to make sure no one else was ogling you. But she does notice Applebloom looking pretty glum. "Applebloom? what's wrong?"

"Wha? Oh...nothin...erm..just worried about Miss Cheerilee" Applebloom lied.

Diamond Tiara smiled at her and moved up close and gave her bow a tap and slight tug. "Don't worry about Miss Cheerilee, she's smart enough to figure everything out."

it just had to attack Applebloom. Applebloom just had to be a stubborn and heroic idiot. At this point, you had to make the choice of just telling her off as nice as possible that you just aren't interested. Because you were going to go insane if this kept up.

You slip by the two fillies and walk towards Nymous. Who notices you and gives a colt a nice head rub before telling him to go play with the other colts. She did seem to have a vigilant eye on the door. Making sure no one actually left the classroom.

"Chry....Nymous. Can I say something?" You ask

Nymous looks to you, with a sweet and gentle smile "My brother, of course you can...But..you are alright, aren't you?"

You nod, you knew you'd be ok. You've endured worse. "Yeah..but umm...I just wanna say. I'm glad you actually came, saving Diamond Tiara like that.."

You speak to suggest in a way that it was her true self that jumped to save DT, and not some farce. "it must have taken all your heart to do something like that for somepony else. Thank you"

Nymous pulled you close for a gentle hug. A hug that you actually fully embrace. You never felt so warm in a fuzzy sense towards Chrysalis before. You didn't expect her to give in so soon...or so easily. It felt really nice. And given she was playing your sister. It made you think of the future...and how having her around could make things better. Sure, you now had problems with Applebloom again..but that wasn't her fault.

You then whisper "Thanks Chrysalis...."

And then she whispers "It's no trouble Anon, no trouble at all...Although,You really should thank the Captain. He wanted to take your leg off originally"

You chuckle "Well, he's just a little sil-................"

............

You don't even flinch or move. You just speak in a very low voice. ".....repeat that...."

she said nothing, instead Nymous's gentle smile turned into a sinister grin.

Your mind was screaming. You could feel the walls of your sanity falling apart.

The Captain?! The puppy was the Captain?! The runt?! Discord let him out too!?...wait...no

You slowly take a quick glance at Applebloom, something Nymous notices. When you turn your head back towards her. Her grin reaches Grinch levels. "..y-you....."

Chrysalis spoke a low whisper "It isn't easy anymore...is it?"

Your eye twitches from the full realization that she fucking did it on purpose. She saved Diamond Tiara to gain her favor, then made sure you saved Applebloom to accidentally gain back hers. How did she?.....did she really take your advice on improving her planning? There had to be a flaw.....

......oh god....

You fly into a silent rage. Everything was falling apart instantly.Everything was going to fall apart further if she kept this up. She was undoing everything like it was a goddamn single line of thread to be pulled.

In a blind rage, you put your hooves around her neck and start choking the shit out of her.

But she only giggles and lays on her belly as she tilts to the side to grab onto you and nuzzle you "Oh my little brother, I didn't know how affectionate you are. Come here and give your sister a sibling embrace"

NGH "I'm trying to kil-NGHHHH"

She squeezes you tightly and starts rolling onto her back. giggling "Oh, how I've waited so long for this"

Goddammit, another thing you forgot was that Chrysalis was strong as fuck. Even stronger now since there was love all over the goddamn room. You couldn't break free and she was nearly crushing you.

And then you hear it...laughter from the other foals in the room. Not your friends, not even the colts, as they started wondering if they could get in on that. But the fillies were laughing. Were they laughing because it was cute? or because it made you seem weak? you didn't know...YOU DIDN'T KNOW

She finally releases you from her grip while you were trying to pull back. Sending you back at a quick pace.

You roll back like a ball and slam your head on a desk while upside down, then your body drops forward onto your back. You look up straight in the air, seeing stars and blurs.

"Hey, we can get a hug right?" Snails asked

"Yeah, that hug was so good it even sent Anon flying. Me next, me next!" Another colt calls out

"Hurrah for Anon's sister! The sister of the hero colt! Giver of hugs!" Snips called out

Even the smaller fillies were getting onto the action. Diamond Tiara as well, she didn't even seem to notice you fell back and hit your head. Her reasoning was she now wanted to get closer to her future "sister in law"

"Geez, everypony loves your sister, huh?" Sweetie Belle walks over to you, and helps you up.

"Yeah, look at them all. I've never seen this much enthusiasm to be hugged by a pony before. They already think she's super great." Scootaloo adds, feeling a little jealous "So she took a bite from a puppy, big deal. Rainbow Dash has handled a lot more than that"

Applebloom wasn't among them, she was behind the crowd of foals. Using the position to be alone and collect her thoughts.

You yourself also had to collect yours. You also had to ask if they heard anyone talking about anything related to the sibling embrace, you wanted to know about that giggling.

"Yeah...she's real great" you say sarcastically "....any idea why the fillies in the class were giggling at me?"

Sweetie Belle tapped at her badge, feeling jealous that now nobody seemed to care about it. She was even building up jealousy towards you. But was doing her best to hide it. "Ehhh, they just find it "adorable" that you and Nymous are getting along so well despite the fact that she just showed up. I dunno, I 'm glad that she found you...but you didn't even know that she existed. It just seems really weird to me. Especially since all the boys in the class are acting all goofy around her. She ain't that cute"

"Yeah, she doesn't have that lean and strong look Rainbow Dash has. And yet they are all falling for her for some reason....it's weird. It's a good thing you aren't like that Anon...actually, it's kinda weird. I'd think you'd be crying and sobbing knowing you had a sister. Y’know, one of those tender moment type of things"

Crying..and sobbing? No,...in front of everyone? Noooo..no..no "No, I wouldn't do that. I mean, we just met. And that hug? It was just so she'd feel better. She seemed like she needed it"

"Yeaaaahhhhh, it looks like she needs ALL the hugs..." Sweetie Belle found it just...really eerie how everyone was just flocking around her. "Anyway.." Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo pull you away to a corner.

"Wha? Hey..what's up..Why are you two pulling me away like that?"

"Shhhhhh" Sweetie Belle shushes you

"...don't shush me ok? I have a lot of things going on in my mind and I don't need anything else. So what..what's going on?" Why the sudden shift? Why were fillies so damn weird sometimes?

"Yeesh, you're being touchy all of a sudden." Sweetie Belle notices, not liking your reaction at all.

"Yeah well....just deal with it. I'm not in the mood" You gruff.

You really weren't. You had to compile everything in your head. All that info. And you had to try to counter Chrysalis somehow.

"Deal with it? You do realize we now have to help you with Applebloom right? Or did you not notice she's fallen for you again....all that hard work..wasted." Sweetie Belle let out an agitated sigh.

"...Hey Sweetie Belle, relax a little. Anon's sister did just show up. And that puppy attack? Come on, what were the odds? I can get why Anon is upset....plus..y'know, you kinda been high and mighty yourself since you got that badge" Scootaloo points out. actually being a voice of reason. “Chill out”

Sweetie Belle looks to the bandages on your legs....then she takes a quick glance at her badge. She then thought Scootaloo was right in that instant. Especially the fact that the puppy seemed damned quick,strong, and smart. "Sorry...I guess I have gotten a little full of myself since I got this badge...but, y'know...I'm really good at this"

"I know, the badge is great. But we gotta think about Applebloom and Anon too..." Scootaloo looks to you "Anon, she's in deep. I mean, when Sweetie Belle fell for you it was easy. But Applebloom is something else"

..you had heard...you look to Sweetie Belle with half slanted, unamused eyes. "So...how exactly did that come about anyway?"

"....I don't wanna say" Sweetie Belle turned her head away. It wasn't that she was shy, it's just that she felt it was shameful.

But you didn't pick up on that. "Sweetie Belle, please tell me you don't have a crush on me..."

"What?! No....not anymore...ergh..." Sweetie Belle did a complete about face, feeling stupid about it. "I thought you were neat way back when you told Diamond Tiara off. I thought you were brave and even a little bad..it was cool....egh" She then turned her head to you and shook it, both at you and about her own foolishness "Then I realized how dumb that was, that I'm too young for that sort of thing, and the way you act, I'd probably end up wanting to slam a rolling pin on your face. No offense, but I really don't see what Applebloom or Diamond Tiara sees in you. Personally anyway"

"...Neither do I... I like Diamond Tiara, I really do. But part of me even wonders if I was making the right decision"

"I'm with you on that. After that whole thing with Big Mac and Miss Cheerilee, I never want to deal with love again...ever. Not with love poison anyway" Scootaloo found the whole thing fruitless.

"Well I don't wanna give up on it either. And what do you mean "wonder"? Just because I don't want you doesn't mean to give up....we all went through so much trouble. So you're not walking out of it now. Everything will be fine when we get can Applebloom to relax about the whole thing..." Sweetie Belle then began to tap at her chin "But how...?"

Sweetie Belle couldn't think of anything as Cheerilee made return. She brought with her a few burly stallions to look for the puppy. She also managed to bring over a unicorn doctor.

The doctor wanted to see both you and Nymous. He looked at you since you were younger. He didn't like the bite on your leg. Especially since he'd never seen such a big bite from such an apparent small dog. He tells you that Cheerilee's work on the leg is fine. Just don't do any running, but you could still walk around.

For Nymous. He found it odd, to him, the wound was very minor. a contrast from what he was told. Even Cheerilee found it odd. But that crafty bugbutt just explained it away as everyone making a bigger deal out of it due to the situation being so hot...or something like that.

Cheerilee thought it'd be good to end the class early. With the stallions out and about, she thought it'd be safe to let the foals out. She'd stand to the front of the school to make sure they all left without worry.

As for the CMC. Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle decided they'd try talking to Applebloom again. But Sweetie Belle made the extra explanation that you need to deal with it yourself eventually. Or else everything will go sour.

....you'd really have to. But first, you had to figure out what the fuck Chrysalis was doing. Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon wanted to spend the rest of the day with you and Nymous. But you just smile and tell them that you want to spend the day with your new sister. Get to know her, and see if you can get her settled with your father. Thankfully, they buy it. You needed that. You also had to make sure that Diamond Tiara never noticed Applebloom was falling in deep for you. Because Applebloom already seemed like she was willing to cut right back in.

You walk out with Chrysalis. But of course, she had to give all the colts who swarmed her a goodbye kiss. Nearly knocking each and every one of them out. Cheerilee thought it was cute. You internally groaned.

You both start walking through the streets of Ponyville.

".....So what's your endgame? Ruining my life completely?" You ask

"That's pretty melodramatic, don't you think? Anypony can handle a love triangle if they aren't a complete pansy. What happened to you? Was Twilight Sparkle's garbage really that influential?" She asks back. Rather composed and orderly in her speech.

"It's not garbage!...it's just..it just feels nicer to be nice. Are you telling me being around all those kids. Being liked. Being adored. Saving Diamond Tiara but not really. You didn't feel a thing?"

"I did" Nymous rubs her stomach "Do you realize how long it's been since I had a full feast of ponies? Stallions are such idiots. Even when they are young they will completely fall for a pretty face. Come on Anon.." She says in a gentle yet sultry voice "come closer to your sister." She gently bumps your side with her own.

You let out an "ehhh” You then look at her, annoyed with her "Chrysalis...why Applebloom? What did you even tell her when you spoke to her privately?...and do NOT tell me it's a secret. I'm not in the mood."

"Not in the mood? I'm actually glad to hear that. It means you're getting your backbone back" She gives you a sly grin before gently sliding her hoof along your back. sending a nice tingly feeling through it. But as nice as it was, you still slap her hoof away.

"Cut it out and answer the damn question."

"I shouldn't need to answer the question. Considering I've told you more than once what I'm doing" She states

"You mean me not being nice? Because I told you, I like being nice..." What was she even getting at?

"And I think that's a lie. I know it's a lie Anon..I've practically wrote the book on it. Anon..everything has been a lie. Your colthood and life in Equestria is no different than what I'm doing now. You're fooling ponies into believing you are a lost colt. Just as I'm fooling them into thinking I'm your sister. See how easy I made it look? That's the problem right there, you're becoming decadent on friendship and caring. And it's making you weak. And given that documentary, being a weak civilian gets you crushed like a bug.." Nymous chuckled "Or your entire kingdom crushed like one...Buenos Aires, that's such a dumb name"

You step in front of her to stop her, annoyed as shit now. She was expecting too much from you. And it seemed having her watch Starship Troopers was a mistake. "Will..you...just...STOP! Fine...FINE! ok? I get it. For some reason you want me to step up and fix this love triangle you have gotten me into"

She smirks at you as she corrects you "You mean love triangle you were already in, don't blame me for your handiwork. And it is good work, the taste is exquisite"

You started growling as you grind your teeth. "Just......stooooooop"

She gives you a head pat "I don't think I will. Let me be more clear so you'll stop telling me to stop and stop asking the same insipid question" She then clears her throat, as if she had something long to say. "You see Anon. Discord is really the one who wants this. I was just doing it because it let's me stay out and feed as much as I wish. But, I admit. I do have an attachment to you that could be referred as friendship and it pains me...just pains me to see you acting like such a wimp. You're like family to me, Anon. A member of the hive. And just like any member of my hive, I refuse to see you reduce yourself to being like everypony else. I mean this, I mean these words. I like being your friend, you never really tried to change me, not with those kinds of attempts anyway. and you and I could enjoy our time together without you taking anything personally while I both had fun with you and used you for food. It was mutual, and I admit, That documentary really spoke to me. If I could visit the human world just once so I could steal their weapons and learn their techniques properly..I would. But that's just a silly folly I can't waste time chasing. If I can get you back to how you were originally were, then good. But...if I can shape you into what I'd actually consider a brother...all the better. Because Anon..at this point. You're my friend until you're dead or I find somepony better"

You didn't know how to reply to that. It both angered and...touched you. But, did you really change that much to even she would have second thoughts on her friendship with you, and furthermore, try to bring you back? Hell, it was a surprise just to hear her admit that at all. But...you couldn't be like that anymore. "Chrysalis..everytime I get uppity. I end up hurting somepony or losing something. I still haven't gotten my horn back."

"...and if you continue down this path then you will become worthless and unable to protect anypony. Anon, I am the queen of my hive. And they protect me just as I protect them. You know that I insert myself into all my plots. I'm not like those other fools who leave it up to their useless dregs. We all pull our weight...I hate to say this but...mnnn" She groans "But protecting the lives of your pony friends using your cunning and power should be more important than losing your nerve..ngh" She felt a sour taste in her mouth as she got more gushy about it "And...your true friends will stick by you no matter what...mnnn" She coughs a little before wiping her mouth, she thought she could taste herself "...And besides, if you want an example from my perspective. Most empires I've taken over and drained were easily conquered due to them becoming loving and trusting...and weak. In contrast, take Twilight Sparkle for example...she was annoying the hell out of me the entire time I was trying to get Canterlot. My mistakes aside, it was her being nosy and snoopy and snooty that may have helped win the day for her. And if that doesn't convince you...then I have other ways"

....did she use episode logic on you? Like..an actual example you yourself would have normally used? It actually started to make you think. "....I dunno Chrysalis...it's hard."

"But I'm right. If she had decided to play nice like her friends. She'd have never found Cadance and I would have had my win" You could almost hear the bitterness from her own words as she said that.

"......mnnnn" You just couldn’t...

She moves up close to you and gives you a gentle hug. "You know I'm right Anon..the sooner you admit it. The faster we can move on. Because you may not realize it now. But I can already tell you realize I'm right. And are probably on the track to following the right path...Don't fight it Anon."

.....

You push yourself away....you had one last card. You could feel yourself doubting yourself. But this play...it might be as powerful as hers.

"Chrysalis..my horn. You know I don't have it. But there's a little more to the story than that..and it involves you"

Chrysalis groans, feeling her words fell on deaf ears "Considering SHE knows about me...I figure she gave you the ultimatum of outing me or taking the horn...and you chose the horn"

"Is it that obvious? So then...what do you think of that then? I didn't want to lose you, you know? I really do consider you my friend. Just because you figure it out doesn't make it any less meaningful..." You go back in and give her a hug, even nuzzling your head into her chest. "And I do like hanging out with you...just not when you're being a colossal asshole...You're a good friend Chrysalis."

That has to work.

She gently wraps her hoof around you and rubs along your back to give you affection. "I do too Anon..I do too....but that doesn't change a thing. That was just a choice you made...the right choice no doubt. But it's a choice that doesn't make a change in this relationship." She looks at you with a sweet smile as she takes a step back "You'll learn eventually....And then you'll be mine" She lets out a cute arrogant giggle "Like I said, I'm not Discord. You're not going to get me to be sentimental just because you protected me. Now..why don't you introduce me to Twilight..I feel like some revenge..nothing major, humiliation will do"

You rush up in front of Chrysalis and hold out your hoof "Woah woah woah...We can't do that. I just came off of a week with her and everything between me and her are good."

Chrysalis groans and pushes you gently yet firmly out of the way "...Too bad."

You latch on to the leg she was pushing you with. "No!"

Chrysalis started to notice that a few of the passerbys were starting to take notice of you and her as you both struggled. Though, some were looking just to look at her.

But she didn't need the attention at the moment. "Anon..I'm going to that castle whether you like it or not. You want to prevent a disaster? Play your part, and I'll play mine. It's not like I can just say "You're mine now Princess!". I'm locked to this form....now, man up or get out of my way." Chrysalis was able to easily drag you along as she made way to the castle. As hard as you tried. You just couldn't stop her.

Dammit, she was an unstoppable force. There was no way you were going to stop her. So you let go and ask her to stop for at least a moment. "Wait..."

Chrysalis stops. "Hmmm?"

"Fine....We'll go do whatever you want to do. But whatever it is..Please don't overdo it."

"Hmmmm..." Nymous tapped at her chin "I'd rather just do what I please"

God, even Discord wasn't this unreasonable. "....mnn..Ok fine, but I'm not just going to let you steamroll over me. You got it?" You stand firm.

"Now you’re talking. I like a challenge." Chrysalis grinned, she felt she could use your eager attitude to her own ends.

But for you?..it was all you could do really… "I won't make it easy for you...and..wait...hold on" You nearly forgot about something. "Where's The Captain? I nearly forgot that he's running around."

"He's around...skulking,plotting, being adorably nasty. He's looking for a chance to outright kill you...It's cute" Chrysalis giggled

"That's not cute! How can you call me a friend if...oh never mind. You probably just have something along the lines of "I can still try to kill you and still be your friend"...right?" You eye her, still annoyed with her antics.

"Close" She giggles "I don't want to see you dead, Anon, but if you can't handle the Captain in the form of a mongrel then you were never worth my time. You'll just have to deal with him if he gets overzealous...he considers you a friend too you know, it's just he has this whole loyalty thing to me and also considers you a smear on my honor. But unlike my old captain, he won't whine about what I do. Funny, I guess I can consider you a cut above the old captain as well. You didn't try to stage a silly rebellion like he did." Nymous was giggling about it, it still struck her as funny that'd he just try to rebel against her with no ground to stand on.

"Yeah...that makes me feel better...." You say sarcastically.

Chrysalis just lets out another little chuckle and walks past you towards the castle "You're so cute sometimes. Like a little pet. Now come along, we have a princess you need to reintroduce me to."

You follow along, worried that something might go wrong. Or worse, Twilight goes full retard and goes banish heavy. No, she wouldn't be stupid enough to try that again. But this all depended on "Nymous" "Ok...But I'm not your pet. I'm your friend. And that makes us equals"

"Whatever you say Anon, whatever you say" she says with a soft dismissive tone

You followed along at Nymous's side. Making sure she didn't try anything cheeky. "....so, after Twilight. You'll probably want to see Fluttershy. It's inevitable really...could you atleast not trouble her? Please?"

"Alright" Nymous says, with no hint of trickery.

"Woah..what..really?"

"Yes Anon, why would I cause you trouble with somepony who dearly loves you the way she does. Or do you forget where a changeling's priorities lie?" Chrysalis let out an annoyed groan, she was tiring of your demands.

"...I see, you're just going to feed off of it all. I guess that isn't too bad.....it doesn't cause too many problems. Ok ok, just as long as we understand each other on that.." You wanted to say thanks. But it was clear she was now getting agitated. best to leave it alone.

You also had to keep a lookout for any familiar faces along the way. Should anyone else come by to say hi. There'd be trouble.

But luckily, you get to the castle just fine..

Nymous raises her hoof to knock on the door. Surprising really.

"You don't really need to do that" You tell her

"I have to keep up the act Anon, Nymous is a kind and courteous little pony" She knocks on the door. and waits. "Besides, I'm sure her little pet will be the one to answer the door. And I want to solidify the illusion...so don't screw up"

"Ok, I got it. Trust me, I do...I did this with Discord all the time. You'll actually be impressed. Trust me." You feel some confidence in yourself. Something you really needed because there was also the fear of undoing an entire week's work. But you do your best to persevere and make sure you keep things stable. All you had to do was stay marginally on her good side while making sure she behaved

"That's what I like to see. Confidence instead of whining...so then...now we wait" Chrysalis says, mildly amused by your confidence. Although, she still felt she would proceed in her own way. Any attempts to deter her, she would find anyway, simply adorable yet useless in the long run.

Chapter 222

And so you sat in wait with Chrysalis. But a part of you felt...different. You were internally plotting. Scheming even. The ball was in your court. And you had to make sure to paint Chrysalis as a good pony while trying to get what you want. You couldn't play your game anymore. You had to play hers....but you'd tweak the rules.

Spike is the one to open the door however. "Oh hey Anon....woah...who's this?" Spike, the moment he looked at Chrysalis, was nearly smitten...nearly. The spot in his heart for Rarity couldn't be taken. But just looking at Chrysalis made it feel heavy.

"I'm-" Nymous had began to speak. But you immediatly cut her off.

"This is my long lost sister.Everything checked out by Miss Cheerilee and ready for Twilight if need be. She's good and kind and..." You start immediately nuzzling up on Chrysalis. digging your head into her side. "And I love her so much."

Chrysalis, you could hear make a low audible noise of disgust. She didn't expect or even know what the hell you were doing. But she wasn't comfy with the sudden display of affection. She was the taker for food. But not the giver...especially when she could tell there was no love actually coming from you.

"......uhuh.....Anon, are you sure she's your sister. Because she looks kind of.." Spike had to wipe a few beads of sweat from his forehead.

"Yes, I-" Nymous tried to speak, but again you cut her off.

"She's adorably cute? Yup! Isn't she just the cutest? Absolutely contrast to my heroic looks....Hey is Twilight in?" You poke your head past Spike to falsely look about.

"Twilight? Yeah, she's having a look see at the map. Seeing if she could come up with a spell to improve its effects or something like that. Come on in!" Spike opened both doors wide to let the both of you in and started making his way towards Twilight.

"...Excuse me" Chrysalis looks at you. "But what was all that?"

You don't look at her, you just stare ahead with a determined look. Locked on for victory. "Just playing the game Chrysalis, you want to set up your relationship with Twilight? Fine, but I was here first. And we're going to play by my rules."

"Your rules? And when did you suddenly decide to regrow your backbone?" She was now VERY annoyed. "You couldn't have waited until after I was done? That dragon's love was mine to have"

"...Yeah don't bother. Even if you captivate him, it'll only be for like a minute. He could get all kinds of mares at the Crystal Empire and yet he's still dumb enough to go after Rarity." You look towards Chrysalis, still determined. "You came here and immediately started screwing with me. Unfortunately, you chose the one thing that was already driving me up the wall to make worse. And that's my relationship with my friends. And I just came off a week with Twilight. I'm not doing a second because you decided to be "Diabolical". Also...." You lift your leg. It seemed Spike was too preoccupied to notice the bandages. "I owe you for this. You are the queen, you have to answer for your hive's work."

"You dirty little..." Chrysalis looked like she wanted to smash you

"Yeah yeah..." You start walking forward without looking at her. "You're the one who wanted this. You shouldn't have started with a strong game. I told you I was going to show you the good side of friendship....Can't do that unless I actually step up."

Chrysalis started grumbling to herself. She didn't expect you suddenly step up so fast. It worked for her long term goal. But for the short term? It was pissing her off. "Well then..." She growled as she started to walk with you "At least I can say that I did good work as usual. But this is still my game..."

"Good for you...Now smiles. Because Twilight is trigger happy sometimes. Wouldn't want her finding out who you really are. Right?"

Chrysalis let's out an annoyed chuckle "Same with you....don't overdo it Anon. They still expect you to be friendly and wimpy"

"Probably gonna expect the same from you..." You tell her

You both step up to the entrance hall doors and open them, leading to Twilight, who was looking towards the doors. Spike at her side. Spike had already alerted her of your arrival.

"Hey Twilight! I'd like you to meet somepony!" You say with a big smile, Twilight finding the whole thing off already.

"Spike told me...." She looked towards Nymous with suspicion "...You're Anon's sister? Really?"

"Oh yes..." Nymous went looking into her saddle bag for the proof. She put it on the cutie map table, the same array of proof while explaining the same tale to Twilight as she did to Cheerilee. Twilight was looking very carefully at all of it. But she couldn't be absolutely sure.

"Spike, go into the library and get me Anon's old papers. I want to see if it matches up with this." Twilight just wanted to be sure, she wanted to protect you.

"Sure Thing Twilight!" Spike salutes and heads off to fetch the papers.

Twilight smiled, already wanting to show Nymous some hospitality for the sad story she had to tell. Twilight wasn't in tears. Her suspicions still raging up that keeps her from crying. That and her logical sense that it should be a happier moment.

"Soo..Nymous. You came all the way to Ponyville to find your brother. That's great, but what are you going to do about living arrangements?" She asks. She had wondered if she had met Discord at all.

Nymous frowns. "Oh...Princess Twilight" She bows "I didn't...think about that actually...it didn't seem important. Oh no...I really don't have anywhere to stay. I doubt Anon's father would let me in his home and yet.....I've nowhere else to go..I just thought about Anon's happiness. I didn't think about my own."

......Hold on a sec...If she didn't expect Discord to take her in..by word of course..then that meant.

"O-oh...well, after I have everything checked out. You can stay at the castle as a guest until we can find you a room somewhere in Ponyville. And I'll of course provide you with a small income until you can find a job" Twilight told her to reassure her. If this was all true, then it meant this mare had suffered greatly. Twilight would normally take this at face value, but when it came to you. She really REALLY had to make sure.

"Y-you would do that..for me?" Nymous says, crocodile tears coming out of her eyes.

Nooooooooooooooooooope. No, NONONONO. You couldn't let her have this. Holy shit..All kinds of nope. "What?! Don't be silly sis!" You wiggle your butt and climb onto her back. and nuzzle on the back of her head. "Dad would love you to stay. He's ALWAYS talking about how I need a playmate. You're perfect!"

You couldn't see it. But Nymous's eye twitched. She wasn't trying to fool Twilight for a revenge aspect. She was trying to fool Twilight so she could have another place to stay. While still being able to go back and check on her hive. She didn't want to go back to the house, to that low quality love. She had a taste of the good and pure stuff. Even the love you had wasn't as pure and tasty as this.

"A-Anon..I'm glad your enthusia-" Nymous stuttered

"Anon?!" Twilight lets out, she notices the bandages on your leg. And as she raises herself with her front legs to look over the table on the both of you. She could see more of Nymous. And sees the bandages around her chest. "What's all that?! What happened?!"

You look at your leg as Twilight hopped up and hovered over. "Oh.." You hop off of Nymous. "It's no big deal. A stupid puppy attacked the school. Me and Nymous took care of it and stopped it from hurting my classmates. Were a.....a...." Wait....don't lose your roll..you were on a roll. HOW DO YOU KEEP THE ROLL!?

In an instant, you felt all the weight of today hit you at once. You could feel some parts of you start to crack. Dealing with Chrysalis, having to let go of Applebloom without hurting her...or even possibly having to hurt her. Diamond Tiara and how she might get attached to Chrysalis. Chrysalis herself doing everything in her power to upstage you and make you angry. Your shell, you tried to keep it together. But it was cracking. And...part of you wanted to let it crack, At least for now, it would hopefully keep you on your hooves. You had to play dirty, because if she convinces Twilight to let her stay, it's all over. You'd never recover, you had flashbacks off nearly being sealed up, and that scared you more than anything else. Chrysalis slipping up somehow would possibly cause that. That's what your mind thought anyway. Even you couldn't believe some of the things you were thinking at the moment. Like when you wanted to choke Chrysalis...you really just wanted to choke her..maybe not to death...but to show her this was your world. Not hers...

"A team! Me and her. And once Dad hears about it...Dad and..." .....shit...Should you?...should you? This was much harder...To directly involve Fluttershy?..Mnnn, Chrysalis did say she would do nothing to her. You had to think logically. You couldn't let Chrysalis stay here. That was a big nope. "Aunt Fluttershy...I'm sure they'd welcome her with open hooves. And..."

Think of sad things...think of the saddest things possible…You needed to start crying

.....Mufasa...

You started to tear up. "And...it's so good to know...that I actually have a sister....Twilight..I really thought I didn't have any blood family. I love Dad and all..but it was still kinda lonely..."

"Anon..." Twilight could feel a tenderness from your words. "...Well, if Discord says yes. Then all the better." Yeah! Clenched it!

"Hey Twilight! Got the papers!" Spike put them down on the table as he returned from the library. "Gonna see if they match up?"

"Exactly.." Twilight looks to Nymous and apologizes. "I'm sorry if it seems like I don't trust you, it's just a precaution. You'd be surprised what kind of crazy things go on with your brother."

"O-oh..no no. Of course, check away." Nymous nervously chuckled. She then moves up next to you and whispered angrily as Twilight put her attention on the papers. "What are you doing?! I don't want to stay in that house any longer!"

"Too bad..it's too early to just let you walk around,doing whatever you want. I want to help you, but I can't let you have what you want. As a friend, I have to moderate you" You whisper to you

Telling her that...it actually...felt good to stand your ground. You always kinda felt bad when someone overruled you. But the feeling that they cared was nice....but..this was nice too. Even if you felt bad that you were keeping Chrysalis out of the freedom she wanted. You couldn't let her out so much without reforming her first.

"Moderate me?! MO-" Nymous was about to yell when Twilight said something out loud. Not realizing what was going on.

"Nymous. After examining and comparing your official papers with Anon's. I can happily say that it's all true. So as the princess of friendship" Twilight gets up from her seat and steps up to the both of you to properly greet her "Welcome to Ponyville, and I mean that. If you ever need anything, do not hesitate to come by. My door is open to anypony who needs my help." She then moves in close to whisper to her "And err...good luck with Discord. He's become much better. But you're going to need a little more patience than usual. If it doesn't work out. Just stop by...ok?" Twilight moves back and smiles cheerfully at the both of you "I bet Fluttershy is going to be happy that she has a niece too. Especially one as brave and sweet as you are Nymous"

Nymous chuckled nervously "O-oh I'm sure"

The game was on. You didn't exactly know What Chrysalis had planned. But you were driven by both the madness she caused and the fear of losing everything you worked for. It had been awhile since you felt these feelings. And all you knew was that to help Chrysalis. You had to show her that ponies were not to be controlled and manipulated. Of course, you didn't come to the full realization yet that you were going to have to play dirty yourself to win. Chrysalis actually had multiple goals. Only one being to toughen you up. But she didn't realize that a human, even in pony form, always has the tendency of bouncing back. As a T.V. medical doctor once said. Nobody truly changes.

"Actually..Princess Twilight" Nymous steps forward. "There's something I'd like to say. I'd like Anon to hear this too...it's about a family issue"

A family what now?

"An issue? Oh Nymous, you shouldn't be shy about Anon. He's very loving. There's no issue" Twilight says, jumping to conclusions.

"..No. I mean a family wide issue. You see..." She makes a crying little pout. "The males in our family, including our father. They tend to be deceitful, they tend to lie to others, even to their friends and family. Now...I know Anon is probably not like that. But has he ever lied? Or done any kind of trickery before?"

"What?!" She was pulling out shit from her ass "I'm not like that at all! That doesn't even sound right!"

"He's right Nymous, but...." Twilight was considering your past behavior. "The things Anon has done..well, they can be attributed to his upbringing...And his father..and other things. You can't just say something like that right when you come into his life"

"I know I shouldn't....but our father...No..." Nymous turns her head away in shame "I shouldn't say anything more...you're right. But it's just hard"

"I think you're over exaggerating, sis" You say in a way that sounded annoyed. Something Twilight notices.

"Maybe, maybe not. But I think you shouldn't worry about that now Nymous. You're here in Ponyville, with your brother. And I can guarantee he is not like that. In fact" Twilight had a little plot of her own. "You two should definitely spend all day together. All the way into the night. Nymous, you don't need to worry about a place to stay. I'll definitely let you stay the night..no questions asked. But you have to report to me everything that's happened during the day with Anon. As for you Anon, you should return home once the day is over and ask your father if Nymous can stay with him. That way we can get Nymous situated right from the get go. Is everypony ok with that?"

Nymous smirked for a quick half second before smiling sweetly "I'm ok with that Princess"

"I'm not! You can't just let her stay in the castle!" You just...blurted that out....wasn't even thinking. You weren't even being careful.

And that struck Twilight as....really off. She thought maybe you knew something she didn't. maybe something...even sinister about Nymous. "Why not?"

"Because...." You hold out your hoof to put emphasis on...something. "...Because...she's...I.."

"Yes?" Twilight waits for your answer

"I'm sorry if I offended you in some way...my brother..." Nymous hangs her head in shame. "

.....I..Can't think of a reason.." Not a good one anyway

"...Anon, are you just worried over the fact that she just came by? She is your sister, these papers prove it. And I think she deserves a chance. Considering the way she explained things...she's going to need one. Please, don't shun her away. You both seemed to be getting along well when you came in here." Twilight had no idea why you suddenly 180'd, but she wouldn't scold you. She just wanted you two to bond.

"...Yeah...that's it" You had to give Chrysalis this win. You could just reveal her and get it over with...but… "Nymous, I'm sorry."

She pulls you in close and gives you a hug. "It's no trouble Anon, I just want to be there for you"

"Awwwww" Twilight found the moment sweet "I just know you both will have a good time."

"I know we will too!" Nymous nuzzles into you

"Yeah...me too" .....Ooohhhh Looorrdddd

You and Nymous bid Twilight a farewell, leaving the castle and walking out to the open fields. Your mind was racing. Chrysalis was plotting. You knew she was. She wanted access to Twilight and her castle. But for what purpose?! You had to figure it out. As you both step out however. Chrysalis snarls at you. "Why do you feel the need to try to interrupt my plans?!"

"Your plans?! I knew you were up to something Chrysalis!" You bark at her

"Of course I am. You should have realized that I am planning my full return. And you know Twilight might have the means for it."

And wut? "...And you're telling me this why? Look, as a villain. Explaining your plan always scre...wait, why am I giving you advice now?! I can't let you do that!"

"You will...unless you want to ruin our friendship" She gave you a royally stern look, to show she meant business.

But you stare right back. "I will stop you right here If I have to. If you threaten my friends...then I will put a stop to you."

"I don't get you Anon....Discord was practically on a meltdown over how wimpy you became. And when I came here, I could smell it on you. Now you're suddenly up in hooves ready to be the little hero. What nerve did I strike to cause this change? Hmmm?" She was actually curious to know

"....You struck every nerve. You just came in here and are starting to unravel everything I worked for just so you can plan another takeover. You don't care about me....I don't think you ever cared, And that's enough for me to step up to stop you. You're a problem I created, I know that. And you're right...if I don't step up. Equestria will be lost....to someone like you"

"How quaint...But remember. I can crush you right here, right now. I may not have wings or magic, but my physical prowess is still based on the love I consume....and..." Chrysalis slams her front hoof onto the ground. creating a tiny crater. "...I can assure you, I'm much stronger than some Chimera..."

Was that true?

You may have overdone it. You couldn't run now. You may have just entered your final boss fight. "....I still have to stop you."

"...Then try...." She challenges you

The both of you start staring each other down. Any movement, any strike, it could come down to one blow. The area around you was silent. Not even the wind made any noise… Actually....there was a sudden booming noise. A noise so foul Nymous was blown back, and was instantly finding it painfully annoying. "What?! What is that atrocious noise?!"

....It was atrocious. It was worse than any chalkboard scratching that could exist.

It was… "..Oh...god...Is that dubstep?"

"Dubstep? I don't even know what that is. This sounds more like Discord's records...urgh..DISCORD! WHERE ARE YOU?!" Chrysalis couldn't stand it. She wanted to immediately kill the source.

Hell, it was even giving you a headache. You look back towards town and see that some sort of event was going on. You could see large speakers playing dubstep...the worse of all kinds of music. "s-shut up, Chrysalis...I s-still have to take you down."

"...ugh.....later..." Chrysalis started to march forward towards the noise "Come Anon, we need to put a stop to that infernal sound."

"What?! But...weren't we?" wut?

"Yes..." She rolls her eyes as she casually passes you. "You were about to get torn limb from limb, but then a much bigger threat arrived. Now are you coming or not? I can tell you also hate this "Dubstep"."

....Wut? "O-ok...ummm....coming" You step up to her side and follow her. half to stop the music. and half to keep an eye on her......the hell just happened?

From seemingly hating each other to joining forces to stop the evil of "Dubstep". Actually, that was quite frightful. As the both of you started to come up to a gathering of colts and nerdy stallions, all who seemed rather excited, a stage with curtains in front, projection screens up despite it being daylight, and Vinyl Scratch on the side providing the sickening beats.

"....What is all this? Why are they so excited? They should be bawling in agony. This is too much" Chrysalis was getting near her limit on the dubstep.

"Come on..it's not that bad...it's bad..but not that bad....it's...just really bad. Look, I was ok with stopping the music. But how exactly do you propose to do that without causing a scene?" What was even going on?

Chrysalis groans. "No idea...But I have an image I need to build....let's see..." She started to look around. "And all these nerds are just waiting to have their pent up love released. They don't even seem to know what a fine mare such as myself looks like"

They all were pretty nerdy...what the hell was going on?

Then suddenly, there was explosions on the front of the stage. "HELLLLLO ARCADE PLAYERS OF PONYVILLE! ARE YOU READY TO SCORE BIG?!?" You hear a familiar voice coming from behind the curtains.

The entire crowd lets out a cheer, actually startling Nymous.

"ARREEE YOU REAAADDYYYY TO SEE THAT SWEET SWEET HIGH SCORE?!"

Meanwhile as the crowd cheered again. You were trying to put a face to that voice...of course...as the curtains opened up. You didn't have to. There, in a nice suit and holding a microphone, was a familiar blue minotaur....Iron Will?...Daaa ffuuuuuccckkk?

"IRON WILL HERE! FROM MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER TO MOTIVATED HOST OF THE "SUPER ALICORN BLASTER II" CHAMPIONSHIPS! BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE FINE PONIES OF BARNYARD BARGAINS AND ITS AFFILIATES. AND ULTRACRASH GAMES!"

Iron Will flexes as he strikes a pose "NOW IRON WILL KNOWS WHY YOU'RE ALL HERE. YOU'RE ALL HERE FOR FAME, FOR GLORY, FOR IMMORTALITY IN THE HALLS OF EVERY ARCADE ACROSS EQUESTRIA! OHHH YEAAHH! IT IS SOMETHING TO BEHOLD. BUT IT WILL NOT BE EASY. NOPONY IN EQUESTRIA HAS BEEN ABLE TO BEAT THIS GAME. NOT ONE SINGLE PONY. SO ULTRACRASH HAS BEEN HOSTING THIS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP FOR EITHER THE HIGHEST SCORE OR COMPLETION OF THE GAME! ALL PONIES CAN COMPETE BUT ONLY ONE CAN BE CROWNED THE WINNER! WINNING WILL NOT ONLY WIN YOU THE PRIZES OF FAME AND YOUR OWN ARCADE CABINET OF THE GAME. BUT YOU WILL BE OFFICIALLY CROWNED THE KING OR QUEEN OF ARCADE GAMING! YOUR REIGN WILL BE FORETOLD THROUGHOUT THE HALLS OF EVERY AND ALL ARCADES. NOPONY WORTH THEIR BITS WILL NOT KNOW WHO YOU ARE AMONG THE ARCADE ELITE! NOW! BEFORE WE BEGIN, ANYPONY WHO WISHES TO PARTICIPATE.." Iron will points to the right, there's a small booth with a cute green maned, peach coated mare, her mane messy as hell, waving with a cheerful smile "PLEASE SIGN UP OVER ON THAT BOOTH, AND AFTER THAT!" Iron Will snaps his fingers, raising the curtains behind him revealing thirty arcade cabinets and many unicorns standing side by side, standing straight and looking serious.

"WE CAN GET READY TO RUUUMMBBLLE, OHHH YEEEAHH! IRON WILL IS PUMPED TO SEE WHO WILL COME OUT ON TOP IN THIS COMPETITION. AND EVERYPONY WILL BE ABLE TO SEE IT. THANKS TO THESE UNICORNS, THEY HAVE A MAGIC THAT CAN PROJECT THE GAME SCREENS ONTO THE LARGER SCREENS AROUND US WITHOUT THE SUN BLURRING OR COVERING THE VIEW! NOW....LETS....GET...ROLLING!...also anypony having issues with being assertive, you can come see me after the championship......YEEAHHHH!" Iron Will let's out another flex as he steps off stage.

Chapter 223

A gaming championship? Huh....that sounded familiar. Nevertheless, as tempting as it sounded, you didn't want to participate. Once, you were a human who had damned good video game skills. But that was due to most of your life being mostly video games and anime. Coming to Equestria....it wasn't worth taking in the addiction again. Even if it was also a Equestrian past time as well. You'd leave these ponies to their game. Besides, the music was quieting down anyway. Thank god Chrysalis has no interest in games. Maybe you should immediately go to Fluttershy afterall. If anyone could calm the savage heart, it was her.

While lost in thought however, you feel something go around your neck. "What..huh?" You look down, you had a sign that said number nineteen. "Where did this...?" You look to your right, Chrysalis was wearing number eighteen. "...Uhhhh...what's this?"

"What's it look like? It's your number. I signed both of us up for this" She tells you

Wut? "What?! I thought we came here to stop the dubstep and move on...or kill each other or something."

"We did, and it stopped. Besides, crushing you and all these degenerates seems like fun to me. Being crowned queen is just the icing on the cake" She says with a cocky chuckle

Was she serious? "You...what? Look, first of all. I want to avoid this kind of thing. It was almost most of my life back home. And two, that's an arcade game. You're going to get whupped"

"Anon, having infil-"

But you interrupt her as you roll your eyes. "Yeah yeah, having gone and infiltrated so many places you probably played sooo many games. Yeah I get it. What you don't get is arcade games are utterly different. They are bit munchers. And it looks like we're expected to do this in one credit. You are going to get mulched in stage one."

Chrysalis did a low growl. "Then put your money where your mouth is. I propose a wager."

"A wager?"

"Did I stutter? Yes, a wager. If you win. I promise to play nice with Twilight tonight. I will do no snooping, scheming, or anything you'd consider villainous in any way.....Queen's honor"

.....That...didn't sound bad. Actually....hehehehe

You ACT worried however, because you had this. "A-and if I lose?"

Chrysalis evilly smirks. "Then you stay out of my way when it comes to Twilight. You let me live with her as long as I am able and do not cause me any trouble while I get what I want from her. That also means, not convincing Discord in anyway to spoil my schemes....Do we have a deal? Or are you going to wimp out and not take a chance?"

You shiver, but you only pretend to....you were scheming....and it felt...nice...to actually manipulate the situation....it felt nostalgic. "It sounds...o-ok. B-but, maybe a little incentive? a little more I mean...Because, y'know. It almost feels like you know you'll beat me already...I feel I'd do better if I could get a little more determined."

Chrysalis rolls her eyes "Fine...I'll also be a nice cuddly teenaged mare anypony couwd wuvvvv to your aunt waunty" She says in a mocking kid like tone "....Is that enough?"

You immediately nod and shake her hoof. "Done!" Oh boy...was she so ever fucked.

But Chrysalis felt pretty confident with herself. How hard could an arcade game be? Certainly one as old as her has infinite experience to handle anything thrown at her. You?...even if you can't beat the game. You knew you could crush her....like a bug

"OK! IRON WILL SAYS, IF YOU'RE NUMBERS ONE THROUGH TWENTY FOUR! THEN GET READY TO MAKE A HIGH SCORE!" Iron Will Flexes again as airhorns go off. "NOW REMEMBER, THE MOMENT YOU RUN OUT OF ALL YOUR FREE GUYS. YOU'RRRREEEE OUTTA HERE. DON'T MATTER IF YOU'RE A COLT,FILLY, OR DONKEY! NUMBERS TWENTY FIVE TO FIFTY NINE, YOU WILL FORM A LINE AND WAIT YOUR TURN. ONCE A PONY STEPS DOWN, IT'S YOUR TURN TO TRY TO GET THAT CROWN! OHHH YEAH! CAN I GET SOME CHEERS OVER HERE! THE GAME IS ABOUT TO START AND YOU ALL DON'T LOOK EXCITED ENOUGH!" Iron Will pumps up his muscles "C'MOOOOOOOON"

The crowd cheers as the line is formed. You, Nymous, the rest of the participants, and even a familiar....oh god..a very familiar propeller capped colt step up to play the game. You all get seated, and wait for the go to press the "Player 1" button. You thought it may have been a fighting game of some sort. But this was a SHMUP. It seemed to be simple. power ups for your main shot and a barrier you can bring up. But it had a gauge, and once it reached zero you couldn't use it until you could recharge it with special power ups. The graphics, at least to you...were dated. Really early 90s stuff, the alicorn you controlled looked really..kinda goofy. The stick and buttons were definitely made for hooves as well....hmmm. You also notice the unicorns that were lined up start using their magic to project the screens onto the projector screens. Interesting...

You take a look at "Button Mash"..if that was still his name. He looked determined. Then there was Nymous....She was tapping at the stick. Actually paying attention deeply to the "How to play" screen.

"ALRIGHT! LET'S GET THIS STARTED! EVERYPONY, HOOVES OVER THE BUTTON. AND.......GO!" Iron Will swings his arm, signalling all the games to start.

And the game was on. And....how underwhelming it was. The first stage was like Gradius III on the easiest setting. Or hell, Goukyjou Parodius on skill setting two....It was easy. And you also noticed the first stage enemies were changelings.

You had it easy enough to shift your eyes around at your competition. You could already tell most were struggling through the simple bullet shots from the Changelings. Chrysalis herself? She seemed to be doing fine, but was agitated. And then....The boss...and you nearly lost it. Even though you should have expected it. You even let out so she can hear.

"Oh man, Queen Chrysalis is the first boss? That's hilarioussssss" You laugh. And you could hear her groan intensely, holding in her red and furious anger.In fact, that was it for her, she purposely crashed her alicorn character into herself multiple times in a rage.

"This stupid game is garbage!" She lets out.

You just silently chuckle to yourself as she tries to save face by explaining that the game just frustrated her, and that she didn't think arcade games could cause that in her or anypony. But really, she was internally angrier than ever before. She lost the bet...you wonder if she'd even keep it.

As for you, you just played on. the game seemed to have six stages. Because upon reaching "Final Stage" there was only two competitors left. You and Button Mash. You had defeated the likes of Chrysalis, Flying Manticores, A nightmare moonish like creature, Twin headed dragons, and windigos...but who was the final boss?

You were sweating at this point. All throughout the run you had only lost one life. The games challenge was climbing to something that actually made it tough. And you were getting more into it by the second, your pupils were wide, your focus was dead set, you were shaking, you were even salivating at this point....you had to win.

This feeling, this lost feeling. This craving...this desire....gaming....was in your blood. And you would crush that caramel colored "OC yet not but whatever" faggot to the ground.

"LOOK AT THOSE TWO LITTLE COLTS GO! WITH ALL OTHER COMPETITORS CRUSHED, IT IS ONLY BETWEEN NUMBERS ONE AND NINETEEN! IRON WILL IS PUMPED, IS EVERYPONY ELSE PUMPED! NEVER BEFORE HAS ANYPONY SEEN THE FINAL STAGE BEFORE...though , I've never actually seen this game but..LET'S GET A CHEER FOR OUR CHALLENGERS! HUUUYEAAAHHH!" Iron Will inspires the crowd to cheer the both of you on. Fuck that other guy.

Through bullets, and a mix of each stages’ enemy set. You finally reach the final boss....Was it Discord?

Nope...it was...Tirek.

The game Tirek announces your demise, you can hear that Button Mash has reached the final boss as well, but you could also hear him whimpering...was he breaking? You also notice a timer show up on the right side of the screen...you also noticed....your magic gauge slowly draining.

"I'M GETTING WORD FROM THE PONIES FROM ULTRACRASH THAT THIS FINAL BOSS IS LIKE NO OTHER, IT WILL CONSTANTLY DRAIN YOUR MAGIC GAUGE TO ZERO THE LONGER THE FIGHT GOES. ALSO, IF THAT MAIN TIMER REACHES ZERO...IT'S GAME OVER! BUT......does Iron Will really have to say that?...Really?...ok...FEAR NOT EVERYPONY, OUR HEROES WILL STRIKE DOWN THE EVIL CENTAUR BEAST WITH THY MAGIC POWER, FOR YOU SEE, BEFORE THE BATTLE BEGINS, THEY WILL HAVE UNLOCKED THE RAINBOW POWER. WHICH WILL GIVE THEM A NEW OPTIONAL ATTACK ..INSTEAD OF A SHIELD, THEY GET RAINBOW SPEARS...BUT IT STILL USES THE MAGIC GAUGE, AND WITH A TIMER TO WORRY ABOUT...WILL THEY DEFEAT TIREK? OR WILL HE TURN THEM TO MINCEMEAT?!" Iron Will had to turn his head slightly so he could groan...that didn't sound right coming from him. It sounded...dumb to him.

Rainbow Spear? Huh.... You begin the fight as Tirek just aggressively tosses millions of projectiles mixed with laser beams. Hell, the laser beam takes your second life as it takes Button Mashes second to last.

Well shit...

And the problem was the timer was like two minutes and your basic shot did shit, the rainbow spear did good damage but the drain and only three to four uses meant you couldn't win in time.....dammit...come on. You could already hear Button Mash throw a fit losing to Tirek as you continued the assault....but..the timer..THE TIMER.

You were sweating bullets....oh god....it was actually intense. No wonder no one has beaten this thing. Most of the ponies sucked at games compared to you. But this timer made things cheap as hell...if only your basic....wait....fuck this shit. You purposely kill yourself on Tirek, and upon next life fire off all the spears you can, then crash and die, and repeat until you were on your last life. There....that actually made a dent

"IRON WILL.....Is impressed. DID EVERYPONY SEE THAT? NOW THAT'S AFFIRMATIVE ACTION! WHEN THE FINAL BOSS IS ABOUT TO BEAT YOU DOWN, YOU CRASH INTO HIM AND GO TO TOWN! BUT EVEN WITH TIREK ON HIS LAST LEGS, NINETEEN ALSO ONLY HAS A SINGLE LIFE LEFT AND THE TIMER IS ON THE SECONDS MARK. IT WON'T BE LONG....though either way, he's technically the winner...wait..you don't want me to say that? I mean, he does have the high score. hmm? ok......YEAAAHH! THIS WILL DETERMINE IF NINETEEN...WHO I JUST LEARNED IS NAMED ANON....Iron Will finds that pretty weird, you'd think they'd tell me sooner...anywho....IS THE TRUE KING OF THE ARCADE! LET'S GIVE HIM THE BOOST HE NEEDS! LET'S CHEER HIM ONNNNN! YEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!"

Just stay focused, ignore the crowd, ignore the cheers, focus on the bullets heading towards you, not the others....

10 seconds, Tirek has a sliver of health.

5 seconds, just a few pixels now, dodging his lasers, which have now gone nuts.

2 seconds, one pixel.

1 second....

.............

Tirek.......... Explodes.

The crowd explodes in cheers as you nearly fall over, you don't even get a chance to insert your name on the high score screen. Iron Will walks up to you and holds you up by your good foreleg. "LADIES AND GENTLECOLTS! WE HAVE OUR ARCADE KIIIING! ANON HAS DEFEATED THE UNDEFEATABLE. HE HAS CRUSHED TIREK AND....Well he miss putting in his high score...hrm? oh, you guys can edit it later..right..INSERTED HIS PLACE IN HISTORY! ANON! FOR YOUR VICTORY, NOT ONLY DO YOU WIN THIS CROWN!" Iron Will slaps a crown onto your head "BUT THE ARCADE CABINETS FOR BOTH SUPER ALICORN BLASTER ONE AND TWO WILL BE SENT TO YOUR HOME! DO YOU HAVE ANYTHING YOU WANT TO SAY TO THE CHEERING CROWD?" Iron Will holds a microphone towards your mouth.

You were frothing at the mouth as you had a retarded smile on your face. "fmmggmmnngmmmnnbdbdjdmsssssss"

"YOU HEARD IT HERE FOLKS, THE KING HAS GIVEN HIS MESSAGE WHICH IRON WILL CAN'T ACTUALLY REPEAT BECAUSE HE DIDN'T ACTUALLY UNDERSTAND A WORD OF IT!.....oh..he has arcade drought? give him a pat on the back? firm?....ok got it..."

Iron Will gives you a firm hit on the back, making you lose your breath for a second. You come to your senses after you take a spit, and he gently holds you up on his palms as he asks again, as he was being told through his microphone receiver to ask the question again "SO ANON, DO YOU HAVE ANY ACTUAL WORDS FOR THE CROWD?"

With your senses returned. You looked down at the crowd. Button Mash seemed to have really rage quit, he was gone...probably might hear about that later. The rest were cheering on the hero colt, who was even able to defeat great foes in video games. You could even hear them mentioning that the fight with Rainbow Dash was possibly even a ruse to not completely pound her to dust...and then..

Chrysalis...she was still in the crowd. Upset sure, but she was still there. She didn't slink off to do anything else...she actually waited for you to finish. Did she ever cheer for you?...you didn't know....but..you'd pretend that she did.

"Actually...I do have something to say....There's a pony who has gone through as many hardships to get where she is today. And I think she deserves to come up here. For what is a King without a queen? Would it be ok to invite my sister up here and dub her the queen...and stuff?" You give Iron Will a cute pout.

"Well uh...." Iron Will whispers into his receiver microphone..then nods "Well sure!...it's just kinda weird actually. y'know....Kings and Queens...are..sorta married...Iron Will doesn't wanna think about it too much....ANON'S SISTER! C'MON UP AND RECEIVE YOUR CROWN AS QUEEN OF THE ARCADE...This job isn't too bad...them foals smiles actually make me feel pretty good. Then Iron Will remembers there's stallions who participated and that just....hurts for some reason...ehh."

Chrysalis looked surprised. She looked left and right, and said in a somber and lonely voice "..But I didn't win"

You smile gently at her from atop the stage. "But you did...you won a brother. Now come on up! You know you wanna" Speaking of wanna...you kinda wanted to shove your win in all their faces. It felt good to game again...but...had to hold it in. Especially since this was a good moment to get Chrysalis to feel actual love.

"A-alright..I..I suppose...I don't feel I deserve it...but..mnn" Nymous reluctantly steps up on stage as you give her a small rub with your head to her side. The crowd seems to have liked it. Cheering on the sister of the hero colt, though some seemed lost, not knowing you had a sister at all....which you didn't really. Nymous didn't even seem to notice a crown be put onto her head as she just stared into the crowd with a gentle yet quivering smile..and then you saw it....tears slowly running down her eyes...oh man...

Iron Will holds a microphone over her mouth, asking if she'd like to say a few words. "....I know I've only been here for less than a day...But I recognize a few of the adorable and loving faces I had seen at the school...and I can already feel the acceptance from each and every one of you. Yes, I am Anon's sister...I know some may be confused..but it's the truth...In my heart, I care about him very much...and I'm glad to see that he cares so much about me...." Nymous looks to you with sad eyes. "T-thank you so much...Anon"

The both of you stood up there. soaking up the praise and cheers. After that was done, you had to sign a few papers. They also wanted to know where to ship the arcade cabinet to. In which you just wrote in "Princess Twilight's Castle"...you were sure Twilight would hold it for you until you could get it later.

When you and Nymous stepped down from the stage. You were both immediately swarmed by the crowd as they bombarded you with questions and praise.

"That was the most amazing thing I have ever seen!"

"How long had you been playing the game, Anon?"

"I never ever have seen anypony play like that before!"

"Can I hug your sister?"

It actually felt pretty good to get everyone's praise and cheers. You thought it wouldn't feel great. But you could feel your ego inflating. On earth, you were slightly above average. In Equestria...you were a gaming GOD. "Heh, believe it or not. That was my first time playing."

"What?! No way! That's such a lie"

"Maybe it isn't, I've never seen him at the arcade before"

"Or even near it"

"Maybe that's his talent! He's good at everything!"

"Maybe we should revive the club"

".....Erm...Miss Nymous, could I get a kiss?"

You grin a toothy grin. Oh yeah, whatever rep you had that was ruined probably fixed itself and went up a thousand fold. "Hey now guys, relax. No need for a club when I'm already among you. Just uhhh...remember this. If there's danger, and I'm around. I'll pretty much take care of it....yeaaaah!"

You struck a pose, and absorbed the excited crowds cheers and claps on the ground. Nymous was busy giving hugs to any colt that wanted it. At this moment, you were the perfect pair.

With the event over. You positioned your crown to tilt a little to its side. You thought it made it seem quirky and cute. Nymous just kept it right up on her head in a normal position. You both only stuck around as much as you needed to and as soon as you felt comfortable leaving, you left with Chrysalis, letting the colt crowd know that you had "things to do" and not to follow. And like sheep, they complied.

Maybe Chrysalis wasn't wrong after all. A little confidence and smug didn't seem to hurt here and there. You got out of that place pretty painlessly. Accepting your prize and gaining the praise. Hell, you completed a game no one else could. Albeit...there was probably humans who could have done it first try. Not like you'd ever have to worry about any other humans at all really. It'd really suck if there was a human turned unicorn. He'd probably be an asshole who'd be able to kick your ass unless you had the horn....the horn..

You hoped you'd get that back. As you and Nymous step away from the crowd. You look to her with a smile. "How are you feeling Chrysalis?"

"....I feel....pretty good" She says with a soft and positive voice. Almost like Fluttershy.

You let out a lighthearted giggle. "That's great! See? Doesn't it feel good when your friend helps you get what you wanted? You got the crown just like I did. We got to share the victory...and yeah, I admit..being smug was fun. But...I feel really good giving you that experience, you know?"

"Oh yes...I know" Chrysalis said as she wiped a tear from her eye. "Anon....Can I tell you something?...My true feelings on the subject?..Please?"

...oohhh shiitt. OH SHIT! "Y-yeah! of course! Whatever it is...I won't judge or laugh. I promise..." No..hugs might be the order of the day after this.

"Well...." Chrysalis raises her hoof to take off her crown, and looks at it. Looking around as if to see if anyone else was nearby. Given you realized you were taking a road to Fluttershy's cottage. It was pretty barren at this point. "..Anon..... I feel...."

Suddenly, she throws her crown right at your face as she starts barking at you "ABSOLUTELY AGITATED WITH YOU! HOW DARE YOU SHOW ME PITY!"

"Ow! H-hey! What the?!" You back off from her as you rub your face. ngh, that actually stung. "Agitated? How could you be agitated? Isn’t this what you wanted?"

"What I WANTED was to win! That includes defeating you too. You winning and calling me up to accept a crown is a form of pity! You're lucky the love from the crowd was decent or else I would have thrown you off the stage right then and there! I DO NOT accept pity of any kind....it's detestable."

Well..fucking shit man. You were just trying to be nice. In fact, after having a crown thrown at your face. You were pretty pissed yourself. "....I was just trying to be nice to you. Why do you have to be a bitch about it? Can't you just accept the fact that you have a friend who cares about you and just wanted to make you happy? Because that's what friends do...because we're friends. So stop being a bitch and just accept it. Sheesh!"

Chrysalis growls at you as she starts to advance on you, her head lowered, it looked like she wanted to bite your head off. It was actually frightening to see her go from cute to angry like this...you start backing off as well. You didn't mean to strike this much of a nerve. "Listen here. I will only repeat this ONE LAST TIME. I am your friend...but the meaning of friendship to me is completely different from any of these revolting do gooding ponies. You will never change that no matter how hard you try. You want to remain in my good graces? Then don't do me those kind of favors. Instead do the favors I want you to do, that I tell you to do, and nothing more. And try to stay interesting. I enjoy our talks but when you act like this it just makes me want to hurl you into a volcano..."

Why did she always have to be like this? Did she really enjoy being villainous all the time? Somewhere in that exoskeleton had to be a heart yearning for a real friend. You just had to find it....but you could see, you weren't going to find it by being nice. "Tch..what's with you anyway? You know, actually. Let me ask you. If It was me giving you Equestria itself "Out of pity". Would you accept?"

Chrysalis thought about it for a moment, and nodded. "Of course I would"

...You stop..and look at her with a twitching eye. "....I thought you said you hated pity"

She shrugged. "I do, but having control of Equestria far outweighs the pain that comes from being pitied upon."

You groan and roll your eyes. "You're really something else Chrysalis...."

"So are you, Anon, so are you...now then. The last order of important business is your dear and loving Aunt. This should be the road to her cottage. And this should be easy enough. She seems to be the softest one of Twilight's friends."

.....

"She is...remember the deal. No funny stuff, ok?"

Chrysalis groans. "You don't need to remind me"

You were taking such a chance with this. You had no idea how you were going to call out Chrysalis's shit if she got rowdy in any way. And then there was the captain....he hadn't shown since he....oh shit.

"Waaaaaaait!" You stop immediately.

"What is it now? Cold hooves? This has to be done sooner or later Anon. Better to do it now while I'm in the mood to play nice."

...Your leg....her chest. "I don't want to see her looking like this. We need like a coat and a leg band...maybe four leg bands so she doesn't get suspicious.

"...Does it matter? It just means more food for me if she's going to worry about what happened to us"

"I don't want her to worry though. Come on, can't you help me out with this? Just this once?" You really didn't want to worry her.

Chrysalis shakes her head. "It's not part of the deal. Besides..." She rips off her bandages, the injury was no longer there "I didn't really get attacked at all. It was a light enough wound for me to heal quickly."

"Well I can't just take my bandages off and look ok. So...please?"

Chrysalis just continues walking forward. "Deal with it, it’s not my problem"

You could deal with it...or… You latch on to her left back leg, and try to anchor yourself down.

"What?!" Chrysalis starts to drag you easily, then cackles. "Nice try, but though I lack magical power, I still fed myself enough to raise my strength. More than enough to drag you the entire way."

You clench your teeth hard from the pain of being dragged and then let go when it becomes too much. Your face falling onto the dirt. "Drat.."

Chrysalis snickers at you. "Well, that was a dumbass move. Anything else?"

You still had your face in the dirt. "I'm thinking...wait..." You look at her with a smirk of her own. "I could just tell all those colts that you're free game and looking for a coltfriend. Sure you're teenaged looking, but you're hot enough for them not to care."

Chrysalis stopped. "You are aware I feed on love, right?" She doesn't even look at you. Internally, that was worrying.

"But lust is empty calories right? You think those colts can control their horsie hormones? Besides...It'll be so cute that the adults wouldn't be able to contain themselves and ask you things like babysitting their kids or telling you how happy you seem to make them. I know you hate that shit."

"......" Chrysalis just looked on ahead.

"......so?" You had her

Chrysalis sighs, turning her head, showing her agitation "...Fine...but what are we even going to look for?"

You get up and dust yourself off. "Anything that looks natural."

Chrysalis looked back at the town. Then looked forward, the cottage could be seen just a small distance away. She grumbled to herself. She just wanted to get this over with.

"If I had my horn, I could whip something up. Can't get my clothes from home. They are too fancy."

Chrysalis looks to your saddle bag. She did know of one thing you could use. "What about that device you have?"

"Device?..The Grappling hook? That's not clothes Chrysalis"

"But you do put it around your leg. Why don't you just put it on to cover the injury. And then explain it away if she asks?"

".....Huh..." You look to your saddlebag and take out the grappling hook. "..That's actually good thinking. I didn't think of that. I hope she doesn't ask to see how it works though"

"Just don't mention it. Or just say something along the lines of you using it only when needed. Just lie to her, it's not hard at all. I do it all the time"

"All the time?....." You give her a stoic look at her as you raise your eyebrow

Chrysalis rolls her eyes at you. ".....Aside from my promises....ugh, I swear. I should have said screw it to the whole thing and ran off. I'm sure I could have regained my beautiful self in some other way"

You remove your bandages and fasten your grappling hook on your leg. You wince from a sting of pain. But.....it covered up the bite. "Hey, it covers it right up! ehhh, I don't really want to lie though...but, I don't wanna deal with her worrying about it. Because she'll just remember the whole chimera thing. The cuddles are nice yeah, but...Hey!" Nymous was walking forward, ignoring you. "You could wait for me you know!" You rush up to her side and walk alongside her.

She says in a sarcastic tone "Sorry, I didn't want to interrupt your insane ramblings."

...You did do that sometimes. "..Ok, well..just remember...be nice."

"...And when we're done, we go our separate ways for the rest of the day."

Wut? "Uhhhh, no."

"Yes, me being stuck with you wasn't part of the wager. And there's a few things I'd like to do before returning to Twilight's castle. And I'd rather do it alone"

"Too bad. Because I know whatever it is...it's probably evil." You knew it was

"Probably. That's why I'm going to give you fair warning. Try to stop me and I'll crush you beneath my hooves."

"You won't...You need me remember?"

"I do, but I could still do what I wish to do if I simply send you to the hospital for a couple of weeks...ohhh, my poor brother" Nymous says in a sad and crushed tone. "I tried to protect him, but that beast...it....it.... ngh" She lets out a sorrowful cry before looking at you with a grin. She'd probably do that too, and given her idea of friendship, she'd probably not even care

And without your horn.... ".....Fine..but just this once. As a friendly favor....BUT ONLY if this goes well"

She snickers at you "...As if you could stop me either way"

God, she was definitely more of a handful then Discord. With Discord you could at least reason a way or get him to agree to something. But Chrysalis...you couldn't even tell if she was lying or not. Also her adapting to using human terms was throwing you off. You wondered what the other fans would think of it.

"I still could use the horn once I get it back. Don't tempt me...you know I trump you with it's power"

"......" She sighs and rolls her eyes once more. "You're such a coward hiding behind that thing. But fine, whatever...just remember, if it goes well then you won't be using your horn on me. You already said it so you have to keep your word"

"Only if you keep yours, just trust me Chrysalis. I'll get you seeing the good points of friendship yet" This, you promised yourself

"I doubt it, besides..I could choose a form that would entice all your preferences at once. Given how lustful you are, I'm sure I could eventually make you mine utterly and completely." Her eyes begin to glow green...oh shit. She still had that?! Even then, without her horn and magic. It couldn't be anywhere near effective.

"Yeah well..." You look away.

"You can't resist forever..." She tells you soothingly

"We'll see who gives in first"

...Was Chrysalis really your friend? It was really hard to tell… When you both reach the cottage bridge. You could see Fluttershy near the family statue. She was cleaning it with the help of a few animals as she hummed a sweet little tune.

"...Egh...I think I preferred the dubstep" Chrysalis stuck her tongue out in disgust

"Don't be a prude. I happen to think it's beautiful. Besides, don't you sing?"

"I can, I do, and it's much MUCH better than that. My singing actually has meaning to it. A beauty that can't be replicated by anypony else"

......man was she into herself

"I think you meant to say that your singing only represents how you THINK you're about to win..and we all know how that tu-ow!"

She whapped the back of your head. "Don't get cute..hrn?...There's a little white rabbit coming our way."

Hmm? You look over, Ahh! Angel, what fucking luck. If anyone will sniff out Chrysalis's ruse and probably help you once you explain to him why she's here. It's him. "Better be careful Chryssi..This guy can figure shit out pretty quick." You smirk at her.

Angel steps in front of the both of you and looks up. You both stay silent. But any minute now he was going to..........give her a gentle hug and produce a bouquet of flowers from seemingly out of nowhere.

........What an asshole.

"What a sweet little rabbit..awwww" Nymous gives him a gentle scratch with the edge of her hoof under his chin. Giving you a quick evil glance as if to say "You were saying?"

...Double assholes...

Chapter 224

It was then that Fluttershy noticed the both of you. "Hmmm?" And then, at first, she notices you and smiles. "Anon! How was...." And then she sees the beautiful teenaged mare next to you "...uhmmmm..Anon?" She says as she hovers over and lands in front of the both of you. "Who is that?" Fluttershy didn't know why, but her protective instinct was kicking off.

You look to Nymous with a smile. "Aunt Fluttershy, allow me to introduce..." You look back at Fluttershy and hold a hoof towards Nymous. "My older sister, Nymous!"

Fluttershy was in understandable disbelief. "Older...sister? I guess I see the resemblance...and I don't mean to sound rude...but, Anon...is there any proof?"

You nod. "Uh huh...verified by Twilight even. And she's very very nice...why don't you say hi, Nymous?"

Nymous looks to Fluttershy and forces a fake smile. "Hello Aunt Fluttershy" She bows "It's so so good to meet you...o-or..should I not call you Aunt....you don't know me...So.."

Fluttershy realizes she may have been a little too rude and apologizes. "U-uh..no no. I'm sorry. It's just...well...ummm.." She didn't know what to say. It was like...just like you....just sprung up from out of nowhere.

Nymous looked down, an expression suggesting she had already been rejected "...I see"

Fluttershy couldn't see past the fake expressions. instead she was pierced by them. "Oh..please..don't cry. Please? Where are my manners?...mmnnn..." Fluttershy put on a smile. "Hello Miss Nymous, I'm very glad to meet you"

"R-really?....I don't know...Anon already has a family and...I...none of you really need me..I guess" Nymous started to turn around, hanging her head low.

You nearly rolled your eyes. Ham it up much?

"...no no. Miss Nymous. I really do mean it. And if Twilight says you're Anon's sister. Well, that's good enough for me. In fact, if Anon had told me that, I still would have believed it." Fluttershy lied on that last part. She had no idea why her instinct seemed to be flaring. But she did her best to repress it.

...In fact. You could even tell that was a lie....Fluttershy...lied. She has before, you know she has through the show. But, it was odd seeing her lie in person.

Nymous sweetly smiled "...T-thank you...I" She then looks back down, with a sad expression "I've been suffering for so long. I thought I'd had lost my only light of hope left...my darling little brother. And now...it seems he found a family..and..I may have to...I'd..love to get to know you...C-can I call you Aunt Fluttershy?"

Fluttershy nods with a smile. She knew she was jumping the gun. But if You and Twilight said she was family. Then so be it, she'd make her feel welcome...she just hoped it wasn't some sort of trick. "Of course you can, you are my niece after all"

Nymous put a hoof to her heart as she acted stunned "....I....I...I don't know...what to say"

"You don't need to say anything Nymous" Fluttershy drops the "Miss", now that she had accepted her as her niece "In fact, I'm nearly done cleaning this statue. If you want..." Fluttershy looks down at Angel. "Angel, would you mind serving Anon and Nymous some tea?"

Angel did a salute. The little bastard. You were sure he would see through her disguise...or atleast immediately hate her. Was she that alluring? You turn to Nymous, who had a soft breeze blowing through her immaculate mane. Looking to the sky with gentle eyes. You blush just a little.

...Ok, she was alluring...dammit

And Angel actually went the extra mile. Setting up seats, a table, and even pulling out the seat for Nymous for her to sit down on as he served the tea. He then waited for a pat. In which Nymous gave him generous amounts.

You just looked at the whole scene with disgust. What a little shit that rabbit is. Hell fuck it, you slide out Fluttershy's seat for her as she did the last few polishes of the statue. She smiles, thanks you, calls you a gentlecolt, and gives you a kiss on the nose. The whole shebang. You then sit down on your seat.

"Is everypony comfortable" Fluttershy asks

Nymous nods. "Mhmmm"

You nod as well, letting out a happy "Yes".

"Good. Now..Nymous, since you are the newest addition to the family. Why don't you open up with a topic. Actually wait..." Fluttershy then looks to you "Anon, does your father know about Nymous?"

You shake your head. "No, she just...sorta showed up at school" You shrug with a nervous smile.

"Oh...Nymous...would it trouble you if I asked where you came from?" Fluttershy asked with understandable curiosity

Nymous took that as a cue to look hurt. "O-oh...mnn, I've explained it to a few ponies already. But everytime I think about it..it hurts all the more."

Fluttershy could see tears coming from Nymous's eyes. She immediately felt bad and ashamed and started to tear up too. "O-oh no...Please don't cry. I didn't know you had a terrible past too..please..please don't cry. I won't ask anything more about it..."

Oh brother...even as you look downward, there was sympathy for the devil. Angel had tears in his eyes too.

....eggghhhh

"Aunt Fluttershy, I thank you very very much for accepting me...I really really do" Nymous says with a soft happiness. "There's so many questions I want to ask. I want to ask because...I forgot what it was to be part of a family. And I want to know my Aunt so I can get close to her"

RED FLAGS..RED FLAGS!

"Of course, you can ask me anything, Nymous" Fluttershy beamed as she took a sip of tea.

Get ready, Anon....if she says anything out of place. Intervene..you had to make sure it wasn't anything...nefarious.

"Well... as I understand, you're the Element of Kindness. Am I right? I've read about Princess Twilight and her friends on my travels. I was wondering, is there any way I could see it?" It seemed Chrysalis wasn't entirely clear on the process that made the rainbow power....or maybe she did...but wasn't aware of the Tree of Harmony's location?....Something was one hundred percent off about this question. Hell, that was a mistake right there. Surely Fluttershy would be slightly suspicious and conceal the location of the tree.

"You are right. But I never carried the element around with me. It was much too important to leave around. Besides, it's part of the Tree of Harmony now." Fluttershy smile slightly lessened, something about it did seem a little odd to her "Why do you ask?"

Nymous just took a sip of her tea. "I was just curious." Nymous was now plotting silently...was the tree in the castle perhaps? Did she somehow miss that? Thats what was going through her mind. "..Erm...So, what do you and Anon like to do together?"

SUPER RED FLAGS!

You raise your hoof. "Actually, Aunt Fluttershy..c-can I answer that one?" You didn't need Chrysalis having any kind of ammo of the teasing variety.

"Oh..sure! If you don't mind Nymous. Anon hadn't had a chance to talk yet"

“I don't mind at all" Nymous looked towards you, she could already tell you wanted to try to cover your ass. In fact, knowing about anything embarrassing was exactly her goal.

......Good.

"Well, Aunt Fluttershy has fed me and given me good advice. She's made sure I'm ok if I ever get hurt. We've played board games. And of course she let me sleep over..that's about it really"

"Mhmmm" Nymous nods, then looks over to Fluttershy with a slick smile "anything you'd like to add to that Aunt Fluttershy?"

"Mhmm, what Anon hadn't told you is that we cuddle quite a bit. In fact, if you had wings,you could blanket Anon with them. He especially loves to be snuggled while a wing blankets him and keeps him all warm and snug. In fact, Anon likes kissies on the nose too! So I always make sure to give him a kiss so he knows how important he is to me. Ohhhh! Oh!" Fluttershy got a bright idea "Maybe you could do that for him too Nymous! He always has this cute little smile after a nose kiss. It always warms my heart! He's such a little sweetie!"

Nymous slowly turns her head and gives you an evil glare "I never would have guessed"

........Goddammit...

You hold back an annoyed groan as you look to Nymous with a question of your own. "Can I ask a question, Aunt Fluttershy?"

"Well yes...erm...but I'm not a teacher. And we're all family. You don't need to ask to ask a question" Fluttershy always felt it odd that you always felt that you needed to ask to ask a question instead of just asking it.

"Oh...erm. Well, It's about Nymous really. She's my sister, and you're my aunt. That's for certain..but she's really had a hard life. Just like me...so would it be bad to ask if you make sure to show her...some extra love? You know...kisses on the nose and stuff"

You give Nymous an evil glare of your own. "I'm sure she'd appreciate it..."

REVENGE! Even if Chrysalis could feed off the love, you knew she didn't actually like displaying huge amounts of affection without a reason for it. Especially the cuddly wuddly kind.

"Well of course I can. Nymous, I can already tell your brother loves you very much and only wants you to be happy. I know you’re older than him, but you're never too old for affection." Fluttershy giggled. "In fact, group hug everypony!"

Yeah! Group hug! Cuddles from the Flutters and you were sure Chrysalis wouldn't enjoy direct hug contact. And just as you thought, as you all moved in for a group hug, Chrysalis was reluctant. Explaining it away as her having not felt such family love in such a long time. But you could see...you could definitely see the disgust in her eyes.

And this went on for the rest of the visit. Of course Fluttershy asked about the grappling hook, something you could easily explain that you just wanted to wear it. You tell her about the arcade championship thing and Nymous goes into some details on what brought her to Ponyville. Anytime Nymous brought up anything suspicious however, you managed to deter by either giving an answer of your own or by switching subjects on any follow up questions. This went on for a little while until Nymous had enough of it. With a fake yawn, she explained she had to go talk to Twilight about setting up her stay at the castle.

Fluttershy then took a look back at the statue. To her, the statue was now incomplete. And given the pleasant time she had with Nymous. She felt that was wrong. She looked to Nymous… "Nymous...what do you think of the statues behind us?"

Nymous took a look at it. Internally, she thought it was a monument to a gigantic lie and nothing more. "It's..nice...but erm..I mean..beautiful actually. Everypony looks so happy"

"We are happy...but, don't you feel it's missing something?" .....Oh no..she wasn't suggesting....

"......No?" Nymous wasn't following, she didn't exactly care.

Fluttershy giggled "Are you sure? Because I was thinking it was missing a certain big sister."

That's when Nymous understood, while at the same time filled you with dread. "Ohhh...but, it's such a nice statue already..."

You actually open up your mouth. You actually didn't want Chrysalis to be a part of the statue. Friend yes...but you didn't want her getting too close as family in any way. The whole family thing was Discord's stupid doing. And although you'd play along, you didn't want Fluttershy having any reason to get too close to her. "I agree, every statue looks perfect. What else could you add to it to make it look any better...nothing..that's what"

But Fluttershy disagreed "Actually Anon...Don't you think I should ask your father if he could do me the itty bitty favor of....well...adding one more statue to the set?" She gave Nymous a gentle smile.

....Oh no...

"....I dunno...you know how Dad is about favors...whenever I ask him for one, he sorta expects a favor from me later...you know Dads...You don't wanna deal with that right?"

Fluttershy was surprised at you...but she also thought that maybe you didn't understand what she meant. "Anon, your father isn't like that...well..at least not with me. hrn..." Fluttershy thought maybe he was trying to teach you some sort of life lesson of some sort when it came to favors. "Ok, I'll definitely ask him personally to make a statue of your older sister. Doesn't that sound great, Nymous? Everytime you see these statues, you'll always know that you have family...that you have.." Fluttershy gives Nymous a gentle press at her heart "Us..."

.....Ogh..that was cringy. Dammit Fluttershy.....Dammit.

"Oh Aunt Fluttershy...." Nymous sniffed. "That's so....wonderful."

"Then it's settled. When I see Discord, I will ask him for another statue to complete the set...ohhh..I'm so excited to see what he could do! You must feel so happy right now! Here, let me give you a hug" Fluttershy moved in to give Nymous a hug, but she backed off. Nymous was feeding..you could tell...But she didn't want to show any more affection.

"A-actually Aunt Fluttershy...I really should get goin-Hnnng!" She tried to dodge, Fluttershy moves in for a hug anyway.

"Don't be silly! There's always time for a family hug! Don't you ever feel that it's a bother...Because in this family. We never leave anypony out." Fluttershy giggles as she nuzzles her head on Nymous

Nymous looked like she couldn't handle much more of the visit. Her voice was quivering. "O-of course...I-I love you Aunt Fluttershy...."

Fluttershy took the quiver in her voice as pent up sadness and just hugged tighter. You could swear..just swear..Nymous's face was turning green.

And at that point. It was time to go. You'd stay...But you had to keep an eye on Chrysalis. You wouldn't even have to go if it wasn't for the fact that she was so insistent on going. You of course get your hug from Fluttershy. But she also lets you know that you have a special responsibility now. To help your big sister feel welcomed here in Ponyville and as a family member. Something you accepted, you pretty much already had

one day...you would convert her.

And with that, you both leave. Nymous was groaning the entire way after stepping far enough into the distance with you.

"....I'm going to die...I swear I'm going to die" She falls over to her side "How can any single pony be so disgustingly kind and sweet.....I didn't think I'd survive that..."

Wut? Actually, it was pretty funny. "Are you serious? Hehe, come on. You handled the wedding thing just fine. And that was chockfull of love."

"Ergh...Don't remind me. At least with that I could walk away whenever I wished and manipulate most of the situation...that? That was just murder...I don't understand how Discord can stand it. He's pure chaos and yet he prefers to have the friendship of such a terrible being." Chrysalis put a hoof to her mouth, feeling like she wanted to puke

Oh yeah, this was definitely funny. You couldn't help but chuckle. "I personally thought it was sweet. And look, you kept your promise! Are you sure you're feeling THAT gross about it? Because it looks like to me that you understand how important it is to keep a promise..."

You move up to nuzzle on Chrysalis. "And...I thank you for that."

Chrysalis looks down at you as you cuddle onto her belly, and pushes you away. Not hard, just enough to keep you off of her. "Don't...I don't think my stomach could take anymore. We feed on love...we don't give it. It's...just not right"

Chapter 225

You look down at the fallen mare, it was funny...but also curious. "Y'know, it probably isn't good that a species that feeds on love can't actually handle what they consume."

Chrysalis slowly starts to stand and lets out a little cough "We feed on it, but as I said...we don't like our prey loving on us. I'm not interested in their "feelings". It's all pointless in the grand scheme of things"

"And yet, even given your definition of friendship, you still actually want to be my friend. And if affection hurts so much...why do you always show me affection then? hmmmmm?"

You give her a sly grin.

She let's out an "ugh" and rolls her eyes "Don't mistake that for affection. I was just toying with you, making a meal of you. And don't take my "enjoying my time with you" out of context. There's a difference between that and actual affection.." She then points over yonder to the cottage "And that was an example of the kind of affection I truly despise. Even if it is delicious. Do you realize how much planning goes into my feeding ventures? I always leave myself with outs whenever I can. It's easy to fool ponies at any point and walk away as they talk among themselves about how much they THINK I like them. When it's something like that though?.....it might as well be a bittersweet poison"

"......." You move in closer, with the smarmiest smirk you could "...now who's being a big whiner? It's not that bad and you know it."

Chrysalis looks at you with annoyed distaste "Do you want me to hit you?"

You back off with a giggle...until you remembered something. "Nah..no...wait...hold on. speaking of planning.." You look at her with accusing eyes "What was with the whole "Elements of harmony" thing you were asking?"

Chrysalis kept a stoic look as she turns to look over at Twilight's castle. "What do you think?"

"...You can't go making evil plans like that Chrysalis. Not only is it wrong, but you'd blow your cover."

Chrysalis lets out an arrogant little titter "Anon..I have a life too you know. Besides, what are you worried about" Chrysalis taps her forehead "I'm quite powerless without my horn. What, I can't indulge in my favorite pastimes?"

You just groan at her

"Anon, I will do what I wish. If you care so badly then you'll just have to do a better job at "handling" me.....of course, that also means you can't blow your own cover" Chrysalis then starts walking towards you, making you step back, she was giving you bedroom eyes "You do know how to "handle" me, don't you?"

You gulp, and start stepping back further. Her eyes were glowing. But without her horn to supplement it's hypnotic effects. It didn't have too much of an effect on you.

Too bad that body did....She was bringing her face to yours. and gave your nose a kiss. Making you blush.

"S-stop that..what if somepony sees?"

Chrysalis brings you closer by wrapping her leg around you and pulling you close as she spoke to you in a soft and sultry voice "Nopony will see...and besides...what was that word?...ahh yes..." She giggles and whispers in your ear "We could go behind the bushes....and.....fuck"

Your heart starts pounding, your face was deep red. Hearing that word from her. In that way. It was the hottest thing you have encountered yet. "I-I...B-but...e-erm...m-maybe?...um.."

Chrysalis pushes you away and cackles "hahaha! Still can easily be played with like the lustful little being you truly are. hehehehehe" She then takes a look at the length of her own leg, then turns her head to see the side of her body "And I must admit, this form is very appealing to the usual lonely idiot."

You get up and growl at her. "Can you stop that?! And!...and...I will make sure you're a good pony..just you watch"

Chrysalis wiggles her eyebrows seductively at you "Oh, I know you will..I'll be such a good little pony" She rubs under your chin "That you'll become my tasty little slave...." She giggles again.

You blush, but also slowly push away her hoof "...You know what I mean"

"....and of course, you have your moments where you can be boring too. Yes...I know exactly what you mean. But instead of telling me what to do, you'll have to stop me when I do it. It'll just put more of a challenge to the game. Now..." She gives you a gentle pat "Go inform that stooge of a Draconequus that I'll be staying with him after my night with Twilight. And no funny business Anon...keep it along the rules of our wager. Alright?"

Was she seriously thinking you were going to do anything underhanded? "Only if you keep to your word"

"..Well you won't know that until something happens now won't you? Now go...I need to find the Captain. He can be a little rambunctious sometimes and I don't need him gathering unwanted attention...Unless you want us to stay here and argue...hmmm?" Chrysalis just smirks at you, knowing she has won this bout.

..ohh shit...he was still running around..wasn't he..? "Ok...but remember. No funny stuff. And try not to seduce anypony..ok?"

She smirks at you "I'll try"

You hesitate leaving...but...you were sure she wasn't going to do anything too extreme. And if anyone thought it was weird she was walking around alone. You were sure she'd explain that you went to see if "Dad" would let her live with you..even if the truth was she already did. All you had to do was inform him she wouldn’t be coming home tonight. It also meant you had to see him again period.

You sneaked back over to the stream near the cottage and tossed in your map.

You drop in and fall on your bed.

The map falls daintily on your belly. You take it and slip it back into your bag. "...ok..."

You walk over to your floor door....but something was wrong.

The floor door was now...floor...saloon....door..things..the ones that swing open on hinges. Da fuck?

You go down the invisible gravity stairs once more to enter the living room. But it wasn't the living room anymore.

It was some sort of seedy looking tavern. Changelings sitting at seats drinking a pink fuzzy drink. Playing card games, tossing darts at a dart board, And all of them giving you a dark look.

"........." You stay silent and take another look around. In a corner, where the orb glowed inside a beer tap, was Discord, dressed as a bartender. Cleaning a glass behind a bartender's table.

You carefully and silently make your way to him. And sit on a stool....the hell was all this? "...Discord?...what is this?...a-are you alright?"

Discord smirked at you and turned around to fill the glass before gently sliding it over to you "Ahh, Mr.Anon...been awhile since you been around these parts...practically a week, I reckon."

oh....fantastic. He was playing a role of some sort. Was he ok? did you accidentally break him with that whole Blueblood thing? "Discord...c'mon. Talk to me like a normal.....as you normally do"

Discord sighs, looking at you with a stoic look "..Oh, you're afraid something's wrong with me. Well, kind of you to care but I'm actually absolutely alright. I'm just having fun with the locals. Can't you play along, just a little?"

You look around..if anything..it was kinda creepy. "Yeeeaaahhh...I don't even really know what this is, Discord..." You sigh "Come on man. I heard you were wigging out about what happened. I'm sorry....ok? I can still go out and do stuff with you. But....it just depends. I was going to pee in his drink you know...wasn't that good enough? The fact I was going to do it?"

"No...because you not only didn't do it. But you let Celestia in on it. Imagine the surprise on her face when her nephew or whatever he was came to her at a loss of words. It would have been HILARIOUS.....but no, you failed to keep her out of the loop...and what's worse. Let her change the prank completely within her rules. That's why when dear old Chryssi came up to me with her plan, I said yes.. I know that you'd never have any rest with her about. You'd be FORCED to see that being a nice and cuddly weenie..." Discord produces a hot dog with your face on it, and takes a bite "..is not going to win the day"

You cringe at that. And yeah...looks like he was already willing to go through extreme measures. "..Discord...I know I said I wanted her reformed. But even you should know you let her out too early. She's already scheming"

Discord raises a single eyebrow, unamused "And?...it's not like she can do anything. I let her keep the ability to hypnotize...but at a very low level that only simpletons would fall for. Her magical ability is gone and she can't even change forms. I think you're worrying too much."

"...We went to see Fluttershy. You should know we went to see her. You should know that would have happened. She already wants a statue of Chrysalis. She accepted her like it was nothing. What if she puts Fluttershy in danger? What about that? You know she doesn't care about her..."

Discord stopped for a moment...he even turned his head, it looked like he was thinking...did he not think of that? "mnnn...No, I'm sure I've done just enough to keep her on a tight leash. Nice try, Anon. But this is between you and me. And, if Fluttershy wants that statue..then I'll make it if it'll make her happy...as for you." Discord makes a very evil grin "....You want to ask me a favor..don't you?"

...goddammit...a favor for a favor… "..Come on...Don't do this. For Fluttershy's sake. I just need you to make sure Chrysalis stays here at night so she doesn't skulk around during the day. Not today, but day after and the days after that."

"Trying to guilt me, Anon? tsk tsk....it won't work. Unless Fluttershy is ACTUALLY in danger....which I know she isn't, then you aren't going to get what you want from me without a fair trade.....no matter how unfair it may actually seem."

You had to try though… "Are you really...REALLY..going to risk that? How would you know if something happened to her? I know enough about you that you don't actually know as much as you think you do"

Discord lets out a chuckle..but not because he found it funny. It was from agitation. "Ohhhh...I don't know whether to be proud or angry. I enjoy the fact you are trying to dupe me. But using Fluttershy? That's low....Low enough for me to actually hate."

"I'm not trying to dupe you! I'm being serious! You don't know what she is capable of...MPH!"

Discord zips up your mouth with a literal zipper..he hadn't done that in awhile. "Enough Anon. I don't find that very fun that you'd use Fluttershy's safety against me. So then...before I eject you from my bar. I'm going to give you one chance to answer. Do you want me to do you a favor or not?...of course..for a trade."

You tried to unzip yourself. But it was impossible. You even clipped the hook of the grappling mechanism onto the zipper...not it wouldn't budge.

"...I'm waiting Anon. You can either be a wimp and not take it...Because you should know Chrysi cannot do much in that form. Or you can take what you want...at the cost of having some REAL fun." Discord’s face was full of malevolence, he’s gone fucking mental.

.......There was no winning with him. He was being an idiot. Surely he knew Fluttershy was at risk. But what he wanted was for things to go his way. He wanted you at his side. He didn't want to sacrifice Fluttershy. He was convincing himself there was nothing wrong. If something did go wrong.. and she got hurt....He'd probably never forgive himself. Ugh...and a Discord who lost his Fluttershy would be something....that you can't even predict....So you nod..and agree. For his sake and Fluttershy's. You'd agree just to make sure Chrysalis has more restrictions on her.

Discord smirks at you "I like that choice...ohhh, don't look upset Anon. Everything will be fine! I promise! Nothing will happen to Fluttershy. C'mon, even Chryssi knows not to lay a hoof on her....if she wants to remain sane..." He says with a darkness in his voice "And now you and I get to have fun! Everything works out...for me really but you get the point...now then..Time for you to be off, you're much too young for a bar...in fact..I have planning to do...so all of you get a free boot!" Discord snaps his talon as tons of actual boots appear. Oh god, it was frightening. The fleet of boots even had the changelings in a state of fright.

Discord just started cackling as the boots starting kicking everything in sight. Anything they kick being poofed away. You didn't even have time to react as you tried to block a boot and ended up getting kicked right in the head.

In a flash...you were back in your room. Right outside the floor door...which had returned to normal.

You tapped at your head a few times. You only felt a slight bump. Either your head was becoming resistant or you really should go to a hospital about it.

.....Discord....

...Well then...At Least you didn't have to worry about Chryssi scheming and sneaking around at night.

...oh shit...Wait! "Ahh fuck..I forgot about the Captain!....Discord..W-wait!"

You open your floor door...and everything was back to normal. Discord was nowhere to be seen. "....ahh shit...Well...mnn..how much damage could he do? He's a fucking puppy now....I better go find Chrysalis. It's still daylight...And I gotta.....I gotta......dammit..."

You open the portal door and look through it...it was night. "Discord you MISERABLE LITTLE FUCK....YOU FUCKING SHERAGRAFEWEWF"

You nearly blow a gasket. He must have pulled a shenanigan to make time pass all the way to the night. There was no telling what Chrysalis may have done while you were "Away" "Goddammit. What if she hung around the crusaders...or..Oh god.."

You felt your heart go heavy "Diamond Tiara....what if she spread rumors?...What if she found out about my other friends and went to see them? What if she met the rest of the mane six and.....did stuff...ok..relax...her powers are super weak. Discord said she could only hypnotize simpletons. Basically idiots.....and a lot of ponies are idiots....ugh. Dammit.."

.....you were never going to get sleep. And school was tomorrow. You set your alarm to wake up much earlier than when school starts so you could dart straight to Twilight's. You wouldn't go now, you didn't want Twilight growing suspicious. Though...wouldn't it be suspicious that you didn't even go to tell her anything? Well..given the time on the clock..as you noticed. They are probably getting ready for bed… "Chrysalis...you better keep your word...I swear"

Why did Discord do this? You didn't even know. Maybe he just wanted to see what would happen if Chryssi was left alone for a day. Maybe he's just insane...who knows...

.....You climb into bed and try to sleep. Tomorrow would be another day....you had to be ready.

..You close your eyes..and drift off.

During your sleep however. You feel a few drips on your nose. Making your eyes slowly open up. "Ngh...Discord...Why..WHY..do..y...huh?"

You open your eyes and look up at an open portal on your ceiling, it was liquidy looking. And it looked like it went into someone's old style kitchen. "...the...fuck? Am I dreaming?"

As you stared into it, you saw a familiar applefilly climb over something to jump in. She falls backwards and let's out a yell.

You yourself let out your own yell as it hits you that said applefilly is about to fall on you. You try to get out of the way but no dice. She drops right onto your stomach and bounces off right to the end of the bed.

"Hmmmmmnnnnngh!" You let out whine as you flip over and hold your stomach. Completely out of breath from her landing

"Wow!" Applebloom dusts herself off. Not even noticing that she fell on you "It really worked. Ah can't believe Anon would just leave his map where anypony could grab it. It's so easy to just end up here....hmm.."

She looks back, and notices you groaning in pain. "Anon?..oh boy...ah didn't hurt you..did I?" She looked pretty concerned.

You took a few breaths. As you feel something like fall on your nose....that parchment...it looked familiar. "N-no..I'm alright...wait...Applebloom?"

You look over to her, and jump back to your pillow "APPLEBLOOM?! WHAT?!..HOW??! WHAT ARE YOU DOING IN MY ROOM?!"

WHAT IN THE FUCK?!

"Ya don't have to yell Anon, sheesh. Ah was just returnin' your map thing. There it is right there" She points to the map that had now fallen on the bed.

.....the map? That you dropped?..you didn't drop your map.....and yet...there it was....something was off. "...uhhhh...Applebloom...Where exactly...did you find that map?"

"Ah found it lying around in the classroom. As soon as ah realized what it was. Ah took it home..."

.......ok ".....Why didn't you return it to me when I lost it?"

This...didn't sound right at all. "Ah didn't know where you were"

"....so...why come to my room? If I didn't have my map, wouldn't it make sense that I couldn't get home?"

"......huh..." Applebloom tapped at her chin "Ah never thought of that actually...ah thought maybe you had another way home, ah didn't see you with your sis when she was walking around Ponyville without ya. I would have said something, but I was with my sister...we were looking for that puppy and she was gonna show me a few lasso'n moves. She didn't seem to think that puppy was too dangerous, even though I told her what it did...we never found it though...weird huh?"

No...he was obviously hiding to make sure he didn't get caught. And what really struck you as odd was the fact that you had only been sleeping for about an hour..if your alarm clock was correct anyway. "Ok...last question....what are you doing at my room at night? Shouldn't you be in bed?....does anypony in your house know you were coming here?"

Applebloom blushed hard, and started swirling her right foreleg around on the bed. "Erm...Well, that actually...ah wanted to talk to you alone. See, your sister told me ah should...erm..talk to you about a few things alone...Ahh didn't know how ah was gonna do that actually...but when ah found your map...well...ah thought of a way...So ah kinda waited til night to come to see ya when everypony was asleep. Ah remembered how ya used the map when we went to the Crystal Empire"

....ohhh shit...Was that what her and Nymous spoke to each other about in private at the school? "Can you give me a second...just a second"

"Erm..Ok..." Applebloom said as she just gazed around the room.

You got off your bed and took a look at your saddlebag. Inside was the usual contents....including...your map.

That wasn't your map...Chrysalis probably had a map of her own. Why a map when Discord could have chosen literally anything else?....Who knows? But that map HAD to be hers....that bitch...She had planned from the start to make sure she didn't have to come home today. She dropped her map on purpose. She spoke to Applebloom back at the school to get this in her head. And dropped the map for her to find....GODDAMMIT! YOU'VE BEEN RUSED AGAIN!

You look back to Applebloom and hop back on your bed. For now, you would follow on the ruse as to not raise suspicion. "Welp....Thanks Applebloom, it was really nice of you to return my map. So erm..."You look towards the portal door "You should go home now before you get in trouble"

"W-wait Anon!" Applebloom blushes "Ah kinda wanted to talk to ya...about somethin'"

....ugh...wonder what it could be...oh right...relationships "...is it about Me, you, and Diamond Tiara?"

"......" Applebloom lets out a little whineful moan and starts rubbing her right leg with her left as she turns away "Sorta...Ah just wanted to ask ya in private why ya went back to her. Ah mean, you didn't have to come to me either. Ah just thought it was over. Mah sister says relationships as a foal come and go and never last long...but...." Applebloom blushed even more, but she also felt considerable shame...it was adorably sad "...never mind....that'd just make things a lot more complicated ah think"

...mnnn "It's complicated Applebloom. I don't even know why really. It just seemed like destiny in a really odd sense. Even Sweetie Belle helped me with it, you know that. And I think you’re sister is right. I really don't think this relationship will last forever. I really really don't"

"..are you joshing me? She's head over hooves for you....and sometimes it looks like yer the same way. And ah just don't get it."

"What's to get?" You shrug "That's just how it works...what I want to know is why you're bothering at all. Applebloom, I'm taken..why do you care?"

Applebloom cringed, that sounded...especially cold to her. "...I dunno...It's just...Well, Granny Smith once told me that the apple family,each member, always finds the right mare or stallion...And ah never felt these kind of feelings before. So..maybe..ah thought...you were the one.."

Applebloom

You let out a soft sigh. "Applebloom...I know it hurts but...she said Stallion..not colt. I'm probably not the one. And besides, the reason I say I might not even last with Diamond Tiara is because my life is complicated...really really....complicated"

Applebloom's disappointment then turned to feeling rather insulted "...Why do ya gotta baby me like that, Anon? Aside from living with Discord, what else ya got to worry about? Have ya even ever worked on a farm? It's hard work.....you just want me to leave...don't ya?" You could see her holding back tears.

...unfortunately, there is also something else...something you hear.

It's your floor door, it's making a slight creaking sound...as if things were moving through it.

....OH SHIT! "Yup! That's exactly what I want...Applebloom..I need you to close your eyes and I'll get you through the portal door. It's been letting out this really bright light and I don't want you to go blind!"

You give her a frantic smile as you start sweating profusely.

Applebloom's face scrunches up in pure anger "ANON! HOW COULD YA BE SO MEAN!...y..yer not even actin' like a friend...or was that it all along? Ya used us to get what you want and just toss us away! Is that it!?" Applebloom gets up and starts poking you hard on the chest, accusing you, looking at you with angry,tearful, judging eyes "Huh? Is that the truth!?"

You squeak and step back "Applebloom! Don't be so stubborn! I need you to leave...Right now! Right right now! For once...FOR ONCE, JUST LISTEN!"

You step up over her, knocking her to her back as you look at her with angry eyes. You were angry at her stubborness, but you also didn't want her to realize or even notice that you two were no longer alone.

Applebloom was now deeply emotionally hurt. To her, it was like you were...all this time...just a selfish monster. She had never seen this side of you...and she never wanted to ever again. "Fine! Ahm leavin'! But we ain't friends anymore! You're...Y-You're just! Cruel!"

....ohhhh...dammit. That was really bad...you didn't mean to just yell out like that. But fucking dammit, she just wasn't listening. "A-Applebloom...It's not like that! I mean it! It's just you really gotta go! Like right now..please..don't feel insulted..I'll expla-"

"No..you won't. Like ah said..we're done! WE'RE DONE!" Applebloom shouts with tears running down her eyes, she hopped off your bed, sobbing as she walked over to the portal door.

....fuck...Well Chrysalis..you got what you wanted...this was what you wanted right?...you monster.

"What's wrong with this stupid thing!" Applebloom was trying to open the door "Why won't it open! Ah wanna leave already!"

"H-hold on...let me-" But before you get off the bed..like lightning...black silhouettes dive right towards the door.

Applebloom falls silent as pairs of eyes open up from above the door, their hooves holding the door closed as the ones that dove in land on the center of the door and cling to it, others clinging to the surrounding wall. "...g....m...b..." Applebloom couldn't speak, she was scared witless. Her eyes wide as she stepped backwards. The changelings moving in on her.

No..NONONONONONO! NOT NOW! NOT FUCKING...DAMMIT!

The Changelings begin hiss and speak"Where do you think you're going?"

"We haven't had any kind of delicious love in awhile"

"Just pretend we're not here...but don't leave...in fact..why don't you just stay forever?"

...oh no...They must have sensed the love Applebloom was giving off and went to investigate. Goddammit....everything regarding Chrysalis just made your life harder..worse...what were you going to do now?

"A-Ahm warnin' you..Ah-ah don't know how ya got here..B-but Ah stomp ya all...." Applebloom says as threatening as she could. Applebloom steps back and stops when she bumps into something pointy. She turns near white when she hears hissing behind her. "...t-to..the..g-ground?"

She turns around, and just sees more of them. She freezes in place. She couldn't fight this hoard. She weakly calls for help "A-appplej-j-jack..A-Anon...h-help.."

You could see them all gathering around, but not attacking. But they were getting agitated. The love they were feeding on was weakening.

.....she was so scared...and it was too late now...you had to do something.

"All of you! Back off now! Or else!" You stand up on your bed, brave and tall.

And...amazingly...they back off.

...oook...wait...was this planned?! So..oh please Chrysalis...you're smart. But how the fuck did you plan this far ahead? Discord?...no...can't be. He's being dense, yeah...but this could ruin everything for him...and for Chrysalis...so..the question was...Did she plan this? and for what reason..?

You hop off the bed and get to Applebloom and guard her. "Back off..All of you!"

You look to Applebloom and give her a shake "Applebloom! Applebloom! come on..we gotta get you out of here!"

Applebloom opens her eyes and looks at you. Once again the hero, her eyes glisten. "Y-ya saved me.."

"I know. Now's not the time for that. Come on!" Dammit...it was really looking like a faked attack to garner more love for her. At least she didn't make the connection that you and the changelings were living together.

You rush her over to the door while the changelings backed off. Surely they would let you open the door since it seemed part of the plan.

......They didn't...you couldn't get the door open.

The changelings start speaking again.
"Anon, don't let her go"
"Come on already...make with the smooching"
"Or at least cuddle or something."
"I wish the queen was here, Anon is being really bad at wooing her. She'd be able to help him"

Applebloom's eyes went wide as she heard them conversing among themselves. But no..it couldn't be. "A-anon..why are they talkin'....as if they know you?"

....Ok....now things really went awry. In what world did them just saying shit like that help in ANYBODY'S plan? "Don't listen to them..nnnggh!" You did your best in trying to get the door open "We...gotta!..Get!..you..Out!"

They start to speak once again.
"Anon...can you stop? We're not letting her leave."
"You're the queen's friend and all, but you're being rude."
"Smooch, Smooch, Smooch!"

"Q-queen's friend?..A-Anon..." Now Applebloom was internally having a freak out "...Anon...where did they come from? W-why.....why are they sayin' that you're the "queen's friend"? W-What's goin' on? ah..ah just wanna go home. I-it’s a dream..right?"

you were panicking hard. They were starting to close in again. And they weren't letting you open the door. Shit Shit Shit! "Applebloom...Just..."

Suddenly you feel a push on your head as your lips press upon Applebloom's and you fall right on top of her.

Chapter 226

the changelings woo at you, sucking in the few seconds of love from Applebloom before she sucker punches you in the face with her hoof and runs the other direction.

The changelings have a laugh among themselves
"oooooohhhhhh that must have stung"
".....I thought for sure that was going to be an embrace sorta thing"
"...boo!"

You held on to your muzzle with your hooves as you leaned upwards, that really smarts. Wasn’t strong enough for the barrier to activate either.

Worse still, You lost sight of Applebloom. But you don't lose the sound of her escape. You hear a door close behind you, then a thud followed by a scream....she went through the floor door.

You could hear the changelings in the room laughing at you and at the whole situation.

The situation...the laughter.....the secret revealed...the fucking with you...the friendship lessons.....your friends...your foes...ALL OF IT!

GOD FUCKING DAMMIT! "I'M SICK AND TIRED OF THIS SHIT! I'M FUCKING TIRED OF EVERYONE FUCKING WITH MY LIFE!"

You look over towards the changelings, who have since stopped laughing and now stared at you with stoic faces. "AND ALL OF YOU..ALL OF YOU ARE FUCKING SHIT! I'M GONNA FUCK ALL OF YOU UP! I HOPE YOU KNOW THAT!"

But they all just start laughing again.
"Silly Anon..we can't hurt each other"
"What a maroon"
".....they didn't smooch right?...darn it"

You started to smirk quite crazily, your eyes twitching. "....Who said anything about hurting? I wonder how you all would like to be my furniture after I get my horn back. Because I fucking swear on my life that my horn bypasses the barrier. And guess what?...I'm really feeling into Feng Shui right now.." You let out an angrily crazed titter

The changelings stop their laughter, and look at eachother, worried
"Ca-can he do that? is he bluffing?"
"Remember the ex-captain? He got changed into a chair!"
"I don't want to be a toilet!"

You could tell you now had their attention. "...Well then...you don't want to be furniture? Then you all better fucking pay attention to me right FUCKING now! Everypony! Line up!"

Amazingly, it worked. Whether you were bluffing or could actually do it. It didn't seem to matter. Because you convinced them that you were now running the show. "I know there is more of you little fucks down there right now terrorizing that filly! So I want you all to go down there and calm down the swarm. You have ten seconds, because if I step down there and I hear so much as a cackle.....Well, I hope you like being strung together as a chandelier"

Noooope! The changelings in your room scrambled for the floor door. You could hear talking, panicked yelling, and hissing downstairs....until finally....quiet.

"...Good...Now for Applebloom" You open the floordoor and head down to the living room.

You look around, all the changelings were lined up in neat little rows. The moment you placed your hooves on the solid ground. They saluted.

"....Good...At ease.."

They all stopped saluting.

you started to look around the living room. But no sign of Applebloom. Now that was worrying. "Applebloom? Applebloom.....come on...Please? Don't hide from me.."

You start to look around. The kitchen was upside down...but no sign of her. The hall of doors...oh god..the train fire...you hoped she didn't step in there...then you realize...the changelings might know. "Hey...any of you seen Applebloom?"

they ALL immediately point towards the couch

you walk over to it, you look under it....no Applebloom.

But you look at the top. The top of the couch was red and velvety, and inbetween two red pillows was a third shaking pillow...with a bow. That wasn't a pillow..it was her tail. She was trying to pose as a pillow. "Applebloom...I know that's you"

you hear her whimpering "Applebloom..I'm not going to UMPH!"

Applebloom wastes no time at spinning around and tossing a pillow at you before hopping on and off of you.

She then runs towards the front door and opens it as you get up and throw the pillow off of you. "Applebloom! Don't!"

You yell at her to stop. But she does on her own. Whatever was out there, that was a big nope. She slams the door and tries running again.

Or she would....but she trips and falls over. She could barely move her legs. The mat in front of the door was sticky as hell, and has stuck to all four of her hooves...how convenient.

You walk over to Applebloom and stand in front of her "Applebloom...Please...relax. Let me explai-"

She does her best to huddle into a ball as her stomach gets stuck onto the mat, She couldn't unwind herself. "P-please! Don't eat me Anon! Ahm all gamey and stuff...p-please let me go" She whined and whimpered. She had never felt so close to death in her life, even the chimera she faced didn't seem so scary.

You roll your eyes "Applebloom. I'm not going to eat you! Geez! This is why I never really "fell in love" with you. This right here, you're stubborn and you act dumb...A LOT!"

Applebloom's heart..whatever was left. shattered from those words. Even the changelings around you cringed. "P-please..d-don't hurt me..."

You sigh...stupid girl. "Applebloom....Look at me...Look at me right now"

She was frightened, but those words. She very slowly looked up, not even realizing she was too stuck to uncurl. And looked at you with despair.

.....geez Applebloom...

You lay down on your belly in front of her and sigh. "Applebloom...I'm going to explain everything to you right now. I know you're scared...but I need you to listen to all of it...alright? Once you listen, you'll understand why the changelings are here. Will you listen to me?"

She doesn't move at first, but after a moment. She slowly nods.

"...ok....let me start from the beginning..." You explain everything to Applebloom. Nothing human related. You started at when you and Discord went to terrorize Chrysalis to her coming to live with you to the whole "Nymous" thing. During the story, Applebloom stayed absolutely silent. You didn't even know if she was listening or if she was lost in some kind of mental and emotional void.

you could hear the changelings murmuring among themselves, some even crying.
"Those poor Changelings! they were just dragged along for the ride since the beginning!"
"...errr....you do know WE are those changelings right?"
"Well, are we? Those changelings sounded a lot more sympathetic"
"I know right? I already like this story, it makes us sound better...except for our queen"
"Yeah, she didn't sound nearly as monstrous and evil as usual"
"Yeah...disappointing actually. I'd have made her sound more vicious, that'd be great"

But you didn't care for their answers. You cared for Applebloom's. "And that's everything Applebloom. I'm not a monster or a changeling...I'm just a foal who got wrapped into chaos. Kinda par for the course really.."

Applebloom was still curled into a ball, but she was in deep thought. So deep she still didn't really notice her predicament. "........."

"Applebloom?" You ask, she wasn’t reacting at all

"....Anon...it's a lot to think about. And..." She hesitated

It shouldn't be THAT much. But, you didn't realize she was also thinking on what you said about her pretty much being a child. Hell, you were so stressed yourself you didn’t even realize how crazy the situation truly was. Especially to an outsider.

"And...mnnn...it just seems...really dangerous. I was there when that queen went all nasty. She even beat Princess Celestia. And that's what ah really don't get. Why would Princess Celestia agree to let her live here?" Applebloom couldn’t put it together.

You sigh "Like I said, I think I can reform her. It's hard...she's....really difficult...but..I think I can. Celestia believes in me...mostly"

Applebloom then slowly looked upon the changelings "A-and what about them?" She was still frightened by their presence. Hell, she was still having some trouble swallowing the story in general. But she couldn't move, all she could do was listen and talk. Being stuck only made things worse for her.

"They are harmless. They can't even hurt us. Dad's spell kinda made us all immune to each other..or something like that. It's fine. And..they aren't so bad when they aren't being dumb."

the changelings started to protest, saying "No we're not!"

But you just take a quick glance at them and say. "Dining room set"

And they all shut up

You then look to Applebloom, who looked quite confused. "See? I got it all under control. Chrysalis is just trying to get her way, get under my skin. She was the one who dropped off the map. I already had mine the entire time. I don't really get what she gains by you learning the secret. But that's fine...we'll work it out"

Applebloom doesn't really listen to that part, she just turns her head with a somber look and says "Yeah...." She sighs, still looking away "Anon...Do you think I'm dumb?"

Wut?

All that...and that's what she was worried about the most?

You sigh heavily, and look into her eyes with reassuring eyes to let her know you weren't angry anymore. "No...I was just really angry. You're a good friend. But you gotta understand Applebloom. This isn't a game. This is serious..I need to know now, are you scared of me still?"

Applebloom took a breath, and slowly released "A little...it's always somethin' with you. Either you're a hero, or something shady is going on. And this is pretty darn shady. You lie, but you also got this really big heart. And ah think ah can see why you lie...but..it's just...really confusing. How do ah even know you're actually good? Ya could just be telling me all this so ah don't tell anypony else. You could have some sort of evil plan. But what can ah do really...ahm trapped. Ahm scared...It's too much. Ah never met anypony like you...and it's just......ah dunno what to call it..." She was only acting calmish now because she was tired and her hope was nearly gone. It was like she had given up. Not to mention how confused she was.

mnnnn "Applebloom, I promise it's all the truth. In fact....hold still ok? Please...just close your eyes."

But she didn't. She didn't want to do it. she was scared of not being able to open them again.

"Applebloom...look, I'm gonna get you unstuck. Then I'm going to let you go home. If you don't believe me. Tell your sister, tell Twilight, you know...just tell them. It'll pretty much end all your fears right there. Now close your eyes, ok? Please?" You asked in a softer tone.

Applebloom hesitates. But she closes her eyes this time.

You investigate the mat. the goop that kept her together looked like super glue. egh. Maybe you could cut through it. Or maybe..

You look at a closeby changeling. "You...right here...now"

The changeling gulps and comes over. Applebloom flinches, but keeps her eyes shut. She thought something bad was going to happen.

"Use your horn..VERY CAREFULLY...and cut through this goop right here, here...and right under her mane. Ok? No tricks...and don't hurt her"

The changeling nods and does his best. He does a good job actually. just a few strands of the goop hung from her mane. it wasn't too bad. You carefully throw the mat to the side, keeping your hooves away from the sticky side. "Ok...open your eyes and stand up"

Applebloom slowly opens her eyes and realizes she wasn't stuck anymore. She looks at her legs, her hooves, then very carefully stands up. But she still says nothing.

"Follow me..." You walk over to the underside of the floordoor, and point at it. "Applebloom, this might be really hard for you right now. But to get back up, you need to focus on these invisible stairs...like this"

You focus, and start to rise up from the ground with every step. "See? Just don't lose focus and pretend there's a staircase going up."

Applebloom was slightly astounded just to see you stepping up. She put a hoof forward, but she didn't feel a step. She then looked around, she felt very uncomfortable with all the changelings around. "Anon...they ain't going to try anything, are they?"

mnnnn "Hey...you all. Get back in the basement. We'll talk later. But it's bed time anyway...SO MOVE!"

The changelings again, start to scramble towards the trap door and rush through it. Stupid nimrods.

"You alright now?"

"Mhmm..." Applebloom actually wasn't. But, it was some relief for her to have. But she still didn't know if she should trust you. But if it meant leaving… "So...like this?." She steps forward. But it still doesn't work.

"No no...you have to act like there's stairs. You have to believe they are there. It's the only way"

She nods, and tries to focus harder. She tried to get determined. And with a few more tries. She managed to do it. But she doesn't get excited. She just steps up silently.

As she steps up into the room. You go to the dial and set it to the town hall. and open the portal door. "There you go Applebloom. The way to Ponyville is through that door...." You sigh.....you really really didn't want her to say anything to anyone. "Applebloom...I still want to be your friend. It's just, really? My life is complicated. I'm sorry about Diamond Tiara...but just because that happened. Doesn't mean we can't be friends...same with this. Ok?"

But she doesn't say anything. She just walks closer towards you and the door.

she stops right in front of you, and sighs, looking away "Ah just wanna go home Anon..."

"...right..." You step aside and let her through. "Goodnight Applebloom.."

"....Goodnight..." She doesn't say anything more. She just steps through the door.

You gently close the door after she leaves. "........."

You sigh...that didn't go well....that didn't go well at all.

What were you going to do now? What did Chrysalis gain from this? You didn't know....

you didn't even feel any rage....just anguish. You climb into bed. and just lay there..thinking of every possibility that can happen tomorrow. Either way...your life was probably ruined at this point. Mission Accomplished Bugbutt....Mission Accomplished.

You lay there for the rest of the night. Unable to sleep. You were scheming. "....Oh she's going to to get it. Does she even care that this fucks up her chances at freedom?...probably not. She says she's my friend. But ever since she got out and into Equestria. She became a major bitch. She may have been duping me the entire time. She may not have even cared about Starship Troopers."You roll on your back and look straight up "She's playing for keeps it seems. So fine, I'll show her how much i can "change". And she won't like it...oohhh no..she won't."

You wrap yourself in your blanket and slowly roll around. "As for Applebloom...I'm just going to have to hope she doesn't tell anyone else. And if that's the case, I'm going to have to try to speak to her again. I have to show her I have everything under control...and if I have to have Chrysalis on a leash to show that. So be it. She brought it upon herself."

You put your face in your pillow "And then there's Discord....not much I can do about that. Just going to have to deal with whatever he wants me to do. I've done it before, I can do it again. Though that type of shit is what caused this whole changeling thing in the first place."

You just couldn't sleep. "....I think I'll just go straight to school in the morning. Let Chrysalis do what she wants at the castle. If I'm lucky, she'll fuck up and get caught on her own. Celestia would get my back......or maybe she'd be upset because things went wrong under my watch"

You sigh "...what a bother. No...I'll go straight to the castle"

And so you wait. Wait until the alarm of your alarm clock rings.

Your eyes were heavy, but you didn't yawn, you were exhausted, and yet you couldn't sleep a wink. Oh...god...

You slowly and wearily got up as you walked to your mirror....what a mess. Your mane was scraggly and your eyes were heavy and baggy.

You take your saddle bag and open the portal door

"Agh!" You hold your hoof over your eyes...the rising sun was bright. and your eyes needed to readjust. "mmnnghh.....mnnn"

You step through the portal and head straight towards Twilight's castle. "Just go in...check on Chrysalis...Tell Twilight the news that she can live with Discord...yadda bla...that's it. Easy...Hopefully I can get her "settled in" right after telling her. ngh...Need to clear my mind. I don't want to miss anything."

You arrive at the front doors of the castle and push them open. Shaking your head to try to send a jolt to your brain to keep you more attentive and awake.

You approach the next set of doors to the Cutie Map room. But your ears perk up. A voice coming from the other side gets your attention. A voice as radiant as the sun.

......no way....

You slowly open the doors.

Sitting at the map was Twilight,Nymous, and....Princess Celestia.

they were smiling, laughing, and having a joyous time. It seemed they were having breakfast..Pancakes. But...Why? Why was Celestia here? And....what was them..all of them...being so happy?

Chapter 227

There they were. Just eating together, laughing together….eating pancakes. “...Oh yes, despite your father’s jokes falling rather flat he did say one about Twilight that got a giggle out of me. I mean, it is rather odd that he’s able to maintain flight better than an alicorn.” Celestia said with a chuckle

Twilight nearly spit up her drink on that one, she held it in and gave a meek chuckle as she sheepishly said “yep...ehehe...that was a good one.”

Nymous however let out a hearty laugh “Oh my, I know I shouldn’t laugh. But that is quite funny. My apologies princess, ehehe. It was just very funny, really.”

OH god, what the fuck was going on?

“Oh yes, it was almost as funny as this one time a changeling queen attacked Canterlot. Now, the attack itself wasn’t funny, no it was quite dire in fact. What was funny was that the queen had everything. Victory was in her hooves….and she lost, just standing there because she accidently let two ponies express their love. Irony indeed, am I right?” Celestia lets out another happy little laugh.

Twilight took a moment, but then she laughed out loud herself “Oh right! Because they feed on love! That’s a great joke, princess! Pinkie would love to hear that one.”

Nymous let out one of the fakest laughs she ever produced while hiding her face in her food “he he he….hilarious…”

“Yes and….Ohhhh” Celestia turns her head “Anon, what a surprise.”

“Wow, it...actually is. Ah!” Twilight grinned happily at your early presence. To her, it could only mean one thing. “Yes! I knew you could fix that sleeping schedule of yours eventually! Great job! I’m proud of you! And you’re just in time for pancakes too! We have some a little extra if you want!”

Well, Twilight was in a good mood. No doubt due to Celestia’s presence. But...what the fuck was going on here? Why was Celestia here? “Yeah um...Hi everypony. What’s uhh...going on? Whatcha doin here Princess Celestia..erm..oh right” You do a little bow to her to be respectful. Gotta remember that respect.

“Oh, you know. Having breakfast with Princess Twilight. Meeting your sister, which I must say has been quite a pleasant experience so far. And…” Her horn lights up, a box that had been beside her on the table started to float up towards her and then you “...Returning something that belongs to you.”

Your eyes go wide….no way...could it be? “I-is that?”

Celestia nods "It is indeed my little one, after reading Twilight's evaluation. I can safely say that you have earned the right to have your horn back. I even made a small addition to it, so you can always keep it close"

"Right” ...it was yours to begin with...that's fine, now you have a way to counter Chrysalis's shit. "Thank you Princess Celestia, it's a real honor to hear that from you"

You open the box. And there was the horn. It has...a golden ring around it..

Wait, this isn't a ring, it's like a chain of some sort, a chain lined with shiny beautiful suns akin to her cutie mark. Oh....wait...

You put the horn around your neck, it was pretty loose fitting. But it worked. The horn was now a pendant. That was actually kind of nifty. "Hey, this is actually kind of cool." you smile as you give it a tap.

But wait..WAIT...don't let your mind wander just because your tired. focus on the fact that Chrysalis was probably up to no good. Focus on the fact that she basically fucked everything over. "Thank you again Princess Celestia"

"You're welcome Anon...but...I must be going soon. So there's one more order of business I must attend to." Celestia says as she looks upon Nymous, then you.

"What?! You're leaving already?! P-princess Celestia..It's not that I'm protesting or anything but...I actually was hoping you'd stay long enough for me to discuss some of my findings on the cutie map.." Twilight was already looking pretty disappointed.

Celestia shakes her head, smiling at Twilight "Princess Twilight, I do apologize about me leaving so soon. But I did say I only came here to drop off Anon's horn in the first place. And besides, I don't really know much about the cutie map myself. It is part of your castle afterall. I'm sure I'd have nothing to add on to your findings."

Twilight looked down in disappointment. She figured that was true. But she also hoped she may have had some insight anyway. Celestia was originally her teacher afterall. "Alright..."

"Don't look so glum. You're doing a fantastic job as is. Both in your research and in your princessship." Celestia gets up and steps next to Twilight to give her a gentle rub on the head with the underside of hers. Bringing a smile upon Twilight's face "Don't let me leaving so soon bring you down. Be proud, you're much smarter than I am in these sort of things"

"W-what?!" Twilight backed off "N-not as smart as-..mph?"

Celestia put a hoof gently on her muzzle "Twilight...I am low on time. And we both know you're just being modest."

as Celestia removes her hoof from her mouth, Twilight blushes from the fact that Celestia was probably right, and chuckles nervously "I-I guess."

"...Before I go however, I'd like to use your library for a private meeting with Anon and his sister. Since they are both here together, I have something I want to address to both of them"

"Really? Shouldn't I be there too?" Twilight asked, confused and curious

Celestia shook her head "No, it's just a little thing. Just enjoy the pancakes. And actually...can you get mine "To go"? Spike did a wonderful job on making these that'd I'd love to enjoy them for...Lunch maybe"

Twilight nodded "Yes, Right away Princess Celestia"

A private chat?...you wondered what she wanted to talk about.

You look to Nymous, whose expression still reflected that of a kind sister. "Nymous, you ok with talking privately to Princess Celestia?"

Nymous nods "Of course, having an opportunity to speak to Princess Celestia is such a great honor!"

....hmmnnn...a private chat with Celestia huh?.....Maybe Celestia did know...and Chrysalis..if that's the case...knew that she knew...it would be pretty obvious to make the connection.

Princess Celestia leads the both of you through the castle as Twilight gets her pancakes wrapped up. No word is said among any of you. Silence is kept.

Even as you three step into the library. No word is said. Only the sound of the door being locked magically can be heard.

"...So uh..Whatcha wanna..." You stop midsentence when you look upon Celestia. She was giving a hard long and harsh stare at Nymous.

Nymous....doing the same towards Celestia.

...oh shit.

"Princess Celestia..." Nymous says in a stoic and cold voice

"Queen Chrysalis..." Celestia greets her in the same manner.

Oohhhhh shiiit.

"I see Discord finally let you out. I'm glad he had the sense of keeping you locked into a single form...I also noticed that you seem to lack your horn." Celestia says, never breaking her stare

Chrysalis however, starts to smile a cruel smile "If you're suggesting I'm powerless...you'd be wrong. I am still a master of strategy. As you can see, I even have your precious little pupil fooled this time. I can manipulate her and anypony I wish to get my way....And you won't do anything about it. Will you?" She chuckles

"I gave Anon my word. But my word is only as good as my ability to make sure my subjects are safe. If that safety is threatened....then so is your time here in Equestria" Celestia was looking more serious by the second.

Chrysalis lets out an evil little chuckle "Oh my my my Princess. Considering how easily I fooled you last time, by the time you realized anything, I'd already have everything under my control."

Celestia's horn started to glow "Don't tempt me...I could easily stop you right here"

"But you won't, you won't because you honestly believe in Anon's ability to reform me." Chrysalis turns to you with a more sexualised grin "He's not doing a particularly good job. But there are parts I actually like,"

....you wondered about that. In fact...fuck this. "...Y'know, it's funny you say that. Because I honestly doubt any of that. Ever since Discord let you out you've been nothing but cruel. You've actively been trying to ruin my life."

Chrysalis rolls her eyes at you "Really? Are you te-"

"SHUT UP!" You yell out, not only surprising Chrysalis, but Celestia as well.

"Excuse me.." Chrysalis said with a growl "Did you ju-"

"Yes! I did" You go and step next to Celestia as you gazed angrily at Chrysalis "After last night. I now know you don't really care about me or anypony else. You just want my life to turn into a total cesspool. You don't even care if it puts you at a disadvantage"

Chrysalis was angry, angry at the fact you'd talk back to her like that. "Are you serious?! You're acting like a total ponce because you can't handle a little crush? Seriously Anon, I'm actually trying to help you and you break down because you aren't stallion enough to handle something as small as a love triangle...pathetic"

"Oh no no no" You wave your hoof as you smile a nearly crazy smile among your anger. "Don't play coy with me. Because I'm tired of it...Tell me, Just...tell me. What was the POINT of letting her in on the secret? Huh?! Do you want to drive me insane in worrying about that everypony in Equestria will know what's going on? How does that even benefit you. TELL ME! TELL ME! BECAUSE I SPENT ALL NIGHT TRYING TO FIGURE IT OUT!" you exploded. And your words. Celestia was visibly concerned......and so was Chrysalis

"......what are you talking about?" Chrysalis asks.

"Oh yeah...are you going to tell me you didn't have your little rats wait for Applebloom to come by? Great plan master strategist. Except for the fact that we're both pretty much done!"

".......Anon, why in the wide wide world would I ever plan that? It was only supposed to cause you grief. NOT ruin absolutely everything I worked for! I specifically told them NOT to interfere!" Chrysalis let out a growl, then a yell "grrrRAAAAWWWRRR, ARE YOU TELLING ME THEY COULDN'T BE PATIENT FOR ONE NIGHT?! I'M SO GOING TO PUNISH THEM WHEN I GET HOME!"

W-wut? "Woah woah...H-hold on. Are you telling me that wasn't part of the plan?"

"Of course not! Why would it ever!? " Chrysalis actually looked worried, nearly panicked "How could I underestimate their hunger for real love?"

Holy shit...so it was just their fault?! "Why would you even risk bringing somepony into the house like that?! You're a changeling, the subject matter is love! You didn't think there'd be a problem?!"

"Because I knew my own children would botch things, right?! What about you? didn't you ever think of locking your door?!" She angrily tells you with bitter words

"I was asleep! I didn't think there was going to be a filly falling right onto my lap!"

"You'd think you'd be happy about that" Chrysalis said in angered sarcasm "In fact, I bet you couldn't help but put the moves on her. This is your fault!"

haha, nooooo. "What?! No, Screw you! This is your fault. You're the one who dropped the map!"

"You're the one too wimpy to sort things out!"

"You're the one who stirred her on!"

"You're the one who didn't help her sort out her feelings!"

The both of you walk closer to eachother. butting heads and pushing at eachother.
"Well you're an idiot! Just like any bug! You could have had Applebloom sneak up on me at anytime. Buuuuttt noooo!"

"You're the idiot. You can't even sort out two fillies without my help!" Chrysalis pushed back

"Help?! You call that help?!"

"I do you ungrateful little worm!"

"Well then you're super dumb then! I'm the one who is supposed to be helping you! Maybe if you stopped being a pretentious bitch you'd see that being a good guy isn't so bad!"

"I'd rather have my brains sucked out then that! Why can't you just be agreeable for once!? Things were fine before you became a grating little do gooder!"

You both were essentially roaring at each other at this point

Suddenly, Celestia broke out in a giggle. Wut? What was so funny? It caught yours and Chrysalis’s attention.

".....And what's so funny?" Chrysalis looked at her, agitated

"Everything" Celestia let out a hearty laugh "It's like watching a disgruntled married couple"

"...That isn't funny..." You step away from Chrysalis and point at her "She's doomed the both of us! How could you just laugh?!"

"I actually agree with the twerp. You don't get to laugh. Or do you forget that I can crush you just as easily as I have done before?"

Celestia smirked at her "With what magic?"

Chrysalis went wide eyed...for she, in her anger, had forgotten she was hornless. She gruffed and looked at Celestia with disdain ".....Hmph"

"That's what I thought...." Celestia then turned to you "Anon, please relax"

"Relax?! How? Princess Celestia, unless you can magically fix everything. My life is over!" You started to feel your heart tear apart "I don't want to lose my friends, I don't want to lose Fluttershy.....I don't even wanna lose that lunkhead of a Draconequus"

"And you won't" Celestia says in a warming motherly voice, it was almost calming. "If you both were any danger, then it would have already happened. If Applebloom knows and was willing to tell, then I'd assume her sister would have barged through those castle doors long before I arrived. For now, you both have nothing to worry about"

For now....?

Although you did calm down just a little from the realization. There was still the possibility she was wrong. "Princess Celestia..I'm scared...what should I do?"

Celestia walked over to you and brought you close with her magic. It felt warm, even warmer when she gently brought you close to the underside of her neck . "What you must do is up to you. It all starts with communication. If Applebloom is your friend, then she will understand the importance of your mission..." Celestia then glanced over to Chrysalis "...No matter how impossible that mission may seem."

Chrysalis grumbled "How beautiful" She says with sarcasm "Do you want to give him a treat and tuck him in at night too? You could check his closet while you're at it. Anon, that solution should be obvious."

Celestia gently put you down as she stepped forth towards Chrysalis " I've noticed you seem to have an affection towards Anon. You aren't nearly as harsh towards him as you are towards any other pony. Why don't you tell me why that is. I might be more inclined to actually help in some way since your current actions bring you closer to exile."

Chrysalis would have none of those kinds of mind games. "Don't even try to play games with me, Celestia. I have nothing to explain to you nor do I need your help. My "Affection" towards the little cretin is no business of yours. As I told him, friendship to me is entirely different from the crap you and your little apprentice spew"

Celestia noted her slight change in her regular vocabulary. She noted it because there's no way she came to say a word like that on her own. Meaning, in Celestia's mind, you did indeed have some influence...that was actually reassuring. In fact, she found that more reassuring than her stating she was your friend. Since that could mean anything. "I understand. Your fate is really no concern of mine, Chrysalis. But should you decide to renounce your ways, I would welcome you to our society"

Chrysalis turned her head and spit "That's what I think of that"

"You are aware failure to reform will only mean you'll end up in Tartarus" Celestia reminds her

"We'll see...." Chrysalis stated, narrowing her eyes towards Celestia "Are we done? Don't you have a kingdom to run....to the ground"

Celestia didn't nod, she just gave a gentle smile to Chrysalis "I really am interested to see how things will go for you Chrysalis. But on the same coin, I will not hesitate to deal with you myself if I must."

"Whatever" Chrysalis didn't want to hear any more of this.

Celestia then looked to you "Anon, I know things might seem frightening right now. But if you believe in yourself, and in your friends. Then I know you can turn this to your advantage. I mean it when I say I want to see you succeed"

..mnnnn "But what if I screw up? I don't think Applebloom is even really willing to be my friend anymore...what if she does tell everypony? What will happen to me?"

"I can't say" Celestia rather, won't say. She didn't want to change how you felt. She wanted you to do it on your own. "Your fate will be decided on what you do."

Not exactly helpful. School was nearing, and that could spell doom. Chrysalis being an outright cunt can spell doom. Applebloom can spell fucking doom. But....if you did nothing. You doomed yourself. You had to think, you had to figure things out. And for that, you'd need to do something first.

"Princess Celestia, could you leave me and Chrysalis in private? I need to speak to her"

Celestia nods "Of course, Anon...I wish you...the both of you farewell. And good luck I'll inform Twilight to leave you both alone until you're ready"

"Thank you"

Celestia leaves the room. Leaving you and Chrysalis alone.

"So Anon...What's your grand master plan, hmm? Because I'm thinking of just getting rid of her altogether. I can make that happen.."

You doubt Chrysalis was kidding or making anything close to a joke. You'd have to show her, that you were running the show.

Chapter 228

"Yeah...no, we're not doing that. Chrysalis, I have to set things right. So what I want you to do is tell Twilight that Discord has accepted you as family. And then tell her you're going to see your new home. I'm going to school to get everything sorted out with Applebloom. That's the plan."

"That's a stupid plan. You've already proven that you can't handle the filly and now both our necks are on the line. How about you just let me handle this. I'm sure I can find a way to make everything right for us." Chrysalis was pretty serious about this. She really didn't expect this to happen.

You shake your head. Nope, it was your way or the highway. "We're doing things my way. And for me to be able to do what I do, I need you gone for the day. Just be glad it'll be for one day, because I'm telling you Chrysalis. You're on thin ice"

".....You know, when I took up the task of reforming you. It wasn't meant for you to just start giving me commands like that. What makes you think I should listen to you?" Chrysalis asks, waiting for a good ass reason.

You point to the horn around your neck. "Because if you don't listen to me. I'll force you to listen to me....Isn't this what you wanted? Well, I've got my horn back. And I'm not afraid to use it. You want to have your own definition of friendship? Fine, we'll play by those rules then. And this horn is the consequence of breaking such rules....are we clear? Bugbutt?"

Chrysalis was about to say something. She found that actually insulting. But, she could tell by the glint of your eye that you were being serious. More serious than she's ever seen you before. Part of her actually liked it, it showed you were willing to be ruthless. But...she didn't want to suffer your wrath either. She had no clue what a human was capable of with chaos magic. But she did chuckle "Interesting. Well, I have to admit Anon. I almost thought you were a lost cause. But here you are, reinforcing your demands."
She stepped closer to you, with caution. She noticed your serious face was never breaking, not once. "Anon...I only have one request before I go"

You look up at her as she draws near, putting your hoof to your horn in case she tries anything. "...What is it?"

Chrysalis giggles cutely "Well, when you have a free night. I'd like to see something else from the human world. Anything will do as long as it's to my liking....You can do that for me...can't you?" She was giving you those soft bedroom eyes she likes to do. And in that body...u-unf.

You were blushing, but you never broke your serious stare. "..I'll think about it."

Chrysalis leans her head down and gives you a soft lick on the cheek, giving you goosebumps as you blush harder and step back.

"Will you stop fucking with me like that! Sheesh! That's not going to help my decision you know!"

Chrysalis giggles a more sultry little giggle this time "So you say..." She can feel your desire rising "Well, either way. You have the upper hoof. Doesn't it feel good to be on top?"

You were too tired, your senses from lack of sleep was starting to get to you now that the excitement was over...you almost had the desire of just cuddling into Chrysalis and going to sleep...but that was just a thought after all. "I....don't really care at the moment...."

Chrysalis could tell at this point, your speech was slowing and you were being very groggy. "Poor little Anon, you must have not gotten any sleep due to my children’s mistake. Well then, I only have one more thing to say to you. I want you to contemplate on your victory, and I want you to grow."

......That sounded odd. "That's it?"

Chrysalis nods. "That's it...what, did you expect me to take advantage of you being soooooo tired to try to seduce you into something? I could try. But without my full power, it wouldn't amount to much. Just think of my words as advice"

"Well...I guess..thanks..but that still doesn't mean I'll lighten up on you yet. You have to show me you're willing to do better"

"I suppose that depends on what constitutes as better. But...We'll have to see."

Chrysalis was already plotting. But there was something nagging at her. It wasn't a sense of "goodness". But it was the fact that her time with you always strengthened the fact that she would in fact welcome you into her hive. She wanted you to just give in. Maybe it was the fact that she felt that proper use of the horn could gain her Equestria and therefore it wouldn't take much after to force you into her side. She even danced the thought of how lenient she'd be if you denied her AFTER she took over. Even when you were pissing her off, the fact that you weren't a softie or stereotypical hard head kept her from outright hating you.Her only real obstacle in her way, in her thoughts anyway, was Discord himself. He could easily undo anything she does. And that alone put a wrench in all her plans. She had to find a subtle way to beat him....but that would be for another time.

"In anycase...There's not much to gain just prattling on. So let's just get this over with. I want to hear what excuse my little darlings....ohhh" Chrysalis puts her hoof to her forehead, realizing she forgot something. "Anon, actually..I have one more favor."

"Chrysalis..."

"it's actually important, I haven't heard from the Captain since I gave him some orders last night. If you happen to see him, can you send him home?...Also...I'll be needing my map, you have it right?"

..Oh sheesh..even you forgot about the goddamn mongrel. "...Ok, I'll see if I can spot him" You say as you pull out a map for Chrysalis. "..But what do you mean by orders?"

"I ordered him to snoop around the castle and see if he could gather any information that might be useful"

....WHAT?! "YOU PROMISED! YOU PROMISED YOU WOULDN'T DO ANY PLOTTING OR SCHEMING!"

Chrysalis shrugs. "And I didn't, I merely gave the Captain an order. What he does and what he reports to me determines what I do AFTERWARDS. I fulfilled my end of the promise quite well I think."

You groan, goddammit. She wasn't trustworthy at all. You raise your hoof to say something to her, to tell her off, but you couldn't think of anything to say. She wasn't going to listen. And until you have a real reason to either blast her or seal her yourself with the horn. You had nothing.

She gently puts her hoof upon yours and gently puts it down. "I know it sucks that I can find ways around a promise, but unless you're going to use your horn on me. You have nothing"

"....You're really pushing it Chrysalis..."

"Think of it as building up your fortitude and patience. If you're going to handle your messes, you'll need to think with a clearer head." Chrysalis chuckles "Oh look, another piece of advice for you....I suppose the role as your older sister is actually beginning to rub off"

"Yeah yeah..don't get cute..." ...Though...even if she was messing with you...that actually was pretty sound advice. and something you needed. "Ok, I'll look for the captain when I have the time. For now, let's just get you "settled"..ok?"

"Ok...my sweet little brother" Chrysalis chuckles at you.

...ugh...Discord...this was a mistake..it had to be.

You did..however..made sure Chrysalis went back home. She got a little agitated that you had to watch her return home. But you stood your ground once more.

"Can't even trust me to return home on my own?" She said, annoyed with you.

"Considering I have to find your captain because you had to be dishonest as fuck.....yes" You narrow your eyes at her...mostly because you could feel your mind numbing from lack of sleep.

"I wasn't dishonest" She corrects you "I was just doing things in another way. I didn't want to break that promise Anon...it'd be wrong"

....Erghhh.... "..Yeah...ok..."

"So untrusting...I hope I can trust you in finding my little captain" She was serious about that.

"I'll do my best, but no guarantees. He can be anywhere."

"It shouldn't be hard, considering his own fascination with you. I'm sure he won't be able to rests popping up sooner or later...take care Anon."

And with that....she left back to the cutie map room....you put your hoof to your forehead to focus. God...really, you thought it'd be like how Discord turned. Easy as long as you make her realize how wrong she lived her life. The problem was that it wasn't that easy, she genuinely enjoyed everything that she does and was never actually lonely enough to do a quick heel turn on her feelings. You really hoped this was all worth it.

You lift up your horn and look at it. At least you had your horn back. So if anything went wrong. You could fix it.

You take a few breaths. And step out the door, heading back to the cutie map room. You can already see Nymous leaving as Twilight waves goodbye to her.

"....She's so excited she didn't even wait for Anon" Twilight giggled.

"Well, sounds like she really hasn't had a good home in awhile. Discord might be preeetttyyyy crazy, but hey. Anon seems cool with it, it should be fine" Spike says as he also waves goodbye.

"I believe that too Spike, In fact! I have no doubt!....well..maybe a little" Twilight lets out another cheerful giggle.

You step forward and greet them. "Heya, So...sounds like you two are totally fine with my sister's arrangements."

Twilight turns to you, smiles, then nods. "Mhmmm, I assume the talk between you all was probably about Discord. And if Princess Celestia is ok with it. Then, well..you know. Besides, there's nothing wrong with your sister living with you from your perspective, right?" Boy, did she assume wrong.

You nod. "Right, so uhhh..Twilight. Before I go..because you know, school. I actually won a tournament yesterday and-"

"Oh, the Super Alicorn Blaster II championships!" Spike cuts you off, "Yeah, I already let Twilight know that was pretty slick playing Anon, hard to believe you never touched the game once before"

He knew? If he knew that much. He had to have been somewhere in the crowd. "You were there Spike?"

Spike nods. "Oh yeah! You'd think I'd miss that? I was the last to apply. I guess you didn't notice me huh? You looked pretty determined during that final fight with Tirek. It was legendary!.....You don't mind if I get a few games in when they get here do ya?"

"Ahrm" Twilight cleared her throat to cut in "You mean play within reason, right Spike? I don't want you playing all day trying to do something silly like....It's got a scoring method right?" Seems Twilight wasn't exactly sure on the content of video games in general.

Spike nods "Yeah"

"Then I don't want you getting addicted in trying to beat Anon's score. Ok?"

"Eh.." Spike throws his claw out in a "nothing to worry about" way. "It's no problem Twilight, I have this."

"I hope so...so Anon" Twilight's horn glows as she slides over to you a wrapped bag. "I packed up the pancakes for you in case you wanted some for later. You have a good day at school alright? And I hope you manage to make some new friends too! Every day is always a new possibility for friendship!"

Eghhh...You kinda wished she didn't press on about friendship like that. Especially with what was going on now. "I understand. Thanks Twilight...sees ya when I sees ya! And uhhh...yeah..Bowling tomorrow Spike, for sure!"

You left the castle with your goodbyes after that. You tried catching up with Chrysalis, but when you stepped out, you could already see her jumping into a puddle of some sort....Good...thank god.

And with that, you made your way to school. Tired, and your mind muddled with current events. How the hell were you even going to handle the Captain? The guy wanted you dead after all.

You still had plenty of time however. You barely saw any foals going to class. So you knew you were still early.. Maybe you should find a spot to relax and wait to cross Applebloom's path?

But, as you walk closer and closer to the school. You hear a familiar apple filly's voice call out to you. Hearing her voice, it somehow filled you with dread rather than relief. Even if you did want to talk to her. a part of you was still worried that everything might be over at this point.

"Anon! Heya Anon! Wait up!"

You stop, and slowly turn to her....here we go. "Applebloom...whats up?...ummm" You looked really unsure, contrast to the odd fact that she looked like the same ole Applebloom. When she caught up to you however, her face became a little more somber.

"Ummm...not much....just been doin' a lot of thinkin' about last night...ahm actually really glad to see you this early..Ah had this feeling you'd be up kinda early..." She then noticed your face. "...But ah thought you mighta gotten some sleep first...Are ya ok?"

She was asking if you were ok.....oh thank god. It meant she still cared. "Y-yeah....I ended up not getting any sleep."

"....It's because you were scared that'd ah tell mah sister....right?"

....

You nod. "Y-yeah...I thought you just ended up hating me right then and there....things got pretty crazy last night..I'm actually surprised I haven't been banished yet"

"..Well...ya don't have to worry. Ah didn't tell mah sister or mah brother or even Granny Smith. I kinda just thought about it. And boy, did I put in a lot of thought. And ah realized, if you were really a bad guy...you probably wouldn't have let me go. Yah did say Princess Celestia herself knows about this, right?"

You nod. "She does...and trust me, she doesn't like it either. If I screw up...well...I don't know what's going to happen."

Applebloom nods, understanding..or at least understanding in the capacity of her own mind. "That's a lot of weight on your shoulders, huh Anon?....Ah didn't know you were handling somepony as dangerous as that mean ole' Changeling Queen. Ah never woulda guessed really...It's tough, huh?"

You nod. "...You have no idea...." You were feeling relieved, it seems she was keeping the secret afterall.

But then she started to step away, heading towards an alley "...Ah think ah might...Anon..do ya mind taking a detour for just a second?"

...A detour? That was odd. "...Uhhh...." You wanted to ask why. But you didn't know how volatile the situation could be. So you just agree and follow her. "Sure...."

Now something was suspicious. Applebloom just being ok with everything? Leading you down an alley? That usually means something was amiss....you almost felt like you had to be on your guard...but dammit...you were sooooooo tired.

......Could she even be...the captain?..Was it a trap? If it was..it was a pretty convincing Applebloom. You'd never be able to tell the difference

She leads you down a narrow alley that had a couple of tall trash cans out. You and her were alone as she stood by the trashcans and turned to face you...what was going on? "...So uhhm...What's up?"

Applebloom sighs. "Anon, like ah said. Ah thought a lot about it. And after talking it out with the girls. We kinda realized you may have bitten off more than you can chew"

...Well that sprung you awake. THE GIRLS?! "W-what?! I thought you said you didn't tell anypony.."

"Ah said ah didn't tell mah family. But Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle are mah closest friends. And we all agreed that you're gonna need our help if you're gonna reform that Queen."

OHHHHHHHHH. "Applebloom....Y-you can't just...I..I don't need any help. I have to do this on my own."

"See, told you he'd say something like that. Still high and mighty, still thinking he can do things on his own. Anon, why do you have to be so dumb sometimes?" A voice says from behind the trash can.

"Yeah, I don't even think Rainbow Dash could do something like this on her own. And if she can't do it. You definitely can't. Not by yourself anyway" Said another voice.

OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH...

Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo came out from behind the trash can. Scootaloo looking like she's rarin to go. Sweetie Belle just raising an eyebrow at you.

...Ohh good lordie...

You put your hoof to your face and shake your head. ".....ohhhh my...geez....Are you all serious? Do you realize how bad this is?"

"It's not that bad Anon, Applebloom told us everything. If she has no way to hurt us then we should be able to do just fine" Sweetie Belle says in a matter of factly kind of way.

"Yeah, we already know she's capable of fooling a lot of ponies. That's why you need us to help. So she can't get away with anything under our muzzles. Come on Anon, you couldn't even handle that puppy....changeling..thing she's got" Scootaloo said.

"Girls, you have NO idea what she's capable of. She is able to make lives miserable even without her powers. As for her captain, I didn't even know he was a puppy at the time. And he was pretty fast for one too. The only pony I saw trying to really help was Applebloom. And I had to dive in to save her from that bite."

Applebloom blushes a little. Since she knows now that you genuinely dove in to save her. "Well, that's the thing Anon...you're actually really wrong about that"

"Super really wrong." Sweetie Belle added. "There you go again thinking we can't do anything because we’re girls or too young or something"

"Because that's exactly it on both counts! You can't all do this! Chrysalis will make ALL your lives a living nightmare once she knows that you ALL know. Look!" You point to your horn. "This is the only thing I have to make sure she doesn't go too far, and I can only use it once per day! You three cannot handle yourselves on your own! Just drop it, forget you know anything, and let me handle it. Because there’s NO way that you three can handle this. What made you even think you could?!"

"Wow Sweetie Belle, you were right. He is reacting like you said he would." Scootaloo remarked

Applebloom didn't seem as astounded, she actually felt bad that it seemed you thought so little of them.

"I know, So Anon. What if we can prove we can handle ourselves. Would you have anything to say then?" Sweetie Belle asks with a sly smile.

As if they could. "Sure why not? If you three can prove to me right now that you can handle it. Then I'll back off. But you better have something good. I mean so good, I won't be able to say anything about it....good luck with that. Because as soon as you're done, the three of you are going to forget about it. And Applebloom?..." You sigh. "Just..stay away from Chrysalis, ok?"

But before anything could be said by Applebloom. Sweetie Belle speaks up. "Accepted! So girls, you all ready?"

Applebloom nodded "Ready"

Scootaloo answered in a more excited fashion. "READY!"

Ready?...Ready for what...just to fail to explain? Oh lord. they were getting hyped for nothing.

Sweetie Belle went next to one of the trash cans and kicked it over to its side, the lid popped off, and out of the trash can, wrapped up tight and gagged was a small puppy. It looked like the fall had sprung him to life, because his eyes went wide and he started struggling the moment he landed on the ground.

Your eyes went wide.....No...NOOOOO...That's impossible! THATS JUST IMPOSSIBLE! ".......a-ah...i-is that.ah...um...ack"

"Well, since he can talk. He's gotta be that captain Applebloom told us about. It is the same puppy that attacked after all" Sweetie Belle explained.

"He is, it's a good thing mah sister taught me how to lasso and hogtie things. Or he may have gotten away" Applebloom notes.

"Hey Anon...ya got a retort yet? We're waaaiiitttiinngg" Scootaloo giggled. "Pretty good huh? We spotted him standing by a window doing something weird with his mouth. So we snuck up on him, wrestled him down, knocked him out, and tied him up and threw him in the trashcan. It was a good thing Applebloom was right about you being up early. Or he may have woken up while we were at school and who knows what would happen then"

This wasn't good… No it was not at all. You just looked wide eyed at the captain, then at the crusaders, who looked pretty proud of themselves.

"So Anon, what do you say now?" Sweetie Belle says, looking pretty smug

".....So, what do you plan to do with him then?" You ask, wondering exactly how far they thought ahead.

".......ummmmm" Sweetie Belle was at a loss

"...That's right...what did we plan to do with him?" Scootaloo asks

"...Ah dunno...Well, shouldn't we let Anon decide then? He does live with him" Applebloom concludes.

Ugh...how annoying. "Girls, did you not think making Chrysalis's captain angry would make things even worse? Once he tells her what happens,...ugh, Come on!" You start to get pretty angry. "You should have just left him alone! You're all just making things worse for yourselves!"

All three of them wince. They didn't think you'd react like that. Now they started to have doubt in themselves, even Sweetie Belle looked a little shaken.

"Well..erm...can't you just talk to him?" Scootaloo asks, tapping her hooves together sheepishly.

"Or maybe use your horn to threaten him? Or...Well...how bad could it really be?" Sweetie Belle says, a little shaken at the possibilities that might be.

"Just watch..." You look down at the captain. You were going to show the girls how unreasonable he was. You walk over to the captain and carefully ungag him before preparing yourself for his wrath. But there wasn't any...

He immediately yells out in fright instead. "Anon, Save me! I'm bringing shame to the queen! I have to report back to her!"

You raise an eyebrow at him, confused. "Well, that's a little different than what I expected. I thought you were going to try to destroy me outright"

The Captain stops struggling and looks up at you with cute puppy dog eyes "...But I do want to destroy you...just not right now, I need your help so I don't shame the queen. She's expecting a report from me." He wasn't speaking in a frantic way, he was actually scared, nearly begging.

"Anon, maybe we should ask him what he needs to report, we might be able to use that information for somethin'. Ah dunno, maybe use it against Chrysalis?" Applebloom was trying to turn things to the team's favor.

That did sound like a good idea. But you were more curious as to what this "report" was. "Uhm...Captain, what exactly do you have to report?"

"Oh...I can't say in front of them. The queen doesn't consider them part of the hive or a friend. I can tell you though. But it has to be in private" He says, a dimwitted stare on his face

Huh...he was actually being...agreeable. You wondered something. "Well, these are my friends...soo uhh..wouldn't the friends of the queen's friend count enough to hear what this report is?"

The Captain stopped to think ".....Huh.....I guess that makes sense."

...Very agreeable. "...Ok..so uhh...What's the report? Does it have to do with Twilight's castle?"

The Captain nods "Mhmm, as for the report itself?...there's nothing to report...I couldn't find anything useful that my queen can use."

So...he didn't find anything useful? But wouldn't that mean..... "Isn't that considered failure?"

The Captain winced "D-don't say it like that...maybe she won't see it that way...it was my first real big mission as captain and......OH NO YOU'RE RIGHT!" The Captain started to cry "I SHAMED THE QUEEN! I FAILED! I FAILED...ONGH....I..I don't deserve to exist anymore..." He was shaking, shivering, and crying. He looked like he wanted to die.

Holy crap, he was taking it hard. You doubt even the Ex-captain would take it that hard. He'd just take his lumps and try again like he always has.

"Awwww...poor little guy..." Applebloom said as she stepped towards the captain. "Ah don't think it's that bad"

Wut? "Uhhhh..Applebloom, did you not hear that he wants to destroy me? I wouldn't feel bad for him"

"Well ah do, look at him Anon. There's tears comin' from his eyes. He just wanted to do good by his queen. It's like he's a little foal himself." Applebloom starts to gently pet the captain, even letting him go from his bindings.

"Applebloom..w-what are you..APPLEBLOOM!" You yell, afraid the captain may attack her.

All of you gasp when you all realize she had untied him. But the Captain doesn't make any sudden movements. He just scooches towards Applebloom and enters her embrace as he starts to cry.

"There there little fella, Ahm sure it'll be ok" Applebloom tried to perk up the captain, but he wouldn't stop crying.

"It won't..It won't! She trusted me, she made me captain because she saw me as the best of the best and I couldn't even find anything of use to her.....All I can do now to restore her honor is destroy Anon...But now I don't think I can"

Applebloom hugs him close as the rest of you just look on in surprise and wonderment. "Is it because ya realized he wants to be a friend? And you wanna be his?"

The Captain nuzzles into her chest and whines "No...because he has that horn."

...That was about as much as you expected."Come on Applebloom, he's just trying to tug at your heartstrings...and he can't even do that right"

"Ah don't think so Anon, ah think he's really worried." Applebloom gives him a gentle hug. "Hey, ah know you wanna destroy Anon and all. But ah don't think you need to do that.And ah think you should just be honest with yer queen."

"But...she'll be so mad..." The Captain says in a scared little voice.

"Even if she does get mad, ah don't think she's gonna destroy ya. She'll probably just give you a stern talking to. And then you'll just have to do better next time. Come on, ya don't have to cry anymore. Ya don't have to worry, if you want some friends who ain't gonna judge ya, well...me and the girls wouldn't mind being your friend" Applebloom looks to Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo. "Right girls?"

..Ooookk...This was going on for too long. "Girls..listen, I know that-"

"Sure!" Sweetie Belle says in a squeaky voice

"Yeah, I don't really see how that's bad. He doesn't seem like a bad guy" Scootaloo adds.

"There see? Do you want to be our friends?" Applebloom asks.

".....You'd be friends with me? Even though I want to see all ponykind enslaved by my queen?" The puppy changeling looks up to Applebloom with sad and pathetic eyes.

"Sure.....just uhhh...just don't focus on that enslaving stuff around us, alright? Just be nice to us and we'll be nice to you." Applebloom gently scratches his neck with her hoof.

Oh come on..that wasn't going to work.

...Or maybe it was, the captain was happily wagging his tail as he let Applebloom pet him.

"Awww, he's so cute!" Sweetie Belle says "I want a turn petting him!"

"Yeah, me too!" Scootaloo states.......

You gotta be kidding... "So that's it then? We're just going to ignore the fact that this is probably a trick. Or that he still wants to destroy me?"

"Awww...you don't wanna destroy Anon, do you?" Sweetie Belle gently rubs the captains tummy.

"...Well.....I do...it would avenge my queen's honor" The Captain said meekly as he twitched from the belly rub

It made Scootaloo think. She didn't personally know a lot about changeling honor. But she knew what constituted as glory. She would use that to keep you safe from any random attack from the Captain."Hey, I got an idea. If you have to destroy Anon. You have to do it in a duel. That way, when you take him down. It'll be in a fair fight. If you do it that way, it'll be a lot more glorious and honorable than just randomly taking him out in his sleep or something. Does that sound ok?"

SCOOTALOO! "Hold on! Are you seriously suggesting -"

Scootaloo puts her hoof to her mouth and goes "shhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!"

"No seriously! What kind of-" Was she insane?!

"Anon! Shh! We're talking with our new friend. Stop being a foal and wait your turn!" Sweetie Belle shushes you "If you're not going to say anything nice, then don't say anything at all"

......You started to shake..it was taking all your patience not to explode on them.

"...I-I guess that's a better idea..." The Captain looks to you with sad eyes, oblivious to your anger. "...Do you think that's a good idea Anon, fighting when we're both ready? To the death?"

Chapter 229

You just look upon the group. Each one of them giving you big eyes. Big cute eyes.... You were so tired. You could end this if you really wanted to with your horn. But as you stood there, you started to think and slowly realize why Scootaloo said what she said.

.....It coincided with what you were trying to do. If you become closer friends with the captain...then it should help you....but, you had to be cautious. It could still be a trick. But these fillies, that was as far as you'd let them go, if they tried to go in deeper, you'd have to step up and tell them off. They only got lucky with the captain because, in truth, he was just a stupid runt that got promoted to spite the ex-captain.

So you took a breath to calm down. But seriously, if you get shushed one more time. "Yeah...But you have to wait until I'm ready also ok? No sneak attacks"

The captain's puppy dog eyes grow wide with newfound excitement as he happily wags his tail. "Yes! A duel! That means you can't end it until you're destroyed! Woo!"

You raise an eyebrow at him. "You do know a duel implies I can end up destroying you too, right?"

"Yeah, but that won't happen. A changeling is strong and cunning! And....mnnnn..." He goes back to cuddling on Applebloom "And friendship! I like my new friends!"

"Awwww, we like ya too Captain...though, isn't it kinda weird having a rank as a name?" Applebloom says as she goes back to cuddling him.

"I never really had a name. I like my name now. It's important!" The Captain says with pride.

.....

"Captain...are you feeding right now?" You knew he was.

"Well...yeah...but...I'm hungry...I've been out all night. B-but, I'm not being friendly to feed. I'm being friendly because I like my friends" He says, feeling nervous that he was found out. He didn't mean anything by it.

"Feeding? Ah don't see him eating" Applebloom takes a close look at him, everything seemed fine in her eyes.

"Oh! I remember, Changelings feed on love, right? He might be feeding on that...wait...isn't that a bad thing?" Scootaloo asks, not sure if anything was going wrong.

"E-erm...wait! It's not too bad. It doesn't really hurt anything if I feed enough to fill my belly." The Captain explains.

Sweetie Belle looks around, she didn't feel any different really. "I guess it's fine, anypony feel any different?"

"Nope" Said the other two fillies.

".....I don't feel any different either. But I guess that's because there's four of us. According to Chrysalis, it just drains you of love for a little while if heavily fed upon. I guess because he's small and there’s four of us. It really doesn't hurt us any...But..." You look down at the captain. "....No tricks, because I swear. If any of my friends get hurt....I'm turning you into literal toast...got it? I swear....Things have gotten wayyyy out of hoof. And I'm trying to keep things together"

The Captain got up and saluted at you with his paw. "I promise not to hurt them! They are my pony friends! The only one I want to hurt is you right now.....in a duel....you're my friend too....and stuff"

"Whatever...just remember what I said" God, this idiot.

The captain nods..but then gets worried. "And..what about my queen? I still have to report back to her..."

"It'll be fine Captain! She's probably not that heartless as to hurt you or nothin!" Applebloom says with enthusiasm

"Yeah, she's probably more like a mom to her own kind, right? Just scolds them or something. I remember her saying she was pretty devoted as a queen" Scootaloo adds.

"Yup! And he's her captain, so he's the highest rank. Meaning there’s no way she'd get rid of him over something this small." Concluded Sweetie Belle.

"...I guess you're all right...w-what do you think..Anon?" The Captain asked you, worried.

.....Was he really that worried? Under all that "murder", he just seemed like a dumb kid. Damn, Chrysalis really wanted to spite her old captain as much as possible to make someone like him the captain. Yeah, you'd relax for now...but you swore. You better get some damn respect. "No, it should be fine. Stereotypically speaking. She's probably just going to scold you and maybe even threaten you. But nothing will come of it.....we really should be going you know, we have school soon."

"Yeah, Anon's right. If that bell rings and we aren't there. Miss Cheerilee is gonna get mad and scold us too" Scootaloo states.

"Well...erm..I don't want my friends to be late for school. I'll go brave my fate, as captain, that is my duty!....B-but if I see you all again. We'll still be friends right?" The Captain looked at them with begging eyes. He was already enraptured with friendship.

All three fillies reassuringly tell him yes.

You...you say yes, but not as enthused.

"Alright! Well...erm..I need to go find a puddle or something....See you all later....friends.." The Captain says meekly as he walks off, looking back every so often to make sure no one was scowling at him behind his back.

The three fillies then look at you, they were scowling...at you.

"......Don't look at me like that" You weren't having it.

"Why couldn't you be a little nicer to him?" Sweetie Belle asked

"Yeah, he didn't seem so bad...aside...actually....Never mind. I'm not mad anymore, that captain did say he wanted to destroy Anon." Scootaloo realized.

"He did...ah thought it was cute until ah realized he was serious" Applebloom says.

Sweetie Belle then realized that was an actual threat, and immediately became more apologetic "...No, you both are right. I guess Anon does have a reason to be angry...sorry Anon"

You put your hoof to your face....these fucking girls… "..Let's...just get to school already..."

And so the four of you head off. Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle were still curious on a few things. Mostly with Chrysalis and yours friendship. You told them all that it was on a rocky road right now. You explained to them what happened at the castle.

You were sooooooo tired. Even if that went well. You had to worry about three fillies possibly fucking everything up or getting themselves into danger. The captain though?....Ugh..despite his want to kill you, he seemed genuinely honest. And then there was Chrysalis.............nah fuck this. As you went into the classroom and sat down, you slammed your head right on your desk and tried to catch some sleep.

..........

suddenly, voices.

"Woah, look at Anon. He looks so tired"

Your ear picks up.

"Well duh, he probably was playing "Super Alicorn Blaster II" All night, were you there when he won the championship? It was awesome!"

"You know what's even more awesome? Did you see what was around his neck? I bet that's the horn!"

"It is the horn....being Anon's biggest fans, we got to hold it once. That's definitely it"

"He's so cool..He even got to hang out with the princess for a whole week"

"Eh, he's not that great..I almost had em at the championship, I-I just sneezed..thats all"

"Yeah yeah, but just look at him. I bet he actually spent the night fighting crime"

"Like a super hero?"

"That's so dreeeammmmyyy"

"Hey, Lay off of him! He's mine! Say that again and I'll make sure you'll fail a whole letter grade!"

"Aiyyee! My mom would k-kill me if I got anything less than a A"

"....oy....Anon can't be perfect with all his choices"

"What's that supposed to mean?!"

"N-nothing...hehehe"

..mnnnghhhh...you just wanted to sleeeeeep. You didn't care for anyone's prattling right now.

And then....the bell rung.

"Agh!" You sprang up and fell backwards.

You could hear giggling as you got up and quickly got back to your seat....oghhh.. Cheerilee was looking through some papers before smiling and greeting the class. "Hello everypony, good morning. I hope you're all rested up for today. We are going to have a change in today's recess, We'll be spending it inside the class. As for today's lesson? We are a little behind due to yesterday's...mishap. So we will be starting anew...with a history lesson on the founding of Manehatten. Doesn't that sound interesting?" Cheerilee smiled.

But the class didn't seem so enthused. And you...your eyes were bloodshot at this point.

"Now class, you'd be surprised how interesting it can actually be. Building a large city from the ground up actually has a lot to it. I know nothing crazy happens in equivalence to our little town. But it doesn't need to be crazy to capture your attention. There's culture, wonder, and diversity all across the city that you never see here in Ponyville. And that's why I think spending a day learning about it will open your minds a little more about places outside of our happy little town. I'll be writing down a few notes on the board on more important explanations. But I expect you all to try to write as many notes in general, especially if there's something that captures your attention. And then after recess, I'll pass out some special textbooks so you can do your own research for your homework. Which is to write about something you liked about learning about Manehatten. And for anypony that's ever been, please don't hesitate to write about your experiences there as well and..."

Cheerilee notices you snoring. You had fallen back to sleep mid-sentence. , she wasn't going to have you sleeping, not in her class. Though there was some worry in the back of her mind as well. Usually when you were at class...chaos was soon to follow.

"Anon....oh Anon...are we having a nice sleep?" Cheerilee says in a nice and soft sleep.

"..you're dumb...Moondancer is better than Twilight...mmnnnn" You say in a very low whisper, even in a slight babble as drool drops from your mouth

"...ohh...you are...hmmm...." Cheerilee takes a deep breath "WELL TOO BAD! WAKE UP!"

"AGH!" You spring up, you're eyes opening wide as you look left and right in surprise. "W-what's going on?! Where am I?!"

"....You're at school, Anon. You are aware I don't tolerate sleeping in my class, right?" Cheerilee says with an authoritative look in her eyes.

"N-ngh...I'm sorry Miss Cheerilee...I didn't get any sleep last night...." God she looked annoyed. "..I had...trouble at home"

It wasn't a lie, but you say that to see if that would throw her off anyway....and it did. Cheerilee sighed. And frowned at you. "....Anon..mnnnn...is it something with your father? Trouble with your sister?"

You nod and give her sad eyes....ogh..you were back to full on lying without thinking of the consequences. But what could you do? You didn't want to get in trouble. "It's sorta like that. I guess springing it on Dad caused a few problems. And with my new sister...well..old sister. It's just really overwhelming"

You look up at her with adorably glistening eyes despite them being bloodshot. "I'm sorry...."

"....Anon..." Cheerilee raises her hoof and gives you a pat "I know it's hard, but you need to do your best. I won't scold you for sleeping in this instance. But please, do your best to stay awake. This is a very important lesson about our land of Equestria. And I'd really rather you don't fall behind. If you can just bear with us through the first half of class. I'll roll out the emergency blankets for you to use as a makeshift bed to get a little extra sleep...how does that sound?"

That actually sounded really awesome...but that was probably due to the aches of not sleeping. "I'd really like that..T-thank you Miss Cheerilee..I'll do my best to stay awake"

Somehow, you could feel that the CMC, at this point, could tell you were bullshitting the "nice and cute" personality. But you did turn your head to Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. Specifically DT. She looked at you and smiled....yeah, she was still perfectly fooled...good.

Cheerilee started the lesson. And already, from the get go, you had trouble following. You wrote notes and tried to memorize names, events, and even times.

Your mind was emptying itself of names such as Thomas Edison and Ben Franklin, being replaced with such figures as Saddle Spurs and Mayor Deficits...god these names. You did your best...but it was just..so boring. This was something you didn't really care about. It was a city that started from nothing. Needed supply lines, a legendary bandit that found friendship and helped the ponies find better trade routes, basically everything you'd expect until it became a big bustling city that attracted art and theater and made good relations with practically all the Equestrian nation.

".....And that's why it's important for trade and businesses to thrive in Manehattan. many ponies in other cities and towns rely on some of the goods of the city as well. And in turn, the tourist trade and imports keep the city itself flourishing. It may sound simple, but it's actually quite complicated....Well, that should be all. Recess everypony! enjoy your lunch and playtime...but please no rough housing in the classroom. I don't want anypony accidentally bumping into somepony else or into the wall or desk"

PRAISE CELESTIA! You immediately slam your face onto your desk and start snoring.

Cheerilee noticed you conk out suddenly. But she knew you'd get more rest if you were comfortable. She went to a cabinet, it had some emergency supplies in it. Including blankets and pillows in case there was ever a time her and her students would end up stuck in the classroom whether due to snow or monster attack. The blankets were thick and warm and the pillows fluffy. She set it up for you and carefully walked over to you before looking upon the other students. "Students, if you can, try not to make too much noise. Alright? If anypony else feels like they need a nap, you may do so...." She then looks to you "Alright then..."

Cheerilee carefully picks you up without waking you and brings you to the blankets. She puts you on top of the ones she set up and she gently puts one over you after putting you on a pillow. You never woke up once. You actually felt at peace.

During your sleep, Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon were commenting on how adorable you looked. The CMC kept to themselves. They were busy discussing changeling strategies. And as you slept, you could feel a cool air surround you, making you shiver. A cold air? You open your eyes, feeling absolutely rested.

"What?" You lift your head and look around. The classroom....was suddenly empty. How eerie… "Hello?"

No answer.

"The hell? Where did everyone go?" You get up and walk over to a window. You could see Ponyville, but it was night,and....kind of weird looking.

"Anon......Annnnoooooonnnn" You hear a familiar voice speak to you inside the classroom. But you had a little trouble placing a name...

"Hello? Hello? Who's there? Whoever you are! stay back! I've got my..." You feel around at your neck but......no horn. "Oh shit..."

"AAAAnnnnnnnoooonnnnnnnnn...you have secrets....dangerous secrets"

You frantically start to look around. "Who's there! Show yourself..." You say, trying to open the window so when it does show itself, you can quickly slink away.

".....Annnooonnnn....Annnooonn"

"Dammit! Open! OPEN!" You keep trying to force the window open. But it just won't!

Fuck it, you decide going through the front door might be the answer. Even if whatever is speaking is behind it. You could just kick it immediately upon opening the door and run away.

But the moment you look upon the door, you see a darkness flowing out from it. A darkness with changeling eyes within it. Like a sea of endless gaze.

.......

Never mind...you realized what was going on.

"I'm dreaming.....Princess Luna? Or is it just my imagination?"

"Anon!" You hear a yell directly from behind you, startling you enough to make you jump forward and slam your head into the ground....before bouncing up and floating in mid air. As you slowly turn upside down. You could see Luna, looking very seriously at you, bordering on anger.

"Ow! Hey! Was that really necessary?" Geez, what was her problem?!

Luna nods. "Yes, despite you being very astute you seem to be very blind to things going on around your life. You do not understand the anger I feel right now"

Anger? "What did I...." Wait...the sea of changeling eyes.....Oohhh shit.... "...You know about the changelings?"

"I do....I don't understand why my sister...nor you...had to keep this a secret from me. And I don't know if you realize, but what you are doing is foolish. Foolish beyond measure!" Luna shouts, oh yeah. She was pissed alright.

You plant your hooves onto the ceiling and look down at her. Oh come on, what the hell did she have to be angry about? "Why? How did you even find out? Didn't you say you'd respect my dreams?"

"And I have......But Applebloom's dreams became linked to yours. Your secret unlocked itself to me almost immediately upon me gazing upon what you had been keeping from me through her dreams. Changelings, Anon? What have you gotten yourself into?"

"Woah Woah, Hold on!" Dammit, you didn't need this. "How much do you even know? Aside from us not telling you, what is there to be angry about?"

"Everything! The changelings are enemies to Equestria. They are vicious and vile! They are loveless creatures which I thought even my sister agreed didn't deserve to exist along with us. They only bring pain and misery and seek nothing but conquest. That's why we sealed them after the instance in the Crystal Empire. But here we are, their queen is out and about as YOUR sister. I've been waiting for you to enter a deep sleep since I have found out. Because I do not, DO NOT, agree. This is not matters that you need to concern yourself with. And I do not care what my sister says. You and Discord will give up these endeavors and allow us to seal them once more" Luna said, in a tone that borderlines the royal canterlot voice.

Ahh shit! "Princess Luna.....I know it looks bad. But how could you just want to seal them like that? There's still a possibility that they can be reformed. That’s what I'm trying to do. I made a promise. And..."

"And," Princess Luna interrupts you "You have been losing hope, I have seen it. If you lose hope, you lose the means to complete this task. You are doomed to fail, and the consequences for failure are far too dire to allow. I will not have this conversation with you. I have only come to tell you my royal decree"

"But..." But it wasn't hopeless. "It's not hopeless, What you saw...It's because I did think it was hopeless. But this morning, my friends found out my secret through Applebloom. And with their help, we managed to convert the captain of the changelings...mostly. He became their friend, our friends. That has to count towards something."

Luna didn't even look like she was considering it "And did you not think he was telling falsehoods in order to fool you all?"

"I did....but then I realized that he's really dumb. He's super dumb Princess Luna, like a foal. He looked really happy just to be friends with us. He even admitted he was feeding off of us. But I could tell, he values the friendship he earned. Isn't that progress?"

Luna narrows her eyes at you "....How could you understand? You aren't even native to our world"

....Why did you even care so much? Chrysalis was actively ruining you. The Captain was just dumb. And really? Your life would be easier if they were just gone....

You started to think deeply. There was a time where you didn't want to deal with any of the villains of the show. If you could have had Chrysalis sealed. All the better. But really...Chrysalis was the only one you could be yourself around. There was Discord yeah...but he always wanted something out of it. Chrysalis, at times, just seemed to sometimes want to hang out just to hang out. Movie Night was fun, and you could remember her actually giving good advice about Diamond Tiara...she didn't need to do that. And you were sure that wasn't part of a master plan as who knew when and if she was going to be let out. There was many a time she could have seriously hurt you in some way. But she hasn't. "I guess I don't understand. But I know my world had villainy that would make your head turn. Genocides...genocides of hundreds of thousands of people by leaders they shouldn't have needed to fear. And nothing usually gets done about it. I don't know the true extent of Chrysalis's crimes. But I've had times with her where I could consider her my friend. And I know compared to my own people, that's already progress."

"And if it's all an act? You are aware not even my sister and I could save you from the consequences. No matter what she says, concealing the truth about you will become impossible. Is it really worth the risk?"

You sigh as you gently hop off the ceiling and land on the floor. "Probably not, especially because I'd lose everything I worked so hard to get. I really have no reason to try. I know she's evil. But Princess Luna, I spent a week with Twilight..and I spent a single day with Chrysalis as my sister. I've spent my time with her as she normally is. I spent my time with Discord...I've spent my time here in Equestria. Just about everypony wants me to be somepony I'm not. I'm not the nicest of guys, but I'm also not this big jerk. Maybe something in between. I'm me. I know I'd never be able to help a pony like Sombra or a centaur like Tirek. They are pure evil...."

You then look to Luna with hope filled eyes.

“But Chrysalis, I just think she's a victim of circumstance. She doesn't know how to be anypony else but a insect vampire. I want to help her because...Well....I guess before I had nothing good to justify it. But now, with the help of my friends, we managed to slowly reform her captain. And if that can happen, then I won't allow somepony who very well is just misunderstood be doomed to be stuck in Tartarus for the rest of their life"

"Do you realize how foolish that sounds?" Luna raises an eyebrow at you

You sigh. "I do, it's probably the dumbest thing I've ever done and I have no real reason to do it. But it does make me curious, were you all for your sister having Discord reformed?"

Luna shook her head, then she began to think about it, and... "No, I didn't really approve of that either. Discord was dangerous and uncontrollable. And I warned her that sooner or later, it would come back to doom us all."

It sorta did.. "Yeah...and I guess that prophecy came about with Tirek. But, as it turned out. Discord still chose to follow the path of righteousness....sorta. I dunno, It's so stupid that I want to do this. But...have you ever lived a life where you accomplished nothing? You say to yourself you're happy with yourself but it's all a lie to get you through the day. Nobody cares, and nobody would care if you're gone. You just live your life autonomously, dreaming of something that'd never happen. Feeling so useless that you don't even attempt to try to achieve your dead dreams."

Luna shook her head. "I'm afraid I would not know that...but I assume you speak of your former life"

You nod. "Yeah, and when I came to Equestria. Everything got better, I have a family, I...genuinely love Fluttershy as my aunt. I have friends. And it feels great. But...I don't feel fulfilled, I guess. Everything I've done I managed to do because of my secret, Discord, or my horn. I should have realized it sooner when I wanted to reform a pony named Suri Polymare that I just wanted to do something great with my life for once. And I thought I did with Starlight...but that was set up because of my status and my horn. I'm happy she's good now, but...it's not enough. I want to...just once...do something fulfilling. And I think I can do that with Chrysalis. If I can reform her, I'll feel I'll have real worth in my existence. I don't want to feel useless in my life. I don't want to just feel that everything comes easily to me just because I'm "Discord's Son"....I guess I didn't really realize it until now."

".....Self worth..at the cost of everything else. I cannot imagine how your life has been to risk everything just for that. But I know how it feels to be so sure that you were less than nothing. And punish yourself for your own past sins. To feel that your own self worth is tarnished due to a nightmare of jealousy and hate. Mnnn" Luna was softening up as she began to understand. "I see now why my sister had kept it a secret, She knew even you didn't know your reasons for carrying on. Not until now anyway. But Anon, it still stands that should you fail...."

You nod. "I know, and I know it's stupid to go on. But I have to at least try. I already have help, and as much as THAT annoys me. They managed to do in a day what I've haven't been able to do at all when it comes to the Captain. For Chrysalis, I just have to keep her in line while still being her friend. And I can do that when we're both ourselves. She seems to genuinely enjoy my company. Once I get her to understand the whole "Friendship is Magic" thing. I'm sure she'll lighten up.....but I won't let her do what she wants either." You give Luna a cocky smirk. "I have the horn after all, I could probably turn her into a parasprite if she stepped out of line"

Luna doesn't even smile

"Ahrm..." Awkward. "That was a joke...sorta"

Luna didn't understand. "But it seems like a proper punishment to me"

.......

"Yeaaah, I-I guess. Ok, point is...I feel that I have this. I just have to step up my game whenever she steps up hers. Please Princess Luna, I have to try. If things get too serious, I'll use the horn to end it before it gets really bad."

"I hope you are able if that ever becomes the case. Anon....heed my words, Queen Chrysalis is a master of deception and lies. Remember to always consider that she is lying to you with whatever she says, even if it turns out to be truth. She is not to be trusted. You need to take caution"

You nod, you understood. And you were glad to have this chat with Luna. It made you realize why you were actually doing this. And it strengthened your resolve. "I will, and thank you Princess Luna" You bow to her to show her proper respect.

She nods as acknowledgement. "You're welcome Anon, and I wish you good luck..." She says as she starts to disappear.

You wait, now knowing you're about to wake up...until you realize something.

"Wait! I have something to ask!"

She was a warped light at this point. But you can hear her voice ringing in your ears. "what is it Anon?"

"How are you doing in Mario!?" You yell to her

"I have completed all of them, and have moved on to Metal Gear and have come close to destroying the console ten times. If I turn into Nightmare Moon again due to such rage, you will be the first to suffer!" She bellows

Oh..geez. That made you shudder in fear. "R-really?"

You hear a giggle "No, That was a joke...I suppose it wasn't a good one. In anycase Anon...it's time to.."

"Wake up Anon...come on, recess is over" You feel a hoof gently shake you "Did you get a good rest? Are you ok?"

You slowly open your eyes to see a concerned Cheerilee over you. You take in a breath, and smile at her. "Yeah...thanks for letting me sleep Miss Cheerilee"

"It's no trouble Anon...but, I'd like to avoid having to do this often. It's not very good to sleep during recess when you can be getting sunshine and exercise. But..since we're all in here anyway. I thought it wouldn't hurt to do it this once. Now..." She smiles gently at you "Get to your seat, class is about to resume"

You nod and go back to your seat as she puts away the pillows and blankets. You whisper to yourself. "Thanks Luna...."

You were awake now, well..not completely. A nap at recess wasn't going to get a whole night's rest. But that dream, You could feel pieces you thought you lost of yourself coming back together.

As for class, You were looking through the textbook that Cheerilee passed out and you had to wonder something as you read through it and copied down more notes. How were you able to write and read Equestrian as if it was english?

Probably Discord shenanigans, best not to dwell on it. But as you read and copied down notes. Cheerilee seemed tense, you noticed it out of the corner of your eye. It was like she was expecting something to happen but didn't want it to happen. If you had to guess, it had to be the fact that usually...there was some sort of event that happened when you were around. Usually never good.

But then you noticed she was looking through some papers as well, and then looking at you.....hrn? Then she got up, walked towards you, and tapped at your shoulder. "Anon, I'd like to talk to you about something outside"

You look up at her, actually curious as to what it could be. "What is it Miss Cheerilee?"

"I'd like to talk to you about your academic ability if you don't mind...in private."

Academic ability? "Ok..umm.."

You scootch out of your seat, and follow her outside of the classroom. But she was still tense about something. Taking a look around as she steps outside.

"Miss Cheerilee, are you ok?" You ask. Was she really that fidgety? Well, given the captain's previous viciousness. There really was reason to take caution.

"...Just making sure there....you know, it's nothing." She sighs in relief, nothing menacing seemed around. She then looked to you, she was smiling now, and speaking gently "Anon, I've asked to talk to you in private because I've taken notice of how smart you are. Most notably? Your math skills, I've never had anypony in my class with such a high I.Q. before. It's impressive"

...Where...was she going with this? "Ummm, well, y'know, It's just numbers into other numbers. Nothing too hard really" You say with a slightly sheepish tone

"Relatively speaking, compared to your classmates, it isn't. May I ask who your teacher was when you were in the orphanage? I'd like to get a transfer of your work."

OH SHIT.

You immediately tense up as your eyes wide, you shift your eyes left and right. Thinking of an appropriate lie. "U-ummm...erm..I didn't really have a teacher. I always erm....skipped...class"

Cheerilee was now confused. and now in caution. A class skipper? Hooky? She didn't see you like that...directly anyway. "Skipped class?" Cheerilee giggled with an inquisitive tone. "Anon, you can't expect me to believe that. What's next? Are you going to tell me you were self taught too?"

.......

You nod. "Y-yup! I was always a good reader. I don't remember who taught me to read, but I just pick up things like..." You clap your hoof on the side of your other leg twice. "That. Easy peasy"

"Really..." Now Cheerilee was looking down at you with a face that suggested you were spouting bullshit. "So you wouldn't mind me giving you a specialized homework then? Since you're a genius and all."

Specialized? Well...fuck that shit. You may be an adult in mind. But you didn't want to do more homework than you had to. That's dumb. "I didn't say that, I just said I learn things pretty fast. I don't see why it matters."

"It does, a pony's education is one of the most important matters in anypony's life. Anon, if you are excelling in my class from starting in the middle of it, then there's a problem. I feel this isn't for you. I want you to go to better schools, ones where you can learn and do what I'd never be able to teach. There's actually a wonderful school in Canterlot that'd be just for you that excels in all things math. And there's another in Manehatten for literature and writing, with all the classes you need in between to become the best colt that you are able to be. That's why I want to give you this homework. It's an evaluation of your skills. I know your travelling arrangements would be fine, given who your father is."

But no! You don't want to have to go to another....wait...would that be a bad thing? Not like you'd be out of Ponyville.

...Then again...Miss Cheerilee was cute to look at. And then there was your friends and DT..they'd be sad if you weren't in the same class. Then...Oh shit no, fuck that shit. You'd have to make new friends. Yeah fuck that. You already have enough of that, specially when one was initially trying to kill you.

"Miss Cheerilee, I don't want to go to another school. I want to stay in your class with you and my friends. You're the nicest teacher ever! And you're my first too!" You gave her the cutest look you could.

Cheerilee frowns. She didn't want to upset you. But she didn't want such a "brilliant" mind to go to waste. "Anon..I'm touched that you think that. And...." Cheerilee looks back at the door. "I know you've made a lot of friends Anon...and...."

Cheerilee stopped, you were making the saddest face you could. Filling your head with so much sad nonsense that it was pushing it out through tears. "And.....Anon..don't look at me like that. This is important."

"B-but...I don't want to go anywhere e-e-else..Miss Cheerilee, please. I'll be fine right here....You're better than any other teacher anyway. I'm sure of it." You whine Why was she bringing this up to you and not Discord anyway?....Unless… "Besides...I'm too young to make this decision anyway. You could ask my dad...I could get him right now if you want."

Cheerilee gulped. "A-actually, I was hoping you'd be the one to talk to him after I grade your evaluation tomorrow. I could give you all the necessary forms you'd need. These forms can only be signed by a direct parent or legal guardian and..." Cherilee sighed, realizing where this was heading. She could tell you didn't want to go. And she could ask Fluttershy, but she'd still have to deal with Discord. And as she thought about it, it could mean trouble for her career if Discord disrupted whatever school you'd have gone to next. She really cared about your education, but she didn't want to cause trouble for anyone else or put her own job in jeopardy. She considered you a good kid. But it seemed the circumstances were against her. She just couldn't understand why you couldn't do another school while still being in Ponyville. "Ok..Ok. Forget I asked. But Anon, You better not sleep in my class even if you finish your work so early, alright? Early or no, I won't tolerate it." Cheerilee smiled at you with a sunny smile. "Now come on inside, even somepony as smart as you still needs to write down notes for your homework, so no slacking. Oh and Anon? if you ever want to try...just ask, I'll hold on to these papers for you"

"I know, thank you Miss Cheerilee, but I think I'll be ok" Really, fuck that shit.

With that, you both went back inside. And class went steadily after that. It was a good thing Discord still had that annoying and fearful presence about him. It came in handy this time.

By the time the bell rang to end class. You had a bevy of notes. Of course, thanks to the show. You also had some extra information as well...maybe nothing too useful for the homework. But one or two things should work.

Chapter 230

You start putting your notes into your saddle bag when you hear the sing song soft voice of Diamond Tiara beckoning you. "Anon...Anon~, how are doing my darling?"

You turn to your right side, Diamond Tiara was looking at you with half slitted eyes, full of adoration. Silver Spoon standing behind her, as usual.

"Ummm" ...right..she was your marefriend...yeah. She had to be, especially after that date.
"I'm doing alright, just a little tired. So uh, what's up?"

"Nothinnngggg, but I was wondering if you'-"

"Alright Anon, we gotta head back to the clubhouse. We gotta do a lot of planning" Applebloom comes over to your left side. Interrupting Diamond Tiara

That actually sounded sensible. Planning for whatever Chrysalis might have was definitely a smart move "Yeah, let me j-"

"Excuse me!" Diamond Tiara gives Applebloom a nasty look "I was inviting him first"

Oh no.. "Erm...Diamo-"

"Diamond Tiara, ah know yer together and all, but this is kinda important" Now Applebloom interrupts you

Diamond Tiara then grabs your leg and pulls you close as you let out a yelp "Well, whatever it is. It can wait. Besides, you all have your marks already, so it CAN'T be that important!"

"Diamond...trust me, it's a-" Suddenly Applebloom grabs and tugs your other leg to bring you closer to her.

"It is important! A lot of bad stuff can happen if we don't have this meeting" Applebloom’s tone becomes more intense.

Ngh, this was getting kinda ridiculous.

you pull your hoof away from Applebloom and sigh "She's right Dia-GAH!"

Diamond tugs you even closer towards her "pah! You don't think I see what's going on? I know you still like him! He's mine!"

OH SHIT! NOOOO

You try pulling your legs away, but both girls had them and held on to them tight. Oh no, goddammit! They were going to put you through the age ole taffy pull. "G-girls, Wait!"

But they did not heed your words.

Applebloom was blushing now, of course she still liked you, but she was also showing distinct anger towards DT for that remark. "Am not! We really do need him! Let go!"

The tugging was becoming worse, and their grip was fierce....goodbye cruel world. You never thought you'd be ripped in half like that guy from The Hitcher

"You're lying! You just want him all to yourself! I told you, he's mine!" Diamond growls at Applebloom as she pulls ever so harder

As you got pulled nearly apart, the other two CMC and Silver Spoon just gaze upon the battle.

"Girls, is it really important? He is Diamond Tiara's you know" Silver Spoon asks Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo

"Yeah, it actually is." Sweetie Belle says as she just watches the onslaught of words and tugs.

"M-maybe we should pull them apart before they pull him apart...or maybe get Miss Cheerilee" Scootaloo says as she looks back at the door as Miss Cheerilee is saying goodbye to the students who were leaving.

"I can't pull her away! Anon and her are together you know! You should pull Applebloom away. Then maybe we can get things sorted out" Silver Spoon says worryingly as things began to escalate.

"I don't think so. You ever felt Applebloom's bucks? they hurt! You need to pull Diamond Tiara away!" Sweetie Belle exclaimed

"I'm not doing that, she deserves Anon more than Applebloom" Silver Spoon retorts

"Does that even matter right now?" Scootaloo say "Somepony needs to pull him away!"

It wasn't long until the entire group was arguing. And you yourself couldn't get a word in.

"Applebloom I'm warning you, keep this up and I'll be forced to use more drastic measures!...Don't make me do that!" Diamond said as she struggled.

"Lay off Diamond Tiara! Ya don't know who you're messin' with!" Applebloom growled as she pulled ever harder

"Girls, GIRLS! YOU'RE TEARING ME APART! HEEEELP!" HOLY CRAP! YOU’RE GONNA DIE!

That yell was what caught Miss Cheerilee's attention. She turns around to see you being tugged at, with the rest of the students still remaining just watching. "Girls! Girls what are you doing to him! Let hi-....AGH!"

And it wasn't just Cheerilee who yelped in surprise, everyone in the classroom fell back as something plucked you up into the air.

"Actually girls, Anon is mine. I saw him first y'know." That voice...It was Discord, floating above you as he hauled you up with his talons. Grinning down at the crowd

Everyone just looked up Discord with shock and fright.

"Discord..Stop! You're scaring the children!" Miss Cheerilee said as she stepped up to him as the others hid behind her. She already had to deal with a frightful pup. She was not going to let the lord of chaos ruin the sanctity of her classroom.

Discord frowned, annoyed, and looked around as if insulted "What? Really?!" He looks down at Cheerilee as you bob in his grip "At least I waited until AFTER class this time. I didn't even make him explode! Isn't it NORMAL for somepony to come pick up their child after class?"

"...." Cheerilee realized he was right, and started to waver "Y-yes...but" She looked at the other students, some were still scared, others, after realizing it was him, just sorta stared. Some even looked like they wanted to talk to him. But Cheerilee focused on the scared foals, and strengthened her resolve. "It's NOT ok to scare fillies and colts, Discord. If you came to pick up Anon, then fine....but you can do so by coming to the front door like everypony else!"

"....fine...EVERPONY HIT THE DECK!" Discord yells out, causing everyone to dive out of the way of...something

"Dad?! Dad...DAD WAIT, WHARWFDSFDFSDF" You didn't have enough time to say anything as Discord hurled you like a baseball at the front door.

You then get caught by Discord as he teleports to the other side of the door. He was garbed in catcher's gear, like in a baseball team. He catches you into his catcher's mitt as the sounds of cheers can be heard in the classroom "And team Discord gets the third out in this game of hoofball! The crowd goes wild! The team, excited for their win gives the coach a good splash of sports drink..."

Cheerilee was about to yell at Discord to stop, but suddenly a giant barrel of green liquid is dropped over her head. She was furious as she fumbled about, screaming Discord's name. Some of the students were actually giggling. Others were trying to help Cheerilee. the CMC, DT ,and SS? flabbergasted.

"....And the MVP!...Yours truly...Leaves the stadium..Ta-ta everypony!" Discord grins as he vanishes in a flash of flight. Leaving behind a "hoofball" card with his stats and picture.

Upon reappearing, Discord drops you onto your bed. It appears he has brought you back to your room.

"Well, that was fun. How are you doing Anon?" Discord grins a more happy smile rather than a sinister one.

"Why sure Apple Tiara, I'd love to stick it in you! Haha" You were dizzy as shit, and knocked enough in the head from that throw that you weren't thinking straight.

Discord chuckled "Funny, but unfortunately, I have to have a serious talk with you...sooooo"

Discord gave you a flick on the nose. Causing an instance of pain which brought you out of your stupor as you brought your hooves to your nose to rub it. "Ow! What happened?....ugh...my head"

You look up at Discord, and upon fully coming to. You grit your teeth at him angrily. "What the fuck was that all for?! Really!? You're just going to come into my class like that and scare the living fuck out of everyone?!"

Discord stoically looks at his talons front and back, then starts filing them gently with a nail file he conjures. "Yes, OR...I could have left you at the hooves of those two fillies. I could have, you know? I was thinking of having two kids anyway" He grins at you "They'd be half brothers"

....Ok...that was true. There was two mad fillies about to tear your limbs off...but then. That would mean he "saved" you.

you look at him with deep suspicion "....Are you calling in the favor? Or are you just going to torture me?"

"Neither" Discord sighs as he turns away from you, putting his arms behind his back as he stares at the wall "I made a terrible mistake, Anon"

A terrible mistake?...yeah right. "What? besides the whole sister thing or the fact that you're being a total asshole"

"Neither..." Discord gripped his paws and talons as he sighed "In an act of...I don't remember the name actually...but in the name of it. I asked Fluttershy about my current attitude towards you. Why I was angry. Why I was in a sour mood....Needless to say, She blamed me for just about everything." Discord turns his head towards you, he looked full of regret "Don't worry, I didn't reveal anything. But just the same, she won't talk to me anymore unless I sort this out with you as father and son...."

Well now, him getting Fluttershy’s anger did tug at your heart a little, but you wouldn't bend this time. If he wanted you to accept any apology. He had to mean it. "uh huh...ok. And? Discord, my life has been hell since you let Chrysalis out. You are aware that three fillies are now in the know she's out and about, right?"

He nods "Yes...erm...I actually hadn't planned for that to happen. Though that wasn't my responsibility to be honest. She is your sister after all."

You silently raise an eyebrow at him

He groans "Fine, it's my fault. But what did you expect? Twilight twisted you, she changed you, I had to take DRASTIC measures...and for the most part it seems to have taken. Perhaps too well"

"Yeah well, what did you expect? Chrysalis isn't exactly playing fair. So I had to step up my game too. And nothing "took". It's more that I had to fix up my priorities."

"hrnn? Does that mean You're back to being Anon? The Anon I knew? Or is that just some dribble about "Understanding the Magic of Friendship"?"

You turn your head towards the pictures on your dresser. the family photo, and the photo with Chrysalis. "Maybe both. Discord, are you afraid I'm going to really stop being your friend?"

".......no....maybe...." Discord started tapping his talons with his paws nervously "Sorta...I'd also rather not lose my chaos partner. Do you understand how hard this is? I'm not only losing you, but now I'm losing Fluttershy too...I suppose...there is a possibility...that I might have to admit that I may have made a few mistakes as a whole."

Holy shit...he was trying to be humble. He was trying to apologize....that was actually pretty amazing. "Discord, I had a dream today. Do you remember when we went and messed with the lives of Suri, or Spoiled Rich?"

Discord nods, with a small smile "Of course, yes....While our first attempt wasn't all too memorable. That Spoiled Rich was a real card. Not only does she have easy to fool simpletons as her employees, but she actually believed the whole "Future" bit" “ Discord chuckled as he wiped a tear from his eye "That's simply too much...though it does make me yearn for the days of full on, flipped upside down, lightning coming from the trees kind of chaos as well"

Ok, he definitely saw things differently than you did in that regard. but that should have been obvious. "Well, you know you can't do that. But let me say this, I actually had a good time with you on that stuff. And I liked helping those ponies out. Or trying too anyway. It helps me fill a void that I always had back when I was a human....Back when I was totally worthless."

"Worthless? pffft" Discord throws his paw out and chuckles "Well that can't be right. You were instrumental in my plans. If anything, that made you destined to be useful. And besides, there’s not as many ponies as cool as you are" Discord spins a cap that appeared on his head backwards like some nineties kid.

Woah....and kind words too? What did Fluttershy say to him? "..Thanks....Really, I mean that. But...It's still there, that void. I guess that's why I want to help Chrysalis. It's not just about reforming her. I guess it's about being useful to the world. Since the world saw me as useless.It's kind of complicated...." You were almost forgetting you were mad at him "But...egh. First things first. I want you to apologize to me. Say "I'm sorry Anon, for being a gigantic asshole" In those words."

You expected Discord to be against it, or at least complain. Instead, he grinned. "Making me apologize Anon? I would suppose after that, we'd be square? Correct?"

...What was he getting at? "Sorta....I guess. Why?"

"Well, I've been working on a little sideproject. It's not done of course. But it could be some of the best fun I've had in some time, and I wouldn't even have to lift a single claw. Now originally, I wanted to call in my favor and have you suffer a gigantic embarrassment for my amusement. But...after what happened. I sort of taken a different path with it. First, you no longer owe me anything. Consider it a freebie...and second." Discord gives you a gentle smile "After I apologize, I'd wonder if you'd like to have some fun. We'll start out slow with this project of mine. And then maybe later, for another time, we can wreak some havoc on some poor unsuspecting pony...that's fine, isn't it?"

Wreak havoc on some poor unsuspecting pony? The side you learned from Twilight told you no. But the side that made things fun, the side that was coming back to you, it said yes. IT really wasn't like it'd hurt them. Though, like with RD. It'd be annoying if it came back to bite you.

It really did sound like it could be fun though. You really did want to fuck with Blue Blood. That guy was ripe for the figurative fucking. And then there was that project. You wondered what that was all about. "You know...yeah sure, why not. But that pony havoc thing is a maybe. So with that, mind telling me what this project is?"

"Ohhh no no no, it's a special surprise Anon. Trust me on this, it is quite a doozy and a rarity that I'm able to set something like this up. All I ask for is a yes on at least that. And no questions asked....Please?"

...Could be a trap...maybe not. If Fluttershy is involved, then he wouldn't dare risk upsetting her further...hopefully.

You sigh "Fine, I'm up for it when you have it ready. But...first....apologize."

"Of course.." Discord stands straight up and clears his throat "I'm sorry Anon, for being a gigantic asshole".....are we square now?"

You nod "Yeah...but only if you DON'T treat me like shit again. Discord, I also need to talk to you about Chrysalis and her captain. I..."

You look back at him, and he was gone. "DISCORD, YOU SHIT! YOU CAN'T JUST APOLOGIZE AND RUN OFF. YOU JUST SAID YOU DIDN'T EXPECT THE CRUSADERS TO FIND OUT AND YOU'RE GONNA BOLT OUT ON ME ANYWAY?! YOU FUCKING........dammit."

You hear a chuckling behind you.

What?

You turn around, Discord was standing behind you. He was laughing "Oh Anon, how it's still so fun to mess with you. Come here buddy!" Discord opened his arms and gave you a gentle hug. "So glad to have you back. We'll be tormenting Twilight and having tea with Fluttershy as a family in no time!"

....both dread and loving care flowed through you at the same time

You sigh, and smile a little in relief that he didn't leave. "Thanks for not actually running off Discord....so, how are we going to handle Chrysalis. and the Crusaders knowing?"

Discord stepped backwards shrugged "I'm actually really not doing anything about it. All things considered, you could probably use their help. Those three can be quite a nuisance to those not as capable as I"

"No kidding, but what if the secret spreads further than them? What if they tell someone else?"

"Then it's going to be pure, unadulterated, magnificent-"

You roll your eyes at him and interrupt him right there "Chaos? Goddammit...should have known you'd probably would like that. Even though it'd come back to the both of us and screw us both over."

Discord cringed "Oh right...that would happen as well. Well then" He shrugged "It's going to have to be up to you to make sure that doesn't happen. Those three don't trust me too much and wouldn't listen to a word I'd have to say. As for Chryssi herself. Well, you just said you want to help her. So I'm not exactly inclined to help further than I already have. I've disabled her magic and ability to change shape. And her Captain is a deluded little shrimp. And without her hive or ability to shift shape, she's pretty much useless. You'll just have to use that human mind to outsmart her" he pokes your head

"Plus the horn...ugh, dammit Discord. You can't throw your "Chaos Buddy" a little bit of a bone here?" You really needed something extra for this.

Discord reached behind his back, but you immediately yell at him "I DON'T MEAN A LITERAL BONE! YOU BETTER NOT THROW ONE AT ME!"

Discord rolled his eyes as he stabbed his backbone back into his body. "humorless as usual....But I suppose I should still do a little extra..." Discord holds his paw out towards you "Your map"

"Y'know..I’m not humorless, it's just I don't want to be whipsmacked by your damn spine...sheesh" You reach into your saddlebag and grab your map and hand it to him "..So, what are you going to do to it?"

Discord makes the map float into the air and starts waving his arms at it as he focuses "I'm upgrading it of course. Once I'm done, you'll be able to track Chyssi's and the captain's movements. This upgrade also comes with a special tracking system that shows you a huge area around where you're standing, rather than it just being a generic map of Ponyville. Meaning no matter what, you'll never be lost. Of course, it only goes so far, so if Chryssi and the captain aren't in range...well...they won't show up."

"Woah....that's really cool actually." You stare intently as the map begins to spin. Discord starts mumbling strange words as the room starts to grow dark.

"Grahm goon shabam solo tin taaallaaaaa"

Wut?

Clouds began to form, and darken as black as darkness. the sound of thunder booming from them.

"Uhhhh, Discord?" Was this...all required just for an upgrade? how much magic did he actually have to use?!

"graj jul bazam boom TALAAAAA PRATAMAAAA" Lightning started to strike down in random spots. One strikes right in front of your face. Making your pupils shrink from the fright of it all as you turn white.

"...h-h-...o....." Another strike hits from behind you, making you jump forward and duck your head.

"DISCORD! HOLY CRAP! STOP. UPGRADE THE MAP SOMEWHERE ELSE!"

But he wouldn't stop, and the further he went, the worst it got. A tornado started to form right around you, catching you and making you spin. "DIIIIIISSSCCCOOORRRDD!"

Discord stops as everything in the room clears and the map falls. The tornado dissipates as you fall back onto your bed in a spin before falling forward. Dizzy as fuck.

"Anon..." Discord turns to you and sits you up and brushes off your chest "Don't get yourself dirty, we still need to see Fluttershy to get this all sorted out...hmmm" Discord puts his talons under his chin and observes you for a moment, your head was bobbing. "Now that's odd, was my song too good? I don't remember it being the head bobbing kind but as long as you enjoyed it"

"S-...hmnnn" You shook your head and then looked up at him with annoyed anger from being spun around and nearly zapped. You thought that was a magical incantation, not a fucking song.
"Song?! THAT WAS A SONG?! I THOUGHT YOU WERE UPGRADING THE MAP! YOU NEARLY KILLED ME!"

"What? I can't do both? Don't get mad at me because you can't fathom the usefulness of multitasking. It doesn't even look like you enjoyed my singing. It's a very old song, no respect for the classics..." Discord looks down at the map and picks it up and holds it towards you "Here you are you little spoiled sport you"

You just groan at him as you snatch up the map and look into it.

And as you do, it actually strikes you wonderment as you notice it's completely changed. It was the interior of the house...though, a lot of it didn't seem stable within the map. Your room and the basement remained consistent at least. You saw a blue dot in the basement not moving, and a red dot zipping around.

"Wait....so these dots are them?"

Discord nods "mhmmmm, I thought I'd keep it simple. You like?"

"Yeah...this is actually neat. So..." You noticed how the map is centered on your room, and the center had an arrow facing up "And that's me...right?"

"It is, I thought i'd make it as obvious as possible so you don't hurt your brain trying to figure out where you are facing."

"Yeah...Well.." You roll up the map and put it away "This....mnnn" You sigh, he didn't even ask for anything in return for the map upgrade. "This is actually really cool of you to give me, thanks buddy"

"Well, I am the definition of cool" Discord brings sunglasses down over his eyes "Even Rainbow Dash can't handle this funky fresh Draconequus"

That actually makes you giggle from how dorky that sounded "Ahh, turn it down a notch, guy. You're not that cool....anyway, you said we had to see Fluttershy right? I'm guessing to prove that the both of us are cool with each other?"

Discord nodded as he hovered towards the portal door and opened to Fluttershy's cottage. "That's exactly right, and the best part is it'll all be true! Meaning there's no reason for suspicion."

"Yeah...hmmmmm" the gears in your head, they were a turnin' "Hey, I got an idea. You really wanna make Fluttershy's day?"

"Oh?" Discord looks to you, wondering what you mean "You mean make her happier than we already are? I do like to see her happy....though you shouldn't spread that around. But do go on, explain"

"Trust me on this, girls love cute things. So if you want her to be super happy. Then we gotta do something super cute. And I got just the plan"

"And what's that?" Discord asks

"Ok, so first...slap a bowtie on me and fix up my mane to be super nice."

"..alright" Discord followed along, snapping his talons. It was kind of surprising he was doing it without question. But considering it was for Flutters, and he and you were buddies again...

A cute red little bowtie appears on the upper part of your chest as your mane gets made up and nice.

You tap it, then smile at Discord. So far so good. "Don't I look adorable?"

"Sickingly so...so what's next?" Discord asks

"Easy. put me in a gift box, put a ribbon on it, and pass me off to Fluttershy as a gift. and when she opens the box, I'll spring out all cutely and adorably. She'll figure out what it all means and her heart will just melt. Trust me, it's going to be golden."

Discord rubbed his chin as he thought about it "That actually doesn't sound like a bad idea. Yes, it's actually quite perfect. Anon...you sneaky little weasel. I love it!"

You chuckle "Well, I suppose it is a little sneaky. But it'll be worth it in the end. Trust me, ok? Get me in the box. And make sure it doesn't mess with the mane, ok?"

Discord nods and snaps his talons. Putting you into a box.

It was dark...very dark. But, you actually felt safe. So far anyway "Ok...all you gotta do is....wait"

It was pitch black

And the air was thin

"DISCORD YOU FUCK! AIRHOLES! I NEED AIRHOLES!"

You started struggling, trying to get out of the box.

"DISCORD! I'M GONNA DIE IN HERE UNLESS...AGH!"

Suddenly, a small and thin spear comes through one end of the box, it's shiny glint was all you saw which made you instinctively raise yourself as high as you could as it went through the other side.

There was now a small amount of light, and as you gazed back, you could see that the spear nearly took out your meatbags. "....g-good...god...geez..."

"Anon, is that good enough? Can you breath? Do you want me to make a bigger airhole?" Discord says.

Your eyes widen "N-No! NO!...IT'S FINE! I CAN BREATH....oh god........oh...geez..."

"Ok then, as long as you can breath. I'll be going to Fluttershy's now. So be ready."

Be ready he says, after that?! cripes. You had to touch yourself down there to make sure everything was fine. Oh god....that was close.

You hear a few "zip" and "zoop" sounds from within the box.

You peered through the hole made by the spear. You were moving, you could see the front door of Fluttershy's cottage. "Ok,You know what to do right?"

"Yes yes, I understand the art of gift giving. I just hope this works." Discord clears his throat as he prepares himself

"Oh it's going to work, I bet my nuts on it"

Discord raises his paw and knocks on the door. And then waits.

The door opens, and Fluttershy steps forward, looking straight up into Discord's face. Her gentle smile slowly turning to one of dismission "Discord..."

Discord cringed "Oh Fluttershy, don't do that. Is what I did really that bad?"

"Considering he's just a little colt, yes. You're supposed to be more responsible than that. I'm not going to talk to you again about this...and.." Fluttershy eyes the gift "That's not going to make me change my mind. You can't just run away from your problems, Discord."

Discord gently puts the box down and slowly slides it towards Fluttershy "Fluttershy please, don't be that way. You'd at least open my gift, wouldn't you?"

"Why? It could be the nicest thing in all of Equestria...and it still wouldn't change my mind. Discord, buying my attention simply won't work. Now..please go..." Fluttershy was looking pretty hurt that she had to say that...poor thing. It must be hard to turn a friend away. But she wasn't going to budge.

Discord lowers his head, frowning "I understand...but Fluttershy...My dear dear Fluttershy. I know it won't mean much...but if you'd at least open the box. That's all I want. And if it doesn't change your mind...then I'll go"

Fluttershy looks at the box, then at him "Discord...."

Discord makes big watery eyes at her "pleeeeeease?"

Fluttershy sighs "Ok.....But it's not going to change my decision. If anything, this is going to make you feel worse because it won't change a thing. I'm warning you Discord, is this what you want?"

Discord simply nods.

Fluttershy was thinking in her mind how Discord was being delusional in thinking this would work. She pitied him. She thought about showing some interest in whatever is inside....but...not too much. She wanted him to leave.

Fluttershy looked at the box as Discord began to fill up with anticipation. It was all up to you now.

Fluttershy removed the ribbon and bow from the box.

Any second now

Fluttershy put her hoof on the box and slowly began to lift the lid.

This was it.

With hooves spread out, you pop your head out and stand on your back legs as you smile and announce… "SURPRISE AUNT FLUTTERSHY! Dad an-"

"EEEEK!" Fluttershy yelps in fright as she grabs the lid and..

"WAIT!" before you could even cover yourself, Fluttershy grabs the lid and slams it down through your head.

"OGHH!" your vision blurred as you lost your footing and fell back into the box

And then, Fluttershy realized her mistake "A-Anon!? Anon!"

Fluttershy looked into the box with terrible guilt over what she had done "Anon! A-are you ok!? I'm so so so so so so sorry! I didn't know! I didn't know you were in the box..oh no..."

Fluttershy picked you up into her hooves and removed the lid from your head before hugging you gently "Anon...Anon...what were you even doing in there?!"

Discord had to quickly remove his own mouth and throw it into the horizon as to not make his laughter heard. He also had to tie a rope around his sides.

You had to take a moment to clear your head, you were making gurgly noises.

"Anon?" Fluttershy held you up in front of herself to make sure you were ok "A-are you alright?....please be alright"

You looked into her worried face...your head was clearing up. Why did it always have to be your head? "I-I'm alright...."

"Good..mngh" Fluttershy went back to hugging you "What were you doing in that box?"

"Aunt Fluttershy..." You give her a nice cute little smile "I just wanted to surprise you. Dad apologized and me and him are good again. I don't like our family being torn apart” You point to the statues “It should be like that"

Fluttershy smiled at you, and gave you another gentle little hug "Anon..you're right. It should be like that. It should always be like that.." As Fluttershy hugged you, she looked up at Discord with gentle eyes. "Discord....I'm very proud of you"

Discord smiled back, his mouth already regrown. His smile was of a gentle and kind sort. "Fluttershy, I as I told you. I never wanted you to be upset. And I do care about little Anon. He's my son after all."

Fluttershy put you down gently and gave you a kiss on the nose. As she usually does. "I'm so glad you two are getting along again. I can't imagine how worried your sister would be if she saw you both being bitter towards each other"

oghhhh..why did she have to say that?

"Ahh yes, Nymous. Of course, I am still getting used to being a father of two. She's quite independent...mnnn" Discord was having trouble coming up with words "B-but she is quite welcome of course"

You help him along "Right..umm..yeah. It feels like she was always around. Haha"

"Awwww, you both are so sweet. But where is Nymous?" Fluttershy had thought she might be around too.

"She's still getting used to everything Fluttershy. Can't be zapping her around everywhere until she's good and ready you know" Discord shrugged, with a obvious hint of nervousness in his voice.

"Awwwww" Fluttershy flew upwards and gave Discord a little hug "Discord, I'm so glad to see you being so considerate. I even bet that the reason everything even went wrong was because you were so worried about Anon after that chimera attack. And then you made the decision to let in his sister. That must have not been easy"

Then Discord started to ham it up as he put his arm over his forehead, bent backwards, and spoke like he was in a tragic woe "Oh Fluttershy, you have no idea the struggles of being a parent. It is indeed very difficult. Especially for one who has never taken on such responsibility before. But I promise you, I am doing my best. And I think I am indeed doing a good job."

"I know you are..that's why I'm so proud. And..." Fluttershy giggled as she looked back down at you, she hovered downwards and gave you a gentle pat on the head "I'm so glad to see Anon being so happy being your son. And just look how cute he is! I bet your little marefriend melts like butter when she looks at you"

oooooghhhh...c'mon Fluttershy… "I-I guess...and...oh"

You smack your hoof on your face. That's right. She was in the middle of an argument with Applebloom. Damn, you hoped that didn't become anything too big. Hell, you had to go see the CMC as soon as possible to make sure they didn't fuck up. "Actually Aunt Fluttershy, now that you know me and Dad are good. I need to see my friends..." You look to Discord "About something important"

Discord looked down at you with a nod, he understood. And he was being fairly agreeable. Thank god he understood the importance of it.

Fluttershy was giggling again "Friends? Or your marefriend? Anon, you don't need to be embarrassed. I think it's very very cute that you both seem to be in love.. Who knows? maybe she'll end up being your wife when you're older" Then a terrible thought entered Fluttershy's head, she didn't want you to get the idea to get married early. She felt that she knew the puppy love wouldn't last. "..When you're older Anon...remember that last part"

You blush a little in embarrassment. Dammit, you didn't want to think about things like that. It almost felt shameful. "Y-yeah..erm.." You give Fluttershy a quick hug "You take care Aunt Fluttershy. I'll seeya when I seeya."

"Well..how about tomorrow after school? And you can bring Nymous along. I'd like to talk to you both again. And..Discord" Fluttershy looked to him "You'll come along too, right? I'd like to have us all in one room to talk and eat. Like a real family"

Discord didn't seem to want the idea. Yeah, you figured why. But Fluttershy was so convincing. at least to him "Of course...I'd like nothing better."

"Yay!" Fluttershy was so happy to hear that "I can't wait!"

You had to really REALLY hope Chrysalis remained on her best behaviour during that. It shouldn't be hard since Discord would be there...but you never know.

You said goodbye to Fluttershy and Discord. Discord staying behind to soak up as much love and attention from Fluttershy as possible as you dashed off to the clubhouse. Hoping the CMC would be there.

you also did it in a sneaking fashion, you didn't want to be caught by DT, the mane 6, your fans, or your other friends.

You successfully manage to reach the clubhouse through your sneak without being caught by anyone.

You haven't been here in awhile in all actuality. Felt weird coming back here.

You go up to the clubhouse and take a look through the window of the clubhouse.

What luck! All three of them were in there. Looks like they were doing some planning and discussion. Perfect.

You walk over to the door, and knock.

"Who's there?" You hear Scootaloo call out

"It's Anon, can I come in?"

You hear some whispering, but then Scootaloo gives you the ok and unlocks the door for you.

"Heya girls...so..umm..what's up? Discussing my "sister?" "

They all nod and pull out a chair for you around a small round table.

You take your seat. and the discussion began.

Chapter 231

"So...what did yer Dad want?" Applebloom asked

"He wanted to apologize to me about being a dumb dumb. Now before you all react. Yeah, I know. It surprised me too." It really did.

"Is that why you have a bowtie on?" Sweetie Belle points out

"I hope you didn't walk by the entire town wearing that Anon, I know I made a fuss about the whole club thing but you at least have to keep some kind of image.." Scootaloo said, acting like an authority of heroes. "You don't look like a hero when you wear that"

That made you want to throw the bow tie in her face. That wasn't important, and it felt insulting. Damn kids sometimes, sheesh. You grab the bow tie and toss it aside. "There, better?"

"Yup! now you look more heroic!" Scootaloo says with an ignorant smile

....

"Ok..then. So, where are you all at with Chrysalis?" You ask, wondering what was on their mind.

"Well Anon, we were thinking of luring her outta town, and then crushing her with a boulder. Problem is, we dunno where we're gonna get a boulder" Applebloom looked very serious about this as she pondered

WHAT?! "We can't just crush her!"

"I dunno Anon, Applebloom's plan is pretty sound. We like the captain and all. But the queen herself is super evil. You just had to be at that wedding to see what we mean" Sweetie Belle states.

"Yeah, even Rainbow Dash was having trouble with her. If it wasn't for Prince Shining Armor and Princess Cadance, we'd all be her slaves by now!" Scootaloo adds.

"Be that as it may, we can't just roll a boulder over her." Cripes...

"What if we drop a tree on her instead? Ah'd hate to cut down one of the trees in our orchard, but this is for the safety of Equestria!" Applebloom suggests.

"No! No smashing! No crushing! I'm trying to reform her. Not deform her!" DAMMIT! Since when did they get the taste for blood?!

"Anon, she's an evil villain mastermind! She won't just change!" Scootaloo tried to convince you.

"Scootaloo, I've been living with her for awhile. I know what I'm dealing with. But if we can reform her...it could benefit all of Equestria in a major way"

"In what way exactly?" Scootaloo was skeptic on the whole thing.

"Well.....we'd have an entire society of bug pony things on our side that could make up a covert op group in case any major villain shows up to try to wreck Equestria. Chrysalis is actually a great planner as long as her arrogance is kept in check so military defense would be boosted. And some of the hive are probably really nice when they aren't following orders" Stealth bugs, something Equestria could really fucking use given the usual season attacks.

"Probably?" Scootaloo doubted that.

"Well, I mean, relative to the captain. I haven't really talked to any of them really." Maybe some were nice?

"Ok...And why would we need an increase in military power when we have the Elements of Harmony?" Scootaloo asked/

"...Well...look at how useless the royal guards and such are. The Princesses are always getting kidnapped or thrown into a portal or just seem not so great during a crisis. And then there’s stuff like Tirek and...yeah Chrysalis and Sombra. Let's face it, if a certain set of circumstances didn't happen in each of those events. We'd be sunk by now. Who's to say the next incident might be our last?" Especially since you felt with the timeline changed, something like that could really happen.

All three of the girls silently looked at eachother and, as if they were all melded into one mind, they all answer.

"My sister wouldn't let that happen" Sweetie Belle replies

"Same" Applebloom follows

"And you know Rainbow Dash and the rest has got it" Scootaloo concludes.

...Good god these girls. Even if they were right by cartoon standards, the course of events of the world has already changed. Anything can happen at this point.

You weren't going to convince them. This was one of the times you wished you were some omnipotent mary sue. Just so they'd just stand with you on this. "Well...ok fine, then what about the fact that I'm friends with her and I just want her to understand the magic of friendship? If Dad can be forgiven, then I'm up for trying to get her forgiven too, to reform her. C'mon girls, I need you to be with me on this one."

The three of them look at you, look at each other, and each give a single nod. "Of course we're with you on this one. We just thought crushing her may have been a good idea.....but then thinking about it. I'd kinda feel really guilty if we did that anyway" Sweetie Belle says, frowning a little at the thought.

"I guess it's a little extreme. We were just afraid she may have had plans to rule Equestria again" Scootaloo sighs, worried.

"Sorry Anon, yer not mad at us for wanting to crush yer friend..right?" Applebloom looks at you with regretful eyes.

You sigh...goddamn cute eyes. Goddamn KIDS. "It's fine...but...let's just...forget about this and focus on making a plan...so" You reach into your saddlebag, pull out your upgraded map, and open it in front of them. "Check this out. This is my new upgraded map I got from my dad. And..." You take a close look at the map as to not make a mistake. You couldn't see the entirety of Ponyville anymore. But the majority was still there, and in full detail, sorta like looking at the overlay map from "DOOM". "Basically, I can see Chrysalis and the Captain on the map whenever they are in range. In the center right there is us. That square represents the clubhouse, then further out is the farm, and then most of Ponyville. I'm that arrow, and if the other two were around. They'd be represented by colored dots."

"Woah, that's pretty amazin'! So now you can spy on them in case they are doin’ anything suspicious. That's nifty!" Applebloom says, amazed by the map, giving it a turn or two with her hoof and watching in amazement as everything within the map stays magically in place relative to where you are facing.

"Yep, but it's not a plan. It's just a way of tracking them. So, while I was running over here, I thought of a few ways to make sure they don't do anything sneaky" Hopefully it sounded as good as you thought it sounded.

"What's that Anon?" Scootaloo asks as all three of them look upon you for direction.

"Easy, I have the map so I'll know if they are out and about. So there's no problems there. All you girls have to do is when you have the chance, distract her. She won't do anything in public so make sure if you are going to actually do this, to do it out in the open. Don't do anything heroic..." You had to warn them on that last part. For Scootaloo especially. Chrysalis was too crafty against anything that was too daring.

You stop, thinking on something major. "...And if she is absolutely, positively doing something evil. Then try to let me know first...if it's truly dire...then.....tell Twilight...."

You didn't want the secret out at all really. But you couldn't keep an eye on her 24/7. And if the CMC spotted her doing something absolutely evil and vicious. Then letting Twilight know might be the only way.

"Woah really?" Scootaloo asks in surprise

"Won't ya get in big trouble if we tell Twilight?" Applebloom asks a question of her own.

"Probably, that's why you girls have to be SUPER DUPER sure that if you're going to Twilight, it's due to something ultra important. Got it?" Please, please, let them understand.

They all nod "Got it!"

"Good...anypony else have any suggestions?" You look among them, waiting for someone to say something.

"Well, since she knows that we know. Why don't we....oh, everypony is going to think I'm crazy for this..." Scootaloo looks left and right, and taps her hooves together, feeling nervous.

"What is it Scootaloo?" Applebloom asks.

"Well...If we're going to have to try to keep her out in the open. Why don't we actually ask her to do things with us? And maybe...try some things she likes?" Scootaloo says, her tone turning more sheepish as she spoke.

Wut?

Even the girls were like...wut?

"What?" You all said

"Ya know, it might not be so bad. Think about it. We all came together because we all wanted a Cutie Mark. We all did things we thought would get us one. This is like the same thing. But instead of a Cutie Mark, it'll be finding the best way to get her reformed." Scootaloo explained

"Yeah but, it was us helping Diamond Tiara that actually got us the Cutie Mark, Scootaloo" Sweetie Belle reminded her.

"Uhhuh...and who are we helping now?" Scootaloo reminded them. If they can reform one bitch, they can another.

"Ooooooohhhhhhh" The other two say, understanding her now.

......That didn't sound like the most sound of plans. But what was Chrysalis going to do to them? She couldn't kidnap them, you'd know exactly where to find them...in the house. "That, actually sounds like a kinda sorta plan to me. The problem is Chrysalis has some very unique taste. She'd no doubt be up to no good and want you three to help her. It's not exactly a fully sound plan."

"Well, isn't there something she likes that isn't...y'know...evil" Scootaloo asks.

"....She seems to like certain types of films...If you girls could actually snag her in on something. I'd recommend a...well.." Damn, they were too young for anything ridiculously violent.

"Well...Well what Anon?" Scootaloo asks

"...Well, it's harder than I thought to think of something she'd like to do that wouldn't get everypony in trouble. So for now, try to get her into something you all like to do. But don't push her into it. She is super cranky if you try to push her around.. But do not, under any circumstance, let her push you all into something you don't wanna do either. In fact, I say for now, we all just remain neutral until we all actually get used to her being around. That actually sounds like the best course of action to me. Because to me, the best part of any strategy is to know your enemy. And we don't really know what she's capable of as my sister yet." They seemed more delicate than you previously thought as you. Hearing your own words, it really was kind of dangerous. Wasn't it? “So, for now, and I need a promise..a Pinkie Promise...from all of you. Don't do any drastic or daring moves until everypony...including her...is comfortable with one another. Ok, got it? And remember about Twilight..Do..not...DO NOT tell her unless it is absolutely necessary, I mean it's so necessary due to the fact she's about to conquer Equestria sort of thing, that's how necessary it's gotta be...Do I have your words? Can you all promise me that?"

"But then, how are we gonna get to know her if we can't try anything?" Sweetie Belle asks.

"By just...talking if she wants to talk. Just stick with talking in general. She loves to talk. And I promise you she'll try talking to at least one of you about this now that she knows. Just remember to stand your ground, and don't give in to anything she says, instead just learn how she talks and analyze it, because I swear on my right hoof...that there is a chink in her exoskeleton somewhere. One of us just has to find it. I trust you girls, I trust you not to tell anypony else and only tell Twilight if it's an absolute emergency. I trust you not to do anything drastic with Chrysalis. Because in the end, it'll make Dad and me look bad too...y'know..because she's a changeling. Ok? We're talking possible banishment"

All their eyes went wide when you mentioned "Banishment".

"Oh geez! I forgot the princesses did that whole banishment thing on them. Yeah, they'd all be pretty angry if things went bad, wouldn't they?" Scootaloo tenses up at the thought of it

"You’re right, they would. Everypony would. That's basically treason. Going against the judgement of four whole princesses...FOUR WHOLE PRINCESSES!" Sweetie Belle was even more tense. "We could get banished too just for knowing about this"

"Ya really think so Sweetie B-belle?..oh....mah sister would be pretty angry if she knew we knew the queen of the changelings. No tellin' how angry the princesses would be." Applebloom was now scared, she didn't want to be banished too. "A-ah guess that's why you want us to really really make sure she's doin’ anything bad if we have to tell Twilght, right Anon?"

Hell, that was a better reason if anything. "That's absolutely right. This isn't a joke girls. We are playing for keeps. So if you don't want to take any part in this at all. I understand too. But I still need a promise. Promise?"

They all nod, now understanding how dire everything is, and perform the Pinkie Promise.

Good....Fucking...good. "Thanks girls. So....now that we have some free time. I wouldn't mind doing something. What do you all want to do?"

They all bring out the textbooks and all of them say at the same time "Homework".

"Not that we actually wanna do it or anything. But ya know, it's due tomorrow and we figured we'd all get done much faster if we just combine ideas." Applebloom explains.

Oh man, fuck that shit. You didn't wanna do homework yet. Much less in a group. You could do that at home. "....Oh...welllll uhhhh...."

Sweetie Belle raises an eyebrow at you "You're just gonna ditch us, aren't you?"

"...Yeeeaaahhh" You didn't want to stay for homework. "Besides...uhhhh...Gotta make sure Diamond Tiara is alright...y'know? She did look pretty upset this morning. And considering the reason. I should be there to help set things straight."

That was of course a half truth. You just didn't wanna stay for homework. But considering WHAT did happen. Seeing DT might not be such a bad idea.

Applebloom frowns, she didn't seem to know how to honestly feel again. Ugh...you'd have to have a chat with her at some point too. But alone..without Scootaloo or Sweetie Belle around. "Ahh guess that's the right thing to do. Well, we won't stop ya. She is your marefriend after all"

That nearly made you want to cringe. "Y-yeah...so uhhh...seeya girls..."

The goodbyes on this one was awkward. Applebloom was sorrowful. Sweetie Belle was looking at you like you were abandoning ship. And Scootaloo..thankfully...was just a normal goodbye. Ugh, the life of a foal was annoying a lot of the time. Having to handle fillies upon fillies was going to kill you one day.

Chapter 233

"C'mon Chrysalis, Don't do that. Who are you even trying to impress anyway? Nobody is here to listen to you be arrogant"

"It's not about arrogance, it's about dominance. But, pray tell, what are you doing down here anyway?" Chrysalis began to wonder "It's not like you to wander into my lair without a reason. So what is it?"

"I just want to hang out with you. You said we were definitely friends right? Well, I'd like to spend some time with you. And I'd appreciate it if you don't try to tease or manipulate me" You were serious. You didn't need any of her "Dohohoho manipulate and seduce" shit.

But you noticed something in her eye. The moment you finished that sentence, she had a flash of childlike giddiness on her face. "Does that mean we'll be watching another documentary on humans?"

....Now you felt kinda bad, she was trying to hide it, but you could see genuine interest in her eyes for it. "Sorry, it's gonna have to be another time. I used the horn today."

Chrysalis's expression then changed to that of childish disappointment ".....Ergh....Should have known. So then, what are we supposed to do?"

"Talk...y'know. Just try to get to know each other more"

"We already know each other"

"You know what I mean. I want to have a friendly chat. It can be about anything. C'mon, do you just wanna sit here bored all evening? I could just leave." You slowly feigned making an about face

Chrysalis didn't say anything at first. She just turned her head to the side and looked down onto the floor of the basement cave next to her throne. She then looked to you, with a bored expression, and pointed towards the empty spot. "Sit"

That made you smile, it felt like progress. "Alrighty" You go and brush off the spot a little before planting your butt on it.

"So then, what do you want to talk about?" She asked, a little curious, thinking there might be ulterior motives to this.

"Well...first. I wanna know if the captain is ok. I heard he failed the mission you gave him"

"Heard?" Chrysalis let's out a dismissive chuckle. "Don't you mean he told you? I already know everything he had to report. Including the one filly knowing going up to three. It's interesting really, I might be able to use it to my advantage. And for that, I gave the little runt some praise. At the moment he's training vigorously...at least that's what he said he was going to do. "

....Wut? Did she just casually tell you she could use it to her advantage? "What do you mean "Advantage"? Are you just trying to rile me up?"

Chrysalis smiles just a little as she looks down at you, and you up at her. "No, I'm being serious. Friends tell each other things, don't they? I'm telling you that I have the advantage, so take it as you will. It's not as if you could stop whatever I might be planning anyway."

You sigh, she wanted you to react. And before, you would. But you had thought too deeply into this. You needed to keep a level head. "Well, ok then. I'll just have to intervene when you try something, I guess"

"You guess?" Chrysalis found that suspicious "....Aren't you worried about your friends?"

You shrug. "Not really, you're not going to hurt them. You know what would happen if you did. And you can't trick Applebloom again. So there's that too..." You look up at Chrysalis and smile "Hey Chrysalis, let me ask you a question. What was your biggest conquest in Equestria?"

Chrysalis nearly double backed, wide eyed in expression, she was having a "wut" moment. "You're interested? Really?"

You nod. "Well yeah, I gave you the documentary and all that stuff. I think you owe me a great story in the history if your hive. Don't you think?"

You give her an adorable little smile. You were plotting in your head. Luna was right, you just had to take your life as a colt face first. Your feelings were never a lie, and that was what was most important. So yes, you were indeed interested. With childlike wonder in fact.

".....Hmmm" Chrysalis readjusted herself on her throne to make herself more comfortable. and began to ponder "...I can't even think of any other reason why you would want to know. hrnnnnnn......but" She smiles again, but more casually...more friendly "I guess I forgot that you actually have some neutrality in you, hard to remember after Twilight Sparkle made you into a squishy wuss."

Ok..that one hurt a little. "...She wasn't wrong in what she taught me Chrysalis. It's just that for someone like me, being nice and friendly and kind ALL the time actually doesn't work. It just kind of makes me into a doormat. That's why you came right? To show me that? Lesson learned." You snicker at her. "Hope it was worth it, because you only strengthened my resolve"

Chrysalis mockingly snickers back in annoyance. "Well aren't you the intelligent little fuzzball" She then rests her head on her hoof again and sighs. "This is what I get for doing a superb job...."

You reach your hooves to the side of her throne and pull your head up to look at her. "C'mon, it ain't that bad. And besides, I'm here just as a friend. I'm not gonna try to convert you right now. I wanna hear a story."

Chrysalis leans over and pushes your head down, she was slightly annoyed with the fact she couldn't figure you out right now. "Fine.....But I don't need you looking at me like that. It unnerves me."

"Alright, Alright" You gently push her hoof away. "Just don't skimp on the details."

"Oh, I won't.....now then" Chrysalis clears her throat. "I have toppled a few cities, kingdoms, and even an empire or two in my much younger days. Unfortunately, I could never hold them down for very long...but that's a story for a another time. But, as far as my conquests go. The empire of Trot was probably my best work."

"Trot?....that's it's name? Really?"

"Don't interrupt, besides, it was the old days. They kept things simple. In any case, Trot was both a glorious Empire and city...." Chrysalis stops and realizes something. "...I suppose naming your city after your empire is a little unimaginative...but I didn't care. Anyway, they were known for having the mightiest army in the land. An unstoppable force that even had Griffons and Diamond Dogs in their employ. But the reason I chose to conquer it was because it was also falling into a form of decadence. Love, peace, and good will had spread among the populace. Their army was only ever really useful for defending at that point. They never bothered anypony else. And nopony ever attacked them in fear of retaliation. The only other thing that actually made things difficult was that they didn't trust most outsiders. Ready to even fire at any pegasi that flew too close to their walls. Their decadence was only really a self contained thing really. Many of the plans I had thought up we're prone to failure due this fact. Until I heard their prince was a fat loveless loser"

You saw where this was going. "Ahhhh, I see. So in comes the lost, beautiful young mare with the look of a princess...right?"

Chrysalis chuckles a light hearted chuckle. "Exactly, ohhh but even then it wasn't easy. I had to tell a terrible sob story of abuse and pain just to get through the front gates. From then on I had to learn to become one of them. It wasn't until a month later that I even got the chance to meet the prince. So I was stuck with a unassuming family until I had that chance. They happily took me in. Their colt was adorable....I fed off of him for the entire time I was with them" Chrysalis snickers at the comparison. "He treated me like I was his older sister"

You hid your cringe. Interested as you were...that was just cold. ".....What happened to him?"

Chrysalis shrugged. "No idea, I used my free time to pluck flowers near the palace until the prince noticed me. Oh the naive idiot.. "You're the only pony to ever notice me" he said "Other girls just see me as a means to get rich, but you notice me for my looks and personality" he stammered...oh Anon, he was so pathetic. He was sweating so much upon our first meeting."

"Woah woah, hold on, you're skipping ahead. What did he say when you both first met?"

"I just told you what he said. What, did you think I said hi to him? No, the pathetic idiot just noticed me looking at him. He just walked up to me and said those things while sweating like a pig. I could tell he was very very very lonely. No girl ever talked to him like he was a pony. No girl could look at him for a second without gagging. He really was the grossest thing I've ever saw. His pimples were as big as your muzzle, and his belly could barely hold his girdle. And that smell..."

...Ohhh...god. "Ok..that...admittingly sounds gross. So how the hell did you put up with it? Like sheesh, I know you can't have that much patience. I would have walked out just because he sounds like a total spaz"

"He was" Chrysalis snickers. "He really was, always ALWAYS, from the moment he let me into the palace, did he go on and on about the figurines he had of local celebrities and always always talking about his insipid dreams of becoming an alicorn one day. I sat there through all of it...smiling...agreeing....it nearly killed me"

"Egh...I bet. We have a lot of those kinds of humans back on Earth. They just insert themselves into whatever you're doing and then never shut the fuck up. It's annoying as shit" Not...Like you ever did things like that...eheh

"Oh I don't even have to imagine, given you exist. Anyway, His love may have been delicious, but even in the process of making him mine....he never EVER shut up. It was unbelievable!" Chrysalis leaned back onto the sides of her throne as she raised her hoof at the absurdity of it all. "No matter how deep I put him under my spell he still talked about his stupid figurines! It drove me crazy!"

You giggle at that, that actually sounded funny.

"Oh...don't laugh" Chrysalis flipped around and looked down at you with a more friendly, yet annoyed look.

"Sorry, heh, it's just funny. But...if it annoyed you so much. How was this your best conquest?"

"Ahh patience Anon, I'm just getting to the good part. Trust me, you'll love it. Anyway..." Chrysalis went on her back again, and looked upwards as she spoke more casually. "I spent month after month working him over, easy..yet annoying. However, when I finally decided to make my final move, his father intervened. You see, my plan was to have my true family "That still cared for me" over for the wedding. But he would have none of it. They still didn't trust outsiders, the prince even agreed...and he was under my spell. Very very stubborn....You'd think a girl of my beauty would be more respected but Trot was full of fools."

"So you couldn't get your children in then.....wait...." Trot.......Tro......Troy? Oh no...

"......Let me guess. You tricked the prince into getting you a really really big gift. One that could only be found outside the city walls. And had your army hide inside of it. So when the gift came at the gates. They let them in....and...."

Chrysalis just smirks as she looks up at the ceiling. the very memory bringing her cruel happiness. "Very very good Anon, I'm impressed. I really am. Nopony would have figured it out as quick as you. That's what I like about you sometimes, deep down in your heart lies the soul of a changeling....but yes, that was the strategy. And right when I was made princess of Trot of both the city and empire...That’s when we struck. Chaos spread across the city as "my love" could not figure out what happened. He tries so so hard to understand. That was my greatest joy, was watching him realize how big of a mistake he made and how truly unloved he really was as to take in a changeling wife." Chrysalis entered a tad of a gigglefit when she recalled that memory “It got even better when my now ex-captain brought me his figurines...and I destroyed every single one in front of him. We plundered his empire for an entire week before forces from neighboring lands came to help them. We we're already gone however. The destruction and drain on the entire empire was already done and we had enough fill to sustain ourselves for a month on that alone. The empire never recovered and was lost through the passages of time." Chrysalis nuzzled the back of her head on the armrest of her throne and smiles sweetly "......and that's the end of my tale. What do you think Anon?"

You clap your hooves. A dark story to be sure. but what's done is done. You already knew she was cruel and evil. No point in pointing out the obvious. And a part of you did enjoy the fact an annoying sperg nerd beta got served.... "Top notch, I actually thought that was a neat story."

"Neat?....Hrnnn" Chrysalis didn't turn her head towards you, she just continued to look upwards, but she was struck with a sense of wonderment over your answer "No criticisms? No disgust? No anger?"

"I'm not actually a pony, remember? I can appreciate a good story"

".....Mnnnn, I guess I expected the usual "You monster" or "How cruel..", It seems I was right about your soul. But then, why try to reform me if you enjoyed that story? It doesn't make any sense"

You hesitate answering at first. putting some thought into your answer. "Because, it was a good story. But just because I enjoyed it doesn't mean I'll stop. I'd like to see you, my friend, living peacefully with the ponies. I'm telling you, it'd do a lot of good. But I can't expect it so soon. And even then, I actually like your personality....sometimes...sorta"

"Could have fooled me..." She lets out a hearty laugh. "Cute, but foolish to think that will EVER happen. But enough about that, I have a question for you"

Hmmm? "What is it?"

"Well. I'd rather not think about your useless attempts to change me. But..." Chrysalis is covered by a green aura for a moment before turning into her filly form. "I'd like you to sit with me and tell me a plot you'd use to conquer Equestria. I'd like to hear one, I know you have the mind for it and I'd find it ever so rewarding and fun if you tell me" She giggled adorably.

That wasn't exactly a question. And that giggle, it was adorable enough for you to raise your head to notice she had changed. "......Why that form?" goddammit

She giggled again. "You don't think I didn't notice the love and lust that was coming off of you when you stepped down here? You've been playing around with your little marefriend, haven't you? With that kind of aura, I simply had to take advantage. Now come on and sit with me..." She speaks in a cuter yet sexual voice. "I'll nibble your ear a little if I like your plan"

"Ehhh...Just don't get touchy." You hobble up onto the throne and sit next to Chrysalis. Even in filly form. It was a snug fit. You could feel her flank touching yours. "....You did this on purpose"

Chrysalis gently rubbed against you, bringing the side of her head to yours. "Of course I did, the more I can get from you, the better. Don't let it distract you though. Tell me your plans."

You sigh, and lean a little away from her. While, internally, you did like the attention....you didn't want to give the impression you were that easy. "Ok, so. How to take over Equestria. First, I'd realize even with my horn, I'd only have one shot to do anything and there's a good chance everything could backfire. In fact, fuck the horn. Let's start fresh. Let's say I go into chemical studies and make a very very powerful drug"

"What? for healing? How is that supposed to do anything?" Chrysalis was already confused...good

"No no, I don't mean the good type of drug. I mean a drug that's extremely addictive and makes you feel good, but as it wears off, you feel pain and misery."

"Pain and Misery?" Chrysalis mouth curls into a more cruel smile. "I like it already."

You nod, and start gesturing with your front hooves to express how powerful the drug would be. "Yeah, it's really dirty stuff. You take it and you'd feel higher than a kite, like...the truest of happiness and love....then? BAM!" You smash your hooves together. "The worst feeling in your life! Ok...so now that I have that explained. I'd make a ton of this stuff and go into a secluded and small town. And like any snake oil salesman. I advertise my wares."

"Hmmmm" Chrysalis began to ponder "I'm going to guess you're going to give them the drugs for a very low low price...and then?"

You snicker, you were already liking the sound of your plan and the fact Chrysalis had taken interest. "Better, I'd give it away for free!....At first. By the end of the week the entire town would be BEGGING to make me their mayor just to keep the supply going. And then...like dominoes...everything else will fall into place"

"Very interesting. I didn't think you could possibly be so underhoofed." Chrysalis nuzzles into you. "To tell you the truth, it's actually quite attractive"

You start to blush, but gently push her away. "Come on, don't. I didn't even get to the best part." You look over to Chrysalis, who was giving you the bedroom eyes, turning gently left and right as she had her hooves forward in a cute ‘V’.

"Well...are you going to look at me, or are you going to continue? Either one is fine....or both would be better" She wiggled her eyebrows at you

Egghhh..she was teasing you hard. You just turn away. "I'll...just continue. Anyway, I'll keep them all in line after that. Having them do whatever I please for their next fix until my fame as an "honest" mayor is spread far and wide. I'll become so famous that I'll get a meeting with the princesses. I'd only need Celestia and Luna really. And then the real dirty stuff begins" You look back on Chrysalis, she wasn't trying to seduce you anymore. She actually looked quite riveted. It made you feel confident in your planning. "I go visit them for a "Grand" meeting. Y'know, to talk about growth and my "Contributions" to Equestria. And then....I show off the drug as a candy. A candy of pure goodness. I don't think I need to say it but, I'll have the castle entirely hooked on the drug. And they will have to suffer and follow all my commands if they want to get more. I'd make sure to bring the most concentrated batch of the drug. It'd warp them enough that they couldn't survive without it...figuratively speaking of course...but still. It'd be a all new kind of hell. I'd make sure to break the princesses in before spreading the drug across Equestria as a candy. And once they are all hooked, the world will be mine!"

You start to laugh maniacally. "HAHAHAHHA!" You raise your hooves in the air. "NOT EVEN TWILIGHT COULD STOP IT, EQUESTRIA WOULD BE NO MATCH FOR THE MACHINATIONS OF A HUMAN DRUG. ALL WOULD HAVE TO BOW TO ME OR SUFFER! And..hehehe...before you say anything. I'd have Celestia send a personal box of the drugs to CadAnce and Twilight as well. So they'd be hooked before it spreads across the rest of the world. Then, I'd truly be unstoppable. Anyone who tries to resist it will suffer, and the payment for the drug will always be high thereafter....Brilliant" You look over to Chrysalis with a smug smirk. "Don't you think?"

Chrysalis giggled and gave you a gentle smile. "I personally think it's a fantastic plan. It's cruel, ingenious, and it gets the job done in a very sneaky way...like a changeling. I love it!"

Your cruel smirk turns into a happy smile. "You really do? heh, I guess I do have a good mind to be evil if I wanted to be."

"I agree...." But then Chrysalis leans back onto the other arm of the throne and gives you an adorably cocky smile "But...I do see a few holes"

"Holes?" Wut? "It's perfect! ponies are super dumb when it comes to that kind of thing. Never once did I ever see them have to handle drugs. They will naively fall for it and that's that. You'd be surprised how easily a drug can crush someone's will"

"And I believe you, the plan is so nefarious that it'd even wipe out my hive due to the fact that it seems you'd be eliminating the concept of love by making everypony have a need for a drug rather than each other. Buuuuut...First, you didn't consider if EVERYPONY would take the drug. There's always the possibility that many wouldn't want your "candy"."

"And? I have kingdoms worth of army now to stomp the opposition."

"Mhmm, I suppose that's true. But now that everypony else is dependent on the drug. You now have the daunting task of producing enough for everypony."

"Not hard, drugs are made of the most common of resources. I can even have them grown."

"But for the whole world?"

.....Erm...well, that would be difficult actually. considering it'd have to be taken at a constant. "Well..I'd have others making it for me"

"Others? But you said all would be addicted....well, I suppose you could still have them make the drug. Or have others make it, some you employed who hadn't taken the drug. But then you have the problem of paying them. The royal treasury won't last forever, and from the way you're spreading the drug. Eventually everypony would run out of money. And then....Revolt. And while they are rebelling, your distributors would most likely run off. Chaos and Anarchy would reign, and then eventually....you'll be consumed by the very addiction you created. The ponies will destroy you looking for it. Their pain will become yours a million fold. And darkness will be the last thing you ever see. Quite simply Anon, you can't keep it up forever."

....Shit. "W-well, I could always lower the pri...then I'd run out of supplies even faster. Ergh, and yeah, having others make it for me risks the fact they'd sell it on their own. And a whole world's supply would be.....ARGH!" You fall backwards onto the back of the throne, defeated, crossing your front legs defiantly. "Well...at least it would work for awhile"

"Awwww, don't take it so hard Anon. It was still a good plan to me...just not a perfect one. It's something you couldn't hold together. But at least you'd still taste victory" Chrysalis gently nuzzles into you. "And here I thought you didn't have it in you. I really am impressed. I'm being honest"

"Well..." You sigh. "Thanks I guess...but it doesn't make me evil y'know, it's just I can think evil thoughts."

"I figured, still impressed. So.." Chrysalis stops nuzzling and gives you a gentle grin. "Are things working out between you and your "marefriend"?"

You nod. "Yeah...they are."

"Have you mated with her yet?"

"N-HEY!." You give her a mean look, but she just kisses your nose.

"You're so cute Anon...I can't wait to have fun again as your sister"

You grumble and hop off the throne. "Yeah yeah.." You turn to face her, still a little miffed. "But we'll see how long that lasts until you see that being nice and good is what is best. Hell, you could still feed and be good at the same time. I fail to see the problem honestly."

Chrysalis just smiles at you with careless abandon. "Of course you don't, it's because you also have the naivete of a pony. I don't blame you. It just makes you more adorable...or annoying and making me want to destroy you. It depends, a queen such as myself have to make important decisions every once in awhile. And I prevent myself from destroying you when opportunity arises simply because our friendship actually means something to me. Something you haven't fully grasped yet"

"But do you really consider...never mind. You're just going to try to seduce me after I ask that question"

Chrysalis nods. "I don't need to try, it works every time. You're a sexually active colt to a high degree. It's so easssyyy. And don't tell me you don't like it...you enjoy my special attention Anon...I know you do."

She was right. Really, anyone would enjoy the attention. Especially from one who could turn into their waifu. "...Only because I'm a male. Morally, I think it's wrong..or..." Wait a minute...She did say you had a soul of a changelings...maybe you can tease her in a "Sibling" sort of way

"Or?" She noticed you giving a smug smile, she didn't like it

"Or..." You climb back up onto the throne and start nuzzling into her instead, even gently hugging her and closing your eyes. "Or..we can be like actual brother and sister. Nuzzle, hug, and you could sleep next to me, protecting me from awful nightmares and scary shadows. I'd wuv a protective sister to sleep next with. I'd hug onto you and tell you how much I love you every day. And we can fly kites and go on picnics and-OMPH"

Chrysalis pushes you off the throne. "Ok...I get it. Ugh...that's too much Anon" She reeverts back to her normal form as she looks down upon you with utter disgust. "Way too much"

You fall on your back and yelp a tiny yelp, then look back up at her and grin, the fall wasn't too bad to distract you. "Is it, my queen? You wouldn't want a little prince to love and protect?"

Chrysalis sticks her tongue out in disgust. "Egghh, that's not what I meant by you being a changeling. And I can already see where this is going. So I think our time this evening has come to an end."

You snicker as you stand up, brushing yourself off. "I guess, sad you can't handle a taste of your own medicine."

"That's because you like my attention, you know I hate THAT kind of attention, being so deliberately sweet and kind. It's sickening"

You just smile, and nearly have a laugh about it. "Whatever you say sis....Well, it's probably getting late anyway. I need to go to bed for school tomorrow. Seeya!"

You turn to walk towards the stairs out of the basement when Chrysalis says something to you. "You mean ‘Goodnight’"

Hmm? "Goodnight?" You turn back to face her

"Yes...Goodnight, don't leave my domain without wishing me a goodnight."

That...was odd..and sudden. "Don’t you mean bad night?"

"Don't patronize me Anon, that sounds like what a lame villain from a puppet show would say. I'm asking you for something simple. Don't make me go and throw you down the stairs." She looked at you, annoyed with your statement.

But you only found it odd....Huh...

You hesitate not because you're scared, but because it seemed so odd. "...Are you ok? It just doesn't seem like you"

"Do I need to explain things again, Anon? I told you last time it was the LAST time. You're going to regret if I have to explain myself"

Hmmmm...She was serious. But was it because she wanted to turn good? At least, some part of her?..Or..did she take the friendship seriously?...Hmm… Well, she did seem agitated. So..why not give her a goodbye she'd actually like.

You take a bow, and give her a gentle smile. "No, I got it. So...goodnight, my queen"

"That's better....mnnn.." Chrysalis nodded with a stoic look "Goodnight..Anon. Now go..."

You look at her for a moment, then walk back all the way to your room. Strange, the visit went well overall. But that "goodnight". You hop into bed and gently snuggle into your blanket as you gave it some thought. It was odd, but she seemed to be taking the friendship seriously. Or it was another trick?...or something. But...you had a feeling that was no trick. But, as you put just a little more thought into it. It..no..it still made little sense.

Egh...probably not a good idea to put too much thought into it. Just ride it, and see where it takes you. You close your eyes, and let yourself drift off to sleep. You sleep...until there is a tapping at your window.

A tapping?

You put your pillow over your ears, trying to block out the noise....until you hear. "Anonnn....Annnonnn"

.......That voice. Your ears perk up as you push the pillow away.

You hop off the bed and look towards the window....now things got really odd. Then you looked at your clock, 3 AM...huh.

"Anon, can you open the window? I want to talk to you..in private..outside..where the hive cannot hear."

It was Chrysalis. Private? What in the fuck? But you look into her face, she looked pleading and gentle. Did she...Did she do a heel turn on her feelings? Or did she want to privately sort her feelings out with you...woah, this could be the breakthrough you were looking for! You open the window. "Chrysalis, are you alright?"

She nods "...I'm not. I...am having strange feelings. Feelings I can only sort out with you. Can you follow me? You don't need to worry about falling, there doesn't seem to be any true gravity out here."

"Yeah, I figured it'd be like that out there..but private, really? What is so bad that you need to talk to me in private?"

"Anon, I really can't say it here. I don't want the hive thinking I have grown weak"

....Oohhhh shiiiiiieeett. "..Ok, sure. We can go to that small island floating over there to talk. But Chrysalis, are you sure it's THAT important? What exactly are you feeling"

Chrysalis looked down in shame, and pointed to her chest where her heart would be, then she gently reached and touched your heart. "I feel a warmth"

OH SHIIEETTT..DONE DEAL! "Ok, we'll go over there and talk"

You carefully climb over the window, holding onto it until you were sure it'd be safe to hop off. You then jump towards the island with Chrysalis next to you. It was frightful at first, then kind of fun. Gravity began to set in when you reached the island however. Nothing major, it was like 1/4 of earth's. You felt much lighter.

And there you stood. You and Chrysalis....it was time to finish the job. "So..what's wrong Chryssi?"

"Anon..." She sighed, looking miserable and unsure. "I've been feeling these feelings of love and care. These feelings...are not feelings a changeling queen should have. And yet...the more I feel them. The more..it seems right"

YES! "Chrysalis...it's ok to feel those feelings. That means you're understanding what it means to be good. It isn't bad, y'know? I promise I can get things set for you. But you have to be honest with me. You're not lying? Not at all? Not a teeny bit?"

"No...these feelings are true. They overwhelm me. And yet, I cannot stop not wanting it. Anon..please believe me. Right now, I don't think I'm ready to face the ponies." She looked away, ashamed of herself.

"Hey..." You look at her with soft gentle eyes. "Don't sweat it, we'll just take baby steps ok? All you have to do is act nice as my sister and everything will go great. I can meet up with Celestia and show her your progress. And then eventually. Bam! You're living among ponies and still getting food. Protecting and helping each other and all that great stuff."

Chrysalis smiled a sheepish smile. "A-anon...do you really mean that? I..I don't know what to say. Anon..can we go a little further? I want to show you something..something that..looking upon its beauty. made me realize how beautiful the world can be"

You nod. "Hey sure, no problem"

Chrysalis giggled happily. "Thank you Anon, and don't you worry. Once Discord let's me become your sister. I'll make sure to make everything right by you"

"Hey, you'll do....." Wait..... "Come again?"

"Your sister Anon, I know you may have feared that day. But I promise to make it a good experience for you."

.....

..................

.............................................

.........................................................

HOLY FUCKING SHIT! THAT AIN'T CHRYSALIS!

"I see...ahrm. Well, I look forward to that. And I'd really love to see this place you mentioned. Buuuut, I do have school tomorrow and I need my sleep. But we can see it tomorrow. Promise" You start to very carefully prepare yourself to make a jump back to the house.

"Anon, why? Why can't we see it now?" She asked, looking a little frantic.

Nope...don't even fucking take chances. DON'T. You reach your hoof to your horn to place it on your head. "Chrysalis" was close, but not close enough to react and catch you.

That is, she didn't need to catch you...her tongue lashes out like a chameleon and snatches and pulls the horn talisman right off your neck, detaching it from it's latch, and slinging it to the ground behind herself.

And then..she smiled evilly. "I've been waiting a long time for this...."

Chapter 234

You automatically knew who it was. You should have realized from the get go it was him. Chrysalis had no reason to be outside your window. You felt safe, what was he really going to do to you? Discord was nearby. And even then, you might be able to beat him on your own. He's a changeling drone...you might be able to beat him,especially since he's been deprived of a food source. But that tongue...did changelings have long tongues?

"....Ehh. You're the ex-captain right? You're not scary in the least. Y'know that? So ummmm, you can pretend to be Chrysalis. So what? You probably haven't eaten in forever. If you think I'm going to let you have your way just because you're bigger than me then you are wrong. I mean, when's the last time you've eaten? I can kick your ass all over this island. So why don't you just lay off...hmm?" Nah, he had to be skin and bones at this fucking point.

"Not afraid? Don't you realize how dire your situation is? Well, I'm not going to destroy you...that honor goes to the runt and my dear queen. I have something SPECIAL in mind for you" The false Chrysalis cackles..almost..in a mad sense.

"...Ohhhh?" You wave your hooves mockingly at him. "What am I going to be, bait?"

She shakes her head. "I don't need you to be bait. I'm going to show you EVOLUTION! The same kind of evolution that will soon come upon the entire hive."

Evolution?....oh god, did he go insane? "Yeaaahhh, I'm just going to take my horn and..EEP!"

The false Chrysalis's horn glows yellow and shoots a bolt of magic right in front of you, making you stop.

"The hell?" You look up at the fake queen. She just smiles insanely at you, baring teeth as they begin to warp. her entire body begins to warp....what? "What in the..."

You start walking backwards as "Chrysalis" changes form into the ex-captain....but...he wasn't a changeling anymore. There stood something only resembling a changeling. It's eyes were yellow instead of bright blue. But only the right eye. The left was actually a patch of pony fur, with a regular pony eye with a yellow pupil.

On his back was spikes tendrils that waved about as if it was grass in the wind, all lined up evenly from the top of his back down to his...shark tail? His body also had more patches of mismatched pony fur, it almost seemed like those parts were of actual pony, and may be as soft and tender as one. And his horn was much sharper looking from before. Sharp and pointy. And his teeth were all sharp and monstrous, like an eldritch horror.

"..Holy..." You were amazed in the worst sense. "...What...the fuck happened to you?"

He let out a quick insane cackle or two in between his speech. "Oh nothing really, in my search for a way out I may have run into a few portals that changed me...for the better of course. I have surpassed everything that has ever been a nuisance in my original form. And with my future army, we will take over all of Equestria! I don't even need to feed on love anymore, I feed on chaos now. And look around us...what do you see?"

.......Shit. "C-chaos?"

You start to back up, but the moment you do, the ex-captain jumps towards you, quick as lightning, and pins you down. "DING DING DING! You win Anon, HAHA! And your prize will be wonderful when I make you into something nopony can love! HAHAHA! What do you think?...How great does evolution look like? Tell me! TELL ME!" He says crazily, his eyes full of insanity.

Oh shit, now you were scared, you couldn't answer.

Then he made you yelp in pain when he pressed harder on you.

"TELL MEEEE!" He screeched, as loud as a damn angry banshee

Christ..this guy was fucking nuts. And..you could feel the sand of the island under your hooves....hmnnn. You had to relax, you had to think. This was your only chance. "Mngh...You really wanna know?"

Suddenly, he calmed down and looked at you with a gentle smile. "Well duh, I did ask"

"Well....if you really wanna know" You beckoned him to bring his face closer. "Just come a little closer..." ..Was he crazy enough to fall for this?

He leans his face closer as he keeps you still with his hoof. "...ok...and?"

"...Ok..so..I think....POCKET SAND!" You quickly scoop up sand onto your hoof and throw it right into his pony eye, making him scream in pain and step backwards, and off of you.

"You accursed brat! What in the hay was that for?! Who even does that!?" He says as he literally and crazily presses his right hoof in his eye to get the sand out. It almost looked like he would explode his own eye if he pressed any deeper.

Fuck answering this guy. You quickly get up and make a mad dash for the horn. You jump at it, reaching your hoof out.. But the moment you're about to touch it, a magic yellow ball flies up from right under you and hits the horn. making it fly further as you fall face first into the sand. "GYARGHHH...always the head or face....fucking.."

"That wasn't very nice Anon, didn't that pathetic yellow idiot teach you any manners?!" The ex-captain snickered. "Or do you just want me to destroy you right...HEY!" You were already dragging yourself over to the horn, not paying attention.

"LISTEN TO ME WHEN I'M SPEAKING!" He shoots another shot from his horn. It misses you, but the blast throws you right into the air where gravity loses you.

You start to float away.

"Oh shit, oh shit!" You try swimming in mid air..and..it surprisingly works....who knew?

You try swimming back towards the island for the horn. But the Ex-Captain flies towards the horn first. oddly enough, he's not even trying to put it on. Instead...oh no....

You try to flip directions, but you are too late as his launches his long tongue towards you and wraps it around your torso. "GOINMG BOWNMB" He blabbered as he swung his head down, making you drop like you were the end of a flail.

Oh shit! OH SHIT! THIS WAS GONNA HURT! ...Wait..was it? The gravity was wonky here...maybe if you..

As you began to come down, you grab the tongue with your hooves....w-will this even work? You didn't have a moment to think about it..JUST DO! You grunted as you pulled at the tongue.

"Huh..whant's mgomng mon?" The Ex-captain blubbed as he started to lift off the ground.

Oh yeah baby, it was working...somehow!

"Hey asshole! Hope you like your face in the dirt!" You spin around, and counterbalance yourself with the gravity as the Ex-captain swings around, over, and slams back down onto the island.

"AGGGGGGH!" The ex-captain screams as he is flipped about "THIS ISM IMPOMMBLE!" is the last thing he gets out before touchdown.

"Yeah! HAHAHA!" You laugh in triumph. "Heh...hey, this fighting thing isn't so hard. Guy is a fucking picasso come to life and I'm kicking his ass left and...wait.." You noticed you were floating far away from the island. "Shit! Now's not the time to get smug Anon, swim..SWIM!"

You try dog paddling back down, but it seems you were caught by another gravity well. And it was pulling you away from the island.

"Shit! SHIT! SHIT! SHIT!" You flipped around to see what was pulling you...it was another island filled with jungle trees, and a waterfall that flowed....upwards..from what seemed to be an eternal pit

And you were heading straight for that waterfall. "SHIT! SHIT! SHWFAADFDS" You get caught in it's flow and start floating upwards onto the island, you were unable to swim against it's strong curent.

You then found yourself washed ashore in a light jungle.

"E-eghh..I-I almost drowned there...ngh...wait..the horn! Shit!" You shook yourself dry and started rushing forward, only to trip and fall on your face, then bounce off your face and fall on your back before sliding into a tree. the base of the tree hitting right between your legs. "NGH!..MNGH...DAMMITAGH!" The ground..was very bouncy...your balls however..were not.

"......Fucking SHIIIITT!" You whined. "This whole dimension is fucking retarded! Fuck this entire thing! Ngh! Augh..." You slowly get up and wobble forward. "....I guess I can forget about kids...mngh...where am I now?...huh.."

You look up only to see the warped dark sky, and looking forward there was a few open paths for you to take. The gravity here was a little tougher than the island from before...but it was bouncy enough to compensate. "..I gotta get to the horn before that asshole shows up."

You start wobbling forward, still feeling pain in your balls as you looked for the edge of the island. Surely the gravity would cut off at the edge..right? It was worth a shot as it seemed anything goes in this fucked up, mixed up dimension.

Suddenly, you hear multiple blasts coming from behind you as mad laughter fills the air. Your eyes widen as you hear the eruptious ramblings of the Ex-caption "Annooooonnn! OHHH ANNOONNN!!! WHERE AREEE YOU! COME OUT YOU LITTLE MAGGOT, UNLESS YOU WANT TO BECOME BURNT TOAST! HAHAHAHAHAHA! AN EYE FOR AN EYE! HAHAHAHAHA!"

"..Fucking...this guy is off his damn rocker.." You rush forward, the faster you get to the edge. The better. Maybe he won't notice you slip through. You could hear his insane cackling as you run for dear life. Explosions going on behind you. You dunno how his transformation made him that powerful. but if chaos consumption equals power. Then this guy must be pretty high tier. It's just he's gone crazy and doesn't seem to plan out his moves anymore, that was the only thing keeping you alive.

Eventually, you managed to reach the edge of the island by running straight through "Yeah! I knew I'd reach it eventually! Stupid fuck doesn't even know where I am. I got this!".

But as you went to jump. You crash into something..or someone. As you hear a yelp. You fall backwards and look up, something was on top of you… And that something...was the runt of a captain."Nbh...Captain?..W-what are you doing here?"

The Captain smiled at you, and gave you a gentle nuzzle. "I came to help you. As soon as I saw your window open, I knew bad stuff was going down. Then I saw all the explosions and I figured you were up here. Pretty smart huh?"

.....Wut? "What were you doing in my room?"

"Oh...y'know....stuff..." He gave you a sheepish smile.

"...Were you going to try to destroy me in my sleep?" You look at him with an annoyed stoicism.

His sheepish smile became even more embarrassed. "Sorta...I was gonna ask first. So uhh" He tries to change the subject. "What's happening up here?"

You gently brush him off. And look over the edge of the island. "Ok, look. The ex-captain has become some kind of freak. I think he wants Chrysalis dead and wants to use the hive for his ow-"

"He wants to destroy the queen?!" The captain suddenly became battle ready. "This will not stand!"

"Yeah, I know. But he's gone nuts. He's blowing the place apart. We gotta get back to that o-...WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!"

You turn around to see the captain hovering upwards. "HEY, EX MORON! HOW DARE YOU WANT TO DESTROY THE QUEEN! I WILL NEVER ALLOW THAT! AS CAPTAIN! I WILL DESTROY YOU AND PROTECT THE HONOR OF THE QU-"

You dive into him and put your hoof over his mouth. "Dammit! Don't be an idiot! I'm trying to run from him not..."

"Well, Well, Well!" The Ex-captain spots you both and begins to descend to the ground, cackling, his teeth all on show and his pupils shrunk small enough that it made crazy ponk look normal. "Weeeelllyyy Well well. If it isn't my successor! HAHAHAHA. Perfect! I was meaning to destroy you. Oh and Anon, don't worry. I decided to destroy you too. You've proven too annoying and really....I'm still mad about the whole chair thing. I hope you understand. Nothing personal"

Shiiiiiiittt...

The Captain throws you off and looks upon the Ex-captain with full on stupid bravery. "Ha! You think you can destroy me? That's super dumb of you. I'm the captain for a reason Ex-captain. Oh, you have no idea how good it's going to be to destroy you. I won't even bring your remains to the queen. You're too ugly for that now." He started to stomp his hooves "Now you're gonna see why you're the ex...wha?"

The ex-captain said nothing as he began to...sink into the ground like it was water.

".....Is he a ghost?...Oh" the Captain chuckles "I guess I scared him so bad that he became a ghost." He giggles happily then turns around to look at you "Boo!"

You just stare at him. Trying to also figure out what the fuck happened.

"....Awwww, you didn't turn into a ghost too. That stinks" The Captain frowns. Seems he thought he could destroy you by saying "Boo!"....that idiot.

Sinking into the ground though? He's no ghost. You had to think, what could it mean? He was smiling as he sunk in...wait...chaos morphed him..right?...That shark tail...oh shit! "GET OUT OF THE WAY!"

You jump forward and push the captain aside as the ex-captain jumps out from the ground like a shark and easily dives back into the ground like it's nothing.

"Hey! What was th-OW!" The Captain cries as he hits the ground from your shove.

You immediately kick the Captain away after landing and push yourself back as the ex-captain rises up again.. The ground began to shake and detach from the rest of the island as you and the captain found yourself on the separated pieces as they began to drift away.

The Captain slowly got up and then immediately began to yell at you. "WHAT ARE YOU DOING?! CAN'T YOU SEE I WAS CELEBRATING?!"

"Moron...LOOK! SHEESH! Now’s not the time to be fucking dumb!" You point towards the main island, pointing to the Ex-captain. who seemed to have gotten his head stuck in a tree from his last jump. "He's not a ghost, he's got some kind of chaos ability. Listen, we gotta get down to that sandy island below us. You need to fly me there. Captain, can you do it?"

The Captain looked to the Ex-captain and started to flitter his wings. "I can..but I think I can beat that wimpy old ex-captain too. Let me just have one shot at him"

"No, LOOK! Now's not the time to be stupid. I can end this right here if you fly me down. Right now! Come on!" DAMMIT! JUST FUCKING DO IT YOU CLOD!

"No can do Anon, I'm going to get that glory..it's important to me. Just you see, I'm gonna bring him down. And not only bring my queen honor, but also show you that I am your friend by saving you. You stay here, ok?" The Captain looked at you with friendly eyes...holy shit, this fucking moron.

"Will you stop! He's just going to blow you up if you rush him. Don't be stup...DON'T! STOP!" He was going to do it anyway

The Captain saluted, and went back flying towards the Ex-captain, who was just about to get loose.

That moron! he was going to get himself killed.... Or maybe...he'd be a good distraction. You look down at the island. You could easily jump down to it, look for the horn, grab it, and then blow the fucker away with some banishing spell or just change him into a..well..a chair.

But..as you thought that. you started to feel some guilt. The moron mentioned he was your friend...sorta. And you'd have to tell the CMC that you let the Captain get blown to smithereens.

......ugh...fucking..dammit. Maybe you could snatch him up and go for the horn...

You jump towards the Captain's direction. He was already getting ready to rush the Ex-captain as he cackled at him. You had to be quick. because you could see his horn glowing. He was going to blast the Captain to bits!

"HYYYYYYYYAAAAAAAAHHHH!" You fly right into the Captain and grab him, pulling him away from a magical blast as you both tumble forward a little before stopping.

"H-Hey! What was that for!? Didn't I tell you I had it handled?!" The Captain barks at you

You hop off of him, and look back. The Ex-captain was charging another shot. "You almost became fish paste you fucking moron. Now move!"

You then turn around and point your head at the Ex-captain, time for a gambit. "Take my horn you fuck! CHAIR TIME!"

"WHAT?! NOT THE CHAIR!" The Ex-captain stops his magic as he raises his hooves to block...well...nothing. You just tricked him.

"Anon..wh-hey!" The Captain whined

You start shoving him forward. "Shut up and go before he realizes what's up! ok! go! GO!"

But the Captain pushed back "I'm not leaving until I've turned him into dust!...or worse! Smaller dust!"

"STOP BEING AN IDIOT!"

"STOP HOLDING ME BACK! I'M DOING THIS FOR YOU AND THE QUEEN!"

"YOU WON'T BE DOING ANYTHING FOR ANYONE IF YOU END UP DEAD!"

"THEN I WON'T DIE! NOW MOVE!"

You both started pushing at each other. And while you were sure you'd have the strength to shove him. He wasn't moving...in fact, you weren't moving. None of you could move your hooves.

"H-hey!? What gives?" The Captain says, trying to move his legs, but unable to.

You look down. And could see that your legs were linked to the ground by magical yellow chains. Yep, the Ex-captain became pretty talented during his time in crazy land.....you both were going to die.

"Son of a bitch! Fucking dammit!" You struggled as hard as you could to get free. But it was to no avail.

"See what you did?! Now we're gonna have trouble fighting him!" The Captain growled as he struggled to get free

"......ugh....Dammit! Don't you get it!? We're fucked! I don't have any more moves. So unless you have some super magical blast like he does. Then we're dead!"

As the Ex-captain began to hover downwards to land, The Captain heeded your words, and pointed his horn as it started to glow green. He charged it as much as he could......but the blast he generated was small...and also missed.

The Ex-captain just looks at it as it whizzes by and asks, unimpressed. "What was that?"

You sigh. "I think that was his life saving battle clencher...."

The Captain started to realize the situation, and stuttered in growing fear. "..I-it was worth a s-shot..."

"Yes...well...you know what else is worth a shot? Obliterating the both of you in just one shot. Letttssss see if I can manage that. It'll be fun!" The Ex-Captain said with an excited grin

Oh...no...you both were fucking doomed. Unless one of you could think of something. It'd be over. ...What good would stalling him even do? You couldn't get out. He couldn't get out. It was hopeless.

"You can't just blow us up! You may be a freak, but you're still a changeling. Don't you realize this is a dishonor to the queen?!" The Captain yelled out, appalled at the ex-captain "You were supposed to assist her in leading us to victory!"

The Ex-captain stops charging his blast as he looks at the Captain as if he was a delusional fool. "Are you an idiot? The queen is a failure, she only even made you captain just to spite me! You're not fit to lead anything. You're a runt, you'll always be a runt, and even the dust you will become will be fun sized"

"Coward, why don't you fight like a changeling! The Captain stood strong as he said this. Acting the brave hero.

" Oh god...this just made waiting for doom much more unbearable." You lower yourself to the ground in lost hope.

"And since when did we have honor to begin with? The queen certainly doesn't" The Ex-Captain replies

"The queen is always the first into battle! How dare you say she has no honor! She's the bravest and most powerful changeling of them all! You should be kissing the ground she walks on!" The Captain says

The Ex-captain rolls his eyes. "you are truly as idiotic as the ponies we trick. I'm so glad that once I make my army that NONE of them will be as idiotic as you are. Welp, it's getting late and I do have a queen to destroy and a hive to take over. Any last words?"

The both of you just look at the Ex-captain with disgust...in truth however. You were terrified. This was it...goodbye Fluttershy...goodbye CMC...goodbye Diamond...goodbye...Discord. You couldn't hold back the tears, you started to shake, oh god..why?...why didn't you just jump for the horn instead?

The Ex-captain took notice of your crying and snickered. "Awwwwwww, poor Anon. He's about to blow up and it's all hitting him right now. Ohhh, I know...Captain...how big do you consider Anon a friend?" The Ex-captain looks to the naive runt with a sinister grin.

"..He's my best friend...and my biggest target...why?" The Captain growls at him as he speaks.

"Oh.....nothing much. I think I'll just blow you up first and take in all the hatred and chaos going on in Anon's heart. Then I'll blow him up. It'll be fun!" The Ex-captain cackled as he walked up to the Captain and started slapping him around

This feeling within you. You may have hated the little guy but...he was just like a naive child. He didn't deserve this, he was at least trying. You could only watch as he gets beaten to a pulp "YOU FUCK! YOU SHIT! LEAVE HIM ALONE!"

"I don't think I will" The Ex-captain slaps him again as the Captain holds in his yelp, trying to stay brave. "Say goodbye to him Anon....alas...poor Captain..he never regained the queen's honor!"

You just scream at him to stop, but he didn't...He wouldn't.

and his horn started to glow. The Captain still said nothing, unwilling to admit defeat. But as he slowly looked at you, lying on the ground from the Ex-captain's pounding. You could tell, that internally, that he was full of regret. Regret in failing his queen. Regret for you. And then...he spoke..."Anon!...c-can you tell Applebloom and the others.......to......to...." He broke into tears, the poor guy.

"Dammit! At least let him have his last request!" You cry out to the Ex-captain. hoping for some kind of mercy.

And surprisingly...he stops..and rolls his eyes "Fineeeee...but only because it increases the suffering. Go ahead shrimp, tell him your last words.."

The Captain hesitates again, then whimpers "..Anon...just tell them....to destroy you..for me..ok?"

...........that somehow still made you sorry for the fucker. "......Ok… I will." ...Did he not realize you were going to die too anyway?

"Alright then, back to the blowing up! HAHAHA" The Ex-captain cackles as he revs up his magic again. Well he was...

Until you heard buzzling. Odd flitters and buzzing coming from all around. You also hear low mumbling, and voices.....recognizable voices. "You know...My Ex-captain, it's sad to see how far you fallen. You hesitated for so long that you didn't realize the possibility of me happening into Anon's room and noticing the window open. And..ohhh...it seems your time out here has not been kind to you. Honestly, even the chair look would be an improvement"

Oh...holy shit...you look up and around..and the entire fucking hive was out here...or most of them. Being led by Queen Chrysalis herself.

The Ex-captain smile widened to creepy levels, his hate and anger was now completely fixated on the queen. So focused that the chains on both yours and the Captain's legs disappeared. "Well, Lookkkiiieee here. It's the Queeeeen. Well Queenie Weenie, let me tell you something. I've waited awhile for this revenge. And looking at you here. I can already tell I'm gonna get it. I mean look, I can destroy you, the Captain, and Anon..and then take my army all before breakfast. HAHAHA...look at you, come here to save the day. Anon has gotten to you already...huh? You've truly gone soft"

Chrysalis just smirks as she lands a small distance away and looks right into the Ex-captain's eyes. "Soft...no. But It is my duty to save my Captain and my friend when they stupidly run into trouble. I'm not afraid to admit that either, you know where my priorities lie."

"I do...But it also makes me glad to know that you're going to try to fight me alone. To prove that you are still the strongest. It's what happens when one goes for the crown. Right?" The Ex-Captain looked ready for a bloodbath as he said this.

"Right" Chrysalis just smugly smiles at him. "But...I say we fight in the air. I've been meaning to stretch these legs out in every direction anyway. That's fine with you...right?"

The Ex-captain cackles darkly. "Of course my queen, of course. It doesn't matter anyway. My power is absolute."

Chrysalis rolls her eyes. "So says everypony else who thinks a small "upgrade" is a big thing" Chrysalis then looks up to her fellow changelings. "You..and you...pick up Anon and the Captain and take yourselves away into the distance. I need plenty of room for this fight."

The Captain just looked up at Chrysalis with a frown "My queen...I've failed you again."

"We'll talk about it later Captain. For now, just enjoy the show...you too Anon, you'll love it" She winks at you as the changelings come down to pick you up.

"Chrysalis...you have to be careful, you-" You knew she couldn't win this. This guy was a powerhouse.

"Hush Anon.....I don't need you spouting useless strategy at me. Now...Ex-captain...shall we?" Chrysalis was confident...too confident. She was gonna lose for sure.

"We shall...hehehe" He snickers as both him and Chrysalis fly into the air.

.....Something was odd. As the changelings picked you up and started to pull you away. You noticed something different about Chrysalis. Not in attitude....but in her appearance. It was her, it had to be her. But there was some sort of slight change. You don't know if it's just you, or the situation you were in. But you could have sworn there was something off with her head...in some way.

You could see them in the distance. Getting ready to fight. Chrysalis pulling back away from the Ex-captain....a suspicious amount of pulling back in fact.

Then..they started talking, but you could barely hear them. You looked to the changelings around you and asked a question. "Hey...Hey....do you guys know what they are saying?"

"Oh! I do!" One of the changelings chime in "I've had to do a few infiltration missions in the past that required lip reading! You wanna know what they are saying..right?"

"Errr....yeah" Well, that was very forthcoming. "you're..just going to tell me?"

The changeling nods "You're still the queen's friend. therefore,...uhh.....I guess we just do what you ask..I think. Anyway, The queen is mocking the Ex-captain with "Do you really want to do this? I'm feeling merciful today, you can just leave and crawl back into whatever hole that changed you". "But he's like "FOOOL! I've become truly the most powerful ex-changeling in the land. So much so that you have no attack that could even harm me...in fact, I'll let you have one try before I turn you to sludge!...Go for it...my queen" And now the queen is laughing a little bit, she's now saying..ermmm...this one is kinda tough to make out..but I think she's saying "Have fun in shell?"...dell?...mell?...I dunno, I think she used one of those fancy human words...and now she's shot out some silver thingy that has a red glowing nose and...the captain ears are drooping and..WOAAAAHHH!"

"WOOAAHH!"Holy shit!

WOAAAAAAAAAAAAH!

A gigantic yet miniature mushroom cloud spreads out from where the Ex-captain once hovered at. Chrysalis's cackling echoing loudly across the vast empty space. The explosion was extremely bright and potent. You all had to cover your eyes as a powerful wind swept away a few of the weaker changelings a few yards off.

And,as the explosion clears, there was nothing...Not even dust.

....How...no wait....

.....There was only one way she was able to do that...

She had the horn. Oh.....did things just get worse?..Oh...good god....at least..the explosion was cool...right?

.......Oggghhh.

Chrysalis didn't even bother flying over to the group once it was all over. She just...flew towards the house. The rest of the changelings flying behind. Following her. ....But hey...you were saved..right? Ex-captain is dealt with..right? Sorta dark that she just...turned him to dust but.

HOLY SHIT NIGGA, SHE HAS THE HORN!

Chapter 235

As you were flown over to your window. You started to instantly planning on getting the horn back. Would you take it and run? Well, you didn't need to run. As it seemed to you the barrier between everyone only worked inside the house. So you'd be safe.

Would you go tell Discord? Well, yeah....he'd care...hopefully... Would you threaten to reveal her?......She'd see right through that. Well, you had to think of something dammit!

You were helped inside by the changelings holding you. Chrysalis sat on your bed as the captain looked up at her. He seemed pretty depressed. The changeling holding you placed you on the ground and flew up to the ceiling to watch what was going on....what was going on?

"My Queen....I've failed you again. I failed to destroy the rogue ex-captain..." The Captain whined.

Chrysalis, the horn adorned along her neck, just looked down at the captain and then gently smiled at him. "Nonsense, you actually let me have the pleasure of destroying him myself. Leaving the window open was a brilliant plan Captain, it made it very apparent that he was around."

The Captain didn't know what to feel, he had just left it open, but....if that's what his queen liked. "Y-you really thought it was brilliant?"

"Of course...." Chrysalis lifts up the horn with her hoof and smiles at it "You did a very fine job"

.....You were getting anxious. But even with the barrier. Making a move right now would be pretty dumb.

"T-thank you my queen" The Captain bows. "I live to serve....to be honest. If it wasn't for Anon...I'd probably would have been destroyed before you got there...that's bad...isn't it?"

Chrysalis looks down at him and pats at her side, inviting him onto the bed. "Come here Captain." The Captain still felt ashamed, and yet thankful. He hopped up to the bed and laid on his belly as Chrysalis began pet him. "Anon is my friend and a valuable asset, you did a good job in making sure he didn't die in a stupid fashion. For now, that's all I could have asked for"

Really? REALLY?! He was the one who almost got you killed.

"Speaking of assets....This belongs to you, doesn't it Anon?" Chrysalis removes the amulet from her neck and tosses it on the floor in front of you.

.....All of your wuts.

You just look down at it, then at her. Flabbergasted and speechless. Chrysalis gave you a smug little smirk "What...you don't want it now?"

You slowly take it, and put it around your neck. This couldn't be a forgery. She wasn't that good. ".....You just...gave it back...why?"

Chrysalis rolls her eyes at you and lays on her side upon the bed as the Captain hops behind her. Quickly giving her a back rub. "Anon, what am I supposed to do with it now that the charge is used? Use it as a pleasure piece? Holding on to it would cause me problems with Discord. I don't think I could hold on to it until the next morning...so...You can have it back...a little lower captain. I have a few aches down there."

The Captain moved to her lower back and gently massaged it. He must have been quite good because Chrysalis was becoming dreamy eyed. The other Changelings just hung around and watched. A flutter of wings there, a hiss here.

...So she's just handing it back to you to avoid Discord?...No, you don't buy it. Something changed. Just like you didn't need to save the captain. She didn't need to save you. And why the encouraging words to him anyway? All he did was leave the damn window open. What was she doing in your room?....something.....was off....did she....actually truly care?

".......You actually care...Don't you realize what you have done?"

"Hmmm? What are you talking about?" Chrysalis says as she signals the Captain to stop.

"You saved me, you saved the captain. You could have just taken the horn and ran. You didn't need to waste the charge saving us." You laugh at how big the realization is. "You truly care! Doesn't it feel good? You did a good thing..I'm proud of you Chrysalis. I'm...just happy to know you actually care. You can't deny it, Chrysalis. Even you have to realize that you can't spin this in anyway. You even gave the horn back! Haha! And here I thought that maybe..just maybe...it really was impossible to reform you"

Chrysalis groaned as she stretched, her mane coming down along her face, covering one of her eyes, she just stared at you silently for a moment before giving a dismissive titter. "Hmph...Who do you think I am? Discord? I've said it before, but it doesn't seem to sink into that naive skull of yours. I DO care about you, enough to save you from your own idiocy. Since I could already tell the ex-captain fooled you into stepping through that window..."

"I know you've said it, but you've never shown it. Chrysalis, stop fooling yourself-hyAA!OMPH!"

Chrysalis magically pushes you into the wall while the changelings behind you scamper away. Chrysalis herself raises herself up to be resting on her belly as she looks down at you. aggravated. "Let me make things VERY clear Anon. I'm not some lonely and depressed husk of a being that's going to bend to the concept of "Love" and "Friendship" just because I was actually worried you would be gone! You are going to sit there, and I'm going to explain this once! and only....once. I have spent my years...so MANY years trying to gain TOTAL conquest of Equestria. You are aware of my surprise when I beat Princess Celestia....correct? Nod or shake your head"

You nod, but you still speak. She couldn't do any serious harm to you. "What does that have to do with anything?"

"Ergh..I hate it when you're defiant.." Chrysalis knew she couldn't do any major harm. Not without harming herself… "Well....either way" She calmed herself, and released her hold on you. "If you will be quiet and listen, you'll learn something. Everypony get comfortable...it’s time for some Changeling history..."

Well, whatever happiness you had for her saving you was quickly leaving your mind. But...some more history?.. "....Chrysalis.." You didn't know what to tell her, you still had it in your mind that she was just fighting it. "Is this going to explain why you just refuse to accept my help?"

"It is… Now as my friend, will you hush until the story is over?" She just stared at you, waiting. What were you going to do? If this would ultimately lead to the true answer. Then you'd have a way in....because she saved you. There was nothing you could think of that would lead to an ulterior motive.

You nod..and wait....this was your strategy for now.

"Good...Now" Chrysalis put on a more gentle smile as she looked upon her children. "I'm sure most of you will remember this. Some, younger...like the dear captain here..." She turned and gave him a gentle pat. "will not...but it truly happened.

“When we were younger, when I was young. I wanted to rule the world. To do that, we had to dethrone the ones who moved the sun and the moon. When I first showed myself, it was in the form you see now. I presented myself as a queen of a lost tribe of beings who wanted nothing more than to love...and to be loved. And like fools...those princesses believed me" Chrysalis chuckled, the hive joining along with her.

"We were able to conquer many a place without them ever being the wiser. They never realized we could shape shift. And so we had no opposition. Taking over Canterlot itself however.....was an impossibility at the time. I had come to realize that both sisters held terrible power, so I led my secret campaigns in order to acquire more love while retaining "friendships". And that's probably the most important part of this story Anon...is the friendship part. Princess Celestia and her sister had treated me with nothing but kindness, they treated me like one of their own. It was beautiful, it was lovely....it was pathetic. Perhaps that’s what gave me away.

“Princess Celestia started to suspect I may not have been what I seemed. And even offered me a chance of redemption for the crimes she had figured out that I have done. She offered to help me and my hive, to show me the light." Chrysalis looked a little regretful now, but not because she hadn't taken the offer. "Perhaps it was my youth that had caused me to fail. I was rash and bold. I declined her offer instead of taking it and continuing the ruse. I had my hive already stationed to attack. My Ex-Captain ready to mobilize my entire hive into battle. Well, needless to say...we lost. The good Princess had already had her sister and their armies ready in case I refused..."

Chrysalis sighed, the memory was strong for her. She was frowning at the thought of her losing such an important battle. "I suppose a girl like myself didn't deserve a victory for such poor planning. We only managed to escape because the ex-captain had also thought of an escape plan in case of failure. Tell me Anon, didn't you wonder about Celestia and Luna's sealing streak? Discord, Sombra, Tirek....they weren't taking any chances after what I had done."

.....Was that all really the reason?...Wait..what about. No, you think you figured it out. "And then Nightmare Moon....Let me guess. After Celestia had to seal up her own sister. She softened up. You didn't know by what degree. That's why you found it so surprising."

Chrysalis smiled at you and nodded. "That's exactly it, again...very astute of you Anon. I'm proud of you."

The rest of the hive started clapping on the walls,ground, and ceiling in celebration. Chrysalis looked upon them with a grin. "Yes yes, I know. I'm a good storyteller...but, this is more of a lesson really. Anon, did you figure out what that has to do with our friendship?"

..No, the only thing you got was some weird Anti-Celestia vibes. "...No, I still don't get it" ...You didn't know what to feel. You just...stared. You just wanted to know the answer at this point. It was all so..odd.

Chrysalis put a hoof to her head and shook in disbelief. "Ugh..Well, you can't be perfect. You...in specific. But, the answer is simple. I am, what I am. I want, what I want. And even when many..many..moons have passed. It will not change me. You are not even an exception to that rule. You are my friend because I like the way you think, I like your attitude, I like your easiness, why...I even like your culture. I can speak with you and not feel like you want to destroy everything I am working towards. Even when you say you want to reform me, I can still have fun and relate to you. I still want it all Anon, and when I have conquered Equestria. I would love to have you by my side as part of MY hive. Part of me believes you are willing to make that switch to my side if you are brought to a hopeless position. If not, I can just keep you in a cell until you're ready.....or you perish...whatever comes first. For now, I simply enjoy your time and company."

“Do you understand now? Friendship to me does not equal "Magic". Friendship to me means simply having somepony to enjoy my time with...and HAS NOTHING to do with becoming "nice" and "Good". And that's why I want you to drop it. As a friend, I want you to drop the fact I saved you. You can continue to try reforming me simply because most of the time it's adorable. But get your priorities straight Anon. You'll live longer..."

..So...was that it? Were you even ever past square one? "I see.." You were pretty melancholy now over the entire situation. You could feel your goal slipping away from your hooves. "So never once, did you feel like that maybe....living among the ponies might be good for your entire hive?"

"Noooooope" Chrysalis says bluntly.

....

"I don't believe that"

"WHAT?!" Chrysalis immediatly goes red in anger "BUT I JUST TOLD YOU!-"

You suddenly burst out in anger as well, you didn't want to lose this. You didn't want to be a failure all over again. "AND I'M TELLING YOU!" You get up and march over to her, climbing up onto the bed to meet her face to face. "I don't care about that history lesson, I don't care what you think, I don't care what you know. Because if conquest was REALLLLLYYYY that important to you. You would have taken the horn and ran. You're the one who spouts that our friendship is different and has nothing to do with reforming! But do you know what I think? I think you've become accustomed to me. You don't want to go back to being alone with no one to understand you. You find me interesting because I can level with you without being an idiot asskisser or hypnotized moron. You don't want to lose me! That I know is absolute truth! I'm thankful that you saved me! I really am. I'm even thankful that you saved the captain. But if you think I'm going to believe for a second that there wasn't a small growth in that black little heart of yours then you're wrong!...." You take a few breaths and back off a bit "....I'm not going to give up just because you think I'm wrong"

Chrysalis was just looking at you. Surprised, and not knowing what to say. Not because she had nothing to say. But she noticed you were being stubborn. A familiar sense of stubborn. "Pleasant sleep Anon..." Chrysalis just got up, and started to lead her changelings down through the floor door.

Wut? You turn around, and look at her. "That's it? Really? Nothing to say?"

"There's nothing to say" Chrysalis looks back at you, her expression looked tired. "Clearly we have different ideas of friendship and what is going on. And only one of us is right. So the game continues...until one ideology turns out to be the right one....hmm?" Chrysalis looks over, only the captain has not moved. "Captain? We're leaving"

"I-I know my queen...b-but. I know you all just yelled at eachother and stuff. But...we're all still friends right?" He looked very worried

Chrysalis sighed and shook her head "Yes....now come on down. We have rest and planning to do for rest of the day."

"Yes..my queen!" The Captain salutes then looks towards you with a smile. "Seeya next time Anon! And remember...don't open the window again!"

Mnnnn… "...Have a good sleep you two...I know this isn't over. And..." You lean forward, keeping your resolve. "You always committed to taking down empires through lies, so I know that what you said about not giving in....that might as well be a lie. I can't give up...not yet"

Chrysalis gives you a small smile before leaving. "I feel the same way"

You snuggled into bed and contemplated what had happened. So then, Chrysalis's story was that it was a difference in what you and her consider friendship. Even then, there's still the fact she chose you and the captain over the horn. Over possible conquest....or maybe you're overthinking things on that.

Either way, You couldn't give up. She could deny it all she wants. But you knew you had to have made some headway. Though, on the flip side. What was she thinking right now? Was she thinking the same thing? That she made some headway with you? ...You couldn't answer that, you didn't even know. Everything felt the same...so..maybe not. Better to just sleep on it.

Also, never ever fucking open that window again. For anything...you didn't need to deal with whatever was out there. Sad for the ex-captain really. If he didn't defect, would he have become a better person? Would he a good friend?

You had a little guilt for the situation, but you had to get over it. He brought it upon himself. The guy did seem hateful though. Or maybe it was his pride as a captain. Either way, you shouldn't put too much thought. You didn't know him. you never got to know him. For all intents and purposes, it's probably better to forget about him. But, still pity him. He did deserve that much.

You sleep on that, you had school in the morning and you didn't want to be late. Though, it didn't feel like you were sleeping for long. Hell, the only thing you felt was a wall slamming into your face. Or rather, your face slamming into the wall as the bed launches you. A nostalgic feeling to be sure.

"AAAARGGGHHH!" You fall back onto the floor and look at the ceiling in a daze. "...n-nghhh..w-what… WHAT?!" The alarm. DID YOU MISS THE ALARM?! FOR SCHOOL!?

"S-shit" You rub your face and make sure everything was in the right place as you got up to check what time it was.

6 AM....wut? "...What in the....what gives?"

"I give....Good morning Anon!" Discord sinks through the ceiling as he coils up on your bed and looks at you with a wide and cheery smile "It's time to greet the day!"

........

"......You gotta be shitting me...it's not even time for school! I set the alarm for a reason you fuck!...ngh" You rub your face. "Besides, why the fuck did you have to launch me out of bed anyway?"

"That's what you get for sleeping in when we have a parent teacher student meeting to go to. Can't be late you know, you're teacher is the type to hate tardiness"

....Wut?...What meeting? "...The hell are you...look." You rub your head. "What game are you playing at this time Discord? I had a rough night you know...morning..whatever. And I know Miss Cheerilee doesn't want to see you,"

"Oh please, you survived didn't you? And then you went to bed. Don't be selfish, I'm trying to be a good father here."

You let out a defiant "ha". "Really? Or are you schem-..wait" .........he knew?...when did he...know? ".....you know what happened last night?"

"Mhmmm, I knew the moment you opened that window. You see, whenever anything that leads in or out of the house opens. It releases a silent but powerful wave of magic. It even has a chance of destroying the house and obliterating all it's occupants!" Discord smirks at you "Isn't that remarkable?"

Noooooooooo....nononon..he was fucking with you. "..Are you serious? You're not. Even you wouldn't do something like that."

"I would, I did, and I did it for the sole purpose of alerting me of the fact that somepony might be coming or going. In this case...going" That mischievous grin never left him as he spoke.

.......He was serious...wasn't he? "ARE YOU INSANE! ARE YOU TELLING ME WE COULD ALL BLOW UP FROM YOU CHECKING YOUR MAILBOX OR SOME SHIT?!"

Discord nods with a smile. "Mhmm! it keeps things exciting, doesn't it? Never knowing if stepping out will be your last? Not mine of course, I'll survive."

.....You just fall onto your back, this guy was unbelievable. You just sigh and speak more solemnly. "Whatever....god...you're such a headache sometimes. So...what? You knew what happened and you didn't decide to save me? Or should I just guess that you had some dumbass smugridden reason as to why you didn't help? Something like "It was too entertaining to interfere"....or some shit like that..hmm?"

"Actually Anon" Discord produces a silver medal with his own face on it and puts it around you. "I want to commend you on an entertaining performance. Why should I need to help when you were already doing so well against the ex-captain yourself? In fact, had the runt not gotten in your way. You most definitely would have obtained victory"

...Was he..praising you? "Discord, really? No lie? You think I did great? I mean..that kinda changes things. You never really praise me like that."

"Well of course I mean it, that's why I gave you the silver medal. You were close, but not quite there"

"So I'm guessing Chrysalis gets the gold, huh?" You chuckle a little, the problem didn't seem so bad now that it was solved...or blown up rather.

"No, actually she's disqualified. She didn't put on quite as good a show as you did. She didn't even destroy the ex-captain. Failure doesn't earn you medals you know...in fact." Discord rips the medal away from you. "You don't really deserve this either"

"H-hey! I think I did....wait..WAIT!" ...no… "ARE YOU SAYING HE'S STILL ALIVE?!"

Discord nods as he poofs the medal away. "Indeed! What, did you think he was gone forever?"

"YES!" You were now frantic. "SHE FUCKING NUKED HIM! HOW DID HE SURVIVE A NUKE?!"

Discord smirks and lays down on your bed as he rests his head on his arms. "Oh, why that's simple. The ex-captain is a being of chaos now. And due to his Changeling origins, he feeds off chaos itself. No matter how badly you blow him up, as long as his essence can absorb chaos, he'll come back, stronger than ever, making your efforts futile. So I'd recommend keeping that window closed if I were you"

STRONGER THAN EVER?! IS THIS GUY SERIOUS??! THATS A FUCKING PROBLEM! "DISCORD!? WHY?! IF YOU KNEW THAT WHY DIDN'T YOU INTERVENE?! Wait..."

You try to calm down. Maybe he wasn't being overly truthful. maybe the reason he didn't intervene was because he couldn't. "Discord...look, I get you are trying to get a rise out of me. I even know why you didn't come to save me. He would have drained you bone dry. But you have to cut that kind of shit out, you should have told both me and Chrysalis RIGHT after it happened. We may have been able to do something extra. I mean..I dunno...put his dust in a jar or something. Hell, why didn't you do that then if he was just gonna come back?"

Discord scoffs and rolls his eyes as he chuckles. "What are you even talking about? I wasn't afraid of anything. I said he drains chaos, not chaos magic. I would have been fine..."

He would have been fine? HE WOULD HAVE BEEN FINE?! "THEN WHY NOT DO SOMETHING ABOUT HIM NOT COMING BACK THEN?! IF HE'S GOING TO COME BACK MORE POWERFUL, THEN LOGIC STA-........ugh" You put your hoof to your forehead. "....I somehow forgot you don't give a shit about logic."

"Nope! Now then!" Discord floats up and puts on some nerdy looking glasses and a brown vest through his magic. "Moving on, I'd like to see your teacher to see if she'd let me teach a history lesson about my rule of Equestria. You don't see a lot of books about ,it you see, and I fear the students are missing out on an important piece of history"

Your eye was twitching from rage. You barely even heard him. "Listen you! We need to talk about this! He's going to come back and try to kill us. ALL of us"

Discord adjusts his glasses as he looks at you with a bored expression "He will, and as long as you NEVER open that window, we'll be fine. I'll promise you this Anon, we are perfectly safe from him as long as you follow that rule. The only thing you'll have to worry about is if he gets fresh and starts cackling outside the window trying to get you to open it. Which..I hope you never do. If he does somehow finds another way in. Well.....hrnnn..I don't have a follow up to that" He shrugs. "Oh well, we'll have to wait and see I suppose"

You reach out your hooves towards his "neck". You wanted to choke the shit out of him for being so nonchalant about this. But...that's what he always did...didn't he? Just getting angry wasn't going to do shit. No...it really wasn't. He probably did have it handled..you hoped so anyway. You sigh, take a moment to relax, and move on to the school thing. "...Ok...fine. We'll just wait and see then, just like you said. Mooooving on, what did you say about this history thing?"

"Hrn? You're not going to complain anymore?" He asks

"No, I already know it won't do any good. So I'll just trust your word and not open the window ever. So...go on.."

"Yes, well" Discord takes off his glasses to clean them before putting them back on. "I want your teacher to allow me to teach her students, including you, the history of me. No more, no less. I want to keep things simple"

...Yeah right. "Nothing is simple with you Discord...but" You sigh, you realize you were being too unfriendly with him. You didn't want to push him away. "...I don't see a problem with it, Its not me who has to make the decision anyway. You're going to have to convince Miss Cheerilee. But, since I'm your chaos buddy..."

You give him a gentle smile. Hopefully, if there was any bad blood, this will cure it. You didn't want him trying anything vindictive on you with the other children involved. Besides, he was your friend. You knew in the end, he understood that. He should understand there is a limit to what he should do....hopefully. "I'll be there for you, I'll help you make it happen. But if it doesn't. Don't force it..please? And if it does...don't overdo it....double please..ok? Buddy? Remember, I go to school with these guys and I don't need them being afraid of me or you...more afraid of you"

Discord sighs. "Very well....fine. But, since the actual convincing will be done before the students come to class. I want you to not complain about my actual methods. Deal?"

"Deal, sounds fair to me"

Discord hovers upwards in a spin as he opens the portal door, feeling absolutely delighted. "Fantastic! Well then, let's not waste anymore time and get this show on the road!"

"Yeah...oh wait!" You almost forgot, thinking of school actually made you forget..it was like a dream. "Discord, I almost forgot to tell you. Luna knows about Chrysalis."

Suddenly, like if a piano hit all the wrong notes, Discord stops. And without looking at you, he says in a grim voice "....What?"

....Uh oh… "Erm, Yeah. Luna went peeking into Applebloom's dreams and found out about Chrysalis. Just erm..thought you'd want to know that...is there a problem?"

"Problem..?" Discord turns around, he looked absolutely infuriated. flame bursting on his head. "OF COURSE THERE'S A PROBLEM! OHHHHH!"

"Why?! What difference does it make?" Oh shit

"Anon!" Discord produces a calendar and marker as he starts looking through it frantically. "Don't you realize now that both princesses know that Celestia has no reason to hold back now? The sisters will plot to try to moderate everything we're doing...everything you're doing...."

"Huh?...nahhh" Nah, he had to be overreacting. "What are they going to do other than an occasional check? As long as I don't screw up, it should be fine. I mean, I'm actually with you on this if this was a problem. But Celestia trusts me."

"But does Luna? Even if they both trust you, Luna is less merciful than her sister when it comes to things like this. She will no doubt try to convince Celestia to have us snooped on in some way. And I REALLY don't feel like having a royal sit down because "we did something they don't like". I think you're doing a fine job. Why jeopardize that?"

Mnnn, is that true? You'd rather there not be a misunderstanding about your relationship with Chrysalis. You didn't want the princesses getting the wrong idea. An idea like she has control of you or that you aren't making much progress. Because you knew that wasn't true. You were making progress, you felt you were doing a good job. "Then I'll do the mature thing and have a visit with them. Get it sorted out. Trust me, you'd be surprised how far you can get with a civil conversation...what are you doing anyway?"

Discord finds the date he's looking for and marks it down. "Planning, if the princesses do decide to play dirty. Then we'll just have to play dirtier. How does crashing a crystalling sound?"

Wut? "....uhhhh"

Discord poofs away the calendar. "In other words...how would you feel about meeting the future prince or princess of the Crystal Empire?" Discord grins at you, a very evil grin

"Ok, woah woah. Back up. Are you saying your idea for a revenge you might not even need to do is to mess with a kid? A baby?! C'mon, that's pretty dick. Even for you. You know for a fact I won't help you with that"

"And that's exactly what I'm counting on. For you not to help. Because I won't need any. How can you help on something that won't actually happen." Discord was being confusing once again.

The hell was he talking about? "...What? But you just said we'd be "meeting" the future prince or princess."

Discord nods happily. "And we will! It will be great fun. Because that’s ALL we'll really be doing. Besides taking on a few of the sights, we'll be doing so much of nothing that Luna, Celestia, Cadance and especially Twilight won't be able to help BUT feel we're actually up to something...when we actually aren't. It's the perfect revenge! We'll drive them nuts by doing NOTHING! Ohhhhohohoh, Discord Discord..where do you come up with such GENIUS plans" He giggled arrogantly.

......What?....Actually. Considering how suspicious Twilight could be..and actually...how could you even get in trouble when you do nothing. "Uhhhh...actually. Discord, that doesn't sound bad at all. I actually did want to see what kind of train wreck this baby would be. Since it would be part of the show too, I want to see exactly what we'd be getting. And if we're not going to cause any actual trouble....I suppose being a little underhanded like that won't hurt. In fact, I say we do it whether my talks with the princesses go good or not"

What could it hurt? It's innocent fun in a way. You can see the empire at your leisure. Get a little payback on Luna and Celestia for Nightmare Night. And see whatever abomination plops out of Cadance.

"Really?...No qualms, no complaints, no moral issues? You do realize how evil this plan is, don't you? It might even be too intense for you ,Anon" Discord warns

You shrug, and grin at him. "Are you kidding? I spent most of my human life doing nothing. I mean, that’s what we'll be doing right? Just doing...nothing wrong? Nothing chaotic?"

Discord nodded and grinned as he rubbed his talons with his paw. "Exactly, We'll cause chaos by causing no chaos. And the best part is they won't be able to say a word about it. Anon...." Discord started to tear up, he had to wipe his tears as they flowed out a little quicker than anticipated. "You're doing your old man proud. Wanting to do this whether the princesses will interfere with us or not shows real initiative. There was times I doubted how you earned your cutie mark. But these are the times that show me that it is indeed well deserved. Ohhh! Come here my boy! Give your daddy a hug!" Discord opens his arms for you.

Oook, that was a little much...but what the hell. Even a douche like him could use some affection. "Ok ok, but not too tight ok?" You both hug, and at first it's fine. Until suddenly he starts spinning, squeezing you tightly. "RGFGF"

"Oh Anon, everytime I doubt you, you always come back showing me how wrong I was. It makes me feel so warm and fuzzy that I can't possibly hold back anymore!" Well that was fine for him, but you were starting to turn blue. "Why, I'm now so optimistic about everything that I might do something nice for somepony other than Fluttershy"

"RFWTGREF" You gasped

"Anon..." Discord then gets a little annoyed as he lifts you up as you take heavy breaths "I'm giving you praise, the least you can say is "Thank you" "

He brings you to eye level, and you give him an annoyed look equal to his own. "....Just put me down."

Discord does so without a comment or criticism, and then gently pets you on the head. "And that’s my good deed...whew...Fluttershy was right, it does feel good to be nice every now and again. Well Anon" Discord grinned as he looked towards the portal door "Are you ready to go?"

You sigh, and walk up next to him. "After all that? I shouldn't help you at all y'know"

"Yes, but then you wouldn't get delicious, non-melting soft serve ice cream for lunch now would you?"

As you grab your saddlebag, you hear a small poofing sound come from within it. You just stand there, thinking for a moment. "........remember, don't overdo it"

Discord chuckles. "I won't, trust me Anon...I know what I'm doing"

You both began to make the trek through town. As you both walked, you looked up at Discord, trying to figure out exactly what he had in mind. Hopefully he wouldn't overdo it.

And then there was Cadance and Shining Armor's eventual kid..... "Discord, I got a question for you"

"Hmmm? What would that be?"

"It's about the baby Cadance is having. Doesn't that whole thing sound like...y'know...a season premier?"

Discord shrugs "What if it is? Wouldn't that just make things more interesting?"

"I...guess" There was something you found worrying. "But...what about the big bad then? Shouldn't we do something if someone comes to kidnap the kid?"

Discord chortles at that "And who, pray tell, would do that? Let's consider this. Who would most likely try to foalnap Cadance's child?"

"Well...for one...there's you...for reasons" You give him a smirk

Discord rolls his eyes "Besides me Anon, besides me! And we already have a plan remember? No foalnapping involved."

hmmm "I guess that would mean it would be the grand return of Chrysalis. Wanting her revenge on what happened." That actually makes you chuckle "Ha! of course, that can't happen. She's stuck at the house."

Discord chuckles along with you "Exactly! So what else do we have to worry about?"

"Ummm, I guess there's the princesses probably trying to gauge an answer out of me about what we are really doing...which, what we tell them really is what we are doing."

"And you're not going to tell them WHY we're doing it right? Celestia and Luna especially can be very persuasive against you, I know. Those cuddles of theirs must be irresistible" Discord reminds you

You sigh, and feel a little warm at the thought of it. But...You wouldn't give in. "I don't mind dicking about on all four of them. We're doing this for fun. And since the obvious threat won't be fucking shit up. It should go smoothly."

"Really now?" Discord smirks at you "...you're even willing to lie to THE Celestia and Luna themselves?"

"Discord, do you want to know what I really learned from Twilight week?" You ask him

"Do tell" Discord said, actual curiousness in his voice.

"I learned three things actually. One, not having the horn really really sucks. Two, being overly nice and clean gets you shit on or nearly killed by a chimera. And three, It just isn't me. I will just be myself. I can be nice, but I can also be other things..I dunno..I thought I had things figured out."

Discord chuckles "You don't want to say the opposite of being nice, do you?"

"Nah, makes me sound too dickish. Besides, I haven't forgotten Nightmare Night. I think we are long overdue for at least one win against them" They did pretty much fucking cheat.

"HA!" Discord flips around and looks upon you with a big grin "Now that's what I wanted to hear! Ohhhh Anon, it's going to be glorious. Never have I ever not done anything. It's going to drive them all up the wall trying to figure out what we're actually doing! Ohhhh" Discord licks his lips and taps the edges of his talons to his paws "It's going to be so delicious. I simply can't wait"

"Relax there buddy, Don't let that overflow into what we're doing now. Cheerilee is my teacher after all. And she's really nice. So y'know. Don't piss her off too much. ok?" You really did like Miss Cheerilee. She was doing her best as a teacher and she let you have sleepy times during recess. She was pretty based.

"Oh relax, trust in me Anon. It's going to be fun for everypony. It will be the best history lesson of all time! Even you'll agree" Discord said with childlike excitement

"...We'll just have to see....also, remember to use the front door. Ok?"

Discord let out an "eghhh". He was happy with you up until you were getting a little controlling. "Fine..."

"Don't be like that, c'mon. You want Cheerilee to let you do your lesson thing? Then be nice to her. The nicer you are, the better a chance she'll say yes." Surely he could do that much if he really wanted to do this history lesson.

Discord let out a soft snarl as he looked away from you "I thought you said being overly nice was a bad thing"

"Only sometimes, this time is one of the times where being nice can get you places. Hey, at least I'm not trying to stop you, right?"

Discord let out an arrogant snicker "As if you could stop me"

"...No, but Fluttershy would be awfully mad if she found out you scared my teacher and my class." You mention

Discord winced at that "...That's such a dirty move."

"I know" You snicker back at him "And it works everytime. But seriously, just be nice. I'll help out. You got me interested on what you want to teach. I mean, you're not going to endanger a bunch of kids...right?"

Discord shook his head. "Of course not! Just trust me Anon, It will be a lesson of legend!..well, considering it's about me. I'd already think that part is self explanatory."

"Heh, whatever you say Discord"

As you both near the schoolhouse. Some thoughts started to flow into your head.
Mostly...you remembered you need to go bowling with Spike. You couldn't remember if that was today or yesterday. Whatever, as long as it's done. Also, that arcade cabinet. You wonder if Twilight has it in her castle yet.

Also, maybe you should go in first?...that might be a better idea. "Hey Discord, let me go in first. I bet Cheerilee would be more cooperative if I warm her up a little."

"Are you saying my sunny and lovable disposition isn't enough to convince her?" He says as a halo appears above his head "I'm probably the nicest Draconequus in existence. I don't see why she'd be so rejecting of my idea anyway. Teachers love to teach, don't they? It's a very teachable subject"

"....." You roll your eyes at him "Do you believe the bullshit you spout?"

"Only if it will sell my words better....but, since you seem to know what you're doing. I'll allow it" Discord stands aside and bows, pointing to the door. "I'll put my full trust in you. In fact, I won't even take it hard if you fail. We are partners after all, And although...it's a little out of context of what Fluttershy wanted. She told me putting trust in you would go a long way."

Woah... "Really?...Thanks Discord. That means a lot to me, it really does. And it's nice to know you won't get mad if I screw up. I was actually a little w-..." You then put your hoof to your head and sigh "...just because you won't get upset doesn't mean you'll make me suffer. Right?"

"Bullseye" Discord winks at you "But, because we're best buddies. You won't suffer AS MUCH as you normally would. Isn't that grand?"

"...Of course...Welp...." You walk over to the door, your enthusiasm already drained. "....Let's give this a shot"

As you slip through the door. You realize Discord will always be Discord no matter how close you both get. Maybe, in actuality. It was your fault. He'd never make Fluttershy suffer. Maybe it's the fact that you tolerate it that he does this to you so much. Maybe it was his own way of showing he cares. He gave you a home, friends, the horn, food. If he didn't like you, he'd treat you like actual shit.
In fact, even with the abuse. He'd probably be a step above the princesses. Discord, in truth...let's you do whatever you want. You could probably take a dump on Twilight's food and he'd have himself a gigglefit.

You know you've come to this conclusion before. But you began to compare it to if you had the princesses as mothers. They already pretty much tried to be in the sense of discipline and spying on you. Even if being a prince means everyone would have to do whatever you say. You'd lose out on freedoms you'd never have, and you'd have to be courteous and kind almost all the time...fuck that shit. Discord was the supreme choice, even with his shit.

You close the door gently and look over to see Cheerilee dusting off her desk. Huh, she even cleans the classroom before class. She really did take being a teacher seriously. That was really admirable.

Welp..here we go

You put on a cheery smile and a happy disposition "Good morning Miss Cheerilee!" you wave to her

She looks up from her dusting and gently spits the featherduster out of her mouth onto her desk. "Anon?...well" She giggles "How nice to see you. Though, I think you may have come a little earlier than you may have wanted. School hasn't started yet. Is there any special reason you came by so early?"

You nod, and then reach into your bag for your homework. You then waddle over to her desk and drop it off. You do it as cutely as possible. Which earned you a more vibrant smile. "Can you take my homework before I explain?"

She nods "Of course I can, but don't tell me you only came early to explain your homework. After what happened yesterday, I'd say you need as much sleep as you can get. There's nothing wrong with it, is there?" She immediately starts to look at it. Aside from some bad writing, though nowhere near as bad as before, it seemed just right.

"Actually, it's about my father."

Cheerilee holds her wince, and keeps her smile so you don't feel disheartened "Oh..well, what about him?"

Even though she was smiling, she was already worried something bad happened. But she wouldn't assume. She was wise enough not to make any baseless assumptions lest she worried a foal. Still, if it was Discord. Whatever you had to say...it could be really bad.

"Well, he was wondering if you'd give him the opportunity to teach a very special history lesson" You give her a cheerful smile as you say this

Cheerilee leaned her head back as she gave you her best "Wut" face. "Excuse me? He wants to what?"

"...Teach a history lesson to the class" You keep up your best smile as you wag your tail. "He wants to explain the history of his rule in Equestria. Isn't there like, barely any information on it?"

Cheerilee...did not like this at all. The grim nature of her face showed it. "..There isn't...all that is known is that he ruled Equestria for awhile before being sealed by the two sisters. And then again by Princess Twilight and her friends...and well. I'm sure you know the rest. Anon, I can't just let him teach a lesson on his history."

You tilt your head cutely "Why not?"

"..Because......." She didn't want to insult him in front of you. He was still your father after all "..He's not qualified"

"Well..I guess. But you don't need qualifications to teach a history lesson when you were actually there, right? And besides, when would we get an opportunity to learn about Equestria when my dad was in power! Don't you think it'd be exciting to learn?"

"Exciting? Maybe.." Cheerilee was trying to reason with you, she didn't like the idea of it being "exciting" "But Anon, we are already behind and I think it'd be better if we just stuck to the lesson plan. Please understand, it's nothing against your father" She lied "It's just...well..." But she couldn't keep it in "I just don't trust him..."

You made a pouty face at her "You don't trust my dad?...really? But Miss Cheerilee, you have taught everypony about the history of evil guys like Sombra, right?"

"Yes...but again, there was known history behind it all Anon. With your father, it's just...it doesn't seem very important"

Dammit...you can't fail this. What else could you try? "W-well, it'd just be for the first half of class. And uhhh, if you think about it. You'd be the first teacher to allow a lesson on the chaotic rule of my dad. Doesn't that account for something?"

Cheerilee sighed "Anon, as prestigious as that would actually be. There is still one problem"

"What's that?" What else could there be?
"Well, your father does tend to not tell the truth very often. How would we all know what he is saying is the truth?"

....shit..she had a good point "Well...how about this then..He's actually right outside so. How about just talking to him? See if something can't be worked out"

Cheerilee didn't look like she wanted that at all, but she was trying to be nice about it "Anon...I just don't th-"

"Pwwwwwwwweeeeeeassseeee?" You give her big shimmering eyes as you lean closer to her, sitting on your rump while being a tad jumpy. "Pweety Pwease?"

Cheerilee let out a soft groan. She started to weigh the decision before her. She could try talking to him, the history on his rule of Equestria could be...important...but then there was the fact he was a gigantic asshole and it most likely would explode in her face. There was also the fact that she knew you were putting up a front. She's seen you enough to know you're not acting like yourself. "Anon.....You're trying too hard. You don't think I know you're putting on an act?"

that makes you wince, but you'd rather try than fail... "...Just a little, I really do think it'd be interesting. Please...just talk to him. And if you say no.."

"If I say no" She interrupts "Will he take it as a no or will he make a mockery of my classroom and put your classmates in danger.?"

You take a deep breath,and prepare your answer. "I don't think he'll do that....Come on Miss Cheerilee, Just try talking to him....please? And if I'm wrong...you can give me a buttload of Fs"

Cheerilee sighed, she noticed you were really really trying. She didn't want to do it. She knew she shouldn't. Especially with how big an ass he is. But what if she was wrong?....She never really gave Discord too much of a chance. Even though he was being a douche before she could even give him one. "Anon, I'm not going to give you Fs unless you academically deserve one." She sighed "Ok....I'll talk to him. But this is the only chance I'll give him. If he decides to be childish, then he can do so somewhere else."

YESSSS! "Thank you Miss Cheerilee! You won't regret it!"

You rush over to the door and open it. But before you could step outside to lay down the ground rules. Discord took the advantage and stepped right on through upon the opening of the door.

"D-dad?" You had to step back so he didn't push you down. But the way he stepped in. "Dad?"

He stepped in in a very calm manner, looking upon a book on his paw as he adjusted his glasses with his talon. "yes, son?" He says in a calm and nearly bored way.

....While Cheerilee looked a little stunned by it all. You already knew this was some sort of ploy. "Uhmm...nothing. Miss Cheerilee said she'll talk to you though"

"Did she?" Discord shrugged and made a seat for himself in front of her desk and sat down. "Is this true, Miss Cheerilee?"

"Uhhh..yes...Discord?" She peered at him with caution "May I ask what you are doing?"

"Sitting..." He says as he closes up the book and poofs it away as he looked upon Cheerilee with a calm expression.

"No..I mean, you're not acting like yourself. Is this some sort of trick?" Cheerilee was looking around, shifting her eyes for any surprise.

"I should feel insulted for that remark, but I suppose my earlier actions would cause such suspicion. No Miss Cheerilee, there is no trick. I merely wish to professionally tell the historical tale of my rise and fall to your wonderful students. It's a story not even my child knows in full. Consider it a contribution for the misdeeds of my past. Including the other day, I was still learning you see."

"Yes but, that was still unsatisfactory behavior. " Cheerilee reminds him

Discord sighs in a regrettable sense "I am truly sorry if I caused you or any of your students distress"

"Discord, just beca-....wait what?" Cheerilee was just shocked form what she just heard.

you weren't. You were just sitting there trying to guess what the bullshit was. Hell, you hoped he told you the fucking truth about this whole lesson thing.

"I apologize..." Discord states "And I promise it will not happen again. Miss Cheerilee, let me be frank. I'm a spirit of chaos in which nopony has ever gotten to know until I was once again freed from my prison. My history...well..nopony even bothered to learn about it. I'm a mockery, a joke, and it hurts me so that not one creature in Equestria cares to know even a single shred of information of what happened during those times"

Cheerilee couldn't tell if he was bullshitting. But that was because, as a teacher...it was kind of bad that an actual part of Equestrian history was..for the most part..being intentionally skipped. "Discord...I want you to look me in the eye. and tell me this is all the truth" She gave him a hard stare

You had to stifle a laugh, that was a mistake, this fuck feels no guilt 95% of the time.

"It's the truth" Discord gave her a frowning stare"Please Miss Cheerilee, I only need to do this once. With proper notes taken, I'd never have to tell it again"

Cheerilee was fighting with herself. Maybe this was a good opportunity on getting a history lesson in that nopony else would know about. It was a unique experience. Part of her however, felt this was the wrong idea. Especially with how things went on his first appearance in Ponyville. It was possible that she already experienced the history as the way he was taken down by Twilight and her friends may nearly match his first actual defeat to the princesses. "Discord, let me ask before I make my decision. Is your history in any way at all similar to when you took over Ponyville?"

Discord gave a slight nod "There are some similarities yes. But only some. A thousand years does tend to change how things go though. What, do you think it's exactly the same as when I took over Ponyville?"

"Yes....Yes I do." Cheerilee nods

"Well, it's not." Discord took off his glasses to clean them "a thousand years is a long time for ways to change. Not to mention Princess Celestia and Luna dealt with me in their own way. That part is actually very important"

"I see...Discord, I'm sorry, but I'm having trouble coming up with a yes. It seems important, and I'd love a chance for my students to learn something new. But, I need a promise. I need a promise that accounts for your very integrity. A promise as meaningful as it is to fill young minds with everything they need to know as an adult. a Teacher's oath kind of promise. Can you make that promise?"

Discord puts his paw to where his heart would be and nods "Yes, I can make that promise. And I do promise. You have no idea how important this is to me"

Cheerilee was summoning up all her willpower for this "Then....alright, if you can be just as well behaved during the lesson as you are now. Then, for the sake of learning. I will allow it."

Cheerilee prepared herself for Discord to jump, act out, or shake her hoof until it falls off. But he just nodded and said "ok"

"Ok?..that's it..really?" She asked, still at caution

"Mhmmm" He simply nods

Oh damn, he was playing for keeps this time......wait. Was he actually going to teach the lesson or was he gonna go full retard?..nah, he had to be fooling her. You just couldn't see him doing this one hundred percent legit. Not at this point.

Cheerilee hazards a cheerful smile "Well then, I'm actually glad to hear that. It really puts my mind at ease to know you'll be cooperating Discord. I even have to thank you for this wonderful opportunity you are giving my students."

Discord raises his paw up and smiles "No need for thanks, it's for the students after all."

"Still, it is really wonderful to have such a rare chance to have a forgotten piece of Equestrian history be told. Especially in my class. Oh, but Discord...you don't mind waiting until class actually starts do you? It will take some time. I came early to get everything cleaned up. I haven't had much time to do after school cleaning lately"

"Oh, I don't mind waiting..in fact" Discord snaps his talons. A huge light envelopes the room.

"Gyah!" You fall back with a yelp

Cheerilee covers her eyes against the flash. and when it's over. she lowers her hoof and looks around. The classroom was now....perfect. "Discord...The classroom" She was stunned, she even rubbed her hoof across the desk to check for dust, there wasn't "It's..perfect"

Discord grinned "isn't it? A special gift to the perfect teacher who allowed me this momentous opportunity"

"Discord..." Cheerilee giggled "Don't say that, it's not true"

"Well, considering I find you perfect, and I have lived long enough to see many a teacher come and go. I think I have a right to say you are perfect. Don't you think?" Discord leaned in, his stare almost seductive in a way.

Cheerilee began to blush in embarassment "ok ok, don't overdo it. You already convinced me to let you teach the lesson"

oohh...god "Dad, can you not do that?"

Discord turns around to look at you "Do what?"

"Y'know" You roll your hoof around to try to emphasize your choice of words "Act all...that way?"

"What?" Cheerilee asks

"I believe he thinks I'm trying to butter you up for a date." Discord smirks, nearly evilly.

"W-what?!" Cheerilee looks to you and shakes her head with an embarrassed smile "Anon. I think you're the one overthinking. And...ohhh..I-I don't mean..erm" Cheerilee was afraid that you had been wanting a mother "I mean...Anon, how about we just...erm...Well. Why don't you take a nap while I check over your homework. I'm sure you're very tired from waking up so early"

You open your mouth to speak...but....what were you going to say? You were pretty tired. You were only up because you literally sprung out of bed. Hell, what were you even saying? You walked right into that one. But you only even mentioned it because you were afraid Discord was going to overdo it. He sure showed you...

"...alright..I-I guess just wake me when class starts....I guess" Fucking hell, why did you even say anything. He obviously had things handled.

You just put your head down and rested. While you napped, Cheerilee and Discord continued their discussion. Discord basically keeping things rather calm and chill. Talking about how he hopes he doesn't bore her students with some of the more "important" details.

Chapter 237

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

Chapter 238

Author's Note

Tonight!

Applebloom talks
Discord talks
And Anon is behind a door

Chapter 238

You rushed over to the clubhouse. As fast as your little legs could take you. Goddammit....what could the captain be planning? He has to have been hiding there for awhile...is he waiting for the CMC? These thoughts race through your mind as you hoof it as quick as you can.

You reach the clubhouse, out of breath, huffing and puffing as you get to the door. "Dammit..w-what is he planning?...ngh" You don't even hesitate to knock on the door. You just walk right through. Ready for anything.

"...And that's why ah gotta talk with him when he's alone, ah gotta t-HMM?!" Applebloom turns around, staring at you as you stand there ragged, she was at a table with the captain at the other side of it.

When the captain gazes at you, his tail wags. "Anon! You're here for some reason! Did you come to fight to the death?"

"What?! NO!" You growled. "I came to see what you were up to!"

Only Applebloom and the captain was here for some reason. And...if your ear caught it correctly. it seemed Applebloom was having a conversation with him...about you. "Oh...erm, I came to feed on love and visit my friends! The queen wanted me to learn how to sneak around and understand pony movements better. So I thought just hanging around my friends would help" The captain said with joyful ignorance

.......Goddammit. He's so stupid and naive. "....Ok...good to know you're honest. But, wait...Applebloom. did you know he was doing any of that?"

Applebloom nods "'course, but he don't seem so bad. And...Anon...what are ya even doin?"

"I came to see what he was doing!" You pointed at him

"And I just told you what I was doing...so can we fight now?" He smiled happily as he wagged his tail in excitement

"NO!" FUCKING DAMMIT!

"....Mnnn" The captain's ears drooped as he looked down with puppy disappointment. "Oook..."

"Anon...ah know the captain is a changeling an all, but he's not a bad one. He's just like a foal who has an evil mom" Applebloom explains.

"...Awww....Applebloom, you say the nicest things about my queen." The captain wipes his teary eyes.

.......Good christ almighty. Were you the only one who saw the absurdity in all this? Then again, this was friendship land. You should be used to this by now. You were probably just thrown off due to the runt's various murder attempts.

"Alright....I get it..ok..so then.." You shift your eyes left and right as you begin to calm down. "...So, what are you doing here alone? Where is Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle?"

"They went home, so did I. Ah mean, the clubhouse is right by the farm. Ah sorta just wanted to be alone actually, then ah found the captain waiting inside..and ahm...ah started talking to him about you." Applebloom started to feel pretty nervous

"......" You looked towards the captain. "What about?"

"Well, since he lives with you and all, ah asked him how you were like when yer at home..." Applebloom said.

The captain then nodded to that. "She did, I told her how you're always trying to balance your life. it's always something with Discord, the queen, your aunt..oh! oh! I even told her about the ex-captain."

You wince....could he also have?...No, he couldn't have told her about you being human. Applebloom would be acting very different if he did. "Oh that...what exactly did you say?"

"He said ya handled him pretty good until ya tried to run away like a wimp. Ah don't think it was wimpy to run away though. He sounded very tough" Applebloom states. She seemed chilled that it happened, but relieved that you were ok.

Wimp?! "Oh come on! I wasn't trying to run away! I was going for my horn! You're the idiot who nearly got us killed!"

"...No" The captain shifts his eyes left and right, feeling that you might be right, but his pride told him you weren't. "It's not my fault you just didn't dive into him to attack and destroy"

"Except that's exactly what nearly got you killed...remember?" God, he's dense.

".....Sorta? I mean, I never fought the ex-captain when he was a weirdo freak before. My timing was off...that's all" The captain could feel his pride cracking. he let out a doglike whimper as he began to back down.

"Anon...is it really that important? Ah already think what ya both did was brave. And ahm glad you're both ok. Ah don't wanna seeya both argue. yer being a little mean actually. Look at him.. Anon, ah dunno if you know this. But the capEEP!" Applebloom is silenced as the captain jumps across the table to put her paws around her mouth.

"Don't say it! It's a secret! it's a secret!" He panicked.

Applebloom stopped, and waited for him to remove his paws before apologizing. "Sorry...ah forgot you told me to not mention it. Won't happen again...actually. Anon..there's somethin' we really need to talk about."

Oh no...here we go again… You sigh. "Applebloom, this isn't about you,me, and Diamond Tiara..is it?"

Applebloom nods. "It is but.." She now sounds a little more frantic, she wanted to convince you it was different. "But ah gotta tell you that things have changed, ah get things now, ah really do!"

She "understands"? "Uhm...ok..erm..should he be here for this then? Because Applebloom, look...we've been through this before, and I just don't want this to end up ugly again."

"It's fine, really. And the captain can stay, ah was already tellin' him ah was gonna do this."

So that's what they were talking about.... Was that his scheme? Get her more in love with you to feed from it? "Applebloom..."

Applebloom raised her hoof, and looked at you with the earnest feeling of wanting to get what she wanted to say out. "Anon, wait, just wait a second. ah really really gotta say this....ok" She takes a breath "Gonna let me talk?"

......You eye the captain, who just sat there, waiting. But Applebloom looked like she was getting impatient....whatever, you couldn't do this dance anymore. after she was done, you'd just have to break her heart..and hard this time. Her stubbornness was just causing too many problems...poor girl. "Yeah, I'm good."

"Good....Anon, ah been thinkin'. A lot....well, ah was thinking after that whole lesson thing yer dad did. Ya see, when ah was an adult....ah realized being bossy and trying to do whatever ah want....didn't feel good, and just made me all meanlike. And it got me thinkin'. Well, ah realized that chaos and doin' whatever ah please just wasn't for me. And then ah thought about you, and all the chaos n' stuff ah must cause ya whenever ah get all fluttery." Applebloom started to get nervous, turned her head, and rubbed the side of her leg with her hoof. "Ah guess what ahm sayin' is that ah now understand that all ah been causin' you is a big ole headache. And all ah was doin' at this point was just tryin' to steal you away...it ain't right. It ain't ever right to try to take somepony's special somepony. And that's why Anon...ah gotta say...ahm over ya now." She says with a happy smile, but then winces "...But we all can still be friends...right?"

......Woah. "Ahm..yeah, yeah of course we're still friends...it's just..wow, I'm.." Ohh hold on Anon, don't spoil the moment, just agree with her. "I'd love to stay friends, I am a cutie mark crusader...sorta...ya know what I mean"

Applebloom giggles and nods "Yeah, ah know. Never thought yer dad could actually teach me such a good lesson, that was pretty neat. And.." Applebloom looked at the captain with a smile. "Ah bet you helped too by eating right? Ah feel like it made it easier, since ya know. ahm not supposed to be lovin' him anyway."

The captain saluted. "I don't know if it helped. But I was definitely eating! If it did help, then I'm glad! Helping my friends makes me feel very good inside!"

"Awww" Applebloom giggled, she thought he was adorable. "Thanks captain" She salutes. "You're a credit to..erm..your friends!"

The captain was beside himself, smiling like a cute idiot. "Yay! I like helping my friends! It makes me feel so nice!"

He really wasn't so bad at all. He was just as loyal as he was friendly. He really was just a little kid who needed the right influence. "I'm glad, so that means you're gonna drop the whole "Destroy me" thing...right?"

The captain shook his head. "Nope, friendship has nothing to do with my queen's honor. It still has to happen. I'm ready whenever you are!"

.....Ugh. "N-no...just...not today..." You then turn to Applebloom, and give her a soft smile. "Applebloom....thanks. I know I don't act like it sometimes. But I value our friendship"

Applebloom smiles back, she was glad to hear that. She had hoped the friendship wasn't damaged between you and her. "Thanks Anon....ya wanna join us for lunch? We didn't get to eat at school an-"

...Oh shit. "AGH! SCHOOL! THATS RIGHT!"

Applebloom gets startled "What? What about it? School's over."

It wasn't really about school though, it was Twilight. "N-no, I gotta go I mean. I gotta get to my aunt's place and fast. Twilight is heading over there and I have no idea what could happen. I need to get there and there's no time to explain!"

"O-oh! Hold on a second then!" Applebloom rushed over to her bag and pulled out a apple juice box.

"W-what? Applebloom..I said...hn?"

Applebloom dropped it on the ground and smashed it with her hoof. creating a good sized puddle. "Yer map thing works by throwing it into water, right? Will apple juice work too?"

Oh holy shit..she was a genius! "Yeah! it should...thanks Applebloom!" You quickly take out your map and toss it into the juice, opening the portal.

"That always looks so cool when ya do that Anon" She peers into the puddle shaped portal that led into your room. "Ah kinda wish ah had somethin' like that"

"Well...Scootaloo does have my wings..so" You walk over to the portal. "I can ask my dad about making another map..but I really gotta go. Thanks, and seeya Applebloom....and captain? You take care too, ok? No evil scheming..got it?"

The Captain salutes. "Got it!....unless my queen asks me to do evil scheming"

You didn't have time to argue. "Good enough...seeya both!" You waved to them as you dived into the portal. Thankfully, thanks to Discord, that went much better than you ever could hope for. But now was the big thing. Twilight being over judgmental once again.

You waste no time in hopping through and going immediately to Fluttershy's through the portal door. And upon coming to the front door. You could hear voices coming from inside. ...Discord, Twilight, and Fluttershy

Shit....ok, so things were already underway. pretty obvious they would be considering how long you took. You decide to shift tactics and run along to the side of the cottage to find a window.

It was a tad higher than you could reach. But, you didn't need to reach to listen. Hell...you had a good idea, since you could barely hear anything.

You slap on your horn...but it doesn't change. "..Shit..that's right. Chrysalis already used it for the day.....goddamn stupid mutant captain"

You instead opt to just put down your saddle bag as a small step and hop to reach the windowsill, but without fingers, you lose your grip and fall backwards and land on your head. "n-ngh..dammit!"

Whatever, you rush back to the front door, plant your ear on the door, and listen in. "....And what exactly is wrong with my son?" You hear Discord say, in a small expression of protest.

"He's openly disregarding the lessons he learned while he was staying with me" Twilight states.

"And you gathered this from being part of a history lesson? Hmnn? I did tell him to act like me" Discord was very dismissive.

"Except he openly dismissed it as himself. Discord, what exactly have you been teaching him?" Twilight sounded very serious

"Discord, please answer the question. It's very important that I know too. We already know that you sometimes take Anon on trips." Fluttershy said in a low and gentle voice.

"Yes, and as I've said. We've done good when we do. Like with Mrs. Rich" Discord states

"And that's of what we know. And even then, I can only guess you just let him go out on his own as well. I'll admit, reforming Starlight is an amazing feat. BUT....could you imagine if she reformed him instead? Can you imagine what would happen if he got in over his head and got hurt? Discord, we ALL care about him. And even if he's not actually a troublemaker now, if he keeps on doing dangerous things on his own, he's going to become rebellious and egotistical or he's not going to come back at all. You're supposed to be his father, just because you don't set limits for yourself doesn't mean you shouldn't set it for him. I've even received a letter from Cadance that he's actually arrogant, and don't forget the fact that even Princess Celestia even had to punish him. He could have caused a war!" Twilight reminds him

Discord just chuckles "Oh....you mean like you nearly did with those yaks?"

"Discord!" Fluttershy snapped at him

"What? It's true!" Discord said.

"But that was different, Twilight was trying to do her duties as a princess. This is Anon continuously showing signs of being deceitful. That's not good Discord......I don't want Anon to be that way" Fluttershy said more softly...and sadly.

"I'm sorry Fluttershy, but Anon is who he is. We all know that a cutie mark dictates one's talent. And his happens to be part of his very personality. Buuuuuut, it doesn't mean he's a bad pony either. He clearly loves you enough to treat you with love and respect. And he's used his chaotic nature for good. In fact, that was part of the lesson I was teaching. You can't deny it Twilight, you saw all those foals...they weren't afraid, they were learning, they learned that chaos isn't always a good thing...when it comes to a pony anyway. I taught them that doing what they want when they want has consequences. So my son also knows through that lesson what happens if he uses his chaos for bad. And he didn't even really need it anyway. As I said, he knows well enough how to use his talent to help others."

"....And Discord" Twilight tries to sound sincere. "I actually agree with that, I'm actually happy about that. But Anon's talent IS chaos. Meaning that lesson doesn't apply to him. I know you know that. Letting him do what he wants is dangerous!" Twilight tries to tell him. "Both for him and everypony involved."

"....Discord, I agree. I love Anon, and I'm so happy that he's well behaved around me and others. But these instances where he acts out isn't good. And I know you've taken him on pranks, I don't know how many, but I don't think you ever let him know that when the prank isn't funny to the pony he plays it on, then it isn't really funny or good at all." Fluttershy says.

"...Oh, I see how it is. Well then, How about this?" Discord let's out a dark chuckle. "Under my care, and of course yours. Anon has been a fine colt. He's made friends, saved ponies, defeated villains, and even reformed them. That is true...right?"

"Yes, that's right..." Fluttershy admits.

"Now, let's consider this. Despite Anon showing...unfavorable signs of immaturity...at least to pony standards. He has been a good and loving colt. Now, let's look at his week with you Twilight. In that week, under both your watch and Celestia's discipline....he nearly got chewed up by a Chimera....right?" Discord says, his voice becoming more dark with every word. "

No response from the others.

"Right...now. Let's consider this. If Anon had his horn and was not diluted with harmonic nonsense. He would have defeated that Chimera on his own, with his horn, like he did those griffons back in the Crystal Empire...I guarantee he would have. Anon has that cunning about him which he had lost when I got him back. If you want the truth, I had been working hard to undo the damage you have done to him Twilight...oh..I truly have"

You plant your ear closer. "..Holy shit...he can't...he is...he's just doing this to get a rise out of Twilight. he has to be. He just couldn't let the Spoiled Rich failure go....christ, he really wanted to get that rise out of her for helping with that"

Still no answer from the other two

"Fluttershy, please don't look upset. That wasn't my intention. I value what you teach Anon. In fact, you are what keeps him "Balanced". I don't know what I'd do without you. Whenever he mentions you, he is always so worried about you or he always wants to make sure you're smiling whenever he sees you. He especially loves your loving cuddles and sweet nature. But...Twilight, I can't say the same for you. You tried, that's commendable, even Celestia tried, even more commendable...but let's face it. Anon is NOT like any other colt. He was destined to be chaotic long before I found him. You cannot deny this, because y'know...Cutie Mark. Anon is so different he might as well not be from Equestria. That's probably why the poor colt had suffered for so long despite being so young. I took him under my wing because I could see what he was, I could see that he was a pony who wouldn't do well with the harmony aspect of Equestria, he's the opposite of that. To change that goes against his nature...again...Cutie Mark. But to nurture and love him, like dear Fluttershy, that is how we insure that even if he grows up to be mischievous, that he will still do what is right...and that’s all I have to say about that" Discord explains..rather impressively.

None of the ponies spoke. You pressed your ear harder...but nothing still.

"Twilight...no argument? No retort?" Discord says, a hint of arrogance he was trying to hold in.

"No....I...just don't know. I never even considered how different Anon really was. I did know he was different...just, not by such a degree. I only did what I thought was right. I didn't even consider his cutie mark's meaning until...you mentioned it. To know even Princess Celestia was wrong. Discord, I'm sorry. Fluttershy, I'm very sorry." Twilight sounded devastated.

"T-twilight....n-no. It's ok. You only wanted to better Anon. I didn't think of these things either to be honest. Discord, if I may ask. If you had this all figured out...why didn't you tell either of us?" Fluttershy meekly asked

"I thought it was trivial. It all seemed so obvious, at least to me. But, when it became clear that it didn't. I just let things happen because...to be quite honest, when was anypony actually going to listen to me, his father? When we have our dear Princess of friendship to right the wrongs I have apparently taught my son. If anything...I should be angry that Twilight nearly got him eaten. But I won't, because I know she was only doing her best. It's perfectly understandable...and I accept your apology." Discord says in a soft voice, acting as if he was both concerned and satisfied.

"...Thank you Discord...and I'm sorry for wasting everypony’s time. I'm going back to the castle. I want to just...sit back and contemplate. I need to reassess a few things...goodbye Fluttershy, Discord..." Oh holy hell, she sounded utterly devastated.

"G-goodbye Twilight...and please, don't think about it too much. Nothing was your fault. You know I'm not mad at you. And Discord isn't....it'll be f-fine..I promise" Fluttershy sounded unsure.

Wait...she said she was leaving?! You dive to the side as she opens the door. She doesn't notice you as she flies off.

"I'm afraid I must be going as well, Anon is probably a little confused after that lesson and I just want to clarify a few things with him. But don't fret, I think a night with you will also help balance things out as well. And besides, it always does his heart good to be with his aunt" Discord said, sounding VERY soft and caring.

"I understand, Discord...I trust you. I really do. And I can't wait to have Anon over....But, I'm also going to go. I just want to make sure Twilight is alright." Fluttershy says.

After that, they both started to exit the cottage. You peered from behind the open door as Fluttershy gave a gentle hug to Discord, and flew off after Twilight.

"......What did you think Anon? Have you ever seen Twilight so devastated from being wrong before?...Glorious..isn't it?" He says, as he still continues to wave goodbye to Fluttershy.

Chapter 240 - Flim Flam Future Arc

You hop back into the void from the window victorious. After landing on the ground, you snicker in victory and pump your leg out like a fist. "Ha! That wasn't so tough! I knew I could do it!" You then peer around to see Discord on a recliner, with a soda hat and popcorn on his belly as he sits watching static on a tv. He was also wearing sunglasses.

You smirk at him. "Comfy?"

Discord raises his sunglasses and smirks right back. "I am..Good work Anon, you made it entertaining AND you won. And that kiss..." Discord gives you a wink "Nice touch"

"Compliments? Haha, now we're talking. It was pretty good, huh?" You rub your hoof on your chest and make your grin even smarmier.

"It was! Especially the part where we got to see just how thick headed you truly are. I was laughing for minutes!" Discord let out a cruel chuckle.

You just look at him with a stoic look. ".....buzzkill." You roll your eyes and walk over to one of the doors. "...wait till you see what I got in store for whatever is behind this....." You take a moment to look at the doors, then put your hoof on the last one. "Door! Haha!"

"Confident are we? The little bat didn't make you want to chicken out?" Discord says as he pulls out and bites on a chicken leg.

"Tch, no! I beat her didn't I? I didn't even need the horn."

"Which is good, yet saddening. I was waiting for you to put on the horn only to realize it's still the day that Chrysalis saved you. Now that would have been the icing on the cake. But nonetheless, using the grappling hook was a good plan too. But the bat is right, you shouldn't announce your attacks." Discord tells you as he bites into his food

You shift your eyes slowly to Discord. "....Good to know you have a heart, Discord." You smirk, it was nice to hear some caring words from him every now and again. Even if he tried to explain it away as something else.

"Don't look too deeply into it. So then, are you absolutely sure you want to do this?" Discord looks to you with a serious look "Are you sure you can handle this? I would have difficulty pulling you out if you run into danger."

You put your hoof on the door and give it a rub. "I'll be fine, I have my wits, I have my grappling hook, horn, Chrysalis.......and..Oh...ohh" You smack your forehead. "I'm gonna need a super recharge on my funds. Mind helping with that?"

"Of course, I'll even pack you some food in the process" Discord shoots a small ray at your bag. Fattening it up while retaining it's same weight. "Anon, remember. The ponies you see in that realm, even if you know them, will not-"

"Yeah yeah yeah, I know. I know how this crap works. Who do you think I am anyway? I know they won't know me. What kind of an idiot would walk into something like this and think they could still talk to the ponies they know as if they'd know them from another dimension? It'll be fine, I promise. If anything, it'll give me some breathing room since I get a clean slate. Anyway, you remember what to do with Chrysalis right?"

"Yes yes.." Discord said, annoyed as he goes back to viewing the screen "I too know what I'm doing. Just choose your door and I'll send her a little after. I'll leave the rest to you."

"Ok then..." You open the door, and peer into the nothingness. "Discord, thanks for everything by the way. I know I've said it before. But it's always nice to be reminded...y'know?"

Discord let's out a soft murmur. "Yes...I suppose. I..." Discord sighs "I thank you as well, ...for reasons"

Looks like he wasn't in the mood to be more soft hearted. "So....even though you said this is gonna be fun for you. Are you not going to be the least bit worried?"

"Of course I'll be worried. But unlike a certain pony, I know I can trust in you to do what is needed to survive...and if somehow you don't.....well....don't NOT survive...alright? ERGH!" Discord started to get really annoyed "DON'T MAKE ME HAVE SECOND THOUGHTS ON THIS ANON! DON'T MAKE ME SOUND LIKE TWILIGHT! GRRR! I WORKED VERY HARD TO GET THIS SET UP! I WILL NOT DRUDGE UP PERFECTLY VALID REASONS TO PULL YOU BACK!" Discord picked you up with his magic.

"W-woah! What are you doing?" You kicked about as you hovered in midair

"KICKING YOU OUT BEFORE I CHANGE MY MIND! ARREVADERCI!" Discord angrily flicks his talon forward. Launching you through the door.

"W-WOOOAAHH" You fly forward and drop onto the ground, rolling onto a dirt road before coming to a stop on your belly. "O-ogghh...dammit. N-note to self....don't make Discord care TOO much...ngh...hmm?"

As you slowly begin to stand, you realize he did in fact send you through the door, looking at the sky made it pretty obvious. There was....pollution? ".....what in the....."

The sky was reddish and glassy instead of it's beautiful blue color. And the smell....smelled like Earth. "....What the hell happened?...wait..." You noticed vast but empty fields all around you. The grass was not doing very well, and there were tree stumps everywhere....no way. "Deforestation?...what in the...What kind of futu-"

"DIIIIIIIIIIIIISSSSSSSSSSCOOOOOOOORRRDDD! OOMPH!" Falling right next to you, right onto her head, was queen Chrysalis herself. In normal form no less. She slides a little, and then falls on her back.

You just look over her with a smile. "Guess he sent you to look after me, eh sis?"

Chrysalis, dazed, looks up at you, annoyed. "How can you even smile when....wait.." Chrysalis gets up frantically and looks around. "What happened?! Where are we?! WHAT DID HE DO?!" Chrysalis didn't recognize at all where she was. It seems she didn't even realize she was thrown into a portal.

You look around the area, acting ignorant of the situation. "All I know is that he sent us into another Equestria. I think he wants us to solve its problem.."

Chrysalis went into a rage. "IT'S PROBLEM?! WHAT DOES HE CARE ABOUT PROBLEMS?! AND WHY IN THE WIDE WIDE WORLD OF EQUESTRIA WOULD HE EVEN SEND US INTO AN EQUESTRIA NOT OF OUR OWN?! WHAT'S THE POINT?! I KNOW HE WON'T JUST LEAVE US HERE...SO WHY?!"

You shrug. "For kicks"

Chrysalis went silent, her mane frazzled as she just stares emptily forward. ".....right"

"Yeeeahhh....Welp, looks like we're stuck on an adventure together. Because I don't think we can leave until we figure out what the problem is...and looking around. It looks like a pretty big problem" You were beginning to question if this really was Equestria, it was just too...dirty.

It was almost nostalgic in a way...the pollution and deforestation...what exactly happened to cause this though? This doesn't seem like something Celestia would do. Nor any other villain.

"It smells like one too....ergh" Chrysalis did not enjoy the smell at all. "What is that foul stench?"

"That...is the smell of industry. It's kind of like how Earth is. Y'know, this could be a future where technology won out over magic."

"How terrible...unless the technology is as good as humans then it's not worth my time" Chrysalis was looking at her hoof "....at least the buffoon was "kind" enough to not limit me. But..." Chrysalis took another look around. "To be forced to help ponies? That doesn't even sound like him...he's growing soft."

You step past her, looking upon the emptiness of the landscape. "Or he just wants to see us suffer while doing it. This doesn't look like it's gonna be easy"

Chrysalis was narrowing her eyes into the horizon. To her...the whole place seemed dead. There wasn't even any animals around. "It can't be that hard. I've seen how these ponies work, they usually fix the problem within thirty minutes."

"But these aren't our ponies" You remind her.

"I know that, but they are still ponies. The point is we have no reason to be here, I'm sure Twilight and her insipid friends are already dealing with the.....hrn?" Chrysalis's ear perks up.

"What is it?"

"I hear a strange noise, coming from behind that hill" She points to the hill ahead of the both of you. "Right there"

"Huh.." You turn your head and flick your ear a few times to try to catch the sound. After a small moment, you can hear it...and it sounded familiar. It was like an engine noise, sputtering and coming closer.

"....Is that a car? That sounds like a car" Could it be?

"What? Like those stupid little derby cars I've seen foals use? That can't be Anon, they don't make that kind of noise" Chrysalis countered, she felt there was no way that could be right.

"N-no, it's a car alright. I've heard this kind of noise before back on Earth. The hell?...Wait..Chrysalis! YOU GOTTA TRANSFOR-...huh?" You take a look around, and notice she was gone..oddly enough. There was suddenly a bush. "C-chrysalis?...H-hello?"

"Over here you boob...."

Wha? You hear her voice coming from the bush, but you look all around it and see no bugbutt. "Where?" You say, slightly worried as you couldn't even see a hint of her.

Suddenly, the bush moves and slaps you in the face with one of its branches. "What?! Ow! What was that?!..ok!" You get really annoyed now. "Where are you?! are you invisible or something?! And why...OW!"

The bush slaps you again, enough to notice that nothing was pushing the branch to slap you. No.....No......that can't be. "..Chrysalis...are you..the bush itself?"

"Noooooo, you think? WHAT ELSE WOULD I BE YOU NIMROD?! NOW GET BEHIND ME BEFORE YOU'RE SPOTTED!" She growls at you as leaves drop off her body. Did...Did that hurt her in some way?

"But...I...I didn't know chang-OW!"

"NOW'S NOT THE TIME TO BE AMAZED BY SOMETHING I'VE BEEN DOING FOR YEARS! GET BEHIND ME BEFORE I UNVIRGINATE YOU THROUGH YOUR REAR!"

That makes you wince enough to already feel the pain in the ass. You duck behind the Changebush and peer around to the road.

And then you realize something. "Wait...why am I hiding? I'm just a colt."

"And when do you usually find a colt in the middle of nowhere?" Chrysabush states.

.....

"Good point"

The car finally starts to come over the hill. It looked like one of those old vehicles you pumped from the front with some spinny thing. you didn't know. you seen it in "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang".

"Wow..it really is an old style car"

"Odd, since you know of it. Do you think it has anything to do with your human world? I've seen trains and such...but never something like that" Chrysalis wasn't impressed by it, but still found it peculiar.

"...I'd..maybe?...I dunno...Discord was pretty clear this was a possible future caused by somepony from a certain dimension. So I think the likelihood is actually kind of slim.....wait..." You narrow your eyes to squint over to the driver. That meek disposition, those soft eyes, that lightly colored coat. "Coco?....Holy shit..I know that pony"

"You do? Then perhaps you can ask her what's going on" It seems even Chrysalis isn't fully aware of how dimensional travel works.

"No...ugh..see, I know the Coco from our Equestria...that's a completely different Coco and...oh holy crap her engine is sputtering pretty bad" Bad enough that the car just slows to a stop when it reaches the bottom of the hill. "Doesn't look like her car is reliable though."

She got out of her car, she was frantic, scared even. You didn't quite understand why she was scared. But she went to get the wrench like object from the trunk to spin pump the engine back to working order.

"Anon, if you knew her back in our world. Then that should mean she has the same personality in this one. If it's from a possible future, then logic dictates that they'd still all have that terribly annoying personality all ponies have… Perfect for making friends with a colt, even if they are out in the middle of nowhere. Just make up some lie that you're lost and i'm sure she'll be gullible enough to believe it. Go make friends then ask for directions"

....Huh. "Hey, that actually might work. Thanks Chrysalis. Ok...." You make the cutest and saddest face you can. "How do I look?"

"Infuriatingly annoying....it's perfect."

"Cool.....ok, here I go." You walk out from behind the bush and approach Coco, intending to get as much information from her as possible. "E-excuse me...m-miss? C-can you help me?"

Coco stops spinning the crank and looks over to you. But the reaction you expected was not what you got. She looked more terrified than Fluttershy. "S-stay back! St-stay back, w-whoever you are! Y-you're one of those nasty highwayponies...a-aren't you?"

Highwayponies? Like highwaymen?

You act startled. "N-no! Honest...I'm lost..My parents left me and..."

"L-LIAR! S-STAY BACK OR I'LL SHOOT!" Coco aims her right front leg at you...she had some sort of thing attached to her leg...HOLY FUCK IS THAT A GUN?! "A-as a high representative of Polomare incorporated, I-I have a special license to use this! D-Don't make me use this!"

Your eyes go wide as you immediately back down. What in the fuck kind of world is this?! Polomare incorporated?! What the fuck happened?! What happened to Rarity?! "W-woah woah, I don't want any trouble!"

Coco multitasked in spinning the crank with one hoof as she aimed with the other "And there won't be any trouble i-i-if you just back off!"

You back off, NOPE. Whatever hell this was, you weren't gonna be gunned down like some common thug. As you back off, you put your hoof to your horn, but the moment you do, she raises her leg again. "Don't touch anything! just...BACK OFF! GET DOWN ON THE GROUND"

Christ! she was crazier than the fucking bat. "Ok! Ok! I'm down I'm down! Just don't shoot!" You duck to the ground, and now hoped she didn't shoot.

"N-now stay there until I get my engine up and...oh" The engine began to sputter and run again. "Ok! Now just st-stay down until I'm g-gone!"

Coco rushed back to her door, but she couldn't get it open for some reason. "C-Come on! C-come on!"

Then she suddenly hears a voice. "Hey, up here" Coco looks up, then goes solid white as she stares at a near melting, soulless, eyeless version of herself, it just leans in and says. "Boo"

Coco let's out a shrill shriek before falling unconscious from pure fear. The abomination then looks to you with impatience "Anon! Stop being utterly useless and get over here! We're stealing her car!"

.......

You look up from the ground to see the abomination as it changes from a freak to a normal Coco.

"Y-yeah......ok." Cripes...she had a gun.

You were white as a ghost yourself. Holy shit, what was up with her?

You climb in from the passenger side, taking notice of Chrysalis trying to get a handle of what to do. There wasn't any pedals, instead, there was levers. Levers for moving? Huh, seemed a little cluttered.

Chapter 241 - Flim Flam Future Arc

"Alright Anon, how do I get this moving? I know this wheel must be used for turning...but what do these levers do? Which one makes it go forward?" She was impatiently tapping at the levers.

"I don't know, usually there's these things on the bottom to make it go and stop. I know this lever is the gear shift. So...." You peer at the levers carefully. you see a large one that can go both forward and back with it's neutral in the middle. One other had to be the emergency brake, and maybe another as a regular brake...and what does that fifth one do?...No..this one has to be it.

"Ok, I know that one is the gear shift. So put it from P....to.....I guess one or two" There was no D.

"Alright...hmnnn, it's almost like that one scene from the documentary. Ok then… "commander"... What's next?" Chrysalis was focused, she went from annoyed to suddenly kind of getting into it.

"See that lever there? Move it forward slowly, then turn that wheel, and let's try seeing what's up that hill. We might be able to get our bearings and find out where Ponyville or Canterlot is..or hell, anyplace."

"Hrmmm..alright" Chrysalis carefully pushes the lever, making the car move. She then turned the wheel to make it turn a full 180.

"What about Coco?" You ask as you see her unconscious form on the ground

"What about her? She has nothing to do with us, so forget it. Besides, she tried to kill you" Chrysalis reminds you

"EEhhhhhh, she was just scared. I don't think....mnnnn..fine. It's an empty field anyway, I'm sure she can find her way back. Ok, let's go up the hill."

Was that a good idea? You actually felt guilt for what you just said. But, if she woke up. Things would probably get worse. Chrysalis hits the incline on the hill, but the car wouldn't go up. "Hrm, it seems we need more speed, I assume I just push that lever further?"

You nod. "Yeah, and also try putting the gear shift to two and we should be golden"

"Two?...mnnn" Chrysalis eyes the gear shift, but instead of putting it to two, she puts it to six. "There, that should work a lot better"

You look at her action, then look up at her with a stoic look. "Oh good, now we aren't going anywhere. The higher the gear from a lower speed, the longer it takes to....AAAAAAHH WHAT THE!?" The car suddenly went into overdrive when she pulled the speed lever to max. Rushing up the hill and going airborne on the decline. Chrysalis laughing madly as you just hold on for dear life. "CHRYSALIS! STOP THIS CRAZY THING! WE WERE SUPPOSED TO BE LOOKING OVER THE HIIILLLLLLLLOMPH! AGHHH!"

The car slams back onto the ground as Chrysalis leans forward, enjoying the wind in her mane This is not how manual cars are supposed to work. It wasn't working like your video games either!

"HAHAHA! Now we're making progress! This is actually fun! And the best part is that we can't be stopped by anything! All in our path shall be fodder to our mighty car!" Chrysalis cackled evilly

Oh god, she was going to get you killed. You just held on to anything you could as the car sped and rumbled. It was making you sick. "Ch-Chrysalis! S-Stop already! W-what if we aren't..g-g-going the right way?!"

"Who cares?! Besides, we might solve the problem this world has just by mowing it down! We don't know where the source of the problem is, so let's leave it up to luck. Who knows? the ponies might reward us with complete loyalty if we save them. Oh, and here I thought this would be annoying." She snickered.

"Are you insane?!" Geez, she's got the road bug...well..she was a bug. "If we keep going on like this w-we might crash! Just slow it down huh? Come on! COME ON!" There was a turn on the road, a sharp one turning away from a much sharper incline of a hill. "CHRYSALIS, TURN RIGHT! TURN RIGHT!"

But she didn't, she went straight into the hill and blasted up the incline. How the hell did these cars even handle this? "Anon, When we are done with this adventure I am taking this home with me! This will be my royal chariot..." Chrysalis stops her enthusiasm when she notices the decline was very steep......sort of like a gorge....because it led right into a gorge. "....oh.....well, it was fun while it lasted"

"WAIT..WHAT?! CHRYAAAAAAA" Chrysalis changed back to her normal self and hops off the car as you plummet to your demise. "GODDDDDAMMMMMMMIIITTTTTTTTTTTTTTTOMPH!" You felt yourself get nabbed up as the car fell into the gorge and into the river.

You were breathing heavily, pure white from fright. "Hngna...mngna...ghdmdsmdfsd." You started frothing at the mouth.

You get carried over to the other side of the gorge. and then placed down. You rub along the ground, glad to be on a safe spot as Chrysalis lands beside you, whipping her hoof lightly to remove your drool. "....mnnn, how disgusting"

You just shivered there for a few moments as Chrysalis looked forward. After your recovery, you look at her from her backside, pissed as fuck. "WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT?! HUH?! I TOLD YOU TO GO IT SLOW! GEEZ, YOU NEARLY KILLED ME! NOW WE DON'T HAVE A CAR AND WE'RE LOST!" Chrysalis didn't reply. She just continued to stare forward. It was perplexing. "Uhhh...hello? Chrysalis...I'm being angry at you right now....Chrysalis?" You go to stand by her side and see what she was looking at. There was a lot, A LOT, of crazy looking tree stumps. Hell, it looked like a forest used to be there. "What are you looking at? The stumps?...Huh....didn't take you to be an environmentalist."

"I'm not....are you telling me you don't know what this is?" Chrysalis sounded dead serious, she looked stunned too.

"A forest? Or used to be one. Yeah, I get it..it's bad. But that just shows what our problem is. some Captain Planet tier villainy."

"Anon, this is much bigger than that. This is the Everfree Forest....or it used to be..." There was, oddly enough, a hint of dread in her voice

"What?... It can't be" You look to the horizon, there was some smog or fog or whatever it was covering up a lot of it. But you should still be able to see the old castle. "Where's Celestia's old castle then?"

"It must have been completely destroyed. And that stench...Whatever evil did this lurks beyond that horrid fog" Chrysalis points forward.

Wait.... "Wouldn't Ponyville be over there?"

Chrysalis nods. "It would, interesting. Well..." Chrysalis turns into her Nymous form and steps forward. "Let's get this over with already. Whatever creature is generating this fog does not want us to find them."

You start following her, contemplating the situation. "I don't think it's a creature. But...I don't know what it could be either"

"Then it's obviously a creature, what else creates this kind of terrible mist?"

"Industry, factories, I'm sure Equestria has them...just, never to this degree...it's terrible. And the Everfree, I thought it couldn't be tamed" It was definitely concerning.

"It obviously has. Don't think about it too much, I'd rather find out what this is and defeat it quickly. I'll just need to get a quick bite to eat before we fight however. It's good that we'll be in Ponyville soon, even during a crisis those ponies produce a remarkable amount of love."

"Yeah...just remember....cause I just did. I don't have a charge on my horn. So if we can, we should probably find a place to lay low before we stir up trouble"

Chrysalis nods in agreement. "That's fine, like I said, I want to find out what this is quickly. I didn't mean it in a immediate sense. I meant in just getting it done as soon as possible. We need to eat, sleep, and scope out the area before we make our move"

"Right" You both press on, but god was it eerie. The dangerous slopes were still around. But the trees were gone, streams were dry, and.....man, was the Tree of Harmony even still alive at this point?

But even with these thoughts, you both press on just the same until the tree trunks started to get light. and Ponyville became more clear...

........but the Ponyville that became clear....was not Ponyville. "...What in the fuck?!"

Both you and Chrysalis gazed through the smog as a giant billboard came to view, with a huge town behind it. A town that looked like a mini-Manehatten. "Welcome to Flimsville and Flamsville?.....What garbage is this? Where's Ponyville? It's supposed to be right here!"

But you just stood there, mouth agape.....no....no..... Then you spaz and yell out when you realize what this was. 'WHAT?! FLIM AND FLAM TOOK OVER EQUESTRIA?! ARE YOU FUCKING INSANE?! WHAT IS THIS BULLSHIT?! HOW EVEN?! WHAT EVEN?! THIS IS DUMBER THAN G THREE POINT FIVE!"

Chrysalis cringes and steps away from you due to your yelling. "Will you calm down! How do you even know this Flim and Flam took over?"

But you just continue yelling. "ARE YOU STUPID?! DISCORD SAID THIS IS AN ALTERNATE FUTURE. IF FLIM AND FLAM HAVE PONYVILLE AND EVERYTHING GOT INDUSTRIALIZED THEN IT MEANS THEY TOOK DOWN THE EVERFREE FOREST! MEANING EITHER CELESTIA ALLOWED THIS OR SHE'S FREAKING DEAD! HOW THE FUCK ARE WEOOWWW!"

Chrysalis slaps you in the face. "Will you calm down! Fine, I get it....you don't need to yell about it. Besides, if it's a couple of shady looking ponies then this should be easy to fix. Let's find them, destroy them, then go home. I don't like this place...it's eerily gloomy"

You rub your face as your senses return. "Ow...geez..mmmngh. And you know what?..Fine, you're right. That should clear things up. But we gotta find them first." Yeesh, she slaps hard.

"Indeed...so, let's go into town and find Twilight and her friends. Ask them what's going on, feed off them a little, and go on our way. We should be done with this in no time."

"I actually agree with you....huh.." You felt kinda disappointed, you also felt bad for the ponies. "To get beat by Flim and Flam is pretty shit. Let's just get it over with...really..I expected better."

"Indeed, it does seem pretty shit. Also." Chrysalis looked down at you with a royal kind of stoicness. "Call me stupid again and you'll be in deep shit"

Yeesh. "Alright alright..sheesh..I just got lost in the moment there and....hey...what's going on over there?"

There was a rabble of hippy looking ponies outside of town, protesting against...something.

"Given their raggedy garb and cheap signs, they must be the lower rabble. Odd, I wonder what they are angry about...let's observe, shall we?" Chrysalis points over to some actual greenery around the front of the town. It seems the immediate area around the town still had some trees and bushes. Probably just to try to make it look nicer. As you both hide and look over, you notice the leader of the group was a yellow pony with a pink mane. She was softly yelling at a pony with a blue coat and rainbow mane. The blue pony was wearing a police officer's uniform, and had on an expensive looking badge.

"Holy shit...do you see who I see?" No way

"Yes I do..." Chrysalis was intrigued. "It seems even Twilight's friends are at odds with each other in this world....hmmnn..I wonder what they are arguing about"

Fluttershy looked like she was trying to reason with Rainbow Dash as the group behind her eyed RD with great disdain. "Rainbow Dash, why can't you understand? You can't leave all those animals in cages. Please give them to us, we have a small patch of green that we can bring them to and watch over. They don't belong here..please?"

Rainbow Dash just crossed her front legs as she hovered over her, she didn't seem to budge. "Nope, Can't do that Fluttershy. Besides, what's this "friends" stuff? I mean, pft, are you kidding? The old days are over, we aren't fillies anymore. While you're living in whatever land with a bunch of dirty ponies, I'm keeping it real and awesome as the chief of police of both Flimsville AND Flamsville. Besides, if the bosses wants the animals kept in the zoo, they stay in the zoo, and I get to keep this cool job. And I ain't giving up a lifetime of beating up bad guys just to help an "old friend". But if you wanna play that game then fine, I'll give you and your little lame-o group ten seconds to get out of here before I call in my squad. Tennnnn"

"Rainbow Dash..please" Fluttershy begged.

"Nine.....eight......seven.." Rainbow Dash counted on without regret.

Suddenly, the group started to get rowdy. "FORGET THIS DUDES! LET'S GET THE ANIMALS OURSELVES!"
"YEAH! ONE PONY CAN'T STOP US! LET'S STOMP THE PLACE!"
"LET'S DO IT!"

"W-wait...c-can't we talk this out?" Fluttershy did not want this chaos.

"...Oh geez...I know that's not my Fluttershy...but this still hurts.." You frowned

"I wish I had some of that love juice from when we were watching the documentary. This is priceless...How sad that I don't even have a camera! hahahaha!" Chrysalis was loving this. "I wonder if they are actually going to tear eachother apart."

Rainbow Dash smirked. "...that's how it is huh? Good! I was itching for a fight. HEY, EVERYPONY! GET OUT FROM YOUR HIDING SPOTS AND GET READY! WE'RE ABOUT TO TO GET...IT...ON!"

Holy shit...suddenly, out from behind the buildings of the town came an entire police force. Most seemed to be from the wonderbolts, the rest were griffons..including Gilda..woah...and they all had....

"AHHH! IT'S AN AMBUSH! THEY HAVE THEIR BLASTERS!" one of the hippy ponies shrieked

Blasters.....how very PC.

"EVERYPONY, W-WE CAN'T GIVE UP!" Another tries to rally the shaken crowd.

"W-wait...nopony has to suffer..let's just talk." Fluttershy was near frozen in fear.

"Yo, Rainbow Dash. we're all loaded and ready to fire, you ready to do this thing?" Gilda flew over to her, ready for a rumble.

"Ohhhh yeah! Let's show this scum the power of the police! HEY EVERYPONY, FORGET AIMING, JUST FIRE INTO THE CROWD! WE'LL PICK OFF THE STRAGGLERS AFTER!" Rainbow Dash yelled out as her forces quickly aimed their blasters.

"O-oh shit! What do we do?! They are gonna die! We have to do something!" You begin to think heavily. Until you feel Chrysalis's hoof gently stroke your back.

"There's nothing we can do Anon, we'd only end up becoming a casualty like those poor souls, It is truly a sad fate..."

"You...You actually care?" That was surprising.

"Of course I do...." Chrysalis grinned. "It's just a shame I can't get it all captured on film. preferably the high quality humankind, this is going to be amazing"

"You're a monster, not even Discord would let this happen..."

"Oh hush, it not like it matters. Just enjoy the show." Chrysalis snickered as she looked on.

Christ..maybe you shouldn't have shown her the movie. Was she THIS cruel? Or did watching the movie send her down deeper into something sadistic, only awoken by the fact she's in a dimension of no consequences.

"FIRE!" Rainbow Dash pointed as suddenly bullets rained down upon the ponies. But they were shrieking as a green cloud began to envelope them.

"SKUNK GAS! AGHHH! IT BURNS!"
"EVERYPONY SCATTER! IT'S TOO THICK!"
"WE NEED TO GET BACK! AGHH!"

Ohhhh..thank christ, they shoot gas pellets. You sigh in relief as the hippy group runs and scatters away from the police force. You see Fluttershy come out last from the green cloud, coughing and crying. She weakly steps away as she looks back at the very satisfied Rainbow Dash, who did a hoofpump with Gilda. "Great job Deputy Gilda, and awesome job team! We showed those hippies whose boss!"

"YEAH!" They cheered out.

"Ehhhh, they ALL ran off though. we didn't get to clobber any of em'" Gilda was pretty miffed about it.

"It'll be fiine. Besides, hippies are pathetic anyway. All talk, no fight. We're just toooooo awesome for anypony to actually deal with. Let's do a security sweep though. Just in case" Rainbow Dash states as she dismisses the rest of her force.

"Ok, hopefully one of those wuss ponies decided to stick around." Gilda snickered "Can't wait to get my talons on em', oh yeaaah!" She said with hopeful optimism. "But what about that yellow pony? She said she knew you"

Rainbow Dash shrugged. "Just a noncool wuss I used to hang with"

"Hah, looked like it. She looked so pathetic" Gilda giggled.

"Yeah, I know right?" Rainbow Dash joined in with her on the laughter

"Christ.....they are such assholes...mnnn, poor Fluttershy..like...holy shit. I didn't think ponies could be so fucking harsh.....I outta slug her" You could feel a rage well up inside you. This world's RD was a total asshat. Like..holy shit.

Chrysalis was just miffed. "...Who cares...I wanted a slaughter....what a rip off"

"Don't you think that's a little dark?" You look at her with some annoyed disbelief.

Chrysalis just waved her hoof with dismissive protest "Please don't give me that, You were human once. You should be used to that kind of thing by now. For me, it would have been truly magical."

"...Sometimes I wonder how we're friends"

"Oh yes, You would have to wonder that. Wouldn't you? Though, if I hadn't saved you...TWICE....then you wouldn't be here to wonder that at all. I don't even think I heard a thank you for saving you from plummeting to your death."

"You're the one who nearly killed me!" You yell out

"DON'T YELL YOU IDIOT! YOU'LL GIVE US AWAY!" Chrysalis yells back.

"Well Well Well" You both look above you to see Rainbow Dash with a very smug grin on her face. "Looks like there were a couple of stragglers after all. Yo Gilda! You might get your wishl! Get over here!"

.....Oh shit.....

Chapter 242 - Flim Flam Future Arc

As you and Chrysalis just stare up at her, Gilda hovers in as RD makes a second observation. "Ahhh, nevermind. It's just a foal and his....mom?..." she stared hard at Chrysalis. "Aren't you a little young to be his mom?"

Chrysalis snaps back at her. "Aren't you a little old to be saying words like "Cool" and "Awesome" ?"

"Hey!...Those words are timeless! Who are you to talk?!" Rainbow Dash shakes her front leg at her like an angry fist.

"Agh Dash, come on. They aren't worth our time, let's just cuff these dweebs and book em. They are obviously part of that smelly hippy group" Gilda says as she hovers over to her side.

"Smelly hippy?! How dare you! I'm not smelly you simple birdbrained moron! And you… Timeless? Why don't you run home to your mother and tell her you're dressing up as a stallion. I'm sure she'd be proud" Chrysalis was really angry, never mind you both were caught by fucking "police chief" Dash. She did not want to take those insults lying down.

As for you, you were scared as shit. What the fuck could you do here?

As you stood there shaking, Gilda looked down at you and gave you an dissolute expression. She did not look like she had good intentions. Was she looking at your bag? And what the fuck was Chrysalis doing?! She was a lot crankier than usual, you thought she'd conduct herself better.

Wait.......you were in a situation in which police were hassling you, there was a misunderstanding, and you had a chance to be anyone you wanted. You don't know how, but you started to think hard on how cartoon characters would handle this....if this didn't work..you just might crap yourself. "NYMOUS! MY ROYAL ADVISER AND CARETAKER! STAND DOWN! WE WILL NOT MAKE ENEMIES WITH FRIENDS OF EQUESTRIA! I, PRINCE ANON, DECREE IT!"

And that....made everyone stop with a look of "wut?".

"Prince what? Oh, you gotta be kiddin'. There's no way you're a prince. Nice...no, ya know what? That wasn't even a nice try, that was terrible" Gilda states, she didn't even seem to find it funny.

"Yeah, what's up with you kid? You couldn't come up with anything better than that? I mean seriously, prince? Randomly out of nowhere? Ain't buyin' it." Rainbow Dash shrugged

"But I am too a prince! Nymous, tell them!" Come onnn.....Chrysalis...

"A-ahhh yes, he is indeed a prince" Chrysalis bows to you without hesitation or reluctance. "I'm sorry prince Anon, forgive my rudeness. It won't happen again." Ahh good, she went right into it without any trouble.

"Good, now then, fine police ponies, let us conduct business" You look up to them, but they only smiled, then chuckled, then began to laugh, they had to land to keep themselves from losing balance.

"Dash, are ya hearin' this?! That's too hilarious! He thinks we're actually buyin' it. What a dweeeeeeb!" Gilda chortled

"I know! It's pretty cute actually! I think I can even forgive Miss snoots over there, that's rich! Seriously kid, it's too much!" Rainbow Dash was doing her best to calm down, but it sounded so damn hilarious to her. "I mean, how would you even prove it? You don't look like you have anything on you that would make you princely. C-c'mon, lets go down to the station before I choke. Hahahaha"

...You had to think, because Chrysalis looked like she was going to lose her shit. What was wrong with her? She's usually calmer than this.

....Wait...

You take off your bag and tip it over, causing your bits to fall out from the overflow. Immediately Gilda and Rainbow Dash stop laughing. They just looked upon the bits with amazement. Not even greed...just...amazement.

Gilda took one immediately and bit down on it. Her beak didn't pierce the coin. Her eyes then went wide. "Yo Dash......these are real"

"It can't be..." Rainbow Dash took one of her own and tried to bend it with her teeth. It didn't bend, she then took a close eye on it. Then her eyes too, went wide. "No way....these are real. I haven't seen this many old style bits in so long. I thought most of them got melted down when they converted the rainbow factory....but this is the real deal. How did you come across all this, kid?"

Old Style bits?....Shit, you better keep up the prince act. "Call me Prince Anon...it's my title after all"

Rainbow Dash was now getting suspicious of you, prince? With all these "old style" bits? "Uh huh...Prince of what exactly?"

......

"Erm..."

"Don't waste your time speaking my liege, you need to save your energy after such a long trip." Chrysalis steps to you and gives you a gentle pat before facing Rainbow Dash. "He is the prince of Bueno Aires. A very very distant land that not many have heard of. These bits here are what we had from our treasury. We value current exchange and the currencies of any and all land. We had come to Equestria for vacation AND business purposes...are you to tell me these bits have become expired?"

Gilda now seemed a little worried. "Yo Dash, I think these guys are the real deal. I don't want to cause no war here."

Rainbow Dash's attitude suddenly became rather timid"Y-yeah...erm. To er...answer your question...ma'am. Y'see, when Flim and Flam became kings-"

"THEY BECAME WHAT?!" That was...WUT?!

Everyone looks at you funny again. Chrysalis giving you an expression to calm down.

"Ahrm...Sorry, erm..I have issues with my father and succession...it's...umm..sorta a trigger in my brain." You chuckle nervously.

"Right..erm..anyway. They errr, had all the old bits collected, melted down at the old rainbow factory, converted into the new Flimflam style bits, and redistributed evenly across Equestria. It kinda went well, Me and Gilda pooled it all together to get to the top and get these comfy jobs. Other ponies didn't seem to understand, and now there poor and homeless...I kept telling Fluttershy spending bits on animals was dumb...but she just didn't listen..." There was a hint of sadness in Rainbow Dash's voice before she shrugged it off. "But whatever, her choice, not mine, I'm not giving this job up for anything."

...Ahh right...Equestria did have factories after all..how could you forget the rainbow factory?...But..more importantly. "Wasn't there a couple of princesses ruling before?"

"Yeesh, you guys really are from far away. There was only one actually, but when King Flim and King Flam swung by and started improving Equestria with all this cool stuff and making it safer, everypony opted her out and voted them in. I mean, check this out!" Rainbow Dash brandishes her leg attached blaster. "Who needs stupid magic when you got this thing?"

...What in the fuck happened to this world that the ponies voted out fucking Celestia?! "I-I see...erm...so are these kings in this town?"

Rainbow Dash shook her head as she took a card out of her shirt and stamped it. "Nah, they live up in Canterlot...speaking of which..." Rainbow Dash walked over to you and handed you a card. "Here, the bosses up top want me to give these cards to any big business pony they haven't met yet. Since you're a prince and all, I guess that counts. For three days you can eat for free, sleep for free, and can use this to get a ride over to Canterlot if you head down to the "rental and rides" place down in Flamsville's northern side. Just remember to stick to the right, Flimsville is on the left side. You can tell which town you're in by checking out the statue of the kings where Golden Oaks library used to be."

You take the card, and just give it a blank stare "..Yeah...."

“Wellll, anyway. Me and my deputy has got important work to do...so uhhh...sorry about everything and you two enjoy...the towns...erm..yeah. Really really sorry about the trouble...and if you need law enforcement immediately, just show em that card and your golden...welp..erm...seeya!" Rainbow Dash gives you a nervous salute and flies off. Gilda following her.

Chrysalis just looks at them fly off with pure agitation. "How do you like that? Their greeted with royalty and they fly off, that birdbrained oaf even stole some of your bits while you weren't looking. I'm sure "Rainbow Dash" took notice...we got fleeced. Ahh well, we still have plenty...and they seem more valuable than they were back home...so then..."prince"...what do we do now?" Chrysalis looks to you, waiting for your answer.

...She was acting really odd. "Chrysalis....are you alright? You kinda got more angry than usual there." You were....actually concerned. Both with her agitation and asking for orders.

"I'm fine..." Chrysalis rolls her eyes at you and turns away. "Just disappointed we just didn't end them. Not like it matters here....now then. What do you want to do? Since you want to take charge, you might as well lead."

...Something was up, you could just tell. Even in her transformed state, she wasn't looking so hot. "Alright...let's go into town and check out how things are. Absorb the culture. Then we'll get going to Canterlot, get a hotel, and see the "Kings" first thing in the morning. Sound like a plan?"

She nods. "The best we have I suppose....let's go"

And so you both wander into town. A mini replica of of a modern city from the 50s mixed with some human intricacies like cars, gas stations, and plenty of ponies just walking around...none of em looking pleased about anything. God...you were having nostalgic flashbacks. The worst part was the huge road that separated the towns. All that noise, all those cars.......christ. All that road rage even. "This place is terrible..."

"I ag-Omph! HEY WATCH IT!" Chrysalis shrieks as a pony bumps into her.

"Why don't you watch it!" The pony yells back

"I'll tear you apart you useless slug!" She continues to yell.

"Whatever, I have work to get to. Go be a nuisance somewhere else!" The pony turns around to continue on his way.

"..Why you..."

You tug at Chrysalis to try to calm her down. "Nymous...Nymous..just let it go...it's just...geez, it's just how places like these are..I can't believe it's actually like this at all...It's just like home."

".....I see...mnnngrrr. These ponies piss me off as much as the nice ones. All that bustling, shouting at one another on the streets, they don't even take the time to say hello...it's sickening."

Yeah...totally odd. You'd think she'd be ok with that. "We just gotta relax....yeah, maybe we should just head over to that place they mentioned and hitch a ride. there might be a place to get some eats along the way..."

Chrysalis eyes you with a mean look

"....Sorry, I forgot you feed on.......Oh shit...." ....Was that it? "....Chrysalis...are you hungry?"

"......." She just turns away from you. "Let's just get to Canterlot already...."

.....She hadn't gotten food since she got here. Hell, the trip from one end of the dead Everfree to the other was pretty damn long. And Gilda and Rainbow Dash didn't help things. "Alright, let's just...hrn?”

You noticed a cloaked figure with a familiar pink tail coming out from the back end, the tail was straightened however. This figure was following a rich set of ponies strolling down the other end of the street on the town divide. "...Pinkie?" You whisper to yourself.

And then, she snatches something stealthily from them and runs off in another direction into an alley.

"Chrysalis...gimme a moment..." You tell her as you make your way to the alley It was almost like being spirited away.

"What are you doing?" Chrysalis asked, still highly agitated, but you weren't paying attention as you try to cross the street. But cars started either stopping or forcing you to run as they yell at you to get off the street.

"Ahh geez!" You scamper and dodge.

"GET OUT OF THE ROAD YOU STUPID URCHIN!"

"GOSH DARNED DUMB KIDS!"

Shiiiieett.

You dove for the sidewalk as you took deep breaths. "T-that...That was stupid..."

"Clearly..." What?! no way

You look up, to see Chrysalis right above you. "What?!....I didn't know you could teleport!?"

"What are you talking about, you idiot? I can't teleport, I just used that path all those other ponies started walking across to get to the other side, see?" She points....to a crosswalk...

"...Ugh...fuck me" Well Anon, clearly you were a fuck up if you forgot basic human shit.

However, there was no time to lose. You get up quickly and rush over to the alley Pinkie dove into. "Come on! We gotta chase after her before she gets away!"

Chrysalis just followed at a slower pace. "...Why...Exactly?"

"We just do..come on!" You run through the alleyway, only to come to a dead stop when you notice Pinkie with her hood down, looking at a dead end wall.

"Darn it! Why do I always run into the alleys with brick walls?" She said, annoyed with herself.

You slowly approach her from the backside, and calmly speak. "Pinkie?"

"EEEP!" Pinkie springs around to face you. "...u-uummm..heya...little colt...and erm....miss. How are ya doin?" She smiles nervously, sweating, waving her hoof. Her mane....was flat, non puffy, like when she is Pinkamena...but she didn't look insane or crazy.

She was nervous...christ...she became a thief...if Rainbow Dash said was true. she may also have spent her bits irresponsibly when they got redistributed evenly. "Pinkie...erm...Hi, um...So...I'm fine....how are you?"

"I'm......wait....how do you know my name?" She looked pretty confused, until she narrowed her eyes at you "...Are you from another dimension?"

..Goddammit Pinkie! Stop breaking existential boundaries! "N-no...no. Look, I just heard about you from somewhere. And then I noticed you stealing something. What happened?"

"..." Pinkie flinched and stepped back carefully "...Heard about me?...So you know...I take stuff?.....Are you gonna turn me in?"

"No...no I'm not" You give her a kindly face and step forward.

"Then how have you heard of me and yet not gonna turn me in?....Do you know how weird that sounds?...That's like...super weird...or a bad joke..." Pinkie looked like she was getting ready to spring above you.

"..Pinkie, I know it sounds weird...and sudden. But....can you tell me what happened?...I need to know"

"What happened?....What? You're right...that is sudden. You chase me in here, you know who I am, and now you're asking me what happened and I don't even know what that means." Pinkie reaches her hoof out towards you, and touched your nose before pulling back "....But you're real. Don't you know there's cash rewards for turning in thieves?"

Chrysalis raises an eyebrow at her. "...Is that advantageous to you to just blurt out like that?"

"I'm just saying, sheesh. It's like you aren't trying to trick me to turn me in...well!" Pinkie yells at the both of you "Turn me in already!.....Wait!...D-Don't do that!" Pinkie backed off onto the wall, pressing her back to it, scared "P-please?"

........That was Pinkie alright. Same as she's always been. But..you had to be more clear. "N-no, Pinkie. Look, I'm not gonna do that. I need to know what happened to you exactly, what happened to Equestria, what happened to Princess Celestia?"

Pinkie stayed silent for a moment. She found this entire encounter weird. "...I think this is the first time anypony has trapped me just to ask questions....but....do you promise to not turn me in if I tell you?"

"I Pinkie promise"

Pinkie looked really confused at that "......What?"

....You felt your heart wrench on that one. Pinkie not even knowing the pinkie promise? "It's a special promise among friends, it means you'll never break it, you do it like this...Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye" You do the motions. Pinkie just stares.

But then, in classic Pinkie fashion, it hits her like a bright flash and she almost immediately understands. Like it was natural.

"....I think I get it...wow..wait." Pinkie's eyes go wide, then tear filled. You notice her mane wiggle just a little "Did you say "Among friends"?....We're friends now?"

Chrysalis groans "I wouldn't OMPH!"

You nudge Chrysalis before she could finish that sentence. "Yes...so please. Tell me what you know"

Pinkie nods and sits down to explain. "Alright friend! Well let's start with Celestia since I really dunno what happened with her. See, I've lived on a rock farm for a very very long time, so we don't really know what goes on. But what I DO know is that ponies got really upset and angry at her...so she stepped down."

"...She...stepped down? Just due to a few angry ponies? That doesn't sound like her" Chrysalis contemplated.

"I wouldn't know...she just stepped down, but she still apparently lives in Canterlot. As for Equestria....you really don't know?" Pinkie was so perplexed by your lack of information.

You shake your head.

"Well....King Flim and King Flam took over after she stepped down. Everypony loved them because they gave money to everypony and stopped so many bad guys. They even defeated King Sombra when the Crystal Empire appeared." Pinkie explained.

"WHAT?!" both you and Chrysalis yell out at the same time.

Pinkie was surprised. "Didn't you hear? They stomped him with the crystal heart. The newspapers says they used their super improved helicopter machine to get up to a tower, then they used this cannon thing on the copter to shoot the heart into him. It was apparently amazing that all the Crystal Ponies instantly loved them....surprised you never heard"

They fucking.....What?! You look to Chrysalis...who just looks to you.....WUT?! "...o-ok..e-ermm...s-so..." You clear your throat.....Good christ..... "Ahrm..ummm...so, why did you resort to stealing?"

Pinkie winced, and looked down in shame. ".....Because we have no money. Nopony needs rocks anymore now that there’s all these fancy gadgets and gizmos. Nopony likes rocks or coloring rocks or even eating rocks in soup. Mom and Dad didn't want to cut a deal with the Kings because they didn't trust them, so we fended for ourselves until the farm went belly up. Then we moved here. I tried using my share of the money everypony got to start a party shop...but nopony wanted my kind of parties...they wanted the much more extravagant ones. So...I only steal enough to help my family. I try to do more....but Boulder.....Boulder is so brave...he forgoes his food so we can have just a little more....poor Maud...it breaks her heart....every day"

Pinkie started to sob. Was...was that true? After seeing RD...and every other pony…

"....Relax dear, I understand your pain. I too know the hardships of providing for a family. But please, cheer up. You're with friends now, and we care about you" Chrysalis says softly, with love in her voice. Wut?

"R-really?...T-thank you...I'm...really glad to know there's still friendly ponies around" Pinkie's mane started to slightly inflate.

...Chrysalis was making a set up...wait...money...ahhh! "She's right...in fact..." You take off your bag, and open it, spilling out a good amount of bits. "I hear these old style bits are worth a lot. Why don't you take some?"

Pinkie just stares at them, utterly astonished. "............I-is this a joke?"

You shook your head with a smile. "Nope, I want you to have them. But, in return, you have to call me Nonny. And I'll call you Ponk, how does that sound?"

Pinkie's mane and tail inflated to full on fluff. She smiled, and cried, and pulled you over to cry on you. "T-THANK YOU SOO MUCH NONNY! OHHHHHH.....MNNNNNGHHHHHH. THAT'S...S-SO MUCH! I DON'T EVEN KNOW HOW YOU GOT IT! BUT....BUT....THE FACT YOU'RE JUST GIVING IT TO ME....OHHHH...BOULDER IS GONNA BE SO HAPPY TONIGHT WAHHHHH!" She wailed.

You just pat her on the back and nuzzle in her warm but wet embrace. "It's ok Ponk, just make sure you put it all to good use, ok?"

"I will! I wil!! And since we're such good friends already! I'll give you a nickname too...hmmnn...what about...Anon!" Pinkie was so ecstatic.

....Oh wait NO! "N-no, Ponk....The reason I said to call me Nonny is because that ISWFED"

She gave you a super tight hug. "YUP! ANON SOUNDS LIKE THE BEST NICKNAME EVER!" You were shaking as she put you back down...s-shit...why does everyone hug you so damn tightly. "Say! I know! Why don't you two come over for dinner tonight. I'm sure seeing some friendly faces would do everypony some real good!" Pinkie says cheerfully.

"Accctuuaalllyy, me and..Nonny...need to be going. We have important work to do. Besides, I'm sure your family will be simply heads over hooves with just the money you now have." Chrysalis cuts in.

"Awwwwww.....really?" Pinkie was pretty disappointed.

Chrysalis nods. "It's very important. But just the fact you're so happy is enough to fill our hearts with love" Chrysalis gives her a cheerful smile.

"...Ok...Well, I wish you both a very very very safe trip! And when you're done! Maybe you both can stop by sometime!"

You smile...that sounded nice..especially after what you have seen so far. "That'd be nice, Ponk"

And with that, Pinkie went on her way. She said she'd sneak the item she stole back to the owner before they noticed. And she just...bounced off like old Pinkie would. As you saw her bounce off...you look to Chrysalis. "She wasn't lying about any of that right?"

Chrysalis shook her head. "No, she was giving off high amounts of love"

You nod. "Is it enough?"

"It'll do. Being a queen means I need to feed more than my drones...but this will do." She said as she swiped her tongue along her lips

"Good..." You just stare off towards the exit of the alleyway. "And good luck, Pinkie"

So, it seems Flim and Flam were doing some wheeling and dealing. They were making odd deals it seemed. With business owners? Is that why you had this card? What did it all mean? How did they get so rich? How exactly did they get Celestia to step down? Why are ponies such assholes? And why is everything they are getting away with seems ok? You needed more info on the story holes and even the details Pinkie gave you. But for now...there was something you needed to discuss with Chrysalis as you both walked to the rental and ride place.

You both tried to stay on the emptiest part of the sidewalk. It was getting late, the sun was going down and the streets were emptying just a bit, but nowhere near as it normally would in your Ponyville. "So...Nymous. I have a question for you."

Chrysalis rolls her eyes. "If it's about the pink one, I only did what I did for the love, don't look too deeply into it"

You shake your head. "No, I figured that much. I'm talking about a sleepover with Diamond Tiara"

Chrysalis's eyes light up as she grins. "..Ohhhhhh, I nearly forgot about that"

"Yeeeaaah, why exactly did you tell her to invite you? I know you don't need the love. So are you doing it to just fuck with me?"

She snickered and then looked forward as she brushed her mane back. "A little, it also helps settle in that I'm your kind and loving sister, and it actually helps you with your relationship...you might even have sex. Shame about that other filly....oohh...she'd be soooo jealous"

Now you snickered....ohhh..she didn't know. "Oh? Funny you mention that. Because Applebloom recently learned a friendship lesson that basically finally ended that little string she was keeping on me. I guess that means I'll actually be doing the fucking....with you I mean."

Chrysalis denied it however. "Don't be naive, how could she possibly be over you so suddenly?"

"....You'd be surprised what happens when you learn causing chaos in someponys life is ultimately wrong. You just need a solid example from a spirit of chaos itself."

"What are you...." She stopped for a moment, and then said with a venomous whisper. "Discord..."

You chuckle. "Bingo, and I'm not worried about having sex either. You're just saying that to worry me. Looks like I win this time, eh? Because all you're doing is bringing me closer to Diamond Tiara without being torn apart by Applebloom. At this point, I don't mind it at all. I'm free from that triangle nonsense."

Chrysalis did a low growl. "....Fantastic...." She calms down just a little. "I'm still going to make it happen. You're still too much of a loser to truly handle making that filly yours."

Wha huh? "Excuse me? I think I'm doing just fine."

"Until she starts making demands or commanding you. You don't think I don't know that you bend to her whims? You need help, period. And I'm the only one who can give you that help"

....You didn't need help...mnnngrrr... "Yeah no...you're just saying that because it's food."

She chuckles. "That certainly helps..."

"More like that’s the only reason. Like I said, I can handle it just fine." You were just always caught at a disadvantage after all.

"You mean like you handled that false fight I heard about? Oh yes, truly stupendous work." She says in a sarcastic tone

Dammit..... ".......You're a bitch..."

Chrysalis grinned. "I know, I'm getting to really like it too. But I have to admit, you are definitely learning" Chrysalis noted as she looked ahead, her tone was that of a wise leader

"Learning?" Wha? What did she mean by that?

"Don't be coy. Prince..."

Oh, she was talking about the trick on RD and Gilda.

You actually grin at that. You went from annoyed to feeling pretty humbled. But only because it was such a big play. "Pretty good eh? I had this feeling it'd work. Ponies are super easy to fool"

"Oh I know. Most never tend to question any of the off details unless it affects them directly....the fools" Chrysalis always found it remarkable whenever she tricked ponies, that none ever seemed to ever figure her out until it's too late

"Let's not get too insulting now. Remember, some of those "Fools" are my friends. And you live among them too, y'know? You gotta be a little nicer about it"

Chrysalis was annoyed by that remark. She felt you were pressing the reform issue again. "I can do whatever I please...tch, why do you always have to ruin the moment like that?"

"Because I'm not evil, but if you want me to be honest. Ponies can be pretty foolish. I'll agree with you on that, is that better?"

"You just don't get it sometimes, Anon, you can't just "agree" with me and expect it to be ok. Maybe once in awhile you could at least indulge me in my type of banter..." Chrysalis was sounding pretty cranky again. Maybe she didn't get as big as a fill as she thought. Or maybe she was just being naturally bitchy.

Just indulge her, she was obviously too sensitive at the moment to think properly"Y'know, maybe I will next time. There are a few ponies that kinda tick me off sometimes"

But that catches Chrysalis's interest immediately instead. "Really now? When we say "few ponies", I would hope you mean some of your friends...right?"

"Yeah, what...interested what I have to say already?"

"It depends....does this extend to the Elements of Harmony?" Chrysalis grew ever more curious

You nod....hrnnn, maybe you managed to reopen a chance to bond. You just had to make sure not to fall too deeply in. "Well, I'm mostly talking Twilight. I mean, I get what she's saying about friendship and such. But she's always fucking being nosy and annoying a lot."

Chrysalis pulls up her memories from when Twilight wouldn't leave her alone when she was Cadence "Nosy doesn't begin to describe it. I only knew her for a little while and she just wouldn't leave me alone! If it wasn't for the fact I was disguised as Cadsnce, I would have gotten rid of her sooner....I should probably had just done it. But I couldn't pretend to be both her and Cadance at the same time. It'd be too much."

"Oh trust me, I know. I was pretty much forced to stay a whole week with her. I learned some things yeah, but it was common knowledge and good manner type stuff anyway. And all because I was handling a threat to Equestria on my own. And despite it being dangerous, I got it done, I saved the day, and she didn't do squat. But because Celestia decided to be be nosy due to Twilight being nosy. I got punished...."

"I think you should have been rewarded. To think, to punish a hero just because of their body's age. Celestia knows your true self and yet she herself seems to be more of a nuisance to you than Twilight. Why do you put up with it?"

You shrugged "Because they aren't bad natured ponies, not like in this dimension anyway. I'd like to stay in good terms with them and I don't want to upset Fluttershy. But I tell you, sometimes I just wanna slap em when they think they know more than they actually do. Or being super annoying like Rainbow Dash, you think that cop thing was bad? She was following me during my entire date...She pretended to be my waiter! All on a hunch that I kicked her butt during Nightmare Night....I mean I did...but still."

Chrysalis shook her head, she found that sad "...That's just pathetic"

You giggle a little. "Yeah, but that's Dash when she gets super deep into something. " You shake your hoof in front of you with a cocky smirk. "Just one slap, bam! Just to knock her to her senses"

"Ha! As if a single slap would work. But, back to Twilight. Is she even good at her title? She seems like a joke to me" Chrysalis asked.

"Yeah, she's not too good at it unless she has her friends with her. Actually, if you want a laugh. Discord shut her up recently. I mean, you know about the Chimera attack right? It just makes me wonder sometimes how that just kinda blew over. Discord brought up a good point that nearly getting me killed within a week was ridiculous. I mean really, c'mooooooon. Even AFTER all that she still decided to be a cunt and nose in on my life. It's like, if she could just cut it out with that nonsense for just a day, she'd actually be fun to hang with...but she ALWAYS...ALWAYS has to go Moral Mode at the drop of a hat." You scoff at your own words “I bet you, I just bet you that you couldn't even play a prank on her without her getting all uppity about it. And I don't even mean like...Discord level, I mean just a harmless little one. She even gets annoyed with burping."

Chrysalis was actually pretty amazed you had so much to say. "Well, that's a lot of pent up animosity. How have you not just pointed your horn at her and just turned her to dust?"

You smirk and shake your head, realizing what she's doing. "Sans you trying to convince me, the method I use is huge amounts of patienOW!"

"Watch where ya goin ya mook!" Says a trenchcoated pony as he passes by.

"Why don't you?! fucking shit ass asshole! You know what, If I had a.....a.....uh oh...." You were tapping at your neck.....the horn was gone. "Oh shit!"

"What's wrong?" Chrysalis noticed you rubbing at your chest.

"That asshole stole the horn! I don't even see him in the crowd anymore! Goddammit! What do we do?!" You began to panic

Chrysalis snickered "Wait here...I'll get it back" She bent her back away from the crowd to "Grow" some wings.

"Oh, you're gonna get violent?..." For once, this seemed fine

She nods, with a serious look.

"Then make sure to knock that asshole right in the nuts!" Goddamn thieves, taking your shit! Go Chrysalis!

"With pleasure...I needed some stress relief anyway" Chrysalis lifted off, it only took her a moment to find the pony, being the only one in a trenchcoat.

In the next moment. You could hear him screaming for dear life. "What are ya doin' you crazy horse!"

"You stole something you lowlife scum! And I'm gonna take it back! Even if that means ripping you limb from limb!"

"W-Wait! AGH! STOP! YOU'Re VIOLATIN' ME! OW! YOUR HOOVES ARE SHARP! AGH! DON'T SLAP ME! MY TRENCHCOAT! ARGH! COULDN'T WE AT LEAST DO THIS IN A HOTEL ROOM?! URGH THAT WAS MY NOSE! MY POOR NOSE!"

"GO APOLOGIZE TO THE COLT YOU MONSTER! OR I'LL DO WORSE! I'LL SHOVE YOUR TRENCHCOAT RIGHT UP YOUR ASS" Chrysalis shouts

"GEEZ LADY?! WHAT KINDA LANGUAGE IS THAT?! IT WOULDN'T EVEN FIT!"

"oh ho, you think? DO YOU WANT TO FIND OUT?! BECAUSE I'LL BET I CAN GET IT SO FAR IN THERE IT'LL COME OUT THE OTHER END!" Oh geez, maybe she learned TOO much human vocabulary.

"G-GEEZ! OK OK, HE CAN HAVE IT BACK! IT'S JUST A STUPID PROP ANYWAY! GEEZ, I WAS JUST GONNA SELL IT FOR A FEW BITS!" He screamed and whined

Other ponies started to back off, some even running, as the now beat up and bruised trenchcoated pony came up to return the horn. Thank god he wasn't anyone you knew. You might have felt bad. It was just some monochrome douchebag. "Here, kid...geez...yer mom has real lip....I mean..." As the pony drops off your horn to the ground, he looks to Nymous with a dirty smile. "yer kinda pretty when yer angry....so uh, how about we just ditch the kid for awhile and find a hotel? ehhh...ehhhh?" He wiggled his eyebrows.

Chrysalis just looked to him with disgust, then made a little kicking motion with her hoof.

Ohhhh, you get it, she wanted you to attack while his attention was towards her. It seems she was giving you the honor. You flip around and rev up your back legs and buck him right in his nuts.

In a super high pitched voice and his eyes rolled up, he falls onto the ground "GYAH! MOMMA!...I THINK I'M COMIN TO SEE YA....s-sorry about the eggs..." And then he fell, unconscious.

You were cackling from his fall, that actually felt good. "Hahaha! Did you see that?"

Chrysalis was cringing though. "...Oh...I think even I felt that. Good on you, Anon...but...oh, I don't think I'd wish that on anypony.....wait...yes I would. What am I talking about?" She then started cackling with you. Both of you finding it hilarious as the other ponies just shake their heads...and go on with their day.

...In fact...that makes you stop laughing. "...wow...nopony is even helping the guy....woo....Ok...let's...let's just go ok? I think the nastiness of this place is getting to me."

But Chrysalis was still laughing at it all. "Speak for yourself, it's poetic, a world of loveless ponies don't care when one of their own falls to the ground in deep pain, it's ridiculous, it's hilarious..." And then she stops laughing, realizing the dread of it all...."It's tasteless.....Anon, there's no point...it's all empty here. What's the point of it all when everypony doesn't care?.....Ohhh" Chrysalis gets a chill "This place is dead...there's not one pony who had any heart to see how badly he's injured."

"Yeah, I noticed....woo. Let's just go" You both continue on your trek. This place was making you think darker thoughts than usual. Twilight and Celestia...even Rainbow Dash weren't as bad as the aura this dimension had. You let yourself maybe slip a little too much. You didn't even feel bad that you kicked the guy in the nuts. You just felt bad that nobody cared...even as you looked back. He was just laying there, twitching.

And Chrysalis didn't seem happy about it either. But that was due to the realization that there really was nearly no love for her to drain at any time. Even if pummeling a pony was fun. The fact that nobody cared meant she had no food, she was actually starting to fear that there could be a point where she wouldn't be able to feed...and would starve. It ended whatever "cheerful" conversation you both were having quite quickly.

You both stayed silent with these individual thoughts in mind until you reached the rental and rides place. Hell, the place itself was plain with a checkerboard floor and cracked ceiling. And with it being later in the day, you both didn't have to wait in line.

And everything went as expected when it came to this world. You showed the card you were given, and you were given a circular VIP chip. You were told there was only one limo available. You just go in, slip the chip to the driver, and they'd take you to Canterlot. Simple enough. But the way he spoke made it seem like he really didn't care for his job.

You look to Chrysalis as you both step out to find the limo. "Chrysalis, you alright?...you went quiet after we left that guy on the ground."

Chrysalis decided to be frank with you, she wasn't hiding anything, nor was she dancing around it. "Anon, for once. I'm having trouble maintaining my senses. I'll be honest with you, It was humiliating at times that sometimes we had to scrounge up love from even the lowliest of creatures and animals...or even that orb. But it at least maintained us. Here? I wouldn't be surprised if there were no changelings in this future....They may have all perished. There was always love floating around in our world, but here, I never thought I'd feel such emptiness from everypony being jerks. I don't even think I'd care to take over this Equestria...it's been ruined. The only solace I could find here is to see those who'd I call my enemies suffer. That's all"

It was off putting to see her vulnerable...who'd have thought it'd just take a world full of shitheads to soften her up. She was doing her best not to sound like she was weak. But you knew she was worried more than she was letting on...she may have even been scared. She needed...a friend. Hell, you pretty much had to. You were the one at fault for her being here in the first place.

"Chrysalis, don't worry alright? You're not here alone, you're with me. And we're friends right? I know you, you're gonna tease me sooner or later and get your fill like you always do. Heck, I bet you the hotel we end up at will have one bed. And You know what that means right?" You nudge at her and wiggle your eyes playfully

Chrysalis stopped for a moment. She almost got angry at you for your clear showing of pity. But she held it back, she felt that now was not the time to hold on to too much of her pride, and instead. Gave you a gentle pat. "Don't sound so enthused, Anon, it's just as agitating. But..." Chrysalis sighs, knowing she didn't have to look around to make sure no one else was hearing. "Thank you for the thought.....I'll just have to tease you harder since you'll already be expecting it. But I'm serious, for once...Thank you"

You just give her a gentle smile. "No problem, that makes us even by the way"

"Even?" She asks as you spot the limo and walk over to it. It...was odd looking. It looked like a long carriage with it's driver side being covered like a normal car and a large sunroof in the back despite there being no walls like an actual limousine. It was just an odd looking car/limo/carriage hybrid.

"You saved my life with the ex-captain, I save your life with the fact I actually care about you...makes us even" You explain smugly

Chrysalis let's out a small laugh as she smirks. "Cheeky..."

Chapter 243 - Flim Flam Future Arc

The door in the back was unlocked just like the clerk said. You both go inside and notice how roomy,snug,warm it was. And it was well stocked with some drinks and food. The driver's window was closed. But it did have a slot you could slip the chip in. "Hello?"

"Hello there! Ya sound young there, son, Is anypony else back there with you?" A stallion with a southern voice says....it...almost sounded familiar. At least he sounded cheery.

"Just my royal assistant" You answer

"Just your...what now? Where are your parents?" He asks, you couldn't see him. And he couldn't see you. But you decide now is a good time to slip the chip through the slot in the window.

"Not here, I'm on a visit to see the Kings on my own. I'm Prince Anon of Buenos Aires. I have one of those card things and everything..so..who are you?" You do your best to sound cheery and innocent, hoping this guy wasn't an asshole....but that voice...you know you heard it before.

"They call me Audit. It's a fine name I think. Prince of Buenos Aires though? 'fraid I never heard of such a place...But I can't argue, if you have the card then it's gotta be true." He says

"You'd just trust us just like that because we have a card? From what I've seen from this place, everypony seems suspicious and rude" Chrysalis questions. Finding the driver's demeanor odd.

"Not about trust these days. It's just that the Kings want to meet anypony who are still independent and rich. And it's my job to drive these kinds of ponies to Canterlot." He starts the limo, and starts driving. You note his voice was a little hesitant in anything having to do with Flim and Flam though "Though, if you want my honest opinion, I'd get outta here if I was you."

Hmmm? Now he was being ominous and confusing. "If you'd want us to get out, why drive us to Canterlot then?"

"I can't say anymore than that son, I already said too much. If you're gonna see the kings then it ain't my place to say anything bad about them. I could lose my job"

Wait...were you being recorded? No, then he wouldn’t have said anything at all...But still "...are we being watched? Is somepony recording this?"

"What?..no, it's just there was this other driver, I think Derpy was her name. She said some things and well...I don't see her anymore. The passengers reported her. Look, I don't want to talk about this anymore. I mean, hey, I don't usually talk at all. Passengers usually don't like to hear the drivers talk."

Chrysalis could sense something coming off the driver, a hint of love somewhere, as if he wasn't a lost cause. "But you're comfortable talking that much with us it seems. Is it because of our age?"

"Well, maybe, the young'uns were usually easier to talk to,not anymore these days. But I can already tell you both seem a lot smarter than you look. ahh, now look, ya got me talkin' some more....you don't want to hear me talk" He says as his tone becomes a little meek and worried

Holy shit, you didn't need to be a changeling to know this guy was lonely. Poor fella. It was also pretty clear he didn't like Flim and Flam either "No no, I don't mind talking. To tell you the truth, I've run into these kings before..."

"Ya have? Now that is mighty odd. They don't usually leave their castle these days unless it's important...What did ya think of em? We're they the bee's knees every other pony thinks of them as?" Audit asks. Seems he truly has never met them

"No, they are stupid con artists. And I want to deal with them personally, and find out what they are up to" You say bluntly, maybe that will get his trust.

The driver started to laugh at that "Now aren't you a little fireball? Look son, how about I just drive ya back if you feel that way. Even if you're a prince, that's not a good thing to do. All I can suggest is stay out of any deal they want ya in, it's nothing but trouble. whew....feels good to relax though.. always usually gotta watch my mouth"

.....No, that voice...you had to know what he looked like. "Mr.Audit...do you think you can lower the driver window so I can talk to you face to face?"

He let out a gentle chuckle "I haven't been asked that in many a moon, sure son, why not?"

For Audit, his driver window was actually a one way mirror. So he can keep an eye on the passengers without them ever seeing his face. It was placed so the drivers would never be a bother. But for this one time...he'd lower it.

And as the window lowered and the limo slowed. You saw that face looking at you. That once rich and classy stallion who, despite the name, was not a greedy fuck. He was now wearing a simple driver's hat, his mane was a little messy, and he had a bad mustache....but that was him. ".....no....way..M-Mr.Rich?!"

The limo suddenly stops to a screeching halt. "Audit" Looked at you with dead seriousness. "....What did you call me?"

Chrysalis took a deeper look herself and came to the same conclusion "Hrmmm, It is Filthy Rich...."

"....." Filthy took a deep breath, and turned his head to the side, looking through the outside of the windows. "How do you two know who I am?"

...oh shit...was he hiding who he was? What the fuck happened?!

And...you needed a lie. And quick.

"...We're uhm...super big fans. The Rich name was always so profound to me. You always made so much money but you were never greedy or mean. You were of true class among the elite. A pony I really respected and really wanted to meet. I could tell who you are just from looking at you." ...and that wasn't exactly a lie either. Now you just had to hope he suddenly didn't go berserk.

"......." He looked forward, away from the both of you "......So is this the part where I get taken in?"

what? "What do you mean by that? Mr.Rich, I'm telling you the truth."

"hrmmmm" Chrysalis was being less emotional, and more observant "Hiding in plain sight. If you haven't been caught yet, it means you were long forgotten. And yet...these "Kings" want to see you regardless. Interesting, sorry to disappoint you Mr.Rich. But we tell the truth. We have no interest in turning you in."

He stopped, and then sighed in relief. "Well, heh...I don't think I would have been able to see them anyway. I thought my heart really would stop right there and then. So, if you’re not gonna turn in this hasbeen pony and you ain't turnin' back. Then what exactly do you have planned? I'd reckon a couple of foals can't do much, but it's amazing just to see you want to try"

.....god...what happened to him? "We don't know yet, we don't even know how any of this happened. Mr.Rich, I know it sounds really sudden, but we really REALLY need to know how this all happened, and what happened to Celestia....and..even what happened to you. What happened to your family? Your business?"

Filthy sighed, and leaned back onto his driver's chair, moving the driving wheel with his hoof a little has he lamented. "Son, there's a lot to tell. And normally, I wouldn't be inclined to tell anypony. But I haven't had a chat with any decent folk for so long that I don't think I really care to keep anything a secret anymore. So, do you want me to start from the beginnin' of what I know?"

You nod "Yes please...if it isn't too much trouble."

"It ain't" Filthy slouched a little and looked into the now night sky. "A long time ago, two unicorns came to our faithful town of Ponyville. They had this machine nopony had ever seen before, capable of making delicious apple cider at double the speed of any Apple family member. Anyway, the Apples ended up challenging them to a cider making contest to try to get them out of town. They were trying to move in on their business you see....well, they managed to do just that anyway when they won the challenge and Sweet Apple Acres became theirs. The Apple family had to move to Appleoosa. From then on, Our soon to be kings were making some real cash, real fast. But at the time, it didn't seem they cared about profit. That's what they told me when they came to me with a deal. I distribute their cider across Equestria and I see fifty percent of the profit. How could I say no? So we drew up a contract and it was good to go. And that was probably my biggest mistake...." Filthy shook a little with those words. Feeling large amounts of regret. He felt he was the one that started the chain of events that led to Equestria's fall.

"That's confusing. If you took that much profit from them, then how could they expand so rapidly?" Chrysalis asks

"...Well, that's the fifty thousand bit question...Ain't it? Well, with their speed and my distribution. They were making good money just the same. And since we were doin' the distribution work. They never had to leave Ponyville to sell cider. They used that time to make all kinds of new fancy gadget and gizmos and started to sell them and show them off from place to place. And just like their cider making machine, it was all a success. They sold them at high prices and barely if ever had a complaint. Nopony would come to realize that the profit they made was only one part of their plan. The machines they were making were replacing many of the old ways ponies did things. Even replacing jobs. I tell you, the corruption may have been slow, but it was happening and nopony took notice. Ponies just started relying on these doodads as they became more available. Demand was very very high after a while."

.....there had to be something bigger to cause all this though "Enough to cause this whole mess? Did nopony notice?"

Mr.Rich shook his head. "Not yet, especially when they opened yet another business in pest eradication. Again, it seemed simple enough. They used their personally made machines to get rid of a few annoying pest problems. Then started hiring pest ponies out of their regular jobs to take care of it. Causing many employers to lose their best exterminators and close down. But then, somehow, it went from pests to monsters. The more profit they made, the more they took over, the more elaborate their machines got and the more powerful they became. Chimeras, Manticores, why...even changelings were no match for their army of exterminators"

"Hold on!" Chrysalis's interest was piqued "...what do you mean not even changelings?...what happened?"

"Not too sure, they hired and equipped nearly every exterminator in Equestria and sent them right into the changeling hive with the promise of a huge reward. Not a single changeling made it.....And their queen? Well, I haven't been around for quite some time. So I have no idea what happened to her"

Chrysalis's right eye began to twitch in anger "WHHHHHHAAAAATTTT?! I WAS DEFEATED BY A QERFRGRE-" You jump at Chrysalis and keep her mouth closed.

Filthy looks upon her with confusion and surprise "W-what got her goat?"

You gulp, and lie as you do your best to keep her muzzle shut "I-it's just her time of the month"

".....hooo..mercy. Ummm....do you both need a moment?" Filthy asked, unsure about the whole thing.

Dammit Chrysalis! She was still raging as you held at her mouth."P-please? Is there a way to s-s-soundproof the back?"

Filthy nods "Yes sir...let me just..." Filthy felt that whatever Chrysalis was going through was private. and closed up the driver window and closed up the chip slit.

Chrysalis shoves you back as she growls loudly "HOW DOES THAT EVEN HAPPEN!? HOW!? WE ARE THE MOST FEARED AND POWERFUL SPECIES IN EQUESTRIA! HOOOOOWWWW!" She screams out in a rage

"W-woah, calm down Chrysalis." You do your best to calm her down anyway you could. "It's a d-different world remember?"

"IT'S AN ALTERNATE FUTURE YOU IDIOT! A FUTURE WHERE MY ENTIRE HIVE IS TROUNCED BY AN ARMY OF USELESS,DRIBBLING, INCOMPETENT HANDYPONIES! HOW AM I SUPPOSED TO BE CALM ABOUT THAT!?"

"I...I dunno...erm. But, look. If you want revenge for your alternate self then you need to calm down. You're just a little extra agitated from lack of food. I get it, and I promise you. We're gonna smash those guys. But until the time comes, can you please try to relax? If we get found out, then it's all over" You couldn’t blame her for being so angry, but come on!

Chrysalis was fuming, steam coming out her nose. She was taking breaths, trying to calm down, but she barely could. "Anon...we better end up ruining their very lives. I'm going to hold you to that!...." She pokes you on your chest hard enough for it to sting "Understood?"

You nod, giving her a confident stance as you rub your chest. sheesh, she didn't have to poke that hard. "Trust me, we will. I don't think I can be merciful after seeing Ponk and Mr.Rich this way...and we still have yet to see Twilight,Applejack, and Rarity...if we even seen them....and then there's Celestia..."

".....good...Alright...I'm calm, I'll just visualize running them down in a car over and over.....mmmmmmhmhmhm" She gives a slight chuckle as she ruminated on the thought. Though, she was still internally angry.

With that, you knock at the window and wait for Mr.Rich to open it.

He does, and looks back at the two of you "Well now, everything alright back there?"

You nod "Yeah, can you continue please?"

Filthy Rich nods, and continues. "Well, needless to say. They were getting favor,praise, and all that good stuff quickly. Even got a blessin' from Celestia herself. Even around those times, Nopony had noticed the changes they were causing. They were secretly taking over businesses with shady deals every other day. And nopony was the wiser due to their hero status. I didn't like it one bit, they were still partnered with me and I would not tolerate just runnin' other ponies out of business like that. It ain't right, you're supposed to work together for maximum customer satisfaction...and profit" Filthy let's out a distant chuckle "Ah guess that was a bad joke. Either way, after I broke it off with them. It was already too late. They had every way and means to conduct business wherever they wanted. And I was soon losing business myself. It was a lot of pressure, the Misses...she was willing to take my darling Diamond Tiara and leave if things didn't change soon. And let me tell you.....things did change, and it wasn't for the better. How much do you know about King Sombra?"

"A friend of mine told me they somehow defeated him or something. But, that doesn't make any sense. How did they know about the Crystal Heart? How did they know how to use it? Why would they even brave going over there? They are pretty cowardly" This you had to hear.

"...You dunno the half of it. I don't know if Celestia had started to realize what was going on or not, but the sudden rise of King Sombra really put a damper on things. By this time, King Flim and King Flam were well known, well beloved, and everypony wanted their piece. Equestria was changing into a place where having the biggest and best things meant being the best. And their heroic acts made many ponies believe they could handle that nasty King. The truth is they have put out a bounty on the King. The reward was an amount of bits they'd never actually be able to pay. But posters themselves didn't say who was giving the reward out, so while everypony else assumed Celestia, I knew better. But just the same, I had to do something. My company was in ruins and I was about to lose my family. I'm no fighting pony, but I signed up to go try to get that reward. Even if I didn't get it, the praise and honor would have not only fixed things. But I'd think I would have been able to out those brothers by then....but.."

Filthy’s expression suddenly went grim "It was a trap. Everypony that took the call was only used to to slow the King down. I saw so many ponies get enveloped by that darkness. I...gave up and ran into a nearby cave, taking any supplies I could get my hooves on as I ran towards it. I couldn't fight Sombra, I realized I would only lose...and then my dear little jewel would be fatherless. I only meant to hide for a little while. But there was a cave in, and yet I could hear Sombra’s ghasty wail from outside from when he was defeated. I was trapped in there for an entire month, living off the supplies as I slowly chipped away at the rocks. until finally, I got free. Cold and alone, I ventured into the Crystal Empire. And, there really isn't much left to tell. I learned that in the month I was trapped that those two charlatans now had the full support of Equestria. Many a pony had turned on Celestia, blaming her for every attack that had happened in the past. Where she only sealed, they utterly decimated. Their devices and gizmos made life easier to the point ponies felt they having things were more important than having friends. And by the time I got back to Ponyville, it was too late. My home had been sold off, Barnyard Bargains was taken, and I never even found my wife or precious daughter....I don't know where they went. And without a means to travel or make any real money. I was stuck here. I took this job as soon as it became available so I could at least travel between two towns. So maybe hopefully, along the way, I'd spot them....I haven't yet....But I ain't ever never gonna give up hope. As for how they knew about the Crystal Heart? No clue, from my understandin', all it really was was dumb luck. I have no doubt those two would have left everypony to fry if they couldn't find the solution to Sombra. It was all really just terribly dumb luck. And finally....Celestia..."

Filthy let out one more lamentable sigh as he looked upon the both of you with a painful frown. "the backlash was too much. Wars were threatened, ponies fighting everywhere whether or not she should rule. And the majority saying she shouldn't were winning something fierce. Her ideals were crumbling around her, she couldn't maintain the kingdom. Especially with those two making all kinds or promises, such as taking money from the rich and evenly distributing it among all ponies and producing all sorts of jobs for downtrodden ponies....Jobs they took away from them in the first place, well....After all that. If Celestia didn't step down, things would have gone belly up for good. So the last big deal was made, Flim and Flam were voted into royalty, and Celestia would be kept around as a novelty, and to keep the cycle of day and night goin'. Their end of the bargain would just to make things peaceful again.....well, they did it. Just not in a way anypony would have truly liked. But it don't matter anymore, nopony cares about each other anymore, they only care about their money and their things. Now the kings just go after anything they don't own, and make it theirs through their horrible practices. None of it is right, Just none of it....."

Filthy then looked to you with dead seriousness "I'm tellin' you son, Ya should really turn back. Ah don't think there's anything you can do...And you'll end up like everypony else if you try" There was no hope in that sentence. The poor guy had lost everything, even his last bid, trying to get a bounty when having zero bounty hunting skill, turned out to be a useless action. There was no happy ending for him. Not unless something is done.

"I can't just head back sir. I know it sounds impossible, and I know you might not believe me. But I think I have the means to reverse this." Did you? Discord mentioned the horn was weaker here...how weak? You didn't know. But you put your hoof on it as a self sign of hope.

"....I just want to get my hooves on those two maggots. And I won't be convinced otherwise." Chrysalis obviously just wants them dead. Her words were filled with bitter cruelty and hatred.

"Well then..." Mr.Rich starts the limo back up and starts going forward "Ah guess if I just forced you both off you'd just walk to Canterlot. I want you both to think about what I said, because what you're talking about is plum crazy."

"...It'll be fine sir. I know we may look young, but we're very capable" You reassure him

"......" Mr.Rich just pondered on it for a moment "Can't say I feel right taking you two to Canterlot if that's what you're plannin', doesn't even sound like yer gonna think about it. At least tell me you got somethin' that might give you some sort of edge, it might help me feel better"

"Do you really want to know?" Chrysalis said with a grin

.....wut? ".....Nymous...what do you mean by that?" that was worrying.

She ignores you as Mr.Rich turns his head slightly "'course I do"

"Well then...let me show you" She snickers

NOOO! WAS SHE THAT OUT OF HER HEAD?! With a flash of green flame, she changed from her "Nymous" form to that of her original. Queen Chrysalis herself "What do you think?"

"WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!" GODDAMN IT! She’s gonna scare him off!

"What do you think? He was going to drive us away to try to "save" us. I'm tired Anon...oh so tired of this place. Well then Mr.Rich...what do you think?" She asks with a grin

Filthy Rich's eyes went wide as he stopped the limo. ".....H-how?!"

"Oh it's easy really. And you don't even need to fret, I'm actually here for the side of justice. Justice for me anyway. But I suppose it supports ponies too. Whether you run or you drive us there makes no difference to me. You'd be easy to get rid of and impersonate" She gives him a death glare

"..Y'know, these limos are equipped with a knockout gas. I coulda used it while you were in your little halfthreat. But, and this may just be my sharp senses getting all dull-like..." Mr.Rich looks to you as he calms himself "That colt you have there ain't a changeling, is he?"

"Curious, that fact alone makes you not fear the situation?" Chrysalis says, eyeing him closely

"It just makes things more curious. The fallen queen partnered with a regular ole colt. That's gotta be the strangest pairing I ever did see. I'd think I was dreamin'...but I only have nightmares these days. No point in being scared if there ain't no real hope." He stops for a moment as he starts up the limo again "So, are you going to try to save us? or enslave us? Because I can't imagine you havin' any kind of good intentions yourself unless that colt convinced you otherwise. And that colt." He takes a look back at you "..you Mr.Anon, I can see in your eyes that you want to do some good. If I still had a fortune, I'd put it all on that bet."

"...So you're gonna take us to Canterlot...and not gas us?" You ask with a gulp

"I am, ya mind if I say one last thing? and ask ya one last question?" Filthy says as he looks forward.

"S-sure" This was so damn awkward. Chrysalis is right in the limo, and he's just ok with it. You can't imagine what is really going on in his mind if that's the case. He drives the limo in hopes in running into his daughter, yet doesn't really worry if he would be doomed in the process. You even wagered that ponies in this future....no, it wasn't a good thing to think about.

"Bring Princess Celestia back to us. In anyway you can.....It's a lot to put my faith in a colt. But if you got the Queen of the Changelings with ya, then I'm guessin' that horn around your neck ain't a prop...right?" Filthy asked, seems his senses didn’t dull after all.
You look down at your Horn pendant, and back to Filthy Rich. You give him a nod for confirmation. "You're right. It's a powerful horn that goes beyond unicorn magic. I can only use it once a day. But once we come up with a plan. It'll help us get it in motion"

"Then I guess I really am the craziest stallion alive. Deliverin' an ole Equestrian enemy and a little dynamo straight into the capital. Treason at it's finest" Filthy laughs "......Maybe after this is all over I could ask Princess Celestia for some help...." His joy and laughter dies nearly immediately "...with somethin'"

You knew what he meant....you pop open your saddle bag and spill over a good chunk of bits through the window. "How about you get started right after you drop us off? I heard these old bits are worth a lot of cash. You could sell some for some new bits and keep some of the old ones just in case."

Filthy Rich turns his head to see the bits fall. "............"

He doesn't even say anything, but you can see him shiver, and whimper just a little.

You look to Chrysalis, who has since changed back to Nymous, yeah...she seems to be feeding. She's sitting back and relaxing. letting it all unfold.

"..l-look son, I'll be takin' you both to the luxurious "FlimFlamFortune" Hotel and casino.....but if ya rather m-me drop ya off somewhere else instead...." Filthy Rich says, crying,whimpering joy in his voice.

"Just drop us off in a regular hotel, someplace out of the way. I'd rather not have to deal with a place like that" You didn’t want to see ponies being at their finest in being assholes.

"Gotcha....and thanks Mr.Anon....thanks a million" Filthy Rich was working so hard not to burst out crying. god....geez...you wanted to reach out and give him a hug.

There wasn't much left of the ride at that point. Upon driving up the mountain side and into Canterlot. The only thing to see was the spectacle of it all. Canterlot was bathed in light as if it was a hot summer day. Posters, statues of the brothers, different colored lights, and every spot basically telling you to stop and spend money as far as the eye could see.

God...It was Las Vegas. Which was funny because you could have sworn Equestria has a Los Pegasus or something like that. huh...

"Eghh....why so many lights?" Chrysalis covered her eyes, she hated it.

"It's the way things are now. Welcome to Canterlot, where the richest and scummiest come to waste their cash." Filthy Rich announces in a half sarcastic way. "You two must have really not been around Equestria if you don't even know what happened to it's capital city."

"You can say that..sheesh. How does Anypony get any sleep?.....y'know, don't answer that. They probably just don't." christ...

"And that'd be the right answer....Well, it's a good thing for you two then that we're headin to the darker side of town. If I can say one thing, at least you don't gotta worry about too much crime here. The place is crawling with the Kings' enforcers." Filthy Rich says as he turns on a dark street and heads towards a rather old looking building. "course that means you two gotta make sure not to do anything nasty yourselves, that includes you missy."

"Oh of course, No need to worry. You should know changelings best asset is to blend in" Chrysalis says with confidence

Chapter 244 - Flim Flam Future Arc

It was dark, with only a few streetlights and lit windows to light the area in this dim part of the city. You look over to Chrysalis, donned in sisterly form, looking onto the moon.

"Hmmmmnn" She looks up in wonder

Huh? You look up, and could see the mare in the moon was indeed still there. "What are you thinking about?"

"I'm actually taking a moment to compose myself and my thoughts. I've been too easily frustrated since we got here. Not a very good thing to be when you're on an infiltration mission. Those accursed kings...Oh how I'd love to skewer them with my horn. But, merely destroying them won't help the situation. No, I don't even want to destroy them...."

You look upon the door of the hotel. Huh....more like motel anyway. It was almost as basic as any other door. "You want to make them suffer, right?"

Chrysalis takes a breath and calmly exhales. "Exactly, I'm glad we're on the same page. But until I exact my revenge I don't think I will ever be in good spirits."

"Revenge for your other self? That's kinda poetic in a way." You start speaking like a bard before a tale. "In a world where you're gone, you feel the need to right the wrong that this future brought upon your race simply because it was still you"

"Don't be cute..." Chrysalis starts walking towards the door with a huff..

"Oh come on, I didn't mean to get you upset. I thought you would have liked the thought that I was totally with you on this."

Chrysalis let's out a groan as she opens the doors to the small lobby. Really, it was small. Just a desk with a pony reading a particularly huge book. holding it aloft with magic. As a wall of keys sit behind him or her. A staircase leading to the rooms just beside her. At least it didn't look rickety.

"I'm just not in the mood." Chrysalis walks over to the desk, takes another breath, and does her best to sound cheerful. "Hello! We're looking for a room. We have a royal pass, I'd hope it'd be good here. The prince does need his rest and we don't want to trouble you too much. If you can just give us a room and lead us to it, we'd gladly do the rest. You needn't tell us about anything in the room. We'll figure it out ourselves so we don't trouble you."

"Card...." Said a familiar and disgruntled voice from behind the book.

"I got it" You take the card and slip it onto the counter. You couldn't even tell if she looked at it. But, after a few seconds, you hear the jingle of keys. She had put a key right next to the card. It had a tag that said room "101".

"Here's your key..." She says in a bored and uninterested manner.

Well, that was rude. "Excuse me, but aren't you at least going to show us where the door is? This is our first time here" Chrysalis tries to be as polite as possible, trying her best not to flip out this time.

The book is gently put onto the counter as a familiar purple...unicorn...looks upon her. "Can't you just follow the numbers? You can count right?"

You go wide eyed...even Chrysalis goes wide eyed....holy...fucking..shit. It's Twilight Sparkle without princessification, the original flavor.

Both of you say nothing as Twilight starts to get really annoyed. "...Right? Don't tell me you both don't know how to count. Ugh, just start from one and work your way up. It isn't hard"

Chrysalis started to slowly smile, then she twitched, then she started to laugh, and boy did she laugh. Laugh enough that Pinkie herself would approve of this. "YOU'VE GOT TO BE KIDDING! THAT'S TOO GREAT! THE GREAT TWILIGHT SPARKLE REDUCED TO A MERE CLERK! I HAD TO SEE IT TO BELIEVE IT! OH THANK TARTARUS THERE'S SOME GOOD IN THIS WORLD!" She nearly doubled over in laughter. So much for nothing being able to cheer her up.

You just stared in shock. The Friendship Princess, The element of magic, Twilight Sparkle...reduced to this. In fact, things were actually starting to become clear. It's as if there was a major event that prevented the mane 6 from ever having a good friendship with each other.

"Ooooookkkkkk.....weirdos...I swear." Twilight was alarmed that she was known as "The Great Twilight Sparkle". But she took it as someone having told them about the motel, probably a nutcase. In fact, she thought it was a whole bowl of nuts if royalty decided to stay here.

You walk up to the counter. Something..a seed of sorts, was planted in your mind. Something..worrying. "...Twilight, what are you doing here?"

Twilight looks down at you and rolls her eyes. "What does it look like? I work here. Sheesh, what lunatic recommended you to this place? And why are you both acting as if you know me? Do you know how creepy that is?"

....Shit, she..didn't amount to shit in this world. "It's just..." You thought to ask her about Celestia, but it was already becoming clear that it was possible that she was never Celestia's pupil in this future. "We were told how...great and nice you were"

"Whoever told you that is...eh" Twilight sighed and leaned back on her chair. "I don't even need to say it. Look, you get what you pay for. And you didn't pay anything. If you wanted service, there's a whole other district where ponies ...do..things" Twilight raises her book and looks deeply into it as she covers her face "Things I...don't know. But I do know it sometimes gets loud enough to be heard even from here and it drives me nuts!...ahrm" Twilight composes herself and starts to read as she continues to speak. "So yeah, follow the numbers and you'll find your room. Ok? ok...." Twilight tried to ignore Chrysalis's laughter. Just taking her as a crazy mare.

....Something was clicking in your brain. …But..you couldn't figure out what it is. "Nymous...come on.."

"W-wait! Wait!" Chrysalis walks over to Twilight and puts her hoof on her book and puts it forcibly down. "You must tell me, how does it feel to deal with such drek every day?! I must know!"

Twilight gives groans. "Do you mind?"

"I do, now tell me. I need to hear these words" Chrysalis's ears fluffed up

"Oh..." Twilight smirked back at her. "It feels something like..This!" Twilight uses her magic to slam the huge book tightly onto Chrysalis's leg. Making her pull back as she stifles a yelp. "Get it? Or do I need to show you some more examples..." Twilight was hoping she'd back off after that.

"...You ....." Chrysalis nearly lost herself again. But then turned her head to hide her anger. "I...apologize"

"No you don't" Twilight turns the page. "Now will you both just leave me alone?"

"Come on Nymous...please?" This was getting you both nowhere fast.

"Hmph...not worth my time anyway" Chrysalis turns and starts walking up the stairs with you in search of room 101.

Chrysalis just looked on ahead as you both went up to the floor that had rooms in the 100s. It shouldn't take long.

"...It appears the elements of harmony never came to be in this world. That explains the change in events and how those two "Kings" managed to take advantage of it." Chrysalis let's out a giggle. "Even if I am a little ticked, seeing Twilight reduced to that still does my little black heart good. Hehehe...hmm?" Chrysalis looks to you, noticing you being silent, with a dead stare "Anon?..." You were lost in thought. "Anon..." She gives you a gentle nudge.

"W-wha?..oh..yeah...hmmnn" You say in a stoic voice

"Tired?...." She asks

"Sorta...hey look, there's the room...now let's hope it's...clean..eheh" You chuckle nervously.

And luckily for the both of you. The room was actually kept in good order. The lights worked, it had a working bathroom, a window......with a building blocking the view. And one bed. Chrysalis tapped on the bed. it was...ok. Firm, and yet a little soft. "....Get what you paid for indeed. Your bed is a million times better than this"

"That's probably because my bed is enchanted with magic to make it that way." You put your saddle bag beside the bed and climb on up, rolling around a bit before putting the blankets under you. "..It's good enough."

You scootch to the side and lay your head down on the pillow as your mind wanders into your thoughts again. Chrysalis takes notice that you don't seem to be nervous or actually tired at all. She was...dare she even think it...concerned. She stays within her Nymous form and climbs into bed behind you. Before she could make a grab for you however, you instead move backward into her and nuzzle your head, confusing the hell out of her.

"Interesting...I can feel it. You're actually yearning for affection all of a sudden. Is there something on your mind, Anon?" Chrysalis says in a gentle tone as she cuddles you a little closer. Feeding off of you. "You usually have some objection to this, even when you do agree"

....... "Chrysalis, I need somepony to talk to...I have something really heavy on my mind. And I just want to make sure I'm right"

"And you've chosen me to talk about this? Are you sure about that?"

"....Well, you're my only choice...and I'd like to ask you, just this once, to be like a sister. Please?" This world was really getting to you, you came to dread what came next.

Chrysalis pondered on this. She wondered what was suddenly bothering you. She was thinking that she shouldn't, and just tease you. But she herself had this nagging feeling on her, as if the last few times she's spent with you had meant something. No, she discarded it, it couldn't be that. No, instead, she'd do just as you asked, snd feed off the growing love that would no doubt flow from you. "..Alright Anon, I'll play along. Who knows? I might be able to impart onto you some of my incontestable advice"

"R-really?"

She pulls you in and cuddles you the best she can. "We're friends, Anon. I do believe that's what friends do"

....You didn't even care if that was bullshit right now. You had to get this sorted in your mind.

"Well, seeing Twilight, this Twilight, the way she is made me think on a few things about our Twilight..."

Right then, you expected a snarky comment. But she only rubbed her muzzle on top of your head and said in a gentle tone "Go on..."

"....." You regather your thoughts and continue. "Well, old Twilight was kinda like this. Not to this degree, but she wasn't really a pony who cared about friendship. So seeing what she could have ended up as compared to how she actually is, it made me think. It made me think on the way she treats me compared to other ponies. I guess at first I really thought she was mostly uptight. I knew she was capable of being friendly, but she was always up my ass about something. Or telling me I was wrong or that I shouldn't do things on my own because it's dangerous. I thought it was because I was a colt that made her more anal about things. But then I thought back even further, when she tried to seal me up thinking I was you...."

You sigh, put your front legs around Chrysalis's right front leg to grasp it and hold it close. "And I realized it's more than that. She's an Element of Harmony. And..considering my Cutie Mark and the fact I am Discord's "son", it must not be easy for her to process everything I do and the way I act. Every time she lets her guard down, either me or Discord fuck with her, and everything falls apart. She does what she does because she's genuinely worried about my well being. But because Discord is in it to cause her problems, she probably feels like everything keeps going back to square one, or even worse. I bet it would have been a non issue if I just listened."

"But that's the problem, isn't it?" Chrysalis...was actually paying attention. "She follows order and harmony, and you follow chaos and disorder. You're human after all. You're not suited to be as nice and loving as these ponies. But, you aren't evil and cruel either. Nor are you as much an...hrmm..I suppose "Asshole" is the appropriate human word....But you aren't as much of one compared to Discord. That's probably why Twilight hasn't given up, because she still has that spark of hope, no matter how pointless that spark may be when given the fact you aren't going to follow her ways and continue to do what you're doing"

You let out a disapproving moan. A disapproval of yourself. "That's...true. But it doesn't mean I can't ease her mind and try being her friend, an actual friend. What I need to do is apologize and have a sit down with her, one on one. I cause her nothing but grief simply because I act different from any other kid. In fact...That's what I'm gonna do. When we're done with all this, I'm going to talk to her personally, and we'll get this straightened out once and for all. If I don't do it, then the cycle is going to repeat itself. I have to let her know exactly what's going on without letting her in on who I really am. It's the only way.." You nod, it sounded like a sound plan. "What do you think Chrysalis?"

But the only answer you got was the sounds of her snores. She must have fallen asleep on that last bit. Poor Chrysalis, lack of love must have really tuckered her out. You stretch your head up a little and give her a kiss on the cheek. "Goodnight Chrysalis...thanks for listening." You snuggle in close, and fall asleep.

And when you do...Chrysalis opens her eyes. She puts her hoof on her cheek where you kissed it, then lets out a near silent grumble. "..The things I put up with..hrnnn.” Chrysalis feels you yawn and hug on tighter. She puts her hoof on your horn for just a moment, then slowly pulls away. "...Anon, why must you torment me like this? Why can't you just let these feelings go and join me. You're so much better than them. You have a mind that could finally bring these ponies down for good...."

You sleepily and accidentally tap her nose with your hoof, and then turn. You were shaking. It appeared you were having a nightmare.

Chrysalis sighed and rested her head above yours. "...Troubled yourself enough to have nightmares even...such an idiot...."

She was actually doing her best to nurture you until you calmed yourself. But she said nothing more afterwards. She didn't want to think on what feelings she was having at the moment. She didn't want to wonder what the meaning of it could be.

Chapter 245 - Flim Flam Future Arc

The morning comes.

You felt...oddly refreshed. As if you slept comfortably throughout the whole night. And not only that, as you leaned up and rubbed your eyes, you could smell the aroma of eggs on toast. "W-what the?"

You look around, and you notice Chrysalis was already up, carefully setting up a plate of eggs on toast and juice on the table...Wait.....She doesn't eat that stuff.... "C-chrysalis?...D-did you make me breakfast?"

Chrysalis sighs, rolling her eyes at you. "Not even a good morning...." She turns and finishes up by putting a coaster under the cup of juice.

Ahh shit, where were your manners?....Shit..where did she get hers? "G-good morning..sorry, ..It's just..did you make breakfast for me?"

"I did, I had to go down and steal the bread and eggs since Twilight is absolutely useless in this world and has apparently never heard of room service. And then there's you being an idiot since you haven't eaten since you got here..."

You hear your stomach growl as she says that....she was right. "O-oh...r-right"

"Yes...you need to eat to survive,remember? Now come and eat. It's not much since the concept of food here is small portions. But I made extra of everything to make sure you have the strength for what we are going to do today. I swear..." She shakes her head in disbelief "Sometimes I wonder if there's an end to your stupidity or if it's just an endless abyss of absurdity"

Wow, even when she's being nice, she's mean. Even Discord doesn't do that. He just tiptoes around it. You get off the bed and go to sit as you dig into the toast. It was actually weird not needing spoons, forks, and such. but egg on toast didn't need those anyway. Eh..the bread could be better though. "Thank you, Chrysalis..."

"You're welcome, Anon, never ever bring it up or I'll kill you...anyway" Chrysalis changes, not in form, but her clothes. She wears a suit like a secretary, her hair in a ponytail, and little cotton cuffs on her hooves.....Oh shit...She looked hot.

You tried to focus on eating, taking quick glances at her while she looks at herself in the mirror.

She doesn't even gaze at you as she looks upon the mirror. "I was hoping for that reaction. The easier on the eyes I am, The easier it will be to speak to them. Stallions are more talkative when looking at a pretty face. And I assume it's no different with those two."

D-dammit..she could still feel your senses. "I-I guess...But what exactly are we going to do after? You want them to suffer right? Beating them up won't work because we'll just get thrown in prison. And then there's the problem with the world. We have to find some way to fix it."

"Infiltration and conquering takes time Anon, time I don't even think we have. So we'll need a shortcut. Our first order of business is to locate Celestia. As much as I hate to say it, if we ARE going to fix this world and beat those two con artists. Then we're going to need somepony to take their place. I'd do it, but not without my children. So Celestia will have to do."

"But what do we do when we find her? That doesn't automatically mean we can retake Equestria." You needed something more.

"It doesn't. That will take more planning and time. But Celestia might hold the last key pieces we need to formulate a plan. So, we need to find out where she is first. And since we are going to meet these "Kings", you are going to have to do your best at acting like a prince..." She turns her head towards you with dead seriousness in her eyes. "And by doing your best, I mean perfect."

You gulp down your juice, and wonder exactly what she meant. Because you had no idea what kind of prince you should be. "And how exactly do I act "Perfect"?"

"Easy, you act just as pompous, rude, and utterly soulless as any spoiled low class wretch of this world. You'll fit right in. You don't even have to hold back on me, I've since regathered my senses and can handle a few insults. Just keep in mind we're only there to get Celestia's location. And then we'll move on to the next step."

You nod, filling yourself with determination, her words was that of a true leader. She probably didn't even spend a second thinking of that plan. She's done this before, it would only be natural. "Got it"

"Good, I've also got us a ride through a cab service to drop us off at the castle so we don't need to walk. It's low class, but that can be explained away as not understanding how Canterlot works. Just act insulted by it and you'll do fine."

"Wow Chrysalis, you really got a handle on all this, huh? I didn't think you'd want to go as far as saving this Equestria though"

"It's the only way to return home isn't it? It's a necessary evil. Don't look into it." Chrysalis makes a few final adjustments, making her coat look shinier and cleaner than ever before. "There...are you ready Anon?"

You munch down on the last of the toast and step down, grabbing your saddle bag from the side of the bed. "Yeah...let's do it"

You and Chrysalis leave the hotel and enter the cab. You were actually glad that it was some random rude pony and not another pony you knew who had suffered under this world. You didn't know if your heart could take it. You had to mentally prepare for this. You had to be a clearcut..royal..douchebag. You could do that. You've seen enough media to know how.

The morning sun was dreary as you approached the castle...the castle itself...was different. Some of it looked the same, though rustic at this point. As the rest was converted into a massive factory. Holy shit...these fucking guys. "...God, what have they done?"

"Focus Anon, everything that's happened here is to be expected. This is no time for games. Think like a changeling...and you'll do fine."

...Mnnnn...you could only imagine how this was going to go. no doubt those two assholes were going to be smug as fuck.

You both are let out at the front of the castle. Chrysalis takes a moment to fix her mane before you both walk towards the front door. There were a couple of guards, equipped with odd bronze armor, it looked like it had hidden compartments for weaponery. Every tower of the castle also had a guard stationed...including in the far distance.....oh god...it's Applejack. Far in the back was the applehorse. Oh christ...she was reduced to this? Knowing her, she probably only puts up with being a guard because it's a way to feed her family. You'd hope anyway. You couldn't see Applejack becoming a dick.

"When you show those door guards the card , remember to not make eye contact and look snooty. We need to create an illusion of pretentiousness that none of the ponies here would find a contradiction with if they ever spoke to each other about us" Chrysalis whispers to you

"Got it.." When you both approach, you hold your head up high and make a "Hmph" as you flash your card. They take a glance, and nothing more as they open the doors and step aside.....that was easy. You look upon the entrance hall, now a testament to Flim and Flam as many statues and paintings with their visage littered the room. "....That was easy, they didn't even say anything"

"Probably to create the illusion that we're welcome, don't drop your guard. If there’s one thing I doubt, it’s that these two are defenseless. I can guarantee that we are either being watched. Or, If what we've learned so far is true, that they have some sort of device made specifically to protect them"

"Probably, I never took them much for inventors. But that cider machine they made was fantastically ridiculous. No ordinary pony could have built that...but then again I say this in a world that has rainbow factories. And what's with this place? I mean, holy fuck, I don't even think Discord is this into himself" There were statues and pictures of the brothers everywhere, just, everywhere. In many heroic and even sensual poses. It was disgusting.

"I don't know about that. I'd still say Discord is the most narcissistic being I've ever seen. Just keep going, we don't want to linger here for too long." Chrysalis says as she carefully looks about

You both venture towards the door to the throne room. Not a single guard in sight. Were they all outside? Something just didn't seem right. "...Yeah...I think you're right. I think they have this place rigged in some way."

"If I had to take a guess, their defenses would be for themselves and any important area in the castle. Probably set for spies and infiltrators" Chrysalis says as she tries to spot at least a single trap.

"It's just crazy though. But, it fits. We were told that ponies became materialistic. They probably don't trust the guards being inside. And their inventions aren't going to say no, try to steal from them, or care who you are when they go off...."

"Just stay focused Anon...we're almost there" Chrysalis opens the door. And holy shit.

The throne room was striped blue and white, with a red carpet leading from the door to the double golden thrones. Mechanical gears were behind the thrones, ever turning and shifting. The stairs that go up to the thrones were colored and shaped like their hats. And the stained glass windows? Replaced with what was no doubt their tale.

You both stay silent as you take another step to approach. But notice the two brothers themselves, adorned with giant crowns, were talking to...oh no way...

"And since the representative for Polomare Incorporated failed to even show, that would leave you, Rarity, to handle the catering and fashion of the Flim Flamtacular." Flim says as he rests on his throne, sitting sideways on the armrests, smirking his smug smirk.

"Indeed, what a pity. She may have been the better choice, but we'll never know. This is an honor for you Miss Rarity." Flam says, sitting proper on his throne.

"A very big honor" Flim adds. "And we expect the results of our choice to be just as big, you can guarantee that, can't you?"

Rarity, donned in a traditional business suit of her own, and her mane tied back, bowed to the two kings. "Of course your highnesses, I can promise you that the Canterlot Boutique will be more than ready for the festival. And of course, I will be sure to add my own personal touches that nopony from Polomare inc. could DREAM of matching."

"Good to hear" Flim says as he pulls his scepter from the side of the throne and just looked at it longingly. It had his face at the top of it.

"Very good. That concludes our business, Miss Rarity, you may go now. We must attend to our factory. We've gotten word some of our workers have been slacking" Flam says as he dismisses her.

"Lazy ponies no doubt, thank you for this honor your highnesses, you won't regret it" Rarity bows.

"I'm sure we won't, you are dismissed" Flim says, waving his hoof at her.

Rarity bows again, and makes her exit. As she passes the both of you, she gives you both a quick glance before turning her head way as if you were common riff raff. You both notice it.

You let out a quick sigh. "...They way she looked at us. The Rarity I know wouldn't have looked down at us like that"

It was depressing to be sure, But Chrysalis just looked on ahead and whispered. "Focus Anon, now's not the time to let your feelings control you. You said you could do this.."

You quickly raise your head up and make yourself snooty as possible. Chrysalis was right..you had to get it out of your head...you had to do this.

Flim and Flam were preparing to get up. You look to Chrysalis and whisper. "Quick...announce me"

Chrysalis doesn't even acknowledge you. Instead she just follows your command. "Your lordships, Flim and Flam, I announce to you that the prince of Buenos Aires, Anon, has come to meet with the two of you"

They both stopped, and looked at each other in confusion. "Brother, we're we supposed to meet with a prince?" Flim asks Flam

"Actually we were, but he never arrived at the hotel so I had assumed that it was actually nothing... We can't waste our time with no shows" Flam says

That was your cue. "No shows?! You dare refer to me as a no show?" You take out your card and throw it onto Flam's lap. "We were given this card as guarantee that we could discuss with the both of you matters of grave importance, but if this is how Kings in Equestria act then I have clearly wasted my time. Come Nymous, we shall return to Buenos Aeries"

Flam quickly looks at the card. It was real. "A-ahrm, w-wait. Do not be so hasty my fellow highness. What I meant was we hadn't known of your arrival. If we had, we would have properly prepared. I'm afraid we don't have anything prepared yet."

God, that card must have been super valid then. You wonder how hard it was to actually get. That ploy with the bits worked out better than you thought.

"Not even prepared? Do you both realize how much trouble it is for OUR prince to travel overseas just to meet with two unprepared Kings? How insulting. This could be seen as an act of malice towards the kingdom of Buenos Aeries. I hope you both realize that." Chrysalis told them, raising her head at them as if they were beneath her.

Flam didn't like Chrysalis's tone. "Excuse me Miss, given your announcement, you must be the Prince's attendant." And now he was being shifty, he wanted to try to keep her out of negotiations he was now going to pull from his ass. He felt he could take advantage of you. "No insult to you, but royal duties must be carried out by members of royalty. If we could privately speak with him and get something worked out early. We can send you both on your way."

"She shall not leave my side, Nymous is my most trusted adviser and caretaker. She is NOT to leave my side." You tell them, with as much pretentiousness as possible

"Yes, but. This is an important meeting among two kingdoms my young prince, you must understand." Flam tried to explain.

"Hold on brother..." Flim took notice of Chrysalis...in quite another way. "Let us not be so hasty. If she is that important then she must be of proper age, and yet her look is of a teenaged nature. Truly a perfect specimen of youth and I would not mind having her at our table."

.......Wut? No seriously...wut?

Even Flam looked surprised. "Brother...perhaps you are the one who is hasty. She is not important. Certainly not capable of royal negotiation" What Flam meant was, she was super qualified to make decisions just from her speech and that was bad given she must have a lot of experience doing it.

"You misunderstand brother..." Flim understood, he kept his eye on the prize, which was of course to swindle you...in fact, he wanted to swindle you out of more than just your kingdom. He pulls a thornless rose from his crown and tosses it so perfectly it lands in Chrysalis's mane. "I meant our dinner table"

WUUUUT?!

Flam started to understand, but he didn't fully agree with it, an outsider in their affairs? To save face, he'd agree. But he'd talk to Flim about it later. "Ahh yes, of course brother, indeed. Dinner with such a fine mare would be alright. However, we must also focus on our young prince. Can we not work out a quick agreement with you? I know it's sudden, but for you to come like this, you must want something done quickly. Am I right? Of course I am"

You raise an eyebrow at them. Trying to remain calm about Flim's...attraction. "Actually, I'd like to see more of Canterlot before I perform any deals. I want to see what this kingdom has to offer. And I'd like to start with it's former ruler. Surely you'd know where she is."

You turn to Chrysalis for a moment, and nearly drop your jaw as she blushed, looking to Flim with cute embarrassment......oh god...please be acting. Hell, you looked towards him, and you could see him smiling at her. Creeppppyyyy.

"Celestia? Surely you wouldn't want to see her, she's old and rather loony these days. We keep her about for the shift of days but she certainly isn't anypony you would want to talk to. Perhaps you'd like to see our hotels or casinos...maybe both. What do you say?" Flam tries to convince you.

You growl, and stomp your hoof. "What disrespect! I thought we were mutual equals. But to be treated with such.....no I won't even let it leave my lips. I wish to see Celestia..NOW! Or I shall return home immediately. Our kingdom is rich enough with it's rare minerals and machines. We don't need anything from Equestria to survive!"

Rare minerals and machines? No, Flam now felt he couldn't let that go. "Hold on my dear Prince, if we can have a moment of your time. Just one more moment. We can supply you both with the information you seek and a special gold card that never expires. Letting you do as you wish within reason as a special guest in our kingdom for as long as you need. We expect to have a deal soon of course. But, just think of it as our apologies for insulting you...GERTRUDE, WILL YOU COME HERE, AND BRING THE GOLD CARD"

Gertrude?

As you waited, Flim looked to Chrysalis with a grin and wiggled his eyebrows. "So miss, would you take me upon my offer and see me for dinner tonight? I promise to make it worth your while."

Chrysalis giggled shyly. "Oh my, I am but a mere adviser, you needn't waste your time on me"

Flim was trying to work her over. "Oh trust me, time is something I have a large abundance of."

"R-really?..Well then, perhaps we can reschedule for another day then. I still must att...end..to..my......Princes's....side" Chrysalis's jaw nearly dropped as "Gertrude" entered the room. No, even you nearly did. Straight to the fucking floor.

Gertrude was......Chrysalis. Dewinged, dehorned, wearing a basic pony maid flap, and some odd collar around her neck. "Hello your highnesses...is this what you asked for?" She holds out a solid gold version of the card you had. Flam takes it from her and uses his magic to hover it over to you. He waves it front of you as you just stare at.....that.

"Prince Anon...is there a problem?" He asked.

You snap back to attention. "O-oh...n-nothing..erm..that's..an interesting maid...you got there"

"Gertrude? Ahh yes, she would be. Use to be the feared Changeling queen until we convinced her to be our maid. That collar keeps her complacent, unless she wants a shock of course. But she isn't vicious, no quite the opposite. She might be the friendliest being you ever did see. So no need to be alarmed or scared of her." Flam says with certainty.

‘Gertrude’ bows. "You honor me, King Flam"

You take the card and look to Chrysalis...who was still frozen in shock. Ahh shit..please don't explode.

"Yes..Well. Anyway, If you are intent on meeting Celestia. She lives with her old pupil on the east side of town. We were rather generous with her you see, we gave her a large home that can be seen from nearly anywhere on the east side by looking for the sun adorned tower. Very easy to spot. We also provide her with food and anything she might want for her services… Though, she never asks for much. If you wish to see her, then of course that is fine by us. Don't ever feel restricted within our kingdom"

"T-thank you...We'll be going now. We do h-have a full day ahead of us..N-Nymous? L-let's go" But she was still just frozen there.

"Ahh hold on there young Prince" Flim hops off his throne and nears Nymous, and slips her a card before looking to her shocked face. "Yes, I know it's stunning for somepony such as I to be near one such as you. But I come from humble beginnings. In other words, I am quite approachable...And what I mean by that is that somepony as lovely as you should approach me when you are ready. I will show you what true class is like. Isn't that right brother?" Flim looks to Flam.

Flam cringed at that, he didn't like Flim's sudden interest in this mare. But he was never one to hurt or disappoint his choices. As Flim had never done it to him. "Of course brother,"

"See? Nothing to worry about my dear. Nothing to worry about...Hope to see you soon. I hope to see the both of you soon. Take care" Flim wishes you a fond farewell.

"Y-you too." You turn, as you hear Flim and Flam preparing to depart as they ask "Gertrude" for tea. "Nymous...let's g-go" But she still wasn't moving. "Nymous?"

You look towards her....she's just...frozen. Flim gives her one last look with a gentlemanly smirk. God, he must think that he left her speechless. Well..she was speechless. Christ....

"N-Nymous?" No Response....shit....you gotta get her out of there. You start pushing her out the door as Flam looks back at the both of you. He...found the whole thing curious. But a new kingdom was a new kingdom, and it would be his and his brother's soon enough.

As soon as you push her out the throne doors. You pant, and groan. Just getting her out the door was difficult enough. "Dammit....Chrysalis...snap out of it....come on. Remember? Stay composed?" She was composed alright..of what? You couldn't tell, she was still frozen.

Fuck....fuck..ok. You had to do it. You hoped it'd work. Because there was no other way.

You place the horn on your forehead. and focus as hard as you can in transporting both you and her to the east side of town. It works....sorta. You both do indeed teleport. But only back out, somewhere near the castle....or just a little further in fact. In an alley, a dirty one. What a waste of a charge...

As you look upon Chrysalis, the rose in her mane burns up in a green flame as her eyes glow and her face twists to extreme hateful rage. "YOU DARE MAKE A MOCKERY OF ME! YOU INSIGNIFICANT INSECTS! I'LL DESTROY YOU...NO..I'LL KILL YOU..THE BOTH OF YOU!"

Chrysalis jumps at a trash can and lifts it from the ground, she bucks it up into the air and brandishes her horn as she blasts it to pieces. Those pieces coming down and landing on her as you dodge out of the way. But her fury knew no bounds. The trash just burned away to nothing upon touching her skin.

"Chrysalis!..God..Don't kill me ok?! But you need this!" You rush up to her and slap her face, then dive and put your hooves over your head. "Now don't kill me, Please!"

Chrysalis just looks ahead for a moment, confused. "Hrn? W-what happened? Weren't we just dealing with those two idiots?"

You peek up at her. Did..she not remember?...Was it...too big of a shock for her? Shit....just..lie to her or something...god dammit. Things were fine until that happened. "U-um, you. Had a moment..sorta...and then we left...to an alley..and"

Chrysalis rolls her eyes at you "Stop lying to me..what happened? I don't seem to remember much of anything other than being invited for dinner..."

....That could work. "Ummm, you nearly blew up at that. And I teleported us out the moment the meeting was over. I mean, look at that trashcan..it's..you blasted it to pieces."

Chrysalis looked down at whatever remains there was. Did she do that? "I...lost my cool over being asked for a date? Ugh...I must be hungry again. Strange, I know I filled up before we left. Usually winning the favor of a royal means nothing but imminent takeover. I'd think I'd be more in control despite that idiot actually falling for me. But if I did that...over something like that.....Are you sure it wasn't something else?"

"Well, he was pretty irritating." You continue to lie. sweat coming down your brow.

"Hmmmmnnn...Fine, we don't have time to...hrm?" Chrysalis notices she had a card in her suit. She takes it and takes a look. It was plain white with gold lettering. It said "King Flim's card of personal approval" But on the back, there was a magically ingrained message "Miss Nymous, I hope to see you again soon. Please think of me whenever you look at this card"

Chrysalis gagged at it. "Disgusting...but to think I'd lose my cool over this. I hate this world. It's messing with my mind"

You nod in agreeance. "Yeah, me too..and uhm." You change the subject quickly. "Hey, we know where Celestia is...she's...erm..."

You look to the east. And see a tall tall tower with a sun on the top. That had to be the place. But holy fuck, it looked like it was pretty far. "Over there" You point to the sun tipped tower.

".....Huh...hrnnn, it almost seems obvious. And what of the brothers? We didn't agree to anything stupid. Did we?...I didn't...did I?" Chrysalis felt like she had a reason to gag, but couldn't place why.

You shake your head. "No, we're free to do whatever. But Flim.....kinda has an eye on you. It's....really off putting and weird."

"An idiot finding me perfect? It's normal. But I digress.....let's finally see what fate had in store for Celestia."

And so you both march off. This whole world...is fucking fucked up to no end. And what did Flam mean by...Old Pupil? Twilight? Does Twilight live with her?...Oh man....Celestia is probably fucked up beyond recognition at this point. You had to prepare your heart for this one. Because you had a feeling Celestia was less of a shadow of her former self. Especially if Twilight is taking care of her...unless maybe, the way Twilight acting was an act?.....Mnnnn

Chapter 246 - Flim Flam Future Arc

You both had decided to walk towards the tower. Chrysalis was taking in all the sights with disgust. "Look at them, always busy, always moving. Chaos everywhere with no true leader to keep them in line. I could shape these ponies up quickly if given the chance..."

You look up to her, already knowing the reason she's saying it. she's said it enough times already, it was getting repetitive. "Shape them up to feed off of, right?"

"......Am I repeating myself that much? Rgghh" Chrysalis growled, frustrated with herself. "It's just...look at them. This is what they must do everyday. They don't even care about the air their breathing...which by the way, ISN'T helping my mood. And then..." She takes out the white card she was given and stares at it "There's the kings. But...we could use this one to our advantage. We just need some sort of plan. And that requires us to put each and every piece together from the past before we move on to the future "

"You really don't mind...egh" You shiver in disgust. "Going on a date with him?"

"I don't, I've told you I've dealt with worse. And at least he seems to have some class. It'll be nice to be treated like a lady before we stomp them into the ground....still, I can't believe I lost my cool. If only I could remember what it was, if only there was some love around to nourish myself. But there's not even the faint traces of love in the air here. Even Discord's home has that, whether it be from the orb or even himself when he thinks about you or that nasty little aunt of yours"

..Nasty? "Hey! Fluttershy is great, ok? Besides, you need to get used to her if you want to "infiltrate". That means actually caring about her."

"I'll just continue to act, thank you very much. You're going to have to try harder than that Anon, just because I'm a little slow doesn't mean I'm just going to slip into something like that"

"Well...it was worth a try...." You shrug

After some more walking, you both finally arrive. And...what an odd looking house indeed. It looked like half a manor with a huge tower jutting out from the center of it. It was between two tall buildings, with a small yard separating it from either side. And a steel fence all along the front. But, it was unlocked..or...

"Hrmmm" Chrysalis inspects the door to the gate. "No place to put a lock. Not a smart idea given the place."

You step past the gate and head up to the door. "Maybe Celestia likes visitors or something....or maybe Twilight captures children who step through and cooks them for her" You let out a soft chuckle.

"Would she truly be that morbid?" Chrysalis asks, intrigued.

You sigh..dammit...She didn't find that funny? You thought a little dark humor would get her to loosen up a little. Considering you had thoughts running through your mind of her suddenly losing her shit at some point while inside. You thought a little joke would help keep her calm and lucid. "Never mind...it was a joke..."

"Oh.....well it was a terrible one. I didn't even smile...well, not in a humorous sense" ...This bug sometimes...sheesh.

You look upon the front door. You give it a tap, and pull at the knob. "Locked"

Chrysalis moves up and knocks. "Of course it's locked. that's why you knock"

It took some time, but someone answered without opening the door. "Hello? Who's there?" ....That voice....that wasn't Twilight..who was that?

"We've come to see Celestia! We demand you let us in!" Chrysalis says like she had royal authority

"Go away, we don't need your kind here!" The voice yells out.

...Dammit Chrysalis. "A gentler tone Chrysalis..sheesh. We're trying to meet with Celestia. We're not going to get in if you're brash like that."

"...It usually works though. Who does that pony think she is not letting us in? You'd think spending time with Celestia would have taught her some manners at least. This world is truly pitiful."

"Just watch...Sometimes compassion and a soft tone works wonders..ahrm" You clear your throat. "Excuse me miss, but we really do need to speak to Celestia. Pwetty pwease?" You try to sound as cute as possible.

"Yeah...ok. Sure, so you can do what? Toss another egg at her face? GET LOST!" The voice shouts

Egg...what? children throw eggs at her face?!

You were baffled. "W-what? They do that here?"

"Even the children here are cruel. That's actually kind of hilarious. But I can't imagine ALL of them being like that. No, given what we've seen so far. The closer to Canterlot you are, the crueler kind of ponies you find. Hrnnn...So what do we do now? Should we just break the door down? Or perhaps I can disguise myself as one of those dolts and demand the door to be open."

"H-hold on...let me just try something else..." Shit, no wonder this pony wouldn't open the door. you would be suspicious too if ponies were treating Celestia like that. "Miss, please, whoever you are. Let us in, we've traveled a long long way to meet with Celestia. It's really important"

"And I said to leave! We're not having visitors today! Just go!" The voice said with a protective growl

D-dammit… "Please, if you could just let us plead our case. Just at least hear us out. We're desperate"

"Why should I? I know the moment I open this door you bratty kids are going to lob something at me. So nice try, but I'm smarter than that" She just wouldn't relent.

"What if we said we hate the kings and wished they would burn in Tartarus?" Chrysalis asked

"......Ok, that's a new one. Do you know how dangerous it is to say that? Even as a joke?" The voice seemed a little stunned at that

Godammit Chrysalis, you're a genius. "We don't care, we just met with them and they were super rude and mean..and jerky and shifty..and all those other bad words"

There was silence behind the door for a moment. "....You two are either crazy or just stupid. But ok..fine...I'll open the door. But that doesn't mean I'm letting you in. I just want to get a look at the both of you...but first..what are your names"

It appeared the door didn't have a spyglass. odd, you'd think a pony who was as suspecting as this would have one. Maybe she didn't have one because the home came like this? Maybe they have to keep it a certain way.

"Anon"

"Nymous"

And then the door opened...no...fucking way...no.it couldn't be.....But it was.......

You just stood there, frozen..mouth once again agape..because there stood Sunset Shimmer....as a pony of course.

There’s no way! This is an alternate future, yeah. But still..She shouldn't.....but she did.......and she was....Celestia's former pupil...

Sunset looked over the both of you. Chrysalis gave a smile, but you were speechless. "Ok...umm.." Sunset looks over to you "..What's with him?"

“Hmm?" Chrysalis breaks her gaze as she looks over to you, she found your reaction....odd and out of place. "Anon! what's wrong with you? Snap out of it! We already got her to come out! Say what you need to say to her!"

"U-uhhhh" You couldn't get your words out

"......Ugh, I knew it. Another dumb joke. Ha ha, you got me to step out of the door and waste my time" Sunset steps back into the home and slams the door shut "Stupid kids are so lazy these days they can't even prank properly anymore. That's...uh... good actually, whatever, just go away!"

"Anon! What's the matter with you! We nearly had it! snap out of it!" Chrysalis growls at you

You step back, and give your head a small shake. You weren't seeing things...That was her

"S-shit!.." You dash up to the door and knock at it in desperation. "W-wait! WAIT! I'm sorry! I just froze up for a second! Please! Come back out!"

"You had your chance, Now just leave us alone. At this point you'll bring in one of those stupid cops. I don't want to waste my time explaining to them that two crazy ponies tried to get in here. We're done..."

SHIT! "WAIT..PLEASE!" No answer. "PLEASE!" No answer still.

"Well Anon, that was perfect. She finally steps out and you screw it up. And to think, I was about to praise you on your good work on being able to deceive and negotiate. Let's just go back to the hotel and plan our next move, she's never going to let us in now" Chrysalis turned, prepared to walk away.

...No, no...nononono. You got this far. But you fucking tensed up due to the fact that in this future, EqG is somehow canon. How is she even here? She should be a dick and a douchebag...maybe she is one?..No, she didn't sound like it. NONE OF THIS MADE SENSE!

.....Wait...That might get her to come back out. It didn't make sense to you why she was here. So if you gave her a reason for something not to make sense on the same coin....She'd come back out. "Hold on Chrysalis...I actually have one last ace up my sleeve"

"One last ace? Hmmm?" Chrysalis turns around, having next to no confidence that you can make it work. But in her hazy mind, she haphazardly decides to make a deal with you "Ok then, try. If you can make it work then I'll give my word to be nice and sweet to your "Aunt" in all of my encounters with her without a hint of snark. But if you fail, you drop everything, and join me on my side. I'm tired of these games. And it doesn't ever look like we're leaving this dimension anyway. So I need to keep my options open, even if I have to use you as a food source."

Well geez, that was quite the ultimatum all of a sudden. She must really be losing hope without actually admitting it. "...You really think we'll be stuck here?"

She nods. "I'm starting to. Face it, Discord left us to rot. He probably doesn't even realize it himself yet. And I don't even know if he'd be smart enough to pull us out...if he even can. But if saving this world does happen to be the key to leaving then now would be a good time to make a deal with you. I know you are always good to your word. And...." Chrysalis stops, she was about to admit that she didn't want to be alone. But she meant it in her mind as needing your love. Just the same, it sounded sappy.

"..And..what?" You ask.

"And just do what you need to do already!" She snaps "Surely the deal is tempting, if you're that confident this will work then you won't have a problem accepting. Right?"

.....You had to stop and think. But it didn't take you very long. You were sure this would work. It may be an alt future. But it still had to go through most of the rounds. Sunset being good..or at least seeming good was odd, given she would have never met Twilight and be reformed. But just the same, you had to go with this assumption that you were about to pull a successful stunt. If you take the deal, then..well..she might shirk on it anyway. But it was something. Though, losing would be a problem. But if she wants to play, you'll play...and you'll play to win. "You're on....watch this Chrysalis. You're gonna see that sometimes...the truth is the way to go" ...The irony in that statement...god.

You look towards the door, take a deep breath, and prepare your "ace". "Your name is Sunset Shimmer!"

.......

No answer

".....Well, that was a bust. Shall w-" But Chrysalis is cut off as you continue

"You were Celestia's pupil! But you didn't want to learn about friendship and harmony! You thought it was useless! So you jumped into the human world where you would wait for a chance to get one or all of the Elements of Harmony! During your stay, you ruined the friendships of five individuals and had a boyfriend named Flash Sentry!"

Chrysalis was so fucking confused. "....What in the hay was that? That's your ace? You don't even know this pony. Anon.....This world, it's gotten to you worse than it has me. Come, we'll recuperate at the hotel and try something else."

But you didn't move, you stared at the door. took another breath and yelled. "SUNSET SHIMMER! I KNOW YOU HEARD ME!"

"Oh great. He's lost it. Maybe if I drain him enough he'll fall asleep and contemplate on his stu...pid..what?" Chrysalis was surprised when the door opened. Revealing a worried, confused, and very suspicious Sunset Shimmer.

"..........Who are you? How did you know all that?" Sunset not only looked surprised, but..there was a hint of shame in her voice.

"Please...let us in. and I'll explain" You beg her

Sunset lets you both enter. And you could tell just from peering in from the door that the place wasn't kept too well...or maybe it was kept to the best Sunset could. It was confusing. There was stuff from the castle like armors and books and chairs and even neat little moon and sun knick knacks. They were crammed in every corner. But there was barely any dust and it didn't really block any path. It was just organized clutter.

"Sorry for the mess, we don't really have any room for what we could take before the castle was renovated. Here.." Sunset moves over to a table and uses her magic to set up some seats, four seats to be exact. "I have afternoon tea ready. Would you two like some?"

You nod, as does Chrysalis. Sunset then goes off to another room to get the tea as you just take in the house. It was semi dark, lit by some candles magically lit on the wall. It was kinda spooky. "So then Anon, how did you know that would work? How do you know her? I've never seen her in my life." Chrysalis asked. Confused. "I thought Twilight would be her pupil, this doesn't make sense to me."

"It's actually perfectly sensible. Remember how I knew about your Aria?" You ask her

".....Ohhhhhh....." Chrysalis realizes it now. "So then, her human world would be different from yours then. I almost thought you came from the same world . Well, there goes my enthusiasm...I wanted to ask her about her experiences. So, there's even multiple human worlds. What was hers like?"

You groan just from the thought of it "Singing, Happy Humans everywhere with pony counterparts, Stupid kid friendly version stuff of my world, an-"

"Stop!" Chrysalis holds her hoof to your mouth. "Stop right there, you had me at pony counterparts...I get it now. It was basically an alternate dimension where the ponies are humans.....egggghhhh..I shudder to think what my counterpart would be like...you wouldn't know, would you?"

You shake your head with a chuckle. "Nope, and it's probably better that way"

"...Probably." Chrysalis could only imagine how she would act like in that world.

Sunset soon returns with teacups, a teapot, and little plates. She sets everything up before sitting down herself. a cup remained set up. but the one who would drink from it was not here. "Ok....So, I'm weirded out, I admit. Because there's like, no way you could have known all that unless you were actually there. So what's up with that? You have to tell me."

Ohhh lordie, here we go. How to approach this. As you sat there thinking, Chrysalis took a sip of the tea, if only to be polite, she then looked to you and spoke "Just tell her the truth Anon, she's our last obstacle to be sure and since she will most likely be on our side...given the love that still permeates from her..and the fact that we won't be staying here forever, there's no reason to hold back."

Wut? "A-are you sure? You don't think that'll backfire? I mean, we don't have to say that much do we? Shouldn't we keep it on a need to know basis?"

"Well...yes, and she needs to know everything. So tell her" Chrysalis took another sip

"Ok, now you both are seriously freaking me out. Who are you?" Sunset was bewildered, she's never seen anything like this before.

....Ok then. You take a deep breath. "My name is Anon, I come from a different human world from your own...in my world, your world and that human world was part of a cartoon television series called "My Little Pony" and..."

And you talked, and told her everything. Being Discord's son, what you've done, why you were there...being kinda vague on that part as to not tell the truth to Chrysalis, in fact..you don't reveal who Chrysalis is. You hold that back just in case. "So..what do you think?"

"........That's the craziest story I've ever heard" Sunset didn't seem too pleased, she didn't believe it at all. "Our world is a TV show? Even if Discord's dimension explanation is an actual thing. You still lost me in the fact that he's walking around among us while adopting you as his son. You can't seriously tell me he's just turned a new leaf like that. I was taught by Princess Celestia herself that he was a being of pure chaos, a jerk, and a bully that would never be anything more than a problem for Equestria. How can he just turn..." She claps her hoof onto the table "Just like that?"

Chrysalis boredly moves her cup around. "Because the dolt heel turns whenever he feels a pain in his heart. He may seem insane and powerful, but deep inside he's a lost and lonely puppy who yearns for friendship. Though, he's also a childish little moron who thinks the world should bend to his will just because it's fun. No real rhyme and reason to what he does yet his actions can still be dictated by the bonds he has with others. Pathetic really...so" Chrysalis looks to Sunset with a smirk. "If you don't believe his story, how about I tell you mine...or better yet, how about I show you?"

Oh god...you left out the changeling part because you didn't want to alarm her. Dammit Chrysalis! "Nymous, maybe you shouldn't"

"Maybe she should, your story was pretty bad." Sunset was wanting to see Chrysalis's explanation. Maybe that'd be the "real" reason to how they knew. "I mean come on, that's just so far fetched. That'd be like if I watched you from the human world I came from, it just doesn't work that way. What are you trying to hide anyway?...Unless...hmmmm" Sunset looks at you suspiciously.

"...Oh good, she now thinks were spies. Good job Anon" Chrysalis snickers. "Don't worry, I'll show you how to convince somepony" Oh come onnn! Why does this shit always happen to you?!

"Gyah! Come on! Were not spies… It's the truth..N-Nymous, don't do what your about to do alright? We can still prove it with the horn...This horn here" You point to it. "It has his magic! And gyah! I forgot to even show you my Cutie-NYMOUS NO!"

"TOO LATE! YOU SHOULD HAVE MENTIONED THE HORN FROM THE GET GO! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Chrysalis laughed as she burst into a green flame and changed into her normal form. "NOW SHE SHALL GAZE UPON THE QUEEN OF THE CHANGELINGS!"

"Gertrude?...They let you regrow your wings and horn?" Sunset looked to her..confused...rather than scared.

...Oh noooooo...this was gonna be worse than you thought.

"Getrude?" Chrysalis just stops laughing immediately "...Who is Gertrude? Why did you call me that?"

"....Great, I knew it. You're spies!" Sunset jumped to attention, her horn glowing, ready for battle. "Why can't you just leave her alone! I keep telling you she's fine! It was just one slip up on her part! That's why you let me be her caretaker didn't you?! Go back to your kings and leave..US..ALONE!" Oh..OH..OH NOOO...WHAT THE FUCK WAS GOING ON.

"You dare..YOU DARE THINK I'M WITH THOSE.....wait..." Chrysalis is suddenly hit with the memory that caused her initial rage and then she turned to you with extreme anger, her vicious leer making you fall backwards on your chair "YOU LIED TO ME YOU LITTLE TWERP! I'M GERTRUDE...NO...THAT MISERABLE HASBEEN IS GERTRUDE! YOU DARE LIE TO ME? YOUR FRIEND? YOUR QUEEN?!""

You start pushing yourself back with your legs as you look up at her, frightened. "Y-yo! Chrysalis! Wait! I-I lied because you lost your cool. Your losing your cool now! You gotta stay calm, this world is screwing you up! Come on! I only did it to help! I'm sorry!"

Chrysalis stopped paying attention to Sunset and started to slowly advance on you. "YOU ARE IN NO POSITION TO WORRY ABOUT ME! I AM THE QUEEN. I AM MORE THAN CAPABLE OF STAYING CALM! I HAVE DONE IT FOR YEARS! I AM A MASTER AT IT!"

"B-but you haven't eaten right since you got here! It's been affecting you. You said yourself that our house still has traces of love floating around that can be fed from. There's none of that here...remember?" You back up into a pile of stuff, and cannot move further as Chrysalis now towers over you. "C'mon! We're friends!"

Sunset at first thought this was some sort of act. But she had never apparently seen "Gertrude" act so hostile. She also knew details about her that didn't match up at all with the way Chrysalis was acting. She was afraid to admit it, in case this would cause some incident, but you may have been telling the truth. How else could you know? At first she thought Flim and Flam may have had really good spies..like really good...but this was too much. "Wait! Stop! I believe you! Don't hurt him!"

"Stay out of this!" Chrysalis growled at her. "This is between me and him! Now then..." Chrysalis looked down at you as you cowered. ".......Geez Anon, you're so pathetic. When you have a point to defend, you don't cower..you press on." She sighed in disappointment. "Didn't you learn anything from when your marefriend talked you down?"

Wuut?! "...You knew the whole time? YOU KNEW?! THEN WHY?!"

What the fuck! If she knew, then..no what. "Were you faking the reaction the whole time just for this?!"

Ok, now you were pissed. But the moment you got up, she just shoves you down with a chuckle. "Ah ah Anon, you had your chance. No reason to get angry now..."

"Ok..I'm confused...what is even going on?" Sunset...had no fucking clue what was going on anymore.

"Of course you don't. This little boogerball here happens to be a friend of mine, but you see, his time in our world has made him insufferably pathetic. He's been getting better, but still has a few issues, such as standing up for his beliefs. I thought that if I made him have a reason to fight back, he would...But I was wrong. He's improved...but he's just not there yet. As for you.." Chrysalis gazes at Sunset. "I do think it's your turn to do some explaining."

While you lay there catching your breath, you do notice something about Chrysalis's demeanor. Despite her "faking" it, she still looked rather flushed with her right eye ticking as if she was still "furious". Agh, that bitch. She was half faking. She probably realized what happened and came up with this ruse of "Ha! I was only pretending to me mad" To save face and still look superior. Nicely played Chrysalis. You'd call her on it, but damn, now wasn't the time.

"Wait.." Sunset wanted to make sure you were ok first, and went over to your side. She then looked to Chrysalis with a mean look. "He's just a colt, you shouldn't do that to him...here.." She uses her magic to stand you up. "Are you alright?"

"Oh please, he's suffered worse. But..you believe us now, right?" Chrysalis asked.

"I believe it. You're definitely Chrysalis, the one I've only read about. The one I met is nice and sweet. And then there's this cutie mark, it's the symbol of chaos, I hadn't noticed it before, but normal ponies don't have cutie marks like this. They don't have anything like this at all. And then there’s this horn..." She gazes upon it. "I hadn't noticed it before either. but after using my detection spell...that horn has magic unlike I've ever seen. It's all over the place. I'm sorry I didn't believe you before...it just sounded all far fetched."

"Yeah well..I tried to tell you" You weren't too happy, you were dusting yourself off. You then looked to Chrysalis, pissed at her. "And you! You can't just do crap like that! I didn't want to fight you at all Chrysalis, we're friends!" You just couldn't hold that in, you at least had to tell her that.

"..And that's exactly the problem. Time and time again I tell you our friendship is different, and it just doesn't click within you. Anon, this is no time to be pathetic. I need you to be my temporary captain. You may not have an army to lead,but you must have that kind of tenacity. Do you understand?" Chrysalis sits back down. "And to answer your earlier question, Yes..I knew. I admit, I did actually lose my cool. But did you really think I'd forget something like that? No, I just devised a quick way to test how ready you'd be when the time comes. Anon, I keep telling you, you must think like a changeling. Always planning, always scheming. As much as I hate my captain having pony friends, at least he still schemes of a way to please me and help my cause."

Man she was so full of shit, it somehow made you angrier that she could just spout it as if it DIDN'T truly affect her.

"...That's because he's an idiot who's super loyal to you" Oh man, you were just...really mad. You just looked at her angrily as you went back to your seat.

"True, but he's sooooo adorable...." Chrysalis looks to you with a smirk. "Remember Anon, now's not the time to lose your cool, the time to prove yourself is over. Now is the time to see how well you can control your temper"

...Dammit, what was the point in being angry? She doesn't fucking listen and she always does what she pleases. And now you were angry at yourself. You should have just bit right back. "...You're right, ugh...I hate to admit it..but you're right. I just..I should have been more assertive. But I was afraid of..I dunno, hurting your feelings. I just didn't want you to be angry...y'know? I mean, I'm only angry because you're being an ass."

"Get over it. I don't care what you think about my methods. How are you even supposed to speak to Twilight about your little stupid problem if you just bend and break like that? In fact, that's a trait Discord has. That whole...heel turn thing. Maybe he should toughen up as well." She says as she ponders that idea.

...Wut? ..Nooo..really? ".....Are you saying...wait. So you really did pay attention last night?"

"Drop it Anon, we have more important things to attend to" She points to Sunset Shimmer. You'd really would have to drop it for now. Goddammit Chrysalis, was she reforming? You don't know. But, she was being a friend...sorta...thats some progress.

".....You two are a real trip, you know that? I have no idea what you're talking about. But, it looks like you two are actually friends. Really really weird...but, you don't see anypony willing to be friends these days." Sunset sits down, and tries to make sense of everything. "So, you both really came from another Equestria, huh? Where even the Spirit of Chaos learned about friendship. And made friends with an Element of Harmony?"

"Yeah...pretty much. Sunset, I know it's really hard to believe, but you have to believe us. Chrysalis is right. We need to know some things that we were left out of the loop from. Can you tell us how this all came to happen? I mean, last I knew...you were..and please don't take offense...a huge jerk."

Sunset looked down in shame. If what you said is true, then she knew that you knew at what extent that was. "I guess you'd know huh?....Yeah, when I went through the mirror, I was really angry, Celestia just.....no, Princess Celestia was right, if I had just listened to her. But I was angry, I did everything she told me and she just piled on more, I thought it was ridiculous, especially when she expected me to learn about friendship...I thought it had nothing to do with the elements or my studies. And since she wouldn't teach me anymore until I learned, I left. And I used the human world to show that I was the best...but I wasn't, Nobody really liked me, I was only popular because I always won the Fall Formal. My real goal was to wait for the prophecy of Nightmare Moon to happen, then I'd keep track of whoever gained the element of magic until I could take the crown for myself..."

"Yeah, that sounds about right so far...so what happened?" Curious..it sounded right. But there had to be a change.

"The gate closed all of a sudden, It's supposed to be open for a couple of days at around every thirty moons. But, it was like there was some kind of dimensional distortion. That's the only way to seal up that kind of portal for so long. Well, that or destroying one of the entry points. I thought it was the latter for the longest of times. It didn't help my disposition..thats for sure. But I always checked on it every day. And after a few years, it finally happened...it opened up. When I found out that it did, I already began planning to spy on what was going on, find the element of magic, and steal the crown. After so long, I was sure nopony would recognize me anyway...."

"Well then, it must have been quite the surprise when you stepped into....this" Chrysalis notes.

"...Yeah..." Sunset gripped her cup between her hooves. Feeling more and more shame. "When I saw all this...I didn't know what to think. In fact, I actually thought Nightmare Moon had taken over, everypony I asked to help me find out what was going on was either afraid of me or just really......mean. And the mirror?...It was thrown in a dump, so when I popped out, it fell over..and shattered..." Sunset cringed, a few tears coming from her eyes.

"...Sunset..."...She never fixed those friendships she ruined, you could tell.

"I-it's fine, I was just thinking about how it nearly crushed me..ehehe" She chuckled nervously. "..Anyway..the main reason I thought Nightmare Moon had taken over was the fact it was night..for far too long. Since nopony would help me, I headed straight to the castle. I came upon a construction team who was having trouble renovating the castle because it was so dark...it's also how I first ran into the kings."

Sunset sighed "I didn't know what was going on at first. But when I saw them moving things out of the castle and moving their statues in. I realized what was going on. I could hear them talking about Princess Celestia. So I hid and eavesdropped. I found out she was the one causing the eternal night, which was apparently against their agreement. And they were trying to find a way to get her to cooperate without resorting to extreme measures....that...was terrifying. I then realized that whatever happened to Equestria. It was because of these two, and there was nothing good about them. And it just..sunk in. It sunk in that this was the world I thought I wouldn't mind. Where no friendship or harmony exists. It...was as cold and heartless as I became. Nopony would even help Princess Celestia...they were just going to force her to do what they want..It sounded like something I would do. And...Princess Celestia, of all ponies...my teacher..she didn't deserve that. So I revealed myself. I told them I could solve their problem. I just wanted to try, so they wouldn't do anything to her. And so they made me a deal. If I could fix the problem, If I was who I said I was, Then I could be her caretaker. And I'd be responsible for her"

....Why...did Celestia? "...So what happened next?"

"I went over to where she stayed. It was...so..dirty. It hadn't been cleaned in awhile. I went up into the tower and found Celestia at the top on the balcony. She was just.....staring at the moon."

"...Why?"

"....I don't know. When she saw me, she just...hugged me, and treated me as if I never left, she never told me why. And ever since, I've taken care of her. I took in as much of her things as I could. I cleaned up. And I take care of whatever she needs. It's my burden to bare....maybe If I had listened....mnnn." Sunset looked to the side, looking distraught, tears in her eyes. "Look, that's basically it. Princess Celestia is fine as long as she doesn't step out. And she loves visitors...Which is always trouble because usually they are trouble. I've learned there are still one or two good ponies out there...but, it's as rare as making friends with a dragon. So please...Chrysalis, could you change back into that other form..and be nice?...And Anon, can you be courteous to her? Please..I just want her to be genuinely happy for once.."

"...." Chrysalis changes back into Nymous, but she is staring at Sunset stoically "...I'll grant you this request, but only because it would be disadvantageous otherwise."

"...And I'll just do it because I like her. Princess Celestia has always been pretty great. If I could make her smile, then I will make sure to do it! I mean, who can resist this cuteness? Hmm?" You wiggle your front hooves around as you give a cute beaming smile.

Sunset, sighed in relief, and smiled a gentle and warm smile "Thank you...the both of you"

And not soon after, you could hear steps. In the right side of the room was path to a circular room. This room had a spiral staircase...no doubt leading up and down the tower that was in the center of the home...an odd house indeed. Where all the rooms on both floors revolved around the center piece.

Chapter 247 - Flim Flam Future Arc

"She's going to be here in a bit. So, please. No anger, no wanting to hurt each other, just..be nice" Sunset takes a breath, she wanted everything to go well.

"Alright, I can do that. But I do have a question before she comes down here, it's been nagging me in the back of my mind. But how did the Kings defeat Discord?" Chrysalis wondered.

"Hey...yeah...how did they beat him?" That was a damned good question.

"Beat....him? Ohhh..." Sunset looked back at the stairs, then back to Chrysalis. "Well, He never came out of the statue, and the Kings got rid of ALL the statues in the gardens...so, I'd guess he's at the bottom of the sea right now."

Chrysalis smirked, giggled, then laughed out loud "HA! SERVES THE WORM RIGHT! HE DIDN'T EVEN HAVE A CHANCE! THAT'S RICH!"

You just went wide eyed, the disapproved screams of every Discord in every dimension crashing in your mind. What a pathetic way to lose. "Sheesh....what a way to go"

"Hehehehe, Indeed. I don't even care that it's not our Discord. Just the fact that he lost worst than I did is enough to make me feel better." Chrysalis snickered

..Oh wait...speaking of losing. "Speaking of which, You sorta lost a bet Chrysalis. You gonna make good on your word?"

Chrysalis stops snickering, and rolls her eyes. "I was just joking about that."

"Are you serious?" You would not let that stand! "You're a queen! You're supposed to stand by your word! So I expect you not to try anything on Fluttershy at all! And be nice to her!"

"Shhhh! Anon, she's almost here" Chrysalis shushes you.

"No! JUST ADMIT Y-MMPH!"

Your mouth gets closed shut by Sunset's magic. "Please, the both of you, stop fighting? Please?....Just let her have this..."

"Well, he was the one who was yelling...But fine." Chrysalis settled herself on her chair, and shifted her eyes at you as she hid her grin behind her tea cup.

"....Yeah...sorry..." You let out a low growl, dammit. The one time you were being assertive and you were still shut down.

And as you looked towards the tower stairs, you could see the white coated legs of Celestia. With every step. Her visage became clear. She was...nearly the same. No crown or shoes...and her mane...oh no...It...wasn't flowing. It wasn't radiant. It just hung down. She still looked good. But still.

"Sunset? I hear voices, do we have visitors?" Celestia says with a sunny disposition. She was excited.

"Princess Celestia! Mhmm! They say they came to see you. I even served tea..." Sunset fills Celestia's cup "Would you like to sit with us?" Sunset made herself match Celestia's sunniness in her own speech.

"Of course!" As Celestia steps closer, she notices both you and ‘Nymous’. "Ohhhh, a cute little colt and a beautiful young mare. May I ask your names?" Celestia asks as she happily sits down.

Chrysalis points to herself. "I am Nymous, it's good to meet you..."Princess" Celestia"

Celestia chuckles. "Oh...you don't need to call me that" Celestia lifts her cup and sips "I even keep telling Sunset that, but well...Sometimes you just can't convince a pony" She giggles.

....Well...she seemed ok. She didn't even have crazy eyes or nothing.

"And I'm Anon, It's a pleasure to meet you Celestia!" You say with near obscene adorableness

"Awwww, You're so adorable and very well mannered. Would you mind if I..." Celestia seemed nervous all of a sudden...very uncharacteristic of her. "Hug you, you wouldn't mind...Right?"

Oh no.....dammit...here it comes. You hesitate for a moment, then nod, and brace yourself. "I don't mind"

Suddenly, you are pulled right into her chest with her magic as she hugs you...ridiculously tightly....of fucking course. You could hear Chrysalis snickering as you do your damn best to handle it. Though, you had to wonder why it was so tight, your Celestia was much softer than this. "MMnnnnnnnnnnnggghhh"

Luckily, the hug didn't take too long. Celestia puts you down gently with her magic and gives you a gentle pat. "Thank you young Anon, so..." Celestia goes back to sitting down, and sips her tea. "What do we have planned for today, Sunset?"

"Well Princess Celestia, I thought we of course would start with some tea. A board game, lunch, Then touch up the garden in the back, rearrange some of your things, dinner, and then bed." Sunset informs her.

"Splendid! It sounds like another fulfilling day! But for now, let us enjoy the company of our new friends, Anon and Nymous!" Celestia said with unbridled cheeriness

.....Oh christ. You look towards Chrysalis, yeah...she was cringing too. That was bad. Something wasn't right.

"Now then...where do you two come from? I want to know everything! So don't hold back any details. I want to know how happy the ponies are there and all the amazing sights" Celestia says with a gentle giggle.

.......How the fuck do you answer that? ".....Well, we're from....Buenos Aires..and...Anon?" Chrysalis wasn't prepared for this, and passes on the explanation to you.

"Oh..erm. They are all pretty happy. And...we have a desert. It's errrr....very clean and nice with a bright blue sky. There's also the city itself, everypony is....generally happy. They smile, they laugh, they have friends. We don't really have any other sights though. It's pretty modest." You explain rather nervously

Celestia clapped her hooves and smiled towards Sunset. "See? There is a vacation spot we can take next year. It sounds like a very nice place, I just hope we don't get swamped with all the work we do around here"

...Work? "....What kind of work do you do?"

Sunset was trying to cut you off the moment she realized what you were saying, but...you said it.

"Oh, you know. Fixing up the house, raising the sun and moon, tending to the garden, and helping my little garden friends." Celestia says, with no hint of shame or insanity. it seemed so genuine, it was creepy.

"So..you do have friends?" Chrysalis said, curious.

"Yes, she has friends" Sunset cuts in. "Princess Celestia, perhaps we should move on to another subject."

"Nonsense...hold on" Celestia's horn glows as...two pony garden gnomes float into the house from a window "I want them to meet my garden friends. This one..." She makes a soft eyed and gentle looking mare gnome shake a little bit. "Is called Philomena....and this one," She floats over a darker, more determined looking unicorn gnome. "Is called Luna. They are my garden friends, would you like to say hello?"

Sunset was now frustrated, but she held it in. She dare not upset Celestia.

"...You've got to be kidding. Do you seriousOMPH!" Your tea cup "accidentally" goes flying into Chrysalis' face.

"Oops!" You had flipped your teacup into her to get her to shut up. Knowing what she was going to say. Because this?....Oh god...

"W-WWEFREW" Chrysalis tried to say something more. But thankfully, Sunset came in with the combo save of using her magic to shut her up. Using her magic to hold her muzzle together

She then started to drag Chrysalis into the kitchen with her magic. "Nymous, I need you for a second. Don't worry Princess Celestia. We'll be right back!"

Thank Christ that movement pretty much synchronized...that could have been really bad. But there was still..this. Luna, Philomena?...Ahh shit Celestia. How far gone were you?

"Well, erm...Well.." Celestia seemed to already start to get upset, she moved both gnomes towards you. "Would you like to say hello, Anon?"

.....Here we go. "Hello Philomena, Luna. It's nice to meet you. I'm Anon!" You say as cheerfully as possible...how awkward. And then...silence...Celestia just...sat there staring at them. "E-ermm.."

"Awww, they said hello back! And now, we're all friends!..well, that is. You don't mind being our friend, right Anon?" Celestia pouted at you. God, she became so miserably broken. No wonder Sunset is so protective of her. She could shatter at any moment....you didn't even want to go back to the hotel. You wanted to stay here with her, help her.....you had to fix this world somehow.

"Of course! I'd like to be friends with all of you. If you don't mind that is!" ..Geez..

"We do! We all do!" Celestia turns her head back towards the kitchen. "Sunset! Can we have lunch now! We must celebrate with our brand new friends!"

"O-of course! Princess Celestia!" Sunset yells back from the kitchen. "I'll even ask if Nymous wants to help..."

Chrysalis must have been getting worked over at this point. Chrysalis was low power in this world, and Sunset, considering she was Celestia's Pupil, and had been taking care of her all this time, must have towered over her in magical power right now.

Then silence again.

"Ahh I see, well, if you must..." She had been wanting to speak to Chrysalis as well.

Celestia floats the gnomes back through the window, and then looks at you with a gentle smile "They always get tired so fast when they leave the garden. That's why I usually talk to them when I'm actually tending to it. Anon, do you have any other friends? And is that mare your sister?"

"Nymous?...ermm.." ...What do you go with? Adviser, or sister? Maybe saying sister would sound...cheerier? "She's my sister"

"Oh...." Celestia stops for a moment, like, she was hit by a ball of soul crushing darkness. But then she went back to smiling a moment later. "That's great! Family is very important you know, especially siblings. And your parents don't mind you being here?"

You shake your head. "We don't really have parents, but we're quite capable on our own."

Celestia frowned at that. "..Oh dear, have you...ever thought of being adopted?"

Ok fuck..bad answers right there...ermmmm..well actually, this could be advantageous. "Not right now, but we don't really have a place to stay...an-" And before you could explain further.

"Then this will be your home until you decide to move on! Sunset!" Celestia called out. "These two ponies are forever our guests until they decide to leave! We'll have to set up some beds for them! Clear my schedule! I want to get to know them better!"

"WHAT?!" Sunset and Chrysalis say as they come back out, Sunset holding a large plate with some smoking cheesed hay that looks like it could feed five ponies.

"Princess Celestia...are you sure that's a good idea?" Sunset asked, she trusted you, but she didn't trust Chrysalis.

"Anon....what are you doing..can't you see she's..." Chrysalis looked to Celestia, who only looked back at her with a cheerful smile. Chrysalis then sighed "...Never mind..." She moves in closer so she can whisper to you "...She actually provides good sustenance. I'll be needing that...but don't expect me to be anywhere near her if I can help it. Nod if you understand"

You do nod...dammit Chrysalis, Celestia could really use some cheerfulness and friendship....you felt so bad for her.

"I think it's the best idea I've come up with in a long time!" Celestia munches on the hay, and moans in delight. "Delicious! Speaking of which...we are having cake after...right?" Celestia looks to Sunset with big puppy dog eyes.

Sunset smiled a tired smile. "Princess Celestia...come on, you know you only get cake after every other dinner. You can't have too much or you'll lose your royal figure"

"....Awwww...." Celestia leans close to you and whispers. "What she doesn't know is that I'll sneak into the kitchen sometimes and make my own cake. Then blame Philomena for it. She never figures it out."

.......Oh christ. You let out a nervous chuckle and whisper. "T-that's pretty funny."

"It is" Celestia giggled, then made an announcement at the table. "Fellow ponies! Let us have this lunch that our host Sunset Shimmer has made for us! Do not hold back for there is plenty for everypony!"

..Ugh, you didn't have much of an appetite. But you ate anyway, for her sake.

Chrysalis just looked at the hay and nearly gagged. "....Egghh...erm, actually. May I go out and look at the garden for awhile? I've already eaten."

"Oh, of course. you are our friend and guest. We don't expect you to eat if you are already full. Enjoy yourself Nymous" Celestia tells her, her tone as motherly and tender as ever,

And with that, Chrysalis excused herself to scheme, and to feed by hanging by a nearby window.

Chrysalis was already concocting the next part of the grand plan. She now had a way to get close to the kings. But what use could that be for? She noticed Flam had no interest in her. And she already guessed they were too dangerous to be close to for too long. They were con artists, she acknowledged that, and as soon as they became perceptive, she'd be screwed. She'd need to plan thoroughly , she could probably call in the dinner date to get more information. And to get closer to Flim for use later.

As for you, you ate what you could, sat back, and rubbed your tummy. "Well, that was delicious..I'm full!"

"Anon..." Celestia swallowed her hay, then washed it down with tea. "What would you like to do after we're done eating? Would you like to play a board game? Or perhaps listen to a story?"

A story? Hrnnn… "Sure! I'd like to hear a story! But what would it be about?"

"Hehe!" Celestia let out a happy giggle. "It's about a princess and her pet Phoenix."

Sunset went wide eyed when she heard that "P-Princess Celestia...Maybe we should play a board game. I mean, stories are usually good for bedtime."

"Oh come on Sunset, it's a nice little story. Why don't you set up the beds for when our friends would like to go and sleep?" Celestia advises.

"......" Sunset silently groans, then bows. "Of course Princess Celestia...but wouldn't you like to tell another story? I'm sure I can find a book you can read to Anon"

"No no, why use a book when I know this one by heart?" Celestia grinned.

..........You said story because you thought it might get you more information. You now started to dread this decision. "Erm, can I change my answer?"

"...Oh" Celestia's ears go down. "...You don't want to hear my story?"

"O-oh I do! I do...sorry, I just thought Miss Sunset may have been right. B-but if you're that eager...." Dammit

"I am! in fact..." Celestia slowly slides the food away from her. "It's not good to keep a guest waiting."

Shit this was awkward. It almost felt like she was going to say a bedtime story right from the chair. Well, you thought so until she pointed to you to sit on a sofa to get more comfortable. You comply as she sits in front of you on a stool. And she just pressed on, her eagerness to tell the story was high.....you did said you wanted to hear it.

You had a bad feeling, but..it may have been wrong. What could possibly go wrong?

"Well Anon, this is a very special story to me. So I'm glad you're willing to hear it. Oh!" Celestia wonders. "You are comfortable, right? I don't mind if you fall asleep. Stories like these are meant to be meant for bedtime. But, I just feel like sharing it. It's very rare I ever get to"

This sofa was pretty comfy, well, if she wanted you to be comfortable… You stretch out like a cat and lay the bottom of your chin on a sofa pillow. "I'm comfortable. And no worries, I don't plan on sleeping anytime soon."

Celestia smiled, a smile as if no one had truly cared to listen to her for quite some time. "T-thank you Anon....Hmnnn...Ahh yes, the story. Ahrmmm..

“Once upon a time, in the kingdom of Equestria, there was a princess. This princess was very well beloved by the ponies who depended on her, but the princess herself was oftentimes lonely. Her duties not letting her have time to do many of the things she's wanted to do, or speak with many of the ponies she'd call her friend. This was only made a little more difficult to bear as the Princess's sister.....well, she wasn't around. But one day, this princess met a very beautiful and playful phoenix she called Philomena. They became fast friends, and what was even better was Philomena could be considered the princess's pet. Which let her be by her side very often. The Princess often took advantage of this during her down time. Both her and Philomena often playing little tricks or pranks on her own guardspony. Though Philomena had a tendency to overdo it sometimes, they were still very happy together, and both always found joy in one another's company. One day, the princess started having dreams. Visions like her sister returning, or dreaming of six very special ponies who would uphold the very basis of Friendship and Harmony itself."

"The Princess would tell Philomena of these dreams and visions. And despite Philomena never saying a word, she was smart enough to understand. Everyday the Princess would have these visions and dreams. And at first, she thought of them to be very important. But as time went on, the Princess began to realize they really were just dreams....Because as time moves on, things became darker. The ponies she once cared for had started to move on, disregarding her word while listening to a pair of ponies who had outdone her in defeating dangers to her own realm. These pairs of ponies, brothers...Many ponies started to feel their words had more meaning as they were able to better protect them from dangers with their gadgets and soldiers. And as their influence spread, Equestria itself began to change. And as it became darker, polluted, and putrid. The princess bid a farewell to her best friend, Philomena. She did not want her phoenix friend to suffer, and let her take flight to cleaner skies. Philomena at first, would not leave. It took the Princess a great deal of time to convince her. And when she finally did...the Princess was then truly alone. To the point she was no longer a princess. With her subjects willing to start a war. She gave up her title so there could be peace. In return, she was given a modest home with a tower. Where she would spend her time raising and setting the sun...and nothing more. But there is a happy ending to this tale, because the Princess had run into one more friend to keep her company. Her faithful student" Celestia never broke her now unsettling smile. "What do you think Anon?"

You were wide awake...and holy shit..that was painful. Was she really that far gone? did she not notice how dark that was ? Or perhaps that story made her more aware than even she realized. Either way, that was far from a happy story. The entire world is fucked. And with every moment, it seemed more impossible to save Equestria.

In fact, as Celestia kept her smile up. Tears started to slowly flow from her eyes...oh geez. What the fuck do you say? "I-it was a good story Celestia. I-I liked it"

Was that even....right to say? It was basically a short story of her downfall. Her very visions of the Equestria you knew only remaining as such as the world just crumbles around her....

"T-that's...I-I'm...mnnn" Celestia didn't even know what to say herself as her smile slowly breaks. She just looks away from you, depressed as tears start to flow down. "I'm sorry, I-I'm suddenly so scatterbrained" Celestia chuckles nervously. "I-I will go tend to my garden now. And recollect my thoughts..Y-you don't mind if Sunset entertains you for awhile...d-do you?"

Shit...was it something you said? No, the reality was is that it was actually a depressing story. It seemed deep down, even Celestia knew that. So...why tell it?

Chapter 248 - Flim Flam Future Arc

"Wait...Celestia..." You hold your hoof towards her

she stops, and looks at you with tear filled eyes as she tries to smile. "Y-yes Anon?"

Celestia...was so damn broken by this world. You couldn't call in Discord to warp you out now. You had to stay until you could fix this. And right now? You'd try an age old Pinkie maneuver. You rush up and put yourself on your hind legs as you reach up and give her an adorable smile, standing like a dog for a treat. "You want a hug? You look like you can use one"

"I-I'd love one Anon...." Celestia's tears came down harder as her smile became more genuine, she raised you with her magic, and gave you a gentler hug with a sweet nuzzling from her muzzle. You could feel her tears dampen your coat.

Flim and Flam...you made an eternal promise to yourself that they would pay for this...at least this world's Flim and Flam anyway.

Celestia put you down gently as she stood from her stool, she was subtly crying.. She turned her head, feeling a small crack of happiness in her woeful heart that she had long since forgotten the feeling of. As if, she had a semblance of an idea that things would get better. But then, something clicked in her head. It was a dreadful click that was like her story. A shine of hope that simply passed and died out. And she frowned once more as she headed out. "..I must go tend to the garden now...I did like the hug though...Sunset, I know you'll do a good job keeping our guests happy....I know I can't"

Celestia sniffed, her speech full of sorrow, she just...walked off. and stepped out through the back as Chrysalis walked back in.

Sunset just put her head on the table and sighed, annoyed. "And that's why I didn't want her to tell that story. She always gets like this..."

"...What a miserable being she's become" Chrysalis comments as she steps back to the table.

"...." Sunset just turns her head and looks to Chrysalis with stoic disdain. "You know, if it wasn't for the fact you'd starve, you'd fit right in....Gertrude"

Chrysalis held her breath for a second, but then slowly exhaled with a chuckle. "Not this time, My discipline is much better now...especially since it's my goal to crush those two insolent whelps for what they have done to me. Since I plan to "date" that fool who was eyeing me...I'll need all the patience I can get. But when to take his offer? Today, tomorrow? Perhaps breakfast time, ponies are usually less wary when they haven't had a good breakfast....yes, that will do nicely."

"Revenge huh?....I've been down that route. Look, even if you "Crush" them, how exactly does that help us?" Sunset asks

"Help you? No, you don't understand. Crushing them is for my personal pleasure. I don't think helping anypony is a requirement here. Only taking those two out of power seems enough to me now that I think about it. Discord isn't one to care, So he should teleport us back after I'm done making those two suffer for a week before feeding them to a Tatzleworm." Chrysalis chuckles at the thought.

"No Chrysalis, we have to fix this world. THAT'S the requirement. I know dethroning them won't be enough. We have to put Celestia back in power...." This...this had to happen.

"Oh? And what good will that do? The ponies here have chosen their fate. A fate that does not include her. She's a broken mess, Anon, there is no fixing that" Of this, Chrysalis was sure of.

Sunset just sighed, hear head still on the table as she turned away. "She's right. The best we can do for her is make sure she's comfortable."

What?! So that's it?! You slam your hoof to the ground, angry. There had to be a solution. "NO! WE CAN'T JUST GIVE UP ON HER!"

Chrysalis was unimpressed by your bravado. "Well then Twilight Sparkle, what do you intend to do? Sing a song? Fix a friendship problem? Or maybe just blast the problem with a rainbow? Face it Anon, this is beyond us. How could we possibly succeed? Discord must know it's impossible, so simply making them bend to our will should be enough."

You stood there, quietly.....thinking… Chrysalis was going to try to get closer to Flim, get some information, and then eventually invade and crush them. But could she really do it alone? Maybe, but she'd only get so far. Those loyal to the kings would surely rescue them, especially if they have a paid defense force. No, this world worked by different rules. But all worlds worked.....like a saturday morning cartoon.

......EUREKA!

".....Chrysalis, you're on to something there. We are going to fix the friendship problem. The ENTIRE problem."

Sunset put her head up, wondering what you meant.

"....Are you serious? Look around you Anon, these ponies are far gone. It's hopeless. Besides, I don't want to stay here longer than I have to. It's not healthy here for me. And furthermore, whatever you're thinking, I want no part in it. Fixing the problem is less appealing than beating the tar out of it." Chyrsalis said.

You smirk at her. "Oh..you can still beat the tar out of it. In fact, I think you'll like this plan Chrysalis. It's right up your alley"

"....Hmm?" Chrysalis looked to you with interest.

..Yeah, this plan...oddly enough..would fit both the methods of Twilight Sparkle and Chrysalis. Both an underhanded and a friendly way of getting everything fixed… were there flaws? ...Hopefully not. But everyone had to do their part.

"Look, it's simple. You have the right idea of tricking Flim and getting in good with him. But that isn't enough. You can't just take them and make them suffer. You need a hive for that."

"I don't need a hive for that. I only need to make him fall hopelessly in love with me and then use him to bait his brother so they both come meet me in a secret location...and then I do terrible things to them" Chrysalis grinned at the thought.

...Cripes. "..Ok, well..we need to do more than that. Look, why make them suffer when we can strip them to less than nothing? You really want to hurt them? Then we need to beat them at their own game."

"....Hmnnn" Chrysalis rubbed her chin "Con the con ponies....And how would we do that? It's easier to fool one with love than just conning the both of them."

You smirk at Chrysalis, you were sure she'd love this. "Well, you'd already have Flim handled right? That'd leave Flam to me. Taking away their title doesn't really work if you kidnap them. But how do you think they'd react if they signed away their title?"

Chrysalis eyes went wide, then her mouth made a foul and twisted smile. ".....I like that better. The devastation would be intense. So then, we make them sign contracts that make them give up their title, hmmm? Is that the plan? I'm sure I can make Flim sign it...but what about his brother?”

You nod, she got the idea. "That's going to be tough. Maybe we can just use enchanted contracts to trick them?"

Sunset...was intrigued by what you were saying. And threw in her two cents. "That won't work, any kind of contract that has been enchanted in any way has been outlawed. Even the kings don't use it. So even if they signed it, it'd be null and void."

Shit… Chrysalis could already see some hope leaving you, just by looking into your eyes. "As I said, it's no problem with Flim. I can make him sign anything without him reading it."

Sunset spoke up. "Don't be so sure, these two have been conning everypony for years. You're going to have to do something amazing for him to sign without looking. Same with Flam. Even if Chrysalis CAN do it, without a signature from Flam, It won't mean anything. And even then, I'm sure they can find some loophole to get back into power. The ponies of Equestria aren't going to want to lose their kings...even if they are jerks."

...Hmmnnn...Sunset was right...you had to think deeper. "..You're right...so....Well, for now, I'll think of something for Flam later. Because if there's anypony I know who can trick a con pony..it's Chrysalis"

Chrysalis actually felt a sense of honor in that remark as her grin became more smug. "Well then, it's nice to have some actual recognition for my skills for once. And good on you Anon, you're thinking more like a changeling"

"Don't thank me yet. Because there's still getting Celestia back into power."

"...I take back my compliment. Anon, I already told you. There's no point. She's too far gone" Chrysalis clearly had no hope for her.

"....." Sunset was in deep thought, like she hadn't quite given up, but still had hopelessness bouncing around her mind. She then sighed, and turned her head away again. "I thought I had an idea...but it's no use..there's no way it would happen."

An idea? No, you needed all the help you could get. you had the outline. you just needed help filling it in. "Sunset, please. Whatever you have to say..it'd help us a buttload."

"....Mnn, it's impossible. That's why it's pointless. But if you really want to know, then I'll just say it." Sunset hopped off her chair and stood up, leading on her next sentence with a hopeless sigh. "Celestia needs to be reminded that there are ponies who not only just care about her, but about her ideals too. But good luck with that, you'd never be able to find a group of ponies who'd want to come see her. And even then, it still might not be enough to snap her out of it."

....That was actually....a seriously good idea...something you could actually add on to. Yeah..if Celestia's story is true...which you knew it was. Then you had something that could work. Though, you'd only be able to get maybe one or two of them. "What if the group consisted of the Elements of Harmony? The ones meant to have fulfilled the prophecy?"

"...." Sunset raises a doubtful eyebrow at you. "..Excuse me? That's not even funny. How would you even go about doing that?"

"Well, one of them is where Ponyville used to be. And despite how the norm seems to go. She's just as cheery and nice as she was in my world. I think just having her would put us at a major advantage. I wouldn't know about how getting the others would work though. But I also want to try to get Twilight Sparkle, she was a big big big big part of the whole thing. I'm sure her prophecies had her in it...a lot"

Chrysalis scoffed at that. "Anon, seriously? This Twilight is nothing like that goody four hooves back in our world. How would you even go about making her anywhere close to how we know her?"

.......Shit. "....I don't know. I'll think about it later. We have to do this one step at a time and right now Pinkie is our best bet. If we could somehow get Twilight...all the better."

"Hmph...alright, then say we do snap Celestia back to reality and give her back her title. How would we get the ponies who had turned their back on her to "see the light", hmmm?" This, Chrysalis had to hear.

You let out an arrogant chuckle, turn away, then do a 180 jump back to face them while pointing out like some weeb anime person and yelling like a heroic fighting master. "VERY SIMPLE! FLIM AND FLAM ARE CON PONIES WHO DON'T ACTUALLY CARE ABOUT THEIR SUBJECTS! IF ANYTHING, SOMEWHERE IN THAT CASTLE IS PROOF THEY ARE UNTRUSTWORTHY AND TERRIBLE PONIES! WE NEED TO FIND IT AND USE IT WHEN THE TIME COMES! AND WHEN THAT TIME COMES, NOT ONLY WILL WE SHOW IT TO THE TOWNSPONIES FROM THE BALCONY OF THE CASTLE BUT..."

You then quickly point to your horn. "WITH THIS HORN, I CAN PROJECT THE EXPLOITS OF THE ELEMENTS OF HARMONY FROM OUR WORLD WHILE SHOWING THEM HOW EQUESTRIA IS MEANT TO BE! THAT MIXED WITH THE REVEAL OF THEIR DIABOLICAL ENDGAME WILL MAKE THE PONIES REALIZE HOW WRONG THEY ARE! THAT...IS THE PLAN!" You then rub your chin as you close your eyes with an arrogant smirk. "Mhmm… mhmm… that can't possibly fail"

"Uhhh...yeah, you didn't have to yell that.....weird..." Sunset comments.

"Well, that doesn't sound too bad. But how do you know they have some "diabolical" plan? And how would we get our hooves on it?"

Errrr… "...It's all a work in progress. But trust me, these are both con ponies and business ponies at the same time. Somewhere in that castle are records and dirty dealings tucked away somewhere safe. We only need to find it"

"...Or....I could perhaps trick Flim into at least admitting it exists. That way I don't press too hard and out myself while also getting a clue you're on the right track. Hmnnn...Anon, this actually doesn't sound too bad." Chrysalis let out a cruel little titter. "I'm actually happy to be a part of this. I don't mind helping, it'll just mean those two dolts will see everything they worked for crumble back to zero. And nopony would ever give them the time of day again. An existence with no love, no money, no friends, no hope...a pony's worst nightmare. If you can actually make this work, I'll be very impressed. Yes, we'll be helping ponies...a shame. But it will be on the terms that we changelings do best at; Deception and lies." And in the back of Chrysalis's mind was a hope that you'd see that the changeling way is superior. Even if it helps ponies, she could see you giving into the dark side of the victory "Perhaps we'll torture those two false kings together before we depart, hmmm?"

You found that tempting. Actually, eh, why not? If it can be worked in, you'd totally do it to make those bastards know never ever to try this shit again, letting you leave this world in peace. "If we can get some in, I don't see why not. I want those guys to burn as much as you do for what they did to Celestia."

Chrysalis found that confusing. She was sure you'd have some qualms with it. For as long as she's known you, she always had the impression you were on the side of "Justice" unless Discord tempted you to do naughty things. She knew of the darker side of humans from the "Documentary". But had thought you hadn't been fully depussified yet. "Interesting...you have nothing against it?"

You shake your head. "Nope, totally wouldn't mind"

"Hmmnn, well alright then...So....pony" She looks over to Sunset. "Do we get our own rooms? If so, I'd like you to show me to it so I can do my planning in peace."

"Actually...most of the rooms we would have are full of stuff from the castle. I can set up a bed for you both right here and that's it. Also..." Sunset looks to you. She wanted to know something. "Anon, I know I didn't believe you before. But that plan sounds...it sounds like it can work. All I've wanted since I found Celestia was to...Well..." She looks down in shame. "Was to help her, and to find a way to forgive myself for what I've done. I really feel if I had just listened. None of this would never have happened. If there's anything I can do to help, you have to let me know...ok. ?"

There probably was a place for her in your plan. You were going to have to outsource some magic to make this work. Most likely anyway. "Don't worry Sunset, we're all gonna have to pull our weight to make this work."

Sunset doesn't nod, instead, she sighs in relief and leans back on the chair. "...Good to know. Because I'm still trying to believe that this is actually happening. It's so unreal, y'know? Nopony could have seen you two coming. Ok...let me set up your beds around the room and go help Princess Celestia. I don't like it when she's alone too long with her "friends"."

And so Sunset did just that. The bedding and mattresses she rolled out with her magic was unbelievably dusty. "Sorry, they haven't been used in awhile.". She then used her magic to make some sort of dust filter effect. scraping the dust into a ball and then tossing it into a garbage bin. She then lays them down and straightens them out. Two beds, for you and Chrysalis. "There you go, now if you excuse me.." She then steps out onto the back to check up on Celestia.

After Sunset had stepped out. Chrysalis gently planted herself on the bed and then looked towards you, with some doubt in her mind. "So...how sure are you on this plan of yours?"

You were..pretty sure… "I think it'll work. Everypony involved is going to have to pull off a few miracles, but ponies are pretty gullible already. If Flim and Flam can trick them like that, then we can retrick them back to how it's supposed to be. It just takes proof, some fancy magic to showcase the good the world can have, and a lot of luck. I just need to work out a few chinks."

Chrysalis made herself as comfortable as she could and looks straight up at the ceiling." You better Anon, this is a big gamble we're all taking. You need to spend the day planning every facet of your plan before executing it. Just like I must lay here and contemplate my breakfast date with the contemptible king. If I am going to find out if they have anything incriminating. I will have to think on and imagine exactly how the date should go. I will not be taking him lightly."

"That actually sounds like a good idea." You agreed, there were a few holes in your plan you had to think about. Especially if it turned out you were wrong about some hidden evil plan. You plopped down onto your own bed and snuggled into the blankets as you stared up at the ceiling. "I just have to meditate on everything and I'm sure I can make the perfect plan."

"It takes more than just meditation, Anon. It requires you to be cunning, vicious, and uncaring towards your enemy. You need to imagine every scenario that could happen and then plan accordingly. I know I don't need to make this analogy, but I will anyway just to cement a point in that hard head of yours. This plan is like chess, in order to win, you need to make all the right moves. Even making sacrifices along the way. It might be stupid of me to put my trust in you Anon, but I don't know when Discord will acknowledge letting us back. So I leave it up to you."

"Got it...and don't worry. I can definitely think of something"

And so you laid there, plotting, scheming, and perfecting your plan. You knew...that for tomorrow, you'd have to go back to Flimsville and Flamsville to pick up Pinkie Pie. This was the part of your plan with a flaw. You knew you needed more than her. But really, who else could you convince to come? You couldn't even think of anything right now...maybe Pinkie knew Fluttershy?...Flutters seemed alright.

And then there was Flam, you were going to have to think long and hard to get him to agree to sign something without looking at it.

Time passed, or what little there was as you and Chrysalis laid in your beds. Plotting, scheming. She didn't bother you, and you didn't bother her. You both knew what you had to do. Sunset helped Celestia tend to the garden. But this did go on for an awful long time. Until the sun set to be exact.

"So this is what our lives have become..." Chrysalis says as she stares up at the ceiling

Hmm? "What?"

"Our lives Anon, Celestia's and mine. I somehow was reduced to a maid, and her? She tends to a garden when she is upset. It's pitiful."

"...Yeah, I admit. Seeing you like that was pretty bad. It was like she just gave up."

Chrysalis just continued to stare. "I can't imagine what it was like...losing your entire hive, your entire kingdom, just like that. She probably never gave up. And fought to the bitter end."

"Chrysalis?" You look over to her. "Are you ok?"

Chrysalis shook her head. "No...I'll never be ok..." She suddenly growled, and raised her hoof up as it shook. "I SWEAR, I WILL TAKE AWAY EVERYTHING THOSE TWO HAVE EVER COME TO ACQUIRE! THEY WILL RUE THE DAY THEY MESSED WITH ME! EVEN IF IT'S ANOTHER ME!"

Uh oh… "W-woah, calm down Chrysalis. We'll get them, but you don't have to be so loud. I'm guessing you’re hungry again, right?"

"No, I've been feeding since I've got here on the love that pony has produced. She truly cares for Celestia, despite Celestia being utterly useless and a burden......why would anypony go through such...what was that word?...Ahh yes....Hell" Chrysalis didn't understand. "Why go through such deliberate pain for somepony who doesn't fully acknowledge your existence. It's clear Celestia mentally comes and goes...so why?"

"Because..." ....God, that just made you think how badly Sunset is suffering. She can't atone for what she has done in the human world. And everything she's done here she's done with such hopeless abandon. "That's what it means to care. To love.... Chrysalis, I know you care for your changeling children. Are you telling me if you were in your other self's place. You wouldn't do anything to save them?"

Chrysalis scoffs. "Save them? Ha, if I was actually there I'd overthrow myself and double my numbers. Equestria wouldn't be able to stop an attack that massive!" She laughs evilly

"Oh come on!" You flip onto your belly and look at her with seriousness. "Stop deflecting! Come on! I'm being serious. The little runt, he is like..the most useless and dumb of them all. And you gave him the privilege of captain. You can't tell me that's not a form of love. And you and me are friends..you saved me. I know you saved me here because you need me. But you could have let me die to your old captain. You could have, and then taken my horn for yourself. Are you telling me you couldn't hide the horn for a full day? You? Who can fool anyone?"

Chrysalis doesn't hesitate to answer, she doesn't sound confused or distraught, she just replies with a straightforward demeanor. "Anon, our friendship is on a completely different basis than that of a pony. It's more of a mutual understanding. As for the care I have for my children." And that's where she stopped. She had this worried look, it was almost unnoticeable, but it was there, for a split second. "It is because they are a part of me. It's a kind of survival instinct. As for the runt. He does have a tenacity that is to be admired, wouldn't you agree?"

You slam your hoof down. That was crap! "Bullshit! If it's one thing you and Discord have in common. It's the crap that comes from both your mouths. I know somewhere in your heart that you have some love of your own. You're not like Tirek or Sombra. And if the runt is capable of friendship, that means the rest of your hive is. Which means even you are capable of love!"

Chrysalis started to get annoyed. But she remained calm. "...So, is that what you think? Brilliant deduction, but you're wrong. And all this? It's because we're stuck together, so don't be putting it in your little proof pile. And DON'T go thinking that just because I admired your idea that it means I respect you. You're a friend on my terms. Nothing more."

You raise an eyebrow in doubt. "Really?" You get up and walk over to Chrysalis.You then remove the horn from around your neck and toss it in front of her.

She just looks down at it. "...What are you doing?"

"Giving you the horn. It's weak, but who knows. You can probably use what power it does have to escape on your own. Then you can wait a day, get your hive back, wait another day, and blast Twilight and her friends to pieces."

You give her a smug smile and lean in, nuzzling right under her chin. "I know you waaannnnttt it"

Chrysalis backs off, looking at you with disgust. "Don't do that! It's creepy..." She pushes the horn away.

but you slide it back. "If you didn't love me, you'd take the horn."

"Or maybe.." She pushes it back. "I want to stay here and demolish those two brothers"

You push it back, getting more determined. "Or maybe you actually truly care deep down."

She pushes it back. "Or maybe I just have some form of respect for you"

You push it back. "Or maybe it's because we have a loving, near sibling bond!"

She pushes it back. "Or maybe it's because Discord might still catch on, and I don't want to risk it!"

You growl as you push it back. "Or maybe, it's because you have a heart!"

She pushes it into your chest "I do, and it's black in color!"

You slam it into her chest. "But you have one! And if you got one, it means you care!"

She slams it into your chest, pushing you back a little. "BLACK HEARTS DON'T FEEL LOVE!"

You throw the horn back at her. "THEN PROVE IT! THIS IS ESSENTIALLY A WISH GRANTING TOOL! DO IT!"

She takes it and puts it around your neck before pulling at it, causing you to choke. "You listen here you little worm! You will believe what I tell you to believe. You want to stay good with me? Then follow me as well as my children do and we WON'T have a problem. Now, as I said. You are going to keep that horn or I'll shove it down your throat! Discussion over, Got it?!"

You couldn't even speak, you were turning blue, pointing at her hoof.

"I'll take that as a yes..." She lets you go, making you fall to the ground, coughing

"S-sheesh..Ok..geez..But.." You look back at her, bracing yourself with a smile. "I know you're lying"

Chrysalis went from normal to red as she stood up and reverted to her original form. Actually losing her cool. "THAT'S IT! I'M GOING TO END YOU LIKE I SHOULD HAVE BACK AT DISCORD'S! AND THIS TIME HE CAN'T SAVE YOU!" Her horn glowed as she made you hover. And then she took aim "Any last words?"

....Ok, now things were scary. S-she wouldn't do it? Would she? Crap...you were scared to bluff her. B-but...saturday morning cartoons..r-right? "Yeah...I love you Chrysalis....I really think of you as a sister. And if you want to destroy me...that's fine"

"Pathetic..." Her horn began to intensify. Oh crap..

You flinched, and covered yourself fruitlessly with your hooves. But the blast didn't happen, you instead fell right on your head. "Agh! Ogh!"

You rub your head as Chrysalis rolls her eyes and lays back down on her bed. "Truly pathetic, it's not even worth destroying you.....now leave me be. I have planning to do."

And she just transformed back, and laid there. Goddammit. You almost thought you had it...though thank christ...you still had your head.

You whisper under your breath. "...one of these days Chrysalis..dammit"

Not soon after, Celestia and Sunset stepped back into the house.

It was night at this point, so Sunset lit some candles. Celestia looked down to the both of you with a broken and false smile. "Hello friends...I know it's sudden that I am coming inside to say hello..and then goodnight. But, I get very busy during this time and...I don't have any time for chit chat...b-but..please feel free to stay. And perhaps we can spend time with each other...tomorrow. Good night!" She says with false optimism as she heads into the tower and goes up stairs. Without even waiting for an answer.

"...Please don't think that was weird. She's just very anxious at night" Sunset informs you, Chrysalis not caring.

"Why?" She didn't even wait for you to say good night back. considering how desperate she was for companionship. it seemed off she'd just leave without a goodnight.

"I wish I could say, but I just don't know. Everytime I go to check up on her at night she keeps the door locked with an enchantment I can't break. Look, just don't worry about it. I have some work to do myself in my room. So, goodnight, and seeya both in the morning. I'll have breakfast ready by the time you get up."

Mnnnnn… You bid Sunset a goodnight. And nothing more. You were too interested in why Celestia locks herself up at night.

In fact.. You put your hoof on your horn....maybe...come midnight...you should go see her. Maybe, whatever it was. Was a key in helping her...or maybe it was a bad idea.

And you waited. Chrysalis had nothing more to say to you. It was as if she was purposely avoiding talking to you because her attitude was that of a teenager rather than a queen, she wasn't fully herself yet. Why won't she take the horn?...Surely her reason was bullshit. But you couldn't get a reason out of her, it was like beating a dead horse.

The later the night became, the more anxious you felt. Chrysalis had finally fallen asleep. And the clocks around the house were saying it was close to midnight. Very close...

..This may be a stupid idea, but you had to know why. It must have to do with why Celestia was keeping everything an eternal night before Sunset got to her. You got up, and silently made your way to where the tower steps started and moved on upwards. You went higher, higher, and higher still. Until you reached a lone door with a sun on it.

..You couldn't hear anything coming from the other side of the door. And moving the doorknob didn't work. It was stuck tight. But there was a keyhole you could peer through. You bring your face in close to peer through it. On the other side you could see Celestia on the balcony at the other side of the room. Silently sitting, and staring at the moon.

Why...why is she just sitting there?

Against your better judgement. You use the horn to unlock the door. It seems the horn still had enough power to dispel any magic Celestia had put on the door. You were too curious. You had to know why. She was hurting..she had to be. If she didn't want Sunset up here, then...well...what could that mean?

...Oh god...as you slowly opened the door and snuck up on her. You started to think about the consequences of your actions...that's what your timeline’s Celestia would tell you anyway, to think on the consequnces. But god dammit, you felt you could help her with...whatever this could be.

No, you knew what this was. This was your gambit. You were risking possible failure by spooking Celestia. But if this worked, she would know she isn't alone, and you'd be willing to disobey her if it meant she had loving company. Now you just had to hope she didn't toss you off the fucking balcony.

Oh god....please don't get thrown off the balcony. You don't think your head could protect you from a fall this great. You nearly gulped, but you stayed quiet, and snuck up and waited. She wasn't saying anything. She just continued to stare.

Then suddenly, like a fucking whip, she turned her head to the side, enough to look at you. It was so sudden it was fucking scary. Like some kind of monster. It made you flinch and duck. "O-Oh geez! W-wait! Celestia! P-please! I..I just wanted to check up on...huh?"

She just turned her head and went back to staring at the moon. She stayed silent for another moment. But then she started to speak. "..Do I scare you...Anon?"

...Oh shit...well..this could be bad...Fuck. You should have just left well enough alone. First you pissed Chrysalis off...now this mess. "No...a little..that was kind of scary...you're not gonna hurt me right?...Please?"

"....No. But, perhaps I turned my head too suddenly. But you startled me. Nopony should be able to open that door. Not with the spell I put on it....Why are you here?" She asks, her voice stoic and cold

You gulp. Her tone...it sounded..so dead.... "Celestia...please. I only snuck in because I didn't want you to be alone. I wanted to see if you would be willing to talk to me, personally, one on one. I know it's sudden, I know I broke in, but we might not have a lot of time to spend with each other. I wanted to at least let you know that I care, that you're my friend, and that I want to help you in any way I can."

"Anon...I'm not worth your time. I've failed everypony. I failed Equestria...I even failed..." Celestia looked down in shame, too much shame, she was tearing up. "Please go...forget about this old mare. Who could love a princess who could not do what is right? A princess who lacked the power to destroy those who would harm her subjects...All I can do is sit here..." She looks up to the moon, her tears flowing, she was crying...she was crying, but without so much as a whimper. "..and hope my sister has forgiven me. I could not even save her....Luna...please...I'm sorry..."

It was if, in just a small instant. Celestia had forgotten you were even there. She reached her hoof up to the sky. Her tears never stopping. "Even if you came down as Nightmare Moon, even if you hated me, even if you made me suffer your fate...please...let me see you again. I miss you..., Luna. I would suffer banishment a thousand fold if it meant I could see you. I have no other purpose...Nopony cares anymore..."

......Oh god...Celestia… You could feel your own tears come out. This was.. "Celestia...I really am sorry I barged in. But, you have to believe me when I say I did it because I was worried about you. I was scared. I wanted to know why you lock yourself in your room every night..."

"And now you know.." Celestia said, still acknowledging your presence. "If you wish, you can mock me. Mock me like everypony else has. It's alright, what good am I when I cannot even save my own sister....from myself...from...ngh" Celestia put her hoof to her heart, then began yelling up to the sky "SISTER! PLEASE! PLEASE HEAR MY PLEA! YOUR BIG SISTER WANTS YOU BACK...I NEVER STOPPED MISSING YOU! PLEASE....please...say something...come back to me...Luna.."

...And now it was clear...Celestia, the reason why. She just wanted her sister back at this point. Even if it meant Nightmare Moon....

It seems Celestia just cared about one thing right now. Her sister. She didn't even care HOW you got in. But it did appear that she felt that you weren't there for anything pleasant. Celestia herself was now just staring up at the moon. awaiting a reply that would never come.

"Celestia...Would you mind, if...I gave you another hug?" That was the best you could think of. What else could you say? Maybe if you told her you wanted to hug her...

Celestia hung her head low, she wasn't looking at you. But she was depressed all the same. She didn't even answer you.

...Ok...maybe..if you..actually hugged her? Come on Anon, it can't be that fucking difficult. But as you look at her....perhaps you really were thinking too simply. Too..childishly.

...No, you had another idea. You walked over and sat right next to Celestia. You avoided making eye contact. Instead, you just looked up at the sky. You didn't want to gaze upon her pain and lose your focus. "...Celestia, I have a story for you..."

You perk your ear up, to hear if she had an answer. It took a moment. But she finally put her attention entirely towards you. Enough to break her focus from the moon. "Anon, why do you approach me? Is my misery that interesting?"

You shake your head. and continue to look up at the sky. "You got it all wrong, I really do just want to tell you a story...I think it might help."

Celestia looks to you, taking a glance at your flank. "....Why would a spawn of Discord want to help me?"

...Spawn of Discord? "...What? What do you mean?" You look to her, confused as to why she called you that.

"I suspected something was off when you could break the spell on my door… But that cutie mark... You are either an avatar of Discord...or some sort of spawn. There's nothing I can do...so just...do your worst. You have caught me at my weakest moment...and perhaps...this would be better." She just looked back to the moon. closing her eyes...awaiting..something.

"N-no...Celestia...mnnnn" You sigh, you should've known that even in this state. She was perceptive. You lean into her, and nuzzle into her, hoping it would show that you had no ill will. "Celestia, you're kind of right...I am related to Discord. But, it's a Discord you never met. Look.." You take a breath. this was going to be a mouthful.

"I come from another Equestria. The Equestria you foresaw when it came to the Elements of Harmony. And...hm?"

You are stopped short as Celestia magically picks you up, and holds you up high enough to meet you face to face. "....Tell me the truth. Look right into my eyes and tell me you wish to be my friend. No spawn of chaos would be able to do that with a straight face. If you wish to have me believe you mean me no harm....then tell me..."

Ok....she didn't care to hear the story. T-that's fine. If this is what it took to convince her. So be it.

You look her dead in the eye. and keep your stare. not flinching, smiling, or looking away. "I want to be your friend. I mean it...one hundred percent." And she just kept you there, both of you staring at each other for ten whole minutes. She just stared into your eyes as you looked right back. She could see a gentleness in your eyes a cruel chaos bringer could never have. After another moment, she gently puts you down.

"Anon....I believe you. I haven't felt this feeling...in quite some time..." Celestia walked further, to the edge of the balcony and looked down upon Canterlot. "I never would have thought something that came from Discord would be capable of friendship. But looking at what's become of my kingdom....Maybe it makes more sense than I realize" Celestia seemed to actually be coming to her senses. "Anon, why have you come to see me?"

There we go. But, did she even hear you the first time? She seemed lucid now. "Celestia, I just want to make sure you're ok. And keep you company. Don't you get lonely up here? I know Sunset has tried to come in, but you always keep the door locked."

Celestia walks back towards her room, past you, and heads towards her bed. The room, now that you look at it, was pretty plain. All it had was a seat, a mirror with a few drawers under it, and a nightstand. Not what you call royalty. "Because, It is my shame to bear alone. Nopony must know my suffering. It's my way of punishing myself for what I let happen. I was fooled by the two ponies that they call their kings. And the world itself thought to punish me by taking everything I have. And thus, I must make sure nopony else knows. So they do not suffer along with me. If Sunset knew the truth of this, she would not be able to stay composed. She already suffers from her own mistakes, she needn't suffer mine." Celestia climbs onto bed, and rests her head. "I wish you to keep this a secret Anon, and I'd like you to leave. You'll see me tomorrow"

No. You start inching towards her bed. "Then, what about how you acted earlier? All chippy and happy?"

".....Sometimes I lose myself...I'm not always lucid. I try, but sometimes it's simply too much. I lose myself in some vain attempt to try to see good in the world. But it's gone, everything I believe is just an illusion. Perhaps it's just to further keep Sunset safe from the truth. Maybe one day I'll stay delusional, and she'll never have to worry again."

Goddammit Celestia...how the fuck did this happen? Was this all really caused by Starlight, or a Starlight that had finished her reaearch on time? This couldn't have been what she actually wanted. Is it? Why did Discord even bother with this? It was better off knowing that these worlds never existed.

But it was too late now, you had to press forward. And if you were going to help Celestia...

Celestia's eyes went wide when she felt something hug her from behind "A-anon?..What are you doing?"

You hugged her tight, you nuzzled along her back, you grasped onto her like she was your mother. "What's it look like? I'm not leaving you like this. The Celestia I know would never give up, I mean, geez...the Celestia I know would punish me for doing a bad thing..."

"Bad thing?" Celestia was hesitant to ask, feeling it might have been Discord tier. "...And what is that "Bad Thing”?"

"Well..erm. See, I come from another Equestria, dunno if you heard that or knew." You say sheepishly

"It doesn't sound impossible to me, I remember catching what you were about to say"

"Well...yeah. See, you were having some important meeting and I wanted to have my marefriend meet you or Luna. And you got pretty mad at me. You took this really important magical item away from me for a week as punishment so I can learn not to be a dingbat."

Celestia's breath became irregular, as if she was shocked. "My sister?...She had returned?"

You gulp, you did say Luna...didn't you? You hoped what you were about to tell her didn't cause her to break down. "Y-yeah, that prophecy you mentioned in the story? It happened. The Equestria I come from is a pretty friendly place."

Suddenly, Celestia burst into laughter. Almost crazy laughter. She turned over to you, tears in her eyes, and grasped you tightly, giving you a firm yet gentle hug as the vibrations of her belly laugh coursed through you. Oh god...you broke her. "C-celestia, a-are you ok?"

She couldn't stop laughing for a few more moments. You expected her to break into sobbing at any moment. But despite the tears in her eyes, she didn't cry. She just caressed your back, laid down with you. "I'm alright Anon, it's just. That sounds like something I'd do. But, do you want to know why it's so funny?"

...Do you? "Erm, sure?"

Celestia snickered again, and whispered. "It was probably because I was teaching you a lesson. I don't think I'd care if you actually came in during a meeting as long as you behaved properly. But there must have already been a pony who told you what I was doing before you tried...right?"

.......Nooooooooooo, wut? "E-ergh..a-are you serious?"

Celestia giggled. "Mhmmm, I must have taken it from you because you thought you could do what you want. Actions have consequences, Anon. Buuuuuut, if you had done it without a warning. I probably wouldn't have minded at all." Celestia rustled your mane gently and laughed again. "You must be a pretty silly colt to be friends with me but still disregard one's warning like that. And..." She stopped her giggling, her tone becoming serious, with a hint of relief. "I'm glad to know my sister is not beyond redemption after all. Anon..."

Celestia cuddled you close again, and craned her neck over your head in a position to sleep. "Would you keep me company this night? It has been awhile since I have genuinely smiled. And I fear I may enter one of my episodes again tomorrow. I just want to have one night where I remember what things used to be like. The chirps of the birds, the smiles of the ponies, the clean air, and soft sunshine that emanated from beyond the clouds"

Of course you fucking would spend the night with her.

And so the night passed. You and Celestia embracing each other as for at least one night, Celestia's troubles left her. The burden of her past lifted temporarily so she may enjoy the company of the little colt who dared to break into her room. She was as warm as the Celestia you knew. It was like a mother who had reunited with her son. Celestia would have a good dream this night. And hopefully, once your mission was done, she'd never have to have a night suffering alone ever again.

And as the night left and the morning came, you opened your eyes and yawned. You moved your hoof around and called for Celestia, but she had already gotten up. "Mnnnn, She's probably down stairs. Ok, I have a job to do."

You leave her room and head down the tower back down to the bottom and exited towards the living room. Sunset Shimmer was alone writing on some parchment as a smell permeated in the air. The smell of delicious food. But, if Sunset was here, who was cooking? And where was Chrysalis. "Sunset? Hey, good morning. Whatcha doing there?"

"Writing the contracts, double checking, triple checking, quadruple checking. I'm making sure there's no loopholes whatsoever on both of them." Sunset said as she continued writing. The second contract,compared to the first, that she was writing on was as thick as a fucking book.

"Erm, what's with that contract? It's huge. I thought they'd be the same for both brothers"

"They technically are. But the bigger one is for Flam. Y'see, me and Chrysalis had a long talk. She told me you had a tendency to screw up as badly as you succeed. She was afraid you'd screw up the contracts. So I decided to write them instead. It's no problem for me, I've done this kind of thing lots of times. It's how I got into Canterlot High without anyone, ahrm, anypony being the wiser." Sunset stops for a moment and then looks at you. "So...wanna tell me what you were doing in Celestia's room? I already know how you got in."

You take a seat and look at her from across the table. You weren't afraid to say it. You accomplished what you went in there to do. You knew not to tell more than you needed. "I was just making sure she was alright. And then I just sort of ended up as her cuddle buddy."

"That's it?" Sunset was sure there'd be more. She Really just wanted to grill you. But she noticed something change in Celestia, something better, so she didn't press too hard and tried to keep her curiousness in check

You nod. "Yep."

"Hrn, well I guess that explains why she wanted to cook us a meal. Which, by the way. I have to tell you," Sunset goes back to writing. "Chrysalis convinced her to make a ridiculous feast to stall for time."

Hm? "Why? Why would she tell her that? Where is she anyway?"

"She went to do what she said she'd do. She's having breakfast with King Flim. As to why she told her that, Chrysalis has this weird notion that you'll be able to bring in ponies that would actually snap Princess Celestia out of it. It's super weird; Queen Chrysalis, one of the most feared beings in YOUR Equestria who has obviously not been reformed actually wants to help and is putting her faith in you. Of course, you're not exactly just a kid are you? Chrysalis filled me on some of the story you left out. You're lucky I believe it because it's the craziest story I've ever heard."

Sunset stopped writing and leaned back, looking up at the ceiling with hope in her eyes. "I can't even believe this is happening. It's so unreal..." Sunset looked back to you with determination. "That's why we can't mess this up, look. Chrysalis also told me you'd try asking me why she cares. She told me to tell you not to worry about it, focus on the mission, and point you out the door. I called a cab for you about a half an hour ago and it's still waiting outside."

W-what? "But wa-"

Sunset stops you, using her magic to put your saddle bag around you before making your chair do a 180. "No buts, Anon, just leave me be so I can get this done. If you want my opinion on Chrysalis, then here's a quick one. She seems to like you, sorta. But I don't think she actually cares for anypony else. Or maybe she's just super rude, I don't know. Just go already, ok? We can't waste time"

Well then. If you didn't have time to waste, then so be it. You tell Sunset goodbye and head off into the cab. Presenting your gold card to the driver before making your way back to Flimsville and Flamsville. It seemed Chrysalis had started the game and everyone was focused. Sunset had to have known you didn't tell her the full story. But her love for Celestia was stronger than her curiousness on what happened, if she had a chance to help with fixing things. She was going to take it.

As for Chrysalis, it seemed she was going to follow your plan after all. She knew what she was doing though. She must have had Sunset set up the cab too. You should have known she would have taken the initiative. As for having Celestia cook, that was both a smart and dumb move. Of course, since the results depended on you. You'd be at fault if you couldn't succeed in your mission. The stage was set, it was time to bring back Equestria.

Chapter 249 - Flim Flam Future Arc

The drive took awhile, but you were back in Flimsville and Flamsville within the hour. The cab driver kept to himself, he didn't seem too happy that he wasn't getting paid. But dems the rules. You thought about leaving him some bits. But you could hear him grumbling to himself about having to drive around a "dumb kid".

When you arrive in town, you ask the cab driver to take you to Pinkie's. But unfortunately, he had no idea who that is. Holy fuck, you had no idea where she fucking lived! GODDAMMIT! WHY DO CHARACTERS TELL PEOPLE TO SWING BY AND YET NEVER TELL THEM WHERE THEY LIVE HALF THE TIME!?

You then tell the cab driver to stay put. He tries to argue with you that he has other things to do. But your gold card shuts him up. Huh, it seems having a gold card was a pretty high honor. Or rather, would get you in trouble if you fucked with it's holder.

You step out, and look around. It seems he had decided to stop near a theater, a fire station, and a couple of unmarked buildings along a T street. You see many ponies walking by, fuck....this wasn't going to work. But you try asking some if they had ever heard of a cheery pink pony named Pinkie Pie, or if they had heard of a Maud Pie, Blinkie Pie, Inkie Pie....a Pie. No answer. They either ignored you or just told you to step aside.

"Having trouble there kid?" You hear a voice coming from above you...dammit, you already knew who it was.

"Rainbow Dash?" You look up, she was hovering above you.

"Yep, that's pretty cool how you memorized my name you..er.....you" She couldn't quite remember

Goddammit, well. You shouldn't be surprised that she forgot your name. "It's Anon, also. What are you doing? I haven't done anything wrong."

Rainbow Dash shook her head at you, and landed at your side as she adjusted her chief's hat. "I know, but it is kinda suspicious that you're back in town so soon. Did ya already make a deal with the kings?"

Like you would, egh. She was annoying you already just with that question. But, maybe it wasn't bad that she showed up. She might know where Pinkie is. "No, I haven't made a deal yet. They gave me this gold card so I could enjoy their land before coming to a decision." You flash the gold card at her. "I mean, that's not the first time you've seen a pony with a gold card around. Right?"

"Uh, actually it is. Usually ponies with gold cards hang out in Canterlot. Now I'm super suspicious..." Rainbow Dash squints her eyes at you, bringing her face directly in front of yours "You aren't up to any trouble, are ya?"

You raise an eyebrow at her, was she seriously asking that?...well, actually. You were plotting against her kings. But still! "Is that anyway to address a prince?"

Rainbow Dash also seemed to have forgotten that fact. And backs off. "Woah woah, ok ok. Sorry, I forgot you were a prince of...something. Ok, look, I get the hint. You aren't doing anything wrong. I guess I'll go patrol the south side of the city an-"

You stop her right there, you had to, you didn't want her just darting off. "Actually, hold on! I need your help actually. I'm looking for a pony named Pinkie Pie, she's a pony with a cotton candy like pink mane. Have you seen her? Do you know her? I need to speak to her. And as the honorable and great police chief, I thought you might know"

Rainbow Dash rubbed under her chin as she thought about it. "Pinkie Pie, Pinkie Pie....Pinkie Pie. I Can't say I ever heard of her. But your description does fit a pony some of my officers had arrested. She had blue eyes right?"

.......

"YOU ARRESTED PINKIE PIE?!" You brought your hooves upon Rainbow Dashes ears with a hop and pulled her head down as you looked into her eyes angrily. "WHY WOULD YOU ARREST PINKIE PIE?! WHAT DID SHE EVEN DO?!"

Pinkie didn't lie..did she? No, she couldn't have. Chrysalis said she didn't...unless Chrysalis lied..

"W-woah! hey! calm down!" Rainbow Dash backed off into a pole and fell on her butt as she had to struggled to get you off her ears. "Get off, Anon! What's with you!? Sheesh!" She had to shake her head and give you a shove to get you off, knocking you flat on your ass. "I should have you arrested for that! Seriously! My gosh!" Rainbow Dash dusted off her uniform and straightened her hat. "Look, I'll let you off with a warning, k? Because that usually gets you up the river for sure."

Dammit, you lost your cool there. Why? Pinkie was almost an acquaintance at this point. Even in your world. But, she was one of your favorites regardless. You did originally want to try to woo her. It never really left it seemed. What was odder, was Rainbow Dash not throwing you in prison for assaulting her. You thought for sure she went full on asshole. "S-sorry, I just. lost my head. A-are we cool?"

"That's a lot to ask kid, we aren't even friends. But like I said, I'll just let you off with a warning. Sheesh, what does she even mean to you? She was arrested for stealing y'know. Being friends with a thief makes you super suspicious. So I'm just gonna guess she must have fooled you, pretty darn hard actually for you to react like that" Rainbow Dash said as she pulled out a notepad and looked at it. "Yup, big time stealing. She's probably gonna go away for a long long time"

Stealing?....Pinkie..no...why? Your ears droop, as you look down in shame of what you have done. You got tricked pretty damn good. "...Oh..."

"Sorry Anon, but she should have thought about what would happen when she stole an entire collection of old style bits." Rainbow Dash tapped her chin with her notepad. "Wonder where she got em"

"Yeah......wait" Old style bits....OLD STYLE BITS?! "Those were MY bits!" You say with an angry yell after making the realization that she was arrested for nothing.

"Oh....hey, that makes sense. You did have a lot on you" Rainbow Dash felt a little dumb not realizing that, then shook her head at the shame of Pinkie being a thief. "tsk tsk, stealing from a prince. Now she's super duper done. Yikes, why would anypony do anything stupid like that?"

Your eye twitched...GODDAMMIT BLUE CUNT! "SHE DIDN'T STEAL THEM! I GAVE THEM TO HER! HOLY CRAP! DID YOU DO ANY INVESTIGATING AT ALL?!"

Rainbow Dash was taken aback. In fact, you were surprised at how stunned she really seemed. Like she actually cared about the mistake. "W-what?! You gave them to her?!"

You growled, you didn't care if you got arrested. How the fuck do you screw that up? "Yes! Duh! That didn't click when I said I was looking for her or was surprised when she got arrested?! What kind of police work do you even do?!"

Rainbow Dash gulped as she tried to calm you down. In her head, this was two things; One, she pissed off a guest of the kings, and two, that meant her job...or worse. But, surprisingly enough, it was the fact that someone who was actually innocent got arrested that seemed to get to her. "Anon, hey, look. I'm gonna say it right now, as the chief of police of both Flimsville and Flamsville, I'm super sorry, but I didn't even arrest her. I was out at Ghastly Gorge dealing with some weird monster sighting. Didn't even find it despite that rep from whatevermare incorporated saying she saw some scary clone of herself. Pinkie was arrested while I was out and she's probably in court right now"

Court?! NOW?! BUT YOU SAW HER YESTERDAY! "Court?! THAT QUICK?!"

Rainbow Dash shrugged. "Hey, justice works fast here. Our prosecutor has a one hundred percent conviction record."

Oh no, in a world like this, it probably wasn't long before she was given the guilty verdict. You had to move fast. Without a word, you try to get back into the cab. But Rainbow Dash stops you, holding your tail with her hoof.

"LET ME GO! I HAVE TO GET TO THAT COURT HOUSE!" You cry out

"Hey! R-relax!" Rainbow Dash tugged at your tail to pull you back. "You can't just go to the courthouse and say you have proof that she didn't do it. There's rules!"

"I DON'T CARE! LET ME GO! I'LL FIGURE OUT A WAY!"

Rainbow Dash pulls harder, making you fall on your tummy. "There's already a way!" Rainbow Dash sighs as she helps you up and dusts you off. "Look, I'm sorry. I should have investigated into it myself. But I was just so darn busy. but look, there is a way. We have a rule that the chief of police can present new evidence during a trial. It can be submitted to either side, This goes for witnesses too. Also, you won't ever make it on time with traffic the way it is. You're flying Air Dash! Got it?"

Wut?....she was now...helping you? "Woah, woah woah....woah woah woah. Hold on. You're actually helping me? Why? You actually care that an innocent pony got arrested for no reason?"

Rainbow Dash rolls her eyes at you. "Duuuuuh, that's not right, Anon. I'm the chief of police, it's my job to be loyal to the citizens of both towns by doing my job right and protecting them...even if a lot of them are jerks."

But, there was still the fact she herself stole bits. "What about the bits you took from me?"

Rainbow Dash flinched, and looked to the side as she rubbed the back of her head. "Yeeeeaaahhh that was actually Gilda, I probably should have said something. But she's my friend. Y'know?"

.....

You cross your front hooves as you sit on your bum and give her a mean look. "And Fluttershy?"

Rainbow Dash sighed at that one. She didn't seem very proud to hear THAT name. "...Geez, you're pretty nosy for a colt. Erm...Why even bring her up?"

"She's your friend..or was. What did she do for you to abandon her like that, huh?"

Rainbow Dash gulped, she was feeling a shitton of guilt right now. But she also felt some of it wasn't her fault. "Look, Fluttershy is still sorta my friend. At least, I'd like her to be. When Flim and Flam became King and started making those deals and gave everypony their share of bits. I suggested to her that we all pull in to try to get a better deal. But when they started demolishing the Everfree forest, she dropped out and joined a bunch of hippies. And I'm not talking regular hippies Anon, these guys are violent. During the day they act like pacifists, but they attack other ponies at night or rob them or blow stuff up in the name of "Nature". Fluttershy has never been a part of their night raids, I know because when we got a bigger force and started stopping their raids she was never with them. She doesn't even know. I've tried to get her to leave, but she won't listen to me, she thinks I became a bad pony. But I'm not! I became chief to make sure ponies got a fair deal! Could you imagine what would happen if some punk became chief? Things would be a lot worse! Even if the ponies of the town became jerks. I'd rather protect them then hurt them. But..."

Rainbow Dash sighed. "I also want my old best friend back. I mean, geez, with the way things are, I kinda wish things went back to the way things were. To tell you the truth, Wonderbolts were a cooler idea anyway. Look..." Rainbow Dash stood up and spread her wings. "We can't stay here chatting all day, we gotta go and get your friend out of there"

Rainbow Dash...christ. You misjudged her. You thought she was a colossal cunt, when really she was just a slight one. One with a big heart who was internally suffering due to the world change. It made you wonder if you were wrong about Rarity and Twilight. You approach Rainbow Dash, with a newfound respect for her. "Yeah, let's go...and thanks Chief..."

You get on Rainbow Dash's back as she darts into the air, heading from one town to the other. You had a question for her, since now it seemed Pinkie Pie wasn't the only pony you could invite. Even at the speeds she was moving at, your resolve remained strong. You've moved at speeds similar before. You had grown used to it. "Rainbow Dash, can I ask you a question?"

"Sure! what is it?"

"After we're done getting Pinkie out, can you come with me back to Canterlot? I want you to meet somepony...please?"

Rainbow Dash said nothing at first, then she looked to you with a smirk. "Eh, why not? I have some vacation time anyway. Besides, I have to make it up to you since I screwed up so bad, right?"

You almost tear up at that, this plan was now going better than you could have hoped for. Celestia was going to be so happy. "Yeah....." You hug onto her gently for the rest of the ride, you didn't know if she picked up on the affection. But you felt like giving her a hug for this. "..Thanks Rainbow Dash."

It didn't take long to arrive at the courthouse at all. Without a moment's hesitation, Rainbow Dash leads you into the building and straight to the courtroom. The courtroom was rather grandiose in size. Though there wasn't many ponies attending. You could see an old pony as a judge, a few ponies on the seats, including, given you recognized Maud the most, Pinkie's family.

Then you heard it. "The great and powerful prosecution rests their case, your honor. I have established that this penniless pony could not have possibly have come upon those bits on her own. She must be put away before she becomes a menace to other innocent citizens of our fair town. This, the great and powerful Trixie, decrees!" Holy gods, Trixie was the prosecution?!

"I'LL MENACE YOUR FACE! MY SISTER WOULDN'T DO ANYTHING LIKE THAT, YOU HEAR ME? YOU WANNA PROSECUTE SO BAD? HOW ABOUT YOU PROSECUTE OVER MY CASE AFTER I TURN YOU TO MINCE MEAT!" A menacing, grey, yet golden eyed pony yelled out from the Pie group. Was that Inkie?...or Blinkie?..you forget.

"Order, Order in the court! I will not tolerate threats young lady! Please sit down, this doesn't help the defendant at all!" The judge points his gavel at her.

She just growls and sits down, she looked like she wanted to tear someone apart. you've never seen such raw anger.

"And what say you, Benu Wrote?" The Judge looks to a peach colored pony with a mane that spiked backwards in a familiar looking fashion. just..flattop with spikes at the back. He also had on a blue suit with a red tie and a little yellow lawyer's badge. "I say HOLD IT! Everything the Prosecutor has said is all conjecture and hearsay! There's no actual proof my client did it! How do we know somepony didn't slip those coins on her?"

Pinkie was on the stand, she seemed semi ignorant on what was going on, she just raised her hoof up to explain in a confused speech. "Well, actually, I did take the coins from a foal named Nonny, but I like to call him Anon....But I didn't steal them. Honest!"

"There see!" Trixie points to Pinkie with an "aha!". "She admits to taking them, and since we haven't found this..."Nonny"...then it's very possible she did away with him as well. She admits it!"

Benu just put his hooves on the side of his head and looked down, admitting defeat. "...Oh no..."

Pinkie looked around with a frown. "Was it something I said?..."

The judge nodded and raised his gavel. "Well, it seems clear to me, with all that evidence, what the verdict is. And that verdict is" The judge prepares to bring down his gavel......oh god.....the autism on what you were about to do.

You point out with your hoof, determination in your eyes, and yell out "OBJECTION!".

Everyone stops, and looks up towards the door to see both you and Rainbow Dash.

"What is the meaning of this?! You are not needed this time Chief Dash, the great and powerful Trixie has already won this case on her own." Trixie smirks, then turns away to give evil eyes at Pinkie.

"Sorry Trixie, but this time. I have evidence that protects the defendant." Rainbow states to her

"WHAT?! HOW DARE YOU! THAT'S A JOKE RIGHT!? SURELY HAVING ANY EVIDENCE FOR SOMETHING LIKE THIS IS IMPOSSIBLE...U-UNLESS...THAT COLT WITH YOU....oh no" Trixie could already feel her perfect record slipping away from her hooves, apparently, it was super important to her.

"That's right! I'm Nonny! And I.....have an authentic gold card! And!..." You take off your saddle bag and tip it over, spilling over a pile of bits, surprising everyone in the courtroom. "These bits, the same kind you all are accusing my friend there of stealing."

"W-what?! that can't be! Chief...this is a joke right? TELL ME IT'S A JOKE!" Trixie was starting to panic.

"It's not a joke, it's justice." Rainbow Dash turns to the judge. "Your honor! I allow this pony as a witness and his items as evidence for the defense"

Benu, raises his head. and smirks at Trixie as he sees his chance. He smacks his table and points his hoof, waggling it a little. "And I submit the evidence. Your honor, if this was allowed by the Chief, then this must be the foal we were looking for. And I bet those bits will match the same bits my client was caught with!"

"I see! Interesting. In all my years, I don't think I've ever seen the kind of evidence brought forth that actually helps the defense. Just the same, miss Trixie.." The judge says, intrigued with all that was going on

Trixie snaps and points at the judge as she uses her magic to bring the bits over to match with Pinkie's. "THAT'S THE GREAT AND POWERFUL TRIXIE TO YOU!"

The judge was taken aback by that, but, like a familiar judge from someplace you knew. He just sort of takes it and apologizes. "O-oh, yes, sorry. I forget that you get upset if we refer to you any different."

You look over to Benu, he seemed to have some thoughts on his mind as he just seemed to have found the judge's reaction very cringeworthy. Trixie was looking back and forth between the coins. testing them, looking, staring, even licking and trying to bend them. She did every test she thought she could do, and with every second, her blue coat started to turn white. Until eventually, some of the coins she kept aloft in the air fell to the ground as she just stared forward, blankness in her eyes. ".....It's real. It matches.....that can't be...that means"

"That's right! Your honor! given the prosecutions reaction and the official word of the chief. No further testimony or evidence is needed. My client is innocent." Benu announces

The judge just sat there, thinking for a moment, then he took a breath, and calmly looked at you. "..........." You started to sweat, hell, everyone was on edge. What was he going to say? "......Excuse me young colt. Nonny, as you are called. I just need clarification. You are defending the young miss, are you not? I just am a little confused since nopony outright said it. I'm a little old you see and I sometimes feel I miss a few things."

You could feel it, everyone in the room wanting to fall over from the judge not realizing that it was pretty clear it was submitted to help Pinkie. But, he did seem kind of nice, and he also held Pinkie's fate. So, you answered in a calm and respectful manner. "It's to clear her, sir"

"Well then, it is clear to me that with the evidence and the "victim" brought forth that I have my answer. I declare the defendant....NOT GUILTY" The judge pounds his gavel.

Part of the ceiling opens up, but it just lets out a puff of dust and very old and deteriorated confetti. The judge just looks up, and then titters to himself. "Oh, excuse me. We've never had a not guilty verdict. I completely forgot that was supposed to happen."

"I....just can't believe I won." Benu was surprised as hell. It was his first day as a defense lawyer. And he managed to win. Though, not through his own merit.

"Does that mean I can step down from this stand sir?" Pinkie looked up at the judge.

The judge nods. "You may young miss, the trial is over. You're free to go"

Pinkie said nothing, instead, she smiled as she began to shake. And like some kind of volcanic eruption. She let out a "YAYYYYYYY!" as she rocketed upwards. landed in front of you. And grabbed you, hugging you as tightly as a snake. "ANON! YOU SAVED ME AGAIN! YOU ACTUALLY CAME BACK TO SEE ME LIKE YOU SAID YOU WOULD!" Pinkie stops hugging you for a moment as you breathe deeply and fast. Sheesh, she suffocated you with that one. "Which is weird because I thought we'd meet again for dinner or something....but" Before you could do anything else. She pulled you back into her snake like death hug. "BUT I'M SO SO SO SO SO HAPPY THAT YOU CAME ANYWAY! YOU'RE THE BESTEST BEST NEW FRIEND EVER!"

Rainbow Dash was snickering the entire way, finding it both cute and hilarious at the same time.

When Pinkie let you go, you were wobbling left and right, your coat was a few colors lighter, and you were dizzy and wheezing. "dsfsdsss...ohhnnngggg...ww-whhyy?...mnngghh"

"Woah there squirt, don't fall over. hehe, she got you good huh? I don't think I've ever seen a pony hug like that before. Could be a good maneuver to teach the troops" Rainbow Dash catches you and holds you steady until your senses and breath returned.

"And Mr. Wrote, you did a good job too! You really stuck it the whole way through!" Pinkie said with a beaming smile as she shook the hoof of her defense attorney.

"It's no problem miss Pie, I just wish I had more time to prepare. I may have been able to do this without help, not that I don't appreciate it, but a defense attorney's best asset is being able to help a pony through their own skill. I'll have to do a little more training before I take another case. For now though, I'm just gonna go home and enjoy some noodles." Benu did a small bow, and took his leave. Huh, he seemed so familiar. You were sure that in someway, you've met him before.

"I feel kinda bad for Trixie though. She's not a bad prosecutor. Her only real problem is she doesn't seem to care who she gets convicted and...oh boy.." Rainbow Dash points over to her. "I take that back, now I REALLY feel sorry for her."

Both you and Pinkie cringe immediately upon gazing at Trixie. Who was slamming her head so hard on her table that it snapped in half. And when it did, she started slamming it on the floor. creating a crack. Holy shit, and you thought your head was made of titanium. "MY PERRRRFFFFFFFFEEEEECCCCCTTTTTTT REECCCCCOOOOORRRRRDDD" She screeched as she continued to smash her head.

"B-bailiff...c-can you get an ambulance here post haste? And tell them it's for an aneurysm. I fear her mind might actually fail before her head breaks." The judge says, fearful of Trixie's health.

With that out of the way, Pinkie's family arose from their seats to speak and share their relief with her. They looked relieved as hell that she got the innocent verdict. All except for Maud, but that's to be expected.

You and Rainbow Dash stepped back to give the family some space. Both of you smiling at the touching moment. "Wow, it's been so long since I've seen such a happy family. I forgot what it looked like."

"Yeah, that's why I think everything should go back to how it was when Celestia ruled. Everypony was happier, they got along, and...uhhh" You look over to Trixie, who was still screeching and smashing her head. "..They didn't care about putting ponies in jail for a stupid record"

Rainbow Dash was watching Pinkie "calm" Maud. Despite Maud never hopping around or changing her stoic expression, she was apparently acting the most "excited and happy". "Yeah, I can really see that now. Y'know, if I could fly around super fast, like ultra mega fast, so fast that I could turn back time. I'd go so far back that I'd kick both our kings in the butt for even thinking of wanting to be kings. There's no point in being a police chief if most of the ponies you're protecting are bad anyway."

That was good to hear, super good to hear, because you intended on bringing everything back the way it was. "Same here, but one thing at a time, huh? Are you still coming with me to Canterlot?"

Chapter 250 - Flim Flam Future Arc

"I already said I was, didn't I? What, think I'm gonna flake out or somethin'? That's not my style....especially after doing that. Trixie is gonna throw a fit at me when she..." Rainbow Dash tilts her neck to get a good look at Trixie, who was now on the ground, gurgling spit in her mouth. "Wakes up, I guess"

You laugh at that, it reminded you of something just as funny, but it escaped you to what that was right now. "Yeah well, only caring about your conviction rate isn't a very good thing. I mean, what if some of the ponies she sent to jail were.....Dash?" You looked back at her, and she was...gone?!

"G-ghnnn!" Where did she even?...

Before you could even give it another thought. Pinkie grabbed you and pulled you over. "And this is the amaaaaaaaazing colt that gave me the bits in the first place! His name is Nonny, but I call him Anon because we're friends. Isn’t it amazing? I only knew him for a few minutes and we're already close!"

When your eyes adjusted to the quick tug. You found yourself in front of the Pie family, with Pinkie behind you, a big grin on her face as she presents you. The first to say anything is Maud. Who just stares at you stoically. Her voice, ever neutral and unenthused. "It's nice to meet you Anon, I'm Maud...." She tilts her head to present the rock that sat even leveled on her front right leg shoulder "...And this is boulder, he's a rock, he also says hi and thanks you for the money for food. I'm sorry if I seem so broken down, having my sister nearly convicted of a crime she didn't commit scared me like nothing else."

Did it? Meeting Maud face to face, you had to wonder if she had any emotion whatsoever. You knew she did, but, you had an awkward feeling in your gut about her. Probably the same the rest of the Mane 6 had when first meeting her. She didn't look sad, nor ecstatic. It was kinda creepy.

"Um...It's nice to meet you Maud, Boulder." You give a hesitant bow

Suddenly, the angry looking one stepped up and looked directly into your eyes. "Hold on Pinkie, let me get this straight. This little twerp really gave you all those bits? And then just so happens to pop up right at the right time? Something isn't right. You listen here, if you're expecting my sister to be some sort of slave just because you saved all our skins from being poor then I got another thing coming for you pal!" She raised her hoof at you. "Do you honestly think I'm gonna believe some punk is going to help us out for free?" She pokes hard at your chest. "Just because you're a colt doesn't mean we're gonna let you do what you want...Right Mom, Dad?" the pony looked to her parents for approval, but they just stared at her with disapproval. The mother, shaking her head.

"....mnnnn" She sighed, took a deep breath, and took a moment to calm down. "Ok, maybe that was a little much, but I still don't trust you...completely. But since you did save my little sister, I guess I at least have to say thank you...so thank you. and..." The angry pony stepped closer, you flinched, thinking she was gonna hurt you, but instead she gave you a gentle hug, you could feel the tenseness in her body. It was like she was deftly afraid of losing Pinkie...god. "There, a hug so you know I kind of trust you. But only kind of!"

You decided to return her hug with another hug, catching her off guard. "It's good to know you trust me miss Inkie, I think your entire family is great already!"

But the pony backed off, a scowl on her face. "whatdya call me?"

.....was it not Inkie? "Erm...Blinkie?"

The pony went from grey to red with fury, she thought you were insulting her, it looked like she wanted to grind you up all of a sudden. But she was also struggling. She knew she couldn't just make a scene. But she wanted to yell at you so bad. "Grrrr...Look, my name is Limestone, got it? Lime-Stone. Limestone! I don't know how you thought I had such a stupid name but if I hear it again I'm gonna.....mnnnnn" she was struggling so hard. "Correct you...again. And grrr, thank you.....I need to step outside for a sec. It's been a rough day"

You were taking quick breaths as Limestone stepped out. Holy shit, she's scary as fuck. This world has not been good to her.

You wondered how this other one was. Well, as you looked at her, she was staring at you as some of her mane covered her beautiful purple eyes. Was she going to explode at you too? or not? Whatever, woo. This one was adorably cute though.

"Marble, you don't have to say hi if you don't feel comfortable, but you have to at least say thank you. It's bad manners not to." Pinkie's mother stated. "I apologize Mr. Anon, it's been hard on all of us, I'm Mrs. Pie, you may also refer to me as Cloudy Quartz if you want."

"And I'm Mr. Pie, Igneous Rock if you wish to call me that, any pony who'd do this for us is a pony I see as a fine pony worth calling a close family friend. Especially in these very troubling times" The father introduced himself.

So it wasn't Inkie and Blinkie? Huh, it makes sense. They were ill fitting names. You nod with a smile. "It's nice to meet you all, and erm. Don't worry, she doesn't have to say anything if she doesn't feel comfortable"

Like gazooks man, she looked shy as hell. But when you said that, she seemed even more troubled, like she at least wanted to say something than seem unthankful at all. She even had tears in her eyes. "T-t-thank you...mhmmm...." She then looked down, already feeling ashamed that she didn't say it sooner.

Then, Maud put her hoof on hers. and looked at her with a very slight smile. "It's alright Marble, he isn't going to hurt us in anyway. If Pinkie says he's a good pony, then he's a good pony. I know you're scared, we all were, even Boulder was and he's usually tougher than this. But we all care for Pinkie, and so does Nonny."

Marble's tears began to stream down hard. She was shivering. She got up slowly and grabbed you, hugging you gently, you could feel the tears fall upon you. She doesn't say a word. But you could feel how scared she was. The poor pony. Pinkie joined in on the hug. "It'll be ok, sis! Promise!"

It was, for once, a gentle hug. You grasped and gently hugged the poor purple eyed cutie to let her know everything was ok. When it was all done with. You looked to Pinkie, you had to ask her now, the sooner, the better. "Ponk, I know it's super sudden. And, I hope it doesn't make your sister angrier than she already is. But, I do actually need you for something. All the way to Canterlot actually. It's nothing bad. But there's a pony who needs you."

"A pony that needs me?" Pinkie was perplexed. "Huh, weird. Is it somepony I know?"

You shook your head. "No, but I'd think you'd want to get to know her. She's super friendly."

"Needs MY help and super friendly? Well that's all the convincing I need! O-oh...if it's ok with mom and dad though. M-mom, Dad...it's ok right?"

Igneous nodded. "If this little colt says this pony needs your help, and you can help her...."

With Cloudy Quartz finishing. "..Then of course you may go"

"Well, that settles that! It looks like I'm going!! Ohhh! One more thing. Mom, why did you call Nonny Mr. Anon. Anon is his nickname" Pinkie wondered.

"No dear, it's actually his name. That's what the police had on record when they spoke with us. Trying to make us believe that you possibly stole from a visiting prince named Anon. I didn't believe it, and I still don't believe he's a prince. But I do believe he has a big heart. Some of the police in this town, I think, try to spin tall tales about other ponies just to arrest them" Cloudy explains.

"Oh...Well, I guess that makes sense. And Nonny does make a cuter nickname. Because well...Nonny as a normal name sounds kinda like a girls name, no offense. But I guess I'm calling you Nonny now Anon, or maybe I can call you Anonny so I don't get confused!" Pinkie giggled.

"Eheh...erm..Nonny is fine. But Ponk, I hate to rush, but we're in a hurry. And..." And Rainbow Dash just bolted for no fucking reason. The hell man! You really needed her for this "Yeah, I have to hail a cab too. No guessing how long that's gonna take"

With that, Pinkie gave hugs and goodbyes to her family. Including Limestone, who had stepped back in upon calming down. She looked down at you one last time before you departed. She calmly apologized, thanked you again, and then warned you that if anything happened to Pinkie, she'd eat you. Fucking...christ...you wondered if this family had an episode of their own. And if they did, how much they differed from your meeting with them. Because seriously? There's no way Limestone is like that on the actual fucking show. You're actually afraid to be stuck in a room with her.

Both you and Pinkie stood outside now. Looking upon the traffic. "...Ergh, how are we even supposed to get a taxi here anyway? The streets are filled with cars."

"You just stick your hoof out silly! It's super easy! let me show you!" Pinkie just bounced over, down the steps of the courthouse and onto the sidewalk as she started to try to hail for a cab.

As you descended the stairs. You could see it clearly not working. "Ponk, I think we gotta walk all the way to this rental place. There's no way we're getting a ride."

"But the rental place is so far from here! Come on Nonny, you just gotta believe!"

What, In this world? Luck aside, this place is close enough to being human that shit like that would never happen.

"Ponk, I don't wanna sound pessimistic but....what the?" You could hear a police siren blaring as it started driving down the road. Cars slowly stopping to let it through onto the emergency lanes. "What in the? Ahh great! Now traffic isn't moving at all!..Ponk, c'mon, it's not gonna work at all now..."

But she just kept trying. "Nonny, it's gonna work. Haven't you ever read the stories of ponies who manage to beat the odds by just trying super hard and never giving up?"

...Oh...Ponk.. "Ponk, look, that's not how the world works. Sometimes believing in a pony, or in fate, or good luck just isn't worth it. Nothing comes from it, we have to make it on our own"

"But Nonny, wouldn't it be good luck, fate, and believing in you that made everything better for me and my family?" Pinkie asked.

"I mean" That was a tough one to refute. "That was, more dumb luck, That kind of thing doesn't happen twice" But just as you say that, The police car that was blaring it's sirens comes down to the parking lane of the courthouse. This police car was more modern than the carriage cars that were driving around. It actually looked like something from the 70s, with an actual windshield and roof.

"What in the...." You were astonished

The driver side door opens away from yours and Pinkie's view.

The driver, that familiar blue cunt, is the one to step around to look at the both of you with a smug grin. "Yo, sorry to leave so quick, but I figured since we we're going to Canterlot, that we should all ride in style. Hop in."

Pinkie smiled happily, then hopped over to the car and opened the back door before looking back at you with such hopeful optimism. "See Nonny! I told you it'd work! Isn't this the coolest cab you've ever seen?"

".............." Was it good to be wrong? You seriously couldn't tell.

You smack your hoof across your face. You know what, fuck it, why do you even go against Pinkie when she says shit like this? It just makes you feel like an idiot. You could say it's not even a fucking cab. But, you'd let her have it. If you both went with your idea, you might have missed Dash. "Yeah, it is Ponk. It is..."

You step into the passenger side. Ohhh, even the interior looked nice. There were a few decal stickers on the glove compartment. One in the style of a police badge, one in the shape of lightning, and one was really really old. It was fading in color; it was a Wonderbolt sticker. The rest of the interior was very comfy. The seats were soft, the cage separating the passenger side to the driver side looked secure, and there was some customized assets like the raincloud levers and the "AWESOME" word in gold trim stitched on the front of RD's seat. This was obviously her car.

Rainbow Dash kept the sirens blaring as she used it to make a clear path back onto the road. She slapped on some sunglasses as she drove, shutting off the sirens when she hit lighter traffic. When the sirens came off. She snickered and spoke without taking her eyes off the road. "So, whatcha think? Pretty awesome ride, huh?"

"It's the best cab I've ever seen! It even has cool magical lights that makes ponies move away from us. You must get a lot of customers" Pinkie said, naive to the whole thing.

"What?! Cab?! Nooooooooope, nononono. This isn't some lame cab. This is a state of the art police vehicle, custom made for speed and awesomeness for the Chief of Police, that's me by the way. And you know how I managed to earn this car? Hmmm? Just take a guess, go on, take it!" Rainbow Dash said in her usual narcissistic and bold tone.

"Ummmm...for being awesome?" Pinkie guessed.

"Exxxxactly!" Rainbow Dash snickered. "And there ain't nopony more awesome than me. But hey, let's not get sidetracked with how cool I am. Yo, Anon, I was meaning to ask, what exactly, specifically are we gonna do at Canterlot? Like super exactly, because it can't be anything too big. Don't need the kings realizing I just suddenly decided to come before actual vacation time. They might take this sweet ride away"

"Yeah, I was wondering too. Because I've been meaning to try to get back into party planning. With all the money I got from the bits, I wanted to try opening a bigger and better party place. That way everypony could see it and think to themselves "Wow! I want something that will make me smile today!". So maaaayyybbeee, I could get in some practice with this pony that needs our help" Pinkie said.

"A couple of things actually. The pony I was talking about? It's the old Princess, Celestia. She's been really lonely lately and I thought it'd might make her day if she met some ponies who'd want to be her friends. And, well, you two are probably the best candidates. Ponk, you're just super happy and friendly and that’s great. And Rainbow Dash? Well, you're awesome, who wouldn't want to be friends with you?" You play into that just a little, enough to goad her into sticking the course in case the name "Celestia" deterred her.

"Celestia huh? I didn't think she was lonely or anything. I know the Kings basically gave her a free ride after they got their crowns. She doesn't have to pay for anything and she gets a house to boot. I would have thought she was mingling with the rich ponies and stuff. Are you sure you mean THAT Celestia?" Rainbow asks

You nod. "Yeah, I mean THAT Celestia. She could really use this."

"Well, if she could really use this then I'm really there!" Pinkie grinned as she pointed to herself, and then immediately her grin turned into a sheepish smile "Well...when we are actually really there anyway."

"And I don't want to be called a quitter, so yeah, I guess I'm in too" Rainbow Dash says.

"Thanks guys, there was one more pony I thought we could get into this. But, she seems so hateful of everything, it might actually be impossible"

"There you go, being negative again Nonny! You can't think like that. If you say we need this pony to help Celestia out then we gotta get this pony. Oh, I got an idea!" Pinkie got really excited about this one. "Why don't you tell me her name, what she likes to do, how she acts, and I'll think of the perfect way to win her over and get her to smile! That way you can see how it's done!"

At first, you thought that was silly and gay. But, you were already wrong once. And this was Pinkie's talent, no matter what world you ended up in. But could she even fix Twilight the way she is now? “Her name is Twilight Sparkle, she is a clerk at this hotel on the slummy side of Canterlot. She likes reading books more than interacting and as far as I can tell she doesn't have any friends nor does she want any. But she's important, if we can at least get her, I'm sure Celestia would snap out of this kind of funk she's in."

"I don't know Anon, this Sparkle pony sounds like a big time jerk to me, how important can she be?" Rainbow Dash said as she kept her eyes on the road.

"Just trust me, she's super duper important. I can't really explain it. But we have to make her see Friendship isn't that bad" This you were sure of

"Doesn't want any friends and she's THAT important? Hmmmmmmmmmmm" Pinkie leaned back as she began to think "And you say she likes books? What kind of books?"

"Anything that would further magic studies, and Daring Do, she loves Daring Do.....you guys do have Daring Do, right?" Maybe this world didn't have one.

"Daring Do? Pffft, those books are for eggheads. Besides, doesn't A.K. Yearling not write books anymore or something? I heard her last book was in such limited print that there's only three copies. The kings having one each." Rainbow remarks

...She knew that?...And didn't even read them? Well, of course she hadn't. Twilight hadn't gotten her into them. "How do you know that, Rainbow Dash?"

"Because the guy who has the third copy got robbed ten times just for that book. He's selling it for three hundred thousand bits. The guy is a loon, nopony will ever buy it at that price since he's not trying to sell it in Canterlot. And all he's attracting is thieves, i've tried to tell him, but he just doesn't listen" Rainbow Dash just shook her head from the thought of it.

"STOP THE CAR!" Pinkie suddenly yelled.

"WHAT THE?!" Rainbow Dash pulled the brake lever. Sending you smashing into the windshield headfirst and falling backwards back onto your seat.

"Whhshssssnnnmmaaafftttt" You were dizzy as fuck from that hit. Holy shit.

"Anon, Are you ok?! Sheesh! Why didn't you have your seatbelt on?! Oh gosh!" Rainbow Dash checked your head for any injuries, but miraculously, you were fine. "Woah, not a single scratch on you. What are you made of, gemstone or something?" Rainbow Dash lightly knocked on your head.

"Yes teacher, the answer to two plus two is pizza" You said in a daze.

".....Ok, maybe you're not totally ok. Hey, Pinkie, what was up with....huh?" Rainbow Dash looked backward, and the door was opened. "WHAT IN THE?! HOW DID SHE OPEN THE DOOR?! IT CAN ONLY BE OPENED FROM THE OUTSIDE!"

Rainbow Dash's surprised yell knocks you out of your stupor as you look around. "W-what happened?"

"Your friend Pinkie! She just had me stop the car and now she's gone! Stay right there Anon!" Rainbow Dash got out of the car and went in through the door Pinkie opened. She closed it, and tried opening the door casually. But it wouldn't open. "How did she do it? Nopony should be able to open the door from the inside."

You looked backwards through the caged window to see Rainbow Dash struggling, trying to get back out. "Why did she even leave? Did she say?"

"No, she just upped and went. Darn it, There's not even a keyhole back here. Hold on, I'm gonna try busting the door down." Rainbow Dash got on her back on the seats and prepared to buck.

"W-wait, hold on! Why don't I just get out and open the door?"

"Don't! I need to prove to myself that these doors can't be opened from the inside. If I'm right, even bucking shouldn't work! Ok...one.....two" She pulled her back legs as far as possible. "Three!..HYYYAWOOOOAH!" But it was too late, the door had somehow opened again.

You watch as Rainbow Dash sends herself forward as the door begins to open. She slides right off the seat and lands on her back outside with a groan as Pinkie steps back in with a bag.. "Hey Nonny! Oh..And Chief Dash, whatcha doin down there?" Pinkie poked her head out to look at the fallen blue pony.

Rainbow Dash growled at her, looking up at the smiling Pink Pony. "I'm down here because you opened the door right when I bucked!"

"Oh...erm...why were you bucking your own door?" Pinkie asked with a inquisitive smile.

"BECAUSE YOU SOMEHOW OPENED THE DOOR FROM THE INSIDE! THIS CAR IS AS PERFECT AS I AM! THERE'S NO FLAWS! HOW DID YOU DO THAT?!" Rainbow Dash screamed as she thrashed on the ground. Cripes, what a baby.

"Ooooooohhhhh" Pinkie giggled. "I noticed the cab had a weird locking thingy before I got in, and I thought to myself "That isn't right, I can get trapped if I don't do something about it". So I put a small rock I found next to the cab and put in into the locking thingy and it didn't lock. Easy peasy!"

Rainbow Dash just stared at her, annoyed as fuck. She stood up, keeping eye contact and brushed off her uniform as she began to explain to her how wrong she was. "Ok look, one, that's dumb. Two, don't ever call my awesome car a CAB again. And three? What were you even doing?! What's with the bag?"

"Oh!" Pinkie Smiled, as if she didn't even hear Dash's first two points and pulled out the Daring Do book. "I was just making a trade for this, all I had to do was give him this old "Summer Sun festival" special edition bit Anon gave me and he gave it to me. Pretty nifty huh?"

"What..the?" Rainbow Dash looked to the side, Pinkie had called a stop right at the store she was just talking about. She could see the owner with a coin case. Leaving the store with such glee and happiness.

"..W-what?" .....Holy crap.No fucking way. NO FUCKING WAY. IN NO REAL REALM IS THIS FUCKING POSSIBLE! You just gazed upon the book with such disbelief. Enough that you could swear it could kill you. "P-pinkie, how did you even? Why?! WITH JUST ONE BIT?! HOW DOES THAT EVEN WORK! HOW MUCH WAS THAT BIT WORTH?!"

"Five million bits if you have the whole special edition coins. He had every one but that one. So he traded the book AND..." Pinkie pulled out a stack of business papers. "I own the store too! I'm gonna make it into a party place that everypony would want to go to for happiness and fun!"

Your eye was twitching, there's just....no reasonable way. There's no way to explain it. You couldn't even say anything. So..you just gave up. "..Y-yeah, thats..amazing Ponk. G-good job."

Rainbow Dash was astonished as well, she just looked over at the building. Then at the smiling pony. Back at the building, then her door, then back at Pinkie. She then narrowed her eyes and pointed at her. "You're crazy" And then, right after that, she smiled big. Like, as if she wasn't mad anymore. "And that..is..so..COOL! I've never met a pony that can just do all this without planning or something. You're like, a super detective! Why don't you join the force and become one?"

Pinkie shrugged. "Never thought about it, would I get a cool pipe, a detective's hat, and an assistant who is also a doctor?"

"Uhhhhh...no" Rainbow Dash answered.

"Then I'm ok just being me! But, we better get going. Nonny is looking pretty worried" Pinkie pointed out

Worried? You were just wondering what reality bending powers Pinkie had. It seemed even more broken than what she has on the show, in your Equestria even.

And so, the drive resumed, out of town, and towards Canterlot. "Ponk, do you think just giving her that book will work?"

"No, it probably won't. But it's gonna help a loads lots if she actually does like Daring Do. But if we really want her to be a friend, then we're actually gonna have to be her friend. Which is why you're gonna have to be the one to give her the book, Nonny, it'd be weird if you showed up with all of us just to do it." Of this, Pinkie was sure.

"Wait...do you mean I have to talk to her, alone?" Really?

"Mhmmm! That's exactly what I meant" Pinkie confirmed.

"B-but, I'm not you." No fuck that, you couldn't do it. You didn't have that magic friend power Pinkie seemed to have. "Why can't you do it?"

"I just told you. Nonny, you're the one who wants this all to happen. All I can do is help. If you want Twilight to be a friend, then you're gonna have to get in there and show her!" Pinkie said, in a way that was supposed to be inspirational "I know you can do it!"

"Eh, I'm kinda with Anon on this one. You really are super amazing at being nice and friendly. Are you saying there’s no way whatsoever you can do it, Pinkie? Like, really? None at all?" Rainbow Dash asked.

"Nope, I can just feel that if I met Twilight, she'd find me really really annoying. I don't know why she would. But it's like...this sense I have. Weird, huh?" Pinkie giggled

Sense...Pinkie Sense? Ahh shit, you couldn't go against that. Not unless you wanted a piano landing on your fucking head.

"Sense? Really? That seems dumb. Are you sure?" Rainbow Dash asks

"She's sure..." You say.

"What? Why's that? Anon, weren't you just unsure that she was sure. Why are you sure she's sure? Pinkie, how can you be so sure? ogh.." Rainbow Dash sighed. "This sure is giving me a headache just thinking about it"

"I'm sure because Ponk is THAT sure, if she can somehow sense it. Then it must be true. I mean, she did get the book. It's hard to doubt her after that." You shrug, it was as simple as that

"If you say so, she's been right so far. And she sure does know what she's doing. Ok, like I said, I'm just not gonna think about it. Just tell me where to drive" Rainbow Dash conceded. She had no idea the true purpose of anything. But you were glad that she was just here. the more, the merrier. and given she was an element of harmony. all the better.

The drive went smoothly enough. Rainbow Dash drove up to the dinky looking hotel and let you off. Pinkie opened her door again, much to Rainbow Dash's chagrin, and passed you the book. She gave you a wink, and told you you'd do fine. ....You could only hope.

You step forth into the hotel once again. Ready to face off against Twilight Sparkle at what was originally her game. You still had to have a talk with the Twilight Sparkle of your world. Simply because being in this one was truly showing you what she may have meant. Just as before, Twilight sat at her desk, alone, muzzle in another book, this one on Starswirl the Bearded and many theories about him. At least Twilight was still interested in magic. But was she still interested in Daring Do?

"Excuse me Miss Twilight, can I talk to you?" You ask in a sheepish manner

"Hmmm? What?" Twilight looked over her book, and saw it was you again. "Oh...why? Is it something with your room or something? Because that's not me, there's a button by the door to call a maintenance pony." She was disinterested with what you had to say.

"No, there's nothing wrong. I'd actually like to talk with you. And just you"

"Why? Ugh..look, I'm busy reading something important, ok? I don't have time to babysit you. I wouldn't get paid extra for it anyway. So, leave me alone, Ok?" She turned the page on her book and continued reading.

Sheesh, she's so cold..Was this even going to work? "Important? Huh, is that book important?"

"Yes, it is. It's one of the only public books of Starswirl you can find. If I'm ever going to get better at magic and get out of here. I need to read up as much as I can about it. So leave me alone already, sheesh, can't you get the hint even once?" Twilight was losing focus on her reading, and it was starting to annoy her.

"Nah, I'm pretty dense sometimes. At least that's what I'm told. Anyywayyys..." You hold up the Daring Do book. "How important would you say this book is?"

Twilight's voice was becoming darker and more condescending with every word she spoke. "Let me guess, it's a child's book right? It's not worth anything at.....AAAAAAAHHHHHH" Twilight lowered her book, and gazed upon the rare book you held up to her. She was totally caught offguard "T-that can't be what I think it is..."

You put it on the counter for her to get a better look. "The last Daring Do book ever written? You bet."

"It can't be....." Twilight started skimming through the book, she rubbed along it's edge, she read some of the words, even checked the signature. It was the real deal. "H-how did you come across this? There's no way!"

"A friend of mine bought it for me. That's why I came to see you again. Because I figured you like books."

Twilight was a lit with sudden dorky enthusiasm "I LOVE books, they've been my only true friends all my life. They always have such wonderful things to read in them. Spells, adventure, romance, engaging conversations! And this book! It's a really really big...." Twilight sighed and leaned back on her chair. "Deal....oh, but it's not my book. Ugh, look, I get it. You just want to rub my nose in it. Don't you?"

That was....quite the conclusion she came to. "Why would I do that?"

"Because, that's just how things are." Her happy disposition was leaving her rapidly

"I don't think that's how it should be though. In fact, I remember learning from a pony much like yourself that when it comes to how ponies should live together and act towards one another. That they need to understand the magic of friendship."

Twilight rolled her eyes. "What moron thought that up?"

Ohhhh, you had to turn your head for that one, it made you smirk. You were sure that since Discord had to be watching that he was laughing his ass off at that one. "A-ahrm, ummm. It's just a pony. Anyway, I'd like to be friends with you Twilight. And as my first act of friendship. I'd like to give you this book. No strings attached"

Twilight's eyes went big when she heard that. Her breathing slowed, she closed the book and rubbed her hoof slowly along the lettering. "You can't be serious, do you know how valuable this book is?"

"Isn't a book's purpose to be read? Who cares how much it's worth? And I just feel that it'd be much better off in your hooves since you like to read a lot." You tell her with a happy grin on your face

Twilight could feel her heart budge. Unbeknownst to you, she had wanted this particular book for a very very VERY long time. She had thought of many many ways to pay for it. All of it failures. So to be given the book, it made her feel something...warm. "I don't know what to say. I really don't. Nopony has ever done anything like this for me before. W-well, except my parents, and my brother."

Shit, you somehow forgot she had family. How could you even forget about Shining Armor? He nearly killed you once. Don't bring them up, whatever you do. "How about you say that you'll come join me and a few friends for a feast at Celestia's place? That way you can get a full meal, enjoy company, and be energized to read that book tonight."

Twilight rubbed the book again, but then gave you a stern look as she shook her head. "I can't do that."

WUT?! "What? Why? It's free food. And a chance to make some friends."

"Exactly, I don't really need friends." Twilight explained. "It's just a hassle, and Celestia? I used to look up to her. But I heard she is kind of loony these days. And besides, even if she's not. She's still much better than I am, she wouldn't care about somepony like me." Twilight pushed away the book, she couldn't even say thank you. "I guess you'll be wanting this back now right? You only gave it to me to get me to come with you, didn't you?"

God, she looked miserable. She got so excited and then lost all hope thinking you were trying to buy her over to come with you. Even willing to give up the book. But, if she was willing to give up the book. Then that means she wasn't trying to take advantage of you either. That, was actually a good sign. It meant she wasn't greedy or conniving. She was just...lonely, books were probably the only thing that never left her.

"Keep it, I said there was no strings attached. I just thought you may have wanted a few friends too." You turned away, it seems you weren't going to win this one. Press too hard and she'd bite back, press too little and you'd make no headway. You think you did everything right. And even if Twilight wasn't willing to come. You hope you chiseled away the stone that was around her heart.

And as you walked towards the door. You hear Twilight yell out "Wait!".

Wait for what? You turn back to look at her. She looked extremely unsure about what she was about to say. "Look, I've never really been much for friends. But I've always wanted to have the chance to talk to Celestia one on one. I-I'd be willing to mingle a bit. But, Celestia is definitely going to be there, right?" Twilight eyes glistened, waiting for your answer.

"Well, it is her house. She'll be there, but to get there, we're riding in the police chief of Flimsville and Flamsville's car. She pretty cool, and we also have a nice pink pony named Pinkie with us. If you want to get to Celestia's on time. You're gonna have to ride with us. That alright with you?" You explain to her

"R-ride, with other ponies? I don't think I can. It's always so hard to talk to others when they can't even keep up with how intellectual you are" Twilight was looking damned nervous.

"Well then, I got some advice for you. If you wanna see Celestia, then you gotta ride with us. Instead of thinking that they aren't as smart as you are. Why don't you just talk about things you all would like. You'd be surprised how interesting and fun talking to other ponies are. Take Pinkie for example, she's not the brightest bulb in the shed, but she's a master of making ponies smile. And some of the stuff she does is stuff you'd never believe"

"What do you mean by that? Anypony that does anything can be believed" Twilight explains in a know it all kind of way

"Well, for example, she has this sense that, depending on what it is, will allow her to predict something with one hundred percent certainty, and she's just an earth pony."

"What?!" Twilight was flabbergasted, she put the Daring Do book into her personal slot and started to march past you with heavy annoyance. "A sense that lets you predict things? Now that I know is impossible. This I have to see for myself, earth ponies can't do anything like that. If they could, I'd have read about it"

Oh shit, you just got your angle. You smirk and open the door for Twilight. "Be my guest. I promise you, just one meeting with her and you'll want to try to learn exactly how she ticks"

That's three, if you could of gotten all six that'd be great. But you got two and Twilight. That should be enough. It also seemed that surely, whatever happened, Spike never came to exist. Poor little fuck.

Chapter 251 - Flim Flam Future Arc

You both step outside to the car. Rainbow Dash was checking the passenger door again, she was trying to figure out how to prevent anyone from keeping it unlocked.

Pinkie was outside, next to her, looking up at the sky as it started to turn to night. Crap, you were running out of time.

"Yo guys, look who's coming to dinner!" You call their attention, Rainbow Dash stopping what she is doing and Pinkie turning immediately to the both of you with a smile

"Hey....you" Rainbow Dash had already forgotten Twilight's name, but she hovered up to her and held her hoof to her "Can I get a hoofbump! ya know, since we're about to meet the old princess and be friends and stuff?" Rainbow Dash was acting...off.

Twilight pretty much was confused by Rainbow’s hoof, so she just ignored her and turned to Pinkie. She then pointed over to her with curiosity "That pony over there is the one with the "sense", right?"

........dammit. C’mon Twi, just be friendly. And dammit Rainbow! You can’t remember her damn name?!

"Uhhhh, yeah. You don't want to give a hoof bump or say hi or...ok then" Rainbow Dash just gives up as Twilight immediately marches over to Pinkie.

You step up to Rainbow Dash, who was irked by the whole thing. She just says an a frustrated fashion "What's with her? She didn't even seem interested in being friends at all"

"Well, what was up with you just flying up to her like that? You didn't even remember her name or anything." You scold her.

”Hey! Don't blame me! She's the one who said I should be super friendly the moment I saw her.” Rainbow points to Pinkie “ I got caught up in trying to do good and forgot her name, ok? Gimme a break, my head is mostly filled with the names of criminals." Rainbow Dash took a defensive stance in her speech "Besides, she could have at least said hello herself. Why does she even care about Pinkie's "sense" or whatever you call it?"

You sigh as you come up with the words for that answer. The answer itself, being rather depressing.
"Because Twilight is in a state right now where she cares about answers more than she cares about friends. But we're getting there, I managed to get her to come out at least. I know theres a heart in there somewhere, the way she reacted to the book was very adorable"

"Hard to believe, five seconds in and she already acts like everypony else. You sure we need her?" Rainbow Dash barely believed it

"Just trust me, we definitely need her" She was the fucking Princess of Friendship after all

"Hey, you...pony" Twilight said as she walked up to Pinkie. "You're the one with the special sense, right?"

"Special sense?" Pinkie pointed to herself, confused "Who, me? Do you mean my "Senses I don't actually have a name for yet"? Because my "Senses I don't actually have a name for yet" are a sort of special. I guess" Pinkie shrugged "But that depends on what actual sense goes off first. but lemme tell ya" Pinkie drew closer to her with a big smirk "when it happens, it really happens! Hi, I'm Pinkie Pie. And you must be Twilight Sparkle! How ya doin? Are you reeeeaaalllyyy coming with us to Celestia's? Are ya? Are ya? Because that would be super mega awesome if you did!" Pinkie was enthusiastic even giving a few hops during her chat. Twilight found it daunting.

"Yeah look, I'm not really big onto the whole friend thing. I mean, if you want to consider me a friend, that's your business. What I'm more interested is in that sense. That colt over there said that it's never ever wrong. And as a mare of science and magic, I find that ridiculously hard to believe. The only reason I'm even interested is because, well" Twilight hesitated. She was partially lying to herself. She didn't really want to be out here at all. But something was driving her to at least try. The kindness you had shown to her, was she trying to compensate for it? Well, it was in her own way. Because as she looked at Pinkie, she was mentally thinking that this was a pony she wouldn't normally give the time of day for. She had to force herself to step out, and the only thing that even made her interested in her was the preposterous notion of future sense. "..Well..."

"Weeeelllllllll"? Pinkie craned her head towards her with a big smile

Twilight stepped back, feeling her personal space being invaded. "Look, forget it. Just show me what this sense thing is all about so we can just get going."

"But I can't just show you" Pinkie states

"Why not?" Twilight asked, her doubts already raising to critical levels

"Because I can't just "do it", it just happens. Like..oh see how my tail is twitch twitching right now? It means something is gonna fall from above us." Pinkie's tail was twitching in sight of everyone.

"What? That's stupid. You're just making it move on it's own" Twilight observed the tail, unconvinced.

"What in the hay?Are they really just talking about some sort of sense that she has?" Rainbow Dash asks you, observing the entire conversation.

"Twilight got interested in it. And when she gets interested. There's really no way to stop her. What's weird though is that Pinkie's tail is twitching" You found it rather odd

"Yeah, what does that mean?" Rainbow Dash asks, finding the whole thing off

"If I remember, it means...." Damn, if only you could remember.

Your eyes trail upwards, and within your sight, you can see on the highest floor of the hotel that some angry mare was throwing a huge suitcase out the window as a stallion reached out to try to get it. But couldn't in time.

And it looked like...ahh shit! "TWILIGHT! WATCH OUT!"

Twilight looks back at you for just a moment, ignores you, and then goes back to trying to argue that Pinkie was full of nonsense.

"Anon, what g-HEY! WHAT'S UP!" Rainbow Dash reaches out for you as you dash towards Twilight.

"HYYYYYAH!" You headbutt Twilight out of the way of the suitcase. Or you would have. If the mare didn't throw it hard enough to actually miss her completely and smash onto the top of Rainbow Dash's car.

You were in a small daze, thinking you had managed to do good as Twilight looks down at you. utterly confused. "And what in the name of Equestria did you do that for?"

"There was a suitcase! It was gonna land on your head! And...wait.." You tap at your head. you were fine too. Did you finally become invincible? "....where'd the suitcase go?"

"MY CAR! MY AWESOME CAR! NOOOOO!" Rainbow Dash kicked the suitcase off the roof of her car as she caressed her now broken siren lights. "Nonononono! nooooo...you were the coolest set of lights anypony could have ever had. It was because of you that I never missed cider night..." Rainbow Dash was tearing up "There's not even anypony that can fix you...." She reaches up into the air, screaming "WHYYYYYY MEEEEEEE!"

Pinkie pointed to Rainbow Dash's car with happy, naive, nonchalance "It landed on Rainbow Dash's car, see? It came up from above!"

"Wait....there really was?" Twilight looked over to the car, and saw the suitcase on top of the bashed in siren lights "And..that came up from..." Twilight looked up to see the Stallion. He was now realizing what the mare did. He closed the window as quick as he could to cover up the fact it came from his room, he didn’t want any trouble with the police.

Twilight had caught on however. And realized those were the ponies she checked in not too long ago. an arguing couple.

Then she trailed her hoof from her window slowly towards the car "..And it landed.." Twilight looked back at the car, pointing directly at it "And your tail predicted.." Twilight looked to Pinkie's tail. "That can't be right. But..." Twilight planted her butt onto the concrete as you stood up and dusted yourself off. She was doing some scientific stuff in her head. She then looked up, and, without Pinkie knowing, she lifted a small bench with her magic and put it right behind her.

What in the fuck? "Twilight..what are yo-"

"Shhhh, I'm experimenting. Pinkie, can you just look at the blue pony's car for a few moments?" Twilight asks, rather politely.

"Already doing it. I'm actually already thinking of a way to cheer Rainbow Dash up. But...I don't know how to fix siren lights...awww" Pinkie frowned

What was she going to do with that bench? You just watch as Twilight raises it high up behind Pinkie, then let's it drop. And the moment it does, Pinkie's tail twitches despite her not even noticing the bench. Twilight catches the bench, tries again a few more times, then puts it back down in place. "....How in the?"

"So, you believe it now? I wasn't kidding. Her senses are amazing. Whenever they happen, you can bet something is gonna go down" Hopefully never on your goddamn head.

Twilight was half ignoring you though. "Excuse me, Pinkie Pie, was it? Did you notice anything...behind you just now?"

Pinkie looked around. But everything looked normal to her. "Nope, was I supposed to?"

Twilight's eyes went wide "...It's real. That's so fascinating!" Twilight began to rub her hoof around Pinkie, making her giggle and laugh from her ticklish touch. But Twilight was trying to look for some kind of device. "There has to be something on you that does that."

Pinkie was just shaking and giggling uncontrollably "hehehehe! That tickles!"

But again, Twilight ignored it. But she couldn't find anything. And before she could say anything more. Pinkie then grasped onto her and hugged "uhhh, what are you doing?"

"Giving you a hug, silly! I thought we were being silly and affectionate. That's why you tickled me, right?" Pinkie nuzzled into her as she hugged.

"Uhhhh...mnnn...." Twilight was about to push her out of the way. But, this feeling. It was a feeling she hadn't felt in quite some time, not even from her family. They were so far away from her at this point. And because she stayed away from them for her own reasons, she had actually forgotten what affection and love was like. "But why would you give ME a hug? I-I don't even like you..."

Pinkie just hugged tighter "Because I like you. And I have super duper high hopes that maybe you'll like me too someday. So we can be friends."

Twilight gulped "D-don't you already have friends?"

"Yup! But it's always great to make a new one too. In fact, it's even better to introduce friends to other friends. Like right next to you is Nonny!" Pinkie stopped hugging to present you to Twilight. "And Nonny! This is Twilight Sparkle! My new friend!"

"U-uhhm..We've met already. Wait, did you already say we were friends?" Twilight was now super confused

"Suuuure did Twilight! I can already tell we're gonna be super good friends, and go on adventures, and fix friendship problems, and stop evil bad guys from doing evil things!" Pinkie said, with positivity and energy in her tone

You cringed, even you could tell Pinkie was laying it on thick. And in such a dimensionally breaking way too.

But Twilight didn't say anything against it. Instead, she asked. "And..you were the one who bought the Daring Do book?"

Pinkie nodded "Yup! Good guess! I gave it to Nonny, who gave it to you. And I'm so so glad. I bet the smile on your face was so sweet. I just know you were the happiest pony ever right at the moment he gave it to you"

"Yeah...." Twilight Sparkle was feeling a huge amount of shame. She didn't even know why she was feeling it. She was trying to stay the course. But she just couldn't, her heart was hurting. And this pink pony was filling it up with something she hadn't felt since she was very young. "Pinkie, I....want to be your friend. T-that is if youAADSFSDFDS"

Pinkie immediately hugged her tightly the moment she gave in "YES!YES!YES!YES! OF COURSE I DO. I WAS ALREADY SAYING IT AND NOW YOU WANT IT SO NOW I'M GIVING A YES!"

And while all this was going on, Rainbow Dash sobbed for her broken siren lights evermore.

with everything said and done. Everyone got into the car to head to Celestia's.

Rainbow Dash was leaning forward, growling silently and muttering that she was going to have to pay extra to get new sirens made out of her own pocket. She was clearly not going to be in a good mood for awhile.

Twilight felt stupid that she had put away the Daring Do into her safe slot under her desk. Because She was trying so hard not to tell Pinkie to shut up as Pinkie tells her EVERYTHING about herself. Twilight was just smiling awkwardly, and nodding. She actually wanted to question her more about her senses, but Pinkie just wouldn't stop. Twilight was doing her best to be a friend.

Oh please...don't let this go wrong. It was already getting late.

Eventually you all arrive. Rainbow Dash stops by the house, the tower's pole with the sun at the top giving off a slight glow from the moonlight piercing the industrial air.

"This is the place, right?" Rainbow Dash asks.

"Yeah, this is it." You say with a nod

You step out first, Rainbow Dash being stopped short as Pinkie Pie opens her door and steps out. Taking a deep breath of air, and then coughing. "ogh, ohhh. I forgot, the air isn't too nice." Pinkie stepped aside as she rubbed her own throat. Letting Twilight out.

Twilight steps out and looks towards the house. "Celestia....I'm actually going to meet her." She was internally hoping the stories of her going insane weren't true. This was a dream come true for her. A dream she had avoided due to the feeling of not being worthy and the worry that Celestia would not be the same one she wanted to meet, mentally speaking.

Rainbow Dash just grumbled as she waited for them to step aside so she could get off of her seat. She hated the fact that even making some minor adjustments that Pinkie could still open the passenger doors. As she herself stepped out and closed the door. The siren lights came completely off the top and smacked into her side mirror. Cracking it. "OHHH COME ON!"

You look back after hearing the cracking noise. and move over to the angry mare to get a look at the mirror. Poor Rainbow Dash. It was like the karma of the RD you knew was biting her ass instead. "Hey Rainbow Dash, it's alright...look."

You take out a few sets of bits and put them next to her. "Here, this should pay for everything, I think"

"awww Anon." Rainbow Dash pulls her cap down, to hide her soft eyes and embarrassed face. She wasn’t used to this kind of kindness. It was so sudden, it was actually cute. "It's cool. You don't have to do that. If you give me too much anyway it might go down in value"

"Are you sure?" Awwww....you'd give her a hug after looking so adorable. But you didn't want to break her tough bravado.

"I'm-" And right as she speaks. the side mirror comes off completely, lands on the ground, and cracks in a few spots. "Just going to take these and use them for later..." Rainbow Dash raises her hat and takes the bits. letting out an absolutely defeated and nervous chuckle.

Christ. W-well, at least she had the money to repair it.

"Ok...it's fine." Rainbow Dash took a few small breaths "If anything, I can take out my anger on some criminal scum when I get back. That should be fine. Heh" She was doing her best not to lose her cool. Really, damn, you felt bad for her. But damn, the way she wanted to release her anger...

"Sure" you let out a sheepish titter "But um, remember. We still need to do this thing. There's gonna be some good food. So be a little more cheery, ok?"

"Yeah yeah, I get it. But nopony should have to go through that kind of horror, y’know?" Rainbow Dash says with some bitterness in her voice. Man, was it really that important? Hopefully the food would calm her.

When you looked back. Twilight was already at the door. Pinkie was sitting in place behind her, practicing her "Hi, I'm Pinkie Pie! what's your name" Greeting.

You walk up to her, and was going to ask her why she was saying that. But then you remembered you never mentioned Sunset Shimmer. So for the sake of Pinkie being friendly with that greeting. You'd leave her alone.

Twilight was raising her hoof already, hesitating to knock. Rainbow Dash steps past you, gathering optimism the best she could. She was already in a sour mood due to her car so she was going to need it.

Pinkie swoops up right next to Twilight, and knocks on the door.

It takes a moment. But Sunset starts speaking from behind the door. "Who is it?"

"Pinkie Pie!" Pinkie says immediately upon Sunset ending her sentence.

"Pinkie Pie?..Erm, Anon are you there?" Sunset asks

"Yup, Can we come in?" You answer

Oh man...here it comes.

Sunset unlocks the door, and opens it. "Yeah and....woah" Sunset was caught offguard by the fact you managed to bring three ponies over. "Are you all with Anon?"

"Yuppity yup yup yup! I'm the pony who answered the door first! And now it's your turn to say your name! And then we can hug!...wait! NAHHHH!" Pinkie darts over to her and hugs her "I'll hug you anyway!"

Sunset felt this was incredibly awkward already, she reaches her hoof back and pats Pinkie on the back very slowly. Creeped out by her sudden hug. "I-I'm Sunset Shimmer, and erm..Hi? Welcome to Princess Celestia's"

"Princess? I thought she wasn't one anymore." Rainbow Dash said as she stepped inside and looked around "Yeesh...what a dump."

..oh wait....there was the cuntyness you knew her for. You should have known she couldn’t be polite for long.

"Excuse me?" Sunset pulls away from Pinkie and confronts Rainbow Dash "She was still YOUR princess at one point. And she was the best ruler Equestria ever had!" Sunset started poking at her chest very very hard "Are you going to tell me those two morons are better than her?! Huh? Because Princess Celestia would never let the forests or grasslands become wastelands! Or let the air get so polluted! tch, why did you even come here if you were just going to be a jerk!"

Rainbow Dash stepped back, she motioned with her hooves that she didn't want any trouble. She even looked genuinely sorry. "Hey! Relax! sheesh, I didn't say all that. I was just making some comments. Sorry. I didn't mean nothing by it you know. I just thought it sounded weird."

You rushed up to Sunset and rubbed her side. "Sunset, Sunset, it's ok. She's here to join us for dinner. She's kinda been having a bad night. But she didn't mean anything by it. I swear."

Defending Rainbow Dash...wew...

But it was true. She wasn't having the best of nights.

"Fine...But watch your tone, ok?" Sunset pulls away her hoof from RD's chest "Princess Celestia is sensitive, it's easy to upset her. So please, watch what you say."

"Ok ok, I promise. I didn't know" Rainbow Dash rolls her eyes as she says that. She didn’t expect that kind of aggressiveness at all.

Twilight looks past into the next room. And notices a young mare putting down some food on a table. The table itself had a shitton of food on it. Everything from Fruit salads, cooked Hay with dressing, Mashed potatoes, bread rolls, Rice and beans, desserts everywhere. Even a flipping punch bowl. There was a small chocolate statue, and corn on the cob, sandwiches, Pizza...Pizza?...sure ok. tacos...and...burritos...nachos...casseroles. Holy shit....and many many more. how the fuck was everybody supposed to eat all this?

"Woah..." Rainbow Dash noticed as she licked her lips "Now THAT'S a spread. Trust me Sunset..." Rainbow Dash walks past her, mesmerized by the food. "I ain't gonna complain about any of this. oohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh, I'm so gonna have some of that hay lasagna! And some pizza! and cake! And OHHHHHHH...THAT PUNCH BOWL IS FILLED WITH CIDER!OHHH YEAAAH! THAT'S WHAT I'M TALKING ABOUT!" Rainbow Dash says as she walks into the dining room and eyes all the food. "I can't waiiiiitttt to start eating"

Pinkie Pie however, walks up to "Nymous", who was setting some food on the table.

Pinkie recognized her, but Nymous didn't seem too pleased to see her again.

Sunset looks to you, surprised. "How did you do it? I didn't think you'd be able to get this many ponies to show up at all"

...ohhh, she was impressed. That filled your ego some. It made you smirk. "Well, it's just the fact that I've had some help and tips on making friends from my friends back in my world. In fact, you could say that me knowing the elements of harmony inside and out really helped me make friends with these three ponies."

Sunset realized exactly what you meant immediately. She was faster to catch on than most of the ponies you speak to. Then again, she has threaded through the human world, having to outsmart everyone there. "These...are the elements of harmony? Isn't there supposed to be six?"

You nod, and put on a more serious expression. "Yeah, but this was the best I could do. Twilight there, the purple one. She was the pupil after you. She became the Element of magic and then later on the Princess of Friendship. But here, she's just a hotel clerk who doesn't really care for friendship."

Sunset takes a look back at Twilight, who was looking over all of the stuff from the castle. "That's pretty heavy. Princess of Friendship, huh? Does she become an alicorn or something?"

You nod again "Yeah, making her alicorn number four."

"Four?! who's the third?! The pink mare over there?I didn't even think there could be more than two!" Sunset was super surprised, she had learned there could only really be two alicorns….Kinda like everyone else did before Season 2.

"Well there can, Twilight's sister in law is the third. She got married to her brother. I doubt there will ever be a fifth one though." Unless Cadance’s baby….

"I'm just surprised there's more than two. But..." Sunset sighs, she was suddenly feeling a feeling that she was somehow replaced after she left. She knew it was a selfish feeling given her own reasons for leaving was selfish. But after spending her time with Celestia for so long, it gave her a sense of odd abandonment.She knew she shouldn't be feeling it, because if anything, it meant Twilight took care of not only Celestia, but all of Equestria. And she must have even fulfilled the prophecy of Nightmare Moon. Which also meant that at some point, her own plan to steal the crown must have happened. And knowing that, it hurt even worse. "...it hurts when I think about it. If everything went the way I think it did. It means I was no better than the kings and tried to get absolute power for myself...."

Sunset then looked over to you, she was wondering something now. Something that was bothering her. "Anon, you seem to know what was what. You knew about me, so let me ask. What happened to me? Do you know?"

You did, you did watch the first two movies. Never got a chance to watch the third however. You couldn't tell why she asked though. "I do, why do you wanna know?"

"I just do, I want to know what happens to me. Do I succeed? Do I get my butt beat?.....do I lose everything?" Sunset felt she had to know her true fate.

Oh....she was worried if she just became an outright monster. Well, she did. She became a fucking demon. But, you'd say she gained more than she lost. So you give her a warm smile, you wanted her to know the news was good. "You nearly succeeded in taking over Equestria. But Twilight hopped through the mirror after you and fixed a lot of the problems you caused. and then with the help of the five friends whose lives you ruined, they stop you"

Sunset found those words and your smile very unsettling. "W-why are you smiling like that? That doesn't sound good to me." Sunset looks down in shame "It just means that if I didn't feel guilty about Celestia, that I really did become a monster."

You shake your head, and continue to smile "Nope, because after that. You became friends with those five humans. You became a much better person. you laughed, you cried, you got to go to a sleepover. And then you flippin come in at the final moments and beat these three sirens into submission. It was kind of cool actually"

"So..everything is ok?" Sunset started to feel relief, she didn't know she could be redeemed like that after what she would have caused if everything went right. "Then I guess, no matter what happened. I managed to do right for eve....wait a second, SIRENS?! THERE'S SIRENS ON EARTH?!" And now she was surprised and distraught

You cringe, just realizing that due to her current predicament that you shouldn't have said that. "......ummmm, yes?"

"...oh no, and how did that happen?" Sunset was frantic, she couldn’t believe she missed that.

You explain it to her, leaving out a few details. and also explain that without magic entering the world. They were pretty damn powerless.

"I wish there was still something I can do. I know them being there is Starswirl's fault. But they shouldn't be there at all. Do you really think it's ok just to leave them there?" Sunset could feel her humanly guilt creep up on her as she thought about it.

"It'll be fine, they are pathetic without a powerful source to drain from. It'll be fine....actually" You were actually surprised by Sunset not noticing something. "Sunset, you don't notice anything about Pinkie and Rainbow Dash?"

Sunset looks back at them, Dash was drooling at this point, being as patient as she can as Chrysalis looked like she wanted to kill herself from Pinkie's ramblings. But she didn't notice anything. "What, am I supposed to?"

hrn, did she remember much about the five friends whose lives she ruined? "Well, remember those five friends...where...ya know...Anyway, can you remember their names?"

"I think...they were Rarity,Fluttershy...umnnn,Applejack. And then there was.....noooo" Sunset's eyes went wide. "It's...Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie. It's...This world's Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie?! I remember their names, and...they are practically the same as their human selves. Except Rainbow Dash didn't have a thing for cop costumes. She doesn't whip stallions does she?"

You couldn't help but snicker at that, Rainbow Dash? Some cop clad dominatrix? Weird she'd even mention anything close to that. But funny just the same. "No, she's the actual chief of police back in Flimsville and Flamsville. But yeah, those are them. And they are also elements of harmony. Which should be super good. Because-"

Sunset cuts you off, again. coming to the same conclusion you did. "Because of Princess Celestia's visions, right? Anon, you're a genius! if Princess Celestia sees them. It might show her that there's still hope. She might actually..." Sunset stops as tears flow from her eyes. She just sits back and grabs you. Hugging you as she sniffed and whimpered. “You've done so much, Anon. When we had to keep making more and more food. I almost thought you weren't coming back. But to come back with the elements...I really had forgotten, Just like Princess Celestia, that there was good ponies in this world...or any world really." She slowly stopped hugging you, and turned towards the dining room. "Come on....let's go help Princess Celestia make new friends"

It was time

You and Sunset entered the room last. Rainbow was so damn ready to eat at this point. Chrysalis peered over to you, and pointed to Pinkie, telling you "politely" to talk to her so she could walk away. And Twilight was still looking over all the stuff from the castle.

"Finally have the last piece for dinner, canned hay. I don't know why you insisted we cook everything in the house Sunset, but I have to say I had a....." Celestia steps out, and immediately stops when she sees a full dining room full of ponies. "...blast" Her expression was pure and utter shock. She just stared at all of you. Not knowing what to say any further. It spooked her something fierce. Making her drop the can

"Princess Celestia, are you alright?!" Sunset rushes up to her. Checking on her immediately "is anything wrong?!"

Oh shit, despite her expression being frozen, there was tears running down her eyes. It was as if she had come in contact with friends she hadn't met in years. "S-sunset, are these our guests?"

Sunset looks over to them, then looks up to her, too worried to present them with a smile "Yes, Princess Celestia. They came to eat with us, and be friends"

Celestia didn't move, she only said in a low voice "I see"

You didn't even know what the fuck to do.

No one did.

Except for one...

Pinkie rushed up to Celestia, unphased by her shock. She gave her a huge smile and looked right up at her. "Hiya! I'm Pinkie Pie! You must be Celestia! You wanna be friends?"

Sunset just looked at her, she was now uber worried. To be so upfront? "You can't just do that! Princess Celestia is very..."

Celestia leaned down to grab Pinkie Pie and started snuggling into her. "I would LOVE to be friends!In fact, you seem like a pony who has a very loving family" Celestia continued to snuggle hug with her.

"I do! How did ya know?!" Pinkie says as she starts to bring her head under her mane. finding the rainbowness of it all very neato.

"I just had a feelin. If you'd like, you could bring them over for dinner next time you're over." Celestia said, with a genuine, noncrazy smile.

"Wow! it's like you're reading my mind!" Pinkie hopped off the hug, smiling up at Celestia as she points at her with childlike wonderment "How are you doing it!? It's super neat!"

Celestia giggled "Let's just say I had a feeling. And besides, I like having friends. I hope Pinkie, that you are also willing to be friends with my best friend." Celestia put her hoof on the shocked Sunset Shimmer. "Sunset Shimmer, she's very organized and fun. Isn't that right, Sunset?"

Sunset was going to cry, Celestia was coming back before her eyes. The way she was talking was like her old self. "Y-yeah..o-of course"

"See? And..." Celestia walks up to Rainbow Dash "I've seen you in the newspaper, the valiant and brave Chief Rainbow Dash. You stopped those bank robbers by yourself last month, right?"

Rainbow Dash had a big arrogant grin on her face. She started acting in her usual form of modesty "Yeah, well. It was no big deal really. I do it all the time. But, since you read about me, you must know how cool I am, Right? Because only cool ponies can hang with this mare..yep"

Celestia let out a soft laugh and pointed to herself "Am I "cool" enough? Chief Dash?"

Rainbow Dash shrugged and tried to seem aloof about it. "Yeah, sure, I guess. I mean, a former princess is pretty neat to have as a friend."

Celestia looked to the side, and put on a stoic look "Yeah, I guess having a chief is pretty ok as a friend." She looks at her hoof, looking bored "I mean, catching thieves is neat and all, but it's nothing compared than raising the sun. Sometimes keeping it up a little longer for some extra beach time" Celestia then shifts her eyes to Rainbow Dash with a cute arrogant smile of her own.

Rainbow Dash snickered at that "Ok ok, I get it. That is cooler than catching badguys, I admit it"

Celestia then looked to Twilight. Twilight had turned her attention to Celestia when she came into the room. But had said nothing. She felt unworthy to mention anything to her. Even after everything that happened. She really had always looked up to her. And now? Celestia was giving her the attention she had once given her during her test as a filly. A test she failed.

"H....H..He-..." Twilight doesn't even know how to open the conversation. So Celestia starts instead.

"Hello, Twilight Sparkle" Celestia said in a motherly, very gentle voice.

Twilight was so surprised, her pupils shrunk. "Y-y-you know my name? H-how?"

Celestia gave a gentle nod "I do, I know you have an appetite for knowledge as well. You know Twilight, I know you are probably the type who has trouble accepting friends." Celestia gives her a regally stoic look.

Twilight's ears droop, She starts rubbing along her leg nervously as she looks down in shame. Hearing it from her. It actually hurt. It was like being looked down on by your favorite hero.

"...That's why I'd like you to assist Sunset and myself in organizing the archives. We have many of Starswirl’s written works in the shed in the back just thrown about, completely unorganized. I was never much on picking an organization process, and Sunset insists to take on the task herself despite always being busy taking care of me. I'm sure if we had your skills, all three of us could have it done in no time. Then perhaps we could have a small break and actually read some of the scrolls he's written."

Did she hear right? Did Celestia just say that?

Twilight's excitement reached Pinkie levels upon hearing that. As she looked to Celestia with excited eyes, she started hopping about happily. Ha! That's the Twilight you knew. "I'D LOVE TO HELP! I ACTUALLY HAVE TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTY SEVEN DIFFERENT WAYS OF ORGANIZING BOOKS! I'D LOVE TO SHOW THE BOTH OF YOU A FEW OF THEM! AND I'VE ALWAYS..ALLLWAYS WANTED TO READ ACTUAL WORKS BY STARSWIRL! YES! YES! YES! I ACCEPT I ACCEPT!" Twilight jumps right onto of Celestia for a hug. It nearly knocked her off balance.

Celestia manages to stay standing as she feels feelings that she thought had completely left her. She could feel the feelings of lament and pain leave her. She knew, in the back of her mind, who these ponies were. And they were as friendly as the dreams made them out to be. And if these were the ponies of her dreams...then that meant..Luna, would come back....sooner or later.

Celestia just leaned her head into Twilight to give her affection. The moment she did, Twilight stopped, and slowly ended her hug. And looked to Celestia, her eyes full of tears. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to act like that. I don't even know you and I got all excited. I don't actually act like that, I promise."

Celestia shook her head and pulled in Twilight for another hug "That's disappointing to hear, I like it when you show just how happy and excited you actually are. I want to get to know you Twilight, so please. Just act like....you" Celestia then turns to the rest of the group "In fact...I'd like to get to know all my friends better"

Celestia gave her the warmest hug she could muster. Making Pinkie Pie comment with a cute little "awwwww!"

After that, everything was gravy. both food wise and friend wise. Twilight had finally softened up, while still being a little awkward. Rainbow Dash was telling stories of her times on duty, and Pinkie Pie was talking about...well, what wouldn't she talk about really.

And nobody was gonna eat ALL of this fucking food.

Sunset looked the most relieved at this point. She had never seen Celestia act so casual. It was like back in the days when she was a filly. It was like having her old teacher back.

Chapter 252 - Flim Flam Future Arc

Chrysalis however, was just waiting. She kept up a smile and ate the food given to her. But after awhile, she tapped at her cup to announce something, gaining the attention of everyone at the table. "Excuse me everypony. I hate to be a stick in the mud, but Anon and myself must be going for the night. We have many things to do and not a lot of time to do it. If we can just borrow Miss Shimmer to discuss a few things about navigating the city, we'll be able to return that much sooner."

Celestia nods, it didn't seem to bother her too much. She understood. "Then I hope the both of you have a safe journey. And once you return, you'll be welcomed back with open hooves and leftovers should you find yourselves hungry again."

You give Celestia a big smile. You appreciated the food, it was damn delicious. They must have been making all of this all day to keep Celestia busy in the kitchen. Amazing. "Thank you Celestia, I'm glad you consider us good enough friends to let us into your home like that."

"Only good enough? I thought it was more than that." Celestia lets out a mischievous giggle. it warmed your heart in all actuality, she seemed back to normal just from having friends over. You felt the determination of saving this world grow larger within you. "I already consider you both close friends. Ones worthy of my trust. Now then, if you both have to traverse the city then I won't keep you. It can be very dangerous out at night from what I understand"

"Thank you, we shouldn't take all night. But we'll be gone for awhile." You say as Chrysalis adds on to it.

"Yes, that is why we must go quickly. Sunset, if you'd please take us to your room so we can plan a route. That would be splendid." Chrysalis tells her

Sunset nods, she knew what was up. Of course, this was probably the briefing for the plan. Chrysalis must have gotten the information she needed. But pulling it off so soon? At night? Dammit, you had to get your head in the game if it was gonna be this soon.

"Alright, you two follow me." Sunset gets off her chair and does a small bow. "I'll be back soon Princess Celestia, I just need to make sure they understand the lay of the land."

Celestia just gives her a warm and reassuring smile. "You needn't explain that to me, Sunset. I'm not going to get lonely because you left me for a moment" She giggles. "I'm not a child. Though, I do appreciate you taking care of me as if I was one. And I always will."

Sunset cringed at that. That seemed so self insulting. "Princess Celestia! You're not a-"

"I know" She giggles again. "I was just teasing for a reaction. It's good to know that you care so much Sunset. I'm just sorry..." Celestia's smile fades to something a little more lamentable. "That I couldn't teach you that when you were a foal. I was always worried about what may have happened to you when you left." She then looks to Sunset with love and hope. "But I'm glad that you returned. And with you, a soft and gentle heart....Now then, hurry up! Or I'll start eating your food too. I haven't gotten to eat like this for awhile and I want to stuff myself good. The longer the dinner, the more time we have to spend with our new friends!"

RD and Pinkie let out a cheer to that. Twilight just stayed silent, her heart full of admiration, but not enough to spurge out in a cheerful way that had nothing to do with books or spells.

With that, Sunset lead you and Chrysalis into her room. And locked the door tight behind her. "Alright, are you sure you're ready for this Chrysalis? Did you even check with Anon if he was ready?"

"He's ready when I tell him to be ready. Even when knowing the truth about him, he's still hard headed with some of our Twilight's tripe still lodged in his head." Chrysalis looks to you, eyeing you closely. "Something that you better not let cloud your judgement. Anon, this is a time where you must be ruthless and cutthroat. Not a goddamn pussy"

"Pussy?" Sunset was confused. "Like a fraidy cat? That's a new one. Anon, this is going to be very dangerous. You can't be a uhm....pussy"

Chrysalis snickered at Sunset using that word. It seemed pretty hilarious for her to hear a pony use the vulgar human language.

"...Come on" You let out an annoyed sigh. "I'm not going to puss out. This is importantm I get it. Besides, I want to turn those two into mulch for what they did to everypony. Let's just get this over with so we can dethrone them already." You made a fierce pose, trying to show you're ready to kick some ass. "C'mon! I want to see them squirm!"

"That won't be easy, Anon" Sunset says as she brings out two contracts from her dresser.

As you look on, you start to take notice of her room. It was very plain and dusty. Plain bed, plain dresser, plain mirror, all dusty and unkempt. It looked like she kept herself busy with Celestia enough to not even dust her own room.

"You can't use force here, remember? You have to trick them. So let's go over the plan." Sunset nods to the both of you as she prepares to explain.

Sunset pulls over her table with her magic, it was small and round, enough to put on a cup and plate. She placed the two contracts down upon it. One was about 2 or three pages. The other...holy christ, it was bigger than before. That had to be one thousand pages.

Your eyes went wide from that. "Is that the contract I have to show Flam?! Why is it so huge?!"

"Because I had to make it as long as feasibly possible.Chrysalis already has a natural advantage of tricking Flim to sign hers. You'll need to be more resourceful Anon...mnn" Sunset looked to Chrysalis. "Are you sure he can do it? It's not like he can entrance Flam. And even with this many pages, Flam will read it all before he signs it unless Anon does a real good job of distracting him. I put the fine print on page nine hundred and sixty eight like you suggested. But there's still the fact that if Anon screws this up that he'll still get to it and notice something is off."

"Trust me, Anon can be an extreme nuisance when he wants to be, isn't that right Anon?" Chrysalis looks to you with a sneering smile, to suggest that you were some annoying kid.

But you wouldn't have it this time. You were already putting your head in the game before it was even mentioned. You knew you'd have to be a snot to Flam if you wanted to distract him. You just didn't know the difficulty.

So you gave Chrysalis a smug little smirk of your own. "Yeah, I mean look at you. All me and Discord had to do was frame one changeling and your entire race ended up as my roommate in a chaos realm that you hate. Not too bad, eh?"

Chrysalis's eye twitched from fury at that one. She didn't expect that retort. "You little..." She raised her hoof to smack you, but somehow found enough willpower to stop herself.

She had to take a moment to calm herself. But internally, that still infuriated her. "If it wasn't for the fact that this was the only way out. I'd toss you through a window.....that was beside a seaside cliff"

You snicker at that. "Still touchy? How do we know you're not the one who's going to screw up?"

"Because..." Chrysalis looked at you with an inquisitive eye. "I take pleasure in fooling weak minded simpletons like him. He'll be feeding me the entire way. And after that "feast", I'm more than ready to go. But when it comes to you, you're just an infuriating little ball of idiocy. I'm surprised the ponies haven't shipped you away in a box with the kind of attitude you have. But don't take that as a negative Anon..." Chrysalis catches the conversation on the rebound. And by relaxing her mind and thoughts, she pulls it back in her favor. She brings her hoof to under your chin and gently gives it a rub as she gives you a sensual smile, her eyes half open, them..bedroom eyes. "It's that kind of behavior we'll be needing anyway. I'm glad you're getting into the mindset, but you'll just have to be just a little bit better this time. Remember, we are playing for keeps."

She got the reaction she wanted. Even if you played it off, you were still blushing, still having a lust in your heart when she does such things. "Yeah...mnnn" You clear your throat as you slowly back off, giving your neck a wipe with your hooves. "Well..it's good to see you're still seductive, because we're gonna need that too."

Sunset, found the whole thing very awkward. "That whole thing was just practice...right?"

"You can call it that" Chrysalis snickered. "Now then, what's the exact plan you have Sunset? And what was that spell you had me cast while I was having breakfast with that mongrel."

"It won't be simple. You both already know you'll need those contracts signed for them to have to give up their crowns. But without a reason to actually hate them, they can be voted back in right after if they make a grab for the throne. That's why you'll also have to sneak around the castle to find any evidence, any KIND of evidence that would make them look like huge stupid jerks. That's why I had you cast that simple pulse spell inside the castle. It was for this...." Sunset takes out a blank sheet of paper

"...And what is that?" Chrysalis was confused.

"Yeah, it's blank. Is it a secret bigger spell or something?" You too, were confused.

Sunset shook her head. "Nope, Chrysalis. Cast the spell again, and aim for my horn"

"...Alright" Chrysalis does so, she shoots a green bolt from seemingly nowhere, the illusionary image of her horn appearing for just a second as she zaps Sunset's.

Sunset's horn glows as bright as the sun for a moment, then she shoots a bolt of magic at the parchment. From the origin of where it hit, it started spawning lines, and those lines turned into more lines, and those lines began to twist, turn, some forming pictures, those pictures and lines forming a layout, a blueprint, and the blueprint even filling out the location of traps within the castle.

"What in Equestria is going on?" Chrysalis wondered. "What kind of spell did you just cast?"

But you started to get it. it was obvious to you. You had a map of your own that did freaky shit. "It's a mapping spell, woah! Look, it's even mapping out the traps!" ...Oh damn.. "...That's a lot of traps...cripes, how do they get around the castle? How do the guards get around?"

Chrysalis, now knowing, understood exactly why. "...It's because they have no trust in anypony but each other. They can't even trust their own guards to patrol the castle without tripping a trap. My "breakfast" with Flim taught me many things...except anything incriminating. As dimwitted as Flim is, he has a sound enough mind to protect his assets. But he warned me about the traps. He had to lead me down a convoluted path to his dining room because many of the other rooms and traps are set along paths that most spies would traverse through. But even I would have never thought it'd be this ridiculous. Almost every room and hallway is set to spring on any hapless fool who dares step into them." Chrysalis started studying the map closely as more traps appeared along it. "Their guards only patrol the outside of the castle because of this."

Oh right...that did happen. "How did that date go? Did you learn anything else?"

Chrysalis groans. "Too much, like always, I did too well of a job. His voice gives me a migraine, he always drones on and on trying to make things sound oh so "fabulous" and "amazing". He found me to be a "delicate flower" that needed to be plucked from the confines of an inferior kingdom. Pressing him for anything useful was useless, everytime I tried he was able to sidetrack to something else. He was playing the innocent misunderstood king who wished to bring happiness to everypony. All that tells me is there's definitely something in that castle they don't want us to see. The more you are able to resist me, the harder you are trying to protect something valuable. The only problem is finding it."

"Right, while this is drawing itself out. We'll have to figure out where they'd hide it. Did you see any safes? Or anything peculiar while you were there?" Sunset asked.

"No, everything was normal." Chrysalis replied.

"Hrnnn, but it has to be there somewhere. There's way too many traps in that castle for it not to be protecting SOMETHING. They can claim that it's a needed security system all they want. But just look at that map. Who turns their castle into a dangerous maze like that?" Sunset pointed to that map as it nearly completed filling out.

"What would we even be looking for exactly? A file? Some papers? A blueprint? Even if they have something we can use against them, how would we know what it is?" Chrysalis asks, unsure of what she'd actually be looking for.

You just stared at the map. And as it neared completion. You noticed a part of the map that wasn't filling out at all. with every hallway leading to it stopping, leaving an open half circle at the top edge of the map. The hell?

"Hey, girls. What's up with the map? That side isn't filling out at all" You point to the empty spot

Chrysalis notices, and sighs, annoyed "Oh good, your spell didn't even work right. There's an entire section that isn't filling out. How do you expect us to search the castle if we can't learn navigate through it? You told me the spell was perfected, so what's that?" She pointed to the empty spot as well.

"I..Don't understand. The spell is perfect. It should have mapped out every inch of that castle and then some. There's no reason for it to stop." She stared hard at the circular spot. "It doesn't make sense!" She was so damn surprised, there is no reason for it not to work. That's what she thought anyway.

It didn't. Again, you had to think back to cartoons for this. Two possible scenarios could have occurred when the map was drawing itself. Either there was indeed a problem, or given it's a circle, something was.... "Hey! Wait! I think I got it! We're all agreed that the traps set are to protect something. Right?"

They both nod.

"What's your point Anon?" Chrysalis asked as she turned her attention to you.

"Well, what if that big empty spot is the spot they are trying to protect? Would there be anything that would cause your spell to leave out a round chunk like that, Sunset?" You ask, sure that your theory held water

"Of course there is...." Sunset started to get something in her head, she gazed at the map again, and started running her hooves along the paths. "But the spell you'd need to block it requires somepony to constantly be emitting a barrier. But if that's the case, How can they have a unicorn cast a spell like that at every moment of the day."

"Or they are using a wall made of Anti-magic material" Chrysalis states.

"Anti-magic material? No...that can't be right either. I've practiced my magic on every anti-magic product they've brought out to the public. There's no way that can be it." Sunset was sure of this.

"Of course you'd think that..." Chrysalis sighs "A notion so profoundly naive that even Anon, as dense as he is, can figure out why that's wrong." She then looks to you. "Go ahead Anon, give it a try. I want to see if you can think like I do like I've been trying to teach you."

Rgh, you'd tell her that it wasn't really changeling queen logic. But wasting time to argue that now would not be advantageous. You'd just let her think what she wanted to think. Of course, if she knew you wouldn't argue. Then she was probably internally smug that you were going along with it under that very notion. Showing Sunset that you seemed to be trained like a pet.

You sigh. " I think the Anti-magic material they are using must be of a super high grade, something they made that they personally use and never sell to the public. Which would mean..." You put your hoof right on the empty spot. "What we are looking for might be right there. We just need to figure out the rest of the route since most of the paths leading to it aren't filled in either. Is that the right answer Chrysalis?"

Chrysalis giggled as she patted your head. For once you didn't blush, this was pretty humiliating. "Very good my little drone. Now that we have that figured out. There's still one more order of business, the escape plan. How do we get out and how do we do it without being blown to bits? We can't just use the untrapped routes. Those two will have discovered something amiss at some point and have them guarded. There's no way they wouldn't call in their guards if there are intruders who can navigate their traps. Even with lack of knowledge of their design, there's more than enough guard to expend in the sake of blocking an exit."

An escape plan. Holy shit. Why didn't you start thinking of one? Of fucking course there'd have to be one. But you didn't think about it at all for some reason. It just slipped your mind. "What about my horn? It's weaker, but maybe we can use it to teleport out of the castle."

Chrysalis shook her head. "I wouldn't use the horn if that's the case. All it would take is one mistake and we'd be inside a wall or floor. No, we need to try something else. But what?"

Sunset was giving it some thought. And came up with an idea of her own. "I think I have an idea. It's super risky. In fact, there's a big chance it might not even work."

"Low chance is better than no chance, what is it?" You ask

Chrysalis seemed less willing to accept it. "If it's so high risk, why not think of another plan?"

"Because if this works there'd also be no chance of a retaliation from Flim and Flam themselves. Unless you two have anything more concrete. Then I'd say my plan is the best plan." Sunset affirms

Chrysalis was not convinced, but she may have been jumping the gun. She decides to hear out Sunet. "Well then, if you're sure enough to bring it up. Then why don't you explain it?"

"Alright. It's gonna sound bad. But hear me out, if you want to get out of there after you've done what you need to do.Then instead of running. Try to stay where you are for as long as possible." Sunset explains

What the fuck? Just...stay still? That's fucking madness, and yet.....Sunset seemed so sure of herself...da hell?

"Are you insane? We'd need to make a quick retreat. Not stay to get captured. Why would you suggest such a stupid plan?" Chrysalis didn't like the sound of it at all.

"I hate to say it, but I agree with her. Sunset, that sounds....really bad." Like, really bad.

"I know it does, but you both have to trust me" Sunset put her hoof on the table, leaning in as she her expression became of that of wanting. Wanting to be trusted. "Please, if everything works out like I hope it does. Then staying put is all you'll need to do."

"Tell us then, is there more to this than just standing around? Is there a point?" Chrysalis asks, filled with doubt.

"I can't tell you. Either of you. If I did, Flim and Flam might pick up on it if you make it obvious. It's better if you both don't know. All I'm asking is for you to trust me" Sunset was nearing pleading at this point.

"And all I'm saying is that it sounds terrible. How can you expect us to trust you when you don't trust us with this information? Hmmm?" Chrysalis wanted to know, she had to know. It all seemed suspicious.

"...I just can't tell you" Sunset looked like she actually did want to say something. But, she knew she couldn't.

Sunset was being very insistent on this. You knew she wasn't evil, so why be so secretive?

And then, you thought of Rainbow Rocks. She was trying so hard, and it took until the end for everyone to get their shit together to win the day. It was thanks to her...and Spike...and Vinyl...but that wasn't the point now. ".....Ok, I'll trust in you"

"What?! Anon, are you an idiot?! How in any way does her plan sound good?" Chrysalis was surprised by your answer. "You're not that stupid, are you?!"

"Maybe, maybe the whole thing is stupid. But it's something. If it's one thing I learned from watching cartoons, it's to always trust in your friend's plans. No matter how bad they sound. It's better than nothing."

Chrysalis found that ridiculous. ".....That is so stupid"

Sunset just cringed at that. "Yeah...I kinda have to agree but..." She let out a soft sigh, and smiled. "At least you believe in me. C'mon Chrysalis, I know it's the dumbest sounding plan you ever heard. But if you give it a chance. I know it'll work!"

"....Or get us annihilated." Chrysalis realized neither of you were going to give up however. "But, given we don't have any alternatives. I suppose it'll have to do. This mysterious blank is very large. And by the time we find what we're looking for, we'll most likely be found out anyway....But listen to me pony, and listen good." Chrysalis gave her threatening eyes, even under the Nymous disguise, it was scary. "If your plan fails, I will make sure that no matter what. You will be annihilated"

Sunset became very nervous at that threat, but her resolve remained unshaken "W-well uh, I'll just take that as a "You trust the plan" kind of deal. Ok...Well, you two better be off" Sunset walks over to her dresser and pokes around in a drawer. "Oh, and Anon..." It doesn't seem like she takes anything though. But when she looks at you, you can see hope in her eyes and....and...oh god.

She walked up to you and started hugging you...very closely...she was rubbing her hooves along the back of your head, right under where your mane ends. It seemed very...intimate. You couldn't help but blush. "U-uh, S-sunset?"

"Hmm? Oh sorry" Sunset let out a little giggle. "I guess that was kind of weird" She spends a little more time hugging however, moving her hooves along the back of your neck before finally backing off. "But um, that's it."

"...Ehhhhh...." Chrysalis turns around to walk out "Come along Anon..." She was done listening.

"Ok, just give me a moment." You give Sunset a hug of your own, a non creepy one. Maybe she was just scared that something might actually happen? "Take care Sunset, don't worry ok? We got this"

"I trust you Anon, I trust Chrysalis too. Even if she doesn't want to trust me. I have a feeling you both will do A-ok....Good luck" Sunset bids you a farewell

"Thank you.." You nod

After that, You and Chrysalis left. Chrysalis faking a goodbye to everyone else as opposed to your genuine one. You both had the contracts. Chrysalis the short one, and you the massive one. Which you placed in your saddle bag.

You both decide to walk to the castle. Despite the possible dangers. She wanted time to discuss things further. "Well, trust in her hmmm? Anon, do you really think that's a smart move?" Chrysalis asks.

"I think we don't have any better ideas of our own. We both know getting out through the entrance will be near impossible"

"That's only because we have to go deep into the castle to find out what they are hiding. They'll be on top of us by the time we're done. Unless she can somehow teleport us out or mount some sort of army to come in after us, we'll be doomed. And Anon, I will not accept that. I am the one who usually brings doom upon ponies. Not the other way around."

"I know, but I'm sure Sunset has us covered. What we need to talk about is getting them to sign the contracts."

"Hmph, I already have a way of managing that. As for you, you'll just have to make sure you annoy that stupid king to the point he'll sign it just to be rid of you"

Hmmm? "Just annoy him, huh? Is it really that simple? I'd think Flam is the type to look everything over before signing no matter what. Hell, I'm sure both of them would do that."

"That's why I'll have to do my best to make sure he doesn't actually look things over. I'm a master Anon, you know that. As for you, you're the "Son of Discord", aren't you? That's the title you pretend to have, isn't it? Well, it's time for you to finally live up to that title. I may hate Discord with a passion, but the kind of chaos he wreaks is the exact kind we'll need right now."

Was she suggesting… "So you just want me to be a gigantic fucking asshole?"

Chrysalis nods. "Exactly, with a mix of colt like innocence. Don't hold back. What reason would you even have to not let loose? It'll be fun" She chuckles. "You have the advantage, they don't know who we really are. All you have to do is make him so annoyed that he can't stand it. He'll sign just to be done with it. After that, we should meet up at the entrance hall. And then hide, wait, and then venture deep into the castle when it's clear."

"Huh...Well, I guess I can act like a gigantic shithead." You start to chuckle, you think back to when you tried to take a piss in Blueblood's glass. "....Oh yeah, I have a few ideas to piss him off. but he probably won't do anything because one, he wants the deal to go through, and two..." You make an adorably angelic face. "I'm jwust a wittle cooooooolt."

Chrysalis smiled, not even smug or cruel, just an actual happy sense of a smile "Oh thank Tartarus, you're finally learning"

"Eh, come on. I always could do something like this. I just never get the chance or, sometimes guilt gets in the way. I mean, think about it. It’s kinda how you ended up as my roommate. I had no problems messing with you, it was fun" You shrug with a happy little smile on your face

Chrysalis's smile goes dead quickly as she just looks forward, remaining stoic. "Ahh yes....that incident. Well, if you're able to gain my wrath, then this should be easy for you. Just remember not to have a moralistic moment. You're not one of them you know?"

Did she mean Twilight and her friends? Yeah, probably. "Twilight isn't that bad you know. Does she get on my nerves? Yeah, but some of the stuff she says is actually really good. It'd probably be good for you if you took at least one or two things to heart. I thought she was mostly full of shit, but after giving it some thought, and making friends with these alternate versions of the friends I have back home. I realized that some of the lessons she tried to teach me actually can apply. Human or not."

"Anon...that is the opposite of what you should be thinking right now. Never mind that you're wrong, you need to think viciously. You need to be cunning. Don't spout at me that Twilight Sparkle is right about anything. She's not and you are not to apply anything she's told you at this moment. Do not! Do you understand?" Chrysalis stared you down, to put some fear into you.

But you just sigh and shake your head. "I'm not an idiot Chrysalis, I can separate my love and care from being an absolute douche. I'm human after all, if it's one thing we do best is just be massive shitheads. You don't need to worry. I've got this"

"You better, we only get one shot at this. And I don't want to have to rescue you" Chrysalis gets a thought in her head, maybe it was because you mentioned it, but she had a thought pop in her head, about you. "......You know, this hasn't been as bad as I thought it'd be"

Wha?! Did she just say that? "Huh? What do you mean? Do you mean you actually had...fun? That's pretty sudden"

"It is, but it might be because I filled up on love before leaving. It has been sometime since we got here since I had a good meal. And so my head has become clear. And I can say this much. Crushing those two and taking everything from them will be good for my heart. And all things considering, I actually have a favor to ask of you for when we get back"

....Wooooah...WHAT?! "A favor?! you..asking me..for an actual legit favor? You're actually asking? instead of commanding me?!"

Chrysalis exerts a large sigh, annoyed by your reaction. "Yes Anon...I'm ASKING for a FAVOR since Discord would never grant it to me. There's something I'd like to have when we return. Something I'd like to call my very own. I've grown fond of them in all actuality"

Fond of? "Fond of what? Go ahead Chrysalis" You smile at her, trying to be a genuine friend. Now was your chance to show her that friendship was magic! "Ask me the favor, whatever it is, I'd love to hear it. Come on, go ahead!"

Chrysalis shifted her eyes left to right, she seemed troubled about what she wanted to say. "I hate to admit I like anything about those two idiots...But the invention of "Cars", of these "Automobiles"....I want one of my own. I actually like them"

....Oh...nope ".....Chrysalis, I can't just summon one up for you."

"I'm asking you Anon, I never ask for anything. But I'm asking you now. I'd like to have a car to ride around in. There's something exciting about it that I like. It could be the speed, or maybe it's the fact that I can make pony pancakes with it without any effort while also making it naturally fun. but I like it, and I want one. And I am asking you for one." She sounded rather desperate for this.

You couldn't just fucking materialize a car for her to keep. What would the other ponies think? Or...how fast would they be able to run away from her? If you had to give her a car, there would have to be a compromise. ".....You really really want a car?"

Chrysalis made a scrunchy face at you "If you expect me to say "really really" then I'll snap your leg in half. You already know I want one"

"Then ok, but it'd have to be for riding around in your underground basement. I can't let you use it for riding around Equestria. That sound fair?"

Chrysalis didn't even hesitate to say yes. she lost her composure for just a moment. "Yes!....ahrm...yes.." She calms down, she can't believe she nearly showed joyous enthusiasm. "That will be fine, there's enough room down there for me to have some fun."

You give her a smirk, and rub along her side. "So...you gonna say "Thhhhannnkk you" ? Hmmm? Huh? Buddy? Friend? Sis?"

Chrysalis kicks you away to the side, and growls at you. "Don't get cute! Just know..." She calms herself, and looks away to hide any genuine care. "..That I am at least appreciative. But don't expect me to owe you anything. Just consider us even for me saving your life twice."

You catch yourself, preventing yourself from falling to your side. You weren't mad, you weren't annoyed, you were actually relieved and happy. That was actual progress. She ASKED you for something. "Yeah, heh, I guess we can call it even if you want to make it that way. But I would have done it anyway y'know. You wouldn't even have to owe me anything."

Chrysalis hears that, and takes advantage immediately. "In that case, you still owe me for your life. I'll think of something later."

Gyah!...ah....oh.....dammit… "...............Yeah...ok...sheesh."

Even if it wasn't a word trap, you felt like you stupidly walked into one anyway. It didn't take long soon after that to reach the castle. No one bothered you the entire trip. Which, was actually good. Not for you, but for them. Chrysalis would have torn any thief or bandit to shreds if they tried.

"...Well Anon. Are you ready?" She asks

"...Yeah, let's save Equestria!"

Chrysalis put her hoof to her face. "Not the words I'd use....but I suppose it's something"

Chapter 253 - Flim Flam Future Arc

"So, there it is. Any last minute change ups to the plan?" You say as you stare at the castle entrance, two guards by the door.

"None whatsoever..." Chrysalis steps forward, ready. But before she went in, she had one last thing to say. "Also..Anon.."

Hmm? "Yeah?"

"Don't think I've forgotten about the sleep over, that's still going to happen." Chrysalis looks back at you with a cruel smirk.

Ohhhhhhh dammit, She still remembered that?...No, of course she would. Even if she didn't. DT would remind her. Fantastic.

You just groan and step along beside her. "...Did you have to remind me?"

Chrysalis chuckles. "Yes, because it's humorous. But don't take it so badly ,Anon, it can still be fun. I'm willing to play nice if you can keep her in a high state of love. Besides, you're a colt...doesn't the idea of having three females in the same room entice you?"

It...did. But dammit, two of them are fillies and one is a bug. And yet, it was still enticing. You could tell her no, but she'd see right through it.

You just groan at the prospect of it. "I guess, is there a point to this? Seems pretty random to bring up."

"There is, I want you to think about how my cunning and manipulation managed to make that happen. I want you to learn from it. And I want you to use it on Flam. You say you're capable, but are you actually able to do this without breaking your stride?" Chrysalis wondered.

"Trust me Chrysalis, I already have a few ideas on how to handle this. And I won't screw up. It's too important. If you want me to be as slick and cunning as you, fine, I can do it, easy peasy. Hell, if I could record it I'd sit down with you and watch how well I am going to do. It's gonna be great, promise."

"Good, it's good to see you being confident." Chrysalis gives you a gentle pat, a very gentle and nice one as she lowers her hoof under your chin to give it a sweet little stroke. "Make your sister proud."

Oohhh, that felt nice. She seemed to be genuine on those words too. It actually motivated you. "Trust me, I'll piss him off so bad he'll sign it just to get rid of me before he hits page two hundred"

"Good, now smiles. We have to look our best....which reminds me." Chrysalis steps away behind some bushes, one small green flash later. She comes back out, wearing a little black dress and her mane was flowing back like long hair in the wind. Her eyelids glisten. Her coat shines through the night, and her were hooves adorned with golden horseshoes. She steps out, and takes a sensual pose. "How do I look"

You blush hard....oh holy shit. You'd rip that dress off right now...but would that arouse you? She'd just be naked again, ponies are always nude. Fuck, what you'd give to see her in a maid outfit in this form. "Perfect...why didn't you do this earlier?" You also notice the guards giving you both odd looks. "I mean, they noticed you changed clothes just now"

"So? They can get over it. As for why I changed now? I hadn't decided on a look yet. And given that expression, it seems I chose a good one. Now then, let's not waste anymore time" Chrysalis informs you

"Alright alright, Let's do this" You both step in front of the guards. Both white pegasi stallions.

"Hello Gentleponies. I, the adviser of Prince Anon of Buenos Aeries have come with the prince himself. Both for my date and his dealings with King Flam. Would you both kindly step aside?" She bats her eyes at them.

You just give a small wave. "Yo"

They both look to Chrysalis, both with lust and confusion. The one on the right is the first to point out her change in clothes. "Of course, but uhhh. I gotta ask, erm...uhh" He started to blush. "Do you always change clothes in public?"

"Yes...now move please." She says plainly

"O-of course" It was clear the guard was thinking of something lewd. But the both of them moved, letting you two step into the castle.

You went across the entrance hall and into the Throne Room, where Flim and Flam awaited. Ugh, and Flim was in a tux, a smarmy little smile on his face as he adjusted his bowtie. Even his hat was white and black. Yeesh, show off.

Chrysalis takes a bow in front of them, and then presents you. "King Flim, King Flam. A pleasure to see you both again. I present to you my prince, Anon."

"Uhhh.....yo" You wave to them.

"Ahhhh Prince Anon, a pleasure to see you again." Flam says with a dodgy smile of his own. "My brother and I hope Canterlot has been kind to you"

You nod. "It's a pretty neat place."

"Yes, I suppose "neat" is a sufficient enough word. But it's good to see the glitz, glam, and wonderful shows has not overwhelmed you. I'm actually surprised you had chosen tonight to negotiate the deal. But it also happens to be no trouble. A decisive pony is a wonderful pony I always say, Isn't that right Flim?" Flam asks his brother.

But for once, he doesn't agree or add on to the fake praise. He just walks up to Chrysalis, lifts her hoof, and gives it a kiss "You look absolutely stunning my dear, simply wonderful"

Chrysalis giggled and blushed. "Oh, I bet you say that to every pretty mare. I'm simply an adviser, you needn't give me such praise after only having breakfast with me"

"Ahhh, on the contrary. There is no mare more beautiful, ravishing, and eye pleasing as you. You may not be royalty, but you're character is beyond that of an empress. Come my dear, let us leave my brother and your prince to contracts and deals while we have dinner in my...private chambers."

....Oh god WHAT?! You hold off a cringe as Chrysalis nuzzles her head under his. "Oh King Flim, you say such wonderful things to such a plain mare as mys-"

Flim puts a hoof gently to her mouth. "Ah ah, just refer to me as Flim, my dear. Well brother..." He looks to Flam. "You know how to handle these things, I leave it up to you"

Flam didn't look to happy or trusting about Chrysalis at all. "Brother, Flim, my other half. Are you sure tonight is a good night to make merry when it'd be better for us to handle this together? Like we always do"

"You worry too much Flam, it will be fine. Can't you do your brother this small favor? It is only for one deal, we've done it many a time, lots of time, why I'd say it's something that we were clearly born to do and can handle by ourselves."

Flim was obviously too into Chrysalis to want to leave her. Oh hell, so that was it. She wanted to separate them not only in body, but in soul. To make sure they couldn't back up each other. Holy shit, that's brilliant!

"......Well then brother, I wish you good luck, a good night, and a good dinner. I just hope you keep your good sense about you" Flam sounded annoyed now, something Flim was not picking up on.

Flim just smiled and started leading Chrysalis away. "Of course! And a good luck to you brother of mine! A good luck to you indeed!"

And now...it was just you and Flam..... Awkward.. It wasn't very comforting to be alone with him. You dealt with these two before. But you were goddamn powerful last time. Now they run the show.

Flam puts on a smile, and walks over to you, doing a humble bow. "Well, Prince Anon, it is a pleasure to formally meet you. Shall we also depart to my chambers for our private meeting? We have much to discuss and the night grows older by the second. I also trust, you have a contract drawn out? I understand that your adviser personally handled it."

You nod, you don't even get surprised to being alone in his room. You knew he was a professional con pony. "Yup, she wrote it all. I actually haven't read it myself. But she says it's pretty much a trade for my kingdom for some nice perks. Kinda sick of being a prince anyway, I don't ever get to do anything cool."

"Splendid, Splendid! Then let us make haste. Follow me!"

And so you were led down a slew of hallways, making twists and turns as Flam explains and apologizes to you about having to take such a long way. Explaining that many of the hallways were trapped to catch unwanted ponies. You didn't really have much to say about it, you already knew that much.

Flam led you into his room, which, holy shit, was massively extravagant. A huge bed with golden arches over it. A statue of Flam made with carefully stacked bits, a bar, a carpet with his face on it. Stained glass windows with him in various heroic poses, a negotiation table with many many seats, it was long too. The room also had a jacuzzi, it had a chandelier, it had a fucking portrait of him the size of the wall, which was huge. The whole room was just grand. A true monument to his narcissism.

In fact, the statue's shininess captures your attention. You walk over to it to inspect it as Flam closes the door. The statue was made of the newer bits of course, very very very carefully stacked in such a way to make it look like Flam. It was on the middle of the table, held aloft by some weird yet simple looking magical device. You bring your hoof very slowly to tap it.

"PRINCE ANON!" Flam rushes over to you and gently pulls you away. "Prince Anon, e-erm, I can see you're curious about my wonderful little art project. But if you could refrain from touching it, please? It took over four months to get it exactly as I like it. I don't say this to offend of course, it's just something I'd like to keep intact."

"Ohhh...sorry, It just looked really shiny. What's that thing under it making it float like that?"

"Ahhh! perceptive! This marvelous, magical, phenomenal device keeps the statue in place. Why, you could shove the table over and the statue itself would stay in place. But touching the statue itself, well, I just wouldn't recommend it. But come Anon, let us relax and get down to business. Your adviser had let us know that there was a contract ready for us to look over. You have it, don't you?" Flam awaits your response, looking over at his little bit stacked statue before putting his attention fully on you.

"Right....right..umm" You pull out the contract from your saddle bag and put it on the negotiation table.

"Interesting, very interesting! It must be one detailed contract to manage to be so thick!" Flam picks the contract up and quickly flips through it's pages, putting his ear close to it's pages to hear the flappy noise as he ran through the contract. "About one thousand pages if my guess is correct. Very detailed, one would usually spend a week having to read and understand it all, but don't you worry Anon, I can call you Anon can't I?" Flam gives you a slick smile. “We're both royalty here"

"Yeah, sure, I don't see why not. So, are you just gonna read that then?"

"It appears so, it looks like everything needed for negotiation has been handled and written right here on this contract." Flam started to read, flipping a page after a few seconds. "I'll just give this a read, sign it, and then we can handle final preparations for what we should do once we have ownership of your kingdom. I can say this Anon, you won't regret this. You'll live better than any king ever should. All the riches with none of the responsibilities. None whatsoever"

"So, I just wait until you're done then?" You asked with fake curiosity

"Yes, that's right" Flam nods

Huh....well of course you weren't gonna fucking do that. But what to do, what to do? You knew you were going to have to pull some really heavy shit to pull this off. But you know what? It also shouldn't be that hard. You had a "darker" mindset than any pony, and your cutie mark was the goddamn symbol of chaos. You could do this, just start small. "Oh...then do you think I could have a drink?"

"Ahh, of course. Hospitality is my specialty. Now I can't imagine you drinking any of the kind of cider I usually keep for guests, but I do also have water for one who is just parched." Flam stops reading to pull a spritzer of water out of a tub of ice where bottles of cider sat. He also took a wine glass and sprayed some cool water into it and hovered it over to you "Here you are!"

.....Nope. You gently push the glass away. "You think I can get some soda?"

"Soda?" Flam kept his smile up, he didn't falter at all. "Sorry to say Anon, but I don't keep soda in this room"

"Oh...But do you keep some in the castle?"

"I do, my brother and I keep some in the castle kitchen to bring to certain school events. The little ones do love their soda, yes they do. But Anon, it would be quite the hassle to go and fetch it. Won't water suffice?" Flam shakes the glass towards you

You give him an annoyed look. "I thought I was your guest? Can't you get your maid to do it then?"

"She's a little...occupied. Anon, I promise you the water is quite fresh" Flam tried to convince you, but you wouldn't budge.

You now acted insulted. "Look, if I can't even get a simple soda then I don't see why I should give up my kingdom. The promises I heard about sounded good but geez, come on, a little service will you?"

Flam didn't like the sound of that. "W-what are you saying?"

You give him a mean look, and stomp your hoof. "Either get me a soda or I walk."

"A-ah, I see. Well, I never said I wasn't going to get you one. Yes..." Flam puts the contract down. "Give me a few moments Anon and I shall return post haste"

And with that Flam left the room.

Just in case there was anything incriminating, you started to look around for any documents or even a safe. You knew you couldn't use your horn just yet. You had used it to open Celestia's door. Hell, looking at the clock, you were going to have to stall for about two hours before you got another shot. But dammit, there didn't seem to be anything.

Your ear perks up when you hear Flam opening the door. You hurry back to your seat and wait. Putting on an impatient expression.

"Anon, I present to you, your soda! In fact" Flam gave you a cool smirk as he put down various flavors of soda onto the table "Take your pick, I got you plenty. Now then, enjoy yourself while I resume the reading." Flam takes the contract and starts reading it again.

You pick up a soda labeled "Hoof-a-cola".....huh. You pop off the cap and take swig. Huh..good stuff. Very familiar. But you couldn't let yourself sit down and enjoy it. "So..uhhh" You look around in wonderment. "Can I get some ice cream to go with this soda?"

Flam's mustache goes slightly crooked the moment he hears that. "Ice Cream? Why didn't you mention it before?"

You shrug. "Seemed obvious to me that soda always goes with ice cream. In my country, whenever I ask for soda, it ALWAYS comes with chocolate ice cream....So yeah, Can I get some?"

Flam sighed. "Anon, I do have an entire contract to read through. And it is a little too late for ice cream. Don't you think?"

You cross your forelegs like arms at him. "...I want ice cream" You give him a shrewd look.

Flam did his best to be polite, he did a small bow, put the contract down, and went to fetch ice cream. "Of course...there won't be anything else you need, will there?" Flam stops at the door before exiting.

You shake your head. "Nope, that should be fine"

This time, you just sit on your seat and plot further. "Ok, this won't work. The guy is patient enough to weave through hallways and bring me stuff just to get it signed. I need to think of something bigger without overdoing it. That whole "in my country" shit might be a good start.....hrnn..country....shit....." You smirk evilly. "....Oh yes, that will work"

Flam returns with a huge bowl of chocolate ice cream for you. He had a bit of sweat on his brow. But otherwise, that smile never left him. "Here's some delicious ice cream for you, Anon. As I said, all the perks without the responsibilities. Now you enjoy yourself while I continue" With that, Flam starts reading and flipping pages.

You chugged your soda as you ate your ice cream. You were planning, waiting. what could you do right now? Wait… You look down at the statue and get an idea. You go and sit to the seat next to the statue and act like your relaxing, and slam the empty soda bottle onto the table with the statue. As Flam said, hitting the table itself did nothing to the statue. But it sure caught his attention.

"A-Anon!" Flam drops the contract onto the table and rushes over once again and quickly picks up the bottle. "Anon..ahrm..we don't put anything on this table. So please, don't you put anything on top of it either. It's not a coaster."

You act like you feel bad for startling him, putting your head down in shame. "S-sorry, mnnn..." You look at the ice cream bowl at the table and shake your head. "I'm not hungry for ice cream anymore Flam, what should I do with it?"

"You needn't worry Anon, I'll just get your bottle, and the ice cream and dispose of it myself. I have a trash shoot a little aways from my room so it shouldn't take me too long, be back in a jiffy!" Flam takes the bowl and the bottle and goes to dispose of it.

Time for phase two.

You start to rub your belly, gently, you could feel a gurgling in your tummy. And it was time to cut loose. This was already pretty extreme.,But the explanation you had should work. Oh man, it was so gross and yet you loved the idea.

You went to the corner of the room. Bent down, and took a humongous dump. Right onto the corner of his expensive carpet. You rubbed your ass on the carpet to clean it, then sat back on your seat. ohhhh, what a foul stench it was.

Finally, Flam comes back into the room. "Now then, to resume reading that contract. I hope you had your fill Anon, and you needn't worry. I'm not upset about anything in case you thought that. I'm a very mild mannered and gentle soul and...." He catches a whiff of the turd. "What's that?"

"Oh, I took a dump on the floor. I hope you don't mind" You give him a gentle smile.

Flam slowly turns his head to see the turd on his carpet. His pupils shrink, he tenses up, his eye twitches. He's never seen anything so foul. And...so....

He slowly turns his head back to you, his shocked face forcing a very skewed smile. Flam speaks in a very confused and choked up voice. "......Whhyyyy?"

You shrug. "In my country, we just poop wherever and our maids clean it up. Isn't that how it works here? it must be annoying to walk over to the bathroom all the time." hehehehe, the ole poo in loo trick.

"...Are you serious?" Flam was losing his composure, that seemed so...off to him. And then there was his carpet. His FLIPPIN CARPET.

You nod. "Mhmmm"

"W-well then...a..s-since my maid is unavailable. I-I'll just....c-clean it myself. G-give me a moment...please..." Flam said shakingly, he had no idea someone could be so foul. And that smell...

Goddamn, the guy was patient. Why did he want your kingdom so bad? Actually, why did he want every kingdom? It couldn't be for cash if the leaders got to live happily without responsibility. Something seemed off.

Flam used magic to very carefully lift the turd and mold it into a ball for him to toss into the garbage shoot just outside the room. "There we are..." Flam looks down at his poor stained carpet corner. "..No harm done"

As he does that, you get off your chair and sneak up behind him. Right when he says "No harm done". You let out a big loud "GEE THANKS FLAM!".

He gets startled, and the turd ball flies right into his nose. and sticks there for a moment before he pulls it off with his magic. He starts to gag as he tries to wipe it off his nose with his hooves "T-THIS ISN'T H-HAPPENING!"

You give a fake frown. "Is something wrong, Flam?"

He didn't speak after that shock of surprise. He ran over and grabbed an embroidered towelette from his bar. He didn't care if it was for wiping glasses. He needed to wipe the shit off his face. After that, he looked upon the ground, gasped when he realised he dropped the turd back onto it.

He picked it up and went to the door. "D-Don't worry Anon! Don't Worry! I-It's no big deal! No big deal at all! It's not like that carpet was made of a rare silk or anything" He clamped his teeth down so hard it nearly shattered saying that last bit.

As he left to dump the turd. You had yourself a little bit of a laugh. That was good stuff, but this guy was stern. You breached his defenses but he was still pressing on through. You could knock over the statue. But that might be too much. Nah, it's just too easy. You needed something truly grandiose.

Then you notice his wine glasses. Well....can't take a crap without taking a whizz they say. Well, you couldn't think of anyone who did say that but what the hell. Let's do that!

You grab a wine glass and start pissing in it. "Alright you bastard, I didn't get to do this on Blueblood but you'll do. You fake ass shithead." You put the glass with the other glasses, but subtly move it nearest to the table. You had an idea. "Let's see if I managed to dent your goddamn sanity. Oh yeah, that's gonna be sweeeeeeeet if this works out. If this doesn't work. nothing will."

You go back to your seat as a disheveled Flam comes back into the room. He hangs up his hat at this point and straightens his bowtie. Then looks to you with a tired smile. "Anon, I have to ask this, I really do. But there won't be any more problems or surprises tonight. Will there?"

You act confused and innocent. "What do you mean Flam? Have I done anything bad?"

"....No..." Flam puts his hoof to his head. He looked absolutely wrecked and wracked with worry"Of course not, but It'd be doubly, triply, quadruply appreciated if you...just sit there...while I read the contract. Do you think you can do that, Anon? I know it may be too much to ask a prince. But you are selling your kingdom for a colossally good deal and it'd be great for all of us if I just get this done"

You nod. "Yes sir, I'll just sit here and do nothing"

"Thank you...." Flam took a few moments to collect his thoughts, he was pale, he rubbed his hooves through his mane. And then took a seat to continue reading the contract. But every few moments, he'd stop to take a look at you, But you weren't doing anything wrong. But you did eye his statue. It made him increasingly nervous that you were just staring at it. It was making him lose focus with every page he read.

The contract itself was mostly bumkous, it was just super highly detailed individual assets going to Flim and Flam. It was taking forever to get through, and it was taking a toll on Flam. "Flam, are you alright?" You ask, acting worried.

"Hmm?" He looks to you with a smile. "Of course I am, but I suppose I am a tad parched. I should pour myself a glass of..." He then notices it, the glass of piss "Cider? Well now, I don't remember pouring myself a glass. But to the me of minutes ago, a toast to you!" Flam raises up the glass to himself. "Bottoms up"

Oh christ...he was gonna do it. Flam drank the whole thing in one gulp. Then the moment it traveled down his throat, he let out a cough and started to wheeze "G-gnnn, What was wrong with that cider?! It was so hard..." He felt like puking, he looked over to the ice bottles of cider "And how could it be so warm?"

You react like an innocent child you just found out something. "Oooooh! That wasn't cider. I took a pee in that cup"

Flam's ears and eyes began to twitch. He turned pure white this time as he peered at the glass. You could see hairs coming off his mustache as more of his mane turned white from where they were already striped. "Come again?"

"Yeah, in my country. Just like for pooping. we pee in glasses so the maids can pick them up and throw them out. You don't do that either?" You asked with a cute tilt of the head

Flam began to shake, he looked back to you in horror, silent, then turned from white to green as he threw up the glass to hold his hooves to his mouth. And that’s when it happened. The glass flew up, and then down, right into his statue. Spreading bits everywhere!

"Ohhhhhhhhh, you're gonna be in trouble....with yourseeelllff" You said like some schoolyard tattletale

Flam fell to the floor, reaching his hoof out to the bits. "My statue...my bits...no. I spent so long..My beautiful present to myself.....my.." He almost hurled again. "M-My stomach...nnrgh"

That was it, Flam couldn't handle it anymore. He stood up, and wobbled to the contract. Flipped to the last page, signed it, and gave it to you. "Tell you what I'm going to do, Anon. I'll sign the contract now. And we'll discuss everything in the morning. Now if you can please follow me back out, preferably in at least a trot. We can all go to bed...or to the bathroom."

HAHAHAHAHAHA! It took all in your power to keep from laughing. But you had to at least had to hide a smile. You turned your head to hide it as you took the contract and put it away.

This could work even better. With Flam sick and wanting to go to bed. You could wait for Chrysalis to start sneaking around with even less resistance. "Thank you Flam, I was getting pretty sleepy. You're not upset about anything right?"

Flam was green still, with tears in his eyes, he was sobbing. "N-no, of course not. N-now please...follow me."

Ppperrrfect. Man, Chrysalis AND Discord should be proud of you after that shit. Just...fucking amazing. That is.....until some alarm started blaring out of nowhere.

"W-what's that?!" Flam was still recovering. The blare of the alarm brought him to peak annoyed. "...What is it now? Of all nights..why now?" Flam struggles to smile at you. "A moment Anon, I need to find out why the alarm was tripped."

Flam walked over to a button on his wall. But before he could press it. Flim's voice rang out through...hmm? You look up, there were speakers on the corners of the ceiling. "Flam! Flam! We have big trouble! Big big trouble!"

Flam presses the button "What is it dear brother? Another thief? or maybe one of those pesky activists?"

"Worse! It's Nymous! You were right brother! You were right! I'm so sorry Flam! I should have listened" Flim yelled out

.....Oh shit....

Flam sighed and pressed the button "What did I tell you? I told you advisers are never that young. They lack knowledge, experience, and know how." Flam looks to you. "Anon, it appears your adviser may have been using you like she has my brother. I could tell just from looking at her that she's the type to use others in power. My condolences to you" Though, in Flam's mind. He didn't actually care for you. Not after that, he just didn't want everything to flub over. "We'll have her dealt with immediately, or more, our traps will. You needn't worry. All of this will blow over and you'll have that once in a lifetime opportunity of life with leisure!"

....You don't even breath. This was heavy, but it seemed you were in the clear. But what do you do now? You can't just go. It'd seem suspicious. "Sure..."

"FLAM! You don't understand. I haven't just been duped. It's a double dastardly dupe!" Flim screams through the spaker

Flam seemed very surprised by those words "A double dastardly dupe you say? How is that possible? Anon is clearly royalty, he's rich beyond compare and his purple royalty card never turned green. It was given to him officially by one of our fine officials."

...Uh oh...time to go!

"YOU DON'T UNDERSTAND! BUENOS AIRES DOESN'T EXIST! SHE COULDN'T POINT IT OUT! IT'S NOT THERE! ANYWHERE!"

"What?!" Flam gasped.

"And furthermore! Brother! Do not sign that contract! It's some sort of trap! Nymous had me sign some forms! I don't know what they were! I can't remember!..Flam?! Brother?!" Flim was sounding more and more desperate by the second

Flam went silent, he smirked, he was ready to show you what's what for what you have done to him. "Well Anon, my boy, it seems that you've been....what the?!" But you were already gone.

"Goddammit! Fuck..Fuck..Fuck!" You were looking around, you had no fucking idea where to go. "Shit! So many paths! Which one is...OMPH!"

You hear Chrysalis, still as Nymous, grunt as she trips over you. "NGH"

"O-ow! What the.....CHRYSALIS!...Holy shit! What happened! Did you come to help me? I don't know where to go!" You were panicking, goddamn it this was bad.

Chrysalis quickly got up and turned to you. She noticed you were heavily panicking. And gave you a slap "Anon! This is no time to panic! We have to escape, now!"

"Ow!" You rubbed your cheek. "Sheesh! I'm not panicking!" You give her a grumpy look. "I just don't know which path to take. Aren't most of them primed with traps?"

Chrysalis puts a hoof to her face. "Oh good, I should have realized you'd never be able to memorize the map"

"Hey! Come on!...it was super complicated and stuff..." Then you notice some sort of locket around her neck with the letter F in the middle. She didn't have that before. "What's that? Hell, what even happened?"

"Hmm?" Chrysalis looks down to her locket "Just some stupid trinket of love. As for what happened? Everything was going smoothly, he signed the contract, we had cider, we talked about the future.....but then he wanted me to point Buenos Aires out on a map. Turns out all three places I tried were areas they already had mining facilities in"

Wait. "Didn't you have him hypnotized or something?"

"I did, and usually, there's no way to break my hypnotic hold. Not by the one I'm seducing anyway. But somehow, for whatever reason, that deal meant more to him than me. And it broke my hold on him."

Actually, that made you think. "Huh, then whatever broke your hold over him must have something to do with what we're looking for. Hell, it doesn't make sense at all when I think about it. They were offering me a life of leisure for my "Kingdom". And that ain't profitable at all. Hell, just taking kingdoms for themselves isn't profitable. It's a shitload to manage. Something's not right"

"Oh, you think?" Chrysalis says with sarcasm. "Too bad the alarm is blaring and we now have two angry dolts after us! I even tried blasting that little cur and it did nothing! His clothes are made of anti-magic material. That's probably the oddest part. Anti-Magic material is very rare, and yet they have an abundance...they even have it for their security doors......oh wait! ANON, YOU BOOB! WE NEED TO BE RUNNING! NOT TALKING! OR ELSE..." And a security door comes down onto one of the safe paths, leaving the trapped paths open. "....great..."

…Wait… "Hold on, why are we even worried anyway? It's only them right? Let's just kick their asses the old fashioned way. They won't expect violence. We got this!"

Chrysalis lets out a sarcastic chuckle. "haha, a good idea. Except they are armed."

Pfffft… "With what? Those pellet blaster things? oohhh, skunk gas! I'm so scared!" You say in a mocking tone. "When did you get so thin skinned?"

"Anon...." Chrysalis sighed. "You know what...let's just wait a moment"

Chrysalis sat and waited. Flam's door was already opening as Flim turned the corner and aimed his blaster.

"Good, we'll let them come to us and then smash em. You and me! We can do it!" You were so ready to smash some faces

Flim yells to Flam "Get down brother! It's going to get nasty!" Flim aims his blaster at Chrysalis "This is for breaking my heart, you nasty little mare!"

Chrysalis just calmly looks to Flim, and gives him a wink. Hehe, that's more like it.

Flim fires a shot right at her. Chrysalis moves her head slightly to the right, dodging the shot. and when the pellet makes impact with the security door. It actually heavily dents it....as the pellet explodes. Your ears droop, your bravery fades, and you choke up as you see flames come from the exploding pellet.

"Well there he is Anon, go rough him up" Chrysalis points to him as she looks to you with a smirk

.......

You just turn around, towards the other open hallways beside the dented security door. "You know what would be a better idea.....if we just.......run!"

"Good plan, good to know you're not a total imbecile" Chrysalis didn't actually like the idea of running. But besides the fucking EXPLOSIVE pellets. She had no idea what other tricks the brothers might have in store. She had to come to a decision to make a hasty retreat. Still, watching you flub up, even amidst the chaos, was humoring to her.

Chapter 254 - Flim Flam Future Arc

You both dash towards the turn beside the security gate. But you come to a screeching halt when you notice how "safe" the hallway in front of you looked, but you knew it was full of traps… "Fuck...Chrysalis, what do we do?"

Chrysalis stopped beside you as she heard Flim and Flam already making a dash towards the both of you. She looked towards the hallway full of traps with determination, with renewed vigor from feeding from Flim and the determination of not wanting to die. "Anon, consider this saving your life for the third time. You'll owe me big after all this. I need you to stand straight up"

Goddammit. Why did she even want you to stand straight up? Did she have a plan? For the sake of your life, you comply. "What are you going to do?"

Chrysalis stepped behind you, still looking towards the hallway. "I'm going to show you exactly why I am queen...hold on tight" Chrysalis cranes her head down and rushes forward, scooping you up with her muzzle and tossing you onto her back as she runs through the hallway. She had it all memorized, the map showed what every trap looked like, so she just had to make sure her memory didn't fail her.

She first starts running up the wall from the side and hops up near the ceiling as arrows start flying across the walls below her.

"Oh shhiiiit! SHIIIT!" You yelp in fright

As she falls, she makes sure to land on her belly and slide as flames start shooting out from the ceiling, singeing your mane.

"Eeeghhh! Hot hot hot!" Goddammit! It burns!

Chrysalis jumps forward like a grasshopper once she clears the flames and darts ahead, jumping from side to side to dodge rising spikes that slam all the way to the ceiling. As she neared the T junction, one more trap activates, sending a gigantic steel ball right at her.
She ducks it, only leaving enough height.........for you to get smashed right in the face and fall right off of her at the end of the T junction.

Chrysalis cackles as she comes to a halt. Feeling victorious that she dodged all the traps.

"HAHAHAHAHAHAHA! That is why I am the best!" Chrysalis was damned proud. She looked back at the hallway of traps. Flim and Flam were far far away at the other end. In utter shock that she evaded everything. "Now then, Anon......Anon?" She looked to her own back, and saw you weren't on it.

You were on the floor behind her, your eyes spinning as the tip of your mane was a lit with a small flame.

"Anon, what did you think of that, hrn?" Chrysalis looked to you with a smug smirk

"....duuhhhhhhh" You say in a dazed stupor

Chrysalis sighed, licked her front hoof and dabbed it on the flame, taking it out. "Always the most intelligible words come out of you, don't they?" She chuckles then gives you a light bop on the head. "Now let's see...." She turns to the right of the T junction. Another security door. "Blast, another exit blocked. I know there's a few trapped hallways that lead to the throne room. We should-"

Suddenly, intercoms start blasting from all over the castle. "Flim Here!"

"And Flam!"

The noise blast is enough to snap you out of it. "W-what's going on, why do I smell chicken?"

"Shhhh" Chrysalis shushes you as she looks around and listens.

"It appears a couple of rebels of some kind have invaded our castle, the kind of rebels that RIP YOUR HEART OUT AND-!" Flim screams in a heart scorned with agony

"Calm down Flim, go take a seat brother, I'll finish the announcement. Ahrm, anyway. These two are probably trying to find a way out of the castle as we speak. They are capable of dodging our traps and are very quick for a couple of young ponies. Guards, take positions at all windows, doors, and exit ways around the castle. And a big big big time reward for the guard that brings them in! Captain Applejack, we trust that you are scouring the castle looking for these two? Good show! You are given full permission to do what you like with them. Especially...on the smaller one." Flam says through the intercom, his voice becoming near evil has the thoughts of your crude behavior fill him.

The announcement ends.

"...Ugh.." You rub at your head, feels like a giant steel ball smacked into it. "...I didn't even catch all of that. what's going on?"

"It appears all the exits are blocked, Anon. Hrmmmmmm" Chrysalis notices one of the doors along the west hallway. "But, if memory serves me correctly. This room is not only not set with any traps..." She slams the door open, and has a sinister grin on her face as she looks upon the contents of the room. "But will have every weapon we need to make a more....brutal escape."

"Wha?" You look into the room, holy fucking shit, it was a weapon room. It was full of medieval weapons. Including...

"This will do nicely, should be able to bash right through the door, and anypony behind it" Chrysalis walks inside, passing the spears and shields and looking upon the wall where a gigantic warhammer with a minotaur symbol on the hammer part itself hung on the wall. The thing must have been five times bigger than her, it was huge. "I wonder who this was intended for." Chrysalis uses her magic, as her horn appears as a ghostly form as she uses it to hold up the hammer. She then starts swinging it around "Yes, this will do nicely."

You just sat there, rubbing your ears. "Chrysalis, Flim and Flam are pretty smart. What if they expect you coming." Egh, you could of sworn you heard something about Applejack. But that wouldn't make any sense.

"Then we'll just smash them to bits like everything else that will be in our way."

You walk over and look at the shields, and try to find a smaller one for your size. Then you walk over to a spear and poke it's end...it was sharp.

Both of your ears perk, there was a sliding sound. Like a stone wall opening up. Was there another door? You hide behind the rack of spears while Chrysalis ducks behind a pillar.

A hidden wall opened up, stepping forth, clad in red armor, with silver spiral designs around it, and the letter "F" on either side of the helmet, stood Applejack. Captain Applejack.... Oh shit, you weren't just hearing things.

Applejack didn't seem to notice any of you were in here. She just takes a shield...just a shield. And starts to walk over to the door you both came into. Chrysalis peered over from the pillar, her horn glowing. You notice the spears on the rack start to raise up and aim right at Applejack.

OH SHIT! She was gonna make her into a shiskeapple! What do you do?! Why was Applejack captain of the fucking guard?! What the fuck! Do you save her?! You could see Applebloom now, oh god. She had to exist in this world......fuck. You rush out from your hiding spot and scream "WATCH OUT!".

You headbutt Applejack as spears rain down on you. You could hear the sound of clanging all around you. You hide your face. And the moment the sounds stopped, you looked around.

Spears stabbed into the ground all around you, all missing you by an inch. "E-ehhh-hhhhh"

"Anon!" Chrysalis pops out from behind the pillar "What are you doing?!"

"What in tarnations?!" Applejack quickly recovers from the headbutt and sees you nearly get skewered. She rushes over to the spears and kicks them aside to get to you "Hey, are you alright little fella?! Are ya hurt!"

"Get away from him!" Chrysalis gave her an evil glare, it was almost like...

"Woah, woooah!" Applejack stepped back "Hold yer cabbages little lady, Ah don't mean either of ya any harm."

Chrysalis walked over to you and stamped her hoof on your tail and pulled you back as she stared at Applejack. She looked ready to pounce. "Oh really? We already heard the announcement. You're just lucky that this colt is a sentimental idiot. Well...." Chrysalis's eyes glowed for a moment. "You won't get lucky a second time"

Applejack was slowly backing up away from her. "Look, Nymous, right? Ah'm tellin' ya. I may wear the garb, but ah ain't behind those two varmints. Ah swear!"

Chrysalis brings two spears next to her. "Really? You really expect me to believe that you'd just come and tell us you don't work for them? Just out of the blue like that? Do you tell that to all the intruders?"

"W-wait, Chrysalis." You swat the spears down. And step up to Applejack and turn to face Chrysalis. "I believe her!"

"....." Chrysalis couldn't believe it. "Did I drink too much cider? Am I still with Flim right now? Let me get this straight. I try to execute her, she immediately says she's on our side, and then you immediately believe her? Anon, have you not heard of a little thing called "Gaining one's trust first" or more importantly....THAT SHE IS THEIR CAPTAIN! CAN'T YOU SEE THAT THIS IS A POOR ATTEMPT TO SAVE HER SKIN!?"

Things were going very quick. But you already knew everything you had to know about Applejack. This Applejack lost her home to these two. The only thing that didn't make sense was......how she ended up as captain. "I know this seems sudden. But if Applejack says she's not behind Flim and Flam. Then it's the truth!"

Chrysalis scoffs at the whole thing, finding it absurd "Wonderful. Apparently I'm out of the loop or something because you already seemed to forget THAT WE'RE NOT IN OUR WORLD ANYMORE! THAT'S NOT THE SAME APPLEJACK!" She bellowed

"W-woah, hey now!" Applejack was getting weirded out by the whole thing. "How do ya both know me? Why are ya callin' her Chrysalis? I thought her name was Nymous"

You never break eye contact with Chrysalis. It was quick, damn quick. But the alarm was blaring and you didn't have time. "It's a nickname. Look..." You sigh. "Chrysalis, I know. I know that me trusting her outright is super stupid. But so far everypony else has turned out alright. We can at least hear her out"

Chrysalis puts her hoof to her head and shakes her head in disappointment, confounded by your immediate trust of the orange mare. ".....Why do I put up with you? Fine, for the sake moving this along, let her explain her case. But if I don't trust her, she's going to meet the fine end of a spear. Got it? At this moment, we have the advantage over her. So she's most definitely going to try to lie to get out of this. I warned you Anon..so be wary"

Chrysalis was being awfully patient with you. Then again, if you fucked up, she might actually put a spear through Applejack.

"Hold on now! Yer ain't putting a spear through Anypony! I actually wanna help ya two because yer the only ones to get the code zero alarm rang out. That's more of a serious deal than hundred of apples for a single bit. Ya must have gotten the kings mighty ornary to get ah code zero." Applejack explains. This all seemed rather confusing however, what was a code zero?

Chrysalis points to you. "Talk to him about it, all I hear is "Boy howdy, I'd sure love to be a sheskepony right about now"."

"Why I oughta..." Applejack wasn't taking kindly to Chrysalis's attitude.

"Woah! Woah! Hold on there..look, it's alright. I believe you. And I'm gonna show her why she should believe you too." You stop Applejack from getting violent.

Applejack takes a breath, and calms down. "Shoot, sorry there...Anon, right? Shucks, ah didn't mean to scare either of you from the get go. Ah just wanted to meet you is all. But how do ya'll know about me?"

You sigh, you would only explain what was believable. "Well, I'd think the takeover of Sweet Apple Acres would have made the news. You're Applejack after all. The most honest, hard working, and family oriented pony around. A lot of ponies know you, you're a hero."

That kinda made sense to Applejack. But she didn't show any modesty. She instead took off her helmet and put it down to her side as she looked down in shame. "...Maybe at one time, but I ain't that Applejack anymore. Now I'm just Captain Applejack, head of Flim and Flam's guard, and there ain't nothing to be proud of in that. Surprised somepony actually cares about how things used to be."

"Of course I do. Things were A LOT better before Flim and Flam came along. But, I know only so much about you. What happened? why are you their captain in the first place and why would you want to help us?" You asked

"It's actually a long story, but we really don't have time for it so ah'll just give you the short version. After they took the farm, me and mah kin went to Appleoosa and helped out our cousin Braeburn. After that, things started a changing. Not just the towns or the ponies but, it was getting harder and harder to grow crops every season. It was getting harder and harder to survive every day. We had to try to take different jobs just to make ends meet. And when we couldn't, we all had to part ways. We all couldn't live in the same place after that. Ah thought if ah took the family to Canterlot, ah could get a job at the fancy smancy side of town doing a rodeo show they had...but they wouldn't take an old fashioned pony like myself"

Applejack's shame piled up as she got further into the story. "...That's when ah ran into the kings. They we're lookin' for a captain they could trust, who'd never lie to them. And they knew mah reputation and cut me a deal. At first, ah told them to bug off. But when they mentioned how ah wouldn't be able to make enough money for mah sister or Granny Smith on my own, and that my brother and I couldn't find work....ah.....mnnn..." Applejack had a tear go down her eye. "Ah ate mah pride, and became the captain...and things only got worse from there"

Worse? How can it get worse than captain? Chrysalis could feel it, the love she had for her family. "....Oh...she's telling the truth. Well then, don't expect an apology. And you still have yet to explain how you plan to help us. Or the real reason why"

"Ah wanna help ya both for the same reason it got worse. But what exactly are you two aiming to do anyway? Ah gotta know before ah can help" Applejack wanted to know your intentions before she offered her services.

"We're trying to bring the kings down. We had them sign contracts giving up their crowns. But without something to show everypony else that they are scumbuckets, there's no point. But they are already on to us, and all the hallways are trapped."

Applejack nods and walks past you, towards the axes. There was one super rusty small axe in the set of sharp big ones. "Now that's a mighty tall order, that's why ah gotta ask. Are ya both serious about that? If not, ah can lead you out of the castle without the kings being the wiser"

Chrysalis raises an eyebrow. "Are you saying you can help us get evidence of them being scum?"

"Ah can, there's a place that nopony else knows about. And if it ever got out, with proof, that this place exists. They'd be done for sure" Applejack says as she places her hoof on the axe

A place? An entire place?...The place on the map that wouldn't get marked? "It's an entire place? How bad could it be? If it was that bad, why didn't you come out and tell everypony?"

Applejack winced, she had an extremely pained expression on her face as a few more tears ran down her eyes, she looked away to hide her shame. "...As it turns out, they wanted me as captain so ah could make sure their other guards wouldn't go snooping around. They wanted me because ah was honest and likable and that ah could keep ah secret. They went over the castle layout with me and only me, and basically gave me the job of keeping order around the castle and keeping ponies out. At first, things were kinda ok. Pay is good. But then they started acting extra shifty, and finally....they showed me the "place". They told me that under no circumstances are anypony allowed to even know about it. If they did, or if I said anything mah self, they said they'd have me hauled off to a mental ward and take Applebloom. Just knowing about this place and not doin' nothin' about it though. It makes me as bad as them"

"If it's that risky, then why help us?" Chrysalis asked.

"Because.....nopony has ever gotten as far as you two, you two may be young, but gettin through the traps and tricking those con ponies? Ain't never seen nothin' like it. It gave me a faith ah thought was lost. But that's why ah gotta ask. If ya'll wanna see "The place". Ya gotta promise me....that you'll take those two no good, dirty dealin', sons of a snake down." Applejack looked to you both with a serious expression as she awaited both your answers.

"Oh trust me, We'll be doing much more than that. Humiliating them and having them dethroned is just step one of the plan. Well then, Captain Applejack, you may not have earned my admiration, but you have earned my trust. Show us "The place".” Chrysalis was convinced

Applejack looked really emotional about whatever "The place" was. What could be so bad to give her such a heavy guilt trip? "Applejack, ma'am. I really appreciate you helping us. But...why are you feeling guilty about this place? What's so bad about it?"

Applejack turns the rusty axe, making another wall open up. "A-ah....look Anon. Ah don't wanna say. Tell you the truth, ah'm kinda gettin' scared showin' the both of you. Ah'm putting Applebloom, Granny Smith, and Big Mac in danger by doin' this. But...if ah don't. Then.....then" Applejack's tears began to increase, she sniffed, and had trouble keeping it together.

You put your hoof to her side. God...whatever this was, it couldn't be good. It couldn't be TV-Y levels anyway. "Don't worry Applejack, don't even say it. We'll see when we get there. But hey look, I promise. We may look young and incapable. But we're gonna bring those two down. We got the contracts. We just need the proof."

Chrysalis just looked forward, and stepped inside the passageway alongside Applejack. "I can only hope the proof is good. In either case, I doubt those two idiots will think their own captain has just betrayed them considering the stakes. And they would never think to look in what might be the most dangerous part of the castle. We'll be safe for now, but then there's that part of Sunset's plan that has us hiding with the proof. How does she expect to get anything done if the place in question is secret? What is even the point in her plan? Anon, we should just take the proof and figure out our own plan."

That might actually be a good idea, but… "Maybe, but we should still trust in Sunset. She's pretty smart. If she has a plan, then she probably might be executing it right now as we speak."

"...even though we have no idea what it is?" Chrysalis was skeptical.

"....yeah, I know, it sounds bad. But...who knows. It might be just what we need" You still had faith

"Well, whatever ya two have planned. Ah'm just hoping it works. And Anon, yer a good colt, how did ya even get mixed up in all this? This really ain't no place for somepony as young as you, the both of you really" Applejack remarks

You laugh and shake your head. "That's an even longer story, and I don't think I have time to tell it....Applejack." You lean into her and nuzzle on her side for comfort. "I promise, it'll be ok. We got some secret weapons just in case." Hopefully you did anyway, you lost track of time. But it had to be past midnight by now, right? The horn should be recharged by now.

"Ah believe it, somethin' about you two is tellin' me that ya two are more than what ahm just seeing. Look, even with what ah know. Ah don't know everything. But ah know somepony who does. Ah'll lead ya to her, but let me tell ya. Once we enter "The place", just act like ah'm bringin' ya in and don't act all suspicious like. Them kings have a second set of guards made up of nothin' but Diamond Dogs, they never leave "The place" and they are always suspicious of everypony. So, just trust me, and act like prisoners."

The three of you reached the end of the tunnel. And enter a room with two huge doors, hidden in a place where every hallway leading out or in had a security door slammed down. Applejack walked up to the two large doors and looked to the both of you. "Ah hope yer ready partners, just stay calm and act natural, because what yer about to see....ain't pretty"

You both were ready. You were finally here. Whatever was behind those doors, was the final piece of the puzzle you and Chrysalis needed. And when she opened the doors to reveal what was behind it. Your optimism left you, replaced with dread. You...did not expect this.

Chapter 255 - Flim Flam Future Arc

You looked upon the horror that was laid out in front of you. An entire factory of some sort, more modern looking and chromed up than anything you've ever seen. Pipes, gears, and some early looking factory control boards. The alarm didn't seem to be blaring in here either.

Diamond Dogs, garbed in silver armor and faceless helmets watched over the workers of the factory. The workers themselves looked worn and tired. They were doing everything from managing and cleaning the machines, running the controls, and going into a cave crafted further ahead to go and mine. Some were even doing maintenance.

And the workers themselves? "Foals?...Holy crap...Are we in the mechanized Temple of Doom? How did this happen?!"

Applejack had trouble looking ahead, lowering her head in shame and taking the time to compose herself before speaking. "This ain't ah temple, it's ah nightmare. All of these foals are orphans, taken to work in this here factory. The public don't have ah clue that this kind ah place exists. Now, all ya gotta do is just keep a low profile and these low down boneheads won't bark at ya."

"I wouldn't say a nightmare...but" Chrysalis took notice that some of the foals seemed quite skilled in what they were doing. As Applejack led them across the floor, she also couldn't help notice a gigantic blue energy kept within a sphere of glass, with a tube attached to the glass that seemed to fuel it somehow. It was high up on what seemed to be the third floor. A gigantic metal door stood directly below the blue energy, closed; You three walk by it. "I noticed these foals seem rather skilled for being so young. Is there a reason for that? And what's with that?" She points to the blue energy orb.

You noticed Chrysalis was rather calm and collected for what was going on right now. You found the whole thing deplorable. ".....We're here to stop this you know. It doesn't matter how they got skilled at....whatever they are doing"

Chrysalis notes that you were actually affected by what you were seeing, and promptly ignores it. "I think it'd help if we knew. It's not everyday you see a successful enslavement working so smoothly."

Applejack looks at Chrysalis, she was feeling too terrible to really think upon Chrysalis's words. If she was more calm, she'd find Chrysalis's words very cold, both in words and the way she said it. Instead, she just accepts her words as they are. "The orphans that were taken in were put through classes on runnin' this dirthole. The smarter foals were forced to handle these machines and do-dads. The ones who couldn't get through are forced to work in that there crystal mine. That's all ah know. Have no idea what that overgrown lightbulb is for."

Then… "What's the point of this factory then?"

"Couldn't tell ya, that's why ahm taking you to somepony who can. The kings never actually told me what this place is for. And everytime ah ask that dodgy foalmother, she never gives me any answers. She always says "It's better you don't know. Knowing too much is dangerous". Puh, nopony seems to have any idea that if it wasn't for havin' ah family, I would have knocked the stuffin' out of those two so called kings already" Applejack was indeed completely against this, and being out of the complete loop only irritated her.

Applejack takes you to a set of double doors. There was a sign beside it that had shift and job information for every foal, and that this schedule will be heavily enforced. There was a Diamond Dog by the door, guarding it. He was pretty big and buff, he was missing one of his ears, and had a scar over his right eye. He looked to Applejack,stepped in front of the door, and then huffed at her.

Applejack just narrowed her eyes at him, giving him a mean and ornery look. "Bones, get outta the way. Can't ya see I have prisoners who need briefin'?"

Bones looked down at her, and then eyed Chrysalis closely, then pointed to her. "She's too old, might try to cause rebellion."

Applejack kept her front. "Who's leg you tryin' to pull? Ya know as well as well ah do that we should have at least one older pony who can reach up to the higher machines. Don't ya think we should have at least one older pony?"

The Diamond Dog thinks about it for a second. Then brings his face threateningly close to hers. "...No...Also, I heard alarm. Is anything going on outside?"

Shit...this guy, while not seeming too smart, was intelligent enough to notice something was off. "Just a couple of intruders. Look Bones, she's already here. And if ah can handle her, you can handle her. What was it ya said to me? That anything I can do, ya can do one hundred times better?" Applejack gives him a cocky smirk.

Bones growls and points to himself "BONES CAN DO ONE THOUSAND TIMES BETTER!"

Applejack just continues smiling at him. "Prove it then, partner"

"I WILL!" Bones steps aside. "Get them briefed with Gertrude, Gertrude will handle their edumacations."

Gertrude?! The other Chrysalis was here?!

"'Course...." Applejack looks to you with an angry look. "Get along little ponies. Move move move!" With that, You and Chrysalis step through the doors. Applejack following and closing the door tight behind her. "..That was a close one"

You took a look around the room. It was some sort of playroom.

On the side was a wall of slots for the foals to put their work things. But everything else was like some sort of daycare. The wallpaper was bright and cheerful, there were toys, a fridge, tables, dolls, plushies. The room was devoid of foals however, though there was another set of double doors leading to another room. "...What's with this room? I didn't think Flim and Flam would pay to keep a room nice for slaves."

Applejack shook her head. "That's because those penny pinching ponies didn't. They didn't care what the conditions for the little ones were like just as long as they worked. All this stuff was actually donated by Miss Rarity herself."

"Rarity? Wuh? You mean the white pony with the stylish bluish purple mane and a high horse type of attitude? Ok, that needs some explanation. If she knows about this too then why hasn't she said anything? I mean, it doesn't even make sense because when we ran into her at the throne room. She just looked at us like we were trash. Plus she was making some deal with the kings and even seemed to like them" What hogwash bullshit was this?!

"Yep, that's Rarity." Applejack nodded. "She doesn't take kindly to anypony she might see as competition, she may have thought you both were some kind of new company openin' up on her turf. As for all this, well, Rarity actually has got this softer side of her. Ya see. there was this time about a month or two ago where she wanted a bodyguard for this super secret show she was going to have and asked the kings for assistance. That's where I come in. Being the captain, Rarity wanted me to be her bodyguard. And let me tell ya, she whipped up a storm of tears and wails til the kings agreed to lend me to her."

Yep, sounded like Rarity.

"And then you just told her this was happening? Or is there more to this?" You wondered

"Course" Applejack nodded. "Well, everything was going as normal, me keepin the darn paparazzi and spies out of her mane and all that. And then later, I decided to knock on Rarity's door to see if she was alright. She hadn't really said anything all fancy smancy or made a big deal out of the tiniest thing in about twenty minutes since I started mah job. Got me worried, she didn't answer, so ah let myself in. And that's when ah saw it. There was Miss Rarity, a pony her competitor's paint as cold and ruthless, putting together a quilt with cute little moons and suns on em. It didn't look like anything for any show ah ever saw,and trust me, when she noticed ah was watching her, she went as silent as a mouse. Turns out Miss Rarity works on side projects to donate to poor families and orphanages. Ah never would have believed it if ah hadn't seen it. There hadn't been known charity in Equestria since the kings became..well..kings."

Applejack wipes a tear from her eye before continuing. “Turns out she makes secret donations so she can keep her reputation while helping those ponies who could really need some help. Ah had to ask her why of course; She told me she didn't know. Can ya believe that? All she could tell me that this all started when she ran into a foal who was cold and alone, she lost her family in the big bussel of the crowd. Rarity told me that she took her in, took care of her, and personally found her parents to return her. It made her feel as warm as fresh apple pie, well..she didn't say that last part but that's the way I'd imagine she felt. Ever since then, she been doing secret charities. She made me swear not to tell anypony else. And of course, me being the honest pony ah was raised to be, nade that promise and kept it. After everything settled down, we talked. She had never seen ah pony like me, she said. She told me most of the ponies she sees are all kinds of deceitful and dishonest. Well, just the same, ah was surprised she was so generous after everything that's happened with Equestria. You don't see that kinda thing nowadays...."

Chrysalis cut her short. "Excuse me" She said with a snappy tone. "Does this story have a point? We're running short on time"

"O-oh, sorry. Got caught up on good memories. Anyway, when her show was over, ah was thinking of all the little ones here and how it'd be great if there was somethin' somepony could do to just, ya know, at least give them somethin' to play with instead of just sittin' there talking about their work. Gertrude does her best but she's either with the kings or only showin' up at night to read the foals bedtime stories. Ah asked Rarity if there was any way to get some personal donations sent to mah house so I can do some charity work of mah own. At first, she was pretty insistent of me not going through the hassle, feeling she could get them sent to where they needed to go herself. But, without revealing nothin, after tellin her how important it was it just get sent straight to me because of how the kings might react. She reconsidered and agreed to just send them to me. Then ah brought it all here. The Kings didn't seem to care, they thought it was something ah was doin' all mah own, so it made it easier. And there you are" Applejack finished, god...how horrifying this world was. But, even then, she never changed.

...That was...so damn sweet. Even more, it meant that all the Mane 6 weren't jerks after all, not even Rarity. They just never met each other. And so all their lives were changed, but not their characters....well mostly not their characters. "That's amazing Applejack..."

Chrysalis rolled her eyes, she was being very impatient and sarcastic. "Yes, very inspirational. But that tells us nothing about what's going on. We need the full story on what's going on here at the castle. Not a story about how you...." Chrysalis stops. She could sense something that offset her entire thought process. Her alternate self was definitely near...And she was feeding. "...Never mind, my apologies...but if we can please move on. It's important. You should realize this."

You gave Chrysalis a mean look. Holy shit, couldn't she show some compassion that a bunch of sweet and adorable horsies are being put into this mess and that Applejack is just trying to make their shitty lives better? Sheesh. You knew she was cruel but you thought she'd have grown some sort of a heart by now. It just set in stone however, the difference between her care for you and her care for everything else. As you thought about it, it did kind of look like that Chrysalis actually deeply cared for you for once in this adventure. Helping you get across traps, making you breakfast, a fun conversation or two, and putting up with all the friendly banter of the others....or maybe she just was doing that to ensure her escape from this hell hole...who knows?

Chrysalis ignored you, but she knew what you were feeling. But in her mind, she felt if things got too offtrack, then they'd end up getting caught or not managing to do something in time.

"Yer right, sorry...alright..follow me" Applejack stepped over to the next set of double door and led you both inside.

In this next room were rows and rows of beds set up in a circular formation, Not all was filled, but the ones that were filled obviously had foals who had finished their shift. There was a door leading to a bathroom. And small lights lit the room from the ceiling. In the center of it all was "Gertrude", sitting down on a chair, reading a story to the tired foals whose shifts had ended for the night. "...Of course, Little Darling knew she couldn't let those poor rabbits just be stuck on the other side of that terrible raging river. Thankfully, she knew just what to do. She took a rope from her saddle bag and..."

"Heya Gertrude. Ya got some time to spare? Ah got to talk to you." Applejack called to her.

Gertrude stops. God, it really was Chrysalis. Her horn was missing, wings gone, an odd collar on her neck. And yet, she looked so calm, cool, and gentle, like a mother. She looked to Applejack, then gasped in surprise. "Captain Applejack..." She then frowned. "...new workers?...I thought we had all we needed."

The foals in bed leaned upwards to look to you and Nymous. They began to whisper to each other. Some excited to make new friends, others saddened that it just meant something new must be be going on. Some noticed Nymous, some colts found her very nice looking, others wondered why an older pony was taken in.

Two got up however. A filly pegasus with a blue mane and bright purple coat. And a white colt with a silver mane with red stripes going across. The filly's cutie mark was a candlestick, the other..what looked like a sports ball of some sort.

"Heya Captain Applejack! How are you? Did you bring us treats!" The filly said with excitement.

The colt however, looked upon Nymous and blushed. "....hi....I'm Pop Fly....you're um....cool looking"

Chrysalis just gave him a pat while looking away from him.

Applejack gave the filly a hug. "Sorry little missy, not this time. But ah promise next time...next time will be somethin' that's gonna be better than all the candy and all the toys in Equestria"

"Y-you promise?" The filly was nearly breathless from that. You notice her eyes, they were tired, bags under them. Her coat was grungy instead of clean and shining. Poor thing.

"Have ah ever lied?" Applejack gives her a smug grim. "Now why don't the both of you head off back to bed, ah'll give ya back yer mommy Gertrude when ahm done, ok?"

They both reply with a nod and a "ok" and hop off into bed.

Gertrude looks to Applejack, awaiting the answer. Applejack looks to her, and opens the doors behind her. "We all should talk in private..c'mon"

The four of you head out, until Gertrude is stopped by the cry of the colt named Pop Fly "Wait! Momma Gertrude, are you going too?"

Gertrude stops and looks to Pop Fly with a gentle smile. "Only for a moment, I'll be back to finish the story when I'm done talking to Captain Applejack. Don't get overexcited Pop fly, you know you need your rest. If you get too excited you won't be able to sleep"

"O-ok...b-but be back soon...ok?" Pop Fly asks, he yawned, he was adorable and clearly tired. But he wanted to hear the rest of that story. And he wanted his Momma Gertrude to be the one to do it.

"I shall" Gertrude gives a soft nod, and follows the rest of you back to the playroom. "Captain Applejack, can you tell me what happened? Why are these two here? I really thought the kings had stopped needing workers." Gertrude said with worry in her voice.

"Well Gertrude, that's the thing. These ain't workers. They are actually gonna put a stop to them no good kings once an' for all. These two set off the code zero alarm, the whole castle is lookin' for em" Applejack said with confidence and hope in her voice.

"Code Zero? Oh my, oh my my my. Captain Applejack" Gertrude said with desperation and fright in her voice "You need to get back to the castle! If this is what I think it is, then the kings will get suspicious if they can't find you!"

Holy shit. Gertrude was nothing like Chrysalis. It's amazing what a little mindbreak can do. Surprisingly enough however,Chrysalis kept silent. She kept her cool. She looked as concerned as everyone else in the room.

"But Gertrude, Ah just brought em here now and we all gotta come up with a plan. Ah think you need me. We all gotta work together" This, Applejack was sure of.

"Captain Applejack, I appreciate you wanting to help. But I already know what to do in this situation. Please, you must believe me. What you must do is go back and report to the Kings that you haven't found these two yet. Please..." Gertrude pleaded with Applejack. "If you don't go back now, eventually they'll realize you aren't actually looking for them"

Applejack stopped for a moment, she realized Gertrude may be right. "Didn't think of it like that, ok. Ah'll go report back and try to keep em out of the factory. Good luck Gertrude"

"And a good luck to you, Captain Applejack." Gertrude said with hope in her voice.

Applejack bid the three of you farewell, and went back to the castle to report to Flim and Flam.

Gertrude took a breath. And in an instant. a familiar expression came upon her face. The expression of being aloof. "Well well well. So it appears to be true. Dimensional travel is possible. So should I refer to you as my twin sister? Or would you rather me go by your disguised name of Nymous?"

..Wut?

Chrysalis looked up upon Gertrude's face, but with an expression that looked down upon her. "Don't go acting as if we're equals. You are a failed changeling who lost the hive, lost Equestria, and lost her place as Queen. Just because we bear the same name does not mean we are the same."

...Wut?!

"How dare you! You can't possibly think you wouldn't be in the same situation had it been you instead of me. We are the same, exactly the same. The only difference was a circumstance that changed everything else!" Gertrude was immediately insulted by her alter self's immediate taunt.

..WUT?!

"In your dreams sister, I would never EVER lose to some pathetic army consisting of pest control plebeians" Chrysalis scoffed.

WHY WERE THEY ARGUING?! HOW THE FUCK DOES GERTRUDE KNOW ABOUT INTERDIMENSIONAL TRAVEL?! HOW ARE NEITHER SURPRISED THAT THE OTHER KNOWS THAT IT'S ANOTHER THEM?!

"Oh really?" Gertrude points to you. "Then what's with the colt? He's clearly a pony that you are associating with for some reason that must not be under your control. Hmph, What happened to the captain? Why are you even here? The only guess I can think of is that infernal contraption has overcharged at this point. Those fools...."

You decide to interject at this point. "Excuse me. But the hell is going on? How do you know that we came from another Equestria? How are you not surprised that there's another you standing right in front of you! I mean, FUCK, do you both really think NOW is a good time to argue who has a bigger dick?" You look to Chrysalis. "You were the one who said we are in a hurry! what gives?!"

Both of the bug queens look at you as if you were a crazy nuisance. Gertrude then points to you while looking at Chrysalis. "What's his problem? And why does he use such stupid made up words?"

Chrysalis let's out a small sigh. "He's just a moron who fails to notice the obvious around him. As for why I associate with him...Well, look at him. He's like the court jester we never had."

Did she just refer to you as her court jester? "Oh c'mon, what happened to being friends? You know what? Screw it..." You look to Gertrude and point to Chrysalis "We're friends. Me and her? We're buddies! We talk, we laugh sometimes together, hell we watched a documentary together that we both thoroughly enjoyed. I don't understand this conversation at all but you're both pretty much in the same boat. You lost to Flim and Flam. And she lost to Discord! There, you're both equals now. Can we focus on the plan?"

Gertrude and Chrysalis both laugh at you. Oh...come on.. "W-what's so funny?!"

"He's cute, doesn't he realize we can just read each other to figure things out? Does he really think a small spat is going to hinder a couple of glorious rulers such as ourselves?" Gertrude asks Chrysalis

"He doesn't." She chuckles for a bit before letting out a lamenting sigh. "Of course, now that we know we both have had our temporary setbacks to manage. We can move on to more important matters. Namely, since we are the rescuers and we don't have a lot of time, I'd like you to tell us exactly how this happened and what the importance of that glowing chamber is for. I'm guessing it has something to do with that "Infernal contraption". Do you mean to tell me it has something to do with interdimensional travel? How did those two manage to build something to harness that kind of power?"

But you weren't done yet. "Don't you two team up on me like that! You were just arguing with each other like..seconds ago."

"Yes Anon, and unfortunately we both came to the realization that we both had the same things to hide. Although..." Chrysalis looks to Gertrude with some disgust. "You care about all of them? Let me say this, Anon being my friend is still advantageous to me ruling Equestria. You have no reason to care about those little insects."

Wait… You look to Gertrude...what a fucking surprise. What?! "You actually care about the orphans?"

Gertrude puts a hoof to her face and sighs in low embarrassment. "Yes...need you say that out loud? I lost my hive, my own children. I suppose I see these young moldable little minds as something to fill that void. When you have this accursed collar, which prevents you from even doing such normal functions such as transformation and egg laying. Well...hrmph. Well, what about you? Why is this single colt important to you? You still have the hive..Do you expect me to believe he can help you rule Equestria?"

Chrysalis nods. "Let's not get emotional my dear alternate self. Let me give you the short version, we are a little low on time, but he is the adopted son of Discord. That horn he wears around his neck is capable of magic far beyond that of even an Alicorn. And he just so happens to be entertaining sometimes. He can be surprisingly underhoofed and cruel. But then there's the times where he becomes a moralistic idiot and I lose interest. But he will, in fact, join me soon for my conquest."

....Really? "Chrysalis, why do you do that? You know I'll never let that happen. So why bring it up? Ugh..." You rub the side of your head with your hooves. "I've told you I'll never let that happen. Telling another version of you isn't going to fix that."

Gertrude raises an eyebrow. "He really is not too smart. Is he? He says he won't let it happen. Yet he decides to associate with you""

"It's because he has this silly notion that he can reform me. It's really adorable that he thinks that when he's so easily manipulated." Chrysalis answers.

You groan. "Name one time where you managed to completely manipulate me! Name one!"

Chrysalis grins. "I'm sure somewhere in your mind, you have some memory of procreating....with your pillow..all night. That was me Anon!" She cackles. "THAT WAS ME!"

No...so that did...wait..NO! "SO I REALLY DID..?! NO!"

Chrysalis snickers. "You really did...it was disgusting at first. But it's funny to think about now"

Gertrude smirked. "Ahh, I see why you like him now. He's really is easy to tease, isn't he?"

"Oh he is" Chrysalis leans down to drag you close and begins to rub her cheek against yours. "He's my adorable little Anon who owes me his life and a few presents aside. At this point, I don't know what I'd do without him."

Gertrude cackles. "Is he?! He is! He's both flustered and yet enjoying the cuddling! I can taste it! And..." Gertrude stops when she realizes something. "Why is he enjoying it in that way? Isn't he a colt?"

You were struggling to push Chrysalis away, but she wouldn't stop.

Chrysalis lets out a longing sigh as she nuzzles you "Oh, if only I had the time to explain everything. I'd really like to hear your reaction. But we really must be getting on to business...isn't that right Anon?" Chrysalis gives you a kiss on the cheek. Making you blush hard.

You struggle further, and finally push away from her grasp, making you tumble backwards onto your back. You were frustrated, and making a scrunchy face. You squirmed backwards away from them and turned to your side. "Whatever...just finish up. We have to move on to the next step, you know. We're wasting time"

"What a little sourpuss" Chrysalis says in a cute mocking way before turning to her other self. "Well then, now that we've had our fun. Please go on and explain everything. We need to know as much as possible. Spare no horrific detail."

Chapter 256 - Flim Flam Future Arc

Gertrude began her tale. She stepped back and looked into the deep dark void of her memories. "Where to begin...? Well, let's start with the more important aspect of revealing exactly what these two kings are actually up to. About a little over a year ago, Flim and Flam started building this factory, or rather..a power station of some sort. The two kings were on to creating a new technological revolution with their inventions. One of which, was a power station that could bring electricity to all of Equestria in abundance. Of course, business wise, this would also mean they'd have a monopoly over it. Everything was legitimate at first, this place had actual workers during its testing phases and nothing seemed to be going wrong."

A power station? Was that what that orb was? But then, what did the power consist of? "Hold on, a power station? Like a power plant? If that's what this is then what exactly is the power source? It can't be electricity, or coal..or whatever. Is it what the foals are mining?"

Gertrude shook her head. "No, what they are mining are materials to keep this place going. Crystals are very useful for regulating waves of magic. Which is what the power source actually is."

Chrysalis was skeptical of that. She didn't believe those two could build something to harness that much magic. "And how did those two ever manage to build a machine that can harness that much magic? That's impossible. And even if it wasn't, what kind of magic? Everypony seems to be able to use magic just fine."

"It's amazing what you can accomplish if you give yourself the power of an alicorn." Gertrude answers.

Powers of an Alicorn? She doesn't mean… "Are you telling me they used the Alicorn Amulet? If they did, wouldn't one of them be wearing it right now?"

Gertrude shook her head. "No, they both know of the corrupting properties of the amulet and so they both used it in turns to bolster their abilities and technique while avoiding it's corrupting effects. Most everything you've seen was born from the ideas they conceived using the amulet, including this power station. Although, I'm not convinced they managed to avoid the amulet's hold completely. In either case, the station was to go through a testing phase for one whole year before becoming Equestria's largest power source. But of course, when you have something so large being ran by fools, there’s something bound to go wrong. And that, is the answer to your question. The energy they were gathering to power everything was the very magic of Equestria itself. The magic that kept the Everfree forest from being torn apart, the magic that made even the barest lands fertile. In fact, i'm surprised none of you had noticed that this world should have been destroyed some time ago."

Should have been destroyed? That was confusing. Even Chrysalis was confused.

"Already destroyed? By what?" Chrysalis asks

"Yeah, that's kind of weird. Do you mean like..by Tirek or something?" What did she mean?

"Tirek? No. These were the beings capable of destroying the entire world in a few moons. These creatures feed on hatred and misery. I'm sure you both know the story of Hearth Warming" Gertrude reminds the both of you

Chrysalis shows a look of disgust. "How can I forget, the ponies celebrate it every year"

....But...oh lord. "But they don't celebrate it in this Equestria. What you're saying is the windigos should have destroyed everything by now."

"Well Well, it seems Discord's "son" isn't a total idiot after all. That's exactly right. This station even drained the magic that allows the windigos to form and exist. Mix that with the pollution the kings' inventions have caused and you have a world that will soon be dead later than sooner." Gertrude explains.

Chrysalis still didn't understand, nor did you

"Then why are the slaves needed? Why aren't they doing anything to fix their mistake? I may want to conquer Equestria but even I know not to cause it's destruction. If the slaves aren't trying to prevent a meltdown and they aren't either, then what is the point?" Chrysalis asked, it really did make no sense.

"They have realized their mistake. They just haven't told anypony else but me and their diamond guard. You see, they believe there is no way to fix the world. They think even if they were to release the magic, it'd either be too late or the windigos would form from the released magic and destroy everything anyway. So they went into seclusion for about a month, researching everything they could about stopping this crisis without letting the public know. Of course, since they have no understanding of fixing their mistakes, they soon turned to other means...and found out about interdimensional travel. Apparently Starswirl had done research on the subject and had left notes hidden away deep inside the castle archives. With that, the kings began to convert the power station into a dimensional gateway, and then took on slave labor to maintain the station while keeping the public out of the know. But of course, a factory like this requires vast resources to keep running. I'm sure you both noticed how odd it was that they were taking entire kingdoms at a net loss of their revenue."

"...I thought something was off about that. You can't just buy kingdoms and expect to profit. When I was pointing out places to Flim, he had mentioned that they had mining facilities there." Chrysalis recalls what caused the alarm in the first place. "It's what caused this..."Code Zero" alarm, as you call it"

But then… "Then that means they have just been giving up their profit to try to get as much material as they can before they leave everyone for dead...holy shit. That's one hell of a scam...."

"It is. in fact, They already have the magic they need to attempt to open a portal. That's why I assumed you both were here. Some sort of dimensional screw up. But if that's not the case, then why are you both here?" Gertrude was intrigued.

"We're here on the will of Discord. The idiot thought it'd be "fun" to throw us both into a random universe to try to fix it, we can't even leave until we do." Chrysalis then spoke in a sarcastic tone as rage began to well up inside her. "Good to know our lives don't hang in the balance or anything. No, this is exactly how I imagine my end would be. Obliterated by an excess of malice..."

"Now look who's getting emotional. Then again, if left up to us, we wouldn't be able to do a thing. No, it's still possible to save the world through the positive nature of ponies. A very slim chance, but possible. Of course, that would require dethroning the kings and then somehow making everypony realize that the glimmer glammer of their rule was a farce. Then making everypony all happy and loving again. I heard there was to be a contract signing of some sort. So I assume, since there was a code zero, that they signed away their royalty, hmm?" Gertrude guessed

You nod, that was exactly it. But holy shit, was that really going to be enough now? No, there was still one ace up your sleeve. And that ace was a princess. If anypony could get all the other ponies to see the light, it was her. Because you knew now that the mane 6 plus a baconpone...were still good deep down inside. Of course, if you never got out of the castle, there'd be no proof of the contracts anyway. "Yeah, we made them sign a contract to sign away their crowns. But, if they could leave now. Why wait?"

"Because they are afraid of entering an Equestria that is ruled by a tyrant, a monster, or even another King Sombra. They have no way of knowing where they will end up. So they have been gathering extra materials to make an army of machines, strange machines used for combat. Outfitting them with the best anti-magic material they could find, along with some other nonsense I refuse to comprehend. So tell me, knowing all this, how do you plan to fix everything?" Gertrude asks. "Because if you have nothing. I'll just turn you both over to the kings right-" Gertrude stops when she hears the door behind her open.

The three of you turn to see the young colt, Pop fly, walk out into the playroom with a tired yawn. "Momma Gertrude, are you ok?"

Gertrude stops and tenses up. She almost doesn't answer, but when Pop Fly calls to her again, she turns to check on him. "Pop Fly.." she says in a motherly voice as she leans down to pet him. "What are you doing out of bed, sweetie?"

Pop Fly looked like he had tears in his eyes, he sat down and started whining. "I fell asleep waiting and..I had that nightmare again."

Gertrude brought him in close to hug onto him. "Shhh, Pop Fly, how many times do I have to tell you that you're not going to be fed into the factory to make rainbows. The Rainbow Factory was dismantled anyway, remember? And they never used foals to begin with."

"I-I know..." Pop Fly felt ashamed for having this nightmare again. "But, it's so hard not to think about. We work all day, and we don't even know why. All the diamond dogs are really mean and the kings don't really seem to care about us. I feel so alone, that's why I like it when you're around Momma Gertrude...you never let me feel alone"

"Oh Pop Fly. You have to have more hope in your heart than that. You have friends with the foals you work with you know" Gertrude lets him nuzzle into her. She could feel his tears building.

"B-but I never have time to talk to them. Break times are so short. And we have nothing in common. That's why you're the best momma I've ever had Momma Gertrude. You're always there, you never say my thoughts are dumb. You actually believe I can be the best hoofball player ever in Equestria when I grow up." Pop Fly looks up to her with shimmering hopeful eyes

"And you will, the work you put here in the factory will make you big and strong. You'll show those lazy athletes a thing or two when you get into the major leagues. But Pop Fly, Momma Gertrude is doing something really important. You need to go back to bed." Gertrude gently pets him as she speaks

But he only hugged tighter, nuzzled deeper. "But I don't wanna! I wanna be here with you! I don't care about the story, I just want to be with you always. I don't want to be alone!"

Gertrude sighed, and let him cry. He didn't care that he was hugging onto her cold exoskeleton. It felt warm and inviting to him. "Pop Fly, I know you're scared. A lot of ponies are.. But if you breakdown and can't show the others that there's a reason to be brave. Then they all will get scared. And then things will fall apart. And then I'd have to go."

"But why?!" He cried. "What does it matter?! Why would you have to go?! I don't want you to go!"

"Pop Fly" Gertrude giggled, and moved him back and gently raised his head with her hoof. "How do you expect to make team captain with that kind of attitude?"

"H-huh?" Pop Fly sniffed. "What do you mean?"

"Well, the greatest players in sports were always brave, strong, some even lead their teams to victory. How can you say you'll be the greatest hoofball player ever if you fall apart like this? Those foals need to see somepony who is strong and brave so they don't lose hope. So they can smile. And when they look to you for that reminder; They will say "Gee, that Pop Fly sure is cool! I wanna be like him some day" You my little one..." Gertrude gives him a small boop on the nose, making him giggle. "Are the bravest little pony I know"

Pop Fly was awestruck by those words, his little mind couldn't comprehend why she'd think that. "R-really?"

"Mhmmm, that's why you need to go back in there and be brave for me. I promise I'll be back. But you need to be brave for the others while I'm gone...alright?" Gertrude looks to him with gentle eyes and soft inspiring words

Pop Fly nodded, and gave her a brave look as he saluted. "I got it Momma Gertrude! I won't let you down! I won't let anypony down!"

Gertrude gave him a pat. "That's what I like to hear. I know you can do it Pop Fly, I'll see you soon."

"I know you will Momma Gertrude! And no worries! I'll make sure the others don't get worried too! Seeya soon!" Pop Fly said with renewed vigor as he went back through the doors.

"That was adorable. Why can't you be more like that Chrysalis?” You look to Chrysalis with a smirk. In which she groans in response.

"Because I refuse to be whipped..." Chrysalis looks to Gertrude, wanting to know what that was about. "So then, it's worse than I could imagine. You really feel like you're their mother."

Gertrude, surprisingly, snaps at Chrysalis. She found that remark to be reprehensible. "Don't you dare mock me! You have yet to know how devastating losing your beloved drones really feels. Those foals have lost their families just as I have lost mine. Unlike the rest of the ponies who deserve our hatred, these little ones look at me as I am and see a mother. And they need one. I could mold their minds If I so chose but I need them to produce love to survive."

"Mhmmm, sure. But am I to guess that you made a deal with the kings to bring along your little faux hive? That's the real reason you'd prefer to stay here, isn't it? Wouldn't want the little ones to end up in a situation worse than this one, hmm? I wonder if there's a timeline where we conquered Equestria? Wouldn't it be interesting to see what would happen if you ended up in that one." Chrysalis was losing respect for her other self quickly when she started to grasp how much she actually cared for the foals.

"You can mock me all you want.." Gertrude looks to Chrysalis with angry eyes, but she kept her cool, as a queen should. She didn't pop off from that comment. "But it'll be inevitable for you as well. Sooner or later there will be something other than the hive you'll want to protect and keep safe for reasons other than your own satisfaction. That is your fate."

Chrysalis scoffed at that. "Oh please, that will never happen."

"W-woah hold on!" You didn't want an actual fight to occur. This looked like it could actually happen. Gertrude looked legit pissed. "Chrysalis..erm..Gertrude..umm..whatever you want to call yourself. Look, everything aside. I think you're doing an awesome job. And if you want to protect the foals, that's great too. Look, we already have a plan. Because, y'know, if we put Celestia back in power, she could make everypony see the light. I've seen her recently. Just by being around her, ponies figure out what makes them happy and what's important. She even managed to make her old pupil, who by the way became a demon once, to see the error of her ways. I promise you. I have a way to make it work. So you don't need to worry"

Gertrude turned her attention to you. She actually seemed to be calming down. You didn't know why. But it was because you were a colt. Despite all the teasing she's done thus far, now that even her alternate self has started to lose respect for her, she actually felt relieved that you weren't a jerk. "Anon...is it?"

You nod, a little worried. "Yeah..erm..you ok?"

"I'm fine, just surprised you can tolerate her, given I WAS her once, I honestly thought we'd see eye to eye. But that doesn't matter now. We're losing time. Tell me, are you sure Celestia is up to the task? Last I knew, she had gone senile" Gertrude looked to you, softening up as she shrugged away the insults of her other self.

"Yeah, she's really coming around after I brought half the Elements of Harmony to her for a visit. It really helped fixed things." You nodded

"Hmm? The Elements of Harmony?" Gertrude was confused "I thought that they never came to be"

"Yeah well, they "came to be" back in our Equestria. So I knew who they’d be here. Rounded em up and everything and Celestia just, well, you could say she snapped back into place. And hey, don't worry about what Chrysalis has to say. If you wanna know in detail, Discord kicked her butt and made her and the entire hive a permanent resident at the house. She can't even leave without being stuck in that disguise. It's pretty good. Even the Captain had it and abandoned ship to...well, erm...let's skip that part..but yeah. I really do think what you're doing is great Chrysalis."

"Hmph..just call me Gertrude" Gertrude looked to Chrysalis and smirked. "It might be a better name to take. Better to have those around you who will follow you to the ends of Equestria than be stuck with the greatest imbecile that's ever existed, to the point where even those who loyally serve you begin to question you. One has to wonder if it was more than just the captain...The captain, heh" Gertrude was already calming down. "You must have done something very wrong to lose the loyalty of the one who's supposedly the most loyal"

Chrysalis was rolling the end of the necklace Flim gave to her along her hoof, she scoffed at Gertrude's words. "He betrayed me because he thought he could do a better job. And now he's gone. My new captain is much more loyal than a bunch of snot nosed foals could ever be"

"We'll see....anyway.." Gertrude looks to you, and actually gives you a genuine smile. "If you're the son of Discord, even adopted, it must mean you have some amazing talent that can save this world. I've told you everything I know. All that's left is to lead you out of here. There's a hidden exit that leads to the castle gardens. It was supposed to be used as an emergency exit for the old workers, but now only the kings, Captain Applejack, and myself have a key for it. I'll sneak you both out through there...and then..I'll leave the rest to you"

"And trust me Gertrude, I promise we'll fix everything. We won't let this world die by those kings or by some stupid windigo crap." You hug onto Gertrude, who tenses up, and then gently hugs onto you. "I promise"

Chrysalis looked at the whole scene, at first, it almost looked like she had some sort of envy in her expression. But then she turned away. "Come on already, this is getting sickening. I doubt that Sunset is coming anyway. An escape is favorable"

But as Chrysalis turned to the exit doorways. They began to slowly open. At first she could see Applejack, which caught you and Gertrude by surprise as well. But as the doors open further. You all could see Applejack being held by the scruff by Bones as some of the diamond guard stood behind him. When the doors fully opened, standing behind the other door of the double doors was......oh no.

"Well Well Well, look at what we have here Flim. A whole gaggle of traitors"

"Right you are Flam, and of course we managed to hit the bonus too. Interdimensional travelers. Looks like Starswirl was right on the money. There is definitely a way to escape this dying world if these two were able to come through from another Equestria"

Bones threw Applejack into the room, she was beat up and bruised, she just slid across the floor, groaning as she slowed down in front of the three of you. Applejack just laid there as she looked up to you three, weak from her beating. "Sorry fellas...I don't know how they found out, but...ngh" Applejack passed out.

Ahhhh shiiiiiiiiit. "What the?..." You back up away from them, and stand next to Gertrude. "How did you both know we were here?"

Flam snickered. "Brother, would you like to tell him or should I?"

Flim seemed rather uncomfortable with that question. "I'd rather not explain it at all Flam. We could just be straightforward for once about this one. We don't need to say every detail about it"

"Ahh but dear Flim, it will be a lesson to you the next time you fall for another mare. This was, hmmm, the tenth I think? Yes, that's right. I told you you kept picking bad mares. Wasn't the bugged necklace a good idea Flim? A bad mare is a bad mare, but we happened on yet another Gertrude. Interesting to say the least" Flam wasn't being ignorant, he was doing it on purpose to drill into his brother to stop making dumb decisions.

Flim put a hoof to his face to cover his shame. "Yes....I don't make the best choices in mares. Flam, we really should take care of this now. Don't you think?"

"And we will" Flam gives you a very dark look. "We will..."

Bugged necklace?....Oh no....

"What do you mean by bugged necklace? Is that some sort of pun?" Chrysalis growls.

Goddammit… "He means the necklace you're wearing doubles as a microphone, they heard everything..."

"What?!" Chrysalis puts her hoof under the end of the necklace and lifts it. She knew of microphones and such. But she didn't think she'd be so easily tricked. She took it off and threw it at Flim. "How dare you not trust me!"

Seriously? Goddammit Chrysalis, now was not the time. You already guessed she was angry because her plan backfired so badly that she at least was hoping he'd trust her in some way. It must have been a first to get blown the fuck out this badly.

"One's heart can only be torn asunder so many times my dear. Now then, since we are the kings and you are the prisoners. We are going to explain the terms of your surrender...." Flim holds up his blaster towards them. "Or you can resist and we can get this over with now. We only need the colt. The son of Discord himself sounds rather useful...don't you think Flam?"

"Indeed, if he does have any kind of power that his father may have given him, we can perhaps use it to pinpoint an Equestria to our liking. Perhaps one with a weak yet tyrannical ruler our machines could overthrow. We would be heroes again, start all over, and be more careful this time. The rest of you however can spend your time in the dungeon until the end comes...and yes, that does include you too Gertrude" Flam explains.

Gertrude's eyes went wide. "W-wait! You can't do that! I've served you loyally for so long. What about the foals? Who will take care of them?"

"There's not much time left until our work is complete Gertrude. Your services are no longer needed. And neither are the foals." Flam explains.

"Sorry Gertrude, you betrayed us, it’s pure and simple. Voids our agreement. Besides, having so many orphaned foals to worry about would only slow us down. Just be glad you'll be able to spend time with them before Equestria is completely lost. It's a shame really, you really did handle the power plant very well" Flim falsely laments.

Geezez fuck.....when did they become so fucking evil? "....That's it...." You slip the horn right onto your head. And thankfully, It becomes a normal unicorn's horn.

"I wouldn't even try it Anon..." Flam holds up his leg, he too...had a blaster. "You couldn't stop both of us. And you wouldn't want it to end here. Would you? You know, it’s surprising how a colt like you can make a friend like her. Flim, if you would take aim"

Flim aims right at Chrysalis. "Gladly"

"I'd like to see you two fight me without those blasters and anti magic suits and hats. Cowards..." Chrysalis just stood there, growling at them.

"Anon, you could try to use whatever magic you might have in that horn. We can only guess that must be the gift your father gave you. I'd also guess that it has some sort of trap set for anypony else who tries to use it. But given we're not afraid of unicorn magic, it'd be a waste of time. But please, go ahead and try. I'm interested to see how much you care for this changeling scum, because we'll blast her the moment your magic fails. And trust me, my brother is a good shot. So here's the deal. You give up, you help us, and we'll guarantee you'll get to come with us to the new Equestria. If not, well, you at least tried. So, make your choice. We're not cruel after all. We really don't want to end anypony, it's just an inevitability. Considering what you've done to me, you should consider yourself lucky to be given this offer." Flam leers at you

......Those...GODDAMMIT! You sigh, and step back. "...You two are real assfucks, you know that?"

"We don't know what that means but we'll take it as a compliment. I assume that means you'll join us?" Flam asks.

....Goddammit. GODDAMMIT. Here we are again. You were fucking useless. You didn't think of them bugging Chrysalis's necklace. You didn't think they'd be so cruel. You thought everything would go smooth like butter. But here you are...considering their offer.

"How could you both do this? This is the world you belong to!" Gertrude pleaded with them. "You can't just leave it after destroying it."

"Save your breath, it's clear they don't care. Anon, just decline their offer. I'd like to see how good their aim really is. Because I won't let myself be defeated by a stupid exploding pellet. Their suits may protect them from magic. But a good old beating? I doubt it" Chrysalis stood at the ready, waiting for an opportunity to attack.

.... "...Fine...But you have to let my friends go. You have to let them come with us"

Flam shook his head. "Afraid not, we can keep them in the dungeon. But that's the best you'll get."

"Face it, our deal is the best deal you'll EVER get. I don't think you understand how angry I am Anon. I would love to turn that changeling to dust. And besides, how can you trust her? It's obvious that she uses you just as she would anypony else. There's no reason to save her" Flim tries to reason with you. "I'd actually would like to see you use your magic. Just so I can have my revenge on her."

...But you couldn't have that. "I won't. She's my friend, even if it's a farce. And it'd be one hell of a good one if it is. So put down your weapons. I'll go peacefully..." Until you could figure something out....

"Good enough, Alright Diamond Guard. Take him to the dining room. And throw the rest into the dungeon. Also, please relieve them of the contracts. We mustn't forget that..." Flam and Flim actually said at the same time. But something was wrong....the guard wasn't moving.

"...We mean today!" They both say again.

But instead of listening, they all began to fall. The sounds of their thuds caught the attention of both Flim and Flam. They turned, and gasped in surprise.

....no way....

NO FUCKING WAY!

HOLY SHIT WHAT DEUS EX MACHINA WAS THIS?!

Rainbow Dash blew the smoke off her blaster as the guards fall from sleep gas pellets that were shot under them. "Heheh, perfect shot! Heya everypony! The awesome rescue squad is here!" Rainbow Dash hovered upwards as Celestia, Pinkie, Sunset, and Twilight walked in from behind them through the double doors.

"..What?! How did you get here?!" Flim was wide eyed, he didn't expect this.

"Celestia!? Flim...this could be troublesome. Something about this isn't right" Flam was being cautious. He looked up at Rainbow Dash, who had her blaster ready while the unicorns had their horns lit and ready to go. He knew their suits were thin, and couldn't take that much of a magical blast at once. "....You all must know that what you've seen is one large misunderstanding..." Flam started backing up, along with Flim.

Celestia stepped up, and even though her mane was still down, she looked like she had reverted to old self. "It's too late to try to lie to us about the situation, Flam. We've not only seen what is out there, but we've heard everything. I'd never would have guessed at what levels of cruelty you and your brother were capable of."

"Heard everything?! Impossible! How did you even get by our traps?!" Flim was blown away by their sudden intrusion.

"What, did you think you we're the only ones who could bug a pony?" Sunset gave them a cocky little smirk.

"Bugged?! Impossible, we're the only ones who own that kind of technology. There's no place you could have gotten your own but from us!" Flam was starting to sweat. He was sure there was no way she could have come up with something like that.

Sunset removes her own earpiece, and even goes beyond the brothers work by producing a recording device. "...You think you're the only ones who's ever used, blackmailed, and spied on others..?" Sunset's voice, she could feel her past sins nearly catch up with her on that one. But then she looked at the both of them with fierce determination. "I had a lot of time to learn how to make those kinds of things myself. And how to be discreet."

Discreet? But, she'd need a microphone piece at the other end. Where did she put it? There's no way she could have planted it in the room. "S-Sunset, where did you put the microphone?"

Sunset giggled happily as she gave you a cheerful smile. "Where do you think? Remember when I hugged you?"

Oh...no..FUCKING WAY.....wait...AWWW...she wasn't subtly molesting you...she was just planting a bug on you...guess that means no bacon brunch after all this...

"......" Flim and Flam went silent for a moment. They couldn't comprehend it. It made no sense to them. Then Flim looked to the group as his foothold on the situation began to dwindle. "B-but our traps! How did you get past our traps?! How did you even get past the guards we posted outside!"

Twilight grins "Oh, those traps? The traps you based off Daring Do for some reason? Yeah, you see, I happen to really really like Daring Do. From the characters down to the type of traps she manages to escape from. I love it so much that I've memorized how each and every trap she's ever dealt with works. So you could imagine my surprise when you based YOUR traps off of A.K. Yearling's work. It didn't take long for Sunset and myself to make the map pulse spell she has into a trap disabling pulse specifically meant for trigger traps." Twilight giggled. "They weren't even well made. Our spell managed to disable every single one. Then again, I expected as much. All I had to do was calibrate the pulse to surge through the walls and into the trap triggers to disable them. Next time you want to make traps for a castle, at least have the decency to make them more like the books. It was like they were made by a two year old."

Sunset snickered. "Nice one Twilight" Both Sunset and Twilight did a hoofbump on that one.

"As for the castle guards, they could hear everything we could through Sunset's device. They already know of your treachery." Celestia looks at the brothers not with disdain or despotism, but with hurt in her heart. She wanted to punish them, she knew they deserved it. But with how things are going, and how things usually went when she banished anything for a thousand years, namely her sister, she had decided that this time...restraint was needed. Even with the foal slavery thing. "Flim, Flam...stand down. There's no need for this anymore. You've lost."

"What?! Stand down?! Who cares about that!" Rainbow pounds her hooves together. "I say we clobber em!"

"For once, I agree with the annoying blue one. How could you, Princess Celestia, the one who has sealed and defeated many a foe, Not want vengeance?" Chrysalis stated, it made no sense to her. It wasn't really the fact she cared about this Equestria. It was more she just wanted to hurt them.

"Vengeance begets vengeance, even if they deserve to be locked up for all eternity, I can't allow it to happen. They must be brought to justice through proper means. If we do not change things now, if we do not set a good example and remove the veil put upon the eyes of the ponies of Equestria, then I fear we are all truly doomed. So please...Flim...Flam...stand down" She pleads with them.

Gertrude was shaking. You put your hoof to her side to help her clam down. To let her know that you felt as angry as she did. "I know Gertrude, I know you really want to hurt them. I do too...hell, I wanna throw them into a port-a-potty and send them down a mountain. But if Celestia says this is the way to go. Then we should do it"

"Ooh! That actually sounds like fun! It'd be like a roller coaster ride that goes straight down!" Pinkie giggled.

"...Uhhh..Pinkie, you do realize what a port-a-potty is filled with...right?" Sunset asks her. disgusted by her answer.

Pinkie shook her head. "Nope! But if it's as fun as a roller coaster then I'd want to ride it over and over again!"

Everyone, absolutely everyone, cringed at Pinkie for that one.

"Well then....it appears you're right Celestia...we are beaten, defeated, and outmatched. We have been crushed and the rug pulled out from under us" Flim said as he started to back up with Flam towards the wall.

"Indeed, I don't understand it myself, considering this world is doomed. But it seems even knowing that, you'd rather stay here then take a deal to come with us into the portal. Am I correct?" Flam asks, backing up with his brother towards the wall, a very specific part of the wall.

Celestia nods. "I can't abandon Equestria. I truly believe in Gertrude's words. I believe it can be saved."

"Well then..." Flim says as his back touches the wall.

"I can't say we agree" Flam answers, evil smirks coming upon both their faces. OH SHIT! GODDAMIT! IT'S THAT TROPE!

"Stop! Dammit! Everypony! Their going to go right-!" Before you could rally everyone to stop them. Flim and Flam smack the back of their hooves on specific parts of the wall, making part of the wall spin. And just like that, they were gone through a hidden passage. "....through the wall....oh...dammit"

Chapter 257 - Flim Flam Future Arc

Rainbow Dash sped right to the wall and gave it a kick, then started feeling around it. "Nuts! I can't get this stupid thing to flip around!"

"It's a one way door, the only way to flip it around is from the other side" Gertrude explains.

"..So they’re gone?" Sunset looked over to the wall, she didn't want them to escape. "Darn! What do we do now?"

Pinkie went over to the fallen Applejack to check on her. She put her ear to her chest and could hear her heartbeats... And hear her whisper "Mah apple orchards". "If anypony is wondering, Orangejack is ok!" Pinkie gives the hoof up.

"Erm, her name is Applejack. But yeah, about their escape, does it even matter now? We have everything we need to fix everything. We should probably be worried about the rest of those diamond dogs." You inquire, those guys might be rather tough.

"Hmph, a trivial fight. Once they realize their leaders have abandoned them, they'll turn tail and run" Chrysalis scoffed.

Celestia looked towards the wall, and shook her head, she had hoped there was a way to reform them. Even after all this, she didn't want to seal them up, she just felt that they were lost. "Cowardice will be their vice. But Anon is right, we needn't stall here. We must chase away the Diamond Dogs, free the foals, and begin the restoration of Equestria. However, I have been gone for so long. Both in body and mind. I fear I may not be able to do this alone."

"Pfft! come on, you raise the sun and the moon, like, everyday! How hard can it be to be a princess again? You got this Princess Celestia, you just need to update your coolness a little. I can help you with that one" Rainbow Dash says as words of encouragement.

"And I can help bring you smiles whenever you’re sad! I say we throw a party at the castle and everypony who wants to come is invited!" Pinkie cheers!

"Mah farm" Applejack drools.

"Well, if you're all are going to party then I'm going to take the time to plan out the restoration of the castle. Somepony has to get things fixed around here and I refuse to let Princess Celestia walk around in this mess. Might keep the intercoms though" Sunset looks at one at the corner of the ceiling. "Kind of gives me that home away from home feeling"

Celestia looks down to Sunset with a smile and shakes her head. "Oh, I think you can save that for another day, Sunset. If the ponies of Equestria would have me back as Princess, then I'm going to need an adviser. Want the job?"

Sunset was taken aback. That was super surprising to her. "P-Princess Celestia, you can't mean that. Not after, y'know, I abandoned you before. Besides, I'm so used to the wor-"

Princess Celestia giggled and put her hoof on Sunset. "And skipping all that, we get to the part where you took care of a shattered old mare. Sunset, I won't have any of this negative talk. Besides, it's either you...or my two garden friends. Which do you think is best?"

Sunset sighed, she knew what she was getting at. It was either be her adviser or make sure she didn't go crazy with the two garden ornaments. After her sigh, Sunset let out a chuckle. "That's not fair, you know."

"Oh, I think it's fair enough. You're not the only tricky pony in the room" Celestia giggled.

Twilight just looked upon the merriment. Everything was done now. She got to meet her hero, she got to hang out with her. But now that she was going to become a princess again, It probably meant she had to go back to the hotel...alone. "Well, I guess that's it then. I-it was nice meeting you all. But, I guess now that things are over...Well, it was fun at least. I really did have a nice time." Twilight was chuckling nervously, she had no idea how to say goodbye or how to act right now. Her arrogance of helping with the situation gone now that it was over.

Sunset noticed it. She noticed since Twilight had been alone for so long, she must have thought that with things over with, their time together was done. Sunset actually liked having Twilight around. During their time together after you and Chrysalis left, they really bonded together, both of them having mostly similar interests. Though Sunset did put off Twilight sometimes with her spunk, it still grew into a good enough friendship to work together to develop the trap disabling pulse spell. "Actually...Princess, if you're gonna be that way. Then this adviser is gonna need an assistant. Somepony with as much respect for you as I do. Somepony who'd love to be able to be by you and learn from you. Hrmmmm" Sunset points to Twilight right when she's about to turn. "Yo Twilight, want the job?"

"What?! Me?! Your assistant?! So I can be around..P-p-p-princess Celestia?!" Twilight stammered, utterly shocked.

"Y-y-y-y-yes. So, you want it? going once.." Sunset smirked, raising an eyebrow at her.

Twilight responded immediately with a big skip, and a cute hop. "YESYESYESYESYESYESYESYESYESYESYES! IT'S MY DREAM COME TRUE! I CAN'T BELIEVE THIS IS HAPPENING RIGHT NOW! ME! SUNSET'S ASSISTANT! SO I CAN BE AROUND PRINCESS CELESTIA HERSELF! I GOTTA GET A LETTER TO MY BROTHER AND MY PARENTS! I JUST...oh" Twilight stops, blushes and giggles sheepishly. "I mean, yes..I-I accept...ahrm...hmm"

Chrysalis rolled her eyes. "Ok, I'm done. Where's that portal home? I'm getting sick of this place already."

Gertrude just stared on at everything. She didn't know what the future held for her. She had been trapped in the castle for so long… "Well, I must agree. Now that there's nothing more for me here, I might as well find a hole to crawl under and formulate a new plan or two for...things. And I'd suggest none of you try to stop me, I still have a few tricks in these legs of mine"

"Actually Gertrude, I had something in mind for you too" Celestia tells her, looking to her with a more regal expression.

"What? The dungeon? Typical Celestia..." Getrude says snidely, wanting not much more of what she had to say.

"Well, if you consider a home a dungeon, I suppose I could have one put in for you. But what I have in mind is actually something you might like." Celestia doesn't break her stare, neither does Gertrude at this point.

"And that is?"

"A place to hold your family. These foals are all orphans, aren't they? From what I understand, you've done a good job taking care of them. How would you like to become their caretaker?" Celestia steps closer with caution, a gentle smile forming on her face.

"Don't even..." Gertrude turns away. "A changeling queen as a mother to pony children? Laughable....I actually take of-"

Celestia's smile turns into a small grin. "I already heard everything. So you needn't put up a front. And besides, isn't there a very particular foal who would be crushed if his Momma Gertrude went into hiding?"

Gertrude looked to Celestia with furious anger. Rushing right up to her, face to face. "HOW DARE YOU ASSUME THAT I WOULD.....THAT I WOULD.......I..." But Celestia's grin never left her. Yep, Celestia was back to her old self sans the flowing mane. ".....Fine...I accept. But I won't like it..."

Chrysalis put a hoof to her face. "Shameful..."

Celestia then finally looked down to you. "Anon...I'd like to thank you for last night. and for all this. Without you, I don't think any of this would be possible"

That made you grin, oh yeah baby! Anon coming out on top. "Heh, yeah well. Y'know, I kinda had some cheat sheets sorta. But hey, you’re welcome. Loved every bit of it"

Celestia leaned down, and brought you up for a hug. "Really Anon...thank you"

"Mnnn....No problem Princess..." You say in a softer and more caring tone. "I'm just glad I was able to help"

"Eh" Rainbow Dash gave the wall one last kick. "I had a cool line about quitting the force too. Chickens..."

And then...suddenly. There was a shaking, like a small earthquake. A sound can be heard coming from the main floor of the power station as the speakers started to blare. "Ah, look at that Flam, they think we left."

"Indeed Flim, they didn't realize that we still need this station to open the portal to our new home. In fact, I think we can open that portal as soon as we are done with them."

"Indeed! We needed to give our prototype a test run! And my my my, what luck do we have to be able to test it against the group who thought they could out con us, The Flim Flam brothers."

"Come one, Come all. Meet us out on the floor so we may test our "Mashing Fighter Villain Masher 5000"."

Ahh shit.

The group ran out to meet the machine. Sunset asking Pinkie to stay behind to keep an eye on Applejack and the foals.

When you all stepped onto the main floor. The giant steel door under the blue orb container began to slowly open. And out emerged a horrendous machine. It was a silver cylinder with tank treads and a huge cannon on it's right shoulder. It's right and left side had closed latches, the head looked like a knight's helmet, with Flim and Flam behind the exposed visor. There was a thick windshield between the visor for them to see what they were doing. Inside their cockpit were tons of levers and controls. There was also two attachments of some tubes placed on their horns.

"What the hay is that thing?!" Rainbow Dash pointed out.

Flim snickered. "The "Mashing Fighter Villain Masher 5000", pretty nifty eh?"

"Oh come on! You're the villains here! It should be mashing the both of you!" Rainbow dash growled at them.

"We won't be villains where we're going Ex-Chief Dash. Perish the thought! We'll be heroes...but first, I'm afraid, we'll have to make sure our machine works by using you all as guinea pigs."

Dammit, you wouldn't fuck up this time. You wouldn't let them get away. But what could you do? What kind of magic could you use to pierce that armor? Would it even work? You only got one shot.

"I'm done talking. I say we just blast them. That abomination can't take all of us! I hate to say this...I really do. But we must attack..together! DO IT!" Chrysalis announced as she aimed her horn, and started blasting the robot with all her might as everyone else joined in. Either with Rainbow Dashes flying buck attacks, Gertrude's strikes, and the magic of Sunset and Twilight.

They were giving it all they could and it wasn't doing anything. It was scaring you. You aimed your horn. But what would you do? What could you do that they couldn't?

"Yes, keep attacking. All you're proving is that we are as good at crafting as we are at making a good sales pitch" Flim taunted.

"Face it, there's nothing you can do! We made sure to research all we could and take samples of everything available to us. That even includes you, Celestia. These machines are impervious to every magic available. Unicorn, Dark magic, even Changeling magic...It's impossible. But keep trying, It'll give us time to test our weapon system. Let's start light...Flim, would you do the honors?"

Flim shook his head. "Oh no no, after you brother"

"I couldn't. Perhaps if we did it together?" Flam smirked.

"A brillaint idea, truly stupendous" Flim's smirk matched his brother's. Then then spoke out together.

"Sleep dart salvo...FIRE!" And they slammed their hooves together on a button.

You could see the chest of the robot open up to reveal a ton of holes. Holes in which the darts would come out. And yet your friends still fought as hard as they could. They all believed in victory, they all believed they could defeat this thing. Even when it looked like they were doing nothing.

And then, it hit you. It was something they just said.

They were testing it against the available magic they had built the armor around. But..only available magic. There were three magics you were aware of that they couldn't have possibly tested it against.

The Magic of the Elements

Rainbow Power

....and Chaos magic.

.....Chaos magic, could that work?

As the darts readied to fire, your mind started working quickly. You sifted through every cartoon in your head in a way to stop the robot. But with a horn weakened to the point that even you didn't know it's limit of, what could you possibly do to beat the robot? What kind of shot? This robot, It to have some resistance to chaos magic.

There was nothing you could think of though. The damn robot was a cylinder. It didn't look like it had any weaknesses. Where the fuck do you shoot?

And then the darts began to fire. It was like time froze for a second. Cartoons weren't the answer… At least...not American.

The darts went flying out like missiles from the chest of the robot. Everyone either gasped or stopped in fright from them darting forward and tried to either block it or form a magic shield. But the darts cut through it all. And right when they were about to hit…

It looked like the end, but when everyone opened their eyes, the darts were suddenly all bunched up, and floating in front of them.

"What the hay? What happened?" Rainbow Dash just looked right at the darts and reached up to touch them.

"They just stopped? That's not possible, physics doesn't work like that" Twilight was baffled.

"Anon?...Your horn...." Chrysalis noticed your horn glowing, as she looked at you with confusion. "And those clothes.."

"That's impossible! They should be in dreamland by now!" Flim was astonished

"That colt....There's no possible way! His magic stopped the darts! That's impossible, they are made out of the same material as our glorious Villain Masher. There's no possible way he could stop it!" Flam was desperately trying to figure out what was going on.

And there you stood, looking directly at them, wearing an open blue japanese school uniform and a specialized hat, a Bancho outfit essentially. Your undershirt being of a red color. You looked at them with deadly, fatal, nasty eyes. "I'm going to put an end to this. Everypony, I need your help. I need you to believe in me!...please. I think I can do this."

"Hey, you're the first one to actually do something. Whatever magic you're doing. I'm behind you all the way" Rainbow Dash couldn't understand what was going on or where you got those clothes. But you were the first to get the brothers to react in a negative fashion.

"Anon, That's the horn right? Woah....didn't think it could do anything like that. But yeah, Of course I believe in you. I believe in all of us. We've come too far to let these jerks beat us!" Sunset was in, as was everyone else one by one.

And then Celestia saw it. A green being was coming into her vision. Something that was holding the darts in place. "...Discord?"

"..W-what is that thing?" Twilight pointed out as a green Draconequus began to form. It looked like Discord, but was buff, with human arms instead of the mish mash Discord had. His green tint beard and hair was flowing like there was an ever constant wind. and his earrings were gold links of chains. His legs however, were still that of Discord. It was gripping the darts like they were nothing.

"That's....not him..is it? It can't be" Chrysalis was squinting her eyes, she could see something resembling Discord, but it was less clear to her than the others. But the fact she could see it, it comforted you. For the reasons you were about to spout.

"What are you all talking about?! I don't see anything!" Flam let out, as he put his hoof over another button.

"A ruse brother, a ruse! Remember, that horn was given to him by Discord. It must have some sort of magic we hadn't planned for. But we can still tear through it!" Flim couldn't see it either.

"Then tear through it we shall, launching second volley" Flam slammed his hoof on the button.

But as soon as the second volley of darts came out. The green Discord darted about. Catching every dart into his free hand with ease.

"Woah...that's fast" Rainbow Dash was amazed.

"Impossible! there's no way! They may be darts, but the combined force of their anti magic properties should have torn through that barrier! How!" Flim and Flam were in sync on that one, and demanded answers.

You could feel the power coursing through you. You had decided to go on an anime route on this one. But not just anime, you had more than that. This "Stand", as you based it from Jojo's Bizarre Adventure, was more than just an entity of Chaos magic. It had to be, if it was just the Chaos magic working through it, it'd probably be too weak to even stop the darts.

Using what you have learned from both the ponies and Chrysalis. You decided that it's power would be that of a beneficial parasite. It would use the love, hope, and determination of those who believed in you and convert it into power. The power of your friends would see you through. And what made you smile...was that even Chrysalis could see it.

"I'll tell you how. The power of my friends is how. They believed in me when I asked them to without hesitating. They didn't doubt or wonder, they just believed. Even though you can't see it. I have used the magic bestowed upon me by my father to summon a spirit I like to call a "Stand"..and I call this one "Devil May Shy"."

You point, lower your cap, and smirk as you look down as "Devil May Shy" drops the darts. "Y'know, I didn't even think this would work myself. But now that I know that it does. I'm going to use all it's p-"

"ANON YOU IDIOT, STOP MONOLOGUEING! IT'S ABOUT TO-NGGGH!" Chrysalis calls to you as suddenly everything is enveloped in a purple light. Flim And Flam had fed some of their magic through an amplifier that the robot used to power it's magic cannon. It fired straight at you.

Luckily for you, Chrysalis's call out was quick enough for "Devil May Shy" to react and knock the blast back at the robot. The blast was powerful, as dust and smoke picked up from the point of impact like a cloud, blanketing everything.

Sunset coughed as she tried to peer through the smoke cloud. "I can't see anything. Did Anon get it?"

"I think so! I really do!" Twilight lit up her horn to help her see. "I don't see any sign of the machine at all! Anon...You did it!"

....You did? You couldn't really see it. But hey, if Twilight said you did it. Hehehehe! That was easy as fuck. Yeah! Both you and your stand started to dance and flex in place. "Fuck yeah! That's how you do it! Uh huh! Uh huh! Uh huh! Finally kicked somethings ass for once! ohhhh yeah baby!"

But Gertrude's and Chrysalis's eyes were better suited for seeing through smoke.

"It can't be...IT'S NOT DEFEATED! IT'S USING ANOTHER ATTACK!" Gertrude calls out, it snaps you back to attention. But not fast enough to raise a defense, especially against something you couldn't see.

And when you finally could, it was too late, it went around and past your stand and came right at you. A gigantic drill attached to an arm coming out of the side latch of the machine. It drilled through the smoke, spreading it out as it came to obliterate you in one hit.

And then..it hit you.

Or..you thought it did. You instead get knocked to the side as you hear a familiar grunt, and then a thud on the floor. You looked over as the smoke cleared. Lying on the ground, one of her wings torn apart, and taking large breaths of airs, was Chrysalis, in her original form.

.....Chrysalis.... "Chrysalis! Chrysalis!" No way.......she risked her life. That couldn't be real. She..

You ran over to her, you could see the side of her exoskeleton slightly cracked where the drill hit. It didn't pierce, thank god, but it knocked her away. She was still conscious. "Chrysalis!..Chrysalis.." You shook her, you wanted her to respond, she wasn't responding. "Chrysalis!"

Then, she let out an annoyed weakened sigh "I can hear you...you don't need to say my name so many damn times..."

You gulped, you started to tear up...she was ok. You actually went in to hug her. "Chrysalis! You're ok!"

She winced in pain as she laid there. "Of course...I'm ok...you idiot. I wouldn't be on the ground...if you didn't dance around...like a buffoon."

Ok, that made you feel pretty guilty. She was right though. You forgot the ole "enemy behind the smoke" trope. "..I-I'm sorry..Chrysalis...I....I." You started to sniff and sob. You rested your head on her side and nuzzled. Dammit… "I really am sorry..."

Chrysalis said nothing at first. She laid there, thinking for a moment. "Four..."

What? "What? Four?"

"Yes....Four...that's four instances in which you owe me...your life. And since...I'd like to be alive to abuse that later...I'd suggest you turn around...and finish the job...n....nghh" Chrysalis winced again, and shifted just a little. "...and wake me when it's over...." And then she closed her eyes. At first it scared you, but she was still breathing. She wasn't bleeding. But her wing, that crack...

....Oh hell no… You turned around, tears in your eyes, as well as determination. The smoke clearing completely to reveal the machine once more, brandishing two drill arms. "Devil May Shy" Posed into a fighting position as you looked right at Flim and Flam.

"....For the honor of the queen....." You mutter under your breath...this one..would be for her.

You got ready, and growled "YOU'RE GOING DOWN YOU PIECES OF SHIT! BRING IT ON!"

The drill arms came down towards you, both of them this time. But, even with your fury, your determination, it wasn't enough. Upon realizing this, you had "Devil May Shy" block the drills. They were trying to pierce through his guard, Flim and Flam determined to drill right through your "Shield".

You were holding it, "Devil May Shy" held his arms up to block the ever pressing drills. And...it hurt. You could feel it on your forelegs. A twisting pain. You once again cast the spell too accuratly. Whatever pain the stand felt...you felt.... "G-Gnn...This is bad."

"Everypony! This is our opportunity! Attack! Do not falter!" Celestia calls out like a commander. Again, your friends resume their assault. But again, it wasn't working. It didn't work. And your attack wasn't working either. Even with this determination. There wasn't enough hope being fed into your stand.

"Look brother, so far, everything is working just fine, even with his "Stand" or whatever he calls it. It cannot stop our piercing anti magic drills!" Flim looked down upon you and your friends with an evil grin.

"Oh, I can see that. It'll be a shame to turn all of them into paste. But perhaps we could use that horn for ourselves once this is all over. Look at him, he can't hold it much longer. They all can't" Flam was just waiting. For what you did to him, he actually didn't mind the drill turning you into frappe.

You struggled the best you could, but you could feel "Devil May Shy's" Arms begin to shatter. "C-Chrysalis...I-I'm..s-sorr-"

"COME ON NONNY! YOU CAN DO IT! USE YOUR SPINACH MONSTER TO BEAT THAT CREEP!" That voice...Pinkie?

You looked over, Pinkie was outside the doors, Applejack was weak and awake, holding on to her side. "Come on Ya'll, you can do it!" Cheered Applejack.

"Momma Gertrude! Come on! Smash that monster! Like in the books you read us!" Pop Fly had walked out from behind Pinkie, he had bravely led the rest of the foals out. and as they watched. they began to cheer too.

"Go Big Green!"

"Is that..Princess Celestia! Go Celestia! You were my favorite princess ever! And still are!"

"Go Bacon Head!"

"Come on! You can do it! Please! I know you all can! You're like super heroes!"

As their cheers rained out. You could feel "Devil May Shy" get stronger, and start to push away the drills with his arms. And the foals around the factory, some were popping out of the entrance of the mine, they gazed upon the battle and started cheering all of you on. They all could see your stand.. And that meant… You could feel that surge in power...

You let the drills slide down to your stand's hands, and then gripped them. "Devil May Shy" gripped them so hard that his fingers went through the metals of the drill bits, and stopped them.

"What in the hay?! The drills! They stopped responding! What's going on?!" Flim was messing with the controls. But he couldn't get the drill arms to move forward or back.

"T-their....THAT'S IMPOSSIBLE! THEY'VE BEEN PUNCTURED AND...AHHH!" Flam screamed out as the cockpit began to let out sparks the moment "Devil May Shy" crossed his arms, causing the drillarms to rip from their sockets. He then tossed them both to the side. As both you and him looked directly at Flim and Flam.

You pointed directly at them, giving them a serious look. "....You fucked with the wrong pony… You should have taken Celestia's mercy while you still had the chance."

You started to step closer to them as "Devil May Shy" cracked his knuckles then slipped on black gloves from out of nowhere, butterfly were indents on them.

"How are you doing this?! It's not possible!" Flim started to pull at every lever he could, but nothing was working.

"The eject button! It's not working!IT'S NOT WORKING!" Flam was panicking.

You just looked at them and smirked. "Something wrong, gentleponies?"

Flim started gulping, breathing hard, he was sweating like a pig. As was Flam. "W-wait. Hold on, y-you're the son of Discord. Right? This world is doomed, you know this, they know this. But you don't have to be destroyed along with it! We're making you the best deal you can be offered, Anon. J-join us! We could rule the next Equestria together. W-we won't even make the same mistake like this one!"

You were unamused by their offer. "Gimme a break. From con ponies to world conquerors. Whatever happened to make you guys this evil, I don't want any part of it. I'm gonna end it right here. Right now."

Flim and Flam were synced in panic now "BUT THE WORLD IS DOOMED! WHAT DO YOU GAIN FROM THIS! YOU'RE DOOMING EVERYPONY! EVEN YOURSELF! YOU'RE MAKING A MISTAKE! IF YOU DO THIS, THE WINDIGOS WILL BE UPON US IN JUST A FEW MONTHS."

"The only mistake I made was letting you get a cheap shot in on my friend. But how about this? I have a deal of my own. I promise to make sure not to hurt you too much....gotta leave what's left of you for my friend...y'know? Now then." "Devil May Shy" cocks his fists. "let's end this shitshow!"

"Devil May Shy" reared back his fists and then started releasing a powerful flurry of punches into the robot's center. Every punch tearing away and getting deeper into the robot.

"FLUTTAFLUTTAFLUTTAFLUTTAFLUTTAFLUTTAFLUTTAFLUTTAFLUTTA!" He yelled out with every punch. Flim and Flam were at their peak in panic. They couldn't form words. They could only watch as their robot began to get smashed into swiss cheese.

When your stand got to the core of the robot, there was floating...The alicorn amulet. Heh, of course they'd be using it to power their main robot. It explains why it was so powerful. "Devil May Shy" Rips the amulet right out of the core and tosses it away.

But you weren't done yet. "AND NOW!...THE FINALE!"

"FLUTTAFLUTTAFLUTTAFLUTTA" "Devil May Shy", after a few more punches, stretched it's right arm out horizontally, and karate chopped the robot in two. The top part containing Flim and Flam fell backwards onto the floor. "FLLLUUTTTTTAAAAAAAAAA!"

"HYAAAAAAA!" "Devil May Shy" ends it, uppercutting the bottom half of the robot right into the blue orb. The glass surrounding it shatters, blasting a blue light outwards as it snakes and weaves around the room and out of the castle like fireworks. It almost seemed never ending as the magic of the world began to go back into place, leaving behind nothing but stardust.

It was over...you straightened your hat as "Devil May Shy" made one more pose and then vanished. Of course, with that, your cool clothes vanished with it.

Chapter 258 - Flim Flam Future Arc

It was over, the machine was defeated. To the point that you could barely believe it. You didn't think you could actually win the day or actually figure out a way to actually beat it up. In truth, that was just guesswork

But wait!

You turn to where Chrysalis had fallen. You had to make sure she was ok. A hit like that...

But when you looked to where she had fallen, she was gone. The only thing she had left was her wing. Fuck, why did she leave? Maybe she went to recover for a bit? Still, it worried you. But at the same time, you had vibes that she was still about...watching

Then your ears perked up when you heard the cheers of the foals. Cheering for the fact that their overlords had fallen.

The ones that were nearby at ground level started to run towards you with happy faces.

Well, they were probably excited because you just saved their asses.

You smile, it warmed your heart. You thought you'd give them some heroic and brave words.

But as you prepared yourself, they all ran past you, and ran up straight to Gertrude.

"Wow Momma Gertrude, that was amazing!"

"Yeah! You beat up that monster so good that the green thing actually managed to finish it off!"

"It was sooo awesome! That green thing would have never been able to do a thing unless you kicked all the weak spots!"

"Momma Gertrude!" Pop Fly hopped about "I lead out everypony else to cheer you all on and it worked! Does that mean I'll do super good as a leader when I'm older?"

Gertrude found the whole thing adorable and charming. She couldn't help but smile and give a pat to Pop Fly's head "I think super good is an understatement. I think "Perfect" is more of a word suited for you. The perfect little team captain"

This made Pop Fly immensely happy. He just hugged onto her leg and never let go from those words.

As for Flim and Flam, Celestia had already decided to approach the fallen head of the machine.

You thought you'd feel peeved about it. But, it really was heartwarming to see such a loving changeling mommy. Besides, you didn't need to be the hero colt of both worlds. Even if it would have been legit this time.

You walk over to Celestia and look into the giant knight helmet's visor.

Flim and Flam looked defeated, oh so butt kicked. They were silently talking amongst themselves. Odd, considering what just happened.

"What are they doing in there?" You wondered

"They are discussing a new deal it would seem." Celestia looked pretty damn serious this time. Like she wasn't going to take their shit.

"Geez, you'd think they'd just give up by now. What could they even offer at this point?"

"It doesn't matter, I've made up my mind on what to do with them" Celestia sounded uncharacteristically cold in those words.

"....Are we actually going to throw them into a port-a-potty and toss them down the mountain?"

Celestia didn't answer, instead she waited. That was irksome, even more irksome was the fact Sunset was standing back, respecting Celestia's space as she was about to place down judgement. You’d think she’d be by her side for this.

"Ok Celestia, me and my brother have been talking amongst ourselves and we have worked out a new new deal that you'll just love!" Flim told Celestia with a slimy little smile

Celestia did not respond.

Flam was already feeling nervous, Flim moreso from her silence. "Yes a dandy little plan that'd work for all of us. Since windigos could be upon us in a few months now. We'd need to build a new generator for the portal. If we all work together, we can build it in record time and start collecting the magic we lost, open a portal, And we could ALL leave. No reason any of us have to become ponycicles now. Am I right?"

No reply, instead, Celestia put her hoof on the visor and flipped it open. Woah, that was easy. That just made Flim and Flam scared as fuck. You'd think it was Celestia summoning some awesome strength. But really, the latch of the visor had become loose.
Flim and Flam jumped back against the wall of the helmet, scared for their lives as Celestia gave them a death glare.

"W-w-w-w-wait!" Flim stammered "We can work something out, can't we?!"

"Name your terms! Please! You must understand! There's no hope now! We need to repair the generator! You know that, r-r-r-right?! RIGHT?!" Flam couldn't handle it now. He could feel cold encroaching doom.

"Listen well Flim and Flam. And listen good. You have committed acts so vile and heinous that even the likes of Nightmare Moon nor Sombra could compare. Foals put to work as slaves, destruction of the environment, obliteration of the very heart of harmony, and of course, the end of the world. Crimes of these nature would warrant a punishment even worse than being sealed for eternity"

Flim and Flam turned ghost white.

"Y-you don't mean..." Flim couldn't handle hearing what she meant, but asked anyway

"I do, ponies such as you don't deserve to exist in this world any longer" Celestia's words were full of cold and near malevolence. It was enough to even make you worried. But she had to have known what she was doing. You stepped back, staying clear of any magic she might actually cast. one you feared..of the explody kind.

Both Flim and Flam started bowing to her immediately, begging for forgiveness, speaking the same words together "We're sorry! We're sorry! Please! We were only trying to improve Equestria and things got out of hoof! Please...Please don't!"

Sunset however, couldn't stand it. She stepped forth with raw anger at their begging "SHUT UP! You two make me sick!"

Flim and Flam stopped, and cowered and shivered at Sunset's outburst.

"Whatever Celestia has in mind is too good for you!" Sunset herself was shaking, She even feared Celestia's words. If it meant what she thought it meant...then, it could mean that Celestia might actually go down a path that she could never come back from. Even if, in a way, she felt the brothers deserved it. Especially for essentially breaking Celestia in the first place.

But Celestia put a gentle hoof onto Sunset's head. And looked upon her with a sweet smile. "Don't worry Sunset, I only said it warrants a punishment of that nature. But..." Celestia turned back to them. Her soft expression becoming stoic once again. "Something must be done..."

"What? What are you going to do?" Sunset asked, curious

"I'm going to do....nothing" Celestia said. Surprising everyone. Even yourself.

There were a few protests. Gertrude was baffled and asked how she could say that. The children wanted justice. Rainbow Dash offered a jail cell. And yet...Celestia decided still..nothing.

"You two are free to go." Celestia tells them, still, in a cold fashion.

"Yes! Thank you Celestia! We always knew you had a kind heart!" Flim said, utterly relieved

"Indeed! Even after all this, your benevolence is truly as radiant as the sun!" Flam throws in a compliment for good measure. Hoping to try to discuss with her about the portal again.

"My benevolence only exists because I know what happens when one has gone too far, against one you love and treasure. But know this, just because you are free to go does not absolve you of your crimes. The ponies of Equestria will know everything you have done, and you will have to walk among them, live with them, and accept the way they will see you. As for all this? It will be dismantled and reconverted back to what it used to be. So your fate will be the same as ours. But I also want you to know this before I let you leave. You two will now have to face hardships that most ponies would never have to face, it will be opposite equivalent to your old life of rulership and leisure. You can choose to crumble under it, or perhaps...try to learn from all your past mistakes and become better ponies for it. Ones that could regain the respect of the ponies of Equestria without resorting to underhoofed means."

Flim gulped "Y-you talk as if we have a future..."

"Perhaps we do, perhaps we don't..." Celestia looks upon all of you for a moment, a smile forming across her face as she sees hope on the horizon just from looking at the faces of those who had helped her. She then looked back to the brothers, this time, in a more gentle expression "The story of Hearthwarming tells us the windigos were defeated due to the love and friendship between an earth pony, a unicorn, and a pegasus pony. A bond that soon spread between the three tribes. The first bond is what actually first repelled the windigos. So, if I cannot lead Equestria into a state of harmony within a few months then.." Celestia giggles "I'd guess that'd make me a very terrible princess, wouldn't it?"

Everyone filled with dread on that comment, absolutely everyone. Even Pinkie. Was that a joke?! WAS THAT A JOKE?!

Oh hey...it was a joke. Looked like Celestia returned to normal...BUT FUCKING STILL, SHE'S JOKING ABOUT THE END OF DAYS HERE!

"Er, pardon mah interruptin' Celestia. But that seems pretty hokey to me. Not the whole hearthwarming. But about lettin those two tar lickers go. Ah think we should tan the coats off both of em. They ain't never gonna change." Applejack wanted to see an actual punishment "They threatened to take mah sister away, they ruined the apple family heritage, and then there's the whole foal slavery thing. We gotta do somethin' to em. It ain't right to let em go, they'll just try somethin' else"

Celestia could feel the rage in Applejack's heart. That was the kind of thing she had to prevent, the vengeance. Violence only begets more violence. "I understand Applejack. But as I said, the world will bring upon them a proper punishment through difficult trials. And they will have to make large changes for themselves to be able to overcome them. Our trials is learning to forgive, and move on with our lives so we can make the lives of others who have suffered under them better, so they may move on and do the same. That is the path we must take. Now then..." Celestia steps aside "You two may leave now, I hope you have learned from this. And will continue to learn."

Flim and Flam were stunned. They didn't expect this. They knew they couldn't convince her. But to be let go? Even with what she said, it confused them more than it unsettled them. They looked upon the faces of the others in the room. All of them filled with discontent and anger towards them. They couldn't think of anything to say. They were afraid to even apologize. They got up slowly from the helmet of the robot and very slowly got out. They walked towards the exit back to the castle without a single goddamned word. Fuck though, you really wanted to do....something to them.

After they had walked off. Sunset had to ask "Princess Celestia, do you really think it's a good idea to let them go...I mean...after all that?"

Celestia nodded "I do, they can't do anything to us anymore. And we have much more important things to worry about. We all have something important we must do, and we don't have a lot of time to do it. So..my friends." Celestia looked to all of you, a strong sense of duty about her "We must all do our best to do what we can to make Equestria a land of friendship and harmony once again. For those that must go, I hope to see you again some day soon. For those who will stay by my side, we have much work to do....Anon"

Celestia then looks to you "I will need your help as well. If you don't wish to, I understand. I know you are from another world and asking any more of you after what you have done for us thus far would be too much. But please, if you can lend us your help just one more time. After witnessing the power you possess, I wish to use it to help things along"

Well, considering things weren't fixed yet, it didn't really look like you were going anywhere. Besides, these were your friends now, you couldn't leave them hanging. "Yeah, of course! I mean, if there's anything I can do I want to be able to do it. Course, it's gonna take a day. My horn only works once per day."

"I understand, it will take me a day as well to plan out what I am going to say tomorrow. Sunset wishes to have me crowned by the afternoon" Celestia giggled as she looked to her "Despite the fact she won't get any sleep due to it, are you sure you want to rush things Sunset?"

Sunset nodded "It's all part of the plan Princess Celestia. And I'm going to see it through. a quick morning collection of votes in Canterlot is all we need to see you crowned again. And considering a majority of Equestria's citizens can be found in Canterlot these days. It will be enough to give you back your status, granted the votes are unanimous. I just need to spend the night getting everything set up."

"All night setting up?" Twilight interjected "Is that really necessary? It shouldn't take that long to get a bunch of ballots ready"

"It's for a lot of ponies Twilight. It's gonna be an all nighter" Sunset explains, then sighs "I'm not going to get any sleep at all. Trust me, it's going to be tens of thousands of papers I'm going to have to write."

"Uh huh...and?" Twilight questioned her, it seemed very insufficient to her "If you need to make a bunch of copies for a single version of a ballot. All you have to do is use a copy spell. I did it all the time back at the hotel for copying receipts and bills."

"Yeah but, this is for A LOT of copies Twilight. Copy spells may not use too much magic, but when you use it over a thousand times. It kinda tends to wear you down" Sunset explains.

Twilight smiles and shakes her head "You don't get it, Why copy it individually when you can make all the copies you need all in one go?"

"Also impossible, there's not a single spell that could make that many copies at once without a few screw ups in a few of them" This, Sunset was sure of.

"And you're right, that's actually true. But I actually have a knack for solving issues involving magic" Twilight started to get a little arrogant "And while I admit even I couldn't do something like that. I could show you a quick method of making about half of what we need with only a quarter of the magic. And then we can get everything we need if we both cast the spell together. Considering I'm going to be YOUR assistant, I think it might be good to catch you up on a few magical methods. Of course, that being said and all..." Twilight started to get a little fangirly "We're gonna have a lot of time to spare after all that. So I was thinking you, Princess Celestia, and I could maybe probably spend that time discussing the application and development of advanced magic, we can do that right?"

Sunset giggled at all that. She could tell that she herself had gotten rusty with her time out of Equestria. She didn't have time to redevelop her magical skills back to tip top condition due to taking care of Celestia. "Sure, as long as Princess Celestia doesn't mind"

With everything solved and done with. Everyone went their own way.

Rainbow Dash quit her job as police chief. She wanted to dedicate her time to setting up a New Wonderbolts team and getting her friend Fluttershy back. It would go without saying that she of course would succeed at both of these tasks. Even managing to disband the eco-terrorist group that Fluttershy ignorantly surrounded herself with. Of course, Rainbow Dash was only able to do this due to some help from a letter she was given by Celestia herself.

Pinkie returned home, with the promise of many visits. Her business would become successful, Spreading love,friendship,cheer, and good times to all who hired her. Celestia, after she became princess, would give her family back the rock farm, setting things back to normal.

Speaking of farms.The Apple Family would all be given their farms and orchards back.Which was good for Applejack, as applebucking and farmlife was her bread and butter.

For Gertrude, Celestia knew that for the time being, moving her and the foals into a new home would be impossible until things started to go back to normal. And Gertrude was hesitant to take in any of Celestia's suggestions, still having a bit of her old self in her. But, The love of her "children" eventually made her see reason. Celestia gave her a portion of the castle to herself. So the foals would have plenty of room to run and play. And she could keep a watchful eye on all of them.

The Diamond Guard? Well, they were just sent to where they came from. They didn't really put up much of a fight when they learned the old guard were following Celestia at that point. Regardless of having princessship or not.

As for you? You were offered a room in the castle to stay as long as you wished, Flam's room to be exact. Celestia would talk to you when the time came. So, until that time came, you spent your time looking for Chrysalis around the vicinity.

You couldn't find her. And it was already night. You were tired, and scared that maybe something happened to her after all. It kept you up longer than you should. By the time you went to bed, you were exhausted. The worst part was nobody saw her around.

But she had to be ok. She was too clever and stubborn to just find a quiet place to die. Either she was hiding for other reasons, or she was out getting something done before heading back home. You even asked Celestia if she had seen her. All she could tell you was she was sure she was around.

If she was right. Then you'd probably be seeing her again in the morning.

you drifted off to sleep in Flam's large bed. and internally hoped to see Chrysalis soon.

You sleep soundly on Flam's bed.

"Anon..."

you dream of Chrysalis, in the hopes she's ok

"Anon"

Also snacks. Namely your much beloved Doritos and Mountain Dew...which was oddly being served to you by the bug queen.

"Anon! By Tartarus, my other self was right. You sleep way too much!"

You feel the blanket being pulled so hard off of you that you end up sliding off the bed and hitting your head. Though, you barely feel that this time. It was nothing at this point. "Hu-uh? W-what?! Whats going on?"

You were on your back, part of you covered in the blanket as Gertrude looks down at you. She rolls her eyes and points to the windows. There was sunlight coming from them "Anon, you're lazy. You know that? Even my foals don't sleep around as much as you do"

"Gertrude?...oh" Yeah, you hadn't left yet. You almost thought that you'd wake up in your world. But things weren't done yet. Unfortunately, you knew your horn had no charge, it was still the same day you beat Flim and Flam. "W-what time is it?"

"It's the afternoon." Gertrude says in an annoyed way. she found it unbelievable you slept like this due to the fact how important today was.

...the afternoon? "THE AFTERNOON?! HOLY CRAP!"

You threw off the blanket and looked around in a panic "What's happened?! was there a vote?! are they still voting?! Is Celestia a princess?!...wait no.."

Thats impossible "That can't be right, it would take a couple of days. Wouldn't it?"

"...Not if a few guards spilled the story last night on the former kings. Everypony panicked about what could happen and immediately called for Celestia to be the princess again."

..wait "Hey, that's actually pretty good"

"..No, that's bad. Because now everypony is scared for themselves and looking to Celestia for an answer. We didn't even have time to make a speech yet. Sunset,Twilight, and Princess Celestia are locked up in the throne room right now planning. They want to ask you for the use of the horn but. Given what my other self has told me, you don't have the ability to right now. Right?"

No… "Well uh, no. But, can't we postpone things til tomorrow?"

Gertrude shook her head. "No, unfortunately it'll have to be today. But, we'll leave the princess to handle that for now. We need to go see my other self, she has a surprise for us somewhere outside the city"

"Woah, hold on. You actually saw her recently?" You got worried. A surprise? was she ok? "Is she ok? Is she hurt?! I need to know. She took a pretty bad hit last night from that drill and-"

Gertrude puts her hoof onto your mouth and puts it in just a little to make you shut up. Egh, tasted like bug. "She's fine. But she's being secretive about something.And I'd rather not waste time waiting. So hop on my back,and we'll get going."

Hop on her back? Could she even fly? "Erm..Why? Aren't we just going to walk there? I can walk just fine, you know that right? And shouldn't we tell the others that we'll be gone?"

"I already told my children that I'll be out. The rest don't need to know a thing. Now..." She points to her back "Why don't you be a good little foal and hop on my back." Her tone was rather sharp, just like your Chrysalis

"ugh, fine. I'm not gonna argue with you, because I already know how stubborn either of you can be. But do you have to be so crass?"

Gertrude sighs as she lowers herself so you can climb on her back. "Something about you irks me. Perhaps if you didn't argue when I tell you something I'd be nicer. When I said get on my back, I expect you to do it. I wouldn't give you a ride unless I had a reason."

You climb onto her back, and hold on. Gertrude looks around. Checks back at the door, and starts walking towards the window.

"I hope you don't act like this on your "children" when nopony is looking" Like geez, she’s fucking mean.

Gertrude scoffs as she opens a window "I'd NEVER do that. Unlike you, they are pure, innocent, and loving...plus they pay attention to me. They don't even mind the fact that I look less than I once did..." Gertrude stops to touch at the place her horn once was. "Look, I don't hate you. I'm just upset.."

Upset?.hrn, it felt weird hearing it like that from her. Then again, this wasn't your Chrysalis. "Upset? About what?"

Gertrude looks around, it looked like she was measuring things with her eyes. "This collar. after the former kings left, I went into Flim's room to take the generator box that powered the collar. Unfortunately, as it turns out, It was a fake...A FAKE!" Gertrude loses her cool and rips the window off its hinges and throws it "HOW COULD I BE FOOLED BY A FAKE?! ALL THE TIMES I WENT AFTER IT BEFORE! IT WAS ALL A RUSE TO MAKE ME THINK I COULD TURN THINGS AROUND ON THEM! THEY HAD THE ACTUAL GENERATOR ON THEM THE WHOLE TIME AND I DIDN'T NOTICE! NOW I'M STUCK WITH THIS COLLAR FOREVER! THEY USED FALSE HOPE TO TRY TO BREAK MY SPIRIT...OHHH, I DON'T CARE WHAT CELESTIA SAYS! IF I SEE THEM AGAIN! I'LL BREAK THEM!"

Gertrude was breathing hard. ohhh, damn. Now you understood why she was upset. It must of took a lot of patience to hold that in until now.

You also almost lose your balance. You almost fly out the window "Woah woah! C-calm down...look. Don't worry about it ok? I don't know when I have to go back. So maybe tomorrow, I can just try using the horn to break the collar or something."

Gertrude stops, almost immediately.....that didn't make sense to her. "You'd do that for me? Even after saying you irk me?"

"Yeah, I mean. If I could be cool with your "Evil" self. Then the nice version that is you has got to be pretty ok. And that makes us friends. So of course I'll help you out, anyway I can"

Gertrude stopped, her voice became more gentle after you said those words. "...mnnn, then all I can ask you is..please, don't leave until you do. Can you do that for me? As a friend?"

You nod "Yeah, I'll find a way to postpone leaving if I can help it. Look, we may never see eachother again. I don't want to leave now that I said I'd help you too. We're all friends here. And I'd like to think that even after we leave. That we'll always remember each other."

"Ok.....I'm fine with that. Just never say it like that again. Much too sappy for my taste. Anyway, we've wasted enough time here. Are you ready for this?" Gertrude leans over the window. And prepares to jump.

wait..WAIT! "HOLD ON! WAIT! ARE YOU ACTUALLY GOING TO TRY TO FLY?!"

Gertrude gives you a stoic yet sarcastic look "Why yes Anon, I'm going to fly using the power of thoughts and friendship."

Oh, you recognized that tone. But...thankfully, that meant she wasn't going to try. So why was she leaning outwards like that? "Hey, sorry. Just thought you were going to do something crazy. Can't blame me for thinking that after nearly jumping out the window like that"

"That's crazy? Funny, I do it all the time" Gertrude says as she prepares for a jump

wut? "WHAT?! YOU MEAN...W-WHAT?! WAIT! HOLD OOOOONNAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHSHIIIITTT!"

Gertrude hops out the window and starts hopping from spire to spire with great finesse, clinging to walls and running down them until she starts jumping from building to building until you both reached the outskirts of the city, somewhere on the other side of the mountain. There was a now abandoned construction site building...something.

"Ahhhh, it always feels good to skulk and jump about like that, How are you doing Anon?" Gertrude looks back to see your condition.

You were as still as a statue, your face full of shock, so still that you just slid to the right and fell off. You didn't even make a sound.

Gertrude just shook her head as she looked upwards in embarrassment "What an overreaction. My children would have loved to ride around like that. egh..." Gertrude looks down at you and gives you a light slap on the face "Snap out of it. We're here."

"O-ow!..ogh..." You went as limp as a ragdoll after that slap. And then rolled onto your back and looked up into the bright sky. "W-where's here?"

"A construction site for the Kings' mountainside museum. It was abandoned a few months ago. No reason to waste resources when you were going to jump dimensions" Gertrude starts looking around. "She's close..."

"Closer than you think" Chrysalis, still with one wing, steps out from behind a set of metal beams "Good afternoon you two, how have you both been?" Chrysalis said with a sinister grin

You slowly got up. Christ, she had one of those evil grins on her face. what could she possibly be up to this time? Was she planning to conquer this Equestria?....nah, can't be. If she did, the windigos would get her. "Chrysalis? huh, what's going on?"

"Oh, not much. I decided to try being like the pink one for once.." Chrysalis turns into Pinkie Pie, and then throws confetti into the air "AND THROW A PARTY! YAYYY!"

...uh wut?

"A party?" Gertrude looks around, she couldn't get a feel for anything else. She couldn't even tell what her other self was planning. "If I remember the old days, and as I understand it, you ARE the old days, you hate parties, so what's going on?"

"Yeah, I agree. That...is really weird. You even changed into Pinkie Pie. You HATE Pinkie Pie. did that drill hit you too hard on the head? Are you ok?"

Pinkie's excited face turned into one of being purely agitated from that response. She just narrows her eyes at you and changes back to Chrysalis. "...Yes I'm ok. I can't throw a party once in awhile? I can't be festive? Do you think that I'm just a dull bug who plots and schemes all the time?"

....errrr "Yeah...Kinda"

"......" Chrysalis rolled her eyes ".....tch, to know that both of you think that hurts me. Right here, in my little black heart. It may be a little rushed, but I thought throwing a party for the three of us would be just what we need to bring smiles to all of our faces."

Uhhhhhh......

Both you and Gertrude look at eachother, then at her.

"I..have to agree with Anon. Are you sure you didn't take a hit to the head? You're sounding insane" Gertrude just couldn’t get a read on her, something was off.

"Yeah cripes, that's pretty damn creepy. How can any of this be a party? There's not anything that would make it one. Look, Chrysalis, have you been out all night? Maybe you need some sleep." You suggest

Chrysalis shook her head "How disappointing. I suppose that I'm not as good as the pink one to setting up the proper party with cake, streamers, fireworks, and the like. But I'll tell you one thing I'm good at..."

Chrysalis's horn glows as a large bag is dragged out from behind the metal beams. She puts it between herself and the two of you. There was something inside...something struggling. "And that's providing the main piece of the party."

What in the world? "W-what's that?"

The tied end of the bag began to magically undo itself from Chrysalis's magic as she chuckled in delight "What? How about who instead?...allow me to present..." The bag untied itself to reveal....Flim and Flam. Tied and gagged. Struggling and terrified. "The former kings of this Equestria....isn't it delicious?"

Gertrude froze, her eye began to twitch from rage just from the sight of them.

You, you were just surprised. "Holy shit Chrysalis, What the....This is going against Celestia's word."

Chrysalis sighed "Really Anon? After everything they've done? You'd rather follow this Celestia's word? Are you telling me you don't want any form of revenge, or fucking hell, just some fun? You remember what fun is, don't you?"

You did know what fun was. Hell, you hated these two. Or these versions of these two anyway. "...I do, that's why I'm totally ok with this. Fuck these guys. I'm with you on this one, I think Celestia went too light on them."

Yeah, she really did. between the foal slavery and ruining everyone's lives. You remembered what happened to Filthy Rich too. in fact, you had to ask Celestia about that after all this was done.

"Hrnnn?" Chrysalis was deeply intrigued by your decision "No objections whatsoever?"

"Not a one"

Chrysalis cackled "Finally, something diabolically sensational out of you for on-"

But Chrysalis is interrupted as Flim and Flam struggle enough to get their gags off. "What are you doing?! You can't do this! Celestia let us go! It's against her word!" Flim yells in terror

You shrug "Sorry bro, she ain't my Celestia. Y'know, other world ponies and all that. Besides, You made my aunt of this world into a fucking mega hippy and ruined my marefriend's dad. So basically..." You grin at them "We gonna fuck yo shit up"

"WHAT DOES THAT EVEN MEAN?!" Flim screams

"Gertrude!..Gertrude..." Flam tries to sound more tender and caring "Think of us not as your masters, but as your friends. If we hadn't done what we did, you'd have eventually been brought down by Celestia. Either by banishment or by pure destruction! In a way, we saved you. Surely that counts for something...right? We're all tied together. Me, my brother..and you" He tries to appeal to Gertrude's kinder nature.

Gertrude and her anger suddenly vanished as she sighed heavily, and put her hoof to her chest "You're right Flam, we are tied together, the three of us. As I gaze upon you two now." She steps up closer to them "There's nothing I can do to harm you two. I am still yours to do with as you please..."

Flam sighed in relief as you look upon her with surprise and worry.

You look to Chrysalis for a response, but she was just observing. The fuck?!

"Gertrude, I am extremely glad to hear you understand." Flam sighs in relief

"Indeed, as am I. Now please tell these ruthless barbarians to let us go. Will you? They have to realize the bond we formed was beyond this whole slavery nonsense." Flim pleads

Gertrude nods to the both of them "I do understand. And we have formed quite the bond." Gertrude reaches her hoof out into Flim's shirt, and takes out some sort of device. Whatever it was, it made the brothers flinch in horror. Gertrude threw the gizmo down to the ground and smashed it with her hoof. the moment she did. The collar let out an electrical discharge, and fell off. Gertrude then let out an evil little snicker "But now the bond is over. So now we can....hmmm." Gertrude looks to the both of you "What would you both say in this situation?"

Fuck yeah! Haha! That was actually pretty damn sweet. Well, looked like she wouldn't need your magic after all. That was one hell of a little play. To think, those two bastards were lugging it around. Looks like they still thought they could control at least her. Nah fuck it, they done. "I'd use a simple "Fuck you two up" "

"Hrn?" Gertrude was confused "That doesn't sound right. Is that even an actual phrase? or a word even?"

Chrysalis nods "Oh it is. And Anon is right, it fits the situation perfectly. It just means we're going to ruin their life in some way."

Gertrude snickers "Well then...." Gertrude looks to the two brothers, her eyes giving a shimmer of vicious green as she slowly feels her power returning. Even though it was a tiny bit, it was something "You're both fucked. Now...what's the plan?"

"I say we beat the living shit out of them." Nothing like a classic beating.

"Good thinking Anon, I like the effort. But we are higher beings. Yes, even you. No, I have a better idea. There was a reason I chose this venue after all" Chrysalis slowly turned her head to a couple of port-a-potties

"Oh? a better idea? I don't know. I actually like Anon's idea right now. There's sooooooo much I want to get off my hooves right now...and into their faces" Gertrude looked upon the cowering pair with a dark look, a glint in her eye.

But you could see what Chrysalis was looking at. And it made you have such a perverse grin. "Oh Chrysalis...that's just awesome."

Chrysalis grins back at you. She was so glad you understood what she meant. "Anon, I rarely get to see this side of you , especially this serious about it. It's almost attractive...almost" She was being half sarcastic

"Oh..you think that's good? Give me a few minutes..." You start walking towards the port-a-potty, open the door, and step inside.

Gertrude was confused "What's he doing? What's going on now?"

But Flim and Flam seemed to know what's going on

"You couldn't..." Flim said in a low voice

"YOU WOULDN'T!" Flam yelled out, he couldn’t take anymore shit...literally.

Chrysalis groaned and regagged them with her magic "Will you two be quiet? you’re annoying me. Anyway.." Chrysalis looks to Gertrude with a grin. "It should be obvious by now. But I'll explain. We're going to put those two in there....bring them to the edge of the mountain there....and oopsy! we tip it over. Now won't that be fun?"

Gertrude cackled "I must admit, I do feel a little like my old self. I'm just wondering about him, he seemed so caring and loving before. What with gathering those other ponies and such. And now, if I am assuming correctly, he's defecating in there."

"Anon can be quite surprising sometimes. I'd say it would be a mystery, but I've seen first hand evidence that his kind is capable of many things, and many emotions. They can be kind,caring, and sweet...but cross them....and you'll have a nuke in your face"

Gertrude was confused "Hrn? Is it that human thing you spoke about?"

Chrysalis nodded "Exactly...."

You soon came out of the port-a-potty. Relieved, and rarin' to go. "Alrighty. All set to go. And I gotta say, it's some of my best work."

You stand next to the port-a-potty and wait. You notice one of the brothers begin to glow green from Chrysalis's horn as they scream and struggle. their cries muffled by the gags.

And just like that. Gertrude grabbed Flim and tossed him into the Port-a-potty as Flam goes flying in after. Their screams of smelly agony could be heard by the three of you. Delicious.

You started to hum a little tune as you stood in front of the port-a-potty and faced away from it. "hmm..hmm..AND...LIFTOFF!"

You buck it as hard as you can. It actually moves forward, and tips downwards. Falling over the safety beam and hitting the side of the mountain as it begins to slide down at a horrendously quick pace. "hehe, Well ain't that shit."

"It is, I'm satisfied now" Chrysalis trotted over to see the port-a-potty tumble downwards. Screaming ponies in tow.

"As am I, the sweet taste of revenge is so delicious. In fact, I think I'll bake a few cherry pies for the little ones when I get back" Gertrude said with a sweet grin

All three of you share in the moment. listening to the brothers screams of agony before they tumbled too far down to be heard anymore.

Revenge really was sweet.

After that. You all returned to the castle. There really wasn't much to do now but wait for Celestia. The scary thing was that the castle had been surrounded by ponies awaiting Celestia's speech. You had to be carried back up to your room by Gertrude pretty much the same way you left. And that..was fucking frightening.

You were alone with Chrysalis now. Gertrude had thanked you both for the delicious vengeance, but left, wanting to tend to her foals.

"...So what do we do now? How do we get home?" Chrysalis wondered

"I don't know yet, I'd assume it'd have to do with Celestia's speech. I don't think I could help write it or anything. But if it has to go worldwide, I could use the horn to like..project everything she's saying across Equestria, maybe throw in some visuals. But without another charge... " You sigh

"Another charge you say? Perhaps I can help with that." You hear a familiar chuckle interrupt you "Perhaps? What am I thinking, I definitely could help with that. Because, really? This little story has run its course long enough and there's only so much couch sitting I can do watching you two. Not to say you both didn't do a good job, it was a fun ride except for the dreadful middle section where you were befriending ponies and all. Really, all of this probably could have been solved if you made better use of the horn. Although that whole "Stand" business was rather cute. If only because it itself had good taste in pony."

"Discord?" Both you and Chrysalis say, looking around.

And in a flash. Discord appeared. Or rather, a fuzzy and transparent Discord appeared, going blurrier or coming up as visual white noise like a tv every so often. "Close, but it's actually just a magically induced hologram. I unfortunately can't leave my spot. Somepony has to keep the dimensional path clear. In anycase, I assume you both are ready to go home? There's only so long I can keep the dimensional path between alternate times like this open"

"Of course I am. I won't lie, I had some fun, but I've gotten everything I wanted out of this place and want to go home." Chrysalis answers.

"So do I. But I need a little more time. I just want to be able to say goodbye to the friends I made here in the castle. And pass on a message to the ones outside of it. Like Ponk and Rainbow Dash....heh...sorry Ponk, I'm gonna have to skip dinner"

"Ahh, that "Friendly" side of you finally poking out after that brilliant show at that construction site, Eh? I can't really do that, you don't have too much time left. So what I suggest is do that now, and then do that speech thing with Celestia. Because Anon, once you use this extra charge I've sent you. You'll be sent back home. The both of you will. Chryssi, you don't have any bothersome goodbyes to handle as well. Do you?"

Chrysalis shook her head "Of course not. I'm done here. My other self already knows I want to leave and I've already discussed with her everything I needed. I have no obligation to say goodbye to anypony else"

"Well Anon, I suppose that just leaves you. I'd suggest you get a move on. Those ponies out there seem restless and I'm sure that suggestion of yours would help speed things along." Discord says as he boredly puts on the same butterfly gloves his "Stand" self put on. "Hmm, I rather like these..they speak to me..they say...."Make some punch for a party, and then watch as a fist comes out of the punch and hits Applejack in the face" “ Discord chuckled.

You laugh at that, it was a little mean, sure. But you found it funny all the same. "Heh, You'll never change buddy. Anyway, I gotta say. It was a crazy ride. But thanks for making this happen."

"Oh spare me Anon, I don't need to hear that dribble. You already have the satisfaction of saving an entire world. You don't need to be sentimental about it. Anyhoo, see you both at home. Good luck Anon, don't screw things up now" Discord then compressed, and turned into a small ball that flew into your horn, giving it a soft glow. It wasn't truly him of course. But that was his magic. It looks like you had one final thing to do.

Time to say goodbye.

With that, you felt the need to go see Celestia on the status of the speech.

But as you neared the door, Chrysalis stopped you one last time. "Anon, you haven't realized it yet, have you?"

You stop. Wha? What was she talking about? "Realize what? Uh, Chrysalis. I really should go see Celestia."

"You can wait a moment. I want you to hear this. Because now that I've come to realize it. It actually amazes me."

You turn around to face her. What was she getting at? "Amaze you? You mean amaze you in a "Anon fucked up again." Type of way? Because if it's that, then I don't really want to hear it. I could only take so much criticism" Your response was just in a tired sense.

Chrysalis frowned "Awww, Anon. We have a small party together and you think that's what I meant? No, I'm actually amazed because you actually pulled it off. You infiltrated the castle, dethroned a couple of idiots, and had this been our universe, it would have been ours for the taking. Two out of three isn't bad. And considering how close I feel this makes us, I want to tell you a truth about a lie I had told you long ago."

The truth of a lie? "I'm afraid of what you mean by that. Well almost. I mean uhhh..." You start to blush "If it's about teasing me sexually and stuff...and actually wanting me..."

Chrysalis's expression becomes that of stoic disgust "...Just because we're in a bedroom doesn't mean that's the truth I want to tell. It's not even a truth. No, this is for..other reasons. For you see Anon, changelings are not actually nomads. We actually have a kingdom of our own."

"Woah, what? Like...an actual kingdom? And not just a hive? Didn't you say you wanted a castle or something for yourself? I don't remember."

Chrysalis rolls her eyes "Anon, if that was the case, I could have taken the castle of another kingdom. You really don't think, do you? Anyway, the reason I lied before was because of the way you and Discord just came into our base of operations in that old abandoned fortress. I had primed the whole hive for an immediate attack that nopony would be able to be prepared for in time. Of course, it turned out our intel was a huge farce." Chrysalis sighs "I suppose it was arrogance that had me move the whole hive into a temporary base. But you should know that in the art of war: The closer your main force is, The less time your opponents can prepare for a counter attack. Our actual kingdom, my castle, Is actually a well protected fortress, impenetrable by any means other than our own magic. If you thought this "Anti-magic material" was impressive, my throne, a magical artifact in itself, can negate any magical force in Equestria...even chaos magic. I never told you this before because I didn't need you or Discord making a trip to my castle and defacing it."

...that was sudden. Why would she tell you all this? This was confusing. "Why are you telling me this? Why now?"

"Because..." Chrysalis steps up to you with a wry smile, she was a little irritated that you'd question her instead of figuring it out for yourself. She puts her hoof on your head, a little more firmly than softly, and relaxes herself "You have the makings of a changeling, I've said it before. But now I'm absolutely sure. You are capable of a unique kind of cruelty most ponies would never expect. And I know you've had trouble with Twilight Sparkle herself. I trust you Anon, and I trust that you will soon realize that these ponies deserve to be under my rule."

You back off, goddammit. you didn't want to be mad at her. But you were tired of hearing that.
"You always say that, but I keep telling you no, it's never going to happen."

Chrysalis's smile twists into a more cruel form. "Just remember Anon, you owe me your life, four of them to be exact. And now, after all this? I can see you are competent enough to defeat a powerful opponent. I'm telling you this because you'll be mine eventually and you'll need to know about your new future home. If I can't convert you to my side one way, then I'll have you serve me to make up for the fact that without me, you wouldn't be standing here at all."

...goddammit. Here we go, she just had to ruin a good thing. "Chrysalis, just because you saved me doesn't mean I'm going to serve you. I'm not interested in ruling Equestria."

"Not right now you aren't. Do you think I'm just going to call in a life debt when you're still so disagreeable? No, I'm just going to wait until you can't stand being around those ponies any longer. if your relationship with Twilight Sparkle is any indication, it'll be inevitable. And besides, I'm not worried of you getting sick of me. Because deep down inside, you like me for MANY reasons. And don't worry, I haven't forgotten about your little marefriend, she's just as invited as you are. But of course she'll have to abide my rules. And...that's it really. That's all I have to say. You can argue if you want, but we both know it'll just end with us saying we'll reform the other. So, go finish your business so I can go home. I'll even say please...with sugar on top" She gives you a boop on the nose

You just stand there, unable to say a word. She was right. there was no point arguing, and there was no point in having the last word against her. She won't listen. But, a throne that could cutoff all forms of magic? She must have thought she'd have a quick win if she brought the whole hive away from such a safety net....ugh..you'll ponder on it later.

You leave the room, and head towards the throne room. With the hallways untrapped, it'd be easy to get there.

"Well isn't that interesting..."

You hear Chrysalis's voice...but she didn’t follow you out of the room. "Gertrude?"

You look around. But she wasn't anywhere to be found.

"Up here Anon"

Hm? You look up, and see Gertrude clinged to the wall right above the door. You expected her to have a smug look on her face. But she didn't, she just looked curious about something.

"Gertrude...uh...oh" Yeah, she had to of. She eavesdropped, and that was worrying. "...you heard everything in there, didn't you?"

She nods and hops down from the wall and looks towards the door as she speaks. She seemed curious, yet dazzled. "I did, and I must say. It was very interesting.."

Great, even if she was the nicer of the two. you were probably just going to get another variant of Chrysalis's want to control you. "Yeah, look. I'm busy. But I do want to say goodbye though. We'll be leaving soon, so I'd appreciate it if you don't mock me."

"Mock you?" She giggles "Why would I mock you? If anything, I should be mocking my other self. Although, her love did taste very pure. So odd."

Uhh, wut? What the fuck was she talking about? Mock herself? Well, yeah. They've been doing that at times. But what the fuck was that about love? "You gotta be joking, she doesn't love. That doesn't happen."

Gertrude raises her eyebrow at you. "Are you serious?"

You nod "Yeah, have you not realized that by now?"

Gertrude doesn't speak. She just points to herself, then the door, then back to herself, then the door again.

Wut? "uhhh, what are you doing?"

Gertrude smacks her face with her hoof, but she keeps her voice down. She didn't want to yell and let herself be heard. She could sense her other self wasn't eavesdropping. And she knew her other self hadn't realized that she was eavesdropping on that very conversation. She then looks at you, annoyed, and yet, not surprised. "Anon...You do realize who you're talking to right now, right?"

........oh right...

You chuckle nervously "Riiiiiiiiight...you're her.....yeah. But that still doesn't make any sense. You lost your hive and learned to love the foals you've been taking care of. But this Chrysalis, she's still evil. And her sense of friendship is totally different from everypony else's. Hell, I don't think it's an actual friendship sometimes."

Gertrude gives you a warm yet sly smile and starts leading you down the hallway towards the throne room "Anon, she was probably telling the truth about that before. But that's not the truth now, she considers you her actual friend. And considering you'd be the first, she would have no idea how to actually act towards you."

An actual friend? Was she being serious? Because you couldn't tell. She had to be wrong. "How can you be so sure about that?"

"As I said, I felt and tasted her love for you. It's there, it exists. You're a pony that she wouldn't want anything to happen to you. Trust me on this Anon, she risked her life to save you. Considering what i've learned now, I know she would have never done that unless she cared."

"Yeah, I guess that's weird. The fact she could see my stand meant she cared and believed in me. But, I just don't know. That could have been just because she wants to go home."

Gertrude shakes her head. She was sure that was wrong. "Oh no Anon, it's definitely more than that. She has now made it a mission to make you her own. Before, she would have given you a choice. Now, should the day come that she does take over. She won't let you have one. Even if she has to keep you in a cocoon."

You cringe, that sounded creepy and bad. "..You're exaggerating that a little, right? I mean...right? Because that sounds scarier than the friendship we had before."

"I'm not, I would do it if I was still evil. So, that must be the way she'd do it."

You gulp. Ok, that...was damned scarier..but wait...maybe there was a silver lining. "W-wait, but if what you say is true. Then maybe she wouldn't have to put me in a creepy....slimy...ehhh..Look, what I'm saying is. If what you say is true, then I'm close to reforming her. Because if she's my friend, that means she cares, it means she has a heart, and that means eventually she'll see my way of thinking because she wouldn't want to hurt me. Ha! I got it!"

You cackle, shit, this felt good. You almost had it then!

But Gertrude frowns and shakes her head "Sorry to say Anon, but that's not right. She's still evil and cruel, she has no reason to be friendly and kind when her thirst for vengeance and domination has yet to be quenched. All it means is that she won't let anything happen to you that she doesn't like, or try anyway. Though, if you did want to reform her....there is one way"

One way?...well whatever it was, if it was coming from Gertrude. It had to be THE way. Fuck it, you'll take it. "Whatever it is, I'll do it. Just tell me."

Gertrude seemed to have gotten a sick satisfaction out of that as she grins evilly. "Well, just wait until an evil entity comes to Equestria and then try to fight it, lose, and then get destroyed. My other self would be so overwhelmed with grief from the news that she would seek to destroy that entity herself, and then reform for your sake. Shouldn't be too hard now, right?"

.....Noooooope "Er....nevermind. I'll try to find another way."

Gertrude shrugs "It worked for me. But different strokes for different folks I suppose..." Gertrude sighs as she nears the throne door. "I do have to say though...I don't know what'd I do if I lost my children. Not again anyway. I don't want to think about it, and I don't want this plan to fail. I have hope both in Princess Celestia, and you Anon. You will be missed."

Gertrude leans over, and gives you a gentle hug.

During that hug, you felt that warmth the foals must have been able to feel, it didn't matter how cold her exoskeleton was. Because it was her heart that gave you that warmth..or something like that. "I'll miss you Gertrude, I'll always remember you as the Chrysalis I always wanted."

"And I'll miss you Anon, and thank you for saving me and my children. And for not being a goody four shoes when it turned out we'd be tormenting those terrible brothers."

You grin happily at her, to show her that yes, you liked that moment. "No problem....well.." You looked towards the throne doors "I better get cracking, or there won't be an Equestria in a couple of months."

"Good luck to you...all of you. I'm going to go bake those pies. Take care Anon...I mean that" And with that, Gertrude left to the royal kitchen as you open the doors to the throne room and step inside.

And when you do. You notice Celestia just sitting at her throne, using her magic to remove the ghastly decorations of Flim and Flam. No Sunset or Twilight. Da fuck was she doing? Where were they?

"Oh Anon." Celestia stops what she is doing to greet you with a smile as she sits on her throne "I've been awaiting you. For about an hour actually" Celestia giggled, she looked pretty beautiful with her mane down like that and looking clean and cheery "It seems you really enjoy sleeping"

Uhhhh. Wut? "Princess Celestia, erm..Where's Sunset and Twilight? Why aren't you preparing for that big speech thing?"

"Sunset and Twilight are outside managing the crowd. Unfortunately the townsponies know about what could happen, and that we all can be doomed. As for the speech, I feel my words wouldn't have much impact without some visualization. That's where you come in"

Aha! hey, she had the same idea you did. "That's cool actually, I was thinking the same thing. You know, using my horn to broadcast the whole thing across all of Equestria. I guess great minds think alike, right?"

Celestia smiled, but shook her head "Indeed, but I was thinking of going about this on a grander scale. Anon, I can speak and say exactly what I mean. But unfortunately, with the way the world is, Most ponies will only fend for themselves while only acting kind and friendly to avoid the fate coming to us. I want to, with my words, show them what Equestria can and should be. I want them to be reminded of the love and friendship we as Equestrians used to know. I want them to see an Equestria that we can recreate. And, well. There would be no better way than showing them an Equestria that knows such things already. One where the elements of harmony themselves have come to exist."

...oh hey, that is a pretty good idea. "That would work. I mean, I've been around ponies for awhile. They tend to swing easily to that kind of thing. Sure, I can make that happen. There's A LOT of nice stuff I can show them during the speech."

Celestia looked so relieved just to hear that. That's exactly what she was hoping for, but she still couldn't shake off some of the tense feeling she had to endure. "Then let us make haste."

Wait..WAIT "H-hold on! Now?..Like, right now?"

Celestia nodded "Yes, I have prepared my speech, and to waste time would only send everypony further into despair."

Looks like you were going to not get to say goodbye to everybody. But then, you had to get what you had to say out. "Princess Celestia, Can you wait a just a moment. I have a few things I want to say to at least you."

Celestia nods and instantly agrees. She didn't want to rush you, but she didn't want to keep everyone waiting either. "Yes Anon, what is it?"

"Well...one, there's a pony who really really needs your help. His name is Filthy Rich, he's been looking for his family for a pretty long time but Flim and Flam's rule has pretty much kept him confined to his job. Now that everything is kinda turned around, I was wondering if you could lend him some personal royal help in finding them. I'd really appreciate it if you could."

Celestia could feel a pinch at her own heart, losing family like that.... "Of course, I will lend all my resources in helping your friend. I promise."

...There you go Filthy Rich, there ya go...You hoped they really were out there and in good piece of mind. You could only imagine Filthy Rich's smile having Diamond Tiara and Spoiled Rich back....oh God, Diamond Tiara...you still had to deal with her and that sleepover thing.

"...Thank you, and..." Here we go… "after we're done, I'm gonna get sent back to my Equestria. It's sort of how Discord set things. So, I just...well...I just want to say goodbye Princess Celestia" You bow "And I hope that everypony understands why I have to go so suddenly. I didn't even get to say goodbye to Sunset, considering that without her we would have been doomed. I kind of wanted that chance. But that's fine....erm...you'll tell her I said bye, right?"

"Or you could tell me yourself." You hear Sunset's voice from behind

Fuck yes...thank god, you at least wanted to tell her goodbye. For once, a voice you hear from behind you is one you wanted to hear.

You turn around.

There was Sunset, and her mane was ruined, her coat was dirty, and she had gum on her tail. But there she was, just the same.

Christ.. "Geez, What happened to you?!"

"Long story short, everypony is panicking and demanding the Princess. Twilight is running crowd control while I came to check on Princess Celestia. Looks like you're all ready to go though if you're saying goodbye." Sunset raises her tail to look at it "Better prepared than me anyway, even with magic, bubblegum is always a hassle to get out. Took everything I had not to punch that pony out. He did it on purpose! Geez, the sooner we do this, the better."

If you could, you wouldn't mind wasting a charge to help her out but…

"Well, I guess I can't be too mad though. Considering everything is going back to the way things used to be...sorta. Princess Celestia, are you sure you really want me as an adviser? Even after abandoning you long ago?" Sunset still felt doubt about this.

Celestia nodded " That was long ago. The decisions made as a young pupil has nothing to do with the friend I see before me now. I trust you with my life, Sunset. So it's hard for me to imagine anypony else as my adviser considering I trust you the most."

"Eheh.." Sunset felt humbled by that "I guess, if you put it that way...still. I just hope I'm able to make you proud."

"You already have Sunset, And I know you will continue to do so" Celestia reassures her.

Sunset couldn't help but smile as she then turns to you "heh, and then there's you, huh? You're gonna be missed. And I can't thank you enough for what you've done for us, Anon."

Boy, you were feeling mary sueish......you kind of wished it was like this back in your Equestria. dealing with DT or the CMC was tougher than this shit. "I'll miss you all too. All of you. I had fun though. So, you're not gonna forget about me right?"

"Nope, you think I'd forget about a crazy human pony whatever thing coming out of nowhere with a changeling queen who just happens to be the same one we have but a lot more jerky? And then you both help save the world? Pfft, I don't even think I'll forget when I become a senile old mare." Sunset chuckles

That made you laugh. That was actually funny. It warmed your heart.

You go up and hug Sunset, Princess Celestia joining in on it. This would be the last goodbye.

You could feel yourself tear up a little. It was nice, and yet worrying. Very worrying that'd you'd be leaving without knowing if they could pull off saving Equestria in the long run.

"We will be alright Anon, you needn't worry.I know my ponies, I know that deep down they are good at heart. They only need to be reminded, like you reminded the ponies who came along with you on this journey, and like..you reminded me." Celestia spoke in such a soft and motherly tone. The Celestia you expected her to be.

In fact, as you looked up. You could see her mane start to flow again. You could tell....she was ready.

Sunset left it to you two now. Both you and Celestia walked to the balcony of the castle that faced the scared crowd.

And the speech began.

Chapter 259 - Flim Flam Future Arc

Right as Celestia begins to speak, you put on your horn. You had this, you'd use your magic to have her voice carry out throughout the world. And use illusionary magic to show visions of what she is talking about. Even with a weakened horn, this shouldn't be too hard. There wasn't any power to it, it's all just smoke and mirrors.

Celestia began her speech "My fellow Equestrians. Let me start by saying that I know why you are all here. The possible future of our world has frightened you, and put you all in despair. Please do not fret. The prophecy of the windigos does not need to occur. Yet, at the same time, we find ourselves in a state that if we continue, then we will have no choice but to meet our fate."

The ponies down below started to panic. Using the voice amplifying magic you were using. Celestia and you could hear all their worries from up on the balcony.
"We're doomed!"

"Please Princess Celestia! Save us, forget those kings. Just use your magic like you always have!"

"Please save us Princess Celestia! We believe in you!"

Celestia could hear their cries, and knew that they did not understand yet. "I understand your fears, and I know you'd all would sleep better knowing I would handle this. But, there are things to consider. Windigos are creatures that feast on hatred and woe. If I were to handle it on my own, there would be a large chance for failure. But consider this, consider the story of our beloved Hearth Warming. In it, the windigos brought a never ending winter upon the three kingdoms of old. And while their rulers would not see eye to eye. The servants of said rulers saw no reason to hate one another. And so, before they could perish in the icy maul of the windigos' power, they put their care into eachother, their love, their friendship. And this friendship, just from this one meeting, was powerful enough to circumvent and scare the windigos away. We have entered a state where love and compassion is nearly gone from our world. And I ask, why does it need to be? Are your lives truly better with things rather than each other?"

And the crowd cried out.
"But these things make our lives easier!"
”Yeah! and other times, ponies get in the way!"
”I love my TV! Why go out when I can watch things at home?!”
"Why walk when you can drive? Surely there is no easier way!"

Good christ. The brothers got them good. Dammit Celestia, you can do it!

"I see, I would suppose those things do make things easier. But I must ask, do these "things" care about you? Do they keep you warm on those cold winter nights? Do they help you feel better after a bad day? Are they as bright as a foal's smile when they want to make you proud? These are the questions we must ask ourselves. Having things are fine, but they cannot replace the warmth of a hug or cuddle of a pony you care about. Please, look among yourselves. These are your neighbors, your coworkers, family, these are what you should care about. Even a stranger is a friend you haven't met yet." Celestia looked down upon the ponies. Some seem embarrassed, others didn't know what to do. But then she noticed a portly pony with a rose for a cutie mark. And a skinny, flamboyant, big maned pony with a flower pot cutie mark. Both unicorns. They looked like they really hated each other.

"..You two, with the flower based cutie marks. Why do you look to each other with such disdain?" Celestia asks

They looked confused at first, did she mean them? They thought? She nodded, and that prompted them to answer.

The portly one spoke first, he had a sort of bronx accent "Oh, yah wanna know? Yah really wanna know? This mook over here is always giving me the rag because my yard ain't pretty. It's just grass sure, but the roses that sit right in the front of my house are like tomatoes, killer in a pizza, but nothing else….Maybe pasta. This pony though? He never knows what he's talking about and it really grinds my gears, y'know?"

And then the tall skinny one spoke, he seemed very insulted by his words "And so the brute speaks as if he knows what he's talking about. Princess, since you must know about this slobbish fellow. His yard is indeed an eyesore, it drives our whole neighborhood down. And while I admit his roses are.....rather divine. He keeps them in a place nopony would really notice. Meanwhile I, Floral Magnificent, am charged with the shame of being next to this ruffian. My yard, a perfect design of flowers, Set in a way to dazzle the senses, is brought down by his...less than mediocre display"

Sheesh, this guy sounded like a ponce.

The portly pony turned to him, absolutely red in anger the instant he insulted him. "I don't know half the things you said, but I don't like it! How can you talk about "Perfect" design when your flowers are as good as my old cheese grater? Old and dull, that's what it is. You talk all this bologna about your designs and yet the flowers you use make me want to hurl my guts out. "

"Old and Dull?!" Oh, now he was getting pretty angry "You listen here you peabrained putz! My flowers are only average themselves due to the pollution that has plagued us recently. We all cannot have flowers as good as yours. But what I lack in the quality of the paint, I make up for with the beauty of my canvas. You'll never understand that. "

The portly pony scoffs "Yeah? Well, I still got better flowers ya nimrod! Not all of us can be all fancy with our yard y'know. Besides, what's wrong with a plain yard anyway? It's still clean, ain't it? Sure, getting my flowers out there would be all nice and stuff. But I ain't got a knack for it. But, the ways I see it? My flowers are better than yours...so deal with it! No design in Equestria is worth it's sauce without quality ingredients. Puh, two bit Ruffionian..or whatever ya said"

"Sir! I will fight you with my hooves if you dare mispronounce that remark again!" Oh boy. The fact that he looked like he was no match almost made it funny if it wasn't so sad.

"Really? Because I can break you in two. Probably use your hooves to make flower pots or somethin'. So if ya wanna go, then let's go!" "OH lordy, that guy really did look like he could snap him in two.

"My Ponies, please stop this!" Celestia beckons to them.

They point to each other and both yell out "He started it!" Like little children.

"I see..." But you could tell. Celestia had a plan. "And I suppose bickering and fighting like children would help the situation...right?"

Like children? Hearing that, they both calmed down and looked down in shame.

"Well, I guess, if ya wanna put it that way" The portly one really sounded hurt by that

"...I perhaps took the situation too strongly" The skinny one sounded like his pride was demolished.

"Perhaps...But. How would you both like to have a beautiful yard? Something that you both could be proud of?" Celestia asked them

"Uhhhh, well yeah. That'd be fine. You can make that happen? Cause there's still that whole windigo thing.." The portly one seemed a little confused.

"I cannot" Celestia answers.

Now they were both really confused.

"But, You two can...by helping each other. You, Floral Magnificent. Perhaps if you were to be kind to...hmm, I apologize" Celestia lets out a soft hearted giggle. "I don't know your name."

The portly one bows "The names "Rosy Cheeks". And don't laugh, pardon my rudeness and stuff. But I'll break yer royal nose if you laugh at it. Ma was a gentle soul, wanted us all to have nice names."

As expected. Celestia doesn't take any personal offense "Not to worry Mr.Cheeks. But to continue.” Celestia looks upon Magnificent “If you were to be kind, be neighborly, and accept how Mr.Cheeks composes himself. Perhaps you could be friends with him. You not only might find that you both could have a lot in common, or share in things you otherwise may never try. But you could also ask him for advice on handling flowers. That way your plants can be as beautiful as the design you put them in."

"........that, seems...well.." Floral seemed so confused, hesitant. But...he did want prettier flowers "...I suppose, I could..as brutish as he is. His ability in the fine art of growing flowers is...well...as magnificent as my name."

"And Mr.Cheeks. Would you not feel better with a nicer yard? And a nice neighbor to share it with? Taking pride in the beautiful designs you would be capable of if you had a friend to show you the way?" Celestia asks

He shrugged "Hey, whatever works. Wouldn't mind the pinhead so much if he didn't get on my nerves. Seems pretty ok when he ain't complainin'. Besides, he's got the nicest patterns in the neighborhood. Ain't no doubt about it"

"You really think so?" Floral asks, he never heard a compliment like that come out of him.

"What, about the patterns or the pinhead thing?" Rosy asks

"....Let's just say both, ya big brute. Perhaps we can discuss things over some tea? Yes?" Floral was delighted. Even with the pinhead thing, he was going to learn the secret of good flowers. And, as it seemed, Make a good friend out of it in which he could chat about designs and flowers.

"Yeah sure, sounds good to me. But I'm bringing some pizza, Everything goes good with it and I never had nothing without it" He sure did like pizza, that Mr.Cheeks

And it looked like they became fast friends right then and there. But then the cries of ponies rang out.
"What does that have to do with anything?!"

"Flowers aren't going to protect us!"

"Please Princess! Stop joking around! This is serious!"

"I understand your concerns. But it seems you all don't understand what I mean yet. I've already explained a way to stop the windigos. But perhaps, a more visual representation is needed." Celestia looked to you with a nod.

Finally, that was your cue.

You focus. And boy did you focus. You spread your magic thin enough to create a worldwide illusion of the Equestria you knew. Nothing was solid. But, you didn't need it to be.

What the ponies were seeing was perfection. The sky was blue and clean, the air..it felt pure, there were illusionary ponies walking around, laughing, enjoying their time together, watching their children happily trot to school without worry of bandits. Green grass everywhere. Beautiful trees. It was almost like being in your Equestria again.

The ponies reacted first with fright. But as they gazed upon the illusion. They were enamored at how much...nicer..and more friendly everything seemed.
"Nopony is yelling at each other, what's going on?"
"Those little fillies, they seem really happy for some reason. That's...kinda weird...but kinda nice."
"Those construction workers, they ain't using all them fancy machines to do the work. They are just, using each other..no...wait. They seem happy...are they using..teamwork? Woah, that seems cool!"
"Just look at everything. No pollution anywhere, and it feels so..safe to be outside.....I miss all the nice trees we had..."

Finally...progress...just..keep on focusing...

"This Equestria that you see before you is not our own. But instead an Equestria that two interdimensional travelers have come from. I'm sure you had heard about them last night, but don't understand their place of origin. Well, this is it. In this Equestria, they value the importance of the magic of friendship. Ponies work together instead of against each other to get things done. Foals of all kinds play together, have fun, and laugh with each other. The air is untainted, and the plant life plentiful. Why look.." Celestia points over yonder to Sweet Apple Acres "Why even the apples are pure. untreated with the filth the former kings put in to them. The gentle earth ponies toiling hard to bring their apples to us. With good will in their hearts. Or..." Celestia sees a cottage, with an adorable yellow horse taking care of a bear. "See there, a kind hearted mare taking care of what many would be afraid of. A gentle giant to her, it seems. And she seems so happy, taking care of those who have trouble taking care of themselves. And..."

Celestia looks up, to see many rainbows across the sky "The pegasi are working hard to bring rainbows to the ponies below. It's beautiful, isn't it?...but..."

The illusion fades. Not due to your lack of magic. You were just following along. You had this, you watched enough cartoons to get this right.

"This is not our Equestria..." Celestia laments as everything returns to it’s dreary and polluted form.

Then the ponies below cried out again.
"But...but..it was so beautiful!"
"Bring it back!"
"It looked so much better!"

"My little ponies, please understand. This Equestria is something I cannot bring back, not alone. But together, all of us can work together to make it a reality. If we work together, learn to trust one another, and embrace in the good intentions I know everypony has. Together, we can prevent the windigos from coming. And bring back the Equestria we all knew. Everypony of Equestria, are you with me?!"

There was a loud cheer, everypony let out their feelings all at once in wanting the change. To make things better.

Celestia's mane, it was now completely back to normal, it was shining, waving, and clean. It had completely restored itself at this point. Celestia herself, a tear ran down her cheek "..Thank you all...for understanding. And please know, that if you should have any trouble. Then come to me, my advisor, my advisor's assistant, or even among yourselves. There should always be a pony out there for somepony else. I know we can all do it together if we believe in each other. My little ponies, this is all I have to say. I hope you all heed my words."

Your horn shuts off after that on it's own. The speech must be done then. You probably tied the magic to her speech without actually realizing it...but then that meant.

You can see a green light hit a particular part of the castle as another one comes upon you, which starts to distort your vision.

Ahh crap...

"Anon...." Celestia didn't seem scared or alerted. She understood right when she saw it "It seems your Equestria is calling back to you"

It did. But you give her a smile, if you had to go. You'd do it with a smirk. "Yeah, seems so. But I ain't worried. I'm pretty sure you got this, Princess."

Celestia giggles "I'd hope so, the ponies of old did it in less than a day. If I can't manage it in a week then I'd say we're doomed."

...... "WHY DO YOU HAVE TO SAY THAT RIGHT BEFORE I TELEPORT AWAY?! THAT AIN'T RIGHT!"

Celestia giggled "Sorry, it just seemed so fun to tease you. I just wanted to try it once. You needn't worry" Celestia winks at you "I got this shit"

.....ha....

...ha....ha..Did she?

You start laughing, that was fucking amazing! Celestia said a fucking curse word!

"That's great!...but don't use that language too much. trust me, just stick with normal pony words. Still, super awesome I get to hear you say that before I go. The Celestia of my world would never say it." You were smiling so big, the novelty of it was too grand. You’d never get to hear this from her ever again.

Celestia laughs along with you "I see. Well, seems like she needs to loosen up a little."

"..Oh trust me, she's too loose sometimes if you ask me...well...things are getting super blurry. Seeya Princess Celestia. I'll never forget you, or Sunset, or anypony else. And don't worry about your sister. She'll be back soon, I sense it. Call it a cartoony sense.....Seeya!" You wave goodbye to her as her giggling turns back to a warm smile. She waves to you as your vision finally goes out from this world. And back to your own.

And you drop alright. Your head slams right next to the town fountain beside town hall. Right into the dirt. "ARGH....d-dammit.....nnghh.."

You fall flat on your back "......course...always...every fucking time...ngh...wait.."

You look up at the sky..it was...night time. "Goddammit..enough time passed that it’s fucking night....theres still a little night though...urgh..and.....oh shit.."

You just rerealized something. "Fuck, I wonder how long Twilight has been freaking out about the whole classroom thing. I can't believe I still remember that. ...fuck....my day never fucking ends does it? Out of the frying pan and into the soup bowl I guess..."

You get up, and dust off your mane. "....Better make sure Twilight is ok before I go back home....dammit Discord, you could have at least been here when I got back. Y'know..say hello...progress report...something....sheesh."

You look up at the night sky though. contemplating on the world you left behind. "I hope everypony will be ok there. I hope Fluttershy,Applejack, Ponk, and everypony else gets together again. eh..they will...elements will happen. Luna will be back...the whole shebang....also gotta get Chrysalis her damn car. Oy.....busy busy busy"

And then you stop for a moment. And smile big with a giggle “Celestia said “Shit”, hehehe….classic. Mmmm, Good luck guys. I know you can do it. And Sunset, if you can hear me” You couldn’t help but snicker “Sorry for teaching your teacher bad words. Don’t go nuts over it, k?”

Chapter 260

You start trotting over to the castle, the other Equestria still fresh in your mind. Thinking about it actually made you feel sad. "I know I shouldn't let it bother me, but sheesh. I just feel bad that I just had to go up and leave them all. I guess I just feel scared that they won't make it. And I kinda wanted to hang with Sunset a little. She was the closest thing to another human I had. I hope she can make up with the human mane five someday...also, damn that world was kinda degenerate...woulda been nice to get some actual pony tang for once. It had to have some slutty mare somewhere...ehhh...it'll be fine."

You look upon Twilight's castle as you near it and contemplate your moves. "Ok, so she's probably still suuuuper upset. I can't believe I'm doing this right after saving another world but..goddammit, I just woke up. I can't go back to sleep, So I gotta do something. Might as well be this. Just...be apologetic. Be nice, she was sorta right after all. Sorta. I mean, it's my cutie mark right? I get shit done when I do the unexpected. ehhh...EHHHHH...fine...I got this."

You push open the doors, unlocked as usual. You step through the entrance hall and into the cutie map room. It was dark, except for the bright shine coming from the arcade machine. Spike hung over it, sleeping. "...Oh yeah, I forgot about that. Huh...Dammit Spike, don't you know you need to be comforting Twilight? Let's see."

You look over to the screen, it was back at start and just getting to the High Score screen. "Oh hey! Spike made made third right under....me?!" What the fuck?! Who had the top score?! Was it Twilight?!

You look...the name was....BMAC. "BMAC? Who in the fuck is BMAC? And how the hell did he beat my score in one go!? I was, I WAS..." Who in the fucking hell of Equestria was BMAC?! And how could they beat your human superiority gaming skills? "...ohhhh, I'm filing this one down under revenge. Gaming is all I fucking had in terms of skill and I am not letting some BMAC guy topple my score!"

You growl, but then sigh. "Gotta relax, I'll deal with it later. Gotta see how Twilight is doing. Still, who else was in the castle to get this kind of score? Weird, ehh. Probably some kid snuck in or something. Button Mash? He did seem pretty angry, maybe thats what the B stood for."

You became somewhat obsessed with the score. You had to pull yourself away from the screen to prevent yourself into falling into the same trap as Spike. You went back to your search for Twilight, ascending the stairs and walking to her room. You first gently press on the door to open it. Of course, unlocked.

"Twilight? You awake? It's me, Anon"

No answer. You peer over to her bed and noticed it was empty. She wasn't here. "Well, they don't call her Bookhorse for nothing. She's probably in the library. Egh, I really really hope she isn't acting like she was when she nearly sealed me up."

You go to investigate the castle library. As you draw near, you can see the purple glow of light coming from it, that mixed with the softer glow of a candle light. She was there. You peered through the door, staying out of plain sight to see the state Twilight was in. She appeared to be reading a book. Drinking tea. And....looked relatively calm and happy. Huh, this wasn't what you expected.

You slowly slink inside. And prepare a soft hearted hello. Just in case. "Twilight, umm, hi. How are you tonight?"

"Hm?!" Twilight gets startled and puts her book down. But when she turns her head to see you, she smiles and hops off her chair. "Anon, you're here! A little late though, but um. Hi! I'm guessing your aunt told you what happened?"

Something happened? That's good maybe? She seemed fine. "No, I actually haven't seen her. But I came by because I was worried about you. Are you ok?"

"Aww..." Twilight put a hoof to her chest and found it adorable. Yep, something happened. She seemed pretty happy. "Anon, I'm sorry if I worried you that much. But you can trust me when I say it's alright now. I actually managed to figure everything out."

"Everything out? What do you mean by that?" Super curious.

"Welllllll" Twilight used her magic to create a floating magical chalkboard. It immediately started drawing and writing tons of notes and equations. "I read a letter that had the answer to the problem I was having revolving chaos, your cutie mark, and all the magic behind it. At first..." The equations seem to solve themselves as she speaks. "I thought that the way you went about things would ultimately end in some sort of trouble. Considering there are times where you seem to want to CAUSE trouble. But then I realized that due to your cutie mark, you actually have a knack for it. Which normally would equate to being bad, Discord's influence multiplies this factor to a level that varies on his mood. The equation actually looks unsolvable due to the seemingly unlimited amount of variables caused by the chaos. But in truth, friendship actually keeps everything at a constant. So thanks to this letter, I've actually learned that chaos can equal friendship at the same capacity harmony can! You just need to simplify it. Isn't that amazing?"

...Was that math? "You mind uhhh, putting that in terms I can understand there Twilight? I didn't get a lick of that."

"Oh!" Twilight giggled. "It basically means that despite your methods, you actually managed to make a good friend out of Starlight. And it doesn't seem like she wants to cause any trouble at all. In fact, she wants to fix things up. It tells us that despite going about it chaotically, you managed to help Starlight realize the magic of friendship."

Ok, that you could get. Well, that made you feel better at least. But why would Starlight send Twilight a letter? Last you checked, she hated her. Or used to hate her. "So uh, why did she send you a letter anyway?"

"Oh..." Twilight's ears perk down as she gets a little more nervous, she chuckles sheepishly. "Oh that, well. That's why I thought your aunt sent you. I gave the letter to her because it was well...your letter. I accidentally opened it up and read it when I was looking through my mail. It just kinda sorta got sent here too. Probably because she thought you were still staying here."

Y'know, that didn't really upset you too much. If it was enough to help Twilight out, then it must of been one hell of a letter. "Well, I guess it's not bad that you read it then. So, er, what did it say anyway? Or was it long? I mean, I can read it tomorrow but I kinda want to know now. I'm ultra curious."

"Well, that’s the thing. It's probably good I tell you what was in the letter now." Now? Why? That was weird. Was it urgent?

"Why?"

"Because she's coming tomorrow, in the morning, by train"

...Oh is that all.....wait..WHAT?! SHE CAN'T COME TOMORROW! CHRYSALIS IS GONNA BE ACTIVE AS SHIT TOMORROW GETTING THAT SLEEPOVER SET UP! MEANING DT WILL PROBABLY BE NAGGING YOU ALL DAY! "What?! Why?! What happened?!"

Twilight smiled at you and waved her hoof. "Oh relax Anon, it'll be ok. The letter basically stated that Starlight was having some trouble in the town. She's been having nightmares and trouble making decisions because she feels guilty about everything, apparently it's been keeping her up all night and making her agitated. And you know how a pony can be if they didn't get their sleep, just look at Rainbow Dash" Twilight giggled. "Anyway, she wants to make it up to me and my friends for what she's done in hopes of feeling better and making amends."

“But..." Twilight gets a little shifty eyed. "We know it has to be more than an apology. As the Princess of Friendship,It'll be up to me to show her that being friends with us is also possible. I bet if we all became friends. It would give her that confidence boost she needs."

Ohhhh no she doesn't. That sounded like a disaster waiting to happen. If not with Starlight, then with DT or even Chrysalis should she come to look for you. "Uh, actually Twilight. Why don't you just hang back and uhhhh, wait for me to bring Starlight for the apology. I think we should handle this one step at a time. Y'know?"

"Nonsense!" Twilight waved her hoof dismissively. "It'll be fun. Me and you! Harmony and Chaos working together to help a pony in need. I not only think this is a great idea, but it'll also be a great experiment!"

Goddammit Twilight! Now was not the time to be le friendship science geek. "I dunno, I'd think she'd be more comfortable if I just met her at the train station...alone."

"Of course, I don't want to just be standing there right when she arrives. She'll think something is wrong. That's why you'll bring her to the castle first, we'll have some breakfast, have a chat or two, and then we'll join together for her to greet and make friends with everypony else." Twilight gives a slightly arrogant snort as she points to herself. "Great plan huh?"

God dammit. That version of the plan didn't sound too bad at all. But...egh, you just didn't want Twilight to press too much. But you knew if you said no, it could..well, it wouldn't send her into a depression spiral. But it would disappoint her. But who knows? Maybe having Twilight along isn't a bad idea. If Starlight wants to apologize, having Twilight around would get her used to socializing more. God knows, last you remember, she needed that.

"Y'know Twilight...you're right. That can actually work out. I'd be honored if you'd join me and Starlight...but, y'know. After she apologizes. You got that right?"

"Yup!" Twilight nodded with confidence. "Trust me, I can handle something like this. But you better get home and get some rest. You have to be up early for the eight o' clock train" Twilight giggled and teased you. "Don't want to oversleep again, right?"

...Right...eh.. "Yeah..." She didn't have to point that out. Oh wait! One last thing. "Twilight, before I go. Do you have any idea who BMAC is?"

"BMAC? No, can't say that I do. Why?" Twilight was curious, who could BMAC be? She wondered.

"Oh..I was just wondering who made the top score on my arcade game. Sorry I haven't moved it out of the castle yet. Need to get my dad on that."

"Top score?..Top s-OHHH!" Twilight smirked, and then started to laugh heartily "Anon, ohhh. You'll like this one. So, have you ever met Big Mac?"

....STOP RIGHT THERE… "....Y-yeah, y'know. I mocked fought him once. Why?" ...noooooooooooooo...just no

"Welp, He and Spike like to do this little get together everytime me and the girls leave town. It's supposed to be a secret, but everypony knows about it anyway. Well, this time Spike invited Big Mac early to check out that arcade machine. I mean, it was kinda weird just asking him over while I was still around but whatever hold that arcade machine had on him also got Big Mac for about half an hour. Then he left, I'm guessing he must have been the reason Spike made a ruckus then. Made the top score, huh? I didn't expect that. But it makes sense, BMAC..Big Mac..." Twilight smiled to herself and shook her head, humorously bemused that she didn't realize it earlier. "Seems pretty obvious now that I'm saying it out loud, huh?"

You just stood there. Jaw agape. How the fuck did that country bumpkin beat your high score in what sounds like...one fucking try? You thrashed all those gamer foals only to lose to Big "Eeyup" Mac. Son of a bitch, you were going to have to take the time to fucking thrash that score. No way you can let that stand.

"Anon, are you alright? You look a little red" Twilight was concerned, you looked pissed.

"Huh?..Oh..mnn, just tired. I'm g-gonna go now. Sleep well Twilight. I'll see you tomorrow"

"See you tomorrow, Anon! Get plenty of rest, alright?"

"Alright! Bye" You walk, and then storm off back into the cutie map room to look at the arcade machine. You just looked at it as anger welled up inside you. "If you think I'm losing my gamer status to fucking Big Mac, you're wrong. Just wait till I get you home. I'll fucking destroy that score in no time. One try...no problem."

You then exit the castle, you go into your saddle bag and pull out your map to dunk into the water behind the castle. But… "Hrnnn...I wonder...Is Chrysalis out and about?" You open the map to see if she was. Your eyes go wide when you notice that her dot wasn't there.....but the captain's was. It was at the clubhouse still. "Goddammit! GODDAMMIT WHAT IS THAT LITTLE FUCK DOING NOW!"

It was fucking night for fucks sake! What was he doing there? Was he...oh god...did he have them hostage to force you into a fight? "..Fucking...dammit!"

You rush over to the clubhouse as fast as your little legs can take you. It takes awhile, but you get there. But shit, now it was completely dark, with only the stars and moon to shine the way. It was hard to make things out. But the soft glow of a lantern from the clubhouse showed how close you were to your destination.

You step up across the boards as silently as you can. You pull at the door. "Locked? Huh, I expected a trap...let's see....I better move slow." You slowly move under a window, then plop upwards to sneakily peer through it. And...what do you see?

The CMC...not in danger.

Applebloom was cuddling with the captain, all snug like a bug in a rug under an apple patterned sleeping bag. Scootaloo was sleeping in a Rainbow Dash themed one. And Sweetie Belle was up, groggily grabbing a juice box to get a sip of juice before going back to bed.

Woah, hold on there. Nothing bad was going on at all. But why were all the CMC here at once? Why was the captain still here? Something must have happened.

You slink towards the door, and knock on it gently to get Sweetie Belle's attention. You whisper very lowly. "Sweetie Belle..Hey..Sweetie Belle...it's me..Anon"

After a moment, Sweetie Belle opens the door, sleepy eyed, using her magic to hold up her juicebox as she sips from a straw "A-Anon, do you know what time it is?"

"No, but what's going on here?" You point over to Applebloom and the captain. "Why exactly is he still here?"

"Because he got attacked, and we're taking care of him." Sweetie Belle stepped closer to you and eyed you closely.

He got attacked? By what? "He was attacked? Who would attack a puppy?"

Sweetie Belle shrugged, and looked back at him. "No idea, it's really really super weird though. He said "Another version of Anon" attacked him. Like, apparently it was you. But smarter, better looking, and a lot nicer. I don't think that's right though."

Well no shit. There's no way it could have been you in any form. You weren't even there.... "It had to be a changeling. Maybe a rogue? All the other changelings pay attention to him and even their queen likes him pretty good."

Sweetie Belle shook her head. "Nope, he says it couldn't have been one. We already asked, but what's really really weird was the fact that he doesn't even want to be called just "Captain" anymore. And this is the weirdest part. He actually liked this "Other" Anon. He thinks it's his friend, and the other Anon called him "Scrappy"..and it just..stuck."

...Something wasn't right here. "Did you see any of this yourself? Or did Applebloom see any of this?"

Sweetie Belle shook her head. "Nope, she just came back and Scrappy was unconscious. He's ok now, just sleeping. Applebloom asked us to come over because he was acting weird after he woke up. He doesn't even remember what happened right before he got knocked out. And this part Anon, is even weirder than the weirdest part"

Sweetie Belle looked over to the table with some sort of....familiar object. She used her magic to telekinetically bring it over to show you. "Check this weird thing out, none of us have no idea what it is. But we think it might be some weird mind control thingy. Can't figure out how to get it to work though. But this is probably why Scrappy thinks all the things he's thinking now. Although.." Sweetie Belle smiles. "I do like his new name, isn't it cute?"

But your mind shut off upon closer inspection of the device. That wasn't a fucking mind control device.....no. Oh no, another Anon? Could it be...the Anon the bat pony was talking about back in that windowed dimension?

And this thing. How could he? Oh geez, either this guy could make stuff or he had a chaos horn too. Either way, it had to be that fucker. But, was he trying to frame you? The Captain seemed pretty sure it wasn't you. If he wanted to frame you, then everyone would have been pissed at you.

"Sweetie Belle, that isn't a mind control "thingy", that's a taser."

"A taser? What's that?" Sweetie Belle asked. "I've never heard of that before"

"It's a electric shock device meant to stun peo...ponies. It looks like this one has been discharged." You could tell just from looking at it that it hit the captain.

And for some reason, Sweetie Belle was now looking at you with great suspicion. "Uh huh, you sure seem to know a lot about this ‘taser’ thing, huh?"

That look....dammit. "Woah woah woah! Hold on, I know that look. Are you thinking I did this to him?"

"Maybe..." Sweetie Belle's expression became one of greater suspicion and slight disgust. "Nopony else knew what that thing was until you saw it."

You roll your eyes , there was no way you did this. But you really did realize who did....damn him. "Sweetie Belle! Geez! Come on! I wasn't even around when it happened! I mean, sheesh, why is it a big deal?! He's ok, right? Did everypony forget that he was a changeling...that wants to turn me into powder? Huh?"

"Uh huh? Anon, he won't hurt you if you just say no, y'know? And just a changeling? Says the pony who hangs out with their queen! Why can't you just be nice to him? Even though he's loyal to that mean queen, he's super nice and friendly. Besides, if he was as evil as you think he is, he wouldn't have been able to help Applebloom in a way we all couldn't."

What way? You've been gone for awhile, you couldn't even remember. "What do you mean?"

"Getting over you." Sweetie Belle looks at you with harsh eyes. "So why don't you tell the truth already? where were you if you weren't the "Anon" who hurt him?"

Getting over you....fuck. That's right, he did do that, didn't he? Still, you didn't need this kind of hostility. Why the fuck would you use a taser? Didn't she realize you wouldn't? Fine, she wants the truth? Well then… "I was in another dimension, alright?! I was with Chrysalis saving another freaking Equestria from the hooves of Flim and Flam who managed to take over and-OW!"

Sweetie Belle slams the door right on your nose, making you back off and rub it. That.. little… bitch. You were angry, scrunchy face angry. THAT WAS THE FUCKING TRUTH! You tell the fucking truth and what does it get you?! Shit, fucking...christ. That fucking bug was nothing but trouble! Then again, it had to be that Anon from that other world. It just had to, the motherfucker must have had the intention to frame you while you were gone. Hell, what if he touched DT?!..... what if she liked it?

DAMMIT!

You were shaking, you slapped on your horn to use it, to open a portal and go show that fuck what was what. But when you put on the horn, you couldn't feel it's power as your eyes turned to that of Sombra's. "Well fucking yay, of course I'd forget I used it for Celestia...Well then..."

You go down the longboards back to ground level and step away from the clubhouse, a yard or two before laying down to wait for midnight. Your head bubbling in anger. "Just you wait...you're gonna pay, you fuck. I saved the fucking world, I don't need this shit!"

And so you waited, thoughts running through your mind on how to beat this fake bastard. He must of tased that idiot good because either he's misremembering or the idiot tried to attack your fake after it was all said and done. It didn't matter anyway, both were fucks, but you would take down the one you knew you could beat.

Every so often you'd try the horn again. or stomp about, plotting your exact revenge. You also looked up to the clubhouse a couple of times. Fucking morons. Why act like this? You got Sweetie Belle closer to Cadance, you gave Scootaloo fucking wings, and Applebloom...... mnnnn.

Whatever…

This goes on for awhile before you started to feel cold from the night chill, and lay down on your belly for warmth. Your teeth begin to chatter as you try to focus on your rage. "..Stupid other Anon. It wasn't even my fault. That stupid bat attacked me..." You actually start to feel tired after awhile, and cold. ".....Mnnn...Dammit Discord....woulda been nice to have you laugh at me for once....maybe you'd be here to help me...get that bastard."

You lay your head down. Goddamn it… As the chill seems to increase, you suddenly feel a warmth come upon you as a nice and snug heavy blanket is dropped onto you. The hell? Whatever, you take a moment to get snuggled in, but halfway through the moment.

"...Are you ok Anon?" That voice....oh no.

You look back, it was Sweetie Belle. She looked worried, why was she even still up?....Goddamn.it..did she pity you?

"....Mnnn..." You just look forward, lowering your head as you face forward into the dark night, feeling defeated. "Why are you here?" You say in a dull and hurt tone.

"Because, I couldn't sleep with you pacing outside the window like a creepy pony. And I couldn't leave you here alone, looked like the cold was going to get you...Anon...why?" She actually seemed pretty worried for you. Ugh, did you look that pathetic?

"..Why does it matter? I told you what the truth is and you didn't believe me. You slammed the door in my face."

"Well yeah, what kind of answer was that? It sounded like a bunch of horseshoes to me. Going into another dimension? Flim and Flam as kings? That sounds like a lie no matter what you say. But..." Sweetie Belle sighs. "Maybe if you had some proof? If that's really the truth, you'd have some proof right?"

......Mnn. "How would I prove it? You'd just think I used my magic to summon it up"

Sweetie Belle tapped the underside of her muzzle as she thought for a moment. "Your horn only works once a day right?"

"Yeah"

"Can you put it on right now? I wanna check something" She asks.

......Fine. You put on the horn, your eyes become green and red with a purple mist coming out. It slightly startles the young filly. But she didn't see a unicorn horn. So… "So, if it's like that. It means you used your magic already, right?"

"...Yeah..."

"Ok good, because Scrappy mentioned the other Anon used some sort of barrier magic too. So, did you bring anything with you that would prove you were in that weird world? Because, y'know, Flim and Flam as kings?....Prettyyyy out there"

"I don't thin-" Wait, Wait...this was your chance. And not only that. You had PROOOOOFFFFF! YOU ACTUALLY DID! You moved the back of your mane upwards. You never did take the damn thing off. "Check it out, there should be a weird device behind my neck"

"..I see it" Sweetie Belle inspects the bugging device, although she had no idea what it was. She could see the royal crest of Celestia on the back of the small box connected to the microphone. "...What is it?"

"Bugging device that records what ponies say without anypony knowing. Pretty cool huh? The actual listening part is in the other world though." You chuckle sheepishly. "Looks like Sunset isn't getting it back anytime soon..eheh..Oh! And!"

Fuck yes! You were actually feeling better about the situation…… But, that was because Sweetie Belle was giving you a chance. You reach into your saddlebag and pull out the gold card. "And this! This was the gold card given to me by the kings when we were fooling them. It let us pretty much get anything for free. Take a look."

Sweetie Belle took the card with her magic and gazed upon it. "This card guarantees your visit to our kingdom is free of charge, for as long as you wish. Signed King Flim and King Flam to....Prince Anon? Of Buenos Aires?"

Sweetie Belle smirked at you. "Prince? Really? They actually fell for this?"

You shrugged with a smirk of your own. "Well yeah, I did have a buttload of cash. They bought it for awhile anyway, until they caught us."

Sweetie Belle started to tamper and bend the card a little as she examined it, giggling a little. "Well that's probably because they realized you weren't really prince material...like...at all"

You wave your hoof at her, and smile. "Yeah well, who wants to be a prince anyway? You'd never be able to do what you want and you'd always be told what to do"

"I guess, but, I wouldn't know. Being a filly and-WHA?!" Sweetie Belle jumps back in surprise as the card began to transform into a golden snake like rope and jump at her.

What the?! Fucking!.. You jump and slam her away from the potentially fatal trap. Or...wasn't fatal. It ends up binding your legs together. Preventing movement. Then both ends of the rope begin to speak.

"Well brother, it seems this unlucky pony activated the anti-theft security module"

"Indeed brother! Truly unlucky, but it is lucky for us!"

"Too true Flam, Too true. This little vagrant gets a one way trip to prison for the automatic sentence of treason! How very unlucky for him or her"

"Well Flim, that's what happens when you toy with what you shouldn't have. Do not worry Stallion or Mare, the police will get to you shortly."

Then they both speak. "Have a nice day!" Before the message on the rope ends.

So there you laid, upside down, legs up. As Sweetie Belle giggles and laughs at you. ".....ughhhhhhhhh"

"Well, I guess I have to believe you now. No way you could plan to make a card thing attack like that. But wow, you saved a whole other world?" Sweetie Belle was both confused and impressed at the same time. "If you could do that, why haven't you reformed that mean bug queen yet?"

..... "Mind untying me first?"

"..Oh...right" Sweetie Belle moves close, still smirking as she tries to untie you. But whatever the rope was made of, it was now resisting her magic, and it was damn near impossible to untie. "Mnnngh! Mnnngh! It's stuck!"

Of course it is.... "Hold on, I really don't want to be stuck here til midnight. I got an idea. Can you open my saddlebag and pull out my grappling hook?"

"Ok...ummm" Sweetie Belle does so, and pulls it out. "Oh, it's THIS thing! Neat!..umm..what do you want me to do with it?"

This would be a little complicated to be sure. You ask her to put it on and put it on the setting that loosens the line. You then tell her to put the hook on part of the rope and step back a few yards. Then you tell her to switch it to retract, and to hold on tight.... Well, you should have been the one to hold on tight. You start getting dragged towards Sweetie Belle before the rope finally comes off as you roll along the ground. "UGh..OMPH!....u-ghh...."

As you come to a stop, Sweetie Belle squeaks in surprise. "Anon! Are you ok! I didn't mean to do that!"

You shook a little on the ground, but thanks to how tough your head was, you were relatively alright. "Oy, what? N-nah, I expected that!" You got up and dusted yourself off, and stood acting all cool. Maybe showing some confidence after showing proof would help things along. "But I'm used to it. Y'know?"

"I guess. Are you sure you're ok though? You tumbled pretty hard" Sweetie Bell took a closer look at your head. It seemed fine

"Yeah, hey. I just saved a whole other world. This ain't no biggy"

"Yeah, that's...actually pretty cool" Sweetie Belle admitted. "So that's what you're trying to do with Chrysalis, right? Not only reform her, but save the world? Because Anon, she was super scary. I almost thought she was gonna rule all of Equestria"

Ahhh shit....if it was nearing midnight. You did have SOMETHING to do for Chrysalis. Her car...But you're not leaving until you get this little white horse to not fucking think you're the scum of the earth compared to that bug. "Exactly. She won't want to take over if I can reform her. Look at all the other villains Equestria has had that reformed and made things better. Nightmare Moon, my dad...sorta....uhhh.."

Sweetie Belle giggled. "I think you better stop before you get ahead of yourself." But then she thought upon something, the way you were acting. "Anon, do you think I hate you or something?

Sorta maybe?” "No.." You lie. "It just feels like I'm a big joke is all. I mean, you always treat me like I'm doing something wrong"

"Anon...it's not that your a joke. It's just...umm" Sweetie Belle tries to put it in kinder words than she has last time. "It's just sometimes you get snooty, or uptight. Kinda like my sister, but in your own way. And it kinda makes ponies not wanna be around you."

Were you really like that? "Really? But the adults don't seem to have a problem with me. And Diamond Tiara likes me."

Sweetie Belle sighs. "That's because the grown ups just sorta think your whole hero colt thing is "charming". That's what my sister says anyway. But us crusaders, we're your closest friends and you just sorta don't act friendly towards us all the time. Maybe I jumped the hurdle too a little. I mean, you gave Scootaloo those wings. That's pretty cool. But you gotta be more like Scrappy. We like him as a friend and want him to be ok. And yeah, he works for Chrysalis, but he wants us to be ok too. He's never acted mean towards us after we became friends."

....Dammit, you were actually following along until she had to mention "Scrappy". You know what? Chrysalis can wait. Even if Sweetie Belle was being nicer. You were still a step behind a goddamn idiot. You only had that other anon to blame. "Then...I'm sorry. I'll try to do better" You didn't want to bother with this anymore. You got the point. So you'd just be friendly, smile, and get the fuck out.

"You don't need to try, just do better. I know you can do it! Brrrr" Sweetie Belle shivers a little. "You wanna come inside? It's pretty cold out"

You shake your head. "Nah, I'm good. I'm just gonna go home. You take care ok, Sweetie Belle?"

"Ok, you too! Goodnight Anon, and have a safe trip home!" She returns your grappling hook and you bid her a farewell.

But you weren't going home. No, you'd wait. It shouldn't be much longer. You walked away back to town, thinking on a few things. You hadn't seen Lyra and Bon Bon since the friendship festival. You had to see them sometime soon, for sure. Besides, at least they liked you and hasn't caused you any actual trouble. Then there's Glim Glam. You knew in your heart you had to help her out. here's hoping Twilight doesn't fuck it up. You just had to believe in the book horse.

You hid in an alleyway where no one would be able to spot you. you kept bouncing about to keep warm. You stayed focused. You slapped on the horn...HAHA! It became a unicorn horn this time..YES! "Alright you sick fuck. I'm gonna hop in, beat the shit out of you, and make sure you know never to fuck with my dimension ever again."

You aim your horn to create the window. You didn't give a shit if you didn't understand how dimensional travel worked. You were sure you had this. But, as you tried to cast the spell to create and open the window, it..wouldn't work. Everytime you tried, the horn would sputter and spark. "Come on...COME ON!" You kept trying, but to no avail. It was useless.

"Anon, would you mind telling your dear papa what you are up to?"

You seize up. That voice...It was Discord...he was right behind you. But you only froze for a moment before giving it another shot. Feeling it safe to do since it was him and not some snoopy pony.

"What do you think? I'm trying to open a doorway to the dimension where the other me is at. Mind helping me out?"

Discord warps to the front of you, his arms crossed as he shakes his head. "I do actually, in fact, I'm the one preventing you from making the trip." Discord takes out one of his eyeballs and gives them a rub before putting them back into the socket. "Now would you mind telling me WHY you are trying to actually make that trip in the middle of the night? I was having a lovely nightmare before your surges of magic awoke me from my slumber."

Dammit, come on. Why does he care? "Why do you think? That other Anon tried to ruin my life. Now? I'm gonna ruin his. You know you want in on this. You and me, father and son, fucking that entire world up. You can take a ton of potshots at his Twilight. I don't care, I just want to face down this guy face to face and get some answers from that chump."

"Ahh yes, though we've never met, I think I can empathize with how he felt..." Discord made an image of that crazy bat filly appear above his paw. "After you tango'd with his main squeeze"

Woah wut? You started giving a sarcastic, near crazed chuckle. "Discord, come on, you, really? Actually giving a fuck? How could you resist not going completely chaotic on that world? Come on! He deserves it! I didn't do squat to her, she attacked me!"

Discord calmly leans against the wall and yawns, he was stoic about all this in expression. But what the fuck was his reasoning of not wanting to go? "Anon, allow me to explain something to you; Chaos is an art. It is a beautiful thing that I would love to cause every waking moment. However, there is an unspoken rule among Discords. And that is....never mess with another Discord's assets."

A rule? Assets? The fuck he talking about? "Rules? And what assets? What does that have to do with anything?"

Discord sighs and snaps his talons. Everything goes black for a moment, then turns into...Fluttershy's cottage? "Uhh...why are we here now? You gonna explain this whole thing or what?"

"Of course I am, I was just setting the example. Now then...Anon, as you can see, this is Fluttershy's home. Where Fluttershy lives." Discord smiles and sighs. "Ahh, sweet dear Fluttershy. My best buddy, the one I hold just slightly above you, the one who keeps me from tearing Equestria apart. Tell me, Mr. Revenge, what do you think would happen if anything happened to her?"

If he meant what he'd do. That was easy. "You'd probably go on a rampage. But what does that have to do with anything?"

"To me, she is an asset, Anon. Something I hold very near and dear. You see Anon, the rule exists to keep Discords from utterly obliterating each others worlds due to, what you'd call, a "pissing" contest. You understand that much, right?"

That made sense. But what did he have to do with what you wanted? This wasn't about him. "Ok. I get it. But you do realize this doesn't really involve you right? If that's the case, just power up my horn and let me go after the fuck myself"

Discord zaps you with some magic. Making you as still as a statue. Unable to even speak. "Anon, you don't seem to understand. And I'd rather not want to hear your boring little outbursts. So, without further ado, let me explain everything proper. You and him are both assets of us" Discord points to himself. "I WARNED you not to step through that window and yet you did it anyway. And while you did put on a good show, that other Anon had every right to come here to take whatever revenge had made you this upset. In other words, payback can be quite painful, can’t it?

“Now...don't get me wrong. If we weren't dealing with another me, I'd actually allow this. I'd join up with you, and we would bring a new chaotic order to that Equestria just for giggles. But since it involved another me, I'd rather things not escalate to a point that my dear Fluttershy...or yes, even you, Get hurt. You want revenge?" Discord shoots a bolt of magic into your horn. Making it fall off, and change back into a Sombra horn. "Then wait for him to show back up. If he comes back for more then he is infringing on that rule. If you're wondering what I did to the horn, I made it attune to beings who trespass from that very dimension. So, should you run into him on your home turf, You'll get exactly three charges to deal with him. Now, I know what you must be asking. Why not unlimited charges? Well that's easy, a good chaotic being should be able to humiliate their foe, causing as much chaos as possible with as little effort as possible. You'll just have to be creative. Now..." Everything starts to turn dark again. As Discord gets an afro and disco suit. "Let's Boogie!"

But you couldn't move, but you could still think. Goddammit Discord... Or rather, should you be saying. "Goddammit" in your mind? Could he be right? He must have kept you frozen to let you have time to think it over. The guy just made it that if you face this other Anon at anytime, you'd get three goes to absolutely wreck his shit. And this Anon can't be that powerful if he had to use a taser. You'd have him for sure.

As the disco ball comes down, Discord starts to dance and get down. But it puts you further into thought. Unwritten rule huh? Half of that was probably bullshit. If that rule had to be made, you could only imagine it being broken by Discords who didn't have anything to care about. But that was you. You did care about this world, and the friends in it. And Discord cared about Fluttershy, and hell...probably a lot of other ponies. He'd sure be sad if he couldn't torment Twilight anymore.

Fine then....you'll wait. And when the day comes you get to face that fucker. You're gonna send him to hell and back. Maybe even literally.

"Anon, why aren't you dancing? The music is grooving and I'm in the mood for a little moving before going back to bed" Discord taps your head, loosening you from his frozen grip as he takes you by the front legs and starts to waltz with you...to Disco music. "Come on Anon, don't be such a stiff! It's a good thing I'm doing this for you. Nopony we care about gets hurt and you'd get to have oodles of revenge. Just relax, have this dance with me. Get down!"

Discord starts to spin you around by the hoof. "Wowowowowowowowowowowoahhhhh!"

Discord lets you go to strike a pose. "Oh Yeah! centuries later and I still got the moves!"

You spin like a top a couple of feet before finally stopping and sitting down as your head spins. "O-ohggg...Discord..."

"Shhhh~" Discord mambos over to you and lifts you up to your two back hooves. "Don't be such a killjoy Anon, don't think about it too much. Just move along with the music. Come on, show me some moves" Steps back and starts doing the classic disco diagonal point as a disco ball comes down and lights up the floor in various colors. You didn't even have time to think as spotlights suddenly shone on you as you stood there.

Keeping balance on your back hooves, you look over to Discord, who wiggled his eyebrows at you. "Come now Anon, haven't you been angry long enough? Don't you think you deserve a little fun after saving a world? Don't you want to celebrate your possible future victory over your "inferior" other? Come on! Show me what you got!"

Discord's spontaneous reaction was...actually kind of uplifting. It kind of put things in a better perspective. Sure, you wanted to kick that other guy's ass. But...if that was HIS girl. Then maybe, given how mad you are, that the guy was also pretty angry for what you did. No idea how he made friends with "Scrappy". But, if he dares set hoof on your turf, you'd have to make sure to find out. As for this world? Well, you'd just have to do your best. You could be nicer to "Scrappy" sure. But you have to take some of what the CMC think of you with a grain of salt. They were kids after all, they didn't understand the intricacies of being an adult.

And with that, you started rolling along your front hooves right before waving them in the air and falling on your back to spin about. You then strike a resting pose, laying your head on the flat of your hoof as you smirk. "How's that?"

"Excellently done for a starting dance move. But let's see you get to a fever pitch with something like this!" When Discord said fever pitch, he meant it fucking literally as he explodes into flames, doing some sort of dance similar to when he showed off at the gala as little flaming Discords join along with him.

Haha....nope. "Well, you got me beat. I can't burst into flames without...y'know..dying."

Discord suddenly freezes over as the little flame versions of him snuff out. Discord then speaks while encased in his icy tomb. "That's because you're still learning how to chill."

Says the guy who loses his shit if it has anything to do with Fluttershy. "Heh, maybe. But I'm "Chill" enough now. I gotta say Discord, I actually feel better thanks to you. Do you really think that other Anon will come by again?"

Discord shrugs as he crawls out of the ice tomb. phasing through it like it was air. "Who's to say? Just know I fully support your little revenge plan AS LONG as you do it in THIS Equestria, understand?"

You nod. "Yeah, I get it. Oh..by the way, I think I do have one cool move that could top your Disco Fever."

Discord plants his bottom on top of the icy tomb and awaits it with curiousness. "Well then, show me! I do love a good move busting."

You open your saddlebag and shift things around so all your bits would be on top. You then hold the bag by the strap and spin. Stopping hard enough for the coins to be thrown towards the disco ball due to momentum. The lights hit the bits and sparkle all over, sending beams of light randomly everywhere, creating a cool golden light show. Before the coins fall, you put yourself on your head and balance yourself straight up as you kick off for a spin. You spin on your head for awhile before kicking off with your front hooves and landing on all four of your hooves. Striking a heroic pose as all the bits hit the ground. "I call that one “The Moneymaker"."

Discord smirks, and lets out a small chuckle. "A bad pun, but a good enough light show." Discord claps. "Bravo Anon, bravo! You do know how to have fun after all. I want you to keep that in mind. Remember this moment whenever you think too hard on something, like revenge, and remember that chaos is as easy and wonderful as a dance. No need to get angry over it."

Hypocritical sure, but you'd remember it. But just for laughs.. "Sure, I got it. Just remember to do the same whenever somepony gets between you and Aunt Fluttershy. Ok?" You smirk at him.

"Ohhhhh....." Discord gets a little angry and waggles his finger at you. "Yoouuu.......you.......ugh" Discord sighs, realizing that may indeed still be a problem he has. "Touche, perhaps this should be a lesson we both should remember.Well.." Discord snaps his talons. Returning you to the alleyway as he disappears from sight. His voice still being heard. "I'm off to bed again Anon. Nightmares to be had, chaos to plan. Things like that. Have a pleasant evening. And seriously, four stars on that whole "saving the world" thing. Not perfect, but I know you'll improve in time. Taaa taaaa~!" And then, his voice was gone.

You start tapping at your horn. Two extra charges when that fuck shows up huh? Three total. Yeah, that's more than enough to push his shit in. Welp, there was one last thing to do for the night...

Chapter 261

You head over to the purplish pink pony statue near town hall and toss in your map.

You pop into your room. Same as usual.,Just as you left it. Sadly, even the magical comfiness of the bed couldn't send you to sleep. You were still far too awake. You take a look at the map and take notice of Chrysalis's marker. It was in the basement of the house. She must be resting. Though, a thought enters your head that makes you smile. "I hope she's trying to sleep, because when she realizes what I got planned. Ohhh man, that anger is gonna turn into something even Pinkie Pie couldn't handle."

You merrily open your floor door and head down the steps. You then open the basement trap door and start heading down the long winding steps into the basement cave that was Chrysalis's hive. The changelings themselves were skulking about, many putting their eyes on you as you approach a tired Chrysalis, who was curled up on her throne, bent further in a way that no pony could ever emulate just to rest on her seat.

She was turning a little. She may have not fallen fully asleep yet. And ohhh boy, what you had planned? This should get you some major brownie points with her. "Hey Chrysalllissss! How ya doin?"

You give her a huge grin as she raises her head. She just narrows her eyes at you. She found you suspicious. "Anon?...what are you doing down here? Can't you see I'm trying to rest? And what's with that stupid grin? Wipe it off your face this instant. It's unnerving."

You slapped on your horn, and grinned a bigger toothy grin at her. "Really? hehe, and here I thought you'd be happy to see me, considering....ya know" You wiggle your eyebrows at her.

Chrysalis's eyes went wide. Like, girlishly wide. She hopped off her throne and flitted her one wing. You almost caught a smile, a gentle giggly one, as she figured out what you meant. But she coughed, cleared her throat, and turned her head with a stoic expression. "Oh? You mean what you owe me? Why should I be happy? It's to be expected. You know this."

Ohhh no you don't. You already caught how excited she was for the car...you were going to make this a good one. "Ahh, umm..hmm" You turn the opposite direction, and now sound bored and uninterested. "I guess, I mean. If it's to be expected then you probably already know what you're gonna get out of this, right?"

Both you and Chrysalis avoid eye contact. She nods. "Yes, a car, like the one I drove into the gorge. And you better not be cute and summon a train car or I'll throw you into it and somehow get it to a cliff somewhere."

You stave off a snicker. Oh boy, let's see her resist this. "I suppose. Don't worry, I got this. Let's see..." You flick your horn. "Car...car...ahh, I got it! But don't get too excitedm ok? You're only going to be able to drive it around in this cave."

"Hmph" Chrysalis scoffed. "There's enough room. Besides, sooner or later, it will become my royal Equestrian chariot when I take Celestia's throne for myself."

"We'll see...we'll see...anyway"

You focus your magic, and summon not just a car, but a fucking topless Ferrari. Indestructible, capable of 300 Miles per hour, super seatbelts which can be adjusted to feel force of impacts or not for the more dangerous queen on the go. The color of the ferrari was jet black, with neon green trimmings that glowed in the dark along the bottom sides that reached from front to back. The headlights were as green as Chrysalis's eyes. A spoiler was attached, the back saying in green letters "THEQUEEN". The interior had black leather seats. Although, Chrysalis's driver seat was magically custom made to be dark and evil looking with an evil throne motif. Like the cars back in the FlimFlamverse, it used levers to make the car go, stop, park, and the like.

Though, with your magic, you made it so it can be set to manual or auto. Many of the changelings jumped back and hissed at it, others slowly moved closer and tapped it with their hooves. Chrysalis's ears fell, she was speechless as she slowly stepped over to the car.

You stood there and smiled as she rubbed her hoof gently along the seat. She banged on the side a few times with a few hits with her front hoof. Sturdy as a rock. She tried to fly up to hop into her seat, But all she could muster was a single cute hop. She had blindly forgotten her wing was missing for a moment, so she instead opens the door gently, and steps inside.

She gazes upon the levers, and taps them. She notices too, a simple little "Start n' Stop" button for the engine. Of course, you also made sure this engine wouldn't produce any harmful gases. Didn't want to suffocate the bugs. And you made it simple for Chrysalis to start it up and shut it down as she pleases.

She starts turning the wheel before even starting the car. She looks forward for a moment and smiles, it was a cute happy one. One she quickly discards when she notices you staring. She then growls angrily and taps the wheel a few times. "So? How exactly does this thing work!? Don't stand there like a braindead idiot! Is it the same as the cars we encountered or is it entirely new?"

You hold in a snicker and bounce and step towards the passenger door. You open it and hop onto the seat and firmly put your seat belt on. "Oh, it's easy. But you might want to put your seatbelt on first, for safety. Annnnd, you can use this little thing on the buckle to adjust if you want to feel the speed, momentum, and force of the car." You said that on purpose, you were waiting for her to be cutely curious about something.

"I don't need a "Seat Belt"! Just tell me how to turn this thing on! I want to feel the wind in my mane! Not strap myself in like some sissy pony wimp."

You give her a gentle smile, and point to the start button beside the wheel. "It's this one. This will start the car."

Chrysalis stops, feeling a little embarrassed. Then growls and pushes the button. "I knew that, you imbecile! I mean how do I get the engi-" The engine starts up. "Oh...It actually starts up the wh-NEVER MIND! What does this lever do! I didn't see it on the other car!" Chrysalis rudely points out the manual to auto lever.

"Oh, you can make the car manual like the cars we saw. Or make it shift gears automatically."

"Hmmm." Chrysalis pondered "I suppose I'll set it to automatic then." Chrysalis pulls the lever down. "This car shall be my servant, I should not have to decide when to shift these gears when it can do it for me."

You just smiled as you looked upon Chrysalis admiring her new toy. It actually made you feel good inside. You may not have the ability to sense love and feed off of it. But you could tell she was loving every second of this. It was heartwarming.

You tap your foot on the seat, looking down, then look to her with a gentle smile. "Y'know. If SOMEHOW you manage to win out in the end. The car is indestructible, you could run over as many ponies as you want and it'll never break down."

"Really now?" Chrysalis rubbed her hoof on the dashboard, then put it on the accelerator lever. "Never break down? At all?" Chrysalis smirks. "Hunting down escapees isn't something I'd normally want in my new world order, but this being indestructible? I'd make a game out of it." Chrysalis looks to you with an evil little smile. "Good work Anon, I'm proud to call you my future servant. In fact, with that kind of thinking, you could rise above the ranks and be the new captain. Perhaps when my hive grows, a general would be more fitting."

You bow. "You're too kind my queen, if it ever came to that. I wouldn't mind."

Chrysalis stopped, and looked to you inquisitively. "Are you serious?" Chrysalis began to smile, a warm smile, a wondrous smile. She didn't even bother to sense how you were feeling.

You nod. "Sure, but y'know, that's only if you don't end up being reformed first."

You look ahead through the windshield and swirl your front hoof along the seat, looking down. You just wanted her to be happy without diving into her whims too deeply. So you began to bullshit a little in your words. "I mean, we saved the world together. I don't think you're that bad really. We are friends after all. Would be super nice if you just became like your other self. But, just saying, if you somehow end up taking over the world. I guess it'd be fun to join in."

"Hmmmm...." Chrysalis smile weakened as she tapped at the wheel, turning her head forward. You overplayed it. "You're just saying that because you're sure it won't happen. But," Chrysalis sighs and smirks. "I suppose, for once, I'll just accept it like a good friend. And thank you for this wonderful gift."

Wooooah, wut? "Really? No bullshit? You're really appreciative of it and all that? Really?!"

Chrysalis nods with a gentle smile. "Mhmmm. For once, you gave me something I truly love. I shall cherish it like it was one of my own."

Wooooo! That made you feel great. You finally truly pierced that heart of hers. "You're welcome Chrys-. Queen Chrysalis. Ahrm, I feel really great giving you this car. Heh, you'll probably want to ride around in it for awhile now. So, I'm just gonna go and leave you alone. I gotta prepare for the morning for something."

You give her a bowing nod and go to open the door. But it wouldn't open, and every time you pulled up the lock, it'd go back down. You look over to Chrysalis, who was now giving you an evil smirk. "Where do you think you're going?"

Oh..hell. She had her hoof on the electronic lock! HOLY FUCK! SHE FIGURED OUT THE LOCK! And the door! Even if roofless, she rolled up the windows to prevent a short hop. OH NO! WHY DID YOU EVEN INSTALL THOSE?!

"Just because I'm being appreciative doesn't mean I'm going to let you go. It looks nice, but let's see how it runs."

You cringe, and put on the seatbelt. But when you went to adjust the magical dial to erase the feeling of RPMS and speed you'd soon feel. You notice it wasn't there.

You look to Chrysalis, who was using her horn to hold up the ripped off dial. "I don't think this feature is needed. Too cowardly" She tosses it away.

OHHHH NOOOOO! "C-Chrysalis, C-can I get out please? I promise it'll work." Please god no, you already rode around with her once. She was gonna crash, you could feel it, and even if it didn't wreck the car. It could wreck your face. You didn't even have any idea how big the cave was.

Chrysalis shifts herself with her magic to make goggles appear over her eyes. Then kisses the bottom of her front hooves before putting one on the accelerator lever and one on the wheel. "I think not, relax Anon....this will be fun"

Says her...

You braced yourself as Chrysalis yelled to clear the way. She slams the accelerator lever down and puts both hooves on the wheel as it accelerates to breakneck speeds, making you slide back into your seat as Chrysalis cackles. She boosts through the cavern as the changelings drone fly up to the side.

"OHH GODD!" You yell in terror

"OHH YES! THIS IS SPEED! MWHAHAHAHAHA!" Chrysalis cackles

You brace yourself as well as you can as Chrysalis blasts through a long tunnel. "WALL! WALL!!!" You point further on a open turn through the tunnel. an open yet very tight turn.

Chrysalis snickers. "...I see no wall." Chrysalis oversteers the car and starts to drift, regaining control at the last second and taking the turn. She then starts blasting forward once again.

You were shaking, you couldn't make anything out as Chrysalis's eyes glowed through the growing darkness. She turns on the headlights, and runs into an open cavern full of large boulders. You panic and cover your eyes as Chrysalis easily weaves through all the boulders and takes another tunnel. She was nearing two hundred miles per hour. "THIS IS AMAZING! I LOVE THIS! I'M LOVING EVERY SECOND OF THIS!"

Chrysalis started taking a gentle curve leading further into the cave. She was increasing the speed of the car with every passing moment. You'd feint if you were a lesser pony, but you wish you could at this point. You were afraid of her crashing. With the force limiter torn off, the seat belt itself was going to do shit for resisting a crash.

"STOP! STOOP! WHAT IF WE CRASH?!"

"HEHEHE, YOU ALREADY SAID WE CAN'T...AHH THERE IT IS! GET READY ANON! THIS IS THE FINAL TEST!"

When you both finished taking the last turn. there was a long straightaway leading to a....to a...A FUCKING PIT!?!

Yes, ahead was a circular pit. a circular cave road surrounding it that split up to small caverns further up the walls. In other words, this may be the end of the line...or wait. "CHRYSALIS?! NO! NONONONONO! ARE YOU NUTS?! WHAT IF WE FALL IN THE PIT?! YOU ONLY HAVE ONE WING!"

Chrysalis focused straight ahead, eyeing one of the tunnels on the wall. "....You act as if I can't fly..."

Oh no! Oh no! You look to Chrysalis as you begin to turn white. She was long gone.

No! OH GOD NO! YOU DON'T WANT TO DIE! NOT LIKE THIS!

You closed your eyes tight. But you couldn't keep them closed for long when you felt the car rise. Chrysalis drove off a small incline, flying over the pit at breakneck speed. It almost felt like slow motion. The most intense fear hitting you as you open your eyes and see yourself heading towards the wall.

...It was over.

But, there was no sudden stop. Chrysalis skilfully hopped into the holes in the wall and started driving through a round yet thin tunnel. Things began to turn flipped upside down, literally. She drove the car along the wall, then around the ceiling as the tunnel began to twist like a corkscrew.

Finally, the car comes out of the other end of the tunnel and lands. Chrysalis drifts the car for a moment and stops it by pulling the brake and pressing the start n' stop button.

Chrysalis takes a breath and taps her goggles, making them disappear. She then sits back, and smirks. She was shaking. She said in a low voice. "This is it, this will definitely be my royal chariot from now on." Chrysalis then looked upon her children. "REJOICE MY LITTLE ONES! FOR YOUR QUEEN HAS NOT ONLY HAD HER FILL OF FUN AND MERRIMENT! BUT NOW DREAMS OF LITERALLY CRUSHING THOSE WHO OPPOSE US UNDER THE WHEELS OF THIS WONDERFUL MACHINE!"

You were near frozen in fear, you had to touch yourself to make sure you were still alive. The sounds of the changelings cries of joy awoke you from your stunned state when you realized the tunnel led back to the main cavern room. As the changelings rejoice, you slowly unlock and open the passenger door and fall over, and begin the slowly crawl away.

Never again...never again will you ride a vehicle with this demon.

Chrysalis looks upon her subjects with glee before looking upon the open door. She shifts to the passenger seat and cranes her head over you, curious to your reaction. "Anon?" She tilts her head. "What? You didn't have fun? That was supposed to be fun. To get your warm blood going."

"...I...I feel like I died a million times over..."

Chrysalis rolls her eyes and pulls you back into the car with her magic, right between her front legs as she holds and hugs you. "Awwwww, poor wittle Anon doesn't trust in my expert driving skills. And to think, this is only my second time. Well, no worries. I still appreciate the gesture." Chrysalis kisses the back of your head. She then puts you gently back down, outside the car. "It's late anyway Anon, you should head to bed. You already know what tonight brings...don't you? I promise, that will be fun for the both of us"

You almost lose your breath. Sleepover night..christ. You remember, but the fact it had to be mentioned made your blood run cold.

Chrysalis let you leave without you saying goodbye. She had what she wanted. Though, her eyes never left you as you crawled back up the steps.

She loved her car, it was like her new baby. Something to cherish. And it was all thanks to you. Deep deep deep in her black little heart, she really had hoped you would have enjoyed the ride. And she does thank you. But she couldn't express it properly. Or, in her mind she did. She just wished you'd just completely agree to riding along with her and smacking ponies about without any protest or attached clause in your words whatsoever. But for now, she'd take what she could get from you. The car was fine.

You crawl all the way back up to the living room. And focus as much as you can to get up the gravity stairs. But you couldn't do it. You had to take breaths just to calm your nerves to focus and finally generate them to crawl up back into your room. But as you dragged yourself into your bed after such an ordeal. One thing remained clear.

You weren't sleepy yet. No, after that, you were only more awake. You just laid there looking at your alarm clock. You wondered if the car was a good idea. But as time went by, you started to shift your thoughts to the other you and "Scrappy" again.

You forgot to even mention it to Chrysalis. But perhaps it was best you just keep it to yourself. As for those two? It irked you. Here you were, supposedly going to help Starlight with the rest of her issues. And yet it seems not only is the captain better at friendship than you are, if Sweetie Belle's was correct that is, but it also meant that this other you was just damn better at it as well.

What did you do wrong? You remembered the start of your Equestrian adventure. Everypony loved you, the CMC were excited to be around you, Twilight was sure as shit wanting to protect you, Luna gave you a cuddle in the bath, everything was coming up Anon. Now the princesses watch you with worry. The CMC weren't as friendly towards you anymore. You barely interact with the mane six as is. And you keep making friends with either villains or former villains. Hell, Sunset counts on that one if anything. Made you wonder if you could buddy up with the likes of Sombra or Tirek.

You needed help. You needed someone to help you. You knew you'd have Twilight to help you with Starlight. But it seemed, you may need help with yourself. You were afraid of making Starlight uncomfortable. What a drag, you feared you were going to do something stupid. Or say something hurtful. Or just ruin this in general for her. It's funny how you went from actual hero to a near zero with just a hop between worlds.

And the clock kept counting along. And as you pondered on your own problems, you began to feel tired, and let out a yawn. At first, you think nothing of it. But as you feel the weariness wash over you, you start to realize. "Oh no...H-how am I getting tired? I woke up hours ago. I can't just be getting tired now! The sun will be rising soon!...FUCK!"

You get up from bed and start bouncing around, trying to feel more awake, but it does you no good. It just makes things worse. You lay down, and rest the bottom of your head upon your pillow and squirm a little in frustration. "It must be the bed. It's gotta be! It's warming magic and comfiness has got to be fucking with me but..." You nuzzle your head on the pillow. "It's sooo comfy...maybe if I just get a little rest. It'll be ok."

You looked to your clock, it was already five AM. And you knew you had to be at the train station probably soon. Nobody actually stated WHEN in the morning she'd arrive. But six thirty should be when you arrive. Meaning you should leave at six.

Meaning you only had an hour...

Meaning even if you set the alarm now, you'd sleep through it...

"Fuck..."

Nothing you could think of was going to work. You thought maybe you should look for coffee. Or maybe, just go see Twilight and see if she was up. Maybe she had coffee. But you found it hard to move, you just wanted to close your eyes. And as you did...

RING RING RING RING!

You throw your eyes open and look at the alarm clock...but wait, you didn't set it yet anyway.

RING RING!

It was coming through the floor door.

"Anooon! Oh Anoooonnn! Breakfast is almost ready! Come onnnn dooowwnn!" That breakfast cry....Discord? He was calling for you? This early?

You struggle to get up as he calls for you again. "Hurry up Anonnnn, don't want to miss out on breakfast, do you?"

RING RING RING!

Fuck, that noise was annoying. Whatever it was, it drove you to get up and head downstairs.

As you did, you could see Discord with a chef's hat as he stood in the conjoined kitchen by the living room.

"Discord..." You yawn. "...What's going on? Why are you...wait" You lean in, and squint your eyes. "..Are you...actually making something? No magic?"

Discord smirks as he summons up a salt shaker to put in some salt into the pot. Whatever he was making, it didn't seem to have a smell at all. "Well, some magic. It's easier just to summon up the ingredients instead of actually doing the legwork on finding them." He then looks to you. "Howya doin, kiddo?"

Kiddo? tch, you can already tell something is up. He usually summons the food itself, not cook it. "Tired...too tired. I have somewhere to be in an hour. Look, Discord. Unless you have coffee, I don't really want to be pranked on right now. I'm serious."

"Prank?" Discord acted as if he didn't know what you were talking about as he mixes the pot. "This is no prank. This.." Discord smiled proudly as he puffed his snakey chest out. "Is my mother's special recipe for Get up n Go Ghaos Gumbo!"

Mother?...Ghaos? "Ok, look. One, you know it's called chaos. And two....you have a mom?"

Discord takes what looks like a rat from under his chef's hat and dumps it into the pot and continues to mix, focusing on his work as he speaks to you nonchalantly. "Ahh. I can pull the ole numbers game too. One, Chaos doesn't start with a G. And two......Well...I have no idea, but I do know this is an actual recipe for a food that you are absolutely in need of. Something to keep you awake for the rest of the day. Oh yes Anon, this will do the trick quite nicely."

Heh, should have expected those answers. No rhyme or reason with this goofball. But, something to help you? "Couldn't you just use magic for that?"

Discord laughs at that. "Ahh, forgetting already."

"Forgetting what?"

Discord tastes the gumbo again. And nods. "Ahh just right...mm" Discord then looks to you as he shrugs and magics up a table and chair with a snap of his talons. "You're forgetting that your body does have a slight resistance to chaos magic. Kind of poetic isn't it? A resistance that would seem to bring you closer to harmony actually just makes your life that much more chaotic. Zapping you awake would just wear off too quickly, you know."

Oh...right. You knew what he was saying. The time he turned you into Twilight, that was so long ago. You remember him saying your body could only retain a chaotic spell cast on you for only so long. Unless he was there to constantly keep it on you, the spell would eventually pass. "Right...so, you're preparing something for me instead to help me. But why? You usually have some sort of reason other than being a friend"

Discord chuckles as he puts the pot on the table and starts to wave his paw at it to cool it down. "How astute of you to remember. There is an ulterior motive. But Anon, don't get me wrong. I also did make this to help you. Don't forget, I do like you, and I want to see you succeed. I'm not that mean ole changeling queen you know. I have a heart. And the more awake you are, the more you'll be able to do for your friend."

Discord gets a bowl and swirls the visibly black gumbo upwards through a floating stream and into the bowl. "As for that ulterior motive, you'd be right. How could I pass up a chance to show up Twilight? Not me personally of course, but I expect grade A results. A magnificent performance." Discord smirks at you. "Or, in the tongue of a human. "Beat the fuck out of her in her own game". You understand that, don't you?"

...At first, this sounded bad. You didn't want to make Twilight sad again. But would it? This was your task after all, and she wormed her way into it. If anything, this could be the motivation you need to truly be a good friend. Even if it means outdoing Twilight.

Chapter 262

"I do, and you know. I'll do the best I can. But let's consider this more just, y'know, me trying to be more friendly and improve." You shrug, trying to ignore the implications of it. "If I beat Twilight at her own game, then let's just consider it an unintended bonus. That alright with you?"

Discord nods as he sets you a place on the table. Snapping his talons to make the pot of gumbo itself disappear. "That's good enough. You say it's a bonus but I know very well that my buddy, that being you, has a cutie mark in chaos. So even if unintended, if you just put some effort into it, you could easily defeat Twilight." Discord starts laughing hard, and leans back to let out his guffaws. "I mean, coooome on! You already have this pony's friendship, you just need to bring it on home. If anything, that will teach her to nose on in on your own friendship missions."

You begin to contemplate on that as you take your seat. "I don't want to ruin Twilight's psyche. But, hell, I guess getting this right is important enough for me that I can actually see how competing with Twilight without her realizing it can be both fun and educational. I really need this though Discord, I've been screwing up bad."

Discord pushes your bowl over to you gently, his smile becoming gentler as he hovers over you and gives you a pat. "I know Anon, and I wish you best of luck in all fronts. You see, you and Fluttershy have managed to teach me to care about others' ambitions. I have to say, it's actually rewarding to be able to help you in this endeavor."

Did he mean that?...Awww… You look up at Discord with a cute smile of your own. You felt good about that, it meant he was learning. And that he cared about how you felt. "Thanks Discord, it really helps just hearing that"

"Oh I know." Discord flips about and rests his head on his arms as he slowly hovers about. "You enjoy the moral support, that's peachy keen and A-ok. As I said, I'm happy to both care and help with the cause" Discord vanishes and then reappears with some sort of floating trophy case. He took one and started to polish it. You had to squint your eyes to read it, it said "Awarded for trumping Twilight with a history lesson".

Discord once again speaks to finish his thoughts. "Especially since it'll be another shining victory for me"

...Should have expected that. Discord being Discord. "Just don't laud it over her ok? Can you at least do that for me?"

Discord looks at you with discontent. But sighs and puts the trophy back into the case before teleporting it away. "Fine, I won't laud it over her. But you can bet your Power Ponies card collection that there might be some innocent gasping at the fact that my son managed to utterly and completely reform a villain that she couldn't. Besides..." Discord crosses his arms as he turns his head, slightly due to shame "Fluttershy might catch wind of it if I keep having these moments. And it would be absolutely dreadful to give her a reason to ask me not to do it again."

Huh, so he was limiting himself. But not just for your sake. Interesting.

You cock an eyebrow at him as you smirk. You found it cute, And the more chaotic side of you had been yearning for a little soft revenge on Discord. "Does daddy have some issues with mommy?"

Discord suddenly snaps in anger as his eyes flare up with fire, looking at you with a dreadful gaze as he raises his arm, a single talon raised to emphasize a point. "DON'T SAY "MOMMY"! DO YOU REALIZE HOW AWKWARD THAT SOUNDS?! WHY WOULD YOU EVEN SAY THAT?! I THOUGHT WE WERE HAVING A GOOD BONDING MOMENT JUST NOW AND YOU JUST HAD TO SAY THAT NONSENSE! YOU KNOW, YOU ABSOLUTELY KNOW HOW BAD OF AN IDEA THAT IS!"

You shrug as you give him a boyish yet coy grin. "I don't. Besides, isn't this how you bond with me? I'm just yanking your chain a little Discord." You yawn, your head wasn't entirely clear. You found this more amusing than you should. "How could I resist? You talk all this game about being superior and messing with ponies all the time, including me; that I just HAD to get you back. You let me have the opportunity."

And as you say those words, something clicks in your tired little brain. That you repress shit sometimes, and just let it out when your mind feels it the opportune moment. You were impulsive. But was that a bad thing? Maybe at this time, it was. You wanted to just jump dimensions earlier, just for revenge. And before that, you had a spat with Sweetie Belle because you felt you were right.

Yet at the same time, you had another feeling. If you held back too much. You'd just become a doormat like Fluttershy. Nah fuck it, you were right in this. It was your destiny. "What are you complaining about anyway? Isn't it better I think like you more than I think like a goody goody pony? Not that being a good pony is bad, it's just living with you. It just doesn't work."

Discord raised his talon once more to speak. But then stopped, dumbfounded as he now rubs the bottom of his chin, pondering on that fact. "....Yesss, hmmm. That would actually be very very true now wouldn't it? In fact, having you be EXACTLY like I'd like to imagine it would actually be...kind of boring. Hmmm, yes, interesting." He said as his voice got lower. "Perhaps I did overreact" He speaks normally now as he looks down at you, calmer now that he came to one of his usual "snap revelations", as you like to call it. "To think, the lord of chaos..." Then he begins to chuckle. "Would lose his cool over the same old joke. Normally, that would warrant immediate rearrangement of limbs. But we're well beyond that point now, aren't we? No, this time Anon, I commend you. You found a weak point in my perfect and impervious armor and exploited it. What's more, it's an exploit you've done before that I somehow have not gotten over. So congratulations to you" Discord claps for you.

Huh, you didn't expect that. He's commending you getting him back using Fluttershy. Either you truly cucked him into a realization or he realized you actually truly have game without need of his assistance. Either way, it felt nice. "Thanks Discord, that actually means a lot to me."

You let out a deep yawn, and start to drift. As you do, Discord warps to your side and leans you back up. "Careful now Anon, you still have things to do. And do let that compliment go to your head. It will help you in the long run should you need to out banter some new worthless villain. Trust me, you'll look very cool in front of your friends. Like.." Sunglasses and a backwards cap appear upon Discord's face and head "Totally rad, dude...Now then, eat your breakfast dear Anon, you have a friend to meet soon."

"Right...thanks Discord." You chuckle a little at his goofy 90s look. "You're one bad dude"

"Don't I know it" He narcissistically grins to himself.

You finally look down at your bowl. The Gumbo was pure jet black. And there was an eyeball staring back at you. Your eyes narrow as you now feel like you got duped. "....Why is there an eyeball in here?"

"It adds flavor Anon, the problem with Ghaos Gombo is that, unlike the many strange tastes of other gumbos, this particular kind has no taste, as in, you don't even notice when it goes into your mouth. It's insane really, it makes you question if you really had eaten anything at all. Perfect for ponies who wander out for too long without food. They see it, brave their stomachs as they chow down, and then wonder if they had eaten anything at all while their bellies fill and their minds are sparked by the effect of the Gumbo. It drives them mad! Truly mad! HAHAHAHAHAHA...."

You flick the eyeball out of the damn bowl. "Nope, fuck that. I'll just eat it tasteless then. But that "maddening" part. Discord, that’s just because it just makes you feel all awake and energetic, right? Come on, don't lie to me about this."

"I wasn't, it's not poison Anon..." Discord hovers over to the eyeball and picks it up, then downs it in a gulp. "It's just the sudden alertness over the previous tired hunger is very conflicting. Since you know the trick, you'll be perfectly fine."

Normally, anyone else would be disgusted by this black tar looking soup. so you assume if this was dropped off for someone else, it'd be presented as a trap.

Discord himself wouldn't fuck you over. Well he would, but your time with Starlight would eventually take you to Fluttershy. It'd be pretty suspicious if he fucked you up in someway now. So you'd trust him this time. "Down the hatch.."

You reluctantly pick up the bowl and down the Gumbo like a thick drink. Discord was right, you could feel it, but it was like some sort of heavy air. No flavor whatsoever. It was such a strange feeling indeed.

You felt energetic, alert, better thinking. It was like the best breakfast ever. Well, if it also had taste. But you knew this wasn't natural. This is probably not something you should eat on the regular. "Woah....I feel, great!"

"That's the power of Ghaos Gumbo! Now then, you are running out of time before that first train arrives so unless you want to be late. I'd suggest you get going."

"Gotcha, but. What are you going to be doing?"

Discord put on some firefighter's clothes, and summons up a water hose into his paw and talons. "That train fire Is starting to get boring and I want to turn the room into something else, something like an aquarium."

Wut?..No, retract that wut. Of course that thing was still fucking burning. "Well, good luck with that. Though, think you can give me a free ride to the train station. Please?"

"......" Discord rolls his eyes "Oh, alright. I suppose I should work on some sort of niceness quota anyway. Though I'll probably forget about it tomorrow." Discord snaps his talons once again. and in an instant, you were at the entrance of the train station.

You went around to the wait with the few other ponies who were waiting from, what you could see on the board, the six thirty train.

There were very few ponies here. But, among them, you notice a certain minty butt facing towards the track. Donned on her, was that sun hat with the dark blue and pink ribbon around it. Oh man, you remember that. You know who this is!

"Lyra! Yooo! What up!" You call to her.

"Anon? Woah..." Lyra turns around, and the moment she sees you. A big grin gets plastered on her face. "Anon! yo! Didn't expect to see you here"

"Neither did I. What's are you doing here? Where's BonBon?" Usually you'd expect to see them together, but BonBon wasn't around.

Lyra giggled. "What, do you think I hang out with her ALL the time? We're not attached to each other or anything, Anon. We're just super good besties. But we do have things we do apart from each other, like my regular trips to Canterlot. Sometimes she comes with me, sometimes not. This is one of those 'not' times."

Ahhh, so she was waiting for the train so she can get on.

She then wondered what you were doing here. "So what are you doing here this early?"

She had such a sweet little smile. It was probably reasons like this that made many an anonymous poster wanting her as a waifu. That and that whole "OMG SHE SITS LIKE A HUMAN. HUMAN OBSESSION" thing.

"Just waiting on a friend, you remember Starlight. Right?"

Lyra's grin began to slowly vanish. "Yeah, I remember her" She remembered how awkward that whole thing was. "Is she ok? Did something happen? Because I remember what happened before. And that whole thing with Princess Twilight didn't seem so good."

Yeah, you could see why Lyra suddenly felt so awkward. That wasn't one of the finest memories. "She's ok. I'm just waiting on her to arrive. Hopefully on this train. She wants my help with some apologizing she wants to do. But..." Actually, as your mind wanders to it. You realize that maybe Lyra, being a neutral party on this, might actually have some advice on how to be a good friend. She was super close to BonBon for a reason; despite BonBon's secret status. "Actually, that whole thing makes me want to ask you for advice, Lyra. I've kinda been having doubts about myself and how I handle my friendships. But you have really good friends and don't seem to have any problems at all. So, I gotta ask. Do you have any advice for me in helping a friend who is uncomfortable about what she's done in the past? Who is having trouble with her self confidence?"

Lyra would have had questions to ask if it wasn't for the fact that her train would be arriving soon. So she thought and worked with what you gave her. "Well, it's not too hard Anon" Lyra then grins and takes a picture of her and Bonbon from out underneath her hat, and gives it a glance over. "You see Anon, all you gotta do is be there for your friends. If they get knocked down, you help pick em back up. If they are hurt, then you help them feel better, if they are having some trouble, you go in and help them solve it. Anon, you didn't need to ask my advice on this. It's just as easy as standing by your friend and helping them through it. That's all."

Of course! Fuck, it really was obvious, wasn't it? And as you realize it, the train starts to head towards the station. "Lyra, thanks. Really. I was overthinking things and I guess I never realized how simple the solution was."

"Nah, you don't need to thank me. I know you would have realized it eventually. You're pretty smart, Anon. But, looks like I gotta be going so..GOODBYE HUGS!" Lyra gently pulls you in and gives you a warm fluffy hug. These were the hugs you enjoyed, not the fucking ones that were Anaconda tier.

Lyra then lets you go and gives you a gentle pat on the head as she giggles. "I don't know why you were even worried. You'll do fiiiinneee. Just be optimistic, don't think about it too much, and remember to let Starlight know you'll be there for her. It'll be a cakewalk. And.." The train stops, and the doors are opened to let out and then let in passengers. "And it looks like this pony has got to be going. Anon, trust me. By the end of the day. You'll be laughing about how silly you felt. Super easy, I promise."

You nod, yeah. You felt that perhaps, it would be. "Thanks Lyra, it was good seeing you again."

"It was nice seeing you again too, Anon" Lyra raises her hoof and gently boops your nose. "So don't be a stranger, ok? You can handle this just fine. Seeya around!" And with that, Lyra walks off into the train.

But then, that’s just it. As ponies walk in and others walk out. You see no sign of Starlight whatsoever. Fucking dammit, was she coming in on the eight o' clock? Well, it was nice seeing Lyra at least. But you didn't want to wait around for the next train.

"Pssssst, Anon. ppppsssssssst. Over here."

That voice… "Starlight?" You looked around, but you didn't see her.

"Over here, in the bushes"

You look to your left, off the train station platform was a street lamp and a couple of bushes beside it, one of them shaking subtly. Was Starlight behind it?

You hopped down off the platform and investigated. You looked around, and even opened the bushes to look through. But she wasn't there. That is, until you felt a boop on your nose...BUT FROM WHAT?!

"What the?...Was it a bug?" You ask yourself

"Anon..." Starlight started to become visible from within the bushes, but before she could finish her words, you stepped back, startled. The fuck?!

"H-holy...how did?!" Wut?!

"Hmmm?" Starlight was confused by your reaction. "What's wrong?"

"You just appeared, but without teleporting! How did you do that?"

"O-oh.." Starlight looked nervous now, afraid that shocking you already did harm to the friendship she shares with you. "T-that was just my invisibility spell. I just didn't want anypony to see me come out of the train. Y'know, in case Twilight or the others were here for whatever reason." She chuckles nervously. "Didn't want to start a panic, ehehe"

Invisibility? Did Twilight even exhibit that ability? Either way, knowing that, you calmed down. Even self reflecting how dumb you reacted. "No it's fine, I just got startled is all. But, I'm really glad to see you. It's been awhile." You move in to hug her, but she moves in faster, and hugs you in a gentle hug. But as she spoke, you can feel an increasing tenseness.

"I missed you too! To tell you the truth, I almost flaked out on this thing! I was afraid that somepony might know about me enslaving an entire town to do what I will it to and spread it around. Especially if they spread it around and knew I was coming! But that didn't happen, right? We're good to go ,right?!" Starlight stops hugging and starts shaking you. "TELL ME WE'RE GOOD TO GO ANON! YOU HAVE NO IDEA HOW HARD IT WAS FOR ME TO LEAVE MY WORK SHACK! IT GETS HARDER EVERYDAY!"

"Y-y-y-y-yes! W-e-e-re g-g-g-g-good t-t-t-o g-g-o sthhaaaaaaaap!" You yell out, it catches her attention as she immediately stops and looks at you, blushing from uber embarrassment. Then gently puts you down.

"S-sorry...y-you're not mad right?" Starlight says with a sheepish smile

Holy fuck, what happened?

As you got your senses together, it looked like Starlight became two times the wreck she was last time you saw her. "Starlight, are you ok? What happened to you? You seemed better last time I saw you."

"And I was...and then pressure started building up. And then I remembered that not only did I do a lot of bad stuff in the past but that my anger at Twilight and her friends may have been misplaced. And if I end up being hated, or worse, branded a criminal, then everything would be undone. And even worse! All my new friends would hate me. So I locked myself in the work shack and played sick for awhile and then started having nightmares for some reason and then decided, that maybe..." Starlight's frantic speaking slowed down as she let out a heavy sigh. "Maybe I should just apologize for what I did, and see how it goes. I didn't feel bad about it before, but I do now. Realizing I nearly changed everything for something so petty has been eating away at me." Starlight looked at you with gentle and sad eyes. "That's why I need your help. You're super good at this. I mean, you even have Chrysalis reformed now, right?"

....Oh...right..she knew about bugbutt. But reformed?....Not even close. You cringe at that last part, what do you even say? Would it kill her confidence if you said no? No, you had to be honest with at least her. She needed you, you had to be truthful. you had to be there for her. "I'm still working on that. But trust me, I got it all under control. Just like I have this under control. I got this Starlight, stick with me and I'll get you through this no problem."

But "working on it" didn't fill Starlight with enough confidence to look forward bravely, it was just enough to get her to meekly agree. "Ok..."

Well goddamn, this was harder than you thought. And oh christ...OH CHRIST. YOU WERE SUPPOSED TO TAKE HER TO SEE TWILIGHT FIRST?! Maybe you shouldn't. But then, Discord AND Twilight would be upset. No..Nononono. You can't back down. Twilight, if anything, would be the ultimate test of your friendship skills. If that brings her down, so be it. Not your goddamn problem. Why get upset anyway? She's YOUR friend, not hers.

"Hey hey. Don't be like that, trust me Starlight. I've got this. In fact, I got this so much, that I say we see Twilight first. It'll go so well, that you'll be able to face the other five without a single problem. Guaranteed."

"Twilight first? Are you serious? She probably is the one who hates me the most. That's insane Anon, more insane than the symbol on your flank. That'd never work!" Starlight went into full doubt mode. "Ugh, why did I even bother coming?"

Well fucking dammit man! Lyra's advice was poop if she didn't believe in you. Let's try one more time. "Woah, woah Starlight. I promise it'll be ok. I bet Twilight is even willing to let bygones be bygones if we just explain to her that you just want to apologize. C'mon, it'll be easy. I'll be by your side the entire time."

Starlight began to grumble "That's what Sunburst said...."

She probably conjectured that with the last part of your sentence. Dammit Starlight, did you really crumble that hard? Ponies were just supposed to give in to friendship and trust one another. But now she was turning on you. Probably just looking for an excuse to go back home and hide. Well fuck it then, time for plan B. "Well, I'm not Sunburst. And seriously? Forget that guy, he's a gigantic jerk. Starlight, look. You have two options. You can either come with me, or you can go home and hide like a coward. What is it gonna be?"

Starlight was surprised by your sudden shift in tone. But those words, it stung, a coward? "I'm not a coward!" She barks. "I enslaved an entire town on my own! That takes a lot of guts you know! If I can do that, then I can handle a Princess I already beat once! Hmph, insinuating that somepony as good at magic as I am is an actual coward. I just got a little worried, you know. That was all. I came to you for help, so why are you being a jerk all of a sudden? Hmmm?!" Starlight approached you threateningly

Woah, she shifted just as fast as you did. Talk about PMS. You back down, and just try to get her to understand you meant no harm. "I'm just saying that if you want my help. Then we gotta do this that way. It’s the best and easiest way"

"And how do you know that?" Starlight stepped closer, demanding answers.

"Because..." Because Twilight already forgave her… "Because...Twilight found the letter before I did and read it, and thinks it's a good idea.I don't think the others know. But she does."

"She read the letter? My letter? Uggghhhhhh..." Starlight put her hoof to her face and shook her head in disbelief.. "How did that even happen?"

"Because the letter was addressed to the castle while I stopped hanging around there. Twilight mistook it for one of her letters, read it, and decided it was a good idea. It's that simple. Really? You should be relieved, it means she's willing to forgive you. C'mon Starlight, this will be easy. I'll be with you all the way"

Starlight gulped, would it really be that easy? Did Twilight auto forgive her? Would you really stick by her? Well, you did go to visit her once before, and it meant so much to her. Why doubt you now? She lets out a small breath of air, and apologizes. "I'm sorry Anon, I'm just a little tense."

A little? She's all over the damn place. "It'll be fine, come on. Follow me, it'll be easy" You start walking towards Twilight's castle with Starlight following you.

Ok so far so good. Yeah, this wasn't so hard. How could the CMC not see your good nature? Look at this, you were guiding Starlight to salvation like motherfucking Jesus. Lyra was right, this wasn't so bad.

"Anon, thanks for agreeing to this. Really, it means a lot to me. And double thanks for putting up with how I acted back there. I was being pretty dumb."

"No worries Starlight, I'm not mad at all. Perfectly ok. But you gotta stop worrying about Sunburst. It's clear to me that your memory of him still bothers you. Want my advice? Forget about that jerk, like, seriously. He's a buttmunch"

Starlight giggles at that, she found it funny. "Buttmunch, huh? Yeah I guess so. Probably thinks he's too important for somepony like me. Yeah, whatever. I bet I could cast magic better than he can. I nearly had a time spell down to perfection, I'd like to see him top that!"

The time spell, huh. Damn, that really must have caused what happened in the Flim and Flam verse. But how exactly? Well, with the way things are, you'd never find out. "He probably can't. That's why I say forget about him. We have to focus on this. The sooner we get this done, the sooner you'll be able to get passed all this."

"You're right. But, while we're walking. What have you been up to lately? Anything exciting happen?" Starlight was shaky in her voice, she was trying to keep things together, and thought some idle chit chat would do her some good.

"Um, sorta. I mean. I already told my Crusader friends. But I hopped into another dimension and saved it from utter destruction." You grin as you look back at Starlight. "Pretty cool, huh?"

Starlight shows back a doubtful grin. "Save an entire dimensio...oh" She then realizes something. "Aha, why am I even doubting that? Your horn right? I knew that thing was as powerful as I thought. Almost tempts me to ask for it so I could run a few experiments. I'm good at magic, Anon. But if I could unlock the power chaos holds. I could become an unstoppable force."

Uhh… "...Why do you want to become an unstoppable force? That sounds sort of evil"

Starlight was surprised by that remark. "It does? Huh, I just thought it'd be nice to further my studies is all. I really meant the unstoppable part as a sort of truthful kind of thing. Chaos magic is pretty powerful" She chuckles nervously as she begins to realize more and more what her implications could mean. "B-but you already knew that, right?"

"Yeah. Starlight, relax ok? I know you're having trouble keeping it together. I'm not gonna judge you for remarks like that. But, just to make a good impression. Just keep things simple ok?"

"Ok....I got this. Sure, it's easy. Just...Don't mention anything that sounds bad. Got it!" Starlight assured herself more than she tried to assure you.

You both arrived at the castle first. As Lyra's words rang in your mind, you knew you just had to be there for her right? It wasn't hard.

But as you thought more about sticking with your friends. It made you think about your own friends. What about the other ponies? Why didn't they stick by you? Why the fuck did Sweetie Belle have to accuse you of something that you were sure you'd never do without a good reason?

Then there's the fact that the other you must actually be a huge shithead. How could Scrappy admire him after what this asshole did to the puppy bug?If anything, he should admire you more. You're the one he's been around longer with. And if it wasn't for you, he wouldn't have the honor of being the fucking captain. It kind of made you angry. One of the things you wanted most was to get along and be close friends with the Mane 6 like you imagined them. And have fun adventures and eat breakfast with and all that. And to outdo those schmucks they help in every episode. But instead, you hardly interact with any of them but Fluttershy. And Twilight? She's only nice to you because you're a colt. And she doesn't treat you as anything more than that. How could she not acknowledge your brilliance at this point and treat you as an equal? In fact...

Before opening the door, you turn to Starlight to ask her a question. "Starlight, do you see me as an equal?"

"U-umm...do you mean like. An actual equal? or, as a part of my old utopian idea equal?" She was doing it again...

"Just...tell me how you see our friendship."

"Oh...Well. You may be a colt. But, after what happened in the cave and at town. I can't say you're a colt by the way you act. Going by that, I guess I see you as my best friend. Your age doesn't matter to me, it's how you act that's important to me."

Starlight had her head in the game in that regard. And yes, you remembered that Fluttershy was supposed to see you as a colt. That was fine. But c'mon Twilight. C'mon CMC. Hell, even Cheerilee should see it properly by now. "Thanks, I just wanted to hear that." You open the doors, and lead Starlight inside.

"I can't believe she just leaves the doors unguarded..." Starlight looks back at the open doors, they were just....unlocked.

"Yeah..I know, I swear that's gonna lead to her getting captured or something one day."

Chapter 263

You both walk through the entrance hall to the cutie mark room.

as you both do, another thing crosses your mind.

Big Mac and Spike. Those get togethers Twilight mentioned. Does that happen in the show? You remember hoofball. Maybe that's it, they just play some sports or some shit or just go and watch it. Odd though, such an odd pairing.

Starlight gulps as she approaches the next set of doors "Are you sure this is a good idea?"

No "Yes, Twilight already knows. So, this will be pretty easy."

"Ok Anon..." Starlight looks forward, mustering as much courage as she could "I trust you"

At least someone that isn't a villain does...

You both push open the sets of doors, only to see Spike. He was looking through some sort of book. You also noticed that the arcade machine now had a purple barrier around it. Probably to prevent Spike from overdoing it

He doesn't even notice the two of you come in.

Starlight looks at him while she whispers to you "That's Twilight's assistant right?"

You whisper "Yeah, wanna say hi?"

"I..Don't know. I just want to get this over with." Starlight was pretty nervous

"It could be a good warm up. By now, Twilight probably has mentioned you aren't such a bad pony. Just consider it practice."

Starlight's breathing slowly began to become harder "I well...he's a baby dragon right? Babies are usually good natured. I-I guess I could. But do you think it'll really help?"

"Trust me, if you can handle Spike. Then the rest with Twilight will be a cakewalk"

"...ok...but you go say hi first. And I'll just follow your lead. I don't want to screw up."

...wut? "Screw up? All you have to say is ‘Hi’ "

"Anon, that's a pretty big order to fill. You can't just go up to somepony and say hi. That's where everything goes wrong."

You almost laughed at that "Are you serious?"

"Yes. There's so much that goes into it that it's just…. And…. erm….stuff....and... tons of things." She was having trouble actually coming up with reasons.

Was that even a sentence? "Come on Starlight, I'll be right here. Tell you what, if it goes sour, I'll calm him down and we'll go see my Aunt Fluttershy instead. She is super understanding and nice. And since I'm her nephew, it'll go super smooth. Like butter."

"Fluttershy..." Starlight sighs hearing that name and looks down "I remember her. She tricked me pretty good. She seemed so genuinely interested in my cause. Er...not that was a good cause or anything. Eheh"

You give Starlight a gentle pat on the side "She sorta was, just not to that extreme. I think she kinda liked you. Either way, My aunt won't have a spat if I am with you. It'll go smoothly."

Starlight stops for a moment to think. Fluttershy did seem soft and understanding. She even thought about sabotaging this to go see her first. But then she thought that sabotage might ruin her chances with the princess of friendship herself. "O-ok fine, I'll give it a shot"

yes! PROGRESS.

Progress

Progress?

She was just standing there… "Starlight? Aren't you going to go over and talk to him?"

"What? No, I thought you were going to say hi first to warm him up for me"

Dammit… "Starlight, come on. He's cool. Just go and say hi. Let the friendship flow through you"

"..that sounded kinda lame" She remarks

....dammit

But then Spike finally looks up at the both of you. "Anon? Hi and...wait...who is she?" Spike points at her. "Is that Starlight Glimmer?"

Starlight just froze. Oh geez, you couldn't quite nail what was wrong with her due to her overreacting even worse than the last time you saw her. But maybe she was still working on any negativity she still had to brave things out from before. Because now, she's wimpier than ever before. Those nightmares, you should have asked exactly what they were. Maybe you could have figured out what they meant.

too late now, ANON! TO ACTION! "Yep!" You step forward, forcing a smile "Heya Spike, you wanna meet her? She's fun on a bun and all kinds of nice"

holy fuck, that was terrible. Why did you say that?!

Starlight was grinning big, nervously, she was stunned. Trying to play off your words. But she couldn’t get anything out.

Spike just found it weird. But he had special instructions from Twilight to be as courteous as possible when you both arrived. "Cool!" Spike put down the book he was looking through and walked up to Starlight and held out his claws "Nice to meet you Starlight! I'm Spike. Twilight's faithful and number one assistant."

Starlight gulped, and stepped back still smiling.

"Uhhh...is something wrong?" Spike was really confused now

"No, just..." She was faltering harder every second

You look to Starlight, then move to her backside to stop her from stepping back. Putting your face right under her butt. Huh...this was kinda lewd. "Starlight! come on! it's super easy! And don't say you screwed up yet. Because you haven't. Just say hi"

But Starlight remained stunned. How could she have trouble with this?! It's just fucking Spike. He's literal baby tier.

"Uhm..well" Spike pulls away his claw and instead does some flexing "If you're stunned that you're standing in front of the hero of the Crystal Empire. Then I guess that's ok too. But there's no reason to be scared. I ain't gonna bite you. I just wanna be friends. So come on" He extends his claw again "what do ya say? Can't start a friendship without a hi"

Starlight, unable to move back due to your pushing, but strong enough to keep from moving forward, looks down at Spike's claws. First she winces, then she closes her eyes, turns away, and brings her hoof close.

Spike gently grabs it and gives it a shake. "See? That wasn't so hard, huh?" Spike couldn't believe this was the same Starlight Glimmer that beat Twilight. She seemed so helpless and meek.

You stop and look over. Smiling as you see that she finally made first contact.

Starlight opens her eyes slowly, and looks down at the fact she was shaking hooves with Spike. "Am I really doing it? Are...are we friends now?"

"Uhhhh...sure?" Spike would take it, he was asked to. And he felt bad that she seemed so scared of him "Ok, why not? You're Starlight and I'm Spike. Now with the hellos out of the way...erm..So.." Spike nervously rubs the back of his head "What's up with the both of you? Besides the whole apology thing you got going"

You answer first. Both curious in that book and to lead on for Starlight. "Not much, just helping my good friend Starlight out. Ehehehe...erm. So uh, what's with the book ,Spike? I would have thought you'd be with Twilight right now"

"Oh that? It's a book on dogs" Spike says nonchalantly "Was trying to find a picture of this specific one"

...dog book?...DOG BOOK?! DOOOOG BOOOOOOK!??!?! "......uh-hhh...Why are you looking at a dog book...exactly?"

"Oh, Twilight is kinda skeptical about it. But I swear I saw a small dog, or maybe it was a puppy...well, whatever it was. I saw it looking through Twilight's mail. I know I did. I couldn't get a good look at it, but I thought if I could find a picture of it then maybe I could see if it was smart enough to read. Because Anon, it was weird, I swear he was reading through her mail. If there was a dog that can do that, I wanted to find out what kind of dog it is and why it can read. It seemed all kinds of suspicious."

Your pupils shrink from the pure fright of it all.

That wasn't no fucking dog

...that was the goddamn fucking Captain. What the hell did he want?! What was he doing?!

You ignore the situation completely as you pull your map out of your saddlebag.

Meanwhile, Starlight was slowly starting to ease up. But that's because that tidbit of information confounded her to curiosity "A dog that can read? Well, that's probably why you haven't been able to find it in that book. Dogs don't read."

"That's what Twilight said, but then how do you explain what I saw?" Spike was desperate for answers. He must have been trying to find one for awhile. "He had the letters in his paws,and was reading them. I swear that he was. Yeah, I know it sounds crazy. But I swear that he did!"

You didn't even notice Starlight suddenly getting over her anxiety due to the curiousness of a reading dog. "Would you mind if I saw the letters? I have a few spells in mind that could help us find out what you may have actually saw"

"Oh, there in the library with Twilight. You're supposed to meet her anyway, right? Why don't you both follow me?" Spike suggests, but the moment he does, Starlight's ears droop as she gets nervous again. Rerealizing why she even came.

"...oh ummm. Yeah, erm. I don't think I have the time. Besides, erm. Twilight is probably super busy if she's in the library. Right?" Starlight choked out

Spike was now confused. He thought she got over her anxiety just then. what happened? "Y'know she's been waiting for you, right? Are you scared or something? Because I'm gonna tell you, it's perfectly ok. Twilight is chill about the whole thing. What? Are you afraid she's mad at you or something?"

"N-no. B-but..." Starlight thinks of a plan to delay the inevitable "But could you ask her to come down here? It feels informal to talk to the Princess of Friendship in the library. Yup, rather just speak to her on these chairs."

"I mean..I guess" Spike shrugs "I guess I'll bring the letters while I'm at it. Speaking of...Anon, what are you looking at?"

You almost couldn't focus your eyes at what you were seeing. The map...

You could see Chrysalis coming out of Rarity's. And the captain? That "Scrappy"? He wasn't in the clubhouse. He was in Applebloom's actual house! What the fuck was going on here?! Did this little shit run back to her after getting caught?...that bastard!

Starlight looks over at the map. and finds it all very interesting. She's never seen a map like that. Other than the cutie map. "Anon, what are you looking at? What are those dots?"

You close the map immediately the moment she spoke. and crammed it back in your bag.
"Nothing...just...nothing. What were we talking about?"

"Ummm, I'm gonna go to the library and get Twilight. You ok Anon? You look pretty pale dude" Spike notes your fright.

You couldn't figure it out. What were they fucking doing? What was the scheme?! WE JUST GOT BACK FROM ANOTHER DIMENSION DAMMIT! WHAT IS THIS SHIT?!

"A-anon..a-are you ok?" Starlight was getting worried, she felt everything was falling apart.

"Huh?" You snap out of your thoughts. Trying to put a smile back on your face.

Goddammit...what was going on? "I'm fine" You let out a fake chuckle "Just a little tired, you know it's kinda early, right?"

"Ohhh right" Spike laughs "You're usually sleeping at this time, right? Oh boy, Starlight. You should see it for yourself sometime. He just sleeps the whole day away. I've gotten tempted to draw on his face a couple of times"

..... "Uhhh, you know I'm standing right here right?"

"I know, but come on. We're both guys, are you saying you can't handle a little joke? It's a joke Anon, you're supposed to laugh." Spike continued his guffaws

But you didn't laugh.

Spike stops laughing, and frowns as he stares at your cutie mark. Then your face. "Sheesh, I guess that cutie mark doesn't really mean much when it comes to taking a joke, huh?"

You sigh, and rub your hoof on your forehead. "...Can you just go get Twilight please?"

"Yeah...erm..It was nice meeting you ,Starlight. I'll bring the letters down for when you all are done. Twilight tried her stuff and nothing turned up. But if you got something, I'd love for you to try...alright. Just give me a minute" Spike waves goodbye as Starlight smiles nervously, waving back.

Starlight then turns to you. She was wondering what the fuck went up with you. She thought you'd have a way to make things easier. Even though it was pretty easy so far. "Anon, what happened?! You totally just blanked out on me!"

"I...just had a moment. Sorry, but..hey!" at the parts you were paying attention. Things seem to have gone ok. "You got along with Spike pretty well, see? It's not that bad."

Starlight started to breath harder and faster at the impending doom she thought she'd be in. "That's because he was dealing with something interesting."

Yeah, no fucking shit it was interesting. But.. "But he likes you, right? See? You got a handle on this already. Just do with Twilight what you did with him and you’re golden"

"....Really?...." Starlight started to ponder on it "Is it really that easy? He did seem to not have any kind of problem with me. He even wants my help figuring out that dog thing. Which...hey" Starlight realizes you started acting weird when that was mentioned "I noticed you zoned out when he mentioned that. Why? Do you know something he didn't? Do you know what happened?"

...WAS THAT EVEN IMPORTANT FOR HER TO KNOW RIGHT NOW?! "N-no, I don't. It's just.."

You fake a yawn "I really am kinda tired..and hehe" You slap your face a little "a little slap on the face and I'm ready to go again. Come on, don't turn the subject on me. You're the star here. You already made a new friend and we still got six to go. I knew you could do it!"

"..Yeah, you know what? You're right." Starlight began to stand proud. Considering Spike mentioned it,perhaps your zone out really was related to being tired, despite the gumbo. Whatever the case, it was nice to see Starlight so excited now.

"I totally got this! This is soooo easy. I didn't even need to try to make the baby dragon my new friend. Twilight is going to be a cinch" Starlight said with confidence

"Hello?" Twilight says as she comes through another set of the double doors. "Starlight? Anon? How are you both doing?" She spots the both of you as Spike follows from behind.

Starlight tensed up completely, her face freezing on that confidence as her eyes shift left and right as she began to sweat "O-oh no...I think I broke something"

But you lost your focus again. You were trying to figure out what he was doing. What was he after? And did he find it? And why was he in Applebloom's house? Applejack and the others were sure to fucking notice a goddamn puppy. You had to get over there...perhaps Applejack would be the first visit. If anything, Maybe Chrysalis was just doing something sleepover related.

"A-A-Anon?" Starlight gulps

You snap to attention this time and notice Twilight and Spike coming in. "O-oh..erm. Starlight, just relax, ok? Remember, this is Twilight. You handled her before, remember? Like twice. Just take that, and turn it into a positive thing. You wanted to apologize to her right? To make the nightmares go away? Now is your chance."

"Starlight, hello!" Twilight approaches with an inviting grin "I'd like to thank you for coming, I hope you didn't have any trouble on your trip here. I'm sure Anon has made things much more comfortable for you. Well, let me help with that by saying that you're visit is appreciated and I for one would like to get started on our new friendship. Apologizing is one thing, especially since I forgive you already, but I'd really love to be friends with you." Twilight was laying it on thick. Did she really completely trust her? You couldn't tell, but she sure sounded like it.

"oh? Erm..You forgive me? Great!" Starlight grins nervously and quickly turns "C'mon Anon! Next pony! let's go! Great to be friends Twilight, hahaha" Starlight starts to hover you away with her using her magic. "C'mon Anon, we got to see the next pony!"

"W-wait!" Twilight held her hoof out, calling to her "Where are you going? We haven't even had a chat yet. Besides, I want to come with you two!"

Starlight tenses up and stops. Dropping you to the ground. "C-c-c-c-c-c-c-c-c-c" She couldn't even finish that sentence.

"Starlight?..are you ok?...mnn" Twilight was now considering the letter. Were the nightmares and guilt that bad? She seemed better back then, albeit still hateful. "It's your anxiety, isn't it? Look, I'm not here to snap at you or anything. I want to be your friend. I want you to be able to make amends without having to think that it's all a big lie or that we don't mean it. Because I'll tell you right now, after everything I've learned, I think we can look past what happened before and make a real breakthrough! You,me,Anon, and the girls. We can all be friends and help you through your problems if you just give us a chance. What do you say?"

Twilight holds her hoof out to her.

Starlight turns and looks to her hoof, then to Twilight's face. Twilight's expression was kind and inviting.

".....How can you say that after everything I've done to you and your friends?" Starlight didn't understand "How can you say that after the last time we met?"

"Because of him" Twilight points to you as you rub your head. "There was a time where I thought chaotic and even underhoofed behavior had no place in friendship..And I still kinda do. But Anon, he snuck behind his friends and took a dangerous chance of befriending and helping you. And now look! You want to make things better for the ponies you hurt AND make amends for what you've done. That's why I already accepted your apology. How could I not? And now, I think we should be friends. So...what do you say? Do you want to be friends?"

Well, Twilight was handling this rather well. As you regain focus in your eyes. You can see her slowly approaching Starlight to make that connection.

But waiiiiit "Hold on! Hooold on! Let's not get forceful here Twilight." You look to Starlight, for some reason, you didn't want Twilight to have the last word. Maybe it was just as Discord wanted it. You had to outdo her. "How do you feel Starlight? Are you comfortable with this? Because, no matter your decision. I'm with you still. But, I would prefer it if you took Twilight's offer."

"...." Starlight nodded to you then looked to Twilight and hesitated for a moment before finally shaking her hoof. Starlight felt if that's what you wanted, and if that's what Twilight was offering, Then she should definitely take it. But as they shook, Twilight could feel her uncertainty flow through the friendly hoofshake.

"Starlight, if you want. We can stay here at the castle for as long as you feel we need to. I know this is very hard for you. But you've already taken the first step, and I'm sure Anon is as proud of you for it as I am." Twilight said in a warm and even motherly tone

Shit, Twilight was better than you thought. But dammit..you couldn't stay here too long either. You had to get to Applejack's. Something was definitely wrong.

"I'd...like that.." Starlight was already powering down. Her tenseness overcame her enough to tire her out some. So she took a seat upon Rarity's chair. "Besides, Spike mentioned there was a dog snooping around and looking through some letters and I said I'd help him out with that. It'll give me some time to rest and think things over."

"Yup! And I got the letters right here" Spike dashed over to Starlight and put the letters on the table in front of her. "So what are you gonna do with them? Some kind of super tracker kind of spell?"

"Actually, I'm interested in this too. I know I used the proper spells to try to find out what kind of dog Spike may have saw. But it all turned out negative. I know Spike wouldn't lie about something like this, and hearing that it was a dog is unusual. But" Twilight looked at him with a little disappointment "He has been playing that arcade game for obsessive amounts of time. Anon, didn't you say you'd have your father take care of it?"

"Er...yeah. I just haven't gotten around to asking him yet. But don't worry, I can get him to do it tonight for sure." More like, you forgot but you'll be sure to memorize it this time.

"Well.." Starlight's horn began to glow as she looked down at the letters "If we're even going to find out if something DID touch these letters. I'm going to have to broaden my search. Luckily, I was good at weeding out ponies who tried to....err...nevermind. Point is, this spell will show us more than just pawprints or hoofprints. It will show us everything that may have touched these letters by type. So, if pawprints didn't show up. Let's try any kind of prints."

Her horn shines brighter for a moment. But only hoofprints and dragonclawprints show up.

"Well..that's not helpful" Starlight remarks

"Yeah, it looks like Twilight and Spike already touched em. Nothing seems out of the ordinary" You say, hoping this gets dropped.

Spike was getting anxious now, he was so sure "Can that spell broaden the search even more? I'm telling you, there was really a dog. Honest."

Starlight took another breath, she wanted to focus on this to get her mind out of the demons haunting her. Though, she could feel a hole in her heart being filled at the same time. Twilight just...became her friend right there. After everything, she just did it. Part of her was wondering if this was a dream. "Let's see, let's try hair and fur. Dogs shed A LOT more than ponies do, and it's a lot easier to spot. But in case there's any hidden hairs…..let's just.." Her horn glows harder again for a moment....nothing lights up this time "Zilch"

"Spike, are you really sure you weren't dreaming?" Twilight didn't think he was lying. just fell asleep on the job.

"Twilight, I fell asleep on the machine. The machine isn't the letters. And I didn't hallucinate them either. I'm not crazy...am I? Is there anything else you can do, Starlight?" Spike was starting to doubt himself.

"Well, we can just try for fluids. Maybe the dog was.....doing his business?" Starlight cringed "That's actually not something I'd want to point out but." Starlight was feeling pretty bad for Spike, for some reason, he was pretty likable to her. Like a little kid who needed the help of a friend right now. "If you're really that sure. And...well" Starlight sighs and looks towards you "Anon, what can I say that means I care and want to help but I'm also sorry if I can't?"

...eheheh.... "I think you just said it Starlight. And I think it's appreciated that you're helping"

"He's right Starlight, I didn't even think to try to broaden the search. Even if it turns out with nothing. I appreciate your help. And I can also say I'm observing very closely, this version of the spell seems more efficient than the way I cast it. I'm taking mental notes now so I can write things down later." Twilight was enamored with this. She knew Starlight had skill in magic thanks to the magic she demonstrated on their first meeting. But to learn she has techniques more efficient than hers? It was a learning experience she couldn't pass up. "This is sooooo interesting! It's one thing to know a spell. It's another to learn how to improve upon it! soooo neat!" Twilight was getting giddy.

Spike began to grip his claws into fists "I just don't want to learn that I've grown nuts from playing that game too much!"

"Ok then...let's give it a shot" Starlight, now feeling more determined, broadens the search one more time as her horn glows bright. This time, something pops up. There was signs of liquid on the letters. While the letters themselves have dried, the magic showed that something either drooled on them...or jizzed on them..or bled.

"Aha! Look! Something popped up this time! Told you I wasn't crazy! That's drool right? Yeah, I remember the dog had one of these in his mouth." Spike pointed to the glowing liquid.

Twilight took a closer look as well "...Woah, I didn't expect this." Twilight was intrigued "Starlight, is this really drool from a dog?"

"I couldn't say. But what else could it be? The drool itself has dried up though" Starlight's horn stops glowing, making the shining liquid disappear "That was just the residue. But, I'd say Spike was right. There was definitely SOMETHING looking through the letters. And if Spike says he saw it, then I guess it was a dog. The only thing that doesn't make sense is how could a dog sift through letters?"

FUCK....WAIT A SECOND! THEM ACTUALLY QUESTIONING IT WAS BAD! WHAT IF THEY COME TO THE SAME CONCLUSION YOU DID?! YOU HAD TO THROW THEM OFF! "What if it was a Diamond Dog? A small one? I mean, those guys can talk right? Maybe they were looking for something?"

"heyyy! yeahhh! Anon might be onto something. A regular dog isn't smart enough to do that; It had to be a diamond dog. What do you think Twilight?" Spike asks

"Hmmm..." Twilight rubs under her muzzle "I don't know why they'd be looking through my letters or even sneaking into my castle. But that's the most sound theory I've heard since this revelation. Good work Anon, after we're done here, I'll investigate this further. And Starlight? Thanks" Twilight sheepishly smiles, feeling foolish that she even began to not believe Spike. "I would have never known about this if it wasn't for you."

"Yeah, thanks Starlight! Ha! You really helped me out here!" Spike jumps up to her and gives her a hug "I almost thought I really lost my mind back there!"

Starlight tensed up heavily from Spike's hugging, but as he continued, she began to ease up and even tear up a little at the praise. "...Thanks..Spike. I'm glad I was able to help..instead of hurt."

"ah come on Starlight, don't say it like that. You gotta be cool about it, like me! In fact" Spike stops hugging then holds out his claw "Let's make our friendship super official, that way you can learn how to be cool like your new pal Spike."

Was he serious?...dammit Spike, she was being super anxious. that was just going to...

But, unexpectedly..at least to you, she shakes his claw, and smiles. "You know what Spike? I'd like that...I kinda need to learn quick too. I'm still kinda nervous"

"Tch, it'll be no sweat. I mean, I'll even come with you all to your next 'soon to be' friend to help you out" Spike offers.

......What?! But that's what you were for! You were supposed to be helping her out!

Chapter 264

"A-actually Spike., why don't you stay here and investigate this? You saw the Diamond Dog right? It had to have been doing something." You suggest, wanting to help Starlight on your own as much as possible.

"Actually, that does sound like a good idea. I can't think of why a diamond dog would come into the castle to rummage through my mail. But there has to be a reason, and if there's a reason, then he may have left a clue. Spike, do you think you could investigate this while I take Anon and Starlight to Fluttershy's?" Twilight asks him, she didn't think it was THAT pressing over this. But this was still important.

Spike saluted "Of course! I got this! Besides, investigating a problem like this will just hone the hero skills I already have. Who knows? It might lead to me saving Ponyville and catching the eye of a certain beautiful pony" Spike smirks as he starts to daydream right then and there.

Twilight giggles "whatever you say, Spike.." Twilight turns to you and Starlight "Are you both ready to go?"

Starlight seemed less tense now. But, she was staring at the letters with grand curiousness. But she doesn't actually make a remark on it. "I think I'm ready....Twilight, are you sure you forgive me?" Starlight then tenses a little

"Well, if I didn't. I already would have ...hrn, well...what would I do?" Twilight actually couldn't think of what she would have done. She wasn't thinking of being violent at all, but she couldn’t think of anything non violent either. I was friendship all the way. "Well, I'm not entirely sure on what I'd do. But it's not important. The important thing is that you're here now and we want to help you."

You then raise your hoof. Because Fluttershy was definitely not what you had planned. "Actually, I was thinking we should see Applejack first"

"wha?" Twilight answered immediately, utterly dumbfounded by the suggestion "Anon, Applejack should be one of the last of our friends we should see. I think if we see Fluttershy and then Pinkie Pie first. It'd help Starlight become more comfortable with meeting the rest."

Starlight stays silent.She seemed to be contemplating something.

"But if we see Applejack now, who I think would be VERY understanding of the situation if we explain it to her calmly, then it'd make everypony else a cinch." You lie, just wanting to see what the captain was up to.

You look towards Starlight, making a caring expression, like a mother worried of her child's health. "Starlight, trust me. It'll be easy."

"Anon, you don't know that. I know Applejack better than you do. And while she isn't one to hold a grudge, she can be very protective of her family. She might be suspicious of something and Starlight won't be used to handling it without some practice first." Twilight retorts

"I'm right here you know..." Starlight interjected, and she seemed suddenly very calm. It didn't strike you as odd, nor Twilight. It just seemed she was tired of the both of you making a decision for her. "And I think, we should go see Applejack first. Just tell me what to do or not do before we meet her, and I think we should be fine"

Woah...that was a sudden brave turn. And YES! SHE PICKED YOU.

"...Starlight, Are you sure about this?" Twilight saw her reactions when it came to Starlight meeting her, she didn't think this was right.

"If Anon says it'll be ok" But the way Starlight turned her head to look at you, her eyes. It didn't seem like those of trust. But those of suspicion. "Then it'll be ok. I trust him. Right now, he is my best friend."

Of course, you just think it's her being nervous deep inside. It had to be that. She was putting on a front. "See? Trust me Starlight, we'll just go over a few things before knocking on the door. We have plenty of time between here and there"

With that. You,Starlight, and Twilight made the trek to the farm while Spike went on to investigate the odd occurence in the library.

"Ok Starlight. I have compiled a short comprehensive list in my head on how to handle meeting Applejack this early on." Twilight did her best to sound as cheery as possible.

"Ok, what are they?" Starlight asks, as she faced forward. Still looking like she was either nervous or contemplating.

"Well, one. She's very old fashioned and family oriented. So you should be as polite,kind, and honest as possible.. Two, her entire lineage are apples, so don't say you hate apples, three, if she wants to say something, just let her say it, and then respond. And four, try not to act suspicious in any way, even accidentally. She can be a little accusing sometimes."

Like Twilight was one to talk about that last one.

"Got it. What about you Anon? Anything I should know? Anything you want to tell me before we get there?" Starlight asks. She was looking at you with a worried expression. Probably because she was in fact, worried.

"Yeah, erm..don't try to talk the way she talks. It might make her feel insulted."

"...yeah" Starlight responds, as if expecting another answer.

"Oh Hey!" Twilight was hit with a realization as she smiles and makes a mental note in a nerdy like fashion "That's a good addition to the list! I didn't even think of that one. Good work Anon!"

You force a smile "No problem Twilight"

But as you three near the farm, Starlight begins to hesitate, in a almost sudden like manner, as if she just remembered how difficult this was for her. Yet, she also pressed on, as if driven by another force "mmnnn, I'm willing to do this...but, do you both really think she'll forgive me? I've uhhh...noticed how she is, and she seems..erm..is stubborn a good word?" As in, from Starlight's spying. She has seen a few times how Applejack tends to act.

"Ermm..She can be a little stubborn. But trust me, she's one of the most honest and good willed ponies I've ever met. All you have to do is be straightforward and you'll do fine." Twilight reassures her. Although, mentally, Twilight was having some doubt Starlight could pull this off so early.

You? You had to hope that she could as you try to figure out what the fuck happened. "She's right Starlight, just act like you do around me and you'll be fine"

"...right, just act like I do around you...just..be normal. Ok Starlight" Starlight takes a breath as you both approach the home connected to the barn. The Apple Family home. "You can do this"

You three approach the door...but nothing happens. you all just stare at it.

.Both you and Twilight got the impression she was going to try knocking. But, she just stood there.

"Erm...Starlight?" Twilight calls to her worryingly "Um, are you going to knock on the door? Or should I?"

"...N..u...erm..." Starlight raised her hoof, then lowered it, then raised it, then lowered it. Then when she looked back at both yours and Twilight's confusion, she growled "I CAN DO THIS!" She slams her hoof on the door a few times "I DID IT!..I...oh" Starlight cringes "I-I hope they don't think I'm trying to break in..erm"

"Just relax Starlight, It's not the first time somepony has banged on her door like that. They might just think whoever is at the door wanted to be heard.. You got this, We believe in you" Twilight does her best to give her encouragement.

"Yeah Starlight, just trust in yourself and you'll have it made!" All she had to do was believe. She was a pony, she could do it!

"....got it..." Starlight gulped and just faced the door until it opened.

And as soon as it opened...

"MISSAPPLEJACKHIREMEMBERMEI'MSTARLIGHTGLIMMERWELLI'MSORRYPLEASEFORGIVEMEIJUSTWANTTOBEFRIENDSSOPLEASEPLEASEPLEASEDON'TBEMADIREALLYAMSORRYEHHH!" Starlight immediately closed her eyes during all of that and shook. Awaiting Applejack's words.

But, there was a reason you all couldn't see who opened the door. It was a small foal rather than a fully grown mare.

"ahm, ok? Erm...Twilight? Oh and Anon..erm..and...umm..." Applebloom was the one to answer the door, and her greeting was less than cheery. Something was wrong. You bet it was fucking Scrappy.

Starlight opened a single eye. Only to see Applebloom. She recognized her from her times spying on Twilight. "Oh...erm.." Starlight stepped back behind the both of you with a nervous smile "Sorry, I thought you were your older sister..um" Starlight waves her hoof to greet her "Hi"

"Erm..hi?" Applebloom just waves awkwardly. Then looks to Twilight "..Um..ah don't know what's goin' on. But erm...Twilight. You mind talkin' my sister out of somethin?"

Out of something?

"What's wrong Applebloom? What's wrong with your sister?" Twilight asks, wondering what she meant.

"W-well, ah got a dog. a puppy actually.." Applebloom seemed really nervous saying that. Suspiciously nervous. You notice her ears droop down as she says it. "..And Applejack said ah couldn't keep it unless ah got it trained. And ah told her ah could have it trained in a day. And she went into this whole thing on how ah shouldn't think ah could rush through trainin' a dog like that. Considering she took awhile to train Winona right. And ah told her ah could have mah puppy dog trained to do tricks and stuff in ah day. And she said, if ah could, not only could ah keep it. but she would eat her lasso...and erm...ahm...She's eating her lasso. Ah didn't want her to actually do that! ah just wanted to keep Scrappy! That's all...could ya talk some sense into her? Please?"

"What?!" Twilight was startled by this "Eating rope isn't healthy! Applebloom, is she really eating her rope because she lost a silly bet?!"

Applebloom nodded in urgency "Uh huh! I told her how silly it was, but she ain't listenin to me. She keeps going on about ‘ah made an oath and ahm a keepin' it’. It's hard seeing her trying to eat that rope Twilight. Please talk to her..."

"Don't worry Applebloom. I'll talk to her." Twilight then looks upon you and Starlight "Can you all wait here? I really don't think it'd be a good idea for Applejack to be seen in a moment like this..it..ya know.." Twilight whispers "it might embarrass her.

Starlight takes that as a moment to recollect her thoughts. And...something else. "Sure, I can do that."

You did kinda wanna see Applejack eating fucking rope. But you had to talk to Applebloom about Scrappy. Now...you just had to make it sound like you weren't talking about a changeling.

Twilight gave Applebloom a gentle pat before stepping inside.

Applebloom then looked upon the both of you. Mostly at Starlight. "So erm..Hi. How do ya know Twilight..erm?"

"Starlight Glimmer. I umm..Well, it's a long story. Can we just say that I'm just one of her newest friends?" Starlight didn't really want to get into the fact with a little kid that she nearly converted her older sister to her cause.

"Oh" Applebloom's worry turned into a small smile. There was a ray of hope in her heart that Twilight could help Applejack. and any friend of Twilight was sure to already be nice. "It's nice to meet ya Starlight! ahm Applebloom! Anon's friend and Applejack's sister."

Starlight didn't feel as nervous with Applebloom as she did with Twilight or what she thought she'd feel towards the others. This was a cute little filly after all. And she had never met her before. And any friend of yours had to be a nice pony. "Well, it's very nice to meet you, Applebloom. But, did you say you got a new dog? That's very interesting. If it'd help you relax, you could tell me all about it if you'd like."

"Actually..erm" Applebloom started to feel nervous again all of a sudden "ah was hopin' to talk to Anon about that. and uh...just Anon"

....fuck..you should have known. Well, you did. So, you wondered what the little fuck did this time. Why did he go through Twilight's letters?

But before you could say a word. Starlight started to speak in an unnaturally confident sort of way. a way that reminded you of old Starlight "Really? That's very interesting. You know, it's odd you say you just got a new dog. There was a dog back in the castle that was, according to a baby dragon named Spike, was sifting through the princess's mail"

Applebloom's eyes went wide. She was suddenly really alert...HOLY FUCK..SHE KNEW?!....WAIT..

WAIT....OH NO. NOT ONLY DID APPLEBLOOM KNOW..BUT..NO...WHAT THE FUCK WAS GOING ON WITH STARLIGHT?!

Applebloom was very nervous now. shifting her eyes in a very untrustworthy fashion. "Ya don't say?...well erm.."

You then blurt out "Y-yeah, but we deduced it was a diamond dog...r-riight?"

"You're right Anon, you did deduce that it was a diamond dog....despite it being my spell. Meaning I know how it works. And do you know what I find is REALLY odd?" Starlight turns to you, approaching you with an oddly twisted smile "That'd you want to come here all of a sudden, which it seems to have coincidentally run into a dog problem of it's own. And isn't it really weird how you reacted when you pulled out that magic map when you found out about the "Diamond Dog"?"

........oh shit....

You started to shake, you were found out,

Starlight's smile then became that of agitation and hurt as she looked down upon you "Why did you lie, Anon? Why is this puppy so important and how does it know how to sift through mail?"
Starlight doesn't even bother looking at Applebloom. She was transfixed on you and your lie. "Why would you use my worries and fears like that?"

You could see her eyes start to shimmer from growing tears as she looked down at you. Goddamn it. What do you do? It's not like you could just say "yo, the puppy is a changeling fucking captain.". Even then, Applebloom knew about what the captain was doing. Did she send him herself to look through the mail? and why?

What do you do...?

...or maybe, what you had to do was actually simple. It wasn't really Starlight you were avoiding. It was Twilight. Starlight already knew about Chrysalis..how could it be so difficult to just...tell her the truth?

Nah, this will be easy. "Starlight, I wasn't lying to you really. I just. Look, Twilight doesn't know at all about me having the changelings in my basement. That dog? That's Chrysalis's captain. And he's mostly harmless and pretty dumb. But I couldn't just go blurting out I knew something. Y'know? You understand right?" But, for some reason, Starlight didn't seem thrilled with that answer. She still seemed pretty pissed. Why?! You still told the truth. "S-starlight?"

"...So, instead of pulling me aside to tell me this. You instead just decide to bring me here despite Twilight saying this could be a bad idea....Wow Anon! What? You couldn't trust me enough to just tell me right there? I didn't want to come here second, Anon. I know I got lucky with Twilight, But..Darnit Anon! I see you as an equal, why couldn't you see me the same way?!" Starlight had tears flowing out of her eyes.

...oh man. you fucked up. You fucked up! YOU FUCKED UP! You should have.But dammit. It never came to mind! DAMMIT! "Starlight, you have to underst-"

"QUIET!" She says in a..rather familiar rage.

Applebloom sits there, confused as to what is going on. "D-did ah miss somethin?"

"No, I was just leaving..." Starlight says in a growl as she turns and begins to walk away. "As it turns out, I don't really have any friends at all. And I'd rather just...go back to the work shack."

..DAMMIT! "Starlight, wait!"

You call out to her, but she just continues to walk, oddly enough however. She doesn't teleport away like you expect. It'd give you a shot to talk to her. And fix your mistake.

But as you rush to follow her. Applebloom calls out to you, confused still, as to what is going on. "Anon, what's going on? What just happened?"

"Ngh..." Shit, there was still Applebloom. There was still Scrappy. Nah fuck it. "Applebloom, can you please just stay here? And tell Twilight that I went to talk to Starlight privately?"

"B-but, what's even goin' on? Ah don't understand" Applebloom was getting worried. From the looks of things. Things just went very sour.

"Applebloom, look, I'll explain things when I have time. But I need you to please...please...just do this for me. It's not as if you're lying or anything. Please, do this for me and I'll explain everything later."

"...a-ahmm.." Applebloom didn't know what to do, but she could see you were desperate. And that this Starlight pony seemed super upset about something. What's worse, she had just registered in her mind that she knew about Scrappy. "A-anon, how come you let her know about Scrappy?"

"Later! Applebloom, please..later"

"........Ok" Applebloom nods, looking back to her front door "But ya better explain everything when yer done. Because this is getting freaky"

"Fine, thanks, I'll be back...Gnnnn!" You rush off, Starlight hadn't gotten too far. But dammit, she was still visibly pissed off "Starlight, Starlight come on! Wait up! I'm sorry ok?! I wasn't thinking!"

Starlight just marched forward, anger in her tone as she speaks back to you "Of course you weren't, neither was Sunburst. I get it, you're my friend when it's convenient for you. But when something "more important" happens. You'll just use the situation to your advantage. That's it, right? To think, I considered you an equal. But you're just a little brat! How could I have been so stupid?"

"Starlight.." You stop for a moment, that...actually hurt. You didn't mean to take advantage of the situation like that.

No...that's wrong. You did, you just didn't think of the consequences. "Yes, fine. I'm a brat! But please, don't walk away from me! Give me another chance! Starlight, I promise not to do it again. I'll do anything, please. Just turn around, please.."

"....Begging? Really?" Starlight sighed as her horn began to glow "Why should I give you another chance? It's obvious that our friendship didn't mean anything if you didn't stop to think of what you were doing. We could have solved whatever the problem was together, you know that right? Well...I thought we could anyway. Whatever was going on, it's obvious you haven't been able to handle it alone." Starlight sniffs as she turns around, her eyes full of tears, she started to whimper "But, you're the hero colt. Huh? I guess to be the hero, you'll forget everypony else....goodbye Anon"

SHIT! NOW SHE WAS GOING TO TELEPORT!? AFTER ALL THAT?! YOU WEREN'T GOING TO GET A WORD IN?! "Starlight!"

You only had one chance to stop her...and unfortunately. You were going to have to bring yourself to a pathetic level to do it. But, better this. Than just letting her go. "..You came here because you wanted to get over your past and mistakes from terrorizing you. Don't just leave me, please. Don't leave, and make me suffer the same regrets. I want to help you. I really do. I just made one stupid mistake..." You look down in shame, and slowly step up to her. "If it'll make things up. You can blast me, kick me, throw rocks at my head, Anything. But please don't leave like this. I want a chance to try again. To make things right so.."
You start to tear up. From the situation, from your words, and the fact you had to use a subtle low blow to her heartstrings to do it.. "....please forgive me, and be my friend again"

Starlight stands there, she wipes her tears. But she doesn't look at you kindly. No, she was still upset. But her mind was turning. She felt it was true. She'd be a hypocrite to not at least give you one chance."Alright. But under one condition..."

"Anything" Seriously, anything. You didn't want to lose her friendship. Not after acting the goddamn fool. And swearing you'd help her through this.

"I want to know the truth. About everything. I never questioned it before because I figured there were some things better left unsaid. But I trusted you with my past, my hurt, and my feelings. And now? I want to do the same for you. But you need to be honest with me. I want to know where you came from, how you got so smart, how this whole thing with the changelings really happened, and if you know that much...why Discord adopted you."

......o-oh shit.

......

You just stand there. Should she know? Could she?...would she even believe you

"ANON!" Starlight barks at you She felt insulted that you were hesitating. She didn't care that you were considering it. She expected you to just say it.

"S-starlight..w-wait!"

...she was still clearly pissed. And really, unlike Discord or Chrysalis, she saw you as an equal, spoke to you as if you were her age in body and mind. Were you willing to fuck that up? Over such a stupid secret? This secret was meant to keep suspicion away from you. But the princesses knew already. And perhaps soon, so would the CMC. Starlight put more trust in you than she did anyone else...You didn't expect this. Really? You expected her to heel turn like Discord and leave it be. But this wasn't the case...

...looks like you didn't have a choice at this point… "Look, I can't say it here. If we can find a puddle. I can take you back home so I-"

But she doesn't wait. Her horn glows. And in the blink of an eye. You find yourself beside a gentle river, the town off in the distance. It was a mostly empty field with a few trees strewn about.

"How's that? There doesn't seem to be anypony around here. Is that private enough for you?" Starlight would not wait, nor would she stay in a place like that. Given the circumstances.

"...yeah" .....ok.....geez. She was also impatient. Christ, you had to have at least a moment to gather your thoughts. But her eyes, they looked at you like they were going to shoot you with lasers at any second. "Starlight, before I tell you...everything. You have to know that what I'm going to tell you is going to sound like a lot of hogwash. I mean, really dumb stuff.

Starlight merely nods to that statement, and then answers "I knew it'd probably would. That's why I'll ask a few questions if I get confused and believe every word you tell me"

Wut? "...you're just going to believe me...just like that?"

"Of course..." Starlight steps up to you, and looks down at you with a dark expression "Because I assume if it's crazy and a lie, it'd be easy to find out. And IF you are lying. We're done. And I will personally rip your cutie mark out myself and do my best to destroy it. Even if it means everypony hating me...." Starlight turns her head to the side, frowning after saying that last lamentable part "It's not like I'm important in anypony's life anyway. They can find somepony else to run the town..."

Geez...Starlight.

God, you really needed help right now. You wished Discord would show up. Because right now? You were gonna sound pretty fucking insane. "..Ok, I understand. Look, before we get the ball rolling..."

You turn to face the river, and look down at the water. Looking at a distorted version of your reflection. You sigh, and close your eyes. "I'm not actually a colt...or a pony really. Or at least, I didn't use to be a pony."

That right there, catches Starlight offguard. "W-what?! How could you lead off with something like that?!"

"Because.." You turned to her, your face already filled with worry,fear, and doubt on the whole situation "..It's true. And it's how this whole thing got started."

"Anon..I know I said I'd believe anything you'd say...but...That's...do you realize how insane that sounds?" She didn't understand. She couldn't comprehend it.

"..Yeah, but my adoptive dad is Discord y'know. It wouldn't be true if it wasn't insane when he's involved."

"......" Starlight hadn't considered that. It seemed so far fetched. Was Discord able to do something like that? She thought on this a moment. But, without more information. She couldn't come to a conclusion "Alright...I'll bite. If you weren't a pony. Then what were you?"

"I was something called a human. I was an adult human from a planet known as earth far off in another dimension. And let me tell you, Earth is not a good place to live when you compare it to Equestria. Imagine being around dragons, only a million times worse...and everyday."

"It's hard to imagine a place I've never heard of..." She says half snidely. "but go on..."

And you do go on. you explain to Starlight as much as you could and remember, the hero colt status, pranking Chrysalis and how it nearly went sour, how you're expected to act among ponies, the CMC and Scrappy. You tell her just about everything sans the tv show itself. Starlight had asked you a few questions along the way. questions like what Earth was like. how you viewed your friends, Discord's plans, and if you truly cared about not only her...but Fluttershy. She was curious to know if you considered your false family “family” considering how big a lie your life seemed,

"I like to think of my new life as a reincarnation deal. And that means forgetting my old life..." You say with a disheartened sigh

"...Anon, do you know how insane that all sounds? I know I said I'd believe it. But, by Celestia, that's ridiculous."

Of course she wouldn't believe such an insane story. Would you?You started to feel weak as you sat your ass down onto the grass and faced the river. And your ears perked down as you began to sniff. Your eyes tearing up.

"Don't do that Anon. I can't even tell if that's just a fake out too. Everything just sounds insane. You lied to me, but now you're admitting that you've been lying to everypony else. How do I make sense of it? I don't even know how to feel." Starlight was mentally being torn apart, emotionally speaking. She didn't know if you, her best friend, was telling the truth. And if you were, if you truly cared about anything despite your answers.

"Then just leave me here..." you had gotten the guilt of lying out of your head so hard. You thought you had everything in control. You didn't think keeping your cover in front of someone...someone you should have told…. Would bite you back on the ass this hard.

Starlight almost decided to do just that. But as her horn began to glow. She noticed you weren't even moving from that spot. So she tried saying something. "..I'm leaving now"

But you didn't even really hear her. You were just looking at the current of the river. Which seemed to be mysteriously increasing. But you looked into the sky and saw no pegasi, no black clouds, no cause for a storm. Eh, probably just an increase in flow.

Starlight hesitated to leave. Waiting for you to make some sort of move.

But you didn't. You just sat there, unaware of anything anymore as you held in your whimpers. For the first time, you actually lost a friend. completely and utterly. And it was a good one too. One who saw you as a fucking equal.

Starlight stood still. Waiting...just waiting. Her mind was grinding through thoughts. even coming upon the thought that what you said could be true.

Starlight stepped slowly closer to you, reaching her hoof out. She could hear your near silent whimpers as she approached. And right when she was going to give it another shot...

The river's pace became even worse. Despite the beautiful sunny sky. The river was angry and raging. It caught you in it's flurry of anger and started to sweep you down it's throat towards the forest.

You couldn't even scream for help. you only swam the best you could to get air. Gargling water everytime you broke the surface.

At first, Starlight was struck with shock at the river's sudden speed. But then she was struck with guilt. If she had left you now, she would have never been there to...nope, she couldn't linger on that thought. She started to run alongside the river as she began to glow, and jumped to fly above the river. Trying to catch up with you. "Anon, hold on! I'm coming!"

You could barely hear her as you struggled against the current. Your saddlebag's weight didn't make things easy. You were flipping around and catching water in your mouth. You didn't know how much longer you could last.

Starlight was now above you, moving as fast as she could to match the speed of the current as she tried to bring her hooves down to grasp one of yours. But each try was a failure. "Come on Starlight! Don't keep trying this! THINK OF SOMETHING ELSE! COME ON!" She screamed to herself

Starlight looked left and right as the current’s path took the both of you inside a nearby forest.

"Uhh..Uh...Wait.." Starlight had originally thought of using a log to try to pick you out. But then she remembered something...Something simple.

She just plucks you out of the water with her telekinetic magic and puts you on the side of the shore on the dirt road. She gently lays you on your belly as you cough and spit up some water.

Starlight landed beside you and moved to your front. Looking all around you to make sure you were breathing and ok. "Anon! Anon! Come on! Be ok! Please be ok! Can you breath?"

You coughed as your senses started to come back to you. "N-ngh...w-what happened?"

Starlight began to tear up as she heard your voice. To her, that was enough to give her a jolt of relief. "Anon...oh geez. Are you hurt?..you're ok right? What happened!? How did that even happen?!"

You slowly stood up, you were dripping wet and your saddlebag was much heavier due to being drenched in water. You let it go for a moment to shake just a bit to try to dry yourself. But you stopped when you felt a tinge of pain. Your body was sore from all that flailing. You go back to resting on your belly. "I'm..I'm fine. Starlight..." You let out a small cough. "You saved me....I actually thought you left."

Starlight sighed. She realized despite all her anger. She still cared after all. Maybe a part of her did believe you. "I couldn't. I guess I thought you weren't actually lying to me. Anon, are you ok? you don't feel achy? Because if I have to, I'll take you to the hospital and..."

NOOOOOOPE

You immediately stand to attention with a gasp. Nope nope nope! Fuck that hospital shit again. Especially since everyone would know something was up. "I-I'm fine. Really! Really really. Eheh...Just got a little water logged back there...."

You wobbled a little. But the threat of the hospital flowed through your mind enough to keep you alert.

Starlight used her hoof to brush back your mane. The wetness helped it slick back into a rather sly looking style. But she didn't care about that. She just wanted a better look at your face

Starlight was relieved when you still retained your color. and that there were no injuries on your face. "...good. you're really ok..." Starlight looked back at the raging river, still perplexed. Then another thought hit her. "Anon..you didn't let yourself get swept up by the waters. did you?"

What?! "No! no..no. Starlight, that would have been my first real time as a pony stuck in water like that. And even then, I know I can't survive something like that on my own. It caught me off guard as much as it did you."

Then your ears lower again, you frown. Did she still not believe you? "Why would you think I'd even do that? Starlight, I told you the truth. That's all there is to it. I'm..." you sigh, you give up. you pick up your saddle bag and begin to walk off. To where? You didn't care "Never mind. Thanks for saving me. And if you want me to owe you my life. That's fine too...."

Starlight uses her magic to stop you in your tracks. "Where are you going?"

"..I don't care."

"You're really adamant about that story, huh? Then..fine." Starlight finally gives in "I'll stand by my word. And I'll believe you until evidence states otherwise.."

And then...out of fucking nowhere.

"Oho...yar me harteys! You may find that this landlubber's papers are too a gigantic farce. Created by none other than your resident chaos pirate. Captain Havocbeard. And this be my good ship, the Maelstrom!"

What in the world?

Behind the both of you, sailing the river on a large yet thin ship, with a sail with Discord's skull and crossbones, And a Draconeequs mermaid at the front of the hull. There were also golden cannons, three each on the deck for the starboard and port side.

Discord was garbed with a black captain's hat and coat. He was manning the wheel with piratey vigor.

when the boat came to the side of both of you. The Anchor dropped on it's own into the river as the river itself came to a halt.

"W-what's going on?" Starlight was confused as all fuck now.

You were worried as well. Was Discord......watching? Oh god, he was. Now he knows that someone else knows the secret. But what the fuck was with the ship?...what was he going to do?...you couldn't even run from this. "...Starlight, pay very close attention to me. Discord, he's very random and yet very calculating. Just let him say whatever he wants to say so we can be done with it. Because, I think he heard me tell you my secret."

"...But what does h-" But Starlight doesn't even get to speak a word as both you and her are teleported onto the ship.

And when you both appear on it. Starlight is wearing a blue and white striped shirt with black spats. A red bandanna on her head.

You had an eyepatch and a torn white shirt on.

And Nymous had torn pants with a rope belt. and a piece of cloth wrapped across her body. A scar placed right on her muzzle.

.......wait.......

"WHAT IS THIS?! WHAT'S GOING ON! WHERE AM I!" Nymous looked around in anger, growling. "DISCORD! IS THIS ANOTHER ONE OF YOUR PRANKS?! I WAS BUSY YOU KNOW! I ALREADY HAD TO DEAL WITH THAT INSUFFERABLE MARSHMELLOW FOR THE MORNING. DON'T DO THIS TO ME NOW! DO YOU UNDERSTAND?!"

"W-what's going on?! Who is that?! Are we on that ship?! WHY IS THIS HAPPENING?!" Starlight started to spaz again. It was like she was in a nightmare. Then again, being suddenly teleported onto a pirate ship might do that to a pony.

you? Good god. Why the fuck was Chrysalis even here? What was going on? "Starlight, relax. Remember what I said. Just relax, Discord isn't really going to do anything bad. He's proba-"

But then Nymous cuts you off, in a rage that she was suddenly here "ANON! WHAT'S GOING ON?! YOU BETTER TELL ME THIS INSTANT! I KNOW YOU HAVE SOMETHING TO DO WITH THIS...AND..." And then she notices Starlight, she immediately calms down. Being wary. But also coming to the conclusion she may have blown some of her cover. In truth, just as Starlight didn’t know her in that form. Chrysalis, or rather, Nymous, didn’t recognize Starlight as an adult. "...hrm...And who might this pony be? She seems familiar"

Starlight immediately realized it right then, right there. She didn't even need for you to have told her about the whole sister thing to figure out who this actually was. She recognized her just from the way she spoke. Starlight was still worried. But she had also made up her mind after that whole river thing. She had made the decision that you were still worth keeping as a friend. So she gave Nymous a hard stare as she slowly stepped in front of you. "We've met before, I was the filly who wanted to join in on your ‘Grand Master’ plan "

Nymous scoffs at her "Ha! then I can already guess you were caught up in some sort of ridiculous happening for you to have been turned so young. Don't even bother protecting him. I've known him longer, and I have no intention in harming my best friend." Nymous tilts her head slightly to look you in the eye "Unless I decide to"

Nymous then walks passed her, whipping her tail in her face as she looks back at her with a smirk "Besides, Anon has been on my good side for today. And that's all you need to know. and from the looks of it." She looks down at you, then back to Starlight. She could feel emotions flying all over the place. "You may actually need more than that. What's wrong? did something happen to break your trust with him? I can't imagine being dragged onto this odd little soiree unless you know more than what most ponies gather about him." Nymous then waves her hoof at her to dismiss her "In that case, just leave. Anon doesn't need a pony like you around poisoning his mind. His other friends already do a decent job at that"

"Chrysalis..can you relax please? If we're all here then Discord is listening in. And furthermore. Yeah, Starlight is now in the know. But she's also one of the few friends..." You look at her, and hope...hope..this doesn't insult her at this point. "That I can call my equal. Same as you, I like you. And I like her. For different reasons.So be nice"

"Hmph, this isn't a time to try your little "reformation" tricks Anon. I'll act as I please." Nymous walked over to Starlight and flicked her nose with her hoof "Besides, what good is she? Another wimpy pony wh-AGH!"

Starlight was having none of Chrysalis's shit. She didn't like being touched, she didn't like her attitude, and she didn't like her. She used her magic to easily fling her into the mast. Not hard, but enough to show her her place. "Wimpy? hmph, yeah. Anon told me all about you, you can't really do much in that form, Can you? I don't even understand how Anon can be your friend, but I can see why he has to work so hard to reform you."

Nymous quickly got up to stand her ground. But as she opened her mouth to speak. Starlight's magic kept it closed.

"I'm not finished yet" Starlight stared at her with pure discontent "Since I'm in the middle of learning all these secrets. I'd like to know some of yours and...huh?" Starlight's horn suddenly began to give out like a light bulb beginning to bust. It then went out like a light. "M-my magic!"

"Girls, girls, girls" Discord shakes his head at the whole thing as he steps away from the steering wheel and walks down, in leader fashion, down the steps of the helm to the deck. "I won't have this infighting aboard my ship.Cabinmare Chrysalis, would you care to scrub the latrines while I speak to my first mate and his friend?"

"Scrub the latrines? Oh..no, I won't be doing that" Nymous looks to the side of the ship and grabs her own map to toss into the river "I'm going back...home?" But the map is quickly turned into a mop "Discord! You can't do this to me! At least let me sit upon the crow's nest or something! I'm a queen! Not your janitor!"

"Let me think about that" Discord rubs his chin for just a moment before smirking at her and saying "Nope"

The door to the lower deck slams open as it starts to suck in Nymous.

She tries to grab hold onto something. But is unable to. She screams out Discord's name as she gets sucked in. Discord just smiling as he manages to hand her a scrubbrush and bucket midflight. "I want to see it sparkling when I go to do my business. Good luck!"

"Now..." Discord then turns to look upon the both of you. "I do believe my first mate has inadvertently made you part of our little band of misfits. And since you're part of the crew now." Discord turns around, his back facing the both of you as he put his arms behind it. "We're going to have to go over a few rules. As for you first mate Anon. I'll let this slide one last time. But let it happen again and I'll....hrn." Discord tapped his nose a little as he pondered "Can't send you into the briny deep. That would make everypony sad. Including me, oddly enough. I suppose having you kissed and hugged upon by a tatzleworm will be sufficient enough punishment."

Chapter 265

Slide? Rules? Part of the crew? He had to be pissed about something and was just hiding it. Even worse, you were afraid you were going to plus one a roommate. "Discord.Diiscooord...Noooope. Nonono. You can't do this!"

You step up to him, but the first thing he does his point to his captain's hadt while demanding respect "Captain Havocbeard, if you don't mind. We are pirates after all"

...christ.. "Fine, Cap'n..Captain...whatever. You can't make Starlight a permanent resident in your house! Unlike Chrysalis, she has friends who care about her. A home to go back to. She's also not evil. Look, I know I messed up by telling her everything. But don't you think this is going a little far? I mean, the CMC know about the changelings. And Starlight only found out because she's smart and deduced things and stuff. Nopony else is gonna find out. So, let her go. Ok?"

"Anon, you act as if I'm angry at you. I'm not. I expected you'd tell her the secret sooner or later. Unlike the foals, I knew she'd catch on after finding out about our bug problem. Of course..." Discord turns his attention to her "With everything Anon told you, you are aware that gives me free reign to do whatever I want with you should you squeal to any other pony, Right?"

Starlight was feeling frightened by all this. She took a step back as her eyes met his. Everything you told her was becoming more and more true by the moment. To the point that maybe, she rather had just had been ignorant to it. She had heard the stories of the Spirit of Chaos. And she didn't know what he'd do to her now if he was capable of disabling her magic. "H-how could you just say that? I'm my own p-pony, you can't just take my f-freedom away!"

Discord sighed and started rubbing his temples with his talons "I don't want to take your freedom away. I'm just saying that if you become entangled in my plans then you will have no choice but to partake in them."

Starlight wasn't missing a beat. listening to every word closely. She was trying to figure out what the hell he could mean. "What exactly are you talking about then? Are you just saying that you'll just bother me if we happen to cross paths? Is that it?"

"Ding Ding! That is EXACTLY it. Sad my first mate couldn't figure that out. Of course, that only will last as long as you keep quiet. If you do spill our secrets, which I hope you won't, then I will make things.." Discord's voice began to sound darker and eviller as he spoke "Very unpleasant"

He then disappears and appears behind her, grabbing her for a hug as she struggles in his grip "But for now! you're part of the secret club of secret things who gets even more freedom then dear Chryssi! Isn't that nice!" He said in such a joyful and celebratory tone.

He then disappears again, dropping Starlight to the ground as he teleports back to his original spot. But he facing away from the both of you and looking ahead of the ship. "Which is fine because I'm in need of my crew's assistance at this very moment."

As Starlight slowly gets up, dusting herself off,y ou were still trying to figure everything out.
"Hold on then.If you're not mad, then what was with the raging river? Why are we all suddenly pirate themed? And why aren't you worried about anypony else finding out."

"Questions, Questions, so many questions and not enough action!" Discord complains, taking out his telescope and looking forward "If you must know. The river thing was a fluke. I didn't even know you had fallen in until later. And as for your past, as long as everypony just forgets it was a thing then nopony else will find out. As for the pirate theme...." Discord smirks as he turns back to face you, and tosses the telescope towards you. You hadn't realized it until he pointed forward that the boat was back in motion. "We have some loot to plunder"

You look ahead through the telescope.

You could see it. Some blue old unicorn slowly dragging along a cart of...supplies?

At this point. Starlight believed you now, 100 percent. And she was already hating Discord. She couldn't believe the two of you were this close. "So that's it then? This whole thing is a game to you? Look, I don't have time to be playing games. And neither does Anon. We have to get back to Ponyville. We were doing something before you showed up"

"Oh? You mean walking out on him because you couldn't accept that he had a deep secret? It was shocking when you heard it, wasn't it?" Discord gives her a toothy, smug grin and slithers behind her and rubs a single talon gently along her back. "Spine tingling, isn’t it?"

Starlight's entire body shivers as she steps forward away from him and turns around. Getting annoyed with him. "Will you stop? grr...yeah, fine. Yes. The whole thing, now that I know it's true, Is very bizarre. In fact...mnnn" Now that Discord had mentioned it to her, it did actually start to weigh on her mind. "In fact...Anon..I’m sorry"

You stop peering through the telescope and turn over to Starlight. She looked, very troubled. "..Starlight, come on.." You put down the telescope and walk over to her with a gentle smile.
"Like I said, my past was the past. I know....The captain...is acting kinda evil about it. And, ok...it was kinda mean to remind everypony that you were leaving. But, the me you met. The me you slapped after being turned into a filly. the me who helped you handle that whole Sunburst stuff. That's me, that's the real me. C'mon, I know it sounds heavy. But you'll probably never actually have to deal with it since you live so far off. It'll be fine. The me you know is the me that I am."

Starlight stopped, and looked down. How could she argue that? You were honest with her after being dishonest. And you were dishonest because of how the situation was. What could she do now? Storm off because you lied to her before? She knew why now. And she never wanted to hate you in the first place. She was just...hurt. "Alright, I'm calm. I'm cool. I can live with this...but Anon, next time we're alone. I want to know more about this whole human thing....Also.." Starlight also just realized Discord wanted to play fucking pirate "We can't really do what you want us to do right now, I'm sort of on this apology tour thing. I’m serious." Starlight didn't want any part in this.

"Oh don't be a spoiled sport. Applejack is as stubborn as a mule. She'll be chewing on that rope for quite some time before Twilight can convince her otherwise. Come on, it'll be fun. Didn't you used to do bad things or...something? I forget." Discord snatches the telescope and looks back at the old pony "We'll be reaching our target soon."

"..Actually..Cap'n" After looking at the target. It didn't seem very fun. An old guy? Really?..maybe if it was someone more deserving. "I'm with Starlight on this one. Now, I know..I know. I blew the fun on Blueblood. We can still do that one if you want. But this? Really? It's an old pony, what do you even have against him? It doesn't seem like you to pick on an old guy"

Discord chuckles darkly at you "Oh?...really? oh hoho..Dear dear First mate. This…’Old Guy’ DARED to ruin my entire brunch with Fluttershy"

Wut?

Before you could say anything. Starlight spoke first. she had her doubts "That guy? That old guy? Really? How could he ruin your brunch with her? I mean, I remember Fluttershy. She was pretty gentle and sweet. I doubt an old pony would just go out to ruin her brunch."

Discord lets out a dark chuckle "ohohoho...really? Anti-Twilight thinks that an old pony..THAT OLD EVIL LITTLE CODGER!..." Discord let's out with a angry spark before calming down the best he can. He then walks over to the port side of the boat and looks over to the old Unicorn pony. who was using his magic to help with the pulling of the cart. "...Is sweet and innocent? And..Et tu? Anon? Hmm? Oh nonono..." Discord changes the telescope into a sword and spins it around a little "That particular pony has managed to earn my vengeance."

......

This was a moment where both you and Starlight were thinking the same thing. You both just looked at eachother, befuddled by Discord's reaction.

"Uhhhhh,..." You both look back at him, eyebrows raised.

"You want to explain how that happened Cap'n?" He was so full of shit

"Oh? You want to know, hmm? I'll tell you, maybe then you'll help me! It's the least the both of you can do after encountering my good graces despite my current need for revenge. For you see, that pony...." Discord growls "That pony, he stood in front of me and Fluttershy at the produce cart. There were fresh, absolutely delectable cucumbers ready to be bought. And me, wanting to show how much of a good friend I really was, had offered to buy the both of us enough for sandwiches. And yes, this meant without any fancy tricks. But the pony in front of us...HIM! He bought...the entire..STOCK!"

"...So you want revenge because he bought cucumbers fair and square? Why didn't you just go buy some somewhere else? Or..I dunno...use that crazy chaos magic you have." Starlight questioned.

"As I said, I wanted to do this legitimately for Fluttershy's sake. And when I failed. Poor.." Discord started gripping his paw and talons as the thought made him angrier "Poor..poor dear Fluttershy. The loss of the cucumbers made her upset, she cried, she wailed, she gave in to despair. Why, I thought she would fall right there and then. I knew something had to be done! And so..I opted for just robbing that pony in a style most deserving for his ilk"

Woooah wait. No… "...He hurt Fluttershy?..mnnn"

You could feel the rage building in you. Just like with that Chimera.

You loved that yellow horse too much. To know someone hurt her, even some old fuck? That didn't fly.

"Are you serious? She fell apart because somepony bought up a bunch of cucumbers? Is that all she eats?...I dunno, something seems fishy about that story. I doubt she'd break apart that much. Nopony is that wimpy." Starlight comments.

"Oh no, Starlight. Fluttershy is very delicate. There was a time where she fell apart so hard that she took this seminar thing to help her assert herself better and she took it the complete other direction. It's either one side or the other, and..y'know. I think that old pony should have been more considerate." You inform her, nearly as blinded as Discord was for revenge.

Starlight could see it. You looked like you wanted to join in after all. You had mentioned the moments like the battle with RD and Nightmare Night. But seeing it for herself, she could see that at this moment. Your cutie mark matched what was going through your head. "Still...revenge? Did Fluttershy really react like that? Like I said, she didn't seem all that wimpy to me. She's actually the one who tricked me. So, y'know,kinda hard to believe she'd fall apart over some cucumbers."

"But she did! honest!" Discord holds his paw up as a swear "Sure, she may have not shown it, even smiling at me and telling me ‘That's ok Discord, we can have some muffins and hay and wheat sandwiches instead’. But I could see it in her eyes. She was utterly devastated!"

..... Ok, revenge time over. "Ok, just take us back. Discord...seriously? I'll say this, I'll even say this in front of Starlight. You wanna have fun with me and cause some chaos? Fine, it depends, but fine. But that's some old innocent dude. It wouldn't even be fun. Can we just get back to Applejack and Twilight already? You could at least still take joy in the fact that I'm..." You hesitate, if it was one thing you didn't mention...was that "bonus" in beating Twilight. Luckily, your hesitation is so short lived that Starlight doesn't notice "at least doing..something with you later."

"Mutiny. Is it? Captain Havocbe-" Before Discord can finish his sentence. His boat has finally come side by side with the old pony. And the old pony had noticed. Turning to his side and yelling at Discord like a sour old bean.

"HEY! HEY YOU WHIPPERSNAPPER SON OF A BLENDED TURNIP! I REMEMBER YOU! YOU THREW THAT TOMATO AT ME BACK AT THE MARKET! I'LL ALWAYS REMEMBER THAT! DON'T THINK YOU CAN DISRESPECT ME! GRANDFATHER CLOCK! IT'S NOT JUST A NAME YOU KNOW! I'LL CLEAN YER CLOCK FOR MESSING WITH ME!" The old pony yelled.

Holy crap. That old guy sure was spritely.

Discord turned and looked to the side of his ship and yelled back at the old pony. "YOU OLD FOOL! I'M OLDER THAN YOU ARE! AND THOSE CUCUMBERS ARE MINE! I SAW THEM FIRST!"

"WELL I SAW THEM FIRSTER! AND I WAS BEFORE YOU ,YOU MISH MASH WHOZAWHATSIT! IF YOU THINK YER GETTIN' MY CUCUMBERS, THEN YOU GOT ANOTHER THING COMING!"

Discord laughs at him "HA! HAHAHA! I DON'T EVEN NEED MY MAGIC TO TAKE YOU ON YOU OLD FOSSIL! THAT'S WHAT I HAVE MY SHIP AND CREW FOR!"

Starlight rolls her eyes and mumbles under her breath "Oh yeah, real show of power when you expect a four on one against a pony who can barely move"

that makes you giggle, which makes Discord even more angry. "...why you.." Discord then looks back at the old pony "FORGET MY CREW! I'M JUST GOING TO BLAST YOU WITH MY CANNONS AND TAKE WHAT'S MINE!"

"OH YOU THINK SO?! YOU DO? DON'T YOU? YOU DRAGON FACED SON OF A POTATO! HMM? HMMM?! WELL, IF YOU THINK YOU CAN TAKE MY CUCUMBERS! THEN COME ON! I DOUBLE DARE YOU TO TRY!"

.....good lord. "Discord...you threw a goddamn tomato at him because he rightfully bought all the cucumbers with his hard earned money. Just let it go." You tell Discord as he rushes up one of the cannons and aims directly at the old pony.

"...." Starlight looks at you, in utter amazement on Discord's actions. She expected the spirit of chaos to not be THIS petty. "Is he always like this?"

you raise your hoof and shake it side to side "ehhhhh, depends on the situation....Discord." You trot over to the cannon and give it a push to change its aim. "Don't do this..it isn't worth it."

"LISTEN TO THE TALKING BEAR YOU DUMB BEARDED DRAGON! THE CUCUMBERS ARE MINE!" Grandfather Clock yells out

...Bear?!....BEAR?! GODDAMMIT! WHY DO EVERY OLD ASS PONY SEE YOU AS A BEAR?! "I'M NOT A BEAR! LOOK! SEE? HOOVES! HOOVES AND A MANE AND EVERYTHING!" You were sick of that bear shit. Your own petty anger lighting up the moment he called you a bear.

"YOU CAN'T FOOL ME YOU SMELLY BAG OF FUR! NOW UNLESS YER GONNA FIRE THAT THING! I DEMAND THAT YOU LEAVE ME BE SO I CAN GET HOME AND MAKE ME SOME SAMMICHS!SHEESH! WHO KEEPS A STUPID BEAR AS A PET ANYWAY?! THEIR JUST BIG AND MORONIC!" Clock yells

......

You tilt the cannon back in place. Fuck that guy. You weren't gonna take that. You weren't a big dumb bear. "....fire"

"Gladly..." Discord smirks as his faith in you reignites. Enough to light the fuse on the cannon and make it fire it's cannonball right at the old pony's cart.

But the old pony cackles "HA! GOTCHA! THIS IS WHAT YA GET FOR MESSIN WITH A WAR VET YOU PIRATE PRETENDERS!"

The old stallion hops on his cart with a backflip and catches the cannonball in an aura right when it reaches his face. But instead of stopping it with his magic, the cannonball speedily orbits around him and flies back at the ship, punching a hole right into the hull, from portside to starboard.

As the cannonball went through. It caught a certain "Earth pony" with it. Ouch....poor Chrysalis. You were sure she survived that as she screamed “Discord!” all the way to the distance.

wooo....you hoped that wouldn't make the sleepover...less..fun..or something...oh lord. She's gonna be as pissed as a bee, isn't she?

As for the boat, it started to sink. You could hear the old pony cackling in victory as the boat sunk ever lower into the river.

Starlight's horn also sparked for a moment. She could feel her magic returning. "M-my magic! I-it's back!" She was also given a fright from the cannonball punching a hole in the hull.

You and Discord were stunned however, that the old pony could just do that.

"...I can't believe it. He...beat my ship...he beat....us" Discord was near speechless

"....How...about we just pretend it didn't happen?" Your pride was as crushed as his

"...Right...good idea....You just...get back to what you were doing..."

"..Right..."

You step back to Starlight, who, after recovering from the situation. gave you a smirk. "So, that's how things really are, hm? It's kind of funny, seeing it for myself." She giggled "It's kind of cute actually. isn't it, mr.bear?"

.... "...ok ok...fine."

You gruffed before looking back at Discord, you could already feel some water rising up on the deck. "Dis-...Captain? What are you going to do?"

Discord shrugged "Oh..you know, go down with the ship, probably try to find some fish for my aquarium"

"Right, yeah...ok Starlight...ready to go back?"

Starlight let out a small sweet giggle "Alright...hehe, I don't think this is so bad after all. you both make a pretty cute pair"

.... "..ok! sheesh! I get it...can we go?"

Starlight smirked as she looked up to the side "ooookkk, whatever you say"

And so, you both teleported off the ship. The only other thing on your mind was Chrysalis. Even after you appeared back near Applejack's house without the piratey clothes, it wouldn't leave you. She'd no doubt be fine, but dammit..just dammit...you hoped she wouldn't take shit out on you. You also wondered about her wing, and hell, her health in general. Despite the fact she was going to be scary later anyway.

In fact, when you teleported back. You took your saddlebag back from Starlight and got your map. You peered over to where Chrysalis should be. It looked like she was indeed ok, and was already heading back to Ponyville.....sheesh. You'd think she'd go back home to recover. But, if she's deadset on something, then a cannonball doesn't look like it'd stop her.

Chapter 266

"Welp...that was...that was a thing" You chuckle at the awkwardness and hilarity of it. You then look around, you were a trot away from the house. Applebloom was still waiting outside. Seems Twilight hadn't dissuaded Applejack yet.

"It was." Starlight's smile began to fade, as she began to worry about what she's learned once again "Kinda wish the moment lasted a little longer."

"What's wrong? Are you worried about Chrysalis? She'll be ok"

Starlight shook her head "No, it's not her...definitely not her. It's this whole thing. You, and the apologies…..everything. I thought I had a handle on it. But it was just me finding the last few moments funny." Starlight looks down at you with pure seriousness in her eyes, she wanted to unlock some secrets she felt were away from her grasp. "How do you not fall apart knowing that you’re lying to everypony everyday? I know you said you act like the real you. But everything else....That's total annihilation if the truth ever got spread around.. And who are you really? You say you're human, but it seems like you always had a handle on our world."

...DON'T MENTION THE SHOW! No, you can explain this away easily. You take a breath, calm down, and look into her eyes to show you weren't lying. To show respect instead of looking away. "Our worlds have a lot of similarities. Language, games, grass, blue sky, sun, moon....Roller derby...Bowling...I still don't understand how Ponies can bowl as good as humans. But hey, i've learned a lot of crazy stuff while living here. As for the life I'm living? Yeah, I went through a lot of internal struggling with that one. But the princesses know more than just my past life. They helped me handle this one too. It's just a matter of eventually forgetting my old life ever existed. even if it is the reason Discord feels I'm his perfect candidate for chaos, among other things."

you then start to smile "As for the apologies. Well, forget what you did in the past, like I did. And just move forward. If you show Applejack that you really want to change, then she'll forgive you, especially if you have friends like me and Twilight at your side."

Starlight looked down in shame, remembering what she had done "It's hard. I nearly ruined the lives of everypony over a silly ambition, just because I got upset at a former friend. How do you forgive something like that?"

You give a quick smug chuckle "three words. They forgave Discord"

"...yeah, heh." Starlight was still nervous "I guess if you can forgive somepony who nearly made the world his plaything….twice. Then I guess...mmm" Starlight lost her foothold again as she looked down "..I don't know what I'm guessing at. Nopony seems to like Discord too much, and everypony HATES the changeling queen. I guess thinking about being part of that "crew" is making me feel like I'm just no good. I think the only reason the townsponies like me is because they don't know any better"

"Ignore Discord's whole "crew" thing. I'm part of it too and I'd like to think I'm pretty well liked. You're not a villain, Starlight. You just made a mistake"

"I'm trying to just think of it as a mistake, and not the near dooming of Equestria."

Hmmmm..... "Remember how I said humans were like dragons?"

"Yeah. Why?" Starlight was curious as to why you brought that up

"To be specific, many humans are vile creatures who will take everything away from everypony else until they are homeless and then they die. Entire countries sometimes suffer through a huge genocide. Millions dead Starlight, millions. Only to die for their superiors to line their pockets with money. There's some good humans in the world and all, but not many. Death and hatred and murder is commonplace. Equestria? It's a paradise where ponies can forgive each other, even if they tried taking over the world. Case in point..egh..Scrappy"

"Scrappy? Oh, you mean the changeling that's a dog? Why bring him up?" Starlight asked, curious to the mention.

"Because, despite being a changeling; Three little fillies, who even witnessed the attack on Canterlot, forgave him, and are his friend. If they can forgive a spawn bred to conquer. Then Twilight and her friends will forgive you for sure. Trust me."

"Trust you..." Starlight was beginning to. And what you said about humans... "Are humans really like that? That sounds worse than any monster or evil entity in Equestria. I don't even think windigos are as evil as that. And considering they can end the world, that's pretty evil. So, what were you then? Were you that kind of human?"

....oh no. She wanted to know the kind of human you were. Considering you were a pathetic wageslave who fucked up his life. It was too embarrassing to say. "..oh..erm. You..."

But you also tried to lie, and yet, you couldn't. After what happened with her when she reacted to you about going to Applejack's. The guilt hit you hard enough to just keep you silent or fumbling with words.

"Anon, please...I need to know this. I want to know who you were. I feel, if I do, then I can understand a little better why and how you manage to handle the situations you find yourself in. I want to know where all that courage comes from."

"Starlight...seriously. If I told you, you'd probably just laugh" ...You really didn't want her to know.

"Anon, I see you as an equal. You know my past. Now, I want to know yours. I want to get closer to you. I want to know that if I do screw up. That the pony I trust is a pony I know inside and out. So I know our friendship isn't an illusion. Please.."

But you stay silent, you sit down. It's been awhile, but you could feel your past creeping up on you. Something that if anyone else knew, they would second guess your intentions.

Starlight sits in front of you.and holds you close to her chest. Hugging you gently. "Anon, you're the only one I've ever been able to trust after Sunburst. Please don't do this. You can trust me, please put your trust in me."

What Starlight wanted was the ability to trust in one another. She felt it'd give her the strength to move on. If she knew that someone out there really did see her as an equal, someone who understood her at nearly every level, then she’d be alright. And you were the only one to come close to that.

Her touch was as warming as Fluttershy's. Perhaps, at this moment, moreso. Unlike Chrysalis or Discord. Starlight knew who you are and treated it in the most friendly manner thus far. She didn't question your methods like the princesses, she didn't expect you to be evil like Chrysalis, and Discord...he's just a wildcard. You started to cry, you felt...it was safe to cry.

"S-starlight, I..I was just pathetic, ok? Please, please stop asking."

Starlight was surprised. She didn't expect you to burst into tears. But she felt she had to know. And now, with your tears. She felt, like you with her, that she wanted to let you know it was ok to let her know. She wanted to help. She also realized, that aside from Discord and possibly Chrysalis, nobody else knows this information. You've kept it to yourself all this time. "And so was I. Anon, you can tell me what made you pathetic. Because you know what? You're not pathetic anymore. If you were, you wouldn't be able to do the amazing things you've been able to do today. Trying to tame the changeling queen? Not even the princesses can handle something like that. And saving an entire world?" Starlight tries to give a confident and cheerful chuckle "That makes you a hero colt to me. The way you helped me, that makes you THE hero colt. My hero colt. And nothing you can tell me will change that. So come on, how bad can it be?"

’How bad can it be’ she says. lord, if she knew...

But this feeling...would it be so bad...if she knew?

You pull back a little to look up at her with tear soaked eyes "If I tell you, will you do something for m-me?"

"Sure, it can be anything" Starlight gives you a warm smile "You can trust me on that"

"If I tell you..then..you can't think any less of me...and also..." That hug, was very warming. "If I ever come to sleep over at your place. You gotta cuddle with me"

Wait..WAIT! YOU DIDN’T MEAN THAT LAST PART! IT JUST SLIPPED OUT!

"Uhm..ok? Sure" Starlight found that a little odd as you just realized what you said

"Ahrm.." You blush in embarrassment "Forget that last one...It's just this thing I have an-"

Starlight interrupts you, looking at you with a smile "Relax Anon, isn't that what you told me, to relax? I don't see what's wrong if we cuddle in bed."

.... "I was an adult before...remember?"

Starlight cringed..she forgot that. Especially when you started crying "Oh...right..well..." She shrugged, smiling a sheepish smile "Erm..so? It's not like we're romantically involved. It's a friend...oh" She then realized something else "isn't your marefriend a filly?...h-how does that work?"

You sigh...you didn't really want to get into that either

"I just...roll with it. My body chemistry and stuff has changed, as had my mind I think. I guess I just roll with it until we both grow up...T-that isn't too weird..r-r-right?" GODDAMMIT! THIS WAS TOO AWKWARD! Death, take thy soul.

"Erm..sorta" Starlight told truthfully "But uhh...I guess? Erm, as long as you don't do anything wrong. woo, ok..” Starlight was nervous, she was having trouble swallowing this one. She focused real hard that you were her best friend to get past it “That's weird, but you've gotten this far. And you do seem to mentally fit the roll you've taken.I can look past it. You're my friend, we all have weird quarks, I-I guess it's not as bad as trying to force everypony to stand under my old ideology. Right?" She looks at you with a pathetic grin

"Right..."

That was super awkward. Super damn awkward. But, it looked like she really could look past that as long as you didn't actually try anything…...or she never found out if you ever do. Dammit Chrysalis...you now had to REALLY pay attention to things.

But also...if Starlight could look past that..

You looked to the sky, and began to speak. "As a human, I was a shut in who only cared about watching cartoons and playing video games. My mother didn't support it, but she also never did anything. My Dad divorced, he didn't stick around, and didn't want a son who didn't strive for anything. I sort of got it in my head that there was no point since so many things seemed so...stupid. Compared to what I see in games,stories, and shows.” You take a moment to sigh for this next one “I always got beat up in school and I never made any friends. I always got into nerdy arguments and I got good enough to win most gaming tournaments in my area...but...egh...it never made me feel better, I never even got better than local tournaments anyway. Then when my mom kicked me out, I had to get a job. A soul sucking, low wage job where everyone just hated each other but acted like a good person for the customer. I ate pizza almost every other night, pizza and ramen. Sometimes I'd get invited to a party, but I always said no. I didn't see a point...or really, I was afraid of being around other people who'd judge me..or just...people I hated. I guess I was also a little anarchist in a sense. Wanted the system to burn, my enemies to suffer, my job to blow up with everypony in it...stuff like that. I spent my nights on a image message board to get a sense of companionship. Before you ask, we had a thing called the internet that let us send messages and view things over long distances. I did that, anonymously. But nobody really cared. Nobody does.And neither did I. I hated people, they never saw the logic to anything and....no"

You sigh, that wasn’t the truth. "That's not it. I just always got salty whenever anypony didn't see my way. I just thought everypony else was wrong. I was selfish, angry, and secluded myself like an idiot. I enjoyed arguing because it stimulated my mind, but it also made me bitter and angry and made me think everypony else was just dumb. I was just...a waste of space really. I never accomplished anything and never had any kids. No girl was interested. That's why I took Discord's offer. Anyplace was better than there, and given where I was going, I felt it would give me a second chance to have what I always dreamed of. Of course, it didn't turn out that way...Pretty pathetic, huh? I'm just a huge failure who couldn't get this life to work the way he want it to, despite having the advantages I have this time"

"Anon..." Starlight sighs and boops your nose "The only thing I can agree with is you being dumb. You didn't fail, I'm proof that you didn't fail. The fact that you can acknowledge these things means you didn't fail. The fact you care,love, and want to protect your friends means you didn't want to fail and...woah" Starlight put her hoof to her cheek as she comes to a realization "I think I get how Twilight feels whenever she solved one of those friendship problems she always seems to get into. But Anon, really, I don't think you're pathetic. Definitely weird, very much weird with some things I'm going to have to get over. But hey, if you're pathetic, then I'm pathetic too. I can't even talk to a couple of ponies despite having the Princess of Friendship's help. So if you want to be pathetic, then we can go back to the train station and ride the train back to town to have a big old pathetic pony party. But Anon..." She started to feel determined, she wanted to protect your smile and oddly fun personality. "I'd rather I get through this, and I can't get through this without you. If my words didn't change your mind. Then prove to yourself you're not pathetic by being the hero colt we've all heard about. And help this dopy pony do some apologies that should be easy. I can count on you, right?"

Count on you?...she couldn't do it without you? Fuck...she was willing to take you home just to lament on how you both suck?

...fuck Starlight...

Fuck...

you started to tear up worse...but, you were crying in comfort. She knew who you are, and was willing to stick by you. Whether you gave up or not. "Seriously? You'd stick by me, even if I give up?"

Starlight nodded, keeping a smile "I'd have to. I'm gonna admit this Anon, just like you admitted about your life. I can't do this without you. Twilight isn't enough. I need you by my side if I want to get through this. And I'll put my trust in you. All I ask is you tell me if you have some ulterior motive if we end up going off track again. Can you do that for me?"

...your heart...dammit Starlight...dammit "...I can. And.." You stand up, and wipe your eyes. "I think I can do this. I mean, what do I have to lose right? If I screw up we can just cry together, huh?"

"Yeah...but hey, I have a feeling that won't be happening any time soon" Starlight looked over to Applejack's house, and looked at Applebloom, who seemed nervous about something "Besides, if you're hiding out with me, then your friends would start to miss you. Especially your ‘Aunt’. You don't want that to happen right?"

....oohhh..no. You didn't want to worry Fluttershy. She loved you so damn much. If anything, at this point, she made your new life worth living despite it being a lie. Your old life didn't exist anymore anyway. It...didn't make you who you are now.

....Yeah, you WERE Anon the colt. Anon, the son of chaos. Anon...Starlight's friend. "..Yeah, and hey. I kind of want to see her after Applejack. Sorta of a picker upper for the mood"

"For those cuddles, right?" Starlight tries teasing you a little. to lighten the mood.

You wince at that "...Y-yeah...she cuddles pretty good you know."

She still found it weird. But she went with it. And lifted you with her magic and rubbed her cheek along yours "You mean like this? Because, I do admit, you are cute"

Oook, as much as this was warming to your heart. It was getting weird. "Alright, alright! I get it...you can put me down. Let's get you through this. Do you know how weird that was? An adult doing that to me like that?

Starlight snickered "Like what? Seemed like normal affection to me. I think you're just being uptight"

..Were you?...god you were, considering Chrysalis exists... and the shit she did tops what just happened now. "..you're just teasing me."

"Mhmmm, but you feel better now. Don't you?" Starlight asks, she felt you were of happier moods just because, as it seemed, you like cuddling. And teasing you never actually seems to bring you down if it's lighthearted.

"Pfft, whatever. Still surprised you're fine with my life."

"Only because you are fine with mine. Remember? Equals? I've said it like fifty times already." Starlight ruffled your mane as she giggled.

You whip your hoof at hers and growl, and yet. You weren't truly angry. "Fiiiine...fine. You made your point. Thanks Starlight, I feel better now..."

"So do I. I think if this never happened. I would have never really been able to handle things anyway. Thanks for telling me the truth. Really..thanks" Starlight gave you another hug, a friendly hug.

"You're welcome..and thanks too. Now, you wanna go try this apology thing?"

"Yep, I feel a little nervous. But I know with you at my side. I can do this." She stood tall, ready to well...apologize.

"Alright then..let's do this."

"Wait.." Starlight pulls you back for one more thing. Something that she wanted to know in more detail.

"what?"

"You mentioned that other version of you. I admit, I didn't think that was real either until Discord proved what you said was true. So, I was wondering." Starlight didn't know on what level of strange this actually was considering the rest of your story. You didn't know who this Anon was, and you didn't actually go into detail about what happened with that batfilly. Especially not the kiss. You just mentioned you fought an aggravated violent batpony that may have or may have not been this other anon's marefriend. "You said he left behind some device? A taser? I'm pretty interested on what it looks like and how it works. Do you think you could get it from your friends for me?"

"Huh?ohh..erm.. I thought you we're gonna ask for more information about him. Like I said, I never met him and I am only going by what the captain said"

"I know, which still doesn't make sense to me. Are you sure you're not leaving anything out? I don't get how he could befriend a changeling and then zap him at the same time." Starlight wasn't able to put that together, and neither could you. Despite the CMC seemingly being fucking ok with it.

"I'm telling you, it's weird to me too. But the taser? I guess I can grab it after we're done. You think you can figure out mighty human tech?" You smirk at her, you found it cute she wanted to look into the taser itself.

But then she smirks back. As if she knew something you didn't. "Do you know how it works? Tell me, oh wise one, give me all the details of it to help me out"

.... "Ehhhrmm..I actually..have no idea how to make a taser"

"Thought so" She giggles "But if I can figure out how it works. I can maybe make a few for the earth ponies of our town. The outskirts are kind of dangerous and if I could make a taser suited for ponies. It might be able to help us out in the long run"

but..your horn.. "Or I could just make as many as you need with my horn. To your specifications"

"But then I wouldn't learn anything. I'd like to think of it as learning a new magic spell. You said human technology was the equivalent of pony magic, right?"

You did, that's true "Yeah, I did. Alright. I don't see a problem with giving it to you. Heh, just make me one ,alright?"

Starlight shakes her head, smirking as she does "Nope, you said you could make one for yourself, right?"

..oh come on. She was overdoing it again. in your opinion. "C'mon Starlight, don't do that. What if I need that charge for something else? Besides, it'd be nice to have a taser made by you. It could be my keepsake from my good friend, Starlight." You give her a nudge on her leg to further persuade her into making you one. While making an adorable eager face

Starlight gives a lighthearted sigh as she pats your head "Fine, I'll make you one you little enigma. hrmm" Starlight laughs as she looks up to the sky "You know? I feel pretty great right now. I feel confident. and it's all thanks to you and....uh oh" She noticed Applejack and Twilight finally stepping out and looking around. they then began to talk to Applebloom. who was telling them you both went to talk in private..or it seemed that way. She then walked into the house while Twilight and Applejack began to survey the area

"...crap, uhh. I didn't think they'd just come out like that. Starlight, you sure you're ready?"

Starlight gulps, and slowly starts stepping forward. "I hope so...You think we'll be ok?"

"Yeah, we'll just pretend nothing happened and see what Twilight told Applejack. Hate to act like we're lying, but for the sake of my past, we just gotta act like I was helping out."

"Well, that's mostly true. I do feel like you helped me so.." Starlight takes a breath and puts on a near awkward but gentle looking smile "Let's just get it over with"

"Don't worry Starlight, we got this."

Before Twilight and Applejack spot the both of you, you call out to the both of them to get their attention. That way it lessens any suspicion they might have. "Hey girls! Over here!"

However, it did have the adverse effect of making Starlight more nervous as Twilight and Applejack turned to face the both of you.

Twilight, being friendly as ever, waves back "Hey you two! Did you both manage to clear up that anxiety problem?"

Is that what Applebloom told them? And hell, why did it sound so autistic hearing it coming from Twilight? "Yeah! we're good. We're ready.." Both you and Starlight finally step in front of the pair as you look towards the ever nervous Starlight. "Right Starlight?"

"Yep! Super ready! I'm as ready as I ever been in my whole life!" Starlight said as she swung her hoof around to emphasize how "ready" she was. Smiling with a big wide grin. Sweat coming down her brow.

"Good! Because we're ready, and by that I mean Applejack, for that apology! Which, by the way, I think is great and helps not only bridge that terrible incident BUT ALSO helps bridge the last gap between all of us. Considering you're running the town again, we'd love to be able to set up some sort of trade line to help ponies from here and ponies from there be friends. Isn't that a great idea?" Twilight smiled about the whole thing. Of course, she felt it was a good opportunity for everyone to be friends at once.

"Now hold yer horses there Twi. Ah didn't say I'd just outright accept an apology. Ah want to ask a few questions first. Ah just wanna make sure her apology is as solid as a barn"

Starlight gulps at that, that was even more worrying "Questions? Uhmm..yeah..Questions!..no problem. You can ask me anything"

Applejack nods, then points to you "Ok, first question. What's yer whole thing with Anon again? Seems fishier than wolf in a hen house."

"We're just friends. That's it..umm.." Starlight did her best not to break into another sweat. How does she even explain that one exactly? "He showed me the error of my ways and, well, how could I not be friends with him? He's smart, he's adorable and uhhmm..." She sighed "He showed me that my entire reasoning was flawed without making me feel like I should just completely isolate myself from other ponies...which I kinda did anyway..BUT, only slightly. And, we have a lot of things in common. If I had to have a best friend, it'd be Anon...is that good enough?"

Applejack doesn't necessarily answer. But she was looking into Starlight's eyes the whole time as she nods and then looks to you "And Anon, now, ah can't say ah actually know ya too much. Just mostly what ah heard and what Applebloom has said." Applejack was deeply suspicious, she had to try to help her sister out the entire time she was infatuated with you. And now suddenly Applebloom, as far as she knew, is over you yet still your friend. "But, ya feel the same way right? Yer her friend? Through and through?"

You smile and give her a countryism to represent how close the two of you are "Closer than the dirt beneath our hooves and the fresh air in our noses!"

"Hrm, so yer both that close?" Applejack couldn't really detect any foul play. But she noticed Starlight did seem nervous about the whole thing. She then considered what Twilight had told her, that everything, in her eyes, was indeed ok and Starlight was worth giving another shot. "And Twi, yer really ok with this right?"

Twilight nods "Yes, I think she deserves another chance. Everypony deserves another chance if they really want to change. Don't you think?"

"Well. Ah can't say no. Been many a unsavory types who changed for the better when given a chance and a good talkin' to. It'd be awfully two faced if ah suddenly just said nope." Applejack's face went from suspicion to accepting "So Starlight, ah accept yer apology."

"Y-you do? Just like that? I didn't even apologize yet..shouldn't I do that first?" Starlight didn't feel it was right til she actually apologized.

"Don't need to hear it ,Starlight. Because ah forgive you for anything ya might have to say. Just got to take a leap of faith sometimes, that's what mah granny says. But, it is gonna take a little while til we can call ourselves friends. If ya want to be friends that is. course..." Applejack gives her a serious stare "Ya do know what happens if ya do something like taken others cutie marks again, right?"

"You'll never forgive me or be my friend again?" Starlight nervously answered

"Bullseye. But don't ya worry none, no sense in being all angry at you if you really have changed as much as Twi said yah have. And, Anon has a pretty good heart ah think. Has issues with the fillies no doubt, but ah'm sure he'll get used to it with age"

oh come on.

You get both nervous and embarrassed from that "You're not mad about applebloom, right? I mean, we are over...I hope I didn't worry you...sorry if I did."

"Ah shoot Anon, ya don't need to apologize. It's all kid stuff. Ahm just glad it's all over. Only thing ah was worried about is the trouble you get yerself in. Wooo nelly, ah don't need my little sister getting mixed up in all that dangerous adventurin'"

Wow...that was easy...but then Applejack began to wobble and turn green.

"Applejack? Whats wrong?" You ask

"Ohhh, ah think ah had...a little too much rope. Ah realleh don't know how Applebloom managed to break in a puppy so well, but ahm both proud and...ogh" Applejack held her hoof to her mouth to keep from puking "sick of her for it, literally of course. Ahh, maybe ah should have cleaned that rope better before eating it."

"Are you ok Applejack? Do you need any help?" Twilight asked as Applejack began to pat her stomach

"No, I-I'm good. Ah...may have to ask Big Mac to take care of a few extra chores while I use one of Granny's old remedies for this. I-it's nothin' too big. Just a stomach ache. But ah do feel the need to lie down" Applejack then looked to Starlight with a weary smile "And don't ya worry none, Starlight. Like ah said, ah accept yer apology. Just don't go doin' anything ya might regret, ya hear?"

"I hear...Thank you Applejack. I was really worried you wouldn't accept my apology" Starlight began to feel less tense. She got through Applejack, how bad could the rest be?

"Oh, that ain't nothin' to worry about. Now Rainbow Dash, that might be some trouble. She's still a tad shaken up about the whole thing, especially since she got it in her head that ya could have ruined her chances of gettin' into the Wonderbolts. Now don't worry though, all ya got to do is be nice and friendly and not get all scared like if Rainbow Dash gets on to ya. She's a good pony at heart, just got a head as hard as a rock sometimes."

That didn't make her feel any better about meeting Rainbow Dash, but at least it confirmed in her mind that the others will be easy to get through. "Thanks Applejack, I'll keep that in mind"

"Ah hope so, And Anon. Don't go lettin' her down. She seems to be puttin' a lot of trust in ya."

You give a cute salute "Don't worry miss Applejack, I got this"

Applejack giggled a little before nearly choking. But her pride wouldn't let her show too much weakness. "Good, ahm..now that ya got this all settled. Ahm gonna go back inside. But Starlight, if ya feel like talkin' again. Come see me later, ya don't have too if yer still worried. But I ain't gonna turn ya away either, mah door will always be open to ya if you want to have a talk..ahrm.." Applejack takes a step back " but ya'll take care now, ya hear?"

It was pretty funny to see Applejack wobble on inside. You all said goodbye to her. But you all couldn't help but have an innocent giggle at her predicament. Though, you did want to talk to Applebloom about "Scrappy"...but, then you'd be taking up Starlight's time. No, you'd stick through this. And worry about this later. "..So, My aunt next?"

Twilight nods "Mhmm! That sounds like a great idea. But, how are you feeling Starlight. Are you alright?"

Starlight reluctantly nodded "Yeah, just surprised at how well that went. But, is Rainbow Dash really going to be that tough?"

"I'm afraid so, Rainbow Dash always finds it hard to forgive somepony at first. But I'm sure if you just continue to act kind and good natured, then everything will go fine. Just don't get nervous when she gets all uppity...she's always like that" Twilight explains as you all begin the trek to the cottage.

"Twilight is right, Rainbow Dash is probably not going to be all nice about this. But don't let that get you down. She'll come around eventually. She forgave Gilda, right?"

Twilight found that just a bit odd that you knew that, but considering everything she knows about you. She chalked it up to probably someone informing you "That's correct Anon, I wasn't there. But the story Pinkie and Rainbow Dash told me. Well, it tells me that Starlight definitely has a chance. Especially when she has us to explain to Rainbow that the situation is just fine."

"...Thanks you two...And Fluttershy, she isn't going to be bothered by me at all?" Starlight asked worringly

"What, my aunt?" You throw your hoof out to visibly show how non issue it was. "Eh,she'll be fine, especially when she sees me and Twilight with you. We'll probably all sit down and have some tea or something"

"Oh..ok then. I am a bit thirsty anyway. Wouldn't actually mind having some tea"

"Neither would I, on a unrelated note. Anon, when are you going to ask your father about that arcade machine?" Twilight asks...damn, she really was on that. Given the barrier she had to put up. Just looking at it must irk her to no end.

....fuck, and you did have a chance to ask him too. "Um….soon?" You really need to stop forgetting...

"Ok, but if you don't Anon. Then I'm sorry, but I'll just have to put it somewhere where Spike can't get to it. And that would mean outside the castle. Ever since Big Mac came by, it just got worse."

"...I know..I'm sorry." Your ears perk down. "I promise to remember this time."

Though, the mention of Big Mac again. Gets you curious about something..

"I trust you Anon, considering everything that's probably been going on with you. I could see how you forget. I bet your aunt is proud of you though. Anypony would think you would have become addicted to it like Spike. But it almost seems like you don't really care for it at all. It's amazing really, considering what you must have done to win it" Twilight says. Man, she was proud of you for not really touching it? That’s a new one.

....yeaaah. You did want to beat Big Mac's score though. You just didn't have the time..speaking of. "Yeah, well, ya know. Self restraint. But uhhh..Twilight. What exactly does Spike and Big Mac do when they meet up? I only met Big Mac like..twice. He doesn't seem the hangy outy type"

"You'd think that. But him and Spike get along pretty well and actually have very similar interests. I don't think I should really say, but next time me and the girls are out. You should stop by the castle and find out for yourself. You'll be pleasantly surprised. and I know they'll definitely let you in on their guys night. I can bet you'll have a loooot of fun" Twilight just had to emphasize that "lot" part. She seemed pretty confident you'd have fun with whatever they are doing...you hoped it wasn't some creepy shit like bukkakke.

the trek to Fluttershy's didn't last much longer after that. You and Twilight just gave Starlight a quick overview of Fluttershy's personality and to not be worried at all.

Though, as the cottage came into view. You then learned that it wasn't her that should be worried....

....oh....NOOOOOOOO

You saw Silver Spoon….and oddly enough…..just Silver Spoon waving goodbye to Fluttershy from just outside her doorway. You could also see that Discord went and finally did the statue of Nymous. Though, she had the goofiest smile on her face sitting right next to the statue of you. You'd never think that was supposed to be Chrysalis....HA...actually, you can't find it too funny...because when the door closed and Silver Spoon saw your trio crossing the little bridge to the cottage. She started to march right towards you down the curve...OH...GOD...

"Hey, who's that filly?" Starlight asks,as she comes down your way.

"....." You gulp

"I think she's one of Anon's friends" Twilight had to narrow her eyes. It wasn't the CMC. And she couldn't quite place her within any other circle. "..That's...uhh"

Silver Spoon yells to you as she approaches "Anon! So that's...oh!" Silver Spoon immediately bows before Twilight upon noticing her "Like, it's an honor to meet you here Princess Twilight. How are you today?"

"Oh! Erm..you don't need to do that. Just call me Twilight..and uhh..don't..you don't need to bow..really. I'm just like everypony else" Twilight chuckles nervously.

"Are you kidding? You are totally one of the most respected princesses ever! Of course I'm going to show my respect for you for what you do." Silver Spoon insists. internally, hoping for some praise for being a good little filly.

"O-oh...erm. That's nice to know. Umm..Saaay!" Twilight tries to change the subject. "You said Anon's name. did you need him for something?"

"Oh! Yeah, right." Silver Spoon stands and looks at you like a commander to her troop. She had to adjust her glasses first from the bowing she did. "Anon, I know you're hanging out with Princess Twilight. But I've been looking for you for like, ever. Your sister just upped and disappeared on me after checking up on Diamond Tiara's special order. So I had to look for you by myself to make sure you know to go to the Carousel Boutique BEFORE the sleepover. Diamond Tiara ordered something very very very special for you, and you're expected to be wearing it when you arrive. You got it?"

"A sleepover?" Starlight was surprised. You didn't tell her about THAT. "Anon, you're sleeping over at your marefriend's?" Starlight would have found it adorable had she not heard "sister". It just made her worry.

But in turn, it made you blush in embarrassment. "...y-yeah..that's a thing...B-but, a special order? E-ermm..mind telling me what it is?"

"Nope! It's a super awesome super special surprise. But don't forget it.." Silver Spoon pokes at your chest, she wanted to express how important this was "Diamond will be VERY VERY upset if you're not wearing it when you arrive. Alright? Got it?"

God, whatever she wanted you to wear mixed with the fact Twilight and Starlight were here to see this made you turn red. This was so embarrassing. You felt like you were being treated as a trophy more than a person. And this wasn't even DT herself talking to you. "Yeah..I got it"

"Great! See you there! I'm going back to the mansion to tell Diamond Tiara the good news! Goodbye Anon." Silver then bowed to Twilight "Totally awesome seeing you Princess Twilight. And erm..Princess Twilight's friend"

"..Really..just Twilight will do..eheh..but umm..goodbye. Have a good day" Twilight said, still not really enjoying being called "princess" Twilight.

Starlight just waves as Silver Spoon walks off. Silver Spoon had a skip in her trot at this moment. She wanted to tell her friend who you were hanging out with and then make the conjecture that if you're hanging with Princess Twilight even after your Twilight week then that will make you even BETTER coltfriend material for her. She also hoped to see Nymous at some point. Wondering where she had just vanished off to.

But for you....you dreaded whatever that "special order" was.

"Sleepover huh Anon? That's uhhh..neat. and...cool" Starlight didn't know how to convey her feelings with Twilight standing right there. She couldn't just blurt out her actual thoughts on the matter.

"Oh I agree. I think it's absolutely adorable! And, since it seems to be a special sleepover. Maybe you can take some books to read and maybe even have a study group! Ohh! I know if it was me and I was at a sleepover and was a young filly ready to learn that I'd make time for a study group session to help with my ability to do classwork!" Twilight found the whole thing adorable and as an opportunity to learn...ughhhhhh

"Yeah...right. Umm, Twilight. Can you go ask for Fluttershy to come out? I just want to go over a few things with Anon" Starlight just had to know.

"Oh, Of course. I'll even delay myself in case you need extra time. No need to rush it, right?" Twilight was eager as well, to help.

"Yup, that sounds exactly right. In fact, give us some double extra time. Can you do that?" Starlight asks

"No problem. That's what I'm here. To help my friends. No matter how new a friend they may be. But Starlight, as we said. No need to be nervous, alright?" Twilight put a hoof on her shoulder and showed her concern

Starlight nodded, feeling anxious about what had just transpired "yep, thanks. got it."

And with that. Starlight asked you to step aside with her as Twilight went to knock on Fluttershy's door.

Chapter 267

"Anon, you never EVER mentioned a sleepover with your marefriend and the QUEEN OF THE CHANGELINGS! Does she even know?!" Starlight was now really worried about you. That sounded insane to her.

"...She doesn't. Oh come on Starlight, I've got this. Trust me" You were confident in your abilities to handle Chrysalis. DT? Not so much. But you couldn't show any worry now. Not to Starlight

"...Anon...she doesn't even know. How do you plan to keep everything together? If she's the one who's setting things up, then you're the one at a disadvantage. Anon, you said she wants to take over the world. She's going to use this sleepover to get closer to it!" Starlight surmised

Wut? "...Take over the world...through a sleepover? No, Starlight relax, this is purely relationship stuff. Which I have control of. Really? This is Chrysalis just messing with me in what she'd call a "friendly" manner. I just can't fall for any of her tricks and it'll go smooth as butter"

"...Relationship? She actually cares about your relationship? That doesn't sound like the Changeling Queen I read about. Are you sure about that?" Starlight couldn't see Chrysalis caring about something like that.

"Yeah. Trust me when I said I was making progress. I meant it. She's gonna be sneaky about it, sure. But she seems to care about my relationship. And so, really? I think she wants to help me make it work"

"..Anon, did you ever, y'know, sit down, and question WHY she wants to help? I bet it isn't for your benefit" Starlight didn't really seem to like the idea of Chrysalis being out and about at all.

"Sure, she'll get some food out of it. That's obvious. But she hates lovey dovey stuff. The fact she's totally for this tells me she wants to help" You shrug, you were sure Chrysalis was behind you on this. Even if some of her reasons are selfish.

"Anon, just stop and think.You said this filly is totally into you. Why do you need her help exactly?" Starlight just wanted to get to the bottom of it and give you the advice that this was a bad idea.

You sigh, you knew exactly why. And at this moment, now that you were more into this life, and the fact Starlight was the nicest close friend you had who was actually in the know, you felt comfortable to tell her why. "Because I'm not very good with ladies. Heh, kinda like how I screwed up with you. Y'see, since I have to get used to my new life. It probably would be good to permanently secure a marefriend. Somepony that, when we grow up, I can be comfortable with and be happy with for the rest of my life"

"So what you're saying is. Chrysalis is going to help you actually act like the coltfriend you feel you should be? That's why she's helping you?"

You shrug and look away "Yeah..and y'know..she gets fed in the process. It's win win"

Starlight put her hoof to her head "Anon, oh Anon.You really are the weirdest pony I ever met, even if you were once something else. That cutie mark? It definitely fits you. I mean, geez. It kind of makes me curious to see what would happen if I stripped it from you."

Wut? Woah, what? "Y-you're kidding about that, right?"

"No...but I'd never do that to you anyway. Well, unless you asked. It'd be interesting to see the kind of changes that would happen. But no. You're my best friend Anon, I'd never just do that to you out of the blue."

Oh..well..dammit. of course she wouldn't. You could see in her eyes the slight accusation had made her a little hurt. "Sorry..I know. Just, a lot of things on my mind. I didn't mean to make it sound like I was accusing you of anything. and...oh no" They were coming...

"What?" Starlight asked "What's wrong...oh..what?!" Starlight looked to where you were looking at. Twilight and Fluttershy were already stepping out. NOW?! That wasn't much of a distraction at all!

"Ok, Ok..Relax. We got this. Fluttershy is super nice. This won't be a problem at all" You move next to Starlight and puff up your chest. "You can handle this, right? We got through Applejack just fine"

Starlight nodded "Yeah, I spied on Twilight, remember? I've seen her enough to know this is going to be easy. But just in case, you don't mind leading the way. Do you?"

You didn’t mind, if it’d make things that much easier. "Yeah, I got this. Trust me...ok..here we go.....HEY AUNT FLUTTERSHY!"

You rush up to Fluttershy to get snuggle hugs and say hello

Hell, the closer you drew near. The more you just naturally wanted cuddle hugs. "How are you?" You move in for the cuddle hug. Something Fluttershy could already tell you wanted and opens her hooves to grasp you into it. She didn't seem timid, upset, or even worried you were with Starlight. An easy win?

"Ohh, hello my little gentlecolt. How are you doing? I hear you have a sleepover today. And that you're taking your friend Starlight around Ponyville to help her feel better about what she's done"

....wut? So Twilight didn't distract her? She just outright told her? Then...why wasn't she worried?

"Wait. You know I was with Anon and you're not worried or scared even after what I did to you and your friends?" Starlight was asking Fluttershy, yet looking at Twilight. She felt like Twilight shouldn’t have just outright said things like that.

"Oh, I knew you were with Anon even before Twilight came to talk to me. Anon's father, Discord, told me all about it while we were out shopping for bread and cucumbers. Goodness...at first it was very worrying. But Discord, Oh..it was like his fatherly spirit was just so bright and comforting. He told me about how you needed help and that only Anon would be able to help you through this. And that my good little Anon..." Fluttershy gives you a nuzzle right there, then continues "Would be able to not only handle the situation, but know exactly what to do. He also told me I didn't need to worry at all about anything about you. That you were just looking for forgiveness and friendship. And of course I put my trust in Discord, and I put my trust in Anon. And I'd like to say that I already forgive you, Starlight. I never thought you were really that bad anyway...just sort of had the wrong idea about equality"

Starlight was so taken aback that her mouth hung open.

That was fucking...easy. Hell, Discord set this one up? That was surprising… "So, Dad already settled everything then? Um..." Actually, he did say he was at the market with her. You wonder if he said anything else. "Aunt Fluttershy, did Dad say anything else?"

"Well...he did say he also was going to get the arcade machine thing from Twilight's castle. And then, when that nice, sweet old pony bought all the cucumbers, he got all sad...it was both cute and worrying. I think I managed to cheer him up with the sandwiches I suggested. The only thing was when he left to go do "something"...he never came back. I'm guessing he just got busy with something"

....yeah..busy attacking that very same old pony...sheesh.

"Fluttershy...we can't just be friends just like that. I didn't even apologize properly yet..." Starlight felt like she had to at least say something before being accepted.

"Starlight, it's alright. Fluttershy already knows. And see? You already made a new friend before you even knew it! Doesn't that feel great?" Twilight was sure this is what Starlight needed to boost her confidence. An immediate friendship with softhorse.

"Yeah..it...it actually does. Erm, Anon..would you scootch just a bit. I wouldn't mind getting in on one of those hugs..i-if you don't mind of course." Starlight asked, still blown back by how easy it was.

"I don't mind! In fact..." You end your cuddle hug with Fluttershy and step to the side "I'll join in on it too! You don't mind. do you Aunt Fluttershy?"

Fluttershy shook her head "I don't mind at all. Twilight, would you like to join us on the group hug?"

"Gladly!" Twilight nodded with a smile.

And right then and there. was probably one of the greatest and warmest hugs you've had in awhile. Starlight, Twilight, Fluttershy, and you. All in one gigantic hugfest.

After it was over, Fluttershy offered some tea. And with Twilight's help, set up a table just outside. Starlight did explain it couldn't last long as she wanted to get through rest of her friends before the day was over. Which of course. Fluttershy understood.

"Well, I guess since Anon has to pick something up at Rarity's. That she should be the next friend we see. And then Pinkie, and finally Rainbow Dash. Unless you want to see Pinkie first. She's pretty friendly Starlight, just to let you know. But I admit, if somepony had Rarity design something. It's usually worth seeing. I'm curious on what it could be." Twilight says as she sips some tea. She didn't want to be pushy. She really was just curious.

"I admit, I'm curious too. I know her skills are pretty amazing. And something for Anon? I bet it's something adorable. And..uhh, I feel confident I can make friends with her. Sorry about earlier, I just...I don't know. Just really seemed weird you'd just accept my apology before I could even say anything. Applejack was the same way sorta. But you already considered it before Twilight even talked to you. It caught me offguard" Starlight admitted, she did want to see what was left off for you. It also could give her another chance to speak to you on the subject.

But then Fluttershy started to look really nervous as she fiddled with her cup. "Rarity?..oh...oh my. Maybe you should see Pinkie first, then Rainbow Dash....then Rarity last."

...Wut?

Even Twilight and Starlight were confused. Rarity last? That makes NO sense.

"Aunt Fluttershy" You chuckle in dismission "Come on, Miss Rarity last? I know she's all proper and stuff. But she's also super nice. I think she'd accept my friend Starlight no problem."

"I'm with Anon on this one, Fluttershy. I know Rarity can be a little dramatic at times. But she's always willing to give a pony another chance. And when she doesn't. It's usually because she's being..well..." Twilight shrugs with a smile "Dramatic"

"..oh but Twilight..umm.." Fluttershy took a sip of tea to relax her nerves "I may have told her my thoughts on what I knew so far a few days ago at the spa; on the whole "Anon and Starlight" thing. It wasn't anything bad, I just thought it was odd how it all came about..and...well...I think she took it the wrong way. Because she said that we were all tricked, and that Starlight could be tricking Anon because he has the horn, and that, and I'm quoting ..erm..’Anypony who would use a sweet and innocent foal to achieve their terrible dream is quite the monster indeed. Why, I don't think I could ever forgive Starlight if that was the case. In fact, how can she even be believed? Fluttershy, sweetie, you can't just trust in her after everything she did. this friendship she has with Anon could very well be a trap. You should at least talk to Twilight about it, she'd know what to do’ " Wow….she even nearly sounded like Rarity for how much she remembered.

"But...you never came to me about it. I didn't even know that happened" Twilight was confused.

Fluttershy looked down, she felt bad because she hadn't said anything about it. "I know, it's because I never went to see you...I felt that Anon had made the right decision. Discord seemed to think so too. Since Anon is his son, adopted or otherwise, I asked him about it instead. He said he could end it himself if it made me feel better, but he also said Anon had it under control. And I'd feel terrible if I just ended up taking a friend from Anon like that, even if said friend did hurt us. I felt, since I was able to reform Discord. Then Anon, being a relative, could handle it just fine. Considering everything we know, he did do a good job. Right?"

Fluttershy....oh....damn. She believed in you that much that she didn't even go to talk to Twilight about it? but instead Discord...and then Discord...Helping Fluttershy like that? And here you thought this was just about trumping Twilight. What a wonderful cunt he can be sometimes.

But then there was also Rarity. Could she really be that set in her decision to just deny Starlight like that? You knew she could be uptight. But she wasn't cruel.

Dammit...you had no idea if this was going to be difficult or not.

"But, Anon isn't related to you by blood. I appreciate what he's done, I do. But isn't it a little weird to think that something like that is hereditary through adoption? I wouldn’t ask for Anon’s help with a reason like that." Starlight said, it was the logic that bothered her.

"Are you saying you didn't want Anon's help at all?" Fluttershy was confused, she would have thought she'd be more thankful.

"Oh nonono!" Starlight did not mean that at all, she shook her hooves to visibly deny that opinion. "It's nothing like that. It's just, well....never mind...I guess it's a moot point anyway. I'm just amazed on how much faith you put onto Anon." She really was, considering she knew Fluttershy truly knew nothing about you.

"As I said, He's my nephew. " Fluttershy looks to you with a gentle smile "And like his father, he's capable of amazing things. You don't need to be related by blood for something like that, it's what's in here that counts." Fluttershy points to her chest "And even if his methods are well...Chaotic. Anon has shown, at least to me, that he means well and only wants to help other ponies."

oh, dammit Fluttershy.

But before, you would have trouble taking in those words. But this was indeed your life, that's how she saw you. And you did help ponies. You saved an entire fucking world...so...she wasn't wrong.

Didn't stop you from tearing up. "T-thank's Aunt Fluttershy...I just like to help others in need. It's what I do..."

"Oh Anon, don't cry" Fluttershy began to tear up as she got up to get you into another hug. She felt bad for withholding this information for so long. And she felt that while you accepted the praise, it was still her screw up that made you cry. "I really am sorry...I should have said something. I didn't know Starlight was going to come here and now I feel just...just terrible." Fluttershy began to whimper.

Twilight frowned at the whole thing. But she was also pondering. There was no way Rarity could be that stubborn. "Fluttershy, don't worry alright? This is still Rarity we're talking about. If we just give her a little time to absorb the situation. She'll realize that she's acting silly and come around. It'll still be her decision to accept the apology or not. But if we give her some time to adjust, her decision won't be based on an uninformed notion like that. She'll come to make a more informed and rational decision once she actually meets Starlight." Twilight then began to smile has hope began to fill her "How hard can it be? All we have to do is just think a little "fabulously" about it. That's all"

"Still, I don't think we should go see Miss Rarity just yet. If she's opposed to even being agreeable with Starlight. We could always go see Pinkie Pie. She'd pretty much just accept an apology just like that right?" That, you think, would be best.

"I think so, I can't imagine Pinkie being anything less than forgiving." Twilight couldn't imagine Pinkie not only not being forgiving, but not missing an opportunity to make a new friend.

"...But" Starlight actually had an objection to this. "I don't just want to be forgiven just like that. I want everypony to mean it. Otherwise it isn't worth it.." Starlight looks to Fluttershy with a frown "And Fluttershy, you just forgave me. Despite EVERYTHING I did. We didn't even really talk at all about it. I feel like everything is moving too fast..."

"mmmm" Fluttershy looks down at her teacup and gives it a tap. She was feeling that maybe Starlight was right. If she wanted to feel forgiven, it may need more than just simply saying it. "Well..Starlight. What do you want to talk about?"

"I just want to know how you could just forgive me so easily. You didn't even ask a question of why I did what I did. Or even got worried that I was with your nephew alone. It feels so...off" Starlight felt uncomfortable. She couldn't take another drink of her tea and just stared at her reflection in the cup. She treated it as an outward version of herself, and found herself having difficulty forgiving herself. She was so worried about being forgiven that she didn't realize being forgiven so easily thus far just felt...wrong.

"Well, Starlight. Let me tell you this. Me,Twilight, and the rest of our friends have been on many adventures together. Some of them very very scary. And there was a lot of times where we met somepony who was being mean or nasty or they just did something wrong. And most of the time, through forgiveness,understanding, and caring about who they are. We manage to become fast friends. Now, it doesn't always happen. But it's always nice when it DOES happen because it means that particular pony or critter no longer has to be somepony they are not, and don't have to suffer all those mean and nasty feelings they keep inside." Fluttershy looks over to Starlight with a gentle smile , tilting her head as she closes her eyes with a cheerful expression "And considering everything I was told. I believe you are making a very good effort to just want to be friends. It's not the apology or the forgiveness that matters really. I think what really matters is that we can look past what happened knowing that kind of thing will never happen ever again. And that we will be able to do things together in the future. In fact, if it's one thing I really liked about you was the way you had everything so nice and orderly. If you'd like to be friends, I would love to get a few tips on that. Oh, and if there's a chance you'd like to come visit. I could introduce you to all my lovable critter friends"

Starlight just stayed silent for a moment, then slowly rests her head on the table and looks forward with dead eyes. "This is one of the most confusing moments of my life. Here I thought this would be difficult and you're asking me for advice...."

Fluttershy actually found this a little humorous and giggled as she got up from her chair to point at the Discord statue. "Well, as I said, if I wasn't so forgiving. I wouldn't have been able to forgive Discord for everything he's done. And now look, he's become so much better. And now? I have an even bigger family than my mother,father and..." Fluttershy hesitated on the last one, she even had a hint of disdain in her voice "Brother"

Brother? BROTHER?! SHE HAS A BROTHER?!...and...she doesn't seem to like him too much. Or, that's what you gathered.Should you ask?..no....just keep it in for now. That could be for later.

still...huh.....brother.

"Yeah. I know about that. But the way you just put it is...well.." Starlight couldn't think of anything else. If she forgave Discord, then what else is there to do but accept it? "Never mind, I guess what I should be saying is. Thank you for forgiving me. And just leave it at that"

you get up and give Starlight a friendly nudge "Come on Starlight, don't be so down. You should be happy about this. It means, if you really need me, I can come down to the town without having to sneak around or anything. And check it out, you even have new friends! If I had to wager my horn, I'd say it means that if you're ever in trouble. You can come to any of us for help."

"He's right Starlight. I'd like to be friends with you. And as Fluttershy said, I'm willing to put this whole thing behind me. Y'know...as long as it doesn't happen again" Twilight adds. Trying to cement your argument.

Starlight could feel a warmth in her heart. And that warmth, really did make her feel stupid about something. "...You know, thinking about it, I know everypony back in town looks up to me and rely on me despite everything I did to them. They forgave me too. But I was so scared that it wasn't real, that something was up, that it made me believe that it really wasn’t genuine. I never thought that maybe I could really be hurting them by hiding in my work shack all that time. Even when I came to my earlier revelation, it didn't click because I was still angry about being stopped over that STUPID ideology. I didn't see what was right in front of me..." Starlight started to tear up as she looked upon you all "Thank you..everypony..for forgiving me. And wanting to be my friend...and Anon. Thank you for being a friend, thank you for risking your livelihood to help me" She was teary eyed and had trouble keeping herself together.

"Oh come on Starlight, don't cry. And yeah, course I'd risk it. We're friends, that's what friends do"

Starlight couldn't hold it anymore. and brought you close with her magic for another hug. As she hugged you, she looked up with tearful eyes to Fluttershy and Twilight. "I want to go to Rarity's. Like I said, it's not about being forgiven or even apologizing anymore. I just want to try, and make a new friend."

Twilight looked to her with concern as she put you down. "Starlight, are you sure about this?"

She nods "I am, and I feel confident about this too. Especially with my friends around me"

Fluttershy heard those words, and knew what she had to do. She couldn't just stay at the cottage after words like that. "I'll come too. I really don't have a reason not to anyway. I was supposed to be having a lunch with Discord but...well, if he doesn't want to show up. Then I might as well be useful somewhere else"

Fuck yes! Go Fluttershy! Stepping up to help out the cause. "Hey yeah! I bet with all of us, this will be a cinch. And if it doesn't work out. We at least gave it a good try, right?"

Every one of them answer with a "Right!"

And with that...after Fluttershy put everything away with everyone's help...You were all off!

It was actually a pleasant walk thus far. Twilight took the opportunity to ask where Starlight learned her magic. And with Starlight having renewed vigor and being in a more comfortable position. Explained it to her. Of course, Twilight in exchange explained how she learned her magic. etc. etc.

As for you, Since you were walking next to Fluttershy and Starlight and Twilight seemed preoccupied.... "..So..Aunt Fluttershy, you mentioned I may have an uncle? Hmmm? What's that about?" You give her a big grin. But perhaps that wasn't the smartest move as she looks away in shame about it. It was true, she didn't seem to like this brother of hers.

"If you mean if I have a brother, Anon...I do. But I'd rather not talk about it. Let's just say that we can all hope that right now, he's making something of himself." But she looked oh so very doubtful. And then quickly changed the subject as she smiled at you. "Speaking of something. A little filly told me that your marefriend and sister made a very special order earlier today." Fluttershy smiled with hopeful eyes as she looked up in wonderment "Goodness Anon, your sister must really care about you to already be involving herself in your life like this. I wish you had told me you had a sleepover coming. I would have made you some healthy and delicious night snacks incase you get those midnight cravings."

awww, yeah. You should have probably told her about it. She was your aunt after all. "Sorry, I guess a lot of things have been slipping from my mind lately. I don't even know what this special order might be"

"Oh, that's very interesting actually. Your friend wouldn't tell me what it is either. But if it's coming from Rarity,ooohhh!" Fluttershy started to step in place really quickly, letting her wings flap a few times in excitement. "I bet it's the most adorable outfit ever! You'll have to wear it for me so I can get a picture."

ohh right..it WOULD be an outfit..wouldn't it? Dammit, if it made her happy...Sure. You just hope it wasn't dorky. Discord would rag on you forever if it was. "Sure, anything for you Aunt Fluttershy"

Fluttershy's grin grew ever wider. Her anticipation to see her nephew in something cute has piqued.

Meanwhile, you could see Twilight going over with Starlight things to understand about Rarity. You still remembered what Discord told you. But at this moment...you didn't want to show up Twilight...eh...maybe later. There was always next time. This time was too important.
"Aunt Fluttershy, I sort of have a goofy question."

"A goofy question? Well.." Fluttershy found the premise cute, and giggled just at the word "Well, then I might have a goofy answer. What is it?"

"Do you think you could forgive Tirek for what he did and become friends? I dunno, just popped in my head"

That goofy question suddenly turned dark for Fluttershy as she became nervous, her ears perking down and back like a cat as she bit her lip "Oh.....erm...ummmm. Anon...ern.."

She didn't know how to explain this one. It was clear Tirek was pure evil. How would she even explain it to you?

"Erm...well. If Tirek really really REALLY made an effort to be good. And uhm, didn't start going on a rampage. then..yes?" She didn't want to spoil the lesson she had just taught you by saying no. But even she knew Tirek was an actual evil force.

You giggle, then laugh. That was too cute. "Ahh come on Aunt Fluttershy. I was just joking."

You nuzzle under her muzzle.

"oh.." Fluttershy didn't even come close to realizing that. When it registered, she giggled. And nuzzled back. "You had me worried, Anon" but only worried, she still found it silly that she fell for it.

Though it was really only half a joke. you were genuinely interested. But you played it off as a joke due to how uncomfortable she got.

Starlight then eased back to speak to you and Fluttershy "Ok, I think I'm set for this."

"Are you sure? You won't get upset if Rarity refuses to accept your apology?" Fluttershy asks

"I'm sure...mostly. I still want to give it the best shot I can. So uhhh...Anon. You don't mind working in some of that cute factor...do you?" Starlight clearly wanted to at least have an edge on the situation.

"Cute factor? What do you mean by that?" Fluttershy was confused. She didn't quite know what she meant. But you did.

"She means she wants me to try to get Miss Rarity to loosen up a little if things get a little tense."

"Right, Twilight said she'd help by talking to her. And..well. I know I said I didn't care about forgiveness or apologizing so much as making the friendship. Buuuut, there kinda needs to be the former for the latter to happen. So I...just need help." Starlight was clearly desperate for a one hundred percent completion rate.

"You don't need to worry Starlight. I'm here, and Anon is here, and Twilight is here. We'll definitely will be able to do something, don't you worry at all alright?" Fluttershy reassures her

You gave a small salute to Starlight "You got this Starlight, we're behind you all the way"

"I know. I'm glad you're all standing behind me. I know I can do this...I just have to believe." Starlight was stay her resolve. Every moment, her will grew stronger.

In fact, as you all approached the boutique. Starlight's confidence never leaves her. So much that she even approaches the door to knock without faltering

...until Twilight speaks. "Starlight, shouldn't we knock? If we speak to her first, it would make things easier on you."

"...oh...right.." Starlight titters sheepishly as she slowly steps back. She didn't lose her confidence...but she realized she was about to overdo it. "Riiight, right. Heh, she probably would have gotten scared if she saw me first. Huh?"

Twilight steps up to knock as she laughed at the prospect of Rarity only getting "scared". "Maybe, but Rarity could be unpredictable depending on the situation. Considering this is her home, I'd think she'd try to defend it, especially if her sister was here too..." Twilight cringed "Actually, I'm glad I stopped you. Heh, you may have become a living pincushion. I know Rarity may seem fragile, but when push comes to shove, she can fight a bugbear like any powerful stallion could."

Oh, that's scary to know. You knew Rarity would fight if she needed to. But able to slap around monsters?....ohhhhh

And so...Twilight knocked.....here we go.

Chapter 268

It took a moment, but then you all could hear that glamorous voice from behind the door. "Hm? I wonder who that could be. Surely they realize my door is open. It is a boutique after all"

Rarity opened the door. And upon seeing Twilight's face, she smiled, happy to see her good friend. "Twilight, what a surprise! What brings you here today? Perhaps wanting to try on some Princess attire for once, hmm?"

Twilight giggled and shook her head "No. Actually, I was wondering what you're doing at the moment. There's something important I want to talk to you about"

"Important? hrn...hmm?" Rarity turned her head ever so slightly to spot Fluttershy, and then you. "Fluttershy! Hello, oh? And Anon too? Ohhh Twilight, is it about Anon's clothes for that adorable sleepover he's having?" Rarity was in awe that Twilight and Fluttershy were here for this. She wasn't aware they knew. "Really you two, it's very flattering for you all to be here just for something like this. It's marvelous, yes. But it's only because the order was very specific. Oh!" Rarity looked to Starlight and smiled at her "And what a pleasant surprise! You even brought Starlight Glimmer, isn't that...." Rarity's eyes went wide when she realized what she just said. She then promptly slammed the door shut on Twilight. She then slowly opened it as she whispered loudly to Twilight, pointing to Starlight, Starlight giving her an awkward glare as a reaction "Twilight! Are you aware that Starlight Glimmer is right behind you? At this very moment?!"

Twilight nodded, concerned already from Rarity's reaction "Yes I do actually. That's why we came to talk to you."

"You came to talk to me...about her?" Rarity shifted her eyes a few times as she hid her head more from the door's threshold. "Twilight, could you turn just a bit, please? I just want to take a look at your flank"

Twilight sighed, but tried to stay pleasant "I still have my cutie mark, Rarity. What's wrong? You don't usually act like this"

"I'm usually not looking directly at a pony who pilfered our cutie marks, plotted on world domination, and who would have ended all tasteful and unique fashion sense AS WE KNOW IT! I surely hope you don't expect me to let her in here." Rarity gave Twilight a serious look, she did not want to let this happen.

"Rarity, I'm asking you to trust me. She is Anon's friend. And I think Anon is her best friend at this point. If we were in any danger. I'm sure Anon would have warned us by now. Right?"

Rarity didn't answer, but instead shifted her eyes towards you and asked you directly, despite Starlight standing right there "Anon, sweetie, in your honest opinion. Would you say we could trust Starlight?"

duh

You nod with a smile "Oh yes Miss Rarity, Starlight is super cool."

"Thank you.." Rarity then darted her eyes back to Twilight "He's clearly been brainwashed."

Twilight raised an eyebrow at her "Really? Rarity, I'm asking you..please. Let us all in so we can talk. Starlight, she came here so she can put her mind at ease. She feels really bad for what she did to us, and to the ponies she was supposed to care about. Will you at least listen to her?"

Rarity stayed silent for a moment, then opened the door wide. "Alright, but this doesn't mean anything yet.Besides, I do have business with Anon. I can't let him sit out there when he is in fact, a client at this moment"

Rarity stepped aside to let you all inside. Keeping a very close eye on Starlight as she reluctantly steps in last. Rarity then slowly closes the door behind her.

"Rarity, can't you just give Starlight an itty bitty little chance? I know what I told you back at the spa was a little scary to think about. But Starlight is really putting in an effort. She's just very scared right now about a few things, and she needs our support" Fluttershy tried to appeal to Rarity's good senses.

Rarity would not give in so easily. She walked over to a raised platform with mirrors around it and started adjusting them as she acted aloof about Starlight "Fluttershy, if I recall, you were the one who mentioned that you were afraid that she may have done something to Anon. Isn't that right? Considering I have my own sister to care for, risking her livelihood on a guess that she's sorry is a wager one such as myself will simply NOT take..Anon" Rarity pointed to the platform, her voice sounding much more gentle and pleasant as she addressed you "Would you please stand here for just a moment. And do relax, look into the mirror, and if you want it to be a surprise, close your eyes." Rarity started to feel a little giddy "In fact, Fluttershy. Would you be a dear and close your eyes as well? I'm sure you'll simply die when you see your little nephew in the outfit I made for him. It's simply divine."

But you don't really move. She was clearly ignoring Starlight, who was doing her best to be silent and not speak out of turn. "Miss Rarity. Please, won't you give Starlight a chance? I may have not been there when she took your cutie marks. But I remember when she tried to use me when we first met. And you know what? I'm glad that she tried, because that set off the chain of events that brought her here. She doesn't want to make the world equal in the way she views it anymore. Pwetty pweeease Miss Rarity..for meeee?" You give her the most adorable sad face you could muster.

Rarity stopped, and very silently groaned. It was clear her friends really wanted her to try. And it seemed you were going to be difficult until she actually attempted to speak with her.

Rarity debated with herself if it was a good idea. But this was Twilight and Fluttershy telling her to try. And then there was you. You still had your cutie mark, and you did seem to be well acquainted with her. And then she looked to Starlight's face. It wasn't the plotting and devious face she remembered. It was one of hurt, and yearning of friendship. She'd know, she's been around her friends long enough to see it many times....but still.

"It would be rude, I suppose, if I didn't tend to a guest in my home and establishment." Rarity sighed, and walked towards Starlight and looked towards her, forcing at least a smile out of herself "Welcome Starlight, to the Carousel Boutique. And...ahrm. Well, we should just skip the rest and move onto why you came here in the first place. Alright, I'm listening" Rarity used her magic to pull up a very comfortable looking sofa right behind herself and plopped down on it. Sitting up.

Was.....was there a need for that?

Starlight hesitated as she collected her thoughts. She plopped down onto the floor, sitting up as well. She looked up at Rarity's eyes and spoke. "Rarity...no..Miss Rarity. I am trying to make amends with everypony I hurt. All I really have left is you,Pinkie Pie, and Rainbow Dash. I know what you're thinking. You probably think I'm just trying to get everypony's apologies in just so I'd be left alone on some sort of crazy revenge plan..."

"I wasn't, but that could be a good reason" Rarity replies, Making Starlight feel stupid that she said it like that.

"Relax Starlight, you got this! Just relax, and get it out" You cheer

"Remember Starlight, even if worse comes to worst, we'll still stand by your side" Twilight reminds her

"So don't feel bad...oh..and don't hold it against Rarity really...It's mostly my fault this happened." Fluttershy meekly says, blaming herself for this.

Rarity heard her friends words. It pierced her heart...or did it? You couldn't tell. But she looked like she was struggling with her own disdain for Starlight.

Starlight took another breath, and tried again. "What I meant to say is. I only want to try to make more friends, new friends, and to leave that past behind me. But for me to do that, I need to at least make amends with those I hurt. I think I can manage if you don't accept my apology, but I'd really appreciate it if you accepted it and we could be friends. I...." Starlight began to get a little nervous on her next words, as she was about to reveal something she hadn't said yet "I can't function how things are now. Everypony in town still loves me, even after what I did. It doesn't feel real to me, even if it is. I want to try making friends with you all, you all who only knew me as a terrible stranger. I want to know that it isn't just being given to me just because. I'd be willing to come and visit every now and again when I have the time. We can all hang out together. In fact, I'd actually like to learn a little more about your craft. Looking around, you do very beautiful work"

..Starlight....probably not the best words. But that was heart warming to you to say the least. She was really trying.

You thought for sure Rarity would give in this time.

But, she just gave hard stare. Looking bored. "Is that all you have to say?"

WHAT?!

But you weren't the only one caught offguard. Twilight and Fluttershy were too. Was this the same Rarity you knew? From the show?...the hell?!

"...Y-yes..erm...unless you'd like to talk about something else" Starlight chuckled nervously.

"Funny you mention that, I do have an idea on how you can make it up to me. Considering how you forced my friends and I to suffer in that ghastly little shack." Rarity's horn glowed as a tacky,ugly,disgusting outfit came out from behind a curtain and dropped right in front of Starlight. "I'd like you to put this on and parade yourself around town as a fool who clucks and talks about corn falling from the sky"

UHWHHHUUUTT?!

"Rarity?! What's gotten into you!" Twilight says as she stomps over to her couch "This isn't like you at all! What's going on?"

Rarity just raises her head in dismissal "Hmph, she's the one who wants to make it up to me. It is a simple task, isn't it? If she was really sorry, she should be able to do it without a problem."

"Woah..woah..hold on." This was messed up "Miss Rarity, you can't do this to her. Why would you even?! This isn't ladylike at all. Aren't you the element of generosity? You can't just give her a chance?"

Rarity nodded in a matter of factly sort of way "Can't you see that I am? It's her choice if she wa-"

But she is cut off as Starlight already begins to put on the suit. It's some tacked on, chaotic mesh of colors with a spiky ballerina skirt and a goofy cape on the back with wooden buttons to hold it together. It looked..like something Discord would make....Was Rarity Discord?....Why?

"I'll do it, I'll go all around town and act like a total idiot. If it means you'll forgive me. And we can be friends...then this will be easy" Starlight states. She looked goddamn hideous.

"Starlight...don't..mnn..Miss Rarity, where did you even get an outfit like this?" You ask, suspicious of her

"I made it for a client who was VERY ungrateful with the final product, despite painstakingly going detail by detail of what he wanted. It looked exactly like the picture he gave me. But after putting it together, he informed me that the picture he gave me was offcolor and that I should have known that. The nerve of that pony. It may be an ugly dress for his daughter, but it still bears the effort I put into it. And I can say this, I ALWAYS put maximum effort into everything I do." Rarity said as she closed her eyes and pointed to herself, acting high and mighty of herself.

You couldn't just blurt out she was Discord. You needed proof. So instead, you spoke to Starlight again. "Starlight, think about it. This will be super humiliating. Nopony is going to look at you with a straight face if you do this."

"...Please Starlight, listen to Anon..." Fluttershy said in a low and hurt voice, so surprised by how Rarity was acting. "You really...really...really...don't need to do this"

But Starlight ignored you all as she walked towards the door. Determined to make this work. But as brave a face as she was putting on. She was internally crying. You could even see her eyes start to water up. "....I can do this..." She mutters to herself.

And as Starlight reached the door and opened it, before she can even step out, it slammed shut.

She opened it again, but again..it slammed shut.

You could see a magical aura around the door. At first you thought it was Twilight.

But the aura was blue, like Rarity's eyes...Rarity's eyes.

....Rarity was closing the door on her?

"Ok darling, you can stop now." Rarity giggles as she steps off from her couch "The ominous dramatics are over. You've made your point. Really..." Rarity turned to face you and the others "..Did you all expect me to let her step out looking so atrocious? Nopony deserves to have their reputation dragged through the mud because of the way they look. Twilight, I'm especially surprised at you. You know me, since when does a lady act so cruelly? Hmm?" Rarity then looks to Starlight "And Starlight, I do apologize about making you think of even stepping out looking so tacky and tasteless. Your words, and the words of my dear dear friends, well, they pierced this pony's heart. But even then, I couldn't simply just accept an apology unless I knew it to be true. The fact you were willing to step out looking like that more than proves to me that you are honestly apologetic about what you've done. If you'd like, I would be honored to accept a hug. In fact, I'd like to be the one to say you're my friend instead of the otHMMMMM!" Starlight started to tear up as she latched onto Rarity and began to hug her tightly. She didn't care about being bamboozled. She felt she understood the suspicion.

Rarity was in pain though. The wooden buttons from the dress were pretty big and poky. They were poking right at her chest. But she pressed on, a lady knew when to hold it in. "T-THISISV-V-VERYNICE"

When Starlight let her go. She couldn't help but smile and thank her for the acceptance. "Miss Rarity" She even did a small bow "Thank you so so so much. And don't worry about that trick. I guess it kind of taught me how you all felt when I sprung that ambush on you. Ahrm...but uhh...moving on." She chuckled sheepishly, then calmed down. "I..just...thank you"

Rarity gave her chest a rub to make sure she wasn't punctured. dramatic, but she was fine. She then smiled at Starlight and tapped her mane with her own hoof. "It really was no trouble. Really, I only had to say ‘I forgive you’. No, the most important thing right now, I think...is this mane. Starlight, I'd say you'd have a more positive outlook on things if you got a new mane style for yourself. This one is well, a little too....familiar."

"Mane style?...umm..I guess?" Starlight didn't know what to say to that.

But Twilight, Fluttershy, and even yourself gave a relieved chuckle now that you all could take a breather from that. And the fact that it would be classic Rarity to give a shit about how one looks.

”Now that the false cloak and dagger routine is finished.." Rarity points back to the platform and smiles at you "Anon, would you please stand upon this platform, and close your eyes while I work my magic?" Then Rarity gets an idea, and looks back to the rest of the ponies as you go to stand on the platform "Girls, I just had a marvelous idea! Wouldn't it be simply amazing if you were all surprised to see Anon in his new attire? I promise on the word of a master fashionista that I shall transform him into the most proper and elegant looking colt you'll ever seen. Dare I say it...I do; His regal look could be mistaken as the very child of Celestia or Luna"

You poke your eye open..Wut? Why did that bother you? "..Uhh...Nah, I'd actually kinda not. Besides, I happen to think Aunt Fluttershy looks nicer than the princesses. I think she's perfect mom material. If anything, I'd want Aunt Fluttershy to be my Fluttermom."

Fluttershy blushed at the thought and stayed silent. She found that very heartwarming. Twilight and Rarity thought it was the cutest thing. both going "Awwwww". Starlight? She had to fake it, because there was a quick moment of visible cringe. She didn't know how you truly felt on that. But she knew you did care about her.

"That is the cutest thing I've ever heard. Fluttermom, it has a charming ring to it. It rolls right off the tongue. And there would certainly be no issues with that, your very talent happens to be perfect for taking care of Anon full time. Despite what we know he's done, It's never been because of anything malicious. No, just look at Starlight. a terrible enemy reformed into a newfound friend. A feat that astounding proves to me that not only is Anon truly the Hero Colt that our fellow townsponies believe him to be. But he is deserving of one capable of being such a wonderful mother. Wouldn't you all agree?" Rarity asked. You felt she was overdoing it a little.

But...it would be nice to have Fluttershy as your mother. The cuddle times would be legendary as Discord would be ultra cucked at the same time. Hehehe

Fluttershy shook her head and smiled however, she thought it was a nice idea but... "It's a nice thought, Rarity. And Anon, I'm happy just being able to help raise you as your aunt. But I could never be your mother. It's not the responsibility, or the title, or anything like that. no, if I was your mother then I feel I'd never be able to live up to the expectations expected of me as a mother. Raising a foal is very different from helping animals. And then there is the fact that your father could get very needy if I focus on you for a long period of time. But don't worry, I'll always be your aunt and you can always come to me for anything you need. I'll never turn you away...and then..some day." Fluttershy sat for a moment and gave a wondrously sunny smile "I'll be a great aunt. And I could be there for your foals in case they ever need me. And still be there for you too without ever being a burden on you, my friends, or your father."

...Well goddamn. so basically it was. "I don't want Discord to feel ultra cucked". That was thoughtful of her. Still a funny thought though.

"Indeed, It keeps slipping my mind that Discord can be rather...juvenile about your time." Rarity was conflicted on saying something more harsh. She didn't like Discord all that much. But you and Fluttershy was in the same room so she kept it as clean as she could. "Twilight, what are your thoughts on the matter?"

Twilight nodded in agreeance with Fluttershy "I think Fluttershy's opinion is dead on. Being "Fluttermom" would well..." Twilight gave a snarky smirk, she didn't mind ragging on Discord just a little. " It just means she'd have to take care of two foals instead of one"

OH DAYUUMMM. Twilight lays on the burn

Rarity snickered at that. then coughed and regained her composure. Starlight hid her snicker, knowing what she met. And seeing Discord for herself? she could confirm it. Fluttershy was confused "Two? But Discord only has Anon...OHHHH." Fluttershy giggled "You must mean Nymous, Well. I suppose I'd be her aunt too at this point. She seems very sweet. I'm glad Anon can have a sister like her to rely on"

Starlight, you could see, was a little frightened by that comment. She knew the truth. And that already indicated that everyone else really was fooled.

"Oh!" Rarity found herself remembering who exactly made this "special order" in the first place "Funny you should mention her. She and her small filly companion were the one to place and pay for this order. And I was certainly surprised by how independent and remarkable she truly was. I admit, I was skeptical when I first heard of her. But meeting her face to face, well." Rarity's tone started to feel overwhelmed "She was simply breathtaking. Both in her look and her manners. She was polite, kind, respectful, Beautiful even, almost like that of royalty. so much so that I offered her a job as a model for my boutique back in Canterlot. But then I learned that she is also very very modest. She declined my offer, feeling she wasn't as captivating as I said and that she had a little brother to take care of. It made me shed a tear on how much she truly cared about Anon despite not seeing him in years." A few tears ran down her face as she thought about it "An inspiration to sisters everywhere"

oh c'mon Rarity...fuck. Chrysalis must have pulled her act together to be able to make Rarity feel like this.

"Oh Nymous? I can agree on that. I met her during breakfast with Princess Celestia just the other day. And let me tell you, even Princess Celestia found her great. I was worried that there was going to be something shady about her. But I'm so glad I was wrong about that" Twilight comments..oh god..GOD..GOD you wanted to slam your hoof into your face so damn hard upon hearing all this. Even Twilight got super fooled this time. Chrysalis really did up her game. It scared you, could she take over everything if given the chance with her new skills? Well, she could if she had her magic...thank god for Discord.

You could see Starlight getting nervous on the whole thing. And you could tell she wanted to say SOMETHING. So you opted to change the subject.

"Yep, she's pretty neat. Umm..but uh. Can we see what this is already? I don't mean to rush you Miss Rarity, but Starlight is probably getting anxious right now. She still has two apologies to go"

"Oh, how rude of me!" Rarity was surprised at herself "I do apologize Starlight. I didn't mean to hold you. But still, if you all could close your eyes...."

Starlight followed along and closed her eyes, but she didn't feel like she wanted to be the one to rush her "O-oh, Don't worry too much about me. I'm sure it'll be fine"

"If you're sure darling...alright. I think we've all waited long enough. Anon..if you don't mind." Rarity said as her horned glowed...not like you could see it. But she took charge in telling you to lift your forelegs and move to her words as she slipped something on you and put something on your head. But it didn't end there, she then mentioned she just had to make a few adjustments. You stood still. almost frightened when you heard the sounds of snipping and sewing. And yet, like a true pro. anything sharp never even came close to touching you.

"And....there...we...are" Rarity says as she lays on the final touches and nearly squees "Oh my, it looks better than I could have ever hoped. Just one look at Anon and you'd all swear that he was a prince of a far off land. I have no doubt that when his little marefriend sees him in this that her heart will be unable to stop itself from thumping so hard. It's romantic really, to see one's prince step towards them in the bask of a moonlit night"

Wut?....

"Ummm, Rarity, we do have to open our eyes to see it. Can we do that now?" Twilight suggests, still waiting on

Rarity blushed in embarrassment as she tittered in amusement "Oh, yes of course you can. Silly me, I got caught up in my own work. You all can open your eyes now as gaze upon the visage of..Prince Anon!"

...prince?

You open your eyes AND DEAR GOD NO!

You looked into the mirror and could see a beautiful crown on your head made of pure gold. Lined with a poofy red velvet top with the chaos symbol jutting out of it's center. The shirt you wore was made of high quality cloth that looked like it reflected off the light. It was a vibrant red with gold lining, held together by gemstone buttons with the chaos symbol etched into each. The gems turning into a different color depending on the level of light that hit them. A blue sash went around the shirt. And those golden shoulder things with the tiny ropes were on the top of both your forelegs. Your mane was fixed up to look as clean and princeley as possible. and...oh wait a sec.

You raise your hoof to your side to poke at a....sheath? OH MAN..AND THERE WAS A...

But before you could ask anything. There was a big "D'AAAWWWW" Around the room. even Starlight couldn't hold it in on how adorable you looked.

"Wow Rarity! I have to admit, you did a good job at making Anon look like royalty. He looks just as good as my brother does" Twilight was truly impressed.

"I know, awwww. Anon. I want to hug you so much right now! But I can't, I don't want to ruin your suit. Besides, I'm sure your little marefriend will do enough hugging for the both of us." Fluttershy found it troubling to resist the urge to just hold and nuzzle into you. You were so damn cute to her.

"I gotta admit. You look pretty cute Anon. You want to give us a spin?" Starlight wanted to see the whole package from all around. She was impressed with Rarity's talent, so much so that she was now internally realizing how much she screwed things up. But she didn't falter, oh no, she's come too far for that. It just drove her to improve upon her own talents while taking in and experiencing everyone else's.

You blushed in embarrassment. Goddammit...Knowing Chrysalis. She probably was hoping for this reaction. The cuter you were, the more love there would be. Still...

As you gave a slow spin and looked back at the mirror. That sword...

You pulled it out and woah! was it real?! The metal sure looks real and sharp. It's coolness melted away your embarrassment as you gave it a few swings. "Hey..cool! I got a sword! Looks like this charming prince is also ready to slice down some badguys. Haha!" You make a few more swings then put the sharp end down like a cane as you rest your hoof on the hilt of the sword and smirk in the mirror. "Now that's one cool prince" You give yourself a wink

Oh yeah..this sword made everything better.

"A sword?! Rarity! Why would you give him a sword! That's dangerous!" Fluttershy reacted a she stomped towards the platform to take your sword from you.

"Relax dear. It's just a prop sword" Rarity steps in front of Fluttershy to stop her, urging her with hoof motions to slow down and stop "It only looks like a sword because of the expensive plastic I used. It may shimmer and shine like a new blade, but it can't even cut butter. Fluttershy please, you know I'd never give a foal a real sword. That's just irresponsible"

"Oh..." Fluttershy stopped, if it was a toy then she saw no reason to take it away..but still "I suppose that's ok then. but Anon, you know that you shouldn't REALLY use a real sword to hurt anypony right? If you have to face down another pony, you should use words and courtesy to try to win them over."

...that's gay. But it's something you'd expect from Fluttershy. Not wanting to argue with her, you just nod and agree as you sheath the sword. "Yes Aunt Fluttershy..."

"But what if he gets into a fight he can't win with words, what then? Do you just want him to get beat up?" Starlight asks, what the fuck? Why did it matter to her? What is she doing?

She knew what she was doing. Starlight wanted to know what she expected him to do in a fighting situation. Not out of correcting her or imparting knowledge on you. She was just curious, considering talking it out in a dire situation seemed stupid to her. In fact, she herself was a good example of not being able to talk it out with when it came to the mane 6. she told the town to can it, and then she ran away when things got hotl. Hell, she wondered what would have happened if her endgame ever took off. She doubted Twilight would have just sat there and talked.

"Oh,..." Fluttershy tapped at her hooves. "Ummm.."

"Starlight, what kind of question is that? Fluttershy is right, violence is never an answer to a problem unless it's absolutely necessary" Twilight answered for Fluttershy, finding her question a little unsettling and rude.

"I know that, but then that's why I'm asking. what would you expect him to do if that has to be his last resort?"

Twilight was about to speak again to say ‘Well that situation should never pop up for him.’. But Fluttershy speaks first. And what she has to say is surprising.

"I-if it ever came down to Anon having to fight. And there was no other way. T-t-then..." Fluttershy sighed, but as she looked up, it was a face of soft determination "Then whatever reason he has to fight. Whether it be protecting his friends or his own life. I expect him to try his best to never lose. But to also be very smart about it. I know Anon is smarter than the average foal, and he has a horn that would help him have an edge in a fight. I mean, after what happened with the chimera, I'd rather Anon fight with all his tools and might than to just sit there and be hurt....or worse. I think if he had his horn on that day, things wouldn't have been so dire. My little Anon is the hero colt after all. We know that he can do amazing things on his own if we let him. So if he has to fight, then I expect him to win. But Anon, even though I'm saying this. Please...Please" Fluttershy began to simmer down as she looked at you with earnest care and worry "Pleeease, if you ever have to fight again. It has to be a last resort. I know you're the hero colt...but please never let that get into your head. ok? please? I'd still rather you never have to fight if you don't need to"

You turned to Fluttershy and made a promise to her to ease her nerves. She believed in you, you could feel it. She just hated you having to fight at all. "I promise Aunt Fluttershy, I'll never ever fight unless I really need to."

"thank you..." Fluttershy felt relieved, she felt she could believe in that promise.

Rarity had to wipe a tear from her eye "Such a beautiful moment.....Oh!" Rarity did realize just this moment that Starlight was probably on a schedule "But as heartwarming as a moment this is. There is a schedule to keep. So, Anon" Rarity was ready to hear your words of praise about her work. "What do you think of your princely attire?"

"Oh..ummm" You look it over in the mirror again, and do a pose. that raised hoof, charming pose you used back on the date. You did look rather dashing. You gave yourself a grin and man, with your mane all styled up, you looked pretty damn intimidating...well you would be if you were stallion sized. "Y'know, I thought it was a little too much at first. But with my mane slicked back and this crown. woo, y'know. it's pretty stylish. I like it!"

"Splendid! Then I'm sure you'll make quite the impression when you show it off this evening. But for now, if you'll slip it off carefully..." Rarity has you make a few movements so she can slip the outfit off of you with her magic. She folds the clothes carefully and places the crown and sword sheath on top. Then carefully puts it in a small but bulky suitcase with a strap and laid it down next to you "Keep it in here until you're ready, Anon. Wouldn't want to get it dirty or ruined walking around now would you?"

You shake your head as you attach the suitcase to you..hrn. bulky but light. You just had to watch your step. "Nope, Thanks Miss Rarity. You did a good job"

"Of course I did darling. Now, I suppose you'll all be leaving then, am I correct?" Rarity asked, knowing full well you are all on an apology tour.

Twilight nodded "Mhmm, we still need to see Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie. And since Rainbow Dash might be a little disagreeable about Starlight. We'll be seeing Pinkie first."

"Well then, I wish you all luck. Oh, and Starlight" Rarity's horn glowed as a drawer opened from a cabinet behind her. A small bag of bits flew across the room towards Starlight and stopped right in front of her. "Will you be a dear and take this with you?"

"Umm, sure? But why are you giving me money?" Starlight didn't understand. But she used her own magic to hold it in place as Rarity's magic ended. She opened the bag to look into it. Definitely bits.

"For the spa of course. Tell them Rarity sent you. And also ask if they can stylize that mane of yours. Trust me, they do divine work. You'll feel like a new mare by the time they are through with you."

"O-ok...but, I don't think I can do that today...." Starlight just wanted to go home after all this. That's how she felt. It's not that she just wanted to bolt. But she felt she was going to be exhausted after all this.

"Of course, do it whenever you can dear. You needn't rush. And Anon, remember that you will be charming a young lady tonight. Do be sure not to break her heart." Rarity reminds you

"Oh Miss Rarity, trust me. I got this"

Fluttershy giggled "Rarity, it's not that serious. It's just a crush between two foals"

"Even so, a gentlecolt should always know how to handle himself around a young mare. It'll be good practice for when he grows to become an elegant stallion" Rarity sure seemed to have a lot of faith in you. Then again, you couldn't think of anyone else in the show who called her Miss Rarity unless it was some snobbish pone.

Not much more went on after that. You all bid your farewell to Rarity as you took your clothes and the group went off to find Pinkie. Starting at Sugarcube corner.

Twilight and Fluttershy went on a little ways ahead with flight to even see if Pinkie was there. While Starlight took the opportunity to speak to you.

"Anon, are you sure you're not taking this relationship thing too seriously?" Starlight was worried. She saw the way you posed, you seemed to have gotten really into it.

"What? pffft, it's fine. It's not like i'm taking it THAT seriously. Like I said, she's a filly. I'm not going to do stallion things to her"

"That's the thing. I'm not even worried about that, I'm worried that she's going to grow up to be a teenager and try to put those moves on you. And you'd just let her. She's super into you right now, right?" Starlight was trying to be helpful. She felt this was very off, especially since Chrysalis was involved

Putting the moves on you?...ha! "Yeah, she thinks I'm the best thing ever. But, are you serious that she'd be able to put the moves on me when I'm older? Nah, I got a lot of self control. Besides, she wants to be a princess. Princesses don't do stuff like that."

"Except she's probably not going to be a princess. And then there's the fact that you know EXACTLY what you're doing to make her fall more and more in love with you. What's a crush now could become a scary kind of love when you get older. She'd never want to be away from you." Starlight tries to warn you that you might be playing with fire

but again. you dismiss her. "C'mooooon. Like I said, I have this handled. She's just a little naive, that's all. Besides, what makes you an authority on this?"

"I've read novels" Starlight uses as fact

....novels...sure ok "Starlight, That doesn't mean anything. I'm telling you things will be fine"

"Will they? Because it seems your "sister" is trying to manipulate the situation. I don't know why, but she definitely has her hooves in it. What do you plan to do about her?" Starlight didn't know what Chrysalis was up to. but it couldn't be anything good at all.

You shrug "I can handle her, I have been since she came to live with me."

"But that was usually a one on one deal, right? It's not about her manipulating you. It's about her manipulating your marefriend and the situation. You don't think it'd be smart to take a little precaution before your "sleepover"?" Starlight was trying to urge you to be more careful.

But you really did feel you had this. "Look, Starlight. I appreciate the concern. But I can handle a situation like this, I've prepared myself many a time back in my world."

"huh? How so?" Starlight narrowed her eyes at you, she had major doubt about this.

"I played a lot of visual novels"

"...novels?! NOVELS!" Starlight just yells at you, publicly, as a few ponies stare both your way "YOU JUST SAID THAT DOESN'T MEAN ANYTHING!"

You step back, not due to fright, but just getting startled. You then get a little annoyed with her and turn away, sigh, then try to explain it to her. "Not novels, visual novels. They are a sort of game that has you go through scenarios like dating or monster handling or some stuff like that. I've played enough to know what to do on any given situation. Chrysalis has nothing on me"

Starlight let's out an exhaustive groan upon hearing that "A game? A game from another world isn't going to prepare you for this, Anon. Please take this a little more seriously and listen to me. I've done a lot of reading and study on the creatures and ongoings of Equestria. And changelings are no joke. The only reason you've had an advantage over her is because of Discord, don't let her get an edge on you over something as silly as a sleepover"

Dammit, you were sure you had this. Chrysalis hasn't been able to pull too much of a fast one on you so far. It's been pretty even. In your opinion anyway. "It'll be fine. She'll get caught if she does anything too outrageous. All I have to do is keep an eye on her and make sure she doesn't slink off anywhere. But if you want, if it'll make you feel better, I'll keep my guard up and question anything she does."

"..And get Discord if things get out of control" Starlight adds, even if Discord was an ass. There's no way he'd let her do whatever she pleases.

You rolled your eyes "Fine, I'll get Discord too...."

"Anon, you don't need to act like that. I'm only trying to make sure that you'll be ok." Starlight frowned, she didn't like the way you were acting. You were being high and mighty.

you sigh, if thats how she felt. Then maybe you should calm down. But goddammit, she should know that you have this. "Sorry, but look. I'll agree to getting Discord if things get hairy. But only as a last resort. Chrysalis isn't going to respect me if I have to go running to him."

Starlight wondered if Chrysalis had any respect for you at all. But she kept that to herself. "I guess. Anon, Just promise me ok? Promise me to not let yourself get in over your head."

.....fine… "Ok I promise, but I'm telling you it'll be ok. The worst she'll do is probably tease me and embarrass me. I can handle it, Diamond isn't going to think any less of me because of her and the night will go smoothly"

"I hope so..." Starlight was now debating about going home, or sneakily trying to watch the sleepover somewhere where she wouldn't be noticed. She'd have to make that choice before the final train leaves.

Just then, Fluttershy came back into view and pointed ahead "Oh..Anon,Starlight. Pinkie Pie just happens to be ahead giving some free candy to all the foals."

...awwww, now that just sounded cute.

"Alright, we're coming! We'll be there in a second" Starlight calls out.

and as Fluttershy goes back ahead. Starlight looks back at you with uncertainty. "Anon, I know you have experience with her. But you also said she was doing her best to get you to see things in her perspective the same way you are trying for her to see things in yours. And like the two sides of a bit. She has experience with not only you, but through her past conquests, Don't let yourself or your friends be her puppet, Anon..." Starlight stopped herself there, Even she had experience in that regard. And she hated it.

she was being pretty insistent. And even though you knew all this already. Maybe it'd be good to go a little beyond your promise and just make Chrysalis more of a priority than DT. You were sure you could balance it. But Chrysalis's own reasoning to arrange this sleepover could be more than she's letting on. "I won't, if you feel that Chrysalis is really planning something. Then I'll focus on her and make sure she isn't doing anything shady"

"Thank you Anon, that's all I ask. I don't want to lose my best friend just because he got in over his head." Starlight started to feel relieved now that she felt that she got through to you.

"No problem, I got this. I promise" Though, you yourself were annoyed that she couldn't just trust you. You felt you had this. Hell, you'd have the horn if anything really went wrong. But fine, it was time for Ponk anyway, Plenty of time to think on this later.

Chapter 269

The both of you had walked over to where Fluttershy flew. It was somewhere in the middle of town where many foals and a few adults had gathered around Pinkie. Who had sacks hanging from her back full of candy. With a little hat that had a spring on top with a small sign that said "Candy for smiles!". Essentially...free candy.

Twilight was already discussing with her the situation at hand. And as you both approached, Pinkie already fixed her gaze darkly on Starlight.

"...so Pinkie..what do you say?" Twilight asked her.

Fluttershy hovered overhead "She's already been forgiven by Applejack and Rarity too. We understand if you don't want to give her a chance. But we do mean it when we say she's changed for the better. And..well..A chance wouldn't hurt...would it?"

"Hmmmmmm...But you said Rarity gave her a test..right?" Pinkie asks as she rubs her chin with her hoof. narrowing her eyes at Starlight while foals take candy from her bag.

"Yeah. She did, Pinkie...do you have somethi-Pinkie?!" Twilight didn't even get a chance to finish her sentence as Pinkie zipped right towards the both of you.

"Heya Nonny! How are you doing!? Want some candy!" Pinkie tells you with a big grin. "All you have to do is smile and you can have as much as you want. I got plenty more back at Sugarcube Corner"

Both you and Starlight were caught offguard by how fast she moved. It was almost the speed of light. To you anyway. "E-erm. Hiya Ponk. Sure, I'll take some candy" You give her a big grin and then point your hoof to Starlight. "You remember Starlight right? She's here on a visit and has been having some trouble and erm..well, why don't you tell her Starlight?"

"Well..um" Starlight had to compose herself after being startled by Pinkie's sudden approach and now soul piercing stare that she was suddenly giving her. "Pinkie Pie, I'd like to ask for your forgiveness over, you know, that whole taking your cutie mark thing. And if possible, I'd like to be friends. I know I don't really deserve it. But, if you could see it in your heart to forgive me. I can show you that I really mean what I say when I tell you that I'm not the same Starlight Glimmer you met.” Starlight gave her a nervous grin.

Pinkie's eyes narrowed to near being closed as her cheerful voice hit neutral "...You want me to forgive you, huh? You want to be friends…?" Pinkie pokes her chest twice with her right hoof "Hmm?"

..oh geez...You didn't expect this from Pinkie.

"U-umm..Yes...but..." Starlight didn't know what to say to that. She was unprepared. So she just dove into it and said. "Yes, I'd like that very much..please"

"Hmm, then you gotta beat my super duper mega tough friendship challenge" Pinkie said, sounding even darker than ever before.

"Whatever it is, I'll do it. So just lay it on me" Starlight stood at the ready

What..the fuck could Pinkie have in mind? You looked to Starlight, then to Pinkie. if it was anything huge. You'd step into this at once.

"Oki...Doki..Loki..." Pinkie slightly turned to her side while still keeping her eyes on Starlight "My challenge won't be easy for you, I know how much you really don't like other ponies being better in some things than other ponies."

"That was the old me, I'm not like that anymore" Starlight bravely informed her.

"Ok then, look at this candy, this candy was made by a very talented candy making pony, meaning you'd hate it because of how tasty it is. My challenge?.....Smile...and take a piece of candy." Pinkie said as coldly as possible.

.........WUT?!

"Ummm....ok" Starlight smiles and takes a piece of candy. And just to make sure of anything. She unwraps it and eats it. "Oh, hey, it's peppermint"

Pinkie's cold demeanor immediately washes away as she goes and hugs Starlight immediately. "Challenge complete! Good job Starlight! You passed my super impossible test! We're friends now!"

.....Goddammit, you started to laugh from the absurdity of it. That wasn't a challenge. That was just Pinkie offering her the same shit she's apparently been doing for the day.

"That's it?" Starlight said while Pinkie hugged her, completely dumbstruck that there wasn't more

"Thhhaaaaat's it! All the proof I needed!" Pinkie said midhug.

"Yeah...she's serious. Ponk can be pretty well, Herself" You shrugged with a chuckle

"Herself, huh?" Starlight finally started to give in to the hug and started hugging her back "Well, I guess all I have to say to that is I like her..self...uhm?" Starlight then confused herself and regrouped her thoughts "What I mean is, I wouldn't have had this go any other way. Thank you Pinkie, for accepting my friendship"

"Well thank you for accepting my candy!" Pinkie giggled as she ended her hug "How could I say no anyway? Any friend of a friend of mine is my friend. So you were shoe in anyway. Sooooooo" Pinkie leaned in and elbowed her a few times as she grinned smugly "You're pals with Anon, huh? Ever given him cuddles before?"

uh oh… "Ponk..uh...what's..why are you asking her that question?"

"Uhh, yeah. that's kinda weird. I only really hugged him really" Starlight now found the whole thing awkward.

"Give him a cuddle. Rumor has it that he melts into butter when ya do that. It's gotta be the cutest thing ever!" Pinkie exclaims as if all three of you were buddy buddy. Well, you all were...but goddammit

Fluttershy, overhearing this and already seeing the conflict was over. came in to give her two cents. "Oh yes, it's not a rumor. Anon simply loves to cuddle"

You cringe hard and look around. Oh god, if this goes on everyone else is going to hear. They were preoccupied at the moment with being around Twilight. "Yes..Yes..I like cuddles" You say in a low voice "Can we not say it out loud? We're in public"

You were blushing hard. It was embarrassing as fuck.

"Oh right..I guess it would be kind of embarrassing for everypony else to hear" Pinkie then whispers to Starlight "Cuddle hug him before you go back home. It'll be worth it"

"..uhhh...well..ok" Starlight shrugs, finding that whole thing...really odd. But she was glad it was over.

"I'm so glad to see everything worked out! Now all we need to do is see Rainbow Dash and..." Fluttershy cheered, but then was stopped when she heard the sound of many foals,

Suddenly, foals started to crowd around you as they started to say praises. Amazed you were hanging out with Twilight and her friends.
"Woah, check it out. The hero colt gets to hang out with royalty!"
"Well duh, didn't he get to spend a week with Princess Twilight?"
"Yeah, but he's STILL hanging out with her and her friends. That's super amazing!"
"He's so dreamy isn't he? Do you think that he will become a alicorn prince when he grows up? I'd be his princess"
"Gross! He's obviously going to be a super epic hero like the power ponies."

..oh lordy. Being the hero colt could be tough sometimes. But hey, a hero is a hero huh? As long as they don’t form another club, then this wasn’t too bad. "Hey everypony. What's up?"

"Hey! can you tell us your secrets? Snips and Snails can't figure it out. And it'd be super cool if you told us!"
"I just finally want an autograph. After he won that arcade tournament, I don't think there's anything Anon can't do!"
"Soooooo amazing!"
"He can even handle being around his Dad! And look at his mane. He made it look nice, it must be for something super important!"
"He looks super handsome, that's all I gotta say"

hehe, you know. having fans was pretty great..when Snips and Snails wasn't involved. You give them a confident grin and raise your hooves in a motion to calm them. "Relax fellow ponies, I know I'm the hero colt and all. But I'm just like everypony else. No need to get excited. I'm actually on an important friendship mission right now. But, if you want autographs or whatever. I could do it right after school. How does that sound?"

and you could already bet it'd be a lot of signing. But you know? it's fine. You actually did something worthy of being a hero, even if they'd never know it. You could accept this praise now that you could come up with a good reason to accept it. You beat the shit out of that mech.

But then, a nasily voice cried out "Sounds like a bunch of balogna to me! You big faker fraud!"

What?

Everyone's attention was grabbed as a foal stepped from the shadows of a building. Twilight, who had just followed behind the foals also was surprised and took notice of where the voice came from as the rest of the foals gasped.

"Who said that?"

That voice...it couldn't...it wouldn't...it can't...that would be way to autistic.

"It was meee!" A light chocolate brown pony stepped out, with a lighter colored mane and a little propeller cap on his head. and a joystick for a cutie mark.

ohh god..it was..WHYYYYYYY!?

"Button Mash! The real king of games!" He stepped out completely from the shadows. Half his face was covered by a white mask, like "Phantom of the Opera"

Holy fuck....what the fuck did you do to piss him off? This seemed too random. Like holy fuck, wasn't he an OC?..or what..no..he appeared in that hearts n hooves or whatever song..whatever..what? "Uhhhhhh, what do you mean by fraud? Uhh, have we really even met?"

Suddenly, some of the foals started barking at him "How can you call him a fraud?! He's the hero colt!"
"Yeah, he's super cool. What are you gonna challenge him to, a fight or something?"

Starlight took the moment to move to your side and whisper to you "Uhhh, who's this?"

You shrug "No idea, just met him like...now? I guess" You whisper back.

"Excuse me, Button Mash? It isn't very polite to just accuse other ponies like that" Twilight approached him with a smile, trying to figure out what was upsetting him. Was he jealous? was it a misunderstanding? "Maybe if we just talk this out we can figure out what the problem is"

"I already know what the problem is!" Button stepped past her and pointed directly at you "This fraud cheated to win the Arcade tournament and beat Super Alicorn Blaster 2! He's never EVER been to the arcade before and I don't think he's ever even played the first game. He's a fraud! nopony's that good! He obviously cheated to win! The big cheater cheater haystack eater!"

Oh....it was about that? "Hold on everypony, I got this..." You step forward and look to Button with a calm and cool face. "Look, Button right? I beat the tournament fair and square. If I cheated, I would have had a horn on my head. But I didn't. So..yeah...sorry. That's how it is"

"I don't believe it! Do you realize how humiliated I was? It was the most shameful thing in my life!" Button practically spit at you with his anger

The foals looked to eac hother, confused. "Did we laugh at him?"
"Beats me, I wasn't even at the tournament"
"There was a tournament?"
"Yeah, I was there. I don't remember Button being there though. I was too focused on Anon"

Twilight approached Button again in an attempt to calm him down "Button. I don't think Anon meant any harm"

"He did! My life is a wreck because of him!" He barked

...? "Is..that why you're wearing that mask?"

"Mask?" Button stopped, confused, then tapped his face "Oh?" He chuckled, amusingly embarrassed "That's where my taffy went..." He grabs it and peels the "mask" off his face and puts it in his mouth.....how the fuck did that even happen?

He chews, swallows, then suddenly gets angry again. "Anon! Grrrr..I challenge you to a rematch! If you weren't cheating, then you wouldn't mind facing off against me in a rematch. Right? Me and You, the first pony to beat the high score wins for reallll!"

..oh christ......goddammit....that's right.

You could feel your mood drain as you are reminded that your score...was already beaten. "Yeeeahhhh, about that. The score?..it was beaten already and I was already going to get to work on beating it"

"......" Button could feel his heart stop for a second. His eyes open wide as his pupils shrink to the horror he was hearing. "W-what?! It was beaten? T-that's impossible, I only managed to beat the game once today. Who could have beaten that high score you made?!"

"Oh, is that what this is all about?" Twilight giggles, she thought this was a lot more serious than what she thought it was, she then rolled her eyes with a dismissive smirk ."I swear, that game seems to drive everypony loony. But yes, A pony named Big Mac, who you would know as your classmate Applebloom's brother, was the one who beat the score. Pretty amazing right?"

.....ugghhh. Suddenly you could feel some of the same pain Button was feeling as you both felt the shame of losing to a fucking hick.

The foals started to talk among themselves
"Big Mac?! That big silent guy? Woah...never took him for an arcade guy."
"He beat Anon's score? That's crazy!"
"Does this mean Anon isn't as good at Arcade games like we thought?"
"Yeah, but who cares. It's just a game. Big Mac has never defeated griffons or handled Discord before."
"Yeah you're right!"

Button was crushed, he looked to you apologetically and sighed "So, we both lost?"

You nod "Eyuup...it was over before it even began."

"...Oh...Well...umm.." Button's ears drooped as he felt the agonizing smack of defeat "I guess I'll go home then...See ya at school...ehe...this...this never happened! yup! bye!" And Button ran off after that. Some of the foals saying he was a weirdo as he did. Now that he realized that someone else could do it. He couldn't refute your claim.

As for you... now that it was public. even if nobody cared,you had to make some time to try to beat that score. Fuck Big Mac, there's no fucking canonical reason for him to be that good. He'd have to be some sort of nerd to do it. Last you checked, he wasn't one.

"Well, that happened....poor little guy" Pinkie frowned and looked back to her friends "Well, Starlight, it's super great that we're friends now. We gotta hang out sometime, y'know? If not at my place, I'll be sure to plan a trip to your place. But right now? Pinkie's got a job to do! Seeya everypony!" Pinkie saluted as she started speedily hopping towards Button to try to cheer him up.

"....that was....really awkward." Starlight, didn't really understand what just happened.

"Yeah...but, mission accomplished...eh? We only need Rainbow Dash now. Anypony know where she might be?" You ask

Big Mac.....he was your gaming rival at this moment. Though, you'll probably stop giving a shit about that score sooner or later. You weren't that autistic about high scores...right?

Fluttershy wondered about Rainbow Dash's location "She could be home."

"Well, it would be logical to check her house. But Rainbow Dash also likes to get a good workout. Or it's possible that she's out doing pegasi work. Hmmmm....still" Twilight grinned that everything was going so well so far "There's really nothing to worry about. We're five for five so far. Which is not only great for Starlight, but shows that a little understanding and a big apology can go a long way in the reformation process."

"...yeah" Starlight sighs in relief about that and agrees "I really thought this was going to be tougher, and scary even. I was afraid I was going to fail and feel alone. But I know I'm not. I have you all, I have the townsponies, and I have Anon. I think I can survive not gaining Rainbow Dash's friendship at this point. But I'd still like to try."

"Well then, we'll just have to find her. Give me a sec and..." Twilight teleports away for a second, then comes back "Well, she isn't home. So that rules that out"

You almost forgot she was capable of teleporting like that. You were so used to Discord doing it.

"So nopony has any idea where else she'd be?" Starlight asked

"No, I'm sorry Starlight. But I'm sure if we wait around for a little while that she'll turn up" Fluttershy gives her a hopeful smile "Rainbow Dash is never hard to spot. Even if she's moving fast, if there's a rainbow, then we know she's nearby"

"That's true. But she doesn't seem to be zipping around the sky either. So I guess she's just taking the time to GYAH!" Twilight shrieked in surprise as she ducked a high flying candy that slams into the building next to her. "What in the hay was that?!"

"I think it was...candy?" Starlight could see it sticking out the side of a building. She used her magic to pluck it out and look at it. attached to it was a note "Try the lake"

"Pinkie" You all say with jovial giggles.

"Pinkie?!" Starlight found that impossible "But she went after that foal, I don't even see her around. How did she toss a candy that far?! How could she even hear us?!"

"Starlight, I'm gonna tell you again. It's Ponk. if there's something nopony can do, she can probably do it and it's really really good to save yourself a headache by not thinking about it"

"....But....but" Starlight wanted answers.

"Starlight, trust me. Can you even come up with a logical reason how she knew? Because I bet Twilight can't" You look over to Twilight as you say that. Maybe one point to yourself won’t hurt.

"He's right, I can't. It's better not to try to figure it out. Or..." Twilight shivered "Things might start landing on your head”

Starlight blinked, she had no clue what that could have meant. But if even Twilight, who she knew was smart, couldn't figure it out then it might be better that she leaves it alone.

And with that, saying goodbye to your fans and moving forward. The party of four went to check the lake as per Pinkie's suggestion.

Chapter 270

It felt good. Now that you were an actual hero. Now that you had your life in order. Now that you could fully accept that being human sucked. You could finally admit that being the Hero Colt was pretty damn awesome.

as for the trip to the lake. There was a bit of swapping on who hung with who. Fluttershy stood back with Starlight while you went ahead with Twilight. Twilight wanted to talk to you about something. "You know Anon, I'm impressed with you. And your Aunt Fluttershy? She's very proud of you"

Was it due to all this? Hrn? well, you were doing a good job, you thought. Minus what happened at Applejack's. "Do you mean with helping Starlight?"

Twilight nods with a smile and gives you a pat "Mhmm! I had a few doubts about it. But she seems to trust you more than any other pony she knows, this I can attest to as absolute fact. You've helped her the entire way. I think if it wasn't for you, she may have gone home before we reached Rarity's. It really shows how chaos can have just as much as an effect on friendship as harmony. All this wouldn't have happened if you didn't do what you did. And now, I think we really are going to get this done. Six for six. I feel pretty optimistic about it"

So she accepts it all as fact now. Heh, you wonder how'd she react if she knew you saved an entire other world. She'd probably want to expirem-...ya know...never mind.
"erm..What about Rainbow Dash though? Isn't she gonna be difficult about all this?"

"It's a good possibility. But we still have a good chance. Rainbow Dash, from my understanding. Was pretty adamant she'd never be friends with her old friend Gilda. But after meeting her back in Griffonstone due to a chance meeting. They put aside their differences and became friends again. I wish I was there to see that. It must have been so sweet"

It was super cute. At least in your opinion. You had nearly forgotten about it actually. "I guess that means we have a chance. But what if we fail? What then? Starlight said she could handle it now, and I believe she can. But it'd be weird to fail at Rainbow Dash simply because it'd mean that whenever Starlight came by or you all went to visit her that she'd be the odd pony out all the time. It just doesn't work too well, y'know?"

"I know, that's why we have to have the utmost confidence that this can all be worked out. Having your Aunt Fluttershy along is actually pretty helpful. Her and Rainbow Dash go way back, so she might listen to her when push comes to shove"

"..I hope so, that perfect record sounds really nice. And thanks Twilight. I almost thought you were going to..I dunno...try to correct me in some way"

Twilight shook her head as she smiled at you "Not at all, you're doing an excellent job! So, here's an idea I have, a perfect friendship strategy. I say you and Fluttershy take the lead on this one. Fluttershy due to familiarity and you because you're her nephew and Starlight's best friend. And I'll stand back with Starlight to be the voice of reason. What do you think?"

Hrn? She was actually asking? "You care about my opinion on this?"

"Of course I do. As I said, I'm impressed. But we need to work together if we want everypony to be friends."

Work together. Twilight looked dead certain on this. Despite this not what Discord had in mind. It'd be fine, as you already reasoned. This was one situation you couldn't give in to him.

You nod to her suggestion. "Ok, it sounds like a plan. I guess we'll improvise past that since we won't know exactly how Rainbow Dash will react."

"Well" Twilight's horn shines for a moment "it depends, worst case scenario is a fight. And I know I can stop that without hurting anypony. Other than that, we'll just have to figure out how to proceed as the situation goes on. It shouldn't be too bad, Rainbow Dash can be very reasonable if you know how to talk to her"

"Then I guess we just have to hope. But hey, friendship is magic right? so it should be no big"

"That's what I'd like to think. It's never failed before. So there's no reason for it to fail now." This, Twilight was sure of as long as the situation was properly approached.

And surprisingly enough, or maybe no surprise at all. Rainbow Dash was at the lake. A beach chair set in the sand as she rested on her back. She was wearing those comically huge sunglasses as she snored. Tank right on her belly. Dammit, why did topcunt have to look topcute sometimes?

With the plan decided. You and Fluttershy make the first approach as Twilight and Starlight hang back.

"....so...what do we do? She's asleep" You ask

"Umm...Well, I don't want to wake her really. But this is important." Fluttershy starts to gently rock Rainbow Dash as she whispers "Rainbow Dash, can you get up please, we have something important to tell you."

But her only answer was a snore.

"Hm...can you gently move Tank for a moment Aunt Fluttershy?"

"Ok, but what do you plan to do Anon?" Fluttershy asks as she gently moves the sleeping tortoise off her belly and to the sandy ground.

"Easy..." This was probably the closest you were ever gonna get to cumming inside Rainbow Dash.

You got up on your hind legs and put your face on her belly and blew a raspberry as hard as you could.

The reaction was almost immediate. Rainbow Dash woke up giggling and swung herself to the side as you balanced yourself backwards and got back on your four hooves.

"Gshehe...hey!" Rainbow Dash flew upwards to look down at her assailant....You. "What's the big idea?!" She looked pretty annoyed "Can't you s-..oh...Anon? Fluttershy? What are you both doing here? Did something happen?"

"Well...sort of. Rainbow Dash, how would you feel about making a new friend?" Fluttershy just straight out asks. Giving Rainbow Dash a wide and inviting smile

"A new friend huh?" Rainbow Dash shrugs "Sure, why not? Is this new friend cool?"

"You can say that, I mean. She's not only pretty cool. But she's got a lot of talent and is pretty strong in a few places." You pretty much copy Fluttershy's smile. Hoping that RD doesn't actually turn her head to notice Starlight.

Rainbow Dash finds that pleasing to hear. And grins at the both of you "Sounds pretty cool already. Sure, He can hang..or she. Or whoever this is. Anypony cool with you is cool with me."

"What if she's also "cool" with the rest of our friends?..also..it's a she." Fluttershy asks. Hoping to hear a "yes" of some sort

Rainbow Dash nods, getting a little agitated that there seems to be some sort of validation thing going on. "Yeah..duh...What's with you two? If I say she can hang then she can hang. Why all the questioning stuff?"

"Well...Rainbow Dash. The friend in question is somepony you already met before" Here we go

"Oooook." Rainbow Dash was really confused "So are you saying I didn't make friends with her before? Or that this is a pony I didn't like..or...what? Can't one of you just tell me already? This is getting weird."

"Well...erm..Rainbow Dash" Fluttershy started to get a little nervous. But if she faltered now, things may fall apart "About that, could you promise not to get angry when we tell you who this pony is?"

"Fine" Rainbow Dash crossed her front hooves as she hovered, getting impatient "Just get to a name already. You both are starting to creep me out."

"Well..it's not easy, Rainbow Dash. Because this pony also happens to be a friend of mine, and she really wants to apologize and be friends with you. But for that to happen. You need to say calm when you meet her. Can you do that?" You look up at her with sappy adorable eyes

"I just said fine. Look, I Pinkie Promise ok?" Rainbow Dash does the motions and starts to get really frustrated "Now can you just tell me who it is, please? Instead of just acting all secretive?"

You took a breath, because this...this was the moment. "Well....the pony we're talking about...is..."

"Starlight Glimmer" Both you and Fluttershy point to the side in the distance. Twilight waved to Rainbow Dash as Starlight stood beside her.

"......." Rainbow Dash was stunned enough to come down from her hovering and then look at the both of you as if you both went nuts. "Tell me you're both kidding. What is she even doing here?!"

"She came here because she wants to apologize for what she's done. Now you just Pinkie Promised that you'd remain calm. Remember?" You remind her

"...come on" Rainbow Dash was ready to toss out that clear bullshit of a promise. "This isn't just anypony, this is Starlight Glimmer. Fluttershy, how can you just be friends with her? Don't you remember what she did."

"I do..." Fluttershy started to feel a sense of bravery within her. She could sense her friend was going to try to get out of this somehow. And everyone has come so far already. She didn't want it to fall apart without giving it her best try. "And so does Applejack,Twilight,Pinkie Pie,Rarity, and myself. And we all forgave her and became friends with her. And we're not even asking you that much really. We just want you to talk to her and give her a chance."

Rainbow Dash was in doubt about that. Even Applejack? "You gotta be kidding me, are you really going to tell me Applejack was ok with all this?"

"Actually...she was the first pony we visited and it went fine. Pretty much forgave her straight away" You inform her

"You gotta be kidding me. Applejack was just...ok with this?" Rainbow Dash couldn't believe it. "She didn't call her a ornary snake or something?"

You shook your head "Nope. But like we said. We're not asking you to be her friend. We're asking you to just give her a chance"

"How can I? Fluttershy, come on. You know me, you know what happened. You can't just expect me to be ok with this." Rainbow Dash tries to subtly plea with her without seeming pathetic or whiny "Even if she is Anon's friend, that's between him and her. It has nothing to do with us! For all we know it can all just be some sort of evil diabolical plan or something. Y'know, real bad stuff can go down if we aren't careful."

Fluttershy raised her head to put up a brave front. She wasn't going to back down. "Rainbow Dash, I'm surprised at you. You know that we always try to give everypony another chance. We gave Discord another chance, and you gave Gilda another chance. Why, if Luna didn't have a second chance...well..she'd still be Nightmare Moon. I think you're just being stubborn. You have a Promise to keep, and by my ability to help and nurture cute critters. I'm going to make sure you keep it" Fluttershy gave a stubborn nod at her

"Fluttershy...." Rainbow Dash looks to you instead, hoping to convince you otherwise in some way. If she could do that, she could sway Fluttershy "Hey Squirt. I know you're Starlight's friend and all but hasn't she ever acted suspicious? Like, even a tiny bit? If she has, then you'd have to understand why I don't wanna talk to her ,right?

You raise an eyebrow at her. Was she really asking YOU that? "Uhh, Rainbow..She's my friend. And I'm her BEST friend. So no, I haven't noticed anything suspicious at all. And even if I did. It wouldn't mean I'd not understand. Just keep the promise, will you?"

"Rainbow Dash, he's right. So please..please keep your promise" Fluttershy pleads with her.

"Ugh..." Rainbow Dash groans as she hides her face in her hoof. "That was pretty dumb, huh? But come on, do you both think I should really keep my promise? Especially after everything she's done?"

You both say "yes" with a hard stare and a nod.

Rainbow Dash groaned and fell to her belly onto the sand as she snorted through her nose. Not wanting to really do it. But as she looked ahead. She could see her turtoise, Tank. Giving her a vacant stare. "....You too huh?"

Tank gave a very slow nod. As if he understood what was going on. Maybe he did, and just didn't want his master to be troubled by the task or to worry that she broke a promise.

Rainbow Dash slouched forward and let out a long winded "Fiiiiiinneeee". She then stood up and grumbled for a moment before looking towards Starlight and Twilight "I just need to give it all a chance, huh?"

"Yes, please. That's all we're asking" You say

"We know you can do it Rainbow Dash. We're not expecting a yes. We're only expecting you to hear her out and make your best judgement" Fluttershy says

"Yeah..sure...ok. Well, let's get this over with I guess" Rainbow Dash starts walking up towards the other duo. Not knowing exactly what to expect. But not willing to throw in acceptance at the drop of a hat either. Even if her friends seemed to have forgotten what Starlight did, she didn't. That was what was in her head at the moment anyway.

Both you and Fluttershy followed Rainbow Dash as she approached Starlight and Twilight. Rainbow Dash stopped in front of them, and then looked to Twilight. "Everypony forgave her huh?"

Twilight nodded "Yes, so..Rainbow Dash. I want you to think hard on this, nopony is forcing you into an apology."

"Sure seems like they are, but whatever. I promised to try, can't guarantee anything though. So..uh...Starlight" Rainbow then peered over to her, she didn't look at her with hostility, but it wasn't a friendly gaze either. "Why exactly are you doing this all of a sudden?"

"Well, that's a pretty straightforward question. But..here's a straightforward answer. " Starlight takes a moment to compose this thought into words "I want to apologize and make amends to the ponies I hurt. I want it to mean something. I actually was hoping it wouldn't be as easy as it has been because...well, I guess that's a self defeating way to think about it. I wanted to work for it. But, the way everypony has forgiven me, tt has made me feel like things weren't as bad as I thought and there's nothing to worry about. So at this point. I'd like to try to earn your trust and be friends. But if I can't, then it's ok. I've gotten to the point where I think I can comfortably say that I can face my life now without hiding"

"huh..." Rainbow Dash peers at her with distrust "That's pretty convincing. Is that what she got everypony else with?"

"Rainbow Dash!" Twilight snaps at her "How can you say that!?"

"Hey! Don't get mad at me!" Rainbow Dash gets defensive "She tricked us before, remember? How do you expect me to just believe her just like that? C'mon Twilight, just because you're the Princess of Friendship doesn't mean you can just be all like ‘Sure Starlight, let's be friends even though you nearly ruined Rainbow Dash's chances of being a Wonderbolt’. " She says in a mocking tone.

"Rainbow Dash, you said you would try. You don't need to be a meanie about it" Fluttershy states, in a rather harsh tone, harsher than what'd you expect.

"Fluttershy, I am trying. But I'm not just goi-" Rainbow Dash turns to face Fluttershy, but when she does, she gets startled by the fact Fluttershy was giving a hard stare, almost "The Stare". "W-what's with that look?"

"Because you keep being a bully. You keep treating her like she's a liar without even giving her a chance. You promised you'd try" Fluttershy was not standing down, scaringly so. She wouldn't back down until Rainbow Dash kept her promise. If she still didn't wish to be Starlight's friend. Then it'd have to be accepted. But that point hadn't been reached yet.

"Ugh..ok ok." Rainbow Dash turns back towards Starlight. "Ok, so..giving chances....giving...it a chance. Let's see." Rainbow Dash starts tapping her chin. "Ummm, so what have you been doing since you went back to town?"

Starlight sighed, and looked down. Even if Rainbow Dash promised,she felt that this was just pushing her. She wanted it to be natural. "Look, I know you made a promise...and I know you all are adamant about her keeping that promise. But I don't want to force this. Rainbow Dash, if you don't want to forgive me or be my friend. I can leave right now if you want. No hard feelings or anything"

Twilight, Fluttershy, nor yourself said anything about that. It was just disappointing to hear she'd just give up if Rainbow Dash didn't want to be more pleasant.

Rainbow Dash could see the despondent expressions on everyone's faces. She groaned and raised her head as she raised her eyes up in frustration. "OK! SHEESH! ALRIGHT! I'll try, I'll actually try! But how do I even do this? What do we even talk about?..no..you know what? I got an idea" Rainbow Dash looks towards Starlight with a burning question in her mind. "How did you even get into that whole creepy equalization thing? Like, what pony comes up with that?"

That's when Starlight tenses up "Y-you want to know about that?" She gulps

"Yeah, like what was the whole deal with that anyway? Maybe if I knew, I'd be able to understand you better..or something" Rainbow Dash...was utterly ignorant to Starlight's reaction.

"Actually, I am curious about that too. Starlight, you wouldn't mind telling us all. Would you?" Twilight asked

"U-ummm" Starlight started to slowly step back. And that's when you caught on. She was scared, she was scared of having to explain her past. She must have been scared of them reacting to the fact that it was all over a single guy. But, it was more than that.

"Oh yes, I'd actually like to hear that too." Fluttershy sits her butt down, smiling happily as she awaits for a story.

"...You...all don't want to hear that story. C-can't we all talk about something else?" Starlight, was fidgeting. Like, if the situation didn't take another direction then she would bolt. Probably through teleportation.

"I just said I wanted to hear it didn't I? So no worries there" Rainbow Dash says as she also plops her butt down to await the tale.

"B-b-" Starlight was reaching the point where'd she'd just leave. And send a letter later about why she left.

Nah, fuck this. Even if none of them meant any harm. It was clear to you that this was bothering her. Probably because of your own initial reaction when she told you her past. Maybe she thought their reactions would be worse? Or they'd just dismiss it as ridiculous and overreacting. Whatever the case, you had to help calm her down. Rainbow Dash's suggestion was fine, but you had to make sure Starlight was calm enough to tell it first.

You walked over to Starlight and reached up to give her a hug. Nobody else understood why at first, but as you spoke. It started to become clear. "Starlight, hey. Don't stress it ok? The past is the past. If you want them to get to know you better, you gotta tell them how it is. That's what you taught me, right?"

"..mnnn" Starlight gently wrapped a hoof around you to embrace you in the hug. She didn't cry, she didn't shed a single tear. She only realized you were right. And boy, were you glad she taught you a lesson you could boomerang back to her. Otherwise this could have gone sour. "You're right Anon..."

"..Oh goodness..." Fluttershy gasped as she put a hoof to her mouth as she realized the situation "I didn't realize that your past troubled you like that Starlight...I'm sorry"

"No..no.." Starlight's confidence begins to doubleback and return to her. "Anon is right, I shouldn't be scared of my past if I intend to make friends. Everypony, if you want to know my past. Well..." Starlight plops her butt down like everyone else and takes a breath "It may not be the most tragic past, or it may even sound ridiculous. But it's mine, and it's how I felt at the time. And how I feel about it now. Anyway..to begin.." And so Starlight explained her past detail by detail the same way she explained it to you.

"...And that's why I did what I did. I felt since a cutie mark took away everything that mattered away. Then it was best to get rid of cutie marks altogether so nopony else had to suffer from the inequality of everypony else. But I know now I was wrong. It only took a very special colt to show me the way" Starlight looks to you with a warm smile as she says that final bit.

"Aww shucks Starlight, I was just doing my thing" You couldn't help but feel humbled by that remark. you even blushed.

"Uhuh..." Rainbow Dash understood, she even felt for her, but not enough to fully consider it..due to one reason. "So why didn't you try to make any friends, exactly? I mean, it was just one guy. There's like a million ponies out there you could have made friends with, you could have even been friends with a griffon if you tried hard enough. Something about this doesn't add up to me"

"..." Starlight felt ashamed thinking about it, she did fail pretty hard in that regard "Nopony really wanted to be my friend beside Sunburst. And I guess I got so used to it that I didn't try being friends with other ponies ever again. I was used to just being on my own and planning my next move."

"And that too, going so far as to try to force equality down everyponys' throats. I dunno, that sounds super extreme to me. It didn't even pop into your head that what you were doing was wrong?" Rainbow Dash couldn't give into this so easily. To her, it was like she was looking for a reason to equalize everything.

"....no" Starlight's guilt was increasing from this line of questioning.

"Yeah, see. That's the thing. How do I know you're not just gonna go and do something like that again? And before I say this, yeah, I know, it sounds bad. Buuuuut. the way it seems to be, at least to me, is that if anything happens, you'll just get angry and go and try to doom everypony again" That's what Rainbow Dash concluded.

"W-what? No..I'd never do that.....not again,," Starlight while feeling slightly unsure, was sure enough that she wouldn't do that again.

"Rainbow Dash, I'm surprised at you!" Fluttershy found that accusation way too harsh "What happened to giving her a chance?"

"I AM giving her a chance, but straight out making her my friend. Nope, can't just do it without a better reason. What pony goes their entire life being angry and plotting to rule the world because of one single friend? I'm just going to need more than that." Rainbow Dash was sure on this. She wasn't going to give in that easily. "Look, if you want. I can be neutral about it. I won't snoop around, I won't get angry when she's with any of you. I'll just hang back and relax somewhere. So yeah, unless anypony can give me a good reason, I'm just gonna go back to getting some sleep before I do some flight exercises."

This troubled everyone. Rainbow Dash waited. But everyone seemed pretty stumped. Rainbow Dash seemed to have wanted a pretty damn good reason. You all needed an actual reason. And every moment without one was making Starlight uncomfortable despite saying she could handle it.

...a better reason. Maybe you were looking at this the wrong way.

Maybe you shouldn't be looking for a better reason. Perhaps what you needed was a good example of someone who could have gone through what Starlight went through under the same circumstances..or close to it.

And there were two you could think of. And while Fluttershy would never go evil without some outside force. There was another...one who would have been an angry and hateful mess without Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie. "Gilda...."

Everyone looked at you, confused and thinking they misheard you.

"Giwhatnow?" Rainbow Dash was deeply confused "...Did you say Gilda?"

You nod, you had this. She was the perfect example. "Yeah, Gilda. You said that Starlight doing what she did over a single pony was ridiculous. Or something like that. Well...what about Gilda? She was a griffon without a friend before she met you. And even when you first met, she was being bullied by everypony else. The whole reason you both became friends was because you protected her. Right?"

Rainbow Dash slowly nodded. She was wondering who the hell told you that. It wasn't secret, but who would bother? Still, she acknowledges you are right "...uh huh. Yeah, I guess that's right. But what does that have to do with anything?"

Time to tie it together. You were determined to get six for six. "Well, how about this? Gilda, when you both stopped being friends, became angrier and friendless. She was being mean to everypony. Even you, right? when you went to Griffonstone? What would have happened if you and Ponk didn't fix things? She would have remained angry and wouldn't care about anypony else. And it'd probably get worse every day. That's Starlight, Starlight is the pony who didn't have a Rainbow Dash in her life. Same with Aunt Fluttershy, she wouldn't have turned bad or anything. But she'd always be hiding and never have a friend if it wasn’t for you. And given how you all got your cutie marks. If that didn't happen, if you didn't defend her honor, she wouldn't even have her animal friends. She'd be alone. I guess what I'm saying is, when you're stuck in a situation like that, having a Rainbow Dash in your life can really turn things around. Right?"

"You know Anon..I never thought of that. It's true though. Without Rainbow Dash, we wouldn't have even gotten our cutie marks, become friends...mnn" Twilight gave a solemn smile "It's how Spike and me first met. I guess, in this case, Anon is right. You really are the pony who tied everything together Rainbow Dash"

"....huh..." Rainbow Dash deeply thought on this. Did she really do all that? Well, she did do the Sonic Rainboom, she did protect Gilda and Fluttershy, and she even got a little egotistical with Nightmare Moon by remembering that without her, they would have never found a proper way to the Sisters' old castle. "Y'know, I never thought of it that way either. I knew I was awesome, but that's like, mega super awesome. So what you're saying is, if Starlight had me for a friend, she'd be perfectly cool and never do anything bad again?"

Sure, whatever, yeah

You nod, this seemed to be the win right here. "That's exactly what I'm saying"

"Ha!" Rainbow Dash smirks as she starts to feel her self importance and ego rise beyond normal levels "Whaddya know? I'm the glue that holds the whole team together. Well, in that case, Starlight, you can officially be my trial friend. And if things work out, we go full on friendship. The trial thing is just so I can see that you're cool enough to hang. And if you promise not to go around taking Cutie Marks again, then yeah, we can totally be friends a little later on. What does everypony think?"

"That actually sounds alright. Anon, good job. I didn't even think of something like that" Twilight admits, that was a logical conclusion she hadn't come to yet.

"Oh, I agree. But it just goes to show that Anon really is smarter than the average colt" Fluttershy agrees, feeling a deep feeling of pride. She was proud of you for coming up with something even Twilight couldn’t of think of..

"Yeah, he's pretty smart. But still, this isn't an automatic friend thing. We're just gonna give it a trial run and see how things go. So Starlight, you ok with that?" Rainbow Dash was finally willing to give her a chance. But was actually proceeding with caution. She trusted her friends opinions, and your logic was sound, but still. a trial is better than going all out.

Starlight was so fucking relieved that she was happy to agree to anything that would lead to a total friendship. The words Rainbow Dash mentioned before, about staying neutral, it had made her feel uncomfortable knowing her presence would make her act distant to not only her, but her friends as well. "I'm totally ok with that, but..how exactly does a trial friendship work?" She seriously had no idea.

"Easy" Rainbow Dash gives her a smirk as she slowly moves her leg horizontally in confidence "Just do as I do and you'll do fine. And what I'm doing now? Chillaxing. If you can do that then you're well on your way of being cool with me"

"Chillaxing...right" Starlight was pretty determined to try that. Until she realized she had no idea what that meant. "...What exactly is chillaxing?"

Rainbow Dash smirks at the endearing question as she pats her back "Starlight,Starlight,Starlight. It isn't a "What", it's much cooler than that. Chillaxing just...is. You just pull up a chair, sit back, and soak in the rays until you're good and ready to do something else. In fact, why don't you all come and chill with me? You all had have been sweating it doing this whole apology thing."

"Well, I am a little tired." Fluttershy raises one of her front hooves and gives it a shake before giving a short flap of her wings. "All this excitement has been very good but very exhausting."

"I can "Chillax" for a little bit. I wouldn't want to miss this momentous occasion, it would especially give me some time to plan my very own kind of friendship party for Starlight in the future" Twilight found the whole thing endearing. Everyone participating in reforming a former foe, especially one so well learned in magic? She found it exciting.

"You?" Rainbow Dash snickers "Twilight, come on. You can't plan parties worth beans. If there has to be a party, leave it to Pinkie. Reading books all day isn't what I'd call a party"

Twilight takes offense to this, and stares at Rainbow Dash with an eyebrow raised in disbelief "...Rainbow Dash, you read Daring Do all the time"

"Yeah....but.." Rainbow Dash shifts her eyes a little as she comes up with a counter argument. She then sits on her butt and crosses her front hooves as she turns her head "Those aren't just books...those are epic adventures.The best epic adventures to ever exist."

"Daring Do?" Starlight had never even heard of that "...Is it that good?"

"WHAT?!" Rainbow Dash shrieked in surprised, her eyes nearly bugging out as she grabs Starlight and starts to shake her "YOU NEVER HEARD OF DARING DO?!" She then looks to Twilight "SHE'S NEVER HEARD OF DARING DO!" She then looks back at Starlight and shakes her harder "HOW IS THAT EVEN POSSIBLE?! EVERYPONY HAS HEARD OF DARING DO!"

"a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a" Was all Starlight could say before Twilight giggled, rolled her eyes, and magically pulled Rainbow Dash away from Starlight.

"Calm down there Rainbow Dash. But.." Twilight smirked at her "That book party idea doesn't sound so bad now does it?"

"Yes! You gotta make that happen! This is almost like....the opposite of awesome..it's.." Rainbow Dash puts her front hooves to her cheeks as she looks in fright "Anti-Awesome!"

"Ok ok, I'll get on it after tomorrow. Looks like Starlight isn't the only one who needs to "Chillax" right now, huh?" Twilight found the whole thing exceedingly funny. Hell, so did Fluttershy and you. Glimmer was a little confused, so she just laughed awkwardly.

After that. Twilight used her magic to summon more chairs for everyone to sit on. Including a smaller one for you. Starlight had a little trouble adjusting. And you wanted to lay on Fluttershy's tummy. But....maybe that was a bit dorky. You accepted the chair.

"So...I just sit here?" Starlight asked as she made herself comfortable "What do we do after we sit?"

"Nothing, you just talk about chill things while chilling in front of this chillin' lake. But...before we all DO chillax" Rainbow Dash pats her belly for Tank to safely land ontop of it. Then lays back down as she puts her sunglasses back on as soon as he lands. "There we go, now everything is perfect."

"It is a nice sunny day for something like this. I think we should all plan for a day, all to ourselves, to just sit back and enjoy the day together" Fluttershy says as she made herself comfortable.

"Nope...book party has to happen. Starlight can't be my friend until she's read at least one Daring Do book. And that's final" Rainbow Dash was having nothing else.

"..o-ok...can't I just borrow the first book then? I-I promise to take good care of it.." Starlight stammered, she had no idea what to do or how to act.

"No..I mean yes...I mean, just relax ok?! Twilight, make sure she borrows...NO, you're to slow. And besides, since I am the glue that holds everypony together, She can borrow my copy.WAIT..no, something could happen to it. Yeah, Twilight, lend her your copy." Rainbow Dash still couldn't believe anyone had never heard of Daring Do. You wondered what would happen if she ran into someone who HATED Daring Do. It'd probably turn into an autist fest.

"Ok then" Twilight giggles "So...can we chillax now?"

"Yeah...we can chillax now." Rainbow Dash slumps down just a bit and looks up into the sky "Ahhhhhh, now this is the life"

"Y'know..." You turned your head towards Starlight and smiled "I'm really glad everything worked out. And this? This is the perfect ending to this tour. Huh?"

"Yeah...I...feel really good. I didn't think it'd go this well. I...well..Thank you, all of you. And thank you Anon. If it wasn't for you...Well. Y'know"

You giggle at that "I know, yeeeaaah...I'm feeling pretty "chillaxed" right now myself. Hey, Rainbow Dash. Can I tell you something?"

"Yeah?" She asks as she sits unmoving

"You're pretty cool"

"Yeah...I am pretty cool" She snickers at the thought "But, I guess you're pretty cool too. For a colt anyway"

Yeaaah, just feed her ego. You had this. You managed to help Starlight through this with only one issue. But then clenched it at the end by bringing up Gilda and Fluttershy. You felt that through all the time you watched the show that Rainbow Dash would bite into the ego bait if you tied it to a line that was similar to Starlight's situation.

Yeaaah. Super great.

Yeeeeeaahhhh.

You felt so great about everything that you....fell asleep. And time passed.

"Anon....Anon. Does he always sleep so hard?" Starlight says worringly

"oh yes, it's not a good habit. But just look how adorable he looks. Look, his ear is twitching. He must be having a good dream" Fluttershy informs her

"Huh, well..he is pretty cute. Erm, y'know. For a colt. But I do need to wake him up. I want to talk to him before I go." Starlight says

"Oh, Well. He needs to get up anyway or he might miss his sleepover with his marefriend. aww..Anon, Wakey wakey. It's not time to sleep yet"

You feel a gentle shaking that causes you to slowly open your eyes as your ear twitches. You find yourself laying on your belly, your face hidden between your legs. After a yawn, you look up to see Starlight and Fluttershy. And the yellow sky of the sun setting.

Which causes you to jolt up and off the chair as you look left and right "woah woah woah woah woah! What time is it?!"

Fluttershy giggles and gives you a pat to calm you down "Don't worry Anon, you haven't missed your sleepover yet. You still have plenty of time."

"A-aunt Fluttershy? Starlight?...uhh..where's Rainbow Dash and Twilight?"

"Oh, Twilight went back to her castle to write a letter to Princess Celestia and get her copy of Daring Do. And Rainbow Dash went home. We were going to go back to the train station and have a little chat while we wait. It'll be about an hour before the train actually arrives and I do want to get to know Starlight better. I can see why you get along with her so well. She's very nice" Fluttershy seemed to have found Starlight's company very enjoyable

oh...god...you were asleep for awhile then. OH SHIT! THE TASER! "O-oh, ummm. Do you want me to come along or...what?"

"Well of course I'd want you along. I think we both do, right Starlight? I can't imagine a reason for you not wanting Anon to see you off" Fluttershy surmised

"Actually...While I would definitely want Anon to see me off. There is something I'm interested in taking home with me before I go. That's why I want to talk to Anon in private" Starlight looked a little nervous as she said that.

"In private to ask for something? Whatever could it be?" Fluttershy wondered why it would have to be private

"Oh...um" Starlight was quickly thinking of a lie...man, she was lying? She was lying for you. Obviously she couldn't let Fluttershy know what it actually was or what it was about "It's a surprise apparently"

Oh shit, she was trying to signal you to follow along with her eyes "Oh right, yeah. it's top secret stuff. I just want to explain some details to Starlight before I go and get it. And just her. Sorry Aunt Fluttershy, I don't want anypony else knowing. It could spoil everything"

...that hurt....lying to her that blatantly. But she seemed to take it pretty well. She even smiled as she spoke. "Oh, alright. I'll just step over by that tree and wait for the two of you." Fluttershy gently lifted off into the air and hovered over to a far off tree to wait for the both of you.

Starlight then sighed as she looked at you "That's gonna get some getting used to. Lying to everypony about things like this. But, it's for the good of everypony, right?"

wut? "What the taser?"

"No..Anon." Starlight couldn't believe you forgot already "Remember? I got upset at you about it? The changeling thing?"

"Ohhhhhh!" She meant Scrappy "Yeah..yeah, I really should check up on that. Something about that isn't right. And I should be able to get the taser right then and there too."

Starlight was worried about Applebloom. She never formally met. But for a regular filly to be around a changeling? That isn't right "Is your friend going to be ok?"

You had no idea. Everything about it seemed so fucked. "Well, that's what I'm going to find out. Right? heh..I didn't think you'd get this worried."

"Anon, that's because it's a changeling hanging around foals. That's dangerous as is. This isn't about me getting worried. It's about making sure nothing bad happens. You can't take things like this lightly"

Eh, she didn't realize that it was just some stupid runt hanging around some kids. The only real danger was what he was actually capable of and what he reported to Chrysalis. "Trust me, I got this. You just go and make friendly with Fluttershy and I'll meet you back at the train station. It's no problem"

"Anon..." Starlight was really concerned for you "Remember what I said? Don't underestimate changelings. I may have never run into one myself. But I know the history, and it's rough stuff. Be careful"

...dammit...come on. You had this, it's simple. "Alright, don't underestimate. Got it, trust me. I got this. Seeya later"

"Anon..mnn..yeah...see you later. Don't take too long, ok?" Starlight was still concerned despite accepting your words. She felt you were being too confident.

"Ok, I won’t, Seeya later" You salute to her with a smile as you make off to the clubhouse as quick as you can.

It doesn't take too long to get to the clubhouse. You had plenty of time. You stop for a moment to take out your map and investigate. "Hmm, he's here. Which means either one, two, or all three of them are here too. Perfect."

You'd just go up. Question what the whole thing with Scrappy is about. Take the taser. Go back. Simple.

You go up the boards up to the clubhouse and knock on the door to be let in.

And as the door opens up, before you can even react, you are pounced by a puppy. THAT puppy.

Chapter 271

"Anon! haha!" Scrappy snickers "Have you come to meet your doom?"

...ugh, doesn't he get that you'll never EVER agree to that?

You sigh, roll your eyes, but don't push him off yourself in case the CMC are within eyesight. "No, you mind getting off, Captain? I'm here to see my friends for something important"

"Oh..ok" Scrappy gives you a quick lick like he was an actual dog and hops off you. then turns and rushes back into the clubhouse to announce your presence "Scootaloo! Sweetie Belle! Master Applebloom! Anon has come to ask for something important!"

As you get up and look through the threshold of the door. You see the Captain rush over to Applebloom as she embraces him in a hug. "Scrappy, yah don't have to call me master. Just call me Applebloom"

"I can't, as part as my evil and perfect plan. I must refer to you as my master since I am your pet....Also because I like doing these puppy things like "Roll over" and "play dead" because it makes my friends happy." He nuzzles right under her chin as she cuddles into him tighter.

"Awww Scrappy, yer the cutest!" Applebloom couldn't resist his charm.

"Isn't he? Look, he even wags his tail like a puppy. It's adorable!" Sweetie Belle noticed him wagging his tail happily like a real dog.

"It's pretty cute, but c'mon girls. Now that Anon is here, we can finally take this thing apart and figure out what exactly it can do! I'm tired of waiting already" Scootaloo was getting anxious to take apart...OH SHIT! THE TASER!

You step in quickly and walk to the table they sat in front of and immediately ask them what they think they are doing. "Woah woah woah woah! Are you saying you're gonna take the taser apart?"

"Well duh, yeah. If we figure out it's mysteries maybe we'll figure out how it works and how it ties to that other Anon guy Scrappy went on about" Scootaloo grabbed the toolbox's handle with her mouth and put it on the table and began to open it,.

"Yeah, who knows? This thing might do more than what you said it could do. When we're done we'll put it back together just in case that other Anon guy DOES come back to get it. We'll keep it here since he seems to know where the clubhouse is. That way, we have a chance to talk to him. I kind of wanna talk to him anyway, from what Scrappy said, he sounds um...nice" Sweetie Belle was blushing just a tad at the thought of him..and you noticed that

Nice?! NICE?! "What..are..you...talking..about?" You step closer, eyeing Sweetie Belle dead in her eyes. "He zapped him. If anything, he sounds like a jerk. Plus, I need that thing anyway."

"Umm..Actually!" Scrappy hopped off of Applebloom and onto the table to make an announcement to you."He was very nice until I tried to attack him. We engaged in combat and I lost. So, I do want to destroy him someday, but we're also friends..I think. Well, I guess I'd have to see him again to find out. And I really want that!" His grin grew wider with every word.

Holy fuck, you had to be kidding with this shit. What the fuck was going through all their heads? "Look, I don't have a lot of time. But I can say this, whoever that other Anon is. He's probably a jerk considering he just came and went just like that. So, with that said, can I have the taser please?"

"Anon, why don't ya just help us take it apart? Unless you already know how it works then ah think we all should work together to figure how this thing works. You're the only one who even knows the name of this contraption, so why not help us out?" Applebloom gave you a look that pleaded to you not to try to take the taser away.

But the taser, in your mind, wasn't theirs to tinker with. "Applebloom, I only know enough about that thing to know it's very delicate and rare. One screw up and the whole thing will break. Let me just take it for a friend of mine to look at, she's much better at this kind of thing than any of us can be."

Sweetie Belle sighed and put her head down on the table "I told you he was going to be a jerk about this." Sweetie Belle then looks up to you, sick of your shit "Anon, it's not yours. You don't get to decide what we do with it. We at least waited for you so we could have your help. But we're not giving it up."

Oh..hell no. She was wrong if that's what she thought. "Well too bad, I'm taking it whether you like it or not."

"H-hey, can't we just all calm down?" Scootaloo tries to be the voice of reason. She was probably the least against you at this point. Mostly because she didn't completely see why anyone else had an actual problem with you, and the gift of the wings certainly helped too. The reasons she had to hate on you before was petty reasoning as well. "We're all friends here right?"

"Well..yeah, but Anon. it's not fair that you want to take the taser for yerself. It should be a group decision. And well, we all just wanna take it apart ourselves and learn about it" Applebloom says

"Woah woah, hold on Applebloom. What if Anon is right though? He knows more about this thing that we do. What if we do break it?" Scootaloo comes to your side, noticing Applebloom didn't even address her question and is getting defensive over the taser. "I mean, would it be awesome to figure it out ourselves? Yeah, but if another Anon used it, then maybe we should just leave it to our Anon"

”Oh! Master Applebloom, that does sound right. Both Anons are pretty smart, so why don't we leave it with him? He'll know what to do!" Scrappy actually jumps to your defense, utterly ignorant of the tenseness in the room.

"Erm...What do you think Sweetie Belle" Applebloom was now becoming unsure as suddenly opinions started shifting toward you.

"Ugh, does it even matter what I think? He's just going to complain until he gets his way." Sweetie Belle crosses her front legs, feeling defeated "To think I was nice and brought you a blanket last night"

Oh, what was she getting pouty for? The taser wasn't hers to toy with. And, there was still the matter of "Scrappy".

"Then I'll be taking this..." You take the taser and slip in into your bag. No one argues it now. Though Applebloom does have something to say about it.

”Anon, yer sure your friend is gonna handle that thing right?"

You nod "I'm sure, she's very smart and I'm sure she can handle something like this. But, I'm not done yet. We still need to talk about him" You point to Scrappy, which all it does is make him smile.

"Oh? We're gonna talk about me? This sounds great! I like me!"

..eugh...He's soooo stupid. How does Chrysalis think he even makes a decent captain?

This causes all three of the girls to become unsettled. Yes, even Scootaloo.

"Anon, come on. We gave up the taser, are you seriously going to complain about Scrappy too? That's pretty uncool" Scootaloo seemed to appreciate the captain as much as the other two. She liked him, and was willing to stand up for him.

"Depends, anypony wanna tell me what this whole pet thing is? Because I'm pretty sure you all know what he was up to this morning" You tapped your hoof impatiently as you awaited an answer. All three of them didn't seem to anticipate you were going to go this deep into this.

"Oh, didn't I already say? It was all my idea!" Scrappy ignorantly hops about to get your attention.

"Erm, yeah. It was...Scrappy, would you mind stepping out until I get you?" Applebloom tapped her hoof at the table nervously as she looked at him with a somber face.

Scrappy seemed confused at it all as he tilted his head. "huh?..why?..oh!" He thinks he figures it out and smiles "You want me to practice running to keep up with the cows so we can ‘bring them on home’..right?"

"Err, yeah!" Applebloom nods with a smile "Thats it!"

Scrappy salutes "Then I shall run until my legs fall off! just call me back when you need me!" And then he darted off. Obviously, this was something nobody wanted him to hear.

as he runs off, you can’t help but vocally note. "So, let me guess. You're tricking him, huh?"

"Anon..it ain't like that" Applebloom felt a little guilt over the fact there was a trick to it "It really was his plan to be my pet. He told us everything because he likes us and doesn't want us to be sad. He's my pet because it lets him sneak around and do the stuff Queen Chrysalis wants easier than if he was a stray. But the plan is a little deeper than we thought we could do. Ya see, he tells us everything he's gonna do and everything he finds without telling that mean ole bug queen that we know what she knows."

So that would mean they DO know about what he did at the castle. Still, how does that make sense? Wouldn't that dishonor "his queen" "..ok, so then. How did you manage to get that to work without him saying it was against his queen?"

"Well, it's because whatever he tells his queen makes her happy, and then telling us makes us happy. And he likes making everypony he likes happy. Thats why him telling his queen that we know all this stuff would be somethin' he wouldn't want. Because it would make her angry" Applebloom explains "He's really not a bad guy, Anon. Ah know he works for somepony evil. But he's as nice and gentle as a rabbit. Maybe it's bad to trick him like that but, we're kinda hopin' that someday he'd just stop following Queen Chrysalis altogether"

Was she serious? The guy was a changeling, a bug that lived in a hive controlled by a queen. A guy who wanted you dead in her honor. He wasn't good, he was just stupid and wouldn't hesitate to sell her out if Chrysalis demanded it. "Look, that's a cute sentiment, It is. But now you three are playing a dangerous game here. You can't just BELIEVE that he'd just leave his queen just like that. You can't just think that Chrysalis isn't going to find out about the fact that he's not going to tell her that you all know.And if Chrysalis finds out exactly how deep this all goes, she's going to put a stop to it in a way that even I may well..I don't know what it is. But it won't end well for anypony, that's for sure. But if she wants "Scrappy" to betray all of you, then he's going to do it. This isn't a real friendship. You three need to be more careful on what you are doing."

But, that struck Scootaloo as odd...considering..

"But wait..Anon, isn't Chrysalis your friend? We know you're trying to reform her and all, but it sounds like she's still pretty evil. So shouldn't you be the one worried about that stuff? I think we got Scrappy under control. Besides, he likes us, we like him. He only does what he does because he's told to do it. I bet he'd be like any other pony if Chrysalis didn't tell him what to do" Scootaloo states as she finds a hole in your logic.

"That's right! Maybe if you spent some time with him you'd see that. Just say no whenever he wants to fight and just talk to him. He's a good guy, much better than the Changeling you hang out with. You shouldn't even be mad. Like we told you, we have it under control. Meanwhile, it doesn't look like you've made any progress at all. In fact, I'd say it's that ugly bug that's got you wrapped around her hoof instead. I saw her with Silver Spoon earlier today asking my sister for an outfit for a "Sleepover". I can't believe Diamond's dad would agree to that when she pretty much just got here. And considering who she is, I would have kicked her out like, right there and then if she came to MY house." Sweetie Belle saw the hole in your logic as well, and went right through it to prove they had things handled better than you did "She's setting you up Anon, can't you see that?"

"Setting me up?" You chuckle dismissively at that. After that kind of adventure, and the car? Nah "You got it all wrong. I'm actually pretty close friends with her now. You have to make friends before you can actually do any reforming. Trust me, I've been doing it since I got here"

Sweetie Belle rolled her eyes "Anon, really? Look. We tried to be nice, but it looks like I'm gonna have to be the one to say it. You're a jerk. You were nice before, but now? You think you're better than everypony else and can handle everything by yourself. We're doing you a favor by having Scrappy as a friend. It helps you as much as it keeps everypony else safe from any evil plans and stuff that your "sister" is planning. And Scrappy? He has a good heart. He's nice, he's playful, he's cute! And he likes us, and he even likes you. Y'know, if that other Anon was as nice as he says he is. I'd swap him for you if I could" you could hear it, there was some malice in her voice

"Sweetie Belle? Woah, did you really just say that?" Scootaloo was surprised at her. That was pretty mean.

"Ahm...Sweetie Belle" Applebloom felt uncomfortable, more uncomfortable as this conversation went on. "maybe we should just change the subject. Ahm sure Anon knows we can't be fighting eachother on this stuff. Y'know, because we gotta keep Chrysalis from knowing that we know what she knows because Scrappy knows what he finds out"

"No, look. He says he has it under control. But we don't know that. We don't really know anything about him because he doesn't really hang out with us. He's always off doing something else or hanging out with the adults or Discord or Chrysalis or even his marefriend. But not us! If he had it his way, Scrappy would probably be alone and without a single friend. And you know what? That's probably the most important thing right now anyway. That we managed to help Scrappy AND keep in the loop on any evil plans Chrysalis thought up. All Anon is doing is being a jerk and doing secret things that we have no idea about because for some reason he doesn't trust us at all....do you Anon?" Sweetie Belle looks you dead in the eye when she asks you that question.

And the moment she does. Scootaloo and Applebloom look over to you as well, waiting for an answer.

...and then you start to sweat. What do you say to that? If you say yes, she'll demand proof. If you say no....well, you'll piss all three off.

You hesitate as you think of something. But as you do, you can see Scootaloo and Applebloom lose hope as Sweetie Belle's stare pierces ever deeper into your soul.

"I'm trusting you enough to know about Chrysalis and Scrappy, aren't I?" You say

"Only because we managed to catch him and learn a lot of stuff. In fact..I wonder what would happen if we asked Scrappy about YOUR secrets. I bet he'd tell us"

Oh FUUUCK!

Now you were really sweating. "Don't do that. There are some stuff that nopony should know. If it gets out..." You had to think of a lie..or maybe half lie..or… "My dad might do something about it, or something really bad could happen. everything I'm doing is very complicated stuff. If Scrappy spilled all the secrets you're talking about, that could put you and your families in danger. Look, I'm sorry that I'm keeping so many secrets from you. And..."

You had to admit defeat here. You couldn't let these three know your secrets. Dammit, of course Sweetie Belle had to get on her high horse about this. She had been ever since she got that stupid badge from Cadance...no, even before that. And of course Scootaloo and Applebloom would follow along with her than with you.

You sigh, and look down. Defeated. But you had to put on a show that you meant what you said. "Maybe I have been jerkish lately. It's really hard, y'know? I'm managing a whole lot of things right now. Like, I just finished helping a pony named Starlight Glimmer make amends with Twilight and her friends. That means Rarity too. I'm sure you heard of her. Well, she's friends with all of them now thanks to me. That's the kind of stress I'm in everday. Helping ponies and managing Chrysalis all day while balancing my own life. I didn't want to involve you three because it could be or even get dangerous. I don't want you three to get hurt."

"...Anon" Scootaloo was moved by those words "Ah geez...See girls? I told you stuff was bigger than we thought it was. It's like when Rainbow Dash gets stressed, she just gets super antsy sometimes....y'know..like when Tank was about to go through hibernation. That's what caused that whole crazy winter last time."

"I..just dunno Scootaloo. Ah think Sweetie Belle might be on to somethin.." Applebloom didn't seem to fully buy it. There was something she didn't trust.about your words. something that came off as insincere. "Anon, how much does Diamond Tiara know?" However, it may seem she also had the wrong idea. She thought that Diamond Tiara might know even more than her,Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo. "And tell us the truth Anon, please? We're yer friends. We're just...sorta..well, ah dunno what to call it cuz it seems so weird. But ah just wanna know"

You could work with this. If you showed her that they knew more than her, which they did. Maybe they'd think what you said was 100% true and back off. "She doesn't know anything other than I'm my dad’s son. Like I said, it's dangerous. I hate not telling her more. but it's safer if she just stays out of the know."

"So she really doesn't know nothin'?" Applebloom seemed surprised by this.

You nod, you were gaining momentum "Yep, she doesn't know a thing. So see? I mean what I said, the situation is delicate. If you can handle the captain, then fine. This plan of yours? Well, it seems to be working so I'll just do my part in making sure it stays that way. Look, just understand that I'm working hard and I don't have a lot to work with in the first place."

You then look to Sweetie Belle "And come on Sweetie Belle, I just came back from saving an entire world. And time there ran differently than here. Three days was like three hours here. I'm still recovering from that. Of course I'm gonna be a little uppity than usual and..." You give a false chuckle "Maybe a little "High and mighty" considering what happened. Being a hero colt is hard work sometimes. Y'know? So come on, let's just leave it alone, Right?"

If she even seemed like she'd disagree, you were going to drench this place in sweat. But Sweetie Belle seemed to be calming down from those words.

She sighed "Maybe you're right. I didn't know you were there risking your life for three days.I know my sister came back home a little jittery after that whole cutie mark removal thing happened. mmm, Ok, maybe I was just overthinking it. Still, you have to be nicer to Scrappy, Anon. And try to call him by his new name too, please? He really really likes it."

you just go along with whatever she says "ok, anything else?"

"Anything else?" Sweetie Belle wasn't expecting you to ask her for anything more. But she also didn't know your intent. "How about next time, when we have a majority vote. You just go along with it unless it's super important."

you nod again...but just to make sure "only if i'm around when the vote is made, sound fair?"

"Yeah, I guess it sounds fair. " Sweetie Belle agreed.

"Sounds pretty fair to me too" Scootaloo agrees

"Me too" Applebloom nods

"Ok, also. One last thing. Anon, just for the official Cutie Mark Crusader record." Sweetie Belle nods to Scootaloo, who quickly gets a pencil and some parchment to write on "You're not lying at all? no secrets other than the ones you said would make things dangerous for us?"

you cross your heart with your hoof then stick it in your eye. "Pinkie Promise"

"Wow, he Pinkie Promised Sweetie Belle, ya can't get more promisey than that" Applebloom took it at face value

"Yup, Scootaloo, you got that right?" Sweetie Belle asks as she looks to her finishing up and spitting the pencil out.

"Yep, it's on record that he Pinkie Promised. Now we won't forget. So does that mean everything is good now?" Scootaloo just wanted it to be over.

"I think so...but..just in case..erm, Applebloom, can you call Scrappy back?" Sweetie Belle asked.

"Sure" Applebloom put her hooves to her mouth and whistles. You knew in cartoonese, that it would call the little runt.

Sweetie Belle and Applebloom were still anxious in trusting you completely. Sweetie Belle moreso than Applebloom, Scootaloo just wanted things to be over and everyone to be friends again.

and it didn't take long for Scrappy to rush into the clubhouse either. And the moment he does. He jumps on your back and cackles evilly "aha! Anon, we meet again...again! Have you finally realized your doom is near?"

Keep it together Anon, they were watching you. They were waiting to see how you'd react. "..No.....How are you by the way?...Scrappy."

"Huh? oh, I'm feeling super good. I just did a lot of running just now." Scrappy then looks to Applebloom and proudly hops over to her and cuddles into her "Did I do a good job, Master Applebloom?"

Applebloom couldn't help but giggle at his cuteness "ya did good Scrappy. ya want a belly rub?"

"Yes! Very much yes! belly rubs are a normal thing that a pony does to their pet to show affection and this will help my plan...it also feels very nice"

Applebloom gave him a warm sunny smile as he plopped on his back for her, she then proceeded to give him belly rubs as he squirmed about happily.

...good god, what the fuck were you even seeing?

Even if it was fucked up. For now, just accept it and hope Chrysalis never finds out how far this has gone. You had the taser, it was time to make an exit. "So uh, well. I gotta be going. We're all good right?"

"What? You're leaving already?" Scrappy got confused and hopped up mid belly rub and rushed up towards you and hopped left and right like a battle ready pup. "C'mon Anon, at least playfight with me. I need to get stronger if I'm going to be a farming puppy while also plotting your imminent destruction in a single blow that will be sure to bring honor to the queen"

You looked up for a moment. Yeah, it was Sweetie Belle who was most focused on you and your responses. But before you could say a word. Scootaloo wanted to ask something of Scrappy. "Scrappy, why exactly do you want to destroy Anon exactly? Isn't it better to just be friends?"

Scrappy turns to Scootaloo with a dumb smile as he wagged his tail. "I AM friends with Anon and other Anon, but they both must be destroyed because they brought dishonor to the hive and to my queen. But until then, I like being friends with him and all of you. You are all so nice to me. That's why I don't mind sharing the evil and very diabolical plans of the hive. Because it makes my friends happy when I share. I just wish it wouldn't make my queen mad if I ever told her. But that's ok because none of you would ever be able to stop her....but I would feel bad if you tried and got hurt...mnnn..now I made myself feel bad. I don't want my friends to be hurt" Scrappy's optimistic smile turned to that to a puppy whine as he looked down, feeling cruddy about the whole thing.

"Awww, it's ok Scrappy. You just telling us everything is enough for us. We wouldn't want to stop you or anything" Scootaloo pats her legs to let Scrappy know to come to her. He slowly does, and plops his head down in front of her as she pets his head.

"Right, So don't even think that." Sweetie Belle, while saying this to him, looks to you with a stare, a stare that suggests that they wouldn't try to really stop him. That'd be your job since that's what you said you'd be doing.

"All we're worried about is if you'll be ok or not. But ya know, ya don't have to do evil things if ya don't wanna" Applebloom tries a bit of convincing on him.

Scrappy just moved his eyes up to look at Applebloom as he was pet on the head by Scootaloo. "..But I like being the captain and doing things for my queen. But if my queen ever stopped being evil, maybe I wouldn't have to be either. Then I could spend more time with my friends..." He didn't seemed to be too thrilled about having to be evil right now either. Or more, he was just wanting to be able to spend time with his friends whenever he pleased. "..and maybe have more time to convince Anon to fight me to the end."

"Awww..." Scootaloo picked up Scrappy and gave him a hug, she found the whole thing sad...somehow. "Don't be sad Scrappy, maybe one day it will happen. But for now, how about we go play a little fetch before we have to go home?"

Scrappy smiled and got excited for that "I LOVE FETCH!"

.......holy fuck, what the hell was going on here? What were you witnessing even? But yet, you understood. They'd keep him happy, and you'd do the rest of the work. Sure, they actually cared about him. But they were getting too close. They were eventually going to fucking shit things up. But what could you do right now? whatever, sooner or later they'd be in a situation where they'd REALLY need you. And you'd show them then that you were right all along...But for now..
"Don't worry Scrappy, we're your buddies. even if you want to destroy me. It's cool being your friend anAHH!"

Scrappy immediately broke from Scootaloo's hug to dive and lick your face before dancing on you happily "Yay! I think this is the first time you've ever said it like that Anon, that makes me very happy!"

.....god...just..go...please? Go… "C-cool, b-but I gotta go. Ok? I got stuff to do...So uhm, have fun playing fetch, alright?"

"I will, especially since you asked. Come on Scootaloo, it's time for fetch! Anon has to do important stuff things!" Scrappy hopped off of you as he hopped and waited by the door.

"I'm coming, let me just grab a ball. Or do you wanna do sticks again?" Scootaloo asks him.

"Sticks!" Scrappy exclaims as he runs in circles. He..really was becoming a fucking dog.

Scootaloo chuckles and walks outside with him "Sticks it is. Come on, I'll show you some of my super throws while we're at it. And you can tell me if you think they'd be good enough to show Rainbow Dash"

"I will do my best!" Scrappy says as he walks away and waves to you "I'll see you later Anon, try not to be destroyed by then!"

"..yeah..you too" You wave back, with a false and pained smile on your face.

"So ah guess we all understand what we gotta do right?" Applebloom's voice beckons your attention as you see her roll up the "record of the Pinkie Promise". "We all gotta work together if we're gonna make sure Chrysalis doesn't take over Equestria"

"Yeah, and so far. I'd like to think we're all doing a good job. Anon, you're going to be ok right?" Sweetie Belle started to feel bad over how she was acting "Sorry about all that, it just seemed like you were treating us like we were in your way.We didn't know how hard it was for you. But trust us, we have this under control and we'll make sure to keep you posted on anything Scrappy tells us. woo...and here I thought you didn't really like us or something. Good luck with that sleepover by the way. You're gonna need it if Chrysalis is going to be there. You won't let her do anything bad to Diamond Tiara, right?"

...of course you were angry at them for getting this fucking deep. But just keep going along with it. just keep going. "Of course, she'll be fine as long as I'm there. I'm not gonna let Chrysalis do anything bad. She can't anyway, she'd just out herself if she did. Trust me. I got this. but I really gotta be going ok? My friend is already at the train station with my aunt. I don't want to keep them waiting."

"Ok..Oh, and remember. We're a team." Sweetie Belle reminds you

"That's right, thats one of the main things about being a Cutie Mark Crusader after all...y'know...since we all got our cutie marks already" Applebloom chuckles sheepishly. It only made you wonder why they still called themselves crusaders anyway. hrnnn....

"Yeah, a real team..." After that, you took the taser and said your goodbyes. Saying goodbye to Scootaloo and Scrappy as you passed by.

You weren't happy about this at all. Those three… "Great, fucking fantastic, absolutely grand. What the fuck are those three thinking? This is fucking Chrysalis, do they not realize that if she finds out she'll just plot around them or just fuck with their lives? I'm trying to protect them and they give me shit for it. For fucks sake...and then there's the fucking captain. Looks like no...FUCK!" You smack your face with your hoof as you realize you forgot something.

"I forgot to fucking ask what the hell was in Twilight's letter....y'know..whatever..it'll be fine. Not like Chrysalis can go toe to toe with Twilight right now anyway. It's probably nothing. Those three...I'm just glad I managed to fool them into thinking I was actually ok with the whole thing. Christ, how could they even threaten me like that anyway? If they knew everything....fuck, everything would go to fucking hell. You gotta keep it together Anon..."

You sigh, you had to remember one thing about them.

"They are just stupid kids. They are just trying to help. But goddammit, they have no way of actually handling it and they get pissed off whenever I try to tell them anything important. Why? Why do they do that? Fuck...it's fine...it's fine. You have control of the situation now, Anon, just keep track of them. That's all you gotta do. Ergh, why can't they be like Starlight? She at least understands....eugh..."

You spend your trip to the train station trying to rationalize everything and compile your thoughts. You just had to keep in mind to manage Scrappy and the girls and make sure they didn't do anything stupid. It shouldn't be too hard since Scrappy is so stupid.

And then there's Starlight. Well, there was nothing wrong with her. You'd give her the Taser, say your goodbyes, and then go home to get ready for the sleepover...no problem.

Chapter 272

And that's what you did. You rushed over to the train station as fast as you could.

Waiting at the platform was a few ponies. You could see that Twilight was already there, talking to Starlight as she gives her a saddle bag, presumably with the book inside. Fluttershy was also there, chatting it up. They all looked pretty happy.

You walked up from the side and weaved through the ponies until you were close enough to hear what Twilight was saying "...and here are the first three books for the Daring Do series. I thought it might be good for you to borrow these instead of just the first one in case Rainbow Dash gets all talky about it. She really really loves the series...which is obvious since it is really good. Trust me, you'll love it"

"I'm sure I will. Thanks Twilight. I'll give these a read during my off time at night. It'll help me relax if I get jittery" Starlight gave her a hopeful smile. She already seemed much calmer than she did before.

"Oh, there really is no need to be jittery Starlight." Fluttershy said in a very soft and motherly voice "Just take everything bit by bit and I'm very sure everything will be fine"

You step right in on that, as you give her a jovial smirk. "Aunt Fluttershy is right, and if that doesn't work. Just imagine everypony with funny hats. It'll be hilarious, promise"

Fluttershy was pleasantly surprised by your presence and let out a little giggle. "Anon, that's just silly. Oh! Did you get that thing for Starlight?"

"Yep..and..." ....huh.....how were you supposed to give it to her without anyone noticing? Well, would it matter? Who would care? it just looks like an odd black thing with some yellow warning labels and all that jazz.

You pull the taser out of your saddle bag and just present it. "Here it is!"

Twilight immediately takes notice before even Starlight. "What is that?" She moved in closer, inspecting it without taking it from you. Just bobbing her head about. "I've NEVER seen anything like it"

Ahh crap.

"It does look peculiar...maybe it's just a cute toy!" Fluttershy suggests with enthusiasm..until she realizes "....Well, maybe it's cute to Anon...anyway" She says meekly.

"It's just something, I thought it'd be good to give to Starlight so she could examine it and keep it as a friendship gift" Please don't inquire further, please don't inquire further.

Hell, even Starlight was looking at you with a "What the fuck were you thinking?" face

"Oh..Well.." Twilight sounded disappointed, she wanted an immediate chance to examine it. It didn't look like a toy, and seemed to function in a way she's never seen before. "If it's a gift, then, I wouldn't want to take it away or anything."

Starlight gulped, took the taser with her magic and slipped it into her saddle bag as she spoke in a very disjointed and mechanical way "Gee, thanks Anon. I'll be sure to get right on this ‘Thing’ that you just showed me just now"

Her eyes though, she was honestly expecting you to slip it to her or talk to her in private.

Dammit, just a small slip up. It really was. It was easily bypassed. "C-cool. So um, how are you feeling? Good? Everything going ok?"

Starlight was calming herself down as she rationalized what you did. Sure, the taser was a pretty big thing. But, they had no clue what it was. It could just be something foreign you found..or a toy...But the fact Twilight had interest in it was a little worrying. But she carried on as normally as she could.Still, she wondered why you'd just present it so openly when you had said before it was "secret". "I'm doing alright, I'm good, I'm feeling fantastic. I have my books so I can learn to be "Cooler" so I can get closer to Rainbow Dash. And I kind of want to look into some fashion, it might help with some of the town plans I have. Oh, and of course, I want to make the place a little more green so we can have some cute little critters scamper around. I'm sure the foals would like it. I feel like everything will be ok. But..Anon, about this..thing. Now I don't want to sound rude, but..well." Starlight looks to Twilight and Fluttershy "Can I speak to him in private? Y'know, just step off the platform with him and discuss a few things?"

"About that odd artifact Anon found?" Twilight said, finding it weird.

"In private?" Fluttershy too, found it weird

"Y-yeah, and other things too. Private friend things" Starlight began to sweat "it's embarrassing for anypony else to know.I just don't want to feel embarrassed"

"Starlight, you don't need to worry. We won't judge and-" Twilight wanted to explain they aren't as judgmental as she may think. But Starlight just cuts her off as politely as possible.

"I know!..I-I know. But Anon and I. Well, he's still my first real friend, and I'd feel comfortable talking to him alone. It's nothing against anypony, I just don't want to feel like something went wrong. You understand right?"

"Oh dear, is that it? No no, of course we don't mind. Right Twilight?" Fluttershy didn't want to seem like a bother

"I don't see why we would. Go ahead. We'll wait right here for you two" Twilight thankfully, was as ignorant as Fluttershy in this situation

And so, you and Starlight went to speak in private off the platform. And Starlight went from nervous yet collected to near frantic the moment she was alone with you. "Anon, why did you just bring out that taser thing like that?! It's supposed to be a secret, remember?!"

you falter at these words already. Stepping back as you tried to explain yourself. "I-I...y'know, I thought it'd be ok. I know I was the one who said it was secret. But it's just a taser, I didn't think anypony else would be interested in it and so, they wouldn't notice"

Starlight sighed, and shook her head as she slowly composed herself. She already felt that she was overreacting. “I guess. But, it's something from another universe. Wouldn't it be bad if Twilight actually examined it? Learned what it was and where it came from and connected it to you?"

Oh geez, you didn't think of that at all. "Yeah...geez, I didn't even come close to thinking that. I just did...I'm sorry, It just slipped. I've had other things on my mind."

"Anon..ugh..you don't need to be sorry. Don't be sorry. It's just, I know you're smarter than this. Certainly put me in my place. But, a slip up? What's wrong?" Starlight found this worrisome. she always found you in a position to be on top of your game. So it seemed off you would mess up so easily.

Shit, now she wanted to know what's wrong?

You couldn't fault her for being worried though. It was though, just a slip up. Maybe it was because the CMC and their dumbassery that made you slip up. It was a lot to think about. You really didn't think of what would happen if Twilight DID manage to find out something more about it.

Just a slip, just a slip. It's fine, this was a good thing actually. Starlight calling you out only meant you could be smarter about these things later on. "You're right. But I've got this. Just a small slip up, everypony has one, right?"

Starlight was now calm. She even smiled. She agreed, considering how she's been since her reform. She totally understood that "Very right. Heh, sooooo" Starlight shifted her eyes upwards as she lets out a small giggle "Sleepover...that outfit. You're going to send me a picture of you in it, right?"

Wut? "Uhh, I mean. I guess, but why?"

"Because, you did look pretty cute in that outfit. It'd bring a smile to my face whenever I saw a picture of you in it. You know, sort of like a mental therapy." She wasn't blushing. Why would you look for blushing?...ahh, of course you'd hope she was into you in that way, you perverted bastard. But she didn't. She just really did find it cute.

"Alright alright" You did feel a little embarrassed though. but found it encouraging at the same time. You smiled at her. "I'll get one for you."

"Good." Starlight used her magic to pull out a camera from her saddlebag and put it in yours "I asked for the camera myself so I could give it to you. Since I wanted to ask you the question. That was also one of the reasons I wanted to talk to you in private. So you wouldn't feel embarrassed when I asked and said how cute you looked"

Well damn, you had to admit. That was thinking ahead. And thank god she was thinking of you when she did. Well, maybe you wouldn't have been too embarrassed. But you didn't need everyone else on the platform hearing how cutesy wutesy you looked. Because Fluttershy would go on and on about it right there and then.

"Thanks Starlight, hey...you did a good job today. You know that?"

"..Yeah..I guess" Starlight began to feel pretty modest. She also felt she could have done better. "I'm glad everything worked out. I'm just worried about screwing up later. We went six for six thanks to you. And I don't want to mess that up."

"Well, you won't. Trust me, these ponies are all about friendship. And if something does go wrong. You got your pal Anon to help you through it"

Starlight giggled at your arrogance as you wiggled your eyebrows at her. "Sure ok, I'll remember when I end up having a "Twilight week". But seriously..." Starlight pulls you in for a hug. "Thank you Anon, thank you for this. I can go back home...and not be afraid."

You hug her back, you hug her as affectionately as you could. To show her how much you truly cared. "You never had to be afraid Starlight. I was with you the entire time"

"Except for that one time before I saw Applejack."

"Except for that...hey!" You break off the hug and look at her with a scrunchy nosed annoyed look. It just makes her laugh.

"Sorry, sorry.I just had to get one in before I left. Speaking of which, before we go back. Anon, you remember how I said to be careful around Chrysalis, right?"

...ok, that was actually a little annoying. but it's fine. You were sure you had it. You respond calmly. "Yeah, trust me, it'll be ok. I can handle it.”

"Ok, let's go back then before they start to wonder what we're talking about, hrn?"

You both walked back to the platform to speak to Twilight and Fluttershy. Or for the short remainder you all had anyway. The train was starting to pull up.

The rest of the discussion was typical friendship affair. Asking when Starlight would come visit again, and when everyone would come visit her. Some of the things they enjoy. Even asking you how you think the sleepover will go. In which you gave very vague answers. And of course, now knowing you had the camera, Fluttershy asking you for that snapshot in the outfit.

when the train was ready to take in passengers. Starlight bid everyone a fond farewell. And thanked you again, for everything you did.

You felt pretty good about it. You did a good thing. small screw up or two. But otherwise. Things would be fine. You did realize you didn't get to talk any more about the taser. But ahh well, she was happy, that was the most important thing.

And then there was the sleepover itself to get ready for. Fluttershy reminded you that you probably only had so much time left to prepare since the sun was setting over yonder. With that being said. You hugged her, said your goodbyes, and promised to take a "Dashing" good snapshot. Or really, have someone else do it because selfies with these kinds of cameras seemed kinda impossible or just very awkward. You may need three, for Diamond Tiara...just in case. You also took note of Twilight congratulating you for being such a good friend. Well, she didn't need to congratulate you really. You already knew you were good at being a friend.

So you went home, through a body of water of course. To prepare yourself for the sleepover.

You opened the case Rarity gave you and carefully took out the outfit and the little crown. "Alright, let's put this thing on."

You stand in front of your mirror as you slip everything on carefully and gaze upon yourself in the mirror. You even strike that "Dashing" pose and snicker "Look at that, who is that handsome prince in the mirror, eh?"

You take out the camera to take a snapshot, only to realize.... "Ugh, it doesn't look really good when I'm trying to take a mirrored selfie. I need somepony to take the snapshot."

But who? Well, you could have Diamond Tiara do it. You were sure she wouldn't mind taking snapshots of you. Considering how into you she was.

You left your saddlebag by the bed frame. You wouldn't need it tonight, best to leave it home.

But as you put your hoof on your horn...yeah, you'd keep that.

You tap at the buttons of the outfit. They changed colors depending on the angle. And had the symbols of chaos on them. It really was a nice touch.

The problem though. Was your mane, it went back to being fluff and wild. Diamond Tiara wouldn't like that.

And you didn't even have a comb.

But as you pondered on how to solve this issue. A certain Draconequus started to walk up through the floor. Dripping wet.

"Hmph, who would have thought fish would be so stingy! Perfect for my aquarium but..." Discord grabs and holds his tail forward to look at it, the fluff at the end looked like it got bitten off like bait. "Very very bitey"

"Discord?" You turn around to see him twisting his tail to dry it instantly.

"Ahh, Anon. Just the little pony I wanted to see. I have news!"

News? He seemed pretty excited about it as his tail fluff popped back out like a magic bouquet of flowers. "News? Oh wait..hold on."

You hold up the camera to him "You mind getting a few snapshots of me first? And fix up my mane a little?"

Discord does a quick snap of his talons to make the arcade machine appear in your room as per Fluttershy's request, but he didn't seem to interested in taking a snapshot. "Anon, really? you don't want to hear the spectacular news first? And why take snapshots? You could always wear that thing later, this is important!"

You smirk at him, wondering how he'd react to this. "Fluttershy really wants a picture of me in this"

Discord stopped for just a moment turned his head to the side, now only trying to act disinterested as his actual attention has been grabbed. "For Fluttershy?....hrnnn, I suppose I could take a picture or two before I explain everything."

Haha! Well, it didn't actually matter what order you went. Just the fact you instantly changed his mind was awesome.

Or maybe it wasn't. He raised his talons and snapped. And then...darkness. "...ah shit...what's going on now?"

You looked behind yourself to see a small light behind some curtains. You could hear music blaring from the other side. the music you'd hear in a fashion shoot.

"Come on, Anon! We don't have all day, you know. Come and strut your stuff already!" Discord called for you from the other side of the curtains.

You slowly peer through. Ahead of you was a short catwalk. Discord was wearing a pink shirt with shiny stones all along it. He was also wearing sunglasses as he boredly waited for you to step up.

But next to him, set up with a camera....was...Photo Finish? That pony from season one...what?

You slowly step out and hang by the curtains as you point over to her "Uhhh, what's she doing here?"

"Hush!" She exclaims the moment you speak "Even Photo Finish does not know why she is here, but it doesn't matter! It is obvious there is magic to be made here! The art of the photo shoot can be done anywhere! But enough talk, now is not the time for that! Now is the time for...Da Magics! You!" She points directly at you "You're the hero colt. Yes?"

"Uhhh, Y-yeah?" Wow, she was sort of imposing in her own way.

"Then Photo Finish knows what she must do! Pictures must be taken! You!....Step out and show Photo Finish your best poses!" She exclaims as she stands behind her camera.

You look over to Discord, who just rolled his paw along to let you know that he did want you to hurry.

Well, if she wanted poses. There was no reason not to be confident in yourself for this. You were going to fucking dazzle her.

You step forward and walk towards the duo on the catwalk as regally as possible, head held high. But she just shakes her head in disapproval. "No!..you must show poise, you must show self-confidence, you must show the razzle dazzle!"

Wut? "But that is what I'm doing."

"No! You are wrong. Try again!" She demands

"Oh come on! Just take the pictures! You're an expert aren't you?" Even Discord gets on her case, expecting this to have been easy. But he underestimated her tenacity.

"You do not order Photo Finish around like that. Taking photos is an art! Why would I be here if not to take the kinds of pictures that make ponies quiver from...Da Fantastics!" She poses with her hoof up to emphasize that last part.

"Are you serious? He was doing fine! What was wrong?!" Discord demands an answer. Hell, you wanted to know to. You thought you were perfect.

"Photo Finish has no time to explain. There are pictures to be taken and they must be taken perfectly! Hero Colt, step back...TRY AGAIN!" She barks at you. It actually makes you step back from how loud she was. Christ.

Ok then...let's try this again.

This time, you try being a little more imposing. Looking down at her and Discord with a more dark and tyrannical spring to your step. "No! Too tight, too stiff!...TRY AGAIN!" She yells once again.

WHAT?! "Come on! I'm supposed to be a prince! What walk do you want me to dGAHH!"

You nearly fall back from the bright flashes coming from her camera as she starts snapping photos of you midsentence.

"That's it! Perfect! True raw emotion brought from the bottom of your soul! The anger! The frustration! Even as you are blinded by the light of encroaching stardom, you pose perfectly! Do...not..STOP!"

How could you not? You had to turn your head and try not to fall off the catwalk as you are blinded from the flashing lights. Raising your hoof from time to time to block the flashes as you try to step forward to try to just smack the camera.

But you don't even get close as she suddenly stops and closes her suitcase as it engulfs her camera "We are done! You! Draconequus. You will have copies tomorrow, Photo Finish must get to work choosing the absolute best photos for viewing of the elite! Now then, I wish to vanish as quickly as I arrived. Work must be done!"

Discord just recoiled from the whole thing. A look of cringe on his face as he raises his talons."Gladly..." and snaps her away as the room shifts and morphs back to your room. The catwalk you're on shrinking into the floor as you nearly lose your footing. But manage to catch yourself.

"...the hell was that?" That was so goddamn weird.

"A possible mistake. Those pictures better be good. That didn't make any sense whatsoever" Discord was already regretting his decision. He wanted top quality pictures for Fluttershy, but now felt like he should have done it himself. He snaps his talons again to remove his clothing as he just looked ahead in irritation. "The nerve of that pony"

You didn't know whether to worry about the pictures or snicker at the fact Discord found that nonsensical. Maybe a little of both as you just let yourself cool down from that. "It'll be fine I bet, she's a master of her craft afterall. Besides, you could probably just use your magic to get those photos early, right?"

"Of course I can, the point still stands that she was irritating. But.." Discord let's out an evil chuckle "Despite that, the news I have will be quite the mood lifter."

Oh yeah, the news. "Yeah, what is that exactly?"

Discord's evil chuckle became ever darker as he tapped the end of his paws to his talons. "The crystalling...is tomorrow"

Wut? "The what?"

"Who cares what it means" Discord waves his paw dismissively "The point is that I eavesdropped on our dear Chryssi and her little runt on the matter. The Crystalling is tomorrow and from what I understand, all the princesses that are important will be at the crystal empire tomorrow for Cadances dumb baby. Which means we have four times the chances to cause some worry and dissent upon why we'd be there. You do remember ‘our reason’ to be there, don't you?"

you didn't, you had other things on your mind "What was it exactly?"

"Oh come on Anon, focus..fooocus! Well" Discord slithered through the air towards you and wrapped his paw arm along your back as he brought your head close to his as he pointed forward with a talon. "But, if you need a re-explanation. Or, even an update. We shall be having a small vacation at the Crystal Empire tomorrow. I'll be picking you and your "sister" up tomorrow from Mr.Rich. I'll put Chryssi here on temporary lockdown to ease your mind while we make our grand appearance, then leave, and find a nice little spot to sit and relax and do nothing while the princesses panic and worry why we would be there. The perfect plan in which nopony could say anything since we'd be doing nothing..it shall be glorious" Discord seemed pretty pleased with himself with this plan.

And it was a pretty simply plan. You could stand behind it. You just wonder how Celestia and Luna will react more than you did Twilight, Twilight’s reaction would be obvious. This...could actually be pretty hilarious. "Well, I'm with you on this Discord. No muss, no real fuss, nobody is gonna get hurt and we get to get a little vengeance for Nightmare Night."

"Ahh yes, the funny thing is I don't even remember most of it. Dreams are fleeting" Really? He didn’t remember much? Then again...

"Yeah..." You couldn't remember much of how you lost now that you thought about it, but you DO remember losing.

Speaking of memory "Oh..right..right ummm. So, how did I do with Starlight?"

"Oh yes, against Twilight, correct?" Discord shrugged "Wasn't really paying attention. You didn't leave much of an impression when it came to outdoing our dear princess. But, it doesn't matter now..." Discord pulls out five cards and flips them, revealing a princess on each card and himself as the fifth, represented as a joker. "Tomorrow is when we play our hand ..." Discord uses sleight of hand to shift the five cards into another five. You,him, Twilight, and two lawn chairs "And get..." He places the cards into a deck and pulls out his final hand, a royal flush consisting as you as the King,Twilight as the Queen, Shining Armor as the Jack, Cadance as the Ten, and himself as an Ace, the suit being hearts. "The jackpot!" Discord cackles as he tosses the entire deck in the air as the cards fall everywhere.

Yep, he was super invested in this. You didn't even mind that he didn't notice. You helped Starlight, and that made you feel good. Now if only the CMC stopped being stupid.

Still, there was one other thing on your mind since everything else was set. "I wonder about that baby though, has an alicorn ever had a baby before? Do they have an alicorn baby or is it just gonna be a unicorn or something?"

Discord shrugs "Who cares? it's just a newborn brat that we needn't concern ourselves with. Trust me Anon, we're going to have a blast and not even you will have a reason to complain. It'll be fun"

"Oh I know, but um. I gotta be going, I got a girl to impress" You grin as you make another "Daring" pose

"Ahh yes, that adorable little filly. I wish you luck on that Anon, I really do." Discord says as he pulls out a calendar just to mark it for tomorrow.

"Really? I have your blessing?"

Discord shrugs as he poofs away the marker "What kind of father would I be if I didn't give you one? I've seen your old life, much too pathetic not to make it up in someway now. Don't you think?"

Egh, that was kinda douchy to say "Eh, human girls are just jerks really"

"Perhaps, or maybe you just stunk at attracting any. Anyhoo, I'm going to tend to my growing aquarium of terrible oddities. Do you have anything else you want to ask?"

Actually… "Yeah, what exactly is Chrysalis planning to do about this "Crystalling" thing?"

Discord again shrugs, obviously whatever Chrysalis had in mind didn't concern him. He only wanted to seal her up for a bit so you could focus on the con. "No clue, I only heard what I needed to hear. Doesn't matter since she'll be on temporary lockdown"

Yeah… "Ok then, I guess it'll be ok. Welp, I gotta go Discord. I got a girl to impress."

"Fare thee well Anon, don't spaz out like a weasel with a ball"

You cringe at that as you open your portal door. "Yeeahhhh...ok"

You went from from the town hall to Diamond Tiara's Mansion. You were ready. Hell, this was good actually. Ahh Diamond, she wasn't so bad, she usually listened, and you had a waifu mostly secured for when you get older who adores you...and sometimes embarrasses you....it'll be fine.

Chapter 273

You step up to the door, ready to knock. "Hmm...should I have brought flowers? Nah, this isn't a date. Just a friendly sleepover. Right....ok"

You take a moment to collect your thoughts. Then knock on the door.

You then wait, but it didn't take very long. The door slowly opened part way as a Blueish, blue eyed butler pony who was rather old looked down upon you. He looked left and right of you and then spoke in an elderly docile tone. He looked familiar with his white poofy mane and eyebrows. he was bald on the top except for a puff of hair as well. "You are master Anon...correct?"

Actually, he looked really familiar… "Yeah, umm..I'm here for the sleepover. It is tonight right?"

"It is" He answers as he seems to want to make sure no one was around you, or near him.

"Uhh, whatcha looking at? Who are you?"

"I'm Randolph...the butler. Mr.Rich gave me specific instructions to secretly lead you into the study before meeting with Lady Tiara. Will you follow me please?"

Welp...this was weird. "Ok..."

You follow "Randolph" all the way to Filthy's study. You look over to see Filthy at his desk, his chair turned away. With a big cushy seat in front of the table.

Randolph announces himself to Filthy as he steps behind you. "Master Rich, I have brought young Anon to you as you requested"

"Ahh!" Filthy slowly spins the chair around as he leans forward and looks to him with a serious face as he rests his head on the top of his front hooves. Placing the elbows of his hooves onto the table itself. He looked like Gendo Ikari in the midst of planning something in his head. "That will be all, thank you Randolph"

"Very good sir, I shall resume my usual duties" Randolph says as he steps back and closes the door.

Filthy's eyes then fall upon you. His tone was very serious at this point. "Anon, would you mind having a seat?"

...curious "Uh, sure. What's up Mr.Rich, is there a problem?"

"As a matter of fact, there is a little somethin' bothering me and I hope you don't mind if I share my thoughts with you before you go see my little darlin'"

You go and sit on the seat, planting your butt down like a cat as you look up at the billionaire horse. He looked stressed about something, you could see it despite his serious face. "Sure I don't mind. umm...is something the matter?"

"I guess that depends..." Mr.Rich turns around and looks behind towards a painting behind himself. It looked like an ancestor of his. The first Rich? From Granny's story? "You see Anon, The rich family business is actually not every hard to run. We have our hooves in almost every business that has meaning. And, of course, without Barnyard Bargains, the centerpiece of the Rich Family Lineage, it wouldn't even exist. And yet, still, I can run it with two legs tied behind my back. No, what's difficult Anon..." He turns around, and softens up as he lets out a sigh, showing the true concern in his expression. "Is being a good father. This entire sleepover has got me a might jittery. Maybe you'd understand why, maybe not. But before we continue, how do you feel about it, Anon?"

He was worried? Hmm, Diamond did say he didn't allow it before. Maybe something worried him about it. Was it because you were a guy, she was a girl, and it took place in a bedroom? "Umm, I mean. It's just a sleepover right? Doesn't seem bad to me"

Filthy let's out a chuckle as he sighs and looks to you with a smile "I like that innocent ignorance in you Anon, same kind my daughter's got."

Still, you had to ask "I um..I guess. But Mr.Rich, umm...how exactly did you meeting my sister go? If I remember right, you didn't want this sleepover to happen and now suddenly you do. Now I'm not saying my sister is bad or anything, but uhh, how did she convince you exactly?"

"She didn't tell you? hrn, that is a might strange. I figured she would have told you how good our first meeting went, but I guess she really was as busy as she said she was, poor thing. You are aware of her injuries at least, right?"

Injuries?...the cannonball? "Oh, um. Yeah, what kind of brother would I be if I didn't know about it. I feel really bad too, erm..I wish I could do more for her. But still, how did she convince you exactly?"

You didn't sound all too sincere about her getting hurt. Hell, you didn't think it was that bad. Was she faking? Didn't matter, you had to know this.

Filthy looked at you as if something was off. He just observed you for a second before looking into his desk and pulling out a picture of Diamond Tiara and "Nymous". "Well, I wouldn't use the word convince. maybe she was too busy to explain this to you but my little princess introduced me to her. Now at first I was skeptical since she seemed to just come out of the blue. But after spendin' some time with her, I can safely say she's as trustworthy as you are and is a very fine young mare with a heart of gold. She didn't need to convince me really, she just offered to chaperone this little sleepover and even suggested bringing in one of Diamond Tiara's best friends to make it more of a slumber party instead of eh...somethin' else. Since usually these kinds of things are girls only, It was quite interesting to speak to her on the matter, couldn't find a single hint of deceit in her and she only wanted you and anypony you knew to be happy." Filthy tapped his chest a few times "It got me right here Anon, it made my heart ache on how she can be so caring after coming from the terrible troubles she had to pull away from. I guess part of me just wanted to make her as happy as my daughter by just sayin' yes. It's what an honorable stallion would do"

Something about that hurt. One of those lines. You couldn't tell which one, but one of those lines made you feel like some sort of villain. "So you just got to know her and that's it? Oh.."

Wait, if you sound like you're worried he'll think something is wrong. Act more....cheery and dumb. "I mean, that's super great, Mr.Rich! She is a pretty good sister. I'm glad she came into my life"

And that made Filthy's worry on how you were acting wash away. He thought that maybe you were just nervous about the whole thing, like he was. "Well, glad to hear it, Anon. Got a touch worried that something was wrong between you two. Guess she really was too busy to tell you about our talk. But Anon, I still got a little more to say to you before I let you go. Now, as I was saying. Being a father is the most difficult yet most rewarding thing in my life. And so my daughter is like a treasure to me. Now Anon, I like you, I think you're a fine pony and even think you'd be good for my daughter when you're older. You know that. But this is the here and now and despite me saying yes..."

The tenseness in his expression and voice began to build "As the night came closer, I started to have some regret for what should have been a smart investment decision in the well being of my shining jewel. Anon, while I approve of this relationship. I did think it was only at a certain place, and yet, it's in a much higher place than I anticipated"

Wut?

You tilt your head in confusion "What do you mean Mr.Rich?"

"To put it simply Anon, there's ways to go about being in a relationship as foals, then there's a way two ponies conduct themselves in teenage romance, and then there's the methods and planning that go into being a couple as adults. And I really don't need this skipping into the teenage part or.." He holds back gulping in terror, and tries to keep a brave front "or beyond that. Anon, you do understand what I'm talkin' about don't you?"

Yes "No"

"Good, good..that's exactly what I wanted to hear. But just in case, I have a few rules I want you to follow. And I want you to follow them to the letter, are we clear?"

He seemed super serious about this. And now you understood why. He was afraid of the relationship advancing too far into...something else. Well, he shouldn't have to worry. You're pretty responsible, you can handle it.

so you give him a cute salute "Yessir!"

"Good! Now, rule one, don't go kissin' my daughter anywhere but the cheek. Even if you kissed on the lips before, this is in a bedroom and it doesn't need to happen, don't ask why. Now, rule two: Do not, under any circumstances, sleep on the same bed she's sleeping on tonight. I made sure to get you all comfortable single beds fitted for all your sizes. Rule three: Don't talk about your future together, this is meant to be a sleepover, not a romancin' session. If you gotta discuss something about the future, keep it simple, like a sales pitch. And the final rule: Don't let her know that we had this talk. Trust me, she'd be fuming and demand another sleepover where I don't talk to you saying something like ‘You can trust us daddy? why did you have to do that? Now it wasn't a real sleepover’. It'd be a nightmare for me Anon and I think this one sleepover will be enough for awhile. You understand, don't you?"

You just nod. God, he must be a wreck deep inside. Diamond must REALLY be into you in such a way that it's been worrying him. And yet he saw you as a prime choice to have as a son-in-law. He just didn't want to become a grandpa yet. "Understood sir, I will be an exemplary example of a gentlecolt." you salute again to him as he slowly smiles and rests back a little, feeling like a weight came off his back.

"That's good to hear Anon, very good to hear. Now that we understand each other, why don't you get a moseying along upstairs? I'm sure she's anxious to see her little prince, right?"

oh, you were sure she'd be ecstatic "Alright, are you going to be ok, sir?"

He nods and takes a breath "I will, as long as my rules are followed, just keep things as simple as you can Anon. A true gentlecolt knows how to properly handle their lady. I know you’re young, but I'm sure you understand somewhat how I feel and why I want you to follow my rules."

You nod again "Yessir, I think I do"

"Then there's nothin' to worry about. Have a fun night Anon, but not too much fun...please?" His eyes, behind that smile, was the eyes of a worried father who was just trying to make his daughter happy.

You make a more sincere nod crossed with a bow. And hop off the chair and salute. "I promise sir, there won't be anything to worry about"

He laughs a little at that, and sends you on your way as he remains in his study.

This wouldn't be too difficult. Poor guy, he must have noticed how close DT really has become to you. How attached she is. As for Chrysalis, she wormed her way in pretty good to be able to get him to warm up to her so fast. Then again, she had DT's attention and admiration as well. So DT plus herself would be able to do the trick.

As for the sleepover itself. You'd just have to see how it goes. You were sure you'd be able to pull this off no problem.

As you go up the stairs and head towards her room. You see "Her" waiting outside in the simple maid attire of the household.

Chrysalis was standing outside the door like a guard. In Nymous form of course, she looked pretty regal, looking straight ahead with a serious stare. But the moment you came into view, she turned her head slowly as a smirk came upon her face "Ahh, Prince Anon. You finally arrived. How are you this night?"

"Chrysalis? What...what are you doing? What's with the maid outfit and...?" You notice it, white bandages around her torso and chest. and some around her right front hoof.

"What? Do you find it strange I'm in a serving role? I've done it before Anon, I've had to take on many forms during my conquests. For this? I am but a humble servant of Princess Diamond Tiara. Standing at her door in wait for her prince. To show him inside and announce him like a real official would. I think it's adorable...and rather filling"

So, she was eating any love coming outside that door as she waited. Still, was she up to anything else? "I see, and those bandages?"

That smirk turns to one of irritation as she mentally recalls what happens before speaking it "No thanks to that idiot draconequus and his mornic endeavors. I was already recovering from that wound from your idiocy, my wing has nearly fully recovered. Now my body is in no shape to do my usual work. Substantial love is necessary for the healing process. Besides, I did tell my BEST friend that I'd help him didn't I? This is the night we'll be securing your future so you don't end up a lonely loser."

Essentially, she was making sure she could heal properly while apparently keeping to her word. She didn't have to say it like that though. Sheesh. Still, you were glad she was ok. "It's just good to see you're ok. Then again, I figured you would be. "

"Of course, if you came looking for me worrying if I was ok I would have slapped you. I am ALWAYS alright in the end."

Ok, that was good. Because you did feel somewhat guilty not looking for her after she got hit by that cannonball. It was a good thing you didn't actually go looking for her then. "So you're really doing this, huh? And no tricks?" You couldn't ask her about the letter without causing some suspicion. So you held off on that, but you wanted to see if she had any tricks in store for this sleepover. She'd probably lie. But it doesn't hurt to ask.

"None I can think of. All I will be doing is feasting and helping you with this relationship. I'm sure that foolish father already went over those rules with you."

"He told you about them?"

She nods "Of course he did, he's absolutely frightened that you two will end up doing ‘Something’. I can make sure that doesn't happen of course, while also making sure I get the both of you to find eac hother absolutely irresistible at the same time." There was something sinister about that last part, the way she said it, but you couldn't put your hoof on it. Probably meant it as a way to just drain more love in the process, or just sounding evil just to be evil.

"Just like you wormed your way into his heart, right?"

She chuckles about that "It was easy. When you look this good and have such a sad origin story. Hearts just break from the tragedy of it all. It's delicious."

You had to be a little cautious now, it seems she was definitely going to try to run the show here and she may even have an ulterior motive. But what could it be? What would she have to gain other than food? But what if you were wrong? What if she was just being her usual self while also caring about you? While only using the love to also heal herself? Yeah, be cautious, but try to trust her. That seems like the best thing to do right now.

"Yeah, well. If that amount of love will help you get better then I'm happy to help. But remember, this is a sleepover. That's all it's meant to be. I do want to respect those rules while also making Diamond Tiara happy, Ok? I don't want this to be a disaster"

"And it won't be. Anon, by the end of the night you two will find that there is nopony else in your lives that you can call your lover." Her grin becomes toothy when she says that. "I mean that"

.....egh..kinda scary. You don't like the way she's presenting herself. "Lovers isn't the word I'd use, let's just keep it at marefriend and coltfriend..ok?"

Chrysalis rolls her eyes and puts her hoof to her face at the fact you have to "correct" her. "Anon, I really don't like being told how to call things as they are. You can call it that, and I can call it lovers. Do we understand each other?"

Yeah, you guessed you can have it that way, but you didn't want her thinking she could just push those rules to the edge like that. "I just don't want you thinking anything more can happen than what's been laid out for me. I'm serious about those rules, I don't want to break them. And I don't want you convincing Diamond to break them either. Even though she doesn't even know about them"

"Ugh.." Chrysalis was finding you irritating that you were suspecting her of something. She starts to do the pinkie promise motion without actually saying the words "Anon, I promise not to force or coax either of you into doing anything lewd. Really, that's your problem anyway...isn't it?" She gets a rotten idea as she gives you a sultry grin and speaks to you in a very soft way as she rubs her hoof under your chin. "You're the one who enjoys that kind of attention no matter what pony gives it to you, right?"

You blush from her touch,look, and voice and quickly push her hoof away, "Gyah! look, look. I'm not like that anymore. Just..don't. Don't do that. Ok? You got it!? I trust you, fine. Just don't tease me like that while y'know...we're here"

Chrysalis chuckles as she turns to open the door. That lifted her spirits, the fact that she can still easily mess with you through your hypothetical loins. "I'll keep that in mind Anon.Oh, by the way, did Mr.Rich mention anything about that outfit? It's quite cute"

She said it was cute? Damn, why did that make you feel a little blushy? Why? Coming from her? Dammit.. "Oh..erm..well..no, he didn't actually"

"Then he really didn't notice. Oh, the poor dear." She snickers "So worried that this might crash and burn that he didn't even compliment the outfit. He so does love making his daughter happy. Doesn't he?"

Ugh… "Do you have to say evil things like that all the time? It's pretty cliche"

"Well it is funny enough to mention Anon, certainly puts a smile on my face. Enough to forgive your irritating form of questioning and ‘correction’ on my usage of words. We'll just call it even and leave it at that. I'm in a good enough mood to overlook your usual silliness. Also, stop worrying about what I'll do, will you? You've done me such a service with that car you gave me, and even though you owed it to me anyway, it's enough for me to see you in a way that should be to your liking as far as those rules are concerned. Don't worry, your sister Nymous will make sure you don't do anything bad to your own marefriend" She puts her hoof on the door and begins to open it "Now, enough talk. Your little princess awaits"

Dammit. you were trying to reform her. And part of friendship is to trust your friend. But goddammit, this is Chrysalis, who wouldn't think twice about tricking you. But she seems to be so concrete on saying that she's not going to break those rules while really helping locking in this relationship you have with Diamond Tiara...you weren't a loser though..dammit..you could do this on your own if you wanted. Y'know..it was easier than being a human after all. "Alright, I'll trust you. I got this..I'm ready. I mean it Chrysalis, I trust you. So don't break your promise, ok?"

"You needn't worry Anon. Like I said, I won't force or use any of my wordplay to trick either of you into anything you'd both regret. It shall be fine for everypony involved. Now, look brave, you have a ‘princess’ to meet." She opens the door completely, and gets ready to announce your presence.

You look ahead as Chrysalis steps forward. The room had some slight changes to it. Mostly, that three beds were set up away from each other beside Diamond Tiara's extravagant and large bed. For temporary beds, they looked pretty luxurious in their own right.

Also, at the end of the bed frame for Diamond's bed were three thrones. Two luxurious ones and a smaller, less fancy one. In the middle luxurious throne sat Diamond Tiara, garbed in a blue princessy outfit with a beautiful crown set upon her head, adorned with jewels and gems. She seemed to be waiting there for awhile because she looked rather impatient. On the lesser throne on the right sat Silver Spoon. She was sitting down patiently. The third throne was empty, presumably, this would be your seat.

Chrysalis, steps forward like a court official would and steps to the side as she raises her hoof, catching Diamond's attention "Your Highness, may I present, the young lord of disharmony! Prince Anon!"

She points to you as you just now figure out what is fully going on. This was a full on roleplay thing.

"Oh my gosh he's actually wearing t-" Diamond's eyes lit up in excitement, shock,surprise, and pure happiness to see you in that outfit that she spoke out of character of what she had planned. She had to force herself to calm down, look at you boredly and speak as regally as possible while at the same time containing her excitement from seeing your princely form. "Oh yes, Prince Anon. Ahrm. It is quite the surprise to see you here. I wasn't expecting you."

You take a bow, you can handle this no problem. You were already smiling internally from her adorable reaction. "Well my princess, chaos works in unexpected ways, but it is a pleasure to be in your company"

"Ohhh!" She loses it again as she looks to Silver Spoon "He's acting like a true prince! He's actually doing it!"

Silver Spoon gets caught up in the excitement as well as she finds the scene romantic and amazing "Like, I know! He really is dreamy!"

"I knowwww, he's so cuuute!" Diamond Tiara started to hop on her throne from just your greeting. Sheesh, you really do have to be careful. Though, charming her like this was adorable.

"I'm glad to know that my presence is well received" You bow again

"Oh it's very-...erm" Diamond Tiara starts blushing as she looks away shyly, bopping the end of her mane with her hoof until she realizes she's being very unladylike. "Ahrm, I mean. Yes, I am glad you are here..I suppose" She acts bored again and points to the empty throne "Come and have a seat on this throne, you'll be acting prince of Equestria for the time being. I don't really care for you to be here but it's a must to keep the land harmonized..or something"

You bow to her yet again, making her blush. Then very calmly take a seat. She just turns her head to you and blushes, staring with a smile.

Silver Spoon leans towards her and whispers something to her.

You looked towards Chrysalis, who just...stood there, dutifully like a real court official. She didn't even seem to pay attention.

"Anon..."

Hrn?

You turn your head towards Diamond

She was looking at you with dreamy eyes. "You look real cute you know. I can't keep pretending , my heart feels so warm with you so close."

"O-oh, umm.." Shit, she already shifted to being normal again. And you could see....was Chrysalis trying to hide a smirk? Dammit! "MY heart is soaring with you next to me Diamond. It really is and..gah!"

She hops from her thrones and starts nuzzling into you. "You actually dressed as a prince for me, you actually wore it and acted like one. That's all I wanted to see! It was sooooooo awesome! So cute!"

You very, very slowly and reluctantly hug onto her as she nuzzles her muzzle into your chest.

"If it makes you smile Diamond, I'll do anything"

"Oh my goooodness! Did you hear that Diamond? that is like..oh so super romantic!" Even Silver Spoon was getting swept up into it.

But you had to reserve yourself, you couldn't get too into this. Even if her attention was warming to you. "I'm glad everypony is happy that I'm wearing this, but erm..this is a sleepover right? A sorta slumber party? Shouldn't we be playing a game or something?"

"Oh...oh right!" Diamond Tiara hops off of you and hops into her bed and scoots to the end of it to look down on everyone. "Well, I did plan a few things so we can have fun tonight. I thought the very first thing we should do is a pillow fight!"

Pillow fight?...in these clothes? "Um...really?"

Diamond nodded "Mhmm! According to the best magazines, having a pillow fight first is something young princesses do to get rid of any pressure or tension from ruling over a kingdom. Since we are all royalty, we shall have a pillow fight to calm down after a long day of ruling."

Chrysalis speaks without actually moving "A very good idea Princess Tiara. If I may be so bold however, I would like permission to be able to strike at Anon with said pillows."

"Oh? Ok, that doesn't seem bad. Just because you're his sister doesn't mean you'll beat him though, you better watch out. He's the hero colt. And since I'm the only one here who has seen him fight. I think I know enough to be the only one to beat him at a pillow fight." Diamond Tiara said with a soft smile as she pointed to herself, eyes shut "Besides, I am his marefriend. Of course I'd know his weakness...like..." Diamond Tiara suddenly grabs one of her pillows and swings it down from the end of the bedframe and onto your face where you sat "He's easily surprised! Wheee!"

Agh! but that hurt! She slammed it into your face, sending the back of your head into the chair. But, even if it hurt. You'd bear it, it was only your head after all.

"Uh oh! I better get ready!" Silver Spoon backed off to one of the beds and grabbed a few pillows and waited to strike.

"Guh...That wasn't fair.." You slide forward off the throne and look up to a grinning Diamond Tiara

Chrysalis steps forward slowly and heads to the larger of the three beds. "Combat isn't about being fair, that's why my lady was capable of getting the first strike. Very impressive, your highness"

Diamond Tiara let out a giggle as she held up another pillow like a shield, looking down at you from the top of it with cute eyes. "Thanks Nymous! That was super analytical of you"

"My pleasure, your highness...now..." Chrysalis reaches her bed and quickly turns with three pillows being tossed right at you at breakneck speed. "Take this, Anon!"

C-crap!

You didn't even have time to dodge. You got smacked by one of the three pillows and ended up sliding across the floor from such a hard hit.

All Diamond Tiara did was laugh and clap her hooves "That was neat! I guess I should have realized that since your Anons sister, that you would have been able to surprise him too!." Diamond Tiara looked down at you from her bed and hopped in place "Come on Anon, stop being a stooge and show us your heroness! I, the princess, commands it!"

Ugh...you were still a little dizzy. You then have one more pillow lightly land on your head.

You lean your head back from laying on your back to see Silver Spoon smiling, then hiding under a blanket.

"Ok, that's it!" You hopped up and grabbed a pillow by your teeth and began to spin around. You then throw the pillow at Diamond first.

She ducks her head behind the end of the bed frame. But the pillow doesn't even go over it. it hits the middle and bounces back into your face, knocking you back onto your back.

"Look everypony! Anon is trying to trick us by being pathetic! Don't get fooled! Or you'll get hit!" Diamond calls out to everyone.

"Oh yes my princess, thank you for the call out. I almost thought his idiocy was real" Chrysalis snickered.

Ok...ok...time to get serious. "Well, in that case sis..let me show you...my..." You secretly grab the pillow into your teeth and rush at Chrysalis for a swing "MY TRMUE POMAH!”

You swing your head to horizontally strike her, but she quickly grabs a pillow with her teeth. And with a spin, parries your swing with a vertical swing.

"nimf tmy Anom, bmut yer gomma have to moo benmer tham hmat!" Chrysalis says as she continues to hold the pillow between her teeth.

You growl and start taking berserk swings at her. Chrysalis however, easily parries each and every strike with her own pillow.

"MHMHMHM, AMOM, YMOU CAM'T DEMFEAMT ME! I'M DOME THIMS FORM MORE YEARMS!" She laughed while gripping the pillow in her teeth,

"OH YEAHM!? DAM DOESNM'T MEAN SMQUAT!" You continue your assault as Chrysalis deflects your swings. Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon just watch in awe at the amazing pillow action going on. You swing to the right, she dodges to the left. She strikes with a straight cross of the pillow, and you duck it.

Nothing was working. And you were starting to falter, the Gumbo's power was already waning. And Chrysalis had tons more stamina than you did.

You spit out your pillow and go for a suicide move. You jump at Chrysalis's pillow and chomp your mouth into it and pull. It seems she wasn't expecting that. As you manage to pull it out of her mouth, Diamond Tiara cheers the moment that you do. And then, with a heave turn of your head, you strike Chrysalis right in the face.

You were breathing hard, triumphant. But when you look at Chrysalis, she was just standing there, looking at you with a stoic expression. "Good job brother, you hit me with a pillow. Too bad you hit like a girl"

"Hey..Nymous..don't say that" Diamond Tiara's ears perk down from hearing that as she frowns "He's still your brother"

Chrysalis nearly grumbles, but acts professional and holds her head up high "My apologies Princess, I was perhaps too-HEY!"

You take an opportunity to hit her in one of her tender spots where the bandages covered. For a second, it actually looked like it hurt her. She stumbled back, then smirked at you as she sat and clapped her hooves. "Good work Anon, you took advantage of my weak spot and..HEY!"

You then throw the pillow at her face, now she was looking at you with angry eyes and a scrunchy nose "Now that was plain underhoofed!"

You shrugged with a smirk "Hey, a hero has to do everything he can to defeat the villain and save his Princess...speaking of which."

You turn your head with a smile and wiggle your eyebrows at Diamond Tiara, making her blush and hide her head.

She then calls out "Lady Silver Spoon, launch all the pillows!"

"Got it! You can totally leave this to me!" Silver Spoon immediately pops out from the blanket she was hiding under and throws all her pillows at you. But her delicate legs were not powerful enough to actually land a notable hit. When she notices she fails, She frowns and ducks her head a little "Oh..."

You grin and rush up and grab a pillow in your teeth and dash and hop up onto the bed and rev up to smack Diamond Tiara.

She closes her eyes and covers her face as she calls out "Anon wait!"

But what she feels isn't a smack with a pillow, but a kiss on the cheek.

When she uncovers herself and looks up at you, she sees you leaning in with a smirk "Do I win?"

She blushes deep "Y-yeah"

You chuckle and hop off the bed victorious. Yeah, that was some smooooooth shit. Why did you even need Chrysalis's help? You were securing your future and keeping to the rules damned well on your own. Diamond would never recover from that.

"So then, what's next?" Your confidence was building. But as Silver spoon and Diamond Tiara hopped off their beds, Diamond Tiara still blushing and even a little dazed, Chrysalis just silently looked on. You couldn't read what she was thinking..or planning.

"Well actually, as royalty and officials. We are supposed to discuss about like, internal politics" Silver Spoon states as she hops off her bed.

"mnnnn..." Diamond Tiara was still blushing, she couldn’t think properly.

Chrysalis approaches her from the front of the bed frame and looks to her with concern, reaching her hoof over to tap her "My Princess, are you alright?" Chrysalis asks

"mmm? Oh..uhh..yeah! Internal politics..right" Diamond Tiara was blushing hard, she had to shake off the kiss to be able to think straight.

She hopped off her own bed and marched to her throne and sat. "Then this means it's time for Truth....or Dare!" She smirks as she points to her left. "Nymous, you sit there to my left. Silver Spoon. To my right. And Anon..right in front of me. We'll go clockwise, then counter clockwise. I hope all of you have a stomach made of diamonds, because when it comes to truth or dare....I always end up winning." Diamond grins arrogantly and rather jerkishly about this. Like her old self. You didn't even think anyone could win Truth or Dare.

"You can win in that game?" You question as you take your spot.

Diamond Tiara nods as she psyches herself up for a win. "Of course! If you lie or don't do the dare, you're an automatic loser. Of course, everypony can win. But they usually don't, not with the kinds of things I ask"

Silver Spoon agrees as she takes her place "Yup, Diamond Tiara can be downright evil in this game....but, y'know. Royal evil..because she's royalty"

Diamond Tiara looks to Silver Spoon with an accomplished smile "Thank you Silver Spoon, that's exactly right"

Chrysalis, as she took her place, seemed to have found something odd with the placement. "Your highness, shouldn't your prince be next to you instead of me?"

"Uh uh" Diamond Tiara shakes her head "Anon would easily do whatever I tell him to do or always tell the truth to anything I have to ask. It's better this way"

Chrysalis holds in a cackle. Only smirking and doing a bow "Oh wise Princess Tiara, I couldn't have put it more eloquently if I tried"

.....goddammit....Really? You weren't a damn cuck.

You open your mouth to say something, but Diamond Tiara immediately responds before you can say a word "Do you have something to say ,Prince Anon? You don't hate my order decision...do you?" She seemed rather upset that you might have objections

......fuck "O-oh, no. I was just..." You cough "going to say how beautiful you look right now"

"Awwww..." Diamond Tiara blushed "I know I look beautiful, but you know you look super handsome right?"

Fuck yeah you did...still...dammit. You should have just said what you really thought...oh well. It'll be fine. "Yep"

"Good, now let's begin! Nymous, Truth....or Daaaare!" Diamond Tiara challenges Nymous

"My Princess, I'll choose dare. I am the sister of the Hero Colt after all, I should be able to handle any challenge you give me" Chrysalis sits dutifully like any maid should. Looking to Diamond Tiara with a courteous yet stoic look.

"Let's see" Diamond Tiara starts tapping under her chin as she thinks. "Let's seeeee...Oh!" Her eyes light up as she comes up with a good dare. "Step out to the balcony and proclaim that I'd make a better princess than..Well, I really like Princess Celestia and Luna. Cadance just, I dunno, came out of nowhere. So say I'd be a better princess than her really really loud!"

Chrysalis bows and steps towards the balcony without hesitation "I shall, without falter"

She steps out into the balcony as you just roll your eyes, of course she could do this. She hates Cadance.

"HEAR ALL, COMMON PONIES, FOR THE GREAT PRINCESS DIAMOND TIARA IS GREATER THAN THE PRINCESS OF THE CRYSTAL EMPIRE, CADANCE!" Chrysalis announces into the night sky.

A boo can be heard, and the sound of a cat screeching. Other than that, nothing else.

Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon start clapping. Diamond clapping her hooves as Silver Spoon claps her hooves on the ground. you just slowly clapped, peh, what kind of dare was that?

"Wow! That was really great Nymous! Weren't you afraid somepony would have gotten mad though?" Diamond Tiara asked, a little worried for her.

"I care not but to carry out your will, my princess" Chrysalis says with a polite tone and soft smile

"She's so cool! Just like Anon, totally fearless" Silver Spoon adds, impressed

"Yeah.." You say in a subtly sarcastic tone

"Real tough stuff, ok Nymous. Your turn to ask me I guess. And guess what?" You cross your front legs, huff, and nod in confidence. "I choose dare"

"Oh, good. I was hoping for that..now let's see" Although Chrysalis looks like she was wondering what she'd make you do. It actually didn't take long for her to smirk at you and look at you dead in the eye "I know! Say ‘Queen Chrysalis is a better ruler than the four current princesses and that I'd LOVE a chance to work under her as her soldier and follow any order she might have for me, and even be her best friend forever as we crack a whip at our carriage being hauled by Princess Celestia herself!’"

.....wut?! "I...am not...saying that" No fucking way you'd say that.

"Oh?" Chrysalis looks to Diamond Tiara with a stunned and worried look in her eye "Dear Princess, doesn't he lose if he does not do the dare?"

You look to Diamond Tiara with a grumpy look "Don't you think it'd be wrong to do that dare at all? Come on, make her do a different one!"

Diamond Tiara however, looks at you with a pouty impatient look "Anon, just do it. This is truth or dare, dares are supposed to be things you don't really want to do. She doesn't really mean any of that. Do you Nymous?"

Chrysalis shakes her head "Of course, I, Nymous, would never want such a thing" Chrysalis then looks to you with an evil grin. "That'd be something that Queen Chrysalis herself might enjoy however. I suppose it's a good thing I'm not her"

"See Anon? Do you want to lose to something really easy? You're a prince, remember? We should try to win together" Diamond Tiara just stares at you, hoping you'd just do it and move on.

Oh, she thinks she's won this. "Ok ok...but we're going counterclockwise after it goes back to you, right?"

Diamond Tiara nods "Yup! That way everypony gets one in."

Good, you'd have something in return when the pendulum swung the other direction.

You calmly take a breath, and say the line without qualms. " ‘Chrysalis is a better ruler than the four current princesses and that I'd LOVE a chance to work under her as her soldier and follow any order she might have for me, and even be her best friend forever as we crack a whip at our carriage being hauled by Princess Celestia herself’ "

Nymous smiles and claps "Very good Anon, I didn't want to see you lose so I just thought an easy dare would be alright"

...yeah you bet...easy. Everyone else saw it as easy. But you knew she just wanted to hear you say that for kicks.

"Don't hold back Anon, I'm super good at this game. I've been to ALL of Diamond Tiara's slumber parties and this game is like, totally easy for me to win" Silver Spoon seemed pretty confident as she batted her ponytail back behind her head.

"Ok then, Truth or Dare"

"Truth, go on. Ask me anything" Silver Spoon awaited your question.

You had to actually take a moment to think of one as Chrysalis's dare still floated around your mind.

Then, you had it. "Ok then, here's the question. Is it true that you like a certain colt in our class? hmm?"

You expected her to blush and fight it. Thinking she had to have liked someone but was keeping it a secret. But she just shakes her head as if your question was shit. "No, none of the guys in class are cool enough. And Diamond Tiara got the only colt that is way beyond cool." She looks to her friend "Right?"

Diamond Tiara blushes as she nods, and then looks to you with dreamy eyes "Yup"

Dammit… "Well, that means it's my turn. Ok Diamond Tiara, Truth or dare?" Silver Spoon looks to her best friend with a more soft hearted glare rather than any expression showing arrogance or confidence.

"Truth" Diamond Tiara says with confidence that she can win the challenge

"Ok...how much do you like Anon? It's a lot, right?" Silver Spoon asks her with a jovial smile. Actually, that was a cute question.

"Lots and lots!" Diamond Tiara said as she blushed and put her hoof to her cheeks as she shook her head from the fluster of love.

"Eeee! That's so awesome! That means you really do like him, it's the truth!" Silver spoon squees in excitement.

"I couldn't lie you know? It's the truth! So, you're gonna ask him the same question right?" Diamond Tiara asks her friend in earnest.

"Of course, so, to make things super quick. I pick truth" Silver Spoon says as she eases her zealousness and awaits her friend's question.

"Are you my best friend?" She asks her

"Of course!" Silver spoon replies.

You found this all very adorable. The game became less of a game at this point once Silver spoon busted out that question and Diamond Tiara rushing to hear the same answer from you. Honestly, you could feel your heart thumping just from her cutesy words. You felt loved and adored.

"Ok Anon, truth or dare?" Silver Spoon asks you

Diamond Tiara looks on, waiting for you to say those words. muttering "Truth" under her breath.

"Truth" You say

"Oooook!" Silver Spoon gives you a cocky little grin, acting as if the question is a tough one "Is it true that you like Diamond Tiara more than any other pony ever? You know the kind of ‘like’ I mean" She wiggles her eyebrows at you.

You grin at that question. You even blush a little as you thought about it, it was the reason you were doing all this. She devotes her attention and love to you. How could you not return that love? Chrysalis was right about one thing, if you wanted companionship secured for your future, Diamond Tiara was the way to go. "More than anything my horn could conjure, and my horn could conjure pretty much anything, even another Diamond Tiara. And you know? Even one I could make could never compare to the original, never ever. She's simply too wonderful and beautiful to ever be compared to anything else"

And that did it, she nearly fell out of her throne on that one. She was overtaken with love and adoration for you that she didn't even form words. She just sat there, frozen, smiling, blushing.

You loved the fact that you made her happy with those words. Enough that you ALMOST forgot about getting back at Chrysalis, but you won't let her get the best of you.

"Umm...ermmm..." Diamond Tiara tried to hide her face behind her forelegs. She couldn't get a hold of herself. She had trouble getting a grip. Chrysalis of course, didn't say a word. probably feeding. "O-ok, ok..umm..it's..erm.." Diamond Tiara tried to get her mind back on the game. She just wanted to dive in and hug you. But she had to keep her composure. Although she didn't know about her father's rules, she didn't want to give him a reason to come check up on her regardless. She would have to plan her super cuddles when it was later and quieter. "Ahmm...hmmnn..ahrm. Ok..ok. Umm, Anon, it's your turn." She let out a nervous giggle after saying your name.

You grin at Chrysalis, who awaits your question. She looked fairly confident that she could beat whatever challenge you might have.

"Alright sis, Truth or dare?"

"Dare of course, I like to believe I am as brave as my hero colt of a brother, even though I could never be as great as you" She says with false modesty

Now to seal her doom. "Well then, say "I love every single snuggly wuggly cute critter in the forest, especially the bunny wunnies. And I want to take care of them all and make them feel loved while I make sure to keep all the foals happy with my silly clown acts and upbeat and wonderful personality!""

Chrysalis stopped right then and there, she didn't even step up to bravely say it. She kept her mouth silent, refusing to speak those words.

"Is..something wrong sis?" You smirk at her

"It's an easy thing to say, isn't it?"

Chrysalis holds off on grievances and looks to Diamond Tiara "My princess, is this not a dare that's a tad too easy? I was expecting something more daring to test my abilities."

..oh come on. Heh, you had her right where you wanted her. You start speaking in a subtly smug fashion. "Sorry sis, no matter how easy or hard it is, you still gotta do it"

"Actually Anon....she's right. That's pretty easy" Diamond Tiara tells you "She only wants to compare to your awesome bravery just a little. Give her something that's tough sounding"

WWUUUTTT?! "But!...wait, wait. It shouldn't matter, right? It's my dare!"

Chrysalis looks down in fake shame "Perhaps he is right, I'm not as worthy as he is to even think I could come close to being as brave as him. I guess as an older sister, I'm worthless"

"Nymous?! Oh no! nonono." Diamond Tiara hops off her throne and goes to comfort Chrysalis "You're not worthless, Anon is just trying to go easy on you. But, he doesn't need to be..." Diamond Tiara then shoots you a look opposite how she was feeling before "Right Anon?"

Ergh...dammit. What an underhanded play! Ugh, you can't even argue this. Fine!...you'd let her have her way..for Diamond's sake. "Right..sorry, I just..y'know. Didn't want to do anything tough. Ok,ok...lesse...ummm...Oh hey, how about try dodging one of my signature moves?"

This wasn't about actually hitting her. This was about seeing how quick she was in that form. You know her pride wouldn't allow her to get hit. So if she did end up getting hit...well..hehehe.

"Oh? That sounds perfect actually. I do want a chance to test my speed. Knowing how fast I am helps because I always want to know how quick I can be at getting something some sweet pony may need. I accept" Chrysalis stands at the ready. She wasn't acting arrogant or smug however. She seemed to genuinely be enjoying this.

Even as Diamond asked her if it was really alright,considering her injuries. Chrysalis's expression showed no arrogance as she calmed her. It actually made you think. Were you just wrong? Was Chrysalis actually enjoying herself and just taking part in this for fun...and a meal? She hasn't insulted Diamond Tiara at all so far. Just you. But that's par for the course. To put it simply, Chrysalis was having a good time.

"Alright...ready?"

"Of course, do your best brother" Chrysalis stands at the ready.

And..to actually be courteous. To be brotherly, and perhaps. To even show your friendship. You return those words to her. "You too, good luck sis"

And with that, you dash towards her, bouncing right, then left, then unleashing an attack you had used against her once before. But this time, she couldn't fly away from it. "SHORYUKEN!"

You jump upwards, leading in with a spinning hoof punch uppercut aimed directly under Chrysalis's head.

Chrysalis, even with her injuries, was still able to easily dodge your rising dragon punch. She hopped to the side, moving her head in a near impossible way to quickly get it away from your flying hoof.

You manage to stick the landing however and bounce back. But that was it, that was your attack. And it failed.

And yet...you didn't feel bad over it.

Chrysalis decides to be a good sport about it and bows to you "A great try my valiant prince. With quicker hoofwork, you would be able to do such a move with blazing speed."

Was that..a tip? Work on your hoofwork? Huh...interesting. "Thanks Nymous, I'll keep that in mind. Speaking of hoofwork, that was a pretty neat dodge."

Chrysalis gives you a warm smile as she bows "Thank you for the compliment. But ahh, it is now my turn to ask the princess the question. Isn't it?"

"yeah...but, wow. I didn't think anypony could dodge Anons..uhh...Shuriyam..thing. I actually don't ever remember seeing that move. But seeing it now, and seeing you dodge it. You both could be an amazing hero duo if you wanted to be" Diamond Tiara was amazed by it all, to the point she started to clap. "Good work!"

You and Chrysalis bow to her. Thanking her for the compliment. It wasn't easy keeping up the whole royal thing up. Since the role play was being broken every few minutes. But you all tried anyway.

Finally Chrysalis's turn came up. She looked to Diamond Tiara and very calmly asked "Truth or dare? Your highness"

"Truth, I want you to know more about me Nymous, so of course I'll answer any question you'll ask with hundred percent honesty" Diamond Tiara readied herself for anything she might ask.

"Then I have a very easy question. Which I would suppose would make us all winners. Would you marry my brother? When you're older?"

UH WUT! C'MON!

You blush at that question. As does Diamond Tiara as she starts to act shy "W-well...I'd like to of course. That is the truth.."

Chrysalis nods, then smiles "Then I suppose that makes us all winners." She bows to Diamond Tiara as she stands "An excellent game, your excellency, wouldn't you say?"

"Y-yeah...erm" Diamond Tiara was just looking at you, and when you noticed. you could feel your heart melt. Did you really like her that much? You must have. She's simply adorable. And yet, you still questioned a few things in your mind. Was this a wise choice? she was a little too young. Maybe you were just thinking more of her because you liked her. You just couldn't figure it out.

"So. what's next?" Silver Spoon asked, ignorant of the fact you were both looking into eachothers eyes.

"Oh!..oh right!" Diamond Tiara snaps out of it and looks to Chrysalis "Nymous, I do believe it's tea time"

"I do believe your right" Chrysalis gets up and walks over to Diamond's dresser. On the top were cups and tea pots on saucers. You hadn't noticed it before. Though you did wonder...why were there two teapots?

As Chrysalis begins to lay out the cups and serve the tea. You took notice of the two teapots. one was plain looking, which she used to serve herself and Silver Spoon. The other was adorned with jewels and gold embroidery, it was very fancy. And she used that one to serve you and Diamond Tiara. "My Princess and Prince, I do hope you both enjoy this special tea I brewed. This tea is one only royalty drinks. I hope it is to both your liking"

Woooah, awesome! Royal tea!....wait. God, you hoped it didn't taste like pretentious shit.

Still, it was amazing. Chrysalis was behaving herself and even being rather cool, if a little teasing. Maybe you were being too high strung. Eh, Starlight didn't know what she was talking about. She didn't know how tight you and Chrysalis were.

You all take your seats. Hmm, the tea sure smelled good.

"Is this really a tea royalty drink Nymous?" Diamond Tiara asked as she took in the sweet aroma.

Chrysalis nodded "Indeed, nopony drinks it today however. It has been mostly forgotten despite its importance in history. But I thought for this sleepover, it would be appropriate to make for the both of you."

That's pretty neat. Hell, you even believed her. This must have been some old recipe she learned in one of her conquests. Oh mannnn, this is gonna be sweeeet.

But first..

You raise your cup "Everypony, I'd like to make a toast to Nymous, for these drinks we are about to have and for her patience in being our maid"

"Oh Anon, how sweet. You make me glad to be your sister" Chrysalis smiles as she raises her cup

"Yeah, a toast to Nymous!" Diamond raises her cup

"Yeah, I know right? Without her, we wouldn't even be right here right now." Silver Spoon raises her cup, and the toast is raised.

You all then drink.

Well damn, this stuff was pretty good. pretty sweet and didn't even have that leafy taste most teas have.

You look to Diamond Tiara to see what she thought. "Hey, Diamond what do you think of the......mnn...waaaaa.."

You look directly into Diamond's eyes and become instantly overwhelmed by feelings you didn't know were that powerful. You lost your ability to speak for a moment. Diamond Tiara was the same way, the moment you locked eyes. She just couldn't look away.

"My pwincess of cuddles, has anypony ever told you how beautiful your....everything is?" You say as you look at her dreamily. Damn, she was looking fine all of a sudden. Super good.

Diamond blushed, but didn't shy away as she leaned into the table and looked deep into your eyes. "I was thinking the same thing, my pwincy wincy"

Silver Spoon was finding it a little odd. She hadn't heard either of you use those kinds of pet names yet. But she was supportive, things seemed to be going good. "Wow, you both keep falling deeper for eachother huh?"

You both just lean in closer, putting your foreleg elbows on the table as you both take a breath at the same time "Yeeeaahhhh"

Chrysalis said nothing as she observed, and drank her tea.

You hop off your little seat and near drunkingly wander towards Diamond. The moment you do, as if by pure instinct, she starts nuzzling under your muzzle "Oh my Sugawycoltmuffin, you always make every second of my life great."

Your heart was thumping heavily. Her this close, this massive amount of love you felt, it was growing by the nanosecond. "Same to you my Pinkcuddlepeach. Having you this close, it makes me the happiest colt in the world."

You hug onto her and bring her close as you plant a kiss on her nose. Making her giggle.

Silver Spoon just stared. It was so scandalous to her. She didn't know what would happen. But it was so exciting.

You plant another kiss, and another. Diamond didn't know what to do with herself. She just let it happen.

"My jewel of my life, having you this close. I'd never ever want to be apart again." You say

"A-anon.." She nuzzled closer. as you plant another kiss and pull in her body slowly close. sensually close.

"I want to love you, take care of you, be with you, I even want to..." You stop, and start to sweat "..Want...to" Your mind was flooding with lewd thoughts. You didn't care who saw. You wanted to rip those clothes off and make love to her right here. "W-want..t-to..."

Something was wrong. Did you ever love her this much? Maybe you wanted to do her..WAIT. WHAT ARE YOU THINKING?!

"To what? My wuzzlesnacky?" Diamond asks dreamily as she gives you a kiss on your cheek.

You blush red, you almost do it. But you gulp, and shakingly tell her. "T-to...need to..actually..talk to my sister...real..quick in p-p-private"

"B-but, then we'd have to stop snuggling. I don't want to stop snuggling" She whines

..oh, it was going to be more than snuggling if you didn't escape.

"Talk to me in private? Whatever for?" Chrysalis asks, she actually seemed genuinely confused.

Hell, you were confused. Were these what horse hormonal problems were like? You had to gently pull yourself away from DT. Which was a painful experience to not even be inches close to her. You had to force yourself. "I-it's important...b-but...it'll be ok"

You look to Diamond Tiara with a strained smile. and start to back up.

She reaches out to you "But my snugglepoo,are you sure it's THAT important?"

You quickly nod "Y-yes....Nymous..please? Out there? please?...please?"

"..hmmm..alright. I don't see why, but alright" She seemed impatient now. But kept her servant like composure as she bowed to Diamond Tiara "A moment my princess, please be patient as I speak to the prince privately"

"O-ok" Diamond Tiara already had tears in her eyes "Please..hurry back"

"Oh, I will!" You try to assure her, already ripping yourself away from her "I will"

And you and Chrysalis step through the door and head a little ways down the hallway to speak privately.

Chapter 274

"So, what exactly is the problem Anon?" Chrysalis says as she watches you fidget, fighting the feelings you had.

"S-something's w-w-wrong with me...I dunno if it's hormones or what. B-but..ngh...I went from liking Diamond Tiara to really l-loving her..."

"That sounds about right. So what exactly is the problem? You do want her, don't you?" Chrysalis really did seem confused by your actions.

"Y-yes..I want her..in bed..no clothes..I want to MAKE love to her sooooo bad. I don't even know why!"

"Make love?" Chrysalis puts a hoof under her chin as she begins to wonder "Hrn, Love poison is supposed to amplify love only. I guess that explains where that increase in lust came from. Must have a unique effect on somepony like you, hm?" She didn't look at you maliciously however. She really was wondering why it was happening...or maybe she was pretending.

Wait..... "LOVE POISON?! YOU POISONED ME?! W-WHYYYY?!"

Chrysalis chuckles "Why not? It's clear that while your ability to charm a lady has improved, you still don't have a grasp on how to seal the deal a-"

You just explode into rage and charge right at her. "I'LL GRASP YOUR DEAL! RAGH!"

You charge at her, but she holds you back by keeping her hoof on your head. You try swiping at her, but you just couldn't reach. "I'LL KILL YOU!"

She just remains silent until you start to tear up, and begin crying as you slump down and snuggle on her leg. "Oh god, I miss her already. Oh the pain! THE AGONY! W-why did you do this? Why? I thought you were really having fun. Why the evil scheme? WHY?!"

Chrysalis rolled her eyes at your accusations. "Please, this is just a scheme. Nothing evil about it. And yes, amazingly enough, I have been enjoying myself. The little filly has a rather humorous hold on you and I find her to be one of the few ponies I can actually tolerate. But that perhaps, is probably due to being your friend."

You just couldn't compose yourself as you continued to sob. To you, she wasn't making sense.
"B-but why the poison? Whhhy?"

Chrysalis gently pulled her hoof from your grasp and looked down at you with disgust "Stop your moaning, it's depressing."

You just lay there and whimper, not only did you miss DT...who was wasn't even that far away... But you felt betrayed. The poison's effects were ravaging your thoughts. "W-why?"

Chrysalis sighed, she lowered herself to sit in front of you and actually started to pet your head. Despite the gentle gesture, her tone didn't match. She was definitely not liking your reaction. she was annoyed. "Why? Let me hope that this gets into your fucking skull because what I have to say is the truth. She's a filly, Anon; a young kid. She adores and admires you because you are her hero and her prince. But all of that is childish folly." Chrysalis's tone begins to soften to that of a motherly sense, and yet, slight irritation still lingers. You look up at her, sobbing, as she looks down at you. Her expression, it made you feel both safe and dreadful. Like she was going to tell you something you didn't want to hear. "As she grows older, she will mature. Her priorities and responsibilities will increase and change. Her likes and dislikes will be different. And, she will want a stallion who can provide for her, listen to her, and be with her without the bullcrap childish shit you pull"

"B-but, won't I grow up too?" You whine

Chrysalis shifts her eyes to the right, for some reason, the truth of the situation made her feel embarrassed for you "Yes, but given you've already done that once and failed....I felt I had to help you through my scheme." Chrysalis sighs as she looks forward, disappointed with herself "I can't believe I said the words "Help you" without irony"

Help you? Wut? "B-but how does poisoning me help?"

"Simple, the poison enhances love to a level ponies can't fathom. But this light dose will make sure you both will have control over yourselves and have memory of this night. For Diamond Tiara, she will look back on this sleepover as a moment of indomitable feelings of love.Her heart will swell when she looks upon this night....as long as she never finds out the truth anyway.." Chrysalis pokes at you a little aggressively so you get the point "I trust you can keep your yap shut, right?"

You...actually had no moral qualms with this. You wanted a secured wife. You liked Diamond Tiara...sure fuck it. the plan is perfect. "N-no, I'm totally fine with this...ngh..it just hurts not to be with her right now..."

"Then let's just go back in. Don't say a word and I'll make sure you don't do anything stupid. Just keep your lust contained, will you? You'd be ruining more than your chances at a wife if you fuck this up"

Right...right..calm down.

You suck in your tears. You stand and do your best to get over these feelings...but still..one last question as you pack it in. "You're really having fun? Does that mean....you're enjoying your time with me?"

Chrysalis twists in disgust when you say that "When did I say I was having fun? I'm not answering that you little...." She turns her face with a scrunchy face "As I said...friendship to me is different. You're only getting a free pass due to the car. I already admitted I'm enjoying myself. I'm not about to tell you I'm enjoying my time doing these silly things with you. I only enjoy my time with you when it's at MY leisure"

...you were still punch drunk with love to act smug about that. But you were sure that was a lie, she must actually be having fun with you...and, in her own way. caring about your future.

As you both head back into the room. You both step into Silver Spoon setting up a phonograph as Diamond Tiara stands waiting a few feet at the door, her eyes becoming half closed and dreamy as she gazes upon you. "Annnooonnnpooooo, guess what time it is?"

....uhhhh "....I-I dunno my delicious morsel, what time is it?"

But Chrysalis already knew what was going to happen, and does her false smile as she looks down to you "Ahhh, young prince. It is time to dance with your princess"

"Ohhhh, that sounds..." OH FUCK! NIGGA WUT?! YOU CAN'T DANCE! HOLY FUCK, YOU WERE GOING TO DISAPPOINT YOUR LOVE OF YOUR LIFE BECAUSE YOU ARE SHIT AT DANCING! THIS IS THE WORST POSSIBLE THING THAT COULD HAPPEN! WORSE THAN FEMINISM AND THE N-GAGE! "...like I need to have one more chat with my sister"

Already the thought of walking out on her again burned through your soul, causing great pain to your chest.

"Hmmm? What now?" Chrysalis asks, once again confused.

Diamond Tiara already looked hurt from your words "B-but...don't you want to dance right now?...I-I don't think I can wait again"

Shit...your heart! YOUR HEART! She looked so depressed from you wanting to go again. You wanted to rip yours out and give it to her. But...you had to hold fast. But you couldn't resist going up to her and kissing her on the lip-....cheek...CHEEK. "No worries my most beautiful princess, it will only be for one more moment. And I promise, you'll be very surprised when I come back"

You try to remain calm through your sweat. But she buys it, blushing as she holds her hoof to her cheek, she just drunkingly tilts to the side "O-ok"

You rush up behind Chrysalis and start shoving her out with your head before she could even react. You then close the door with your back leg.

A little further and thats when Chrysalis makes her move. She shifts to the side, making you fall face first to the floor. She was just waiting to be out of Diamond's sight before she figured out what the hell was going on.

"...Anon, what now?!" She seemed a little peeved "Dance with her already! Why are you hesitating? Why are you fighting the poison?"

But you weren't....you just..

you slowly lift yourself as you look towards Chrysalis with begging eyes. "C-chrysalis...It's not that..I-I need your help..."

Chrysalis raised her eyebrow, she looked pretty unamused. "Help? Why?...What's wrong?"

You look down in ultimate shame as you slowly and gently spin your hoof along the ground.
"I-I can't dance..I need to learn..for her..."

Chrysalis nearly loses her cool at that. She found that to be utterly ridiculous. "Are you kidding me?! You are a pony who has been in the company of five royal leaders where such an art is important. For Tartarus's sake, Anon. Even Discord has a certain mastery of the art of dance! How could you not know how to waltz?"

But something about that sentence bothered you enough to make you lose attention. Five royals? You started to count as if you had fingers. "five? I dunno, I don't really hang around Shining Armor that much"

Chrysalis puts her hoof to her face before growling at you menacingly "I MEANT ME, YOU IDIOT!"

You nearly double back from that in fright. But wait...if she IS the fifth.

You immediately drop your fear as you smile at her, and your happy smile becomes a little smarmy as you nudge her. "So you can teach me then? Super fast? Hmmmm? Can you? You know you want tooooooooo~, do it for your bro. Your buddy. Your super good friend, Anon"

Chrysalis couldn't believe this act you were pulling. Well at first she couldn't believe it. It was clear the love poison was having a VERY different effect on you, even with a light and temporary dose. She would have expected you to beg and be scared. But you immediately bounced back, doing anything you can to learn to dance quickly to please your marefriend without seeming TOO pathetic.

Chrysalis sighed, teaching you seemed impossible right now. But, she wouldn't let herself be a failure here. Not for your sake, but for her own. The food she was ingesting and saving for her hive was too delicious to just give up. And then there was you. Now that she was "Nymous", she didn't want to be known to have a "Brother" who couldn't fucking dance after being called the "Hero Colt".

And finally, there was the friendship itself. As much as it pained her. Her Ferrari was one of the nicest things she ever had. For that, she felt that she could help you with this..just this once.

"Alright..." She figures something out. She still had some of her power in this form. But it was faint and weak, very minuscule. Unsuitable for anything grand. But she figured she could still possibly use her extremely weakened hypnosis to implant something into your mind. "Fine, I'll do it. But only because this is too pathetic a display, even from you. I can't let it go on." Chrysalis steps back and raises her hoof as she looks into your eyes "I can't teach you how to dance this quickly. But I can teach you to do this particular dance if you pay attention. We only have enough time to do this once. Your marefriend won't last forever."

What?! ONCE?! But you couldn't do it in one go! "You can't be serious. My memory isn't that good! How am I supposed to learn it in one go?!"

"Easy..." Chrysalis points to her eyes "I'll use my hypnosis on you as we dance. You'll need to focus and let yourself become prey to it however, or it won't work. You won't fall under my control, but it should be enough to make sure you won't forget what you've learned. Understand? Just try to keep your mind out of the gutter and you'll be fine"

You gently bring your hoof to Chrysalis's and prepare yourself. "So just....focus?"

You look into her eyes as she nods. You notice that green glow..it seemed...pleasant. "Yes.." Her voice becomes a little softer,sweeter, nicer. "Just focus on me, give in, and I will get you through this"

"..ok...teach me" You put your faith in her. For some reason, when you looked into her eyes. You swear, just swear, that you could see that she cared enough for you not to see you fail. It actually made you feel a normal sense of warmth outside of the poison's effect. It was like..she was being your sister.

"Now, do as I do. and listen to my words. We start with three steps to the right and a turn..."

Chrysalis starts taking you through the motions. You focus on her eyes and pay attention to her movements. You weren't entranced, but your focus on learning felt heightened as everything was being committed to memory. Since Chrysalis was acting as you, she spun you around every other three or two step before making a turn. She tried to lead you along carefully with her words as she took you through the waltz with her steps. You could almost hear music being formed in your mind as she took you through it. At the end, she let's you go, and bows. You then follow suit, since that's what you were supposed to be doing. You'd expect Diamond to curtsy.

And the most amazing part of all this? This dance with Chrysalis? "Woah...I actually remember the entire dance....weird"

Chrysalis chuckles, feeling proud she was able to get that much out of you "Yes, well, I am amazing"

amazing...was the right words for it. You go in and give her a sweet little hug for everything she's done for you. "T-thanks Chrysalis, I feel super relieved that I can please Diamond now. And it's all thanks to you."

Chrysalis slowly pushes you away with disgust on her face "...Don't do that. It's humili-" But she stops and immediately pulls you in all of a sudden with a hug of her own.

Then you hear the familiar southern business voice of Filthy Rich behind you. "Nymous? Anon? Now what's going on here?" Filthy seemed pretty concerned about something "I thought I heard yelling a few minutes ago. Started to get worried....Everything alright?"

Shhhiiiiiiiit!

But Chrysalis just kept you into a gentle hug as she gave him a falsely sweet smile "Indeed Mr.Rich. I was just teaching my little brother a little waltz so he may dance with your daughter. As for the yelling, it was just him being...nervous. It was definitely him yelling. He's shy about dancing."

"Is that all? Hmnnnn" Filthy rubbed his chin, he seemed to have found that odd "Well, I would have thought being around royalty such as our very own Princess Twilight Sparkle that he'd know how to dance. Then again, that is a little worrying. Don't you think a dance is too much for this little ole' sleepover?" He was also of course, concerned.

You kept silent as Chrysalis continued to speak to him. She shook her head to his words and continued to smile "I wouldn't think so Mr.Rich. It is, of course, a dance based off this little royal scenario these two have made. As long as I'm here, it won't be any more than that. If anything, it's just cute. Wouldn't you agree? I'm sure Diamond Tiara would, she is looking forward to it after all"

Filthy stayed silent for a moment as he contemplated on that. He didn't want to upset his daughter. And dancing, in that regard, probably wasn't TOO bad. He then chuckles about it "Well, I suppose not. Perhaps I'm being too much like those old fathers who coddle their children too much. If it'll make my daughter happy then I don't see a problem. But do try to get them to bed soon, will you Nymous? a sleepover ain't a sleepover unless you're actually sleeping over."

Chrysalis bows courteously to him as she still holds you close. "Of course Mr.Rich, I will make sure everything stays on course"

"Thank you Nymous, you're quite the wonderful mare. Gonna make a stallion very happy one day, I swear." Filthy gives her a small nod and yawns "Well, I gotta head back down and finish looking over these reports.You two have a good night"

You do exit Chrysalis's embrace to say good night to him.Chrysalis herself, of course, bidding him a pleasant night as well.

Filthy thought about opening the door to say goodnight to his daughter and Silver Spoon. In fact, he almost did. Until he silently mutters "..No, better not. Don't want to upset her"

Filthy then heads back downstairs. He felt he could survive not saying goodnight to his daughter this one time. He didn't want to ruin the fantasy. And felt she was in very good hooves with Nymous around. He'd just make it up double time when he sees her in the morning. He was sure she was going to tell him what a great night she had and that it was all thanks to him for letting the sleepover happen. He even smirked when he thought about it, feeling he was such a good dad.

You look back to Chrysalis as Filthy disappears from earshot, and sigh. She really did it this time… "Chrysalis..thank you. Really, thank you for this"

Chrysalis doesn't answer at first. She just walks over to the door and waits, then looks back at you. She looked like she had confidence on you. But still, she says nothing, and just opens the door.

Hmmm...she just didn't want to return your thanks? Maybe...

Now was the time. Both you and Chrysalis head back into the room where Diamond Tiara awaited you.

She looked into your eyes as she frowned, she was very very worried. "A-anon, are you ok? Is something wrong?...i-it's not me...is it?"

You don't know what got into you. Or perhaps, the poison's effect made you feel brave and wanting to please your love. You walk up to her, smooth and suave, a smile on your face as you gently grab her hoof and pull her a little closer. "No need to worry, my love. I was merely making sure of a couple of things before our big dance....Silver Spoon, if you please."

Silver Spoon was surprised at first. She didn't expect you to be the one to tell her anything. But she did as you asked as Diamond Tiara just looked absolutely stunned by your approach.

The music starts up, you could remember every step as if you had done it one hundred times before. You were confident. You looked deep into DT's eyes, and pulled her just a little closer, causing her to blush big. "Are you ready? My sugardoodle?"

She just nodded. You couldn't be sure if she was actually ready. But...it didn't matter as you nearly automatically began to step to the music. leading Diamond Tiara along

With every step, Diamond Tiara had to move closer to you to just manage to stay in step. You were leading her along like an expert.

Your turn was with a quick step and a bounce as you lead her forward, slightly revolving with every step to the music from the phonograph. It was a heavenly tune that guided you and her along with every step.

When the dance became a slower two step. You brought Diamond Tiara close enough to whisper in her ear during the waltz. "Diamond Tiara, my love, your eyes are more beautiful than any star found in the sky. More lovely than any gem. When I gaze upon them, I never want to look away. You're the only one I could ever love"

"..A-anon...d-do you really mean that? There's so many mares and fillies you could have. You even could have had Applebloom, a sister of a real element of harmony..but you chose me..." tears start to slowly appear in her eyes "..Sometimes I get scared, that it was never meant to last....that things might change and- mpph?!"

You just do it, you kiss her with a peck on the lips. Well, a little more of a peck. It stops her words as you give her a warm and loving smile. "Shhhh, don't think like that. Nothing is going to happen. I don't care if Applebloom somehow became a princess. She's not you, she's not MY princess."

You were about to give her a spin. But she pushes forward. Hugging you close and forcing you and herself upright on hind legs. She doesn't let you go as she says in a low and dreamy voice "A-anon.....I love you..."

You whisper back those words. Poison or not, you felt like you really did.

You continue the dance with improvisation , keeping your balance and holding Diamond Tiara close as you now dance while standing upright. You didn't want to fail, you wanted her to have the most romantic dance in her life. The poison didn't matter. This moment here...it was legendary.

When the music finally ended, you gently release her and go back on your four legs. You both now just stood there gazing upon each other before Diamond Tiara nuzzles under your chin. Ecstatic about the dance. "Anon...that was the most romantic dance I've ever had. It was so much better than anything on our date..I feel...I feel..." She didn't know how to feel. She just went silent and continued to nuzzle.

"I'm glad you enjoyed yourselfm my princess" You let out a soft yawn..the gumbo was definitely losing its effect now. You were getting tired. But you forced yourself to stay awake...for her. "I wanted to make sure my dance was perfect. That's why I stepped out, I just wanted to practice it up just a little. For you, less than perfection just wouldn't cut it."

Her nuzzling was warm. She didn't say any words. She just continued to cuddle and nuzzle. She never wanted to leave your side.

And of course, you nuzzle right back.

Silver Spoon was just enamored by it all. She stepped next to Chrysalis and just pointed at the both of you. "Isn't that the most romantic thing you ever seen?"

Chrysalis fakes a smile as she gazes upon the both of you "Yes, it fills me with joy just to see those two so happy"

It filled her belly too. However, there also a feeling she wasn't expecting. She felt...happy for you, in a way. She actually had to step back and internally think on this. She didn't realize she even truly had this much of a care on this.She didn't like it. She also knew she couldn't let you both nuzzle like that for too long or else your poisoned minds might make things go further. So it was the perfect excuse to get in the middle of this while avoiding her own pesky feelings, "Your highness's, it does my heart good to see you both so happy. But..." Chrysalis fakes a yawn. Which, also causes Silver Spoon to yawn. "But it is getting a tad late. Perhaps we should retire?"

Diamond Tiara actually agrees as she looks into your eyes with a love drunk smile "Ok...Anon, will you snuggle with me tonight?"

HOT DAMN. WILL YOU! "Of cou-"

But Chrysalis cuts you off. Here, she was just making sure you didn't fuck up. Things would get very bad if she let it get that far. "Actually, as his sister, I can't let him do that. I'm sorry Diamond Tiara, but it's better if he just sleeps in the bed set up for him"

But Diamond Tiara wouldn't have any of that. She finally starts getting a little bothered and flustered that she couldn't have you in her bed. She looks at Chrysalis with an annoyed look and whiny voice. "Whhhhy!? He's my prince! Princesses and Princes always cuddle in the same bed right? It's like being married!"

And that was exactly the problem. You started to slowly snap out of your own love stupor for just long enough to realize that Chrysalis was right. You'd probably start gently fucking her if that happened...but ugghhh...you wanted to soooooo bad. "A-actually my lovely sugar dumpling. Sis m-might be right."

"What?!" Now Diamond was hurt as she stepped up to you with sad eyes, making you step back from her approach "Why? WHYWHYWHYWHY!?"

"W-woah...umm..Diamond, don't you think you're taking this too far? This was a great sleepover and all, but I think the reason your dad didn't let you have one with just anon was because of stuff like that. I know my dad said once that that kind of stuff is for adult couples. I dunno why, but maybe we should listen to Nymous" Silver Spoon suggested, upset at her friend's reaction. She was so put off though. She didn't understand why she was acting so weird.

"No! I don't care!" Diamond was now angry, stomping her hoof "Why are you all suddenly so against us? Can't you see how much we love eachother! Tell them Anon! Tell them!"

...ahh shit. You wanted to do what she said. But the one thing that scared you nearly as much was Chrysalis's dark stare as she slowly rubbed her hoof across her neck, signifying death. Yeah, Chrysalis meant business. She didn't want everything to fall apart and ruin her reputation. She needed the ponies trust. Adults moreso than kids. She needed you to do what's right....

...and it was so hard to do so as you lookied back at Diamond's anger. She wanted you just...so badly...And you wanted her...

You had to break and resist every urge the poison and your love was causing in you to do the right thing. And the only way to do that? Think of a way to change the flow instead of stopping it...god you hoped this worked...because if it didn't. you'd be porking her, you just knew it. "My love, they are right. But please..."

You step up to her and hold her hoof "Do not think of this as a negative. There is obviously a reason we cannot share a bed this night. It must only mean that when our relationship goes further, we'll have our own bed to cuddle and snuggle onto, and with that, we’ll be with each other every night...no..any time we wish. Patience my dear. It will only make that night so much sweeter."

God, you sounded so...cliche and Casanova-like. But you've seen it work so many times in cartoons. It had to work here...it just had to.

"mmnn....but..." Diamond Tiara didn't know what to think of it at first. She wanted to do it now. But everything she was being told made it seem like a bad idea..but she nearly didn't care. If not hearing that in the future, they could do it whenever, she'd just whine some more. So she just looked at you, with a hopeful and serious face. "Do you promise?"

You nod "On my honor as your coltfriend"

"...." Diamond Tiara sighed, and then let out a cute and accidental yawn. "...ok...ok.." She goes and nuzzle with you one more time. "I guess we can all go to bed then, Anon, I love you so so so so much. You love me too, right?"

"With all my heart" You really did.

She then gazes upon your eyes one last time "You're so sweet Anon. I'll dream about you tonight..." She actually plants a gentle sweet kiss on your lips, giggles, and looks into your eyes dreamily "In our future castle, laying next to you as we watch our children play" Then she titters a little more with one more nuzzle "Once I learn where babies come from, we're gonna have a lot of them! lots of princesses and princes."

...ok...OK..even with the poison. That was a little much. You didn't want to have THAT many children...and oh god. ‘When she learned’? Her appetite would be insatiable. Your body would break no matter how willing the spirit would be. "Y-yeah...mnn..."

But the thought vanishes quickly as you plant a gentle kiss on her lips as well. making her smile. "And I shall dream of us as well, in our castle, as I fight off many would be villains who wish to kidnap you"

She blushes and hides her face a little, turning to the side "O-oh...A-anon, you're so romantic. even in your dreams"

You give her a smug chuckle. "I know....goodnight, my princess."

"G-goodnight..my prince..." Diamond Tiara sighs lovingly and looks to Silver Spoon and Chrysalis "Goodnight everypony. I hope you enjoyed this very royal sleepover"

"I did, it was sooooo totally like those romance books! And you know what that means, right?" Silver Spoon says to Diamond Tiara, intending to fill her with excitement.

Diamond Tiara shakes from the anticipation of the future as she grins uncontrollably "I knnnooww! Marriage! I just can't wait!" She hops up on her bed and cuddles with her pillow. "That's why I want to sleep right now anyway. Sleeping makes time go faster! which makes the wedding day sooner! Ohhhh!"

Those two were just so eager to see you and her get married. It was really endearing actually.

Chrysalis didn't have much more to say.Chrysalis got up to ask and take both yours,Silver Spoon, and Diamond Tiara's clothes to put away...a steamy sight for you to be sure. She then went and shut off the lights and bid everyone a pleasant sleep, and that she was "proud" to be Diamond Tiara's "maid". Something Diamond Tiara took with pride.

As for you? If the poison was temporary, you'd just have to ride it out until morning...but fuck. You could feel it. You were going to dream of so many lewd things.You knew if you still had any connection to your old world, that some bored slob would probably write some sort of something called "Greentext" about it.

Chapter 275

The night passes to day. You may be unaware, but you cuddle on your pillow tightly, as if it was your very marefriend, drool soaked into it's comfy body.

Even as the sun shines through the windows, you stay asleep. That is..until you hear some voices as the bedroom door opens.

"He's still asleep, is he? I'm surprised nopony woke him" Says one voice...very familiar...Discord?

"Well, my little darling insisted he get as much sleep as he could get. I wasn't about to say no since it wouldn't be any trouble. But I also didn't know he'd sleep for that long. His sister even left, insisting on the same thing. Is he usually a heavy sleeper?" Another voice, yeah..that was Filthy Rich.

"Verily, but I'm sure he'll grow out of that phase soon enough. Besides, it's not so bad. It always means I'll know where to find him at times like these." Discord says, but you were just waking up and still cuddling onto your pillow. So you didn't care to see what he might be doing.

"I'd hope so. It's been a while and there's important things to be done. Well, I'd assume there would be. Then again, I don't know much of the business of a draconequus. Speaking of which, I'd like to thank you for finally signing off on my project for Los Pegasus" Filthy Rich said. That actually made one of your ears perk up....you remembered that. Filthy Rich was trying for a very very long time to get Discord to sign off on..something.

"Oh not at all Mr.Rich. I should be thanking you instead. I had no idea the opening proceeds for the "chaos coaster" would go to animal shelters around Equestria. I am sorry it took me all this time to agree to it, but I never really believed in chaos being a corporate matter. But it does sound better than a "Princess" coaster or whatever nonsense you were going to try next with Princess Celestia. Now, let me ask. You did say that there would be a statue erected of myself since I'll be making the biggest donation AND a personal letter will be sent to Fluttershy and Princess Twilight Sparkle on my good deed, right?" Discord was sounding pretty smug about this.

"Well, yes, of course. It was in the contract aft-" But Filthy Rich gets cut off as you are suddenly lifted in the air, making you yelp in surprise.

"Yes yes, good whatever. I must be going now, no time to talk." Discord says in a hurry.

"B-but Mr. Discord, there's still a few things I'd like to talk about. And my daughter was asking for Anon to join her and I for some lunch. And if you could, I'd like you to j-" But nothing more could be said as you and Discord disappear in a flash.

Filthy Rich just stood there, stunned at how quick that went. "...Now what do I tell her?...hrnnn"

Meanwhile, you plop onto your bed, bouncing a little as Discord appears in front of your mirror, adjusting a Hawaiian shirt and sunglasses. "Oversleeping again Anon? On our special day? You're lucky I'm in such a good mood right now or I'd have traded you in for that captain changeling, he seems eager to please."

You roll onto your back as your mind starts to wake up from the grogginess. "What happened?..A-am I back home?"

Discord let's out an annoyed "Yes..." as he snaps his talons, making you don a blue Hawaiian shirt, the back saying "I LOVE THE CRYSTAL EMPIRE". Discord then props you up to a standing position with his own paw and talons as you wobble a little from your tiredness.

"Huh..W-what's going on exactly?"

"Our plan? Our plan to do nothing but enjoy the Crystal Empire while the princesses squirm in agony thinking we might try to wreak havoc on the kingdom? That plan." Discord starts scratching at his teeth, making sure it's nice and shiny.

Oh...OH SHIT, THAT'S TODAY?! And then you put your hoof to your chest. You didn't feel the effects of the poison anymore...but..those feelings. "T-that's today? H-hold on Discord. I'm still getting over last night. I was hit with love poison and...woo. That shit is strong...what even happened to Chrysalis? What did Diamond Tiara have to say whens he woke up? I'm..still a little confused here."

"Anon.." Discord grips his talons. he was ACTUALLY trying to be patient with you. But he was eager..or perhaps late..for what he had to do. He then turns with a smile as he gently pats you on the head. "Chryssie tried to sneak off somewhere. But she was easy to put on lockdown for the day despite her silly complaints. As for your little marefriend, she seemed to just want to let you sleep and 'Dream of the future'..I assume she meant with you being married or some rubbish like that. But that does explain her attitude when I spoke to her. She kept telling me she'd make a great 'daughter in law'.” Discord shivered "It was unnerving. As for you, my dear Anon. I need you to wake up. We're short on time and the princesses' train will be arriving at the city soon. So...let me see your 'DO NOTHING' face."

Discord stares intently at you as you yawn and rub your eyes.

Then he grins "Perfect! I couldn't agree more that the empire can be boring, but do be a little chipper about it and we should do fine." Discord rubs his brow as he sighs in relief. "And here I thought we'd have a problem"

Ok...then. "Discord, seriously. I'm just a little jarred. I was over there and now I'm over here. Can I get a second? A lot happened last night. I just need some time to unwind. I need to speak to Diamond Tiara" The poison's effect. even while worn off, was circulating through your system by ways of memories. Chrysalis was right, it did it's job. You felt like you at least had to say "Good morning".

"No can do Anon, you already said you'd do this with me and we are running out of time." Discord turned away from you, and looked out the window into the abyss, his voice growing softer as he thought of the plan ahead. "Anon, you're my pal. My little chaos buddy. And although I have not spawned you, I like to think of you as a little piece of myself. You said you were alright with this. You had all this time and you chose to sleep through it. Is it not fair to me to just leave me to go do the things you speak of?" He turns to you, you couldn't tell if he was faking it, but he had tears in his eyes. "Would you leave me to torment Twilight on my own? This won't work without you. You know that."

And now..you could feel guilt ride up on you. He was your friend. And he had wanted to do this for a long while. You said you would. You gave him your word. But fucking dammit. Diamond...

And then there was Chrysalis....well, she was on lockdown. It should be ok.

You give up. Hell, who knows? Maybe you needed this. Maybe one upping the princesses could be fun and get your mind off Diamond Tiara. Thinking the way you are now due to the poison's lingering effects, should it have any, could be dangerous.

"Alright, ok. Ooook...I got it. You're right. You've been looking forward to this and it would be pretty unfair for me to take it away from you. So, what's the plan? What do we do first?"

Discord's face lights up with glee and he picks you up with his paw, his paw growing in size to accommodate you as he boops your nose with his talon. "That's the spirit!" He chuckles before slyly snaking towards the portal door, still holding you up. "Yes, well. First we must greet the princesses and make them aware of our presence. That should spook them for sure. And then? We just go and relax somewhere, and fate will do the rest. Simple, no?"

Yep...simple enough that you felt you couldn't make a mistake. You yawn and straighten yourself up, blinking a few times to adjust your eyes. "Ok, I got this. I totally got this. But when we're done..I can go see Diamond..right?"

Discord rolls his eyes and taps your noggin lightly. "Head out of the gutter Anon, you can do as you please when we're done but for now I need you to focus on just this. No questions. Just chaos."

"Alright..got it" You nodded in determination...until one last thing hit your brain. "What about Celestia and Luna?" As you thought about it. You'd think that they might try to personally question you on what you might be up to. "Don't you think they'll try to get me to tell them why we're really there or something?"

Discord shrugs. "I'm not too worried about that Anon. I mean, not unless I'd have to suddenly be worried about finding you swimming with the fishes in my aquarium."

That makes you tense, super tense, but only a moment until you realize he'd never do it. Not at this point. "Yeah yeah, whatever. You don't need to try to scare me. You know I'm down with this."

Discord chuckles at that. "I know I don't have to. But you also act as if I wouldn't do it either. I can make it where you can breath underwater. That's the easy part. The hard part would be trying not to lose my gut as you try to swim away from the sharks. I may not be able to pull you out in time if I'm too busy laughing."

Ok, that was a little more scary. He was just trying to scare you for shits and giggles obviously. Might as well just go along with it before he actually seriously does something. "Alright, alright. I get it. Scary stuff, yadda yadda. Didn't you say we were on a time limit or something?"

"Oh my!" Discord slaps his cheek with his talons. "I did, didn't I? Well then, let us make haste!..Ooohhh..but before I forget!" Discord snaps his talons, making an envelope appear on your dresser. "While I'd actually like to be the one to give these photos to Fluttershy. I thought that maybe, this one time, it'd be nice to let you be the one to brighten her day. Don't tell anypony I said this but. Ahrm" He coughs a little and says in a low voice. "But I figure that she'd be happier if you showed her the pictures instead of me. And besides..." Discord tries to look a little macho. "I don't have time for the excessive amount of affection she'd show if I presented them to her. You know how it is with her. It's too much for somepony like me."

Well that was bullshit. Still, that was awfully nice of him. He was actually letting you be the one to show her the pictures and get those precious cuddles that would be sure to follow. He was...giving you that opportunity...what a nice guy. You thought about asking him about Filthy Rich as well. But, you'd save that for AFTER all this. "Thanks Discord...Welp, alright. Let's do this. I'm ready..I'm primed" You pump your leg like an arm. "I'm pumped!"

"Excellent!" Discord then puts you down as he changed the door very slightly to appear at the train station. "Then let us go partner, let us go and ruin the princesses' day!"

Discord lifts you with his magic and passes through the portal door with you. It takes the both of you directly over the train station. You notice the train hasn't come in yet. But Shining Armor was waiting alone with a couple of his guards. He didn't seem of sound mind. He was fidgeting and his mane was a little wild.

"Ahh splendid! The train hasn't arrived yet. We still have time to prepare!" Discord jovially did a flip before looking down upon the train platform with glee.

"Yeeeahh..but" You point to Shining. "What's with him? He looks like he just got out of bed and had too much coffee."

Discord looked down at Shining and dismissed his existence with a roll of his eyes and a gesture of his paw "Pffft, who cares? Probably realizing what a mistake marriage is." Discord then pulls out a telescope from out of thin air and looks through it. Spotting the princesses' train. "Ahhh, there they are! They'll be here soon. Anon, are you ready?"

Hrn, well...it WAS just Shining Armor. He wasn't too important. You focus your thoughts on the princesses, and psyche yourself up with...well...nothing. "Yeah! I got it!"

Discord makes a fist and holds it out towards you as he continue to gaze at the train. "Almost here..."

You just look at the talon fist. Not really understanding why he had it so close to you. After a small pause, he looks towards you, slightly annoyed "Anon? Sometime today?"

"Uhhhh..." Wut? Sometime today what?"

Discord waves his fist a little in a "bumping" motion, making a phantom hoof appear to fist into it.

....Ohhh "You want a brofist....hoof..thing..ok ok" You smile sheepishly as you bring your hoof to his talons. "Yeeehh...erm..let's do it.."

Discord taps on your head as he looks at you with seriousness "Anon, focus! One slip up and one of them might catch on to our plan!"

Well damn. ok, maybe he was right. You had to be serious! You give yourself a slap to the face and try to get SUPER psyched for...nothing. "Ok! I got it this time! I'm primed and ready to go!"

"Excellent" Discord was too focused to stay mad at you for long. In fact, he wanted to see you succeed. He didn't want anything to go wrong while also wanting to see what you can do vs. the Princesses in a setting like this. "Just another moment and we'll make our move. Trust me Anon, the payoff will be so sweet you may very well need to be hospitalized....Which is fine since you'd be used to that."

...Ha...real funny...you wondered if that was even a joke. But whatever, he was just being enthusiastic. You trusted him.

You both witnessed the train finally came to a stop.

"Alright" Discord gave a toothy grin as he rubbed his paw and talons together. "It's a private train so only Princess Celestia, Luna, and our dear Twilight should be the only passengers. We only have one shot at this Anon, and it has to be now. Are you sure you're ready?"

You nod, and bounce left to right as you float in mid air. "Yes already! You've hyped this enough that now I'm actually getting excited."

"Good...I trust you Anon. These are our targets. You have no reason to cower or fear them. For we are the puppet masters, and absolutely nothing will go wrong as long as we pull the right strings...now then.." Discord snaps his talons. Instantly warping you and him to the side of the train. Discord was wearing his shades over his eyes as he held beach seats and a map. He acted like you both were actually on vacation "...and here we are Anon! Scenic Crystal Empire. You've seen it before of course, but this time? We'll be seeing the sights and wasting our money on all those wonderful tourist traps!"

You follow behind. Wearing a straw hat as you lug in two travel suitcases on your sides. Ok..gotta act the part. Just play off of him. "All the sights huh? C'mon Dad, is this place really all that great?"

Discord let out an involuntary chuckle..he liked that. "Oh don't be so introverted. This place has a few places and even ponies that would open your mind beyond Ponyville if you gave it a chance..." Discord then smirks and points to Shining Armor. "Except for him, he might just make you want to go back home. So homely looking, I wonder how Princess Cadance can deal looking at that every night."

Ok, that was funny. You hold in a giggle as you step close to Discord and gaze at Shining Armor. Who has now just noticed the both of you. His guards already standing at the ready as Shining Armor stands alert. Alert and at caution at both your presence.

"Discord...and...Anon?" He didn't know how to feel, he was already nervous about everything else. But he put on a brave face, ready for anything. He did not seem to like Discord's presence as well"...What are you doing here Discord?"

Discord rolled his eyes and acted ignorant. "The same could be asked of you. Shouldn't you be useless somewhere else? I'm on vacation and..." Discord hears the train doors open. He stops for a moment as he acts even MORE insulted at Shining's insinuation. "I really REALLY don't like the fact that you are addressing me as if I have done something wrong. Can't you see that-" Discord is stopped as he hears Twilight yell out "DISCORD". An evil smirk briefly appearing on his face.

You and him turn towards Twilight, who had stepped out the door and didn't look too pleased. "Discord! What are you doing here!?" She puts her hoof to her forehead and groans. "Don't tell me you came to cause trouble. Today isn't the day for that, Discord. You need to go somewhere else."

Discord tries to act as insulted as possible. While surprised. "Oh? Is that how it is? I don't know what’s going on here but I would have thought the Crystal Empire would have been more welcoming to visitors who are on vacation. Anon.." Discord makes a regretful and saddened face at you. "I'm so very very sorry. It seems our vacation will have to end prematurely. It appears we're not wanted."

You force your ears to droop as you sit on your butt and look down. Looking depressed. "...Awwww, I was really looking forward to this too."

"Anon?" Twilight notices you, and softens up, but then gets suspicious of Discord again. "Ok, why is he here? What vacation are you talking about?"

"Twili..let me handle this" Shining Armor steps up towards Discord. "It's up to me to figure out why here's in the Crystal Empire. It's my job."

Twilight steps towards her brother and puts a hoof on his side to calm him down. He seemed so tense, he even shook at her touch. "Shining, it's alright. If Anon is here then maybe...just maybe...He's here on whatever vacation he's talking about. I know I didn't tell him anything about today. I don't think Fluttershy did either."

"She didn't mention anything on whatever dumb thing you're talking about. I'm here for my son. To show him a good time and to teach him the culture of this Empire in the form of a vacation. But.." Discord says with a smug look. "Leave it to all this bias towards me to ruin the mood."

You tug at Discord's leg and look at him with big sad eyes. This was a good start..sorta. You didn't see the enjoyment in this part. But of course, Twilight becoming suspicious later on was supposed to be the kicker. And if it was "Lesson Zero" levels, it'd be hilarious. "Does this mean the vacation is over?"

"Ohh Anon." Discord pets you on the head, then looks to Twilight with a grin. "Tell me Twilight...is it over?"

But just because Twilight was speaking kindly to her brother to help him not worry didn't seem to mean squat. It didn't seem to mean she actually trusted Discord. She looks at him with great suspicion. "Discord, why don't you just save the vacation for tomorrow? We're going to be doing something important"

Discord shrugs. "Isn't there school tomorrow?"

Twilight stops. She realized there was school tomorrow. She, being a mare of learning, couldn't possibly expect you to skip a day of school for a vacation. Even if it was to...well..learn, As Discord put it. "I...well."

Discord turns away as he looks upon the city ahead of him. "I had been planning this for awhile, Twilight. It's very unfair to just turn us away because you have 'something' important to do. Wouldn't you agree?"

"That depends Discord. I feel there is more to this 'vacation' than you are letting on. It's not like you to think so simply." That voice… Princess Celestia was the next one to step out of the train, along with her sister Luna.

"Ahhhhhh, Princess Celestia..and her sister Luna. My my, how VERY unexpected to see the both of you here." Discord says with a regal bow

Celestia nor Luna didn't seem too pleased with Discord's presence. Hell, they even looked at you with the same look. It unsettled you.

"The same. Discord, I'm asking you, as a friend, to leave. Today is not the day for your trickery" Celestia says, sternness in her voice

"Trickery? What would make you think that?" Discord held his paw to his chest. "It hurts, it hurts so much that you would think that I'd be here to cause some kind of mischief."

"As my sister has told you Discord, this isn't the day. We can see through your deception and we are trying to be as pleasant as possible with you as to not cause a scene" Luna seemed even more suspicious and impatient than Celestia.

"Really?..hmmm" Discord starts floating as he lays his back in the air, looking straight up as he taps his chin. "So, when you invite me to the gala it's alright. But when I had planned a vacation for my son, then it's a problem? Is that what I'm hearing?"

"DO NOT TOY WITH US TODAY, DISCORD!" Luna shouts. It actually makes you step back and hide behind Discord as he comes down to "defend" you from Luna's frightful nature.

"Princess Luna!" Discord gasps. "Scaring my son? How terrible of you. This isn't Nightmare Night. Doing things like that will seem....tyrannical"

"Calm yourself sister" Celestia held Luna back. Luna herself, was angry. She felt Discord and even you were here to ruin something extremely special and rare. Important to every crystal pony and the culture they have here. And especially important to Cadance and Shining Armor. She knew, just from the way you were acting, that you were faking it. It infuriated her that you'd go along with this. But Celestia wanted to quell her sister's fear. She already had a plan. "Discord, if you will not leave. Then I must have it on your word that you will not interfere in our affairs nor will you come near the castle itself. It will be off limits to you and your son for the remainder of the day."

Discord just..agrees to it. Of course, this was all part of his plan. "Of course, you won't have a problem from me."

"Really?..." Twilight was stunned. He answered so...simply. "And how do we know we'll keep your word?"

Discord rolled his eyes and pointed to you. "Anon would tell you if I did anything wrong. He's my son after all, truth is a virtue I want him to learn. So if I lied, I'd expect him to tell all of you of my wrong doing."

You looked towards him, then back at the Princesses....shit! Ok..act natural. "I guess I can tell on Dad if he does something wrong...no in fact." You salute. "In the name of Aunt Fluttershy, I'd definitely do it."

And that seemed to have set off some sort of sense in Celestia. At first, she looked at you with distrust. She didn't want to distrust you, considering the whole Chrysalis thing. But if you were here and going along with it without hesitation. Then she felt you were going too far. She just didn't know what was actually going on.

But then she smiled at you. It was...almost creepy. "Funny you say that Anon, I'm glad you're being a good colt about this. And I'm sure your aunt will be very glad to hear it. In fact, you both can tell her about the vacation right.." Celestia's ear vibrates for a moment. "Now"

Celestia actually gives a smug look towards Discord as more ponies step out of the train....familiar ponies. With a certain Pony that made Discord subtly snap back in fear the moment he saw her.

"Pinkie, you really need to cut down on the snacks. You'll want to look your best when we are in the presence of Princess Cadance and Prince Shining Armor. And I'm running out of handkerchiefs to clean that muzzle of yours." Rarity says, with a small giggle as she magically wipes Pinkie's face, cleaning her cake stains.

"Sorry, I just couldn't help myself. Royal cakes are just soooooooooooooo yummy!" Pinkie said giggling, hopping off the train gleefully ignorant of the handkerchief itself.

"I just wanna know what a "Crystalling" is, nopony has told me yet!" Rainbow Dash hovers out, looking as impatient as ever.

"Simmer down Rainbow Dash, we just got here. A'hm sure we'll be told everything when we meet up with Princess Cadance" Applejack was next as she looked around to take in the scenery.

"Ohhh, I'm just absolutely excited. I bet the royal baby is sooooooooo cute and....Discord? Anon?" Fluttershy was the last to step out. That's what caused Discord to tense up. Hell, now even you were scared. You didn't expect her to be here, but she put on an ignorant looking smile as she closed her eyes. She looked so happy to see the both of you. "I didn't know you both we're invited. Discord, did you make a promise to behave just so you could have an invitation? I didn't think you'd want to meet the new royal baby that badly. And you even brought Anon. Oh goodness, this would mean we'd be visiting as a real family...but" Fluttershy just realized as she looked about. "Where's Nymous?"

Luna was the only one catching on to Celestia's play as Celestia looked to Discord with even greater arrogance. "Yes, Discord...where is Nymous?"

SHIT SHIT SHIT! You nearly started to sweat. You didn't know Fluttershy would be here. You could even see Discord falling apart. Trying to put on a brave face. SHHIIITTT!

"Woah woah woah, what? How did HE get an invitation? Anon is cool, I don't mind him. But..Y'know...Discord?" Rainbow Dash pointed out. Already finding the whole thing suspicious.

"Rainbow Dash, don't say that in front of Anon. I think it's very nice that they are both here. It means Discord is trying to set a good example by behaving. Princess Celestia, thank you so so much for giving him this opportunity. I think it's very nice"Fluttershy says joyously

"Actually, Discord is here on his own accord. He's on vacation with his son and has agreed not to bother us. But yes, he will be behaving nonetheless. Won't you Discord?" Celestia felt she made a quick checkmate in stopping Discord's scheme, while not outing you as well. She didn't like that you may have been up to something. But she knew enough not to throw you into the same boat as Discord in front of Fluttershy and the other ponies.

"Yes" Discord said in a half growl as he smiled and slowly waved to Fluttershy. "Helloooo Fluttershy, how unexpected to see you here...today...on this day." His voice was strained.

Twilight walked up to Luna to see if she was alright, speaking to her privately. Luna of course explained it as a sort of "Trigger" from the old days. While this went on, Fluttershy walked up to you with a smile. "And hello to you too Anon, how did the sleepover go? Oh! oh!" She got excited. "Did you get pictures of you in that cute little outfit?"

....Just stay calm Anon...just stay fucking calm. You put on a smile and go and hug Fluttershy, trying not to sweat anymore than you have. You nod, trying to be as happy as possible. Because really, you did want to make her happy. "Mhmm! Me and Dad got really good pictures. But I don't have them here, but after we're all back in Ponyville. I'd love to show them to you!"

"Oh, now I don't know if I can handle the day at all. So many wonderful things at once just makes me feel oh so excited!" Fluttershy squeed.

"Oh indeed, I would wager my boutique that the pictures' quality must match Anon's enthusiasm" Rarity gives you a gentle pat on the head. "They must look exquisite to garner this much excitement. As a fashionista, I must ask for at least one photo to keep as a memory to such wonderful work" Well then, at least you knew Rarity wouldn't be disappointed. But to avoid a further scene. You would avoid who actually took the photos. Rarity, no doubt, would have one of her happier dramatic moments if she knew about Photo Finish

"Oh, I'm sure you'll just love them Miss Rarity! And you too Aunt Fluttershy."

Dammit, Discord was looking like he going to blow it. Then you'd both be in trouble. For him, you had to make a recovery. So you look right at Princess Celestia. "So, what exactly is going on with you all anyway? Why are you here? It must be pretty important if the princesses and the elements of harmony are all here at once."

Celestia's arrogance began to fade as she spoke more regally. "We're here for a very rare and wonderful event, Anon. I'd like to extend an apology for not inviting you and your father in the first place. But, it was actually Princess Cadance who handled that. As for you, are you truly here just for a vacation? Is there any particular spots you really wish to see? Or learn about?"

Hrn. She was trying to slip you up with your lack of knowledge of what really goes on in Equestria. Luckily for you, you know enough about the empire to keep on your hooves. "I want to see Spike's statue for one. And learn about this King Sombra guy." You lift up your horn. "I mean, I do have this, and I am here. It would be kinda dumb not to learn about all that"

That should put Celestia in check. In fact, that play caught Discord's interest, it seemed. He said nothing, he just observed.

"That's true. I suppose having a replica of Sombra's horn would make you interested in his history. Well then, I hope you both have a pleasant day. You both can come to the castle after the baby is made public. It's not as if there'd be any trouble then. It's just for now, I'd think it'd be better if we all went along our business." Celestia states

"...Agreed." You do your best to act mature about it. And nod.

"Wow, Nonny is being all adultish!" Pinkie gives Discord a sly smile. "Discord, he's not being YOUR foalsitter today, riiiiiiiight? That'd be pretty funny" Pinkie giggled. Almost everyone joining in.

"Eheh, Anon foalsitten' his dad. It ain't too far fetched neither. Anon is pretty mature. At least, that's what ah noticed anyway" Applejack snickered.

Discord's face goes red with fury for a moment before he hears Fluttershy join in on the giggling. Which immediately makes him feel some shame. He crosses his arms and turns away, feeling miffed "Hmph! Foalsitting me? Please, I'm quite capable of behaving. But..." Discord does his best to stick to his plan, he wanted to plant a seed of doubt, but be subtle enough to not be noticed by Fluttershy. "I suppose we'll have to see what the day will bring. Oh, and Fluttershy" Discord turns to her with a big ole happy smile. "I do have a surprise of my own that will brighten up your day more than any baby could. I'll save it for when I see you at home, that combined with the pictures will be one of the best moments of your life." Discord then looks to Shining Armor with a smirk. "And considering the way you're acting. I think that may be a fact"

...Crap, he overdid it. He was trying to regain ultimate control.

"What? What's that supposed to mean!?" Shining Armor took it as an insult to his child.

"A-ah!" You cut in, Dammit Discord. "I'm sure Dad didn't meant anything by it. Remember, Dad could ummm..be kinda weird with his words. But.." You look at Discord. "I'm sure deep down that he's totally ok with the baby. I'm sure he's just a little tense due to the situation..aheh..right Dad?"

Discord didn't realize what he did at first until he looked down at your sweating face. Then to Fluttershy's concerned face. He realized what he did, and once again reels it back. "O-oh, why yes..Of course. Being accused of things would make me tense. In fact, I'd think it might be better if we all go do what we need to do, just as Princess Celestia suggested. And Fluttershy, I very much hope you'll have a day of happiness today. If not here, I'll make sure you'll smile later." Discord does a bow, which prompts Fluttershy to hug him.

"Oh Discord, I'm sure my day will be happy all around. I hope you and Anon have a happy and good time as well. I'm sure absolutely nothing wrong will happen today" Fluttershy hugged him warmly, and then went and hugged you...ahhh...it felt nice. "And Anon, I hope you learn a lot today. Remember to pay attention. Alright?"

"I will, I promise" ...Dammit...

"Ahrm..and uhh" Twilight was finding this a little hard. But she approached Discord and did a small bow. "As the Princess of Friendship. I'd like to apologize and take responsibility for the accusations made here today." Twilight took another moment to cool down. Just because she said it, didn't mean she wasn't on high alert. But she did feel that maybe she went too far in accusing Discord before he did anything. "Soooo, ok then. erm. Is everypony ok? Everypony fine?" Twilight was still nervous as well.

The entire group nods.

At this point. Things calm down. You give everyone a hug. But you could feel a tenseness in the hugs you get from Luna and Celestia. Oh yeah, they were worried. Hell, you didn't know what to think right now either now that the rest of the mane six also appeared. You had no idea what Discord had planned. You thought Celestia or Luna would pull you aside to speak to you privately, but they didn't. Was the plan cancelled? You'd have to step away with Discord to find out. But Fluttershy being around must have definitely changed things. All you knew was that you felt something was going to give right there and then and ruin everything for everyone. But if you could get through that. Then the rest of the day should be easy. What else could go wrong, right?

Chapter 277

Dammit. You could feel cold liquid that used to be snow leaking out your ass. You were chilled to the bone. And the fucking wind was picking up pretty bad. Your scarf, mane, and ears started to blow with it.

Discord just smiled and waved to the last of the ponies who were willing to come to the booth. The rest either went home or to see what's up with the Crystalling. "There, it shouldn't take long now. Word will spread that I'll be snapping innocent photos that won't bother anypony and surely one of the princesses will have a...uhh" Discord looks down at your shivering form. "What happened to you?"

"D-don't w-w-worry about i-t-t" You shivered, trying to get the scarf to make you feel warm.

Discord snaps his talons. Making you feel a warmth all along your body as a winter coat and cap appear upon you. "Better?"

Yeah, it was. Woah. "Yeah, thanks Discord.. heh, not like you to be so helpful. Any reason why?"

Discord shrugged. "If Twilight saw you shivering like that she'd complain that I wasn't a good father. Mustn't have that. Oh no, this must be perfect. And besides, I need my little pal in tip top condition for maximum gloating when this is over."

Cute, if you can call it that. Discord, with each scheme, was treating you more and more like an actual partner. It actually felt pretty great. "Well thanks...but uhh..Discord" You point up to the sky. "What about the sky? The clouds? It's getting worse and worse every minute. Are you sure it's fine?"

Discord chuckles and give you a gentle pat on the head, doing his best to calm your nerves. "Worry not, Anon. Like I said, weather in Equestria works differently than it does on Earth. What could possibly be wrong with the sky? What in Equestria could a small flurry of snow do to an entire empire?"

You look upwards and see Princess Celestia and Luna.....Battling the sky? Wut? "Uhhhhh, I dunno. Do you think we should ask them that?"

"Hmmm?" Discord was confused by your words until you pointed up, the princesses immediately catching his attention as he enters an instant rage. His eyebrows bursting into flame. "WHAT?! HOW?! WE SPENT THE ENTIRE DAY ACTING NICE, PARTAKING IN GROUP ACTIVITIES, AND EVEN GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY AND YOU'RE GOING TO TELL ME THAT I WAS UPSTAGED BY A BUNCH OF CLOUDS?! HOW DOES THAT HAPPEN?! I OFFERED FREE BABY PICTURES FOR TARTARUS SAKE! WHAT MORE DO I HAVE TO DO TO GET A LITTLE CHAOS GOING ON AROUND HERE?!"

Something is REALLY going on and he's getting pissed about the princesses not giving him attention. Typical. "Discord, I don't think that's important right now. I'm telling you, there's something REALLY going wrong around here. We need to find out what's going on."

But Discord refused, still angry. He looks upwards and tries to figure out why the princesses would pay attention to a storm over him. "How...HOW?! It's just a simple storm. I need to figure out a way to turn this around......but how?"

You shake Discord's leg, but to no avail. And then...that's when you both hear it. The shrill shriek of adorkable. "DISCCCOOOOORD!"

Discord's ear perks up. And his rage vanished as his mouth curled to a crooked smile. "Ahhh, never mind. It seems the plan is still coming along perfectly. Anon, act natural, quick quick."

Dammit Discord. "Fine..fine...But after she has her spaz we really need to find out what's going on" You take a deep breath. And try to act natural

"Discord! Discord!" Twilight was flying about, looking for him it seemed. and the moment she noticed him, she flew down, looking frantic and scared. Here we go...

"Ahh Twilight, how nice to see you." Discord replies before she can say anything more. "Whatever seems to be the trouble?" Discord acts concerned, waiting for those words from Twilight so he can bite back.

"Discord, thank Celestia! There you are!" Twilight looked worried as fuck, she didn't look angry or pissed, just scared. "We need your help Discord, please come back to the castle with m-"

Discord crosses his arms and interrupts her, his expression full of fake disgrace and sadness. "T-twilight! How could you?! How could you blame me for causing a problem when Anon and I have just been enjoying our vacation?"

You raise your hoof, trying to correct him. "Uhhh Discord...I don't think she's mad at us"

Discord tilts his head towards you as he points to Twilight. "Of course she is, look at how distraught she looks."

"No, Discord! He's right. I came to ask for your help, it's really important. We don't have time for games!" Oh yeah, Twilight was spazzing about something. It had to be those fucking dark clouds. What the fuck happened?

But Discord just looked at her stoically for a moment before donning reading glasses and flipping through a dictionary. "Twilight, could you please define 'Help' for me? I think you're using it wrong."

"Make it easier for somepony to do something by offering one's services or resources." Twilight recited like an audible dictionary.

"...Right" Discord's expression didn't change as he tossed the book away.

"Discord, this is very serious. We can't waste any time. Please, we really need..your...help?" Twilight looked upon her surroundings, they changed.

Discord wasted no time in snapping his talons and warping the three of you inside the castle. In a big open room that looked like it stored the Crystal Heart....except..no Crystal Heart. Huh..

"Yes yes, time is of the essence, bla bla. How disappointing, I expected something else entirely" Discord then looks around, he notices Cadance, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie. And....Oh dear god.

The baby was a fucking ALICORN?! WAS THAT THE PROBLEM?! AN ALICORN BABY?! AND THAT FUCKING HORN!..you were afraid to get a view of Cadance's candy vag. It can't be pretty no more.

"Ahhh, Fluttershy" Discord smiles happily as he approaches her. "I didn't realize you also needed my help. Tell me please, what can I do to make everypony's day better since it seems the alicorn brigade is utterly failing at,hmm?"

"Discord...?" Fluttershy was surprised he just appeared, but she seemed pretty relieved as well. Yep, definite problem. "Twilight, didn't you tell him what was wrong?"

"I'm trying! Discord, listen. The Crystal Heart was blown apart, we need you to use your magic to fix it. I've been trying to use an artifact reconstitution spell, but it just isn't working." Twilight explained as quick as she could.

Never mind, fuck the crazy alicorn baby that was attached to Pinkie's face. THE CRYSTAL HEART IS DESTROYED?! FUCKING..HOW!? "W-woah what?! does that mean that dark cloud is Sombra or something? Wait...wait" If it's Sombra, then this is no big. Discord was here. "Hold on, why are we panicking? Why not just have Dad kick Sombra's face in or something?"

Cadance shakes her head. It wasn't Sombra? "Anon, Sombra is gone. But this storm, it was generated when the Crystal Heart was destroyed. And it's only going to get worse. We're running out of options. That's why we need your father."

"Discord please, you can fix this. Can't you?" Fluttershy looks at him with big pleading eyes.

Discord felt a near maternal feeling. A feeling of protective courage. He had to do this..for her. He rolled up his arms like sleeves and spit into his paw and talons and pressed them together. "Well, if you insist. I don't expect a parade. Just acknowledgement and a very very large statue proclaiming me as the best ever. Not best hero...just best" Discord looks around and sees the shattered pieces of the heart on the ground. "I assume that's it?" He points.

"Sheesh, it's in teeny tiny pieces. What happened?" Just...how?!

"Oh! That's an easy one to answer. The baby blew it up." Pinkie chimes in with a smile "Isn't she a cutie?"

The alicorn baby, light pinkish in color, with a purple and blue curled mane, was sucking it's hoof. The moment Pinkie held her up. She cooed and giggled. ....Good god. "....Ok then. Welp, Dad...you can do this right?"

"Of course I can...watch and learn and witness REAL magic. Here we go!" Discord points his talon at the shards of the heart. It glows black and red for a moment and reforms.

"Ha! Take that! Discord always wins!" Discord smirks as he blows away the smoke from his talon.

But after a few seconds. The Heart falls apart in mid air.

"Oh no!" Fluttershy gasps. "It didn't work?!"

"This is bad..." Cadance winced the moment it broke.

"Wait wait..hold on. Let me try again.....HERE WE GO!" Discord shot a bigger blast this time. Reforming the heart, putting tape around it, then chaining it up....and it still fell apart. "Ahrm… how dire is the situation exactly?" Discord asked, not even moving a muscle from his shooting position.

"Princess Celestia said if we don't get the Crystal Heart repaired soon. Then the entire Empire will be destroyed. Possibly even Equestria. Discord, are you actually trying? Was that really your best?" Twilight wanted to be sure he wasn't up to any tricks.

"Yes..." Discord's stare became distant. As if that information killed him inside. Then suddenly, you and Fluttershy grew suitcase handles from your backs as Discord put on a trilby and trench coat and grabbed the both of you by your "handles". "Wellll, it seems vacation is over. I'm packed and ready to go. So long everypony!"

But before Discord could snap his talons to disappear. Fluttershy gave him a very...very...very sad stare "Discord....please put me down..please."

Discord cringed as he lifted her up to eye level. He looked at her, visually begging. "Fluttershy don't look at me like that. If I can't fix this, then who can?"

"Discord..." Fluttershy gently put her hoof on the side of his face as slowly and gently rubbed. "We still have to try. Thank you for doing your best. I really appreciate it. Please, take Anon and take care of him. I have to stay here and help figure things out. If there's really nothing we can do. We'll evacuate, alright?"

Wait..WAIT..WHAT?! IF THERE'S NOTHING THEY CAN DO? BUT...TWILIGHT FAILED. IF TWILIGHT FAILED IN WHAT COULD POSSIBLY BE A SEASON ENDER OR OPENER. THEN.....who else could fix this? Something changed. Did this ever even happen in the show? or was going to?....Fluttershy. "Aunt Fluttershy. I'll stay with you A-and Dad can stay too. Maybe there's something else we can do."

"Anon..." Fluttershy was worried, she felt it was too dangerous for you to stay. She saw you in that winter coat and scarf and realized that if this cold was enough to make you go full jacket already, then how would you handle it when it got worse? "Don't worry alright?" She gives you a cheerful smile. "We've done this so many times before. We'll find a way to fix everything very soon. Just go home and Well...We'll have dinner later. How about that?"

NO! FUCKING SHIT! SOMETHING CHANGED! TWILIGHT COULDN'T FIX THIS, THAT MEANS SOMETHING IS WRONG! YOU COULDN'T LEAVE! "Aunt Fluttershy!" You scrunch your nose in impatience and stubbornness. "I'm not leaving! We can still do-"

"Anon!" Discord says darkly as he gently puts the both of you down. He faced away. His voice hard and cold. "We're going. if your aunt thinks it's best. Then we are leaving....Fluttershy, I wish you good luck."

"Discord...I promise we'll be ok. Don't worry alright? You don't need to sound so cold." Fluttershy gives him a little nuzzle on the side

"I'm merely asserting my dominance as a father. Anon needs to understand that at times like this. It is best to do what is asked even if it is difficult to do so. Say goodbye Anon" Discord says, his emotion leaving him.

"B-but....That's insane! Can't you get rid of the clouds? What about that?"

"I could, but they are manifesting from nothing due to the destruction of the Crystal Heart. I can see it. I could remove them, but they'd come back. And if I kept doing it, the concentrated chaos in one spot could tear Equestria asunder." And that's all he said. Not even a quick quip on how that could be a good thing.

But you refused. "B-but W-" But again, there is a cutoff. Discord didn't give you your chance as you are teleported into a room.

But it wasn't...your room.

Or any room you recognized.

Wait...Maybe you did recognize this room. There was a whiteboard with a few markers next to a table with many chairs. Behind you was a counter with a coffee machine and many cabinet doors. There was a potted plants. white walls. and windows brimming with light. And a door....a door that opened as Discord, in a black coat with a white undershirt, with a scraggly beard and using a cane steps in as he walks to the whiteboard. "Anon, here already? Hold on." Discord pulls out a medicine bottle...that had jelly beans in it. And spilled a few out into his mouth. "There we are. That should deal with the impending migraine"

Wut? You looked at yourself. you were wearing a doctor's coat. Wait… "House?...really?"

Discord slammed his cane on the table. "Shut it, you can go play house with your dolls later" Discord grabs a marker and writes on the whiteboard "Crystal Heart diagnoses and solution". "Now, ladies and gentlecolts. It's diagnosis time."

..So wait… "We're not giving up then?"

Discord nods. "No, of course not. This is Fluttershy we're talking about. I just didn't want to argue with her. But, it's not like I'm going to listen either. And I noticed something. Something in your eyes. You have something to say about this, don't you? Tell me..." Discord expands his right ear and puts his paw near it to listen to you closely. "I'm all ears"

Nmmm… "This whole thing isn't right, Discord. Twilight always manages to solve a gigantic crisis like this. If she needed you, if she can't do it herself, then we changed something for the worse. That means we need to find a way to fix it before things get worse."

Discord nods as he balances himself on his cane. "I knew it. And this Anon...is a perfect example of a talent you had back in your human life. Something we need now"

...Human life?...A talent? What?...You....didn't have any talents back then. "What...talent are you talking about?"

"Being an absolute loser" Discord replies with a snarky grin.

.......Asshole. "What?! What the fuck, Discord! This is serious!" You slam your hooves on the table with anger. "WHY ARE YOU SUCH AN ASS"

"Because it's part of the theme, dummy." Discord starts walking with his cane to the window shades and fully closes them. "And when I say loser, I mean it in a good way. You, Anon, have record of many cartoons, ami-ani...amine... and other things that are usually utterly useless to anypony. But considering our universe ran through your world as an idea turned television, then our problem falls in line with that sort of thinking. And that means....you hold the key in figuring out the solution to this problem. If Twilight can't fix this, then surely you can think of something that can."

What? Wait..did he mean… "Are you asking me to come up with an alternative plot? Are you...asking me to come up with another way to fix this that would fit into an episode?"

Discord nods as he points to the whiteboard with his cane. "That's exactly what I'm saying. We're going to narrow this down to the best possible answers and run with it. Anon, I trust in you. You're my partner, and for Fluttershy's sake.." His words became softer. He was talking from his heart. "We need to figure this out as soon as we can. We need to save Equestria."

Discord then looks over at the whiteboard itself"Now then Anon. What we do know is that we have a destructive snowstorm building up in the Crystal Empire due to some magical means. We need to repair the Crystal Heart to stop it. But our chaos magic nor does the spell Twilight has been trying doesn't seem to work at all. So, in this kind of situation, how would something like this be solved in a cartoon show?"

How would it be solved? "Let's see..." You enter deep thought. "Usually, if the main character couldn't solve a task and needed a forgotten magical spell or item, they would be told that some old wizard or hermit would have the spell or item."

"Interesting start" Discord writes down "Old wizard" on the board. "So we only need to find an old wizard? Tell me, where exactly would one live?"

"H-hold on Discord. I'm not done. It could be an old wizard, and if it is, he's going to be a total hermit. He wouldn't want to see us and would be stubborn enough to even die if it meant sticking to his ways. Since this is related to the Crystal Heart however, I'd think he'd be living somewhere in the city. So his house either looks shabby or has, I dunno, a wizardy look to it."

Discord starts to write down everything you said. Then rubs under his chin. "Hmmm, stubborn hm? So what you're saying is we might have to torment him until he gives in to what we want"

Oh nononono. "No, let's...let's not do that. A stubborn old guy like that would just become super angry and try to get rid of us. There's a possibility he might give up and give us what we want. But then there's a possibility he'll give us something fake. And if that happens, if this is all time based, we'd be screwed."

Discord slams his cane on the table, he was being impatient. "Anon, we don't have time to win this old codger over! Unless we can sway him with a song and dance number, warping his mind might be the only way!"

But, what if it failed? You were all for forcing answers. But in cartoons, the hermit usually ends up being super powerful...or a fraud. "Well Discord, I'm just saying, we could do it your way. But it could just as easily blow up in our faces. But..BUT...There's another possibility."

"Another possibility? As in, another way to make him see eye to eye?" Discord waits impatiently for your explanation. Tapping the bottom of the cane on the floor.

You nod. "Not exactly, I meant on who we need to see. The old wizard could also possibly be some guy who just collects a whole bunch of books and artifacts but is not actually too good at magic himself. In this scenario, he or she usually has what we need but won't think or cop to it either because he wants to create the illusion that he's better than he is, or he could just be having self esteem issues and just wants to seem great . If that's the case, then we only need to cheer the guy up, fill him with confidence, and tell him what our problem is. And if that doesn't work, we can force him to give us what we need since he wouldn't be able to stop us."

"I would feel cheer in my soul for that last comment if it wasn't the fact we are short on time" Discord says as he writes a split from the old wizard, signifying it could just be a wuss. "So then, any other possibilities?"

"Would you know if there was some sinister evil being causing all this? Like, if maybe Sombra did return?"

Discord shakes his head. "I'm sure. If it was, I would have attended to him personally...." Discord starts to ponder on that. "I wonder how he would have done as an extra roommate. You do need an uncle after all."

He complains about being short on time and he fucking makes that damn quip. Holy fuck, you better hope it's not fucking Sombra. You were afraid that wasn't a joke. "Dammit Discord, don't joke around like that! And what about our issue? Hell, even with all this information, What's the plan on finding this guy, if he even exists."

"Oh don't change the subject now Anon! wouldn't you want Sombra as your uncle? He could regale you on stories of crystals and stairs!" Discord smirks at you as he downs more jelly beans through his nostril.

You just plant your face on the table. Goddammit, he's so damn random sometimes. "...You kill me sometimes...ugh...look, can we just come up with how we're even gonna find this old wizard?"

"Anon, Anon, Anon, for shame" Discord shakes his head as he waggles his talon at you. "Haven't you ever wondered how I can appear whenever and wherever I want at any time no matter who it is? Even Tirek was easy to find simply because I had him in my thoughts. With this information, if this pony wizard does exist, we'll end up at his doorstep with a snap of my talons. Of course, given there are two possibilities that you have mentioned. I'll teleport the both of us to the two most possible candidates. It's as simple as that."

Was it...really that simple? Well...it had to be. He always did show up whenever he wanted to on anyone he wanted to pester. "Ok, if that's all it takes. Then let's do it. I'm ready. But how will we contact one another if we find the right guy?"

"Easy, if I find the right guy, I'll bring you to me, and if I find the wrong guy, I'll go over to you. Come on, use that titanium cranium of yours for more than just taking shots." Discord readies to snap his talons.

Ugh, he was probably right on that one. That was indeed simple to think of. "Ok..alright. Let's do it"

Discord snaps his talons on your word. And in a flash, you end up at… A rather modest looking old home around a wooded area. The wood was oldish grey and brown, there was some bushes, It honestly looked like an old human home out in the woods....but wait. The sky, it was clear. And...ahead of you was Ponyville....oh shit.

And even worse, there was an old donkey with a watering can in his mouth. He had on what had to be a wig. And he didn't look to pleased as he put it down. Oh...wait...this was....oh shit.

"Well, there seems to be a young colt on my flowers I've been a growin." Despite his sour look, he seemed pretty calm that you just appeared in front of him. It was fucking Cranky.

But as you look down and lift your right hoof. You could see a bent flower that snaps in two from the pressure you put on it. "Oh..U-umm...erm...Sorry mister."

Cranky just looks at your horn necklace, then back at you. "You're that hero colt fellow, aren't you. Discord's adopted son?"

You slowly nod as you smile sheepishly. "Y-yeah, I'm him. My name is A-anon, nice to meet you so...erm..suddenly."

"Well it's good to meet you too Anon. NOW GET OFF MY FLOWERS BEFORE I SMASH THIS WATERING CAN ON YOUR HEAD! OF COURSE, EVEN BEING CALLED THE HERO COLT THAT A SON OF THE SPIRIT OF CHAOS WOULD FIND IT FUN TO SMASH MY POOR FLOWERS!"

Oh shit! Dammit! You quickly get off his flowers and back off. You were scared he might actually try to do it. "N-no, That's..no! Look it was an accident. I just ended up here."

Cranky went to tend to one of the flowers, but as he slowly raised it with his hoof, the petals fell off and it keeled over. Looking at the flowers themselves, they were all beautiful petunias of different colors carefully arranged into a rainbow. "I don't CARE how you ended up here! smashing my flowers is not what I'd call fun!" Cranky then looked at you with red on his face. "Do you realize how long I've been growing these? Do you have no respect for anypony that you'd just think you can just come over to my house and smash up my flowers that I've been spending months on just so you can have your little jollies? Why I oughta!"

Cranky almost looks like he's about to smack you,causing you to flinch, but in his own realization that he might have, he hesitates, then stops. He then points back to town. "Get out of here! I don't want to see your face around here unless..." He sighs, and tries to get a grip on himself, he knew he was only mad because he had been growing the flowers for his wife Matilda. "Unless you come back here and give me a sincere apology, and promise never to cause trouble here again. You need to learn to make better first impressions squirt. You really do, because I can see on your face you realized how wrong you were. Now git. I have to get to fixing this"

Ahhh fucking geez. You meet this guy for the first time and it fucking goes wrong in an instant. You actually felt really bad about what you've done. But you doubted, even though he was letting you go, that he was going to believe you were trying to save the world as an excuse. You apologize again and start walking away before suddenly, in a flash, you reappear back in the Crystal Empire back in full winter gear. And shit, it was getting worse, ‘blizzard’ worse. "What..huh?..What..Where am I now?"

Suddenly, you feel yourself get picked up and turned around. To be facing a green crystal home at the end of a road. It had a strange..orange crystal...wizard hat....oh shit.

"Annnnoooonn" Discord says in a sing-song tone. "I fooooounnnnnnddd it!"

"Holy fuck....I was right?" You actually felt a sense of pride and excitement as you wiggle around in his grasp. "I WAS RIGHT! HAHA! WE CAN DO THIS!"

Discord puts you down gently as you wiggled about. the moment he did, you didn't realize you were actually making a running motion and you smashed your head right at the door. Discord just smirks as he turns into a pony. "Well, that takes care of the knocking"

"Ow...geez" You start rubbing your head. "...I gotta be more careful." But, as you rubbed. You hear the door slightly open.

You could see a...rather cute orangish pony with little spectacles and a beard and a white stripe of fur on his face. He even had white fur on his legs that made it look like socks. It was actually cute. "A-ahrm..ahrm..umm..Hello? W-who's there?"

And god, he did not nor looked like a cranky old horse. It looked like..If Discord's powers really could lead the both of you to the right place...that you both ended up in front of the wuss variant of hermit.

"Hello!" Discord says as he props you up. Sounding cheery and sunny. "Are you a wizard?"

"Oh, oh my , well. I would technically be a wizard. I can do magic. But umm, why exactly do you need a wizard? I don't want to sound rude but, I am a little busy." This guy sounded neurotic and nervous. Like, he accepted being called a wizard. But he wasn't actually one? Definitely the pussy type.

"I don't think you understand. We are in desperate need of a wizard who could fix this mess. I'm sure you noticed this increasingly terrible storm." Discord points upwards at the storm.

The pony adjusted his glasses and looked about outside his door. He...seriously didn't notice. "Oh, well, will you look at that." He chuckles nervously. "I'm afraid I didn't notice. B-but this is really more of a job for a pegasus pony. Not a wizard. Perhaps if you had a more practical problem? Or maybe, well, you could go ask somepony else. I-I don't want to sound rude but I am a little busy, as I said."

"Look," You approach him. "This storm was caused because the Crystal Heart was destroyed. Surely you must know a way to fix it. To help us? Right?"

"The Crystal Heart?! O-oh dear. Umm" Now he was getting very frantic "T-that does sound like a job for a wizard, Or...have you tried asking a princess instead? Namely Princess Cadance, she does live up at the-"

Discord changes back to his original form and rips the door off its hinges as he pushes his face against his. Pushing him into his own...rather cluttered home. "You listen here you stinky piece of Cerberus dung! You're going to help us or you can look forward to the rest of your life as a toad!"

The pony grew silent, and shook in fright as he gulped. Welp, the "nice and filling feeling of confidence" option is now out the window.

Discord's raw anger quickly turns to a bored, slitted eye look as he looked down at the frightened wizard. "Well? Are you going to do something or not?"

This pony was still shaking, Looking right at him as Discord stands up right. You then hear a small watery sound from below him.

"I-I think I just did." The pony gulps

"...Ohhhh...come on..." You step back as a yellow liquid spreads from under the wizard. "Discord, let me handle this, ok? Scaring him isn't working. It's just making things gross."

Discord sighs and steps back as he makes a handle appear. He twists it, causing the piss to swirl and vanish into nothingness as a toilet flush noise is heard. "If you think you can do this, Anon, then go ahead. But he must be our pony. He matches most of the profile." Discord eyes the frightened wizard up and down. "Mostly."

You walk up to him, but his eyes were fixated on Discord. You tap at his hind knee and call out to him. "Yo, hey Wizard guy! Over here, I need to talk to you!"

The wizard snaps to attention. "W-what?! Huh?!...Ohhh...this isn't good. This isn't good at all." He then turns towards you, looking down at your small form, then slowly begins to back up. "What's going on?! What do you two want with me? I'm just a simple wizard. A-are you after my books? Because if that's what it is you can have them, I-I've read them all and I'd just rather be able to walk away with most of my body intact, please? It's not the best body I know but it is mine. And umm...uhhh...oh dear. I'm doomed, aren't I?"

Holy crap, what a piece of work this guy was. He even was scared of you. A fucking colt. Was he even a real wizard? You point to his window, where the snowstorm was picking up bit by bit. "We're all doomed due to the Crystal Heart being destroyed. That's why we're here. We need a wizard with some sort of spell that can fix it. You're the wizard who bests fits the description of somepony who'd have that kind of spell. So, y'know, we kinda need you to get what you need and get to the castle so you can fix it."

"Oh...right." The pony adjusts his glasses as he brushes back his cloak. "T-that is an issue isn't it?" He looked so worried. So scared. Fuck, maybe if you try to be more...cute?

"Yeah, look mister" You sit on your butt and give him a big happy smile as you tilt your head. "We'd really appreciate it if you helped us with this. I don't want to turn into a coltcicle...That'd be bad."

"W-well yes, that would be bad." The pony just looked toward Discord, then back to you, he still seemed pretty nervous. "But, like I said. Shouldn't you ask the princess? It sounds like it could be more easily solved that way. You don't really need a wizard" He starts to sweat as he chuckles nervously. "Right?"

Why was he so insistent? Was he that much of a pussy that he wouldn't use his full potential? "No, none of the princesses can fix this. They are trying their best but they keep failing. Come on, what are you afraid of? A wizard is supposed to be top tier in magic. Stop being shy and show us your full potential. You're our only hope!"

You try to sound like you have some adoration again. This would be easier if you were a filly. The cuteness would be undeniable. If not, maybe you could convince him another way? ..Maybe? ..He was...NO, NO YOU DIDN'T SWING THAT WAY DAMMIT!

"....Only hope. What if I refuCROAK" The pony covers his mouth with his hooves as he lets out a few frog croaks. He looks towards Discord, who was slowly spinning his talon in the air as he looked at him with impatient and very dark eyes.

The pony gulps again, and clears his throat. "I-I see. I.......I..." He gets up and looks out the window, taking in the blizzard's power. Was he going to stop it here and now? No, he would fail. He has to fix the damn heart. But he lets out a breath and lowers his head in shame, still looking out his window. "I don't think you'll like what I have to tell you.In fact, I'd like to ask if you'd not hurt me after I tell you what I should tell you. Because again, I'm afraid it might make the both of you angry. Very....Angry..."

...Ok, where was he getting at? Why would you both be angry? Other than the fact he actually had no spell to fix the heart. Fuck, what if that's it? What would you need to do get him to create the spell? "Don't worry, whatever it is. I'm sure it'll be fine."

"It depends for me, I doubt anypony would miss you if they all become permanent icy statues." Discord sits on a floating chair, being patient, while wanting results as soon as possible. He then begins to file his claws on his paws. "I would need a new personal dummy to test my various chaotic spells on."

"I-I see..." The pony jittered so much he had to hold his glasses in place. "W-well, that doesn't make me feel too confident in revealing this information. But uhhh...I guess that would just waste time. And we'd-"

You interrupt him. You were getting more and more annoyed with him and your patience would soon be as thin as Discord's if he didn't fucking do something. "Look, sorry we just burst in here. Ok? It was important. But stop hiding what you're hiding and tell us already so we can figure out what we need to do next! Come on!"

"........." The wizard turned his head and said in a low voice. "...I'm not a wizard."

What did he say? "Mind speaking up there buddy?"

"I'm..." The wizard spoke a little more loudly, while looking at you this time. "...not a wizard...I never was. I'm sorry to disappoint the both of you but I can't actually fix the Crystal Heart. I don't have that kind of power... You're not going to turn me into a frog are you?"

......Oh christ. He wasn't a spineless wizard with potential. He was just a fucking normal unicorn who claimed to be a wizard.

"ARE YOU SERIOUS?! HOW COULD YOU NOT BE A WIZARD?!" Discord raises his talons and pulls a book from the shelf with some kind of telekinetic force into his grasp. The book itself looked damned ancient. Discord waved it in front of him furiously. "You have ancient texts that haven't been seen in centuries! Spell books even Twilight have never seen! How could you not be a wizard?! And why would you lie to me like that?!"

"Ummm..well one," The pony nervously holds his hoof up. "I-I have those books because I found them here. I think this house once belonged to well...an actual wizard. and erm...two," The pony began to tap his hooves together nervously. "I-I'm not a wizard because...." He hesitated.

"Because? Look, just get out with it already! Did you fail magic school or something? Or did you just not earn the title? It's the latter one right? Because it doesn't matter about the title. You don't need to be called a wizard to be a wizard...." But as he sits there silently, you realize...it was the former. "..Oh geez, don't tell me you actually failed magic school, please don't tell me that."

"...That would be mostly correct. I'm just a subpar unicorn who came to the Crystal Empire to just feel like...Well, somepony. I let the pressure of being a prodigy get to me, and everything kinda fell apart when, well, I suppose it sounds silly but. It all fell apart simply because...I wasn't a prodigy at all. Still..." The pony used his magic to slowly pull back the book Discord had, and started to slowly turn the pages as he brought it in front of his face. "I tried, I tried my hardest to be better than anypony at magic. These texts, these books, they hold magic and information that were very long forgotten. They even contain information about the Empire itself and how certain things work within it." He turns another page as his failures start to build up in his mind. "But no matter how many times I've read through these books. No matter how much I practiced. I just couldn't rise above the rest. But, I still wanted to believe I could. I thought if I called myself a wizard, that maybe one day, I'd actually be one. I suppose that was stupid to think of, huh?"

"Yes! I don't even know how that works! My magic should have taken us to a wizard! an actual wizard! I expected a solution! Grrrr." Discord held his head as thoughts of a frozen Fluttershy began to fill his thoughts, terrifying him. He then looked at you angrily as he pointed. "THIS IS YOUR FAULT, ANON! ALL THAT TIME WASTING YOUR LIFE ON TELEVISION, AND SOMEHOW YOU STILL BLEW IT! YOU SHOULD HAVE BEEN ABLE TO WRITE THIS AS A WHOLE TWO PART EPISODE IN YOUR HEAD AND LEAD US TO VICTORY! BUT INSTEAD YOU CAME UP WITH THE LOWEST FORM OF FAN FICTION AND RUINED AN ENTIRE WORLD! YOU HEAR ME ANON!? THIS IS EQUIVALENT TO A FAN FICTION! OR EVEN WORSE!....Erotic fanfiction."

...WHAT?! HE WAS BLAMING YOU?! NO, FUCK THAT! "Don't you dare! You're the one who decided to come here in the first place! It's obvious that the Princesses all were too worried about us that they didn't pay attention to the baby! And now look, the Crystal Heart is destroyed and we're doomed! Don't put this on me! I tried fixing it! You caused the destruction!"

Discord gripped his paw and talons in anger as he retorted. "Me?! ME?! You listen here 'Buddy'. You agreed to do this with me! If you said no, I would have either done something else or bother you until you agreed to do it, in which we would have been late, and things may have changed, one of those things being THE FACT THAT THE CRYSTAL HEART BLEW UP!"

You point at Discord, barking at him. "That's ridiculous! THATS SUPER RETARDED! YOU'RE SUPER RETARDED! ALL WE NEEDED TO EVEN FIX THIS PROBLEM WAS A EITHER A WIZARD OR, YA KNOW WHAT?! EVEN A FLIPPIN SPELL THAT COULD FIX THIS. YOU KNOW, A SPELL WE COULD GIVE TO TWILIGHT SO SHE COULD ACTUALLY FIX IT? AND WE DON'T HAVE ANY OF THAT! WE JUST HAVE A PATHETIC UNICORN AND HIS OLD BOOK! SO HOW IS IT AT ALL MY FAULT?! I THOUGHT WE WERE BROS!"

"DON'T PULL THAT ON ME! HOW CAN WE BE BROS IF EVERYTHING...well, actually mostly one thing...BUT THAT ONE THING IS GOING TO FREEZE BECAUSE SHE'S BEING STUBBORN?! AND WHAT ABOUT YOU, HMM? DON'T YOU CARE AT ALL ABOUT HER?...Don't you?...I know you do..." Discord started to tear up, and he grabbed you and hugged you close. "I don't want to lose her, Anon. I don't want to end up losing her. Or you. Or anything! Why won't she just let me take her?"

O-oh shit… The very thought, it starts to make you cry as well. Fluttershy suffering in the cold before either you or Discord could save her. It was... soul crushing. "I-I dunno! She's b-being s-s-s-o dumb!"

You both start to cry. Hugging onto each other as doom looms over everything and all.

"Actually, erm..I know I'm not exactly qualified to say this. But I think I've actually read enough to give my opinion on it. But thinking about the whole spell thing. I may actually have a way to fix the heart. Ummm...." The pony was sliding his hoof down a page on a book. "What spell did you say the princesses were trying to cast on the heart again?" But you both didn't hear him. Instead, you were hugging and crying like a shattered gay couple.

"....Oh, well." The pony gulped. "I'm just going to assume it's the 'Artifact Reconstruction' spell. Well, in that case, that spell would work....but we'll need to combine it with something else. If I'm reading this correct, then...Well, we'd need to obtain a large amount of love and care to revitalize the heart. That's difficult to do but..oh..ohhh..." The pony has a realization hit his mind. "The Crystalling! Of course! it would create a large source of love to repower the heart without any chance of failure. All we'd need then is a few powerful unicorns to cast the 'Artifact Reconstruction' spell on the heart while the source of love is added and it should repair it like new!"

The pony then seemed proud, and impressed with himself. "M-maybe I can do this. Not myself, but if I could get this to the princesses. I can make a difference! I can make sure nopony gets hurt. I need to get to them with this information. Erm.." The pony then looks back at you two. "Would uh, one of you be willing to help with the travel to the castle? The quicker the better."

But you both just couldn't stop. It just seemed so hopeless. You couldn't come up with any other solution. And Discord really had been counting on you to have the answer.

"R-right. I...think I can still make it on my own hooves. There's still some time left. If you'd like some tea, I have some in the kitchen. Biscuits too. Erm..hmmm...alright then. If you're still here when I get back. Uhhhhh....uhhmm...never mind. I think I should be going." And with that, the pony went off. Leaving the both of you alone.

This hugfest went on for quite awhile. Both of you lamenting that you both couldn't do anything to even fix the problem. You yourself thought of others as well. You thought of Diamond Tiara, whose life would shatter in the ice. Lyra and Bonbon...dammit, you wished you hung out with them more often.

Discord thought of Fluttershy mostly, and didn't want to lose her. The usual spiel. You both broke the hug as you both agreed to try to think of something else. "There's gotta be another way to fix this. Can't we just keep the storm contained?"

Discord shook his head. "I'm afraid not, it's manifesting at a rapid rate from any location it pleases from within the northern lands. Like I said, keeping it contained with chaos magic would eventually make things worse."

"Dammit..DAMMIT! There's gotta be a way. Hold on, let me see how bad it is right now. I have one last idea, but it's a longshot."

You rush over to one of the windows and move the shades, only to see some nuke like explosive ring head right towards you, circling all of the city. "OH SHIT! THE STORM WENT NUCLEAR!" You cover yourself, unable to react in time as the ring quickly smashes through you and Discord. Discord himself not even having a chance to even react.

You fall to the ground, groaning from the trip. As you slowly raise yourself, you see nothing but bright lights. It looked like you survived, but everything was shiny and bright. Hell, you look at Discord and even he was looking like someone shined him up and put some weird diamond filter on him. Oh god... "...D-discord. Y-you're dead...and somehow an angel."

Discord raises his arms and looks at them, shocked at what happened to him. "What even is this?! I look clean and shiny!" Discord then growls angrily. "Somepony is going to pay for this....hrn?" Discord then looks at you, putting on sunglasses to lessen the shine in his eyes. "Anon, I think you've also become...wait" Dead? "We're gone?! How can we be gone?...How can I be gone? I'M ALREADY A SPIRIT! THAT'S NONSENSE. AND I WOULD KNOW, I'M A MASTER OF IT!"

As Discord began to spaz, you looked at your own hooves. It had the same glowy shine. “HOLY FUCK! I'M DEAD TOO! WE DIED TO SOME WINTERY NUKE! NOBODY SAID IT WAS A GODDAMN NUKE!" Tears start to flow from your eyes as you begin to shake, you couldn't hold still. "D-does that mean? E-everybody's...g-gone?"

"I..I don't know" Discord starts tapping and touching at his own body. "You'd think for being dead that it'd be a little more noticeable. And then there's the fact we're still in this house....hrn. If this is what death is like then it's very peculiar."

You look around after Discord mentioned you were still in the house. You couldn't still be in it. Houses don't have souls. "...That doesn't make any sense...unless...we became ghosts. But" You look around. "I don't see our corpses and...wait.." You look back at the window as it seemed to be letting in sunshine. Actual...sunshine. "What the..."

You go closer to the window so you can take a look at the sky. The sky....was clear and blue. Like nothing happened. "...The storm is gone. And the sky is sunny. D-does that mean?"

Discord starts to chuckle, then laugh in relief as he realizes what happened "Ohhhhhhahaha! We're not dead! Somepony must have repaired the Crystal Heart, causing it to burst out with its unique crystallization magic. My my, how silly of me to think we we're actually destroyed. Anon, you really must think harder before coming to such a conclusion. Speaking of which, If I were to guess, given that faux wizard is gone, he may have...." Discord's pupil shrinks before bursting into a fiery inferno of rage and hate. "THAT SNEAKY SNAKE WENT AND SAVED EQUESTRIA WITHOUT US! HE ACTUALLY LEFT US HERE AND SNUCK OFF TO TAKE OUR GLORY! OUR VICTORY! SOMETHING THAT WOULD HAVE HAD THEM OWE US A FAVOR! THIS IS THE WORST THING EVER! I THINK I'D RATHER BE DEAD!"

Woah, you thought he'd be happy that everything was ok. Hell, how could you forget the crystalize thingy the heart causes? Eh, considering you never personally experienced i then it kinda makes sense you'd not realize it. But then.... "What about Fluttershy? Aren't you glad she's ok?"

Discord let's smoke out of his nostrils as he peers out the window "Of course I'm glad she's ok. But now that I know she's ok there's more pressing matters at hoof here. Our plans are ruined and I bet you a million bits that our wimpy little friend didn't say a word about us. He's probably hogging that glory all to himself. I bet all the mares are just fawni-" Discord's eyes get wide. "HOLY ANCHOVIES! WHAT IF FLUTTERSHY HAS FALLEN IN LOVE WITH HIM?! THAT FRAUD! THAT CHARLATAN! THIS WILL NOT STAND!"

W-wut?! Well, yeah that was bad. The guy was a fucking pussy that for some reason...thinking about it now, rubbed you the wrong way. But also, why does Discord care about that? "I thought you didn't love Fluttershy that way. Why do you care who she falls for?"

"Really Anon? How would you feel if Fluttershy couldn't give you all those cuddles because she's catering to some wimp who probably is so frail that he has to watch out for a row of ants in fear they'll take him into their hill as food.. It's not about love, it's about protecting a friend from the worst mistake of her life."

.....And just wanting to make sure her attention doesn't spread too thin. But fuck it, you agreed with him....wait...would she even fall in love with some random schmuck?...Again, that sock look of his was kinda cute. "No, fuck it. I agree, We need to run some counter tactics and quick. I ain't losing out on cuddle hugs!"

"Then we're in agreeance" Discord raises his talons to prepare for a snap. "We'll rush over to the castle and make sure we expose that monster for what he really is!"

As ready as you were for something so low chance but still possible, given husbandos for the mane six have been slowly showing up, even if there was no feelings there, there was a chance that eventually one might actually fall for another. Especially now that events were on a split from the original timeline. "Alright, but let's not overdo it, ok? I'm all for this if we run in on her being all googly eyed. But if that's not the case. Let's not do anything stupid. Remember, the princesses are still there and it would look bad on the both of us if we acted out without a reason. And even then, we just need to express our feelings. I'll even pull the 'But ah don't want a uncle' thing. I mean....ahh come on Discord, don't get too pumped for this is all I'm saying. It's a really really low chance that this is actually happening."

"But it's still a chance" Discord seemed sure of it being more than that however.

"...Just stay relaxed, ok? If anything, we should just respect what's going on and run with the original plan. Even if Twilight never sperged, Fluttershy will be happy to know that we never caused any trouble. And that's good, right?"

".....I suppose. Not the results I wanted...but I guess.....It'll have to do. But only because her opinion is actually valid." Discord accepted that much at least. He really did care about her. And hell, you were glad he was listening to you. It meant that he cared about you too.

Discord then snapped his talons. You wondered how this was going to go, what the princesses would think? And you also hoped that everyone was ok. You really did.

Chapter 278

You both appear near the ceiling of the main chamber of the castle where the Crystal Heart is floating in the middle. Fully repaired and reformed.

You were both floating. And something else was obvious as well. "..We're invisible right?"

Discord nods "Of course, better to scope out what's going on than just come right in. That way we can catch that monster in the act! Now let's see..."

You and Discord look downward towards the ground. There were two groups. The Mane 6 were together, discussing something. Meanwhile, the mysterious faux wizard was speaking to Cadance and Shining Armor. The baby seemed to have happily hopped onto the back of his neck to give him a hug.

"There he is, right there." You point him out to Discord. The only other thing of note was that Princess Celestia nor Luna were in the room. Where did they go?

Discord looked down, then sighed in relief as he wiped the sweat from his brow "Oh thank Tartarus, he's trying to take Cadance away instead. And right in front of her husband too, very daring."

....Really? "I...Don't think that's what's going on. "

You gently dog paddle in the air towards them to get a better listen.

"I would have never thought that Discord would ever inspire anypony. That's pretty rad" Shining said, amazed at the very sudden turn around of Discord's attitude, at least from his perception

"Well, he and his son actually. It was so odd, they just barged into my home and just seemed to know I'd have the answer. I couldn't believe how well they worked together. And their argument certainly had me fooled." The wizard let out a meek chuckle "I almost thought they hated each other, or maybe it was desperation. Whatever it was, their words made me realize I could make a difference despite being bad at magic. Your highnesses, are you really sure it's alright to make me your magical adviser? I really meant it when I said I wasn't too good at casting spells. "

"Maybe not, but we wouldn't be standing here without your vast knowledge of magic. You put aside your personal fears to bring an answer none of us knew. Not even my sister in law knew how to fix it. I think you earned your title. And besides..." Cadance giggles as the baby nuzzles on him "I think our baby likes you too"

"Oh, mhmhm" Sunburst let's out a sheepish chuckle "I suppose that's as good a reason as any."

Hmmmnnn

You dog paddle up to Discord, who was eyeing Fluttershy. She seemed happy and safe. "Yo, Discord. They made that guy some sort of adviser. He also said we're the reason he came to the castle, how about that ,huh?"

"Indeeeeed" Discord smirked as he pondered, giving another glance towards Fluttershy "Then that would mean dear Fluttershy would know, they ALL would know. Are you thinking what I'm thinking, Anon?"

Lordy, he was gonna flaunt it "Yeah, I am."

You weren't too enthusiastic just going and flaunting it however. Not in front of ALL of them with Celestia and Luna looming somewhere in the shadows. But maybe, well. What if you were able to make it a joyous and wonderful occasion instead of a narcissistic one?

"But how about this? What if we complete the plan by acting completely humble and kind? Y'know, something Fluttershy wouldn't expect, yet would make her happy, and would even garner the attention of the mane six?"

"Hrnnnnn? I do like making Fluttershy happy. But why should I care about what the rest of them think?" Discord wondered

...was it that hard for him to realize how bad he'd look if he fucked this up? "Because if you make them mad at you, Fluttershy will be sad. It'll be too obvious this time. Oh!" One more thing "The pictures, we need to get those ready. She's gonna smile so hard even Pinkie Pie would be jealous"

"Ohhh yes! The pictures!" Discord chuckles at his own forgetfulness "That would make her happy,Wouldn't it? And I just thought of something of my own. Since Celestia and Luna are more in the know than anypony else. They will surely try to have a private chat with us to discuss the going ons of earlier. Yes, all we have to do is make sure we don't divulge any of our true intention and they will have no choice but to see how great we truly are. Then they will admit to thinking we were up to no good and apologize. Imagine it Anon, Celestia, apologizing to us..." Discord let's out a sinister chuckle "Then I could tell her of my business with Mister Rich, she'll be soooooo overwhelmed that she'll have no choice but to make a statue of me for the center of Canterlot"

"What's with you and wanting a statue of yourself?" It was rather curious

"Nothing really, I don't even care about a statue. I just want SOMETHING out of this endeavor. Do you know how hard it was to be such a good outstanding citizen? And, hrnnn….actually" Discord just realized something he forgot "Speaking of pictures, I never did manage to take any at all. I wonder if that's going to upset anypony."

You shake your head "Probably not given all the chaos that storm caused. Also, y'know, they can't complain because it was free in the first place."

"Drat!" Discord threw his paw around in frustration "Not a single pony traumatized by our shenanigans."

You giggle as you roll your eyes "Nope, but it'll be fine if we can make Fluttershy super happy right?"

Discord crosses his arms and looks away, still grumpy at the utter failure his plan was "Yes....it would be nice to make her ‘Super Happy’. Alright then Anon..." Discord raises his talons to snap you both in front of the mane six. "You lead on this time...don't disappoint me" Discord snaps, and you both instantly appear in front of the mane six.

"It really is quite amazing to hear that this all came about due to Anon and Discord. Everytime there could be some doubt to the moniker of Hero Colt, Anon proves us wrong again by doing something absolutely astonishing. I'd like to think that instead of Discord being an influence on him, it just might be the other way around. And from what I can see, it's all for the better." Rarity remarks, speaking highly of the both of you . And that, you think, Would be your cue to speak.

"Well Miss Rarity, I'd say in this situation. Me and my dad managed to pull this off mutually. I mean, if you remember, we were here on a vacation. And he was pretty upset about the storm."

"Oh come now, Anon" Discord does a warm smile as he leans over to pet you gently on the head "I was just worried about everypony, that's all. That dreadful storm was beyond my abilities and I was afraid I'd lose everypony...especially you Fluttershy" Discord gives her big ole eyes. Even if some of that was a farce. That last part definitely wasn't.

"Discord...oh Discord" Fluttershy's mouth slowly curved into a smile as her eyes became glistened with tears. She instantly dove into Discord and hugged him tight. It was an unexpected moment. Even Discord seemed slightly confused as he, as if guided by the natural force of friendship, wrapped his arms around her for a sweet little hug "I'm so happy you and Anon are ok!"

"Well, why wouldn't we be? I am the master of chaos you know....were you really worried?" Discord held her up at eye level, he seemed confused.

She nodded as tears slowly flowed from her eyes. "I was, I felt as if you wouldn't listen to what I said and would have tried something. I didn't know you'd actually go and help try to fix everything."

"You're not mad are you?" Discord slightly cringed as he looked away, he actually felt a little bad that he didn't listen

"Not at all. You did a good thing Discord. And you know what I find very wonderful?" She tilts her head with an adorable little smile, eyes closed.

"What's that?" Discord didn't expect to feel a tender feeling in his heart. And yet, he didn't mind it much.

"You're not holding it over anypony, you're not boasting. You look genuinely heroic.I'm so proud of you, Discord." Futtershy nuzzled her head into his chest as he brought her in for another hug.

Discord goes silent. He no longer knew how to respond.

"Well ain't that the darndest thing, ah didn't even know ya had this side of you, Discord." Applejack comments

That comment snaps him back into reality "Well, it's not one I'm willing to show so often Applejack. This is a special occasion, since I was oh so worried about everypony. But...Of course.." Discord puts Fluttershy down gently as he steps back to let you present the photos. "I'm only one half. I do think the other does deserve a little recognition and attention. Especially the attention part because he might have something you will want to see."

"Oh well of course." Fluttershy smiles warmly at you, an inviting warmth "Anon, come here. You look like you could use a hug too"

...Hugs! Y-..wait! "As long as Rainbow Dash doesn't laugh at me"

"What? Nah, not me. Not like I haven't hugged Fluttershy before. Besides, it's not like we're in public or anything. It's cool" Rainbow Dash reassures you, she was being pretty cool about it. Enough that you immediately went for a hug. And with Fluttershy, it was the snuggle nuzzle type of hug. So...gooooood.

And..OH RIGHT!

After the hug, you give Fluttershy a smile as you go into your saddlebag to pull out the photo envelope. "Here Aunt Fluttershy, these are the photos you wanted"

"Oh? Oh!" Fluttershy started to shake with excitement. She beamed a wide smile as she took the envelope and slowly opened it. She wanted to see her little nephew looking super cute and adorable. But when she gazed upon the pictures. She was instead impressed by them "Oh my...Anon" She said with mouth agape as she cycled through the photos "These...are amazing!"

The rest of the ponies move and crowd around to take a look.

"Woah, lookie! Nonny looks like one of those princes from those picture books. All cool and strong. Like, right before a big battle!" Pinkie pointed to one photo where you stood up, looking ahead with a determined yet cool look. As if this would be the battle for the ages. But you had to remain cool to not lower the morale of your men.

"And look at that one. Anon's lookin' like he's gonna give some sort of speech" The photo Applejack was referring too had you looking down, your hoof out to silence a crowd before making an important speech.

"Oh! I like that one, I've seen old artwork of Starswirl the Bearded in a very similar thinking pose. It's amazing how exact it looks. Anon, I didn't know you knew anything about Starswirl the Bearded. What made you want to emulate his pose?" Twilight asked,.

Hell, you didn't know. You don't even remember really posing. Just being blinded and blown back by Photo Finish's picture taking. But holy fuck, did she really take these? Did she perfectly take every shot from a workable pose as you tossed and squirmed during the photo shoot? How the fuck did she do that?

But you could hear it in your head how she did it

Da Magicks "I uhhh, Well. Truthfully, I was just posing"

"Oh....Well, Since we're on the subject. Maybe we could do another day in study where I teach you some history about Starswirl and you help me understand Chaos Magic a little more." Twilight's offer, struck you...as a little odd.

"You're still interested in chaos magic? I mean, my dad would be a better teacher than I would"

Discord would never do it, in fact. He sees this as an opportunity to mess with you just a little. It was like a sudden compulsion. "Oh but Anon, she asked you. Which must mean you're a pretty good teacher. In fact, with everything you've learned from me thus far. I'd think you could spend a whole day teaching Twilight a thing or two about chaos magic. I'd even go on to say that you are almost as knowledgeable as I am. As if you had gazed upon the work of chaos from behind a magic window of moving pictures"

You flinch from his words. A whole day? A WHOLE DAY?! WAS HE DOING THAT ON PURPOSE?! Twilight was fine, but you didn't want to be stuck a whole day with her teaching and.....ech...learning.

"Anon knows that much? That's so fascinating!" Twilight starts to geek out a little "Finally, a way to understand chaos magic without being messed wit-...I-I mean" Twilight chuckles sheepishly, realizing she was about to make a put down on Discord "Without having to bother you, since you're usually busy with something"

But...but..you didn't even agree to this yet! "I didn't actually agre-"

"Splendid! I'd recommend the next day Anon has no school. That way he doesn't need to worry about anything school related. I'll even give his horn unlimited amounts of charges for any demonstration he may want to do" Discord smirks as his eyes shift to you and wink.

Your mind immediate comes to a boil. Goddammit Discord, Why?!

But his actual reasoning?

Toying with you was too much fun. Even if he did like you as much as he did.

But it hadn't sunk into your head yet, that he was also giving you a day's time of unlimited power again.

"That's great! I'll have to make sure to set up the castle library like a little classroom before then!" Twilight was already excited. She did love to learn new things and further her study on magic. She'd never use chaos magic of course, but to learn even MORE about it without running the risk of shenanigans was an opportunity she couldn't pass up.

"I..Uh...ugh" You give up almost immediately. If you objected, you might ruin the moment. Maybe Discord knew that. "No, yeah. Got it. I'll make sure to bring my A game."

"Your ‘A’ game must be impressive if these pictures are anything to go by. They are simply exquisite. Each one filled with personality and poise, it's as if it's a whole different pony. And yet it's still you. Prince Anon...hrmmm" Rarity pondered on that for a moment "Thinking on our current situation,Princess Celestia and Princess Luna do lack an heir of their own. Wouldn't it have just been precious had Anon been their son instead of Discord?"

What?!...No! Luna already told you how it would be. Fuck that noise. "I'd..well. It sounds like it could be good. But I like dad best. And Aunt Fluttershy too!"

"Awww Anon, and I like you too. As one of my favorite family members." Fluttershy didn't want to exclude her parents after all. And gives you another gentle hug. "These pictures are so beautiful, Anon. You really don't mind me keeping all of them?"

You didn't really care to keep them really. But you wanted one for Diamond. "Let me just have one for my marefriend. And you can keep the rest."

"Aha! That's what I was forgetting! Anon, sweetie, you simply must tell us how that sleepover went. And don't spare the juicy details" Rarity was very intent on hearing this.

"Ugh, c'mon Rarity. It's a kid's sleepover. Don't we have something important to talk about?" Rainbow Dash didn't really want to hear this part. Really, she just wanted to play with the baby now and see how good of a flier she can be.

"Rainbow Dash! Don't be a prude! It's more than just a sleepover. It's the building block to Anon's social standing and relationship building. To not hear how it went would be to doom him to having no advice in case anything went afoul." Rarity snapped back at Rainbow Dash pretty hard. It was clear that something like this was important to her.

"Sheesh, ok ok. Didn't know it was that important.I'm just saying, I followed them on their date and it didn't look like Anon needed ANY kind of help." Rainbow Dash reminds her friends, trying to solidify her point so they could consider moving on anyway. But no dice.

"Yes well, that was then. This is now." Rarity then looks to you with a gentle smile "Go on Anon. Tell us what happened"

"Well, Rainbow Dash is sorta right. I didn't really need any help" Even though it got forced on you. "All we did was play a few games. drink tea. And danced"

"Danced? You danced with her?!" Rarity stammered. she seemed simply entranced by those words.

"U-umm..yeah..is that bad?"

"Quite the opposite! Oh, it's actually very very romantic. The prince, dancing with his princess. A beautiful waltz in the moonlit night. Ohhhhh!" Rarity put her hoof to her head and nearly fainted back from the romanticism of the situation.

Applejack caught her on the fallback and gently pushed her back to her hooves "Alright Rarity, no need to overdo it."

"Sorry darling, but young love is just so beautiful. I couldn't help but feel such joy for the young couple." Rarity said, truly impressed.

"Oh my, young couple? Do you really think Anon and Diamond Tiara are really that far along? Aren't they a little..well..too young to be considered an actual couple?" Fluttershy thought it was cute, but didn't want things to go too far too fast. She didn't want it to end in a way that would break your heart. She honestly thought it was very cute puppy love.

"It may, it may not. You never know. Love is like a ship on a seaward adventure. You never know where it may lead you or what you'll run into. But it's clear that our little colt here has made an actual commitment to this relationship. And from what I can tell, he's mature enough to handle it."

Fuck yeah! Rarity calling it exactly as it should be. You did like Diamond Tiara, and you did dance with her, and for fucks sake, you wanted her. So yes, she was right. You were mature.
"I'd like to think I am. Yeah, I think I've been handling this just right."

"O-ok, if you're sure. I won't say anything about it. But always know I'll be there if you need to talk Anon" Or more exact. Fluttershy meant she'd be there if something DID go wrong.

"Speaking of maturity and handling situations. I was wondering if we could borrow young Anon for a moment...and of course, you too Discord. My sister and I wish to speak to the both of you in private." A voice says from behind.

Oh fuck! It was Celestia and Luna. Just...sneaking up from seemingly out of nowhere.

"Ahhhhh, Princess Celestia" Discord's smile turns near sinister for a quick moment. "May I ask why privately?"

"We just wish to congratulate you and Anon and speak to you both on some matters that pertain to the both of you." Princess Celestia hesitated for a moment. Like she was trying to think of a reason to get the both of you alone.

"Princess Celestia, should I come too? This sounds very important" Twilight asks, she didn't know why Celestia wanted to see the both of you alone.But as a princess, she felt it was her place to be there too. The others ponies said not a word. Respecting Celestia and Luna's presence. And trusting in their wisdom

Celestia shook her head. Of course Twilight couldn't be a part of it. Not if they wanted to be frank. "I'm sorry Twilight, But this is a matter between us and them. and..Fluttershy, you needn't worry. I can feel that those words fill your heart with fear."

Fluttershy looks down, she DID feel those feelings, she didn't know why it had to be THAT private. It sounded scary "They do, they didn't do anything wrong. Did they?"

Did you?

"No, Neither Discord nor Anon did anything wrong. In fact, you might say this is our way of congratulating them. you all should prepare to go home instead of waiting on us. This might be a while. And we don't wish to keep you here on our account." Celestia explains, her voice as calming and warm as the sun itself. It helped put Fluttershy's mind at ease.

Nobody argued further. Absolutely no one. the respect for Celestia and Luna was pretty high. Even with Twilight's status, she didn't want to argue further than that. Although, she did want to inquire why it had to be in private. And she would ask Celestia later. Discord of course, just follows along with it. And hugs and bids Fluttershy adieu , you do the same, leaving all but one of the photos to Fluttershy to do with what she pleased with as Celestia and Luna led you both into another room to chat. You felt a chill in your soul. Scared on what they REALLY wanted to talk to you both about.

The room the princesses took the both of you into seemed rather empty. As if Cadance and Shining Armor hadn't found a use for it yet. It felt. Kind of ominous.

But as you stood, a little worried, Discord had a big grin stuck on his face. Feeling very accomplished. "So, here we are. Now then, what could the immortal princesses of Equestria want to say in private to the lord of chaos and his partner in, in this case, heroism."

Celestia made a single nod. And smiled at Discord. "Well, first. I'd like to congratulate you and Anon on a job well done. Luna and I are quite impressed that you would put aside your chaotic machinations of your mind to have a peaceful vacation without causing any trouble. Which that of in itself, is remarkable. As well as actually inspiring a pony to come with everything we need to restore the Crystal Heart back to its former state."

Ohhh..OH SHIT NIGGA. SUPER RECOGNITION.

It actually made you smile. You felt humbled as you bowed. "Thank you Princess Celestia. It's actually an honor hearing that from you."

Discord bows as well, much more gentlemanly than he normally would. "Indeed, I am truly ecstatic to hear that you acknowledge our skills and abilities in saving Equestria. Although I could do without rewards, I do wonder what you had planned to award us with. And I do not mind at all that you would even carry out an order such as...say...A statue of me in Canterlot and the Crystal Empire? Perhaps one for Anon as well? Or did you have something else in mind?"

"Actually, that would be the extent of our appreciation. We are just happy to hear that you are willing to make an effort to change your ways completely. We do not think you need a reward, the happiness of your friends seems good enough to us." Luna steps up. Explaining exactly the "reward" you'd both get.

"uhm..what?"Discord seemed baffled that THAT was it. "Excuse me Princess Luna, am I to understand that we are not being rewarded with something monetary? What about a parade? A parade to show just how amazing chaos is and how Anon and I are great and all that?"

Celestia didn't act smug on her next words. But you could sense it. She was using Discord's own words against him. "I thought you could do without rewards."

"Yes, I can. I am just wondering why there isn't any at all! Anon and I saved the Empire. We saved it from something much more dangerous than some stupid dark unicorn" Discord tried to keep his cool and still act humble. But, he was so damn puzzled as to why there was no reward.

"Well, I suppose we could have a statue made of you..." Celestia rubs her chin as she thinks.

"Only suppose?" Discord wonders, trying to be cautious with his words.

"Would I get one too? I-I mean. I don't really care, I am the hero colt. But y'know...it sounds kinda cool to have a heroic statue, kind of like the one Spike has got."

"Hrmm?" Luna was surprised by those words "I thought the title of ‘Hero Colt’ bothered you Anon."

"I mean...it used to. But look. Check this out, I dimension hopped and actually saved an Equestria ruled by these two business ponies. It actually felt REALLY cool and it kinda..well…. Got me used to the idea that being a hero is actually kind of great. It's just, y'know, nopony here really will ever know about it. So it kinda stinks."

Luna stops for a moment. Then she nods, she actually believed it "I see, sister...I don't see why we couldn't accommodate this request."

"Hmmm..I suppose" Celestia smiles a sweet smile, as if it was a really great idea

"Woah, really?!"

That seemed so cool. Your tail was even wagging at the idea. You had a big goofy smile on your face.

Celestia and Luna nodded. Then Luna began to speak again. "Yes, of course. These statues, They would be small and only have a small mention compared to the extremely large statues of us, Twilight, Cadance, Shining Armor, and Sunburst. Sunburst being the centerpiece of the set due to his amazing knowledge and the fact that he braved a terrible storm to bring us exactly what we needed to save the Empire. Yes, in fact." Luna began to tap her hoof under her chin. As she thought of a way to make it even grander "We'd have to make sure to make an extra statue of Spike standing next to yet another statue of Sunburst to remind everypony of the true heroes of the Empire. Does that sound right to you sister? I don't wish to be too bold, as you have handled such things for much longer"

Holy shit...w-was Luna also...being smug? That whole thing. She was...undermining you and Discord.

"Sounds good to me" Celestia let's out a tiny little giggle.......wait a second...were you both being messed with?

"WHAT?! WE'D HAVE TO SHARE A SPOT WITH ALL OF YOU?! WHY EVEN?! AND WHY DOES THIS ‘SUNBURST’ CHARACTER GET SUCH AN IMPORTANT SPOT! WITHOUT ANON AND I, YOU'D ALL HAVE BEEN PONYCICLES BY NOW!" Discord huffed, utterly annoyed that he'd have to share a spot with anyone he didn't like or know.

"Discord..." Celestia let out a sigh as she spoke more calmly, more regally and official. She closed her eyes as she explained "Yes, you and Anon are the ones who gave Sunburst the idea. And for that, we are grateful, this is the truth. But from our understanding, it was Sunburst who made the dangerous trek through the storm to reach us before things got so terrible that the Crystalling itself couldn't take place. He had knowledge of the spell and the way to cast it properly. Something you nor Anon knew. Sunburst is the true hero, and his reward has already been given. He has the honor of becoming the royal family's personal magic adviser. As for you and Anon? Your rewards are the acknowledgement that you helped, and the amazement that you, Discord, would give up your ways, even for a moment, to help save the friends you care about. Your reward is the fact of knowing that your friends are safe and appreciate you. It is my humble belief that this is enough. Anypony would be proud to have the love and respect of their friends" Celestia sounded so...right..for some reason. Even though it slightly bothered you. In fact, without you, you nor Discord would have found Sunburst and things would have gone to shit. But...how could you argue her words without sounding like a douche?

Oh..but of course Discord would take offense. "He's the ‘True’ hero? HIM?! Oh nononono, that's wrong and you know it!" Discord got up in Celestia's face as he poked at her chest.

Celestia stayed calm, but Luna did not like how he was acting. "Hold yourself Discord! There is no need to act so childish. My sister's words hold true. You should feel honored to have done that much!" Luna tries to hold in her anger at Discord's reaction. She knew he was just being himself. But poking at her sister? It rubbed her the wrong way.

"Hmph!" Discord huffed as he crossed his arms, stepping back and heeding Luna's words, but only as so far as touching Celestia "Let me remind you again. Anon and I were the ones who gave him the idea. If you want to be even more exact. Anon was the one who set up my magic for me to find his EXACT location. Without us, we'd not be standing here right now."

"We understand that, and as we said, we thank you. But, as we understand it, somewhere along the way you and Anon ended up in an argument. Leaving Sunburst to venture out on his own to bring the answers to us. Perhaps had you helped him the whole way it may have been different. But you lost sight of your own objectives. And that is something undeserving of the word ‘Heroism’. Had the situation, dire as it is, had been slightly more dangerous. It wouldn't have mattered what you had done for it. It would have already been too late." Celestia frowned, it actually seemed to hurt her to say that. "I didn't wish to mention that fact."

And you could feel why. Being reminded of the argument in such a way. ouch...yeah. Now you saw why you weren't full fledged heroes on that part. You both fucked up in the end.

"........and that has to do with anything why?" Discord asks, completely not understanding the issue.

Your ears lower as you look down in shame of that fact. "..Because our argument could have meant doom anyways. We could have lost everypony because of it...Fluttershy included...ugh..."

Discord immediately stops upon hearing that. his ears literally deflate as he gulps. "...That could have truly happened?"

Celestia and Luna nod.

"Indeed, Sunburst came during the last moments. Any later and we would have surely perished" Luna remarked.

ooooogh "Ok.....yeah...I get it at least....I'm really sorry about that. Discord, hey.umm..I'm really sorry about everything mean I said back there."

Discord immediately gave up. He never even considered that it was an actual fuck up. Sure, he considered Sunburst being a fuck up and thats why he got angry. But after the fact? nope. "Yes...I..accept your apology. Would you accept my apology for being a tad too, strong? Is that a good word?"

"...yeah, it's fine. I guess we did kinda screwed up in the end huh?"

"I suppose we did. Hmmmm..." Discord thought on it for just a moment. Then accepted it. He accepted it with actual dignity "Well Celestia, Luna...for once, you may be right. We did make a grave error, something very very rare" Discord, just as quickly as he became sad, quickly snapped back to his normal and arrogant self "But just to be clear, there would have been a parade for us if we had seen this through. Correct?"

Celestia giggles at that and nods "I suppose there would have been. Yes, I don't see why not. That would have been agreeable to you, right?" Celestia looks to Luna.

"I suppose, it seems like it'd just bolster his ego though. But it would have been credit where credit is due."

"Then it's agreed, should a situation like this EVER pop up again. We'll expect a parade upon our success. And with that being said." Discord does a bow "We bid you adieu, I can only take so much of these truthful accusations of my mistakes."

"Unfortunately, we can't let you both leave just yet" Celestia says...wut? Why? Wouldn't that be it?

"Something else? What else is there?" What else could it possibly be?

"It's actually has to do with you more than Discord. Anon, let me ask you something. What do you know of talking puppies?" Celestia asks, and despite sounding serene and gentle. Those words sent a chill down your spine.

".........uhhhhhhhhmmmmm"

"Ohhh haha" Discord chuckles "Well then, I can see this has nothing to do with me. And even if it did, this is where my part ends. With that...." Discord once again puts on a trilby as he waves to you "See you at home...partner" And then he just POOF. Vanishes.

...that bastard. "......" You chuckle nervously as you look back at the princesses ".....Well then, look at that. He just...left me"

The princesses just continue to stare at you.

...Fuck...FUCK! THAT FUCKING LITTLE IDIOT! WHAT THE FUCK WAS HE DOING HERE?! WAS HE HERE?! "......ok....how did you know about the captain?"

"I would have something to do with that. I've seen him within the dreams of young Applebloom. She seems quite taken with him. Treating him as if he belonged to her as a pet." Luna admits.

...... "....Isn't it weird how you just keep looking into dreams like that to spy on me?"

Luna becomes a little more serious thanks to that remark. Looking at you with a stern look. "It is my duty to protect the ponies of Equestria, Anon. even through their dreams. So no, it's NOT ‘Weird’. I'd think you'd have a little more respect for the craft." Luna takes a moment to ease herself. She felt maybe she was taking it too personally. But still. "At least, I think you would have. Given you're able to figure out you're in a dream whenever I am present within it."

"No, I do. It's really cool..but" Spying? on fillies?...crreeeeeppppyyy "Ya know, finding out all this kind of information through others dreams just seems a little off to me. That's all."

"I do it to protect Equestria, Anon. As for that puppy, it is most definitely the same one from Applebloom's dream. It is the changeling captain." This, Luna was sure of.

"So then Anon. Can you explain to us why he'd be here in the Crystal Empire?" Celestia asks you, in a calm and gentle way. As to not scare or startle you. Internally, she was extremely wary and even a little angry. But she would keep those feelings at bay for now. Not wanting to jump to any conclusions.

"Truthfully? I don't know. He wasn't even the original captain. He's just a dumb runt that Chrysalis made captain just to spite her old one. And that is a whole different can of worms right there. My guess is probably the same as yours. He was probably spying. But..." You sigh, because that sounded reallllllyyy bad. "I doubt anything is gonna happen. He's dumb as bricks and Discord has made sure he nor Chrysalis can change when their in Equestria. Also, before you ask, They are the ONLY two Discord let's out."

"And what of his relationship with Applebloom? A farce, correct?" Luna wanted to know this. And Celestia made sure she herself was listening. Because this was something that needed judgement.

"Surprisingly....no. The runt, ‘Scrappy’ as she she calls him, actually likes being her pet and being friends with her and Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo. They have this whole thing going where he explains all of Chrysalis's plans to them while he lies to her just to keep everypony happy. Chrysalis knows he hangs with them, but she expects him to lie to them. Which HE HAS NOT been doing. And that's the oddest thing to me. He wants everypony to be happy. But he's lying to the one bug that he has the highest respect for. Part of me thinks he doesn't even realize he's doing it."

Both Princess Luna and Celestia were silent upon hearing that. And started whispering to each other. They were nodding to each other and everything. It made you feel uneasy.

"Anon, I'm going to ask you a single question. Because this is more important than you realize." Celestia suddenly becomes serious again. Mega serious. You couldn't blame her. You realized yourself that she was probably thinking that he was spying on the baby...which he probably was.

"What is it?"

"Are you sure you can handle the changelings? Are you still sure of this? It seems to me that Queen Chrysalis's ability to scheme hasn't been hindered too much if she can still send her spies. This is VERY serious, Anon. We suspect she sent him here to spy on Flurry Heart." Celestia oh so badly wanted you to say no. She was worried you were losing your grip on the situation.

You didn't hesitate on this one. This..you were sure of. And you felt you knew what Celestia wanted. And you couldn't let her have it. "I do, look, believe it or not. But when I crossed dimensions to save that other Equestria, Chrysalis came along with me. We did it together. She even risked her life for me. She lost a wing. And, well, the Chrysalis of that world was actually reformed. She watched over a bunch of orphaned foals who were imprisoned by the kings there."

"I was aware of your dimension travel. My sister and I had found it remarkable to be honest. But, I didn't know that much. She actually gave her life to save you? Is this really the truth?" Luna was stunned. She couldn't believe it. Celestia seemed a little more trusting on this. But still astonished nonetheless

"Yeah, it was pretty cool. Without her, that world would have been doomed. She trusts me, and I trust her...mostly. There's a lot of ifs. But now that I know it's a possibility. I feel I can handle it. As for the runt. Please, let me handle this."

"......Anon, I believe you, and I will stay to my word. But I expect you to find out exactly why he was there and what he told his queen. have a letter sent to me through Spike as soon as you can. I'll be waiting for it. I expect the truth from that letter, Anon. If I deem the situation too dangerous, or that you lied to me, I will come to Ponyville immediately. As for your secret about the changelings? I will have to let both Cadance and Twilight know. And then WE WILL deal with them ourselves. Is that clear?"

...shit. "C-crystal....."

"Good. I suspect Twilight and her friends have already boarded the train home. We'll be leaving as well. I assume you will just use your map to go home immediately and question Queen Chrysalis, correct?" Celestia was asking...but you felt she was TELLING you.

"Y-yeah..."

"Good. Anon,have a pleasant day." Celestia nods to you

"And a wonderful evening. Be safe, young Anon" Luna then nods after.

......fuck.

You bow to them. and stay respectful as possible as you bid them farewell. There was plenty of puddles outside you could use to return home. And home...was exactly where you were going.

Chapter 279

It didn't take much to return to the house. A puddle and a map toss and you were there. But dammit, whenever it came to Chrysalis, Luna and Celestia just became super serious and unfun. And you feel even with that, you got lucky. If you had done something actually bad, or did not have your hero status, they may have just outright demanded Chrysalis's head.

You head downstairs, down your gravity stairs and through the trap door into the basement. How do you ask her? What do you say? Surely Celestia realized that gaining Chrysalis's suspicion would be preeeetttyyy bad. Especially if she was suspicious of you. It would mean she wouldn't trust you. And then lie to you. And if you sent a lie to Celestia. And she found out....ooohhhhh

And then there was the runt...that fuck. He couldn't even fucking spy without getting caught. What a nuisance.

When you got downstairs however. You noticed a large change in the caves. There were roads now, created from what it seemed like grinded down floor. There were new pathways and tunnels made in the walls. all connected to a circular track that was around Chrysalis's makeshift stone throne.

Many of the changelings seemed tired. Others were just gazing at you from the walls and ceiling. And in the distance....the sound of a motor.

"GET OUT OF MY WAY! HAHAHHAHA!" You hear the mad laughter of Chrysalis and the roar of an engine as she drives her ferrari right past you and makes a quick drift, making the car slide and stop at its side.

The passenger door opens as a few changelings, green from sickness, pour out and start puking green gunk. Christ. And then there was you, the car slid past you mere inches from your face, it made your coat and mane stand on end.

And Chrysalis? She opened her door, stepped out, closed it, and rubbed her hoof slowly along the side of the door, practically idolizing the car. "Perfect...." She then smirks. "As perfect as I am. I knew I could master this thing" She lets out one more chuckle before turning around to see you.

Welp, you could already see she was back to her normal self. No bandages, wings healed. And she may have gotten insane from having a car. Did she have her own children make the basement into a damn mario kart track?

"Anon, how good to have you. What do you think of my improved lair? Wonderful, isn't it?" Chrysalis was really digging it seemed. She hovered upwards and then flew to her throne to sit and rest. You followed her the short distance as she stretched herself across the seat and hung her head across the side, looking up as her mane drooped on the floor, a huge smile on her face. "Ahhh, it feels good..." She raises her right hoof and curves it slightly, like a gripping motion. "To be fully rejuvenated. I feel alive!"

Ok...at least she was in a good mood. Just act casual. "Heya Chrysalis. Looks like you're feeling better"

"Ohhh Anon, I'm more than better. The love I fed on last night was enough to fully heal during Discord's little 'lockdown'." Chrysalis stretched and slowly span so she was upright on her throne. She adjusted herself to sit normally as she slowly moved her hoof from right to left to show off her "improved" lair. "And look at this! Isn't it wonderful? An entire super sized track smoothed and dug through by my own children while I was away. Isn't it magnificent? I can go as fast as I like and practice any kind of turn without worrying about hitting any stalagmites or walls."

....Was it a mistake to give her this car? Christ, she really would run down any pony if she had the chance. "It's really nice. But, did you really have your own children dig this all out? It seems like a lot of work."

"Ohhh not me Anon." Chrysalis looks down at you with a proud and near giddy look "This is the work of the captain. I admit, I almost thought it'd be a mistake to promote him just to spite the deceased captain. But he works so hard to bring me honor and happiness. He had this all made without me knowing. Apparently he learned about racing tracks from being told about an annual school derby from those wretched little friends of yours." She starts laughing maniacally. "Can you imagine it?! Racing without engines in little wooden cars?! LAUGHABLE! I would disguise myself as a little filly and show up with my speed machine and destroy the competition just to make them all cry." Her laughter becomes slower and more vicious. "Delicious. Speaking of the captain, I wonder what lies he's telling them now? Ohhh..." Chrysalis stopped and looked over to you, she had almost forgotten you were sitting right in front of her. "Anon, I almost forgot you were sitting there. Tell me, how fooled does that captain have those little nitwits? You can tell me, I know you don't like them too much anymore."

...Dammit. It's not like you hated them. They were just....really annoying sometimes. As for lying...hehe...he wasn't doing none of that. "Oh uhh, I really wouldn't know. I just tend to avoid that whole situation."

Chrysalis grumps and tilts to the side as she rests her head on her hoof. "Typical Anon, doesn't pay attention to the finer details. But I guess that's why you didn't notice my dear captain doing his spy work in the Crystal Empire. And don't tell me you did. I know you didn't."

Welp, that makes it easy to open up the topic. She was in a pretty good mood, enough to just talk changeling politics without worrying about what you're up to. "Oh..umm. Damn, didn't know he w-wait?" Time to act it up. Since you already knew he was there. "THE CAPTAIN WAS IN THE EMPIRE?! WHAT THE FUCK WAS HE DOING IN THE EMPIRE?!...OH GOD...CHRYSALIS....y-you wouldn't"

"I would...." Chrysalis found your reaction enjoyable. But the fact that you came to a conclusion so quickly, a conclusion she could guess before you could actually say it, bums her out. "If I had the means to snatch that little slug and make the long and very unsafe trek to my kingdom while at least having HALF my hive as a defense....But" Chrysalis gives you a slick and seductive smile as she uses her magic to slowly drag you over. close enough that she can seductively drag her hoof under your chin while speaking in a sultry voice. "If you were to help me with your horn. I may be able to do something about your 'other' horn. As much as I know you have a thing for that little filly, and even with as much as I helped, I know you want something a little more sooner than later. Imagine it Anon...me...you...in a bed." She chuckles "I'm sure you can think of the rest"

Ohhhhhh...OHhhh.....t-tempting. So very tempting. K-keep your composure...f-for DT. "I...u-umm..erm....." You gulp and take a step back. your face beat red. "I-I'm surprised you didn't try t-taking it in my sleep."

Chrysalis sighs and goes back to laying on her side, aggravated. "I tried last night, but it seems Discord may have actually used his brain for once and made it impossible for anypony but you to take the thing off. I guess he learned something from our encounter with that ingrate of an ex-captain."

You couldn't give in to her. If anything, having Celestia and Luna on the mind made this situation from sexy to scary as fuck. "Sorry Chrysalis, I can't allow it. No matter how much my body wants it."

"Of course you can't" Chrysalis rolls her eyes. "You haven't realized the joys of having your ambitions realized and the realization that you could have anypony you want by sheer force. This still eludes you."

"I guess...but I guess that also means you have no plans then? None at all?"

"....Ugh...Yes, I have no plans. There's nothing I can do without some way to properly defend myself. You know, you could have just checked on my health and then left. I don't need to hear your nonsense about fearing what I might have planned." Chrysalis sighed disappointingly. "Really Anon, why can't you be like the captain? Dutiful, loyal, and dedicated. Our talks would be so much better then."

"Well, sorry Chrysalis. I mean, we could talk about other things if you want. It's just that this is kind of important. I don't want to rule Equestria. Y'know?"

"Not yet you don't...but at some point, you will..but fine. You want to talk about something else? Well then....let's see" Chrysalis sat upright again as she began to think of a subject. "Well, actually. Speaking of the captain. Have you noticed him acting a little off? I am impressed that he's so dedicated to his job and his post. But sometimes I think he's getting too close to those three foals. What's your take on it, Anon?"

...Shit! Time to bullshit. "As I said, I tend to stay away from that. But look how dedicated he is overall. Didn't he have this entire place remodeled just for you? I think he takes his job and position too seriously."

Chrysalis finds it adorable and amusing however. "You can NEVER be too dedicated when it comes to me, Anon. And, I think you're right. He knows how to handle himself, and he always mentions at least once that he wants to avenge my honor by destroying you, even after all this time. Who knows? He may have been serious about dropping an entire space cruiser onto Canterlot. Or he always was, and doesn't realize he'd go down with it. Amazing dedication, isn't it?"

Oh yeah, suicide to take out an entire kingdom? Top notch shit....oy. "Yeah, it's as dedicated as anypony could ever get." You chuckle sheepishly. "Still, I have to admit. Getting all this done in a night. He must have whipped everypony into shape for it. And uhh..."

Actually, this was really impressive. In one night he made a basic race track and a whole bunch of interconnecting roads outside of it. All for Chrysalis. He really did want to make those he cared about happy. Sure he had the other changelings actually make it. But no doubt he was there, every step of the way. If it was one thing you could say about "Scrappy". He was true to his word, and honest about what he does, even if he's honest about lying. It made you think, that at least in a way, you didn't need to worry about him hanging with the CMC. They'd be alright. Now if only you could get him to not want to kill you. And to also stop being so goddamn stupid. "Well, I guess this means he really cares about you."

"Indeed, you're right. But when you're as great as I am. It's hard not to care. Hmmmm...This may sound odd to you, and I don't wish for you to repeat it to him. But I'm very proud of him, I almost felt this gift was too good for me. But then I remembered It's me." Chrysalis chuckled to herself, but then she lets out a relaxed sigh "I feel like if I needed to execute any kind of plan. He'd be able to keep up with it just due to force of will. Despite his pathetic strength and body, he's never failed me nor asked questions since he's become captain. It's admirable."

Wow, you...never thought she had that kind of respect for anyone. Especially the runt. "So you actually respect him? Despite him being just an offhoof pick to piss off the ex-captain?"

"How can I not? If I told him to take down the princesses by himself, he'd be idiotic enough to try without a second thought. All my other children would question that order and shake in fear. But him? He'd just ask if I mean all the princesses. Simply because he'd want to take ALL of them down at once like an insane idiot. It's adorable." Chrysalis then shifts her eyes towards you. "It's a shame you don't like him. I think you and him would make great partners."

Great partners? What did she mean by that? Well no, you knew. "You mean partners in crime?"

Chrysalis nods. "Of course. You're smart, you can outwit ponies, you have a knowledge most could only hope to acquire. Mix that with his cunning and dedication and I think you both could pull a mission off despite all the restrictions we have."

Welp, at least she was speaking positively of you now. But you had no interest in taking over the world or executing plans. "Only if I'd be willing to pull one off. Which I'm not. But..hey...thanks for the compliment. It actually feels nice hearing it from you. You usually just make fun of me."

"I'll give credit where credit is due. You're still a moron for not joining my side. But that will change..." In Chrysalis's mind. She felt it really could. Just like a cataclysmic event could change her, perhaps....an event as soul crushing as that happening to you could make you join her. But that would be for another time.

Chrysalis stretches, and hops off her throne as she steps towards her Ferrari. "But for now, I think I'm going to practice picking up enough speed to ride along walls. And unless you have your own news about the going ons of Equestria, then I'll be off immediately"

You shrug. "I doubt you'll want to hear how my day went."

"True, I don't...except for one thing. Would you mind explaining how a snow cannon ended up literally backfiring into your rear? I'm genuinely interested." Her face actually showed an expression of actual interest. She wanted to know how you fucked up.

"....Uhm.." Dammit...of all things. THAT?! "...I just sorta went too easy on the foals. Didn't expect them to take a whack at me."

Chrysalis shakes her head at the absurdity of your actions as she steps into her car. "In other words, you screwed up the same way back when we were facing down those two foolish brothers. You really need to learn to step up your game, Anon. Or else you'll regret it someday. Now then, It's time for this queen...to fly" Chrysalis drives off with a huge screech. You just sit there for a moment watching her disappear into one of the tunnels.

Well, at least you were safe. She wasn't up to anything. So you were in the clear.

As for Celestia,you'd just write the letter, give it to Spike, and probably..most likely...see Lyra and Bonbon just so you can relax. They were a pretty comfy pair after all.

Also...dammit. That sex stuff...Chrysalis probably didn't mean it anyway. Just something else to entice you. But you found it easier to resist. The love poison? Hmm...

With your school supplies. You wrote the letter as simply and to the point as you could. She wasn't up to anything and she was pretty much powerless. Simple and to the point. "Ha! Yes! Fucking awesome." You tap at the sheet of paper before slipping it into your saddle bag. "Celestia can't say shit after this."

Now all you had to do was visit Spike and have him flame breath this letter all the way to Canterlot. Of course, as you made the trip through the portal door and made the trek to the castle, you started to reflect on the whole Crystalling matter. Mostly with what happened in general. "I can't believe I actually agree with Celestia on this one though. How did I not notice or even realize that I still had to get Sunburst....to...the...."

But this time, you didn't end up monologuing. Because the significance of that name suddenly hit your face like a sack of bricks. You stopped as your eyes widened. You just stood there. Silent. Your lips once again saying his name without a sound coming out.

Could it be? "There's no way it's the same guy. Wasn't he a cunt who just left Starlight on a whim? Hold on...wait." He was living alone. And given he wasn't a Crystal pony......ahh shit.

So what? Did the asshole just fail at the reason he left Starlight and just hid out in the Crystal Empire? He didn't even think about going back or writing a fucking letter? "...Ohhh, I bet that fuck probably thought of himself and not wanting to..." You start exaggerating acting in distress in a way Rarity would. Feigning a lack of confidence in your self. "Deal with the shaaaammee of it all. Ohhh, how my friends would mock me.....grrr" You growled, fucking bullshit. All he really had was her, right? And even then. The fucker just left her! if he was afraid of going back, it should have been for the fact he was afraid to face Starlight. Not his own ability in magic. Then again, it was all conjecture after all.

But even then, you thought of him as a massive cunt. You didn't even know how you'd handle that situation. If he's an adviser now, it'd be hard to fuck with him due to his new connections. And if you went to tell Starlight?...well..would she even be able to handle knowing where he is and that she can talk to him? No, you'd worry about this later. But it would be handled. You just couldn't let that go. Besides, getting this letter sent was more important right now anyway.

And again, as you reach the doors of the castle. You don't even bother knocking. The doors were never locked. And...What fucking luck. Spike was in the cutie map chamber by himself, with an apron, brooming the floor. "..Wow, Twilight was right. Ugh, how could an arcade game make me forget to keep this place clean? I mean look at this.." Spike spoke to himself as he lifted a dustpan full of dirt. "It doesn't make any sense for a tree castle to have so much dirt in it. It's so ba-..oh hey. Gem specks." Spike tilts the dustpan to let in some dirt filled with specks of gems into his mouth. He chews, then spits a gunky black speck into the little trash can beside him. "Ehhh...could be better."

Perfect. "Heya Spike, how're you doin?" You try to sound a little friendly and goofy, if only to not seem suspicious about your next question.

"Oh hey Anon...oh" Spike immediately frowned as he rubbed the back of his head, feeling shame. "I hope you didn't visit just so we can go bowling. I'm sort of busy getting the castle cleaned and all that. But hey, you don't need to worry too much since, y'know...all those sweet events are over. It means we can try to do something else that would fit both our schedules."

..Oh right....bowling.. That was something you both still had to do. Well, not anymore it seems. Why would he even immediately think that? In fact..Why don't you just ask. "Why did you think I came here to ask to go bowling?"

"You didn't?....Oh. Umm, I guess I just thought since it's been awhile, that when we saw each other again, that you'd ask about going bowling. But I guess since you're not here to go bowling. We could figure out what a couple of heroes should do together. Y'know.." Spike holds up his broom. "When I get this castle cleaned up"

"Actually..." You reach into your saddle bag and pull out your letter. "You mind sending this to Princess Celestia for me?"

Spike takes the letter and turns it around a few times, inspecting it, but not reading it. "Sure" He just accepts it without questioning it too much since he already knew you had a connection to her already. But he was still curious about the contents of the letter itself. "So, does Princess Celestia got you writing friendship letters? Or is it secret hero stuff?"

"Let's just say it's secret hero stuff. Can't really say what it is" You say this because seriously? What else could you say?

"So no chance of me even getting a peek at this thing ,huh?" Spike looks around the letter without actually opening it up to read.

"Nope, sorry Spike. It's super private. You understand right? No prob?"

Spike burns the letter up with his flame, sending it straight to Celestia as he gives you a pretty cool and calm look. "No prob. It's kinda funny you mentioned it being hero stuff. Because I was thinking of a way to make things up since we didn't go bowling. And that's inviting you to something awesome, something amazing, something nopony knows about." With each word, Spike sounded more and more grand.

Was it...guy's night? "Oh uhhh, what is it?" You act like you had no idea.

"Well, When the girls are gone. I have a little get together with Big Mac. Something I like to call 'Guy's Night'. But it felt kind of lacking with just the two of us. And since you and me are heroes, I think it'd be ok to invite you to the castle the next time we have another one."

Welp, that makes things official. It exists. No idea what it was about. But it exists. "What exactly is 'Guy's Night' anyway? It sounds ok, but I wanna know what it is before I actually come by. It's nothing weird is it?"

"Weird? Nah." Spike jumped onto the cutie mark map and started to swing his broom like a sword. "Guy's Night is a super cool night where we go on epic quests! Fight evil monsters! Beat up major villains! And save super crazy beautiful damsels in distress!" Spike then holds the broom towards you, pointing it at you "...And that’s why I'm inviting you, Anon. We're pals, we're heroes, you'd be perfect for this!"

WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAH WAIT. "Hoooold on, what do you mean by all that? You don't do all that in a night, do you? I mean, it's just you and Big Mac. How are you doing all that in a night? With just what you have? How does that all even happen coincidentally when the girls leave?"

Spike shrugs. "That's what always happens. It wouldn't be fun if it was just us doing some sort of stupid side quest like collecting berries or catching a raccoon. So we just mostly do all the epic stuff."

Mostly do just the epic stuff? What in the fuck is he talking about? Him and Big Mac? Epic Quests and dangerous villains? Then why wasn't he drowning in pussy? Not Spike, he wanted Rarity, This was about Big Mac. But you've never seen anyone but MAYBE Cheerilee and MAYBE Fluttershy show any interest. You doubted there'd ever be another pony interested in him since he is a BG character, But now you were hearing he was a hero. How? Does that mean he gets mare pussy offscreen? What the fuck was Spike saying?

"Ooook. So you and Big Mac just do all this in a night? Really? And nopony else knows about it? And it's all real? Really?"

Spike nodded. "Yup, it's all part of a real amazing thing. That's why I want you in on it, Anon, it'll be a lot more fun with three of us."

....Good God. This couldn't be canon. This couldn't be real. No wonder those Crystal Ponies want his dick. He must secretly go to the Crystal Empire and save them from shit every now and again in someway you didn't know about. Maybe he was beating down G1 villain rejects or something. "Fun...huh..."

But as you thought on it. It made you think. If Spike could do this shit. IF BIG MAC COULD. Then maybe you could too. After getting your ass raped by those snowball tossing foals, you really needed some real action to get the hang of using a single charge on your horn. You had a good thing going against the Flim Flam Brothers, but you still made a mistake. And if you worked as a team. Then, since they seem successful so far, it might not be too dangerous. "You know what...sure, I'd love to get in on this. How do I know when to come?"

"Hard to say actually. I guess the same way Big Mac finds out. Just keep up with your aunt to find out if she and Twilight and everypony are leaving town or going somewhere. Then you can just show up after they leave and we can get started."

Wait? It's as simple as that? "That's it huh? And then what? How do you guys go about getting onto these Epic Quests and stuff?"

"Oh, that's super easy." Spike hops off the table and rests against the broom. Looking at you with a smug cool look. "We just do it."

...Wut...what the fuck is he...what?! That's it?! Does danger just come onto their laps ever....well nevermind. You've got a villain you have to deal with everyday. And seriously? It's not like your time here has been boring or relaxing. Spike could be right. It really could be that simple. "Huh.....ok. I accept. And uhh, when I can, I'll meet you at the next guy's night. I'm really interested in all this heroing stuff you seem to have going."

Spike gives you a huge yet friendly and even yet...smug grin. "Trust me Anon, it's gonna blow your mind."

"I bet, thanks Spike."

"No problem. buuut.." Spike plants the broom back on the ground. "I better get back to cleaning up the castle. I don't want to disappoint Twilight. So, I'll seeya later."

Well, that was pleasant. Nothing went wrong. And now, you're gonna get to do super cool hero things, get some training in, and just..well, you didn't know what your conclusion was right now. But you'd figure it out.

After saying goodbye, you leave the castle. With Sunburst back in your mind. You wondered if you should at least send a letter to Starlight...but dammit no. No. "I'm gonna have to meet that guy face to face again and question him. I realllllyyy wanna know why he just seemed to forget about Starlight like that. It's like he didn't even care." And as you pondered and wandered to Lyra's house. You failed to notice a shadow looming over you. Following you.

"...That guy. I'll give him a hell of a zap if his answer is shiiiIIEEEAATT!" You dive forward and cover your head when you hear a large booming noise from over you. Holy shit, it was so loud. Your ears were ringing as you fought to roll on your back and look up. And when you did...there was a very low hanging storm cloud where you stood. You were breathing hard. That shit almost killed you.

At least, you thought that. Until you heard giggling. Familiar giggling. "R-rainbow Dash?"

But it wasn't familiar enough it seemed.

Scootaloo pops her head out, smiling at you. She was looking down at you from the cloud. "Cloooose, but I'm the next best thing. Heya Anon" Scootaloo giggled. "Whatcha think of my skills?"

Goddammmmmmmmiiiittt! She pranked you. She scared the fuck out of you. "What do I think? Scootaloo...geez, That's pretty messed up. What if you shocked me or something?"

You weren't too happy at all about it. Scootaloo frowned as she gently hopped off the cloud, bucked it into nothingness, and floated to the ground as she glared at you with slight disbelief. She thought you could take a prank. "Geez Anon, it's just thunder. Still..." Scootaloo couldn't hold back another giggle. "I got you pretty good. You didn't notice me at all. Something must really be on your mind, huh?"

Egh....How did she even get up there? Was she using the wings?..No, of course she was. But you didn't like what she did at all. What if she fucked up and killed you? "Yeah, and it's super important. So, why don't you go use your 'skills' somewhere else."

Now Scootaloo felt a little hurt. She didn't mean to upset you that bad. "Anon, come on. It was just a joke. All I was doing was practicing with the wings you got me. I've gotten a really good hang of them. I even managed to time when..." Suddenly, the wings change into cardboard. "They change back. Ehhh...I hate the fact that they always change back though." She looked pretty disappointed. "Yeah...so, I guess that's it then. I kinda wanted to show you something else too. And tell you something important...but...I guess I shouldn't have done that. I really didn't mean to make you angry, Anon. I really was just joking....sorry" She hung her head, feeling bad for what she did. She didn't know you couldn't take a joke.

So..she came alone to show you something? And tell you something? Yeah, where were the other two anyway? ....Mnnn...actually. As you looked at how broken hearted she looked. You actually felt bad. Out of the three, Scootaloo never really was that bad unless Rainbow Dash was involved in some way. And then there was the whole way she pranked you. Would you really be so salty over a prank? That would just make you one of them tumblr autists. Fuck, you didn't want to be one of those guys. She didn't mean any harm.

"...mnnn, Scootaloo, I'm sorry, don't worry about it. I was just..I dunno. I got a..." Time to save face. "Hero stuff on my mind. And stuff about Chrysalis. But, hey. I guess I don't have to really worry about it since things have been going pretty good for me since I got home. So, what did you want to tell me? And er..show me?"

That seemed to perk Scootaloo up some. She looked at you, still a little reluctant. "Oh, well..it's not much really. I just thought since you were a hero like Rainbow Dash. You could see how good I've been training my real wings and tell me how good I'm doing. Rainbow Dash would just tell me I'm doing really great. But sometimes I feel she just doesn't want to tell me the truth because it'd hurt my feelings. B-but" Scootaloo makes an expression of confidence as she pumps at her chest with her leg. "I've been working real hard, and I think I deserve the truth."

Training with her real wings?...Huh...many a viewer would love to see her actually fly..or at least glide. This could be interesting. And she was your friend after all. So why not? "Ok.." You sit down on your ass. "Show me, I'm actually pretty interested."

"YEAH! ok! Watch this! MMMNNNGGRR" Scootaloo starts struggling as her wings start flapping at a ridiculous rate. Like a humming bird. The ground actually reacts with the spread of dust. She then started to float up...and she hovered there. She hovered there as she struggled. It actually impressed you considering how bad she used to be.

But alas, she could only hold it for so long before falling on her belly. But she wasn't sad, she was genuinely happy and excited to hear your evaluation "Twenty whole seconds Anon, how's that? Pretty good huh?"

And that...that's when your heart broke. There's always been moments where Scootaloo had that would shatter many a fan's heart over her flying. But sitting there, watching her try her damndest to fly, and then asking YOU if she was doing good. You couldn't do it, you couldn't tell her that even if it was an improvement. She still wasn't there yet. So, you just give her a bright grin as you nod and say with excitement.

"Wooah Scootaloo, that was super great! Heh, no way I'd ever be able to do something like that if I was a pegasus! Top notch work!"

"Really?" Scootaloo said with a wide smile, she was so happy to hear that. "You really think so?"

You nod. "Yeah, that's a huge improvement over how it was before. You're gonna be flying around and doing Scootabooms in no time."

The poor filly. Dammit, she came here, not really to prank you. But to get your opinion on something. When Scootaloo was with the other two, she, while being the least insufferable, was still annoying. But by herself...maybe she wasn't so bad.

She snickered as she looked back at her wings. "Ahh yeah! I'm gonna be flying with Rainbow Dash in no time! Thanks Anon!" She gave you a huge grin.

...Awwww... "No problem...hey...Scoots...can I call you Scoots?"

"Umm, sure! I don't see why you can't" Scootaloo didn't see it as a bad thing.

"Cool...umm. Why don't you come with me to see some friends? And you can tell me what you wanted to tell me on the way."

"Sure! I don't really got anything to do anyway since Applebloom and Sweetie Belle are training Scrappy. I would be helping too but, ya know, I had my own training to do." So now Scootaloo joins you on your trek to Bonbon and Lyra's.

Scrappy...Training..wut? Hrmm, actually. You did wonder what the current status was on him. Especially since he decided to do some spying in the Crystal Empire.

Scootaloo then says "Anyway, I gotta tell you what Scrappy told us when he got back from his spy mission"

That..was disheartening still. They knew what he did apparently, but had no problem with it. "What is it?"

"Well..." Scootaloo looks around, there were ponies around of course. but she wanted to make sure she wouldn't be heard. So she moved in closer to your ear. "Scrappy said he noticed another changeling somewhere around the Empire. And now Queen Bug Breath wants something done about it."

.......

....

......

WHAT?! "W-what?! N-no! That can't be right! I just asked her if she was planning anything and she told me no!"

Scootaloo raised an eyebrow at you. She honestly couldn't believe it. "And you believed her?"

...

...

...

"....Yes..."

Scootaloo smirks however, and shakes her head. "Anon, you are soooo lucky that this isn't anything to worry about. you'd be in real trouble if this was something major."

Wut?! "Nothing to worry about? Why isn't it anything to worry about?!" YOU JUST SENT A LETTER SAYING IT WOULD BE FUCKING FINE. THEN THIS SHIT HAPPENS!

"Because, Bugbrain is just sending Scrappy to bring the changeling back. Or..I think she is. She hasn't sent him out yet. Apparently she's waiting until morning before she sends him. And even then, she hasn't told him everything either. Apparently she said she needs to fully plan everything out before she actually sends him. And that this Thorax guy won't just make any move either. Which means she has time to fully work something out. I think this might actually be a good thing, Anon. A loose changeling is no joke. And if Scrappy is gonna take care of him. Then that's good...right?" Scootaloo looked to you for confirmation. She really didn't want to hear that it wouldn't be alright.

Wouldn't it though? Or rather. Wouldn't things be fine? If Chrysalis is dealing with a rogue changeling through Scrappy, then...it should be fine. It has nothing to do with that baby, Blurry fart? Hurry Tart?...Nah don't be stupid. It was something close to that though.

Still, another changeling? And it's name is Thorax? What in the fuck is he doing there? And what did he want? You may have thought Scrappy was lying. But it didn't really cross your mind. Scrappy was too dumb and wanting to make them happy by telling the truth to just make that up.

"....I guess I'll have to ask Chrysalis about why she lied to me when I get the chance. And ask her exactly what she might have planned. But I'm just glad it has nothing to do with Cadance's baby. But, mnn… What about that other changeling? How sure was Scrappy that this changeling wouldn't make a move?"

"Ummm, well, he said that Chrysalis was sure he wouldn't try anything at all for a pretty long time. So I guess there's nothing to worry about. Anon, you're gonna go with Scrappy right? If you go with him, then you can make sure nothing goes wrong at all."

"What about school?"

"Forget school, this is super duper important! Scrappy may need help! So you can protect him AND make sure nothing goes wrong. You know, real hero stuff!" She tries to cement this, that this would be hero work.

Real hero work. And she was most likely right. School was boring and you already knew everything you needed. Besides, if you wanted to make sure nothing goes wrong and you don't get sent to the moon by Celestia, then you HAD to go. "You're right. Ok, I'll make sure I join Scrappy tomorrow before he goes to the Empire. I'm still going to question Chrysalis though. I want to know why she lied to me."

"Just remember, she might just lie to you some more. So it might just be best to throw her words away. Just focus on helping Scrappy. You know, something Rainbow Dash would do if she was friends with him." Scootaloo tried to get you pumped up by comparing you to Rainbow Dash in someway. And then she got super excited as she felt the next thing she was gonna say would really excite you. "Oh! Also, check this Anon. Scrappy remembered EVEN more about that other you. And I gotta tell you. What he had to say? Just blew all our minds. It's super crazy stuff."

Super crazy stuff? About this other you? Your curiosity is piqued. "....Tell me everything."

"Ok, so...get this. Because this is the most amazing thing about him. Are you ready Anon? Because, let me tell you. No one saw this coming" Scootaloo tries to get you hyped for the answer. But all it did was annoy you.

"Come on, don't stall. I reeaaalllyy wanna know what Scrappy had to say."

"Ok ok, so..get this." Scootaloo makes a regal pose as she speaks. "The other you is...A PRINCE!"

.......

...

That didn't register in your brain. It didn't register so hard that you started cackling. "Ahahaha..a what?!"

"A prince. Why are you laughing? This is pretty big stuff." Scootaloo says, feeling a little insulted that you were laughing.

"A Prince? Ohhh come on Scootaloo, the guy was obviously messing with him. There's nooooo way that's true. If it's another me. Then he's gotta be related to Discord in some way. What is he even a prince of?"

"Equestria....Why would Scrappy lie?" Scootaloo didn't much like that you were accusing such a cute and innocent bug as a liar.

You started busting a gut. No fucking way. Nooooooope. "Hahaha! Seriously? What?! Cooome on Scoots! He was tricked, how could he possibly believe it?"

"Because, he also remembers tasting the guy's love. He tasted a TON of Princess Celestia and Princess Luna, and a lot of bat for some reason too. He had a lot of love for them. And a lot of their love was still in him. He said he could definitely remember Princess Celestia's due the taste he got at the wedding. How are you going to refute that, huh?" Scootaloo was now annoyed with you. She thought you'd be more cool about it.

"By...." Wait....Suddenly, you stop dead as your heart runs cold. A Prince? That means he'd have to be Celestia or Luna's kid...or from what it sounded like...He was both. I-is that why the window led to the castle? And then there was… "Woah...ummm..Scoots. What do you mean by 'A bat'?" ...Holy shit. Not the same bat that mistook you for that other guy..right?

"You believe it now?" Scoots asks you before answering.

"M-maybe, just tell me by what he meant by the bat."

"Well.." Scootaloo thought back to the conversation. "There wasn't much to talk about when it came to the bat thing. Well, bat pony actually. Scrappy said given all the love that came off that other guy, he must have been loved and considered like, super special. He said that the kind of love he tasted was things like cuddles, hugs, and protective mother type of things. And lots of hope too. I don't think the bat had anything to do with the mother thing though. But I guess that explains why the guy was so nice to him despite using that taser thing. I guess Scrappy really did try to attack him for that whole honor thing."

Scootaloo continued “Oh, and then something creepy happened. Sweetie Belle was all like 'oh, he actually sounds kind of dreamy'. Ehh, after that whole thing with you, Applebloom, and Diamond Tiara, that was the last thing I wanted to hear. All this special somepony stuff is kinda getting out of hoof anyway. But yeah, that's what he said. Pretty crazy right?" Scootaloo may have said a mouthful. But you were utterly stunned as you slowly started to process the information in your head.

The bat mistook you for him. She did mention something about you mentioning the Princesses in the wrong fashion. Then...there was those mechano hands and the taser. There was no way Scrappy could know about the bat. And he didn't, but he tasted bat pony. You SAW bat pony. And then all that love..ALL THAT LOVE....that fuck. The guy...no.

"Anon..a-are you ok? Some of your mane just turned white." Scootaloo was now worried for you as you were lost in the void of your mind.

The niceness this guy had. His relation to the princesses. Sweetie Belle's stupid fucking reaction. The bat..THE FUCKING BAT. And the cuddles and snuggles. Did that mean?

Fucking...that means the guy is more of a prodigy than you are. The fucker got a ride on easy street because for some INSANE reason, The princesses must have wanted a kid. And then those hands, and the taser. No, how could this other you be so smart as to build that kind of shit? Hell, you even started to remember that radio that bat filly had. The guy was some super smart princely goody two shoes.

But then, why did he step into this dimension?....Oh..no..it meant it was true. The fucker came to avenge a stupid silly kiss you gave to the bat filly. That had to be it...she called you a Changeling. Scrappy is a changeling. He must have mistook him for you. Classic cliche dimensional misunderstandings, like that episode of Futurama or Negaduck from Darkwing Duck.

Goddammit Luna, you fucking liar. Her alternate self seemed to treat that guy like a plush cuddly kid. She just had to if the little bug could taste it that clearly. All you wanted was to live a nice life in Equestria. Being loved, getting cuddles, getting a mare to fuck and snuggle with, and live happily ever after. And instead some fucking princely fuck got it while you stress yourself with a bug queen who doesn't seem to be learning anything. A chaos spirit who fucks with you every now again. Two princesses who distrust you, and the fucking CMC. At least there was Fluttershy and Starlight Glimmer, the best of the fucking best. Lyra and Bon Bon were pretty good too.

You were shaking with anger. You were defeated before you could even make your next move. You couldn't touch this guy without inciting some sort of royal wrath. Your eyes twitched, your hooves shook, your face red with anger, your mane becoming more disheveled by sheer will.

You lost...

You lost what you deserved to some alternative little fuck who, if he was truly another you, was laughing at you right this instant. Laughing from his throne as he cuddled with his mothers. And if Discord said was true. Then it was another Discord that must have brought him in. But to help the sisters? Nah, that wasn't important. What was important was him. Him having everything over you. What did you even do that was so wrong? You did your best. You helped ponies. You REFORMED ponies. You saved a world. And yet, that guy didn't have to work for shit. And LUNA, ooooohhhhh...OHHHHHH. She was going to get a talking to, because you would have HAPPILY hung out with them for a week before they became all serious and disapproving. Maybe then they would have seen how good you are before they came to their little conclusion.

Fuck that other Anon, just by existing he was making a mockery of your own life. And what was his problem? You kissed his girl? So fucking what? The bitch was a yandere as fuck bat that tried to kill you the moment she thought you were a changeling. Pretty close to Twilight's shit conclusions you'd say.

But wait… Suddenly, your lips curl into a wicked smile. The fuck hasn't exactly completed his revenge yet. You still had that. Meaning, if he came back to try to beat you. He'd have broken the rules. And then...you'd have three charges. Not just to beat him. But to utterly wreck him and show him EXACTLY why you're the better, kinder, more heroic pony. With a superior mind that, while you can't build mechanical shit, know Equestria inside and out. You can even predict convoluted cartoon plots from start to finish. Ohhh...yes....

You started chuckling. Then laughing maniacally. "OHH YEAH! JUST WATCH, I'M GONNA HAVE THE LAST LAUGH! HAHAHAHAHA"

"A-Anon? A-are you ok? W-what's wrong? Last laugh about what? What happened to you?" You stop your maniacal laughter when you realize Scootaloo was still there. And she looked very worried about you.

"Huh? Oh..Umm..geez" You brush back your mane as the strands that turned white fall to the ground. You then give Scootaloo a pleasant smile, which still comes across as creepy. "I was just...remembering something silly."

Scootaloo was now acting wary with caution. She's never seen you act so weird. "Silly? Why? We were just talking about what Scrappy said and you just..." She just juts her hoof out with a "pfft" sound from her lips. "...Gone...W-what's wrong?...really. You can tell me, was there something you remembered? Why did you say 'Last Laugh'? That almost sounds..like a villain thing" She was now worrying herself as she contemplated on why you had just...acted so off.

And you took notice of that. You couldn't let Scootaloo worry. This was your fight. And you didn't need ANY CMC getting in the middle of it. Especially any CMC that would take that fucker's side. "I'm just weird sometimes. But Scoots, what you had to say, I believe every word of it now. Sorry for mistrusting you and Scrappy earlier. Just, I guess after getting fooled by Chrysalis, I may have just...y'know.." You do the same motion Scootaloo did with your hoof. "Pfft!...gone. All that stress...y'know?"

Scootaloo started to calm herself after you said that. It made sense, at least to her. Even if it was a lie, she believed you. And sighed in relief. "Yeah that makes sense. Geez Anon, you really work hard, just like Rainbow Dash. I can't imagine how it's like dealing with that stupid bug queen everyday. Always gotta figure out when she's lying. And she probably does it a lot while still saying you're her friend, huh?" Scootaloo remarks as you both continue your trek to Lyra and Bonbon's.

"Yeah...you got that right. But I can handle it. I can handle a lot of things."

Boy...could you.

For now, you'd wait. You couldn't let yourself get lost in too much thought about that guy. You needed to relax until you could get alone to recollect your thoughts. For now, you'd relax with your friends. And then go question Chrysalis. You'd have to come up with a way to say you distrust her words without letting out that you knew all along thanks to Scootaloo and Scrappy. As for Luna, you were going to be sure to raise those questions to her again now that you know she bullshitted you. How dare she?

You slowly started to regain your grip.You didn't want to seem insane in front of your friends. Scootaloo included. She was pretty cool on her own. If things continue how they are going. You may have no reason to actually find her annoying. Hell, she's even capable of being useful. A very big plus.

And as for the grand scheme of things. You still had Flutter cuddles, you still had a little mare to woo and love, you still had friends to protect, and as far as Starlight is concerned, a mission to find out why her life was ruined by that bastard Sunburst. Yeah, you were Anon. Hero Colt and all around good guy. If Equestria ever was in real danger, you'd save it just like you saved that other future. the Crystalling? It a fluke.

Everything will be fine.

Everything will be-

"Anon? Are really sure you're ok?" Scootaloo asked.

"Yeah..why?"

"Because that flower pot landed on your head like ten seconds ago and you didn't even flinch at it" She pointed to your head. "I don't even know where it came from"

"Huh?" GODDAMMIT! You quickly brush the dirt and clay off. "I-it's part of my hero training. Toughness training. Y'know...t-to show that I can't be stopped."

Scootaloo narrowed her eyes at you. "By flower pots?"

You grinned nervously at her. "...Yes"

"..........Ok then. I mean, I can't think of a time we'd ever get attacked by flower pots. But you have to be prepared for anything..I guess..." Then Scootaloo mumbled under her breath. That was too much for her to even take. "weeeirrddd".

And so you both continued the trek to Lyra's house.

In your mind, you couldn't even believe why he'd be considered lovable, the other you that is. The guy was gonna taze you and possibly beat the shit out of you because you kissed his girl AFTER she went all crazy on you. It wasn't your fault she didn't let you escape in the first place. In fact, it could very well be similar to Sunburst, at least in your mind. A fucking shit of a person who betrayed their friend and then ends up with royalty due to some ridiculous circumstances. He must have betrayed his Discord.

There's also Sunburst....that shit. He'll pay, for sure.

What a fucking mess. Other Anon and Sunburst, two little fucks who have the admiration of royalty despite being little shits. Meanwhile you're trying to reform a major villain and you're getting shit on. What a ridiculous joke.

"Anon?...Are you ok?" Scootaloo asks, still worried about you. Snapping out of your daze.

"W-wha?...ahh, sorry Scoots. Kinda just zoned out"

"Anon, are you sure. Really really sure that you're ok? I don't know if it's all training or stress or both. But you don't really have it together right now. Maybe you should go take a nap."

Dammit, you didn't need a nap. Just relax, Anon. you must be looking pretty retarded right now. "Nah, just deep into thought. I have a lot on my mind Scoots. Everyday is a new challenge for me."

"Yeah...it looks that way. Anon, can I ask you a personal question?" Scootaloo's expression, she was looking at you with concern and curiosity

"Personal?...Umm, yeah sure I guess." At first you suddenly thought she'd ask about your true origins. But nah, there was already a set in past. She couldn't know about your human side. Dammit, just let your mind ease up Anon, you're letting this new info get to you.

"Well, ummm, how do I put this?...uhh..Well. How do you handle everything? I mean, you're Discord's kid, but you seem totally ok around him, which is weird because he treats anypony not Fluttershy like we're all dog dirt. You have bug breath in your basement. And she can't be fun. And yet you're trying to reform her. I don't even think Twilight would try that. Then there's all the heroic stuff you do. Like when Sweetie Belle told us when you saved that entire other dimension. It's all so cool, I mean..you didn't save the world as many times as Rainbow Dash did but..It's still mega cool. That's why I'm asking how you can handle it. To me...well" Scootaloo looks down, she's feeling bad about something all of a sudden..but what?

"What? What's wrong?"

"Well, I mean. I'm not innocent either..About your stress I mean. I gave you that trouble with that whole fan club war thing. So I guess I feel really bad about all the trouble we gave you, calling you high and mighty and stuff. You didn't really deserve it, at least, I don't think so. " Scootaloo looks around and moves in close to you to whisper in your ear. "Don't tell anypony, but even though I wanna join the Wonderbolts too and hang out with Rainbow Dash and be like her and stuff....I'd be scared to do all the stuff you're doing right now."

....She what? Well, you knew they were sorry before. But it didn't really feel too heartfelt to you that time. But now? Here was Scoots telling you, on her own, that she was not only sorry, but that she'd never be able to do what you do.

...she actually appreciated what you do. For some reason, a tear comes out of your eyes. "Scoots, do you really mean all that?"

Scootaloo nods, feeling embarrassed about what she admitted. "Yeah, I screw up sometimes at trying to be brave and stuff. I mean, I am pretty brave..but..well...I guess not brave enough to deal with your dad or Chrysalis. That's why I am really REALLY sorry about anything I did to make things harder on you, especially anything with Scrappy. We're trying to help you, I mean that. But I guess we didn't consider how much you do compared to what we do. Does that make sense? Because, umm..Look, let me make it simple. I'm sorry, especially about anything I've done." Scootaloo was having a hard time keeping it simple. But that was enough.

You rushed up and gave the caramel pony a hug. "..Scoots, thanks, no..really..thanks. You took a load off my mind."

She did, all this time you felt all three of the CMC were just bagging on you. Even after they apologized, you felt the way they inserted themselves into your plans was beyond annoying. But now you saw, at least with Scoots, that they..or maybe just she...was trying to help without wanting to cause you any trouble. And to be your friend while trying to understand your stress. You could.....you could do with that. You were fine with that..

Scootaloo felt a little awkward, she didn't expect this reaction, but she pats your back anyway before you pull away with a smile on your face. "Y-you're welcome Anon"

You felt a warmth in your heart. A warmth you hadn't felt in awhile, well, not since you last snuggled with Fluttershy. And that warmth? Someone in town who was understanding of your strife. And it just so happened to be a Cutie Mark Crusader. How grand. "Well, Scoots, it's...not all bad. You don't have to be TOO sorry. I mean.." You give her a smug smirk as you fiddle with your horn. "I got this from Dad himself, it helps ease the stress since it's a once a day super magic horn."

Scootaloo gazed at the horn, and moved her hoof to tap it, she then looks at you with even more curiousness. "Yeah, I guess it would make things easier. Oh! What super cool things have you used it for lately? Anything super heroic?"

"Have I, just..." Wait..no..just today you snowballed your own ass. "Just...before I came back to this dimension. I used it to defeat the evil king versions of Flim and Flam."

Scootaloo seemed a bit skeptical about that however, she didn't know all the details. "Really? I mean, that’s neat. But it's Flim and Flam. How tough could they be?"

"Oh, trust me Scoots. They had the entire world at their disposal. They made a giant mech with the Alicorn Amulet at its core. Very scary stuff, it was made of metal that was resistant to ALL kinds of magic. I created this punch ghost thing to pummel the living Tartarus out of it, like...a million hits a second."

"Woah..That sounds AWESOME! I don't even think Rainbow Dash can buck that fast! I just have one question." Scootaloo was super impressed.

"What's that?"

".....What's a mech?" Ahh, cute pony ignorance, her head tilt made it all the more adorable. You liked it.

"A mech is a giant machine that can move and attack and stuff. Like...Imagine if a Minotaur was made of metal, huge, and had a pony on the inside controlling it. Now imagine it shooting things like darts, rockets, and having drills for hands."

".......Woah. That sounds super dangerous. You beat that kind of thing?"

You nod with a smirk. "Yuuuup"

"Wooww...." Scootaloo looked super impressed...and yet. "That's almost as cool as the time Rainbow Dash defeated Tirek with Twilight and the others. I saw her in the distance using this Rainbow Power thing. Super rad!"

......Goddammit Scoots. And yet, you couldn't be mad. Not at her for some reason. You knew her character, nobody was EVER going to take RD's place on her mantle. "Almost" was as close as you'd get with her.

"Oh! Speaking of Rainbow Dash. Was there a Rainbow Dash in that other Equestria place?" Her eyes grew big when she asked this question, she was super excited and giddy for the answer.

"Oh, yeah actually."

"I knew it! Was she the same? Was she different? How was she like?" Scootaloo was bouncing about, wanting to hear the answer.

"She was the chief of police of the...that version of Ponyville."

Scootaloo immediately stopped hopping as she cringed. "Ooohhhhhh...geez, not even the leader of the Wonderbolts? I don't even think we have a chief of police. Which means...ogh...Did she work for those dumb cheating ponies or something?"

You nodded. "Yeah, but she didn't actually like it. She..did sort of help out though. She got me to a few places I needed to go."

"..Ehhh...That's ok I guess, So uhh....Was I there?" She asked

"Probably, but I never ran into you. Sorry."

"..That's probably good." She shuddered. "I don't wanna know how I was like there anyway."

That made you giggle, that type of reaction was cute. Hell, you were quickly forgetting your troubles with Scoots around. They were still there of course, but that other Anon guy? You'd just have to wait...but oh boy, once he comes for that revenge...he'll be the one who's done.

No, for now...it was time to knock on Lyra's door. "Welp, we're here"

Chapter 280

You go up and knock on the door. "I hope Lyra is home." ....with Bonbon, that'd make it better.

It didn't take long for the door to open. But instead of Lyra, Bonbon is the one to answer the door. SCORE, it means Lyra was definitely around.

Bonbon, the moment she sees you and Scoots, smiles, finding it a pleasant surprise. "Well well, long time no see Anon. How have you been?"

"I've been alright. Things have been things. Lots of crazy stuff, ya know how it is. How about you? Is Lyra around?"

Bonbon could only guess on what you meant considering what you've done with your horn. But she doesn't put too much thought into it. "Oh, she's in her living room. We're setting up a telescope she bought from Canterlot so we can go stargazing. We're almost done, do you and Scootaloo want to help us out?" Bonbon had noticed Scootaloo, but how did she know her enough to just casually say her name?

She did think however, that she was here with you to visit. Hence acting so casual.

"Hey, that sounds pretty cool. I wanna help out, I need the practice anyway. It's just like putting a scooter together right?" Scootaloo seemed pretty happy to get to work and socialize. She too not surprised by how casually Bonbon acknowledged her. Darn Ponies...that'd never be a thing on earth.

"Right." Bonbon nods as she steps aside to let you both in.

But as Scoots steps in...you had to ask. "Wait, you know Scootaloo?"

Bonbon shrugs "Sort of. It's a small town, Anon. Everypony knows everypony else's name. And when you have Pinkie Pie around throwing parties for everypony every other day? Yeah, you tend to learn pretty quick. So, with that said, have you really been ok?....." She leans in and whispers. "Considering your bug problem?"

Your eyes go wide...DA FUCK?! "...You know? H-how?"

"It's my business to know, Anon. Don't worry, nopony else knows. But next time there's a very strange puppy attack, you might want to make sure to cover it up better. I know about your sister, I know about the Crusaders knowing, and that's it. I know Princess Celestia knows. But she's asked me to stay out of it."

..G-goddammit. "...oh..I-I see. Agent stuff then?"

Bonbon nods. "Mhmmm, so...Keeping it together?"

....Shit...how much does she actually know? "Yeah, it's tough sometimes. But, ya know, I can handle it....ummm..so...what else do you know?"

"Only that...why? Is there something else?" She looks at you with suspicion...FUCK

"...uhm, would you accept 'need to know" basis'" You give her a great big fake grin.

She just raises an eyebrow, but nods and turns to walk inside. "I understand confidentiality, Anon. So, let's just drop the subject, ok? I need to check on Lyra anyway bec-" She stops herself when she sees the telescope's viewfinder discarded on the ground.

You look forward as you followed Bonbon. You can see Lyra and Scootaloo happily inspecting and tightening screws in the telescope while putting on the big lens at the end.

"Is it on right?" Scootaloo asked as she taps at the end of the telescope. She had to lower it to her level just to view it.

"I think so?" Lyra giggles. "I feel kinda silly. I bought this thing and I don't even really know how to get it all together. This is more of a Bonbon thing and- Oh hey, there you both are." Lyra looked to the both of you and waved.

"Heya Lyra! Heard you were making a telescope. Looks like it's almost done" It did look rather complete, if a little tilted

"Yeah, almost. I need to put the smaller lens on the other end. But that's a little tough because there's all these knobs I need to figure out how to get in. And there's this slot right here on the end of the telescope. I just can't figure out what it's for. It looks like a weird cup holder." Lyra points to where...the viewfinder should go

Bonbon rolls her eyes with a smirk on her face as she stares at Lyra with a snarky grin "...or it may be for this" She takes and holds the viewfinder towards Lyra.

"That? Oh Bonbon, we don't need that. That's why we have the telescope" Lyra giggles as she dismisses the object.

"Actually Lyra, that's the viewfinder. You use that to find where you want to point the telescope at. You just attach it there and look at what you want to look at, then look into the telescope" Scootaloo actually lectures her on it. Then again, everyone should know what it fucking does at this point. Good thing Lyra was cute about it. Because..damn.

"Huh? But...why not just point with the telescope?" It was clear Lyra had never used one before. "I did it all the time as a foal" Or used one properly.

Bonbon laughed as she walked over and went to work to attaching the viewfinder. "Lyra, you silly filly, the telescope looks at things very closely. So it actually makes it harder to find what you're looking for with it since you have to be precise. This let's us point at what we want to look at by having less of a zoom. And after we pinpoint the star or the moon with it, we look through the main lens. Easy peasy."

"Oooooooh! Now I get it. I guess I should have read the instructions a little closer, huh?" Lyra giggles a little embarrassingly as she rubs the back of her head.

"It's fine, I just want to get it ready for tonight. This is a pretty high quality telescope Lyra. Are you sure this was a smart buy?" Bonbon got a little concerned as she looked over the telescope and tapped it a few times.

"Oh no, it's fine. I had been saving up for something for us to do this whole time. Then I saw the telescope and thought 'STAR GAZING!'. No price is too big when it comes to our friendship!" Lyra exclaimed....aww. Dammit, you forgot how strong a bond these two shared. Hanging with Chrysalis for so long. You forgot these kinds of things.

You didn't even bother thinking how much Bonbon knew about you at this point either. It should be fine.

"Wow, so do you two do everything together?" Scootaloo asked, impressed with their bond.

Bonbon nods. "Just about, Lyra and I are very good friends. There's a lot of things we do that just wouldn't be any fun by ourselves. And trust me, it's A LOT of things."

It's weird. You had a weird feeling in your stomach when she said that. They were so close, a real friendship, something you forgot that you truly had. You looked at your closest friends. Who defaulted to Discord and Chrysalis and Starlight.

Discord, he was a good guy deep inside. For him, you kinda wish...yeah..that he was more dad like. Or just, maybe just going out and doing some normal things together without an ulterior motive.

Chrysalis, she says she's your friend. But, is it true? Maybe, but you had this feeling that there was a truth to her wanting you on her side. Like an odd obsession. But she lies, she cheats, she manipulates. But, in the end, you wouldn't be standing here without her. She saved your life.

And Starlight, the most normal of the three. You actually would like to get closer. She was nice, sweet, and...yeah, she needed a friend. But the distance...If only she lived in Ponyville. But her town needed her.

The rest? Well, Fluttershy was your "Aunt", which already makes her super close. You dearly appreciated her love, and sometimes...you wish you really were her nephew. With none of the bullshit attached.

The CMC, welp. Scootaloo has slowly been climbing that ladder.

Lyra and Bonbon. Pretty cool casual friends. Need to visit more.

Everyone else wasn't as close.

And the Princesses? Yeah, they were basically monkeys on your back now. You had to watch out for them.

"So, can we go stargazing with you guys? Make this twosome a foursome?" Haha...they will never get the double meaning.

"Hey, that sounds like a great idea!" Lyra smiled as she poked at the viewfinder. "Doesn't it, Bonbon?"

But Bonbon let's out a lamentable sigh "You know we can't, Lyra, I don't mind but, you know, they do have school tomorrow. I doubt their parents...Well, at least Scootaloo's parents would let us have her tag along tonight"

Lyra's ears droop as she frowns. "Awwww, I thought it would have been cute. Have either of you ever gone late night star gazing? When the moon is right above us. It's well...it's just perfect."

You never went stargazing period. "No, I never even gone stargazing before."

"I have, but not that late.....awww" Scootaloo looks down, she wanted to try late night gazing "Late night stargazing actually sounds pretty cool. I bet the stars get really bright when it's that late."

"Well..." Lyra starts to think it over "It's not like I won't have the telescope after today. If you both get permission for when you have a day off of school. We can set up a night where we just eat popcorn and gaze at the stars."

"That sounds pretty cool. I gotta see if I can get Rainbow Dash to join in. Then it'll really be a star gazing party!" Scootaloo said with excitement.

You know, you liked her ignorant and adorable nature. She clearly was the best out of the CMC as well.

Still, RD being there was kinda eh. "I mean, I'm for it" You lie.

"Well, we'll have to see. Lyra, you know I have to have a day free myself if we're going to have a get together" Bonbon explains to her.

Lyra gives her a grin as she wiggles her eyebrows at her. "Are you saying you wouldn't have a free night to spend with your bestie best friend?"

Bonbon then gave her own smug grin back. "You know I always have a free night when it comes to you."

....And yet they don't fuck.

"Then it's settled. Next night you both have off, you should definitely come for a visit." Lyra says as she finished the final touches on the telescope. ".....Aannndd done! Woo! You two should have come when we got started, we would have finished a lot sooner then. Then again..." You all hear a ding go off in the kitchen. Which makes Lyra grin big as she licks her lips. "We would have been done wayyy too early for some apple pie. You both eat apple pie right? It's got a little extra sweeeetnesssss" She tempts the both of you. Which was pretty easy, pie is fucking awesome!

You and Scootaloo agree to some pie.

Lyra heads into the kitchen and quickly comes back with the pie. It had steam coming from the top. It smelled good! And damn...magic sure is convenient. It just floated ahead of her. No need for gloves.

Lyra set it up on a small table she prepared mostly for just her and Bonbon. There were two plates and a knife for cutting, and it seemed Lyra was giving up the plates to you and Scootaloo. She cut the pie into four pieces, you and Scootaloo getting smaller pieces as she sets them on the plates and magically brings them towards the both of you. You both sit on your plots and take the plates and start blowing on the pies.

Well..not you..you just bit right in. You could take it! "Agh! HOT! HOT!"...or not

"Anon!" Lyra exclaimed. "Of course it's hot, it just came out of the oven! Oh geez, maybe I should have warned you first. Didn't think you'd just bite in like that......it's good, huh?" The table also had a pitcher of water and two glasses as well. She fills a glass with water and puts it beside you. You drink from it immediately and start rubbing at your tongue as Scootaloo giggles.

"...eyyhhh...." Your poor tongue. "Y-yeah..it's really good..." It really was. The fragrance of apple, that sweet taste...if only it didn't burn.

"Anon, you're funny sometimes, Y'know? Sometimes I think you do that kind of stuff on purpose just to get a laugh out of everypony." Scootaloo chuckles as she blows on her pie.

On purpose?!...On purpose...well....dammit...fuck. Was it really that silly? It must have looked silly, burning your tongue like that. What the fuck were you thinking? "Uhm..I guess sometimes. Yeah, I mean." You give a smirk, yet there was no confidence behind it. "Nopony would REALLY be dumb enough to just bite into freshly baked pie."

Lyra giggles. "Yeah, you could feel how hot it is just from having it close to your face." Lyra lifts her piece with her magic and brings it close to her nose and takes a whiff, her smile becoming a little drunken from the fragrance. "Sooooo goooood." She blows at the end a couple of time and takes a small bite.

Bonbon was the only one looking at you as if you were full of shit, but she didn't comment on it. Instead, she took her piece onto her hoof and bit down on a huge chunk of it without even blowing. Not a hint of pain on her face as she chews and swallows. She looked pretty smug about it too. "Luckily for me, I've dealt with so many different conditions in my life that a little heat doesn't bother me at all."

Scootaloo was blown away by that. "W-what?! Wooah! Isn't that burning your throat or something? How did you do that?!"

"I'm fine, as for why it's not burning? Let's just say I've had to get used to swallowing a lot of things at a lot of different temperatures. Warm pie is nothing to me." Bonbon said as she proudly stood, taking another bite.

"And that's one of the reasons you're so amazing Bonbon, Nopony else can eat pie like you can" Lyra cheered.

"Oh come on Lyra, it's not that amazing. Besides, I think Pinkie Pie has me beat anyway. I've seen her down like three pies in one go. ALL fresh out of the oven." Bonbon sounded humble, but she still felt damned proud.

"Yeah, but Pinkie Pie is a weird kinda cool about stuff like that" Scootaloo explains. "It's scary sometimes, especially how you can swear she was in front of you...and then she's behind you...and then above you. Sometimes a rumor goes around that she's actually a ghost or an alicorn in disguise, but I don't buy it. It's just Pinkie being Pinkie." Scootaloo then blows and takes another bite.

Both Lyra and Bonbon have a laugh at that. You didn't see what was so funny though.

"A ghost?" Lyra giggled.

"An Alicorn? Foals these days have really active imaginations" Bonbon notes.

"Well...umm" Scootaloo felt a little insulted. Bonbon's comment may have been in general. But she felt it pointed at herself as well. "I mean...Twilight used to be a unicorn, then BAM" She finishes off the rest of the pie and swallows. "Alicorn. You never know, how can you know? Anything can happen in Equestria. I mean....one day I could save the world and stuff.....Like Rainbow Dash. Heck, I could probably become an Alicorn if I tried." Scootaloo was now projecting. Poor girl. She over thought it.

But Lyra just agreed with her like it was nothing "Well of course you can, on both counts. Look at Anon, a few days in Ponyville and he became the 'Hero Colt'. I bet we'll be calling you Super Scootaloo or something in just a couple of moons if you keep up that attitude"

"Super Scootaloo? Or maybe just Super Scoots...yeah...That sounds pretty cool" Scootaloo pondered. "I'd need a new cape though"

"A cape? That sounds pretty neat. Anon, why don't you have a cape?" Lyra asks with genuine curiosity.

"What? pffft, c'mon. I don't need a cape. I'm the HERO COLT!" You jump and stand in a prideful position. "I have like, just this aura that just comes off as heroic."

"...I dunno, you'd be cooler with a cape." Lyra couldn't see it, she really thought the cape would add on to your "heroness"

"I dunno, Lyra. I mean, I think I'd look cool with a cape. But Anon is just keeping it old school. You know, like how the princesses don't have capes, or Twilight, or Rainbow Dash. I mean, if we wanna go into comics. Heroes like Filli-second don't have capes either. It just depends on the circumstances and who you are. If you're brave in here.." Scootaloo points to her chest. "Then it doesn't matter who you are or what you look like. That's something Twilight taught me once. That's why Anon is so brave, it's his good heart that makes it happen."

"Aww...thanks Scoots. And yeah, she's right...I mean check these moves" You perform your near trademarked Shoryuken and actually, for once, land gracefully on your hooves. Yeah! You got it this time! "Yeeeeah! It wouldn't even look that cool if I had a cape. Bandanna maybe, but no cape."

"That move, Anon...you do realize if you miss with that hit that you leave yourself open for a buck, right? Or worse if you're facing say...a griffon" Bonbon analyzes your Shoryuken. It seemed useless to her.

"What? I mean..yeah. But that's why you don't miss."

"Yes, but the power you have in a single hoof from a jump like that is negligible compared to say...a buck to the face or a jumping stomp or even the basic flurry jabs of the front hooves." Bonbon explains.

".......Huh...um. Well...umm..." Dammit, really? It's useless?

"Ohhhhh...come on Bonbon. Don't go hurting his feelings now." Lyra felt bad for you, she knew Bonbon would know what moves work and which don't, considering her position. "I think it could work. It looks cool at least"

"I'm just saying it could backfire." Bonbon was being truthful. And thinking about it. She may be right, especially since you were so small. The Shoryuken never actually worked on anyone unless fueled by magic....ugh...

"....I guess..." You say in a miserable tone

"C'mon Anon..." Scootaloo noticed how discouraged you felt. And tried to cheer you up. "It's just one move, I'm sure all your other moves work. I even bet you have a move that always works!"

...At first you couldn't think of anything. But then… Riiiight...hitting them in the nuts always worked....you had that, but maybe you shouldn't mention it. "M-maybe, but I guess my best asset is how I used the horn."

"Agreed, considering how you stopped those foalnappers and griffons. I'd say you have a good handle on it, so don't worry" Bonbon gives you a gentle love tap with her hoof. "You're still amazing, you just have one bad move"

...Well...at least you were amazing. Oh come on, Anon, stop being a little bitch. "Thanks Bonbon, y'know? You're right, I've done a lot of cool things. One bad move doesn't make a difference."

"Yup, I mean you wouldn't have gotten a cute marefriend like Scootaloo if you were just y'know, not that great." Lyra giggles.

...WUT?!

"WHAT?! I'M NOT HIS MAREFRIEND!" Scootaloo gags

"W-what even..WHAT EVEN GAVE YOU THAT IDEA?!" Holy fucking christ!

"Oh.." Lyra was taken aback in surprise. "I just though since you two were together right now. That....y'know."

Bonbon giggles "No Lyra, I know it's been awhile. But he's still with Filthy Rich's daughter"

"OHHH! Is that still going on?" Lyra snickers as she looks at you with a sultry look. "Well Well, color me surprised. I thought that was gonna last a week. You know how relationships with rich ponies go. Good job Anon, you must have actually won her heart." Lyra hops over towards you and gives you a few gentle jabs in the chest "Don't go being a dad so soon."

"Lyra!" Bonbon scolds at her.

Lyra giggles. "Sorry, just seemed cute and weird to me"

Oh good lord. Pull it together Anon, it was just friendly banter. Then again, Scootaloo looked as irked as you were. But she was still on the "Being your marefriend" thing.

No seriously, when you gave her an encouraging smile, her face turned green. Was she THAT not into you? Or did just the mention just gross her out? No, she felt like explaining it at least "Look, let me get this out there. Anon is cool and all. But even if he didn't have a marefriend, I wouldn't date him. I'm WAY to focused on getting better at flying and learning from Rainbow Dash for relationship stuff"

Aww, that warmed your heart. You were "Cool".

The rest of the visit went along a little more normally. You all talked about recent activities. Though no mention of the Empire or bugbutt was mentioned. Scootaloo got applause for giving her reasons to being like Rainbow Dash, which included being able to help and save anypony with lightning speed and such. And Lyra and Bonbon decided to go on about a vacation to Las Pegasus they were planning. It was all kinda nice.

Yeah, you felt at ease. No stress, you were smiling, you were among friends. You could be....yourself, in a sense anyway. At the end of the visit, you all gave hugs and promises were made to meet again soon. But as Scootaloo and you were stepping out the door, Bonbon stopped you, and pulled you aside, asking Scootaloo to let you two have a private moment. She agreed, but didn't understand why.

"...Anon, before you go. I need to ask, are you sure you know what you're doing? Do you understand how much everypony would just want the changelings to be gone for good?" Bonbon gives you a serious look. Even she couldn't understand your motives.

You sigh, dammit. You CAN handle this. You know it. You didn't need Celestia or even Bonbon questioning it. "I'm sure. Trust me, I know that it can be done and even then, she's mostly contained by my dad. We've actually connected, heck, we went on an adventure and saved the world once."

"....Hmm..." Bonbon looked deeply into your eyes, she was checking for any sign of lying. To her surprise, there was none. And then she was further perplexed by those words. "Saved the world?...Seriously?"

"It's a long story, if we get another time alone, I'll tell you abo-"

Lyra pokes her head around the corner with a smile "Hey, you're still here? Ohhh...are you both talking about the changeling thing?"

..........

"YOU TOLD HER?!"

Bonbon actually felt nervous about that. And turned her head away while still acting serious. "She's my bestie, I couldn't not tell her."

"...oh" Lyra's own sheepishness was apparent however. "I mean, Anon, I'm not going to tell anypony. I-it's just...well...what Bonbon said. And besides, now that we both know. If you ever need a place to just relax and collect your thoughts, you have us. I can't imagine how scary and stressful it is being around somepony like that all the time....sorry if you're mad" Lyra frowned, she didn't mean to cause any trouble. Neither did Bonbon.

...Well, you couldn't be mad, could you? You could trust them, right? The CMC seemed to be doing a good job with the secret. And looking at that adorable frown, how could you be mad? Lyra and Bonbon had never ONCE been terrible or annoying towards you. It wasn't like they were fucking Sunburst. "....No, nah. You guys aren't trouble. I actually really appreciate it. But we could have talked about that too during the visit you know. Scootaloo knows about it already. It...maybe could have been interesting"

"We know, but we can't talk about it because, Well...I have my secret too. So just blurting it out would raise some questions." Bonbon explains as she puts a hoof gently on your head and rubs "Anon, you're an amazing colt for doing what you're doing. But don't overdo it. Queen Chrysalis is dangerous and not to be trusted. Don't let her have her way, alright?"

You knew all this. And for sure...you felt you'd be fine. "I got it, trust me. And..thanks again. You guys are true blue friends. Thanks for being friends with this crazy little colt."

Lyra giggles. "Hey, we couldn't let you be sad all that time ago. Didn't think it'd turn into a friendship like this. But hey, weirder things have happened."

...Aww. You give them both a hug again. And leave on your way with Scootaloo. She asks you what that was about. But...you do lie. You just tell her that they had a little pie left you'd might have liked. And kept it at that.

Scootaloo thought it was weird you had to be alone for that. But she just shrugged. "I guess...Well, that was fun. I like them. They're pretty nice."

"Yeah, Lyra and Bonbon are pretty cool. You don't think it's weird I have adult friends though?"

Scootaloo raised her eyebrow at you. As if that was a stupid question. "Uhhh, did you forget that we're also friends with Rainbow Dash and her friends?"

You giggle nervously...right...how could you forget. "Yeeeahhhhhhh...heh"

"Yeah, so. I was thinking of something actually. Because, well, I think Applebloom and Sweetie Belle HAVE been harsh on you. And well, what if I got a taste of what you have to deal with?" Scootaloo...was...wait....why did this fill you with dread?

"...What do you mean?" You asked with caution

"What do you think? Let's go see bug breath together! Let's show her we mean business! Let's find out EXACTLY what she might be lying about! We can have each other's back and corner her on any lie she's got for us. Not only will that help you out, but if I can handle her, I can handle anything." Scootaloo had a double goal in mind. You could see it behind her facade of bravery.

Chrysalis would tear her apart.....verbally. "Scoots, that's a bad idea. A SUPER bad idea."

"Why? Don't you have her under control?" Scootaloo seemed confused.

"Yeah but...look, she's still dangerous around anypony that's not me. My house has this barrier spell to protect everypony inside of it BUT still, she's a master of words. She'll tear you apart just by talking at you."

...You actually feared for her. You didn't want her to get hurt. But on the flipside...she could be right. Having someone get your back might be advantageous if they don't get too flustered.

"Pffft, c'mon Anon. Tear me apart with 'Words'? That sounds dumb. And it won't happen" Scootaloo started to get frustrated. "C'mon! Don't be like an adult and tell me I'm too young. I got this! Don't you want Applebloom and Sweetie Belle to know just how hard you really struggle? I'm trying to help you. They'd really believe it if I told them how it is"

.... "I mean...that sounds good...but"

"Come onnnn!..what's the worse that can happen? Now that I know she can't even hurt me, I totally got this. It'll be fine." Scootaloo gives you a confident smile.

......Could Chrysalis do anything to her?...It's just words. And it did benefit you. What's the worst that could happen? You could be responsible and protect her. But, maybe it's overprotective. Scootaloo was your friend, she wanted to help you, and this...could prove to be useful indeed. And you'd be there. So, you could handle the situation no problem, you could protect her from Chrysalis's mean old words.

Why say no then?....You got this. "Y'know? You're right. Why would I say no when you're trying to help me out. And you're right too. I bet once I reform Chrysalis, we can let everypony else know about it. that way, Rainbow Dash will be SUPER impressed with you."

"Yeah! I know right? This helps the both of us and we'll totally not mess this up! You and me Anon. We'll be heroes...well, you're already a hero. But I'll be a hero too." Scootaloo was showing some of her selfishness as well, using this as an easy ride to the top, even if she did want to genuinely help you. She also knew, or believed at least, that she could help herself too.

She really did however, feel bad that the other two ragged on you. Especially Sweetie Belle. "Trust me Anon, nothing can go wrong. Not one thing. We'll go in, do our thing, come out. Then we go see the girls and let them know what's up" Scootaloo's plan was pretty thin. You knew SOME extra precautions were needed.

"Sure, but Scoots. We have to act like Scrappy lied to you about what he said. We have to go in there acting like we knew what I just knew. And act like we discussed that it's possible we were lied to because she's 'Evil and always up to no good' and stuff like that. Which is, well, obviously true anyway."

"Ohhh..right. I don't want to get Scrappy in trouble either. Ok, I got it. It shouldn't be too hard, I didn't trust her anyway" Scootaloo giggled. "You did though, that's still kinda funny."

You give her a grumpy face as you groan. It just makes her laugh a little harder

......

"Sorry Anon, it's just pretty silly...but ok" Scootaloo takes a breath, and calms down to stop from laughing. "I got this."

You start fumbling around in your saddlebag for the map. "Just don't say stuff like that in front of her, ok? She tends to tease me too and that will just make things worse."

"Got it.." She giggles again. "but...geez Anon, c'mon. Don't be so whipped. You're a hero, remember?"

......Mmnnnggghhh… "Yeah...look, just focus ok?"

Scootaloo nods, and tries again. Looking forward with a serious face "Ok...now I got it"

"Good.."

.....Hopefully she did anyway...sheesh. No respect, no respect at all.

And so, you and Scootaloo returned to your home via the river that ran through town.

This was gonna be a thing.....oh lordy.

Chapter 281

So there you both were, in your room. Scootaloo was still pretty amazed, just like last time, how neat it was to jump into water and come out in a room.

"I wish I had a way to go back home anytime I want. That'd be so cool!" Scootaloo said as she hopped off your bed and looked upon your closed floor door.

"I guess, It is pretty convenien-Scootaloo wait!" You stop Scootaloo as she opens the floor door.

She stops, but she hadn't planned to delve any deeper anyway. "What?"

"There's no stairs there, you gotta be careful. You have to use a special way to get down"

"Well, yeah. I can see that. I wasn't just gonna go down like that" Scootaloo looks down at the stairless drop to the living room. "...So how do we get down there exactly?"

"Easy, you just need to focus on 'Stairs'. Like, just focus and imagine there are stairs and you'll be able to walk down just fine. It took me a little bit to get used to it, but it actually is pretty easy. Here, let me go first, and then you try."

Scootaloo steps aside as you focus and head down the gravity stairs. You give a warm smile and look upwards as you call to Scootaloo. "Ok, Scoots, your turn" But, no answer. Instead you feel tap at the back of your neck that sends shivers down your spine. "HOLY G-GEEZ, C-Chrysalis?!" You look back to see who tapped you with a hoof. But it...was Scootaloo? "S-Scoots? H-how did you get down here so fast?"

"Duh, I just followed you and used my wings to hover down here. I can't fly yet, but I can at least sorta float now." Scootaloo gave you a smug smirk. "Gotcha good, huh?"

"tch, no!...I was just...." Dammit, How did you not notice?

"Yeeeah...I got you. You were like C-c-c-chrysalis?!'" Scootaloo makes a face to imitate yours when you got startled, then chuckles. "It was pretty funny"

.....uugghhhhh… You just peer into Scootaloo's eyes with a hard stare. "Do you get off on messing with me like that?"

"Get off?...Uhhh, does that mean like...find it funny?"

Ahh shit, she didn't understand the meaning of the phrase. Ugh, sometimes you forget you also have to keep a certain level of cleanliness in your own speech. ".....uhhh..Yeah"

"Then yeah...Come on Anon, it's not like I'm being mean. It's just a joke, you're still cool. You don't need to act so seriously...geez.." Scootaloo pokes your side to try to elicit a smile, but you didn't feel very ticklish at the moment. "Where did your funny bone go?"

You sigh, Maybe you were being too serious. Then again, at this moment...you needed to be. "Scoots look, we need to be serious here. We're going down to see Chrysalis. And one mistake and this could turn super sour, super fast."

"Hey, I got it Anon. I know how to be serious" Scootaloo points to herself with pride as she stands with bravado and courageousness. "Just watch this." Scootaloo then gives you a very stoic face, and yet, it was nearly menacing. "Listen here Bug Breath, we have a feeling you were lying to us and even made Scrappy lie. Because come on, when do you NOT have something evil planned? I'm calling you out!" Scootaloo then gives you a cheerful smile. "See?"

Hmmm, that was kinda good. "Yeah, that's ok. But don't insult her, and don't be too demanding. We also gotta make sure not to piss her off. Trust me, we won't get anywhere if she gets angry."

"Mnnnngh." Scootaloo did kind of want to tick her off just to tick her off. But she also considered the weight of the situation and how it could affect her friends, including Scrappy. Although, she was still ignorant of the dangers of meeting her, period. "Fine, I guess. She really doesn't deserve to be talked to as if everything about her was nice either y'know."

"I know, but this is something that heroes have to do sometimes. Sometimes, they gotta do what they don't want to do"

"Yeah I know, I've heard Rainbow Dash say that...sooo" Scootaloo looked around. "Where is the hive place anyway?"

You walk over to the trap door and open it, revealing cave steps that lead into Chrysalis's lair. "Right down here"

"Woah, so it leads into an actual cave? Weird." Scootaloo said as she looked down into the dank, dark, and dreary abyss below.

"Yep, not scared, are you? You can always turn back."

"What? Pfft, no. I was just surprised it leads into a cave" Scootaloo, feeling challenged, steps on ahead. "C'mon already, let's get this over with!"

...Damn, welp, you should have expected she would just press forward. You remembered her camping trip with her and three of the mane six. Always acting brave, and lost sleep over it due to being scared. Was she scared? You couldn't tell.

You both start going down the steps together. Leaving the safe confines of the living room into the creepy darkness of the caverns below.

"She's actually ok with living down in here?" Scootaloo asks

"Sorta, she hates being forced to live here but this basement is where she's most comfortable."

"Huh...weird. So, she can't really hurt us right? Like, even if she even really wanted to?" Scootaloo asked, a faint hint of fear in her voice

"Nope. If she tried, she'd just rocket off in the other direction."

"Ha!" Scootaloo hopped down a few steps and looked forward with bravery. "This will totally be a cinch then!"

But before you could try to warn Scootaloo to not get too cocky, you both start hearing shuffling sounds ahead. With low moans and small voices saying "Foooood".

Scootaloo immediately darts behind you and looks over you. "W-what's that?"

At first you didn't know, but as you saw some glassy bluish eyes peering up from below, you started to realize what's going on. "...It's just the changelings. Look, Scoots. Don't get scared..i-"

"Scared? Ha! I'm not scared..." She said as she still stuck behind you, looking over you with frightened eyes as she tried to put on a brave face "What do they want anyway?"

"I think they are sensing some raw emotion."

You know for the most part, they leave you alone on Chrysalis's command, also because you knew how to fill your heart with deep depression bullshit and pure hatred. Scootaloo on the other hand...

"In other words, food. Scoots, before we go any further. You're gonna have to think of something that makes you angry and sad and keep it in your head. They can smell the love and excitement coming off of you."

"O-oh...erm. I-I guess I can do that...let me think...erm.." Then Scootaloo thought of something, but just thinking it, along with the ever slight drain she was feeling as you both stood near the entrance to the hive, made her actually feel rather down. "..Mnnnn...I really hate it when ponies make fun of the fact that I can't fly..or get compared to something like a chicken."

You look back at her, you could see the genuine hurt in her face. It seemed to be causing the changelings to leave you both alone. "I'm sorry Scoots. But you're just going to have to keep that thought burning through your head right now. Try not to let it bother you too much, but as long as it makes you sad, you should be fine."

"I'll be fine?..so, even though they can't hurt me, they can still eat love?" Scootaloo asked with a notable drop in enthusiasm in her voice.

"Yeah, and since you're a visitor, they won't hesitate" And saying those very words. It made you feel unsure about your decision to bring her down here. "Scoots, are you sure you don't want to go back? There's no shame in backing out"

"Well...they can't feed off me if I just keep thinking bad stuff, right?" Scootaloo asks you.

"Well yeah but-"

"Then I'm going. If they can't hurt me or eat my love, then they can't do squat to me. We've got em' right where we want em'" Scootaloo said with confidence as she started to go ahead of you, stepping down the final steps.

Dammit! You rush up to her quickly as step in front of her. "Scoots, I'm serious, we should head back."

"We already got this far ,Anon, Can't you trust me? I said I got this" Scootaloo says as she steps ahead of you into the lair of Queen Chrysalis.

...She wasn't listening. Goddammit Scoots. You could hear the changelings start to stir again. "If you're gonna step out like that at least remember to keep what I said in mind. They can smell you again."

Scootaloo stops, and looks around. She didn't see anything until she looked up and gulped as she witnessed the glowing eyes of Changelings clinging on the ceiling. "...R-right.." She just sat there, seemingly petrified, looking straight up, was it finally sinking in as to where she actually was?

"Scoots?....."

"I'm fine, Anon...I'm doing what you said. I'm thinking really depressing thoughts." She was doing her best anyway, the changelings didn't make a move, they just, observed. Scootaloo stood and walked forward as bravely as she could "C'mon, or are you the one who's scared?" She was being aggressive, she was feigning bravery.

You don't say a word as you sped up your step to stay ahead of her. Now you were getting annoyed, and yet, something did strike you as frightful...but what? "...Just let me start this little dialogue, huh? And just follow my lead."

"No problem, you know her better than I do anyway. That's why I got your back, we can do this." Scootaloo said, slowly looking around, afraid she might get jumped.

Finally, you both approached Chrysalis's throne. Behind it,her Ferrari was parked. Chrysalis herself resting on her throne after a day of driving like a fucking nutcase. Though now, the throne itself had been replaced. It's been made longer, larger, and more accommodating for resting. It even had another seat similar next to it. And a cup holde...oh god. She had a new throne converted to be like the seats of a car, but enlarged.

"Psst, Anon" Scootaloo whispered. "What's that weird thing behind her chair? It looks like a huge boxcar"

"Don't ask, it'd take too long to explain" You whisper back.

And as you both approached, Chrysalis's eyes slowly open as she slowly gazes upon the both of you with noticeable surprise. "Well well well, how interesting." Chrysalis sat up right slowly as she gazed directly at Scootaloo. "Anon, you brought a friend. Tell me, what's the occasion? It must be something important." Chrysalis then gazed upon you, there wasn't a smile on her face as she spoke, in fact, she seemed somewhat annoyed. "Considering you seemed to have told her enough to keep her love locked up inside. Amazing, she must be thinking of something truly depressing to keep my children from feeding."

You take a breath, and then give Chrysalis a stern look. "She's here with me because I told her how you said you weren't planning anything evil, which the captain had also told her. Essentially, we think you lied to the captain to make sure he didn't let anything slip because anything YOU have to say is probably a lie. I...well...." You act falsely embarrassed. "I should have guessed you would have lied to me. You usually do about things like this."

"Yeah, how can you lie to Scrappy like that? What are you planning bug breath?" Scootaloo let's out. She sounded pretty angry. Whatever she was keeping in mind to stay negative, it must have also made her upset.

AHH SHIT!

You tense up, ready to get Scootaloo out of there immediately. But Chrysalis doesn't act. She merely makes a rather sour face. "Bug Breath? Hmmm" She then looks upon you again. "Anon, I'll let that slide. But I would suggest your friend watch her tongue while in my presence. Or something might just happen to it. But..." Chrysalis hops off her throne and walks over to her Ferrari as she slides her hoof along the upper edge of it. "I have to admit, she was right about me, I did in fact lie. Oopsie, I was caught by the dumb detectives of Ponyville. So then, what exactly was your next move after finding me out?" Chrysalis then looks to Scootaloo with a sinister grin. "I mean, to bring a filly down here just for a silly simple lie. It must be my birthday, So rarely these days I get to make a pony suffer so much."

Scootaloo rolls her eyes at her. "Oh please, I know you can't hurt me. So stop acting so tough! We came for answers!"

Chrysalis again did not like Scootaloo's impertinent tone. "Cute...she doesn't understand the scope of the situation. That's fine. Since it seems I've clearly been outmatched, I'll tell you my plan. You see, a very dangerous changeling by the name of Thorax, a changeling who had defected secretly during a...failed operation, has been spotted by the Captain, which by the way, is what he will be referred as in MY presence. I'm having the captain retrieve him tomorrow morning for either discipline or IMMEDIATE destruction, depending on my mood." Chrysalis chuckles to herself. "I don't want too much time taken from my driving. I want to make sure my skills are perfect for when I debut as Equestria's new ruler."

You move close to Scootaloo and whisper to her. "Yo hey, calm down ok?"

Scootaloo says nothing, she just stares angrily at Chrysalis.

You look upon her yourself. Sending Scrappy alone against someone so dangerous? Why? "Why send the captain alone? If this changeling is so dangerous, wouldn't he massacre him considering the restrictions put on him by Dad?"

"Possibly" Chrysalis said, with no hint of care in her tone. Which angered Scootaloo.

"You're a monster! You'd send Scrappy by himself against a dangerous changeling?! What if he got hurt?!" Scootaloo barks.

Ahh shit, the changelings around started to gather now. They gathered as Chrysalis kept her cool this time. And even asked her: "Then what do you suggest, my little pony?"

"...." Scootaloo was surprised she was actually asking her. She looked around and pointed to herself. "Are you actually asking me?"

Chrysalis sighs and slowly threw her head back in aggravation. "Yes...I'm asking you. Now out with it!"

"Oh...u-umm..Why not send Anon with him? He'd be able to help Scrappy with his-"

"....That name so annoys me." Chrysalis let's out a half annoyed, half amused chuckle. She so wanted to tell Scootaloo that Scrappy, the Captain, was not her friend. But kept it to herself, Totally ignorant to the truth that her captain did indeed like Scootaloo. "But go on, since you refuse to follow my rules."

Scootaloo had no care of whether she liked it or not. "Anon can partner up with him tomorrow, that way nothing bad will happen at all. Anon.." Scootaloo looks to you, her face giving you gentle worry as she asked. "You'd go with him right? And make sure he stays safe?"

Oh come on Scoots, don't do that. You were amazed she didn't seem at all woozy. Was she being fed upon? Or was she really holding on to those negative emotions. Though, she already said forget school. So how could you say no? "Yeah, I'll...I'll go with him"

Chrysalis looks to you, then starts laughing. "What's this?! HAHAHA! Are you saying you are willingly going to help the captain tomorrow?"

You look to Chrysalis, already worried as to why she was laughing, surely it was just because it was something like. "You're becoming closer and closer to becoming mine" or some shit. Y'know? Yeah, it was probably something like that. She was full of shit. Which gives you some bravado in your tone. "Yeah, what about it?"

"Oh nothing" Chrysalis giggles girlishly. "I was just going to foalnap you and force you into helping him by calling in one of your debts. But now you're doing it for free. I'm such a lucky girl to have you as a friend, eh Anon? And I have our silly little friend here to thank. So thank you Scootaloo, for being a wonderful little tool." Chrysalis cackles.

...Wait....DAMMIT! And as you facehoofed at your own stupidity. Scootaloo began to bark at Chrysalis again. "What's your problem, you stupid bug! Why do you always have to be a jerk! Anon just wants you to be nice and good, is that so wrong? Scrappy is the nicest changeling I ever met, and since he's nice, I know you can be nice too. But no! You have to be really mean for NO reason! Anon says you can change, but I don't see how. You still seem like the stupid bug who got blasted at the wedding. Anon was doing you a favor, and instead of appreciating it, you had to be all" Scootaloo does a mocking evil cackle. "Haha! I get to get you to do what I want for free because I can use you whenever I want."

"Scoots!" Ngh, what was she doing?! She was showing too much emotion and care.

You looked at Chrysalis, who was looking very very displeased. "I'd suggest you shut up little filly, I can only be so patient." She said

"Scoots, it's over. Let's ju-"

Scootaloo starts stepping towards her, still barking angrily. "Patient smatient! I haven't been down here ten minutes and you are being a humongous jerk! You don't want Anon to go with Scrappy to protect him and to make sure he'll be ok. You just want Anon there because it just gives you better chances that it'll go better for you. I bet you wouldn't care if Anon or Scrappy or even both of them got hurt or something!"

Chrysalis's eye twitched as her inner anger grew. "....I'm warning you..." Chrysalis looked to you, with a fatally calm expression. "Anon, I'd suggest you take her away from here now..."

...Was she...really being that patient?...Dammit...fuck. "Scoots, we're done. Let's go. There's nothing more we can do."

You try to grab onto her, but she pushes off of you. She wanted to get what was on her chest off. She wanted to force Chrysalis to understand.

"Listen you big dumb bug! You're supposed to be Anon's friend! But you're so selfish and dumb that you only see everypony around you as things you can use to try to take over Equestria. You don't care about ANYPONY. You're so sad and pathetic! You have Anon, who WANTS to be your friend despite you being evil, and you treat him badly just because you can. No wonder he's so stressed out. You're worse than a bad friend or an evil bug, You're worse than dirt! And you know what? You stink as a bad guy too, at least Discord and Tirek almost won. What did you get beat by? Oh yeah, that's right. The THING YOU EAT!" Scootaloo scoffed.

.......Oh crap. Chrysalis said nothing at first. She gave you a glance, then focused on Scootaloo. You forcibly grab Scootaloo as the changelings begin to hiss at her. "Scoots, we gotta go and we gotta go now! Come on!"

You try pulling, but she slips her hoof away. "Hold on Anon, I'm actually winning. Who knows?" She gives you a confident smile "I think I'm actually getting through to her!"

.....Oh god Scoots....Please… You try grabbing at her again. But you are immediately pulled back as some of the changelings hold you down and cover your mouth, changing into rope and a scarf to keep you from doing anything.

Chrysalis then slowly approaches the confident filly. Her expression becoming cruel, with an evil smile on her face. "Excuse me, did I hear right? You think you actually got through to me? Is that what you inferred?"

"I mean..yeah. Come on, If Anon was really your friend, then you realized that I'm right, right? You need to be nicer to him and everypony else. Maybe then, you could even get help from the princesses" Scootaloo tries to explain to her.

"Oh my, how wonderful, and I suppose they could help me go along the right path. Is that right?" Chrysalis said in false overly happy joy

Scootaloo nods, she felt it was working "Yup. I'd think they might even forgive you maybe...no, definitely."

"Ohhhh, really?" Chrysalis gives her a soft smile as she holds her hoof to her chest, acting as if she felt something warm. "And you think, I could have friends too?"

Scootaloo felt like she had truly gotten through. "Yeah! I mean..erm..it'd take a bit. But yeah"

You struggled the best you could...dammit. DAMMIT. ITS A TRAP!

"How.........idiotic" Chrysalis states, much to Scootaloo's surprise. "In fact, let me tell you EXACTLY how things would go....it would go..something like" Chrysalis then turns into Rainbow Dash, with an evil smile on her face "..this"

Scootaloo stepped back, feeling scared and frightened, she looked back for you, but the changelings had you in their grasp, hidden from sight. "W-what?! R-rainbow Dash?" Scootaloo was confused, she had momentarily forgotten changelings could change shape.

"Howya doin' squirt." Chrysalis chuckled with that cute raspy RD laugh. "Let me tell you something 'cool'. Let me tell you that once Queen Chrysalis rules Equestria, I'll be brought in front of her, and be tortured for her amusement as she makes me realize what a coward I am, how much of an idiot I am to oppose her."

Scootaloo became red with anger as she quickly realized that wasn't her idol. "Shut up! You're not the real Rainbow Dash!"

"No, but I WANT you to see her face. To know how it'd be when I decide to drain her dry, when she becomes an emotionless husk from days and days and days of feeding. We'll single her out and feed off her until she can never recover. How does that sound?" Chrysalis smirked as she looked upon the changelings holding you, you could feel the grip of the one posing as a rope loosen. Why was he giving up?

"S-SHUT UP!" Scootaloo screamed, but she was starting to look a little pale.

Chrysalis laughed as her wings started to molt, her feathers falling off. "Oh no, wait wait! I got it! How about we just pluck and tear every feather off her wings..wouldn't that be grand"

"N-NGH, STOP IT! R-RAINBOW DASH W-WOULD STOP YOU F...for sure..ngh" Scootaloo began to wobble, she was feeling sickly.

"Oh yes, but..at least you could take solace in knowing that she would now be as equally useless as you. Yes, a pegasus pony who can neither fly nor glide. WHAT A WASTE! HAHAHAHAHA! Who has EVER heard of any pegasi unable to fly? It's the most pathetic thing I've ever heard. You care so much for such a meddlesome and useless horse. Well, perhaps not useless yet. I'd have to make her as useless as you are before I say that. Did you hear me little one? You're useless! It's funny, why would such a pony like her waste her time on you? She can fly to any point in Equestria in mere minutes to an hour. You? You can't even get ten feet off the ground."

Scootaloo could say nothing, she backed off, feeling cold and sick, letting out a small. "H-help..R-rainbow Dash..h-help..A-Anon"

"Hrn? Nothing else to say? Awww, you must be tired....and oh so very scared...Well then." Chrysalis nods, the Changelings holding you lets you go. You get up, and angrily growl at Chrysalis. What the fuck did she do?! Did she..drain her? she got her emotions up..just to drain them.

"Chrysalis..you bitch."

Chrysalis could see the anger in your eyes, she could taste it from your body. But she calmed herself as she returned to her throne to rest. "Don't be mad at me Anon. As your friend, I held my patience as much as I could. But she simply couldn't show proper respect to her future queen and thus, deserved punishment. In fact, I was so nice that I didn't even have a single ounce of her love."

You rushed over to Scootaloo, her breathing was slow, she was barely conscious as she slowly made a grab for your leg and tried to cuddle into it. "....."

"Then wha-?" She didn't feast on her?

"What happened? I didn't drain her Anon. But my children? Well, it is instinct. They did what they did because that's what they do. I don't see why you're arguing with me" Chrysalis lays square on her back as she turns her head towards you with a malicious smile. "They are still feeding. Perhaps if somepony was more responsible...this wouldn't have happened. I did my best Anon, oh so sorry that your friend was an idiot." Chrysalis arrogance subsided as she just began to relax with a sleepy expression on her face as she said sing songly "My children still feed as you sit here and wait, I wonder what would happen if things ended up toooo late, perhaps if one had been smarter, she would have avoided thiisss fate." Chrysalis let's out one last dark chuckle as she turns away from you "It was a nice visit Anon, we should do it again sometime. Remember...I did my best as your friend."

You didn't say anything. You took the hint, even if it was highly possible she was lying. But dammit, she wanted Scoots to suffer. She...dammit..fuck it. You quickly lower your face to scoop Scootaloo onto your back. You could feel her weakly grip you as you use all your strength to carry her back up into the living room. The changelings don't follow, thank Christ.

You even, through sheer will and worry, carefully get her up along the gravity stairs by painfully crawling up them along your back as you held Scootaloo against your tummy. It was an odd position to be sure. But if you carried her along your back, she'd just fall straight down. She didn't have the strength to actually hold on.

Once in your room, you get her up onto your bed. She was cold, shaking, and whimpering. Scoots…

...Was this your own fault?.....It was...wasn't it?

Chapter 282

"Scoots..." You just sat next to her, she was still shivering, She was very very weakly calling out for Rainbow Dash for help.

You grab the blanket with your teeth and put it over her, but it didn't seem to help at all. You could blame her, you really could. But you knew who she was, you should have figured out that something was going to go wrong. And so… "Scoots...I'm sorry....I should have been an adult. I should have been responsible enough to just tell you no no matter how much you wanted to come."

She didn't respond, her eyes were closed. But she was still awake, she was just lost in some sort of cloud of despair and pain.

You say nothing more, she couldn't hear you. So instead, you move up close; you carefully remove her pillow and gently raise her head and let it rest on your belly. She slowly turns and starts to feel around your body before cuddling close.

And yet, she was still unresponsive to anything you had to say.

"R-rainbow Dash..I'm scared… I'm… s-scared… W-whee… where are you?..A-am I alone?" It was almost like a waking nightmare for her. She was so drained, and yet her spark for Rainbow Dash still shined through, although faintly.

...Would this… Would this work? You start to mimic Rainbow Dash's voice the best you can. "Don't worry squirt, I ain't gonna let nopony get to you. You don't have to be scared when I'm around."

It wasn't the best. But...Scootaloo actually responded to it as she hugged gently onto you. "R-rainbow Dash?...i-is that....is that really you?"

"You know it. Are you alright? What happened?" But Scootaloo doesn't respond to that line of questioning..not at first. "..Squirt?"

"...I...I almost thought....I wouldn't care about anything anymore..." Tears start to flow from Scootaloo's weak and tired eyes as she squirms and whines. "R-rainbow Dash...A-am I broken?...Will...will I never get the chance...to fly with you?.....Am I...useless?"

..Scoots… "What? Who told you that? Pfft, whoever said that is a big idiot. EVERY pegasus pony can fly, You know that. You're just a late bloomer. And Let me tell ya, the way you move on your scooter? That's wicked fast. Can't wait to see your speed when you take to the air. I bet you'll even be able to top my Sonic Rainboom."

Some color starts to return to Scootaloo, but she was still very weak. You could see it though, a small hopeful smile on her face. "Y-you really think so?"

"Yeah, it's gonna be super cool. Kindaaa makes me wonder what would happen if we both did a boom at the same time. What do ya think, Scootaloo?"

"I think...it will...be so....rad" She snuggles into you, some energy returning to her. But just as her energy went up, it suddenly went down. "Oh no...."

"Hmm? What's wrong?" You ask her, still keeping up that raspy voice

"I-it's Anon.....I remember, I tried helping him...I tried...I...I...I tried helping him with a friend he has...I..I thought...I-I-I...I thought. I thought I was good enough...I thought I could fix everything for him....I've been treating him so badly lately...and...I feel bad...I...he..gave me these wings...and...All I wanted to do was return the favor...I..I don't know where he is...I don't know if he's hurt...I..I hope he's ok.."

Tears start to run down your eyes from those words. Even in this state, she was worried about you. She must have thought she angered Chrysalis enough for her to attack both you and her. You gently rub the side of your cheek against hers, which seems to calm her.

"Don't worry, he's ok. But look at you, how are you supposed to get better if you don't rest up? You can train all you want, but if you don't get any rest, you're gonna fall asleep before the finish line. Don't want that right?"

"N-n...no.." Scootaloo starts to unconsciously get more comfy, rubbing her face on your belly before settling in under your blanket. It made you giggle just a little.

"S...so e-everything's ok?" She stammers as she starts to fall asleep.

"You bet, trust me. You're gonna feel a lot better when you wake up.”

"O-ok..." Scootaloo could say nothing more as she snuggles onto you and drifts off into a deep sleep.

"...Dammit" You just lay there with her. You were angry. You thought you'd be angry with Chrysalis. But really? That was par for the course with her. It would have been better if you told Scoots not to come along. You couldn't blame her, It was your house, your mission, and you should have known this would have happened. ".....fuck..."

You really were the one to blame. Why didn't you say no? Why couldn't you just tell her no?
You knew why. Because the prospect of her settling things for you with the rest of the CMC seemed too good to pass up. Well good job, you got what you wanted, you moron.

Scootaloo didn't seem to be having a nightmare. But she was cuddling and nuzzling quite a bit in her sleep. She was practically hugging you like a plush at this point as she slowly positioned herself to use your neck as a pillow. This..was awkward.

You just laid there and pondered. Pondered on your decisions. And possibly, your mistakes.
First, Chrysalis...was she redeemable? You knew it was possible. But the way you knew of was an extreme situation. Still, there had to be another a way that didn't involve death.

Sunburst? Well....you guessed you could at least TALK to him before you obliterate him in some way.

Then there was that other you. Everyone he ran into liked him better…

You feel Scootaloo squirm along your body in her sleep…

".....Well, I guess almost everyone." You whispered to yourself.

Maybe that was it though. Maybe because he was the princesses' kid that he was able to have stability in his life.

You knew your cutie mark, it was chaos. And chaos was what you were good at because it was always fucking happening around you. But it wasn't bad. Without it, without that random or chaotic aspect you can add to your own plots, you wouldn't have been able to save Starlight or that other Equestria. You wouldn't have the chance to reform Chrysalis. You wouldn't have been able to reform even Spoiled Rich. It definitely wasn't bad. You knew that much.

But for every good thing, bad things happened. Such as the way the princesses treat you, Twilight week, and Chrysalis trying to get ahead of you in the whole reformation thing. Because she was right, it was a game, she was trying to make you see her side of things the same way you were trying to get her to see yours.

But what was yours at this point? Petty revenge? Using others to achieve this revenge? Recognition? You lost sight of the good side of your chaos abilities so rapidly that you didn't even have a chance to notice it.

And now...here was Scoots, who was now counting on you, without even realizing it. To give her love and care to get her back to her old spritely self… This was it? Wasn't it? To be a hero… no… no it wasn't. You still caused this. The best you could be right now is be a friend, and try to make up for your mistakes. You weren't a hero. You were a shmuck.

You just looked forward with emptiness in your heart. You were just one gigantic schmuck, weren't you? You felt ashamed. Hell, if Fluttershy knew....would she stop loving you? Would you lose your friendship with Starlight if she knew?

Fuck man, how bad did you fuck everything up by being a raging faggot? You had to calm your tits. You had to take care of the matters at hand while protecting those you care about. You'd deal with Sunburst as soon as you can. BUT...you'd deal with him in a calm manner. Only making his life hell if you didn't like what he had to say. You also had to find a way to tell Starlight without upsetting her.

The CMC...well. You deserved to be looked down upon now. And then there was this 'Other you'. You didn't even know how he was really like. But since he was royalty, he'd probably look down upon you too for what you've done if he ever found out, a shame to every Anon across dimensions. Hell, considering he probably came to avenge his girl. It was probably not even due to rage, but some sort of chivalry. How could you fault him for that?

....Maybe, it'd just be better....that if he ever came back, to just talk to him. Only zapping him if it turned out he was a douche. And boy oh boy, you'd have three charges to play with. But no, you had to be fair first, you had to give him a chance, because really?...you were the one who fucked up.

And so you laid your head down. Unable to sleep. Letting Scootaloo rest on you until she awoke. Time passed. You watched the hours go by on your clock until it was about six o' clock.

Scootaloo began to stir and awaken.

Scootaloo, first her eyes fluttered as she woke up, then immediately after, she raised herself and looked around "Agh! W-what happened?! W-where am I?!"

"You're in my room"

Scootaloo turns around to see you. And boy, did you feel relieved. Her color had fully returned. And given how fast she raised herself up, so did her energy.

You gave her a cheerful smile. "Hey, how are you feeling Scoots?...Are you ok?"

"I..uhh...uhm...mngh.." Scootaloo put a hoof to her head, she felt like she had a slight headache. "I guess, I feel a little...OH WAIT!" She then realizes what she was doing last. "I JUST REMEMBERED! Did bug breath decide to turn good after seeing how much stuff she's putting you and Scrappy through?"

....Wut? "Uhm..well...no." What do you even say? Didn't she find it weird she woke up here? Or was wondering what happened to her?

"Oh..." Scootaloo looked down, feeling she failed. "Sorry Anon, I tried..I thought I saw a way to fix things myself. But I guess I screwed up and....wait" Scootaloo takes a look around. "w-what even happened?" She felt spooked now that she realized she was in your room when she remembered being in a cave. "Anon?"

You sigh as you sit up and plop your butt on your pillow. "I screwed up Scoots. I screwed up and put you in danger. That's what happened. Thanks for trying, but because of me, you almost...well..I don't know what would have happened to you. But you didn't deserve it, nor should I have put you in danger like that....I'm really sorry"

Scootaloo now realized how much she failed. She didn't see why you were sorry though. And at least, she knew you'd protect the captain. "Anon, why are you sorry? I wanted to come, I wanted to try. All I remember really is that you're going to protect Scrappy.....At least we managed that, right?...Kinda wish I didn't screw up though. I don't even know what happened to me. How did I end up here? Like, really..did they attack me or something?"

"They fed off you. All at once...Scoots...I really got worried. I was afraid. I even thought you'd never come back or be the same....How do you feel right now even?"

"I...I..umm" Scootaloo began touching her chest and ears, then looked back at her wings. "I.. think I'm ok...but...oh...I really did screwed up then huh?" Scootaloo finally began to realize how much she fucked up. "I remember now...I got all mad that bug breath was pretending to be Rainbow Dash...ugh.." Scootaloo slumped down onto the bed, agitated with herself. "I remember feeling all weird and getting angry..and then..nothing. I-if they were feeding off of me...does that mean I got knocked out?"

You nod. "Yeah....I almost thought I was going to lose you. You were breathing pretty slowly."

Hearing that, and now understanding it. Scootaloo groaned as she covered her face with her hooves and pressed her face on the bed. "UGGH! I REALLY DID MESS UP! I can't believe I let her get to me like that!...I remember..I remember just feeling...empty. I never thought I could feel anything like that...I was scared...and then..nothing..but.." Scootaloo uncovered her face as she slowly raised herself and looked around. "..You got me out. Y-you saved me. And...mnnngh" Scootaloo looked into your eyes, feeling absolutely ashamed. "I'm really sorry Anon...I thought, I really thought I could do it. But I messed up. A-are you mad at me?"

You shake your head. She was finally fully coherent. "I'm not, I'm mad at myself for bringing you along. It was too dangerous but I let you come anyway despite what could happen. It was irresponsible, and for that...I'm sorry...I really am"

"I-it's ok, really, you didn't do anything bad." Scootaloo let out a sigh, realizing that the both of you had failed. "I guess we both messed up, huh? That might not be so bad. At least we know what she's planning...right?"

Scootaloo was trying to find a reason as to not feel so bad. She was trying to cheer you and herself up. But, it didn't help you. "I guess..."

"Awww, come on Anon" Scootaloo gave you a gentle jab on the chin. "Buck up! We're still ok. And now we know what she's planning. That's something right?" Scootaloo was looking for some positivity out of you, but your desolate demeanor was sapping some of her moxy "Didn't she say she wanted a horrible changeling stopped? I-I mean, doesn't that mean in that some way..she's reforming?"

...Maybe, and then there's the fact that IF she was telling the truth. She didn't feed off Scootaloo herself. And that was the odd thing...wasn't it? She didn't even have her changelings follow you. At first, you thought she couldn't do too much because others would get suspicious. But no, she could easily come up with a lie to explain away whatever happened to Scootaloo not being related to her. Not like they knew Nymous was Chrysalis. Hell, she even held back before she herself lost her cool. That really was something. Along with the fact she saved your ass of course,life debt or no life debt. Or you could be grasping at a weak straw. Just because she didn't feed off her herself doesn't really mean much, does it? Dammit...were you THAT desperate for a breakthrough?

And looking at Scootaloo's wavering enthusiasm...you couldn't let her fall apart right after watching over her, not after she tried to make the situation sound better than it was. "Y'know, you're right Scoots. It might mean some progress was made. But we got a ways to go, or at least I do. Scoots, you gotta leave her to me, ok? She's too dangerous to anypony she doesn't care about. Please understand that it's not me wanting to exclude you, but..I don't want this to ever happen again."

"No, I think....I think i get it. I'm not really ready to take on Queen Stinkbug yet. But look at Scrappy, he's a changeling, and he's super cool and nice too! So I'll work to keep it that way by being his friend and showing him how to be like everypony else. Me, Applebloom, and Sweetie Belle, we can do that by being his friend." Scootaloo felt, in this grand scheme, that that was her place.

"And...I'll just continue what I'm doing." It really was all you could do. Eventually, you'd find her weakness.

"Yeah...and if you ever need support, Jjust come and see us, ok? I'll let Sweetie Belle and Applebloom know just how crazy the stuff you do really is. But, I...hmm" Scootaloo realized something. "I better not say too much though, they might get the same idea I got and try to show Bug Breath who's boss...which...kinda didn't work when we tried."

..Scoots "Thanks Scoots, but really. Keep it at the absolute minimum information. But also let them know that it is pretty dangerous. I don't want them getting the same idea you did. Being Scrappy's friend and helping him out should be good enough."

"Yeah...trust me. I'll figure it out. But hey....does...does that mean you don't mind Scrappy hanging out with us? Because that'd be really cool! I kinda noticed you don't really seem to like him too much" Scootaloo would really just want you to get along with him.

And..could you? You forgot to even consider him. Well, yeah, You could. The guy may be an idiot, but he was genuine. Hell, he was even trustworthy. Maybe you could like him as a friend, It shouldn't be that hard.

"I guess I'll find out tomorrow when we go take out that changeling." You tap at your horn "One thing you don't have to worry about is him getting hurt. I'll protect him, ok? No matter what."

Scootaloo moved in for a hug. She loved hearing that. She cared deeply for the little runt. "Thanks Anon, you're the next coolest pony behind Rainbow Dash!"

You hugged her back. Hell, you pulled her in for a very compassionate hug. You were glad she was ok. You were glad that there didn't seem to be any permanent effects.

After that. You and Scootaloo decided it was time to split up for now. Scootaloo would go to the clubhouse after she refined what she was going to tell Applebloom and Sweetie Belle. You and Scoots agreed that today may have gone wrong. But you wouldn't let it turn into a loss.

As for you, you were just glad she was ok. You were so scared. So damn scared she would have been lost, or come back with no emotion. You were glad you stuck with her the entire time until she recovered. You almost felt like an older brother, you just wanted to protect her, and make sure she was ok.

That's how you felt now anyway.

She respected you. The least you could do is help her whenever she was in trouble.

As to what you were going to do now? Well, you wanted to avoid Chrysalis. And who was the opposite of a love draining bug? Fluttershy!..well..actually Cadance...but whatever. You wanted to spend some time with your Aunt. You felt spending time with her would get your heart back in track.

Chapter 283

You head over to Fluttershy's to seek her comforting aura, calming words, and her possibly good advice.

Though, as you actually approach her door, it donned on you that you couldn't ask her just anything.

Not anything that would or could shed light on current actual going ons in your life.

And you couldn't push it either. You got lucky that Scootaloo was not only ok, but seemed to have jumped back to her normal self...or you hoped anyway.

But...wait "Sunburst...."

He was a situation you had to deal with soon. But the way you felt you wanted to proceed was a little too...human. And although you had watched cartoons a many times over. You felt that you were going to need to hear actual advice on how to figure out the problem between him,you, and Starlight.

And well, he was the only thing you could bring up without it seeming suspicious. Perhaps Fluttershy could help you approach this issue the pony way.

Well, in actuality...this was more Twilight's area of expertise. But you'd just take Fluttershy. You needed the more immediate nuzzle cuddles.

You knock on her door and wait for a reply. You could hear some shuffling inside the cottage. And then...the door opens.

And out comes Angel, who looks up at you, slants his eyes in an expression of "Oh fucking god, it's this guy", and makes a cute groaning noise.

Dammit...Why did he answer the door? "Angel..." just be patient.. "Is Aunt Fluttershy around? I really need to speak to her"

Angel just leans against the door as he falsely ponders. Then he turns to you and opens his paw towards you.

....? "....uhhh.." You gently shake his paw "Hi?"

He rolls his eyes, and points to his paw in a way that seemed rather greedy, then pointed to his head as he moved his ears to look like Fluttershy's mane.

ohhhh....he wanted to trade a treat for information. "....Are you serious? I'm just asking if she's home, I could just walk right t-" Nooooo, relax. He's just trying to gouge you for some sort of treat. It’s possible there might be more to this than just walking inside to see if she was about. "..wait, what do you even expect me to give you anyway?"

Angel points to his mouth. Then puts his paws together in the shape of a triangle....a carrot.

Where the fuck would you get a carrot? ".....Ok no, look. I don't have time for this. And I don't even know where I'm going to get you a carrot. Will you just tell me where she is please? I said please."

Angel taps under his chin. Then seemingly comes up with something else to trade. He points to you, then to your mouth as he uses his front paws to simulate a mouth, then points to his own head as he suddenly wiggles around like a doofus, making an idiot face.

Wut? "...And that is?"

Angel slaps his face, then starts acting really dumb, then points to you, then to your mouth, and then to his ears.

.....oh...wait "...NO! I'm not going to say I'm an idiot just so you can tell me where she is. How can I even trust you'd tell me the truth?"

He does the motion of a Pinkie Promise....that damned promise

....Well...

....urgh "Fine...so...All I have to do is say it right?"

The devious little rabbit shakes his head. He points to your mouth again, then starts acting like an idiot for a moment. Then pointed back to you.

This bastard… He wanted to make a mockery of you… "......There's a word I have for people like you you know" You look at him as you grumpily narrow your eyes. However, he responds by slowly closing the door. Prompting you to stop him with a yell. Geez, he better be fucking accurate with his answer. Or else you WOULD have a reason to use the horn on him next chance you get. Because this? This was ridiculous.

"Ok!..ok..fine" You make a retarded face, bite your lip, and shake your right front hoof around like an doofus "Ahh durrr, I'm so dummmmmbb. Mega super ultra duuuu-HEY!"

Angel quickly took a camera from the side and took a snapshot of your dumbest look. And then just as quickly as he snagged the camera. he pushed it aside with a satisfied grin on his face.

...the fuck did he even get that thing?!

"What?!...W-" ...no seriously, he couldn't have possibly planned this in advance. Not unless he had been waiting all this time just to fuck with you. "What was that for anyway?"

Angel just holds a single digit of his paw towards you to signal you to be quiet. He then hops from the front door to the left corner of the cottage to point towards the back where Fluttershy's chicken coup was. A little beyond it, it seemed Fluttershy was tending to a bear. Or, Mr.Bear if you remember corre-...WAIT. "SHE WAS THERE THE WHOLE TIME?! That's it..."

You hold your hoof out "Give me the camera, I don't know what you're going to do with that camerOW!"

Angel quickly gets back to the door and slams it right on your hoof as you still hold it out. You can feel the throbbing pain of a solid object slamming into it. "O-o-o-o-o-o....ow!...ngh"

You pull your hoof close and give it a rub.

Tha cocky bastard. Who the hell did he think he was? !

You raised your hoof to slam on the door and try to get it open. But with Fluttershy now in sight, you felt a feeling of caution around you. Hurting that fucking rabbit would be pretty bad. Goddammit, you didn't do anything wrong this time either, he was just being a douchebag.

Or rather, he just didn't fully trust you and just wanted you to be jerked around a bit. "...next time rabbit...."

You give your hoof a rub and walk a little ways towards Fluttershy to eavesdrop on what she was doing.

"...and there we are" Fluttershy seemed to be wrapping the bear's right arm with bandages that have a soothing cream under it. "Now Mr.Bear, how many times do I have to tell you that it's not your honey, it's the bees' honey"

The bear whined, he looked like he was in some pain. He must have gotten stung for what seemed like the obvious scenario of stealing honey.

"I know you like how it tastes, but you also know that if you wanted honey so badly that you could have come to me for a cup. Now look, your big handsome paw has a few bad boo boos. But I hope it serves to remind you that stealing is wrong. You understand, don't you?" Fluttershy gives him a stern look.

The bear nods

"Good" Fluttershy gives him a gentle smile and a very loving hug. "I hope this helps make you feel better. If you want, we can go inside and get you some honey. But you have to promise, no stealing. Alright?"

The bear nods profusely, and raises his paw to make that vow. But then he holds his hurt paw towards Fluttershy and whines about it as he points to it with his other paw.

"Awww, ok." Fluttershy gives it a little peck "Now does it feel a lot better?"

The bear nods, and gives her another gentle hug, which causes her to giggle "Oh my, I really do think you learned your lesson. Now come on, let's get you a yummy in your tummy treat and...oh!" Fluttershy turns and looks to see you beside the cottage. She tilts her head, still smiling, her cheerful and soft demeanor already piercing your heart "Hello Anon, It's so nice to see you. How is my little gentlecolt hero doing?"

....you suddenly froze. Dammit, why did you freeze? You were here to see her, weren't you?

"Anon?...is something the matter?" Fluttershy now instantly got worried the moment she noticed that you seem frightened of her.

The bear curiously walked up close to you, and went to tap your nose. But by then, you had snapped back into focus just from his sheer size and fearsome look. Causing you to dive and duck your head. "W-wait!"

The bear stopped, then looked to Fluttershy and shrugged.

"oh...Anon...Anon..." Fluttershy giggles and picks you up from the ground as she slowly hovers upwards, embracing you in a hug. "You don't need to be afraid of Mr.Bear, he's very very nice"

...Right..you knew that.

No...it was bringing up what should have been a simple question that bothered you.

However, being in Fluttershy's warm embrace. It dulled your fear of asking as you nuzzled into her. You had to do this...think of Starlight. "A-aunt Fluttershy...I have a question. T-that's why I froze up, this question is kind of tough to ask."

Fluttershy hovers you over to the door and gently puts you down as she lands in front of you. She was curious as to what kind of question could have you so spooked. "Anon, you never should be scared to ask me any question." She giggled "It can't be that scary, if it was, I think I'd already be feeling scared too"

.....You don't think she understood the gravity of the situation. But how could she? She really didn't even know it. "I guess I should explain then. You know Sunburst, that guy who became Princess Cadance and Prince Shining Armor's magic adviser guy..right?"

"mhmm, we did meet him just today Anon...ohhh" Fluttershy smiles as she gives you a gentle pat on the head. The bear sitting behind her, just watching. "If you're worried about me not being proud of you because Sunburst was the one who helped save the day then don't worry. I know you did more than your part to help, at least I think so anyway"

awww....Fluttershy. She really did care. She just thought you felt that you needed cheering up. She personally thought you felt down over the fact that you messed up part way into saving Equestria yourself. But..no...that wasn't the case.

"Thanks Aunt Fluttershy, but that isn't it. It mostly has to do...well. Umm..it's hard to mention without it seeming weird, But here I go. I think that Sunburst, may be a pony that Starlight knows."

"You think....oh..." Fluttershy suddenly realizes something, as if she knew the same thing you knew all of a sudden. "She told me about a Sunburst at the train station, and how it led her down to what she was doing with the town. But Anon, I don't think that could be the same Sunburst. It's way too much of a coincidence. And besides, from what Starlight told me, the Sunburst she knew went on to become a very very powerful wizard. IS that what's bothering you? The Sunburst you met?" She now understands why you were troubled. She lets out a small,cute,and calming laugh as she pets your head "Anon, I really don't think you have anything to worry about. That Sunburst and her Sunburst can't possibly be the same Sunburst."

....Seriously? It was kind of weird that Starlight let Fluttershy in on her past. Then again, she was probably a lot more comfortable with it now that she made friends with the mane 6. well, she still had to go through that weird friend trial thing when it came to Rainbow Dash. Still… "Uhhh...How many ponies do you know that have the same exact name?"

Fluttershy smiles and is about to speak in a matter of factly type of way "Oh, I know lots of..." until she realized she couldn't think of anypony who had the SAME EXACT name. "......Oh my"

She was now coming to the conclusion that it was indeed most possibly the same Sunburst.

"Yeeeaaah. So....This is my problem. And I want to be frank. Because I want to approach this as nice and effective as possible. I want to find out his perspective on what happened between them. And maybe, well....try to fix it. I think Starlight would feel a lot better if I helped her close this chapter in her life"

"....That's a very sweet thought, Anon, but...." Fluttershy looks over yonder to Twilight's castle "Why didn't you ask Twilight, or maybe even Pinkie Pie? They are much better at this than I am"

...huh...you didn't even consider Pinkie Pie. Weird...still. You wanted HER advice. "Because, you're my aunt and the nicest pony I've ever known. I feel if anypony could help me, it's you Aunt Fluttershy"

Fluttershy could feel a deep warmth in her heart. "Oh Anon..." She gives you a very gentle rub on the back of your right ear...ohhh...so good. "I just didn't want to give you some advice that well....that wouldn't work and make things worse. Sometimes my ideas have a problem with backfiring."

"But sometimes it doesn't, doesn't it?"

"Well, yes. I think I've given more good advice than bad...But still. Anon, do you really feel I'm the one you should be asking?" Then something donned on Fluttershy "Actually...I'm surprised the map hasn't reacted to this. That's strange considering it's definitely a big friendship problem that we know of. It did send us to Starlight before, so why not now?"

It meant none of the six were suited for this job. that's what you felt anyway.. Come on Fluttershy, come on! Forget the map! Surely you had something! "Maybe that's because it's my task to get this problem fixed. That's why I need your advice. You're super nice Aunt Fluttershy. I'm not asking on what I should say. I'm asking how I should act and how I should approach the problem. Please...I need this"

Fluttershy was confused. She always felt you were such a nice and good little colt already. The fact you needed this kind of advice just baffled her. She didn't feel confident enough that her advice would help you. Not really because she felt she had bad advice. It was more that there were others better suited for this situation. And that she felt you could do this on your own since you were already good and nice. "Anon, I don't think you need my advice. The answer you need." She gives you a tickly little poke on your chest, making you flinch and smile "Is right here!"

.....no "C'mon Aunt Fluttershy, this is serious. If I mess this up then...well, major bad stuff could happen. I don't want Starlight to suffer her past anymore. But I also don't want to screw this up and have her suffer the past coming in to slam her in the face."

Fluttershy was sure that would have worked. She started to mumble, reluctant to answer given the stakes were now clear in front of her. But when she looked back, she saw the bear. And the bear gave her a smile and a sort of...thumbs up.

It...seemed to affect her mood rather positively.

"Well, if you really want my advice Anon. I think you should approach Sunburst like it never actually happened, properly introduce yourself, be nice, and make sure he is comfortable talking about what happened. Don't get mad at him, don't interrupt him, and just listen. Maybe what happened wasn't even his fault. And if that's what it is, then can you imagine how happy they'd both be to learn it was just one big misunderstanding and they could be friends again? Oh yes, now that I think about it, I think that's actually what it could be."

Could it? Holy fuck.....it could!....hopefully. it was a good chance though, this is a cartoon based world, and a endearing one at that. This could very well be one big misunderstanding.

YES! IT CAN BE THAT! HAHA! YOU HAVE NOTHING TO WORRY ABOUT!

You latch onto Fluttershy and give her the biggest hug you can. You had it now. The way to act and the most definite possibility it could be. "YOU'RE THE BEST AUNT FLUTTERSHY! I LOVE YOU SOO MUCH!"

Fluttershy hugged onto you. "I love you too Anon. So so so so so so-eep!" Suddenly you and Fluttershy are picked up and literally given a bear hug by the bear as he cries and sobs. He was struck with awe from such a tender moment.

"Awwww, you're so sweet Mr.Bear, of course we love you too. Right Anon?" Fluttershy says with a giggle as she nuzzles the back of her head into him.

"c-c-can't...b-breath...."

The bear then realized he may have been hugging a little too hard. He puts the both of you down gently and gives you a pat on the head. But you were so out of breath from the sudden hug that you fall flat on your face.

"Anon?" Fluttershy looks at you with worry. "A-are you alright?"

You flip around, revealing a smile on your face. You may have been downed, but the pure excitement to help Starlight meant you weren't out. "I'm super good. I got this! I know exactly what I need to do"

Fluttershy was relieved you were ok. But she noticed that you wanted do this now. Or, that's what it seemed to her. "are you going to go see him now, Anon?"

You get up on your hooves and nod to her. Hell yeah you were doing this now. You had to do it now before the next day came. "Mhmm, I just have to. I don't want Starlight to somehow find out in ANY way that Sunburst is around until after I talked to him. He's like, super important..right? So word of him could spread pretty fast"

Fluttershy nodded, with some reluctance, she wasn't sure how high in the totem pole "Adviser" was. "I guess so, But still, shouldn't you wait til tomorrow?"

"Super...important. Why wait?" You tried to emphasize the "Super" in Super important

"Yes Anon but....well. I know it's important, you're right about that. But Sunburst is still settling in." Fluttershy felt you were rushing things.

"Aunt Fluttershy, trust me. I know I can handle this. And I know I have to do this now. I mean, just look at my cutie mark, it's chaos itself, my talent. If I just make a plan for it, I might overthink it or I might miscalculate something and totally lose myself if things go different. I think it's better if I roll with it"

Fluttershy looked to the bear, who just shrugged. Yeah, that didn't really make sense to her or him. "Hmmmnnnn...I still think you should plan this out. These are the lives of two ponies who have managed to make their lives better, admittingly with your help..but still"

But that was just it… "Exactly! and the way I helped was just suddenly doing my thing."

"Yes but....didn't you also get into an argument with your father that also...well..." Fluttershy tried to find a very nice way to put in the fact that it nearly could have destroyed the world "May have caused a problem or two?"

...d-dammit. "A small hitch, C'mon Aunt Fluttershy. I got this. If I go in alone, I won't really have anypony to argue this. Trust me."

Besides, since you were going to the Empire tomorrow with the captain.You didn't know how deadly this changeling you were going after was.But if he somehow caused a ruckus, the castle could end up being closed off. That was a thing actually. You had to make sure to utterly crush him the first chance you get or else things would get bad. But there was always that small room for error. "Well, sorta. But it didn't destroy the world or anything. And besides, that was a small problem caused by Dad being a little difficult. Great great guy, but y'know dad, he can be pretty wacky" You let out a nervous titter before clearing your throat with a cough. "But yeah, as long as I'm careful. I should be able to do this now"

Fluttershy let out a low moan of disapproval. But she had that feeling, especially with the mention of the cutie mark, that if she told you no..you'd do it anyway. Even if it irked her, she rather you be doing something good rather than just being a jerk. So all she could do was at least urge you to be careful. "...ok....B-but Anon, please put some thought into it, alright? You at least need to be prepared."

Well, a little thought might not hurt.

You reach for your map as you agree with her. "Alright, I'll be careful. Aunt Fluttershy, thanks for the advice"

You move in for a goodbye hug. "I love you..."

She holds you close again. "I love you too, I believe in you, Anon. No matter what, I will always believe in you. I know you can do this"

Hold it in Anon...don't cry. Because you felt your heart swell from those words. If it's one thing you never had to worry about, it was Fluttershy lying about how she felt about you.
"T-thanks...."

After that, you said your goodbyes as usual. But....Fluttershy stopped you before you could dive into the stream by her house. "hrn? W-what's wrong Aunt Fluttershy?"

Fluttershy looked worried about something..what was it?

"I just wanted to ask how your sister is doing. I haven't seen her in awhile, and I had heard that she had gotten hurt. Is she ok? Because if she's well enough to move, I wouldn't mind taking care of her. I'd love to get to know her better."

You could feel every hair on your coat and mane just go straight up from that question. utterly chilling. "U-uhhm. She's alright, sorta. But, ummm, she's still getting used to things. Y'know how it is. She's probably erm...just getting used to having a real nice home"

"Oh..." Fluttershy seemed puzzled at first. But then she smiled as if everything was fine "Well, tell her I said hello and that I can't wait to spend more time with her....mnnn..I can't imagine how different things are for her now, and she must feel awfully shocked from being injured after just arriving in Ponyville. I guess she just wants to feel safe before she does anything again. That's ok. You take good care of your big sister, ok Anon?"

.......Yeah...sure....nope. "Ok, I will Aunt Fluttershy, erm...I'll be going now. Goodbye"

"Goodbye Anon. And remember, be careful" She waved to you with a smile as you dove into the portal created by your map.

...god geez. As soon as Chrysalis was able again, you would have to go about making sure she didn't fuck things up for you. Hell, it was actually a blessing that the cannonball hit her. Too bad she was nearly well at this point. Still, if she managed to stay behaved like at the sleepover...then things could still be ok

When you jumped into your room. You actually felt that you needed to take a sit on your bed as you put some planning into your next move.

You actually take your pillow and roll onto your back as you hug it lovingly. It felt nice knowing that Fluttershy unconditionally loved you and supported you, even if she didn't fully agree with what you were doing. All your screw ups, all your dumb shit...and still....she was there for you.

Screw ups....mnnnn...you couldn't screw this one up. That's for sure.

And as you thought of said screw ups...it made you think of Scoots.

You really should have taken the time to check up on her.

Maybe..it would be better to check up on her rather than do this. Fluttershy could be right, a day of planning could do you some good. And considering your horrid screw up from earlier today. Going two for two would certainly cause a problem.

But did Scootaloo really need to be checked on? She did seem pretty fine after she woke up. Yeah, she felt bad that it didn't go her way. But it was almost like she just shrugged it off altogether. You could make the situation worse by checking on her.

No, you'd go see Sunburst. That situation was something you KNEW had to be dealt with. While with Scoots, it was only a guess.

As for Sunburst himself? If you were going to approach him. You did have to be nice, but maybe you could add to it somehow. Hrnnn...

you then spot your alarm clock. "Aha! I got it!"

The guy was an adviser now. So he had to have a much different sleeping schedule now. So, to show him good will and help him out. You go over to your alarm clock and scoop it into your saddle bag. You would give it to him as a gift. That should break the ice for sure. Yeah, he could use this to keep better track of time and get up when he needed to.

And with that, you headed off to the Crystal Empire through your portal door.

Ok, this would be easy peasy.

You looked towards the castle, then up to the sky. It was going to be night soon. You had to get this done.

Hell, the only thing negative on your mind was Angel's stupid shit. You'd have to show him who was boss later.

the city sure looked nice during the dusk. the homes glistened and reflected the smooth orange of the sun.

But as you went under the standing castle to enter it's doors. You noticed two guards placed guarding them.

But hey, you remembered you were allowed in if you let them know who you were.

One of them seemed familiar however.

"Heyo, how are you guys doing?" You say with a happy smile on your face.

One guard just waves, while the other actually responds "Oh, ya know. Just guarding the doors. You're not here about the pictures of the new princess are you? Already got word that it was already handled."

Wait a second...the pony that spoke. the one acting all nice and cool. His coat...the blue coming from points of his helmet....his blue tail.

Oh...good...christ.

OH SHITTING FUCK

...also.....what the hell? Pictures? Princess? Did he mean the pictures Discord offered? That was today wasn't it? sheesh ponies compl-OH FOR FUCKS SAKE, ITS FLASH SENTRY!

"A-ahm...no actually. I'm Anon..Discord's son." ...awkwaaaaaaard.

"Oh hey." He let out a gentle laugh "how are you doing? If you're here to apologize for your dad or something, don't sweat it. Everypony in the castle seems to be pretty chill about what he did. I mean, it's not like he charged anypony, right?"

He was acting as if you and Discord had some sort of discussion about this. Though, hearing about this now, you were wondering what the result was. "Uhm, nah. But...what exactly happened? and how was it dealt with?"

"Oh, uhhmm..Well, some angry ponies came complaining about these pictures your dad promised. And then Princess Cadance and Prince Shining Armor announced that they would let a photographer take one or two pictures of their daughter and mail copies to everypony in the empire. Pretty cool right?" Flash said, then chuckled "Oh boy, with all the things your dad could have done, I'm glad that this time it was not-...oh" Flash turned his head and coughed "sorry, didn't mean to say anything bad about your dad...mnnn..."

....that fuck. Just seeing his face makes you angry. All those twifags who couldn't protect their waifu. This right here was the ultimate evil. You knew your past mistakes. and you knew to fix them. But this right here? He was a mistake that needed to be fixed. "Oh no..it's fine" You give him a false yet reassuring smile "But, can you take me to see the princess? I need to ask her something.

"Oh, sure." Flash seemed relieved that you didn't take offense "I wanted to do some walking anyway, and since my shift is nearly over, I guess it wouldn't hurt to take you. Hey, Spear Blade, Mind taking over for two until Rooty Tooty shows up?" Flash looks over to the silent guard, who merely nods. He had a black mane, with black coat, with red tips at the end of his mane.And he always had this scowl on his face. Who the fuck?

As Flash Sentry took you inside, you couldn't help but comment. "Uhhh, what's with that guy anyway? He seems pretty mean."

"Oh, Spear Blade? He's cool. He carves little figurines out of wood and gives them to the foals around the city. He even carved a Princess Twilight for my birthday." He seemed rather pleased about this. You could hear Twifags everywhere moaning in pain.

"...uhhh...huh...so...Twilight huh? She your favorite princess or something?" You ask as you both navigate the castle. heading towards the throne room.

Flash sentry blushed as he turned his head slightly, trying to seem a little disinterested "I guess. I mean, there's only a few right? she's pretty neat....and smart...and...uhh...y'know...cute"

BOILING 50000% MAD "...really? hrn...so, do you like her or something?"

"......ummm" Flash Sentry blushed a deep red "..w-who said that I did?"

Good god man, it was fucking obvious now. "Just saying, you sound like you like her. She's ok I guess"

"Ok? hrn" Flash Sentry didn't seem to accept your opinion, he saw your age and thought of you as too young to know "I guess if you're a kid she'd be ‘ok’. I mean, I don't like her THAT much or anything. But, she's...well...kinda great. She did save Equestria a few times""

Oh....really? a kid?...ok wise guy. You asked for it...you fuck. "Well, yeah. I know. I get to hang out with her from time to time. In fact, I'M going to be teaching her some stuff about chaos magic later on. So yeah, I know what I'm talking about"

You act pretty smug about it. But all he seemed to react to was what Twilight was doing. "Woah wait...You're gonna teach Twilight about chaos magic? Huh...weird. I thought she studied up on all known magic in Equestria. Well, whatever. That's pretty cool, dude. I mean, you get to actually hang around her and stuff. I don't see how that makes her just ok if you seem to be good enough friends to be a teacher. Buuuut...well...." He started blushing, as his words seemed to be jumbled. He was pathetically trying to steer the conversation into something for himself. "Uhh, actually. I admit..she's more than pretty cool. I kinda....well...like her. But you know" He chuckles weakly "Being a guard way up here doesn't really give me a chance to try and see her. Y'know...I kinda...well" Flash Sentry looks forward, then back. He was trying to make sure Shining Armor was not in earshot. Once he was sure, he whispered "....really like like her, if you get what I'm saying. And since you seem to be good friends with her. I kinda have this idea...that...uhh" He blushed massively hard as he stopped the rub the side of his front leg with his other hoof. It was obvious what he was going to say. "Maybe, I could take some time off. And you could introduce me to her?"

.....wut?.....but you two just fucking met. "Uhhhhh, we don't even know eachother. How does that work?"

"Well...y'know. Erm... I'm Flash Sentry by the way. And uhh..it's cool to meet you...and..." Flash Sentry put a hoof to his forehead as he realized he was fucking up "I'm not very good at this...I'm usually so calm and cool. But when I think about her...I get all...wobbly. Sorry, forget I said anything.....unless, you think it's a good idea. I really do wanna meet her. Maybe...ask her out on a date"

OH GOOOOOOOOOOOD NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO "Look, Flash? That's probably not a good idea..."

"....o-oh? Why?" He already seemed utterly crushed already....good.

But you act sympathetic and sorry for him "Because, she's always busy. You can't even get a transfer to her castle since she has no guards. All she does is study, act princessy, fight monsters, hang with her friends, and solve friendship problems. She doesn't have time for relationships."

".....oh...." Flash Sentry looks down in terrible defeat and depression "....I guess that makes sense. She is a princess after all. I don't even know what I was thinking. I mean, she's a princess...and I'm just some guard"

...yep " Sorry man...I mean, I'd help if I could. You seem like a cool guy and all."

"Yeah...well" He forces a smile and gives you a gentle rub on the head. Twifags rejoice. You saved their eh waifu. "can't blame a pony for trying, huh? Thanks for not getting creeped out. You really are a cool dude. Come on, we're almost to the throne."

..........dammit

DAMMIT....WHY DID HE HAVE TO SAY IT LIKE THAT?!...now you felt awful. "......yeah...."

But what could you say now? What if you did encourage him to see Twilight? This Twilight didn't go through the mirror. What if she didn't like him?...eh...just...just stick with it. Your guilt would leave you soon enough.

A downtrodden Flash leads you towards the doors of the throne room and opens them. then, with his ears perked down, he takes off his helmet and sighs "You take care of yourself little guy...I'm gonna go home and do a little guitar playing. Good luck..." And off he went.

I-it was better this way...right?

...it had to be.

Then again, what if sometime during Equestria Girls that he did end up with Twilight? What about that Scilight chick at the end of the second movie? You never did get to watch the third one..would he end up with her instead?

Huh...hard to imagine him not ending up with either Twi. He didn't seem the type to get utterly cucked.

You try to get it out of your mind.

You then look ahead. You only spotted Shining Armor and Cadance , the baby's crib at their side. But the baby herself was latched onto the back of her father's head, cooing and cuddling into it as he just walked about, a big happy grin on his face as he just kept moving to give her a sense of movement and excitement. It kept her happy despite his slow pace. Cadance just sat at her thron, grinning at her husband and child. "She really has a thing for grabbing onto other ponies, huh?"

"Yup, she does. It's cool. Means she’s gonna get a mean grip like her dad." Shining Armor said as he started to speed up his circling pace just a little.

"Come on Shining, don't go too fast. What if she let's go?" Cadance gets somewhat worried. But stays relaxed.

"It'll be fine, she's already got a good hang at flying. Besides, you know me. I'd never EVER let her come close to hitting the ground and..." That's when Shining noticed you "Anon? Yo hey, you asked the guards this time around to come visit, huh?"

Well, that was rather casual "..Yeah...hey. So....uhh...huh. I kinda expected you guys to be sorta suspicious about me being here actually."

You kinda really did. You didn't think you'd be greeted so casually.

Cadance got up from her throne and raised an eyebrow at you as she approached you. "Why? Should we be suspicious of something? Or was it because of what your father did? If it was that, we totally got it handled" Cadance then reverted to a smile, and even a small laugh. She thought that you thought that they were mad at you.

...right "Oh yeah..that. hah, I was wondering how that all went down...thanks for getting that handled."

Well..with that out of the way. Perhaps you should cool down, slow down, and keep it casual. "So then..um...that's Flurry Heart right? She's a real cutie"

...she was kinda cute in her own way. She was happy at least.

"Oh, you didn't really get to see her at all, did you? Would you like to meet her?" Cadance asked with a smile. She didn't know why. But she could feel a tenseness about you, and wanted to be friendly. She thought you meeting the baby would calm your nerves. She found it odd too. She knew you for being rather dorky and full of yourself. now? You didn't seem that way.

"Sure, why not. I wonder..." Could you make her say your name maybe? Could she say words? "Can she talk yet?"

"Not really" Shining said as he drew close and lowered his head and neck to get you a better view of Furry Heart "but she's pretty smart anyway. She's probably gonna be as smart as my sister when she grows up. I might have to ask Twily for a couple of her books if she picks up on reading super fast....heh...Flurry Heart, look, this is Anon. He's a pretty nice guy and a hero in Ponyville, do you want to say hello?"

Awww..

You approach a little closer and hold out your hoof to pet her head "Heya Flurry Heart, how you doin?"

You give her a gentle smile. But as you draw near, she grew uncomfortable. And as your hoof came ever closer. She started to frown, and sputter in discomfort. Hiding her face into the back of her father's neck.

Hmmn?

...wut?

You try daring a little closer with your hoof. But then she started to whine. She shook, she was scared of you.

You drew your hoof back.....and you felt awful for some reason. You were just rejected by a baby. An alicorn baby at that. It felt....wrong to you.

Shining Armor raised his head and stepped back. Letting Cadance pick up Flurry Heart with her magic so she can grab her with her hooves and gently cradle her.

Shining Armor then turned to you with a confused frown. "Sorry Anon. I guess she doesn't like you. Weird though..didn't think that would happen. She usually likes everypony she sees."

"Yeah, it is weird. But I guess you must have looked like a scary monster to her." Cadance raised her baby to look her in the eyes and gave her a gentle kiss on the nose. Raising the baby's spirits again and putting relief back into Cadance's heart. She then looked to you again and giggled "Maybe you should take care of your mane more often. It looks like you never really comb it or anything."

that......that's because you didn't. Did you really need to?...goddammit. Was your hygiene just made fun of by a baby and her mother?...christ...

...That baby though, was definitely scared of you. Why? The real reason? Probably because it was a baby and didn't know any better. It'll be fine.

"So Anon, joking aside. What are you here for? Or did you want us to mail you a picture of the baby too?" Cadance asked as she cradled Flurry Heart.

.....here we go.

Were you ready for this? You just fucked up with Flash Sentry....and yet, you semi felt he was kinda creepy and deserved it. And still, you felt bad about it.

No, this was actually important. Just...be polite.

Be courteous

Act as if nothing is wrong or went wrong.

"No, actually, I came to see Sunburst. I know that already sounds weird. I can see it in your faces. But, just to let you know. I'm not here to see him about today. This isn't a jealousy thing. I'm here because he's has a relation to a friend of mine."

"...relation?." Cadance didn't understand at all. "Anon, are you sure? Didn't you just meet Sunburst today?"

You nod, you did "Mhmm, but. well...let me explain. I figure since you're royalty and all. You won't tell anypony else, right?"

Both Shining Armor and Cadance nod.

"You have our word as prince and princess, Anon" Cadance tells you, she wanted you to be confident in their secret keeping abilities.

"Ok...so" You explain Starlight Glimmer's past to them. It had appeared they already knew of her, Twilight no doubt being the one to tell them. But they knew not of her past. So you explain how she went bad when a friendship between her and Sunburst suddenly just....ceased to be.

Shining Armor was the first to respond, he wasn't sure about one thing. "Anon, are you sure this Sunburst is the same Sunburst? It's possible he can be another pony named Sunburst"

But Cadance was more understanding, and looked to her husband to explain her reasoning on that "Honey, he's a unicorn like in Anon's story. The Sunburst he's talking about went to Princess Celestia's school. While our Sunburst told us he used to attend there. Unless Anon is making this all up, I'd like to think that it's more than a coincidence."

"Right...that does make sense. But, woah. Still...what are the chances?" Shining Armor seemed rather impressed at the odds.

"Yeah, though. It's a good thing that it might actually be him. I don't think he's the type to just abandon a friend like that. I've only known him for the day and he seems kinda...well...scatter brained at times. But dutiful and caring. So, let's not jump to conclusions, huh?" Cadance wanted to be careful with this. She wasn't fully sure on the story you just told. But if it was true, then she was interested to know the truth on the matter since she was entrusting him as the royal adviser in magic.

"Yeah, I know. No jumping to conclusions. But, like I said, I need to speak to him alone. One on one, since I know Starlight the most. Please...I really need to do this for her."

"What do you say, honey? I need to put little Flurry Heart to bed anyway." Cadance said, using that as a reason to give you alone time with Sunburst

Shining Armor shrugged "I don't see a problem. He is the hero colt after all. It's not like he's got some ulterior motive or is friends with the changelings or anything."

....HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA..HAHAH….god, please, just end it

Shining Armor walks over to his daughter and gives her a peck on the nose "Don't give your mother any trouble now"

Flurry Heart giggles and pats her father's nose happily. giving it a little hug.

"You're such a good dad, you know that?" Cadance moves over to give a kiss on Shining's lips.

"Yeah I know, but that's just because I have an awesome wife" Shining compliments her

And with that, Shining starts to lead you to Sunburst's chambers.

As he led you down the crystalline hallways. Shining couldn't help but ask you a few questions. "So Anon, I gotta ask you a question. Something has been bugging lately"

Hrn? "Really? and it has to do with me?"

"Yeah" Shining makes a turn at the corner, taking you down yet another hallway. saluting any guard you both happen to cross paths with. "I didn't think about it too much until I noticed Princess Luna acting weird too. You see, whenever the subject of you comes up whenever Princess Celestia and Luna come to visit, it always seems to kill their mood. Like, I get really off vibes from them. They also have been visiting more often, which is also kinda weird.Then it got even weirder when Luna visited by herself."

....you gotta be kidding. "...seriously?? I mean, I'd have no idea why they'd be acting that way. They are probably just nervous because...y'know...my dad"

"I guess. They asked me to tighten security a few days ago. But wouldn't tell me why. And Luna asked me if we noticed anypony acting off. We haven't....it's so weird"

....why would you even be brought up? "Ok, but why bring me up that much?"

"Well, it wasn't THAT much. They brought you up asking if you had been by lately. We said you haven't, and we brought you up once or twice only because you were mentioned in my sister's letters. And their reaction wasn't bad. Just, well...they just didn't seem to want to talk about it"

Or maybe they were keeping your secret while not being pleased about it. But Luna? Was she taking more of an interest? That wasn't good....maybe. "I guess they are just on edge that I might do something bad or something. I've heard of some things my Dad did but..I dunno, he seems like a super cool guy. And me? I don't wanna do any bad stuff"

"Yeah..." Shining Armor let out a small laugh of relief "Why would you? haha, ok. I guess that's a pretty good reason too. No offense, but your dad can get on somepony's nerves. Trust me, Twily has sent me A LOT of letters about him. oh...hey..here we go." You both stopped at a pair of gigantic doors. "This was Sombra's old study. we kinda haven't been doing anything with it for the longest of times. Now? It's more of a library and a bedroom in one. Kinda reminds me of Twily to be honest." He starts to knock on the door. "Hey, Sunburst! You got a visitor"

The doors slowly open as Sunburst pokes his head out, some strands of tape stuck to his horn. "what, huh? hmm? Oh, your highness, it's you" Sunburst does a bow "Did you say I have a....oh my" He looks down at you, confused, but smiles politely nonetheless....what the fuck was up with the tape? "Hello..Anon, was it? Is he my visitor? I hope I didn't do anything to upset him...that's not why he's visiting is he? Because I upset him?"

Shining gives him a warm smile, keeping himself from chuckling "No, come on dude, it's alright. How's the room coming by the way?"

"The room? Oh, you mean this room. It's coming along fine. I have all my books in order, my bed is set up just the way I like it. I am having trouble keeping up one of the candles though. So much tape, so little grip." Sunburst said as he nervously brushed off some of the tape from his horn.

"Did you try just....bolting it to the wall?" Shining asked him

"Hmmm...no, but I will get on that." Sunburst replies.

"Actually, I was wondering if you're willing to have a one on one with Anon here. He says he has something very important he wants to talk to you about" Shining tells him, stepping back a few steps to get out of the way of the door.

"Very important? Hmm" Sunburst had no idea what could be that important. But he also didn't want to turn you away. If it was important, he wanted to keep in the loop. "I don't mind, but if it is so important. Shouldn't you and the princess be here for this?"

Shining Armor shook his head "No, it'll be alright. but just stay chill, ok? Anon is gonna drop some heavy stuff on you. I know its all of a sudden, but it sounds pretty important."

Sunburst bows "Your highness, as your adviser, I must face down any challenge that comes before me. But, is it really that bad?" Sunburst adjusts his glasses, removing a few pieces of tape from it "I barely know Anon, so it can't be anything too terrible. U-unless he's here to be my interior decorator. Which, wouldn't he be too young for that?"

"Just trust me, and trust in him. You'll see what I mean when he tells you. So uhhh...later. If you want to talk about it with us afterwards, our door will be open" Shining Armor was trying to be courteous by leaving his door open in case Sunburst felt uncomfortable with anything you had to say. But he also wanted to leave so it could get started.

And as he left, you found yourself alone with Sunburst. He still looked kinda cute...for a guy pony.

"..so then, umm..would you like some tea, Anon?" He stepped aside so you could step in

"No thanks...hey, this all looks pretty nice" You step into the room and noticed how neat and organized everything was compared to his old home. There was even a magically powered fireplace at the end of the room. His bed, which was odd to see in a study of all things, was over in a corner, in between a couple of bookcases. Probably used to house his favorite books.

"Thank you, I had a lot more room to work with compared to well....my entire house. Funny how that works, right? S-so, a one on one talk, right? come over to my desk."

As he leads you to his desk. You take note a lot of dark and sinister books on top of it....that was creepy. They screamed EVIL.

Sunburst slid them to the side as he grabbed his seat behind the desk and put it in front for you to sit on as he stood behind his desk.

...huh… "Don't you need this chair?"

"Oh it's fine, you're the guest. I'm fine just standing here. Now, what is it you want to talk about?" Sunburst sounded as polite as possible. not wanting to offend.

.....firstly..these books and notes.. "Umm, before we get to that. What's all this?"

"Oh these? These are the old king's notes and journals. Very very interesting reads. He had some rather..ahrm" He tried to think of a nice word for it "Well, I don't think I can come up with anything nice to say about this, no, I think I cannot. These are all rather diabolical, and even downright evil. Not a king I'd like to be under, no siree. But, my duties here in the castle demand I learn everything I can about this empire. And these journals and notes are instrumental in learning on how to deal with with the dark arts or anypony who uses them against us. Very important work indeed." He says as he notices one of the books were out of order and quickly rearranged them.

"Oh, that's actually pretty cool. Heh..but erm..yeah" That was actually pretty interesting. And if it wasn't for the fact that this was important, you'd actually want to have a few reads through those journals and notes. "I'd like to know more, but uhhh....oy..how do I open up with this?"

"Oh, I'm sure it won't be that hard." He giggles calmly and gently, unaware of what he was about to hear "we are both sensible ponies here.And do not worry, I will take whatever you say at one hundred percent face value"

...ok...then "Ok...so then, do you know a pony named Starlight Glimmer?"

it was like he didn't hear it. It just....flew by him. "What was the question? I had trouble understanding it...." He was starting to sweat

...that fuck.....

...ohhhh, he better not end up being an asshole afterall...or you know what. Let him be, you'd love to blast him and feign innocence. "Ahrm...Do...you...KNOW...Starlight...GLIMMMMEERRR" You say in a very condescending and elongated way.

His face was glistening at this point. He had to start dabbing his hoof on his cheeks and forehead just to wipe his sweat off, and it wasn't helping. "S-Starlight Glimmer?....I..I haven't heard that name in so long. Y-you know her?"

"I do.....and she told me about you" You lean in on the desk, holding back a nasty scowl.
"She told me how you just up and left her. You just got your cutie mark and left. When I found out your name, I knew you had to be the same Sunburst she talked about. So I'm here on her behalf to find out your side of the story. And let me tell-"

you stop yourself, you were getting angry. You lean back to your seat and cross your hooves. looking deep into his eyes. You had to calm down. "....let me ASK you...what happened? Start from the beginning"

"Well..." Sunburst was shaking, he had to take a moment to calm himself, he took off his glasses and laid them on the desk. "You're not wrong, that happened. I did up and leave...and I suppose, I made no attempt on letting her know how things were...So yes, I g-guess that would mean I left her."

"...mhmm.." This bastard

"I'd er...like to ask how she's doing. I...really would like to know. Is she alright? Is she ok? How has she been?" He asks sheepishly. He felt an immense shame from his past catching up to him. Because just from your demeanor, he could tell something was wrong.

"She's doing alright, she's practically a mayor of a town at this point. Made friends with Princess Twilight and her friends too...."

"T-that's good then....right?" He had no idea what you wanted from him now. He was confused and frightened

"Yup, but before that, She was trying to take over Equestria by taking away everyponies cutie marks because her best friend in the whole world abandoned her the moment he got his. I'm sure you know who that best friend is, right?"

"......." His eyes went wide. Then he started to feel absolutely miserable inside. "....is that true?"

" It is, so that's why I want to know....why?"

"....." Sunburst sighed, and started to collect his thoughts and memories "...it's rather simple actually. I got very very excited when I got my cutie mark. And during the time I got it, I was showing exemplary skill in magic.Next thing I knew, my parents had taken me to Celestia's school on the very next day. I didn't even get a chance to say goodbye."

But then.. "What about sending her letters? Couldn't you have communicated with her in some way?"

".....no...I was too ashamed to." He was looking forlorn, as if things went awful for him as well....did it?

"Ashamed?...mnnn" Maybe you shouldn't have pressed him too hard. did he also have a tragic past? well, tragic as far as ponies go.

"Yes, you see. My burst of magic, it only lasted until the end of the entrance exam. Pretty soon after, I realized my magic was actually mediocre...no, less than mediocre. And, well, you see....I really looked up to Starlight. Her magic? Well, it was well beyond my own, beyond any foal's really. She was amazing. So when I had a chance to be just as good, I wanted her to be proud of me. I mean, I thought soon she'd be right up here with me. And we could spend our time at the school and everything would be great....but. After I realized my own mediocrity, my own failure, I felt too ashamed to write anything to her. I thought to myself ‘She must be so proud that I got into Celestia's school. But if I tell her I'm actually no good at magic, and that sooner or later, the teachers would realize it. She would just find me a big big joke and never want to be friends again.’.. I wanted to try to get better though, so while I was there, I studied up on as much magic as I could. But, heh...of course. When it came time to actually show off said magic. I failed. I was a laughing stock, I even ended up shaming my parents. I was no good...no good to anypony. I never did see Starlight at the school, but I guess, at that point, I had just forgotten. I just wanted to make my parents proud, I wanted Starlight to be proud..."

....oh good lord. He failed so badly that he became a recluse. "....but you ended up being a hermit instead, and then you started calling yourself a wizard?"

Sunburst nodded "Yes on the hermit, no on the wizard. Other ponies just sorta called me that because of how I dressed and how the house I was living in when I came here looked like. And I just sorta...rolled with it, as one would say" Sunburst laid his head down on his desk. Feeling miserable "But I guess none of that excuses anything, does it? I should have made more of an attempt to talk to her. But...it was all so sudden....all that pressure. I feel.....maybe I'm not even cut out for a job like this"

And just like that, you had come to realize you were still ruining lives. God fucking dammit, you couldn't let that happen. Not only because it was bad, but because Cadance would fucking chastise you. And then Celestia and Luna would know..and good god...good fucking grief. "No, don't think that. You did the best you could. Look, I'm sorry for being so abrasive. I just really wanted to learn the truth."

"But...I caused her life to go into a total tailspin because I simply did not think to do a simple action as writing her a letter." Oh yeah, he was miserable, his tears were finally coming out, flowing like small waterfalls.

"And that's because it looked like you were under a lot of pressure. You were put on this pedestal to be some big shot magic pony and it just was never in the cards for you. You were scared of everypony looking at you like a failure. I mean, in the end, it seems like that's exactly what happened. You were ashamed. And...well, I guess nopony can blame you for secluding yourself like that. You didn't know what was going to happen to Starlight. Nopony can fault you for it at all."

"...But she hates me, doesn't she?"

...oh lordy..she did..sorta..maybe, yeah she did? That was primarily your fault in all actuality. "No, she doesn't. In fact, the other reason why I did this was because I wanted you two to meet and get back together. So she can stop being troubled by what happened, and...apparently..so can you. Y'know, close on the final chapter of this misunderstanding"

"...So..." He slowly raises his head, and wipes his tears "A-are you saying, there's a way to fix what happened?"

"Well, they don't call me the hero colt for nothen." You give him a gigantic grin, ohhh god. You were going to need some time to talk to Starlight and get this fixed big time. Well, you were already going to need to do that anyway. But dammit, she did in fact hate Sunburst. "Just give me some time, and I'll let you know when it will happen. Also, don't..please don't...let this affect your work or anything. I can promise, and guarantee that everything will be ok."

"....I believe you Anon." He already seemed to feel a sense of hope, faster than you expected. So much so that you had to ask.

"Y-you do?"

"Well....yes" He put his glasses back on after giving them a quick cleaning with a part of his cape. "You're the hero colt, and as I understand it, you are capable of amazing and miraculous things. Well, that's how the stories go anyway. A young colt, who even bettered his father and saves ponies, even stopping devilish criminals who wish to do harm. How could I not believe you when you're just standing there, telling me about Starlight. I could have never predicted you would have known her. Yes, clearly this is a strange twist of fate. And well, how could I not put my faith in you with all that presented to me? So...yes, I shall await further word from you ,Anon...and of course" He bows to you "I appreciate your help, I really do."

Woah....it was rare, but it always felt overwhelming when someone praised you like that. "N-no problem...um..Well, that's it then. I'm glad to know that none of this was your fault either. It was just really bad circumstances."

"It seems so, but..." Sunburst gives you a hopeful and cheerful smile "I have my full faith in you. I have no doubt that this can all be fixed. Ohhh, I'm already getting excited. There's so much I'd like to catch up with her on. Oh, I need to ask. Did she end up being as good at magic as I imagined?"

Oh boy, did she. "Welp, she was able to actually make a spell that ACTUALLY removed cutie marks. How does that sound? She's also able to fly around with her magic."

"Amazing, I've never even heard of a spell like that. And self levitation is one thing. But being able to fly? Wow, just...wow. I'm proud of her, and I haven't even repaired my friendship with her yet. Oh, yes, yes, I simply can't wait." He giggled giddily.

"Well, it won't be for awhile. Anyway, I can see it's already getting dark. I better get going."

"Ahh yes" Sunburst looks out the window, it was dark out now. "I wouldn't want to keep you and worry your father, no, no indeed. Alright then, you have a good night Anon. I'm going to be spending it studying up on evil King Sombra."

"And uhh..a good night to you Sunburst. Hey, you got any water around or anything?"

"I do actually." Sunburst reaches under the desk to pull up a huge pot of soup "Or rather, it's soup to keep me subtly filled until I go to sleep. I was offered a full dinner but that would just make me sleepier, you know how it is when it comes to late study, need to stay awake as much as possible."

Uhhhhhh......why would he even keep it under his desk? "Sure....Can you pour a small puddle of it on the floor please?"

".....uhm...ok...may I ask why?" He seemed very puzzled.

"Oh.." You pull out your map "It's how I get home. Since I live in another dimension and all, I use liquids like water to be able to pass through and go straight into my room."

"Oh, well now, how very intriguing! I'd like to see how that works...let's see" Sunburst wastes no time in pouring some of his soup on the ground to make a puddle. "There we are"

"Alright, now check this out" You actually felt he was being endearing now. Or maybe that was because he was enamored with the fact you could open a portal with your map.

You toss in your map into the puddle of soup. Making a hole right into your room.

Sunburst moves to the puddle, looking directly through it. "A portal opened with soup using an artifact that is clearly not of normal make. Fascinating! So this must be the work of chaos magic, right?"

"Yep. Pretty cool, huh?"

"Yes, and convenient. I wouldn't mind having such an easy way to return home. Oh well, I mustn't complain, I am the adviser of the Prince and Princess of the Crystal Empire...hmm..But before you go. I'd like to thank you once again for all of your help and understanding." Again, Sunburst does a bow.

"N-no problem. And thanks for keeping it together. You take care Sunburst, and remember. Wait for my word, alright?"

"There will be no issue on that Anon, farewell" He waves to you as you go and dive into the portal.

......And as you land on your bed. You lay there, staring straight up.

....holy fuck, you nearly ruined things again...nearly. You were just glad your own title was there to give the guy hope or else you would have been utterly fucked. You need to be more fucking careful. Super careful now since you had to go see Starlight and get this fucking fixed.

But before that...you had a changeling to catch? didn't you?

...god your head. It was swimming with stress.

But it was fine, it was ok. Things went better than you thought. You had time, you can fix that. All you had to worry about now was tomorrow. Get through that and you were home free.

Yeah...

You cuddled into your blanket, and began to try to sleep off whatever stress you had. Tomorrow would go fine. Scootaloo, yeah, she had to be fine. Everything was fine.

Fiiiinneeee....

...That is..

Until you opened your eyes from your rest. And found yourself in a jungle.

A jungle?

A fucking..what?

In fact, as you stand and look at your legs. You could see yourself in your familiar "Big Boss" costume.

But you were lucid, which meant.

Luna...God..what did she want now?

She had to be around here somewhere. Why was this dream MGS related? God, did she finally become what the fans back home would call. "Gamer" Luna?

Well, you couldn't give it much more thought as a fucking bang rang in your ears as you saw a bullet from a goddamn sniper whiz by your head.

Fuck this. NOPE! Dream or not. You had no fucking clue if Luna was capable of killing you within a dream. What the hell was she even doing? or maybe this was all just a regular lucid dream. Was it?..WAS-OH FUCK ANOTHER SHOT!

You dive behind a fallen tree trunk, panting hard as a voice, Luna's voice, Can be heard from all around you.

"Welcome Anon, I hope this dreamscape gives you a sense of comfort. For we have a few things to talk about."

A few things...? God, she did not sound pleased despite her welcoming you.

...oh no...that's right....

......fuck....She now knew about what happened today. Didn't she?....With Scoots..

Scoots did fall asleep....

Chapter 284

"L-Luna? W-what are you doing?" You cower behind the trunk, holy fuck, she's gone mental.

"My duties as the princess of the night, Anon. Although, I admit, this is..." She says with a small hint of passive anger "unorthodox" And then she fires another shot. From where? You had no idea.

Oh yeah, she must have known about Scoots. "Luna, look. If it makes you feel any better, I'm really s-"

"SILENCE!" She yells, in what must have been the Royal Canterlot voice " THERE WAS NEVER A TIME FOR APOLOGIES!" She then calms herself, her voice full of authority. "You will stay quiet, and you will listen, Anon. For awhile now, my sister and I have been more than patient with your mission to reform the changeling queen. But today...today you have shown that you are too irresponsible to be left alone in this endeavor. And furthermore, I have personally seen no progress in reforming any of those reprehensible insects."

Oh...no.. "Woah, Woah. Don't tell me you're just going to end this all together. You can't do that!"

"Can't I? You forget that this world is not yours. Your need to meddle in what should be left alone has gone too far and now it is up to me to protect this land. My word on this is final. Also, you will refer to me as Princess Luna...you have not earned the right to refer to me as anything else"

Dammit Luna, what she said....it's not true. You slowly pop your head up and start looking around, looking through the density of the flora. "Princess Luna...That's not true. It isn't. I have made progress. Me and Chrysalis, we saved another dimension together. A-and, there's a changeling that's friends with Applebloom and t-" Oh shit, she fired another shot! You duck to dodge it.

"DO YOU THINK I DON'T KNOW THIS? LET ME EXPLAIN ANON! LET ME MAKE THIS CLEAR! YOU HAVE PROVIDED NO SIGNIFICANT EVIDENCE THAT THIS EVENT TOOK PLACE FOR ME TO ACTUALLY BELIEVE IT! AND THIS...'SCRAPPY'. DO YOU TRULY THINK I'D BELIEVE THAT HE IS CAPABLE OF ANYTHING OTHER THAN DECEIT, LIES, AND ESPIONAGE? NO ANON, YOU ARE THE ONE WHO IS WRONG! AND THROUGH YOUR ERRORS, YOU ALLOWED AN INNOCENT FOAL TO BE HURT!" She bellows

The yelling, it was coming slightly to the right behind you "Princess Luna, I'm telling you. You can't do this...you're wrong. I didn't mean to get Scoots hurt, that wasn't my intent..." You start to tap at your person, until you managed to find a..Haha! A Tranq gun! With a dart! Maybe if you could pacify her...she'd listen. "I'm sorry for that. But Scrappy? I was wrong before too, I thought he was scum. But he's actually good and..."

You pop up with the Tranq and aim directly where her voice came from. You felt you could make the shot. "AHA!...Ahh...uh?" ...but you couldn't actually pull the trigger with your hooves. And then it gets shot out of your grip. And then you went back to hiding. "COME ON PRINCESS, THIS IS MESSED UP! I'M TELLING YOU THE TRUTH! IF YOU WANTED FULL PROOF ON WHAT I'M TRYING TO DO. THEN GO SEE SCRAPPY AND TALK TO HIM YOURSELF! AND-NGH!" You didn't even notice it, but Luna somehow got in front of you. Her next bullet went right between your lower legs...oooohhhhhh! "P-Princess L-Luna?"

"I can see speaking to you about this is pointless, Anon, you do not understand. You have left me no choice but to show you how wrong you really are. Anon, I shall pass my judgement tomorrow, and you will be the first to know. Once I have made MY final decision, Then my will WILL be done, or you too shall be banished from Equestria."

You gulp..c-could she do that? "B-banished? But you can't, does Princess Celestia even agree with this?"

".....My sister does not need to know such things until my judgement is passed. She has been too lenient on you. She does not even know of what has happened to young Scootaloo. You will accept my judgement Anon, the most I can do for you is to have it as if this Changeling business never happened. But if you do not comply, then I simply will have no other choice. The safety of Equestria is of the highest priority. I will hear nothing else on the subject." You could hear her reloading the sniper, you could see the glint off the scope.

"Luna..please don't do this...pLEAAAGH!" But she didn't hesitate, she fired one last shot. Right into your head. "AAAAGH!"

You wake up, breathing heavily, sweating, tapping at your forehead.....no bullet hole. Holy shit....holy fucking shit......that was real...wasn't it? The dream....that was Luna…

"Ahh, Anon. awake before I can wake you up. That is a first" You hear a familiar sensual giggle as you feel your head get a gentle rub. "Have a bad dream?"

You look over....Chrysalis. She was in your bedroom...no doubt to fetch you for this mission. "C-chrysalis?...ummm...erm...W-what are you doing up here?"

"Hmph" She eyes your face up and down, and then taps at your head "Don't be so dense. I'm here to send you on your way. Or were you going to try to skip out on this?"

..... "No....ummm...." ...Chrysalis...goddammit. "I wasn't..."

"Good, the captain is already waiting at the outskirts of the empire towards the mountains. Ahh, but before you go." Chrysalis's horn glows as she pulls up your winter coat and scarf, and also a baggy lunch. "Take these with you, I don't need the captain coming back with a ponsicle."

...She made you a lunch...and she also got your winter clothes...something you would have forgotten..That was actually good of her..And you were going to lose her...Goddammit.

You hop up from your bed and give Chrysalis a huge hug. ".....Chrysalis...I....omph!"

She shoves you away, she didn't understand why you were suddenly being affectionate. But she had a guess. "Anon, you can't get out of this by being cute. It doesn't work on me"

"N-no...That's not it..I...I just appreciate our friendship, Chrysalis. I'm still going..I just thought, y'know...for once...we could just have a nice friendly hug...for once? Huh?" You did try to act cute though. You gave her big huge eyes.

She had no idea what had gotten into you. She just looked down at you, confused and trying to be distant emotionally. ".....What is this?"

...Of course.... C'mon Chryssi… "...Just once, Come on. I know you can taste the love off of me. If you want, I'll owe you another life debt. Just one hug, it's all I want."

She just stares silently at you for a moment. She could taste it, and yet she didn't understand. She wasn't even eating it because it caught her so off guard. "....I don't even.......If I hug you, will you just go? I don't have time for this nonsense, I have things to do"

You nod. "Mhmm..."

"Fine..." She picks you up and brings you close. At first, it's a pretty weak hug. But it lasts a little longer than you expected. And as it went on, she pulls you in just ever so closer. Despite her cold chitin, you actually felt a sort of warm feeling, like she was actually trying, If only for a moment. She then gently puts you down and looks at you, seemingly horribly annoyed. "Satisfied?"

You nod. "Yeah...Sorry if it bothered you" You tried...At least the hug itself was nice. She didn't have to do that really.

"....." She sighed, thinking she actually figured out what happened. "Anon, if you're afraid of not coming back. Don't worry, I do actually have faith in you. Of course, I expect satisfactory results. And even if I know you'll bungle some of this...The faith is there. If it makes you feel ANY better,I do wish you good luck. AND there is a possibility that losing you could sour my mood, so take that as you will."

Your little tail starts to wag as you look up at her with a small smile, eyes glistening. "D-do you really mean that?"

"...Ergh...Yeesssss....Will you go now? Do I have to say please? you're creeping me out, Anon. Just hurry up already. You're wasting valuable time"

Right..."Ok....t-thanks Chrysalis...Queen Chrysalis...Seeya later.." You sigh as you gather up your things and quickly put on your coat and scarf and enter the portal door into the Crystal Empire.

All there was now was to wait for the inevitable. One thing you had to do though was capture this dangerous Changeling. So, while you're doing it, you had to be extra nice to Scrappy. If Fluttershy was to give you advice, if she knew Scrappy...you knew she'd tell you to be nice to him, since this might be the final time you see him..and him the CMC.

You head to the outskirts of the city towards the snowy mountains. It actually got colder and colder as you neared it.

But Scrappy himself was nowhere in sight. You were at the end of the city, and no sign at all. You start to call his name. "Scrappy?....hey Scrappy? You around?"

"Here I am." He didn't cry it out, he just..sort of said it as he popped up from a mound of snow, a scarf and a pair of binoculars hanging from his neck. You braced yourself for the pounce, closing your eyes. But..it never came. He just stood there, only his head was visible as the powdery snow slipped off his head. Geez, he wasn't freezing from hiding in the snow at all?

"Scrappy? What are you doing in the snow. Isn't it cold?"

"Sorta, but I can handle it...ummm...Are you ready to go, Anon? Thorax is somewhere out in the mountains, so it could be dangerous going out there if you're not ready." Something about Scrappy was off. He didn't seem excited to serve his queen. He didn't seem excited to try to dominate you. He wasn't even smiling. Was he scared?

"No, I'm fine...lead the way" You followed behind him as he started to sniff around as if he was a real dog. But..there was no spring in his step. Considering this would most likely be the last day you see him... "Hey Scrappy, is anything wrong? You're usually...y'know...ready to kill me or something."

"Oh..." Scrappy stops and looks back at you, his expression...he looked miserable "D-do you want to have our battle now?....I-I'm ready...if you are"

No enthusiasm, he didn't have his heart in it. The Scrappy you knew would have tried to make you agree or just be ready for the kill. He wasn't even baring his fangs. "Scrappy, what's wrong? Come on...you can tell me."

He started to twitch, his eyes started to water as he stared directly at you. "S-something is w-wrong with Scootaloo, she.....she asked me a lot of strange questions last night. She asked if I was just 'Evil'...A-and when I told her yes...s-she started crying."

...Oh geez... Scootaloo wasn't alright after all. Fuck, you needed more info. "..Scrappy, what happened exactly? Was she alone with you? Were the others there?"

He shook his head. "N-no, only Scootaloo was in the clubhouse last night. I was staying there guarding all the presents I brought for Master Applebloom and the others. To make sure nopony else tried to take them."

Presents...? "You had presents?"

"Mhmmm...I was sneaking around last night gathering things for my friends. I know Sweetie Belle likes to sing, so I found a very nice microphone for her to use. Master Applebloom said she liked potion stuff, so I gathered a lot of ingredients. I even managed to take some from some dumb rhyming zebra. And I got Scootaloo a Rainbow Dash doll....sorta. I kinda just took a doll and brought it home. I disguised myself as Rainbow Dash and used a mirror to paint it right with all the paint supplies I stole. When I was putting the gifts up to show them later, Scootaloo came inside. She looked so sad, Anon....I don't know why...I...I" Scrappy starts to cry and hugs on to you. "I'm a bad friend, Anon, I'm a terrible friend! I have ruined the honor of Scootaloo and I don't know how to fix it..."

Oh dammit..Scrappy...it wasn't his fault. Scootaloo must have still been feeling obliterated from having her love drained. Was she thinking straight? You didn't know....You just hugged onto Scrappy, and started to rub your hoof along his back. "It's alright Scrappy, it's ok....Scootaloo was just having a bad day. It happens."

"...B-but...she got so mad...I didn't even get a chance to show her her present...I thought maybe some hugs would work...but she didn't want me close to her...hugs didn't work Anon...Hugs..one of the snuggliest feelings I ever felt...and she...didn't....ngh...she told me to leave....." And then he started wailing. He was like a little kid, a little kid who didn't understand how things worked. Scootaloo got mad because he said he liked doing evil things. Maybe he did, he probably did, but..he himself wasn't evil. He was just...dumb.

"..Scrappy..." And now it didn't matter...he was going to be gone soon anyway.

"...I know you hate me too, Anon...you never really liked me....r-right?" He sounded so pathetic, he couldn't even say those words without sounding like he was going to fall apart..... The poor guy..

"No, nah, I..never hated you, Scrappy. It's ok..I was just being dumb. You're a great changeling. The best captain anypony could ever have."

"R-really?.." He sat down to look up at you like any other puppy, his fur soaked in his tears.

"Yeah...and.." You give him head pats, which he presses his head against your hooves, he really did like that. "How about, when this is all over, we go see Scoots together. I bet she'd change her mind when she sees that Rainbow Dash doll you painted for her."

"R-really? I..I hope she didn't look in the bag yet...if she looks too early, then she might not know it came from me...I want her to know...I painted it for her because she's a good friend, just like Sweetie Belle and Master Applebloom...I never ever want to hurt them..they are so nice to me..."

You give him a reassuring smile and pat his head once again, trying to sound confident. "Don't worry Scrappy, it's gonna be A-okay. Trust me, we'll go cheer Scoots up together and she'll want all the hugs you can throw at her. And she'll love that doll, that's worth like...super mega hugs"

"Woooow" Scrappy went from depressed to utterly amazed. "Super mega hugs? Those sound sooooo gooood! Hehe!" He giggled, but then stopped as he was puzzled by something. "But umm, Anon, I think you're confused about something."

Confused? "Umm..what about?"

"You can't throw hugs...you can throw rocks, like this," Scrappy finds a small rock in the snow and throws it directly at your head. You barely felt it, but you just half closed your eyes as you felt the universe mocking your noggin for some reason "But hugs? You have to wrap your legs around a pony, and snuggle and care about them...like this!" Scrappy jumps towards you, not enough force to knock you down, but he snuggled onto you as best he could. He could feel his fears melt away.

But your fears mounted. All you could do for him was try to keep his spirits up. He didn't have much to worry about anyway. If Scootaloo found the doll, she'd already realized it was a present from Scrappy. And then realized Scrappy did care about her as much as he could. No, what he had to worry about...was Luna.

...You were such a shitbag. You knew Chrysalis could be reformed. But you had been doing it the wrong way...you got Scoots involved. And now, you ruined this little guy's life. And he didn't even realize it yet.

"Thanks Anon, you're a real good friend!" Scrappy hopped back, then started to bounce about happily. "And the best part is! If we accomplish this mission, I won't have to destroy you anymore. You will have completed a mission for the queen! That officially fixes everything, isn't that great?!"

Yeah… You fake being excited, hopping around with him. "Yeah! Super Yeah! That is super awesome!"

"Woo! Alright then!" Scrappy got super determined and started to speed up his pace as he sniffed through the snow. "Just you wait Thorax, your reign of......hmmm" Scrappy stopped, he couldn't come up with a good word.

So you thought you'd help him fill it in. "Tyranny? That sounds like a good word, right?"

"No..umm...nope. Thorax wasn't good at tyranny." Scrappy said as he went back to sniffing around as he thought.

Not good at tyranny? "Reign of uhhh...destruction?"

Scrappy made a turn as he continued sniffing about "Nope, he wasn't good at that either"

"Evil? Pain? Deception? Kicking things?"

“Nope, no, nah, nopeity nope. Thorax wasn't really good at being evil like me or our siblings."

.....Wut? "...Then what was he good at?"

"Dunno, he said something about not liking what we did and the queen forced him to do what she wanted him to because, well, as the old captain used to say, 'Every ounce of our power makes a difference in our queen's conquest'. After the campaign in Canterlot failed, Thorax disappeared. But haha!" Scrappy snickered evilly. "I managed to sniff him out, he will pay for dishonoring the queen!"

Not liking what they did...so then… "Scrappy wait, if he wasn't good at evil. Then what did he WANT to do with his life?"

"He said he didn't want to steal love anymore, that he wanted to make friends with the ponies and live in peace with them, isn't that silly?" Scrappy scoffed.

....

"Scrappy....you do realize you also made friends and peace with the ponies, right? Namely the CMC....you realize that right?"

"Huh...Anon don't be...." But Scrappy stopped, somehow...SOMEHOW...he never made that connection. "......Oh… B-but, that goes against everything a changeling is suppose to do." Scrappy was surprised with himself. He realized he dishonored the queen again... and yet.... "I...I'm not supposed to do that. B-but...I like being friends with ponies. D-does that make me good too?"

You nod. "It does, Scrappy, you don't have to do evil things, you know. Applebloom and the others really like it when you're nice and sweet. I do too."

"B-but....it makes my queen happy when I do evil things....I really do want to crash a big space thingy into Canterlot..It seems like so much fun." His enthusiasm started to drop again.

...Poor Scrappy. "Scrappy, you have to choose one sooner or later. If Chrysalis ever did end up ruling everything, you'd have to give up Applebloom and the others."

".....Oh..." Scrappy may have not known that, but he felt you were right. He tried his best to come up with a compromise...but failed. "W-well, then...I'm just going to be friends with them and do what my queen wants me to do until I can decide what I want. That way everypony stays happy."

Since it didn't matter, you accepted that answer. You could tell though, he just didn't want to upset anyone. And he really did enjoy both the good and evil in his life and simply didn't want to have to choose. "That's fine....soo..er...any sign of Thorax?" This Thorax guy. You wondered...if he wasn't actually dangerous. Then what was he even like? You'd find out soon, most likely.

Scrappy stopped, and started pointing down. "Right down below...I can sense him...we just need to find a way to get down. We should climb up the mountain a little more until we find a cave. Then we'll be close to victory! Then we can go home and see Scootaloo! I can't wait!"

"Yeah...." What was Luna going to do exactly? What was her "Judgement"? Hell...you were feeling goosebumps...Like you were being watched somehow.

As you and Scrappy continued to walk through the snow, three things bothered you. Although two were unimportant, it just struck you as odd.
one, the empire not having snow in it, at least not at the moment. Must be a magic thing, Crystal Heart related. Two, the fact he's using his nose to sniff out Thorax, did he even need to do that? Three...Luna, that was the actual important one. The former two you onlt really kept in mind to try to forget about her. "Hey, Scrappy. Do you even need to sniff him out like that?"

“Hmm?" He stops and looks back at you, then shakes his head. "Nope, but I do it because it's how a dog finds things. Also, it makes Master Applebloom smile and call me cute."

..Good lord, he was adorably stupid. You found it really endearing at this point, it made you laugh. "Haha, that's a pretty good answer. So, that means you can sense the guy then, right?"

"Erm....sorta. He hasn't left any of the pheromones that let us track each other around. But, I can taste him." Scrappy said as he went back to sniffing.

Yeah...that was weird...maybe? Could they taste each other? "What do you mean 'taste'?"

He made a turn and started heading towards a steep rise in the mountain, a cave visible up ahead. "I dunno exactly. It tastes like love, But it's very very very faint. I dunno, he might have somepony he's been feeding off of down there or something."

......Wut? Didn't he just explain that he wasn't dangerous?! ....Dammit. Well… You tapped at your horn. If trouble did happen, you could nip it in the bud in seconds. Nothing to worry about. "..I see, so uhh. then. Let me ask you this, how far are you willing to take this whole 'Master Applebloom' thing?"

"Huh? Ummm, I don't know what you mean by that. I don't need to take it anywhere. She's my master and my friend, the very first pony to make me feel all these warm and fuzzy feelings I really really like without having to eat it first. I had to repay her in someway, so when she said she'd like me as a pet, I said yes. That's it...it's perfect because it lets me do my work too. You know, sneaking and spying. It's perfect."

"Yeah, I can see that. You're a special kind of changeling, Scrappy, and you know what? I like you for it."

"Thanks!" He exclaims as you both near the cave. "We should go in here, I think there might be a tunnel that will take us to Thorax."

"Really? How do you know?"

"Anon, I'm not dumb. I'm a captain." He puts his paw to his chest in pride. "I figured since the taste is stronger near this cave, that it has to be coming from it. Come on, use your head" He gives you a big happy grin. "I know you can!"

Oh come on! That coming from him?! "You know I can't taste love, right?"

"...Oh..right..umm..well. Then it's good you're following me then. Since I'm the captain...and since our target is definitely in that cave then..." He points towards the cave. "Then as the captain, I say we charge in."

Charge in? But Thorax is also a changeling. "Umm, that might not be a good idea. What if he knows we're coming and, I dunno, stages an ambush?"

"It's two against one, Anon, he can't beat the both of us. Especially me!" Scrappy hops forwards with a growl. "I'll drag him back to the hive with my teeth if I gotta!"

"Still, we have to be careful, ok?" You wanted to be prepared for this. Yeah, you had the horn. But you had no idea what this "Thorax" was capable of.

"What could possibly go wrong, Anon?" Suddenly...everything went dark. "...Ummm, who turned off the sun?"

....Oh shit, why was everything dark? Was it Thorax?! Was it an ambush?! "....Hey, whoever you are! I wouldn't try anything. Not unless you want to be blown to bits!"

But it wasn't an ambush. The darkness began to fade, and yet a black ball of starry darkness began to form and then disappear, Revealing a certain Alicorn within the epicenter.

...Luna

....Oh shit.

"P-Princess Luna?!" You were stunned. What the fuck was she doing here?!...Oh god..not unless she was planning to pass on her judgement now. She must have wanted to intercept you and Scrappy. Was that her plan?

Princess Luna just stood there, looking down upon the both of you, regally and with a vicious stare. But Scrappy? All he saw was an immediate enemy. He growled, and immediately charged at her. "Princess Luna! Grrrr! Prepare to be destroyed!" The little guy, he didn't hesitate, he didn't even question it. It was clear that he was always prepared to face down anyone he deemed an enemy as immediately as he could.

And that wasn't good at all. If she came here to lay down a judgement. Then all he was doing was solidifying her resolve. "Scrappy! Stop!"

But he didn't, he ran through the snow and jumped right at her. But Luna, without moving a muscle, snatches him by the tail with her magic and holds him up at a distance, at eye level, and just observed as he tried to take bites at her.

Goddammit Scrappy. God fucking dammit...fucking..FUCKING!

"So, this is the changeling captain." Luna said calmly as she observed him with an intense stare

"That's right! And you’re the princess of the night! The enemy of the queen! Prepare for destruction...NGH!" He struggled to get down. "When..NGH! I get down!..NGH...From here!"

Luna's horn began to glow brighter as she looked upon Scrappy with disgust. "A vile creature indeed, full of deceit and lies. I can see, without a doubt, that no progress has been made whatsoever just from your vicious behavior."

You rush up between Scrappy and Luna, and hold your hoof up towards her. "Princess Luna, wait! WAIT! Don't do anything yet, please!"

"Anon, how could you? How DARE you! Your failure is as clear as the moon in the sky. You have made no progress whatsoever. These creatures are beyond saving. Step aside, or suffer the same fate. Don't make me take any unnecessary measures." Luna was ready to do her worst and seal Scrappy up without hesitation.

GODDAMMIT. You were scared, you wanted to move. But Scrappy...he was your friend. Even after all the hate you put upon him, He never came to realize it, he always saw you as his friend. And he loved you just the same, just as he loved the CMC. "Come on Luna, You have to have been watching us, right? Don't tell me you just got here and immediately just want to seal him up!"

"I watched from a distance, But I did not care what either of you had to say to each other. This isn't why I'm here. I told you this wasn't up for discussion, this is their final judgement. Any chance they may have had has already been squandered by his actions. And do not tell me about his friendship with Applebloom and the others. It is obvious that he has pulled the wool over their eyes just as he has over yours." Luna explains to you, and stomps her front hoof forward. "Now again, step aside."

"HEY!" Scrappy yells at her as he hangs there. "Don't you dare insult my friends like that! They wouldn't let wool go over their eyes. That's just dumb! How would I even pull wool over them...unless" Scrappy growled. "You were actually going to do that! Just because their my friends doesn't mean you get to hurt them! I'm going to double destroy you now! You can't stop me!" He tried running in mid air, but to no avail.

But his words, they both confused and enraged Luna. "What are you talking about!? I would never hurt them, unlike you with your constant lying. I have seen the horror of the damage you caused Scootaloo yesterday. It took much of my power to fix what you and your kind has caused. And even then, it wasn't complete. You cannot fool me into thinking you have any ties to those innocent foals." Luna refused to believe.

"Luna, he wasn't even there!" You cry out

"....Then where was he then? Hmm? With his loyalty to his hive, I doubt he'd be anywhere else." This, Luna was sure of. All that dream hopping, and she never ran into the fact that Scrappy was telling the truth. Meaning, she probably never went into his dreams.

"Shows what you know, you dumb princess! I was getting my friends presents. ANNNND." Scrappy snickered, as if it was an accomplishment, not realizing how dire the situation really was. "It was all something they really like too! I bet you never got them any gifts that they exactly wanted. Even with your dumb dream powers."

Goddammit Scrappy...NOW'S NOT THE TIME TO BE INSULTING SOMEONE WHO'S ABOUT TO BANISH YOU. "Scrappy...calm down. You don't re-"

"SILENCE!" Luna let's out.

Luna starts to speak in a low but very angry tone. "If you truly expect me to believe that, then tell me what these gifts are. I know those ponies, and I can think of many gifts they would want that would bring them merriment." She was ready to go the moment he got one wrong, which she felt she knew would be immediate. She could see the horrors of Scootaloo's nightmare within her memory.

The fact that you now knew that she saw things that must have been mind bendingly terrible made you realize why she was so angry. But she was also wrong. And you wouldn't step aside either way...the CMC would never forgive you if you let Scrappy get banished. But dammit Luna, why so sudden..why now?!

"That's easy" Scrappy crossed his legs as he looked to the princess with a smirk. "Potion thingys for Master Applebloom, a microphone for Sweetie Belle, and a Rainbow Dash doll for Scootaloo.....but" The information Luna told him starts to sink in, and it starts to put him down. "...A-are you saying Scootaloo went down to my queen's lair?..S-she isn't supposed to do that. She could have gotten hurt..."

Luna stepped back, her mind racing. She couldn't believe it. That answer was correct. All three were correct. She thought it was impossible. She thought with that, you would just step aside and let her do her work. But..she was wrong. And now, he didn't even know about the attack? She didn't understand how that could be. "You truly didn't know?" Luna's voice, it wasn't harsh anymore, there was hints of regret within it. But she was still waiting. Surely she couldn't be THAT wrong. could she? She felt there had to be a lie somewhere.

As for you, the cat was out of the bag now. You wanted to protect him from knowing but… "Scrappy, I took Scoots down to see Chrysalis yesterday. And your siblings almost drained her dry...I'm sorry. That's why she was upset. Because she may have thought that you were just as evil as they were." You look up at him as your emotional wall finally breaks. You hug him, even as he was upside down. You hugged him and began to cry. "I'm sorry...I'm so damn sorry, Scrappy. It's my fault. It's my fucking fault. I've been so stupid and angry. I've been hurting everypony just because I was being jealous and angry....ngh.."

You turn to Luna, you realized how stupid you really were. You failed. No doubt, If it had to be this way, you knew you wouldn't be able to protect everyone...but maybe.. "Princess Luna, if you have to do this. Then just banish me instead of him. To tell you the truth, the CMC did better than I have when it comes to him. He has a good heart and cares so much about them because of how they care about him. He even considers Applebloom his master, just because of how she treats him."

Luna doesn't say a word at first, she just stands there. She then thinks up a question or two, and looks towards Scrappy. "Tell me, If I were to search for these gifts that you have gathered. Where would I find them?"

....Was she...ignoring you? No, she wasn't even making a move.

"......." Scrappy just hung there, depressed. "What does it matter? Scootaloo hates me.....I wasn't even there to protect her like the dog Master Applebloom expects me to be...my chest hurts....my chest hurts so much." Scrappy held on to his chest. Feeling the absolute pain of guilt within himself. Even when he didn't have to, he blamed himself for what happened.

And Luna could see it. She had lived long enough to know when someone was being genuine, most of the time anyway. And the way Scrappy was acting. She had never seen a Changeling act THAT well. Not even Chrysalis could pull off such a feat. She really started to believe that it was real.

"....Scrappy...was it?" She gently puts him down. He then slinks his head into the snow and sniffs and whimpers. He didn't realize he was released. "Are you truly this worried about being hated? Scared of losing young Scootaloo as a friend?"

".....Yes..." He whined.

Scrappy… You poor guy.

".....Anon...a word." Luna steps back, stepping away enough to keep out of earshot. Did she understand? Was she going to let him go?...She listened. She had to have. Thanks to Scrappy's own stupidity, he managed to get himself out of what you couldn't. But it didn't seem it was over yet, she wanted to talk to you privately…

You couldn't fuck this up. You couldn't let the little guy down.

Luna stepped forward to the mouth of the cave, looking back at the pathetic puppy. You looked up at her face to try to guess what she was feeling, and you could see it, it was regret and empathy for the little guy.

When you both were far enough way, she began to speak to you in a much nicer, more gentle fashion. "Anon, this changeling, his reactions, It vexes me...It seems that he enjoys the acts of villainy and hatred, and yet his heart is fragile and weak when it comes to be looking down upon by those that should be against him. Does he truly care about the Crusaders?...." Luna closes her eyes and pauses, then speaks before you can. "Do not worry, I shall listen to your words."

She didn't say believe in them though. But given the situation, as long as you told the truth and was sincere about it, she would know you weren't lying. You hoped so anyway. "He does, I think he cares about them more than Chrysalis. He enjoys their company and tells them everything Chrysalis tells him while lying to Chrysalis about what he tells them. And before you ask how that works, it's because he wants them all to be happy. I don't quite got a grasp on how it works exactly. But hey..it just seems to work and I'm ok with it."

"...He does that? I was unaware... But then, why does he refer to Applebloom as 'Master'?" Luna was perplexed about that as well.

"Apparently because it benefits them both, and he likes calling her that. I really don't get it myself. But I think he enjoys it because it means he gets to hang with his friends more. I don't think Applebloom is abusing it either. He really enjoys being her puppy."

".....Curious. But then why try to attack me if he is able to befriend the crusaders as he has. I would think he would have been reformed by then."

Yeah, if you were in Luna's position, you wouldn't understand this shit either. Scrappy did seem rather random. But...you think you have it figured out by now. "It's because you're an enemy of his queen. He's still loyal to her after all. Buuut, I think there's a way to fix that. But Princess, please, you have to be willing to give it a chance, Please? Look, I know I screwed up really bad. I know, but I still think there's a chance to reform Chrysalis. I've just been doing it wrong. But look at Scrappy, the only reason he's this way is because of the Crusaders..."

You felt ashamed, not because that they managed to one up you...but… "And I admit, even I thought it was a sham. But I was wrong. What I have been doing so far was wrong. I don't have a plan to fix it yet, but I mean it, I know it can be done...." You bow to Princess Luna, you needed her mercy. "Please, don't make a judgement just yet. I'll be more careful from now on. I won't let Anypony else get hurt. And if I do, I will not complain about the consequences. As they say in olden times....your will be done, your highness."

Luna didn't say anything, she looked down to you, then to Scrappy, who was a sobbing mess at this point. At this height in the mountain, she could see his face becoming icy as his tears became icicles on his face. But he didn't seem to care, he just sulked there. She felt guilt within her own heart to see him suffer. "...What must I do to still his suffering heart?"

Thank… Christ... "Just tell him you're Scootaloo's friend. Trust me, If I have things figured out by now, then that's all it'll take. Just let him know that and that things will be ok."

"Then is shall be done." Luna's face becomes half serious, half mournful as she looks down at you. "But know this Anon, this will be your final chance. Please, do not squander it."

"...I understand" You had to be super careful now. One more fuck up, and on your own word, you'd be done. But you understood how important this was. You couldn't let anypony get hurt. It was irresponsible to let Scootaloo see the changeling queen. You could never allow something like that to happen again.

With that, Luna approached Scrappy, and slowly moved downward beside him, laying her belly on the snow. He didn't even notice as he sobbed. "Little one, you needn't be in such distress" He doesn't reply, he just doesn't stop. Luna actually felt her own heart start to break. "You may hate me because of who I am. But let me ask, what would you say if I told you I was also the friend of the Crusaders? If I was a friend of Scootaloo." Luna leans a little to her side. She feels this maternal feeling, that if he was as childish as he seems, that he would go for her warm belly.

Scrappy finally responds, he slowly looks up at her, and wipes his eyes, small bits of ice coming off with his gentle swipe. "Y-you are?"

Luna nods. "I am, I have helped the Crusaders with their own plight. Whether it be a fear, or an anxiety, or even a problem they feel they had. I would do anything in my power to protect them. That is why I was so aggressive, I felt you were a danger to them. But I can see now that you are not and-uhm?" Luna stops when Scrappy immediately starts cuddling on the side of her belly.

"I'm S-Scrappy..D-do you want to be...f-f-friends?" Scrappy asked, confusing Luna. But you knew this would happen. Any friends of the crusaders would automatically make them his friends. That's how his thought process worked. You knew that now.

"........." Luna stayed silent until she realized why you asked her to tell him she was the CMCs' friend. ".....I would" Luna nuzzles her face onto his back, he was starting to calm down, but still, he was not done weeping.

"T-thank you...I..I like being friends...with Master A-Applebloom's friends..." He whimpered, sinking his face deeper into her soft belly.

"Little one, I can tell you fear that you have lost your friendship with Scootaloo...but I can assure you, this is not the case." Luna may have not known this, but she felt that this wasn't beyond saving. She knew Scootaloo was just emotionally warped temporarily. And even then, she had jumped into her nightmare when she had gone asleep to fight off as much of the torment as she could, so it shouldn't be nearly as bad as Scrappy thought. And although successful, it was only natural she'd still be upset...but if Scrappy was telling the truth, if you were as well, then Scootaloo was just that...upset. She'd never want to turn away a friend. "Scootaloo still very much cares about you"

"No she doesn't......She hates me..." He sobs.

"She does not, she is merely upset due to what your siblings and your queen have caused. If you are truly her friend, then she would not just discard you. I would even think that at this time, she'd want to see you again. She is probably worried about you being up here with Anon. As I understand it, you tell the crusaders about your queen's plans, Correct?" Luna began to lay on her side, to let Scrappy nuzzle against her belly completely.

"I do..I do tell them...And they listen...I-I always tell them the truth. T-that's why I don't understand..."

"Friendship is hard to understand sometimes. But if you have told her about today, then she is most worried about you, and is wishing for your safe return. As I understand it, this mission is quite dangerous. It would only be natural for her to be worried. Perhaps, when it is over, you should go see her, and let her know you are ok." Luna sounded motherly now, trying to soothe the crumbled soul.

"...D-do you think she's worried?...r-really? Wouldn't that mean...we're still friends?" Scrappy asks, unburying his face to look at Luna's expression. She seemed pretty sure.

"Indeed, and I'm sure she would be even happier when you show her the gift you have gotten her. I even bet she'd be ecstatic to see you and Anon getting along." Luna told him.

He sniffed, despite still looking miserable, you noticed his tail starting to wag. "R-really?"

Luna nodded. "Mhmmm"

Tears started to flow from Scrappy's eyes once more, but the suffering in his heart was gone. He moved up from his spot and started to gently paw at Luna's nose. "C-can I have hugs? I-I like hugs." Luna stayed silent, and rolled onto her back. At first, Scrappy was confused. Until she patted her belly for him to get on and hug. The moment he realized it, he felt renewed energy as he dove and snuggle-hugged. "Yay! Hugs! Hugs from my new friend and still enemy, Princess Luna!"

Ahh shit...you go to say something. But Luna's reaction was instant as she looked into his face, utterly confused. "Enemy?"

"Mhmmm!" Scrappy said as he snuggled her belly. "B-but I don't ever want to actually destroy you...s-so, if you want to battle to the end...erm..you only need to ask. If you don't, then I won't fight...I don't want to hurt my frien...en...frienemies unless they are ready to meet their end." He sounded so genuine, yet afraid that he insulted her.

And then Luna began to smile, then laugh as she hugged onto the little puppy. "Never in all the years I've lived have I heard such adorable ridiculousness. Well then, I too see you as a frienemy. And will only try to destroy you upon you asking. Until then, let us enjoy our company and friendship."

"Yay! I like those things!" Scrappy snuggled, then looked back at you. "Anon, come on! It's hug time! Don't you want hugs? Hugs are the greatest thing ever next to fetch and world domination!"

You couldn't help but laugh as you approached. "Sure, whatever ya say Scrappy. It's alright with you, right Princess Luna?"

"Indeed, I have room for two small ones such as yourselves. Come, Anon, join in on the hug times"

And that was enough for you. You joined in on the hug. climbing onto her lower belly to snuggle her as the puppy runt snuggled her upper chest. This was it, it was over. You prevented disaster… No… Scrappy did.

Hugging Luna like this, even up in the mountains, it was an intensely warm feeling. It reminded you of Fluttershy. Fluttershy, she really did help with this as well didn't she? You kept your cool, you didn't react to negatively, you treated Luna with respect instead of as a threat. Fluttershy would be proud.

If only she was in the know....

After the hug, it would seem it would be back to business as usual. As much as Scrappy wanted to get back to Scootaloo now. He also knew he had a mission to do, and knew that if he returned this soon, Chrysalis would be suspicious. You knew this too.

And Luna? She had a plan of her own. "..Then it seems I will have to accompany the both of you. Not only to make this a swift and successful mission. But to insure nopony gets hurt. There are safety in numbers." Luna suggests.

Huh...actually. That wasn't a bad idea. You had no idea what Thorax was capable of. Even though he sounded docile, it could still be dangerous. "I don't have a problem with that. With you, my horn, and Scrappy's ability to even find the guy. We should be able to stop whatever he might have for us."

"I also do not mind. Completing the mission is what is important right now, then Scootaloo after. So come on, let's get it done super fast!" Scrappy starts walking into the cave. Until Luna's magic stops him.

"Hold yourself, little one. Before we venture inside, I do have a condition for use of my help and the giving of my mercy."

Wut? Fuck... Dammit, no, don't question it. Just...hear her out. "Hmm?"

"Given this is a changeling that has pledged allegiance to himself. I would like to be the one to take him in." Luna says

"Wait...I'm supposed to bring him in" Scrappy reminds her.

"Yeah, Princess Luna, he's right. We can't just return empty hooved."

"Perhaps not, but the queen is a cruel one, is she not? All you need to tell her is that he was destroyed, and have something to prove it. Scrappy, I ask of your compliance with this. Having a changeling kept within our castle would help us greatly." Luna explains.

"You mean you're going to interrogate him, and find out changeling secrets even Scrappy couldn't tell you, right?" Scrappy was dumb, and probably didn't know too much about the deeper workings of the hive. But this guy? It could be possible...

Luna nods. "Exactly"

"...If I argue, it would just make things slower..right? I need to see Scootaloo as quick as I can" Scrappy didn't want this to take too long. He wanted to be done with this so he could go see Scootaloo and speak to her.

"I don't wish to argue, but I feel it'd be better to have the changeling in Canterlot than with your queen." Luna explains, it wasn't like she would really accept a "No" anyway.

"...Ok....I agree..now come on, I don't wanna waste any more time! Thorax is down this way, where the cave goes deeper down." Scrappy puts his nose on the cave floor and starts to sniff as he follows the trail. "I hope he doesn't want a fight. As captain, he has to listen to me...I hope he listens to me anyway. I do want to beat him up for dishonoring the queen...but I just don't have the time...urgh..Thorax, why do you have to be such a dummy..."

"May I ask what makes him a dummy? What is this 'Thorax' like?" Luna asks, following down deeper into the cave. At first, she had to use her horn to light the way. But eventually, when you all came out into an open and icy cavern, there was sunlight coming from the open ceiling. Was there a fissure above? A pit of some sort?

"I already told Anon, but, The short version? He's just WAAAYYY too nice. He doesn't want to follow the queen's plans at all. He's such a dishonorable traitor. Maybe it's good that we are pretending he's destroyed. That way I can imagine having really destroyed him for being such a dumb traitorous scumhead." Scrappy said with a cute growl.

"Indeed..." Luna was starting to notice Scrappy's naivete in full. She now understood what you meant by him being both good and bad. "And what say you, Anon? Is there any strategy you'd like to suggest in apprehending this changeling?"

You didn't really have one, hell..did you even need one? "Not really. If things get really bad, I have my horn. If this guy turns out to be dangerous for any reason, then I won't hesitate to take him down."

"Walking in without a strategy. Not usually the best move. But I suppose such an idea lives up to your cutie mark." Luna remarks, she also noticed how chaotic and unthinking you can really be.

"Are you saying that it's bad? It's just one changeling. For all we know, he could be watching us. Devising a strategy would only give him a chance to counter it. I say we just stick to our strengths." You say

"That's fine, I have a pretty strong bite" Scrappy smirks as he continues to follow the "Scent". Though, the way he was slowing down, it may seem you all were close. You had to be careful though. This cavern was huge, and it seemed there were some pits that lead into the black abyss. Very dangerous.

"I too am not worried. My sister and I have defeated beings much more powerful that a mere changeling, and yet this area is unknown to me and could serve as an icy tomb regardless. All I suggest is some caution." Luna looks around, keeping her attention to anything that could be suspicious. "If we do fight, it must be done quickly,"

"That's gonna be soon, because that dumb-dumb is close. He didn't even try to run away. HEY THORAX! WE KNOW YOU'RE HERE! PREPARE TO BE TAKEN DOWN!" Scrappy yells out. But no reply. If he was here, he was keeping to a disguise.

"...Is he not nearby?" Luna couldn't see anything.

"He's probably disguised as something. Scrappy, can you tell us exactly where he is?" Nothing, you couldn't tell what Thorax could be in this ice ridden cavern.

"...No,but he's scared now, so I can't pick up on anything. He's trying to stay hidden from all my senses.....a lot of good it'll do him though. WE'LL FIND YOU EVENTUALLY! YOU HEAR ME!?" Scrappy yells again, trying to threaten his former comrade.

Still nothing. You'd tell Scrappy to calm down. But it might be the only way to draw him out. Who knows how long this guy could hide out? If he got scared, he'd move, or shake, and he'd be easier to spot.

"Are you sure he's here?" Luna couldn't even see anything moving.

"He is, I can still barely sense him. That scaredy pony..." Scrappy started to sniff about again. Trying to get a stronger feeling for him.

You casually take out your bagged lunch and look inside. Sandwiches? Neat...and they weren't trapped with anything or had anything gross in them either, thanks bugbutt.

You start to munch on one as you carefully look around.

"...Anon....are you really eating at a time like this?" Luna couldn't believe you. That was too far out for her.

"Hey...I'm hungry. Besides, all I have to do is put on my horn and bam. He's done." You go beside a small boulder and rest your back against it. But then, as you do, The boulder easily moves back, making you fall onto the back of your head. "Omph!...uggghhh" That boulder was way too light… How could it… Waiiiiitttt...

You quickly get up, swallow the sandwich as you eye the boulder, and tap it…

It shakes.

Oh shiiiiiieeetttt...

Chapter 285

You kick backwards and slide along your back away from the now jittery boulder. "Geez! Is that him?!"

Scrappy hops down, bouncing off small boulders and jumping in front of the shaking one to confront it. "Thorax, by the name of the queen, and as my authority as the captain, I am here to bring you in!" Scrappy stands brave, confident, and tall.

You however, instinctly move forward, grab him with your hooves, and pull him back. "Yo, don't be an idiot like with the excaptain. You don't know what he's capable of."

You actually felt an instinctive need to protect him. Perhaps it was for Scootaloo, perhaps it was the hugging moment. But one thing’s for sure, Scrappy didn't care if he'd have a chance to be killed in battle, he'd just go for it, so you had to prevent that.

Luna then pulls the both of you away as she looks down upon the boulder. She believed it to be some sort of trap. Did this Thorax guy even realize they knew he was the boulder? Because he was still hiding.

Luna put the both of you down gently next to her as she looks down at Scrappy. "Remember little one, he will be coming with me."

"I know, but I just wanted to give my official captain decree! I can't be a captain without being able to tell others what’s going to happen to them." Scrappy just smiled and looked up at her as he waved his tail. What you took as ignorance, she took as bravery against the face of evil.

"Tell me Scrappy, Do we really have nothing to fear from this Thorax?" Luna asks.

'W-wait..." Before Scrappy could reply, the boulder began to speak and transform into that of a meek looking changeling. He then darted behind another small boulder, a real one, and peeked from the top. "Y-you're the real Princess Luna? You aren't a changeling?"

Holy fuck....this guy sounded like a total fucking wimp. Whatever fear you had. It was now gone.

"Indeed I am, we have come for you, Thorax. There is no escape, and there is no defeating us. I would suggest you give up peacefully." Luna just lays it out for him right there and then. She felt it wouldn't prevent a fight. But she still had to warn him.

".......Ok" Thorax immediately gives up as he steps away from the boulder he was hiding behind, head hung down. He then sighs "I knew I'd still be wanted for what the queen did and the fact I was in that whole invasion thing in Canterlot. I give up." And he just stands there.

"....U-uhhh...that was easy. You're not even gonna fight or anything?" Like what? Not even a fight?

"No....I don't like fighting. Wait...huh?" That's when Thorax realized something. He was afraid of being taken back to Chrysalis it seemed, because he thought all of you were changelings. But that now wasn't the case. But then, he realized, that it made no sense for a changeling to be among two normal ponies. "Do you know that the talking dog is a changeling?..U-ummm..." He takes a few steps back, fearing that his own words might cause it to attack. He didn't want to be caught in a fight.

"Of course they know. I'm their friend!! Oh...and...how are you doing, Thorax? Why do you not like the queen? She's pretty great" Scrappy asks him, sitting down, awaiting Luna's next move.

"....I must have been hiding for too long...Captain? I don't remember you being the captain...I remember you being a lot meaner though. I...really don't want to answer that question though...not in front of you...I don't want to be hurt" Thorax gulped, sliding back slowly behind the boulder.

"Woah, hold on. Let me get a word in here. So, wait...you're just going to give up? That's it? I know what Scrappy said, but Chrysalis said you were pretty dangerous. What happened?" Like, wut to the max. Even the runt was vicious. This guy is a major pussy. No other changeling was like this. So....wut?

"Ooooghhh...Now I'm confused. When did ponies start working with the queen? And why does Princess Luna have a colt as a guard? Did I fall asleep for a long time?...I feel so lost.." Thorax grabbed at his own head, he was feeling a slight headache coming on.

"Work with that vile creature? No, we would never EVER do that....." Luna was then confused, did he have something against Chrysalis that much to just seem like he was THAT afraid of her? "....But what do you have against her? I would like to know, straight from your mouth if you please. You don't seem like those other vicious creatures she keeps with them."

"HEY!" Scrappy snapped back at her. "I'm also crafty! Don't forget to say we're crafty!"

Luna kept her patience, she kept in mind that Scrappy was just merely childish and ignorant in his dimwitted way of thinking. She didn't want to think of him as an actual evil. So she just went along with it "Yes, of course. Also crafty"

Scrappy nodded with satisfaction.

Thorax started to rub his leg nervously, he didn't know what he was doing anymore because he couldn't figure out what company he was in. "Everything… She's an evil queen. Living with her for so long, well, it just got really really nauseating. She never wanted to try doing anything the nice way or try to make any friends. It's really lonely there, you know? None of my siblings ever saw eye to eye...which is why...erm" He looks towards Scrappy. "Why are you helping Princess Luna? And why do they call you Scrappy? I don't remember you having that name before."

"Oh! OHH!" Scrappy giggled. "You think I'm that big stupid head excaptain. Nope! The queen kicked him out with a biiiiig explosion, KABOOM!" He emphasized the explosion by throwing his paws in the air. "I'm the changeling without a name, except I now have one thanks to my friend Anon, and Master Applebloom, who really liked the name. The nicest and greatest filly ever!"

Huh, you don't remember giving him that name. Oh...dammit. He must mean that other guy...

The word....friend...it seemed to catch Thorax's attention in a positive way. "F-friend?...pony? You have a pony friend?"

"I have six! Anon, Anon, Princess Luna, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, and Master Applebloom. They are the greatest ponies ever and they give me hugs and happiness and play games with me. I like it so much, even if one is my enemy and the other disgraced our queen." Scrappy said, still as genuine and naive as ever.

"....I...Think I remember you. Yeah, you didn't have a name at all. But you were always trying to make the queen happy, right?" Thorax asked, finally fully recognizing him.

"Yes! That's me!" Scrappy smiled with an abundance of confidence.

Thorax just sat there, he couldn't fathom why Chrysalis would make him captain, nor did he care at this point. "...S-so, you really did manage to make friends? Gosh...." The fact that he couldn't imagine him with pony friends really made him wonder, maybe..it was possible for him to have friends too. That's what he seemed to have wanted more than anything else. "...It must be nice to have friends..."

Woooooah, wait. The way this guy talks. He just sounds like a friendless loser. Like holy shit, if it wasn't for the fact that this was the target, you'd actually cringe at this. "Wait, you want friends? I didn't think a changeling out on their own would want any friends."

"...But I do, that's why I'm here. I wanted to maybe...maybe try to be friends with the crystal ponies..or just one really...but." Thorax felt a pain in his chest, he looked so downtrodden "Who am I kidding? Nopony would want to be friends with me. I'm a monster"

"......Thorax....are you saying the only reason you're here was to try to make a friend?" Luna couldn't believe it. In just one day, she had run into two good changelings. Well one dumb and sorta good, and the other who was smarter, more cowardly, didn't like his queen, and was seeking friendship.

Thorax nods, and turns away from the group. "Yeah, but, since I'm a monster, I deserve to go to whatever prison you have for me for the crimes I committed. I don't want to be a bother, I'll go quietly."

Luna looks towards you as you look towards her. You both were thinking the same thing. "Princess Luna, I think I know why Chrysalis called him dangerous. He's a changeling who probably knows the ins and outs of the changeling society who wants to make friends with ponies."

"Indeed, I was thinking the same thing. I believe there is no trap here. I trust in Scrappy's word in what he has said about Thorax so far. In addition, I believe from Thorax's attitude that he means us no harm. Although a changeling's roots are in deception, they aren't adept at displaying such emotions in such proper form." Yeah, you and Luna definitely came to the same conclusion.

"...Hmm..Yo Thorax!" You reach your hoof out towards him as you call his name.

Thorax ducks down and covers his head. "Wait! Don't hurt me! please! I don't mind being taken in, but please don't hurt me!"

......Ugh...he was also a grade-A pussy. Like...fucking christ. "Ahrm, Thorax..we're not going to hurt you. In fact, how would you...." He wasn't listening as he continued to duck his head, covering his own ears as well. You rolled your eyes as you approached him and gave him a knock on the head. "Look dude, you don't need to be scared. We're not going to hurt you"

Thorax stops shaking for a moment and raises his head, accidentally poking your forehead with his horn. It made you fall down on your back as you gasp in pain. No blood, it didn't penetrate. but ouch!

Thorax freaked out and went to check on you, looking up from over you as he whimpered "A-are you ok?! I didn't mean to do that! I didn't know you were that close!"

And then Scrappy looked over you right after Thorax. He couldn't take you seriously right now. "Wow Anon. You just lost to Thorax...I..I don't think I could ever challenge you ever again. I don't mean to sound mean. But he's the worst changeling fighter there is...but" He then gives you a dumb happy smile. "We can still be friends though!"

You even hear Luna giggle at you when she realized you were ok. The horn jab actually REALLY wasn't that bad.....fucking dammit. But it still hurt....Even though it didn't even leave a mark…Dammit...now you were the pussy

You then just stopped worrying about the pain as you just make a stoic face, eyes half closed. "...Ok, whatever, let's all laugh at the hero horse. Big laughs..."

"Oh Anon, don't act like one of my sister's boring advisers. It was quite humorous." Luna giggled.

"Well..I don't think it was funny. I could have really hurt him..I think" Thorax actually offers his hoof, and helps you get back up. "I'm really sorry for hurting you like that."

This guy, he wasn't like Scrappy. He was a definite good guy. And a definite wimp. He also clearly wasn't stupid, at least to Scrappy's standard.

You couldn't let yourself get butthurt. Just stay the course. "Thanks, are you ok though? Because look, I don't want to be your enemy. All of us? We want to be your friend. You don't seem like that bad a guy."

"..Y-you really mean that?" Thorax asked, he was stunned at this point. He had hurt you, yet you still wanted to be friends.

"He does, as do I, and I'm sure Scrappy wishes to be your friend as well. Especially since you will become mine" Luna knew what she was doing now. If she just plain out said Thorax would be her friend, Scrappy would follow suit.

"Oh....Right! Thorax, will you become Princess Luna's friend? If you do, then I get to be your friend too!" Scrappy explains, hook line and sinker.

Thorax froze up for a moment, then tears started to come down from his buggy eyes as he began to shake, then a soft and gentle smile appeared on his face. "Yes, I would like to be all your friends. I promise I'm not bad. I'm just wondering....am I dreaming?" Thorax starts to tap at his leg with his other leg.

Luna chimes in. "I am the princess of the night ,Thorax, the master of dreams. I can assure you, you are very much awake." Luna could see him just light up when she said that. She was now just devising how this would work now. Since she wouldn't be taking him in as a prisoner, she felt she may have to ask you for an idea or two.

You felt the same. You could tell Luna wasn't going to just take the guy in as a prisoner. But you also had to wonder, what of Chrysalis? You and Scrappy COULD tell her you all destroyed Thorax. But you'd need proof....but what?

"Anon, how do you think we should end this operation? Unfortunately, I can't just take back a changeling. Nor can you and Scrappy return without proof of Thorax's faux destruction." Luna was plotting on how to end this successfully. But she knew there would be chaos if she just took back Thorax as is.

Well, the solution for that was obvious. Well, for the former. "Easy, just have him disguised as a pony or something. Or a pet."

"..Woah...you guys are serious, aren't you? S-so, does that mean...wait" Thorax hazarded a guess as he cautiously approached. "Does it mean you're not going to hurt me? And that..I get to be around other ponies? A-are you sure that's ok?"

"Splendid idea A-hmmm?" Luna noticed Thorax's hesitance. She thought, like Scrappy, he'd be ecstatic. But he wasn't. "Why wouldn't it be? I am the one half of the ruling class of Equestria. Although a disguise seems rather deceptive, I happen to think it's a smart plan and is 'ok'. Hmmm..how to explain this? Ahh yes, although you'd be under my watchful eye, you would be considered a friend in the castle. In fact, I'm sure my sister would enjoy your company as well. If Scrappy is anything to go by, it seems to me that changelings who are not evil are a rather adorable sort."

"...Adorable? uhhhh...I..uhmmm..ok" Thorax didn't blush, instead, he was just utterly confused. "uhm, so...uhm. If I understand. You're all ok with a changeling walking around Canterlot Castle despite me, again, being a changeling?"

"Yes, exactly, is there a problem?" Luna asks, she didn't know where he was going with this.

"....I don't know. I wanted pony friends, but now that it's happening. I don't know if I should… what if everypony hates me? Even if I'm in a disguise, they might hate me, or find me annoying, or ummm...hate me more?" Thorax gulped. This was apparently, too fast for him. And it...was annoying.

"Thorax, listen to me. We know you're good, we can tell because of how you're acting. And how Chrysalis seems to hate you. Luna, THE PRINCESS OF THE NIGHT, is inviting you to the castle. While you will be disguised, you have a chance to show that changelings can be good and friendly, Sorta. I mean, that's gonna take awhile if you ever plan to do that since I'm kinda working on Chrysalis. But still, we can tell that living here stinks and that you'd be much better off with her. AND the fact that Chrysalis wants you captured and knows where you are means you can't stay here anyway. We're trying to help you AND get some inside dirt on the changelings that even Scrappy here might not know. So now that THAT's clear, and it's clear you want some friends, which we totally are willing to be friends with you, can you just say 'Sure, I'd really like this'? So we can move on? It's cold in here, and my other sandwich turned ice cold....So I'm hungry too."

"...." Thorax looked at all of you. He stayed silent, thinking. At first, he still seemed hesitant. But then he approached Luna, and bowed to her, still obviously nervous. "O-ok, t-then I guess I should bow, s-since I'm changing allegiances officially. Is that alright?"

For all the times Luna have had ponies bow to her, this was one of rare times she felt awkward about it. "It is fine, but you needn't bow at this time. I am not here as a Princess. But as a friend."

"....T-thank you" Thorax can't hold it in anymore and hugs onto Luna. But the moment she hugs him back, he starts to hiss angrily, and pushes himself off as he hides behind the boulder again. "S-sorry! Sorry! Sorry!"

"What in Equestria was that?" Luna had to check herself, was....was she just infected with something? No, she almost got angry, she didn't understand what just happened.

"Holy....What?! Hey!" You bark at him, losing trust in him immediately. "What was that for?!"

"OH, I can explain that!" Scrappy happily chimes in, as if nothing bad happened. "He's just super hungry. I don't think he's eaten in awhile. All of us changelings have that kind of reaction when we're really really hungry. Well, not that bad.,That would be the kind of reaction you'd see if he was trying to not eat or something while being ultra hungry. And that's just dumb, changelings like me love love. Master Applebloom lets me have enough to feel filled, so I do my best to never take too much, which is easy since I don't get too hungry lately. Does that explain everything?" Scrappy smiled happily as he walked over to Luna and leaned to have his head rubbed. "If it did, can I get head rubs? I like head rubs."

"Perhaps later, Scrappy...interesting" She looks to the boulder Thorax hid behind, curious now. A natural reaction then? "So, am I to guess you have not fed in a while?"

"....No, It's been a l-long time" You can hear him gulp. "I've been forcing myself not to eat at all. I don't want anypony to get angry at me for it."

Woah, wait..So, if you were to guess right. This guy was so sorry and so wimpy for what he's done, he was willing to starve himself to not hurt anyone while he tried to make friends. Despite hiding here and not making friends. Geez, he was gonna die here if he stayed any longer.

"Thorax...look, sorry if I sounded mad. I jumped the gun." You really did, you had to watch yourself. Think of Fluttershy. "I've hung around a lot of changelings. Trust me, I'm trying to reform Chrysalis and it hasn't made too much progress. But believe it or not, I am currently her friend. And I've seen her get cranky when she hasn't fed, so I understand. So if you need a snack right now, take some from me. If you're as good as I think you are, I know you won't overdo it."

"..I-I Can't..I shouldn't have to feed on love. It's stealing. It's wr-"

"HOLY CRAP! JUST STOP AND FEED OFF OF ME ALREADY BEFORE I GO OVER THERE AND BEAT YOU OVER THE HEAD!" You just, lose it, holy fuck. This guy was SUCH A FUCKING PUSSY! You thought he'd accept the offer. But no, he didn't. Didn't he understand that you were cold and hungry? You just wanted to be out of here at this point. And yet he was still fucking stalling.

"Ok, ok! U-ummm! J-just don't hurt me. I'm sorry!" Thorax quickly comes out from hiding and rushes towards you. He immediately starts feeding. You could feel it, but only for a moment before he stops.

"That was quick. You're done already?"

"U-umm....yes?" He sounded unsure...goddammit.

You raise your hoof and shake it at him. "I swear, if you didn't get your fill....."

Thorax gulps. "O-ok, I'm..still a little hungry." He goes back to feeding. He actually takes a decent share to make you feel kind of tired. But he does realize this and stops himself. His bug ears droop, as he looks down in shame. "I...really hate doing that. Are you ok?"

You nod, you were tired, but not out. Christ, you never thought you'd find a changeling unwilling to eat love. It seemed like those bastards could never get enough.

"Well, it seems I can trust you to watch how you feed, Thorax. I was afraid that would have been an issue. Speaking of which, Anon, you needn't lose your temper over such things. It's very unbecoming." Luna says

...What?! "Wuh?! Hey! Don't even! We're telling him we want to be friends and he's not even saying yes until we yell at him. It's frustrating!"

"Indeed, but I find a interdimensional pony who happens to be aiding our eternal enemy even more frustrating. But I believe my sister and I have done a good job in keeping our tempers. And besides." Luna smirks at you. "Could you imagine losing your temper in front of the one you love? I’ve been through her dreams too and I can say this, I would pay bits to see her culture you over you losing your temper in public. It would be grand."

.....Ok...she had a point. And...goddamn. Was she joking about that? I-it wouldn't be that funny. "...Ok....I get the point...sheesh, never took the moon princess to want to see a pony get bullied." You poke at her, trying to get her to feel a little bad over what she said.

"Oh no, it just pertains to you, Anon. You do still have a few pegs that need knocking down. I believe that is the proper phrase. And I mean that in the nicest way possible. Seeing you flustered is adorable to be honest. But if it makes you feel better, I would not want to see such an event turn too mean spirited or soul crushing. There is a distinction between cute and humorous to cruel and hateful. I would step in if it's the latter."

CUTE?! IT WOULD BE CUTE?!.....Fucking dammit. Hell, how would you even counter that? You knew you were cute, and that boyish problems with young girlfriends would be cute. You'd find it cute. FUCKING DAMMIT BEING CUTE SUCKS SOMETIMES! Fine..whatever..you'd let her have this. "Yeah yeah....So Thorax, you ok now? You on board with this?"

"I t-think so. It's going to take some time adjusting. But if I can figure out a form to use...I-I guess I can do it...I just...hope I don't end up hurting anypony." He was still kind of unsure.

"No, it'll be fine. I'm sure the whole hissing thing will stop if you just keep to some sort of diet. I know from experience that a single changeling feeding off some love won't cause too noticeable an effect. So it'll be fine. Now the problem is how are we going to convince Chrysalis that we destroyed you?"

"How about we just throw him off a cliff?" Scrappy ignorantly suggests.

"...Uhhhhhhhhhh....no. We aren't trying to ACTUALLY destroy him"

"....Oh...right. I forgot." Scrappy says sheepishly

"Hmmm, but perhaps that isn't a bad idea. There are endless pits within these caverns. And you needn't actually throw him into one, we'd just need proof that such an act was done. But what evidence can we get I wonder?" Luna felt Scrappy was on to something, she was just trying to figure out how to fake it.

"Well...um. If I can say...something about that. Since erm...I really kinda would want her to think I'm gone so she'd leave me alone. I can fly, so saying you tossed me into a pit wouldn't work. Unless..." Thorax gulps as he looks back at his wings. Then turns around and braced himself as he flittered his wings. "M-maybe if you took back both of my wings, she'd believe it."

Holy fuck, what was wrong with this guy?! He wanted you all to mutilate him? "A-are you serious?! Wouldn't that hurt?"

"It's alright. I guess I wouldn't really need them right now because I'd be in Canterlot. And since I'd have no wings, nopony would have to worry about me flying away. I-it's ok. J-just...yank them out." Thorax gulped and shook as he prepared for his wings to be torn off.

"Yank them out? Absolutely not! surely there must be another way." Luna was shocked at the very suggestion. She couldn't mutilate someone so seemingly innocent.

"O-oh, no no. It's ok. They'll eventually grow back. You just have to pull hard and fast...so it doesn't hurt as much...I-I'm ready" He shivers and holds his head. Keeping everyone out of his sight so he doesn't have to witness his own wings being torn off.

Geez christ, This guy. Like, holy fuuuuck. Even you found it hard to just rip his wings off willy nilly.

"I'll do it!" Scrappy hops over to rip his wings off with his mouth. But you immediately hold him back.

"Waiiit! Holy....Ok wait up."

"But, he just said-" Scrappy was confused. He was just doing what Thorax suggested. He didn't know what was wrong.

You cut him off. "I know what he said.." You were hesitant. You had to be the one to do this. You felt Scrappy would be overzealous....or maybe.. "OHHH GEEZ! I FORGOT!" You giggle to yourself as you grab and slap your horn onto your forehead. "We don't even need to do that. Check this out."

You aim the horn at his wings, making them flash for just a second as a tattered pair appears in front of you. You smirk at your genius as you take the wings and carefully put them in your bag as your horn changes back to the Sombra necklace.

"Ummm, are they gone yet?" Thorax asked, unaware of what happened.

"Anon, what did you just do?" Luna was confused.

"Simple, I made another pair of wings that made it look like he was in a struggle. And that worked because, well, chaotically speaking, it's for use in one big lie. Yes, haha! I totally got this!" You felt pretty damn good about yourself. You solved the problem without hurting the guy.

"Ingenious Anon, absolutely perfect! But are you sure it's enough to fool Queen Chrysalis?" Luna was amazed at your action, but was still skeptical about its potency.

"Oh, I'm sure...hold on." You take one of the wings out of your saddlebag and hold them up to Scrappy. "Hey Scrappy, would you say these are authentic?" Scrappy moves up to them, and gives them an awkward looking sniff. "Uhhh....Do you really have to act like a dog ALL the time?"

Scrappy nods. "Yup, I need to be as good a dog as you are a stooge"

HEY! WHAT?! That was rude! "What the?! What do you mean by that?! I'm not a stooge!"

Scrappy shrugs. "That's what the queen used to call you, she doesn't call you that much these days. But It's true, isn't it? Your marefriend tells you what to do, Discord tells you what to do, Princess Cadance tells you what to do."

"I tell him what to do" Luna says with a sincere seriousness.

"Princess Luna tells you what to do" Scrappy adds to his list.

"HEY! YOU DON'T TELL ME-" Your instant reaction from being insulted is quickly quelled however by Luna's.

Luna looks at you with glowing hot white eyes as darkness grows around her "WHAT WAS THAT?!" Her voice booms.

"......U-uhmm...nothing..." What the hell?! WHAT WAS HER PROBLEM NOW?! FUCK, YOU DON'T EVEN HAVE THE HORN TO-

And then she giggled as everything went normal. "That's what I thought"

.....Fucking...dammit

You start making mock laughter. "Ha ha, very funny. Just remember, this 'stooge' just managed to outdo the both of you."

"Indeed, Anon. I was merely having some fun. Your efforts are still very much appreciated." Luna felt she didn't go too far. But she eased off, despite internally feeling you were taking it too hard. She then looked to Thorax, who began to relax himself, while still being cautious. "Thorax, our only issue now is the form you will take and how we will introduce you to my sister. As I said, a pet could work as it works for Scrappy. But only if it also works for you."

"Ummmm...well. I don't want to be a pet. I'd like to speak to the friends I might have if I was disguised as well..a pony. But will that be ok?" Thorax was nervous. He didn't want to impose, nor did he want to be seen as deceptive.

Luna nods. "It will be fine. So choose, we shall wait patiently until you have come to a decision."

You take your sandwich out. It wasn't just cold and hard, it was near frozen at this point. You toss it away as you grumble. "Speak for yourself..."

"Decision, right..well.." Thorax was looking around at random objects. "Ummm...I guess, if I have to be a pony, it should be....ummm...I..Umm..."

"Come on Thorax, you can do it! Oh! You should be Master Applebloom! She's really nice" Scrappy happily suggests.

...

"Uhhh, that can't work Scrappy. There can't be two Appleblooms."

"Why not? Two is better than one, right?" Scrappy was deeply confused by your words. He thought you'd be happy knowing there were now two best pony walking about.

No wonder the CMC found him adorably cute. Despite you getting annoyed, his cute confusion made you want to internally "D'awwwww" at this point. "Um, not in this case, Scrappy. He needs to be a different pony so other ponies don't wonder why Applebloom is in two places at once"

"Ooooh, I guess it would be confusing how she would get around a lot. Ok! I got it!" Scrappy was content with the explanation.

"Hmmm, I-I guess then...I think" Thorax looked around the cavern. "That if had to choose to be a pony..I'd..umm" He starts looking at the ice and crystals along the ground and walls. "Crystal..." Thorax began to glow for a moment as he decided on a form. As he glowed, he looked at his own hoof. "Trot?..no..Hoof.." Crystal...Hoof?" He then transforms Into a rather adorable crystal blue, young yet teenaged colt with a vase cutie mark. He actually looked greek. With the vase and greek like hairband on his now grey man. His eyes too, were blue. "Crystal Hoof....That works..right?"

Crystal Hoof? What kind of name was that? That'd never fly, on the show at least.

"I think it's a fine name. Thorax, as princess of the night, I can assure you that as long as you show love and respect among the ponies you will now walk among, that you too will be shown the same love and respect. I expect you to act as any pony would. Do you understand?" Luna says to him

Thorax nodded slowly, looking into her eyes with uncertainty. "Yes ma'am.. Er… sir… erm.. princess. I'd..like that very much. Living as a changeling, it's always made me feel really bad for all the horrible things we do. I'd like to try to make up for it, i-if you really don't mind."

"I really don't Thorax, it shall be fine. But tell me...do you enjoy....hug times?" Luna asked, she found Scrappy's reaction so adorable she wondered what Thorax's reaction would be.

But before he could say anything…

"HUG TIMES!" Scrappy bullets right towards you and tackles you with great strength, knocking you down as he cuddles onto your chest.

"....That looks warm and wonderful." Thorax was entranced by the affection. Still a little hungry, but also just wanting to be loved.

You just laid there, trying to figure out if you went wrong anywhere. But as he affectionately rubs his head on you, you slowly let it in, smile, and rub his head back. "You're alright Scrappy..." Thorax reluctantly stepped up to the both of you. You just looked at him, and smirked. "Well....you gonna try a hug or what?"

Thorax reached his hoof out, then pulled back, he didn't want to do it on the pretense of food. But… he just wanted to feel what being loved is like. He finds a spot on your side and moves into it, snuggling into you. Oh god...this looked utterly gay. "...This feels so good"

...Oh god....don't say that! "...Y-yeah....erm..." You whisper to yourself "N-no homo"

Luna just found the entire moment adorable. And she also found there was no more room for her to join in on the hug. But it was heartwarming nonetheless.

There wasn't much more to do after that. Eventually, Thorax fully agreed to return to the castle with Luna. What would happen? Even you don't know. As for you? You and Scrappy just had to report back to Chrysalis then go to the clubhouse. Easy peasy. The powerful magic of your horn should ensure a perfect victory. Thorax was still pretty much a wuss, But at least it seemed to mean that he was also good.

There was one more thing you had to discuss though. So as you all began to exit the caves, you caught up to Luna to discuss with her something you wanted to know. "So Luna, can I ask you about something you told me before?"

"Hmm? Told you before? What do you mean Anon?" Of course, considering how superfluous it was, she wouldn't remember.

"It's a little bit of a blur to even myself. Buuuut, remember when you said that if you had a kid, it'd be something like being tough on him to make him a prince?"

"I vaguely recall that. hmm, yes, I do believe I said something like that. Why? you're not suddenly wishing to be my son, are you?" Luna, even as she said it, felt that wouldn't actually be the case. But then...why the question?

"Erm, well, no. But what if I told you that you and Celestia had a son...in another dimension...that was another me."

Luna eyes go wide. Was...was that true? She couldn't process that in her head. "...T-that's impossible...isn't it?"

"No..it's real. I gave Starlight something that other Anon left behind when he jumped to this dimension for...something. Anyway, Scrappy had a run in with him. He said a few interesting things." You look back at Scrappy while he seemed to be catching up with Thorax.

"..Something he left behind? Another Anon? Son....No, I do know that other dimensions do exist. It's possible that it may be true, perhaps even, that the other version of my sister and I may have longed for a son. But what does that have to do with what I have told you? Why would this other Anon even come to this dimension?" Luna was confused and troubled by this startling piece of information.

"Uhm... No real idea why he came. But he was apparently a nice guy. Who, as I was told, has a very deep love for the both of you, and the both of you having a very deep love for him, in which many hugs and cuddles were involved. So let me ask, why would I have to go through rigorous prince training while he gets loves and cuddles."

"That's...what's bothering you?" It...seemed so petty. "Considering our time together is coming at the end at the moment, you'll be wanting an answer now. But let me ask you a question before I answer, is this other you dangerous at all?" Luna needed to know this. considering how much of a threat you could be.

But you took that as just her seeing him as a possible enemy, completely unrelated to anything you've done. "No, like I said, he's apparently a sweet and loving guy...like me."

"Yes.." Luna looked away slightly when she said that. She believed only the first part of your sentence. But at this point, would not condemn you for the second. "Well, it could be perhaps that this nice sweetness he has is simply worthy of praise and the hug times. But still, training for a prince is a must. Still, considering he'd be our son, you can't expect us to not show affection to him. Does that answer your question? I would think that would have been obvious."

"Huh...I guess" Would it? Considering how literal Luna could be, you couldn't be sure...but god fucking dammit. Now you knew, that even in this world, you could have had it just a little better. maybe even a little more stress free...well..it can't be helped. you had a mission. And Discord and Fluttershy? Well, they were too good to trade up for now. You cared about them too much.

You would put it out of your mind for now, You couldn't let yourself get consumed by the possibilities of this other world.

There wasn't much more to it than that. Thorax was still cowardly, yet thankful to you,Scrappy, and Luna for the help. And profusely apologized for his race once again as he took to Luna's side. Luna herself thanks you for your help, wishes you good luck, and thanks you a second time for showing her that not all changelings are terrible. And maybe, there was a chance for them after all.

..but that reminds you...that the chance is of only a singular sense. You still had to be careful.

Scrappy of course went for one more hug. And told Luna he'd miss her. Luna actually looked sad to let him go, it seemed she had grown fond of the little captain.

It was time to return..which wouldn't be too hard. Since, well...Snow was water.

Chapter 286

Scrappy is the first to land on your bed as you dive in as second.

You had to hope Thorax was telling the truth. Also, Luna didn't react to the news of another you in the way you thought. Was she that good at keeping her composure? Or did she just not care too much? Did you care too much then? Bah, whatever...

And then there was Chrysalis, you just had to hope your plan worked. If she can lie to you, then she better fucking expect that you can lie to her.

"Scrappy" You call his name as he bounced off the bed. "You understand the plan, right? We just tell her we threw him off into a bottomless pit and that you ripped his wings off, Ok? He spazzed out when we told him we were taking them off, that's what we're going to tell her."

"I understand, this is what Master Applebloom would want, right?" He tilts his head at you, internally confused and wanting clarification. Now that he was a bug again, those innocent eyes looked even cuter than when he was a puppy. He was so lost.

"Yeah, totally. Plus, Chrysalis lies a lot too, right? I think she'd be proud that we're so good at it"

"Right, that's true too." He then makes a scheming face as he bends forward and looks around. "We could take over all of Equestria if we tell the right lies. Then I could play fetch with Master Applebloom later." He snickers to himself. "I'm so good at being a captain, I should be a general."

Wait, wasn't a captain typically a general in this army? "Aren't you already one? Don't you command the entire changeling army?"

"Yeah. But general sounds more menacing, right?"

You chuckle at that. Him? Menacing? Could never happen. "Yeah, but let's not worry about that now. Let's just get this over with so we can see Scootaloo."

Scrappy tenses for a second. He didn't forget about her, but it seemed he was still worried about how she'd react when she sees him. "Yes, I-I can't wait" But you don't notice his plight as you get utterly focused on seeming as truthful as possible for when you see Chrysalis.

And so you both make your way to the basement, down the gravity stairs and through the living room's trap door and straight into the hive. As you both approach her track, with the throne in the center. You notice she was resting on it, looking miserable as a single changeling rubbed her head. Others looking at her with strained pained looks with the rest sleeping about.
Christ, what happened to her?

"...I swear, If I had one tenth of my power, I would have turned that pink pony into pink pulp. Even if she's brimming with love, she's better off as dog feed. How dare she even suggest having a....hrm?" Chrysalis notices both your's and Scrappy's presence. She just turns her eyes towards the both of you with a disinterested glare. "Oh...you're both back. Perfect timing, I guess....wait...." She immediately gets up, throwing the Changeling massaging her head back onto the ground behind the throne.

"You're both back! Splendid!" She smirks as she approaches the both of you. "I really need this right now. Thorax's cries of pain will bring me sooooo much...." But as she drew near, she noticed he wasn't with you. She tilted her head left and right to see at different angles. But no Thorax. "Alright, what is this? Don't tell me you both couldn't find him. That coward couldn't have been that hard to track. uggghh" She winces as she puts a hoof to her head. "Great, this is all I needed, failure in all fronts."

Pink pulp? Pink pony. Oh, she must have run into Pinkie Pie....christ. Without anyway to get rid of her, Pinkie's attitude must have drove her up the wall. Welp, you just had to hope that the "news" you had was good enough to brighten her mood. Because she looked like she was about to chew the both of you out. "Actually, we did find Thorax. Things got a little more violent than I thought it was going to be."

"You what? Violent? wait...." Chrysalis groaned as she put her hoof to her forehead. "Are you telling me that wimp actually fought the both of you? How can that be? He's a coward. Do you not realize having him run about out there is NOT something I need right now? I should REALLY ju-....what?"

You just silently pulled Thorax's "wings" out when she was on her rant and dropped them in front of her. "Yep, things got violent. And yeah, he was pretty wimpy. But when he found out he was going to be brought back here? Woo, Chrysalis...he just lost it. But it was still two against one. This is actually all that's left of him."

"What?..." She couldn't believe it. So much so that she inspected the wings. Could she remember what wings go to which Changeling? Welp, if she could, then this would be the perfect test to see how good your magic truly was. "You ripped his wings off? Where's the rest of him then?"

Scrappy saluted, with a big evil grin. You couldn't even tell the guy was lying when he spoke. "My Queen, I attacked from behind as he flailed against Anon. I bit his wings off and then headbutted him into an endless pit. His screams of agony before the shrieks of his fall was very satisfying. I only wish you were there to hear it.....Did I do good?"

Chrysalis's pained expression twisted into a grin just from hearing that. "You did, my little captain. And you too, Anon. I didn't think either of you were capable of something so vicious. Anon..." She lifts your head gently with her hoof. Looking directly into your eyes to spot any falsehoods while attuning herself to your feelings. "I'm surprised you didn't do anything to save him. So tell me then, is this all true? Or did the little bastard make some sort of deal with you to be left alone? I wouldn't put it past him. And although I trust the captain. I wouldn't put it past you to pull off some trick with your horn." She lifts the horn with her hoof and places it gently on your head as your eyes fill with false dark magic "So, you did have to use it for something, Hmm? What deal did you make with him. Tell your queen"

She began to gently stroke under your chin. Internally, she was ready to chew you out on the word go. And yet, she also wanted to hear that this was the truth. She was hoping that you were finally becoming more vicious, like her. That she'd be able to mold you the more you drop into her ideology. That perhaps, especially since she did know how the CMC has been treating you lately, that you'd see that ponies were bad and she was good. She wanted to hear this in some form.

"I didn't make any deal with him." You look her straight in the eye, then salute like Scrappy. "I wasn't about to make a deal with some scummy puss ass changeling that was just trying to get away."

Chrysalis looked hard at you. Not a single tingle of guilt about you. She waited for a moment, then gave you a gentle pat. "Good Anon, very good. " She smirked as she then gave you a gentle rub. "Are you beginning to understand how good it feels to be under my rule? Successful missions, Anon, earn you special praise and privileges. I could make so many things yours if you just decided to be more cooperative in the future."

Egghhh...she was trying too hard. Or maybe she actually thought you were becoming evil? you were filling your thoughts with cruel ideas to throw her off, so that may be it. "Nope, sorry Chrysalis. I just saw a douchebag that tried to annihilate me and we annihilated him first. Nothing more than that."

"Well, for me, I thought you, my queen, would enjoy the fact that I would destroy any who brings you grief and suffering." Scrappy bowed to her. Still sounding genuine without faltering on a single word.

"Hmm. At least one of you understands. But with time, you too Anon will understand the joys of evil and the benefits it comes with. You could even bring your little marefriend along if that would satisfy your 'other' needs. Because the way I see it, nopony seems to respect you. Doesn't that hurt? Doesn't it make you wish there was somepony you could come to who can make all that pain go away?" She gives you a dreamy look, brushing her hoof through your mane with such gentle daintiness that it left a nice tingly feeling.

But you just couldn't. Even if you were disrespected. THERE were ponies who DID respect you, did love you, and did care about you. And eventually, Chrysalis would see that if she just saw the good in being good, she could share in all these wonderful feelings. Hell, if Thorax integrates without the evil aspect that even Scrappy has, then you would truly know it could be done. "Maybe next time Chrysalis, maybe next time."

"Hmph" She rolls her eyes as she returns to her throne, annoyed, her headache coming back to full force as she lay on her back and let her head hang from the side of the throne. "Fine, but you'll see eventually. In any case, I picked up your homework and left it in your room. Also, I gave the excuse to your stupid teacher that you were taking care of me and just happened to fall ill. You should have seen your class fawn over me as I dramatically told them that it was my pleasure to help my little brother and that..." She put her hoof over her forehead as she shifts her tone to pure sorrow. " His suffering brings me so much pain in my heart that I can't spend another minute away from his side"

Oh god...She was winning over the entire class too easily. At this point, she was going to have colts and stallions at her beck and call....more so than Rarity. The evil she can wrought. "Ugh, really? You couldn't just pick up my homework and that was it? Why do you feel the need to attract...never mind, you just feed off the love, right? Without even thinking how it affects me."

"You're almost right, Anon. I do think how it affects you. And when they ask you how I'm doing you'll come home with their residue love in which I can snack on for a bit. I'm a very thoughtful queen, don't you think?" She said as she stretched back a little further, her mane flowing down onto the floor as another changeling comes to massage her head.

"I think it's just you being you. But I guess I can't complain, it is our game after all. I still have over you the fact that you helped saved an Equestria, you know. That's a pretty big win on my side. Y'know, that and the fact we've seen what you look like when you're reformed."

"More like enslaved. That other me, while intelligent, was still a loser. A shell of my former self, unworthy of the name and title of a changeling. As for saving that Equestria, it was a necessity. I did not do it out of the goodness of my heart." She does a motion with her hoof, like pushing a chess piece into place. "Check and mate. Your argument is destroyed."

Egh, she was right. She was...no. Wait. "What about when you saved my life? A little extreme for just another favor, don't you think?"

"That and the fact Discord would make my life hell if something happened to you. 'Hell; is the right term, isn't it? Besides, we're also friends. Friends help each other. Ergo, an extra favor for me. Everypony wins"

Egh, that one felt less genuine. She wouldn't want you on her side that badly if it was just that. But she'd never cop to it right now. She's given you her feelings before but she always flip flops on it when she's the least bit vulnerable. If only you could get her to say ‘You really are my friend Anon, and I'd give my life to protect you. I love you, just like a real little brother. Just like friends should’...or something like that.

Still, if she wanted to be coy. You might as well be an ass yourself. "Alright, fine, I see how it is. So...I see you ran into Pinkie Pie." You smirk at her. "How did that go? Because where I'm standing, it seemed to have gone well."

"Ogh...." Chrysalis tenses just from her name. "The pink hellspawn is truly a nightmare. That alone should give you reason to join my side. How do you deal with her?"

"By being friends with her. She's actually quite cute"

Chrysalis sticks her tongue out in disgust. "You're too disgusting sometimes. Cute? More like insufferable."

"Awww, can the big bug queen not handle a little pink pony?" You say mockingly as you walk over to her and poke her nose.

She just stares at you silently for a moment, not even reacting to the poke. Then speaks with a stoic expression. ".....Do you even realize how insufferable she is?" Despite her headache, she raised herself onto her butt and sat upright on her throne to explain her encounter. "She comes to me Anon. She comes to me directly and asks me. 'Hey! I want to throw you some STUPID welcoming party or whatever'. Paraphrasing of course; I can't stand to say what she actually told me. But when I tried to get away, she stops me again to ask me what kind of cake I want. I did my best to be polite and told her I don't like cake. And she just wouldn't STOP. She was all like.."

Chrysalis began to quickly shift between a Pinkie form and a Nymous form. "Oh, do you want a cupcake then?"

"I don't like cupcakes"

"I see, crumb cakes then?"

"I don't like crumb cakes"

"Ahhhh...then would you like decorative muffins?"

"I..don't like...muffins"

"No problem, would you like some candy then instead?"

"....I don't like candy"

"Aha! I know what you like! ice cream"

"I hate ice cream"

"Oh......ice cream cake?"

"I...I...GRRR" Chrysalis burst into green flames as she changed back to her original form in pure fury. "JUST THINKING ABOUT IT ENRAGES ME! I HAD JUST TOLD HER I HATED NOT ONLY NORMAL CAKE! BUT THREE KINDS OF CAKE! HOW DO YOU JUST GO BACK TO CAKE AFTER I....NGH" Chrysalis fell back as she grasped her head. "D-dammit, y-you...you did this on purpose..."

You nod with a smirk. "Yep. See, I can play puppet master too. Doesn't feel good now does it?"

"....Hmph..." She does her best to cool her anger, she didn't want to be beat out by you. "Clever Anon, very clever. But nopony ever truly gets the best of me. If you're trying to make me feel bad about how I treat others, it won't work. Egh..." She sits back as she continues to dab at her head with her hoof. "You're actually lucky that her sister pulled her away so they wouldn't be late for some trip to Manehatten."

Maud? Maud was in Ponyville? Dammit....you really wanted to meet her. Still, you felt satisfied that you got under her skin that hard. If only she'd realize that that very same reaction is something she shouldn't be causing in others.

"In anycase, leave me be. I'll just leave you with the fact that I'm proud. As for you, my captain. Keep up the good work. You know what I speak of." Chrysalis went back to having her head massaged.

Scrappy then salutes to her. "Of course my queen, it shall be done."

With that encounter done. You and Scrappy head back up to go see Scootaloo. School should be over by now.

You'd have to see Pinkie about that welcoming party. You might be able to use that to your advantage.

But at this moment?...

"You ready to see Scoots, Scrappy?" But no reply. "Scrappy?"

You turn your head to see the little changeling look at you angrily. "You insulted the queen again, you do know I'll have to destroy you for that right? The moment you accept my challenge, I will crush you beneath my hooves. I will use your bones to play fetch with Master Applebloom, and bury the rest." But then his anger subsided as he looked at you with curiosity. "But we're still friends, right?"

.......Fucking.... "S-sure...yeah."

"Yeah! Now c'mon! Let's go! We gotta see Scootaloo and...oh" His excitement as he rushes forward quickly drops as he immediately remembers her own anger at him. ".....I hope she wants to see me..."

This changeling, Scrappy: Vicious, dumb, and a fragile heart that was actually worth protecting. Even if he was mad at you, he also wanted to be your friend. You had to help him with this, you simply had to.

As you both approach your floor door, or rather ceiling door where you both stood. You did have a question to ask the little bug. "Scrappy, what did she mean by doing your job, or whatever she said. That you knew what to do?"

"Huh? Oh...erm. I'm not really supposed to say, not even to you. I told Master Applebloom though. She thinks it's a pretty bad idea. But, I still have to do it."

What?...He can tell her but not you? "Oh come on, dude, just tell me what it is. I'm your master's friend right? You know that."

"Yeah, but, It's super top secret stuff." He seemed very unsure of himself, like he wanted to tell you, but he knew he shouldn't.

"If it was so secret. Why would Chrysalis just say it in front of me like that? She knew I'd get curious."

"She did, she told me you would when you eventually asked. And when you did, I was supposed to lie to you because it's a super important thing. I'm sorry Anon, I don't want to disobey the queen. You're just going to have to ask Master Applebloom."

Ask her? Or maybe you didn't have to. You had to make sure he didn't lie to her too. He says he doesn't lie to her, and so far, it's held true. But this? Who knows? But you had to get it out of him if it was that important. "Well, I think Master Applebloom would want you to tell me. If you didn't, she might not want to be friends anymore."

"W-WHAT?!" Scrappy was paranoid of that it seemed. So he really did genuinely like her. Ergo, most likely, He told her the truth. "O-ok ok...I'm...also supposed to find any way I can for us to break Discord's dumb curse. That's my main mission."

Him? Find a way to break Discord's curse? Christ Chrysalis...she must have really lost her mind when she gave him that mission. There's no way he'd ever be able to do it, she'd be waiting for an eternity for that "I see, mmnnnn..."

And then there was Scrappy's reaction. He looked frantic. He looked like he had already lost his friends. "I-I Don't want to lose anymore friends, Anon, s-she wouldn't really do that if I didn't tell you things, would she?" Scrappy gulped, he was shaking. Like a little lost puppy who scorned his mother.

Dammit, you just wanted to know. You didn't realize just how fragile the little captain truly was. At times, he was a devious schemer. But when it came to friendship, he didn't want to lose a single friend...ever. He was like a dumb kid, dumber and more innocent than even the CMC.

You immediately regret your decision and backpedal. "No Scrappy, I just...I lied. I just wanted to know what it was." You did. At least you knew there was no way he could accomplish it, he just isn't smart enough. "I'm sorry, I just wanted to make sure it wouldn't be a lie."

"You lied?........AWESOME!" He cheered. "Lying and cheating is exactly what a changeling should always do. The Queen was right, you really really REALLY do have changeling tendencies. You really should listen to her more often."

What?! He....liked the lie? Even though it involved Applebloom?! That didn't make any sense! You went from feeling bad to feeling baffled and angry. "What?! Then what about Applebloom?! Have you been lying to her too, this whole time?!" This was of course, also very important. You weren't always around them to know the lies he actually did tell.

"No!" He barks back at you, feeling anger well up inside of him just from the accusation "Master Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo are different! The queen doesn't want them in her army. But I do, in a sense, I want to be their friend. It feels nice. And when they feel bad, I feel bad! And when I lie to them, it hurts for some reason. So no, I don't lie to them, Just you. Because even though you're my friend too, the queen says I have to lie to you the most because it's part of the game. She wants to win reaaaallllly bad. She says when you lose you'd have no choice but to join us. And I'd really really like that too, since you're my friend. She said if you won the game then bad things would happen...and that makes me think bad things would happen to Master Applebloom too." He looks downwards, fiddling with his hooves. "I don't want bad things to happen to her or my other friends."

"You don't see a problem with anything you just said?" He didn't see the fault in his own logic?

"....No" He shook his head, now wondering if he was supposed to.

That proves it. He didn't understand jack shit. He just went by his feelings and his urge to make everyone happy. He didn't know that if Chrysalis had her way, his friends would be no more. But if something happened to Chrysalis before you won, she'd be no more. And maybe, so would he. Unlike this Thorax guy, you don't think Scrappy would be the same if he lost Chrysalis, nor if he lost Applebloom and the others. Meaning, despite bugbutt's own selfishness, you had to be the one to win. For all their sake.

As for you? You were obviously something Chrysalis wanted. She tasted friendship with you and truly wanted it. But she also wanted freedom. If she was the villain you know she is, if she escaped, she'd do something to give you an ultimatum. It'd be the only way she'd know to force you on her side if you didn't go voluntarily. When it came to her, friendship was a very scary thing indeed. But you knew most of this already.

You'd let him have his little dream for now. No need to break it. He was too innocent to know the truth. At least you knew what he was currently spying around for now. "Ok good, because that's exactly as it should be. So uh.." You give him a gentle pat. Which makes him smile and slowly relax. He really did like being treated like a dog it seemed. Applebloom's fault most likely. "Let's go see Scootaloo, huh? Trust me on this, I'd bet she really would like to see you right now."

"I hope so, it's going to be so good when she sees her present! She's going to feel good and I'll feel good too! As long as she's happy. I'm happy." Scrappy exclaims as he flies up to the door and climbs inside.

Yeah, and you know what? You'd be happy too. In fact, you were sure you could handle anything Chrysalis throws at you. You got this far, and it seemed that you were just as good at this game as she was. Yeah, you really did have to make that "Welcome to Ponyville" party happen. It would be one of your big plays. She'd be stuck in a room full of ponies who'd instantly adore her. Hopefully, she'd see that it actually feels good to be loved and cared about.

You ascended the gravity stairs to get into your room. Except...now there was a problem. You entered a dark empty void. "...The fuck?.....Scrappy? SCRAPPY! WHERE ARE YOU?!" No answer. And when you looked down, the door was gone as well. "F-fuck..what is...wait..." You were in Discord's home after all. Who else could do this but… "Discord?"

You suddenly hear a gentle melody behind you. When you turn, you see Discord playing a song on a grand piano. Dressed in a tux. He looked very focused, opening his eyes just halfway to glare at you with a smirk. "Hello Anon, have a pleasant morning?"

You had no idea how to feel right now. Did he get mad? Did he want something? Was he going to mess with you? Did he want to talk? This time, you should just approach with caution. "Yo Discord, what's uhh...what's all this?"

"Oh nothing. Just wanted to play a tune. Heavenly, isn't it? Not very often I play something harmonious." Discord says as he expertly plays the keys of the piano, the music was very relaxing.

"Yeah, it's actually really nice. So, is it a song you're working on or you wanted me to hear?"

"Oh no, was just playing it for myself. It's just a little song with a very beautiful ending." Discord says calmly as it seems he is about to reach the end of the song.

"Oh? I bet it sounds super great."

"Oh, it's quite marvelous. for the ears, one would find it quite therapeutic. An A here, a C there, and then finally." Discord stops and pulls a gigantic mallet from thin air and smashes down on the piano, obliterating it as pieces, string, and some of the keys themselves fly every which way. One even hitting your face. But you don't react. Again, used to it.

....Why were you not surprised? "...Yep...shoulda saw that coming."

"Saw what coming? I really was playing that song for myself. But now we have some business to attend to and since we have the time. I'd actually like to be thorough about it" Discord snapped his talons as he spoke. making the smashed piano vanish from sight.

Even if he had the time, you actually didn't. "Discord, I'm sorry but I have somewhere to be. I gotta get Scrappy to Scootaloo as quick as possible. Can you just make everything normal so we can go, please?"

"I very well can. But..." Discord makes a clock appear on his paw as he points out the time to you. "It's only noon, but if you're going to show up at the school with a talking puppy to sort out some issues then be my guest. Otherwise..." A chair appears from under you, forcing you to sit down in front of Discord as he tosses the clock away, causing a small explosion. "Sit down for a spell, you'll actually like what I have to say"

Only noon?!....fucking. Chrysalis must have woke you up super early then. That extra rest you got with Scoots must have ensured you didn't feel tired when you awoke. Well then.....You might as well hear Discord out. You two were closer after all, you wanted to give him the benefit of the doubt, even if he did abandon you during the chat with Celestia and Luna. "Alright, fine. I'll listen. I trust your word Discord. So, whatcha got?"

"Oh not much. For once, this will be very simply and clean. You see, I've noticed your influence has been spreading across the land. Both of your presence and your chaotic prowess, why..." He chuckles to himself. "Telling Luna about that other you would have usually been very catastrophic, but it seems she's actually curious. Curious enough that when she DOES tell Celestia that they will both probably rack their brains on the subject. A subtle kind of chaos I can appreciate. I mean, I don't even get your fascination with what Luna told you but hey, whatever works."

Actually, you did kinda want that to happen. Good to see Discord was on board with that. "Yeah well, I like them but ya know.....uhm.....uhhh" Huh, suddenly it all seemed so petty. "....Huh...I don't even know why I should have cared so much… Weird."

Discord gets up from his seat, walking past you as a light appears behind you, revealing your portal door. "Whether you care or not is not what matters. What matters is the chaos it will cause. A blameless chaos that nopony could blame you for. And for that....I present to you a gift. Take a look at the dial Anon"

The dial? You hop off from your chair and walk over to the portal door's dial....huh… "There's more selections on it."

"Indeed, why don't you give them a try?" Discord just waits. His smarmy smile slowly melting into a more proud, fatherly type of smile.

Curiosity piqued, you try the first of the, as you count, three new selections. The first, as you open the door is… "Oh...woah. It's the clubhouse."

"Indeed, it should make things more convenient for you." Discord closes the door for you as he awaits for you to make the next dial turn.

Wow, that was actually pretty neat. It made you excited for the next portal. With another turn of the dial, you open the door and… "Canterlot? Oh, this is because of how close I'm getting with the princesses, right?"

"Actually, It'd be more useful as a way to quickly dump flaming bags of dog poop at the front of their doors. Combine it with the map and they'd never ever figure out who's doing it. But I suppose that's a reason too...Alright...try the last one." Discord closes the door one more time.

And with one last dial turn… "Wait… Is this...?"

"It is." Discord gives you a gentle pat on the head as you gaze upon Starlight's town. "I felt travelling by train everytime was a tad redundant. So, I made things a little more accessible. Consider these a reward, Anon, I feel you have earned it"

....Discord. That made getting to see Starlight...a whole lot easier. "I..I don't know what to say. I didn't expect this."

Discord started walking away as he approached.....another door? "Of course you didn't. If you did, it wouldn't be a surprise. You're one of my best friends, Anon. And this whole issue you've been having with that Starlight pony has come to trouble me. Especially since she has come to be friends with Fluttershy. And to avoid any kind of future trouble that may befall either you or her over this mare, I decided to give you an easy and quick way to go and solve it. But enough about that, I ALSO want to show you what our big next future venture will be." As kind as Discord was being right now, which you were truly grateful for. There was something about this other door. You recognized it as one of the doors leading to the future. But, you thought they were all gone.

"Discord, I really appreciate the new places I can go. But I know what kind of door that is. And I don't think I'm ready for another kind of Equestria."

"Oh don't be a prude, Anon, I'd be with you this time, so there wouldn't be anything to worry about. You certainly wouldn't have any limitations to the horn like you did back in that other Equestria. Come on, give it a chance, at least take a peek behind the door before you decide. I promise you that it will be quite interesting." He holds the door towards you, ready to be opened. "I used quite a bit of my power to keep this one around. All I'm asking for right now is a peek."

A peek huh? Mnnn, you really felt you couldn't say no to something like that. After that kind of gift? How could you without seeming like an ass. You slowly open the door...only to reveal...Oh god… "....Crystals, ponies beating the crap out of each other, and Canterlot..it's all crystally too and....Discord..NO!" FUCK NO. NONONONONO! OH GOD! Your very fur stood on end from the horrible sight. Your face, contorted with shock. "A future where King Sombra ruled?! You have to be fucking....what? FUCK!"

But it seemed he was gone, and you were back in your room within a second of reeling back. That damned Draconequus. Did he do that just to fuck with you? Was he going to do it at some point? Or was it both?

Goddamn him sometimes. You were NOT looking forward to that when he inevitably springs that shit on you. Dammit....ugh. And nothing you could really do about it either, was there?....No. For now, you would have to figure out what to do for the next few hours. And since you couldn't really traverse Ponyville due to Chrysalis's lie. Maybe it was actually the perfect time to, well, see Starlight. If anything, the shorter the time Sunburst had to wait, the less of a chance of him spurging and trying to solve this shit himself.

Then you heard a gnawing on your bed. You look over to see Scrappy sinking his teeth and chewing on your pillow. "Uhhhh, Scrappy? What are you doing?"

Scrappy slowly stops, as his eyes shift towards you, he lets go of the pillow from his mouth and looks at it as he wipes his drool. "....I thought this was princess Cadance's face. Awww..." Scrappy sighs in disappointment. "I really wanted to rip it off."

Hehe, note to self. He must really hate Cadance and Shining Armor due to them defeating Chrysalis. You would have to find a time to show him proof that they were ALSO "Master" Applebloom's friends, because that'd just be brutal.

Chapter 287

The only real problem with seeing Starlight was dealing with Scrappy. Since NONE of the ponies there were Applebloom's friends, bringing him would probably cause some trouble. Maybe you could just convince him to stick around. "Hey Scrappy, since Scootaloo is still in school, why don't you hang around in my room while I go see a friend of mine."

"School? Oh right, I remember the school. I know Master Applebloom goes there too, so does Sweetie Belle. I don't mind waiting, I know how it works. Can I go to the clubhouse instead? I don't want them to find their presents before I have a chance to show it to them. Every changeling knows the element of surprise is a big thing, and I want to make my friends happy with a surprise. And..." Scrappy, whenever he remember's Scootaloo's current attitude towards him, just fell apart whether it was noticeable or not. He just sighed and looked down. "Hopefully have the forgiveness of Scootaloo..."

Come on Scrappy, you can do it...Just be a little more patient. "It'll be alright, and yeah, I don't mind. Whatever is gonna help you through this. In fact." You walk over to the portal door and open it to the clubhouse. "Check this out, you can use the door to get to the clubhouse whenever you want. Isn't that neat?"

Scrappy looked over, hopped off your bed, and looked through the door. He was in awe. "Wow! That's neat! Now I don't have to keep sneaking through town! But..." Scrappy sighs, AGAIN thinking back to Scootaloo.

But as he looked at you with a frown, you gently put your hoof on the shoulder of his front right leg. "Scrappy, relax. Trust me, we'll get this fixed when the time comes. You still have a few hours. Why don't you hide the presents and just think about how happy they'll be when you give it to them. And yes, this includes Scoots. Because trust me, if it's one thing that makes her happy, it's anything Rainbow Dash related. And I know you know that too. So relax, alright? You already know her enough to make her happy with just that kind of gift."

"...O-ok" He looks upon the clubhouse, then back at you. " Anon, can I ask you a question?" Those big blue bug eyes, he was still depressed. He was still worried. He was actually looking upon you for support as they glassed up from his tears.

"What is it?"

"....Can I h-have a hug? Hugs always make me feel better. P-please?" He holds out his forelegs at you, waiting for your embrace.

Their friendship really meant a lot to him. And you were sure, just dead sure, Scrappy was the kind of guy who'd sacrifice himself to save them. So even the idea of losing them torments him more than perhaps Twilight when she's tardy. "Yeah"

You reach your your hooves out for him and give him the most compassionate hug you can. He really needed it. Gentle head rubbing and all. He went through the portal after that, seeming just a little more confident to face what, if everything goes right, should actually be pretty non issue. You really hoped it'd be.

Now, as you set the dial, it was time to see Starlight again. You wonder how'd she react when you told her you found Sunburst. Oh boy, she might turn into more of a wreck than Scrappy right now.

It seems the portal takes you a short trot away from town. Not too bad. You'd rather start just outside than just appearing out of nowhere while inside, it could spook some of the townsponies. Now, all you had to do is find Starlight. Shouldn't be too hard. You also wondered how she's doing. The last few times you visited her she was a wreck. But hopefully, with the newfound friendship of the mane 6, she should be a lot better.

You sigh and prepare to take your first steps. "Here we go..."

“Indeed, this will hopefully be yet another fun filled adventure." A smooth, silky, and familiar voice calls out from an unknown position.

Why was he even here? "Discord?" You take a look behind you. Discord was leaning against a boulder, giving you a cool look, wearing some sunglasses.

"That would indeed be my name, Anon. So, I see you decided to actually take it upon yourself to take the trip. That's good, I've been itching to go on another friendship adventure with you. I think.." He stands upright as he walks past you, tapping at his chin. "The last time we did this, we helped that sourpuss of a mare that happened to be related to your little marefriend. Ahh yes, that was fun. So many ponies we messed with that day." He grins at you a sly grin. "Now, what's the plan this time? Who do we have to toy with to get to where we need to go?"

That's right. Way back when, you and Discord had gone on a couple of friendship adventures. The first not being successful, the second being mostly skill, luck, and lots of bullshit. This time though? He wasn't really needed. The only issue was just bringing Sunburst up. "Nopony actually, this is just a straightforward talk with Starlight."

"What? Hold on, Anon..." Discord just looks at the town with one of his talons in his mouth, confused, then points to the town itself. "So you're telling me that we don't have to get past a single pony to get to where we need to go? You're telling me there's not one pony we need to persuade into giving us the information we need? What kind of friendship adventure is this supposed to be?!" He threw his arms up in the air, finding the whole thing ridiculous. "How are we supposed to face heralding trials that can only be solved through quick wits and the ability to toy with our foes if there's no trials to be had?!"

"It's not about fun, Discord, it's.." And you couldn't really tell him to fuck off either. He did genuinely help you before with these kinds of things. Even if this case didn't have the obstacles the others did, maybe letting him come along wouldn't be so bad. "It's just about helping a friend. I didn't know these adventures even meant THAT much to you, I just know you kinda liked them."

"Anon..." Discord stops, turns away, and looks up to the sun, trying to act aloof. "We're partners, aren't we? Helping each other is what partners do. With adventures like these, it mutually benefits the both of us. For you, it fixes a problem. For me, it's an opportunity to toy with ponies without anypony being the wiser or chastising me. And failure on any and all of these two would make the entire trip a huge disappointment. You know I like you. And just for you, I'm willing to look past the fact that we're spreading harmony because I'm helping you. Just like I'm willing to look past Fluttershy's more orderly habits because of how simply wonderful she is. Sometimes I'll even indulge her in it, like when we have our Tuesday Tea. So yes, I do like these adventures. So surely, you must have something for me to do. Something requiring my area of expertise"

You couldn't think of any. But, it did warm your heart that he actually did care that much. Even if some of it was for selfish reasons. "Sorry Discord. But, ya know, if you want to tag along still, I don't mind. I bet Fluttershy would love to know you did some good without causing anything chaotic to happen."

Discord smirked at you as he gave you a gentle pat on the head. "Nice try Anon, but I don't need Fluttershy's approval ALL the time. I'll accept your offer, but I will play a trick or two if I find an opening."

Oh, is that it, huh? Well then, looks like he needed a reminder that you too could play his game. You didn't mind his company, but chaotic shit at this time would be a disaster. "I figured, but you sure do bend like a twig when she finds out you did something bad, don't you?" You smirk at him. Wiggling your own eyebrows at him to further clarify your intent.

"Hmmm?! You'd tell on your own father Anon? Bad form! Bad form indeed!" Discord crosses his arms and looks at you with an annoyed stare. "We're both beings of chaos. You can't tell me you wouldn't want to cause a little trouble."

"I wouldn't mind if I could get away with it. Problem with that is ponies from Ponyville know me so it's kinda hard to cause any kind of trouble there. And here? Yeeeeah, I'd rather not cause any trouble for Starlight. So, unless you have a target that deserves it that ISN'T FUCKING SOMBRA. Or, maybe a place where they don't know me like Manehatten or something where we can cause maybe a little trouble. Then no, we can't cause trouble. I don't want it. Hell, If you really want it that bad, we can go fuck with Snips and Snails. they fucking deserve it, as long as they don't realize it's me that could be fine too. But if you cause any trouble here. I'll tell Fluttershy"

Discord taps his chin at those words. He doesn't say anything as he ponders. He then steps a few steps away, having his back faced towards you. "So what you're saying is. I can't cause any trouble of any kind on purpose."

"Yes, and no tricks either"

"Yes, yes...no tricks either. No chaos magic whatsoever. Just you, me, and solving this problem. Is that what you want?" He says without changing direction.

"Uhhh..." That was kind of suspicious...or maybe, he actually understood. "Yeah..that would be nice. I mean, you can help too if you have any suggestions or want to give words of encouragement or something."

"That does seem keen, Anon, simply wonderful. But...you may have some fears that I may be lying, sooooo." Discord turns around and holds his paw out towards you as he gives you a gentle smile "We'll make a deal. I'll be your companion for this venture, if I am allowed to abstain from using magic. No, unable to use magic of any kind."

Wuh? Shouldn't it be the other way around? No...wait...uhhh.. He was being suspicious. Or maybe he just wanted to be seen as forced to do it so he doesn't seem soft. Yeah, that's probably it. Aww, what a nice guy. He was gonna help out and be nice for you. You were sure Fluttershy would be happy when she finds out about it. "Deal!"

You reach your hoof out and shake his paw. But the moment you do, Discord winces in pain as he glows for a moment. The glow gets stripped out of him and turns into a ball before exploding.

Not only was that one hell of a surprise, but Discord was looking slightly more pale and kind of tired.

"WHAT IN THE FUCK JUST HAPPENED?!"

"Simple, we made a deal. I am now powerless to do anything. And I must be your companion for this little venture."

...What in the...WHY?! "What..What the..Discord, why would you do that to yourself?! That's insane!"

"Oh, no that's nothing. Being powerless means I'd have to follow you around as is. The insane part is the fact that I'll turn into dust and disappear forever if we fail." He gives a quick cough before looking at you with this pretentious looking grin.

This crazy fucker. This was distressing to you. It drove you nuts. Just...WHY?! "What the hell is wrong with you?! So what? Why?! For what purpose?! Because you didn't get your way or something?! Do you realize how ridiculous that is?! Do you realize how sad Fluttershy will be if something happens to you?!"

Discord does a few stretches then grips his talons. "I'm the spirit of chaos, Anon, sometimes what I do has no good reasoning behind it. And besides, it's not how Fluttershy would take it. It's more how she would react towards you for being so irresponsible as to let me turn to dust." He was being rather calm about this.

You just spaz out as your put your hooves to the side of your head from the sheer craziness of it. "ARE YOU AN IDIOT!? THIS ISN'T GUARANTEED YOU FUCKING..GODDAMMIT! DISCORD! YOU COULD ACTUALLY DIE FROM THIS!"

"I'm not too worried. I'm sure you'll be able to help your friend. I just wanted a good reason to come along. Oh yes, and since I can't use my magic. Everypony will have to see me as I am. Hmm, yes. I wonder how'd they react towards my presence." Discord snickers as he looks towards the town.

..No..way… "D-did you s-seriously put your own life on the line...f-for that?" You couldn't even yell...that was too...profound. It was just too stunning to scream anymore.

"I did!" He says with a childlike joy in his voice. "Now we mustn't dawdle. I can only spend so much time like this before I...Bite the dust" He chuckles to himself with a small cough as he walks towards the town.

Good god...Now his entire fate rested in your hooves because he decided to be a goddamned insane idiot. You had to hope Starlight was in the shed right at the edge of town. It would make things easier then.

However, as you both approach the shed and open it up. Starlight was nowhere to be found.

"Oh goodie! That means we get to ask the townsponies where your friend is at. Now won't that be fun?" Discord says with a giddy excited voice.

"...You don't have to be an asshole about it, you know. You already have all my nerves smashing into each other." You said with an aggravating droning tone. God, you were pissed.

"Me? Acting in such a way? No, Anon, you misunderstand." He shrugs, as he explains his "actual" reasoning to his removal of his magic. "I'm doing this to learn how to solve friendship problems like Twilight would. In no way am I doing this to cause any trouble. Of course, there is the huge penalty of failure. But that all depends on you. Oh look! There's a few fillies over there!" Discord grins as he walks over to them. They immediately freak out and either run home or towards their parents, who go and hide in their houses. Discord just rubs his chin, confused "Now what do you think that was about?"

....Uuughhhh… "I dunno, it might be because they saw a really scary and very stupid monster walking up to them..."

Discord looked around in wonderment. "Really? Where?" He put his paw over his eyes to cover them from the sun. "I don't see any monster around."

....Uuuugggghhhh… You groan as you put your hoof to your face. First he gives you more places to go to as a reward. Then he pulls this shit. "Can you just...not just go scaring ponies?"

"Are you saying I'm a scary fellow, Anon? Pfft, please. They were obviously scared at the hookie-playing colt. That's you by the way." He points and pokes playfully at your nose. "The idea of missing school scares them."

Oh, you can tell. He was really pressing your buttons now. How the fuck does that even work? Kids hate school. "THAT DOESN'T EVEN MAKE SENSE! THEY WEREN'T IN SCHOOL EITHER! IT'S OBVIOUS EITHER SCHOOL IS OVER FOR THEM OR IT'S AN OFF DAY OR SOMETHING! DISCORD, I SWEAR! I'M GONNA SLAP YOUR S-GYAH!" Suddenly you hear a sharp yelling right from behind you, making you jump in fright so high that Discord had to catch you.

That dark blue pegasus with the white windblown mane was right behind you, shouting "Ok! What's going on here?! Woah...what is that thin-" Suddenly, she gets battle ready as she notices you in Discord's arms. "HEY! LEAVE THE FILLY ALONE! OR YOU GOTTA TANGO WITH ME!"

Discord snickers. "Hehe, filly..."

You wanted to kill yourself right now. This was just getting worse by the second. You also had to stop this from happening. "WOAH! WOAH! WAIT! Hey! You're Night Glider, right?! It's me, Anon! Remember?! Don't attack! Gimme a second." You struggle out of Discord's arms and fall right on your head. Your face going right into the dirt.

Night Glider cringes from your crash landing. But she also immediately recognizes you the moment she got a better look at you. "Anon?! Sheesh, is that you? You ok? W-what is this thing?" Night Glider went and helps you up onto your hooves.

You had to spit some of the dirt out of your mouth and wipe your face as you look up at Discord with an angry look before looking at her with a false sense of calmness. "I'm fine..Night Glider, look, I don't have time t-"

"What?! How can you not know who I am?! I'm world famous! The cream of the crop of magic users! The ultimate chaotic being! You know...it's..." Discord starts beckoning her, rolling his talon along, his arm outstretched, trying to get her to remember his name.

"Oh...it talks. Uhhh, so...it's from the circus or something?" Night Glider wondered.

Discord's eye started to twitch. "How dare you! I am no mere circus clown. Take this!" Discord starts waving his paw and talons at her...but nothing happens.

"Uhhhhh....creeeeepy" She just looks away from Discord. Finding him uncomfortable. "Is...he ok?"

You'd laugh if the situation wasn't so dire. "He's just kinda sick and out of his mind right now. Night Glider, look. I don't have a lot of time, do you know where Starlight is?"

"Uh, yeah...uhh" Even though she found him creepy, she couldn't help but eye how odd he looked. It was clear she had never seen Discord before. "Are you here to show her your talking pet? Because I dunno, it's kinda freaky."

"Listen hear you ignorant winged guppy. I'm Discord, the LORD OF CHAOS! Surely you've heard of me. As I said..WORLD...FAMOUS!" He points to himself, as it was the only way without magic to somehow show his importance.

"Ohhhhh...you're....Anon's dad. You're that guy. Huh..." Night Glider moves close to you to whisper in your ear. "So, like...is he crazy sick or something? I mean, I've heard of your dad before. But I thought he was powerful. He just seems kinda crazy, like...old stallion in a home crazy."

And as dire as the situation was. That forced a small snicker out of you. "Y-yeah, he's like this when he's 'out of his mind' with sickness. Told him to stay home, but he wanted to follow me around like a small puppy because he didn't want to be home alone."

"A small puppy?" Discord was now realizing the tables had just turned against him. And he'd have none of that. "Pardon me, son, but is it not 'Normal' to just want have some 'Father-son' time? You should be ashamed of yourself. Making fun of your sick ole dad in front of your friends. Really, what kind of respect is that?"

Fine, if he wanted to use this opportunity to be an asshole. Then you would ream his ass right here publicly. "Sorry Dad, I just thought you went all senile when you chased those poor kids. Wanted to make sure you were ok."

"Oh wow. I didn't know it was like that." Night Glider looked upon Discord with pity. "Hey, sorry about thinking you were some sort of monster. Are we cool?"

".....I guess" Discord was internally furious. But it also seemed he was holding back. Or just accepting defeat. It seemed per his words, he wasn't going to purposely cause too much trouble. even if "purposely" was already a stretch when it came to him.

"Cool" Night Glider said with a smile. "Well, if you're looking for Starlight. She's back at the old vault. We've been converting it for something new. She told you what we used to use it for, right?"

Take that you fucking freaky dragon fuck. You had him where you wanted him. As for Night glider's question, you nodded. "Yeah, but..what is it being converted to? if you don't mind me asking."

"Oh, get this" Night Glider grinned, she seemed pretty happy about it. "It's a vault of 'memories'. Basically we take something that we really like, like something that reminds us of a really cool or happy memory, and put it in the vault. That way it stays safe and we can go see it whenever we want. And even tell and swap stories to each other about what we put in.Pretty cool, huh?"

Woah, that actually was pretty neat. "Yeah, hey. That's really sweet actually. I kinda wanna see it but...uhh..." You look around, you can see the mountains at the right side of the town. It was a bit ways off. "Where do we go exactly?"

"Oh it's easy, see those mountains over there? We marked a path and put up a few railings to make going to the vault safer. Just follow the path and you'll be there in no time."

You sigh...good, progress without too much trouble. "Thanks Night Glider. You're really cool. I'd stay and chat, but I really got to talk to her. It's important."

"Hey that's cool, I don't wanna keep ya but...You should check out our new town hall when you get the chance though. We're juuuuuuust about done with it. It's right over there across town." She points to it. It...from your position. Actually did look a lot nicer than before. But you really did have no time to see it just yet.

"Sure, when I get the chance, I'll check it out. Thanks Night glider." You then look to Discord with a smug look. "Come on Dad, we gotta get going."

Discord grumbles that the situation went sour. "Indeed....goodbye, Blight Crier" He bows begrudgingly as he follows you.

"Seeya..and it's err, Night Glider..." She just shakes her head in pity as she watches you both walk off. "Poor guy" She figured you were just taking him around so he wouldn't be left alone in the house. Wherever that was.

As for you, yeah you had your fun. But you had to be serious, because it was obvious he wasn't taking it serious. The fucking nimrod. You both take the path towards the vault. As you walked along it, you could see small signs set up and walls set up as guard rail that reached up to about two times your height. Yeah, it really was safe. Though, you couldn't escape from Discord's whining.

"A circus freak, a pet?! How could she not know who I am?...I'M DISCORD" Discord pointed to himself as he gripped his talons "THE KING OF CALAMITY! THE LORD OF DISORDER! THE SPIRIT OF CHAOS!"

"The emperor of dumb shit moves" You announce grumpily as you march forward. The fun was over, you just had to get this done before he died. "Like seriously, I can't believe you'd do something like this."

"Well that's your fault now isn't it?" Discord doesn't take your concerns seriously, and scoffs. "You would have told me to turn small or be invisible if we had to speak to any of the ponies here. In fact, why don't we turn back and try again, hmm? I'm sure the other townsponies not only know who I am, but would be dying to meet me."

You roll your eyes at him. "It's a backwater, mostly out of the way, kinda hidden town. They only really know of you through me. They'd either be afraid of you because you look like some wild animal or come up to you and ask you to do a trick. Let's just get this over with."

"Oh really? Tch, that's why back up plans exist, Anon. It's not like we'd be causing too much trouble anyway. They would be the ones overreacting. I'd just need to approach in a much more charming fashion." Discord explains as he licks his paw to wipe and straighten his beard with it.

"We don't have time for that...." You growl at him, how could he be so reckless?!

"We have plenty of time, I would know. It is my body after all." Discord immediately turns around and starts walking back. "Besides, aren't you famished? We could pick up something to eat" He just continues walking without you.

You know, the more he tried to force having another shot at the townsponies. The more it made you think. Wasn't there another time where he had no magic? Your eyes widen as you realize the truth. It was so obvious. Season four finale.

...THAT...BASTARD! He didn't turn to dust back then. This guy was lying to you from the get go just to try to get some jollies. Well, you already got first win on him. Time to clench round two. Because you were sure you were right.

You start walking to the wall set up at the side of the mountain path, hop up to get your front legs over it, then look down. hrn..a long fall. "Y'know Discord, I'm starting to think you're lying to me."

"Lying?" Discord stops and then chuckles. "Lying...you're saying I'm lying. Why would I.....Anon?" Discord turns around, to see you going over the wall and hanging on by the edge. "...Anon...what are you doing?" His mood immediately shifts to one of worry.

He was probably worried that you had him. "Oh...nothing. Just wanting to check out the view. Pretty nice huh?" You grin at him. "It would be a shame if I tripped...right?"

"Anon...as your fake father." He points down to the ground next to him. "I order you to come over here this instant."

You snicker at him. "You're not my Dad in any capacity. And besides, if you really want me over there, just use your magic."

You start leaning back, which makes Discord start stepping towards you. "Anon...I'm not playing. Come here.....I got snackkksss"

"Nah, I think I'll just have some fun swinging back and f-w-woa---WOAH!" You lose your grip, and fall back.

Discord loses it, he rushes towards the wall and screams your name "ANON!". But as he looked over the wall and down the mountain. He couldn't even see you anymore. You were too far down, according from his position.

"A-anon...." He just had his arm outstretched as he froze in place, as if he had caught you....but it was long too late for that. He was in shock. He slowly began to realize that his little game had just cost you your life. "....." He finally began to move, stepping back as tears started to slowly flow from his eyes. "Have I gone too far? I wasn't lying....mostly. You were right...I wasn't going to turn to dust. I only said that so you couldn't turn back. But a deal was a deal...Why didn't you listen...?"

He gulped, and looked up towards the sun. "How could this be? How could I, Discord, make such a gross oversight?" He started to to back up, holding his talons to his chest from pain as he bit down on his paw. "He was one of my best friends. How could he do something so stupid? Th-that's not my fault...i-it can't be..." He gulped upon the realization that he may have pushed you for the truth. "Did it really mean that much to know? His own life?....." Then his eyes widened as the thoughts of Fluttershy entered his mind. "....Fluttershy...she'll hate me. She'll hate me forever when she finds out." His eye began to twitch from utter fear. His body turning full white as his pupils shrank. "A-and then I'll be alone...."

He nearly melted onto the ground, reaching his paw up towards the sky. "H-help… Please… Whoever can hear me. Princess Celestia, Human god, even that devil guy, I'd gladly sell Twilight's...no...mine?...No..I'd gladly sell Tirek's soul if I could only hear his voice again...please?"

"Wow, I didn't know you cared that much about me."

"I do..." He whined. "You were my chaos buddy. The only one who could understand ripping a pony's heart asunder with pure bedlam and......A-Anon?" Discord leaned up and looked back. And there you stood. "A-Anon...y-you're alive?"

"Yep...ya big softie" You wink at him.

"OH PRAISE THE HUMAN'S STAN GUY! FOR HE HAD TAKEN MY OFFERING TO-" Discord praised the devil himself before you went and cut him off.

"N-no Discord, I just noticed some part of the cliff jutting out and just hugged the wall while standing there. I never fell in the first place."

"......Well, that's terrible. And here I was actually willing to even trade in Applejack. She's so frightfully boring that I'd wager just staring at her would cause one's soul to become weary and leave the body to find something better to do." Discord looked immediately relaxed and even slightly peeved that it didn't go his way.

"Really?...come on, I know I gotcha. You don't have to hide it."

"....." Discord sighs as he gently picks you up and gives you a hug. "I suppose I was a little worried. Perhaps I took it a little too far."

"It's alright buddy. I figured you were messing with me in some way. Didn't know the deal was a real thing though."

You gave him a gentle hug, and he put you down with a gentle head pat. "Indeed, worthy of the name 'Discord'. You certainly had me Anon. It puts my heart at ease to know you are indeed capable of such a cheap trick" And then he grins. "...Something I won't fall for twice."

You smirk right back at him. "Really? We'll see about that. And hell, speaking of not falling for it twice. That got me thinking. If we ever go up against the princesses again, I can figure out if Luna pulls out one of her dream shenanigans."

"Excellent. I always did have a tad of trouble figuring that out....hmmm" He stops smirking deviously, his expression becoming more soft. "So, there is no ill will between us...right?"

"Nah, I just wanted to figure out if you were lying. And yeah..." You giggle. "Maybe one up you by myself for once. No Flutters required."

"Good..." Discord starts marching back up the path towards the vault. "Now that I know that, you won't mind the next time I pull a devious trick on you."

Devious trick? "Discord...come on. Don't be salty."

"Salty? Oh no no ,Anon. I prefer my meals sugary sweet." He looked back at you with a cocky grin. "Don't you?"

Ahh fuck. What a bastard. Right after the apologies are over, he goes back to being himself. He just couldn't live life any other way, could he? Still, it was a sweet moment while it lasted. You also had to make sure to never actually die. It was kinda scary, you felt a dark foreboding that he could actually go mad if he lost you or Fluttershy.

Yeah, it was good enough at least. It was always nice to know he cared. Even if he went back to being an ass almost immediately. However, you had a feeling that if it was with Fluttershy. He wouldn't be so quick to snap back. Not around her anyway. "You're an asshole Discord, I love ya, but you're an asshole"

"I prefer 'Causer of Chaos' myself. But I suppose that works too. Also, try not to mention this moment to anypony. I do have a reputation I'm trying to keep, you know." Discord mentions as he steps forward.

Oh ho....really. "I mean sure, if you make it worth my while. What's in it for me?"

Discord stops again. And turns to face you with a scowl. "Anon...You wouldn't dare"

You shrug. "I mean, if you're gonna be an ass. I can still be an ass too. It wouldn't be too hard to let Twilight know how much you care, right?"

Discord let's out an annoyed chuckle as he steps towards you, then passes by you as he puts his arms behind his back and starts to lift himself up and down with his off matching toes. "Indeed you could. And I wouldn't be able to stop you. In fact, you'd earn a vacation if you did something like that. Yes, a whoooooole week with that tentacle beast. You remember him, don't you? It has been a long time since you both last met. He might be lonely."

............Fuck. "Fiiiiiiiine, sheesh. I'll keep my yap shut. Way to go Discord, you're a sore loser. Through and through"

"Sore loser?" Discord turns back to face you, feeling insulted. "Now we all know that's not true"

You raise an eyebrow at him. Then start to mock his tone. "Look at me, I'm Discord, I can show softness towards Fluttershy because I'm a little bitch but I can't towards Anon because I don't want to get shown up. Look how I can win any argument with my broken ass magic instead of my linguistics skills like I pretend to have. So much so that I have to threaten one of my best friends with tentacle rape just so I don't look like a total tool when I thought he died."

"........hmnnn.......hmmmmmnnnnn" Discord didn't take too kindly to that. But internally, he realized, you were right....kinda sorta, in his mind anyway. "A total tool hmmm? So using my magic to force a win is a bad thing now?"

You nod. "I mean yeah, it's like throwing the chessboard when you're losing. Come on Discord, I like you, you're my friend. We've had nice soft moments before. Why can't you just-"

"Lighten up?..Fine, then I suppose a new challenge is in order. We will go see your friend. AND you will see just how perfectly civilized I can be. You'll be so surprised your head might even spin a few rounds. In fact....after you" He bows and moves his arms to the right, to signify the path you both will take with absolute civility.

"You know it's not about that, right?" Did he just not understand unless it went his own way?

But then his next words surprised you. "I understand how it works. At least I think so. Anon, I mean it. I care about you. Enough to sacrifice Applejack's life if so need be. But my relationship with you is indeed different from Fluttershy's. I won't go into specifics. But, when it comes to you, you are my protegee, and my partner. But there is a hierarchy to maintain. And while I'm proud of you for upholding some of my ideals, we mustn't forget who is the king," He points to himself. "And who is the prince." He points to you. "Your life is something I'll protect. But never ever think you can EVER upstage me. Understand?"

Prince huh? Heh, his wording was kind of cute. You really didn't mind fucking with people you hated or just felt it was well deserved. And Discord? Loved the guy. But he needed to be brought down a peg sometimes. So you just snicker at him. "You mean like how I did just now?"

"D'oh!" Discord winces, then rolls his eyes. "Yes...like how you SORT OF did just now. egh..." Discord started rubbing his temples. "Perhaps this was a mistake, I could have sworn this deal would have been in my favor. But nooooooooooo, I had to be in a town of ignorant ponies and my upstart fake son had to be a REEEAAALLL jerk. No respect for daddy Discord, none at all."

You just laugh, it really was cute. "Love you too, Discord, and thanks. You're a good guy" You pound at your chest. "Right where it counts."

Discord groans. "Yes, yes, let's just get this OVER with already." Discord internally felt he'd have to see Fluttershy after this. Just to lift his own mood.

And so, the simple trek to the vault continued.

As you both continued your trek. You noticed Discord taking a half moment to stop and look towards you silently. He never said anything. But it was clear he still had in his head that something could happen to you.

You know you've gotten similar confessions out of him before. You even recall how he reacted when he found out about Twilight nearly sealing you. But this was the first time you had witnessed it directly. You saw his face when he didn't notice you, it was soul crushing. It was something even he couldn't fake. You knew Discord was actually closer to you then he lets on. Even if he already calls you his partner. Perhaps he really did take the "Son" thing seriously. If he ever knew, and ever witnessed you actually getting hurt, you knew he'd come to protect you. You knew that now. But only if HE UNDERSTOOD you were in danger.

But as soon as everything was ok, he went back to his old dickish self, simply because that’s who he is. It's what he likes. And if he can get away with it, all the better for him. But when it comes to you, the more you've come to realize this, the more you realized you could counter his chaos or even get on his nerves in a fashion much like him. And honestly? It was fun. Hell, you remembered the fun you had when you and him messed with Chrysalis. Probably a bad idea in the end though.

Thinking of her though. Maybe it was time to ramp things up. If she was your friend, if she was capable of having moments like Discord. Which, thinking back on Gertrude, she could. Then it meant that maybe you could press her buttons further. Take risks, and see what works. Yeah, that "Welcome to Ponyville" Party? It had to happen and had to go exactly as planned.

"See somethin' you like?" You give him a sultry grin.

Discord just keeps his focus forward now as he dismisses any thoughts you might have. "Just making sure you don't go flying off a cliff" His tone, it was mostly serious even if he didn't mean to sound that way.

"Mhmmm, Hey there's the cave. We have to be pretty close now."

"Good, I don't think I could stand another second without my powers. Really Anon, you're such a hooffull. I have to wonder how your marefriend can handle you and..." Discord looks back at you, you just make a kissy face at him. "uugghhhhhh..." Discord just turns and continues walking, stepping into the cave "Did I really care that much? I now question how I could have had such love in my heart and....STOP THAT!"

You were sitting down, giving him big sad eyes. "Daddy don't wuv me no mo?"

"....Now you're pushing it. Fluttershy wouldn't do this." Discord was near grinding his teeth. He was pointing at you indiscriminately.

"But I'm not Fluttershy. I'm Anon. And yoooooooouuuu're a butt!" You stick your tongue out at him.

"Oooohhhh....you are entering a world of pure terror if you keep this up" Discord's voice becomes the sound of pure evil as he angrily narrows his eyes at you.

"Ok...We got something to do anyway" You just shrug and walk past him, he doesn't even move position until he realized he didn't scare you.

"........" Then a tear started to run down his cheek, as he began to pout. "...I'm so proud."

You caught those words. You caught them as you stepped forward away from him. It felt good, even though you too were being an ass. It felt good to know that he approved. You could stop now, that was a good point to stop. You wiped a single tear from your eye without looking back at him. Was this how a real "Father-son" moment felt like? Maybe in the vein of chaos it did.

Discord turned and followed along with you. "Y'know, Anon, although ruling Equestria is FAR from my mind. It is nice to know that had I picked you up a little earlier, and with a little mind twisting here and there, that you would have made a fine chaos prince. To think, I could have Celestia. And you Luna."

Wooooooah...wut? "Y-you mean like...."

Discord immediately knocks on your head. "Head out of the gutter Anon, I meant as our maids. Not as our concubines"

".....What's the difference?"

Discord smirked, he even giggled at that one. "Ha! You made a funny. Not appropriate for the ears of foals mind you. But still, that was rather good."

"....No...I was serious. I mean, Luna as a maid....that's uhh..pretty hot"

"....." Discord then immediately goes stoic, and just turns and walks forward. "Hopeless....hrn?" And that's when he notices, as do you, the vault, or more, the redesigned vault.

It looked nearly the same as you remember it from the show. But more horizontal than vertical now. Cuties marks painted on each door rather than actually containing a cutie mark itself. The area around it has been converted to a small workstation. Probably to have tools readily available to expand the vault if need be. It included a ladder for any door that was higher up. But due to the expansion, those doors had no Cutie Marks yet. Which most likely meant they had no owner.

And ahead still, was Starlight Glimmer, wearing a hard hat, standing a few feet away from the vault as she started giving a command to Double Diamond. A Totally white horse with either snowflakes or blue flowers as a cutie mark. You really had a hard time telling sometimes. He was also wearing a hard hat. "Alright Double Diamond. Give it the best kick you got!" Starlight cheered.

"No sweat Starlight, here we go!" Double Diamond gave the vault a gigantic buck. The strongest he had. And unlike when the stick was slammed into it. Nothing happened.

Starlight seemed pretty pleased with the results as she jotted some notes down on a notepad. "Aha! Yes! Memories Vault two point five is a go! it's unbreakable in every way now. Now everypony's memories will be safe! Thanks for the help, Double Diamond."

"Hey, no problem Starlight." He smiled joyfully, feeling pretty good that everything worked out. "It's really cool to see you out more by the way, that trip to Ponyville really helped you out, huh?"

"It did..." Starlight let out a calm and gentle sigh of approval as she thought on it. "It's really amazing what happens when you manage to sort things out. Still, I wouldn't even have gotten this far without the support of the town, And...well...Anon too"

"He seems like a pretty good kid. When is his birthday? Since he's that important, we could probably get the whole town to make a gift for him as thanks. Ya know, since he helped you out. And you're helping us out." He suggested.

"Hmm, I actually don't know when his birthday is. I never asked and he never said. I'll have to ask him next time we meet." Starlight looked upon the vault. The doors were just long enough to have the cutie marks on the top half of each door. The see through material of the door itself allowing one to see what each pony put inside. Starlight was viewing hers, which was one of the few that were still empty. It seemed to upset her just a little. "Say, Double Diamond. Do you really think I had a good idea with this vault? There's still a few doors that are empty."

Double Diamond seemed to immediately take notice and gave her a happy grin. "Of course it was. This was a super great idea. Everypony is so happy that they have a safe place to stash their happiest memories. A place where they can come together and share their memories with each other. And why even worry? Everypony will have those happy memories eventually. Heck, I bet you have a few right now. You just don't have anything to represent it yet....hmm" He started to ponder, then, he thought he had it. "Wait! I know! Why not a picture of all the residents in town? To remind you how you brought us together like this. That'd work, right?"

Starlight seemed to like the idea. It made her chipper already as she smiled warmly at the stallion. "Yeah, that's a great idea. I'd like to have something like that. That way I never forget how you all accepted me back." Starlight stopped for a moment, then became more confident, even her expression showed it. "And why would I ever want to forget that? All of you mean a lot to me. And I'd never ever would want to lose sight of how much it means to me!"

"Yeah! Now that's the spirit! Oh yeah! I'm feeling really good now! Come on, let's go to Sugar Belle's and get us a-HOLY CELESTIA WHAT IS THAT THING!?!" Double Diamond jumps back in fright the moment he notices Discord.

"Thing?...Eh, close enough." Discord actually wanted to say something a little more mean. But he wanted to keep to his word. "At least he realizes I'm a threat. And with that said." Discord made a cheerful grin as he waved to him. "Good afternoon Mr. Stallion, how are you doing today?"

Double Diamond gulped. But he immediately thought of Starlight's safety, and moved to her front despite being scared. "Whatever you are, y-you better w-watch it. O-or I-I'll use your scales..erm..fur...something to line my skis w-w-with!"

Discord groans and turns towards you. "I can mess with him later, right Anon? I mean, he is threatening me. And I haven't even done anything wrong..." He looks back at Double Diamond with a smirk. "Yet"

You step up into view. You better diffuse the situation and quick. "It's alright...Dad. He's just not used to you." You then make yourself known as you wave, mostly towards Starlight. "Yo! How are you doing Starlight?"

Chapter 288

“Anon?...." Starlight trots over to Double Diamond and puts her hoof on his back, giving him a calm but stern expression. "It's alright Double Diamond, It's just Anon...and his father, Discord." She looks back at the both of you. She didn't know how to feel. Because she couldn't guess why you both were here.

"Discord? Anon's dad? Woah...sorry." Double Diamond clears his throat. He still found Discord's very visage to be intimidating. So he took only one step back to move away, but not to be rude. "Didn't know you were him. I thought you were some kind of freaky monster."

Discord just crosses his arms as he raises an eyebrow at him, annoyed that he was compared to some common "freaky monster". "........Sure, That seems to be the current consensus."

"Chill,Dad, we're not here to start problems." In just seconds, the situation was already volatile. You had to snip that fuse. "But yeah, hey! So I heard you were remaking the vault. That's sounds pretty neat."

"Yeah" Starlight was immediately suspicious of you, while Double Diamond remained ignorant.

Starlight remained calm, and carried on as if nothing was wrong. She walked over to the vault to present it. "It's a pretty big project that for now, is finished. It was Sugar Belle's idea in all actuality, the town just all agreed it was a good idea. If they didn't tell you what it was for though, it's a memory fault. We are using it to keep our most precious memories safe, figuratively speaking of course. Double Diamond and I just finished testing its durability, since our first rebuild sort of....well..." She points to the workbench, there was a large gem that was kept under glass. "One of our townsponies tripped on a gem and it slammed into the vault and shattered a few of the doors. Not really worthy of being called a vault if it shatters that easily. Then again, we did use old materials to rebuild it the first time."

"That's actually pretty cool. I bet everypony in town appreciates it." Oh god, you were sucking at small talk right now. All you could do is seem gentle and pleasant. But the way Starlight is reacting to your...no, Discord's presence. It might be wise to try to get some privacy.

"Oh I know I do! Ahrm.." Double Diamond stepped up. Now that things seemed more calm, he went up to Discord and held his hoof out for a shake. "By the way, I'm Double Diamond. It's cool to meet you, Mr. Discord."

Discord at first, just stares down at his hoof like it was gross. But then he smirks, bows, and gently grabs his hoof as he gives it a gentle shake. "And a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Diamond. You are quite a beauty of a mare, I must say. Tell me, would you be interested in marrying my son once he becomes of age?"

Double Diamond suddenly becomes super uncomfortable as he pulls his hoof away. "I-I'm a s-stallion a-actually. And uhhh.....uhhhhh" He couldn't come up with any words on how awkward that was.

"Oh" Discord tone was of an immensely false sense of modesty and embarrassment. "Silly me, I do apologize. I shouldn't have made such a assumption based off your looks. Please, forgive me."

Double Diamond started taking a look at himself, did he look like a girl? That's what he was thinking. You gave a quick jab at Discord's leg. Dammit, he said he'd behave at least, but he was already failing that. "Dad...ahrm. Actually, ummm. Mr. Diamond, would you mind if I had some alone time with Starlight? I wanna tell her something super important." You give him a cute and innocent look. He still seemed a little focused on himself, now feeling self conscious about any femininity he might have.

"Oh ummm..ok. Erm, That ok with you Starlight? " He now actually wanted to check himself in private anyway. How could anyone mistake him for a girl? And then offer their son?! Creeepppyyy...

Starlight could see how shaken he was by such a little comment "Yes, it'll be fine. A-are you going to be ok, Double Diamond? You look a little..."

Diamond Diamond immediately cuts her off with a slight frantic raise of his voice. He felt embarrassed. Apparently being seen as not manly was one of his buttons. "I'll be fine! -ummm..I mean." His voice becomes softer as he shuffles out. "I'll be ok. I'll just...wait til you're all done. I'll...be waiting outside." And so he went, leaving you, Starlight, and a chuckling Discord.

"Now that was funny! I wonder if he was actually considering the proposal. Wasn't that great A-.....really?" Discord can see your scowling face. This, at least to you, was not the time for this shit. It would have been funny at any other time but this..maybe. Discord then looks upon Starlight. She also looked pretty displeased with him "...Really? Nopony found that funny?"

"No. Why are you even here? If you came to get me for another 'pirating' expedition, then you can turn around and leave right now. I'm not going to deal with it." Starlight warns him. "And dragging Anon along when I...think he should be in school." She wasn't sure of Ponyville's school schedule. "I know who he actually is, but still. I'd think that'd be important for his ruse."

"Pllllleeeeassseee" Discord found her to be rather presumptuous. "You have it the other way around. Anon is the one who wanted to come here, i'm just along for the ride. Besides, until some other schmuck decides to take what is rightfully mine, you won't need to worry about it. And even still.." Discord starts to boredly look at the tip of his claws. "I could find a better crew member than you anyway. You really did quite poorly as a pirate."

"Whatever, I think you should learn to be a little nicer to ponies. I can't imagine how you treat Anon." That assumption that Starlight just made, it made Discord stop cold. And then get..rather angry.

"You listen here you Cutie Mark stealing, poorly colored, Twilight clone reje-" But before Discord could say anything else. You rush up to him and try to push him back before he does something he'd regret.

"Discord! Discord! Stop..ok! Please!"

"Anon, are you really going to let her talk to me that way? What did I even do wrong but have a tinch, teeny, tiny, weeny bit of fun? Hmm?!" Discord didn't understand that he pissed her off with his comments towards Double Diamond.

"Discord, she's just mad that you insulted her friend. Relax, don't get your nuts in a bunch. Try to show a little humility, try to be nice, and maybe...just maybe, she'll not be mad at you. Why don't you try apologizing?"

"Hmph, I have a better idea. How about I just leave!" Discord would have none of that, and snapped his talons...but nothing happened. "Come on, come onnn..." He growled as sparks flung out from his talons like a lighter. No insta-teleport. He grumbles when he realizes why "..Oh right. The deal....hmmnnn...Fine" He crosses his arms. "I'll apologize to her when she admits that I'm not only a good friend, but also a good influence."

"WHAT?! YOU SHOULD BE APOLOGIZING TO DOUBLE D-.....Anon. Why are you looking at me like that?" Starlight is caught offguard by your glare

You were upset that things were already going wrong before you even mentioned anything. "Please? What I have to say is really important, trust me....it really really is. I know he can be a big jerk. But he's also a good friend...sometimes."

"All the time" Discord quickly corrects you as he looks down upon Starlight.

"You gotta be....mmnngh..." Starlight did NOT want to do it. But she trusted you, and if you said it was important, then she'd rather not have to deal with a jerk anymore and just find out what it is. "Fine, you're a good friend and a good influence. BUT I expect you to apologize to Double Diamond for what you said. A REAL apology, understand?"

"I suppose I can do that." Discord grins, delighted that he was having his way. "If you...OW!"

Starlight's horn glows. And as it did. Discord found himself instantly slammed to the ground, then quickly placed back in his original position.

"How dare you! I'M OW!" Discord is slammed once again. "Anon! She's cheating! She's not allowed to use magic on me! That's not fair!" Discord tried to get you to call her off.

"No Discord, just do what she asked you. Apologize to the guy when we're done."

"So he really doesn't have any use of his magic right now, huh? I almost thought he was faking it when he tried to teleport away." Starlight was pretty quick to pick up on that. "I did what you asked, so you better hold up your end of the deal."

"I will OW!" Without hesitation or even waiting for him to finish, she slams him again. She felt a certain control of the situation since it didn't seem you were objecting to her methods. She smirked at Discord. "oops, I slipped that time. What was that?"

".....Fine...hmph" Discord grumbled as he started to wipe dirt away from his face with a rock from the ground. "I don't remember ponies being so violent. Ok Anon, you have the floor. Let's just get this over with already"

"Ok..." finally....here we go. "Actually Starlight, you got any tea or anything? You might want to sit down for this one."

"Sit down? Is it that bad? Well, I didn't bring any tea but..." Starlight uses her magic to drag a chair from the workbench to her so she can sit on it. But she couldn't understand what made the situation that dire. "It can't be that bad. Or is it going to be bad because he's going to say something about it?"

"Bad? Ohhhhhh, I could make it worse than bad. I could make it a nightmare that even Princess Luna he-" But again, you interrupt Discord. You didn't need this shit.

"Discord, hold off, ok! Please? Can you just...this once...just...relax." You had to take a breath. Suddenly your own nerves were jittery. You were trying to keep everything calm due to the bomb you were gonna drop on Starlight.

"But, what about her?! She's the one who made the insinuation! You can't just go telling me off yet letting he-" Again Discord is cut off, this time by Starlight.

"I'm sorry Discord. I shouldn't have made that remark. I was just making bad assumptions." Starlight calmed herself down, and took a breath. "I don't want to cause any trouble. So I'm willing to be civil, if you are."

Discord only found that more anger inducing. He was gripping his talons. He wanted to be the one to calm the situation. He wanted to say one more thing, to have the last word. But when he looked down at you to express his annoyance, he could see in your eyes just how well you wanted the situation to go and how you just wanted things to calm down. It made him think back to moments before, when he almost lost you. He didn't want to lose you over this either. He slowly calmed down, took a breath, and just sat down, curling his tail to use as a chair. "I accept your apology. I suppose that I too am sorry. For my...things...that I caused. I'll keep quiet now until you both are done. Carry on, Anon"

Thank christ. It finally sunk in. "Thank you Discord....Really, thanks. Ok....Starlight. I need you to brace yourself. This is pretty heavy."

"I'm braced, Anon. And trust me, anything you have to tell me? I can handle it. I have my stuff together now. Look..." She took off her hard hat, revealing a new mane style. She gave you a sweet and cute smile as she awaited your response "How do I look?"

Her mane style, it just flowed back with her mane tied like a ponytail. Her banes coming out from the front to look almost like a human like style. It was cute, she looked like a cute teenager. It really was fine, it's not like she looked half bald with her mane jutting out in a curl or anything. "It looks really cu-great actually. You look young, strong, cool."

Even with that slight uplift to see her so confident, you were still afraid that this could go bad. But you had to do this, no matter what.

"Thanks! That really means a..lot...Anon? Wow, heh" She chuckles nervously. "Is it really that bad? I mean, trust me. I can handle anything you throw at me." She could see you still looked rather tense about this information.

"Ok, well..that's good. Because...well....ahrm...here we go" You stall for one moment. Noticing that as you do, she confidently pats her ponytail back as she stares at you with an eager expression. "....I found Sunburst. And I spoke to him."

Her pupils shrank immediately, she just...froze in place, as if she was having a flashback. She was shaking. She was shaking more and more by the second. She didn't say a word.

"Starlight?"

"Hrn, I know I said I'd be quiet. But it appears she's having some sort of mental anguish just from that name. Anon, are you sure you're not causing chaos on purpose?" Discord just stared at her, finding it all curious.

"N-no..." You got up to check up on her. You tap at her knee. "Starlight?"

After awhile, she actually jerked her leg away and hopped off the chair, backing up as she looked at you, pure terror on her face. "Anon, you didn't. There's no possible way. You actually.....met him? When?! How?!"

"He was..." Oh boy, just keep it chill, Anon. Don't make anything sound grand. "He was living in the Crystal Empire. Ran into him when, say, during the Crystalling. And one thing led to another and now he's the magic adviser of the royal family. Pretty coincidental right?"

You try a nice soothing smile to break the tension. But she just breaks down and grabs you with her magic, shaking you, not even realizing she was doing it "THAT'S IT?! YOU JUST TALKED TO HIM AND HE SUDDENLY BECAME AN ADVISER?! THAT JERK NEARLY RUINED MY LIFE AND YOU DIDN'T.... I MEAN...I KNOW IT'S NOT YOUR RESPONSIBILITY....I MEAN, I..I....YOU DIDN'T...HOW?! DID YOU AT LEAST SLUG..him...one?" She realized she was shaking you hard, she saw in your eyes that she must have even hurt you. "Anon..I'm...I"

You put your hoof to your head, trying to straighten your vision from the shaking. You felt a little pain in your joints, but totally manageable nonetheless. You wouldn't blame her for her reaction. You wouldn't chastise her for it. "No, it's fine. I expected that reaction. I just didn't know any other way to explain it. Starlight, are you ok? I'm sorry, but I felt you had to know."

"Anon..I just. I...I never even thought I'd hear that name again. At least not in a way that suggests he's still around. But..." She felt an anger growing within her. "He became an adviser, huh? I guess all that time studying to be a wizard REALLY paid off. I bet he's really happy about it. I wonder how many more friends he threw away to get there. That's fine, totally fine. Because any friend he threw away, if they ever come here, if any of us ever find them. We'd welcome them here with open hooves."

Well shit. Yeah, she was acting like this because you convinced her Sunburst was a huge douchebag. Now? That wasn't the best thing you've ever done. "Starlight, I know your angry,but I was wrong. I spoke with him. Everything we thought he was and everything I told you he probably was...it was wrong. I was wrong."

"Really? And how were you wrong? What? Did you talk to him about what happened or something? What sob story did he give you to make you feel sorry for him?" Starlight looked over to the vault door with her cutie mark on it. It was empty, her past felt empty, and it was his fault. That's how she felt. "He's lying scum, Anon. You said it yourself, that he was just bad." She started to tear up. She was breaking inside. She felt her past was completely true, that Sunburst was a traitor. There couldn't be any other reason for him just abandoning her. It....still haunted her.

"I-I know what I said. But I was wrong. Starlight, we had a discussion, and we brought you up. I talked about everything that has happened between us with him and..."

Suddenly, Starlight blew up on you "YOU TOLD HIM EVERYTHING?! WHAT DOES THAT MEAN?! YOU DON'T MEAN WHAT I THINK YOU MEAN, DO YOU?!"

You flinched.This wasn't good. She was pissed. You filled her head with enough hatred for him that now you were seeing just how hard it was to fix it. But..you had to. You couldn't leave until you did.

...And for her? You had to step up, just like how you were planning to step up for Chrysalis. Just like how you stepped up for Scrappy.

.....Fuck..this was hard. You had a fear of losing Starlight. But you couldn't just let her be angry and hateful. "It's not exactly what you think. Starlight, listen. I mean this. We were wrong. He became as lonely as you were after he left."

"Y-you expect me to believe that?! Anon, he went to Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns. Nopony that graduates from there ends up alone. His dream was to become a wizard. And since he became A MAGIC ADVISER. Which, by the way, you just mentioned he became. I find it REALLY..." She started to step up to you, practically growling in anger, forcing you to step back. "REEAALLLY hard to believe!"

Holy crap. Starlight, face to face, with her raw anger. She was as scary as an adult as she was an angry filly.

"If I may interject." Discord raises his a talon to make himself known. "I happen to think Sunburst is pathetic and quite the fame stealing upstart."

Starlight turns toward Discord. Then back at you and points towards him. "See? Even Discord hates him! Which means he also met him. You can't just defend him when e-" Discord interrupts her yet again.

"If I may FINISH!” Discord shouts. “Hmn, I swear, you ponies and your assumptions. This is why misunderstandings happen. And while I usually enjoy when one pony butts head with another. I feel that, at this time, my partner in chaos needs a little help from me in a sense that… egh..." Discord sticks his tongue out and scrapes it with a claw "Ugh.... Yes, help him in a more harmonic sense. For you see, Miss Glimmer, this Sunburst fellow is a truly pathetic pony in the sense that he actually failed Celestia's silly little school of unicorn whatevers. He failed so badly that he became a hermit. And to think" Discord scoffed. "He was so ashamed that he couldn't even build the courage to contact you. An equally pathetic pony, at least at the time. I can be nice though, and say you are… less pathetic than him at this time..I suppose. He felt you would hate him because of what a failure he was. He never made a SINGLE friend since he left. Laughable really, since even I managed to make a friend in Fluttershy. No, this pony in particular only even managed to become an adviser because he had the knowledge to save Equestria. Big whoop! Who cares? I could have saved it if I had a little more time."

Discord stood up and stepped past Starlight Glimmer as he gazed upon the vault. "And even after he became an adviser. He's still sooooooo pathetic. If I were to compare it to this vault, you at least have an idea or two on what to put into your safe. But for him? He's so miserable with himself that even his happy memories have become sad ones. Honestly, I eavesdropped on everything to dig up some dirt to rub in Cadance's face on what a worthless pony he was that when I found out EXACTLY how worthless he was...Well, it wasn't even worth it. He's below me. Tch, and to think, he's even afraid to face you. He believes you're much better than him in magic. When real magical juggernauts such as myself exist to be believed in. But, beings like myself seldom EVER get the recognition we deserve. What a pity..."

Did Discord.

Did he just...?

You look upon Starlight, who approached him, curious, and even scared about what she was previously thinking of. Starlight actually believed him. Well, it was the truth. Even if he told it in a conceited way.

"...Are you saying? He was afraid of me? That he just...ended up failing at magic? That can't be right. Why would his parents take him to Canterlot if he was never that good." Discord just hummed to himself as he observed the vault. "TELL ME DISCORD! TURN AROUND AND ANSWER ME!" She snaps at him. She demanded to know. It was like a jigsaw puzzle had been thrown at her, and she just needed that one piece to put it together.

Discord put his talon into his ear and began to spin it around inside. "No need to shout! I can hear you." Discord turned around, acting aloof about the whole thing. "If you must know, if you need to hear it again. Yes, he was afraid of you. He lived a life of seclusion because he couldn't stand the thought of disappointing you. The pressure was simply too great. He shamed you, he shamed his parents, he shamed the school, he shamed the whole unicorn race really. And then one meeting with me and Anon and he gets lucky enough to land a job in the Castle itself. Insane, I know, but sometimes even terrible things come from chaos. In any case, I hope that satisfies you. Because recounting on this subject both bores and disgusts me. And I'm done. Anon, I'll be waiting by the entrance of the cave. So please hurry up. I want to get this, and the apology towards that girly horse done as quick as possible." Discord gives you a wink, then steps off to leave you alone with Starlight.

....Holy fuck. Did he just...do that?

Starlight froze. She was coming to the realization that even without even speaking to Sunburst himself, that he suffered as much as she did. And you? You were stunned. Discord, the spirit of chaos, just helped you out without asking for a favor in return. Without using his magic, which he couldn't anyway, and managed to do it in a direct way. Something he didn't really do the last few times you attempted something like this. He legitimately helped you without making the situation worse or through any real cruelty. It was astounding. But you also couldn't squander this moment.

You yourself, if you wanted to finally put yourself in the forefront of solving issues like this. Then you had to step forward, figuratively speaking, and do what a true friend should do, and help her through this. You made a mistake with Scoots by being selfish and crude. You wouldn't fuck up with another friend this time. "Starlight, are you ok?"

".....Anon, everything he said. Everything you're saying. It's really true...right?" Her eyes were glistening. Her first friend, her original best friend, her cruel ambition that she had, all a misunderstanding? It was like some sort of PTSD styled flashback to her.

You nod, you felt so bad for her. All you could do was try to work her through it. But if that's all you could do, you'd do it with maximum efficiency. "It is, I wouldn't be here if it was a lie. Starlight, Sunburst, he wants to meet you again. He really does. He wants to try to patch things up with you."

"But...." Starlight started to finally move as the tears slowly started to run down her face. "It's been so long. We're both very different ponies now. Anon...I have a new life to live." She turned her face away, she didn't want you to see her cry. "And...my old life was all based off a misconception. How could I even try to rebuild our friendship with him after all that?"

"Well, you beat the tar out of me when I turned you into a filly. You also tried to take advantage of me so you could rule the world. All this during your 'old ways'. and yet, I forgave you, and I didn't even know you. And then there's Twilight and her friends. You locked them in a shed for a like a day or two, and they all forgave you. Sunburst? It's not even you having to ask for his forgiveness. If anything, he'd be the one asking for yours. And after talking with him? He seems like a pretty nice guy, I can see why you were friends with him. So....why not give him another chance, huh?" You give her a gentle smile. You stay strong for her and hoped your logic was good enough to convince her.

"That's right..." Starlight started to rub her foreleg with her hoof, nervous, scared, saddened. "I guess I would have to be the one to forgive him....huh? I guess it'd be all on me, right?"

"Not in such a harsh sense. You could just catch up on things over something like lunch, breakfast, tea...something like that. C'mon Starlight, before I even walked in here you were brimming with confidence. And I know that confidence is still in you. You can do this."

"....Wow..." Starlight wiped off a tear from her face. She was astounded by your words and the way you put it. "I...Anon. I." She stopped, and looked right into your eyes. "I...hmmnn. I actually feel a little better just from hearing that. But are you really sure it'd be that easy? How would I even get into the castle?"

"Easy, just tell a guard that I sent you, and ask for Princess Cadance or Shining Armor. Trust me, it'll work. Or just send a letter to let them know. Either works really…” You look at her with a small bit of worry and hope. “Are you feeling better, Starlight?"

"I am, which is kind of amazing since I'm still scared. I guess seeing you that way just hit a switch in my head. I realized I was being selfish. So many ponies have forgiven me, the least I can do, since he knows I'm still around, is go and forgive him. Do you think he’ll be happy to see me?" She asks.

You give her a smile. "Do I think? Heck, I know so. And if you want, I can go with you to make sure everything goes smoothly."

"No." Starlight shook her head. She walked up to you, and gave you a sweet and gentle hug. "I have to do this on my own. I need to know if I can handle this, or if I'm just saying I can. I'm still scared Anon, I really am. But if you're there, then it means I won't have gone to see him on my own merits. Thank you though, for getting me this far."

You gently return her hug. It worked a little more quickly than you thought, but you guessed bringing up the fact that disregarding his own want for forgiveness would be pretty asinine. It also seemed it wasn't truly complete either. Her courage could be just....temporary. She wanted to take the final step on her own, which could mean anything. You could try to force it, but you didn't want to be a Chrysalis in the situation either. Now? All you could do was hope.

"You're one of my best friends, Starlight. I just wanted to help you. That's all." You could feel relief come over you. Before this moment, you felt that you may have overdone it. Or didn't do good enough. For once, you did it just right.

"Oh, you're both absolutely terrible! Really? No ‘I can't Anon, what if I make him hate me?’ or ‘What if I snap and break his face Anon, I'm just soooo angry!’. What a terrible show. Totally unbelievable." Discord had ended up walking back towards the both of you sometime during all this. When you both looked up at him, he just smirked at the both of you. "...I will admit though. It is a rather sweet moment. So much so..." Discord pulls out a camera and snaps a photo of the both of you, which produces a photo almost immediately. It seemed his magic was back.

Discord then holds the photo towards Starlight. His smirk becoming of a more soft and loving sort. "That this should be your first precious memory for that gaudy little vault you have."

Starlight slowly let you go as she held up her hooves to take the photo from Discord. It wasn't perfect, as it was caught when you and her looked at Discord with a "Oh god, here he comes" face. But still, it started to make her cry again. And she instead went and surprised hugged Discord. "Thank you, I love it."

Discord didn't seem to expect the hug. He looked down at her in surprise, then he looked to you. You had a smile on your face and started making hugging motions to get him to hug back. Discord then, very slowly, very reluctantly, wraps his arms around the pony and gives her a gentle snuggly hug. "Oh, I suppose a small hug won't hurt. I know Fluttershy would probably be happy with me right now. And I suppose I should say an encouraging word of my own. Let's see...Ahh, yes..." Discord gently pulls her away, kneels on one knee, and puts a ball right in front of her. "Son, you have to believe in yourself, you need to get this ball into the basket and win the game. Everypony's hope rests on you. And I know you can do it. I believe in you."

Starlight looks at him, first confused, and then she starts to laugh. "Ok, that's pretty funny. hmmnn.." Her laughter slowly subsided as she looked up to Discord, as thankful to him as she was to you. "Thank you Discord, you're not as bad as I thought you were"

"...Oh...let's not go that far." Discord warned. "I've done my good deeds for the day I think. My magic is back..." Discord snaps his talons, making a beach chair appear behind him as sunglasses appear over his eyes. He dives back into the chair as he conjures a drink of frozen fruit punch with cubes of warm liquid floating inside it. "And I've had my fill on this little venture, just tell me when it's over."

Starlight still couldn't help but smile at him. But with his attention gone, she shifted back to you. "Well, I feel better now. You two are pretty good together. Hard to imagine he was once a huge jerk."

"Well, he's Discord. You really have no idea what you're gonna get with that guy. But I would never trade him up for anything."

She really did look a lot better. She took another look at the photo, then went to put it in her locker within the vault. "I guess that means that whole Father-son thing isn't so fake after all. heh, it's cute. But I guess I'm going off subject. " She lets out a calm sigh, and looks to you with confidence "I think I can totally handle meeting Sunburst now. I guess I just needed some positivity to balance out the negativity."

It was good to see her like this. It made you realize something too. Even if you did have a stronger will to help others and manage your problems, you knew you had friends to get your back when things seemed hopeless. You also just needed to remember to also be responsible, to avoid a similar situation like that of Scoots. "I'd just like to think of it as a little push from your friends. I'm glad we were able to help, Starlight."

"I'm glad too. I really am.....oh!" Starlight realized she forgot about something and walks over to the workbench and opens a drawer. "We've made a little progress on this taser thing by the way!" She holds it up with her magic. It seems she's taken the liberty of making a few modifications to it. It's been repainted, and there was a strange cylinder near the trigger. A strap, supposedly for hooves, was also added to it. "While I wasn't able to figure out anything about what it has to do with that other Anon you mentioned. I did find out that the make of it is actually pretty simple. So I sort of reverse engineered it aaannnd..." She attaches the taser to her hoof and thrusts her hoof slightly, causing a small bolt of electricity to shoot out a few inches. "Zap! This special battery here is based off the one that got used before we got it. All you need to do is put some unicorn magic into it and it converts it to electricity using the original battery inside. It was pretty easy to figure out, I really thought it'd be more complicated. But I can't take all the credit, we do have some amazing tinkerers in the town that got the battery working. Neat, right?"

Woah! So it still works. But a shame it's a dead end when it comes to that other you. You should have expected that though, a single simple object like this wasn't going to get you anywhere. Still, she seemed happy about the conversion. It was pretty neat. A real showing of pony ingenuity. "Yeah, woah! More useful than the tasers back in my world. Though, I guess it's most useful in the hooves of a unicorn. Are you going to use it or are you going to mass produce this thing?"

"Ummm, I haven't decided. This is still just a prototype." She puts it back into the workbenches drawer. "I'd like to make a few to help the townsponies feel more safe. We're pretty alone out here and sometimes there are a few scary creatures that come nearby. But we have to get the kick on these things down first, right now it's enough to knock out a pony, and that's a little too strong I think."

"I guess, it's supposed to cause a strong shock though. And if there's monsters that show up every now and again? Then It might not be a good idea to make it too weak."

"I wasn't going to make it that weak, just enough not to knock out a pony in a single shock. It seems a little rough to me, you know what I mean? Or maybe I can just find somepony in town who can make it have settings, that way it can be adjusted depending on the situation." Starlight pondered, she hadn't thought of it before. But your suggestion made her realize that this was probably the best option. But then something else entered her head. "Actually, Anon, if we forget the taser for a second, can we talk about the changelings in your basement? And don't tell me I shouldn't worry, because I know what changelings are, and that's serious business. I just want to make sure, as a friend, that you're handling this."

"Yes Anon, how is that going?" Discord says from his chair. Not even turning his head towards you. "I didn't really get a chance to eavesdrop on that little mission of yours. How did it go?"

"Mission? What is he talking about?" That caught Starlight's attention. And you know? You weren't worried. Good stuff came out of it.

"Oh, you'll love this Starlight. Get this, you know that changeling that’s disguised as a puppy, right?”

Starlight nods.

“Well, first, super confirmed, he likes my filly friends and he's even friends with Princess Luna now, and Queen Chrysalis doesn't even realize it. And then Queen Chrysalis herself gave us a mission to hunt down a rogue changeling, that, as it turned out, was totally good. Like, he just wants to be friends with ponies because he's sick of being around changelings. So we made up a story that we destroyed him, and Princess Luna took him back to Canterlot to, y'know, learn more about him and the changelings. Basically, I'm finally making progress. Because now I know the changeling hoard themselves can be reformed. Pretty good, right?"

"Are you serious? Princess Luna took in a changeling she just met? How could any of you be sure that he wasn't fooling any of you? These are changelings, remember?" Starlight was trying to keep you at a certain state of caution, she didn't want to hear in the future that the changelings tricked you.

"Because I trust Scrappy, that changeling disguised as a puppy. He lies to Queen Chrysalis, and while he's not fully reformed, he loves his friends, and he would do anything for them just to make them happy. So when he said to me that Thorax was a traitorous wimp, I believe it, because that's what he is; A total pony lover. I'd stake my own life on the fact that that is true."

"Yes, I would also stake his life that it's true. I've seen that puppy... He’s dumb as bricks, that one. He doesn't even know what he wants! Conquest? Friendship? He's so much in the dead zone that the only thing that matters to him is just keeping the friends he has while obeying his queen. A being like that? Anon would be right, he's trustworthy." Discord comments as he brings out tanning mirrors.....for use in a cave?...Fine.

Starlight sighs. "You two are so insane. But if you're that sure, then I won't say anything more about it. But Anon, just be careful, ok? If it's really true, then I'm glad. From the sounds of it, that sounds great, but I doubt every changeling is like that. You need to be careful."

This..this you would take to heart this time. You screwed this up already by not taking more caution. You wouldn't tell her that you fucked up. You wanted to end this on a good note. "I understand, Starlight. I promise to be careful. But I really think I have a handle on this and...uh?"

Starlight moves in for another hug and holds you close. "I mean it, Anon. If you end up in a grave, I'll dig you up just to throw you back in. You got it?" She stops hugging you and looks into your eyes with deep seriousness. "I mean it too, I have a shovel at home."

"I got it Starlight, I promise. Trust me, I totally have a grip on it."

"I hope so, Anon" She hugs onto you again. "I hope so."

There wasn't much more to the visit after that. There was a little more small talk, and then Discord reminding you that you had something to do. And then, without actually apologizing to Double Diamond, since Discord didn't want to deal with it, you both left with one more hug to Starlight, and a sharing of good luck to the both of you. You could only hope for her to have success. You wished she'd take you with her, but you just had to trust in her.

You wanted to talk a little more with Discord as well. But he reminded you that he was going to visit Fluttershy for a little R&R and that you had important business of your own to attend to. And he especially didn't want to talk about how he was acting nice. So he returned you to your room.

As for you yourself? You were happy. Happy to help Starlight, happy for the support from Discord, happy that you felt you had a better grip on how to do things. And now, you were going to be happy to help Scrappy.

Chapter 289

However, before you could actually do anything, Discord pops his head out of a random portal. "Ahh yes, almost forgot. I will be letting Fluttershy know that you have fallen ill but are already on the way to a very speedy recovery thanks to me. And that you are currently napping, ready to spring back to your old self by evening."

You smirk at Discord, giving him a sarcastic remark. "You're quite the miracle worker."

Discord smirks back in kind. He felt a bonding connection at this moment. A mutual understanding of each other. "Everyday is a miracle when I'm around. But seriously, Anon" Discord gazes at you more seriously. "What this means is that nopony can catch you out and about while you are on your little mission. Absolutely nopony. Even if they don't have a stake in you, a sighting is a sighting and should anypony that does believe you are sick find out, then questions would be raised. You can manage a little stealth, can't you?"

You shrug, you felt confident you wouldn't get caught. "No prob, you did give me a portal straight to the clubhouse. It'll be easy, i'll be in and out like it's no problem. Then I can look into this homework Chrysalis brought home for me."

"Excellent. Good luck to you, Anon, I wish you well...ta-ta!" And then Discord disappears back into his portal. Probably to bask in Fluttershy's praise for being such a good "nursing" dad. You snickered about it, what a delightful little fuck he can be sometimes.

But, after removing your alarm clock from your saddle bag and taking a look, it was definitely time to get going. But where was Scrappy?

Just as the thought pops into your head, you hear shuffling coming from the top of your bed.

You prepare yourself for a sudden attack from him. But, nothing happens. Instead, you catch some purple jutting out from the top of the bed, it looked like a mane. Scootaloo? naahhhh

You get up onto your bed and look at the source of the mane. IT WAS SCOOTALOO! You stepped back in surprise. What the hell was she doing here? And why was she napping and hugging your pillow? And..she was whimpering?

No, no..this can't be possible. She had no fucking way of getting in here without you,Discord, and possibly Chrysalis and Scrappy bringing her here....

Scrappy....you just noticed he wasn't around. And as you drew closer to Scootaloo, you moved the pillow slightly away from her face. It was damp with tears. Napping? Tears? Immediately after school? No...this wasn't Scootaloo.

This was Scrappy. His sad whimpering. He was having a nightmare. A nightmare that caused him to change into the one he hurt. He hugged back onto the pillow tightly, and sobbed. The poor little guy, you couldn't let him wander that wasteland of his mind until you could fill it with happiness.

You start to gently shake him. "Scrappy, yo, Scrappy. Come on dude, wake up. We gotta go see Scootaloo."

"Mmngh, mn....ATTACK!" Scrappy suddenly wakes up, immediately changing back into his buggy form as he jumps onto you, looking at you with a battle ready expression.

"HOLY GEEZ! DON'T HIT ME!" You couldn't even cover your face, he jumped you pretty hard. But he didn't even realize that he did it, he just ignorantly looks around and then down at you.

"What are you doing down there Anon?...Did we fight already?" He tilted his head in confusion.

Well, at least he wasn't depressed anymore. Well, if you knew him well enough, he would become depressed the moment he doubted himself.

"No Scrappy, uhhh...Actually, we need to get going to the clubhouse before Scootaloo gets there. We can take a shortcut an-"

Scrappy slowly steps back, getting frightened at the name and that you both had to go right now. He was shaking. "W-what...now?! I don't know...W-what if..it goes bad?"

You give him a look of confidence before hopping off the bed and adjusting the portal door's dial. "It won't. Trust me, I got your back. And that's what friends do. They get each others backs and help each other out."

"B-but...she was so mad. I dunno..." The closer the moment came, the more scared he was. It seems he never had the experience of upsetting anyone he cared about ever. Well of course he didn't. He didn't really have friends until recently.

"Scrappy, let me tell you this. If you don't do this now, then she will hate you forever. Because you went and hid instead of being her friend and being there for her and telling her how you feel. Listen Scrappy, she's only mad because you said something dumb. But nopony stays mad forever. So you have a choice, either stay here and be hated. Or come and apologize to her"

"S-she'll hate me if I don't go?" He started to breath harder, forcing himself forward as he slumps off the bed. "I-I can't...l-let...t-that..happen.." He was actually struggling to press on, grunting and panting. "A-as..c-captain...I-I...h-have...t-t-o..be...brave!" He gets right to the door before falling forward, he couldn't go anymore, he didn't want to face her. "I can't. She hates changelings. My siblings attacked her. And I told her I like being evil and sneaky and mean and she hates that. But I like it! Why!? Why is everything so wrong?!" He screams as he curls up into a ball, crying again as he lays there.

You lean down, and slowly and gently rub his head with your hoof. "Nothing is wrong, Scrappy. Ponies get upset, but they eventually calm down. She knows you like being evil. She probably knew that before you told her. But she was just mad at Chrysalis and accidentally took it out on you. Trust me, that is the most likely scenario. Please..."

"B-but..." He whimpers.

You sigh, he was just too scared. Welp...time for plan B. "If it doesn't work out, I'll challenge you to a fight."

"DEAL!" The wonder bug immediately stood up as he cackled and pointed at you. "Today will mark your doom, Anon, for your recent insult on the queen. And.....and" He began to falter on his sudden bravado. "A-and...Scootaloo...Oh no. I...I'm scared. But, I can't back out. It's on..the queen's honor."

You had him now. "Nope, you can't...so..let's get this over with then." You just triumphantly step through the portal as Scrappy slowly follows. Changing into a puppy as he passes through.

"....I-is it bad...that I'd rather have Scootaloo forgive me...than destroy you? Because, y-you still deserve it."

You just go along with it as you go up into the clubhouse, taking care to look around for the fillies. They were neither around nor inside. "I know I do. But, hey. Let's hope it doesn't come to that, huh? And yo, look at you, you made it up here. I guess all you needed was the right motivation."

Scrappy closes the door behind him with a jittery paw. "....I-I guess..." Scrappy stops for a moment after closing the door. He remembered he had to check on his gifts, to check on their status. "O-oh...I...I should really check on the presents..."

He just moped on over behind their little podium. Behind it was a bag. He was just so depressed as he sifted through the objects and took a good long look at the Rainbow Dash doll.
Christ, what could you even do to cheer him up? Everything you've tried either didn't work or only worked temporarily. "Scrappy, haven't you ever dealt with somepony getting mad at you before? Like say, your queen?"

He slowly shakes his head as he gives the doll a hug. "No, the queen never really noticed me until she made me captain. And I've never really even made her mad. You know the track thing in the basement? That made her super happy. And that's all I want for Master Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo...I want them to be super happy too." He wipes a tear away as he slips the doll back into the bag.

"Scrappy..." You walk up to him and give him a hug, to try to assure him things would be ok. "Everything will be fine. You're gonna do just fine, ok? All you gotta do is relax, and use some of that leadership moxie you got."

"Leadership...moxie?" Scrappy didn't know what "moxie" meant. "What does that mean?"

"It just means to...be your usual cunning self."

"Oh....I don't even-" But Scrappy stops himself when he hears sounds. His ear twitches as he realizes something. "Master Applebloom....Scootaloo...they are getting close!" He started to sweat and panic. "WHAT DO I DO!?"

"Woah! Woah! Woah!" You try to calm him down. "Relax, ok? All you gotta do is relax. If you panic like this, you won't be able to think of what to say next."

"Ngh...B-but" He looked like he was going to fall apart.

Dammit Scrappy! "Buck up soldier! Is that how a changeling captain acts!? You'll fail your mission if you don't cut it out!"

Would that even work? Barking an order at him? You were out of ideas at this point, especially now since you could hear Applebloom's and Scoots voices....but...no Sweetie Belle. Huh.

Scrappy unfortunately didn't respond to your words. He completely froze at this point.

And the door, it began to open.

"Ahm tellin' you Scootaloo, it's gonna be fine. Even if they did have trouble. That no good changeling ain't got nothin' on Anon's horn." You hear Applebloom's voice as she looks back at Scootaloo

"Then why wasn't Scrappy waiting for us after school?" Scootaloo sounded worried, scared even.

"Erm, well. Ya know how Scrappy is, probably just tellin that no good Chrysalis how the whole mission thing went." Applebloom begins to turn around as she lets Scootaloo inside.

"I hope so...If anything happened to him." She gulps. "I didn't..."

"Ah know Scootaloo, it was just all that wonky love drainin' those nasty bugs did to ya, ya didn't mean to...Anon?" Applebloom finally notices you standing there.

"Yo." You wave with a cocky grin on your face. "How ya d-OMPH!"

Both Scootaloo and Applebloom dive down on you, hugging you. "You're ok!" Applebloom squeals.

"U-uhh" You blush. two huggy fillies? A-adorable really. "Y-yeah, why wouldn't I be? I-I am the hero colt, ya know"

"Don't be like that, Anon, we know ya can be a goof up sometimes. We we're really worried about you and.....wait" Applebloom noticed something was missing. Which then caught Scootaloo's attention.

And boy did it catch her attention. "SCRAPPY!" Scootaloo jumped up and looked around, scared, she didn't see him. "SCRAPPY!? SCRAPPY!"

She didn't see him? Was he hiding?

"Anon, w-what happened to Scrappy?" Applebloom slowly got off of you, she looked nearly as worried as Scootaloo.

"U-ummm, he should be-" Shit, you didn't see him...But then...

"Right here..." Scrappy was poking his head out from behind their podium, speaking in a low and defeated voice. "I-I'm right here...H-hello Master Applebloom, Scootaloo" He was whimpering.

"Scrappy..." Applebloom could see it in his eyes. Scootaloo had told her how Scrappy reacted to her scolding, she didn't realize it was this bad.

"I-I know I don't deserve forgiveness. I was a bad puppy, a bad changeling. I'm sorry I'm evil...I-I like being evil. I'm g-good at it...I don't know how to be anything else....I'm sorry...I never felt these bad feelings in my heart. Not evil feelings, just...bad feelings. It hurts, I don't know why it hurts."

"Scrappy...hey, come on, don't be like that." Scootaloo carefully approaches him. "We don't mind you being 'evil', that's not why I got mad. I just felt different and was angry. It was my fault for getting angry at you for what your siblings did. You're a great friend Scrappy. who cares if you're 'evil', to me....you're the greatest and nicest changeling I ever met. And the bravest, and the coolest." Scootaloo started to tear up as she began to list what she thought of him. "And the truest, and the most awesome too. You're such an awesome changeling that I don't even think of you as a changeling. You're just Scrappy, a great friend"

Scrappy went back behind the podium as he began to sob. "....I...but...you were hurt and..."

Scootaloo positioned herself to sit on her butt as she held her forelegs out. "Hug time."

"Hug T-time?" Scrappy whimpered.

"Hug time." Scootaloo said again.

There was a silent moment. But then Scrappy, in all his excitement and love, hopped out from behind the podium and dove into Scootaloo as he cried "HUG TIME!". Scootaloo easily catching him and holding him tightly as they both sobbed.

It was a sweet moment. All those words pierced his heart. But it was the hugs that drew him in. He was crying and thanking Scootaloo for her forgiveness. He wasn't evil, he really did do what made those he loved happy. Whether it be them or the queen. The only bad part about him was that he did have a scary lust for wanting to crush ponies he didn't know. But maybe that was a changeling thing.

"Anon, did ya get hurt out there? Did Scrappy? Ya both look fine." Applebloom was giving you a once over while Scootaloo was occupied with Scrappy. She was relieved so far that none of you seem to have a scratch.

"Oh, uhh..yeah. That Thorax guy? He wasn't as dangerous as Scrappy or Chrysalis made him out to be. Turns out he's a soft and nice turncoat, totally on our side who was just looking for a friend. My guess was that Chrysalis wanted him back to torture or even destroy him for turning traitor. He's a little too soft though, he was willing to let us rip his wings out so it looked like we threw him down a pit."

"Wha?" Applebloom was confused. "So he's nice like Scrappy?"

"About, he's nice because he likes ponies and dislikes Chrysalis. Unlike Scrappy, he doesn't even like fights or causing trouble"

"Oh...wow. Ah didn't think there was any changeling that was like that. So what did ya both do with him?" Applebloom wondered.

You grin at her as you wave your hooves forward and back. "Ohhhhoooo, get this. You're not gonna believe it. Luna showed up to help us out, don't ask why she did..." She didn't need to know the reason "And now? Thorax is in Canterlot, in the castle, meeting with Princess Celestia."

"Wha?! That sounds like hooey to me. Is that really what happened?" Applebloom just couldn't believe it.

"Why don't you send a letter to her and find out?"

"...Huh...ah think ah-Mph!" Applebloom gets surprised by Scrappy's hug from behind, she then giggles as she twists her body enough to pet his head. "Awww Scrappy. Are ya feelin' better?"

"Lots and lots!" He nuzzled his head against her "Where is Sweetie Belle? I want to give her hugs too!"

Yeah… "That's right, where is she? I'd think she'd be with you guys."

Applebloom brings Scrappy to her front side to give him a gentler and more personal hug. "She's...erm. She's kinda takin' one for the team right now"

Taking one for the team? "Wha? What does that mean?"

Scootaloo moves up to pat Scrappy's head as he hugs Applebloom, though she is visibly cringing about the whole Sweetie Belle thing "Yeaaaaah, heh. Ya see. Your 'sis' sort of made a reeeallly big deal about you being sick. Diamond Tiara nearly lost it. I dunno why, but I guess she's REALLY gotten into you now because she was ready to leave school right then and there to take care of you. Bugbr-" She stopped herself, she didn't want to insult her in front of Scrappy"..er...Chrysalis told her it'd be ok. But she was begging her to take her to your room. She didn't, so she just sorta freaked out. Sweetie Belle is with her now, trying to keep her calm. Since we know the situation best, we kinda felt we could tell Diamond Tiara stuff without revealing anything. And Sweetie Belle volunteered to actually do it. She felt bad for ragging on you after what I told her."

Awww, Sweetie Belle. Well, You had to guess she understood now. "Heh, I'll have to thank her next time I see her."

"I don't mind! That means I get to do this twice!" Scrappy was just vague enough to confuse the two young fillies.

"Get to do this...?" Applebloom loosened her grip, utterly puzzled.

"Twice?" As was Scootaloo.

"Yep!" Scrappy broke away from the hugs and cuddles to behind the podium as he grabbed his bag with this teeth and pulled it back in front of the two fillies and opened it "Yeah! First I get to surprise you two, then Sweetie Belle later! I'm so happy! First, for Master Applebloom!"

He pulls out a smaller bag, full of the ingredients, you wagered. "This bag has a lot of potion mixing stuff. I know you'll love it! You like potion stuff, don't you?"

"Potion stuff? You mean like, for mixin and makin' potions?" Applebloom heard they were ingredients, but just had to make sure.

"Yup!" He hopped about excitingly as he scootches the bag forward.

Applebloom begins to sift through the bag. Her eyes going wide at all the rare items that Scrappy "found". "Wow! Look it all this rare stuff! Scrappy, this is amazin'. Ah didn't know you were such a good tracker!"

Scrappy salutes. "Only the best for Master Applebloom!"

Applebloom gives him a gentle and sweet hug. "Thank you Scrappy, yer the best!"

"Yes! I am the best! The best for my Queen, and the best for my friends!" He hugs, then salutes again. He then starts sifting through the bag and pulls out the Rainbow Dash doll. "And this is for Scootaloo! A Rainbow Dash doll." His excitement dies down though. As he holds it to her with sad eyes. "I-I hope you like it" He was still sorry for any pain he felt he caused her.

Scootaloo gets excited however. She takes the doll and immediately hugs it, extremely thankful for Scrappy's gift. "WOOAH! THIS LOOKS SO AWESOME! SCRAPPY! I LOVE IT!"

"Really?!" He smiled, he could feel a warmth which gave him uncontrollable fuzzy feelings. He began to shiver from a soft sense of love and warmth. "Y-you really do?"

"Yeah!...and" She stops and looks to him. She smiled warmly at him. She then gently put the doll down and opened her hooves again for him "Another hug time?"

"ANOTHER HUG TIME?! WOWEE! NOPONY EVER GAVE ME TWO IN A ROW! YES! YES! YES!" He dives into her and receives yet another gentle hug.

It was such a super sweet scene. Dammit Scrappy, you were dumb, loyal, and cute.

Applebloom steps to your side as she too takes in the lovely scene. "Ahm really glad everything worked out. We were worried about you two. Ah swear, if anything happened to you or Scrappy...mnnnn...ah woulda given that bug a piece of mah mind."

You appreciated those words. But, you could never let that happen. "I'm glad you got my back Applebloom. It really helps me out"

"Yeah! We're crusaders ain't we? We always got each others back and-" Applebloom suddenly jumps when she hears a voice coming from the front of the clubhouse

"A'hm tellin' you Twi, that puppy Applebloom's got is somethin' else. It's got more moxie than a fox in a hen house." Yeah, you and even Scootaloo tense up when you hear Applejack's voice.

"It does sound pretty amazing, Applejack, I'd love to take records of what he can do. Any dog that young that can do things like that must be capable of breaking records! I'm feeling pretty giddy! It sounds like it can be a historical moment." Twilight said...really? She said that? She's excited over this?

"Ah dunno about that, but he could definitely win some competitions. He hasn't learned anythin' important like bringin' the cows home or chasin' down pesky critters. But he listens to everything Applebloom says without messin' up or gettin' confused. And when ah say that, ah mean he'll listen to anythin'. I swear, if she told him to speak pony he'd be speakin' pony every which way. Ah know he's young, but ah think he's ready for the tougher stuff now." Applejack certainly sounded impressed.

....but you had to fucking hide. "C-crud! Dad told me I can't be seen since I'm sick! Where do I hide?!" You looked around, there really wasn't any good spot.

"Ummm!" Applebloom starts looking around. "Ah didn't know ya had to hide! Anypony got any ideas?!"

And before anything else could be said. Scrappy slams his now empty bag over you. "He can hide in here!"

"DGDFDG" You struggled in the bag from the surprise. Considering he put it right over you, you were having some trouble breathing.

But as Applejack knocked on the door, all Applebloom could do was give you a quick buck to warn you, despite you being able to hear the knock yourself. Geez, it hurt. It made you fall to the ground and wiggle in the bag as you groaned in pain.

"Applebloom, ya in there?" Applejack asked through the door.

"Yeah! hold on!" Applebloom points to the corner. Scootaloo quickly grabs the bag and drags it to the corner. You bump your head into something, but you couldn't tell what.

Applebloom then opens the door. Everyone is all smiles. "Heya sis! what's up!"

"Hey Applebloom, oh ain't much. Just wonderin' if you and Scrappy are ready to try out some real farm work. Ya have been practicing haven't ya?"

"Oh...er. Yup! Oh!" Applebloom notices and then waves to Twilight, as does Scootaloo, when Twilight enters the clubhouse. "Heya Twilight"

"Hi! How was school today, Applebloom? Scootaloo? Learn anything interesting?" Twilight, ever the bookhorse, was not only being polite, but was also curious as to what lessons the CMC learned today.

"Oh...y'know. Math, words...stuff" Scootaloo shrugged, it really did seem like a boring day at school today.

"Oh? What kind of math? Just to let you both know, I'm a wiz at math. So after we're done testing Scrappy, I wouldn't mind giving a few pointers." Twilight seemed pretty proud of this. Of course she did, she liked teaching as much as she liked learning.

"Ah, no. That's alright. Erm..Scrappy! Can ya come here? Right next to me?" Applebloom patted a spot with her hoof right at her side.

Scrappy let out a few realistic barks as he ran up to Applebloom and sat in place right next to her.

"See what ah mean Twi? Ain't never seen a puppy listen that good. Even Winona had trouble with commands when she was a pup." Applejack pointed at Scrappy, utterly amazed at how pinpoint he was.

"Well, calling a dog is pretty basic. I mean, I know he's a puppy. But some dogs understand commands at a younger age just fine. I thought it'd be a little more amazing than that." Twilight wasn't too impressed.

"Oh, you ain't seen nothin' yet. Go ahead Applebloom, give him a tough command. Watch this, Twilight" Applejack and Twilight waited for Applebloom to give Scrappy a complicated command.

"Oh...um. Scrappy, try doin' a salute and then..oh! Bring that new Rainbow Dash doll to Scootaloo, please?" Applebloom sounded unsure, she didn't want to do this on the spot, considering you were in a freaking bag. But she did make a deal that she could keep the puppy if she trained it and was responsible for it.

Scrappy, just as Applebloom asked, salutes towards her, and then went and gently grabbed the doll with his teeth,dropped it gently in front of Scootaloo, and then licked her nose.

"Awww, you're the best Scrappy" Scootaloo smiled back at him and gently patted him on the head.

"See, Twilight? What puppy do ya know can salute like that? And all she had to say was to grab that there doll without pointing to it or nothin. And..Hey Scootaloo, is that doll new? It looks pretty new." Applejack noticed the doll looked pretty fresh and clean.

"Y-yeah, it's new. I got it today." Scootaloo says, as she holds the doll close.

Applejack points to Scrappy. "Ya see? There ain't no dog that's THAT smart. No way Winona would know how to do that without showing her and pointin' and such" Applejack just couldn't believe it.

"Ok.....that is pretty impressive." Twilight was amazed in a more subtle fashion. She was peering close at Scrappy, even approaching him. "Applebloom, where did you find Scrappy?"

"Oh, he was digging through some dumpsters lookin' for food. We couldn't just let a puppy go hungry so we took him in. And then..well, ya know how it goes." Applebloom kept up that false smile as she looks over to Applejack. "Erm, do we really have to do this today? Me and Scootaloo are sorta busy."

"No can do missy. If Scrappy is gonna stay here then he has to learn to be a farmin' dog. Just because he knows a bunch of fancy tricks doesn't mean he's ready. Besides, it's good to teach him early while he's still willin' to learn. There will be plenty of time to play with him tomorrow." Applejack gives her sister a gentle pat on the head as she looks at Twilight. "So, what exactly are ya lookin' for Twilight?"

"Well" Twilight walks away from Scrappy as she pulls up a quill and a parchment. "I'm going to be recording his comprehension, speed, technique, and overall skill. Of course, I don't expect too high a grade considering this will be his first time doing any actual farm work. But given how he seems to catch on to things so easily, It'll be interesting to see just how his score compares to Winona when we test her tomorrow."

Those words clicked inside Applebloom's head it seemed. Or from what you could hear in her voice. She seemed determined to prove Scrappy was just as good as Winona. Oh lord, you didn't realize she took it THAT seriously. Was it due to her just wanting to secure his place with her? Well, it had to be that. She had no reason to show up Applejack and Winona...Right? She just wanted to show Scrappy was a damned good pup. "Compare? Scrappy is just as good as Winona. Ah mean, Winona is good too. But she was always more your dog mostly. Scrappy is not only my dog, but also a great friend to have at mah side. And he'll prove it! Right Scrappy?"

Scrappy let's out an excited bark and dashes towards Applebloom. By your guess, despite being rather dumb, he had this whole puppy thing down.

"Now that's good to hear. It's important to raise yer dog right and have a strong sense of responsibility towards him. And ah gotta say Applebloom, yer doin' a mighty fine job as is already. I would have never thought you were mature enough to raise a dog. But..." Applejack started to tear up, and had to wipe a tear from her eye. "Ever since ya got yer cutie mark, ya have been growin' up so fast. Ah wish......" Applejack stopped herself. She was going to say that she wished their parents were here to see this. But she didn't want to sound depressing.

"Ya wish what, Applejack?" Applebloom was wondering why she stopped.

"Ahm...well, it's nothin ya gotta worry about Applebloom. C'mon, time's a wastin'. If we wait too long we won't be able to get anythin' done.Twi, you ready?" Applejack tried to sweep the subject under the rug.

"I'm always ready when it comes to learning, science, magic, and of course! Friendship! I can't wait to see what Scrappy is capable of!" Twilight was itching to get started. "If the results really are as good as predicted, it could mean that Applebloom would have found some new breakthrough in pony-pet relations. Wouldn't that be neat?"

"Ah guess, let's just stick to see how good he is compared to Winona first. Ah want to see what this pup can realleh do. If he's that good, Well, ah'd go as far as sayin' that you wouldn't even need my help trainin' him, Applebloom. I'd be willin' to let you train him on yer own. Because, well, shucks, it'd just mean you were better than ah was when ah was trainin' Winona" Applejack was proud of Applebloom. She already felt Applebloom, in some way, surpassed her in this aspect. And if Twilight confirmed it as fact. Then, being the honest horse she was, would keep her word.

"Woah...really? You'd really let me train Scrappy on mah own?" Applebloom was astonished, she'd never thought she'd hear her sister say that. Not only was it amazing to her. But it'd meant she could better hide Scrappy's identity without Applejack meddling.

Applejack nodded. "Ah said ah would, why would ah lie about that?" She smirked at her and winked.

"Thanks sis....ah won't let you down. We won't let yah down, right Scrappy?" Applebloom looked to Scrappy, who immediately hopped about and barked happily. You had to admit, just from what you could hear, Applebloom had this whole "puppy" thing down pat. And Scrappy? yeah, he was good at following orders. In a sense, he was a really smart dog.

You listened to the rest of the conversation. Which just led to Applebloom hugging Scootaloo and telling her goodbye. and of course Scrappy getting a hug from Scootaloo as well, Scootaloo whispering some loving words to the pup before he, Applebloom, Applejack, and Twilight left, all saying their goodbyes.

You then poked your head out of the bag and looked up at Scootaloo. "Wow, I didn't know you guys were in that deep with the whole puppy thing."

Scootaloo wiped her brow of sweat, she was scared something may have happened and was thankful nothing did. She then turned to you as she carefully put her Rainbow Dash doll on a table. "Yeah, I felt bad about it at first, it kinda felt like we were just treating him like our pet. But he just seems to really like the idea, he doesn't mind. And this is probably the funniest part, he gets mad when we don't treat him enough like a puppy in front of Applejack or the others." Scootaloo giggles. "He says something about playing the part is key to a good disguise. He's so cute, I kinda wish he was just a real talking dog. That way he wouldn't have anything to do with bugbreath."

So it wasn't Applebloom just treating him that way for her advantage. It was Scrappy's insistence to play the part. Hrn, dumb he may be. But you had to give the guy credit, when it came to plans and schemes, he did excellent at trying to follow them to the letter. "Yeah, after spending the morning with him. I gotta say, he's pretty cool. But uhhh...Scoots...are you really ok? I mean, ya know."

"I'm fine Anon, sheesh" Scootaloo approaches you as she smirks and rolls her eyes, then gives you a quick jab in the chest. "I'm tough, remember? As if Insectabutt could do anything to me" She grinned arrogantly.

"Right..." You didn't want to press the matter. It'd probably just be best to let her have her ego. "So, what do we do now?"

"Well, I got homework to do, so I kinda have to go home anyway. I think Miss Cheerilee gave bugbreath your homework too, so you may want to get on that. Especially with how your grades must be right now. I'm not saying grades are THAT important or anything, I'm not a big nerd, Buuuuuut, I think in your case? You might want to get your work done considering how many times you don't show up for school or end up leaving early." Scootaloo tried to sound cooler than she really was right there. She didn't want to seem too big on getting schoolwork done, she liked Miss Cheerilee, but busywork was busywork.

"Yeah, I forgot about that. I guess I'll get on it. So, seeya tomorrow?"

"Yep, OH..and don't forget about Diamond Tiara, she's gonna squeeze you like a grape when she sees you again. Just warnin' ya" Scootaloo smirked.

Christ. She didn't even know the half of it. No doubt the love poison's effects strengthened her resolve. You could imagine her tearing up mountains and lobbing Tirek into a volcano to get to you. "I'll be ready, you can trust me on that. Uhh, you have any water or something I could use to get home?"

Scootaloo sifts through her school bag and pulls out her juice box. "I still have some juice left, will that work?"

You nod. "Yeah, just pour it on the ground and I'll toss my map in."

"Gotcha, wow. Sometimes when I think about it, besides the changelings, it's gotta be cool to have a dad like Discord....sorta" While Scootaloo did think you had a lot of cool stuff and a nice room with an abnormally comfy bed. She still didn't think too much of Discord himself.

"I guess Dad rubs off on some ponies the wrong way, but I wouldn't give him up for any other dad ever. To me, he's the greatest."

"Really? I..well" Suddenly Scootaloo felt bad. Saying the "Sorta" part in her sentence did seem rude when she looked back on it. And all things considered? Discord has seemed, in her eyes, to be pretty damn nice to you. "Maybe I should talk to him next time I see him. No, yeah! I'll definitely talk to him when I see him next time."

You don't know if he'd appreciate it. He might, he might not. So...let's just stay optimistic. "I'm sure he'd like that. Welp, Scoots, you take care, ok? Seeya at school tomorrow."

"Seeya, and good luck with your 'sister'. You're really amazing, Anon. Having to deal with her? I don't even think Rainbow Dash could handle something like that...but only that." It was something Scootaloo, especially after her experience, could admire.

"Eh, I do my best. Take care" And with that, you left back to your room to do your homework and wonder how tight you'd be squeezed when you ran into your marefriend tomorrow.

Chapter 290

Chrysalis had left your homework on your dresser, in front of the mirror.

Egh, basic math and english..or rather ponish. This would be a cakewalk.

Sadly, it means you'd have to spend the rest of the day in the house. You could try hanging with Chrysalis after your homework. But considering you just finished dealing with Thorax, you didn't want her asking questions since it would still be fresh in her mind.

And as you did your homework, your mind trailed off to Applebloom and Scrappy. That symbiotic relation was certainly an odd one. But their commitment was pretty strong. You felt there was nothing to worry about since you didn't hear a word from Scrappy when Applejack and Twilight were present. Which to you meant he knew how to play his part.

And then there was Luna and Thorax...well mostly Thorax. You wondered what his fate was going to be now that he was in Canterlot.

And then this other you. Luna knows about him now. And you wondered if she would tell Celestia. Hell, you wondered what she'd think about it,or maybe she wouldn't care? hrn..

You had other avenues you could try. Surely Discord wouldn't limit you that much, right? No one outside Ponyville would notice nor care about the fact you were "sick" since they didn't know.

But perhaps it wasn't worth the risk. "Ugh, come on Anon. You can handle one day of doing nothing. Maybe I should explore the house and..........no never mind. Who knows what kinds of death traps Discord has lying around. The crazy fuck."

You finish your homework and slip it into your saddlebag and bounce up on your bed and land on your back and stare up at your ceiling. "It's just onnnee day. I've spent plenty of days just staring up at my ceiling back on earth...egh. Then again, I didn't really have any friends back then. I remember it...it sucked"

You thought about reminiscing on your past. But nah, that's dumb. there wasn't anything worth remembering.

Minutes felt like hours.

You couldn't even use the horn to make a game or pass the time. It was spent on Thorax's wings.

Starlight, you really hoped that when she met up with Sunburst that everything would be ok. You wished she'd let you be at her side. But this was something she had to do alone, and you had to respect that.

Hours felt like days. You couldn't really think of a time where you just laid on your bed awake post-Equestria. You didn't feel like sleeping at all. "Ok, I guess I might as well think of how I'm going to bait Chrysalis to that party. I guess I could just act sneaky, evil, tell her I have a plan or some shit. Nah, she wouldn't buy it. I guess I could just tell her that Twilight invited her to the castle for a special meeting that ‘she didn't tell me about it’. Yeah, that would get her curious enough to go. She wouldn't be able to resist poking her nose in Twilight's business. Just have the party at the castle and BAM! Even if she hates it, she'll have to bask in ponies that honestly care about her whether she likes it or not and..."

You smack yourself in the forehead "Talking to myself again! eggghhhh, terrible"

You look over at the clock. It was getting close to what ponies would consider a bedtime. Not your bedtime. But a bedtime. Perhaps enough for you to finally feel tired enough to sleep.

But now, you didn't want to sleep. One more thought crossed your mind. "Those other changelings. I wonder, maybe they're all just a certain level of dumb, just slightly less dumb than Scrappy. I wonder....wait.."

You began to wonder and think if maybe the changelings could be reformed before Chrysalis. Maybe if they were all good, she would consider it. There's no way she could rage and just abandon her children if they all decided to be good. It's not like some terrible transformation would happen that would make them different or some shit like that.

Now it was getting a little later. You started to tucker out.

You wrapped yourself in your blanket. The magical warmth of your bed sending you into a deep slumberland.

or..it would. If there wasn't a scraping at your window. "...the fuck? dammit...Finally feeling tired and someone has to bother me. egh, Discord...c'mon dude. I love ya but you can't be doing this."

You hop out of bed and look out the window.....only to see a giant yellow eye staring back at you. Snickering. "Helloooooo Anon, How are ya doooooooin'.? I hope you didn't think I was gone..." whatever it was, it was chuckling insanely "...that'd be rude..."

You step back, startled. scared. HOLY SHIT...WHAT WAS THAT THING?!

It was a giant ball of black mass, a single yellow eye adorned at the top while it's middle was actually a huge gaping maw with millions of sharp teeth. Out of its ball body were tendrils and tentacles with holes in them. They too were jet black in color.

.....holes??...in the tentacles? "....no way....You're the Ex-captain"

"NOT ANYMORE! GAZE UPON ME! FOR I AM THE X-CAPTAIN! HAHAHAHAHA!" He laughed maniacally as his tendrils curled and wiggled.

B-but..you just...what? "I....yeah. I just called you that."

"No...you idiot! I am the X-Captain! Not the excaptain!" He growls "I am a being of chaos now. OF UNLIMITED POTENTIAL! The ‘X’ in my name stands for a variable never ending! Now then...on to business" He cackled lowly, seems his transformation still left a few screws loose. "If you open this window for me, I'll squeeze on in and destroy the queen first. You can be dessert. Fail to comply and you'll be the FIRST to go! Undddeerrstttaaannnddd?" He gives you a huge teethy cruel grin.

Wait...why were you scared? Yeah, he was intimidating. Almost piss inducing. But he just asked you to open the window....that meant.

You stopped your shivering as you realized… "Wait....you can't open the window?"

"I CAN!..I just refuse. Now open the window!" He shouts at you

You raise an eyebrow at him as you approach the window, tap it, then step back. "Ahm...no, I don't think so. Because you can't actually open the window"

"FOOL!" he immediately gets furious at you "YOU DARE TELL THE FUTURE RULER OF EQUESTRIA WHAT HE CAN AND CANNOT DO?"

You simply nod "Yep, that's basically what I'm doing."

He tenses his tendrils in rage, but then suddenly calms himself and snickers. "ohohho, ooohhhh. I suppose you might be right. I cannot in fact, open this window...." He starts staring intently at you with his singular eye, waving his tendrils about it to get you to focus "But you CAN open it, don't you feel relaxed? Don't you like me? stare deep into my eye, Anon.....I promise, your destruction will be nearly pleasurable if you just do my bidding."

You get grossed out and just look at him like he was a rapist "Ewww, geez dude, I'm like....seven..or nine..or something. I dunno, the hell is wrong with you?!"

He seemed rather astonished "..y-you weren't feeling relaxed? My gaze did not capture your complete attention?"

"no...was it supposed to? You creeper...geez, you're just....bad" Like, what the fuuuuuuuck was that all about?

the X-Captain's temper was lost, he started screaming incoherently as a giant laser shot from his eye and hit every which way. It even hit the window and house...doing nothing to it. "REEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE! HOW IS IT I'M A ONE EYED GAZING MONSTER WITH NO HYPNOTIZING ABILITIES?! WHAT IS THAT EVEN?! I HATE EVERYYYYYTHHHHIIIINNNGGG!"

Christ, what a miserable guy...and annoying. You knew this guy was never gonna make a turn around, and since he was more intent on killing you than Scrappy was, it was probably a good idea to pay him no mind.

So you just go back to bed, leaving that sad husk of a changeling by himself.

As he calms down, and that's using that phrase loosely, he shoves his eye on the glass to look around the room. "What are you doing now!? OPEN THIS WINDOW!"

"No, leave me alone..sheesh. You're annoying. You had your chance already, go bother somepony else." You turn and put your pillow around your ears. Fuck that guy.

"OPENTHISWINDOW!OPENITOPENITOPENITOPENITOPENITOPENITOPENITOPENIIIIIITTT!"

You just sigh and close your eyes. Luckily for you, you grew up having to deal with loud shouting before. So despite his efforts, you could probably fall asleep eventually. the magical warmth of the bed helped.

"DON'TIGNOOOREEEEMMEEEEEEEEEEEEE!" he screeched as he scraped his tentacles across the window.

OH GOD..THAT NOISE

Your eyes cracked open the moment you heard the scraping of his tentacles on the window. It was like nails to a chalkboard.

As the X-captain scraped and tried to slam open the window, his eye darted about, until finally he noticed from staring at your mirror that you tensed upon every scrape. He tested it a few times, then snickered as he began to do it on purpose "Ohhhhh....hehehehe, I see. You can't ignore this? Can you, Anon? cannnn youuuuuhahahaha..."

You groan in frustration as you get back up and point at him angrily "Cut it out, you bastard! That shit's annoying!"

"Oh is it? gehehehehe, I hadn't noooootttiiiccceeed" he slurred as he slowly but annoyingly scraped his tentacles about.

"...Seriously? I'm never going to open that window for you...."

"Ok then....I just wonder how long you can stand this before you go mad. Scrippy scrap scritchy scratch, how soon will Anon snap?" He rhymed and snickered a crazed sinister chuckle.

...Something told you he was capable of keeping this up forever.

You thought back to Discord's words from earlier today.

Fuck this...he said you'd be better by evening..well..it was evening.

"Anooonnnn..oh Annnoonn..how does it f-...what are you doing?" The X-captain went from cruel to worried when he noticed you dabbling on the dial of your portal door.

"I'm going to sleep at my aunt's house...."

"YOU CAN'T JUST LEAVE! I'VE LEARNED TO READ YOUR CLOCK, IT'S TOO LATE TO GO BOTHER HER NOW!" He screeches at you

"Yeah..whatever..." You open the door.

"HOW DARE YOU GO BOTHER YOUR AUNT LIKE THIS! AS PUNISHMENT, YOU MUST OPEN THIS WINDOW! I COMMAND YO-....you? NOOO! NOOO!" He screeches as you step through the portal.

"Egh, bastard.." You rubbed your head as you stood outside the cottage. The sky was dark, with stars lighting up the entire night sky. "Fucking hell, it's not super late...at least not by my standards.egh, gonna have to have Discord soundproof that fucking window. what an asshole..."

You look over at the completed statue set. With Nymous's happy grin.

You sigh, looking at it. You kinda wished it was like that. You,Discord, Fluttershy, in one house as a family. Chrysalis?..just as a friend. Sister was a little much. You still wondered what really goes through Discord's head when he does this shit because you are damned sure he didn't think this all the way through.

You raise your hoof to knock on the door. At first, you not only didn't mind bothering Fluttershy for this, but welcomed the sweetness of her voice and the softness of her body.

You knock on the door a few times, calling for Fluttershy in a way that hopefully didn't sound too annoying.

It took awhile, but the door finally opened...but Fluttershy wasn't behind it.

Once again, it was Angel. He was wearing a nightcap, yawning, and looked rather annoyed.

"...erm...hey..."

He begins to shut the door, but this time, you don't puss out. You hold your hoof out to stop it."Wait! hear me out...Look, I sorta need to sleep here tonight. I had a nightmare...and I feel like I just need somepony warm and gentle to sleep with. Sleeping alone, it's kinda scary"

Ok, that was mostly a lie. But hell, the X-captain did become a fucking nightmare creature.

Angel started doing some motions, then coughed, then pointed at you. You think you understood that. "I was sick, I'm feeling better now thanks to dad. But, ugh..it's just...hard to sleep..you know? Please Angel, please don't shut me out?"

Angel looked at you at first as if you were full of shit. But he just hopped back, and then turned to hop up to Fluttershy's room. He stopped to wave his paw at you so you'd follow.

You were thankful of this of course.even though you lied, it showed Angel wasn't heartless or cruel. Just a jerk when there's nothing at stake.

You follow him up to her room to find the sleeping form of Fluttershy, snug in her bed, a smile on her face, and dreaming of pleasant things.

Angel put his paw to his mouth and let out a soft "shhhhhhh", pointed to a spot on the bed you can sleep on, and hopped up next to Fluttershy and made himself comfortable.

You were actually hoping to get some cuddles. But how could you wake up such soft and adorable perfection?

You carefully get up on the bed where there was room and get under the blanket. You then move to Fluttershy's backside. You didn't mind sleeping under the blanket, it was a little stuffy, but worth it. It was as close to her warmth as you were going to get right now. You hoped she wouldn't be startled when she sees you in the morning, you hoped this wasn't a mistake.

And it worked wonders, you drifted off to sleep

Sleep...until the morning came.

"Annoooonnn.....time for breakfast!" You hear in a soft voice. egghhhhh, fuck the morning. You wrap yourself in the blanket and roll about.

"Annnnoooonnn..."

Nooooo...wait.

You quickly rise up and look about in surprise, remembering how you came to the cottage in the first place. Fluttershy was gone, but you could hear her calling you from downstairs.

Shit, you better haul ass...but, if she was calling you. Did that mean everything was fine?

You rush to the main room of the cottage where Fluttershy was setting down a bowl on a low table by her green couch. She then noticed you by the pitter patter of your hooves. She turned to you and smiled "Anon! How are you doing this morning? Are you feeling alright?"

...seriously? She wasn't questioning anything? You answered her question with caution.
"Erm, yeah. Thanks to Dad, I'm feeling pretty great. You're not mad that I came by so late, Aunt Fluttershy?"

She shook her head "Mad? Oh no no Anon, I was just very worried. But Angel told me you had a very terrible nightmare and couldn't sleep. It must have been from being so sick. Your father told me you'd be fine within the day but....well, I wanted to wait until school was about to start to see how you were feeling. And!" She points to the bowl "I thought I'd use a recipe Zecora taught me to help keep your immune system going strong. I'm very glad to see you're well but, I'd rather not take any chances."

Awww, that's pretty based of the bunny. He kept Fluttershy calm by telling her what was going on. Man, were you glad you weren't really sick. If she caught on to even a bit of illness, she might fall apart.

"Thanks for understanding, Aunt Fluttershy. I was kind of worried I'd be bothering you. But you're not even upset. That's pretty cool."

Fluttershy walks over to you and pulls you in for a hug "I'm your Aunt, Anon, I have to be strong for you and not fall apart. If I couldn't think straight then I would have never come up with the idea to make this breakfast for you. You’re my little Gentlecolt, and that means that whenever you visit me, I will always do my best for you."

...a-awww...F-fluttershy

You hug into her tighter. That made you feel so warm. You really had to thank Angel for this, he really was kind of cool taking the time to explain things in what must have been a really amazing manner to keep Flutters calm. "I love you Aunt Fluttershy"

"And I love you too, Anon." Fluttershy slowly breaks the hug, gives you a smile, and boops your nose. "You'll always have a place here no matter what time it is. Oh!" She realized she nearly forgot something, and gave you a gentle pat on the head. "And don't you worry, I won't go telling anypony that you made a mess in your bed. That secret is safe with me and Angel. If you'd like, I can give you a candle to give you a little bit of light to keep those nasty nightmares away. I know the dark can be pretty scary, but a little light always helps."

THAT LITTLE SHIT! HE TOLD HER YOU WET YOUR FUCKING BED?! YOU'LL RIP HIS HEAD OFF!

"A-Anon? A-are you ok?" She noticed you shaking, and finally began to falter.

You snap from your hellacious rage. Goddammit, now she thought you were a pussified bed wetter. That wasn't cute, that wasn't nice, Now she was going to treat you like a baby more than usual. You could just feel it. You liked how she treated you, but this could turn ugly real quick. "Oh nah, I'm fine. I was just getting over just waking up. Y'know me, I like sleeping."

"Oh" Fluttershy sighed in relief "That's good, but Anon...you really should have better sleeping habits. hrnnnn...oh, I know!" Fluttershy seems to come up with an excellent idea "Why don't you ask your father if you can spend a few nights here? I'd love to spend more time with you AND I can help you develop better habits. It'll be fun!"

.....oh wait....no, that sounded terrible. No, no..because she'd be treating you like a baby at all times and..

.....and...as you look into that sweet motherly face......oogghhh. Well, this might not be a bad idea...considering that asshole X-captain just came back from literally nowhere and could probably, at this moment, trying to concoct a hundred and one ways to kill you. The thought alone was annoying. "I guess I could do that. I mean, you are the greatest aunt a colt could ever have..yeah"

Alllll those cuddles wassss tempting.

You smile happily at her "I would love to be able to spend a few nights here. A-and I'm a good learner too. so no worries"

"Awww, I was never worried." Fluttershy gives a quick nuzzle on your face with her own then leads you to your bowl of food "Now eat up, Anon. You'll definitely feel better after eating this. Oh, by the way, are you feeling well enough for school?"

You walk up to the bowl and....woo, it looked awful. a mixture of green and blue slop with leaves sticking out. "Erm, oh yeah. I'm feeling up for it...ummm...is it supposed to look like this?"

"Mhmm, it's both a food and a special medicine, at least that is what Zecora said." Fluttershy grabbed a bag from next to her stone stove and she puts it next to you. "It's a good thing I packed your lunch too, just in case you felt well enough to go to school. Now go ahead and eat, Anon. You don't want to be late."

But it looked so awful. But, wait. Usually, things like this never taste as bad as they look. You had plenty of shit that looked bad but tastes good so far. Why would this be any different?

you lean in and take a large yet sloppy bite.

Then you tense up, turn green, swallow, and then immediately want to kill yourself as you groan and shudder.

It was that bad… "Uhm..." you slide it away

"Is something the matter, Anon?" She didn't know what you were thinking, but she did have an idea. And if it was THAT, unfortunately, she felt she would have to press you into it.

"...I'm not feeling very hungry....anymore" That had to be the worst tasting thing you ever had. Even Derpy's old ass muffin couldn't compete.

"Anon...." She slowly slides the bowl back towards you "You need to eat this to keep your strength up, and to make sure that nasty sickness you had doesn't creep back up"

But it tasted fucking awful. You weren't even sick! but she didn't know that. So, what could you do? Maybe… "I mean, yeah, it could help but....what if it doesn't? Maybe my sickness was like some weird chaos thing?"

"Annnonnn..." Fluttershy didn't look amused a first, then she sighed, looking disappointed. "I already asked your father if it was anything you could have caught inside the house, and he said no."

She actually asked him that?...no, of course she would. She would of course want to make sure the house was suitable for your health.

"So please, eat up. Please? I know it doesn't taste very good but your body will thank you for it. I promise" She urged you to finish this vile breakfast.

fuuuuuckkkk.....You were out of ideas.

Fluttershy smiled and tilted her head cutely as she came up with an idea "How about I feed it to you? It always tastes better when you have a little help. In fact!" Fluttershy leans in and takes a bite, she shudders a little, but takes it like a champ. "see? It's not so bad. If I can eat it, then of course the big strong hero colt can!"

Fluttershy....

Fuck, she was trying hard. It really looked like she would assert herself until you actually ate it. You didn't want to inconvenience her or disappoint her that much. You also didn't want to be treated like a baby.

You would bite the bullet...for her. "Y-yeah, I guess it really...erm..isn't if you can eat it. I-I don't need any help though...see?" You dig in, and oh god, you could only wish for sweet release because every bite was pure agony.

"Yay! I knew you could do it, Anon" Fluttershy exclaimed. "And soon,you'll feel really really good! Trust me! Zecora's remedies always work."

You knew that rabbit was probably looking at you from somewhere...laughing....the fucking fuck.

You finish Satan's shit and take a moment to compose yourself, Fluttershy taking her time of slipping your lunch bag into your saddle bag. "See, was it really so bad Anon?"

.......ooooooooooohhhhh that and so much worse. "I-I guess n-n-n-not."

"Good, now...ohh, Anon.." Fluttershy gently grabs onto you and hovers upward so she can hug and cradle you. "I was so worried when your father told me you were sick, I wanted to hold you and let you know everything would be ok. Anon, please, whenever you need help or somepony to talk to, please, don't hesitate to come visit alright?" She holds you forward so she can look at you eye to eye. She looked like a mix of motherly,worried, and loving. "It doesn't matter if the sun is just coming up or if it's midnight, i'm always here for you. And of course, your sister too. I can't imagine how things have been for her, but my door will always be open for the both of you, alright?"

Even though the part with Chrysalis was a bad idea, for her, you would say yes. Because as you thought about it, there were sometimes where you just want someone soft and caring to be close with....that you didn't get the urge to fuck. Speaking of which, you did have to see DT today. You hoped she was ok. "I will Aunt Fluttershy, I promise. If I ever need you, i'll come visit."

"Awwww, thanks Anon. It's good to hear that" She cuddles you and rubs her nose on yours before putting you down. "Now you better get going, Anon, you don't want to be late for school. If you want. You should come back after school too! We could spend the afternoon feeding all the animals. Doesn't that sound fun?"

not...really?...egh. for her, you would accept it as fun. "Sure, if nothing comes up. I'll come straight here"

"Alright!" Fluttershy leans in and kisses your cheek "You have a good day at school, Anon, don't over exert yourself ,ok?"

You nuzzle your head under hers. "I won't, you take care Aunt Fluttershy. I love you"

"I love you too Anon."

Fluttershy, a pony with genuine love and care in her heart. You simply couldn't resist that, even if the food she just made was fucking terrible. As long as you had a heart, you would protect her smile, and be her little gentlecolt. Huh...maybe this was the same kind of hold she had on Discord.

You headed off to school with the thought of DT in your mind. You really did hope she was ok, same with Sweetie Belle. Hell, you hoped DT didn't rip her to shreds with grief. Like, literal shreds. She had enough money to get away with it, you swear she did.

You could see all the other colts and fillies rushing off to school.

"ANOOOOOOON!" You hear the shrill voice of a certain pink filly behind you

It was only a matter of time really. "DiamoOMPH!"

Right as you turn around, Diamond jumps right on you and starts nuzzling, any sense of public dignity flying right out the window. Damn, that love poison, that night, that dance. It really cemented the relationship...didn't it?

"Anon! Anon! You're ok! My Prince is ok! Look everypony! He's ok!"

D'awww. You actually appreciated her attention. You felt loved. You even reach out to give her a hug, which of course, makes her blush and calm down. "Of course I'm ok. Are you ok Diamond?"

"Y-yeah...wait!" Diamond Tiara hopped up, and then looked at you with a puffed up and angry face "Why didn't you tell me you were sick?! Why did Sweetie Belle have to tell me!? ooohhh! You're not supposed to do that, Anon! I was so worried!" She shouted at you.

Yikes, her switch got flipped. "S-sorry, it just sorta happened...um...y'know, I didn't feel well enough to move and...stuff."

Diamond Tiara let out a "harumph" as she looked up with her eyes closed, visible disgust on her face. "You're lucky we're together or I'd walk away right now. I'm super mad at you"

Yeah right. She was totally into you. Heh, and you know? You'd prove it. "Oh really?" You get up, and start gently rubbing your hoof along under her neck. Her ears go down as she blushes deep, her head instinctively raising so you could rub the entirely of the bottom of her head. "Are you really mad at me?"

"Y-y....no..." She looks at you dreamily "I guess not"

You kiss her on the nose, which makes her squee in delight. "You're so sweet...my....oh geez" you happen a glance at Silver Spoon, and funnily enough, Sweetie Belle, slowly tailing from behind. Their manes ragged, bags under their eyes.She..oh geez, She kept them up all night....didn't she?

You point over to the tired fillies. "What happened to them?"

Diamond looks over to them, then back to you with an ignorant but cheerful smile "No idea actually, I think they didn't get much sleep for some reason. Couldn't tell you why, but they look fine to me"

While Silver Spoon presses on. Sweetie Belle groans and falls on her face, snoring on the ground.

"Ooook...maybe they're not that fine. Silver Spoon..." Diamond walked over to her tired friend "What happened last night? Really, why are you both so tired?"

Silver Spoon wiped her right eye then yawned as she tried to focus "....U-ummm, well...you were kinda having nightmares all night, and making a lot of noise. We couldn't sleep"

"Well that's ridiculous, I remember having a sweet sweet dream about Anon" Diamond Tiara was acting pretty confident and even stuck up about this.

Silver Spoon adjusted her glasses and sighed, she seemed a little annoyed with her response, but didn't want to argue with her for the usual reasons. She wouldn't even be annoyed if she wasn't so tired. "Ummm, that's because Sweetie Belle kept whispering in your ear things Anon would say whenever you started to talk in your sleep....Just saying"

"W-what?" Diamond Tiara was shocked, she looked down at the sleeping filly as she frowned, guilt building up within her "...S-she did that for me?"

Silver spoon nodded "yeah, like, she was really into it for some reason. It was kinda weird."

...or it was Sweetie Belle herself feeling guilt over what Scootaloo must have told her. That was it, right? She didn't need to go that far. cripes.

"Sweetie Belle..." You say in a quiet voice. Just....the poor filly.

"....." Diamond Tiara just spent a moment staring at Sweetie Belle, her face slowly showing determination as she looked towards you and pointed towards Sweetie Belle "Anon, you will take Sweetie Belle to school. We will take the slowest way there since we still have some time before school starts. Understand?"

heh, there was the Diamond Tiara you remembered. Demanding. though, it was kind of cute. Yeah, you had no problem following that command. "Yes ma'am"

You salute and get close to Sweetie Belle, but as you draw near. Diamond let's out a "WAAAAAIIIITTT!"

"U-uh wha? What's wrong?"

"Just one thing..." Diamond Tiara takes off her tiara and carefully places it on Sweetie Belle's head. "Also, you'll pretend she is me and that you are giving your princess a ride so I do not tire my hooves. Got it? Under no circumstance are you to think you're actually carrying around Sweetie Belle"

Geez, she was so damn cute.

you could feel a fuzzy feeling in your heart. This was definitely love. You loved the fact that she was caring yet adorably demanding in a way to hide it. You loved the fact she loved you so much to dream about you.You found it just adorable that a kiss would be enough to melt her like butter. And you could tell that the love she had for you would last forever. Sure, there was some cheating using love poison. But with the feelings you have in your heart? You no longer cared about it. You would be her prince, and you would protect her smile until the day you died. Man, this way of thinking would never work in the human world. It really was like a dream. "Yes, my princess,..heh...c'mon my princess, time for a ride"

You lower yourself to get Sweetie Belle onto your back, but Diamond Tiara had to make sure of one more thing. "And when you say ‘c'mon princess, time for a ride’..you meaaannn?"

You give her an arrogant smirk as you get Sweetie Belle on your back. "I mean the beautiful and wonderful princess Diamond Tiara of course"

Diamond blushed, but kept her commanding composure "Right...that's exactly right. Now c'mon, let's go. You're ok to go, right Silver Spoon?"

"Mhmmm, I got a little sleep. I just need to like, really really focus. That's all." Silver Spoon assured her

"Alright, then let's go this way!" Diamond Tiara pointed towards a path that was a little tiny ways off from the path to school. And the three of you began your trek.

Diamond Tiara stuck to your side as Silver Spoon intentionally stayed behind. focusing on her own pace as to not make herself too tired.

You gently and affectionately rub the side of your face with Diamond’s

She blushes as she looks towards you, confused. "What was that for?"

"Just showing my princess a little more affection.And well, I wanted to tell you that as the hero colt, I would give it my all just to protect your smile. Because your smile? It makes me feel warm every time I see it."

Diamond Tiara nearly tumbled forward. She was beet red as she caught herself and slowly began to steady her step. She looked away from you. She suddenly felt...embarrassed. "W-where did that come from? This...you know this isn't a date right?"

You giggle at that. Seems she didn't expect such a compliment in a casual setting. "Does it need to be?"

"N-no....I g-guess not.Erm, Anon..are you ok? Really? You're not pushing yourself right?" Diamond Tiara turned her head just a bit to look at you, still blushing.

"I'm ok, especially when I'm with you. I love you Diamond Tiara, there doesn't need to be a sleepover or a date for me to show some affection. Right?" You try to steer the conversation back on track.

"No..." Diamond Tiara didn't know what to say after that. So instead, she had a question. "Anon..erm...did you dream about me last night?"

If it made her happy, you'd say yes. You were sure those kinds of dreams would come soon. "I did, I was a prince and a knight protecting his princess from a dragon."

Diamond Tiara gasped, her eyes going wide, she even had to stop for a moment. "That.....that's what I was dreaming! Anon...d-do you know what this means?"

"What?" She seemed really surprised. Of course she would be, seemed your lie was right on the goddamned money.

"It means we were sharing a dream! E-even if Sweetie Belle sorta maybe helped...it was really you. You came into my dream somehow and protected me. Or...not even somehow. It was our love! Our love is what let you come into my dream to save me and.....a-and" She just looked upon your form, she was awestruck, she fell even deeper in love with you than ever before over something as silly as a notion of a shared dream. "...we were meant to be together. I'm..sure of it..and..Anon..erm" She blushes, and starts to feel shy. "I know I said to pretend Sweetie Belle is me, but um..I'm kind of a little tired too. Would you mind if I...just leaned against you the rest of the way? Please?" She lied of course, she wasn't tired, she was just looking for an excuse to do it. God, it was so easy now.

"Anytime, my love"

She kept herself from squeeing in delight. She faked a yawn and began to lean against you as you all began to walk again "mmmmm, I'm sooo tired Anon. Thank you..."

There wasn't much else to say after that. The three of you walked along the longest path to school. Sweetie Belle, the fourth in the little party, riding along your back as she snoozes and snores.

Silver Spoon just slogged along, so you kept at an even slower pace than normal. But not just for her sake. Diamond Tiara was leaning against you, nuzzling every so often. You had to keep a slow pace or you might go so fast that she would slip up and fall on her side.

When you all do finally reach the school however, it seemed there was a little more time to waste before the bell rang. Silver Spoon immediately went to get some rest at her desk. You could see Applebloom and Scootaloo already inside, talking to one another. But you all don’t actually go inside just yet. But it was probably best to wake up Sweetie Belle at this point.

"Welp, we're here.Are you feeling better, Diamond?"

"Mhmmm, I feel....great. Did you enjoy my company Anon?" She looks at you dreamily as she bats her eyes at you. Grinning near drunkenly.

"Of course, my princess. Oh...umm"

Waking up Sweetie Belle, right. "How should we wake up your doppelganger?"

"...Doopa..what?" Seems she had never heard of that term, of course she wouldn't have, she was a kid.

"erm..how should we wake up Sweetie Belle?"

"Simple..." Diamond looked to Sweetie Belle's sleeping form and yelled out "WE'RE AT SCHOOL!, WAKE UP ALREADY!"

"Wahh!" Sweetie Belle jumped up from your back and fell on her side with a thud. She quickly got back up and looked around frantically. She didn't even notice that she had fallen.. "W-what happened?! Where are we?! Did somepony explode?!"

Explode?..sheesh..what was she dreaming about?!

It also seemed like she didn't notice the rather rude way Diamond had awakened her. Well, that was fine with you in all actuality. "Woah woah, calm down Sweetie Belle. We're at school. It's about to start. Nopony exploded."

"...huh?...oh" Sweetie Belle blinked as she looked around, then yawned "O-ok, erm. Wait...so is everypony ok? Diamond Tiara, are you ok?"

Diamond Tiara nuzzles under your chin as she looks at Sweetie Belle, that dreamy look still plastered on her face. "Better than ever before"

"...eggghh..ok" Sweetie Belle must have felt that was a little too corny. It may have been. But for you? Well, you were getting nuzzled on, who the fuck cares?

Sweetie Belle stretched out like a cat and yawned. "Anyway...Anon, can I talk to you in priva-EEP!"

The bell starts to ring. Sweetie Belle jumps up in surprise, and starts stepping back "Oh, no no no. I'm not gonna be late. Look, Anon, when you get the chance, during recess, I wanna talk to you... got it? got it!" She zips away into the schoolhouse.

"It'd probably be a good idea if we followed her Diamond, we don't want to be late either."

"I guess, darn, I got so caught up with things that I didn't even get to tell you the neat thing I was doing with my parents today. Oh well, I guess I'll tell you during recess. Now.." She starts stepping forward into the schoolhouse "Let's get inside, I will not be labeled as tardy, and neither will you. Royalty shouldn't have to deal with it really. I can't WAIT to grow up, that way we don't have to go to school anymore...and..well...other things" She let out a cute giggle as she thought of marriage.

You just followed along, smiling, happy that she was happy. But...wondering what Sweetie Belle could want as well. It couldn't be anything bad, right? She probably just wanted to talk to you about what went on. She was so tired she probably didn't fully remember what happened yesterday.

You take your seat along with the rest of the class as Miss Cheerilee had just prepared herself for her regular morning teaching regimen. Seems like you made it just in time.

"Good morning everypony!" Cheerilee says, smiling, as she greets the class.

And of course, you all let out a "Good morning, Miss Cheerilee"

"And what a good morning it is, another great day for learning and fun! But first, if you all can take out your homework so I can...hrn? Oh" Cheerilee notices you, you thought you noticed a cringe, but it was just for a second as she looked to you with a cheerful grin. "Anon, welcome back, how are you feeling today?"

"Oh, I'm feeling pretty peachy, Miss Cheerilee, I'm ready to learn a whole bunch of great things!" You say with forced enthusiasm

"That's good, we were all worried when your sister came by yesterday to tell us you were sick. But it's good to see you now, healthy and smiling." Cheerilee's smile began to break to one of worry.

"Oh yeah, I'm feeling great! Strong as ever!"

"Hurrah for the hero colt!" Snips and Snails yells out, of course, those dumbasses just couldn't drop it. You were sure the love THEY had for you had died some...apparently not. it also got the rest of the class to cheer for you too, forcing Cheerilee to politely ask them to quiet down, that it was schooltime.

...cripes. If Rainbow Dash was an element when she was a filly. She'd probably be heralded as a hero just like this...and she'd eat it all up. For you? Yeah, it was super great. But after recent events, being overly arrogant about it is probably not a good idea since it seems to just cause you more trouble....Well, maybe just a small wave to the class wouldn't hurt. And you did, and they cheered, and Miss Cheerilee had to quiet them again. With a little more authority this time.

"Now class, please, school has just started. Let's not cause a commotion until AFTER class. Speaking of commotions...Anon" And here it came. The main source of her worry. "Anon, there's not going to be any surprises are there?" She tried to sound as nice as possible about it. but after the sister reveal, the chaos lesson, and the kind of show Chrysalis must have put on yesterday. She wasn't ready for any more surprises.

You couldn't blame her attitude, you were barely at school due to some sort of shenanigan. Or when you were at school, there was usually some other shenanigan going on. So? You'd just take it in stride. "Nope, I'm going surprise free for the rest of the year." You said it with confidence, but you weren't even sure you could keep your word on that.

"Good" Cheerilee let out a sigh of relief, letting herself relax. She took your word for it, she had no reason to believe you'd lie. Even after the fuckery that's happened, she's never known you to just lie, not so far anyway. "Ok...moving on" She looked upon the class, regaining her friendly demeanor. "As I was saying before, if you all can bring out your homework, i'll pick it up and we can begin today’s lesson."

From this point, school went on about as anyone would expect The order of the day was history,math, some learning of advanced words you already knew. Nothing out of the ordinary as usual. Though, it wasn't necessarily a bad thing either. the atmosphere was pleasant and nostalgic. Miss Cheerilee was being nice and helpful. Hell, you thought you'd see if she was ticked at you at all by asking her for some help with your history. It was some unknown ground for you of course. The Wonderbolts history for one, like stuff with General Firefly, was only really grazed upon in season 4.

But Miss Cheerilee was more than eager to help you personally understand some of the harder stuff. It put your mind at ease when it came to thinking she'd be walking on eggshells just to communicate with you. Yeah, things would be fine.

And then the recess bell rang. Time to find out what Diamond Tiara was going to do today. And what Sweetie Belle wanted.

Some of the other classmates seemed to want to talk to you though. But as you approached Diamond and a tired Silver Spoon outside, they all started to back off as DT herself gave them all a stink eye.

You could see the CMC just a few yards away. They looked over to you, but seemed to be waiting patiently as they discussed a few things. Looks like they were filling Sweetie Belle in on what happened yesterday when you and Scrappy got back.

"Sooo, Anon. I bet you've been wondering alllll morning the super great thing I'll be doing today" DT seemed pretty excited about it.

"Oh you bet! And er, maybe it can include me too? Or is it just a ‘you’ thing?" And really? You kind of wanted to spend more time with her. Y'know, to see how things would go casually.

"well....yeah, it will be...Sorry" Her enthusiasm goes down, now she didn't seem so happy anymore. Goddammit...why did you say something so stupid?!

"Woah woah..hey. I'm not upset, I was...erm.." You give her a snarky grin and kiss her nose, immediately calming her down. Hah, it was like a get out of jail free card....oh god...that wouldn't work if you ever made her jealous, you'd bet. Gotttaaaaa be careful with that little landmine. "Just wondering if I could just weasel my way into it. I do like spending time with you, y'know. But it's no big deal, there's a few things I have to check on too. This just gives me more time to do some checks. So trust me, no problem at all."

"Really? it's really not a problem?" Diamond needed reassurance, she already looked pretty upset about it.

"Yep, no problem at all. Now come on, tell me what it is. Ya got me super curious and I'm gonna just die if I don't hear what's got you so excited." ....god, that was..corny as fuck.

"Oh..well" Diamond quickly regained her composure and brushed her mane back as she stood with pride "Mother came home this morning. And she'll be staying for awhile, so she thought me,her, and Daddy should go get a few new maids since one or two are little too old to be working with us now. Annndddd....ahrm," Diamond clears her throat as she looks over to Silver Spoon.

"..oh...r-right" She said with a yawn as she started clapping her hooves on the ground as quickly as possible.Like some sort of drumroll. Then stopped a moment later.

"I get to choose the maids! Mother and Daddy thinks I'm mature enough to make the right decision and ask the proper questions. And they're right, of course, I am mature enough. Right?"

"mhmm, like...there's nopony more mature than you, Diamond." Silver Spoon says with a yawn

Diamond then looked to you, fuck, you knew that was your cue. "Well, I certainly don't know anypony more mature." You grinned sheepishly.

"That's right. That's because there isn't any. In fact, I know Sweetie Belle wanted to talk to you about something. And since I'm soooo mature, i'll let you go talk to her and I won't get the least bit jealous....but first, what do you think? Super cool right?" She awaited your shower of praise.

Choosing maids huh? Sounded like a luxury only the rich could afford. You wondered if Celestia and Luna ever did something like that. Still, you wanted to be on her good side. Especially since she was being so "generous". "Wayyy past cool"

You almost slipped up by saying you wish you could afford something like that. But nope, that would just make her feel guilty. Yes! You were getting better at normal social interaction that didn't involve fucking lunatics!

She squeed in delight "I knnnow right! And I like that, ‘Way past cool’. I think I'll use that too, that's pretty...way past cool...right Silver Spoon?" She looked to her for her approval.

Silver Spoon straightened up, and did her best to sound energetic. It was a good try. "I like it. I mean, we always needed a phrase for something that was more than cool right? That sounds pretty...way past cool" She giggles.

"Heh, I'm glad you both like it. It was a saying back at the,er, orphanage."

"Well, it sounds great to me. Y'know Anon...you can come by later after I pick the new maids" She gives you a dreamy, bedroomy eye'd look."We could spend time doing whatever homework Miss Cheerilee might give us. As a prince and princess, we'd have to be able to work together" She walks passed you, sliding her tail along under your neck as she looks back at you with a smile. ooh lord, was that a trick Chrysalis taught her? Because it worked. "Don't you think so?"

...oh yeah...all sorts of "working" together. You were feeling those tingly feelings. Especially when you looked back at her face and saw that sultry look. She had no idea the feelings that welled up inside you. "S-sure"

"Good, because I expect nothing less but your best. We both deserve the best grades too after all. Ok, you can go now." She felt confident that she had you. Not in the way she'd expect. but she had you nonetheless.

You do a cute little bow, and thank her, feeling a kiss might be overdoing it just due to oversaturation, it should be saved for more special moments..and not in public..so far anyway, at least not at school.

But as you walk to meet with the CMC, Diamond stops you for one more thing. "Oh, and just because I said I won't be jealous doesn't mean you can act princely towards them, got it? friendly is ok...but you're MY prince, nopony elses."

ok, in other words, she'd get jealous if you acted at all princely towards them. Cute, and something to remember. But nothing to worry about as you doubted you'd act like that at all with them.

Ok Sweetie Belle, let's see what you have to say.

You walk over to the girls and give them a wave. "Heya girls, how are all of you doin'?"

"Heya Anon, we were just gettin' Sweetie Belle up to speed" Applebloom was cheery and smiling. Nothing to worry about there.

"We were just finishing the part with Princess Luna and that Thorax guy" Scootaloo informed you

"And...that's the part I don't get. Princess Luna was really ok with taking in a changeling? I thought she didn't trust any of them" Of this Sweetie Belle was sure of.

"Well, we trust Scrappy, don't we? Ah guess Thorax must have been ah pretty nice changeling to change her mind. Ah know Scrappy helped, he said he got to have ‘Hug Times’ with her. I guess she saw how cute and nice he was and just sorta gave in" Applebloom shrugged "Ah mean, he is pretty nice"

"Wow, so it really went ok, huh? Anon..." Sweetie Belle sighed as she looked at you, disappointed with herself "I'm sorry about how I treated you before, I really mean it. I didn't know dealing with that dumb queen was really that rough. I guess our plan in confronting her isn't going to happen." Sweetie Belle's ears drooped as she looked down, sad that she couldn't be as of much help as she thought she could be.

"Hey, it's no problem Swe-.....wait?...what plan to what now?" ...no really. WHAT?!

"Erm, we kinda wanted to meet her somewhere where she'd be alone and talk her down to make her realize what she was doin' was wrong. But after what she did to Scootaloo? Without even carin'?....yeah, we sorta just gave up on that one. For sure." They all seemed disappointed. They felt they couldn't win against her, even on a 3 on 1.

But of course, you were planning on more than just a three versus one already. Damn these girls. You cared about them, but you really wish they'd tell you about dangerous stuff like this. Even if you yourself sorta...screw up too.

You give them all a confident look as you tell them your plan. "Well, that's not a bad idea actually. But instead of three. or even four.....what about..say....the entire town?"

"......." They all looked at you as if you were suddenly nuts.

"....uhhh, Anon...you do know that would be like...really bad, right? I think the entire town kinda wants her squished rather than, y'know, fixed?" Scootaloo reminded you, she could not grasp what you meant.

"Yeah, that's crazy. U-unless we're just gonna squish her. I wouldn't mind that, she's so mean. Like, really mean when she wants to be" Sweetie Belle, damn, that was pretty vicious.

"Yeah..no, that's not it. Look, Pinkie Pie wants to throw her a ‘Welcome to Ponyville’ party. So she'd still be disguised as my sister, not like she could change into anything else anyway. The plan is simple....All that has to be done is to get her to that party and make sure she can't leave. And then? Show her a good, friendly, and fun time. That would show her what's what. And by that I mean that should help her understand the magic of friendship. Pretty good, huh?"

they started thinking on it.

"So...It'd be kinda like uhhh..." Applebloom couldn't quite grasp it

"I dunno, wouldn't it be kinda dangerous sticking her in a room of ponies who just want to be her friend?" Sweetie Belle pondered

".....WAIT!" Scootaloo raises her hoof as she realizes what you mean "it's like what happened to me! but instead of one me and a ton of bugs, it's one bug in a room full of ponies! And instead of draining love, we're going to give her so much of it that she can't help but see the good in friendship and caring! That's it! Right, Anon?"

You nod with a grin as you hold out your hoof "That's exactly it, Way to go Scoots!"

"Right on! That sounds like a pretty awesome plan to me!" Scootaloo claps your hoof with her own. Yeeeahhh!

"Yeah it does...nice job, Anon. But how are you going to get her to the party? She doesn't seem like she'd just go to a party like the one Pinkie throws" Sweetie Belle wondered as she spots a hole in your plan.

"One word...Dad" You grin smugly

"Well...." Applebloom could see you were pretty serious about that, she thought it was scary to use Discord but...." sounds like ya got it figured out. Hey! This could actually work. If Twilight can fix Luna from bein' Nightmare Moon, then everypony should be able to fix Chrysalis. Ah think it's pretty airtight"

The other two agreed. "Great, then all we gotta do is make sure she doesn't abandon ship before the party is over."

"That'll be easy. We're the Cutie Mark Crusaders, remember? If we just work together, there's nothing we can't do!" Scootaloo was pretty confident about this.

Applebloom and Sweetie Belle shout in agreeance.

"Good, then we got a plan. Oh...fmmnn, Almost forgot. Applebloom, how did that whole thing with your sister and Twilight go?" Sweetie asked

This you wanted, no needed, to know. "Oh, it went great!...too great..." Applebloom didn't seem so happy about it despite it going "great"

"If it went great then why do you look like it's not?" curious...

"Because, ahm..well..." Applebloom started to circle her hoof along the ground as she hesitated for a moment "Ya see, Mah sister was really impressed with what Scrappy can do. Ah mean, Twilight was too. But Applejack? She wants to see how he can do at an old fashioned dog show. And ah don't think that's a good idea. Scrappy doesn't like Winona because she barks at him, ah'd hate to see what would happen if he was around all them other dogs. Ah know he could probably bring home the blue ribbon and all, but ah don't want anypony to get hurt."

Did she even agree to it? "Applebloom, you didn't agree to it did you?"

"N-not yet, but, erm...Applejack might forget about it if ah don't say nothin'" Applebloom didn't sound like she was sure of it.

"Woah, you didn't tell me that Applebloom. Why don't we all do it? With all three of us at the show. We could make sure those other dogs don't bother Scrappy." Scootaloo however, was pretty confident about it.

"Wait....what does Scrappy think about all this?" Sweetie Belle asked

"....He REAAALLLYY wants to do it. He said somethin' about showing up them other dogs" Applebloom felt very unsure of Scootaloo's words and the fact she herself seemed outnumbered in not wanting to do it.

Figured he'd want to do it if it meant showing that the one he serves is the best.

...and, well..maybe you could help. You just had to ask one last question. "Applebloom, what about you? If you knew nothing would go wrong, would you go through with it?"

She slowly nodded "Mhmm, it would make mah sister and Scrappy happy. And me too, ah wanna show what a great team Scrappy and me are."

You shrugged as you smirked "Welp, looks like I have no choice but to help with it. I'm sure my horn can make sure nothing bad really happens."

"...your horn? Wait...Anon" A glow started to appear on Applebloom's expression. a glowing smile of hope. "You would do that for me?"

"We're friends right? Of course, I'd need some back up and a council" You look towards Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo

"Council huh? Well, somepony has to be the voice of reason in case you get in over your head" Sweetie Belle smirked back, then sat as she pointed to herself with pride "Considering I have Princess Cadance's commendation,I think I'm pretty good for the job"

"I'm in too, I just don't want to leave Anypony hanging. Rainbow Dash wouldn't do it, and neither will I!" Scootaloo already looked ready to go

Applebloom started to tear up at all the support she was getting "T-thanks fellas...a-ah don't know what to say"

Scootaloo moves in and hugs Applebloom "Then don't say anything, we're here for you Applebloom!"

Then Sweetie Belle "That's right! if we didn't stick together, who knows if we would have ever even gotten our cutie marks!"

And finally you "That's right, and hey. What kind of hero colt would I be if I didn't do any actual heroing? We all got your back, Applebloom"

It was a nice great big group hug. "Thanks..Really, ah'll let ya'll know a few days before it happens. It won't be awhile until the next show anyhow. And it'll probably take place in Appeloosa too, so, ah hope you'd all be ready for another trip there"

They seemed pretty excited to go to Appeloosa again, even mentioning being able to see Troubleshoes. For you? It'd be a new experience. Yeah, you could finally see if Braeburn was as "makes you go gay" in person as he was in the show.

The bell rang soon after. And everyone started heading back to class. Sweetie Belle's walking was a little off. But that was probably because she was still tired.

So that was the plan. For you? Try to crack Chrysalis's shell...even by a little. By having that party thrown and luring her to it. You needed to see if Pinkie was back from doing whatever she was doing.

For Applebloom? Make sure you had a fucking horn charge when that dog show happens. hrn, you wonder what kind of dog show Applejack attends, you don't remember her going to one.But it definitely was probably geared towards farming and wrangling in steer or some shit rather than being prim and proper. And if it was something she usually never does, she probably wants to do it for Applebloom just because her and Scrappy are an amazing team.

And school resumed. As boring ever. Nothing out of the usual. But hey, at least you actually got through a day of it. You've done it before but...let's try to go for a record.

Miss Cheerilee then assigned the homework. More Math, more reading and writing...ehhh..fine.

Cheerilee looked relieved nothing bad happened. again, you wanted to try to keep that up.

As you went outside with the rest of the class. Diamond approached you from behind and walked up to your side. "Well Anon, looks like it's time for me to make an important decision." She rubs her head gently on the side of yours keeps it there as she leans against you. "You're gonna cheer for me right? Deep inside your heart?"

You blush from her sudden approach, you didn't even notice her come close until she touched you. She was so affectionate now, like a puppy. You gave her a warm smile as you reached your hoof to give her head a gentle rub. "I know, with absolute certainty, that you'll pick the best maids for the job."

She giggled as she moved up and forwards, then turned to face you as she kissed you on the cheek, blushed, felt a little flushed, and gave you a peck on the mouth before looking away shyly. "You always know just what to say....When we get married." She stops as she giggles, then stops to clear her throat "Ahrm..hmm..well, let's just say we'll put all those other snooty couples to shame.I'll see you soon, my prince. Oh!" Suddenly, she goes back to her usual attitude and focus as she remembers something "And Anon, don't forget to call me your princess a little more. Remember, we're going to be royalty sooner or later. I want you to already be used to calling me by my proper title."

ha! that's cute. It makes you chuckle. "Sure thing. Considering, in my mind, you're already best princess"

She giggles again and boops your nose "And don't you forget it. See you soon, my prince" As Diamond turned, she called for Silver Spoon. Seems Silver Spoon was invited to this thing and yet you weren't. Maybe it was because you were just too distracting.

Sweetie Belle stepped up alone from behind you, having witnessed the whole thing, she couldn't believe just how close you two became. "I'm telling you, Anon, I don't know how you did it. But she's so in to you I could swear love poison was involved somehow."

RWFWVDFDSDS "U-uhhmm..w-what makes you say that?"

Sweetie Belle realized what she just said and started shifting her eyes in a dishonest fashion. "Oh...nothing. I don't even know what that actually is...haha, just uhhh..thought I heard it somewhere"

It was clear she didn't want to bring up that embarrassing moment.

you pretend like she was telling the truth. But heh, woo..were you relieved she didn't figure things out. "We just became close, that's all. It's what happens when two ponies love eachother. wait..speaking of love..."

You noticed Applebloom looking for Scrappy, but he was nowhere to be seen.

"Huh...looks like Scrappy might be doing something. ugh, Chrysalis probably needed him for something again." You wondered what it could be this time...

"mngh, I hate when she needs him for anything. I wish Scrappy didn't like her so much..." Sweetie Belle groaned

"I know, I wish the same thing. But it can't be helped. That's why I gotta do my best on reforming Chrysalis."

"Yeah...whenever that happens." Sweetie Belle was willing to try, but she didn't really have that much hope for her. "...so, going back to Diamond Tiara. Just, Anon, wow....I have to admit. I don't know what you did, but, you've become a real casanova. She's so totally into you. I guess you really didn't need my help after all, huh?" Sweetie Belle felt a little down about that. Considering she worked hard to get Cadance's approval.

"I wouldn't say that. That pose thing really helped. Thanks Sweetie Belle, I feel that without you...from before..and last night. Things would have turned sour."

"...Thanks Anon. Well, I better get going. I'm gonna help Applebloom find Scrappy. What are you going to do? Do you have time to help us or do you have...oh right. Pinkie" Sweetie Belle remembered you wanted to go see her

"Yep, can't put the plan in motion until I see the party planning pony herself. It shouldn't take too long. But if it does, I'll see you tomorrow."

"Gotcha, good luck Anon" Sweetie Belle nods and gives you a quick hug

"And good luck to you too, to all of you and...wait... Pinkie went with Rarity. Did your sister ever come back?"

Sweetie Belle shrugged "I dunno, I was at Diamond's, remember?"

Riiiight "Yeah..ok, sorry. I'll get going."

And with that, you went your separate ways as you headed off to Sugar Cube Corner.

That is...until you heard a familiar voice from a bench a few ways into town. "We meet again, kid. And this time? I'm gonna focus entirely on you." A scaringly vague yet familiar voice in fact....

You could feel your hair stand on end as your pupils shrink from the thought of pure horror.

You looked back and saw a pony laying on the bench in a rather provocative position. An Earth Pony with a familiar coat color and eyes. But that mane, it was a different color and style, a blue swan. It looks kind of ridiculous, especially with that beak...a pencil that tied it all together. It was....without a doubt...

"...You..." Goddamn, it’s the fucking news pony again.

"Yep, me. Good News here to sniff out, well....the good news" she chuckled as she rolled and hopped off the bench with finesse "Been awhile, kid, but the odyssey of the hero colt seems to go on and on and on. And like every good journalist, I'm here to follow up on it. So..." She smirked as she reached for her pencil and pulled it out, her mane flowing down in a beautiful fashion as she also trudged up her notepad. "Are we going to do this the hard way? Or the easy way?"

....Maybe you could just escape in general. You noticed her other half, Quick Press, wasn't with her, so it’s not like you could be stopped.

Chapter 291

"Hard way or easy way, huh? Look, for one, there's no story here. So all you're doing now is doing some creepy stalking. And two? Even if there was a story, I wouldn't be willing to talk to you."

"Why not? I'm a journalist, kid, It's my job, it's what I do." Good news explains to you, acting hurt from your words. "Why ya gotta be so harsh?"

"Because you're nosy, intrusive, and rude. And that's me being nice."

"Oh, you're talking about what happened when we first met. Pft, thing of the past, kid. I've learned to be better about these things. So come on, level with me. Just give me a statement on this story I'm doing and I'll be out of your mane." She holds up her notepad and pencil as she prepares to write.

"About what even? Nothing's happened recently" Nothing worth telling this bitch.

Good News snickers. "Nothing happens he says, that's a good one kid, a real zinger. You do know I was at the Crystal Empire the other day, right? Wanted to cover that whole Crystalling thing or whatever."

"Uh huh, ok? If you want a statement on that then fine. Since I'm sure you knew I was there, it was nice...now go away."

But she wouldn't leave, she didn't even write your statement. There was more to this. But you yourself weren't about to tell her shit about anything else that happened that day. "Yeahhhh.....Not interested in the Crystalling anymore, didn't even make it due to a sudden snowstorm, stopped the train dead. And so when I finally DID get there, the princess and prince didn't even want to talk to me. Pretty rude if you ask me. I guess once things are over you can go back to being royally snooty" She seemed pretty insulted about the whole thing.

"Or it's because you probably tried to get near their daughter without their permission" You were just narrowing your eyes at her. You could tell that was it.

"Pft, kid, let me tell ya. If it was my daughter? I'd let the press get a good look at her. But eh, I digress. Let's just get to the interesting part."

Interesting part? Fucking...hell. Did she mean Discord's photo shit?

"Seriously? If this is about my dad, then let me say this and then you can leave. He ripped off some ponies by offering free photos of the newborn princess. BUT they shouldn't even feel ripped off because it was offered for free. And given his reputation, they probably shouldn't have trusted him. There, we done?"

"Ah ah ah" Good News smirks as she waves her pencil at you. "Kid, you are aware I had to spend a few nights at the hotel, right? As part of the whole package set up for me as a member of the Equestrian Word"

What the fuck was she getting at? "Ok?...Annnnd? Look, if you don't get to the point, I'm just gonna walk. I noticed your rough partner isn't with you, so it's not like you can stop me."

"Fine, fine. I'll get to the point, kid. I'll get EXACTLY to the point" She walks past you, tapping her chin, pondering. "So Anon, when I was up one morning out and about, I noticed out of the corner of my eye....A cute little colt heading into the mountains. A colt wearing a necklace just like yours."

..........Oh shit. "....A-and? I'm the hero colt. Remember? Probably just a fan copying my style." Don't sweat it Anon, she had no proof it was you.

"Mhmm, kinda like your name was 'Lotsa Arrows' before, right? Nah kid, I saw you with that apple filly's pup. Didn't take you to force a puppy to use as a guide, but I guess he had a nose for sniffing out royalty. Get what I'm saying now? Or do I need to spell it out for you?" She was looking at you dead in the eyes. As if she had you.

But you still had an ace up your sleeve. "That's REALLY none of your business but..." You shrug, looking pretty stoic about the information she told you. "Look around, we're in town. All I gotta do is shriek and everypony will come running to save me from the big scary mean lady."

Good News snickers. "Is that right, kid? Didn't you notice?"

Notice? "Notice what?"

"Ain't nopony around us" She waves her hoof from left to right to show you...that she was right. It was suddenly so...eerie

"..What in the....What's going on?"

"Alright Shadow Sheet, show em'" She looked back as suddenly everything became wavy...like you were in a dream.

Then everything disappears in a cloud of smoke as you appear in.....a open field? A few trees… and the town was… a good distance away… What the fuck?! "Wh-what the?! What's going on?!"

"Shadow Sheet, mind showin' yourself, hun?" Good News smirked as she looked at one of the trees.

Suddenly, a sheet is thrown off the side of the tree, it was camouflage colored like the bark from the tree itself. A skinny, medium sized stallion garbed in a black ninja suit jumps forwards and lands at Good News side. You couldn't tell what his mane or coat color was, but his eyes were an emerald green. He was also a unicorn, with his small horn poking up, also covered by the tough fabric. He took a bow after landing. "As you wish, Gouda News"

Good News let's out an embarrassed chuckle. "No, Shadow, it's Good News. Not Gouda. Gouda is a cheese."

"But that's what I said, Goooouudda News." His accent, was heavily Asian. Japanese stereotypical maybe.

"Sweetie, do you remember what I said about names? And how important it is to get it right?" She looked to him with a sweet smile

"Yes! You arso exprain your great disdain for most dishonarabu cheeses." He just stared at you as he said all this, as if you were some sort of target.

"Good! You understand. Now, say my name slowly....Go"

"Goo" He says quickly, without worry or embarrassment.

"ood" She says with a strained smile.

"Oood" He says a little slowly, trying to get it right.

"Now put it together and what do you get?" She rolls along her hooves hoping he understood.

"Gooouda!" He says, ignorant of his own failings.

"....." She facehoofs and then turns towards you, forcing a smile as she sighs. "Bit of a language barrier there, being from Haysia and all."

...She hired....a fucking....ninja. A fucking ninja...fuck, you didn't even have to ask about being where you were. He must have pulled some Naruto illusion magic bullshit. "You gotta be kidding me. Fine, so you somehow got me to walk out here to get me alone. Cool, that's nice and swell, you hired a flippin ninja. Neat. But did you forget?" Fuck it, you'd just use the horn. "I've got the GAH!"

The moment you reached for your horn, Shadow Sheet threw a ball at you that exploded into smoke.

"Woah! Hey! Shadow Sheet, What are you doing?! You don't assault our marks like that! I mean...not always, depending...What's the big idea anyway?" Good News was actually shocked over Shadow Sheet's move. Seems she didn't expect him to go that far.

"Honorabu Gouda News, I onry thought he was going to attack you, but do not worry! That smoke is not rethal, and wirr keep him stirr for interrogation!" He points to you as you fall to your side.

"W-what?! What...WHAT?! WHAT'S GOING ON!?" You couldn't move your legs. They were stiff and numb. That bastard used some sort of ninja gas shit on you. "I CAN'T MOVE!"

"So...what you're saying is that gas bomb thing won't let him move? And now I can just drill him on what I need to know despite it being wrong and unethical?" Good news wondered as she tapped her chin with her pencil.

"Preciserey" He exclaims.

"Oh...well. That just makes my job easier" She smirks as she sits down in front of you, ready to write. "Well kid, looks like you're out of moves. So, how about you tell me what you were doing with Princess Luna, huh?"

She didn't know? Did she not hear anything? Was she not close enough or something?

Whatever, you were also fucking pissed. You were caught off guard...AGAIN! "....You...What? You didn't hear anything? Are you deaf? Moron..."

"Eh, that's what happens when you swap for the better models. They usually have a quirk or two that keeps them from being perfect." Good News says to herself as she paces around you, ignoring your comment and making sure Shadow Sheet can hear her.

Shadow Sheet bows "Forgive me. But you must understand that great moon spirit is not to be trifred with. Getting too crose wourd have made her angry, making her shoot beams of death and pain from her beautifur but deadry eyes before she unreashes her army of kirrer rabbits"

You'd laugh at that if you weren't so pissed. "Yeah...moon spirit...lasers...right. Anyhoo...look kid, we can drop you off in town once we're done here. So how about you let your lips get loose and tell us what was up" Good News was keeping her patience great so far, but you could tell her partner must have been insufferable to be around for too long. Cultural differences and all.

Still...you were pissed… You lost it. "YOU LISTEN HERE YOU BITCH! GET AWAY FROM ME BEFORE I TURN YOU INTO A TOAD!"

"Woah! well, looks like your Dad didn't teach you any manners or the right words to use in front of a lady. Or maybe he's just a terrible Dad. Eh, interesting, but not what I'm here for." Good News boops your nose with the eraser part of her pencil. "Come on, kid, I know you're angry. But let's just get this wrapped up so we can all go home."

You growled at her, but the fact that she said it was interesting on how you acted made you calm down. Not because it calmed you naturally, but you didn't want her writing anything....that would make you, Discord, or even Fluttershy look bad. But you were clever enough to come up with a semi-decent lie. "....There's nothing to know...we just talked in private because she was wondering about if I caused the snowstorm with my horn as a prank. She didn't want to meet me where anypony would notice because she didn't want to embarrass me."

"Innnnnnteresting. Going so far to speak in a cave over something like that.......sorry kid, ain't buyin' it" She started to play and mess with your mane. "C'mon, kid. This story could really skyrocket my career. I promise, give me the goods and I'll leave you alone forever. Journalist's honor."

"Hrn, isn't honor of journarist as good as honor of ninja?" Shadow Sheet questioned.

"Yeah, it probably is. And that's a pretty high honor right?" She smiled as she looked back at her cohort.

"Acturarry, Ninja have no honor in our actions. We onry royarry serve that who hires us, even if contractor is considered a doofus by highest of degrees " He informs her.

She sighs, aggravated with the fact that she realized she said her honor was shit. "...Right. Well look, kid, It's still a promise right? And it's not like you're going anywhere...commmee oooonnn.." She started to gently massage your head. But you could barely feel that in this stunned state.

"....you're creepy. You know that?"

She immediately stops massaging your head as she let's out a grunt. "Hmph, You know it isn't right to insult a lady like that, right kid? No manners at all. Look, if you're not going to tell me then I'll just write what I thought happened and we'll call it a day. How does that sound? I dunno...you said creepy, right? I dunno, would be reallllyyy creepy if Luna was into the younger colts right? Then she'd have to publicly tell everypony what actually happened. Either way, I'm gonna find out the truth."

This fuckkkiinng bitch. She would drag Luna through the mud like that just for the truth? You had to think of something fast. B-but...you couldn't think of anything plausible.

"Tick tock tick tock...." She was finally losing her patience with you.

"..Don't you think you'd be in trouble after you let me go?" You tell her

She shrugged. "I'm not worried, Shadow Sheet has got a potion that'll make all of this seem like a bad dream. Pretty nifty, ain't it kid?"

...Fucking.... "......Mngh...." ....What could you say now? You should have just zapped them when you had the chance. fucking ninjas.

"...Anon?" You hear a familiar soft voice.

Coming upon one of the hills of the field was...oh god..Fluttershy. OH GOD. She looked confused, she had a basket of acorns with her. Was she collecting them for squirrels? Did it matter now? FUCK!

You, Good News, and Shadow Sheet noticed her. You didn't know whether to scream for help or to tell her to run away. But she approached, with worry in her heart as she saw the strain on your face. "W-what's going on here?"

Don't hesitate. "Aunt Fluttershy! Run! Run away please!" You didn't want her to get hurt. These bastards looked like they'd do anything to get the story.

"Oh, hey Miss Shy. Look, this ain't what it looks like. Your nephew here was just telling me a story and my partner spoo-" News tries to tell her, but you cut her off.

"SHE'S LYING, THEIR BAD PONIES, RUN PLEASE! TELL EVERYPONY! PLEASE! RUN! ONE OF THEM IS A NINJA!"

"N-ninja?!..Anon.." She was looking terrified at first. But as she approached,she started to look at them in a cautious way. "..What are you doing to my, Anon?"

"Gouda News, we have been found out! I suggest course of action. She must be taken out!" Shadow Sheet was already ready to put his ninja skills to work.

"Geez, ya got an itchy hoof, don't ya? Fine, knock her out and make sure she don't remember any of this. But that's it, don't do any of your freaky ninja stuff, got it? We don't need to make that weirdo Discord get testy." Good News gives him the word to act.

"..What?!..So you are hurting Anon! How dare you! How could you hurt such an innocent little colt!" Fluttershy stomps her hoof. "I-I feel so angry!"

"Yeah yeah, c'mon Shadow Sheet, step on it!" Good News commands him.

"As you wish!" Shadow Sheet jumps into action, going right at Fluttershy with intense speed to knock her out.

"AUNT FLUTTERSHY!" You call out to her.

But Shadow Sheet, he stops dead in his tracks the moment he comes face to face with her. And in a short moment, he runs away screaming "AGH, I'VE BEEN CURSED. CURSED BY THE DEMON BUTTERFRY! WHOSE STARE PIERCES AND TAINTS THE SORE! I MUST PURIFY MYSERF IMMEDERIATRY!"

Fluttershy was still in deep scary stare as he ran away. She then blinked, and stepped towards Good News with as much of a leer as she could muster. "What are you doing to my Anon?"

"What in the hay.." Good News silently said to herself in disbelief. She then turned her attention to Fluttershy with a chuckle, unaffected by her stare. "I ain't doing nothing to the kid, it was that guy's smoke bomb that did it. All I'm doing is following a scoop. I was gonna take him back to town when I was done. So come on already, stop being so uptight. I'm almost done."

"Mhmm.." Fluttershy then looked to you, she wasn't breaking her expression. But you knew deep inside she must be worried sick. "Anon, is she treating you badly?"

You weakly nod, as best as you could. "She's being really mean and asking bad questions. Princess Luna doesn't want me telling anypony anything because it's important."

"Princess Luna?" Fluttershy was confused at first. But if it was related to her, and she wanted it secret, then she wouldn't pry. "Ok, I understand.....I remember you." She turns to Good News. "you were the nice news lady who was wondering where Anon was when that griffon thing happened. It looks like you're not very nice at all."

"Pfft, whatever. What are you gonna do about it? Even if I walk away, I still got my pictures. I'm getting this story, whether you like it or not."

"Really?...Angel" Fluttershy just stares at Good News as Angel pops his head out her acorn basket. He hops out and sniffs for a second, hops behind a tree, and comes back from it holding a small bag. He pulls out some photos of you, Scrappy, and Luna. She hid her bag behind a tree? She must have been afraid of retaliation in case you had noticed the bag and used your horn to hide it.

"These photos, right?" Fluttershy smirks at her.

"H-hey now...be careful with those" Good News calls out, her composure finally broken.

"I'm sorry to do this, Miss News." Fluttershy's expression now showed actual lament for her next action. "But you're hurting my Anon, and you also don't seem to care about Princess Luna at all. I'm not usually this mean but...Angel." She looks back at him and nods. And he immediately rips them up. He then...does a very loud whistle for some reason.

"HEY! YOU CAN'T DO THAT!" Good News growls. "THAT WAS MY LEVERAGE! YOU.." She looked to Fluttershy with great hatred and disdain, but Fluttershy stood there unwavering. "DO YOU REALIZE WHAT YOU'RE DOING? I'M THE MEMBER OF THE PRESS! YOU CAN'T TREAT ME LIKE THIS! OH, YOU'RE GOING TO BE SORRY! I KNOW THERE'S A LOT OF STUFF I CAN DIG UP ON YOU THAT YOU DON'T WANT ANYPONY TO KNOW ABOUT!"

"....Is that right? Do you really mean that, Miss News? I'm awfully sorry, but don't you think that's a little much? Maybe we can just forget this whole thing happened, and maybe, you could even write nicer and less intrusive articles from now on." Fluttershy looked to her with concern.

"..You wish. Not like you can even stop me." Good News threatens her. "So why don't you lay off already? I told you you can have him back when I'm done."

"Oh, well..I guess I can do that..." As Fluttershy begins to sound deterred, Good News feels a tapping on her back.

"What do you w-.....eep..." She looks back to see a bear behind her. Mr. Bear to be exact, and he didn't look too pleased.

"But it might upset Mr.Bear, he's usually the biggest softy, but he doesn't like big meanie ponies. Especially big meanie ponies that hurt little foals. Would you please reconsider? Pleeease? Oh my, I'm even more afraid now..what if Discord found out..oh no..that would be bad." Fluttershy showed intense worry, but this was a false outward emotion she was showing, deep inside...she was angry as fuck. But even then, she didn't want there to be violence or anyone getting hurt. She would never ask Mr.Bear to hurt her. But the threat was still there nonetheless.

"Y-yeah...u-uhhh.." She was ghost white now as Mr. Bear punches a tree down in a single punch. Then smiles at her, an evil looking smile. "Y'know...you might be right there, Miss Shy." She chuckles nervously. "Maybe it's time for me to report on the littler stories...ehehe. Hey...Kid..." She looks at you with a worried and scared grin. "No hard feelings, right?"

You would mention that Discord would have found out anyway, but even he wouldn't be able to counter the story once she got it out. So instead, you just say… "I'll turn you into a toad if I ever see you again....you meanie."

She was out of options now. Even if she had any other way to get the story out, she would have to deal with the fact that she now had a witness to her abuse. And her ninja friend didn't have a chance to wipe your memories, nor Fluttershy's. She was done. "R-right...well...time for me to get back to Manehatten. Haha...You two..have a lovely day." She starts to back off slowly, keeping her eyes on the bear.

Hrn, that’s probably why Angel whistled. He whistled for him. Damn he was quick.

Fluttershy waves happily at her "Please, have a safe trip and a great day!" And then Fluttershy's cheerful demeanor changed, as she did the stare at her. "And don't you EVER come near him again. Got it?"

"Crystal c-c-clear..." She steps back a little more, and bolts the other direction.

Fluttershy sighed the moment she was gone. It took a lot out of her to do something like that. Angel hopped up onto her back and started rubbing the back of her neck gently. "Thank you Angel, and thank you too Mr. Bear. And thank you for not hurting her, I know it took a lot of restraint." Fluttershy thanked Mr. Bear, who smiled and did a motion that indicated it was no big deal. And with a goodbye you couldn't audibly understand, he went back to doing what he was apparently doing. disappearing into the distance.

"Anon..." Fluttershy then looked to you as she teared up, started to cry, and grabbed and hugged onto you. "Oh Anon! Are you hurt? Did those meanie ponies hurt you? Where does it hurt?" She sobbed as she hugged you close, you couldn't even hug her back, you could barely feel the hug.

...Well, at least you could tell her you weren't hurt. You felt bad that she was so worried. But damn, you were also amazed. That was awesome.

Chapter 292

But what exactly do you say? She started to notice that as she hugged you, she wasn't receiving a hug back. "Anon, are you alright?..w-what's wrong?" She began to get really worried now.

"Ummm..." Shit…

You stay silent, trying to think of a way to put this without worrying her. But she stops hugging you so she can inspect if you had an injury. But without the ability to move, your limbs go limp, hanging backwards as your head slumps to the side.

Fluttershy's eyes go wide from the horror of it all. "A-ANON?! ANON! ANON!" She started to shake you, thinking you were unconscious, Ohhhh..it just made you feel disoriented and dizzy.

"A-A-Aunt F-Fluttershy! I-I'M F-F-F-F-Fine!"

"Wh-what?" She lays you down gently on your belly. She can see your eyes moving, your mouth seemed fine, but nothing else. "Anon...w-what's wrong?

"Aunt Fluttershy, i-it's nothing to worry about. That ninja pony guy just sorta hit me with some sort of gas bomb. I can't move. B-but it's ok, I'm sure it's only temporary."

Fluttershy freaked out from that. A gas bomb? Paralysis?! "Anon! That's not nothing! That could have been a poison!...Poison..." Fluttershy froze as she stared blankly into space. "...Poison… Anon.." She picked you up, and holds you tight as she floats up, Angel grabbing on tight to the basket around her. "We need to get you to the hospital..NOW!"

....Ok..maybe there really was no way to calm her down. Fucking hell, you felt so bad. That stupid ass Good News...why couldn't she leave you alone?

Fluttershy darted right towards the hospital as she continually asked you how you were feeling.

You couldn't feel anything, you couldn't even feel her warming hugs. Dammit, you told her you were ok. But you had no idea what you should say to calm her down at this point.

"It'll be ok, Anon, we're almost there, ok? The doctors will be able to help you lickety split" She was crying. It just had to be a strange gas, didn't it? Hell, you were sure she'd be more calm if it was an actual physical injury. Then again, she had a right to be afraid, who knows what other effects that gas could have.

"Aunt Fluttershy, I'll be ok. I know I'll be. It really doesn't hurt."

"Anon, we have to get you to the hospital, just to be sure. I won't...I can't take any chances." Fluttershy was determined, flying as fast as her soft feathery wings would take her.

When you both finally arrive, she bursts through the doors head first and starts yelling, rather loudly, probably one of the loudest times you ever heard her. "HELP! MY ANON WAS ATTACKED! HE CAN'T MOVE! SOMEPONY! PLEASE! HELP HIM!"

The ponies who were still waiting their turn, the nurses, even the few doctors in the lobby just turned over to her. They didn't know what to say or do, it was all so sudden. Fluttershy's eye twitched from the urgent matter not being taken so seriously. She then roars out "HELP MY ANON OR I SWEAR! I'LL....I'LL...I'LL CAUSE A BUNNY STAMPEDE!"

Angel popped out of the basket to point to Fluttershy, then nod at them, like she'd actually do it. You thought that the rabbit stampede from the show was just a gag...but everypony started to panic.

One of the doctors stepped up to Fluttershy slowly as the nurse behind the desk ducked down. "A-alright Miss Fluttershy, n-no need to be hasty. We're here to help, that's why we're doctors. Just tell us what's wrong...and don't call the rabbits. We don't need that here"

"S-sorry....but please..Help him...I think he was poisoned" She started to nearly hyperventilate from all that shouting as she holds you towards the unicorn doctor, who takes you with his magic and rolls in a gurney to gently place you on it.

You don't say anything, you didn't want to make things worse.

"Poison? What poisoned him exactly? Do you know?" The doctor asked

"Some sort of pony threw a gas bomb at him, it paralyzed him completely! I-I'm scared" She explains to them, trying her best not to stutter. She wanted to make sure he understood.

"This is serious, Nurse.." The doctor looks to one of the cowering nurses, snapping her slowly to attention. "I need you to grab my emergency testing kit immediately, and bring every anti-toxin we have. We'll figure this out immediately...to think, there's a pony out there that would do this to a foal. Do not worry miss, We'll have your son walking again soon" The doctor grabs your gurney and rushes off. Fluttershy tries to follow, but one of the nurses stops her. Explaining to her that the doctor was going to perform an important procedure on you and needed concentration.

He said son....god, you hoped that didn't pierce her heart. Because yours was aching right now. All that suffering she's going through. Why...why couldn't you have a single calm day? You were so close this time.

The Doctor brought you into some operating room as he put on a mouth cover and some hoof gloves as he had the nurses who followed him prepare his operating table.

You said as you were placed on the table "U-Ummm..What's going on?"

"We're going to take some of your blood and test and match it with all the poisons we know about, then provide you an antitoxin. Don't worry, the procedure is quick and clean. We just need you to stand still as we take a sample." The doctor turns towards you, holding a sharp looking needle. Normally, this would be terrifying. But...

"I...can't move anyway. I can't even feel anything....And I don't think...you know what? Just do it, I already know I'll be ok. I just want my Aunt to know I'm ok"

The doctor wasted no time in getting your blood sample, he spoke to you as he went to work on finding the exact anti-venom he needed with his tools. "You're very brave considering you've been poisoned, I think I've seen you here before. You're that hero colt, right?"

"Yeah, and I've been here before, you're right about that."

"Mhmmm, I remember everypony running like their manes were on fire when your father broke through our wall and stole a bed." The doctor gives a light hearted chuckle. "I don't know what you do everyday, but maybe you shouldn't go around doing it."

"Hey! It's not my fault...I mean, I just got foalnapped and then this happened..it was dumb. Things just happen to me."

"Well that's a shame...speaking of which.." The Doctor stops what he's doing as he turns towards you and removes his facemask. "You'll be fine, you're not poisoned. You just breathed in a powdered form of Cockatrice Weed"

...Hehe...he said weed. "What? What the hay is Cockatrice Weed?"

"Just an uncommon type of flora that, while touching it doesn't cause any problems, ingesting it..or in your case....breathing it in will cause stiffness or even paralysis of the body. Hence the name Cockatrice." The doctor chuckles. "Just be glad it doesn't actually turn you to stone like it's namesake suggests, then we'd have a problem."

So there was no problem then… "So, erm. Does that mean everything will be ok?"

The Doctor nods. "Yes, the effects will eventually wear off. I'll have a nurse take you to a room for rest and we'll explain to your mother what's going on."

Mother… You thought about correcting him. But part of you felt that wouldn't be right. For all intents and purposes, she was practically your mother with the title of Aunt. You'd just leave it alone. "Thanks doc...."

"No problem. Nurse, please take him to one of our empty rooms to recover." The Doctor puts you back on the gurney with his magic as the nurse takes you away to a room.

Cockatrice Weed, huh? Well, at least he figured it out quick. Maybe things would finally quiet down now...you hoped.

The Nurse brought you up to the second floor of the hospital. Into a room marked 209. And gently placed you on the available bed. She told you that your "Mother" would be told what room you were in and that visitation was allowed. Thank christ, you didn't want to be stuck here alone since you couldn't even move.

You thanked the nurse of course, you wanted to be polite. She smiled, and went about her business. She tucked you in and made sure you were comfortable before leaving. Such a nice nurse.

Then, after the door closed...

"So, I was right to serect this room" You hear the quiet yet gruff voice of the ninja...noooo…...nooooo...GOD NO

You moved your eyes about, you couldn't see him. Was it just a hallucination? "H-hello?" Suddenly, right by the door, a white sheet the same color as the wall is pulled away, revealing Shadow Sheet. WHAT?! WHY?! "HELLLP! HELLLP! THE NINJA IS HERE!"

"No one can hear you scream, young one, my sound sperr wirr see to that, soon, it wirr be over." Shadow Sheet slowly walked over to you with determination in his eyes.

NO! OH MY GOD! HE WAS GONNA KILL YOU! HOLY FUCK! THIS WAS NOT TV Y! "HELLLP! HELLLLP! DISCORD! DISCOOOORD! GODDDDDDDWIFJDSJ" Shadow Sheet rams his hoof onto your mouth, something sliding out from the frog of his hoof and into your mouth and through your throat....oh shit..was that poison?! "N-no...oh no...."

It was over, wasn't it?

Fluttershy.....

Discord...

Diamond...

And everyone else...

You started making choking noises as Shadow Sheet looked over you, you were struggling about, holding onto your neck with your hoof.

"...Errr, what are you doing?" He asked, seemingly confused.

"...what does it look like? I'm dying, you heartless monster...oh man....I-I can't believe this is it" You said as you held on to your neck, feeling your life leave you by the second.

"Dying? No no no, you are not dying. You are cured....I think" He couldn't tell since you were practically choking yourself at this point.

"What?" You looked to your hooves, they were....moving? wut?

"Cured?...y-you cured me? Wait...whyaah!?" You stood up and backed off away from him, falling off the other side of the bed.

He didn't laugh or chuckle, he was just further confused by your actions. "Yes...er, cured. Though, I do not know if I have accidentry damaged your mind."

Goddammit, you must have looked like an idiot. You slowly climbed up the bed, now realizing you weren't in danger, but still being wary while trying not to goof up. And if he was going to try something...don't hesitate...use the horn. "I'm fine, just uhh...getting used to moving. Still kind of numb...y'know?"

"Numb? But you shourd be abre to feer everything by now, perhaps your mind is very srow and-" As he contemplated, you interrupt him. Dammit, you didn't need emphasis on how dumb you were being.

"NOPE! I'M FINE NOW!...yeesh, look. Uhh..." You calm down now, as curiousness settles in. "Why did you cure me anyway? Why are you even here if you're not here to destroy me? You work for that news reporter, don't you?"

He shook his head. "No ronger, our contract has been settred. And the reason I am here is to cure you in honor of your bravery in rooking the demon butterfry in the eye without worry or fright. It is trury worthy of praise. I arso cured you because I felt guirt in hurting a foar, despite a ninja's honor being zero."

So he...felt bad about hurting you?...No wait, what the fuck? Demon Butterfly? Did he mean.... "You mean my Aunt? She's not a demon, she's just...nice and...uhh....no, look, what makes you think she's a demon? Because I really can't understand why. Was her stare really that scary?"

Shadow Sheet nodded. "Indeed, and within the core of her eye was the mark of the high standing yet thought to be extinct...UNDEAD!" He shouts, putting emphasis on that last word.

Undead?...Wut? "Uhhhh...you lost me there pal. Are you saying my aunt is a zombie? That's...uhhh..." You just..how? This guy was off his rocker. "kinda impossible...she has a pulse."

Shadow Sheet shook his head, apparently that wasn't it. "No, not zombie....VAM...PONY!" There was a hint of fear in his voice. He was actually legitimately scared of her? Vampony? The fuck? No, you couldn't hold it in as you start chuckling at him.

"What?! come on man, Vampony? Seriously? Are you for real? Did you not notice her walking around in broad daylight?"

"I have, she is creary a powerfur reader. Ancient and powerfur Vamponies are not harmed by the sun."

Oh man, he really believed what he was saying.

"And...ok....and...exactly er.....what exactly leads you to believe she's a vampony again?"

"The mark! the mark in her eyes!...and the odd sright fang in her mouth. Barery noticabre, but most definatry there. Surery you've seen it, as you are revered as mighty hero."

Fangs? Eyes.....wait....nooo, did he mean? Did she still have faint signs? If she did...it wasn't anything you noticed. Oh man, thats hilarious. She was a "Vampony" at one point. But not the kind he described. "Ohhhh, no no no, you got it all wrong."

"Exprain, for I think you are the one who is wrong" He stuck by his beliefs, as stubborn as any "haysian" would be.

"Ok, look, I'll keep it simple. Awhile ago, there was a vampire fruitbat problem at Sweet Apple Acres. So a spell was cast to make the fruitbats hate apples to make them go away. Unfortunately all the lust for apples were put into the one you call a "Demon Butterfly" and she became a vampony fruitbat who went after apples and stuff. She was cured of it like, the very next night I think. Point is, she's not a vampony anymore. And even when she was, it wasn't that kind of vampony. Comprende?"

"Hmmmmm...." He pondered on it for a moment. He had never heard of any kind of magic like that. Or a spell with that kind of power. Also, he thought that plan itself was retarded "Hmn, whoever cast that sperr was highry irresponsribre. Who wourd even come up with such a foorish pran?"

Oh lordy...who indeed. You wondered how he would react when you told him… "Er, that would be princess Twilight Sparkle herself."

He coughed. He certainly didn't expect that answer. And it seemed, like with "moon spirits", he had a respect for royalty. Because he was completely retracting his attitude. "Werr...yes, I...erm. I wourdn't say foorish. Perhaps, more...expirementar? Yes, that must be it. It's not rike she'd cast a want it, need it sperr to sorve a non existant probrem"

.........

".........." He stares

"........." You stare

He looks into the void that is his now his perceived future, looking blankly forward. "....I fear for the future of Equestria...."

Ok, maybe..you gave the wrong impression. "Uhm, I mean...that was a while ago. It'll be fine...erm. hmnnn...Look Shadow Sheet, I can tell you're not really a bad guy. You're just like a mercenary for hire right?"

He nods. "That is correct...."

"That's cool, that's neat. I actually appreciate you coming in and curing me. I feel pretty good, and despite you being utterly terrifying when I thought you were going to kill me, you aren't actually that bad. I think it's cool that you are a ninja. Didn't even think that was a thing anymore."

He bows. "Thank you, I feer honored."

Awww...that was almost cute. He wasn't so bad, just superstitious. But he was also pretty good with that ninja magic shit. "Aww, it's no big. So...erm...what are you going to do now?"

He sighed, taking a long breath before speaking. "I wirr have to end it....I have no more reason to be here" He said as he reached into his garb.

...wait...no reason to be here? End it?! HOLY FUCK! "WAIT! DON'T DO IT! YOU HAVE SO MUCH TO LIVE FOR! YOU DON'T HAVE TO COMMIT SEPPUKU! WHY!? PLEASE! THERE'S SO MANY OTHER THINGS YOU CAN DO WITH YOURSELF! I MEAN IT!"

"What?" He was super confused at you as he took out a sheet of paper and a pencil. "Seppuku? no...no...I was just going to sign these resignation papers. I no ronger wish to work for Gouda News, she is....as the west side says...a jerk"

Oh....haha...you chuckle sheepishly. Dammit, he...he wasn't going to kill himself..why would you think that?...god. Well, at least his reason was good, she was a fucking ass. "Yeah, a real cheesehead, right?"

He suddenly burst into laughter, Shadow Sheet found that to be a very hilarious joke. "HAHA! You are very funny. I rike you...but...I must be off. Fare thee werr young hero cort, perhaps..we wirr meet again. For now, I onry ask that our meeting here remain secret… now... I sharr reave rike the wind!" He bowed as he made off for the window and took a dive, crashed on the window's glass without breaking it, and fell backwards. "O-oof! W-what manner of sorcery is this?!" He whined as he slowly got up and inspected the window.

...Really? "Uhhh...you have to....open it"

"....Oh...." You couldn't see his expression, but you could tell he was embarrassed as he slowly opened the window. Perhaps he just couldn't see it was closed? It was kinda funny though. "..now..again...off...rike wind...yes" And then he hopped out.

You just smile and shake your head as he jumps away. What a cool guy. You kinda hope you run into him again someday. Maybe you could even hire him, would be cool to have your own ninja.

And then, as you look upon the open window, you hear a knock on the door. It seems the spell may have gone with him. "Anon..." You heard the soft voice of Fluttershy "Are you alright? Would you mind if I come in?"

Awww..she went back to being a softy. She was probably scared. Ha, you sure had a surprise for her. A hug? yeah...that would brighten her day instantly. You huddled under your blanket and put your head on the pillow. Oh yeah, once you sprang up, she'd smile wider than ole Ponk. "Come in...."

Fluttershy slowly entered the room as her gaze fell upon you, a frown formed across her face as she herself was filled with worry. But it was only a moment as she put on a facade of a smile as she approached. "Anon, how are you doing?"

You give her a false weak smile. "I'm doing alright I think, the doctor told me I wasn't poisoned with anything too bad. Just some muscle stiff thingy."

Fluttershy gulped, retaining her smile as she pulls up a chair with her wing and puts it to your bedside as she sits. Angel hopping out of her basket and onto the foot of your bed. "I know, you have no idea how glad I was to hear it. He said once you're able to move I can take you home." Her smile grows a little wider as she reaches her right hoof to rub your head. "So there r-really isn't anything to worry about, Right? It's not permanent, and..w-well. even if it was, I'm sure your father would have had a way to cure it right up anyway. S-so, you were never really in any trouble after all." She sounded like she was convincing herself, rather than you. "Mhmmm, everything will be just fine..."

You notice a tear go down her cheek. It wasn't just the fact that you were paralyzed that bothered her, she didn't understand why the attack had to happen at all. To a foal? Just why? Was it your hero status? She just didn't comprehend it.

Or was it just your luck? That cutie mark of yours, it seemed to symbolize that trouble would follow you no matter where you went. She wondered… was it your destiny to always go through things like this? She was thinking back to the moment with the Chimera now. Certainly it didn't know of your status, and the old castle didn't have any signs of a resident when last checked, and yet there was danger there anyway. And if you just had your horn...wait...the horn...she thought about that now.

"That's good." You gave her a cheerful smile. "After such a scary day, I could use some relaxation with the best Aunt in the whole wide world."

That got to Fluttershy, she felt her heart melt from your surface level cuteness. Though, you did mean it. After that shit? Staying with Fluttershy was probably best. Besides, you did love her, and genuinely enjoyed her company. Out of everyone in Equestria, sans DT, she was the most gentle and loving. And sometimes, thats all you really wanted.

"Aww Anon...." Her expression becomes a more softened and motherly gaze as she continues to run her hoof slowly through your mane. "...Anon...actually. I want you to answer a question for me."

A question? "Sure, what kind of question?"

"Your horn.." Fluttershy's true wish was for you to stay out of danger. But to her, it seemed like it just followed you no matter what. So...she thought of an alternative solution. "You can only use it once per day? Right? Is that why you didn't use it to defend yourself?"

You nod. "Yeah...erm. I mean, I didn't know how bad the threat would be until it was too late." This was kinda weird. Why was she asking?

"Well, I was thinking. I want you to ask your father to come to the house tonight. And you too. I want to discuss allowing you to use it twice a day. That way, if you ever have to use it to defend yourself, you'll have less of a reason to think twice. I think you're responsible enough to use it without causing anypony any trouble. You are, aren't you?" She felt it was an automatic yes.

..Responsible enough? Sure, you felt you had gotten a lot better at this. And two charges? Woah...you would have thought someone like Chrysalis would have suggested that for selfish reasons before Fluttershy even thought about it. And..you could do a lot more with two charges rather than one. Especially when it comes to defense. "I think I am. You actually want me to be able to use it twice though? Dad never seemed to think I needed two."

She nods. "Oh yes, yes I do. But only if you never use it to be mean or nasty. I know I don't have to say it. But I never ever want you to ever think of doing anything bad. And I know you won't, so I'm not worried" She smiles as she pecks your nose with a kiss. "Ok?" She begins to sound a little more cheerful, doing her best to relax.

"Mhmm, I got it." You brought your hoof to your forehead for a salute.

"Great.....wait" She realized, then gasped at your movement. "Anon, y-you can move?!"

You smile to yourself as you slowly wave your hoof about. "Whatddya know? I guess I can. Oh! I bet your cuddle magic fixed me Aunt Fluttershy!" You open your hooves to her for a hug. "Can I get cuddles please?"

She started to tear up and whimper as she leans forward and picks up and holds you close, folding her wings over you. "Yes, you can have every cuddle ever! I'm so so so so so so glad you're ok Anon! I'm..so..g-glad" She began to cry once again.

Now you felt a little bad. But you knew her crying was happy crying. Essentially, you just made her day by showing her you were ok. "I love you Aunt Fluttershy."

"I love you too, I'll always love you Anon. No matter what" She does her best to hide her whimpering as she cradles and cuddles you close.

Though....perhaps that talk about the horn didn't have to happen tonight, because the lovable moment stops when you can hear shrieking and yelling coming from outside the door. "Mr. Discord! Please calm down! W-we know you're worried bu-but that's no reason to turn our nurses into parrots!" You could hear one of the doctors begging.

Oh fuck…

"THEN STOP REPEATING YOURSELVES! AND STOP TELLING ME TO CALM DOWN! MAYBE IF YOU HAD, I'D ONLY HAD TURNED ONE OF YOU INTO A PARROT. ALWAYS SQUAWKING YOUR SAME MEDICAL MUMBO JUMBO! NOW TELL ME WHERE MY SON IS BEFORE I TURN THIS WHOLE PLACE INTO A BIRDHOUSE! TELL ME HOW HE IS!"

You could hear Discord yelling, and so could Fluttershy as she muttered a frightened "...Oh no"

"H-he's in room 2-209! Miss Shy w-was the one to b-bring him in and we a-already let her know he will be fine. Please, if you don't believe me. A-ask her yourself." The doctor sputtered in fright.

But there was no noise after that. There was an eerie quiet. And then... ".....Did you say miss Shy?"

"Y-yes, she's just a few doors down." You could hear the doctor.

Then you hear a small blast of magic. Then you could hear Discord once again, completely and seemingly calmed down. "This never happened, I entered this hospital with a calmness comparable to that of a statue. And now everypony suddenly has a thousand bits waiting for them at home. And most of all, when we walk through that door. You and I are friends, understand?"

"U-ummm...." The doctor didn't know how to respond.

You looked to Fluttershy, and giggled. "Dad is afraid of you, huh?"

Fluttershy relaxed, and giggled herself when she realized everything would be ok, she even got a little cocky about Discord suddenly backing off. "Mhmmm" She gently places you back on the bed and pokes your nose. "Because he knows that I'll get mad if I find out he has been setting bad examples for you."

It didn't take long for Discord to step through the door thereafter, giggling to himself as he walked in with the frightened doctor, pretending to make idle chit chat. "And she says 'How dare you cook my shoes!?'. How amusing is that? I mean come on, those were obviously boots, not shoes. I tell you, you ponies blame things on me even when you're clearly wrong."

The doctor put on a fake smile as he trembled. "Haha, that's a g-good one. Well, here's the room. Other patients to take care of. Goodbye!" And then he zipped out of there.

Discord smirked to the two of you as he pointed back at the door. "A real charming guy that........doctor..pony. Anyway! I heard about what happened through some of my sources. How is my only son doing? Hmm?" You could just sense the relief in his voice when he could see you were clearly ok and that Fluttershy was already with you.

Fluttershy just looked to Discord, then back at the door, then back to him. "And you made sure to change everything back. Right?"

Discord cringed hard from that as he started to fiddle with his paw and talons. "You heard all that?"

"Mhmmm, but I'm not mad, Discord. I could hear how upset you were. But turning ponies into birds isn't a good way to handle it. It will only make other ponies mad at you. And Discord, I don't want anypony mad at you because you're understandably upset." She tells him. Not in a mean way, not even in a stern way. She just wanted him to understand.

Discord sighed as he looked down, feeling ashamed of himself. "Of course.."

"Discord..." Fluttershy hovers over to him and gives him a hug. Discord doesn't hesitate to hug her back and hold her close "Are you ok?"

"Just a tad angry, my dear. But no longer now that I see everything is ok....ahrm. Not that it wouldn't be. I am the greatest being alive mind you. only stands to reason that any kind of extension of myself would be alright." He explains as he tries to sound less worried.

"Oh Discord..." Fluttershy hovers upwards and smiles at him. "You don't need to act so tough. I know deep deep inside that the moment you found out Anon was in trouble that you dropped everything to be at his side because you care and was very worried about him."

Discord gripped his talons for a moment, but couldn't summon up the will needed to counter that. "I..suppose that's true. I...mnnn"

"Discord, come on. You don't need to say anything more. Why don't you just go say hi to him and see that he's ok" Fluttershy was just smiling at him. Her worries were gone now that he was here. She felt, as a family unit, things would be fine. She was especially glad that it seemed your "sister" didn't find out about this. She didn't want her to worry.

Discord looked to you, and without a word, went and sat at the seat Fluttershy was previously sitting and looked down at you with a gentle smile "How are you doing, Anon? Well, I hope"

"Yeah, I'm ok...how are you doing Dad? You sounded pretty worried out there"

"Ahrm...well.." He already knew you knew exactly how worried he was, given what happened back near the old cutie mark vault. "I was. And really, I don't understand how this could have happened. I was told some vagrant had paralyzed you with some weed. Why didn't you use your horn to flip his entire world upside down?"

"...Oh..well..I didn't want to waste the charge. I thought I could handle it without the horn."

"Anon..." Discord sighs as he leans back. "As the son of chaos, I not only expect you to hold a certain standard to the title, but also to make anypony who dares challenge you understand the very meaning of the word 'Chaos'."

"Discord...you mean just defending himself because a bad pony tried to hurt him. Right?" Fluttershy wanted him to correct himself to sound less...chaosy.

"Right! That's exactly what I meant. Thank you, Fluttershy" Discord acted as if that's actually what he meant. It was kinda cute to see him reacting like this.

"I'm sorry Dad, I guess I messed up" You felt you did, that's for sure. You should have been able to slap Good New's shit. Shadow Sheet though? Eh, he was just really doing his job.

Discord sighed and placed his paw gently on your head. In the end, he was just glad you were ok. "It's alright, I'm just glad you're alright. Although," He turns his head to Fluttershy to try to make some sort of point "A little chaotic fortitude would have given him the impulse to prevent this. Just a small urge to wreck the fabric of reality. Fluttershy, surely you understand at least that much."

And then, that’s when she blew Discord's mind "I actually agree with you Discord. That's why I want to ask you something."

"Ask me something?" Discord was curious. Since the topic of chaos was brought up. He snapped his talons, teleporting to the other side of the bed with an eager look on his face, staring directly at Fluttershy with delight as if nothing else mattered. "Do go on Fluttershy, I don't think we've ever had a chat about promoting chaos on a larger scale."

"Don't get too ahead of yourself, Discord." Fluttershy took a seat on the chair and looked directly into Discord's eyes before taking a look at your necklace. "I don't want Anon running amok. That would be bad. But I do want Anon to have a way to defend himself better. I know how the horn works and..." She looked to Discord with pleading eyes. "Can you please...please...give him another, umm, I think you call it a charge? Can you give him another to use everyday?"

"Interesting..." Discord leaned back as he pulled up a gelatin chair and stroked his beard as he laid back on it. "Another charge? I presume this is over the fact that he hesitated to use the one he has. Yes..." He then entered deeper into thought...in a literal sense. He literally took his brain out of his ear and started rubbing it like a cat, much to everyone's dismay. "Although, I still think Anon has yet to prove himself with just the charge he has. I think, especially after today, that you may be right. Surely with two charges he wouldn't have to think about when the right time would be to use one since he's usually conservative with the one charge he already has."

"Prove myself?" What else was there to prove?

"Discord, what do you mean by that?" Fluttershy was also curious.

Discord smirked as he shoved his brain into his mouth and shrugged. "It doesn't matter now. Because...well." Discord looked over to Fluttershy with a gentle expression. "If it would ease your heart, Fluttershy, I would gladly do this for you. In fact, it's already done. From now on, Anon will have two charges instead of one. Of course, purely for defensive reasons."

No fanfare? No big magic trick? Huh...you thought this would have been a bigger deal. "So.." You tap at your horn. "I can use it twice a day now?"

"That would be correct, sonny boy." Discord poked at your chest with his paw. "But that doesn't mean you can get yourself into trouble. As your aunt said, she wants this purely for defensive reasons." He was subtly looking towards Fluttershy as he said this. It pretty much showed that he was full of shit in that regard and only wanted to impress her.

"I got it, I got it...thanks Dad. I promise to use it responsibly."

"Good....now then, does that satisfy you, Fluttershy?" Discord was just waiting for it. Waiting for her approval.

And boy was she happy about it, knowing you'd be safer, that these strange occurrences that happen to you now could now be contained. She'd rather it not happen at all. But since they seem to happen no matter what, she would find solace in this. She flew up and latched on to Discord with a very big hug. "Thank you, Discord. I'm so proud of you. Everything you've been doing lately has been just..wonderful. I don't think I could be any happier with you as I am right now."

Discord hugged her back. Absorbing the attention like a child who only wanted to be loved. This is what he wanted, her praise and approval. This was the most important thing to him. It obviously edged out his care for you by just a bit. But only a bit, and you could live with that. It was just cute.

"As a father, Fluttershy, I only want what's best for my son. And if you think it's best, then of course your wish shall be granted." He seemed so happy...and yet...something filled you with dread as you could also hear his whispering voice in your ear.

The voice said. "Of course, Anon, I do expect you to amp up your own game a little better as well. As in, I do believe, when we have a chance, that some chaotic fun is in order. But for now, I expect you to do exactly as Fluttershy wants. That is...don't end up in the hospital again. I don't want her to get upset. Ahrm...I'd also not want to see you hurt. But the former more than the latter. I do think you deserve a spanking after that little stunt back in that backwater town. But, given the moment, I'll just let things slide. Do me proud, Anon...Do Fluttershy proud."

Ok, not as dreadful as you thought it'd be. But it seems Discord does want a sort of payment for the extra charge in the form of terrorizing someone. Well...you'd just have to handle it when it comes. Though...two charges? You could definitely work some extra magic with two. It would be easier to handle things AND perhaps even get the drop on Chrysalis rather than the other way around.

"Oh...Discord. What are you going to tell Nymous? Does she even know Anon is here?" Fluttershy wondered.

"Er...hmm" Discord seemed to have completely forgot to come up with a cover story for that. Perhaps the scare he had made him forget.

"Oh umm...I sure hope not, Aunt Fluttershy. After she took care of me all day, I think it'd be better if she didn't know. I don't want her to worry more than she already has." Yeah! That should work.

"Oh..well, I guess that's fine. I still think we should tell her. But...No..you're right. It might be better if she didn't know if she really was worried all that time. I wouldn't want her to think she was responsible or anything." Fluttershy seemed unsure. She didn't want there to be any more trouble because of this.

Discord followed up on your move, and gently caressed the top of Fluttershy's head. "Oh no no, Anon is right. She was rife with worry just from him being sick. We needn't make it worse for her."

"Hmmnn...ok" Fluttershy sighed. She did feel it was somewhat wrong. But,she'd go with both your words if it meant she'd be ok.

"So when can I come out of the hospital anyway? I don't want to be stuck here anymore."

"Oh it can be right now, I suppose. Should there be anymore complications, then my magic should be able to take care of it." Discord seemed ok with letting you go. "Besides, I'm sure there are a few things you want to do today."

There was, and maybe, he possibly knew what you had planned. Or not. Maybe he wanted to do that thing he wanted to do straight away. Who knows?

"Are you sure, Discord? I think we should wait for the doctor's ok" Fluttershy however, was against you leaving so soon.

"Pffft, what do doctors know? They probably thought Anon would be stuck here all day. And look, he's moving around like it's no big deal." Discord seemed pretty sure you were ok. And really? You knew you were since Shadow Sheet cured you.

"Yeah, I think I'm alright Aunt Fluttershy. And there is something I wanted to do today before y'know...this happened."

"....Still. No, no no. Discord, Anon...I simply cannot let that happen. I'm going to go get a doctor. And if he says you're ok, then you can go. But if not, then you're staying here." Fluttershy didn't want to hear anymore about it either, she was final about this.

"Fluttershy, really? Look at him...he's fine" Discord did his best to explain to her. Even wiggling your hooves around to show they were ok.

"I'm sorry, Discord. But not until the doctor gives the ok. As Anon's father, you should know that if Anon is sick...or hurt...or..well, anything that makes him end up at the hospital, that you need to wait for the doctor's ok before he can leave." Fluttershy had entered that mother mode. She refused to let you out until the ok was given.

"....." Discord raised his talon, as if he had a point. But then lowers it when he realizes he probably had no rebuttal.

"...Yeah..well, ok. I mean..let's get a doctor in then to check me out."

Fluttershy though, wanted to ask something before it even happened. "Hold on, wait, please. I'm confused, why is everypony in a rush anyway?" She would have at least thought that you would have taken the option to get some extra rest just in case.

"W-well, Aunt Fluttershy. I just want to meet up with Pinkie Pie as soon as possible today. I want to plan out Nymous's 'Welcome to Ponyville' party. I've heard she's been really shy about it and won't tell her any details."

Well, that was the truth in all actuality.

"Oh...well. I guess that's a good reason. I know how Pinkie can get when she isn't able to throw a party for a pony that she feels really deserves one." Fluttershy said.

"Then it's settled. We'll get the doctor to release Anon so he can go do his thing, while you and I return back to the cottage. There's a few details I'd like to go over with you on Anon's education." Oh, it seemed Discord just wanted to rush things to get to that. He snaps his talons to make a list appears, floating before him. "I only thought he'd have to endure a year of school and that'd be it. But according to this page I ripped from a magazine. He'd be doing this for at least over ten more years. And apparently there's so much planning involved as a parent for each year. And all these things I have to do to prepare him. I don't even know where to begin!" ....Did...did he really think school would end...in one year?...God fucking dammit.

Fluttershy giggled at that. She found it so silly that he didn't realize how much of an investment school was. "Oh Discord. You don't need to rush that either, you just need to properly plan one step at a time, not all at once. I don't mind helping you though. We'll get things figured out together. Actually, Discord, would you mind if Anon slept in the cottage for a couple of days? I'd like to be able to spend time with him. Oh, and Nymous too. I wouldn't mind having them both together if you don't mind."

...ALERT...ALERT! "Ah-ahm. Actually, can it be just me? I-I think Nymous really should get used to being around Dad and the house before anything else. I-it does take some time to get used to how things work there. And I think she would settle in better with one on one time with Dad"

"Ahh yes! T-that's right. Anon is right. Of course, I don't mind if he stays over. But Nymous? Well, she could get a little clingy due to the normality of things in the cottage. Not that living in my home is bad, but she needs to get used to things such as floating chairs and such. Plus, I do want to get to know her more personally. This would give me the chance. You understand, don't you Fluttershy?" Oh yeah, none of you could ever let that fucking happen.

"Oh, well...that's good too." Fluttershy felt content. They were interacting and growing as a family, as far as she was concerned anyway. "I'm so glad we're together like this. Erm, not due to the situation but...Well, what I mean is, that we're altogether being civil, being happy, and being a real family. In fact, I'm already excited to help plan out Anon's future with you Discord. It's going to be fun!" She was excited. But you couldn't help but wonder what those two could actually come up with when it came to your future.

Soon after a family hug, and a few more pleasantries, Fluttershy called for the doctor to come and check on you and get the word for the ok. Well, needless to say, he was fucking impressed that you were moving around so soon. He performed some rudimentary tests on you like asking if you could feel some pokes and prods and seeing how well you could move your limbs. He found it impressive, nearly dumbfounded that you could recover so easily.

He didn't see any reason why you couldn't leave since apparently the Cockatrice Weed doesn't leave any lingering effects once passed. Fluttershy was both happy and relieved of course. Even Discord was happy about it, he honestly was. So after one big family hug, you were reminded by Fluttershy to not go out to do anything dangerous, she also states that she'd like for you to come to the cottage by dinner time. Understandable, she didn't want you out longer than you needed to. Woo...You were glad DT never found out at all during your stay in the hospital. Actually, yeah. You were glad Shadow Sheet gave you the antidote because if you had to stay for too long, Diamond Tiara would have probably tore through the place worse than Discord.

And so, with hopefully no more delays, you once again made off to Sugarcube Corner. And now? There was no reason for you to hold back. Thanks to Fluttershy's worry, you now had double the firepower in your horn.

Yeah, now that you had double the firepower, you actually hoped that some stupid sap did come to bother you. With no reason to hold back thanks to having a back up charge, you wondered what you could pull off. Then again, wondering that was probably something you had to keep in mind due to whatever Discord has planned for you. It can't be too bad though, he cares about you too much...hopefully that counts for something.

The only other thing you had to worry about was Starlight. You wondered if she was in the Crystal Empire now. You were tempted to go check, just make a small detour. But then...no, she'd berate you if you came in to help her. And you didn't want to go through some episodic crap of her being angry at you for thinking she couldn't handle it alone. No, you had nothing to worry about. Sunburst seemed like a good guy. There was no way that could end up being a fuck up.

And then there was Nymous...rather Chrysalis. And planning this party. You REALLY had to make sure she didn't find out, lure her to it. and made sure she couldn't escape from it. Pinkie could obviously do the rest. Planning the party shouldn't be too hard, you felt all you really had to do was set a place and let her do the rest of the work with a few suggestions in mind. Yeah, nah. You didn't need to worry about this. You had this down.

Chrysalis, you were going to see, first hand. How good nice company can really be. And yeah..had to make sure to get this done before dinner. You didn't want Fluttershy to worry. Not after getting her into such a good mood.

Chapter 293

It would be a straight shot to Sugarcube Corner.

Just… Rush there, talk with Ponk, get it planned, go to Flutters, get cuddled, plan out your end. And oooof course, make sure it's sound. You were running as fast as you could towards the pastry shop. You could use your horn of course. But, just in case, you wanted to keep your two new charges. Who knows what else could come up to bother you.

Two new charges, hah, Fluttershy was really amazing. It made you wonder how much Discord really bends to her. You chuckle as you dash to the thought of them in bed, Fluttershy on top of....OH GOD NO! NEVER MIND. GET THAT SHIT OUT OF YOUR FUCKING BRAIN!

Eggghhh...ok, now with THAT thought out of your brain, You just continued your trek… until… "Hey Anon! Wait up!"

That voice, that scratchy, annoying voice. It hurt your brain so much it caused you to stop and cringe as you slowly turned around.

Snips and Snails. Or rather, a whole group of...what you could only guess...were fans… Ohhhh, what happened now? "...W-what's going on here?"

"Ask him Snips! Ask him!" One of the colts cried out.

"Isn't he dreamy? Oh, why did Diamond Tiara have to be the one to get his attention? I wish I was about to be foalnapped by foalnappers." A lovestruck filly said to her friends.

"He gets cooler everyday!"

"Yeah! And that sister of his...ohh, I'm gonna marry her one day."

"Come ooonnn, ask him already!"

"Alright alright..ahrm" Snips looked over to you. "Anon..."

And Snails, who was right beside him, just let's it out. "We heard you saved another version of Equestria! That's prettttyy coooool."

.......WHAT?! D-did the CMC tell them? Those fucking....DAMMIT! You start looking around, avoiding eye contact. Maybe you could explain it away as false. "W-what makes you say that?"

"OH, hehe" Snips snickers to himself. "Your sister, who is totally into me by the way, told us. And she even showed us some of the stuff from that other place, including...Snails?" Snips looks over to his buddy as a cue. Snails sits down and starts patting the ground like a drum. "TADA!" He raises his hoof to show off....is that. ..is that a lock of Chrysalis's mane?! THAT BITCH! THAT FUCKING..GODDAMMIT!

"...What is that exactly?" ..Here it comes..

"This is REAL changeling hair from the REAL changeling queen. Or the one you totally met in that other world. Sooo cool!" Snips, and in effect, the crowd, were all pretty excited.

"Yeah, and check out this other stuff." Snails used his horn to raise up the "new" bits, some records kept by Flim and Flam, a picture of Celestia and Sunset, and some piece of Flim and Flam's battle robot. "That's enough proof for me"

When...where....how.....what?! WHAT?! WHY?! WHY WOULD SHE HAVE THOSE?! WHY WOULD SHE NEEDS THEM?! SURELY SHE DIDN'T EVER THINK IN HER GODDAMN HEAD TO JUST COME OUT AND TELL EVERYONE WHAT HAPPENED!

Ooooohhhhh....god..why? Could you just say no? That it never happened? You could, until the fucking dweebs twist the lie into a form of modesty…

You could use your first charge to hurl them into the sun. Eh, Then Celestia would hurl you into the moon. Fucking christ, you had to find a way to defuse this, then ask Chrysalis what the fuck she was thinking. "Ok, I admit it, I admit it. I saved another Equesti-AH!"

Suddenly, the entire swarm of foals surrounded you, asking for autographs and details while showering you with praise. Y'know, if this had happened before Scoots and such, you would have soaked this up like a sponge. But now? It's nothing but trouble...even though it still felt kinda nice.

No, you couldn't give in to those old urges. "Woah woah woah, everypony calm down, OOP!"

"I got some of his tails hair!" One of the fillies cry out!

"I touched his horn! Ohh, It felt electric" Another filly says, caught in a bout of drunk love

"Come on dude, teach us those fighting moves you got!"

"..What's a robot, Anon?"

G-GYAH! You could barely move and you were being poked and prodded. You needed an adult! ...There was no adult. "Ok ok! If everypony could just steeeeeeep back please!"

Oh the karma. Before, you wanted to tell everyone so you could soak up the praise as a hero, but now that you knew what it was to be humble and such, this was a goddamn nightmare. They also weren't really listening as they continued their barrage of poking and questions.

Don't hesitate...it was time. You reach for your horn and slap it on.

"STOP!" Suddenly, every foal is caught in magical bubbles, they slowly float up and away a few feet from you before the bubbles stop in place. "...Thank you...sheesh" The horn changes back, this time with a small golden shine before changing back to the Sombra horn.

The foals were panicking now.
"Wh-what happened?!"

"We're floating!"

"T-this is kinda cool...but why?"

"Anon, what did we do wrong?"

"Hey Anon, what's with the bubbles? I mean, I guess it's cool, but, ummm...We weren't done asking you stuff yet" Snips looked upon you with worried and yet, fawning eyes.

Goddammit, it just never ends. This is partially your fault too. From the very beginning you should have stayed the course on avoiding the name "Hero Colt". Hell, you knew,had the crowd been smaller and more controlled, that even now, you may have absorbed some of the attention. But this was too much. This wasn't you anymore.

You just let it out..."Yes, I saved another world, but come on. I know it sounds cool, but, it was dangerous, and scary, and real lives were on the line and..."

"Was my life on the line, Anon? Was there another version of me there!" One of the colts cry out.

......ffffffff... "I don't know. Look, that's not important. The important thing is is that this whole "Hero Colt" thing? Yeah, it needs to stop. I understand that it'll never leave me, that's fine. A little praise is good here and there, but this is ridiculous! doesn't anypony remember what happened with the whole fan club thing? Ponies got hurt, emotionally, badly. And I don't want anypony to feel bad because of what others are doing. Look, recently I learned that being a hero is more than just praise and saving ponies and concocting heralding plans. Because being a hero for the sake of being a hero or for other selfish reasons is wrong. You all, I appreciate the praise, I don't mind a "Thank you", maybe a few autographs, or a small talk about things...." You almost lose it there, and snap yourself to attention. "But this? This is ridiculous and you should all be ashamed of yourselves."

"...Ahh geez" Snips looked down in shame.

"I guess we overdid it...again, ay?" Snails felt as if he was dealt a guilt filled blow.

"ngh, I remember how upset Scootaloo got when I...we left the club. I mean, Rainbow Dash is cool too. She also saved the world..a lot"

"Yeah, we're sorry Anon....I can still keep your tail hair right?"

You roll your eyes around. "Yes...I guess. But do you all understand me? Can we keep this whole 'Oh yeah! Hero colt!' thing down at maybe a two instead of a full ten? And maybe....not let this whole 'save the other world' thing spread past here?"

It took a moment, but one by one and two by two they all started to give in and agree with you. Apologizing again, and letting you know that they didn't mean for this to happen, And....to please let them down…

You didn't actually have a way to get them down. But they weren't to far up either, it was a totally safe distance for a short fall.

"Alright, I'm gonna try something. All of you, just assume you just jumped from a tree and you'll be fine, got it?" They all nod. "Ok..also, to all pegasi...get your wings flapping, just in case..ok...let's...do this." They all seemed to trust you, the perk of being the "Hero Colt" after all.

You start taking pebbles and throwing them at the bubbles, each foal letting out an eep as they brace themselves for a short fall and either land on their hooves, some on their butt, and others just hover in place. "...So, are we done here? We all calm?"

"...Yeah..sorry Anon, we goofed up again...I guess" Snips was rubbing his leg, feeling ashamed and dumb.

"It's fine. Look, you're all ok. You're all nice foals and all, but like I said, ease up on the whole crazy fan thing, that's all I ask. Also try to keep what my sister told you to yourselves. I mean.." You thought of going about this like an old saturday morning cartoon. Maybe if they felt special, they'd have less of a reason to fantasize about you.

"You're all special...heroes really, in your own way. That's what cutie marks are for too, right? Destinies? I mean, think about it. Without teachers, we'd all be pretty stupid. Without builders, we'd all be homeless. Without bakers, we'd have no food and we'd all go hungry. What I'm saying is, even the most boring sounding thing is heroic because it keeps us all going or provides us a service we all want, or especially, need. I mean, pegasi are like..the coolest race in terms of the sky. They maintain the weather and the seasons. That is much cooler and much more heroic than the stuff I do"

"Hey, he's right. All the adults up in Cloudsdale do do all that stuff. Oh yeah! without stuff like winter and fall, Or rain and stuff, we'd all be pretty doomed." One of the pegasi foals let out in pride.

"Yeah, I guess Anon is right. I mean, I'm really good at making bread. My mommy is teaching me to make cakes too. Without food, we'd all be hungry. S-so, I guess I'm a hero too!" A shy filly says in a low voice, wanting acknowledgement without singling herself out.

"Yeah see? So, uhh. Erm...look. Guys, I got something to do. You all can go and find something else to do right?"

They reply
"I guess we can"

"Sure, we can do that!"

"Oh! but can we keep all the cool stuff from that other dimension place?"

Ugh, fine. You'd let them have at least that. If it would keep them complacent. "Ok ok, but put them in places nopony could see ok? Please?"

They agree. And without much else, and a further mention of the urgency of what you were doing, they let you go, even Snips and Snails.

They all huddle together to discuss what you said, and ways they can become heroes through their destinies. It was actually...really nice.

Also....hah! you didn't even hesitate to use your charge. And through some Saturday morning schlock and forcing them to listen, you managed to talk your way out of the situation while having another charge to use later. Before, you would have hesitated. Perhaps even screwed up by going too far with your horn, or not have used it at all feeling you didn't need it. Fluttershy was right, you'd hesitate less now that you have two of these bad boys.

And Chrysalis? Oh ho, you can only feel your resolve strengthen. You actually countered her stupid undefined plot. Of course, you didn't know why she did such a thing, you'd find out though.

Oh it felt good. She didn't plan on you just using your horn, she couldn't have expected that. Wait...maybe that’s it. She didn't expect you to use your horn. Maybe, she expected you to get annoyed...or even get full of hatred from all the annoying attention that you now didn't want. She wouldn't have done this if you were still accepting praise. It had to be all part of "the game". She wanted you to hate how ponies would react. Well then, looks like you had her in check now.

And soon? Check mate. If she can put you in a situation where you want to hate ponies. You are going to make damn sure she realizes how much ponies care about her, even if it's her in another form. And when she tries to reason that they only loved a fake? You'd tell her how nice it'd feel if they felt the same feelings towards the real her.

A little refining here and there...and you were sure you could gain some real ground. Even if the party doesn't convert her, it'll be a huge step in the right direction. Oh yeah, Anon, This was your day. A few hiccups. But...for once, you were handling it in stride.

As you continue your trek, Sugarcube Corner comes into view. It wouldn't be long now.

"Heya Nonny, what ya up to?" Said a voice

"I'm going over to see Ponk"

"Oh, that's neat. Is it for super secret hero colt type stuff?"

"What? No..it's...wait..." You stop dead in your tracks when you realize Pinkie was suddenly following you.

You stop so suddenly she trips over your, falls onto her back, and then looks back at you with a smile "Whoopsie!" She giggled

When did she?...And did she just.....no. "U-uhhh, hi Ponk. Are you alright?"

"Yep, I guess you can say when I saw you, I flipped!" She giggle snorted before getting up and brushing herself off.

You chuckle nervously, trying to figure out what she meant. "Cool, cool. Erm, Ponk...did you say 'Hero Colt' stuff?"

She shook her head. "Nope!"

Oh good. What a relief.

"I said 'Super Secret Hero Colt Type Stuff'. There's a biiiiiiiiig difference," She said with a cheerful smile

.......Oh god no...NONONONO! "Ponk, P-Ponk. W-what exactly do you mean by that?" She couldn't possibly mean...

"I mean your super cool dimensional adventure thing all the foals have been talking about. Your sister was around a little while ago and telling everypony about it. It was a really neat story. Though, I wish she coulda stayed. The moment she noticed me, she left. As if she was trying to avoid me. It was weird. It was like she was afraid of me or something. Weird, right?" She did seem rather concerned about that. Of course she would be when she wants to throw that party so bad. But goddammit, word already fucking spread.

Then again...she wasn't acting super surprised. Did she even believe it happened? "Oh, she's just being shy about that party. Which is why I was looking for you, Ponk."

"Really?! Yeahhhh!" Pinkie hopped up in excitement. "That's great, because I have no idea where to start! You wouldn't believe how much trouble I've had, Nonny! I don't even know what kind of cake to make for her because she doesn't like..like...any kind of cake."

Although still nervous, you couldn't help but chuckle as you already felt your plan coming to fruition. "Oh, that's because she likes cheese filled coffee crumb cake."

".....OF COURSE!" Pinkie tensed up before springing up in excitement. "Of course Nymy would like Cheese filled Coffee Crumb Cake, There's so many Cs in it that. Nopony could resist it's yummy goodness!" Pinkie rubs her hooves together like some evil villain before looking to you with spritely cheeriness. "Thank you so much, Nonny! Now I know where to begin and-"

You interrupt her. You didn't want her to suddenly go zipping off. If she knew about the whole dimensional thing then you wanted to know what she knew, because you found it strange she wasn't asking more about it.After that, Then you'd move on to party planning. "Woah woah. Ponk slow down. There's more to my sister than just cake. Look, I'll help you plan out certain things for her. Because trust me, she isn't like anypony you have ever hosted a party for before. But before we get to that....Can I get a little more detail on that thing you mentioned about me saving another dimension?"

"Huh? Why? Wouldn't you know everything about that, Nonny? I mean, it is true isn't it? Twilight thought so after she looked at all that cool stuff."

Oh god no, TWILIGHT KNOWS TOO?! FUCK! THE CANCER HAS SPREAD! D-dammit Chrysalis. "N-no, I mean. I-I thought you'd be asking more questions about it and stuff. And be super amazed."

"Huh? Well...It is super neat. But you've always seemed like a nice colt to me Nonny, and considering your Discord's kid, yep, seemed normal to me. But Twilight? She was all like 'WHAT?! HOW COULD DISCORD BE SO RECKLESS!' or something like that. I dunno, I would think your dad wouldn't REALLY put you in super dangerous danger, right?" Pinkie looked to you with a sort of soft worry. As if she suddenly realized that maybe, it could be serious.

"Huh? Oh..nah. I was never really in any danger...e-erm. Well..what did Twilight do after she found out?"

"Oh, she went over to Fluttershy's. But I guess she was out because Twilight never came back. She's probably there waiting or something." Pinkie informed you.

Oh no...That's where Discord and Fluttershy were at right now. Holy fuck! Even if Discord wanted to one up Twilight, there would be no way Fluttershy would be ok with this. There was going to be trouble.

But then there was the party...dammit. DAMMIT. If you leave now, you wouldn't get another shot if Pinkie went to plan things on her own. So many obstacles. So much fucking garbage. You could feel your head splitting. Should you go now? Maybe, with your horn..you could… "NO!"

Pinkie jumped back in surprise as you yelled out in frustration. "N-nonny? A-are you ok?" You had to take a moment. You were breathing hard.

When you looked at Pinkie, the expression on your face was of frustration and anger.

"N-nonny?"

....If Chrysalis did want you to get angry at ponies just being aggravating. Right now, she was doing a good job. Or was, because there before you stood Ponk, who cared not for your exploits. She only cared about her friends, you, and giving Chrysalis a good time. You shouldn't be angry. Ponk wasn't bothering you like the foals were, she was just being herself. Good natured and happy. If Chrysalis meant for you to be upset, she failed at it.

You put on a big smile and wink at Pinkie. "Gotcha...!pretty realistic, huh? Been working on my act to trick bad guys into surrendering."

".....Wooooah. That was really really good!" Pinkie smiled and clapped. "You really got me, Nonny. I thought something bad happened."

"No Ponk, just wanted to try something out on you. Was it really that good?" Of course you were lying. But you didn't want her to worry.

"Perferific!" She cheered. "If I was a bad guy, I would have thought something was really bothering you."

Good, she bought it "Yeah...so...The party. Let's get back to that real quick. So besides the cake, do you think you could make it a super secret party? Like...one she could never EVER see coming?"

"Yeah...but why? Your Aunt told me....hehe" she giggled to herself. "I called Fluttershy your 'Aunt'...that feels silly...but yeah. She told me Nymy was pretty shy and stuff. Do you think that's a good idea?"

Oh yeah...super yes. "Totally, just imagine how happy she'll be when she gets to talk and meet all the new friends she is going to have. And the fact she won't see it coming? It'll just be ridiculous. She won't know what to do with herself because she'll be so happy."

"Well, she is your sister. If that's what you think is best then I'll make it happen! How does tomorrow night at Twilight's castle sound?" Pinkie asked.

....Tomorrow? That quick? "You can make it happen that fast?"

"Yup, It didn't even take me a day to set up the party for Twilight. Trust me, when it comes to parties. I'm your gal!" She pointed to herself with pride "Especially surprise parties."

Good...good..yes! There was some hope after all. But your worry for about what was going on at the cottage was growing by the second. You had to wrap this up. "Ok ok, good. Then I can bring her to the castle no problem. Oh, and if my aunt is telling you how frail she is. Then, well...you gotta invite her last. Ok? I think my aunt might try to tell her there's a party if she knew sooner than later. I mean, it's my aunt being nice and all. But sometimes...it needs to stay a surprise. You know what I'm saying?"

"I getcha, Nonny. For the sake of maximum fun, smiles, and friendship" Pinkie saluted, with a serious look on her face, like a soldier. "You can count on this pink party planner to plan this party with perfect perfection!"

...Pinkie. She cares so damn much. She doesn't know who Nymous truly is. But she didn't need to. She saw her as a pony who needed a smile. And that's exactly what she'd try to give her. And so, you had to make sure she had no ways of escaping it. With two charges? It'd be no problem.

...Ponk...

You give her a big hug and thank her. Really, without her cheeriness and her not giving a shit about your herodom, you may have snapped. Pinkie may have not understood what you were truly feeling. But if she could help you smile, then that's all she cared about. As she hugged you, she assured you that everything would go according to plan. And she would work hard on making sure your sister left with a big smile on her face. All you had to do was bring her just after sunset.

Well, this was a lot easier to set up than you thought it'd be. So, you went off to Fluttershy's… Well, you almost did, until Pinkie stopped you for one thing. "Oh! Oh! Nonny! Can I ask you oonnnneee thing? Please please please?" She was hopping about. Whatever question she had, it must have been important.

"Yeah, Ponk?"

"I just wanna know, was there another me in that other Equestria? If there was, What did she do? I'm realllly curious!"

Oh..oh right...ok. Yeah, it would be a bad thing if you told her what she was BEFORE you rescued her...so. "You were this rich owner of this party place."

"Wooooah! that's neato! hrnnnn..." Pinkie sat there as she thought about it. "I wonder if I'd give myself a discount..."

You giggle at that. That's pretty cute. "I'm pretty sure you would, Ponk. Super sure." You really were.

With another hug, you went your separate ways. You had to get to that cottage the fastest way possible. Of course, that just meant jumping through puddles. In fact....

As you hop into your room. The X-captain was still outside the window, waiting for you. "THERE YOU ARE! ANON..HOW DAR-" And then you shut the door of your portal door after setting it to the cottage. "E...e-.......REEEEEEE! WHY DOES NOPONY TAKE ME SERIOUSLY?!" He screams out, alone in the void.

You really hope Twilight wasn't going off the handle. You didn't need this shit. Unfortunately, as you appear before the door of the cottage, it seems the argument was already underway.

"PARENTING CLASSES!?" You hear Discord shout from the other side of the door. Ewwghhh… Probably best to scope things out before entering. So you go by the window and peer inside.

Discord looked pretty frustrated. Fluttershy and Twilight were sitting on the sofa, both of them giving him a stern look. Poor guy, looks like he couldn't manipulate the situation to his advantage this time.

"Yes Discord, parenting classes. Do you not understand why? Even after we explained it to you?!" Twilight seemed exasperated with him already.

"Pfft, how can I understand it when it's so ridiculous. Fluttershy...my dear Fluttershy." Discord slinks over to her and holds her by her hoof as he gives her huge puppy dog eyes. "You know I'm a good father, don't you?"

"I do" Fluttershy, despite saying that, still was giving him the tough stern expression.

Discord looks to Twilight and sticks his tongue out to taunt her. "See? Utterly ridiculous"

Fluttershy then pulls her hoof away. "Discord, I said that you're a good father, but that doesn't mean what you did or even doing is right. You know what happened to Anon today. It's because of the things that goes on behind our back that causes ponies like that no good Good News to come and bother Anon. Do you know how terrifying it was to see him unable to move? Didn't you feel scared that something happened to him?"

"I..." Discord slowly backed off, trying to resist some of the now apparent consequences of both your actions. "I...was scared...but come on. He's the hero colt! Are you saying it's bad that he saved an entire world? Albiet not this one, but still. He received praise from Princess Celestia herself...from that world....look, the point is, he's a hero. How could you berate me after I gave him that chance? He had fun, he's proud of it. What gives?"

"Discord...." Twilight took a moment to compose herself, she didn't seem to want to get too angry. She wanted to keep a cool head. "We're not saying we're not proud of him. What Anon did? That's amazing, and I mean it. Enough for me to want to do a study up on it.... because well… Another Equestria?" She chuckled, getting a little nerdy. "How could I not follow up on that?"

"Twilight..." Fluttershy was definitely in no nonsense mode. Both towards Discord and Twilight.

"Ahrm, right, as I was saying. We're proud of Anon. But that doesn't excuse you putting his life in danger. And from the sounds of it, he was in danger for a lot of the time he was there. Discord, you seem to treat him like he was a friend that you spend time with instead of your son who you need to guide and nurture. There's nothing wrong with a little fun, but he's too young for things like that, and the kind of attention he gets for it isn't good at all. That's why you need to go to parenting classes. We are trying to be reasonable here. Can't you see that?" Twilight felt she knew that Discord had been doing a good job for the most part. And despite dimension travel being a big deal. She was trying to see him as a friend. She was doing her best to get him to see reason.

"Reasonable? Hmph...I refuse. It's not like you can do anything about it. He's MY son." Discord wasn't budging.

"...Mmnngh, Discord" Twilight was getting aggravated with his resistance. "I'm doing my best here. but it's either that or you give him up to Fluttershy. And that would mean all you can do is visit him… that’s it. You would not be allowed to do anything else but visit and talk."

"......" Discord was silent. At first you thought it was weird. You thought he would explode at such an ultimatum. But he seemed scared, frightened even. Could he do nothing?...Or rather..would he not do anything to Fluttershy to get you back?

"Discord..." Fluttershy walked over to him and gave him a gentle hug "I know you want Anon to be free and have fun. But you need to set limits for him. You need to guide him. You can't let him do whatever he wants. And you can't take him to such dangerous places. It really is amazing that he managed to save a world. I'm very very proud of him. But...after today.." Fluttershy sighed. "I'd really rather he just do normal things like any normal colt would. I don't want to take him from you, Discord. I just want you to do what Twilight is asking. I want you to be a father."

She looks up into his eyes, she was sad. She agreed with Twilight, but she didn't want to hurt him either. She didn't want to be mad at him. She hoped he wouldn't give her a reason to. "I know you can do it. It's not as if you have to stop doing what you do with him...we just don't want you doing dangerous things with him, that's all."

Discord was shaking. What could you do? You missed when this travesty started and going in now would just cause more problems. You could only watch as he buckles to Fluttershy's pleas. Deep inside, you wondered who he was more angry with, Twilight or Chrysalis.

"Discord, I think we're being more than fair. If you care about Anon, if you care about Nymous, you'll take the classes. All you need to do is pass and that's it. I feel that once you pass, you'll understand what it means to be a father as well as a friend to Anon and Nymous." Fluttershy nuzzles into his side. "Please...?" She looks up at him with big sad eyes.

Discord was gripping his paws and talons tightly. Oh yeah, the burning in his eyes? He probably wanted Chrysalis's head on a pike. You could see him get more visibly angry with each mention of "Nymous". But even then, he couldn't shout out the truth of it. Or get angry at Fluttershy...or even Twilight. He gave up, and fell back on the chair, defeated. "....Ok, for you Fluttershy, I'll take these classes. But..." He looks over to Twilight.

Twilight stood at the ready. She wouldn't falter, and Discord could most definitely see it. He then finally spoke "I still reserve the right to at least have some fun within this dimension with my son....and daughter."

"Discord, you do know that depends, right? Things like what happened at the school are things I can't allow. As Princess, I can't just let you run amok like that" Twilight told him. Holding her ground.

"Oh, I figured you'd say something like that, Twilight, my dear. I suppose me agreeing to these classes simply isn't enough for you. But you see, you seem to forget what my son's cutie mark is. Chaos is his destiny, it's what his very mark is telling him. In fact, given his current streak, It's safe to say that as much as I don't really care for it too much, that his brand of chaos might be beneficial to pony kind. No, actually..I retract that statement. IT IS beneficial to ponykind. He's helped and saved ponies who were in trouble or was in need, selflessly, no matter the danger, even if the danger found him first. That being said, you at least must compromise on the fact that learning to fully understand his cutie mark is a must. And that would mean that some of my...more unorthodox methods of being a parent is important." Discord's final gambit. He was trying to gain some ground on this battle.

"...." Fluttershy stopped for a moment to think about that. "Well, a-as much as I don't like him being in danger. It's true that sometimes it does just happen..."

"Are you saying you want to help him find his way?" Twilight felt something about this was off. But it was hard for her to argue it when sometimes danger did just happen. And your cutie mark? How could she argue against a cutie mark that she couldn't begin to understand?

"Exactly" Discord started to feel a little more confident now.

Discord magically made a ball of clay and started to mold it into a stallion version of you "I just want to raise Anon to be the best that he can be...." He holds the sculpture out on his paw and grins "Nymous? Well, I can perfectly comply with her. Chaos isn't in her genes and I think I've been doing a good job with her despite us not being together long. But Anon and I? We have this special bond. It may not look it to you, Twilight, but if faced with having the choice of him or conquering Equestria, I'd choose him. And that's why I'll comply. But...I still am going to do what I think is best. But interdimensional travel won't be one of them, that's good enough, isn't it?"

"But you won't overdo it...right Discord? As in, what you have planned will be safe from now on?" Fluttershy didn't want Twilight to get angry. She wanted to hear this from him.

"O-oh, of course. I only got overzealous before because of how skilled he turned out to be. Chaos can be safe too, you know. That's why you wanted him to have that second use of his horn, correct? So he can defend himself in a more consistent and safe manner." Discord put his paw on Fluttershy's head and gave it a rub, to assure her things were fine.

She nodded to his question. "T-that is rather true..."

Twilight realized this back and forth would be endless if she kept it up, and so just laid out what she expected of him. "Hmmmmmm...well, I think we're done here then. I'm sure you'll have more of an understanding of being a parent when you actually attend the classes. But just remember, you need to pass them too. And if you don't, you'll have to retake them until you do." Twilight told him, utterly serious about it.

"Yes yes.....fine, I'll even sign up for them tomorrow morning if you want." Discord crossed his arms, annoyed that she was pressing him that much.

"That's fine, Discord. And..thank you for understanding. We just want what's best for Anon and for you. That's all." Twilight tried to explain this to him.

But Discord just rolled his eyes and let out a silent. "..Sure"

Fluttershy gave him a gentle hug to help calm his nerves and show that she cared "Don't worry Discord, it won't be as bad as you think, and we'll all be there as a family. It's not something you have to do alone."

...As a family? All four of you?...Chrysalis too? Stuck....in a class… Ooohhh.....oh wait. Maybe, for what you were trying to do, that wouldn't be so bad… Oh yes...the gears..they were a turnin'. Maybe you could take advantage of this to further show Chrysalis the importance of the magic of friendship.

"I appreciate it, Fluttershy, I really do...but.." He gives her a gentle hug and puts her down. "I must be off now. I need some time to....process....what has gone on here. Oh, don't worry about me. I'll be fine, I just need to rework my schedule is all. Very time consuming work."

"Discord...please don't be angry." She could sense his frustration and anger.

"Angry? Oh hoho, I'm not angry. Why would I be angry? Everything is just fine. I agreed to it, didn't I? I don't mind it. And in fact, I can't wait. So angry?..oh no, I'm just....fine."

Fluttershy didn't respond to that. She didn't know what to say...she just wanted him to understand. She felt that most likely that he didn't. But Discord would stick around no longer. He bid them both adieu and left through the front door before even Twilight could say something.

Discord, he stood there at the front of the door for a moment, his whole body tensing up as he mumbled "Parenting classes..puh..what for? I'm the lord of chaos. The LORD of chaos. I'm above such things...why did she have to come tell Fluttershy about it anyway?...Grrrr..that Chrysssssiiii" Discord then snapped his fingers. And before you knew it. You went from behind the window to in front of him. Floating in mid air....head down. You fell onto the ground, smacked onto your head, and rolled onto your back. "...Anon, glad you could make it. We need to have a little chat...privately." He snapped his talons again, making you both appear in Cheerilee's classroom. It was empty. No teacher and no student were about.

Discord had you appear at a seat as he appeared on a chair behind the teacher's desk, his legs up on the table. "Anon, don't think I didn't notice you at the window. Eavesdropping? Well..." Discord chuckled. "I'm actually glad you did. Because if you hadn't realized it by now, our buggy little roommate just made a biiiiig mistake..and so..." Discord points to the blackboard, making the letters "REVENGE TIME" appear. "I'm looking for any and all suggestions on showing her what's what. And please...don't defend her. I'm sooooo not in the mood for it right now. And do take your time, you have plenty of it before you need to arrive at Fluttershy's" Discord was looking pretty serious about this.”

After seeing Discord having to suffer due to Chrysalis's little power move, you couldn't blame him for wanting to exact some vengeance. And maybe....through your cunning and knowing of how cartoons typically work, you could work this into your grandmaster plan. Seeing Discord taken down by Chrysalis' power move made you feel for the guy, you wanted to help him exact revenge, and you think you knew exactly how.

You take a moment to make yourself comfortable on your seat and think about what you're going to say. Chrysalis, she really had gone too far this time. "Revenge plan, Revenge...plan. Discord, You know what I'm trying to do with Chrysalis, right?"

Discord groaned, displeased by that statement. "Oh, don't tell me that little 'game' you're playing is preventing you from exacting vengeance. Anon, did you see what happened?! Fluttershy didn't agree with me! That's the most heinous act there can ever be in this world!"

You hold out your hoof to signal to stop where he was. He was jumping to conclusions. "Now hold on. I didn't say I didn’t want revenge. Revenge will definitely happen. But it has to be in a way that will help speed things along for me. I need her to reform Discord, and pissing her off just to piss her off isn't going to help me."

"Revenge, and yet you want it mixed with reforming her." Discord appears in a scientist's coat as he mixes two liquids into a beaker, causing a small nuclear explosion that burns off his entire head. His body then shrugs as his skull slowly reforms. "It doesn't work like that Anon. It just doesn't mix right."

You chuckle, then smirk arrogantly at him. "No....look, ok? Get this, oh doubtful god of yucks. Pinkie is throwing her a 'Welcome to Ponyville' party tomorrow. A party I'm going to lure her into and then lock her inside to experience every second of it. See where I'm going with this?"

Discord's skin fully reforms into an unamused stoic look. "....No"

Ugh, of course. He wasn't well versed in cartoons as you were, despite essentially being one. "Look, Chrysalis is a villain who is one dimensional in a lot of places. She especially, ESPECIALLY...hates the kindness of ponies despite needing it to feed. She'll use underhoofed tactics and try to stay away from the main event as long as possible while hyping everypony else up for it before going in for the love feast. But, what if she couldn't stay away from the main event? What if she had to endure every second, every agonizing moment with the ponies that celebrate love, cheer, and good will? Look, I'm hoping that all this actually rubs off on her. But I also think we can use it to have a little fun with her too. Get what I'm saying? Since it would make sense you'd be invited, you could pull off subtle, yet highly deliciously annoying tricks of your own while I make sure she stays put. Pretty good, eh?"

Discord put the flats of his talons and paws together as he pondered, then pointed towards you with a serious look on his face. "And how can I pull this off? With everypony there, I'd think my shenanigans would be noticed at some point."

Your grin becomes more of a cute, innocent smile. "Not if yer wuving son helps out..." You sigh, and look at Discord with a softer and happier grin. "Look, I'll get your back if you don't overdo it. And I'll speak out for you. I'll do a whole speech in front of everypony about how great a dad you are. Because Discord, you're one of the best."

Discord flinched from those words. Putting a paw to his heart, a few drips of ice falling from his eyes. "Anon...That's.That really...What I mean is...Oh..Anon....A-..wait" Discord then cocks his eyebrow at you. "ONE of the best? Really?"

Dammit, you just start laughing for a moment. "Yep, and that's all there is to that"

Discord actually does take a moment to process that. At first, it hurt him. But he quickly began to realize that it shouldn't mean anything. That the only thing it did mean...is that he had a great chaos partner and friend. And so, he grinned, got up, walked over to you and held up his paw. "Anon, I approve. I approve of everything. So, why don't you...as the humans say. 'Gimme five'"

You give a genuine happy smile as you slap your hoof into his paw. "Yeah!" You let out in a prideful and cheerful away.

"So then, we simply trap the bug in a trap of love and happiness. I do have to admit, that is very very annoying. But I can't say I don't love it. And then perhaps...well, you're willing to listen to my plans, right?" Oh, he had an insidious grin on. And for once, you liked it.

"Go on my chaos bro."

"Indeed, my son of dissonance. So, we also have the parental classes to deal with. I was thinking..and I'd need you to go along with this..But, what if we made things difficult for young 'Nymous'?..ohhhh" He turns around as he rolls along his paw to emphasize something. "I don't know, perhaps...clumsy little accidents on her part."

"Go on"

Discord chuckled, he did enjoy the fact that you were totally with him on this. "Well, basically, I hate the idea, but Twilight is soooo set on it. As is Fluttershy. So if I have to attend these classes, I'm going to have to have a way to stay awake so I don't fail. So, a little pratfall here, a few happy little hugs there in an overabundance, a few...humiliations. But to be able to do all this, I'd need a little friend to cover my tracks for me. To follow along without needing instruction."

You lean back on the chair as you chuckle, totally understanding what he meant. "I got your back. But you can do it where nopony, not even Fluttershy, will notice?"

"For this little endeavor, I'm only as good as my partner." Discord gives you a little nod. At this moment, you both felt in sync with each other, in sync with the very nature of chaos.

Discord then walks over to the blackboard as it begins to write itself. He gets a yardstick and starts pointing at the words that appear that were spelling out the plan. "Alright class, to review. Tomorrow we shall initiate a plan to both workover Chryssie to the side of good while also making her go bananas. And then, we shall enact my plan later on to make her banana go split. Any questions?"

"Nope, I got this." You understood completely

Discord gave you a warm smile as he tossed away the yardstick. "I know you do, partner...and..I must admit, I am surprised we managed to work this out so well....and" He sighs, his tone becoming more caring and docile. "I do hope Chryssie sees, even by a little, what good ponies have to offer. Not that I care about her. It's merely for your sake. Because Anon, I reeeeaaaallly want that vengeance."

"Thanks Discord...and don't worry, ok? I got your back. I'll even soften things up with Fluttershy for you when I go see her. How does that sound?"

"Oh Anon...now you're just trying to make me cry." Discord made a handkerchief appear, with three familiar diamonds on it as he wipes his eyes and blows his nose and makes it poofs away

"...Did you just use Rarity's handkerchief to blow your nose?"

"Is that a problem?"

Never mind, best to ignore that. Poor Rarity, was she in for a surprise. "Errr...no. But uh, Discord. One last thing...The X-captain guy came back and he's sorta annoying. Can't we do something about him?"

"Hmm? Oh yes, he did come back..didn't he?" Discord didn't really seem to care either way. He pondered on it for a second then looked towards you, wondering something. "Did you try closing the blinds? They cancel noise, you know."

"Ahhh fuck man. I didn't know that. Huh, I'll give that a try next time I go into my room" You weren't even stupefied by this. The X-captain really was more of a nuisance than a threat.

"Well, you do. I can assure you, it will work."

"I believe you. It's just, geez, he just doesn't know when to fuck off. Whatever, if closing the blinds will do it then I'll just do that."

With the plans settled, and you now knowing how to shut out the annoying X-captain. You and Discord give each other a big hug. Today...today all this chaos that Chrysalis brought to the both of you brought you both together..in fact, it made you think of one more thing. "...Uhm, you do know we have to act as if we're pissed off about the whole thing right? Because you know she'll want to rub it in our faces."

"Yes yes, I've feigned my emotions before" Discord says with exasperation.

"Juuust checking. Alright then, let's do this!...soon..when it happens"

Discord chuckles as he raises his talons. "Don't worry Anon...ahh wait" He puts them down to ask a question of his own. "Anon, you are smarter than I ever have given you credit for. Why don't you use that knowledge for something, as Fluttershy would say, constructive and beneficial?"

"I guess I could, I wonder how Princess Celestia would feel if I asked her about making like..guns. Because I think most of the villains of this world that are really evil could be dealt with with guns."

Discord's positiveness over your intellect quickly drops. Even he knew that introducing guns in Equestria would be catastrophic in a way even he wouldn't want. "...Eh...never mind. Forget I said anything. Just focus your efforts on being my son."

"...Was it that bad an idea?"

"..Do you even need to ask? Or do you really want to see what a cluster of enraged yaks could do with assault rifles? Because they could easily get those if they wanted." Discord just...he really was baffled at how stupid your idea sounded.

"....Ok, yeah. I see...what you mean...hehe..huh." ..Ergh...way to fuck up Anon.

But Discord doesn't seem to take it too seriously. He gives you an encouraging pat on the head, a smile, and wishes you good luck as he teleports you to Fluttershy's door. You yourself reassuring him that you'd do everything you could to ease Fluttershy's mind about what just happened.

You raise your hoof to knock, only taking a moment to bask in the silence of the dusk before actually knocking. The door opens, revealing Fluttershy. At first, she seemed worried. But she quickly put on a smile and greeted you before letting you inside and giving you a hug. Of course, You return it all in kind.

"How are you doing, Anon?” Fluttershy asks cheerfully as she walks over to her stove. There was nothing really cooking it seems. She just had the food she was going to serve you on a plate on top of the....oh no...Dinner was that same breakfast shit.

"I'm doing pretty good Aunt Fluttershy. How are you?" Keep it casual, Anon

"Oh..I'm doing fine. Actually, I wanted to talk to you about a few things, Anon. But first!" She places the plate on the table and goes to get you a glass of juice. "Eat up! You must be hungry. I made more of that healthy food from breakfast for you. I think this is the real thing that helped you recover in the hospital so quickly. So I know that once you eat it all up, anything left from your sickness or that nasty Cockatrice Weed will be out of your system in no time for sure" She was so happy to say that, and ecstatic to know you'd be healthy upon eating it. Though...the problem was eating it.

But you were a man...A MAN....A.....goddammit it was sooo gross. You suck up some air, and holds your breath as you begin to quickly dig in and slurp it all up. The faster, the better, the quicker it's gone.

When Fluttershy notices you devouring the food, she couldn't help but smile, but also be a little motherly as she puts your juice next to the plate and taps your head. "Anon, goodness, you sure were hungry. But you should slow down or you might....oh..it's...all gone. Wow!"

Death...all you could wish for...was death. You quickly grab the glass and scarf down the juice and take a breath of relief...the nightmare was over. "...N-no p-p-problem Aunt F-fluttershy...i-it's a lot better than I remember i-it"

"Oh?" Fluttershy didn't expect that. But she did prepare more for you in case you were still hungry. "If you're still hungry I still have-"

"NOPE! I'M FULL! HAHAHAHAHAH! oh..my tummy..ow" You pretend the fall over, and give your tummy a rub.

Fluttershy gets stern with you as she walks back up to you to give your tummy a rub. "Anon, this is why we don't eat our food so fast." She sighed. "Things like this is what your father should be teaching you and preventing from happening....actually Anon, that's a big reason why I want to talk to you..." She continues to rub your tummy, waiting for you to feel better before she continues..it felt so nice that you just sort of tensed for a moment before relaxing. When she noticed you were calm she asked you with a smile "Better?"

"Mhmmm" Even if you had the tummy ache. That tummy rub was too good not to answer with anything but yes.

"Good..I'm glad. But remember, don't eat your food too fast or else you'll just end up getting another tummy ache. And next time, it might not go away so quickly....Anon" She sighed as she moved her hoof to the top of your head and began to gently rub. She suddenly became less peppy and more concerned. "...I heard about something interesting today"

...Here it comes. You look to her with a false but innocent expression of ignorance. "Does it have to do with that big reason you want to talk to me?" You didn't move from laying on your back. You just layed there, staring.

"Yes" She nods, she was speaking in a soft but concerned tone. She didn't want to upset you or get you riled up. "I heard about you going to another dimension...Another Equestria"

You had to do this right. You gave Discord your word that you would smooth things out for him.

So you give her a big cheery smile

"Oh yeah! I remember that. It was fun! And I managed to do a good thing. In the other Equestria, everypony was sad, and Princess Celestia...she was suffering...no" You look to the side, looking aimlessly forward. The thought of it did make you a little depressed. Which was fine, it helped make it more real. "Everypony was suffering....even you were, Aunt Fluttershy. I...I had to do something. Dad was willing to pull me out at any time...but...I just couldn't."

Fluttershy only had the details from what Twilight had said. And she had no idea it was that bad. But still..alone?..Another dimension? She now was feeling conflicted. How could she tell you it was dangerous and that Discord was wrong when she hears something like that? "E-erm...suffering?" She asked

"Mhmm, there were foals too...they were all slaves. Nopony liked one another and yelled at each other. Princess Celestia was alone, with no family, and only one friend....I was scared for her, she didn't realize some of her friends that she did talk to were all imaginary..."

"O-oh..." Fluttershy gulped, what could she say now? And the fact you had to witness all that? And yet saved it? She didn't know whether to feel proud or feel that things were taken too far. "Anon..."

"I-is something the matter, Aunt Fluttershy?"

"...." A whole world. A whole world that sounded absolutely dreadful, saved by her nephew. Discord had somehow managed to raise this colt in such a short time to be brave, bold, and a true protector to pony kind using the power of chaos. And yet, she still had that nagging fear for his safety. She felt all it would take is one slip up...and he'd be gone. But, if she said anything wrong. It would make you think she was heartless as to not care for the accomplishment you managed to gain. "Anon...I'm...very proud. I, I didn't know it was like that. I didn't know it was that terrible over there. In my eyes, you really are a hero colt. But...that's just it. You are still a colt. You're still growing. And just like with what happened today, you could find yourself in a situation where you can get hurt...or worse. Anon, I think your father went too far. I think you're too used to trying to be a hero when you're too young to be doing it. It'd be safer if you just tried to lead a normal colt's life. That's why we'll all be going to parenting class soon. So we can all learn to be a proper and functional family. And so your father will be able to guide you to be the pony you were meant to be."

That's the best she could think of without making your efforts seem worthless… But she couldn't be more wrong. "Aunt Fluttershy… Look. I know that what my Dad does sometimes isn't what a Dad should do. Or maybe I'm wrong, I don't know. But what I do know is that Dad believes in me. He tells me all the time how great I am and how much I mean to him. He was one of the first to ever believe in me, trust in me, and love me for who I am. I've seen him get scared when I get hurt. And I know that if anything did happen, he would have saved me. But it didn't...because he trusts me. I think he trusts me more than any other pony ever. So, I never want to let him down. Just like, he never wants to let you down or me down. Dad is more than a Dad to me, he's my best friend. And I'd rather be a brave colt, one who stands for justice and friendship with the power of chaos, Than a colt who just....is. That's how I feel, that's what I feel my Cutie Mark is telling me. I know sometimes it's dangerous. I know I shouldn't be doing it. but if I don't, then who will? I just want to protect everypony, and make everypony happy. Dad taught me that...Dad taught me that the most important thing ever is a world where everypony can be happy and safe."

Fluttershy couldn't say anything. She just...stared. She couldn't argue it, and it just...was so good and righteous. Why would she? The only thing she could thing to ask was "A-Anon, do you really believe that? Is that all true?"

You nod with a smile. "Mhmm..I mean, there's a few pranks here and there sometimes. But that's what I honestly believe. It's not about being a hero colt, it's about protecting everypony I care about. And that means you, Dad, and all my friends and everypony in between"

Fluttershy couldn't believe it. For all she knew, that really was what Discord taught you. It was so grand, it was so well meaning, it threw her into a battlefield of conflicted thoughts. How could she dismiss your feelings now? She couldn't tell you you were wrong. What you said was so selfless that it filled her heart with joy. She felt so proud of you, do proud of Discord. And yet… Twilight… What she said. She couldn't just dismiss it...Here she thought that maybe Discord wasn't teaching you the right values. But then, there it was, clear as day that you were the good little colt she thought you were. And yet...it was still dangerous.

Fluttershy sat upright and held her hooves open for you. "Anon..come here..."

Did she understand? Did she not? You had to admit, hearing yourself talk, it was putting tears in your eyes. Because you felt, in your heart, it was true.

You slowly approach Fluttershy and nestle yourself into her embrace. "I don't want Dad to change, Aunt Fluttershy...I like him, I like what he does for me. He believes in me. And he keeps me safe and happy."

He did, for the most part. Discord never really means to put you in real danger, and when he does, he usually gives you enough power or leeway to make it out alive. And of course, there was the fact he cared. He cared deeply for you, for Fluttershy, for what he considered his family.

You were both silently crying at this point. Emotions were too high. For you, it was the fact that you felt he didn't deserve this. It was Chrysalis's fault.

For Fluttershy? She felt it was because in the end, he was a great, very great, awesomely great dad. She could only think of one thing to say. "Anon, t-these classes? They aren't meant to change your father. It's just to help him, to help us. It's just to make things safer for you, that's all. Nopony thinks your father is doing anything bad, I'd just like it if things were safer from now on...that's all. I'm so proud...I'm proud of the both of you. And I know, once your sister gets settled in, that we'll all be one big happy family. You have no idea how much I care about your father. I'm not mad at him, I just don't want anypony else to be mad at him. I already know he's a great father. I just want him to be even greater."

You'd accept that. But you couldn't stop sobbing. The moment was too much for you. Your words? Your feelings? You were afraid. You were afraid for Discord more than anything else. You didn't want him to be forced to change, to become more orderly. He just couldn't do it. You also didn't want to be torn away from him, even if it was only just living with Fluttershy.

You also couldn't let that happen anyway. Because if you went...so did "Nymous". And for all you knew, she could eventually break Discord's curse if he wasn't around to fully maintain it. No..all this? All of this...had to be maintained. For Discord's sake and the sake of Equestria.

As for Fluttershy. She cried. But tried to hide it as she slowly hovered upwards and went up the stairs holding you, taking you to bed with her as she nuzzled and cuddled you. And again, opened her wing for you as she adjusted herself to her belly so you could cuddle under her wing and use it as a blanket.

Fluttershy was happy that any negative thoughts she did have about Discord was all wrong. She felt that she had to let Twilight know tomorrow how she felt. The lessons would still happen. But only to improve Discord's parenting, not utterly change it. If he really was that bad a parent, he would have never given you that second charge to defend yourself. She kept that in mind as she held you close with her wing.

"I love you Anon...forever and ever" She says in a gentle sweet voice

"I love you too Aunt Fluttershy...thanks..for hearing me out" Things were going your way, even if it did get at your heart. This was how it needed to be. You only had one real obstacle left.

Chrysalis....you knew this wouldn't fully work. But goddammit, it had to be enough to at least push her in the right direction.

Chapter 294

The night went along without interruption, both you and Fluttershy drifting in peaceful sleep. The night is gone, and the sun is up.

"Anon...oh Anon..time for school" You could feel Fluttershy giving you a gentle shake.

"Mnnnghhh...nahhhhh...."

"C'mon Anon..." You start feeling tickly little pokes on your belly. "It's time to greet the day and learn new things"

You squirm and giggle as you turn around and grumble.

Fluttershy giggles as she sits up and gently, but forcibly, pulls you close into her chest, waking you up as you mumble crankily. "C'mon, you don't want to miss school, do you? It's not good to be a sleepy head. I've got breakfast ready for you and everything"

"...mnnnnn...ok" You yawn, nuzzling back into her.

After a few stretches and hugging, you grab your saddlebag and follow Fluttershy downstairs for breakfast.
Unfortunately, as you should have guessed, it was that same health stuff she's been feeding you since you "recovered". Though you were somewhat used to it by now, it didn't make it taste any better.

"Anon, are you feeling ready for the day? You're not upset about anything are you?" Fluttershy noticed your lack of enthusiasm. And thought it may have been about last night.

"No, not really. I'm good. As long as everypony else isn't upset either." You meant that.

"I'm feeling alright. And I'm sure your father and sister are too, I don't think yesterday was anything to fret about anymore" Fluttershy says with naive optimism, an optimism you'd roll with for now.

"That's good, Umm.." You were slowly eating, this shit was really hard to swallow and eating slowly was painful. But you were so groggy that you felt if you tried going fast again, you'd puke. "How exactly are these classes going to work? Is Princess Twilight going to be the teacher or something?"

"Oh no no no" Fluttershy said as she prepared a bagged lunch for you. "Twilight is having an expert teacher come down to Ponyville, all the way from Whinnyopolis. I think the teacher's name is Mrs. Muffin Top. From what I understand, she's very nice and very smart. All your father has to do is sign up for it when she gets here and we can go the next day, which should be tomorrow. It's all voluntary, so we will be among other families too. Won't that be fun?"

Fun, wait...Twilight did..when? Did you miss that part? It must have been right before Discord reacted to the whole parenting class thing. Of course Twilight would already be prepared to set that up. "Yeah, super fun. Do you know anything about Mrs. Muffin Top at all? I've never heard of her."

"Neither have I. But Twilight was conjuring up pamphlets while she waited for me and your father and that's who she saw as the best. She even had the letter sent earlier this morning. And that's..when your father got a little....well, Ahrm" Fluttershy decides to try to stray from the subject now. "It doesn't matter, I think. Because I know we're all going to pass in the end."

Oh, you bet you all could. And with Chrysalis attending? She'd have no choice but to act family oriented. "Well, that's because we're a great family"

"Mhmm! That's exactly right" She smiled happily as she gave you a gentle pat on the head.

With breakfast done, and school looming close, Fluttershy packed your lunch into your bag and gave you a great big hug as she let you go. She also told you to stay away from strangers. Of course she would, nobody wants to get fucking gas bombed.

And so you began your trek to school. Planning, scheming...tonight was very important. Pinkie must have wanted to be super extra secret about it because she's made no visible effort to talk to you again. So that meant you had to make sure to get Chrysalis there on time. The only thing now was...how? Going into deeper thought about it, you had to get her into the castle somehow. Wait...what would happen if you waited too long to even set up the trick? She was up to no good while you were away, and it was possible she may not even be reachable by the time everything IS getting set up!

Shit...you had to get back to the house. Surely you could still make it in time if you make things quick. You toss the map into the stream by Fluttershy's cottage and hop in.

Immediately upon landing, you hear the cry of the X-Captain. Did he....was he....did he not have anything else to do but float by your window like that? "FINALLY! THERE YOU ARE! NOW ANON..PREPARE TO HAVE YOUR-"

And then silence, utter silence as you pull the blinds down. As you open your floor door however, you could very very vaguely hear his angered screeching. Surely the X-captain's self inflicted autism knows no bounds.

Discord, if you had to guess, was busy signing up for the classes early. At least, you'd use that as an excuse if Chrysalis was wondering why he hadn't exploded on her yet. But your thoughts are immediately broken as you see Chrysalis heading out from her basement lair. Your guess was correct, she was going out to do....something.

You both lock eyes as you spot each other.

You seemingly floating, standing on your gravity stairs as you look down at her. And she looks up at you, Both of you silent for a moment.

Shit…It also just hit you....what if she reads you emotions and realize what she was expecting wasn't what she was going to get. Considering she probably meant to piss you and Discord off to no end yesterday, she must be expecting anger from you now.

You immediately focus on rage inducing thoughts like episodes starring Spike or the fact that no doubt someone like Hillary Clinton ran for president and won...or something. This also, as you failed to remember, causes you to lose focus on the steps, making you fall face first onto the ground in front of Chrysalis.

She lets out a light hearted, yet insulting chuckle. "Something on your mind, Anon?"

...Now you were actually angry, mostly from just the pain. And that was good...sorta?..maybe?

You slowly get up and rub your face, then look at her with faux boiling anger supplemented by conjured rage. "You know damn well...DAMN WELL..what's on my mind, Chrysalis."

She smirks as she gently helps wipe your face, then gazes upon you. "Oh...this wouldn't have to do with me telling the slightly altered version of our fun adventure, is it?"

You growl at her. as angrily as you can. "That's exactly it! What the hell!? Why!? Nopony needed to know that happened! Do you know what you just caused?!"

"Hrn? Ohhhh" Chrysalis fakes acting like she did something wrong as she put her hoof to her mouth. "Did something happen? B-but Anon. Last I checked, you wanted more praise and admiration...hmmmm" Chrysalis tapped at her chin in fake puzzlement. "I suppose what happened with your little shit of a friend must have made you feel as if that wasn't what you really wanted after all. Oh, I'm sooo sorry Anon. But how could I possibly have known you would flip flop on what you wanted so quickly like that?"

She sits down and continues giving you a cruel toothy grin, petting you gently on the head. "But don't blame me. I've been nothing but helpful, haven't I? Haven't I just fulfilled the role of sister so well? How was I supposed to know you didn't want to be touted as a high class hero anymore? Really, if you want to blame somepony, blame them."

YES!..YES! YOU WERE RIGHT! HAHA! OH MAN ANON! YOU'RE ON A ROLL! "...Them?" You never broke your violent glare at her though.

"Them..you know. Them, the ponies. They flock to you like pigs to the slop just because you did something. Annoying you, liking you only for your exploits and not for who you are." Chrysalis gets up and starts playfully messing with your mane as she gives a quick, lighthearted chuckle. "They say girls are superficial,that they can be materialistic. But I can honestly say I'm not one of those kinds of girls, Anon. Do I want it all? Sure, who doesn't? But this is about the survival and spread of the hive and nothing more. My children and my goals are the most important thing to me. But those ponies? They are so carefree and dimwitted that if you throw something shiny and amazing at them they'll pile onto it like dogs, not caring for who you are, but what they see you as.

“But Anon..." Chrysalis changes into her filly form and hugs you from your backside, nuzzling onto the side of your face. "I see you for who you are. You're an amazing human turned colt...." She starts tapping at your horn. "With a special talent that could help me rule this world. I do have a way to overpower Discord. My throne could subdue his magic. And once he's mine, we could go to work. Using my children, my mind, and that horn, we could easily take over together. And then your cute little marefriend could be the princess of Canterlot, with you as her prince...."

So, you were right. She was trying to work you over. "You do know she'd never love me if she knew I joined you, right?"

"So?" Chrysalis takes a nibble at your ear, which unfortunately, does calm you down and make you feel that old sense of ornery. "You were once human anyway. You could still substitute love with lust."

"You'd actually put out?"

"...Well...no" Chrysalis backed off a little and gently ran her hoof along the spine of your back."But I'm sure one of my children would be into you. Besides, don't tell me you don't like it when I tease. I know you do...I know it gives you that thought of you thinking you could actually have me. Who knows...maybe you could..."

You shiver from the pleasure riding through your body. But you knew she was just seducing you for food. "...You can stop. I'm not going to give in so easily, the game is still on."

"So you say, but I can just feel that hate growing inside you...it's only a matter of time when those stupid ponies do something that they'll regret. Who knows? maybe they didn't need my push. They are more than capable of doing something that will finally make you realize just how quick they will either annoy you over something trivial...or destroy you for something they don't like."

Relax Anon...Given how the foals were acting, it did make you feel some genuine annoyance. But you had to block that out! They didn't mean any harm. "I'm willing to roll the bones...." You just turn to her with an angry scowl. "So don't you go thinking you've won. I really wish you could just stop and be nice Chrysalis. We were good as a team. Didn't it mean anything to you? Like, at all?"

Chrysalis groaned as she stepped back. "Doesn't me wanting you in my kingdom answer that question? I've protected you, nurtured you, cared for you. You have a place at my side, Anon. I even enjoy casually talking to you. But you just keep refusing to see how much better things would be if you just gave in. So sometimes, yes, I have to push things. Because yes, you mean something to me. I'm not going over why again. I always do, and you just never listen."

You sigh as you turn to face her. Now, mostly aggravated that she can say all that without realizing that the "evil" part is what keeps you and her from being full fledged friends. "I don't expect you to explain it again, I get it. Chrysalis...why even try? It's never going to work. I'm never going to see evil as the way to go. I have friends and family outside of you, I don't want to see them hurt. Just like I keep your secret because I don't want to see you hurt. It'd be so much easier if you just...gave in."

Chrysalis scoffed at that. "Not happening. And that was a terrible attempt to make me change my mind, just letting you know. Ponies are aggravating nuisances who would be better off under supreme rulership. MY rule to be exact. And even if you are saying what you always say. You came here angry, angry for how they acted. You tasted exactly what I meant, and sooner or later, one of those ponies will do something that could destroy your entire world. A world you and Discord created through your lies..such a world that even I had to be dragged into. But Anon, in my world, there'd be no more need for lying, no need for suffering. But I suppose you'll really have to learn that on your own...hmmm" Chrysalis started to look around. "Where is that shit for brains anyway?"

"Oh...you can bet he's pissed too. But Twilight has him signing up for some stupid shit to make sure me and him don't go on interdimensional adventures anymore. Or anything like it."

Chrysalis just laughs at the hilarity of it. "Oh, how the lord of chaos has fallen if he's doing what that purple pushover wants. But it goes without saying, Twilight being able to shove her weight around on you and him only further proves my point."

You sigh, but only falsely. You had to wrap this up...so you'd leave her on a thought. "Whatever… I have to go before school starts. Chrysalis, look, you can be a good friend, you really can. Maybe if you hung around the ponies and got to know them, things wouldn't be so bad."

".....Egh..no...that's not happening." Chrysalis found it to be a disgusting thought. She changed back into her original self as she flew over to under the floor door and climbed in. "In any case, I have some work to do."

Huh? "Work?"

"Yes, work. That orb Discord gave us is low quality food. I'm going up there to gain adoration as your sister, take in all that love, and bring it back for my precious little ones."

"..I..guess. Also, I'm still angry at you. You can't go out and do things like that anymore!"

Chrysalis rolled her eyes. "We'll see how that goes..."

She nearly disappears through the ceiling door, until you call her out for one more thing. "Wait! Hold on!"

Chrysalis sighs and turns back around to look down at you from the floor door. "What is it now?"

There was one more thing that was indeed bothering you "It's just..you haven't noticed the excaptain came back?"

Chrysalis shrugged. "I did and..who cares?"

Who cares indeed…

Chrysalis left, not as if you could stop her.

You could feel it. You could feel that a tiny bit of you felt what she said was true. But it was only a tiny bit. With friends like the CMC, Starlight, Scrappy, Lyra, Bonbon, and everyone else to keep it sealed away, Discord and Fluttershy being the foundation that keeps it together, you would be able to keep yourself from the dark side just fine. In fact, when you pull the part on Chrysalis, perhaps her not having a proper support system might cause her to give in, even if it's slight. There was indeed hope.

And yeah, oh man, she better clench her bughole tight because she's going to be in for a wild ride tonight. After you were sure she was gone, you went into your room. As you neared the portal door, your ears rang from the very very soft noise of screeching and anger. You looked over to the blinds, and walked over to them. You then raised them.

"REEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!" The X-Captain screeched neverending

You decided to close the blinds, then raise them...then close them...then raise them. Close, raise, close, raise, close, raise, close, and raise. It was actually kind of fun cancelling out that constant screech. But you didn't have time to do this all day. School was waiting for you.

You headed out through the portal.

Now, all you had to was walk from City Hall to School..easy peasy. And so far, a nice trek, and you weren't late yet it seemed. The last of the foals seemed to be piling into the schoolhouse. And then....

"Annnnnonnn!" You hear from behind you.

That commanding voice… You slowly turn around with a gulp. Because no doubt...she heard about your exploits. Diamond Tiara rushed up to you, stopped, and gave you an angry scrunchy face.

"D-damond Tiara? W-what's up?" Here we go

"Anon! How could you?! How could you not tell me you went into another Equestria?!" She gasped. "You didn't try romancing another version of me, did you!? Or maybe...another version of somepony else!?"

O-oh god. OF ALL THE THINGS?! THAT'S WHAT WORRIED HER!? "N-No! I didn't. I was there purely for 'saving the world' reasons. Truth be told..I didn't even run into you."

"Oh...wait...YOU DIDN'T EVEN RUN INTO ME?!" This seemed to make her even angrier. "SO YOU DIDN'T EVEN TRY TO SEE HOW THE OTHER ME IS LIKE?!"

Gyah geez! You nearly fell back from her random anger. "Woah woah, didn't you not want me meeting the other you?!"

"I didn't say that! I said romancing. You didn't even try to see what the other me was like?" She asked, eager to know.

How is it the fact that you traveled dimensions in the first place not phase her? "Uhm, erm..." There was also the fact there was a rather sad tale about all that. "About that..uhm..look, Diamond, wouldn't you want to ask about what I did there instead? It's er..pretty heroic."

Diamond rolled her eyes at you. "I know, I've heard. But you didn't do all that for that other me, right? Or somepony else?" The hell, did she really think you were romancing someone else on the side?

"D-diamond, as I said. I didn't run into another you, I didn't do any romancing whatsoever...trust me. It was just work."

"Oh..good. But why didn't you go see what the other me was like? I would have gone to see what the other you would have looked like if I went. You know, to see how things would be there...you know...to see how not as great that other Anon would have been." She was just wondering, of course, why you didn't get curious about her at all. Even if that wasn't the case.

And then there was that mention of another you. You hoped she never learned about the one that was a prince.... How to answer this?… Might as well be straight about it… "Look, Diamond. I'm just going to say this. The reason I didn't see you? Really...it's very very sad. I don't think you'd want to hear about it, especially before school. You wouldn't like it.."

"Oh really?" She sits down and crosses her front legs as she looks at you with a hard stare. "Try me..."

"D-diamond, I'm serious, you re-"

"T-r-y...m-e" She sits there. staring at you with with a rock solid expression.

You sigh.. "C'mon Diamond, I'm serious..."

"So am I, considering you never told me anything about it. So, c'mon..tell me. I want to know!" She was being so demanding.

Ugh...what could you do? You didn't want to lie to her. You sat down...and prepared yourself for the inevitable tears. "Diamond, I didn't see you because I couldn't find you. I found your dad. He...well..he lost everything, including you. He was looking for you. Before I left, I asked that version of Celestia to help him find you and your mom, because they were out there somewhere… and that's it..that's why"

"......" Diamond's expression started to crack, she started to tear up, and she moved close to you and fell into your forelegs, sobbing. "T-that's s-so sad! n-ngh..A-anon...y-you really are a h-hero. You defeated those evil kings, and then asked the princess to personally help my Dad..Daddy...mngh" She was crying harder. "Mother..I..don't want that to happen..."

You hold her tight and hug into her, gently rubbing her back. "It's ok Diamond. Everything will be ok for that other you and your other mom. I promise..."

"D-do you think..she'll ever meet the other you, do you think Daddy will find her? I just want them to be happy too." She was totally..not prepared for this.

"I'm sure, one hundred percent. You can trust me..."

"I-I know I can...." She was nuzzling into you now, feeling calmer just from your words. "I can't wait to get married...there's nopony else that's like you, Anon. you're the greatest"

Awwwww.... "I can't wait either Diamond..." And then..the bell began to ring. "Oh geez! And neither can school! We're gonna be late!"

"Hrn?! I almost forgot! Ogh, Mother and Daddy would be upset at me if I was late now! Not after picking out maids! Grrr!" She growled, and using her sudden herculean earth pony like strength, she started shoving you at breakneck pace into the schoolhouse and into the classroom. "HANG ON!"

"W-WHA-WO-WHA-DIA-GYAH!" What the fuck?! Where did she get all this power?!

Before you knew it, you were getting slammed into your seat as Diamond quickly rushed over to hers, sat down, and smiled brightly. Cheerilee was busy writing something on the board. When she turned around, she assumed everyone was there on time. Were you there? You had to take a few looks around to make sure everything was what it was because that was so fast and sudden, you didn't even know. Even weirder, the CMC were looking at you oddly. Especially Sweetie Belle....what the fuck was that about?

"Good morning class!" Cheerilee said with her usual welcoming smile.

"Good morning, Miss Cheerileee" Said the entire class, as usual.

"I hope you're all ready to learn today my little ponies, and have some fun too! Because today, we're going to be learning about the importance of Cloudsdale's team of pegasi and such things like their Rainbow Factory. Now, I know you little pegasus ponies think you know everything there is to know. But trust me, there's actually a lot of things to go over. and before anypony raises their hooves. Yes, I know it doesn't seem important for earth ponies and unicorns to learn these things. But it actually is. Learning how they bring us winter, control the weather, and move clouds about is something everypony needs to learn. Otherwise, we'd never come to understand why it's so important. And if we didn't understand why it was important, then nopony would care. And then the whole system would fall apart. But first....homework please!"

Homework?! AHH SHIT! You were the only one who didn't do it. Even Snips and Snails did it, and Cheerilee noticed...

She noticed, but she wasn't going to rudely call you out in front of the class. So she stayed silent and thanked everyone for their hard work.

Dammit… Well..it shouldn't be too bad. Your grade shouldn't be impacted too hard. Cheerilee then went into the lesson. It was...everything you expected. It was a long lesson too, one you were expected to write notes on. Since there was some things you didn't know about that wasn't explained in the show, you took extra care in writing it down..

When recess hit, everyone went out to do their normal things. Eat lunch, play, and chat. The CMC seemed especially eager to want to talk to you, but were immediately blocked by Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon once you stepped outside.

Hell, some of the other students seemed eager themselves. But after yesterday, they were forcing themselves to try to respect your space, yet still watching to see what happens.

"Anon...so, I want to ask you something. It's been bothering me since class started.." Diamond Tiara was looking pretty shy.

Silver Spoon giggled about whatever it was and cheered Diamond on "C'mon! You can do it! Like, I bet he has just the right answer!"

...Wut? "Erm, what's wrong Diamond?"

"Well..." She hesitated for a moment as she blushed. "I was wondering...if maybe..." She came up to you, and whispered in your ear. "Have a pretend wedding? maybe?"

.....Wut??!?!?!?! "U-um, a...what?"

"Oh, he totally heard you Diamond Tiara. Look! He's blushing! He's saying yes in his head! Aweeesssoommee!" Silver Spoon was already getting super excited about it.

"...Do you, Anon?...You don't have to say now.." Diamond Tiara looked around at the rest of the class that circled around you. She slowly went up to you, and whispered in your ear. "Tell me after school."

You were definitely blushing. Faux marriage? Oh good lord, what could that even possibly entail? It seemed too much and yet...your heart was thumping. You WANTED to try it, for her...you'd do it.

"Oh, and the rest of you? BACK OFF!" Diamond Tiara commanded with forceful vigor "THIS IS NONE OF YOUR BUSINESS! GOT IT?!" W-woah, that was startling. Startling enough that the class backed down and went off to do their own thing. "Well Anon. I'm going to go plan things out with Silver Spoon..don't you DARE try to listen in. I want it all to be a surprise. hrnnn.." She looked around, and noticed the CMC still looking. "Oh! Why don't you go hang out with Applebloom and her friends?" She snickers at you as she looks at you dreamily. "Maybe you all can try to figure out how our wedding is going to go, that can be fun"

She almost risked a kiss. But with it being so open around,the area and some ponies still taking glances. she didn't want to embarrass you in front of them. So she and Silver Spoon just walked off.

And so, you went off to the CMC, to find out what they wanted.

"Hey girls, what's up, you've all beeDLFDS'K"

Scootaloo slaps her hoof on your mouth. "Shhh!"

"Anon, we can't talk here, follow us." Applebloom motions to step far enough away from the schoolhouse that the other ponies decide not to follow. "Ok, now Scootaloo" Applebloom nods

Scootaloo removes her hoof. She held it there the entire walk, It was annoying. But sheesh, whatever it was, it made all three of them look pretty damn worried or something.

"Ok..so does somepony want to tell me what's going on? Don't tell me this has to do with Chrysalis" Yeah, they were acting weird enough for you to worry.

"Actuallly.......it has to do with Scrappy." Scootaloo says, looking about to make sure no one was around to hear.

Scrappy? Wut? "Oh, does this have to do with him not being there after school? Let me guess...it's something to do with him and Chrysalis then."

They all shook their head. You noticed Sweetie Belle was acting kinda blushy in your presence....wut?

"Anon, look, ahm gonna be straight with ya. Scrappy ran into that other you again." Applebloom explains.

............Wut?! Nooo. That can't be true. You could feel old feelings well up. Old feelings you thought you came to terms with and put to bed. And yet, you felt some anger? Was it just because of him existing? Him being so smug that he could just hop dimensions?..Or did he.. "...Please don't tell me he attacked Scrappy..I swear, if he touched one-"

"No, No! It's f-fine Anon..r-really!" Sweetie Belle put her hoof on you, then blushed and turned away as she pulled back.

...Wut? "....Uhhhhhhhhhhhh...what's going on? Sweetie Belle...why are you acting weird?"

"Oh boy Anon, you're gonna want to sit down for this one. It's all kinds of crazy." Scootaloo warns you, she looked concerned. They all did.

And so you sat...totally unprepared for what they were about to tell you.

Chapter 295

"Ok, so, your other you came back yesterday." Scootaloo tells you.

...Yeah...you knew that already. "Ok...go on. Did he do anything bad? Because, ya know. I can stomp him if I need too"

"What?! He didn't do anything bad, Anon! Wow! Why would you even think that! See? This is why you had trouble before! That other Anon?.." Sweetie Belle began to slow down as she put on a goofy smile and blushed. "He's everything a girl could want"

.........Oh no. "...Y-you're not ser....WHAT?! WHAT EVEN HAPPENED?! Sweetie Belle, you didn't seriously somehow run into this guy yourself, right?!"

"Mhmm, sorta...He said I was beautiful as always. He called me Miss Belle. He definitely is a prince. ohhhhh....I wish I knew when he was coming back..." Sweetie Belle's legs began to jiggle like jelly as she fell back, nearly fainting. Applebloom had to catch her.

"Get a hold of yerself, Sweetie Belle" Applebloom tries to snap her out of it with her words, and gives her a small shake.

"...ugh...She really is Rarity's sister" Scootaloo rolled her eyes. "You know that's not even the important part, right?"

"Huh?" Sweetie Belle took offense to that and hopped out of Applebloom's legs, fuming at Scootaloo. "Not important?! He's the prince of Equestria! The fact that he actually knows who I am personally sounds pretty important to me!"

"........You mean the 'you' that he personally knows in his own world? And not ours? That you?" Scootaloo looked at Sweetie Belle with a agitated stoic expression.

"..I mean...I guess" Sweetie Belle was aggravated by that point. "....that other me is sooooo lucky"

You sigh...this was going nowhere. "Can somepony tell me what happened with Scrappy, please?"

"C'mon girls, calm down." Applebloom tried to get the other two to stop bickering. But it took a bit of a harsher tone to get them to stop.

After they took a moment to apologize to one another, it was Applebloom herself who decided to relay what happened to Scrappy. "It's like this, Anon. Yer other self was here to get the low down on Queen Chrysalis."

Now that...was interesting. "Why? Don't tell me he has her in his basement too..."

Applebloom shook her head. "Ah don't think so. Ah think, from what Scrappy said, he's gonna attack their whole hive! Sounds pretty kooky if you ask me."

It did. How the fuck was he going to do it? From what you knew, Chrysalis had a throne that could nullify magic. And while yours made the mistake of coming out of it, his sounded like she was fine just sticking close to it. Though, he also seemed very resourceful. Not many ponies you could say would come up with an idea to cross dimensions just to dig up some info on your enemy. Hrn...this guy sounded like he was too smart for his own good. Hell, sounded like he was going to get everyone killed. what army was he going to send to attack Chrysalis? It'd be like what happened to Scoots en masse. "Geez, yeah. That's really...bad."

"I think it's better than keeping her in your basement. Anon, come on! He's the prince for a reason. And look how smart he is, nopony would have thought to come to another Equestria to learn about their enemy. He's a genius." Sweetie Belle was blushing as he praised him.

......

Ergh. "...Sweetie Belle, he said one sentence to you. Don't you think you're overreacting?"

"Anon, I'm a girl. It's ok to fantasize." She eyes you up and down, but she couldn't get the same feeling for you as she did for him. Even if you looked like him and shared his name, you weren't as well kept, shiny, smart, or anything like he was....At least, that's what she thought. "I mean...I won't say he's the better Anon. But he's definitely nicer and much cuter too."

....Was she saying that he was cuter and...nicer than you were? ....But...you were super cute! Even you'd fuck yourself if it was possible. What does this fuck have that you don't? You started to feel that internal anger known as jealousy. "Aren't I nice and cute?..."

"...Anon, come on." Sweetie Belle rolled her eyes.

"Can we not do this?" Scootaloo said "They're both Anon, right?...I dunno, this seems dumb to me" She muttered to herself

"Anon, that ain't important. What's important is who ya are on the inside" Applebloom makes a gentle tap at your chest, she just wanted to help you calm down. She then looks to Sweetie Belle, with a tired expression on her face. "C'mon Sweetie Belle. can we not get everypony riled up?Anon is right, ah think he was just being polite. he probably already has like, royal princesses asking for his hoof or somethin' like that already" Applebloom just wanted it to stop, it was ridiculous to her as well how Sweetie was acting.

Sweetie Belle flinched at those words. A Prince in waiting? Well, she wasn't a princess herself, she wasn't royalty.

Sweetie Belle sighed as she began to realize she may have had a crush over the unobtainable. The more polite and nicer Anon, no doubt. But...she didn't want to lose the friendship of the Anon she had. Especially after her spats from last time. "...I'm sorry. I guess I got ahead of myself there" Sweetie Belle admits, looking down and feeling ashamed.

Ugh, you could feel your own anger leave you as she slowly raised her head to reveal an adorably pitiable face. You reaaaalllyy wanted a real answer, you kind of wanted to rub in her face that she barely even knew this other Anon… But that would be mean, that would have been the you you were originally becoming, and that would give them justification to actually hate you. And you didn't want that. "..I'm sorry too, I really am. Look, let's just forget about which Anon is the best and move on with the story. Like, why and how exactly did he get Scrappy to tell him everything? He isn't usually the type to actually cause the ruination of his own queen. He wouldn't go that far, no matter what dimension of Chrysalis it is."

"Well, ah guess that ain't the case. Because he definitely told him everything he needed to know. Then again, Scrappy said that other you finally challenged him to that battle he's been wanting." Applebloom informs you.

"..Woooah...what?! They actually fought?" That...wait… "...Don't tell me...I-is Scrappy ok? He didn't hurt him, did he?"

"He's fine. Turns out it wasn't really a fight. They just played chess." Scootaloo smiled as she shrugged. "Who knew the little guy was so good...sorta...I mean, he said he lost a lot. But the way he beat all of us? I could swear he was playing for years or something. He apparently even won the last game against the other you."

Chess?!...fucking..Chess?! And he was good at it?! No fucking way, that made you curious enough to challenge him at it. No, you know what? First chance you get, you'll definitely challenge him. Because that, you had to see. And you felt, just like in a physical fight, that he stood no shot against you intellectually. "That...I need to see to believe"

"Oh trust us, Anon, he'll whoop your butt. I've never seen the little guy so focused. When he plays, it's a magic all its own. And it's like...every game...he just gets better. It's almost creepy" Scootaloo said.

"Speaking of creepy. Anon, did ya know Pinkie is throwing that party for Chrysalis...tonight. We all got the invites this mornin'. They were pretty weird too, said not to mention there was a party at all. But we at least had to ask ya about it." Applebloom informs you.

Ahh good, Pinkie was right on track. You smirk about it.

Since they weren't aware of your plan. You were sure this would blow them away. "Well, hehehehe..." You rub your hoof against your chest then blow on it. "I do know actually, I'm the one who asked Ponk to set it up."

".......WHAT?! ANON, ARE YOU NUTS?! DON'T YOU REMEMBER WHAT SHE DID TO ME! AND NOW YOU'RE ACTUALLY LETTING HER BE IN A ROOM FULL OF PONIES?!" Scootaloo was obviously the most displeased about this

The other two looked pretty frantic about it themselves. But you just smirked as you raised your hoof to try to settle them down. "Relax girls, relax. Check it. Scoots, you actually just said exactly what I had in mind."

".......WHAT?! YOU WANT THAT TO HAPPEN?! ANON..WHY?!" Scootaloo looked utterly befuddled. She was wondering if you had a screw loose or something..or even...went to her side.

"She's right, Anon! What are you thinking?! She's just going to use the party to feed off everypony! That's like...the opposite of what that other you would do!" Sweetie Belle just couldn't wrap her head around it. And that mention of the other you...goddammit. Fuck him, he couldn't come up with something this good even if he tried.

"Ugh, calm down...geez. Look, what I meant was that it's Chrysalis stuck in a castle with everypony in town. That's a good thing."

"Uh huh...and how exactly is that a good thing? That's like givin' a rat all the cheese without settin' traps first." Applebloom, of course ever a simple pony, couldn't figure it out either.

"Not exactly. See, It's the same because instead of a pony being stuck in a room full of changelings. It's a changeling stuck in a room full of ponies. She may feed on love, but trust me...she absolutely hates being shown it. Love and affection just being love and affection without a string attached makes her really really angry."

"Wha?...huh...wait" Scootaloo began to think on it. She remembered being stuck at the wedding when she revealed herself the first time. She also remembered Chrysalis being defeated by a giant love wave. "Wait..I..I think I get it. She can't stand ponies loving on her. She can eat love energy, but can't stand ponies loving and caring about her....ohhhh" Scootaloo smirks at you as she finally gets it. "You're gonna use the party to get her back for what she did to me? That's so cool! She can't even do anything about it either, not unless she wants everypony to know who she actually is."

Right on! Scootaloo may have not hit the bullseye, but she was nearly close. "Almost, Scoots. But I actually want her to realize that she doesn't need to be so hateful. I want her to feel loved and adored. I know it won't change her, but I know it'll leave a mark on her. And I'll use that to try to get her to reform. And before you ask how I'm going to keep her there, my horn has a couple of charges now. So It'll be alright, I can keep her contained."

"Hold on, Anon, now that sounds like an ok plan and all. But leavin' ah mark? Ah dunno, ah think she might just get really sore at you." Applebloom couldn't see Chrysalis taking it as any way but a form of insurrection against her.

"Oh, she will. But trust me, I think it'll work out in the end. Especially when I have two charges to......wait" ....Two? ....No.....wait. "....Wait...ahm, just a refresher. You all said my other self showed up in this world...right?"

"Yeah, we did. Why? What's that gotta do with the Chrysalis of our world, Anon?" Sweetie Belle asked. She was curious. But as she answered, she noticed an insane smile curl up on your mouth. "U-uhhh Anon...you ok?"

That magnificent idiot! He showed up…

And while you, being the superior Anon, could go and stomp his ass, you were indeed above that. You were a good pony now, through and through...yep...totally.

But no, seriously, you wouldn't beat his ass. But...because he showed up, that means the three charges you would have had to deal with his ass are now yours to play with. And it wouldn't even be three now...would it? It'd be four. Four whole charges.

With the right setup, you could make sure Chrysalis never escapes the love. You thought back at how smug she was, how she treated you. No, at first you just meant to contain her. But with this much power? Oh, you could feel it. It was the same feeling you got on Nightmare Night.

Maybe you may show her more than just the love of the ponies. You could show her that you too, we're not to be trifled with. She didn't know you had that many charges, she only knew you had one. Oh....this day just got better. Thanks to your doppelganger, finally, you'd have the upper hand this time. Just knowing that made you feel good. So much so, that you tittered, then giggled, then laughed, then entered insane hysterics. "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHMWHAHAHAHAHAH-OW!" You felt a hard slap on your cheek. "W-what'd you do that for Applebloom?"

"S-sorry Anon, ya just got kinda creepy there for a second." She, nor the other three seemed comfortable after that little outburst of yours.

"O-oh..s-sorry. I just was thinking of something funny"

"Yeaahhhh...ok..erm. So, what..should we do then..? y'know, about this whole party thing?" Scootaloo asked, wondering if you had any part for them.

"Huh? just act natural. And don't let Scrappy know, he doesn't know yet does he?"

They all shook their heads. "Nope, he's been practicing chess all day" Sweetie Belle informs you.

Practicing..hehe, he was gonna need it when you faced off against him. But enough being smug, you had to focus...you had the power, sure, but after being slapped for that kind of laughter?..Yeah..you better get a good hold of yourself. "Ok, good. Because I don't know what'd he'd think of the situation and it's better he doesn't know so he doesn't have to take sides."

"Oh yeah..that actually sounds ok. Ah wouldn't want him feelin' bad about what we're doin" Applebloom actually agreed with you on this one. It felt nice.

"Yeah, if he sided with bugbreath for this, it would be pretty bad" Scootaloo too? Rad.

"Or, he might try to stop it just because. I think he'd be worried for us and her." Sweetie Belle adds

"Ok then. As for getting Chrysalis there? Just leave that to me. I'll use one of my charges if I have to. Not like using one would actually matter at this point. Girls...look. I'm sorry about, in any way, acting like a derp. The news just kind of irked me and all."

"..It's alright, Anon..like I said, i'm sorry too. You may not be a prince, but you're still our Anon. Still high and mighty too" Sweetie Belle giggled before giving a sweet smile. "But also brave and caring. You're the only pony I know who'd go this far for Queen Chrysalis. And, without that, we would have never helped Scrappy."

"Yep, I wouldn't have been able to experience flying on my own. Well..sorta..but still, I wouldn't have flown without you, Anon." Scootaloo adds in.

"And ya know? Ah just like havin' you as a friend, Anon. You, Scrappy, and everypony in Ponyville." And then finally Applebloom, not the best bit of praise. But, it was balanced, fair, and you knew she meant it.

Shortly after, the bell rang to come back inside the class. You all hugged, and vowed your usual solidarity. And while you knew you'd have their support. You just had to wonder about three things.

One, how capable was Scrappy? Surely he wasn't that good. Two, Sweetie Belle...Goddammit. You knew...you just knew...she still had the hots for that other you. A small part of you wondered what could have been if it was you and her instead of you and DT. Egh..maybe you shouldn't think about it.

And finally, three, the other you taking on the changelings. Boy, he was gonna need some major fucking luck. Because even with Scrappy's info. It sounded impossible. But, him being another version of you? You felt bad for him in some way, you felt that no version of yourself should die, no matter how dimwitted they were. But what could you do? You just had to hope for the best....Besides, if he was going down? It had to be by your hoof.

Chrysalis herself would be a four. But with a smug smile and a flick of your horn. You knew you had her in the bag today. You had too many charges to fuck this up now.

And for that, you could at least thank your other self. Even if he did seem like a dweeb.

The rest of class was the same. The lesson continued. You wrote notes, though nothing noteworthy happened until the bell rang. You were however, planning on seeing Scrappy before the party. You were particularly interested in that chess playing.

You waited awhile inside the classroom after class was over. You pondered on what the night would bring.

As for your friends? You told Diamond you'd meet her outside, and the CMC that you'd catch up with them soon. But as you were stepping out...

"Anon...can I speak to you for a moment" That was Miss Cheerilee's voice.

DAMMIT.... You slowly turn around as the other students leave to see Cheerilee at her desk. Looking directly at you.....uggghhh.

Your ears droop downwards as you slowly approached her from the side of her desk. "Y-yes Miss Cheerilee?" Was it because of the homework you didn't do? You wondered.

"Oh..oh Anon" Miss Cheerilee could already see you stressing out about whatever it was she called you for. "What's the matter? You don't think you're in trouble, do you?"

"I mean...I didn't do the homework so..yeah..sort of..I'm sorry." You were, in that sense. Miss Cheerilee was a pretty nice teacher...sexy too, but that’s something else.

"Anon, homework is important. That's true. But you're not in trouble for not doing it. I was actually wondering if anything had been bothering you lately. You looked kind of off today..is it because of this?" Cheerilee takes out her invitation to the party and shows it to you.

The party? Were you nervous? Nervous about what? You had everything in the bag. "Ummm, why would I be nervous about that?"

"Well Anon, your sister only showed up only a little while ago. She's adjusting and you're adjusting. And after the story I heard about you crossing to another Equestria, I can't imagine things being easy to handle. I mean, it all sounds...wellllll.." she was trying to come up with a nicer word for "Crazy". "...Zany...Is that story your sister told even true?" It looked like she was pretty curious about it since she first heard of it. "It sounds way too dangerous to actually be believable."

Hrn, so it seemed the story being so fantastic may have caused skepticism in some of the adults, despite the proof. "Would you believe me if I said yes?"

"I...Well...It's kind of yes and no really. No because of how it sounds. And yes because I know your father could probably make it happen. But I guess I lean more towards a yes because the proof your sister had was also very convincing...ugh" Cheerilee put her hoof to her forehead in frustration when she realized she was going off track. "Nevermind, the important thing, The thing I'm trying to say is, are you alright? Is there anything wrong at all? Because as your teacher. you can tell me and we'll keep it between us, ok?"

Yeah no...she was nice. And probably super trustworthy. But you could never tell her what’s going on in your life. She'd fucking spaz so hard. "Nope, trust me, there's nothing wrong. I just really feel bad that I forgot my homework. Y'know, it happens. kids stuff." You shrug dismissively.

"Hmmmm, I suppose...Maybe I'm just a little too worried. Alright, if that's the case, i'll give you your F and be done with it." She takes a gradebook and goes to mark an F by your name.

"A-An F?!...ugh...yeah, I guess I deserve that, huh?" Dammit, you forgot for a moment that not doing homework gets you Fs...fuck school man.

"I'm sorry, Anon. Even though you're telling the truth, I can't give you a freebie. If I did, every student would want one. But don't worry" She closes the book up and looks to you with a cheerful little smile. "You've been doing well enough that it won't affect your grade really. Though, you shouldn't miss school too much either. Some work can't be made up, you understand what I mean by that, right?"

You nod. "Projects and stuff, yeah I get it. Ok, I won't sweat it." You peer over at the invitation. "So, you're coming to the party then?"

Cheerilee giggled. "Mhmm, I always go to every 'Welcome to Ponyville' Party that Pinkie Pie throws. When it comes to welcoming a new resident, you always want to try to show up to make them feel welcome."

Awwww..... "That's really cool of you, Miss Cheerilee"

"It's just the right thing to do, Anon, and it's always enjoyable. hmm, why don't you run along for now. I want to get my papers and planning in order so I can get to that party on time. You should get ready too. I'm sure your sister would love your company before you surprise her."

...Hehehehe....nope. "Sure Miss Cheerilee, I'll get right on that. You take care, ok? and thanks for worrying about me...it felt nice."

"Anon..." Cheerilee puts her hoof on your head as she gives you a more sunny and gentle smile. "I care about all my students. No matter what. You're all important to me"

....DAMMIT! WHY DO PONIES GOTTA BE SO CUTE, MAN! Or heartwarming, anyway.

With that out of the way. You head out to talk to Diamond and then go see Scrappy. Or you were.......oh no. You spotted Discord, leaning down and giving Diamond Tiara an adorable little boop on her nose. You could hear her giggling. Silver Spoon was at her side and she didn't seem too comfortable at all.

....What the fuck was that about? You just watch Diamond Tiara nearly skip with glee as Silver Spoon followed. And as they left, Discord looked over to you and waved for you to come over.

.....Ohh lordy. Good christ, what the fuck was that about? "So....what..um...what was that about?"

"Oh, you mean with your marefriend? Nothing much" Discord said as he pulled out and looked upon his invitation to the party closely, acting as if what he just did was no big deal. "I just promised her to make her fake wedding to you nearly perfect."

.....WHAT?! IS HE SERIOUS?! WAS SHE...no.DAMMIT..of course she was, of course he is...egghhh. "SHE ASKED YOU FOR WHAT NOW?!"

"A near perfect fake wedding. In which I told her yes" He puts the invitation away as he puts his arms on his hips and looks at you as if you were deaf. "I'm sure you understand what that means."

You felt weak, you could feel your legs jiggle as you wobble about. "...Oh my god Discord...why? Just..why?"

"Why not?" He starts counting off the reasons on his talons, growing more talons for the bigger number. "She likes you, she's demanding of you, which I find hilarious, she's adorable, She's smart..which that is very important, Anon. It offsets your....questionable intelligence. Ahrm, anyway, she knows what she wants in life, and I think Fluttershy would get a kick out of it. Those reasons are as good as any, I think so anyway"

Goddammit...some of those..wait. "...Are you saying I'm dumb?" You look at him with cute adorable frustration.

"No, I'm just saying you have some mental complications. And only sometimes....most of the time."

.....And it's times like this where that special bond between you and Discord stops being special. How agitating. "...Say's the guy who couldn't dodge a slow rainbow laser or realize he was being tricked by a horse man."

"...Oh..now you're just splitting hairs,Anon, that's not very nice." Discord pouts, crossing his arms.

"Yeah yeah, I know you're just messing with me. But what do you mean 'Near Perfect' wedding? Why not just a perfect one for the fake wedding?"

Discord sighs and then knocks on your head with his paw. "And this is why I think your skull is made out of pure unbreakium. Anon, how can she have a perfect wedding if the fake one was already perfect? Use that brain of yours. especially since this concerns you too."

"Ergh.." You back off, frustrated still....but...he may have had a good point on that one. "I see, so have a good fake wedding to just get a taste of the real thing, got it. But Discord, c'mon, I like her, I do, I really do...But we have to take our time. Y'know...because we're kids? Remember… I'm a kid now. Right?"

"I mean, yes, that's true, I suppose. But I also don't care too much about such frivolities as long as you don't make me a grandfather within the next few years."

You just let yourself slip on to your stomach. Goddammit, he just doesn't get it. You just peer ahead into nothingness. "....Never mind. So, what are you really here for then?"

"Glad you asked!" Discord grinned as he snapped his talons. You both appeared on at a corner booth in a familiar place.

"...Hey...this is" You were back in the Griffon bar.

You looked around, there were griffons already looking back at you. Some had murder in their eyes, but they left you alone. others were more jovial as they drank whatever they were drinking.

As you gazed. you heard a deep scratchy voice, manly as hell. "What can I getcha?"

At first, you thought it was some male griffon. But nope. you turn your head to see a huge, buff, female griffon with an eyepatch, and spots of missing feathers where muscle just stretched on outwards.

"Ahh, hello Girtha, how have you been?" Discord says with a grin

"Yeah whatever, this yer kid?" She looks over to you, with an uncaring stare.

"Indeed, say hello, Anon." Discord says, quite happily.

You however...this bitch was scary. There was even, what appeared to be, black smoke constantly coming from her nostrils everytime she exhaled. You ducked down, only the top of your head and eyes visible from the side of the table. "H-hello..umm.."

"Cute...Now what are ya both having?" She says as she holds up her notepad. "Make it quick, ya don't make tips by being slow."

"Oh, just food for now. I'll have whatever mold has been growing from under the bar and Anon can have a ham and cheese sandwich. Grilled if you don't mind." Discord did not seem at all worried or phased by this griffon. Well, he wouldn't be..but still..christ.

"Ya, got it.....ahrm" She holds out her talons and wiggles them a little.

"Oh Girtha, you rascal." Discord eyes move like a slot machine, showing two coins on each eye. He then pukes a few bits into her talons. It doesn't even freak her out or phase her as she just walks off.

You pop your head out, glad that she left. But..holy fuck. "Discord, what's up with her?!"

He shrugged. "Couldn't tell you, she just recently started working here. I love her work ethic though."

You and Discord turn to her as she goes over to a table and wraps her tail around a tough looking griffon's neck and throws him so hard he goes from one end of the bar to the other and flies right out the window. "AND DON'T COME BACK TIL YOU CAN PAY YER TAB, YOU DEADBEAT!"

.....You turn white. Holy fuck...even her tail is a deadly fucking weapon.

"so Anon. I've heard your doppelganger showed up again." Discord said as he looked to you with one of his usual smirks.

"...." You say nothing

"Anon..." Discord tapped your head as you just watched the griffon work. That smoke was as black as her feathers, even the white feathers on her head were graying out due to it. Where did it even come from? Was she like, smoking a million cigarettes inside her stomach somehow?

Discord makes a glass of water appear and splashes it on your face. He didn't seem pleased you were ignoring him.

"G-gyah! What the?! What was that for!" Like, seriously!

"I was just trying to get your attention, Anon. I didn't bring you here to gawk at the pretty griffon"

.....Ewwww, god no. She was burly, buff, and missing patches of feathers. She even had a scar on her right eye. She was totally not your type, especially with that murder tail. "...yeah...no...ugh..ok ok fine. What were you saying?"

"I was talking about your other self. I heard he showed up. But it seems like you didn't take the chance to exact your revenge. I take it you have bigger fish to fry with those extra charges you now have? Hmm?"

So...you did indeed have them then. That's good to know. "Bigger bugs is more like it."

Discord chuckles as he leans back on his chair "That's what I like to hear. Oh...by the way" He holds his paw to his talons and smiles at you, a genuine smile "I..do have to say this at least. Thank you, for whatever you told Fluttershy last night. Because whatever you told her, she seems a lot more receptive and less upset at me. Which is good because I actually did bother to sign us up for that booooring class. Well, maybe boring. We'll have to see what our options are for when we actually take them."

There we go, some common ground in how you both felt Chrysalis went too far. You grin and lean back on your own seat as well. "Look, that other me isn't anything to worry about anyway, he's dumb. Right now? Chrysalis has to learn her lesson. But we can't actually do anything that would hurt her or just piss her off just for the sole reason of pissing her off. I do want to reform her. Remember that."

"I remember. I'll leave most of what will happen at that party to you. But those classes? Oh no, that would be my turn. I trust you have everything mostly set?" Discord asks.

"Mostly. I just need to think of a way to get Chrysalis to the party. Which, I think it wouldn't be too hard in all actuality. All I have to do is challenge her resolve, tell her the castle has some weird book that might have something she may need, and tell her that I want to see, with my own eyes, why helping her is better than being a pony."

"Oh Anon" Discord says as Girtha drops off your plates and walks off, he takes his mold and shoves it down his throat. "That's a terrible plan. She'll see right through it. Even if you do manage your emotions, she's not an idiot, she'll catch on to it eventually and it just won't work anymore."

...Huh...you never did think she could catch on. But...Discord could be right.

You take a bite out of your sandwich. "So, what do you suggest?"

"Be genuine. Ask her that your curious as to what she means by ponies being insufferable by demonstrating it with Twilight."

What? "What do you mean?"

"I mean, ask her to show you things from her point of view by showing you that the princess of friendship isn't actually so friendly. Chrysalis knows you've had problems with her before, you still have a few hang ups about it, use it to your advantage. I sure do...mmm, this is good" He says as he munches on a particularly hardened piece of mold, like it was candy.

That plan though,it could work. Chrysalis was just telling you about something like that. Maybe giving her the chance to "show it" would be all you need. "I like that plan, and in lieu of not having a better one? Yeh, I'll take it. So..erm...you gonna be there? It'd be cool if you were"

"Oh..I'll be there. It's my obligation as a father after all. Besides, not only do I need to be there to make Fluttershy happy. But then there's seeing the bug crumble while showing those ponies what a REAL good time is like, oh..it'll be grand" Discord let out an evil chuckle this time as he peered forward, as if he could see it happening. But, the way he acts about parties...

Actually, given his words, and this bar....It made you wonder something. "Discord, do you actually ever go out to learn what a real party is like?"

"Oh, you don't think I don't? Anon, believe it or not, I do happen to venture into some pretty swanky establishments" Discord says with a cocky smirk.

"Then why didn't we go to one of those places instead?"

Discord sighed to that. "Because swanky places are for swanky business, shady bars are for shady dealings. Now then, let's order us some drinks, shall we? To make a toast to whatever you did last night, I want to show my appreciation"

Chapter 296

Discord raises his talon to signal Girtha to come closer.

She notices, and walks over, looking down on the both of you. She opens her mouth and takes out a red hot stone that was emitting black smoke. She inspected it for a second before putting it back in her mouth, under her tongue

....Why?!...WHY?! SHE HAS SOME HOT MOLTEN ROCK UNDER HER TONGUE AND SHE WASN'T....oh never mind. You should be used to that kind of shit by now..

"What do you want now?" She asks in a gruff, agitated voice.

"Just drinks my dear, just drinks" Discord replies

"....Then what are ya havin'?" She asks as she taps on her notepad, smoke blowing up from her nostrils.

"Well, I'll have a normal bottle of cider. Strange I know, but it fits the occasion I think" Discord says as he relaxes back on his chair.

"And you?" Girtha asks as she writes down Discord's order

..you...you? Oh baby...Time to go for the top

You lean your chair back and place your hindlegs onto the table as you smirk. What possible "Drinks" could Equestria have over humans? You felt like going big this time. Big plans and big successes called for big drinks.

"I'll take the strongest drink you got!" You exclaim boastfully.

Suddenly, everyone in the bar stops. Everyone...and they peer over to you. Even the usually silent barkeep stopped cleaning his glass as his eyes slowly shifted towards you.

"Ya sure, pipsqueak? We ain't responsible for what happens" Girtha informs you in a stoic fashion, the only one unphased by what you said.

You take a moment to look about. The griffons in the bar, they were whispering to each other, some seemed scared, some just looked on, curious.
"He can't be serious..."
"He's just a kid...he doesn't even know what he's ordering"
"Discord ain’t that crazy, right? To let him have....’That drink’? "
”By King Grover himself, this is madness!"

Madness they say? Well...you were the "Son of Chaos". Madness was your forte

"....hurry up. or you ain't gettin' squat" Girtha grew impatient, awaiting the finalization of your answer.

....So these griffons were afraid of a little alcohol, huh?..well...you weren't. "I'm super sure, give me a glass of your strongest stuff!"

".....we only sell it in shots, one shot per customer." Girtha groaned

Discord threw a bag of coins onto the table with an insidious smirk on his face "The boy said a glass. So get him a glass"

Girtha grows silent, and takes the bag of bits and walks off.

"A GLASS?!"
The griffons in the bar start to panic
"HE ACTUALLY DID IT! THE MADPONY!"
"HE'S DOOMED US ALL!"
"THERE'S NO WAY THAT KID COULD HANDLE THAT! WHO KNOWS WHAT'S GOING TO HAPPEN?!"
"ANYTHING CAN HAPPEN! WE COULD ALL BE DESTROYED!"
"..I-I THINK I HEAR MY MOMMA CALLING" One of the griffons shrieks as he blasts towards one of the windows...misses, and just busts right through the wall, leaving a griffon shaped hole.

The barkeep stayed silent as he started mixing drinks.

There's noooo way what you ordered is that bad.

You look over to Discord, with just a little worry in your heart. "...why are they so scared? The hell did I even order?"

"You, Anon..." Discord chuckled "Ordered a whole glass of ‘Laugharooni’ "

Laugharooni?

.....seriously? "....what kind of name is that? That sounds stupid"

"To you, maybe. to them? Ohhhh, it brings fear and pandemonium into their hearts. Only one other has managed to drink this drink, and only through sheer luck did he get out in one piece. Look...to the hall of fame" Discord points to the wall above the barkeep, a huge photo was placed where a sign said "Laugharooni survivors"

..the picture was of Discord…..ugh, really? The photo was just him holding a trophy with a big grin on his face. Obviously, he wasn’t THAT affected.

...of course. You weren't impressed.

You just leaned forward and rested your head on the right frog of your hoof, looking boredly at Discord. "......you know it's cheating when you are just able to just do whatever, right?"

"It's still something they fear, Anon, are you sure you can handle this drink? I could just order you a glass of cider....or milk. Would you like milk?" Discord's words lacked any actual care, he was teasing you.

You just smirked at him "Milk, huh? nah, today Discord? You'll see what a man can do. That's right, I said man. Not boy, not kid, not pony, A human man. And us men can handle our drinks. And once I'm done, they'll have a real person to stick up on that wall"

"Oh, this is going to be very interesting. Very interesting indeed" Discord twiddles his talons and paw digits about,

"Oh yes, very enlightening. pip pip peri! good show! a real ding daddler in showing Draconequus kind that they are second rate, oh ho hum hum" You mock him,in a very condescending voice. Doing your worst to sound like him.

".....I don't sound like that at all" Discord didn't look pleased at all with that mockery

"Yeah uh huh, ok....ahh! Hey, here we go!"

Girtha came over and dropped off the drinks "One cider, one glass of laugharooni, and the owner wants you to sign this waver pinnin' all responsibility on you. Also a fee for the paper itself" She slides the waver towards Discord

Discord materializes a quill and signs it with a sing songy "Done,done, and done" He passes a few more bits to her as he passes the waver back.

You stare at your glass. The liquid was blue and bubbling. This is what they were afraid of? It wasn't even frothing. Pussies, the lot of them.

The both of you smirk at eachother as Girtha walks off. Griffons sweating like pigs, all eyes on you.

"To the annoyance of a certain bug" Discord states, eyeing you as if you were making a mistake.

"And to the happiness of a certain yellow pony, a toast!" You say, confident in your decision.

You both hold up your drinks, clack them together, and drink.

Hey, it didn't even taste that bad. it tasted sweet, like sugar drops. No blueberry flavor like one would expect. And no alcohol whatsoever. The fuck were they sperging about?

You guzzle down the whole glass. The bar going dead silent as you slam it onto the table and wipe your muzzle. "Ahhh, smooth. No problem here"

"Amazing, Anon, you drank that entire laugharooni without even wondering what it is." Discord looks around. All the griffons had their eyes on you, white from fear. Except for Girtha and the barkeep.

"Who cares? the fact is I did it..ahhh" You leaned backwards, resting your head on your forelegs in triumph "tooooo easy"

"Anon, you're not even the least bit curious?" Discord's grin...it was starting to creep you out.

"No....I am sorta wondering why everyone is still looking so freaked out though" You felt kind of awkward about it "Weird..."

Suddenly, you started to feel funny. "...huh...I feel a little weird.."

You started tapping at your neck, it was feeling tingly and itchy inside and out "ugh...don't tell me I was allergic to that stuff. Discord, help me out, will you?"

"Oh, I will" But Discord doesn't move, he just observes before slowly pulling up a mirror "....If it was an allergy"

You started to feel your throat stiffen, you had trouble moving

You had to pull yourself forward to look in the mirror...and what you saw..horrified you

Your neck was covered in blue polkadots "THE HELL IS THAT?!"

The griffons in the bar began to panic.
"IT'S HAPPENING!"
"IS HE GOING TO BLOW UP?! IS IT GONNA SPREAD?!"
"WHAT IF HE SPITS FIRE?! WHAT IF WE ALL END UP FRIED GRIFFON?!"

"D-dis-o-o.....D...Dis-...W-...What wa....a...s...in..t-t...th....ngh" It was getting harder and harder to speak

"Really? What else could cause those kinds of conditions. You were warned, Anon, you were warned." Discord looks at a watch on his wrist and smirks "It's a good thing we have time for this or else I'd be panicking too. Funny how things like that work, right Anon?"

Blue polka dots

Blue drink

.......no...way "I D-D-...POI...P...JOK......."

You nearly stiffened up completely at this point. falling off the chair, only barely able to move.

Discord leaned over the table, placing his head on his paw as he looked down at you "Having fun down there, Anon?"

You slowly rolled over to look at him, but everytime you opened your mouth there was silence. You couldn't speak.

The griffons were ducking, then peeking as small whistling noises were now coming out of your mouth instead of expletives.

Then finally, music started coming out of your mouth.

Some of the tune of "Treasure Trove Cove" came out of your mouth before you clamped your mouth closed in surprise

You tried opening your mouth again, only this time the theme of "Pirates of the Caribbean" was coming out.

The next time was the first stage theme from DKC2

The hell?! What was going on?

Discord snickered as he looked down at you "Oh my, Anon, you've become your own ‘Pirate’ radio...how about that?"

You tried to get angry, you tried yelling at him.

But all you could do was release shanty songs like "A pirate's life for me" and "Professional Pirate"

You also could barely move. Goddammit! why the fuck do they even serve that shit here?!

Discord chuckles as he picks you up and holds you close as he brings you to the bar. The griffons just looking on with awe and fear. A colt, drinking a glass of Laugharooni? It stunned them.

Discord gently puts you on the bar table and opens your mouth as "99 bottles of beer on the wall” plays. He then taps your nose, a small magic flowing through your face, it kept you from closing your mouth.

Discord then turns to the patrons of the bar as he appears in a conductor's outfit. With his baton, he taps it on a table lightly, and readies himself. "Alright boys, it's time to celebrate this brave colt's actions! I know you all can get pretty jovial, so let's all sing along...and have some fun, shall we? I know you know the words to this one. And this place always did lack a little fun in the musical sort of way. Soooo, altogether now" He raises his arms "One...two...three!"

The griffons all realized what he was talking about. And, to your surprise, all glared at eachother, got back to their seats, and started to...sing.

"99 bottles of chum on the wall, 99 bottles of chum, you take one down, pass it around! 98 bottles of chum on the wall!"
"98 bottles of chum on the wall, 98 bottles of chum, you take one down, pass it around! 97 bottles of chum on the wall!"
"97 bottles of chum on the wall, 97 bottles of chum, you take one down, pass it around! 96 bottles of chum on the wall!"
"96 bottles of chum on the wall, 96 bottles of chum, you take one down, pass it around! 95 bottles of chum on the wall!"

Your eyes went wide...no way these fuckers can...NO WAY! NOOOO!

And they did...they went through every painstaking lyric of the song. It took nearly forty minutes to get through it all.

Your eye was twitching, you thought you were going insane. This stupid song, these dumbass griffons, FUCKING....

"DISCCCCOOORDDDDD!" You finally manage to let out right when the song ends.

Being still and stiff for so long, you lose your footing and fall off the bar lane. But, instead of hitting your head on the ground, you are instead caught by the gaggle of griffons.

"Hurrah for the hero colt! the only other insane maniac to drink a laugharooni and not blow up or something!" They held you up, bouncing you up and down in celebration
"Hurrah! He really is the hero colt!"
"Yeah! let's hear it for this loony! Hurrah for Discord and Anon!"
"The bravest drinker of the bar! Anon! yeaah!"

Woah..this actually felt kind of nice. Sure, you had to endure a stupid painful song. But now? You were well respected among the griffon race in an instant.

You were smiling...haha! "Aww yeah! Thanks guys! Really, it wasn't nothing. You guys are the greatest. Y'know, maybe next time. you all could buy me some dinner huh?"

"......" They all immediately look at eachother with dismay as you were flung in mid air as the group of griffons disperse, muttering to themselves as you fall down onto your head and land on your backside. Looking straight up with a pained groan.

Greedy bastards...

Discord hovered over to you and looked down at you "Have fun?"

".....egh, not anymore...can we go now? I got stuff to do."

"Indeed you do, I'm going to get ready for that party now. hrnn..Fluttershy is the last to know, correct?"

You nod, still internally aggravated. But..who could you be pissed at? Discord?...or yourself for just drinking that shit in the first place.

..egh, never mind. you'd let it slide...griffons were still greedy bastards though.

"Then I suppose I'll keep her busy so she doesn't go out and accidentally find out what we have planned. I'll trust that the townsponies know to keep their mouths shut. So, anyplace I could drop you off?" Discord asks, looking rather serious now that things have died down.

You started to lighten up as Discord seemed to genuinely care to help you. He was,after all, just having another laugh. "The clubhouse, there's something I gotta see before I go get Chrysalis"

"Gotcha, Well then. Good luck, Anon. I expect a good show by the end of all this" Discord snaps his talons.

You instantly teleport from the bar, to the front of the clubhouse.

A few inches above...

...upside down...

You sigh as gravity finally grabs hold of you and slams you on your head once again.

"....Discord......" He could never..EVER..do anything normal, could he?..well, normal by pony standards.

You rub your head and sigh, and knock on the door. "Hello? anypony there?"

"Gimme ah minute, Anon, workin' on mah next move." You hear Applebloom call out.

Wut?

You try opening the door, and it seems it was left open.

You slowly open it to see....Applebloom facing off against Scrappy..in chess.

Oh god...it was true.

...and that chess board. Holy shit.

It had the royal guards as pawns. the leaders of the three tribes as the other pieces. Queens were Celestia and Luna respectively. And...what the fuck was with that King piece? The both of them. They looked so plain. Like, just common ponies. And yet the board itself looked high quality, royally so. It looked so familiar too, as if you had seen it once before when...Luna and DT played?

.....did...did the other you give Scrappy Celestia and Luna's chessboard? does...your Celestia and Luna have a similar one? You just couldn’t remember. It was just a small detail you overlooked.

huh...

You just silently move close and around as Applebloom slams her rook near Scrappy's king, taking his bishop. and then with a "Aha! got ya now!", she looks at him with victorious confidence.

But it looked like Applebloom was at a disadvantage, with fewer pieces.

"Sorry Master Applebloom, but victory is mine again. By sacrificing my bishop, MY QUEEN TAKES VICTORY! CHECKMATE!" Scrappy cackles as he moves his queen to take her rook, placing it in a spot where her king was stuck between four of her final pieces.

"..awww, horseapples" Applebloom sighs as she leans back in defeat.

"Awww..." Scrappy immediately frowns as he slowly moves over to Applebloom's side "I'm sorry I'm so good....I could do worse next game if you want!"

"Awww..." Applebloom sighed as she smiled and gently rubbed his head with her hoof "It's alright Scrappy, yah don’t have to do that."

So then..it's possible that Applebloom just sucked then. "So has Scrappy won every game since he got that board then?Every single one?"

"ANOAAAWWAAa!" Applebloom didn't even see or hear you come in, she ends up falling back in fright of your sudden appearance. Scrappy quickly rushing to catch her, using his back as a cushion.

He doesn't even yelp in pain as she falls back. "Are you ok, Master Applebloom?!" He says, worried

"Ahm alright, thanks Scrappy, are you ok?" Applebloom says as she gets up off of him.

"I'm always ok! As captain, I have to be." Scrappy gets up with a smile as she dusts off her side, then looks at you with a vicious expression "What's the big idea, Anon?! Sneaking is my job! Getting caught is yours!"

...wut?...agh, more of his nonsense. The cute bastard.

You roll your eyes at him, disregarding his words. "relax Scraps, I didn't sneak in. I just walked in.while you guys were playing a game. I heard you were pretty good"

"I'm the best! That's what Master Applebloom says anyway" He says proudly.

"He is really good, Anon, but..what are ya here for? Shouldn't ya get ready for that party?" Applebloom asked

"Anon is going to the party too? Wait, does that mean everypony but me is going to the party? Then...." He wondered "what am I supposed to do?"

"Yer gonna be watchin' the farm animals, remember? Makin' sure nothin weird goes on." Applebloom informs him.

"...oh right..I almost forgot" He salutes, with a sense of duty on his face "I won't let you down!"

"Ah know ya won't, Scrappy. Never thought ya did...hug time?" She says with a cute smile on her face

"HUG TIME!" He says with glee as he embraces her in a hug.

...adorable

Heh, you couldn't help but smile at the scene.

In fact, you were sure he'd be happy to face off against you too. Though, when he realizes he's going to lose....you might feel bad. But you just had to see for yourself just how good he really was. No way he could outmatch you.

It was an odd sense of curiosity you had. Was it that you wanted to beat Scrappy? Or just prove that this other you wasn't as smart as you are by beating his "chess protege"? Hmmm
"Anyways...I came here wondering if Scrappy would like to play a game of chess with me before the party starts"

Scrappy's ears perked up when he heard that. He slowly ended the hug with Applebloom as he looked at you with an insidious smirk "Is that a challenge, Anon?...for the queen's honor?"

.....geez, he's so damn obsessed with that. You thought he may have forgotten about it eventually. But he apparently wasn't kidding, he really wants to avenge her honor. "Sure, why not. If you beat me, I'll admit that I'm a big stink stinker who can't compare to your queen"

"...Also Master Applebloom" He adds with a smirk

....wut? "..ahm...uhh..I...Applebloom? You mean that I can’t compare to her too?"

Applebloom shrugs, she seemed totally ok with that part "Ah dunno, Anon, sounds good to me" She was hiding a little smirk....oho..really?

"seriously? You do know he's going to lose right?"

"Don't be so sure, Anon, we haven't beaten him yet. And he gets better every game" She explains

"C'mon! Let's play! Let's play! For honoooooorrr!" He cheers as he hops about

Alright, you'll play for those stakes...but "Alright fine, but if I win? No more of this honor stuff between me and Chrysalis, got it? You have to admit I'm better than her"

"Anon, ya can't make hi-" Applebloom felt that was too far. She hated Chrysalis, but she didn't want to upset her changeling puppers.

But Scrappy interrupts her as he quickly sets up the board and replies with a "DEAL!"

"Alright then" You look to Applebloom with a smirk "See? He knows what he wants...now then"

You sit yourself on the Luna side of the board, and tap at the pieces. High quality stuff. You felt like it was unbreakable and yet, at the same time, very delicate.

"Ok then. I control Celestia's forces...who should be my queen's forces..but ok. It means though, THAT I GO FIRST! HAHA!" He slowly pushes his rightmost pawn forward.

"Careful Scrappy, Anon might be good at this" Applebloom warns him

....Well, looks like you had zero support for this battle.

That's fine. "Well, I take my knight as my first move, and move him here! right above the pawn in front of the bishop. haha!"

And so the game was on.

You and Scrappy sweated every move. Plotted every plan.

Applebloom, stayed silent, keeping an eye on Scrappy's moves and silently cheering for him.

But....much to your dismay. You started to lose your foothold quickly.

You were drenched in sweat as Scrappy took piece after piece as you fell for every trap.

Until eventually...he beat you....in ten moves...not very long at all.

"NO WAY! IMPOSSIBLE!"

"YA DID IT SCRAPPY! YA BEAT ANON!" Applebloom cheered as she cuddles Scrappy from the back

"I DID! I DID! HONOR HAS BEEN BROUGHT BACK TO ALL I CARE ABOUT FOREVER! YAY!" He said in delight. hugging Applebloom back.

Oh hell no, you wouldn't accept this. Not from him. He had practice after all. When was the last time you played a game of chess. No, it was a fluke. "woah..woah! Hold on, this is two out of three. Remember?"

Both Applebloom and Scrappy stop as they look at you. confused.

"uhhhh, ah don't remember that" Applebloom states

"..Neither do I..d-did Anon say that?" Scrappy was getting worried. He didn't remember. And he didn't want to do anything to screw up his victory.

"I did...I guess nopony heard me. Soooo..." You take Celestia's pieces and form your army as you slide Luna's pieces to him "Time for round two, I'll use Celestia this time. Which means I go first"

"...somethin' don't seem right about this. You ain't being a sore loser, are ya Anon?" Applebloom narrows her eyes at you

"W-what? N-no...this is just...how I always do things..always"

..you big liar. whatever, it was just a fluke. You'd take victory this time. and it'd be legit.

"Don't worry, Master Applebloom. I dedicate this entire game to you!" Scrappy looks at you with pure determination on his face. A focus that was so fierce..it even scared you "I'll make you super proud"

"Ah know ya will Scrappy, tan his hide, ya hear?" Applebloom was full on rooting for Scrappy over you. tanning your hide?..ya know what? fine..bring it. You had this this time.

"Alright then, let's DO THIS!"

.......and it was over in two turns

Only two...you didn't know it was possible.

You moved your pawn in front of your bishop first, then your knight.

But Scrappy had moved his pawn in front of his king forward, then diagonally moved the queen all the way to the side of the board. Trapping your king...within two moves.

You couldn't say anything as Scrappy cheered.

Applebloom, also thought it was impossible. She felt absolutely sorry for you. She walked over to you, and gave you a gentle pat on your shoulder. "It's alright Anon, it was just...errr......well, the important thing is ya made Scrappy happy"

Scrappy was just hopping about, singing a song he just made up. "Glory for the queen! yeah yeah yeah! Honor for the master, Woo woo woo! Anon defeated, yay yay yay! But we're all still friends! Yeh Yeh Yeh!"

".....g-......-gh......" ...there...was....no...WAY!

You just looked at the board but...there it was.

Defeat.....in two moves.

It was actually possible

..and it happened to you. ".....So..I lost?"

"Looks that way, b-but it's ok. Ah think it's better this way. Yer still plenty smart....just not at chess..."

Ogh, her words were painful.

"Anon?" After he finished his song, he scampered over to you and gave you a hug "Don't worry, now that you know you can never be better than the queen or Master Applebloom, we can be even better friends. Don't be sad that you're not as good at scheming or planning as I am. You're still a good friend!"

......you hated you...that other you. He did this...so humiliating.

"Anon?...hello?" Scrappy tapped at your face.

But you were just so stunned

So...defeated

"Anon?" Applebloom started to worry about you.

.....

"....it's....fine. Good job Scrappy..." You say with a vacant expression.

"R-really! You're thanking me for beating you?" Scrappy was pretty excited, he didn't even notice your feelings or your tone. He was just happy to know you acknowledged your defeat. He was wagging his tail in delight.

"Y-yeah. Good job...erm...I'm gonna....I'm gonna go get ready for the party now" You say as you slowly get up and head towards the door.

"Anon...c'mon, are ya ok? yes or no" Applebloom felt uncomfortable letting you go in such a state

"w-wait..is something wrong with Anon?" Scrappy started to feel the cold hard defeat in you now that it was called to his attention. And he knew the one thing to fix it. "Anon, do you want hug time?"

"...I'm fine...really....." Two...moves.... "Just, don't worry..it's just a game. I'm glad you're happy Scrappy. You do a good job watching those animals...ok?"

"Can do Anon..but" He looked at you with big eyes "Are you sure you don't want hugs?"

"I'm sure..."

"Anon, c'mon. It was just a game. It ain't that bad" Applebloom felt bad, but at the same time, felt you were overreacting.

"I know...I'll get over it. I'll see you at the party, Applebloom."

It was clear Scrappy didn't have the full details of the party, or else he'd object.

As for you, you left on that note. But you didn't head anyplace in particular.

You walked off into the distance.

You looked up into the sky

and let it out… "I HATTTEEE YOOOUU SOOO MUCCCCHH OTHERRR MEEEE! SOOO DAMNNN MUCH!"

.....you felt slightly better after that. "...ok....time for Chrysalis"

Chapter 297

Outside, you head towards the nearest water source to return home, trying to get the other you out of your mind...the jerk. The party would be soon. You had to get home, you had to convince Chrysalis in coming with you to the castle. You were sure Pinkie had things set by now.

You headed into the nearby farm, and looked over by the barn. The farm itself seemed to be devoid of any pony life. The Apples must have already gone to the castle. Aha! Near the barn, you find a large bucket of water. Perfect! You give it a swift buck, and dab your map into it, creating the portal into your room.

You fall in, and then head towards your floor door after nabbing your map. But then....you slow down for a moment. You head over to your window, you felt you needed a cheering up.

You open the blinds to reveal the X-Captain, still there, his golden eye had turned a bloodshot red as he stared intently at you, murderous rage in his voice. "ANNNOOOOOONNN! YOU CAN'T KEEP ME OUT FOREVER! SOONER OR-" You close the blinds on him.

Then you open it, as he screeches in anger. "STOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOP DOING THAT! I'LL OBLITERATE YOU! I SWE-...what are you doing?" The X-Captain noticed you reaching for the lock on your window. You start to gently flick at it. He suddenly becomes happy, jovial even, as he smashes his face onto the window, staring at your hoof. "DO IT! DO IT! PLEASE, DO IT! C'MONNNNN" Every tentacle on his ball mass was trembling in anticipation.

You smirk at him, and remove your hoof. "Nahhhhhhh, no"

"REEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!" He becomes so batshit insane he just starts firing bolts of magic everywhere from his eye. But just like with the laser, it does nothing.

"Well...I feel a little better now. Thanks dipshit" You smirk at him as you salute. But he was too crazed to even notice.

You close the blinds during his screeching and head down into the living room and through the trap door. "Alright, just keep in mind of what Discord said. Just ask her to prove it, prove to you that ponies suck...that’s all. egh..will that really work?"

You could try your idea. But then again, Discord could be right about that. You at least had to think of a back up plan. Well, if nothing else, you could spend a charge to send her there against her will. But that's not good enough. You wanted her to know she could be beat by you as well. You were sick of being seen as a pushover by her. You weren't...

You pull out your map for a moment to even make sure she was down here. She was. So, she probably hasn't found out about the party.

When you finally reach her inner sanctum, you noticed her in some sort of racer gear with a backwards cap. She was personally cleaning her car as the changelings around her watched.

She was chuckling to herself "To think, such a perfect tool of destruction came from such a little contrarian shrimp. Ahh, mummy loves you so much." Chrysalis gives it a few rubs with the sponge, then dips it into soapy water from a bucket next to her. "That little worm, he's so adorably naive. Thinking he could beat me, thinking he can change me...." She starts laughing maniacally. "HAHAHAHAHA! That little fool doesn't know who he's dealing with Haha...ha....hmmm" She starts to groan mid laughter, and drops the sponge. "...Why can't he just join me already? Seriously..what's the point of his stupid endeavors? He is the only pony! ONLY PONY! Who I can see eye to eye with and yet he has to have the flaw known as morality. How? he was a human before, they didn't seem all that moralistic. All the more reason to choose the winning race, my race. Stupid Anon, he's so stupid...STUPID!" She raises the sponge with her magic and causes it to explode, throwing soapy water everywhere, she was angry. "I'M SICK OF BEING DOWN HERE! I'M SICK OF BEING A PONY! ALL HE NEEDS TO DO IS USE THAT HORN AND I'D BE FINE! If only the way to my kingdom was possible. But the form Discord gave me..." She silently growls. "It's too weak to even deal with a simple bugbear"

"My queen!...erm" One of the changelings approach her, as you just stand there, staring.

"WHAT IS IT, CARAPACE!" She barks in anger, losing the clothes she had on in a wisp of green flame.

"A-Ahmm....." the changeling goes silent, and points over behind her.

"Hrmmmm?" Chrysalis looks behind herself, noticing you, realizing you heard everything. Though, she didn't seem to care too much "...eavesdropping, Anon?"

You carefully approach her, stepping away from the soapy spots on the floor. "Err, more like you were just kinda talking to yourself."

"Hmmnnnn.." She just stared and grumbled with a sour face before turning away, looking upon her car. "So I was" She sighs, then shoos you away "...I'm busy, Anon. Unless you're here to help me, then leave. I'm not in the mood to play our game tonight"

"Actually..." You sigh, and drum up some conflicting emotions. "Chrysalis, I was thinking about what you said earlier..."

Chrysalis stops, but she doesn't turn her head to face you, she tries to stay focused on her car as she takes another sponge from the bucket to continue washing her car. "You have? I doubt it. Considering you always find a way to bury yourself in the sought after love of your 'Aunt' and friends"

"....Uh huh, yeah. That's the problem. They only like me because I'm a colt. They don't know who I am, and I'm getting sorta annoyed having to keep silent. Then there's everything else. School is annoying, being treated like a kid sucks. I really had no choice in picking a mature mare to indulge myself in some sex. And everyone is either cheery or freaking out. And then there's Discord, do you know what he did? He made me drink Poison Joke...the fucking asshole!...grrrr....mnnn" You growl for a moment, before "trying to relax" and let out a sigh. "I...I want you to show me how ponies are deep inside. I want to see a real reason for me to give in. and..ah?!"

Chrysalis had quickly turned towards you and placed her hoof on your mouth and pressed slightly into lower your jaw. She cranes her head close as she uses her magic to slowly lift you, keeping her hoof in your mouth the entire time before forcing it up to make you open your mouth completely.

She inspects you thoroughly. She doesn't say anything...but she notices that you did indeed drink Poison Joke, she could still see subtle signs of it. "....Interesting." She gently puts you down and removes her hoof. "So, in the course of a day, you ran into all sorts of undeniable proof. Hurts to know I was right, doesn't it? It hurts to know that despite Discord saying you're so close to him, that he'd still make you suffer for a good laugh. And your dear Aunt, she only likes us because of who we pretend to be, and not for who we are. hehe, Anon..I'm glad you're finally starting to understand. But how do you propose I prove it to you? And...do I have your guarantee you'll join my side if I do?"

You make yourself look as troubled as you can, thinking of both bad and good moments, lowering yourself onto your belly as you sigh. "..I dunno...I..maybe. Look, the pony that really made me start feeling this way? It's Twilight...you remember how she nearly sealed me up, right?"

"That was some time ago..." Chrysalis steps over to you and starts to gently massage your head with your hoof. "Does that still bother you?"

"..I guess, it makes me think that if she knew who I was. Or, if she just got super annoyed with me, that she'd just use her authority to do whatever she wants with me instead of being my friend. And considering she's a princess.....she could get away with it. I know Fluttershy has told me she's not a bad pony....but, she's the princess of friendship, and if she can't actually handle me...then...y'know..what's the point? It'd all be downhill from here until she either makes my life hell or banishes me. She was already up my ass after you told everypony what happened."

"Ohhhh..I see." She picks you up with her magic and places you on her back. "I see how this is. So....all I have to do is show that purple piece of shit that she is indeed, a piece of shit....and you'll help me? And be by my side? hmm?"

You just gently huggle onto her. "...I-I guess...but only if you don't hurt Fluttershy...and don't hurt me..and don't hurt Diamond"

Chrysalis holds in her evil cackle. But looks ahead with a hopeful, evil little smirk. “Oh, that's a promise that's easy to keep." She looks back at her children. "I'll be back, mommy has a little business to attend to."

Chrysalis could feel it, she could feel victory in her hooves. She walked up through the basement trap door and had you hold on tight as she flew up the floor door and went through your portal door into Ponyville. When she stepped out, she felt a sort of...eerie feeling. "...Hmmmm, why does it feel like the entire town is empty?" She says to herself

You keep your mouth shut, and just ride on her back as she walks to the castle, transformed into her sisterly form.

"Anon, Anon, Anon. You can trust me when I say this. Your life will be so much better once I've taken over Equestria. With my hive, and your help, you'll have a place of your own. Think of it. You can have your little marefriend all to yourself. I can use my powers to have her fully entranced, and you could do whatever you wish. And you'd be helping me spread my hive to every corner of Equestria as well. Doesn't that sound fantastic? Doesn't it sound delicious? You'd have everything you could ever want...and so would I" Chrysalis felt confident.

You knew after today, she would probably be able to figure out that you can lie with your feelings at will no matter what the situation was. That's fine..you just needed this to happen.

When you both neared the castle, Chrysalis could feel an odd..something. She knew it was familiar, but she couldn't quite figure out why it seemed so centered around the castle. Unless...

She smirked to herself as she approached. She figured Twilight was in a very very good mood. A mood that must have been amplified through her title somehow. And if she could bring it down, and have her suspicions brought down upon you, then Chrysalis knew she'd have her victory, and her conquest.

"Are you alright, Anon? Are you sure you're comfortable with this?" She tried to act concerned.

"I need this..I just...need to know..y'know?" There was a slight, pained quiver in your voice.

"Well then, there's no turning back. Let us see what Twilight is doing this evening, shall we?" Chrysalis says as she opens the doors to the castle. She thought to herself what an idiot Twilight was for having unguarded doors. It'd make it so easy for her and her hive to take over without anyone being the wiser.

You both looked down upon the empty,dark, and even foreboding hallway to the cutie map room. It would be pretty eerie if you didn't know what was coming next. But you had to keep that in as much as you could, up until Chrysalis stepped through the next set of doors.

Chrysalis wasted no time in opening the next set of doors. Expecting to see Twilight either reading, writing, or doing something she found stupid.

But..it was empty. Yet, she could feel it's not

"Odd..." Chrysalis slowly stepped inside, looking around. She didn't see signs of anyone, but she could taste....like..everyone... "...Something doesn't feel right."

"R-really? What does it feel like?" ..Hehehehe...a surprise maybe?..Oh yes..definitely. You slowly get off her back and approached the cutie map. "Yeah..it is kinda weird..." You start to raise your voice, knowing Ponk..atleast..would catch on. "It's almost as if it was a..." You let that last part linger.

"SURPRISE!"

The lights turn on, confetti and balloons burst out, a sign saying "Welcome to Ponyville, Nymous!" comes down, and everypony from Ponyville spills out from the other hallways and from behind the table, pegasi coming out from above.. All there to greet her with a smile. And the Mane 6? Right at the center of it all.

Discord himself was right behind Fluttershy. Heh, considering there was no trouble, Fluttershy must have convinced everyone else he'd behave. And Discord would only behave just to make sure he gets his vengeance on Chrysalis.

Chrysalis herself...for once, she looked utterly defeated. She was taken aback, eyes wide, twitching, mouth agape. her mane even curled at the internal pain she was feeling. So many happy faces..just for her. It made her feel sick.

"Surprise, Sis! Welcome to your 'Welcome to Ponyville' Party! And wow! It looks awesome!" You look around with a smile, you could already see the Cakes bringing in the coffee cheese filled crumb cake, and it was huuuge. enough for everyone. A Disco Ball setup under the tree chandelier. And of course, Vinyl, or rather, DJ-PON3 set up in the back, already blasting a welcoming and thunderous tune. There were even presents on top of the table itself.

"-W...w...w.....w.....w-hat?" Chrysalis couldn't even comprehend it.

Pinkie zipped over and gently pushed her towards the cutie map. "It's a party, Nymy! Welcoming you to Ponyville! Isn't that great! All this..it's all for you!"

Chrysalis gulps as she looks at the presents. She didn't want this. "A-all for me? ..When..how?...." Then she says under her breath as she peers at you angrily. "Anon..."

You just smirk and wave at her.

Fluttershy walks over to her side and gives her a gentle smile as she hugs her, Chrysalis almost looked like she wanted to puke.

"I hope you're not nervous about this Nymous, I didn't know until the last minute. But...I'm happy about it. And I hope you're happy too. All this? It really is all for you." Fluttershy said with warm cheer

Discord walks over with a joyous yet evil little grin. "Oh, that doesn't even come close to describing it, Fluttershy. This, all this, represents all of our cuddly.." Discord picks Chrysalis up, she didn't even notice, she was near mindless at this point...until Discord started squeezing her tightly. "wuddly, shmuggly love towards you! Everypony in Ponyville is here to show you just.." He puts her down, her mane was now frazzled as fuck. He then begins to heavily pet her upon every word he speaks. "how..much..they..carrreee."

Chrysalis was shuddering. She wanted..death..death to every single one of them..to you...she couldn't handle this. So many at once...with seemingly no way out. She forced a horrid and twisted smile and looked over to everyone "Y-you-you're all so kind..b-but that surprise. It m-made me feel a little...winded. Nopony minds if I just take a small moment to step outside..please?"

Rainbow Dash shrugged. "Well, I mean..yeah. If you want, it's your party. But don't take too long!" Rainbow Dash smirks as she pointed over to a picture of a tailless pony. "I got a game to win."

Applejack just gave RD a hard stare. "You do know everypony is gonna get one shot right? Including you. Ya don't know if yer gonna win."

"...Are you saying you're gonna win?" Rainbow Dash took that as a challenge.

"No, ahm saying that everypony has a chance to win. Everypony can win if they all get the tail on the pony. There ain't just one winner" Applejack informs her, perturbed by her attitude

"I guess, but...there's also a chance I could be the only winner too, right?" Rainbow Dash asks. But Applejack just silently stares at her. "Ok, ok..sheesh. Sorry. I guess I got a little over competitive, ehehe..." Rainbow Dash laughs nervously as she finally gets the idea.

Chrysalis says nothing, and wastes no time leaving through the doors from whence she came.

But when she got to the front doors themselves, they wouldn't open. Try as she might, she couldn't at all get it open. She bucked, she struck, she even bit at it...nothing..

"Something wrong sis?"

Her right ear twitched, she slowly turned. And there she saw… You, it was you, with a cocky smirk on your face and your horn firmly placed upon your head. Time for the games...to begin.

She looks at you silently, her gaze slowly being fixated on your horn.
She then realizes what you've done when the horn flashes and changes back to normal.

"...So, this is how it is then? You use your only charge in that dinky little horn of yours to keep me hostage." Her voice was low, but threatening. "Is this some sort of revenge for telling everypony of our adventure together?"

You shake your head. "Not revenge, I'm just upping the ante on the game the same way you did."

"The same way...?" She looked utterly confused for just a moment before figuring it out. She then snarls at you "How dare you..." She slowly approaches you, nearly foaming in anger. "You trapped me in a party full of ponies to show me 'That they can be nice'...didn't you? That's it...isn't it?"

You nod, a smirk still plastered on your face. "Correctamundo. Y'see Chrysalis, the reason why your plan didn't work was because I have friends. Friends and family. Friends and family that will be there for me and care about me because of who I am, rather than what I am. And, before you mention the obvious fact that my true identity is a secret. There are still some ponies who know who I really was, and still see me as Anon, the colt. You....all you got is me, baby" You let out a quick chuckle. "Nopony likes you, buuut, that can change. Because this party? It's all for you, and you know if you just cooperate, you could see that there are ponies that even you can be friends with."

She just plops on her butt and claps her hooves as she looks boredly at you. "Top notch speech, Anon. But you forgot one important thing"

...Wait...did she have a way to escape? Fat chance... "Nah, there's nothing I forgot."

"There is..." She approaches you and looks down at you. "One important thing...very important"

Ok, she was intimidating now. even in her sisterly disguise, she practically had daggers in her eyes. "W-what's then? What did I forget?"

"THAT I CAN DO THIS!" Chrysalis grabs you with her hooves and starts choking the shit out of you.

FUCK! "FWERFWDSEDFD"

She was choking the ever living shit out of you. And she wasn't stopping, she just looked at you with deadly eyes as you spurtled and sputtered, turning into a bluish color from lack of air. But as it went on, you could feel her grip slowly loosening. Then, suddenly, she just tosses you forward with a growl. "Ugh!..you're not even worth choking to your own oblivion!"

You were taking deep breaths after hitting the ground. Holy fuck! You actually thought she was going to kill you right then and there. You were rubbing your throat, Coughing.

"Oh don't be overdramatic. Even if I wanted to end you, I would have been found out anyway. No...I have a better idea. You think you've turned the tables on me? No, Anon, you merely changed the rules a little. You forget that I've done this kind of thing for such a looooong time." She approaches you again and gently helps you up as you cough, and pats your head.

But you felt a tinge of anger that forced you back, and brought a smile to her face.

"I see you couldn't keep your little attitude for long. Good, that means your defeat is VERY possible. Especially since you don't have use of your horn. And I doubt daddy dearest is willing to spare you any more." Chrysalis said with a confident smirk.

"...Grrr, Chrysalis....I'm not going to give up" You look intently in her eyes with determination. You got over your anger quickly, because you felt that you knew that her not making it worse was because she cared. Saturday morning villain 101: Villains have compassion for those they care for, even if they are enemies. "You only choked me out of anger. But I felt it, you didn't let me go because of that. You let me go because you care."

Chrysalis rolls her eyes at you. "I let you go because I'd be an idiot to destroy you. But fine, you want me to care? Then let me compliment you on the only thing you did right. And that was tricking me into coming here. Drinking pure poison joke to fool me? Genius"

You shift your eyes left and right when she mentions that. "Y-yeah...thats why I did it..ehehe....but.." Why was she complimenting you now exactly? "So, then..uhh. we good then?"

She slams her hoof down onto your back and forces you onto your belly. "WE'RE NOT GOOD YOU IDIOT! I WAS ONLY TELLING YOU THE ONE THING YOU DID RIGHT BECAUSE IT WAS THE ONLY THING WORTH COMPLIMENTING!" She groans and growls as she steps back to calm herself, already fearing she may have been heard. "You little twerp....you think you've beaten me? Just remember that I'm still better than you in every way, even when locked down in this frail form. My offer to have you at my side is both out of necessity and the single shred of friendship that actually holds us together. But never...EVER..think you can pull a fast one on me. Oh trust me, Anon....you think you have me right where you want me. But you forget that I'm a master manipulator. And tonight? You're going to see things my way, even if it ends you"

She was keeping her eye on the door the entire time she spoke. No one came through...good. You were just on the ground, groaning. That was a pretty hard press of her hoof.

.....Goddammit. You should have probably not have just come in and taunt her. Bad idea…

"Oh Chryssy...Chryssy, Chryssy, Chryssy. Tsk tsk tsk" Both you and Chrysalis look back at the front doors to see Discord, leaning on them with a smirk on his face. "Is that how you're supposed treat your little brother? Bad form, bad form indeed."

"Discord..." Chrysalis approaches him now, with an even angrier scowl than she showed you. "You actually came to help him?"

"Actually, I was asked to let you both know that we moved the party to the library. The main hall is too small thanks to the cutie map. I've decided to stay out of this one personally, this is Anon's battle. Not mine"

Wut? Actually, you retract that "wut"...that makes things better actually. It makes it one on one...you did have to thank Discord for letting you have that, and arriving just to break the tension...or rather, you nearly being choked and slammed.

"How noble of you, but pardon me if I also don't believe you. Either way, I'm glad you're here. Are you aware your precious stooge has issued a challenge?" She was stoic about his presence.

"I'm very aware. Are you aware that I actually care? Not only that, as a father, I'm very disappointed about what you did." Discord approaches her, an expression that twists from cocky to pure rage as his pupils flash a quick red. "Very...disappointed"

"Please..." Chrysalis pushes him away, making him step a few steps back. "You can't do anything to me. I'm not Anon, I'll crush you using your little yellow friend if you so much as stub my hoof. One little mark on me, and you're through"

Discord chuckles. "You think so? Well, if that's what you want to believe so be it. I've done what I came here to do. But before I go..." Discord gently puts his paw on Chrysalis's head and gives it a rub. "I can't wait for us to be closer as a family"

Chrysalis raised an eyebrow at him. "Come again?"

But he says nothing as he starts to laugh madly, even as he poofs away, his laughter can be heard across the entrance hall.

You dust yourself off as you give Chrysalis a hard stare. "I know there's good in you Chrysalis. and just like your other self, you're going to have a reason to embrace it by the end of the night."

"No, Anon, you're going to see what happens when you aren't the good little colt ponies think you are. I'll find a way to show you just how unforgiving and mean these ponies can be, I assure you." She says as she walks over to the doors that led back into the cutie map room. But she stops when she notices you aren't coming. "Something wrong?"

You sigh, and look towards the front door as you rub your neck. “Just catching my breath. You should just go ahead. You know, look for ways to trip me up."

"Hmmmm" Chrysalis turns away from you as she opens the doors. "Still arrogant I see. I guess physically hurting you doesn't weaken your resolve at all. That's fine, it's better this way. It'll only sting worse when the truth hits you like a train" She walks off without a snicker or a chuckle, without a smile. She just...walks off.

You look down and tap at your horn. "...We'll see about that. I still have plenty of charges left...."

That's right. Anything she does throw at you, if you can't counter it physically, you'd counter it magically. You can't lose. You can look past this...because you can't lose. And what could she really do in a room full of ponies? You had this..for sure.

You pass through the doors to the cutie map room after recollecting your thoughts.
Empty, yeah. they must have all gone to the library. Luckily for you, even if Chrysalis lied and tried to escape, your spell would have her walk where the party is at no matter what door she took.

"Anon, are you crazy or something?" That voice...oh shit...

You turn around as you see Bonbon close to the rightmost door. OH SHIT "Bonbon?! w-what are you doing there?"

"What do you think? Trying to figure out what's really going on. Mind telling me what went on in there?" She didn't look too happy. Did she suspect you of something?

No, she just didn't trust Chrysalis. "You didn't...hear?"

"No, but I'll admit I tried. But these doors must be pretty thick because I didn't hear a thing. So, what's going on? Why are we having this party? We're all food to her. All we're doing is feeding her, you know that right?" Bonbon was pressing hard for information. Of course, being who she really is, she'd want the lowdown on what's going on.

Ugh...it probably would have been a better idea not to have been big boss back in nightmare night. Knowing her identity seems to make things complicated.

"Woah woah, relax. Geez. Look, she may feed on love, but I know her inside and out. She can't focus when all that love is focused on her every second without a way to move away from it. Take the wedding for example. I know for a fact whenever she went to check on something, she'd then try to leave to avoid the attention. But this time? Using my good ole horn, she can't leave."

She was now heavily confused. "So, we're having this party to annoy her? Uhh, not that I wouldn't want her to get some of her own medicine or anything. But that would just make things worse, wouldn't it?"

"It's not like that. I want her to see ponies can be genuine in their love and care. I want her to feel it. I want her to know that ponies care about her as 'Nymous'. As a pony that, despite coming out of nowhere, can be loved anyway despite not knowing anything about her. That way she'll know what love really is. And will want more of it. hopefully, as her true self."

The other door of the double door closes as you hear a more upbeat. "AHA! CALLLLLED IT!" It was Lyra. You should have known she wouldn't be too far behind.

".....Wow..I...I can't believe that’s what you're actually doing." Bonbon still seemed pretty skeptical.

Lyra just walked up to her and gave her a pat on the back as she smiled happily about guessing right. "I told you, Bonbon, I tooold you." She giggled. "You gotta stop being so serious when it comes to being 'Agent Sweetie Drops'. Why else would we be having this party? Anon knows his sister is Queen bugface. So the only reason he'd let this happen is some sort of reformation thing."

Bonbon sighed "I uhhh..yeah. I guess, sorry. Just, I do have a bit of prejudice against her. Considering..y'know. I had to save a bunch of bridesmaids from the crystal caves.Who were only down there...because..y'know...Queen Bugface"

"Oh come onnnn" Lyra gives Bonbon a hug. "Don't be a sourpuss just because she made me into a braindead mare. Anon set this up to try to reform her, soooo we should try to help. Especially since we know now."

"We do know now, don't we? Alright alright. I'll help, but Lyra, the moment you start acting weird, I'm gonna slam her face right into the ground. So no jokes, got it?" Bonbon looks at her with a serious face.

Lyra gives a quick sheepish laugh as she smiles a tad nervously at her. "I ain't gonna do nothing like that. come on...anyway" She shakes her butt like a pup and gives her a cocky stare. "friendship triple team time?"

"Friendship triple team time" Bonbon gives her the same look, and bumps butt with her to seal the deal.

They then raise their hooves to you, expecting you to clap against them.

"Friendship triple team time!" You clap at their hooves a little too quickly and enthusiastically...making you fall on your face. They both cringe when it happens.

"Ohhhh, erm..Anon, you gotta...erm...yeah....You ok?" Lyra comments.

After that little fiasco, you all make your way to the library. It seems the games hadn't begun just yet. There was low but jammin' song coming from the DJ. Ponies were strewed about, either doing some mingling, or some just doing little jigs to the music. Dash was blindfolded, practicing her game, and doing horribly as Applejack just smirked and shook her head.

You noticed the CMC actually mingling with Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon....probably a good idea to avoid them at the moment. Ahh there we go...Chrysalis seemed to be chatting with..OH SHIT. SHE WAS CHATTING WITH TWILIGHT! NOT GOOD! NOOOOT GOOD! You try to squeeze through the ponies to get to them. But then you hear her, that usual angelic voice.

"Anon! There you are." You hear Fluttershy moving over to sit and give you a gentle hug....in public.

...Don't fight it. You didn't want her to feel bad. "Hey Aunt Fluttershy. H-how are you doing? Enjoying the party?" Dammmmiiiittt, you needed to find out what was going on.

"Oh, I'm having a great time! Look" Fluttershy pointed over to Discord, who seemed to be talking to two other ponies. He looked bored, but immediately gained interest the moment Fluttershy pointed to him. "Even your father is having fun."

"Yeah, it's really good. erm....would you give me a second?"

"Why? Is something wrong? Oh.." Fluttershy giggles. "Did you want to catch up with your marefriend?"

No...NO! You look over to Twilight and Chrysalis, and whatever she was telling Twilight?...was ticking her off. Dammit, she was already going for the jugular?! What could she possibly be telling her?! "U-um...Aunt Fluttershy. It's just...y'know. I...erm.."

Oh shit...Twilight was walking away, she was walking towards the door. Chrysalis was watching her with a cruel smile on her face, and her eyes showly shift from her...to you.

"Anon?...you're not embarrassed to be seen with me, are you?" Fluttershy's ears drooped when she noticed you being very dodgy

"N-No! that's not it..it's..something else"

"Something else?...Are you sick again? Did you forget something?" Fluttershy just couldn't figure it out. But she wanted to be of help to you, so you wouldn't miss any of the party.

You looked over to Bonbon and Lyra in the distance. It looked like Bonbon was fitting something into Lyra's ear. Was that a listening device? Did ponies have those?..Wait..they did. Iron Will had mics set up during his seminar, and even during the arcade tournament.

"It's just...." You looked around again. Dammit, there had to be an excuse....and then, the excuse came...sort of. You noticed Fluttershy was glowing purple...and so were you.

You both let out an eep as you both got quickly raised and moved towards the library doors, and then across the inner halls.

"W-what's going on!?" Fluttershy yelped in surprise

"I-I don't know!"

But you both found out rather quickly. As you both got immediately dragged right in front of Twilight, A pissy looking Twilight.

"T-Twilight?" Fluttershy was stunned, she looked back at the empty dark hallway, then looked back at her with honest confusion. "W-what's wrong. What happened?!"

You were actually afraid. What the fuck did Chrysalis tell her to piss her off this much?

"Fluttershy, did you know anything about Anon's visit to the Crystal Empire?" Twilight asks her, her tone was struggling to sound friendly to her. But it was so stern.

"Ummm, no. Erm..." Fluttershy looked left and right, then looked to Twilight with a deeper confusion. "Unless you mean when we saw him when the crystal heart shattered."

......Oh no..she didn't. She...fucking didn't! WHY THE FUCK WOULD SHE EVEN DO THAT?! AND SO SOON?! DID YOU PISS HER OFF THAT MUCH?! WHAT KIND OF POWER PLAY WAS THIS?!

And Twilight could see it. She could see you flinch at the mention of it, confirming what Chrysalis must have told her. Twilight just turns her gaze to you, she didn't seem too approving of what you did. From what she was told anyway.

"Anon, you were at the Crystal Empire again? Why?..Unless you went to see Flurry Heart again. She is cute, isn't she?"" Fluttershy gave a nervous smile to Twilight. "Twilight, I-I don't think that's much of a problem"

"It's not that, Fluttershy" Twilight sighs. "Anon, I want you to tell us the truth. Did you go to the Crystal Empire on your own without telling anypony?"

....How could you lie about this? If you said no, Chrysalis would just drum up the proof by suddenly "having" Thorax's wings. You could use your horn to stash it. But then Twilight might then just grill and rag on Discord. And for his sake, you didn't want that to happen to him. "...Y-yes..."

"Oh my Celestia..." Twilight put her hoof to her forehead as she shook in disapproval.

"Twilight...what's going on? Anon?" Fluttershy's confusion only grew at this point. What could possibly be going on to cause Twilight to yank the both of them out of the party?

...It was about Thorax. How the fuck could Chrysalis do this. How the fuck did she spin the story to make you look bad?

"Fluttershy, this is the biggest reason why Discord needs to attend those classes. Anon will even go out on his own, in secret, to deal with something on his own INSTEAD of telling me, and everypony else so we can set up a proper defense and strategy. Anon, do you realize you could have been hurt? And furthermore, that kind of irresponsibility could have brought disaster on the Crystal Empire. Maybe even Equestria. " Twilight was in fact, told. Hooolllyyy shit.

"T-Twilight. W-what are you talking about? What did Anon even do? The danger was already over wasn't it? What happened?" Fluttershy was now scared and confused

....You sigh. There was no hiding it now. You lower your head, staring straight down, trying to throw yourself at Twilight's mercy by looking depressed. You were, in fact, actually terribly afraid about how this was going to go. "I went after a changeling"

"YOU WHAT?!" Fluttershy nearly fell back in surprise. "BY YOURSELF?! A-Anon...t-that can't be true. D-do you realize how dangerous that is?! D-did you not even tell your father?"

"He didn't. Nymous told me everything. He went after a dangerous changeling that we somehow missed. Anon, she even told me you found it, and even destroyed it. Is this all true? Do you realize how reckless that is?! Even with your horn, one mistake and you would have been done for! Didn't you think of everypony else before you tried this?" Twilight was drilling into you. She wanted you to know that what you did wasn't right.

"..Anon.." Fluttershy didn't know what to say, she was stunned. She couldn't believe you'd actually go that far on your own after everything that's happened.

...You could feel it. A deep anger. This was what she wanted… You told her about your feelings about Twilight. And despite you fooling her, she ran with it anyway.

She didn't understand. Twilight didn't understand. Fluttershy didn't understand. Chrysalis understood, enough to control the situation....

You shook with anger. What did Twilight know? Why couldn't she just let you do what was needed? As long as Fluttershy never knew, then everything would be ok. Everything would be nice and cuddly.

You looked up at her slowly, anger on your face. You wanted to blast her right in the face for being so damn nosy and pushy and involving Fluttershy. Your frustrations were mounting fast. This could ruin your family, your livelihood.

You quickly grabbed your horn, and placed it on your head. Ready to blast Twilight with something she'd never recover from. She deserved it after what she did to you.

But you heard Fluttershy yelp from surprise from your threatening stance. It subconsciously made you cast a spell you had not intended to cast.

You immediately crossed inbetween dimensions, your horn still on your head as it kept you in place. Everything from where you stood looked like it had frozen in time…

This spell. Was this the same type of spell Discord had cast back in your first days of Equestria?

You could see the fear on Twilight's and Fluttershy's face, both frozen in shock. Both startled from your movement. Looking at Fluttershy, it made you feel shame for losing your cool. But what could you do? That wasn't even the full truth! You couldn't tell her it was Chrysalis's order or you had Scrappy's help. Who knows how she'd react?

"Dammit, DAMMIT!" You wanted to punch Twilight right on her snout. "Fuck you Twilight. Goddamn you! DAMMIT CHRYSALIS, DAMMIT!" You stomped your hooves on the ground in anger. "WHAT AM I EVEN SUPPOSED TO SAY?! THAT ME, A CHANGELING, AND THE PRINCESS OF THE FUCKING NIGHT WENT TO...stop...a....wait"

Luna.. Luna was there…

A small crazed smile formed on your face. Luna was there. She was fucking there. Maybe, if you tell them about that part, they'd both calm the fuck down. Haha! Yes!

Plus, Chrysalis didn't fucking know about Luna either. But you did....and Luna could confirm. Fucking yes!
FUCKING YES! You do your best to calm yourself. But you had your ace in the hole. Even Chrysalis couldn't have thought this far ahead.

You look to Twilight with determination, and tap at your horn, normalizing the dimensions and making "Time" resume. Your horn changing back and falling off your head, two charges down...

"A-Anon?!" Fluttershy gasped.

"Whh-what are you?..wait.." Twilight noticed your horn was suddenly off, almost like it happened at an instant. "....." She didn't know what to say now. Good.

"Twilight, you can't be angry at me. I wasn't alone by myself for long. I went up to that mountain to meet with Princess Luna. And we handled it together"

"Princess...Luna? She was there?" Fluttershy didn't know what to think at all now. Her head started to hurt.

"....Anon, you can't expect me to believe that. You admitted to going there alone. Princess Luna would never be irresponsible enough to allow a colt to help her stop something as dangerous as a changeling" Twilight felt that she was one hundred percent right on this.

...There was no going back now. You just had to hope the princesses didn't castrate you for this. "Then ask her"

"Ask her? Anon...wait..." Fluttershy looks to you, teary eyed. Her emotions were a wreck. "...Just tell me. Are you really telling the truth? Did Princess Luna really agree and helped you with that?"

You nod. "Mhmmm, but I know you don't believe me, Twilight. So go ahead. ask."

Twilight stayed silent as she contemplated. She could see how upset Fluttershy was. How chaotic the situation seemed. "I will, but...." She was conflicted, that was such a bold claim. And she couldn't imagine you just up and lying about something like that given how easy it'd be to prove or disprove. But still..it couldn't be left unchecked. "What I'm about to do, is purely for confirmation reasons."

You wouldn't jump on her for not believing you. You wanted her to check any way she could. You knew, even if it angered them, that Luna would have your back...hopefully. "Ok...how long is it going to take?"

Twilight's horn began to glow. "Hopefully, in a few minutes"

A piece of parchment, a quill, and finally Spike get pulled into the hallway.

"...and then? I almost became like..ruler of all the dragons. But eh, I let Ember take that role. A great dragon such as myself doesn't n-...wha?" Spike looked around when he realized he wasn't talking to to whoever he was talking to. "W-what gives?"

"Spike!" Twilight was quickly writing something on the parchment. "We have an emergency situation. Don't ask, just get this to Princess Celestia"

"W-woah..umm..ok Twilight..erm" Spike takes the time to look around, he noticed you and Fluttershy, and really gets confused. "nopony is in trouble, right?"

"We'll find out..here" Twilight hovers over the hastily written on parchment. "Quickly Spike!"

"Alright, alright...woah. This must be pretty heavy" Spike grabs onto the parchment and blows his fire onto it, sending it straight to Celestia.

And now...you all wait.

"....What about Nymous? If this is all true, why wouldn't she mention that part? It's almost like she just wanted to get Anon in trouble..but that can't be right, right?" Fluttershy's confusion just grew. She couldn't fathom Nymous doing something so heinous. But in this case? She had no reason not to mention Luna if what you said was true.

And that..you had to make sure, that once Luna or Celestia..or both responded, that you tell Fluttershy and Twilight not to mention anything to Chrysalis. But how would you even guarantee that? They only see her as Nymous, and of course they'd be curious to ask why she omitted something even she didn't know about.

"She probably didn't know. Anon, did she know you were going to meet with Luna?" Twilight asked you.

Well, at least you could explain away that part, haha. Though, at the same time, the realization that you may have fucked up and started the process of Twilight AND Fluttershy learning of your secret with Chrysalis...scared the fuck out of you. "She didn't...it was a secret meeting."

"Woah, what's even going on? Princess Luna's involved? What haBLURGh..o-oh, excuse me" Spike burped out a letter and covered his mouth. That particular parchment came out of him relatively quickly, enough to make him feel a small sting on his tummy. "Wow...that was quick. So, anypony going to tell me what's going on now?"

Twilight quickly picked up the parchment and opened it up and prepared herself for what she was about to read. "In a second, Spike, let me just read this"

....You were clenching your asscheeks at this.

Fluttershy was confused and scared. The tension was high. This..could make or break everything.....you hoped you didn't fuck up

.....Oh no..here it comes

"Ok, let's see." Twilight began to read from the letter, already having a few ideas in her mind how it would go, but all of it turning out to be wrong. "Dear Twilight, Before I write down anything else, let me answer your question. Yes, Anon did in fact accompany...my...sis....ter? wHAT?!" Twilight was taken aback, surprised on what she just had read.

"Told you..." You said that in a way that sounded like you were annoyed, but also, you were scared as fuck because....if Celestia admitted it. What else could be on that letter?!

"...S-so...u-umm" Fluttershy was utterly befuddled. If even the princesses thought it was ok to team up on a venture like that in secret, then.. "D-does this mean that Discord has been raising Anon right? I-I mean...I'd rather Anon not do dangerous things. But...if Princess Luna went with Anon to fight that changeling...I..I don't know..I'm so confused"

"......I..uhh...so am I. Hold on, hold on...Anon" Twilight looks over to you, you could already see a few hairs of her mane pop out "H-have you been doing things like this a lot? With the princesses?"

"With the princesses? Changelings...anypony mind telling me what's goiWOAH!" Spike is covered in a purple light as he his slid along the floor back into the library. Welp, apparently Twilight wanted to make sure it stayed between the three of you.

"...Erm..not really. I..just..do things. But, not THAT many..things." You shrug

"...." Twilight had nothing to say about that and looked back to the letter. "Well, we'll see. L-let's just continue reading. ahrm...I understand that you and Fluttershy are deeply worried about Anon. But I can assure you, he's done no wrong."

"See? I did nothing wrong" You nodded, you felt justified....and also a little surprised.

"....At least not this time" Twilight continues to read, taking a quick glance at you.

".....Ok, well...still" ...dammit

"Given that it seems it was his sister that felt the need to alert you, given the operation itself was meant to be secret, must mean she was really worried for him. But there was nothing to be worried about. And I ask Fluttershy to let her know everything will be fine. As for the subject matter itself? I ask for it to be dropped entirely.......entirely? What?..Why would she?" Twilight was deeply confused. She glanced over to you, then Fluttershy, and went back to the letter. "Why would she ask us to drop it?..A-Anon...did..did anything happen between you and Princess Luna"

...Shit...what was Celestia doing? Just dropping it after Chrysalis made her move? She'd get suspicious. And yet, what could she do? You were actually afraid the letter would out you or even Scrappy, who's identity and relations needed to remain a secret. But, so far, so good? You think.... "N-no, not anything I noticed."

"What even happened up there? Anon..please. Tell me" Fluttershy looked to you, she was so so confused. she just wanted something about all of this to make sense.

You sigh. "We defeated a changeling rogue together...that's it really"

It's been a long while since you felt the more intense guilt sting of lying. And it especially stung pretty bad at this moment. Especially since you were teetering on the tightrope of being compromised.

".....Anon..." Fluttershy didn't know what to feel. should she be proud? Should she be upset? What was this? How long have the princesses known you were having adventures away from the public eye? she couldn't even fathom how deep things went.

"Fluttershy..." Twilight was calming down. She put the letter down after reading the rest of it silently and gave her friend a hug. "I'm sorry, I think this may really be my fault. The rest of the letter says that what Anon has done is very important."

Very important..mnn. You go over to join in on the hug, to try to quell her shaking heart. "Aunt Fluttershy, I really really didn't mean to upset anypony."

Tears started to go down her eyes as she grasped onto the both of you. "I-I know, Anon...I just don't want anypony to get hurt. or worse...that's all.C-changelings, they are so mean and vicious. I was just afraid something could have happened...or would happen...ngh" She started to cry "I don't even understand what's going on...." You wish you could explain things to her. If only you could.

"Fluttershy, don't worry. I'll be going to Canterlot tomorrow with Anon in the morning. The last part of the letter mentions a meeting of the princesses to discuss something urgent. I'll ask her about everything, I'll get this figured out. I promise" Twilight ends her hug and gives Fluttershy a soft hopeful smile.

....A meeting of the princesses? With you along? ....What was Celestia doing?..What was she planning? Something about this, something about it seemed scary.

"T-thank you, Twilight, b-but what should we do now?" Fluttershy felt lost. She didn't even know what to do at the moment.

Twilight turned to you, and sighed. "Well, first things first...Anon...I'm sorry. I jumped to conclusions based on only half a story and made an assumption based on your age without asking if there was anything more to it. I should have listened. And next time, without fail, I'm going to ask you for your side first and foremost."

Considering you felt pressed into saying Luna was there, and the covert nature of your operations, it's not like you could really tell her the truth anyway. This wasn't Twilight's fault, nor Fluttershy's. Chrysalis made this power play to try to get under your skin. She had no idea what really happened either. You would just have to accept the apology and move on, nothing more. The entire situation was like a lake of thin ice. "It's alright, Twilight...umm..did the letter mention why I have to come along?"

"No, it just said to bring you. I'm sure it has to do with that changeling. Whatever it's hiding, it might involve all of us in some way. Even you, considering you're the one who stopped him. Not to mention that the last thing on the letter itself was to just enjoy the party as normal. It's all so vague and strange."

"....It's all so confusing. so so confusing. Twilight,...Do you think there really isn't anything to worry about?" Fluttershy wanted..no, she needed this answer. The Princess seemed to want everything to go on as if it never even happened. But she had too much trust in Twilight to just go about and do it. She wanted to know what she thought about it all.

"I admit, it's really really weird. But everytime we dig into it, It just leads into more questions. Anon..." Twilight looks to you again. "I know many ponies call you the 'Hero Colt'. Personally, I think this is a little too much, but I'm going to ask for your opinion on one more thing. Do you feel personally that you yourself may be taking things too far? You know what we think, you know what your father thinks, your sister, and apparently even the princesses. But do you personally think that what you're doing is safe? that you feel you can handle it all? That others aren't affected?"

That question, she essentially was asking how you felt about everything you were doing without still knowing the full details on everything. It clouded your mind with uncertainty. You thought about what Celestia had said in the letter. She wanted everything to go on as normal. And yet, it seemed she was gathering all the princesses up to..do what exactly? What reason did she have to gather the princesses together?....wait… No, the answer was obvious, even a braindead monkey could figure it out. Chrysalis did up the ante. But not in a way anyone would have expected.....Twilight was going to know, Cadance was going to know.,You didn't know how much they would be told. But...they were going to know.

Celestia wanted the party to go on because she didn't want anyone else suspecting anything. Nor did she tell any of your secrets by letter because then Chrysalis would be suspicious. Yeah, come tomorrow morning, something was going to happen.....and it scared you.

As for Twilight's question. You answered the best you could. "When it comes to helping ponies and stopping villains. All I want from it is to keep everypony safe. Like my friends, or my Aunt Fluttershy...that's it."

And maybe..SOME glory...just not an excessive amount. not the amount that gets you crazy fans. Just enough that gets you extra snuggles from Diamond Tiara and Fluttershy.

"That's a good answer. I asked the question because everytime something like this happens, new information comes to light that changes everything we knew about it. That's why I needed to know what you thought about it. I can't make any arguments now, I'm not going to go against the words of Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. If there is anypony who can always make the right and just decision, It's them. And your reasons for being the 'Hero Colt', while simple, are the words any real hero would say."

Woo, that was pretty deep of Twilight. Then again, it also seemed like she was owning up to her assumptions and mistakes. "Twilight, thanks. That actually means a lot to me that you understand now. By the way, does that mean we don't have to do the whole parenting class thing?" You really didn't want to do it at this point. Tensions was too high.

"What do you think, Fluttershy? I'm willing to call it off now that we have this new information." Twilight asked, leaving it to her.

Fluttershy shook her head. "If anything, I think we need it even more. I feel like we haven't truly become the family Discord really really wants. And I know Discord does have some trouble figuring it out himself too. With these classes, I know we can all come together as a family. And maybe.." Fluttershy looks to you. "Anon, you'd feel more comfortable coming to me about things like this. I don't want to have to wonder if you'll be ok. I don't want to be scared that at any time, you're out doing something dangerous. I admit, I'd rather just...I really really wish you weren't going out and doing things like this. I understand now, that even the princesses support you doing these things, but....I just wish they didn't. And that you weren't doing it too, especially with what happened with that newslady. It-it's not that I don't support you. I'm very very proud of you, especially after all this. But...mnn" Fluttershy didn't know how to word it.

But you knew what she meant. You went in and gave her a personal hug. "It's alright, Aunt Fluttershy. I get it. Would it make you feel better, that after tonight, I'll just hold off from doing anything like this for a long long while? That way we can spend more time together and you don't have to worry about anything."

Or really, perhaps any kind of adventure at this point would just cause even worse circumstances to spring up. You had to cut that shit out.

"I'd like that Anon, I'd like that very much...thank you" Fluttershy hugs you a little tighter. and gives you a gentle peck on the forehead.

Twilight was in deep thought about all of this. She was anxious. The princesses knew...but she didn't. Changelings were involved, and yet she was not called to help. very confusing events have happened, but information about it is fractured and broken. She thought on it, but couldn't even come up with any sound conclusion on what any of it meant. She'd just have to wait til morning.

And as she looked to the worried Fluttershy,and your attempts to calm her, she thought it would be best just to return to the party. She herself would try to enjoy it the best she could, but she was starting to feel something was most definitely off about not only you...but something about Nymous seemed....skewed.

"I think what we just learned and the princess's letter just has all our emotions running high. I say we do what the princess asked, drop the subject, and just try to have some fun. It is your sister's party after all. it'd be selfish of us if we just missed it, right?" Twilight asked.

"...O-oh yes, that's very true. And no doubt she's been as worried as we have about everything" And then Fluttershy realized something. "....oh, I do feel awful talking about all this now without her. But I'm also sure she didn't think it would cause such a big problem either. Let's not give Nymous anything to worry about. Let's just smile, support her, and be happy."

You could see that Fluttershy was trying to make the most of the situation. You just had to be a good colt from now on, as to not worry her anymore. Twilight, you could tell, was not fully over this, but would be patient until the morning came....all hell was going to break loose. You could feel it.

And yeah, as for the party? It was probably best to get back to it. Chrysalis may not be able to leave, but you now had to keep a closer eye on her to avoid anything else like this from happening. Celestia...Luna....what do you have in store for tomorrow?

Chapter 298

The three of you return to the party. Hopefully Twilight and Fluttershy understood what it meant to drop the subject entirely. Because it donned on you that it meant not talking about it with Chrysalis, as to not rouse her suspicion entirely. At worst, she'll come after you to try to learn why things didn't escalate as planned, which you felt you could quell. But as you all returned to the room, you see, what first interests you, Discord speaking to the CMC. Hrnn, you could guess the CMC were probably interested in asking Discord a few details you haven't told them, or how things are on the other side of the dimensional border. You'd think they'd try to stay away from him. But given how events have gone, their curiousness probably piqued enough for them to go ask questions.

Fluttershy noticed it, but she didn't comment, she still looked so worried. Twilight had noticed as well and gave her a smile "Come on Fluttershy, it's going to be ok. It's nothing to worry about. By tomorrow, I promise, everything will be fine. Besides..." Twilight nudges her head towards Pinkie, who was busy setting up more snacks on the snack table. "If you don't chin up now, Pinkie is gonna get worried...and you know how she gets when one of us looks sad."

"I do...I don't want her to be sad too. Ok, I think I can do this" Fluttershy sits upright, and gathers up all her positive aura and attitude. "Just enjoy the party, and don't talk about what happened. Got it!"

You look back at Fluttershy when you realized she was still having issues. But dammit, there was something else that caught your eye. Lyra was with Chrysalis....you couldn't get a good view due to the other ponies in the way but...this worried you just as much as when she was with Twilight.

You focus on Fluttershy for now, you smile at her and nod. "That's the way Aunt Fluttershy! There's nothing to worry about. Nothing at all. in fact, watch me go...over there..so I too..can..mingle and have fun" You had to get over there, you took a few steps to see if Fluttershy had anything more to say without going too far out. She did of course.

"I believe you, Anon, it's just...you know me" Fluttershy sighs, and looks towards Rainbow Dash and Applejack "Maybe a little practicing will help me get my mind off things. Rainbow Dash looks like she could use a little help too"

Twilight stood by her side as she followed Fluttershy to where Rainbow Dash and Applejack were. So now..it was up to you. You proceeded to weave through the mingling ponies as you drew closer to Lyra and Chrysalis. You could see small yet visible signs of Chrysalis cringing, she didn't look comfortable at all. Lyra however, looked like she was having a blast. She was talking near nonstop. And as she spoke, other ponies started to crowd in to join on the conversation. Which is technically normal, given it was a party for Chrysalis. But where was Bonbon?

You decided to make a detour. As you changed your path, you noticed ...Spoiled Rich..huh...she was by the snack table..what was she doing? She was alone at the moment. You ducked around the other side of the table and went under the draping sheets. When you popped your head out from the other side and looked up, you could see her sneaking snacks into the frog of her hoof and putting it close to her mouth, no doubt eating it while trying to look like she was disinterested. Why was she hiding eating snacks? She didn't look too comfortable being here at all actually. Eh, maybe it just wasn't high class enough for her. But she was doing it anyway because she was asked to or she's doing it for DT, which, considering who she is, is a nice enough gesture for someone like her.

You duck your head back under the table and exit the other side as you resume your search. It didn't take long for you to finally notice Bonbon next to a bookcase, hiding herself next to a bunch of potted plants.

You walk over to her. Despite being alone, she seemed busy, speaking to herself, or rather, a small microphone...what was she up to? "Bonbon?"

Bonbon didn't hear you. It seemed she was busy giving instructions. "Remember Lyra, she's very very cunning and is going to try to get out of there any way she can. Keep up the conversation with easy to understand small talk and some recent news."

"..Hey, Bonbon..what's up?" You say as you get a little closer

"And...huh?" Bonbon taps her ear, then looks at you in surprise. "Anon? what are you doing here?"

....wut? "Uhm..it's a party?"

"No, I mean here here, right next to me here. We're busy helping you out using this" She points to her earpiece. "You said you wanted bug breath to see the nicer side of ponies and our good will? Well, that's what Lyra is doing. She's much better at it than I am."

"Yeah but...what exactly are you doing to help then? I'm not saying you're not helping or anything. I'm just curious."

Bonbon looked around and pulled the potted plant beside you to conceal herself better. "I'm helping her stay focused and keep at it with any topics I can come up with. I know that Chrysalis has hypnotic abilities, she may try to use them to avoid everypony"

"Oh...well, she does have those abilities. But it's really really weak when she's not at home. That pony form she has is forced after all, and it makes her pretty weak. Even her hypnosis thing is just a subtle mind bend."

"Hrn..subtle, but can still be used. Anon, let me ask you something. Are you sure you can really reform her? Because this, what's happening now, what we're doing, even the fact the princesses know. This would have never flown before. I'm just a antsy about it all because of how much leeway she seems to have." Bonbon was clearly uncomfortable with the current situation. But despite that. She was still giving it her all.

You nod, confident that it can work. "I'm sure, there was another Chrysalis in that dimension I visited. She was reformed. And since she was, I'm sure this one can be reformed too"

"Anon, that's terribly naive. But what do I know? I didn't even know ponies were capable of hopping through other dimensions. And...Woah woah, Lyra. Don't dig in like that. If we annoy her too much, she'll not only want to leave, she'll have a good reason to too." Bonbon sighed as she relaxed back a bit. "...This is so weird."

You move over and sit next to Bonbon, raising your ear to try to catch on to what Lyra and Chrysalis was talking about. "So, is this anything like the work you usually do, Bonbon?"

"Sorta, I mostly dealt with dangerous magical creatures. But standard training taught me to be ready for anything. Besides, stuff like this is easy to do. These mics are all standard issue stuff I've had for a long time." BonBon said as she kept listening in.

"That's actually really cool. So, uhh..mind if I listen in?"

"Sure" Bonbon said as she brought her head closer so you could listen in on the conversation.

You could hear them, though it was a little tough to make things out given it was still an earpiece in Bonbon's ear. You did your best to listen and make out who was talking to who.
"...So, have you ever watched a hoofball game before? Their pretty exciting"

".....Ern, I don't think I have. But, perhaps you'd like to talk to a pony who has? I'm sure you'd have a lot to talk about."

"What? Nah, if you've never seen it then maybe we can plan a trip together to go and see one. Trust me, it's wicked fun!"

"...Yes but, I am...but..a delicate flower. Such terribly brutal games aren't the kind I wish to see."

"You don't have to talk all fancy y'know. this is a party. Come ooonnnn. You can come with me and my bestie, it'll be a blast!"

"I'll blast you you...erm...ahrm..it sounds like a blast. But truly, it's not for me."

"What 'is' for you?"

"...Nothing you'd like, I'm sure"

"Try me"

"...Perhaps another time"

"Yeah, another time is fine..just...what do you want to do when that time comes?"

".....Do you like jumping off cliffs?"

"You mean like base jumping?"

"...Sure....that"

"Cool, I'm down for that. How about next week?"

"N-next week? I didn't agree to anything."

"But you just said 'Sure'."

"...I didn't...uhm..."

"Soooooo, what day should we go base jumping?"

"........."

"C'mon, I'm down for next week. I promise it'll be fun."

"......."

"HEY EVERYPONY! WHAT'S UP!?"

"PINK NIGHTMA- er...Pinkie Pie, what a pleasure to see you. Quick, do you have anything you'd like to do that isn't here that maybe I could do on my own, maybe?"

"Alone? But it's a party.."

"Oh Oh, I know. I meant something that didn't require...hmm, something that...hrnn..What I mean is, is there something I can do to enjoy the party but not think too much? All these topics are making me feel a little heavy headed."

"Sure! I was about to do this whole speech thingy where you're SUPER officially welcomed to Ponyville. and then we were gonna really turn up the music!"

"Ok, so can I just stand behind you while you do that?"

"Sure! Do you also want to say a few words to everypony?"

".......Yes....yes I'd like to do that. You say we'll be dancing afterwards? Good, that's perfect."

".......Bonbon....I didn't clench the deal"

"Drat!" Bonbon grabbed her mic and threw it on the ground in rage. "That timing was too perfect!"

Ponk....dammit. "It'll be fine, thanks Bonbon for at least trying. And Lyra too"

"...Yeah, well. if she's going to be up there. You should go up there too, just in case." Bonbon advises you as she quickly picks up her mic and hides it.

"Gotcha. Wish me luck."

"Good luck" Bonbon gives you a quick salute.

You head over to the small stage Pinkie had set up at the side of the room. Vinyl had set up at the side of it, blasting a normal beat. But then as Pinkie climbed onto the stage, she looked at Vinyl and nodded. Vinyl eased it down as Pinkie pulled out a mic.

But before she could even start speaking, she notices you heading up the stage. She gives you a huge happy smile "Hey Nonny! Did you come to make a speech too?"

"Err, yeah. That's exactly it"

...You now had to think of something. But what, you didn't actually think this all the way through.

"Cool! you two should figure out who'll talk first while I really bring in the feel good feelings" Pinkie spun the mic along her hoof and tossed it up, caught it, and began to speak. "HEYA EVERYPONY! YA'LL HAVING FUN!?" Given the crowd's reaction, it was a resounding yes.

Chrysalis herself wasn't paying too much attention as she moved close to you and whispered. "....I'm surprised you didn't run away, didn't the purple monster chew you out?"

You scoff at her with a light smug chuckle. "She did, but you forget that this is a party. You leave bad will and ill tidings at the door. We're here to have fun and make merry...remember?"

Chrysalis grumbled at you just for using those words. "What do you think this is? Hearth's warming? Leave that drivel where it belongs. We all know you're not innocent...you're not here for fun. You're here to try to reform me. Keep an eye on me...a changeling you hide from those you say you care about."

"That's because I care about them and you AND don't want there to be any trouble. So deal with it. The least you can do is enjoy the party and actually mingle for ONE NIGHT. Are you telling me the queen of the changelings can't handle a little socializing?"

"Not with these degenerates. They are annoying and simple minded. And that green one expected me to go base jumping with her. I already know the thrill of flight, and even then, my car is fifty times, no, a thousand times more enjoyable than anything a pony can suggest."

"You mean the car I GAVE you?"

"That you owed me, yes, that car. I don't know why Twilight didn't drill into you as much as I thought she would. But just know that the night is FAR from over. I still have one or two things I can do to show you how terrible ponies are."

"And you know what? Every single one of these ponies have something to show that having friends and being good can have much better benefits than being an evil loner. You should have said yes to that green pony, you may have had fun. Hell, if you wanted, you could have been all cocky about it and make it a contest. I'm sure you would have loved to show her how it's done and then maybe share a drink afterwards."

".....Disgusting" She grumbled as she gave you a displeased stare

"Ok...would you base jump with me then?"

"Perhaps...would we be able to toss down sludge at the hapless passerbys beneath us?" She says with a smirk

"....No"

"Then most likely no. But if it's any consolation, I wouldn't join anypony else for it at all."

"Y'know...Discord would actually like that. and I'm sure that maybe there's a few prankster ponies about who'd do that, just not with sludge. Maybe eggs...not sludge"

"Discord is an incompetent boob who's given up on world conquest. And as I said, ponies are insufferable simpletons. They'd be all good will and nice about it. It's terrible. I wouldn't have any fun at all." Chrysalis said, god, she sounded so whiny now.

"You would if you at least tried"

"Only with you...and only with sludge. the kind that makes the skin itchy. The kind that makes the skin break into lumps"

Christ... "You're a sadist, you know that?"

"I try. So then, you don't want to budge, hrn?"

"Same to you. You don't even want to try. At least I actually dealt with Twilight. You don't even want to try at all."

"Because ponies, as I said a million times, are a terrible thing. They need somepony such as myself to rule them."

"And you need me to make it happen..."

"You, or some inexplicable way of getting to my hive without being obliterated. But don't fret, given the latter, I'd still let you into my hive. You'd just not have the full benefits as you would just giving in and helping me"

"Heh, that's not a very good motivator anyway. I'm not helping you subjugate the pony race."

"And I'm not giving in..."

"Don't you ever get tired of repeating this like, every time?"

"Don't you ever get tired of getting your head slammed in by something?"

You stay silent after that.....goddammit.

"And now! A speech from the super awesome siblings who found each other through the power of love, friendship, and preseva...presevere...presun...staying the course!" Pinkie called out, then turned as she held out the mic to the both of you. "So who's going first? Nymy, or Nonny?"

You both stare at the mic. Shit..you didn't even think of what'd you say!

"I think my brother should speak first. He so does look like he has many things to say" Chrysalis gives you a love tap to the cheek with her muzzle. "Right?"

"E-erm..maybe you should go first, sis"

"Hrm..maybe. But I don't want you to feel as if I'd never give you any opportunities. As your older sister, it is up to me to show you just how much I truly love and appreciate you. So Miss Pie, could you please give him the microphone?" Chrysalis was being subtle with that smug grin, she could already tell you had nothing.

"But, it is her party? Isn't it? I want to hear what she has first." Dammit Chrysalis! Go first already!

"Yes, it is a party for me. So, I would guess that it'd be my decision to say who goes first. And that first would be you, Anon"

"But..." Oh no...

Pinkie holds the mic towards you as she grins. "Sorry Nonny, looks like you're going first. She's right! Her party, her say. But don't worry, I'm sure whatever you have to say is something everypony is going to love! So don't be shy, you're the hero colt! I know you got a lot more spunk than that." She gives you an encouraging hoofpump. "I know you got this. So get out there, and show everypony your super speech skillage!" She gives you the mic and gives you a gentle push forward as a spotlight falls on you.

...God fucking dammit. All eyes were on you now… "Hello everypony..."

They all say hello to you.

Ok, that's some progress. "How are you all doing?"

They all reply that they are doing great

...Ok...more progress. "...Come on Anon, think. The spotlight is on you. You have to show an act of goodwill.” You say silently to yourself.

You look around...and notice Discord in the far back, not even paying attention. Good...maybe you can use him. "I'd...I'd like to say something. I've been the son of chaos for a while now. I've been a citizen to Ponyville for the same amount of time. But most importantly, I've been friends with many of you. and It makes me happy that you all have accepted me as one of your own. But...hey, this isn't about me really, is it? It's about my sister. Who is loving, caring,and great! She makes me feel as if there's no wrong in the world whatsoever."

Another spotlight comes down on Chrysalis, which prompts her to smile and wave.

"But, it makes me think. There's one individual. One, who is in this very room, that without him, this wouldn't be possible. I know a lot of you don't like him, or are even afraid of him....but, I think he's more deserving to give a speech than I am. Because without him....I would just be a lonely colt trapped in a infintium of sadness. He's the most important guy to me. You know him, you love him. Dad! Why don't you come and say a few words, huh? I think you deserve the rightful recognition you deserve for being the best dad ever!"

A spotlight then hits Discord, who was busy picking his nose. When he noticed all eyes were on him, he quickly pulled his talon out and warped onto the stage, bent over, and whispered to you as he smiled to the crowd. "You could have waited until I was done doing important work"

You whispered back. "What, digging for gold?"

"Digging for lunch, actually. I've been on a bit of a 'garbage' taste lately. So then, what are you on about?"

"What does it look like? I'm giving you the mic while praising you. I wanted everypony, now that their gathered up, to see you as the greatest dad a pony like me could ever have" At first, he didn't seem too interested. "Also you'll impress Fluttershy"

Discord stopped, and audibly choked up for a moment as his eyes glistened. "Really?"

"Yep...." You drop the mic onto his open paw. "Get em tiger" You step back as you smirk at Chrysalis. "See? See what a simple gesture can do? Not only does it produce the food you need. But it just feels nice to make somepony happy."

Chrysalis rolls her eyes. "Or I can place them all in a cocoon and trap them in a sweet dream. A dream I'd never have to see, but could feast upon its fruit"

.....Creepy as fuck. ".......do you have a counter to everything?"

"Only when it comes to proving you wrong. Besides, are you going to tell me being trapped in a realm of dreams is a terrible thing? I'm sure the moon princess would agree that it would be nice...of course" She chuckles evilly. "It's not like she'd have a choice anyway"

"Is being evil...like...a fetish to you?"

"It just feels nice, Anon. I won't tease you this time since we're in public. So I'll just let you know. The things I enjoy? They would utterly destroy you mentally....oops" Chrysalis brings her hoof to her mouth cutely. "I suppose that is teasing a little. Leaves something for the imagination to wonder about, doesn't it?"

....It...did make you wonder what she meant. NO, NOW IS NOT THE TIME FOR SUCH THOUGHTS. "..Egh...whatever"

You were starting to feel like this wasn't actually working. The night was still young. But dammit, not even close to budging. You just had to keep at it.

"Hello friends!" Discord grins as he spins the mic about. "I'm so happy we're having this party" Discord snaps his talons, dragging Chrysalis over as he picks her up and hugs her to his side. You could already hear her sudden yelp as she was pulled.

...You wanted this and not wanted this. You hoped Discord didn't go too far. Pissing her off would undo any work you may have done. But dammit, she deserves a good trouncing at this point, just to put her in her place.

"My adopted daughter here, sooo cute" He gives her a pinch on the cheek and kisses it, making her struggle to escape even more. "She has had a rather rough life indeed. She pretty much has been treated like an insignificant bug!" He squeezes her tightly and then puts her down as she pats her head. "But now? Now we're all celebrating. Celebrating on the simple fact that she's here with us."

Discord starts walking left and right across the stage, sneakily keeping her in place with his magic. "It's a bit fearful, I know. Me as a father? I'm sure some of you have your doubts. But if my son, the hero colt himself, is any indication, I'd say I'm doing a fine fine job. Especially since Fluttershy, an Element of Harmony, seems to think so. Yes, that's right. And....and" He smirks as a halo appears above his head. "I can say this...All I wish is to be a family guy. To raise my new children right. And while I have, as some has heard, been teaching my son the way of chaos. My daughter here is a bit too dainty for such a thing. Dainty, cuddly, emotional, and much much too soft for it." The way he says those words, he makes sure to emphasize each one. "So all I can do is wish and hope and lead on the best I can to bring her to a happy and orderly life."

Discord sighs as the lights dim and the hue of everything turns blue. "But alas, I make mistakes sometimes...ohhhhh" He leans on her, his back stretched across her as he laments. She was trying to keep a normal expression, but she was twitching, twitching with rage. "And when I make a mistake...ahh, the princess of friendship makes me feel like such a terrible failure."

......

You slam your hoof on your face. Goddddddammmiiittt Discord. You could see Twilight make a sour face at him as he "lamented" on this fact.

"But, she does mean well of course. I can't fault her for that. But Ponyville....I must ask. Do you think I'm doing a good job? Think hard." He grins a big arrogant toothy grin "Remember, the 'Hero Colt' is my son." You could hear the crowd murmuring and whispering, trying to come up with a decision.

"I believe you have been doing a good job, Mr. Discord" That voice....was vaguely familiar. It was a side pony you couldn't even remember if you ran into yet. Mayor Mare stepped up on stage. Yeaaaaahhh, you can't really remember meeting her at all. Which was weird since the portal door's first setting dropped you off near town hall.

"Ahh, Mayor Mare. A pleasure...." Discord holds the mic over to her. "Here, I do believe you wish to say some kind words, correct? I'm pretty much done anyway and I do so would loooove to hear what you have to say."

Woah, yeah. This could be your first official meeting with her. Also, this could be beneficial. Discord didn't go too far aside from a few pokes and prods.

"I do, thank you Mr. Discord" She takes the mic, and prepares to speak. "Hello Everypony..Oh" Mayor Mare gives a light chuckle as Discord himself teleports near Fluttershy to sit and watch with her. She walks over to Chrysalis, who was now just realizing she was free to move, but just sat there and gave a fake smile as Mayor Mare approached.

"I almost forgot, before I speak. Anon, can you step here next to your sister?" Mayor Mare asks.

You nod...good. Now you could stick by her in case she tries anything. "Yes ma'am"

She nods with that half eye slitted, sweet smile. Looking at her up close. for an old mare, she was still....doable. "Thank you, and Mr. Discord..can y-oh" She notices he already vanished back into the crowd. "Well, I suppose that's alright. I can give him his medal late-"

Discord immediately teleports back, hovering above the three of you with a big smile. "Did I hear the word ‘medal’? As in, a medal that shows just how great I am? Hmmm?"

"In a sense, I wanted to present the entire family with a medal. There's a lot to praise and..oh!" Mayor Mare giggled as Fluttershy appeared next to you and Nymous with a snap of Discord's talons.

"U-Ummm...hi?" Fluttershy smiles sheepishly, feeling shy as she waved. "Umm..Discord?"

"Don't worry Miss Fluttershy. As I was saying, I wanted to use this opportunity to commemorate your family for everything you all have done. Anon may have stopped foalnappers, griffons, saving another universe, and from what I understand, even had a hoof in the banishment of the changelings. Though of course, our princesses definitely deserve praise for that for braving the wilderness to get that done. But I digress, I feel that you all deserve some recognition as well. For it's very very unheard of for a pony so young to do so many great things, a young mare who braved the world to find her family, a being of chaos whose heart had warmed up to be able to take in one who was lost, and of course, an Element of Harmony who no doubt keeps it altogether." Mayor Mare went up to Fluttershy first.

She pulled out a box that had four medals. Fluttershy's was a golden butterfly with a small red heart on it. Mayor Mare held it up to her, making her back up a little. "Is something wrong?" Mayor Mare asked.

"...Well..no" Fluttershy rubbed at her own shoulder, nervous about the whole thing. "It's just so sudden."

Discord could sense his friend was buckling under the sudden pressure. In his mind..well, aside from wanting to show up Twilight, as usual, he actually had caring thoughts in his head. He wanted to be there for Fluttershy and actually try to keep on with your objective. As much of an asshole he was, he couldn't let Fluttershy down. And you? You were his wingman. So it only seems natural to him at this point to help out when he actually felt like it.

He plucks the medal and pins it on Fluttershy's chest. "Excuse me, but let's just plant the medal and move on to me please. We don't need the theatrics. Besides" Discord shrugs with a grin. "We already know Fluttershy is the most amazing fully grown pony in the room. Nymous is just about grown, but seeing as she isn't,she would be my best daughter. And for foal...well, that's between Twilight and Anon here." Discord grabs the mic and tries to make a joke. "I'm sure everypony noticed that they both tend to wig out and whine quite often, am I right?"

...Crickets...well...not even crickets.

"......Right" Discord looked pretty disheartened that his joke didn't go through. But, he was internally smiling. The fright-causing attention was away from Fluttershy. And despite her looking a little displeased, she was at least not nervous.

"Ahrm..well, yes. erm. Moving on...." Mayor Mare then moves on to Discord, pulling out a medal with jagged edges randomly placed. "Mr. Discord, you have shown so much improvement since you first became a pseudo resident of Ponyville. Becoming a fine father and raising a brave colt..and now a beautiful and young mare. It takes a lot of responsibility to be a father. And for you to have raised a hero at such a young age? Well, such exploits cannot be unrewarded. So, without further ado, Mr. Discord, I present you with a medal best representing your phenomenal yet chaotic fathering practices." Mayor Mare plants the medal on Discord. And..he doesn't crack a joke or do something silly. Instead..

"Ahh, thank you Mayor Mare. You're too kind" He bows, being very polite. He just didn't want to cause any problems for Fluttershy.

...But then you started to have thoughts on yourself. Did you want this medal? It'd be nice. But you were working hard not to look too much like a huge hero. Because every time you gave in, everytime you got too cocky, everyone else would pile on you, wanting a piece of you.

But if you accept the medal. Fluttershy would probably feel proud, and you'd have at least a memento to show off to your kids if you do end up being hitched to Diamo-..oh shit. You scanned the room with your eyes.

And there she was, her eyes glued on you as Mayor Mare approached you. You could see Spoiled Rich whispering to her husband as well as they both looked upon you....ahh fuck. There was no way you couldn't accept it now. If you didn't, you'd look like a shmuck in front of the Riches. And you'd disappoint Diamond.

Mayor Mare then moves on to you, holding out a medal that shone a bright gold, in the shape of a circle with a star in the center, straight edged wings spreading out from both sides of the medal. "Anon, this medal represents your bravery, honesty, and heroism in the face of danger. You are a young colt that faces down danger not for yourself, but to protect your loved ones, your friends, and indeed...all of Equestria, no matter what Equestria that may be. Though, I must admit, it does seem irresponsible for a colt to do such things. It would appear that chaos, while being beyond us all, can in fact be used for the betterment of pony kind. And with that, I present you with this medal symbolizing that heroism." She gently plants it on your chest.

You accepted it...oy..you accepted it. And after doing so, the applause came. It felt great and terrible at the same time. At least Diamond looked pleased. She was smiling so wide, she was looking at you like you were some unobtainable god....despite you already being hers… Ehhh..thinking of it that way was kinda....oy.

But you did do it. It's done. And....as you looked to your right towards Fluttershy, she was looking back at you with happy tears in her eyes. Fluttershy...

Mayor Mare then moved on to Chrysalis...here we go. Chrysalis so far, was acting the part, looking proud and all. Mayor Mare took out a medal that was a plain red heart made of a gem, almost like the cutie mark that Chrysalis herself had. "Nymous, although you haven't been here long. Your tale of how you came to our town touched my heart. And indeed, the heart of everypony here really. Such bravery, such heart. Well, I suppose that is why the medal I present to you is in the shape of one. You worked very hard to get here, Nymous, and I think your inspiring adventure to find your brother is worthy of this medal." Mayor Mare gently pinned the medal onto Chrysalis's chest.

"Mayor Mare, if I may. I'd like to say a few words" Chrysalis said in a kind and rather inspired voice.

......Wut? Not only you, but Discord as well looked to Chrysalis with varying amounts of worry. Fluttershy just looked on with a smile of starry tears, wondering what she could want to say.

"Of course." Mayor Mare stepped aside as Chrysalis stepped forward towards the crowd.

You actually started to sweat. You couldn't say anything standing so publically, but your mind was screaming.

"I'd like to thank everypony for this wonderful award. And this beautiful show of good will. It inspires me, really it does. That is why I have a request." Chrysalis looks back at you with a cruel smirk, then back to the crowd looking all sisterly and nice. "My brother, my loving brother, I know his sweetheart is among the crowd. Can I please have a spotlight on dear dear Diamond Tiara?"

And just as sudden as she said it, a spotlight fell upon Diamond. She gasped, and wondered what was going on with wonderment as the rest of the crowd gave her room. There was no wonder here, only death.

"N-nymous?" Diamond said in a quiet voice, in a trance like state just from being called.

"Yes, my dear. You are needed for the request I'll make. And that request? It would fill my heart with joy, if we had a romantic song played so that you..." She then looks back at you with a pleasant smile. "And my brother could share a dance together. I feel kind of bad that this party is all for me. And with all the things brought in to make it spectacular, I thought it would be nice to have it shared among you and him. This would be alright...wouldn't it?"

..........

...........

Your mind went blank as every pony unanimously agreed it'd be a nice idea. Diamond was excited and immediately ran to her parents to ask if she could.

"Daddy, Mother..can I..Can i..CAN I?!" She was hopping about all spritely and cutely.

"Ahrm, Diamond Tiara, you're in public! I will not have you hop-" Spoiled Rich was about to tell her to calm down, that she was embarrassing herself, but then Filthy cuts in as he pats his daughter's head.

"Of course you can sweetheart."

"EEEEEEEEEE!THANKYOUTHANKYOUTHANKYOUTHANKYOU!" Diamond Tiara span about, hugged both Spoiled and Filthy, and ran up to get on the stage.

Spoiled Rich just planted her hoof to her forehead and shook her head. "You don't think she could have been a little less embarrassing about it?"

"Come on, Darlin'" Filthy gives his wife a gentle nudge. "Are you telling me you don't want to see our little princess happy?"

"......" Spoiled Rich sighed. "She better be happy, if he missteps even once, I'll make sure to throw him into the best dance school money can buy. I swear it."

That fucking bitch.... Chrysalis passed by you, carefully whispering so only you can hear "Good luck, my dear brother, no help this time. And once they see you fail. You'll not only have crushed your lovers heart. But you'll be seen as the silly colt who made his marefriend cry. It's a shame I had to sacrifice her...but, I need this victory...oh so badly.....good luck" Chrysalis hopped off stage as spotlights hit both you and Diamond as she climbed up the small steps to get to you

You look at Discord, pale white. "W-what do I do..help" You whisper to him.

He doesn't say a word. All he does it tap at one of his horns, gives you a wink, and walks off with Fluttershy to observe the show.

His horn

....The horn.

HAHA! DISCORD,YOU MAD GENIUS! Hhehehehehe...oohhhh...this is good. So what if you didn't have her hypnotic ability to get you through this. You had your horn. And with the horn...you can cheat.

Oh yes...you hid your smirk. But you could see it, the soon to be surprise on her face when she realizes she failed. Ahh, to have such power truly was the best.

And y'know? You would make sure to make this dance legendary. A dance of elegance and poise. So much so that you'd show up even that princely prick version of yourself. Even if he couldn't see it, you could live knowing that he'll never have the power to outdo this. Yeah, as Diamond drew near. Confidence filled your very veins as you calmed yourself and faced her encroachment with a gentle smile.

When she finally got up to you. She was blushing, and suddenly felt a little shy. "Anon..a-are you really going to dance with me? I-in front of all these ponies?"

You take her right hoof, raise it, and give it a kiss as you look to her with a cavalier's grin. "I would dance with you for any reason, my dear. Any reason to grace you with the art of the dance, to grace our onlookers...it is in fact, an honor and a pleasure."

"O-ohhh...." she couldn't respond.

You looked down at the crowd as Chrysalis took position, the rest of the crowd finding the whole scene sickly sweet. Chrysalis rolled her eyes, awaiting your "inevitable" defeat.

Meanwhile, a beautiful, long maned grey pony steps over to Vinyl. bringing along her cello as she mutters "Finally, a moment to add a little class." When she steps over to Vinyl, she gives her a nod. "You wouldn't mind providing the rest of the orchestra, would you?"

Vinyl shrugged, and pulled out a very very dusty and old record and blew on it before putting it on her turntable as Octavia readied herself to play.

"It looks like it's about to start...Diamond, my dear Diamond." You take your horn and place it on your head as you give her a bow. "I promise to make this dance a truly magical and unforgettable experience" You say this to her, but you gave a glance to Chrysalis.

Chrysalis mouth was agape, she never EVER guessed or even considered you had another charge. In her head, she was now wondering if she was being rused the whole time if you could use the horn more than once. First the door, now this?! In her mind, at this moment, she couldn't figure out what was going on.

You were fine with this. You couldn't think of a time where you felt you were in total control the whole way. She can't beat you. And for once, with suggestion from Discord, you were on top. It was...kind of delicious.

Yeah, even as she looked at Discord with a quick vicious glare. He caught on fast enough to just wave at her, and throw her a kiss. She was pissed. Good, now maybe she'll come to understand that being a prick is wrong.

As the music starts, you cast your spell to make the dance oh so magical. First thing's first. You slowly stand upright like a human and take Diamond by the hoof, and start dancing rhythmically along with the waltz. Your focus never leaving Diamond, your eyes never looking away from hers.

She gave a surprised yelp when you pulled her up to dance along with you. And as you lead her along with your sudden expert skill in dancing, she became entranced once more. "A-Anon, y-you're so much better than last time..a-and we just started." She was so into you, she didn't even realize you were getting help from the horn.

"Ahh, my dear" You spoke in the tone that a prince would speak to his princess. "For you, everything must be perfect...now come along, and join me on our journey of dance." You lean close to her, even over her and then pull back as you change directions.

"P-perfect?...Anon..." She brought her head close as you guided her along. "Why are you so nice to me? Sometimes I think back to how awful I treated you when I first met you and..."

You gave her a quick peck to stop her from speaking as you lead her into a small spin, then gazed upon her eyes, slowing your dance for a moment in tune with the music. "And..you needn't worry. That was only the past when we did not understand who we were. In fact, my princess, without those circumstances happening, we would not be together now."

Meanwhile, while this was going on. Filthy, who was first ok with this, was starting to sweat in worry. "hrn, ya don't think this is a little much do you?"

Spoiled scoffs at him as she looks on. "You're the one who went all in without discussing things with her first. Besides, if he's the one then he's the one. At least he has class, nopony else in this castle is capable of dancing like that, not even Princess Twilight."

It was then Filthy, who planted his hoof to his forehead. "I really hope I didn't jump the barn on this one"

As you continued to dance, Diamond sighed, feeling a bit of regret about her own haste to dance with you. "Yeah...I just wish it was the future...we're dancing in front of everypony. But we're not even married yet or have our own kingdom."

As you slowly step along with her in a gentle spin and turn, you gave her a sweet arrogant smirk. "Maybe so, but can we not be prince and princess still?" God you felt your dialogue was cheesy..but hey..it worked.

"....But we're not..." she sighs

"....No?....Why don't you take a look again."

She was confused by those words, but when she looked at you with her confusion, she noticed you wearing a princely shirt, red in color, adorned with a yellow sash and with a white undershirt, you also had a crown on. There was also mirrors magically placed along and around the stage. As you danced close to them, Diamond could see herself in a beautiful red flowing dress. Her small tiara replaced with a beautiful gem encrusted crown.

She was near speechless. "A-Anon..h-how...?"

"Shhh, no questions, my princess. Just dance along with me, I will keep you safe and I will love you always."

Chrysalis couldn't believe it.

"Good, isn't he?" Discord giggled

She looked to her left, Discord with sitting next to her, enjoying the show...on Chrysalis's face.

"....You gave him unlimited power just to one up me? Are you a fool? Have you not seen what happens when he has so much power?" She scowls.

Discord shrugs. "I have, he gets a little too..hrn...what do they keep saying? 'High...and Mighty' " Discord snickers. "I'm surprised you care"

"I do when you're interfering in OUR game" Chrysalis keeps from growling or raising her voice, the ponies around her were all fixated on the dance.

"A game to determine who buckles under the pressures of good and evil? That game? A particular game that doesn't seem to have either budging?...Eh, so booooring. Watching you writhe when you realize you've already lost is so much more fun" Discord was doing his best just to keep from bursting in laughter.

"You're such a nuisance..." She muttered as she went back to looking at the dance

"I know, it's so good to be one too, but I wonder Chryssy. Despite him one upping you, you seem to be fixated on that adorable little waltz. Anything in particular catch your fancy?" Discord asks, actually enjoying the fact that you and Diamond seem so happy.

She hesitates for a moment, then answers with a sigh. "Only that he could have all this and more if he just chose to join my side. And yet he chooses not to...I just don't understand"

"It's because he has other friends he doesn't wish to betray. A very very hard lesson to learn. Oh yes....quite the lesson indeed..." Discord didn't sound jovial at all when he said this, he sounded serious, as if recalling a painful memory. "And besides, he's not betraying you by not helping you. In fact, you seem to be good friends as is. Even when you're not scheming, you both can have quite a lot of fun. And all this came about by being stuck in my basement."

"No thanks to you..." She nearly growled, but kept herself in check. "I will never see what he likes about these goody two shoe idiots."

"Some of them can be pleasing to the spirit, Chryssy my gal. Not all of them, but enough of them. Either way, it doesn't really matter, You're stuck as a pony and as my daughter until something...well...ridiculous happens. But I doubt THAT will ever happen." Discord shrugs with a confident grin.

Chrysalis was disgusted by those very words as her voice started to get louder and more agitated. "Ugh, you're such a pitiful idiot. I've always succeeded before, Discord, and I will succeed again. I'm not like that failed version of myself. I am...Q-sdfmd" Chrysalis is hushed as Discord puts a paw over her mouth.

"Let's not get over excited, shall we? Other ponies are present" He smirked at her.

Chrysalis pulled away and mumbled to herself. She was angry, so angry she nearly spilled out a secret she couldn't let anyone know. "....What a terrible night to have a curse..." She then looked up to you, still feeling aggravation about being defeated. But she also sensed something else, a powerful arrogance emanating off of you. It made her think. Of what? Even she couldn't figure it out yet.

The dance resumed, Diamond enamored at this point, she didn't think it couldn't get any better. "My prince...you're...so wonderful. It's just like a beautiful dream" She was tearing up at this moment. It really was like a dream. Each expertly guided step, each twirl, each close hug and movement felt like an eternity of love. She couldn't get enough.

"A dream you say? No..I don't think it is...not yet" Oh hohohoh, if this didn't top anything. Nothing would.

"N-not yet?..what do you mean?" She was brimming with curiousness, she didn't know how this could get any better.

But as the music picked up, you started leading a little more aggressively as you used the same charge that gave you this grace, and the clothes, to do something else. "Look around, my dear princess...."

She did, and when she did, she could see clouds all about. she looked down, and she saw that you both were rising into the air as the crowd disappeared into a sea of sky and clouds. each step leaving golden sparks that drifted downwards.

Of course, this was an illusion...though you both were stepping up higher as if on invisible steps. That was real.

The crowd could only see you both rise, with the sky being transparent and the sparks being bright as they lit the room. At first, Diamond felt a tinge of fright as she hugged close to you. "A-anon! W-we're! We're!?"

"Shhhhh" You gently rubbed your hoof across her mane and held her close as you continued to dance. "I will never let you go...our dance? It will be a dance in which even the kingdoms of old will never be able to match as the stars themselves look upon us with envy"

The illusionary sky started to become filled with shooting stars. What was fright became pure bliss as she was wowed by it all. "I never...I never knew you could do all this.."

"For you, my princess, I'd do anything. I just want you to be happy..." And that did it, she was now lost in the romance. and nuzzled close, almost barely losing her rhythm. But your own magically enhanced skills keeping it all together.

The dance, the music, the magic. it captivated everyone in the room, just as it captivated her heart. As the music drew to a close. You and Diamond slowly descended as the illusions slowly vanished. And right at the end, you leaned over her, looked into her glossy lost eyes, and go to give her a three second kiss on the lips.

However, both your focuses is immediately lost, missing your kissing opportunity when fireworks start bursting above you as the crowd begins to cheer.

You look down at Discord, who gave you a thumbs up with his paws as his talons each shot its own type of rocket or firework above the stage.

The crowd was just completely amazed. And Diamond Tiara, she nuzzled into you, smiling the whole way. She was blushing, still lost in the magical moment.

Though, the noise of applause was getting her out of it little by little. But the lasting effect was enough for her to kiss you on the cheek and whisper "I love you..forever" as she smiled and hopped down off the stage to talk with her parents to tell them just how magical it all felt.

The horn plopped off your head as you stood there, in your own daze. You really went all out there. You put your hoof to your heart...it really was romantic...wasn't it?

The entire crowd was cheering and clapping. Stomping their hooves on the ground with glee. Except for Chrysalis, who just faked a smile as she slowly clapped her hooves together.

What a moment indeed.

Chapter 299

Man, you fucking aced it.

That applause, those cheers, all those amazed ponies. You had to take a bow. And as you looked up, you could see a genuine smile on Spoiled Rich’s face. Hell, Filthy was fucking crying. You were the goddamn master.

You hopped down the stage soon after. Pinkie went and hopped back on, she had a tear in her eye. "That was so beautiful..." she squeaked.and wiped the tears from her eyes as she brought out her microphone. "Well, everypo..ahrm." She nearly choked up, and took a moment to compose herself. "Well, everypony, ahhh....ahhmm...Ahh shucks!" She started crying on stage "It was sooooo magical, I don't think I can even move on to super awesome dance tim-WOAH!" Pinkie fell back as Vinyl immediately took it as her cue to blast jammin dance music for everyone to dance to. "....Well...I guess there's no time but ‘now’ time for everypony to get their groove on" She says to herself as she lays on her back.

You weave through the dancing ponies as you walk over to Chrysalis, who was still in dismay about what just happened. "Heya sis, how ya doing?" You say arrogantly as you wiggle your eyebrows at her.

"....That was a dirty play, Anon" She grumbles

"Uh huh, says the dirty dealer who did the dank deed of setting up my dastardly drop" You laugh at that, you didn't think you could fit so many ds in a single sentence.

"I did that to show you the truth. And then you had to go and spoil it all." She huffed, it appeared...she was out of ideas at the moment. She wasn't trying anything else.

"Then I guess it wasn't a very good truth, was it? C'mon...It's over. Why don't you just enjoy the party?"

"....because it's not fun. It's not a thing I do." She looked upon the dancing ponies with disgust, something you took notice of.

"Why, because you see what they are doing as ‘Foolish’ and ‘pointless’, right?"

"What? No, this is all fun and games for them. Even I understand how important it is to relieve stress. But their taste in music is terrible, their style is bad, and it's all gaudy. All it's good for is the food" She looks over at the sound system "I will say this much, ponies from years past had MUCH better taste then they do now. Arias and sonatas is better than...what do you even call this?" She really didn't like the music at all.

...you didn't really like it either to be honest. Of all the genres of music to pick. it had to be...
"It's pop....and I admit...it's pretty garbage."

"...at least we agree on that" She sighs "So this is how it's going to be, a constant back and forth. You, able to rely on your friends and your magic to avoid giving in. Me, just being a superior being and nothing more"

This was kind of getting heavy. It was like you and Chrysalis were actually having one of those rare bonding moments.....over the fact you both hate pop. "I'm telling you, things would be better...they would be nicer"

"And as I told you, things would be better for US if you just gave in. More than better, we'd have a whole world to ourselves."

You sigh, it just wasn't happening. "...So is this how it's going to be? We're just gonna push and shove each other without either of us giving in? Forever?"

"It seems like it, doesn't it? Without a major catalyst, all our efforts against each other is in vain. Makes me sick just to know how many times I've failed"

"Well, y'know...I haven't really seemed to make some headway either. You're still a bitch"

"Yes...and you're still a petulant little asshole"

"Yeah...So, no matter what I do. You don't even see the slightest good in being friendly with ponies?"

"No, and I gather you'll just keep on resisting me for the sake of your friends."

"Yep.....you wanna get some of that punch from the table? See if we can drown out this crap?"

She sighed, then nodded "Yes, sure why not...I need to wash the bad taste of gratuitous happiness from my mouth anyway"

You both head over to the snack table and use a ladle to fill some paper cups with some cherry punch. "So..you want to make a toast or something?"

"hmmm..I do, give me a second" Chrysalis pondered on what to toast on. It took her half a minute. but it finally donned on her on what the toast should be. "I got it. I think we should toast on the very catalyst that will make one of us see eye to eye to the other's ideology. Sound good?" She looks down at you with a smirk.

You shrug, was about as good as anything else. "Sure..ok"

You hold up your cup "So then, a toast! To that catalyst...thing"

She holds up hers "Yeah whatever, let's just tap the glass and take a HNNNN!"

Chrysalis is startled by the approach of two ponies, making her cup fall forward and splash all over your face.

"U-Uuu-ughhh" It was cold, there was ice in the punch bowl itself, so when it splashed in your face, the cold liquid sent a sharp jolt through your entire body. "T-T-This is w-w-what h-hell must feeGYAH!"

You fall over after accidentally snorting some punch. it went from cold to the burn of having sugared liquid in your nostrils "IT BURNS!"

"Oh dear..Anon, are you alright?" You are helped up by none other than Mrs. Cake "we didn't mean to startle you like that"

You coughed a little. oooghhhh...that sucked.

When you get to standing on your legs. You noticed a worried Mrs.Cake beside you, Mr. Cake standing beside Chrysalis.

"ahh geez Anon, really sorry about that. Really, we didn't mean to spook you or your sister. We just wanted to come chat with our future classmates." Mr.Cake said as he began to serve himself a glass of punch.

Future classmates? This confused both you and Chrysalis.

"I-it's alright...erm..what do you mean ‘Future Classmates’ ?" You asked

"Oh" Mrs. Cake giggled "We signed up for Mrs. Muffin Top's parenting classes."

.....oh great. It was that?! That's what she meant?!...well..so much for keeping it a secret from Chrysalis

"Parenting class? I...don't remember anything about that" Chrysalis gave you a subtle death glare. Welp, there went bonding time.

"Oh, you didn't know? Weird, we would have thought your father would have told you. I wonder if it slipped his mind..hmmm" Mr.Cake wondered "Oh well" He chuckled "It's not like it's a bad thing. Personally, we both signed up because we want to be prepared for when our little Pumpkin and Pound Cake grow up a little more."

"Mhmmm, you know what they say. A prepared parent raises a happy foal" Mrs. Cake smiled as she gave you a gentle pat on the head.

You only gave an awkward smile. Forcing it, because you didn't have to be a changeling to know that Chrysalis was teeth grindingly angry at this point. "T-that's really nice Mr. and Mrs. Cake."

"Awww, we haven't even seen each other much and you seem so comfortable around us. Discord must be doing a really really good job. " she smiled sweetly as she decided to give you a gentle hug.

"Yeah, a lot of orphans don't usually get accustomed to things so quickly. But look at you, so young and already a hero. I..er...we could never really let our foals do that. Y'know, it's dangerous. But I gotta say, you're the very definition of the words ‘go getter’ " Mr. Cake complimented you as he held his drink towards you before taking a swig.

"Yeeeaahhh....ummm. Would you guys mind if I hung out a little. I think my sis needs some alone time..maybe?"

But Chrysalis immediately makes the answer for you as she forces a sweet smile. "Oh no no, please, Anon. I'd rather you stay by me...we have so much.." She nearly makes a low growl "To discuss" She then makes a gentler smile to the Cakes "So please, would you excuse us?"

"Mhmm, come on dear. I want to see if you can still boogie" Mrs.Cake chuckles, ignorant of what was really going on.

"I'm not that old, I'm still the dance champion. My old moves are the best moves." Mr.Cake felt pretty confident as he joined his wife and walked off.

Chrysalis then approached you, so wanting to have another chance of choking the life out of you. "So....then…’friend’...when were you going to tell me about this?"

You step back, waving your hoof and trying to calm her down. "Woah,woah,woah, in a room full of dancing ponies, remember? I mean, geez! If anything, this is actually your fault!"

"My fault?! How dare you....And how, pray tell, is it my fault!?" She growls as she points to herself, those old daggers appearing in her eyes once more.

"A..ahmm..look, it's true. If you didn't pull that crap in mentioning the other dimension, Twilight wouldn't have spazzed on Discord and forced him to take parenting classes. Y'know, something we'd ALL have to go to?"

"My fault....Twilight?....ngh" Chrysalis's rage subsided as she realized it was indeed her fault. "T-that idiot....that horrid little purple pest....A-are you telling me she seriously thinks parenting classes would fix that living embodiment of shit?"

..ok, it seems the situation is diffused. She stopped focusing her anger on you. But, damn, was she still angry. "Considering you’re the one who goes on and on about how ponies are too nice and try to help each other and how it's all bad...you should have seen it coming."

"Uuuuugghhhh...." Chrysalis goes to get another glass of punch, but stops halfway and drops her cup "....I need to be intoxicated right now. I don't care anymore......I'm losing my edge if I somehow didn't see this coming...I'll never make it through this night now."

intoxicated?

You plant your horn on your head, and do her the favor of filling her a cup with hard liquor, the hardest of liquor. "There, try drinking that."

"Hrnnn?" She looks to her right to see a cup by the punch bowl, filled with some sort of brownish gold liquid. "..what's this?"

"A human drink. You want to get intoxicated? This stuff will do it....let's just say I'm repaying more of that debt I owe you."

"...paying more of that debt, you say?" Chrysalis takes the cup and sniffs it and pulls it back. "What is in this? This isn't poison, is it? I've never smelled anything so strong. You do know by intoxication I meant the pollen of a flower meant to put one to sleep"

You shrug"Whatever,I promise you, it's not poison. I guarantee you that in like..five minutes. your entire world will change."

"...huh" She inspected the glass again, she scoffed a little with doubt in her breath "We'll see about that..hrnn..." She wasn't actually drinking it though, not yet.

"C'mon...I told you, you have my word. I thought you would want to try something humans drink." You tapped your hoof impatiently. You were actually trying to help.

"Fine, fine...down the hatch, as they say" Chrysalis open her mouth and guzzles down the liquor before slamming the cup on the table. "There, now what?"

"You..just sort of wait. Trust me, that was magically enhanced. You're going to feel pretty hammered soon."

"I better, but just to let you know. I can hold down my juices pretty good. Even the toxic liquids that come from the dotted poisonous plants of the Everfree have no real effect on me and also have I ever told you I wanted to play with you to the point where you almost let yourself go but then it turns out it's not me, just one of my children pretending to be me and also it'd be a he and he didn't take a bath in like forever.....that would be...sooooooooooooooo funny" Chrysalis giggled as she pulled you close and started giving you a gentle hug.

......uh oh "chry-...N-Nymous?..y-you ok?"

"Mhmmm, I feel so good all of a sudden that I actually like pop now. Ponies suck still though...ohhhh..." She giggled as she looked over to Discord, who was putting off ponies with his inappropriate disco dancing "Did you ever notice that Discord was made up of different animal things?......that's so.....stupid" She laughs

....ok, you did NOT mean to get her this drunk. "Uhm, erm."

You didn't know what to say, she was wobbling about. And with nothing for you to say, she just spoke even more. "Anon, teach me how to hip to hop"

"what?"

"Y'know, what's it called?" She taps at her chin "Right!" She raises her hoof as she smiles when she realizes what she herself meant "Dancing. Dancing to this particular music. How do....do......do you do it?"

What in the...

She wanted to dance? To this crap? Erm… "Well, just look at what everypony else is doing. Their bobbing their heads up and down, moving their hooves to the beat, headbanging. Stuff like that and...oh geez"

You notice Twilight dancing extremely terribly "D-don't do what Twilight is doing, she's just a pretty bad dancer when it comes to music like this"

"Bad dancer? or maybe....best dancer. Look at her, she's dancing a lot more spritely than the rest of these fucks. Grrr, I'll show her. I'm gonna take her dance and improve upon it a million fold. For I am queen! Queen of eveeeerryyaahthing" She had a drunken form of jealousy towards Twilight, and walks off into the middle of the crowd to really get her groove on.

"W-Wait! You can't just do that!" You rush up to her and try to hold her back, but she just gently pushes you aside "Outta of the way, Anon, it's super dance time." She laughs arrogantly "Watch thiiiies"

And then she did it, she started dancing like an absolute retard. Swinging her hooves about, shaking her butt, and bobbing her head every which way.

She was so damn drunk she didn't even realize how idiotic she looked. This may have been a bad idea.

She was also using too many human words now.

Someone was bound to notice

Hell, maybe serving her human alcohol was the worst part about this. Alcohol can usually kill a lot of bugs with a few dabs. There was no way, even as a tough bug queen, that she was going to be able to resist it.

And as you contemplated this, it only got worse as some other teenaged colt started to dance near her, then in front of her. He didn't seem weirded out by her dancing. And he looked quite suave "Heya Nymous, I noticed you dancing alone and thought you might want some company" He said with a slimy smirk.

"Huh? Yeah, sure. But can you keep up with me, I wonder?" she replies as she tries to keep up with some nonexistent beat she was hearing.

"Uhm, I uhh. Well, I can. I'm actually quite the dancer. But your dance I think could use a little improvement, nothing wrong with it really, I just mean it could use a ‘personal’ touch" He says as he gets closer, captivated by her looks.

"Reeeeeeeaallly? Usually I'm up for a little small talk" She slows down her dancing as she just looked up at him with a drunken but sexual look. her cheeks blushing from being drunk. "But I can tell you got a thing for me. Let's just cut the fat and get to the meat, hmm? Why don't you come home with me riiiiight now. We can get intimate, I can get close, I can wrap my legs all around you" She grins at him

He starts blushing profusely. This was too much, it was moving so fast "Ahrm..uhh. Ok erm, don't you want to get to know each other a little first though? I wasn't kidding about helping you with your moves, you wanna start with that first?"

"Noooooooo" She plants a kiss right on his lips "I wanna take you for myself and wrap you up in my cocoon"

"C-cocoon? L-Like...u-u-under the bedsheets?!" He was beat red at this point

"Sooommmeething like OMPH!" She groaned as you ran right up to her front and pushed her, her wobbly weak body unable to resist as you pushed her with insane speed towards the library doors.

But the moment you do, you fall through the doors back outside, and lose your grip and slam right onto your face.

When you get up....she wasn't there. "Fucking dammit! I forgot my own goddamn spell! FUCK!" This of course, referring to the fact you cast a spell to keep Chrysalis locked to the party.

You gave your face a quick rub and rushed back into the library.

Chrysalis was just standing in front of a bookcase, looking at the words on the spines of the books.

You stomped up to her, feeling anger for what she just tried to pull. "What were you thinking?! How could you just offer that guy sex like that?"

"Hmm? what?" She looks at you, blushy and confused.

"wrapping your legs around him. Cocoons...crap like that. Remember?"

She giggles cutely "Ohhhh, no no. I wasn't interested in that. I just wanted to skip the foreplay entirely and just put him in a cocoon so my entire hive and I can feast on him. Ahhh well. Hrnnn.." Chrysalis goes back to looking at the books "Wow, a lot of these are pretty shit"

"Could you not curse, please?"

Geez, if she kept it up. someone was gonna hear. "Fiiiiiine, whhhaattteevverrr. When did you turn into such a prude, Anon?...you prude. Big big big BIG prude. That's you" She wobbled over to you and pointed at you "Prude"

God

You were a babysitter

You were babysitting the fucking queen of the changelings.

"Anon, you ok?" You hear a familiar young southern voice.

Oh shit..

You turn to see none other than the Cutie Mark Crusaders. Coming up to check up on you, it seems they saw you rushing Chrysalis towards the exit.

"Ohhhhohoho. Lookit lookie loo. It's the Cutie Mark Crusaders" Chrysalis chuckled as she glared at them with a grin "How are you three? hmmm?"

"What do you mean ‘how are we’? what are you up to? It has to be something bad if Anon pushed you away like that" Scootaloo gave a brave and angry look at her as she flapped her wings in a threatening manner.

"Bad? Nothing baaaaad." She leans back, her eyes spinning a little. "I was just calling Anon a prude for being, well...a prude" She then points to Sweetie Belle "You, Shrieky Boat"

Sweetie Belle looked at Chrysalis with discontent "My name is Sweetie Belle"

"Yeaaaaahhhh ok. ahmmm...You think Anon is a prude, right? I'm pretty sure you doooooooo" Chrysalis giggled "I hear you think he's all arrogant and thinks he knows everything, Riiiiiiight?"

"Chrys-Nymous! Can you just relax for two seconds? What kind of question even is that? Leave them alone and find a place to sit down until you get your head together, ok? Please?" Oh god, make it stop. She’s even worse than she is sober.

"Oh hush, you prude. Prudish prude." Chrysalis waves her hoof in a way to shush you before looking back at the CMC "I'll tell you all something. If you all agree with me that he's a big prude, I'll uhhhh....I'll......I'll ermm......I guess I just won't put you in cocoons and actually let you roam my kingdom when I conquer Equestria. Dealsiesisis?" Her speech was slurred, the alcohol was completely in her system. She was out of her goddamn mind.

"Uhhh, Anon. I hate to ask this. I REALLY hate to ask this. But is she ok? She doesn't look so good" Sweetie Belle actually had a bit of concern for Chrysalis.

"Yeah, ahrm. ah know she's evil and all but ah got this feelin' like she's about to keel over or somethin'" Applebloom too, looked on in concern

"eh, who cares? I think we'd actually be better off if SHE WAS ‘keeling’ over" Scootaloo however, was not concerned. And rather, hated her the most.

C'mon Scootaloo, we're Cutie Mark Crusaders. We may not like her, but we can't be wishin' for stuff like that. What if we managed to help her and she became good?" Applebloom asked, she felt uncomfortable knowing any of them could think of her actually dying.

"I guess." Scootaloo sighed "So, what's wrong with her then?"

"She's drunk" you say, as plainly as possible.

"Drunk? What's that mean?" Applebloom asked. She has never heard that term before

none of them did.

"Anon, I'm not druuuunnnkapap" Chrysalis burped "I'm just feeling good mood feelings right now.It's a party, isn't it? You all should stop thinking of such dreeeeeadful things"

"Nymous, we just don't think you're ok right now. I'm asking you to just take a rest somewhere. The library is huge. There's probably a few places you can nap." Please...make it stop.

"With that music blaring? What are you, stupid?" Chrysalis looks over to the CMC as she points to you "Isn't he stupid? I think he's super great. Great pony to have around. But heeee's sooooooooooo stupid.I think one of this dumbest decisions he's ever made was like....things having to do with other things. It's a lot of things. But yeah, he's kinda ok for being so dumb. But I gotta. I gotttttaa really ask this. What did you two see in him again? Love wise, I mean. Because I gotta say, I reeeallly gotta say. If it was me? I couldn't ever fall in love with him. Fun pony to hang out with sometimes, but none of that stuff"

"Are ya seriously askin' us that question?!" Applebloom was stunned, blushing just a little at how embarrassing it all was.

Chrysalis then made herself sound like a typical teen "Like, duuuhhh. Totally"

"Chrysa-NYMOUS! Can you just cut it out! C'mon!" HOLY SHIT! JUST STOP! IT’S GETTING SUPER AKWARD!

you grab her by the hoof and try to drag her away. But she just pulls it away as you fall back on your face. She leans down and looks at you before tapping your head "I sometimes kinda sorta wonder how your skull hasn't cracked like an egg yet. Soooo weird"

"Look, I'm NOT answering that question. And neither is Applebloom. We know you have to be up to something. We know you can fake how your acting, you're a changeling after all" Sweetie Belle bravely stepped up. "So stop playing games or else!"

"Or else? hmmm" Chrysalis rubbed at her chin, thinking about those words "Normally, I'd call you out on that and say how futile your endeavors are. But what the hay! Let's change subjects to something fun. Like, which element of harmony do you think is the worst? I vote Twilight Sparkle. Her title as princess alone makes her insufferable. But if the question was on princesses, it'd definitely be Cadaences. Why you ask? Simple." Chrysalis sighed and leaned back as she explained her reasoning. "I was thiiiis close to conquering everything. How was I supposed to see a giant dome of love magic just come out of nowhere? How is that possible?! I had Cadance weak and suffering in those caverns and her hubby was so drained that I'd have to use a sippy straw to get any more out of him. And yet they conjured up a magic powerful enough to defeat me and my entire hive. It's like the ending to a story written by incompetent children for other incompetent children to read. It's not realistic and it sounds like it was just pulled out because of terrible ideas."

"Oh boy, she's really out of it" Sweetie Belle said as she approached Chrysalis and dared tapping her side

"No I'm not. Also dooon't poke unless you wanna get poked" Chrysalis pokes back at her side and grins "You're soft. Like a marshmellow." she giggles "I like you already, you'd make a good pillow"

"Pillow?! What?! I'm learning to be a better singer and get better with my magic. I'm a lot better than a pillow!" Sweetie Belle took offense to Chrysalis's words. Pillow? She wasn't a pillow, especially for changeling scum.

"Riiiiight. Oh..and then there's...YOU!" Chrysalis lunges forward suddenly,Grabbing onto Scootaloo.

"W-WAHHH! HELP!" Scootaloo cries out as you all jump back in surprise.

"Chrysalis! W-what are you.........wut?" Surprise turns into a glaring stupor as you gaze upon Chrysalis cuddling onto Scootaloo.

"Oh hush, little chicken. I'm not going to hurt you. I'm going to snuggle you. Snuggle you good. I had a dream once. A dream of having a pet chicken. I thought it was soooooooo dumb. Me having a pet chicken? Absurd.. But now? suddenly....it feels so right. I want one...foreveeeerrr" She was just...cuddling her. It was scary.

Scootaloo just looked upon you all in pure horror as she whispered "hhhhheeeellllpppp meeeeeeee"

"Let er go! What are ya doing to her?!" Applebloom barked at her. She tries to grab onto Scootaloo's hoof, but Chrysalis pulls her away.

"Uhhhh, cuddling her, a doi! You all can be so dense, I swear. Just look at her" Chrysalis holds her up like a cat. Scootaloo was trembling. trying to summon up her bravery. But being so close to Chrysalis, it crippled her mentally. "She's loving this. Probably more attention than she gets from her parents anyway. Does she even have parents? If she does, I guess they don't worry about her too much if I can always get this close to her."

"Chrysalis, c-c'mon, don't you think you cuddled her enough?" This is just...getting worse by the second.

"Nope...and there's nothing none of you can do to stop me! And! Her name is Caramel by the way. Isn't that right, Caramel. You're so cute. We could rule the world together as you wake me up every morning to witness the suffering of ponies everywhere." She continued to hug and snuggle on poor Scootaloo

"Erm, actually. Roosters are the ones that crow every mornin'. Not chickens" Applebloom felt some sort of southern need to correct her.

"Whatteevvverrr, same thing really" Chrysalis shrugged

"Applebloom! can you not help her with your farm facts and help me! What if somepony comes and sees and HELLO RARITY!" Scootaloo froze then waved with a terrified smile on her face as Rarity approached the group.

Shit...

"Hello, ohhh what is this?" Rarity giggled "are you all having a little party here within the party we are having? I must say, that's an interesting way to go about doing things. How has all your nights been?" With Rarity out of the loop, she just saw this as a sort of meeting between friends.

"Oh um, it's been great. We're all a little out of it due to all the partying and dancing and stuff, Right girls?" You step up first to try to get things diffused before it takes another turn for the worse.

"Oh ummm, yeah" Sweetie Belle agrees

"Yep, that's right" Applebloom nods with a false smile

"Well, I on the other hoof feeeeeel fantastic! Rarity, have yah, have you met my new chicken?" She holds Scootaloo up to her as Scootaloo falsely smiles and waves "I call er Caramel."

"Oh, um, yes. I see it. Is...this a sort of game?" Rarity asked, now utterly confused "And are you alright, darling? You look a tad peckish"

"Game?" Chrysalis asked, confused, not even realizing she had been asked how she was doing.

"YEAH! ITS A GAME! A GREAT GAME! HAHAHA" You laughed as loud as you could to make it seem as genuine as possible.

"A-alright. erm..ahrm" Rarity composed herself after being caught offguard from your sudden laughter "Anyway, I came to tell you all we'll be playing ‘pin the tail on the pony’ soon. And of course Nymous will be the first to play, given this party is being thrown for her. Will you all be ready soon? I could ask Pinkie to put on another song if you all need more time"

"Whhhat? nah nah nah" Chrysalis immediately drops Scootaloo onto her butt as she approaches Rarity, shaking her head at the entire prospect of putting on another song. "I wanna play like, riiiight now. Because I already know I'm gonnnnaa win. er, what do I win if I win?"

Rarity now found her attitude rather strange as she saw Chrysalis lurch and stagger a little in her steps "Well, first, let me say that it is nice to see competitive spirit in you. But darling, this is just a party. The only thing you'll win is the cheers of the other ponies due to a display of skill and such. Are you sure you're alright?"

"Ah said I'm fiiine. Also" Chrysalis points to the still practicing Rainbow Dash "If that's all we're gonna win then why is she trying so hard? why would anypony try so hard just for that?"

"Well, that's just Rainbow Dash being Rainbow Dash. She just likes to win. Though, if you ask me, sometimes it's good for her to lose. Excessive winning usually has a habit of overextending that ego of hers." Rarity points out as she looks back at Rainbow Dash.

"Ya dooooon't say. Well, don't worry then. Because I'll make sure that ego of hers don't overextend at all. " Chrysalis says with a hiccup

Scootaloo immediately snapped to attention after recovering from her drop. Rainbow Dash. Losing? Nooope."As if! Rainbow Dash always wins. And I happen to know she's actually pretty darn good at this game. You don't stand a chance!" Scootaloo yelled out, determined to see her idol win.

"Scootaloo! Don't be rude. Nymous has a very frail sense of self that I will not have shattered over something as simple as a game. We should encourage her to do well. Not exclaim that'll she'll lose" Rarity berated the young pegasus, feeling her outburst was wrong.

"B-but" Scootaloo's ears drooped. She wanted to tell her the truth as to why she said it. But she knew she couldn't.

"No buts. Nymous, I'm so so sorry about that. I personally think that you have a very good chance of winning." Rarity says, trying to be supportive.

"It's ok. She's fine. it's fine. everything is fine. Say Rarity, you like dresses, don't ya?" Chrysalis asked as she wrapped her right hoof over her

"W-well, yes." Rarity had no idea what was going on with her right now. She very carefully placed her hoof on Chrysalis's head, but felt no fever "Nymous, are you absolutely sure you're alright?"

"Yep, but look. Hear me out. Because yer gonna like this one. So, imagine black dresses...NO! Black suits. Like, spy suits but made for fashion. some can even be hybrid suits and dresses, all mostly black. It'd be daring, bold, dark, mysterious. Mares wearing these would seem much more than what they are. It'd make them hard to approach, and yet oh sooooo desirable. Shooting a glare into any stallion's eyes would be like piercing their heart." Chrysalis planted her hoof right onto her chest "Right here, it would beat loudly for the mare that they could never catch"

"Hmmmmm" Rarity thought, that didn't sound too bad to her. "I never thought about making anything like that. Dark and mysterious, yes, that is quite thrilling to be honest. I know there are mares out there who at least like to pretend that there is a sense of danger and intrigue in their lives. I think I could make this work. But what would we call the line?"

"Oh that's easy. You can just call it ‘The Dark’. Pretty good, eh?" Chrysalis seemed to like her own idea so much she was smiling wide when she said it.

" ‘The Dark’, hm. Well, I could use that as a working title to be sure. Once I have some free time, I'll take a stab at it" It seems Rarity actually took the whole idea seriously.

"I bet you will, and it will be gloooorious. hehe" Chrysalis let out a cute little giggle as she looked over at the party goers, it seems some latin song was playing because she could see Discord leading a conga line.

When you looked, you smiled. Smiled for him. Because he was having a blast with the other ponies. It did your heart good.

"Well, I better let everypony know you're all ready. When the song is over, come by the pony poster and we'll get you set up. And remember, Nymous, it doesn't matter whether you win or lose. In the end, you're still a marvelous lady." Rarity gives her a sweet smile as she does a near immediate touch up to Chrysalis's mane. "There we are, it was a little frazzled." And with a tiny giggle, she went off to alert Pinkie you'd all be ready soon.

"Now how do you like that? A whole line of clothes inspired by me" Chrysalis has a chuckle about it all "....I hope I get one of those for free."

"Can't you just, I dunno, just change into the clothes you want with your magic?" It did seem odd to you that she would be thrilled about all this. Was she really that wrecked in the head? Really? God, you created a monster.

".....oh...oh right. I could do all that, couldn't I? hrnnnnn" Chrysalis let's herself drop to the side "I bet it's not even going to look super evil or nothen."

"My sister would never make anything evil looking. You should be happy though, if she does do it, it's gonna be better than anything you could do with your magic!" Sweetie Belle felt she had to stand up for her sister, she didn't want Chrysalis to think she was any kinds of better than Rarity.

"And how would you know that? Tch, WATCH THIS!" Chrysalis stood up and made grunting noises, shirking her head left and right. But nothing was happening.

"What am I supposed to be seeing?" Sweetie Belle was confused.

You just put your hoof to your face. “She's trying to transform"

"That's rrrright. Why isn't it working?" She continued to struggle trying to change her form. But to no avail, she just couldn't do it.

"Uhhh, because of that curse Discord put on you, remember?" Her memory too? Please...please don’t let her die.

"...........oh right" Chrysalis sighed and rolled her eyes "I guess you win this time, Swatty Biggs"

"...Sweetie Belle, C'mon, it's not that hard to remember" Sweetie Belle didn't want any villain getting her name wrong. once was already enough.

"I dunno, I'm having trouble remembering things right now. It feels kind of good, but also kind of bad. what were we going to do again?" She looked a little dizzy as she tried to remember what was about to happen.

"Play ‘pin the tail on the Pony’. Geez Chrysalis. I'm telling you, just sit this one out. This could be bad for everypony involved."

"Bad? Then that's good.. Leeeeet's do it" She cheers as she begins to step forward

"Anon, does being drunk really make you act all goofy? Or is she just fakin' it? I kinda feel bad for her, really bad. It's like she's actually capable of bein' all good and stuff sorta, but like, she also looks like she’s gonna just...plop" Applebloom asked as she watched Chrysalis drunkily step and shake back towards the party.

"No, she isn't faking it. And yeah, I really think she could be good. But, it looks like it really isn't happening today. Hopefully, she’ll be fine." You tried, but you botched it. You knew you botched it. Even drunk, she was an asshole. And given how out of her mind she was, she might not even remember most of this.

The rest of you follow. Ready for the final moments of the party to end. If anything good came out of this so far. It was helping out Discord. He really did look happy in that conga line.

"Alright everypony! It's the game you've all been waiting for! Pin the tail on the Pony! Now you know the rules, the game ends if somepony gets the tail right on that itty bitty target or when all ponies have tried to pin their tail ON THAT itty bitty mo bitty target. Now remember, Nymy is our guest of honor so she gets to go first, then the foals, then the adults." Pinkie said as she walked over to a barrel of tails and grabbed one for herself, and then held it up with a blindfold "Also, remember, you're gonna be blindfolded and span around for a bit. So I hope nopony gets motion sick. Hrnnn...Nymy! Oh Nyyymmmy! Where are you? We're all ready to play!" Pinkie called out to Chrysalis, scanning the room for her

Rainbow Dash snickered as she eyed the target of the poster. "This ain't gonna be hard. I got this in the bag for sure!"

"Ya mean like the thousand tries where you ain't pinned it at all?" Applejack gave her an arrogant smirk

"That was p-p-practice. This? This is for real...just watch" Rainbow Dash leaned forward, grinning as she eyed the target with fierce determination "All I gotta do is memorize where that target is and I'll win for sure"

"Uh huh, sure thing Rainbow, sure thing" Applejack rolled her eyes and looked on ahead, finding Rainbow Dash's arrogance a tad too much.

"Yooooo! Pink, Nymous is here. Right here....r-right.....right...hold on...hold on..need to pass by these other ponies. Oops, nearly tripped on that foal, missed his head...drat..erm...uhhh...hold on...hold on.....ok....right..here i am...let's do it" Chrysalis drunkily crossed through the entire crowd, stumbling around past everyone until she finally stood before Pinkie.

You just followed along. Goddammit, it felt like it was getting worse by the minute. You realllllyy hoped she didn't drop dead. That would just be awful. the CMC followed you as you all stopped within the crowd.

"Anon, it looks like she's in a whole other world. Like she's completely different. I...kinda wanna try being drunk too. Y'know, if she can have that much fun from it. Imagine what we could do" Sweetie Belle suggested, she didn't like Chrysalis, but seeing her act so goofy and fun made being drunk seem appealing to her in a certain way.

"Ah dunno Sweetie Belle, ah think she might be fakin' it. Being drunk doesn't sound like it'd change anypony that much." Applebloom was in doubt, she didn't trust Chrysalis at all.

"I'm with Applebloom. If bug breath is ok with it, then I'm not" Scootaloo just felt pure anger when Chrysalis was around.

“egh, trust me Sweetie Belle. You don't wanna be drunk" Dammit, you sucked this. Why did you give Chrysalis that drink? It was just a bad influence at this point. Sweetie Belle, c'mon, you're just a kid. Dammit, why would she even ask to be drunk?!

"Why not? It looks like it changes the way you see everything. I'm not liking what Chrysalis is doing, but she's doing things I don't think she'd ever normally do and is having fun doing it. Could you imagine how useful it'd be to be drunk during something boring, like being at a museum or something? It'd be neat!"

Ohhh,Sweetie Belle, don't be dense. DON'T BE DENSE. "Sweetie Belle, listen to me, and listen to me good. When you're drunk, you lose perception of like, everything. Your brain moves slow and you can't think straight or even walk straight. Everything seems funnier or more sad and you lose control of your emotions. Do you think any of that is good?"

Sweetie Belle shrugs "It doesn't look that bad"

Dammit, it is that bad. Not for you of course, you could drink just fine. At least, you think. You haven't had beer or wine as a pony yet. but still, It's not good for her.

Time for plan B. "Ok, fine, if you think that's ok. Then what about this? When you wake up the next day from being drunk. You puke A LOT, and your head hurts super duper bad for hours. And it happens everytime. It's called a hangover"

"W-what?! Why would that even happen...wait" Sweetie Belle looks at you with suspicion "How do you even know that?"

"Yeah, ahm sorta confused too. Have ya been drunk before, Anon?" Applebloom asked

"Ummm, well, sorta? It was an accident, yeah, that's it. an accident. I drank something I thought was cola, got drunk, and the next day? Puuuuuke city." That should convince them.

"Ah dunno, now ahm sorta interested to to see if ah can handle it. No offense Anon, but you ain't got a stomach like an Apple does."

Your eyes open wide when she said that. Oh geez, her too? What's worst, she sounds like she'd be aching to ask her sister about it. And if Applejack knew you were talking about stuff like this? Ohhh, You do not want that to be known to Fluttershy. Hell would drop on you like no tomorrow if Applejack went to tell her what you were talking about. "Girls, look. Trust me. Plllleeeease trust me. Getting drunk is an adult thing. If any adult found out we wanted to get drunk, we'd be in big big big trouble. Trust me, just please trust me. There's a reason we foals don't get drunk. It would hit us a lot worse. Imagine if we uhhhhmm..." You needed something good. Maybe, even a little dark. "..walked off a cliff or thought a cockatrice WAS a chicken like Chrysalis thought Scoots was. What then? We be sooo doomed, right?"

"errr" Applebloom could remember her own time meeting a cockatrice, as could Sweetie Belle. "Ahm, ah guess that would be bad" She was feeling dissuaded from getting drunk, if only so she wouldn't get killed by something, given your words anyway. "Ah wouldn't want to run into no cockatrice thinkin' it was anything else but that, ah like mah hide to be furry and soft."

"Yeah...me too. But, I don't get it. If being drunk is that bad, then why get drunk at all?" Sweetie Belle was confused by this. Why would anyone get drunk if the consequences could be so dire? You knew the answer to that of course, it was just fun. "Because someponies are just dumb. It's like when ponies use the alicorn amulet, they think it's good. But all it causes is bad stuff. make sense now?"

"Well, when you put it that way...huh, I guess it makes sense." Sweetie Belle was now convinced, she still found it odd. But if some ponies can think bad stuff like the amulet was good, then something like being drunk could fall under the same category.

"Look, they're spinning her now. I hope she loses, then Rainbow Dash can show her how to really play. Or maybe, even I could. It would be SO rad to win. Especially if I pinned it right on the bullseye." Scootaloo was fixated on the game and how well Chrysalis would do. She was sure she'd fail.

"Huh, it begins. All I gotta say is good luck everypony. I mean, I gotta agree. She's drunk. There's no w-" Suddenly, everyone in the audience gasped when Chrysalis.........pinned the tail on the pony's butt. "You've got to be kidding....."

Chrysalis, upon hearing the gasps, lifted her blindfold and grinned a stupid grin as she pointed at the tail. "Hey look, I did it! I'm the best winner that's ever bested the best...winner...ever"

Of course, the good natured ponies began to stomp their hooves to applause Chrysalis. Until...

"Boo! That's not fair! There should be another game!" Cried out somepony, it sounded like Rainbow Dash.

And it probably was as all the ponies began to glare at her. But she was just looking to the side with dishonesty on her face before suddenly looking angry. "Hey! W-who said that!? That's not cool, she won fair and square. I mean, if SHE wants to have another go because she just got lucky. Then that's cool. cool by me, let her go, mhmm"

Goddammmmmit Rainbow Dash. It was so obvious it was you. Besides, this is Chrysalis. She's not going to give up the win, even when drunk. She'd riot if she actually lost.

You did feel she got lucky though. Scootaloo of course. agreed.

"Yeah sure, ok" Chrysalis shrugged as she put the blindfold back on "LOAD ME UP AGAIN, SPIN ME AROUND, AND LOCK ME IN. TIME FOR ROUND TWO EVERYPONY!"

Your mouth went agape. Were you wrong? WAS SHE SERIOUS?! She was fucking drunk, but every drunk person takes the goddamn win. If she loses, oh geez. she could go nuclear. She can't win twice in a row.

You slowly went to grab your horn. The moment she went critical, the party would be over by force.

But it didn't take long after she got another spin. She just walked up, took a moment and.... "HAHAHAHAH!" She cackled "I poked the butt! I POKED THE BUTT! I'M THE BEST BUTT POKER! TWO FOR TWO! TWO BUTTS!"

...she won....SHE WON AGAIN?! HOW! Well...that was good but. HOW?!

"How?! Grrr, she must be cheating somehow! There's no way she's better than Rainbow Dash!" Scootaloo looked like she was going to zip and rip her face off.

"I don't....know. That's impossible" It's impossible. You were here to actually see this shit done and it's FUCKING impossible. Just how?! ODDS DON’T WORK THAT WAY!

Also...why were you questioning this? The fact she won prevents the meltdown.

Ah fuck, still, it was ridiculous. She was fucking drunk! just how!?

Rainbow Dash couldn't believe it either. She was just silent as Chrysalis, blindfold now raised, walked over to her and closed her ever open mouth, open from the shock of instant loss. "Relax there Dashie, the way yer looking, everypony would peg you as a sore loser. Relax, it's just a game, a game I won twice, with the odds of winning being minuscule, winning before you ever even had a chance to try, after ALL that practice. But yeah....just a game." Chrysalis giggled with a stupid grin as the other ponies congratulated her, some asking how she managed to get in twice in a row "I could just FEEL it"

FEEL it

FEEL

She cheated

You figured out how she cheated just from that

She probably felt the emotions of everyone there. And could figure out how close she was through it, even while drunk. Good fucking christ.

And as Chrysalis passed by the cheering crowd. She walked to the four of you, and stood before you with a goofy grin. "Did you see, Anon? Did you see? I won! And all the ponies are cheering for me!" She was smiling so wide from her victory. it was almost cute.

"You cheated somehow, I know it!" Scootaloo immediately and angrily accused her.

"Oh relax, I just used the resources given to me" Chrysalis replied in a sing song way

You wouldn't say how she did it, if only because you didn't need the situation escalating. Instead, you'd ask her a very important question. "Ok, well. that's very nice. But let me ask you this. Now that you won, and the ponies are cheering about it. How do you feel? do you feel loved? do you feel that it's pretty cool? I mean, you even got away with semi humiliating Rainbow Dash. Surely that means something to you, right?"

Chrysalis just stared at you for a moment, then booped your nose with her hoof "boop! You're cute, Anon, but you talk too much. It's annoying"

WHY DO YOU ALWAYS WORK SO HARD ONLY TO FAIL?! SHE DIDN'T HEAR A GODDAMNED WORD YOU SAID! JUST COMMIT SUICIDE ALREADY, ANON, YOU'LL NEVER GET THIS TO WORK.

You sigh, utterly giving up "Whatever...."

"So, you're not going to admit you cheated?" Scootaloo looked up at her, feeling for sure that she was right.

"I'm going to admit that it's cute that you THINK I did, miss detective. And....OHP!" Suddenly, the crowd of ponies started to gather around her to talk to her, some asking how she managed to do it as well. The attention just piling onto her.

There wasn't much to the party after that. Chrysalis was near unapproachable after that. The other ponies were just gathered around her too tightly for you to get in any words anymore.

Scootaloo's bias never let up, and Rainbow Dash looked crushed despite the game not being important anymore, she was internally trying to figure out how Chrysalis managed to do it without any kind of practice whatsoever.

The last of the party itself was just a few gifts which Chrysalis happily accepted. And even when it came to the cake being presented to her, She seemed happy to accept it. "Cheese Cream Coffee Crumb Cake?! Gee! It sounds all kinds of delicious if it has that many Cs"

"I KNOW NYMY! THAT'S WHAT I SAID!" Pinkie giggled as the cake got passed on to her so she could take her own slice.

And after that, as the party started to wind down, ponies began to say their goodbyes and thank yous. And Chrysalis was pretty cheerful about it. even as Applejack and Rarity and such went home, taking their sisters with them. Chrysalis treated it all as good fun. even towards the angered Scootaloo.

Yeah, all that was left was figuring out if you'd go home or stay the course with Fluttershy, and say goodbye to the last of the lingering ponies.

And then....there was tomorrow

The only ones left was you,Fluttershy,Spike,Chrysalis, and Twilight. Discord seems to have gone off somewhere.

"Well, that was fun. I'm heading to bed. I'll get everything cleaned up in the morning. Seeya all in the morning" Spike waved as you all gave him a good night.

Now, there was four.

"Well, I had fun. Lots of fun. How about you Aunty?" Chrysalis grinned "You had fun?"

"Oh mym yes. It was...fun. Nymous, erm." Fluttershy wanted to mention SOMETHING about the whole changeling issue. But she held back, she didn't want to ruin the moment "erm, um, I'm...so glad that you had a lot of fun. I don't think I've ever seen you so happy"

"I don't even think I'm thinking right now, Aunt Flutterz. And it's all thanks to my little bro, Anon" Chrysalis brings you in close for a hug and gives you a noogie "I love him soooooo much. I dunno what I'd do without him or cheese. Because for some reason, I like cheese and my legs are great and Twilight is ummmmmmm, purple. She's very purple. And it's something that rhymes with hitch..Itch?...Mitch?. Bah, I can't think of it right now."

"Oh, well. I am purple. And uh, I guess I do fill a certain niche when it comes to party goers. I think that's the wordt you may have meant." Twilight noticed Chrysalis's odd behavior and thought she just may be really tired.

"Huh, was that it? I thought it started with a ‘b’. But maybe that's just me. uggghhhhh, I feel like dropping dead right now. Everything is spinny" Chrysalis said with a stupid smile

Twilight now felt she was right, without knowing the real reason why "I thought you may have been tired. Nymous, maybe you should head home and get some rest. Trust me, it'll do you good. You'll get used to Pinkie's parties eventually."

"Huh, I suppose that could work. Ohhhhhh" Chrysalis bent forward and stretched with a yawn "I'm gonna sleep so hard tonight. I bet I'm gonna wake up as fresh as the cries of my enemies"

Fluttershy heard that, but she didn't comprehend it."W-what was that?"

"She said daisies! Fresh as daisies! R-right sis?" Please agree

"Wah?..oh right, yes, daisies. I like those, I think. So uhhh, Anon, What are you gonna do tomorrow? You wanna hang? watch a documentary? I like those" Chrysalis leans her head to the side as she gently sways from side to side.

...shit. Was she even going to remember any or most of this tomorrow? And hell, even if she doesn't. She's going to pissed as a hive of angry hornets once that hangover kicks in. It'd probably be best to just stay away from her. "Erm, actually. I've got stuff to do tomorrow. Sorry..."

"It's ok, I got stuff to do tomorrow too. All sorts of things. You all sleep tight and stufferooni. This queen has got to go to bed, seeya!" Chrysalis said, as cheery as she's ever been.

You all say your goodbyes before Chrysalis wanders out of the castle. With the party over, the curse you placed was gone.

"I didn't know she liked documentaries. I have an old projector with some old documentaries she could watch if she wants to watch a few of them. Actually, we could watch a few together. That could be fun" Twilight smiled at the thought of it. You? It just made you more on edge. Chrysalis didn't change at all. Even with the goodbye you had to fix for her, it was obvious she was still evil.

"I dunno, she's really picky about things like that. Let me get her used to hanging out with others by herself before we do anything like that"

"She seemed fine to me," Fluttershy noticed how pleasant Chrysalis seemed during the party, especially since, from her perspective, she seemed nervous about it before.

"Trust me Aunt Fluttershy. Tonight was different, for sure She still has to get used to things”

"Mmmm, I guess you might be right. Everytime I ever speak to her alone, she seems to get nervous whenever I try to show her any affection. It makes me sad knowing that she'd be uncomfortable with hugs." Fluttershy said.

"Well, that's how it is. One step at a time, ok? This party though, was definitely a step in the right direction." You lied...while also hoping something DID budge.

"I hope so. She looked so tired when she left. I just hope she'll be alright" Fluttershy worried for her.

"She'll be ok. It's just a short trip to home thanks to Dad's water travel system."

"I think Anon's right. She'll be able to get home just fine. As for Nymous being uncomfortable one on one, well, I think we can definitely show her that here in Ponyville, there's nothing to worry about. We have friendly faces everywhere!" Twilight grinned a happy grin

Sure, nothing to worry about, besides monster attacks and shit like Tirek. But whatever, now wasn't the time to be snippy about it.

"Anyway, Fluttershy. How about letting Anon sleep here tonight? Since we need to go to Canterlot in the morning. It'd be best, I think, if he just slept here at the castle so we can go together at the same time." Twilight suggests.

"That sounds like a good idea. But shouldn't we discuss what's going to happen tomorrow?" Fluttershy was worried about it all. She just wanted to feel better about what could happen tomorrow.

Twilight shook her head and shot her friend a supportive grin "There's nothing to worry about, Fluttershy, I'm sure Princess Celestia just wants to see us to discuss what happened and what should be done."

"I-I guess...But..mnnn" Fluttershy turned towards you, still feeling worried "Anon, please, if there's anything else that happened while you were with Princess Luna. Please, tell me. When I think about it, it makes me worry that something really bad is going on."

Her face, it crushed your heart. She was so filled with worry and confusion. But...

You just couldn't tell her. and it hurt. That old familiar feeling of lying about this kind of thing. It hurt. "There's nothing else, I think Princess Celestia only wants me there because of the fact that I was with her sister when it all went down."

"o-ok Anon...I believe you. So, I want to ask one more thing. Are you alright staying here for the night?" Fluttershy asked this because she not only felt it was common courtesy, but a part of her wanted you to decline. If only so she could inquire just a little more.

"It's fine, I think it's a good idea." And if it's early enough. You could beeline back to the house when everything was over to make sure Chrysalis didn't obliterate her own hive in her hangover haze.

"O-ok....Come here, Anon" Fluttershy opens her legs up for a hug.

She looked so downtrodden...

You gently enter her embrace as she snuggles her muzzle on top of your head. "I love you, no matter what happens. Ok? And I'm sure your father feels the same way"

"I love you too, Aunt Fluttershy. I'm sure everything is going to be ok" You hoped...

After that. Fluttershy bid her farewells and left you to Twilight.

Twilight wanted to go by Celestia's word. And while she was intensely curious to ask you some questions about what happened. She was too tired to sperg out and ask them. She led you to her chambers like once before. And let you sleep at either the foot of the bed or with her under her wings. She didn't even mention the classes or the time you'd be able to teach her more about chaos magic. She refrained herself from saying anything that may cause you to worry.

For tonight, you chose to sleep at the end of the bed. You had a lot to think about, and you just didn’t feel like being too close to the princess. But, as it turned out. you were tired yourself. and found yourself dozing off into sleep instead.

"Anon, Anon. Come on. You gotta get up"

Egggggggghhhhhhhh...toooo early.

"Anon, trust me. You're going to want to wake up before the train does."

The train? ".....in a second, in a second. I'll be ready in a secAAAGGHHH!"

You sprang up in surprise and fell onto a bench seat, the sound of a train's blaring whistle waking you up from your slumber.

The train's whistle? "G-Gg.....ngh."

You held your hoof to your chest as you looked forward. You were on a train, Twilight sitting across from you. "W-what?! WHAT?! WHERE AM I?!"

Twilight giggled and waved her hoof at you to calm down "You're on a train, Anon"

Wut? "How? What happened?"

Twilight sighed as she grinned and shook her head "You wouldn't wake up. I know it's early, but I even tried giving you a few zaps of light magic and you didn't even wiggle. So I just took you with me so we wouldn't be late."

Oh.. "Ugh..."

you slumped down on your seat, fuck. Now your head hurt from being woken up so suddenly.

You could already feel the train starting to speed up. When you looked outside your window, you could see it was still very early. "Why so early though? Geez."

"It's not that early. Besides, My sister-in-law has to come by train too. She probably got an emergency letter late into the night and stepped onto the first train toward Canterlot. So she's probably a lot more tired than you are, Anon. So come on, don't be lazy. I know you're better than that" Twilight gave you a light scolding. She felt it was a little selfish of you to complain, considering the fact that she felt you'd have adjusted your sleep schedule at some point.

"Egh..." You adjust yourself a little more, and decide to take up the whole bench by laying on your belly. "I mean, yeah, I am better than that, but, Y'know, I'm a kid. Kids need their sleep. Y-y'know?"

Come on Twilight. Lay off.

You didn't need her berating you. You just slept hard, that's all.

"Spike is a baby dragon and he gets up just fine. Applebloom actually gets up earlier than him sometimes. There's no excuse, Anon. You can get away with it now BECAUSE you're a kid. But when you get older and have responsibilities, you're going to have to get up at a more appropriate time" Oh yeah, she was lecturing you alright.

"Come on, Twi. It's the morning. Can we not talk about my sleeping habits? There's more important stuff than that to talk about, right? Like chaos studies."

"I'm excited for that, sure, I want to learn even more about how chaos magic works. But that's for later. For now, we're talking about your sleeping habits. I sure hope Discord doesn't encourage you to just lounge around and sleep all day."

He didn't. considering you had to get an alarm just so your own bed wouldn't kill you by catapult. "Trust me, he doesn't. He has my bed rigged to get me up if I oversleep for school"

Twilight was baffled by that. she was silent for a good moment before letting out an "Oh" But then she realized something else "Wait, so even your father encourages you to wake up on time and you still haven't tried to actually do that?"

"I mean, I have. I got an alarm to wake me up for anything important. It's not my fault I sleep so much. It just happens"

"Anon" Twilight shook her head, she felt you weren't actually giving an effort or even listening. "That's an excuse. and you can't live your life through excuses. You need to learn to have a consistent sleep schedule. It'll take some time, but I promise..." Twilight gave you a gentle smile "Your body and especially, your mind will thank you for it. You could try reading a book to help you relax. It always works for me"

you weren't much of a book reader though. Besides, you had it handled well enough, you think. Like you said, you had an alarm. "I'll get it. Trust me, it's just been stressful lately is all. Even you gotta admit that all the kind of stuff I handle would affect my sleep."

"But...." Twilight just blinked, her expression changing to a near expressionless look before just looking at you with a piercing glare. "You've had this problem for as long as I've known you."

....dammit "I mean, ok. Yeah...b-but"

Twilight sighed "Anon, it's not my place to tell you what to do. But I'm sure your aunt would appreciate it if you worked on it a little more. That's all I really wanted to say"

she was right on that. That you were sure of...You didn’t want to disappoint Flutters. "....yeah, ok. I'll try to do better. I guess I haven't been trying that hard"

"Thank you. I'm not asking for something instant, Anon, just work on it. That's it." Twilight tries to give you a smile to ease the mood

"I know, I know...mnnng." And now that you were awake. You also felt the sting of hunger. "I promise to try better, but, erm. right now, ummm...can I get breakfast? somehow?"

Twilight had a little giggle at that "Breakfast? Well, that's not going to be a problem. I ordered pancakes before we headed off. I figured you'd be hungry so I ordered you a medium stack. You can handle that, right?"

Ahhh fuck yeah, Twilight! That'd be fine! "Yeah! I can handle it! Thanks Twilight, I mnn.." Now you felt bad after being so dismissive towards her "Sorry if I seemed like a jerk."

"It's alright, Anon, we're all on edge. It'll be fine. Oh look, here it comes!"

Twilight pointed at a server pony who brought over a cart with two plates stacked with pancakes and a bottle of syrup beside it. "Here you are, Princess Twilight, Pancakes for you and your young friend. Specially made for the royal pallette. We hope you enjoy." The pony says as he serves the both of you.

"Thank you very much, I'm sure we'll enjoy every bite" Twilight says, looking polite and regal towards the pony

"Yeah, thanks dude. It smells great!" Ohhh man, it looked mouth watering. You couldn't wait to take a bite.

Chapter 300

And so, you both ate as the train chugged along. Twilight used the opportunity to open up conversation with you. "So Anon, What exactly happened up in those mountains?"

Exactly? Nope… "Didn't Princess Celestia say not to really talk about it til we got to Canterlot?"

"Well, yes, but.." Twilight pushed her pancakes aside as she rested her forelegs on the dining table in front of the both of you, putting her hooves together as she gave you a serious glare. "If it involves a changeling. I think I should know some more information before we actually get there. That way I can understand the situation better."

"It's fine Twilight, really." You start munching down on your pancakes. Oh yeah, it tasted great. "Let's just wait like Princess Celestia told us to"

Twilight didn't respond to that at first. She seemed a little miffed that you wouldn't say anything, she was just too curious. But her silence only lasted a moment before she started eating from her own plate, putting on some extra syrup for that sweet sweet taste. "....Alright, I understand." She silently ate after that, so you decided to continue eating yourself. But after a few minutes... "....So then. How are you and your father doing? I mean together. Everything alright?" Twilight asks after swallowing a small bite.

"Hm? Oh, yeah we’re cool. Me and him are getting closer everyday. Like I said at the party, he's a really good dad."

"That's good, and you and your sister?"

"Pretty close. Erm, you could say that we're pretty much stuck on eachother at this point. She's always nice, even when she's got a headache" Oh god, you hoped she wouldn't kill you after that hangover. And those poor changelings....Well, it was too late now. You'd have to deal with that later.

"That's good, I'm very glad to hear that. Say, Anon, as I understand it, you were given two charges on your horn" Twilight brings up.

She wasn't going to berate you, was she? You look at her with caution. "Y-yeah, why?"

"I was actually interested in a little pre class demonstration. I understand that you have an even larger understanding of chaos magic than before so....You wouldn't mind, would you?" Twilight gives you a big smile.

She was asking for you to use magic? In public? Chaos fucking magic? "You're not worried about what could happen?"

"I trust you, Anon, I trust you enough to believe that you definitely have a handle on your horn at this point. I know, I know, I should be patient. But I've always had an interest in all kinds of magic and you're the only one I'm willing to ask about chaos magic."

You chuckle at that. She really didn't want to ask Discord at all about it. "I guess my dad is a little too eccentric, huh? I guess I could work up a little something and...wha?" The moment you were about to say yes, Twilight magically pulled up an empty scroll and quill. "Where...what? huh? Where did those come from?"

"Well, you didn't expect me to ask without being prepared to take down notes, did you?" Twilight had a happy little giggle. Riiiiight. course she'd be prepared.

"Umm, sure. Well..." You grab your horn and place it on your head. "So, I assume you remember that once you cast a chaos spell, you're committed to it until the task you had cast it for is done, right?"

Twilight nodded. "Yes, I remember that"

"Ok cool, so....Chaos's only real limit is one's imagination. I could make anything happen. Except, as it turns out, it can't be used to actually fix things."

"It can't? Why not? How does your father fix his own mistakes then? Unless fixing things have to be....chaotic?"

"Something like that. If you do fix something up, like say for example, when my Dad tried to fix up the Crystal Heart, he did it in a way that one wouldn't expect. So, really, you're not actually fixing anything. You're just changing it to fit your own style. However, as it turns out, you can CANCEL your spells AFTER they've been cast properly. Well, as you mentioned, MY dad can. For me? I'd have to use another charge to do it. Because all it is is reverting the chaos you already caused, not actually fixing it. It's a theory, but I believe the reason why that is is because it's not considered fixing anything, it's just taking back what you caused, which is just a form of chaos within itself since you're bringing chaos to your own magic by reverting it back to normal."

Twilight wrote that all down, then tapped her quill a little on the parchment while she thought. "But wouldn't that mean he'd be able to fix chaos by doing the same thing to it? I feel like there’s a hole in there somewhere."

"It's mostly because there's still order within a broken item or some such. Like uhhh, there's no extra pieces or there’s nothing weird growing out of it. It's still normal, just shattered or broken. Chaos is very finicky. When it comes to magic, it pretty much equates to really zany stuff, real oddball kinds of things. In fact, you could fix problems through chaos magic if you really put your mind to it. Not in a way that one might want. But hey, we all know my Dad could have shipped Tirek back in a box, first class, straight to Tartarus if he wanted to. Right? Something he'd probably be willing to do without say...losing his way, at least in the future"

"Huh, that's true. And that would have fixed the problem, despite it being a chaotic solution....Hmmmm" Twilight stopped herself when she realized what you were talking about in that example. Discord never losing his way? It made her feel a better sense of care for the chaotic being.

"Something wrong Twilight?"

"Oh, no no" Twilight smiled and gave you a gentle pat. "I just lost my train of thought. Which is funny because we're on a train!" Twilight giggled and winked. "See what I did there?"

Ehhhhh, when you have to explain your pun, it makes it less funny. But, you just smile to be nice, you couldn't force a laugh though. Odd , she lost her train of thought? Maybe it was too early in the day for her too. "I do...yeah...anyway, umm, to continue. Let's try using chaos magic on something. In fact, why don't you suggest something. It can be anything"

"Anything, huh? Let's see" Twilight pondered on that. "let's see. Oh I know! Why don't you make my pancakes into waffles!"

...Really? "Uhhh, that's the best you could come up with?"

"Well, it's the safest."

"C'mon Twilight. I've already shown you some of what I can do. Don't make me waste a charge on pancakes. Think, something bigger, cooler, neater!"Besides...Waffles sucked compared to pancakes.

"Ok ok, if it'll help the lesson, I'll think of something else. Let's see..." Twilight started to look around, then she stared at your eyes, then outside. "How about we try something a little daring. I remember your father being able to turn ponies into their opposite natures-"

Woaaaahhhh wait. That's too much. You stop her right there. "Twilight, stop right there. I ain't doing that to you. Are you out of your mind?!"

Twilight shook her head and looked at you with a bit of a hardened stare. "If you'd let me finish. Anon, I'm just interested in how I'd be. But I don't want you to actually warp my mind. I was actually wondering if you could create a copy representing my opposite self and keeping it contained right here on our seats. Is that possible? I think I could learn a lot if I met a chaotic version of myself."

What the fuck?! "Twilight, that's a bit of a tall order. I mean, I could totally do it. But I don't think it's a good idea. That other you could turn out to be really mean and nasty."

"That's why I want it contained right here. Soundproofed and everything. I think it'll be interesting. But I only want to do it if you're sure you could cast the spell right."

You weren't sure at all. But chaos magic, you were sure you had it down. And hell, A bizzarro Twilight? That piqued your interest. As long as you had it contained, it should be fine. Besides, how could you pass this up? "Totally sure I can do it if you can handle it. Alright, let's do it. But the spell won't last too long. You're ok with a time limit right?"

"Of course. That's actually a good idea. Let's just keep it a brief twenty minutes. About the amount of time it'd take to get to Canterlot from here"

That works. "Alrighty then. Prepare yourself, Twilight. For we are about to meet your Anti self!..BEHOLD!" You prep up your magic with your horn, creating an invisible barrier around your seats as a small magical ball goes through Twilight's head, making her yelp as it passes through the other side and lands on the open seat next to you, poofing into a greyed out Twilight lacking wings.

It slumped forward onto the table, looking grumpy and lacking life. "Ooohhh great. I get to exist, how fun. And for what? To learn things? I hate learning. I'm already smart..."

Ohh boy. It already started. "Ummm, ta da?"

Twilight looked upon her anti self, not knowing how to feel. she didn't expect 'Herself' to look so depressed. "Um, hello other me. Are you really my opposite side?"

"What's it look like? Ugh, why does it matter? I'm only going to exist for a few minutes anyway. At least I don't have to make friends, I hate friends." The anti Twilight groaned as she slowly shifted her eyes towards Twilight, and rolled them. "You think you're pretty good with those wings, don't you?"

Holy crap. What the hell was...never mind. You knew the answer to exactly what was wrong with her.

"I don't think I'm better than anypony with my wings, Nor with my title. I'm just like everypony else.....Why are you so mean?" Twilight asked.

"Really? I'm your opposite. Meaning I'm mean because I'm mean. Like, holy crackers. You're the one who asked me to exist, you dummy. You should already know that." The Anti Twilight sniped at her normal self.

"Ok, let's try something else." Twilight was slowly feeling some regret over her decision, but she did find the situation itself interesting. "So, you're my opposite self. Yet you seem pretty smart. Shouldn't you be, erm, not that smart? I don't want to sound ru-"

"You stupid book worm. I'm as smart as you because I AM you, it's our qualities that are opposite. Like.." Anti Twilight looks at you with a groan. "How do you even deal with me? I can't even deal with me right now. I'd take notes on how dumb she is and then shove it in her face, but I don't have enough time."

Dammit, you didn't want to say anything. Ugh… "I mean, she isn't that bad. She's just trying to learn more about her opposite self. To study her chaotic side."

"Wow, brilliant" Anti Twilight clapped her hooves with visual sarcasm. "You're a real putz, you know that? Did you even think this through when you pulled me out of her? No, don't answer that. You're as reckless as Discord, and just as annoying"

"I'm not annoying! Wait..." You looked at Twilight, feeling insulted. "You think I'm annoying?!"

"What?! No, I-" Twilight stammered

But then her anti self cut in. "Of course she doesn't, dumby. She only thinks it sometimes, usually when she's sperging about something you did. I think you're annoying ALL the time, because I don't trust you. I don't trust myself either, you're such a nag!"

"I'm not a nag! I've never nagged anypony!" Twilight barked back.

"Uhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh, nope. That's wrong. You have nagged Anon about what he does, you've nagged Rainbow Dash when she tries to get out of something, you have nagged Pinkie when she overdoes things. And the list goes on and on. You'll even use your magic to magically pull any and all of your friends front in center so you can nag them"

"I don't do, oh well, UGH!" Twilight slammed her hoof at the table, aggravated with her anti self. "Ok, I have done that. But it's always for a good reason! It's not to be a nag, but because it's for something important!"

"Yeah, sometimes it’s to spout some stupid friendship lesson too. Because everypony has to be friends right and, ugh...I HATE pancakes!" Anti Twilight notices your pancakes near her legs, and swipes them to the side, making them hit your face.

"Hey, that wasn't nice!" Twilight growled. "You could have really hurt him."

"Oh, you mean like this?" the Anti Twilight's horn glowed as she smirked evilly at her other self.

As you whined and threw the pancakes from your face, you felt a huge splotch of syrup hit it right after, making you fall over and roll about . "MY EYES! IT GOT IN MY EYES! IT'S SOOOO STICKY!"

The anti Twilight started to laugh at you. "Ha! See, now that's funny. Funnier than anything Pinkie Pie could come up with. Now I wish I existed. I'd study up on slapstick to really bring the humor home."

"Stop it!" Twilight leaned over the table now, giving her anti-self a threatening scowl.

"Or what? Are you going to make me learn a lesson? Literally? Hah!" Anti Twilight smirked, but only for a moment before leaning back. "Ugh, this isn't very satisfying, or interesting. Look, just leave me be. I want to go back to not existing. You're all really boring."

"I'm not letting you do anything until you apologize to Anon, right now!" Twilight slammed her hoof on the table again.

"Nope, also, love the way you're barking at me while he's on the floor screaming, Princess of Friendship, shouldn't you help him out? No...Yes? Whhhaaatever, just shut up and go get me a book to read. Something you haven't read yet, because whatever you read, I've read. And everything you read stinks" Anti Twilight put her hind legs onto the table as she rested her head on her forelegs.

Twilight was red and furious at herself. But her attention went to you, to help you, she quickly used her magic to remove the syrup from your face. And while you finally had a moment of reprieve, you felt yourself get pulled up by the scruff and held right in front of anti Twilight. "Apologize to him...now!"

"Ugh, my face. Twilight, Twilight. l-let's just forget the wholeWOAH!" You didn't even realize where you were until you got shook by Twilight's magic

Twilight brought you right in front of her anti self and yelled. "APOLOGIZE! I WILL NOT HAVE MYSELF ACT LIKE A JERK TOWARDS MY FRIENDS!"

Anti Twilight slowly pushed you away with a smirk "Really?" She looked directly at her other self. "That's pretty ironic, considering you nearly sealed Anon up forever. Or did that slip your mind? Because I know it hasn't, it still bothers you."

Twilight's ears drooped as she started to falter. "I...I..that was an accident"

"I know, I know it was. It was just an accident that could have caused more chaos than anything that loser Discord could have caused." Anti Twilight cackled. "Hah, ok, now I'm feeling pretty good. Yeah, anti friendship. That's my calling isn't it?" the Anti Twilight, right there, right then, suddenly grew wings. It surprised Twilight enough for her to lose her magical grip on you, making you drop a few inches. Hell it surprised you. Anti Twilight just went alicorn in front of both your eyes.

"Hah! neat. Ok then, so, as the Princess of Loneliness, let me tell you this. You don't deserve Fluttershy's friendship anymore after that. Sure, she can forgive you, you can even forgive yourself. But you still tried, and that will never EVER go away" Anti Twilight looked evilly towards her other self.

Twilight went silent. You? Oh hell no. Now you were really pissed. You weren't going to let that evil Twilight talk to her other self like that. "Listen here you tramp! I already forgave Twilight over that and everything is fine. That's the past, so shut your mouth before I decide to make you exist forever in a lake of frozen pastrami!"

Anti Twilight just smirked and whapped your nose with her wing, making you fall back and sneeze at the same time. "Cute...Stay out of it, Anon. I know her better than you do. And I know I'm right. If you wanna do something, let me exist for real. I actually feel like I have a purpose in life now. I want everypony to know just how cruel they really are inside. I want friendship to break apart at the seams. It'll be great!" She started to cackle madly.

Dammit, this version of Twilight was more of a bitch than the original...Hell, she was worse than Chrysalis.

You stood up on the table after wiping your nose, and gave her an angry look. "Listen you, I swe-"

"Anon, stop..." Twilight tells you with a low voice.

Wha? "B-but, Twilight."

Anti Twilight then felt she had won, feeling like she had broke Twilight's spirit. "She's the princess, better listen to her before she decides to banish you to the Badlands. Ha, I can't believe how wimpy my other self is. Soooo easy."

"You know, you're right. I can be wimpy sometimes" Twilight said in a defeated voice.

"T-twilight?" Not good...

"Yup, that's why I deserve to exist. Maybe you should just live inside me for awhile. I can show you how things are really done." Anti Twilight felt victorious now that she felt she had a reason to exist and a way to bring her other self down.

"You didn't let me finish" Twilight raised her head, smirking. "I guess my opposite self would be pretty rude."

What?

Both you and the Anti Twilight looked surprised.

"But let me tell you this. even when I'm feeling at my worst, I always have my friends to back me up and raise my spirits. That includes Anon, who already forgave me for what I did and is still my friend even when I do nag him. I guess you wanted to just ruin everything so much that it slipped your mind." Twilight, as she spoke, used her magic to safely pull you away, she put you by her side on the seat.

Anti Twilight growled and used her magic to throw the table to the side. "Shut Up! I know more about you than you could ever know!"

"That's right, you would. And guess what? I know everything about you, more than you could ever know." Twilight, was she? Did she know something even you didn't know?

"Y-you can't. What are you even talking about?" Anti Twilight felt confused. She couldn't figure out why her regular self was acting so smug.

"I'm talking about the fact that I know you inside and out. I understand the lesson, even if it wasn't intended. You were created out of the chaos of Anon's magic and my doubt. You're everything I don't want to be. No, everything I'm scared to be. I could have been you if I never learned the value of friendship and just let the chaos of loneliness riddle my mind. And, although irrelevant, if I did become like you, then my anti-self, my chaotic self, would be as I am now. I understand now that chaos isn't exactly what you want it to be, it's what you make of it. It can be good, bad, wild, or even mild. All it really means is it's not the norm. And with Anon's theory, it's why it can be pulled back until it's run it's course. Because it being normal is not the norm, and only chaos can break it's own norm. It's like a reverse effect! There's no question about it now." Twilight looked so confident. You, you were kinda lost now.

"Um, Twilight. what does it all mean then?" Was there something about chaos she understood that you didn't? The hell did all of that even mean?

Anti Twilight growled in anger, then shouted at you. "You moron! It means she's figured it out better than you could teach it! But listen, and listen good. You can't possibly think you can just overcome me. I AM you! No matter what! "

"I know, Princess of Loneliness. Did you forget that I'm the Princess of Friendship?" Twilight was still smirking at her, calm and cool.

"Yeah, and?" Anti Twilight couldn't figure out what that meant.

Twilight shrugged and shook her head. "I guess you're the moron then. Sorry if that was rude, but it's true. But let me explain. You can't nor will ever actually exist because I have the support of my family and friends. And so, even if there are times where I feel down or doubt myself, I have my friends to pick me up. I know I've said it. But I also know, that you already knew that. You just wanted to make me feel like I didn't. Anon forgave me, Fluttershy forgave me, Me and my friends forgive each other and even enjoy each others company even if we don't agree on something, even if I'm a 'nag'. But you? you're the me who doesn't have that in its purest form, you're the me who can only exist if I didn't have my friends. And do you know what that means?"

"Don't say it! DON'T SAY IT!" Anti Twilight's horn started to glow, it was like she was going to attack.

"It means, you don't really exist at all. You're just the me produced by chaos magic, produced through the possibility of me never coming to terms with the friendship lessons I have learned. It was a good lesson Twilight, and even some good insight, but it's time for you to go now. I'll apologize for you though, once you're gone." Twilight gave her a more cheerful smile.

"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" The Anti Twilight screamed as bursts of light blew out of her body before she exploded like a flash bomb.

Both you and Twilight covered your eyes from the burst. When both your visions cleared, you both were sitting exactly where you originally were. The table back where it was, even what was left of the pancakes was back in place. Hell, as you both looked out the window, you could see you were already arriving in Canterlot.

You were speechless.

Twilight though. She sighed, then smiled at you "I'm sorry about throwing those pancakes in your face, Anon." She giggled. "And thanks for the lesson. It was very interesting."

You were just flabbergasted. You did not mean for any of that shit to happen. Holy fuck, that got nuts.

Twilight laughed as she got up and called you along to exit the train as it stopped, packing the pancakes in a container for you to eat later "I'll just take that as an a-ok. Come on now, we don't want to be late."

"Y-yeah...woah, that was nuts" You got up and walked along with Twilight as you both stepped out into the city. "That was really cool Twilight. I didn't even mean for it to go that far." Like seriously, that was a new lesson for you as it was for her.

Twilight looked forward, with a comfortable look on her face. "It was just a review on friendship while learning about chaos, Anon, it wasn't anything I couldn't handle."

Thank god she was being good about it. Because if you had done that to anyone else she'd probably be berating you. But whatever, you felt you did good...maybe....fuck if you actually knew. "Yeah, well. It was still really cool"

Twilight had a light laugh at your persistence. "Well, you're really cool for giving me that lesson. I learned a lot."

Well, yeah. That was good. Yeah, it's fine. You didn't understand it completely. But hey, it felt like you had a better connection with Twilight, as she had a better connection to herself. Now hopefully whatever Celestia had planned didn't ruin anything.

Chapter 301

As you both walked over to the castle, you couldn't help but look at Twilight with admiration. She handled that like a pro. Meanwhile you had failure on your face, defeated by Anti Twilight's hatred of pancakes. Twilight even apologized for her, that was kind of cool of her.

"Anon, By the way. I don't think we'll be needing that chaos class." She says to you as you both walk

Hrn? "What? Why not? I thought you were interested in learning about chaos magic."

"I am, but not to actually use it. I think that encounter with my negative self was all I need. Or are there a few more finer points I'm missing?" However, when Twilight asked that question, you realized you really didn't have anything more to teach her if she was never going to cast it. She seemed to have figured it out even better than you did just dealing with that Anti-Twilight.

" No, not really. I think you got it. Beating your other self is like beating a final exam, I think."

"Hah!" Twilight smiled with a small hop. "Lesson learned! I knew I could figure it all out when facing down that other me. Yeah!"

Wow, she actually was really cheery about it. You'd think she'd have some reservations about what happened in the train. "That whole thing didn't bother you at all?"

"Hmm? Oh.." Twilight sighed as she calmed down, frowning a very small frown as she thought of it. "Yes, at first. I felt I may have been in over my head. But I soon came to realize that my other self really was just an opposite me. She may have been as smart and as crafty, but she didn't have the real know how or bonds of friendship like I do. And that's how I managed to bring her down and bring order to the chaos that surrounded me" Twilight's frown turned into a gentle smile as she spoke about it in her typical friendly tone. She was obviously proud of herself.

"Didn't think of it like that, I'm just glad nothing bad happened."

"Oh yeah, me too. When she threw that table aside, I almost got scared things were going to get out of hoof. But instead, the containment held the whole way through. So you know what that tells me?" Twilight said as she continued to look towards the castle.

"Ummm, no?" You really didn't

Twilight had a giggle at that. "Really? Well, I'll tell you then. It tells me you've grown more responsibly with your magic. That you have a much better handle of it now than you did when you accidentally shifted the sun and moon."

....Holy shit, you did do that didn't you? It seemed like so long ago. It was an accident. Also, you may be misremembering, but didn't Discord toss you down some stairs? Maybe not. But you remember he did something jerkish. Ahh, the good old days. "Thanks Twilight." You felt good, being acknowledged that you got better with chaos magic. It's been a long road. But you learned how to handle it......like, eighty percent of the time

"No problem, Anon, now let's find out what we're here for." Twilight said, with determination in her voice.

The two of you approached the castle's front door. The guards, upon noticing Twilight's presence, simply stood in place as they welcomed Twilight and yourself, and let you both know that Princess Cadance was waiting inside in the dining hall.

Dining hall? More food? Yeah!

When you both enter the Dining Hall, you could see Cadance sitting at the end closest to the both of you. The Dining Hall looked like your generic royal dining hall. complete with chandelier, Rome styled columns, and a long but bulky table for patrons to eat from and for food to be spread upon.

"Twilight!" Cadance called out to her happily

"Cadance!" Twilight said, with equal eagerness as Cadance hopped off her chair to greet her sister-in-law

...Oh boy...here we go.

"Sunshine,Sunshine. Ladybugs Awake! Clap your hooves and do a little shake!" Both Twilight and Cadance did their cute little dance as if they were still children.

But they weren't, and both of them didn't realize that their booty shaking got something in you shaking too. Hell, it made you think back to drunk Chrysalis. To think, maybe, possibly, if you weren't with Diamond. You may have finally been able to get some sweet sweet poon. Ugh, being committed really sucks sometimes. But you loved the girl, and hell, you'd die for her if anyone messed with her. Like, with a vengeance.

"Have you seen Princess Celestia or Luna yet, Cadance?" Twilight asked, a much more relaxed and even girlish tone in her voice as she spoke to her sister-in-law.

"Not yet" Cadance sighed. "I can't believe there was a changeling near the Crystal Empire. Right under all our noses."

"I can't believe it either. I thought we got every single one of them." Twilight commented

"Apparently not. I asked Shining if he could stay at home with the baby while we get this all sorted out. Speaking of which" Cadance turned to you with a smile, and did a small bow of her head. "Anon, I heard you were the one who dealt with it with Princess Luna. I have to admit, I guess sometimes being high and mighty has it perks." She had a small giggle at that. Which to you, just irked you. C'mon, you got it already, no need to poke.

But then her smile became gentle and loving. "But seriously though, I thank you. Shining Armor thanks you too. And I'm sure my little Flurry Heart and all the crystal ponies would thank you too if they were all here right now."

ugh, you WOULD fully accept that thanks if that's how things really went. Instead, it made you more worried about what was going to happen."Thanks..." You got a really bad feeling about this.

The doors at the other end of the room opened. You all looked towards them, expecting Celestia, Luna, or both. But who you saw made your heart really sink to your stomach. Thorax, disguised as Crystal Hoof, was rushing towards the table with a large plate in his mouth. It had two tea cups and a small tower of little cakes on it.

You all observed him as he set up two cups on the table and put the plate, with the cakes on it still. There were three cups already set up on the table, and a very large teapot for serving tea.

"Who's that?" Twilight asked, she had never seen him before.

"That's Crystal Hoof. Apparently Princess Luna and Celestia took him in, and now he's their attendant." Cadance says

Attendant? "They just made him one?"

Cadance nodded. "Yes, but he apparently requested it himself. At least, that's what he told me. He wouldn't say much else, he was really nervous when he served me tea, it was kind of cute actually " Cadance giggled

Of course he'd be nervous. He's serving a pony his queen said was an enemy. And given how cowardly he seemed, you couldn't believe he managed to not drop anything. "Oh, that's normal, at least the nervous part. But as an attendant?" she watched him pour tea into each of the cups. "I never thought Princess Celestia or Luna would be comfortable with a colt as an attendant. He's so young, he should be in school."

Ohhhhh god. Please leave Thorax. PLEASE LEAVE. You'd rather they not talk about him, it made you as nervous as he was. "I don't see a problem with it. I mean, my Dad took me in. Something like this seems normal to me, yup. No problem"

"No problem to you maybe, but I've been Princess Celestia's student for a very very long time and not once have I known her to just take in a foal as 'just an attendant'. Student, yes. But not an attendant." Twilight said, getting more curious about Thorax and Celestia's relationship.

Thorax, after serving the tea, looked to all of you and bowed before saying "T-the princesses will b-be out shortly, erm. Ummm, ok, I, I'm going to go for a bit." Thorax turned to trot out through the doors, but Twilight called out to him. It caught both you and him by surprise.

"Crystal Hoof, wait! can you come here for a second? I want to talk with you for a little while if you don't mind" Twilight sounded gentle and sweet as she said this. She had no suspicions about anything. And given his timidness, she wanted to make sure she spoke as carefully as possible as to not spook him.

"HUH?! Ummmm. I dunno, I really should meet back with Princess Luna and Princess Celestia." He started to slowly back up.

"Oh come on" Twilight gave him an inviting grin. "I just want to talk with you. I find it interesting that you're the princesses' attendant. I'd like to get to know you."

NOPE! "I dunno Twilight, he might be right. The princesses might need him for something."

"Y-yes, that's umm. right! They need me! Yup! need this pony, this one, the one talking and erm." Crystal Hoof backed up slowly as he spoke, up until he was at the door. "Bye!" And then he scooted off.

That was close. Geez, the guy was a huge contrast to Scrappy. Where Scrappy would fight to the death. He can't even handle a simple conversation. Something changelings should be able to do.

"Well that was really weird. It was like he was scared of us or something" Twilight was a little baffled by his behavior.

"He's just nervous, Twilight" Cadance said as she took a seat and took a sip from her cup. She was being very calm about everything "I seem to remember a certain filly who'd get nervous whenever she thought she was messing something up in front of Princess Celestia"

Twilight blushed in embarrassment. "Well, I, erm. You mean me? Don't you?"

"Mhmmm" Cadance said with a small giggle.

Twilight chuckled sheepishly as she took her seat and took a sip from her cup as well. "Ok, I guess it makes sense now."

That was close. Wooo, he looked like a guy who was about to just spew secrets everywhere. You get up on a seat that was higher than the others. You assumed that was yours.

After getting up on the seat, you too, decided to have some tea. Huh, ACTUAL royal tea was pretty good. And didn't make your heart want to rip itself in two for not being close to Diamond Tiara.

"So uh, how do these things usually go?" You were tapping your hooves on the table nervously. You took one of the cakes from the plate and started to bite into it.

"It's nothing to worry about really. We meet, we talk, we figure a few things out, We hug, and then it's all over." Cadance then looked to you with a smirk. "In fact, I heard you really like hugging, Anon. Any reason why that is?"

Dammit, She was staring at you with almost like some sleazy hooker. But you knew she was just teasing you. And yet you still blushed! "Erm, uhhh. Ya know. It feels nice"

"Oh, he's very affectionate, Cadance." Twilight raised one of her wings and curled it up a bit. "He really likes cuddling too. He's like a completely different foal when it comes to bedtime. I admit, when I had him over a few times, I felt this maternal feeling towards him when slept under my wing. He was as sweet as a rabbit."

Oh god, you went from blushing to deep red. D-dammit. And you could tell Twilight said that just to say it. And even if she didn't mean to embarrass you, you felt it. All along your body.

"Really?" Cadance giggled. "So, the mighty hero colt really does have a soft spot after all. Well, while we wait. I want to see it for myself"

WHAT?! NO FUCK OFF! NO! THIS WAS WORSE THAN CHRYSALIS! AT LEAST WITH CHRYSALIS YOU DIDN'T HAVE TO-OH GOD! YOU WERE FLOATING! OH GOD! YOU WERE FLOATING TOWARDS CADANCE! OH SHIT! SHE TOOK YOU INTO HER LEGS! OHHH SHIT! SHE'S SOOOO WARM AND CUDDLY AND....ohh...

You didn't even struggle, by the time she was holding you and hugging you close like a baby, you softened up. It felt so nice. Cadance held in a giggle as she gently rubbed her hoof along your head.

"Uhhhh, Cadance. Don't you think that's a little much?" Twilight didn't expect Cadance to be so forward with it.

"No, and he doesn't seem to mind. Awww, Anon. I knew you could be cute!" She said as she gave you a big hug. "Almost makes me wish you could be Flurry Heart's big brother." She only half meant that however. In her mind, there was still a few quirks about you that would be considered a bad influence. But still, you were nice enough.

If you could pur, you'd pur. Her princess pampered hoovsies were even softer than Fluttershy's.

"Anon, I know I've given you advice before. But now, I want you to remember something for me. Ok?" Cadance says as she continue to pat you.

"Mhmmmmmmhmmm" You answer in a happy and calm daze.

"I want you to always do your best for your Aunt, your friends, your sister, and even your father. They love you dearly, I can tell. I'm telling you this because I believe in you. And I never want anything to tear you apart from those who care about you. Do you understand?" Cadance's voice, it was as motherly as Fluttershy. Her words, they snake through your hard skull and into your mind.

You nodded as you pressed your face across her chest. "I promise" You say, almost involuntarily. You'd do your best, even for Chrysalis. Or that's what you were telling yourself through all this haze. Being a cute innocent colt had it's perks!

Twilight herself, weirded out at first, eventually came to find the whole moment rather loving and cute and said nothing more about it. Cadance eventually let you go back to your seat as the double doors at the end of the hall swung open. It was finally time, Celestia and Luna stepped into the room, with Thorax right behind.

There was an air of silence in the room as Celestia and Luna took their seats. Thorax didn't seem comfortable taking the seat reserved for him, and instead just sat beside Luna.

"Hrn? What is wrong, little one?" Luna asked as she looked down at Thorax.

Thorax looked straight down, unable to make eye contact as he spoke in a low, nervous voice. "O-oh, you know. I don't want to seem too important. T-this is a meeting among the princesses"

"True, but young Anon is not a princess. Though..." Luna turned to you, narrowing her eyes as she focused on your mane. "A little brushing, grooming, and some perfume perhaps. And he may just pass off as one"

WHAT?! "Hey! I thought this was a serious meeting! B-besides...I-I'm all stallion, remember? Hero COLT! It's in the title." As you snapped back, you could hear a small chorus of giggling coming from Cadance and Celestia. It seems those two found that pretty funny.

"......Whatever" You just lower your head. Great, not two seconds in and you were getting fucking teased. Wasn't this important? And Thorax...what exactly are they planning to do with him?

"See, we are all friends here. It is alright for you to have a seat." Luna smiled at Thorax as she gave him a gentle pat.

"Yeah, c'mon , Crystal Hoof. It's not like we're going to bite. Besides, what’s the point of having a teacup set up for yourself if you're not going to use it?" Cadance spoke up, a smile still plastered on her face.

"A-alright, I-if you all say so" Thorax clambered slowly up his seat and sat down. He then took his cup, his leg shaking as he took small sips. He did his best not to shake, but you could hear it just from the click clack when he set the teacup down.

"Well, we're all here Princess Celestia. Please, tell us what's going on" Twilight asked, curious to know what was going on.

"In a second, Twilight" Celestia said as she gazed upon you. What the fuck was she looking at?

"U-umm, what are you looking at, Princess Celestia?" You asked

"Oh, nothing. Just imagining you with a cute little bow on your head. You'd look adorable" Celestia smiled, then giggled at the very thought.

OH COME ON! You just wanted this over with. You tried to speak as calmly as you could, a small tic in your eye making your annoyance visible. "O-ok, then...that was, informational. Can we just get on with it, please?"

You'd probably be in a better mood if the sight of Thorax didn't make things uber tense. Hell, you saw Twilight trying to force down a smile when you glanced over to her. Well then, It seems you being a girl is funny. Hardy har har.

"Erm, Anon is right Princess Celestia. Changelings are a very serious matter." Twilight said as she finally contained that small grin

Celestia nodded, her expression becoming more regal as the subject matter finally takes off. "Indeed they are, Princess Twilight. In fact, we are here for that reason, and many more concerning them."

Many more? No, she couldn't mean.

"Many more? What do you mean?" Cadance seemed pretty shaken up by those words. No doubt she had a deep dislike for changelings. Probably more so than Twilight. So it irked her to know there was seemingly much more to this.

"My sister means we have many things to discuss about them. Such as the fact that Anon has the entire hive in his basement" Luna spoke, blunt and true.

"...Oh no" Celestia muttered as she put her hoof on her forehead, she whispered to herself "...A tad too soon, my sister, a tad too soon."

"WHAT IN THE?! LUNA!" You couldn't believe it. SO FUCKING BLUNT?!

However, as you looked around. Cadance nor Twilight reacted as you thought they would. They looked confused.

"W-was that a joke?" Twilight asked, confused and worried

"If it is, I'm sorry Princess Luna, it wasn't a very good one" Cadance adds.

You were biting your lip, hell, even thorax looked nervous as fuck.

"Joke? it is no joke. sister, why would they think it was a joke when it is in fact truth?" Luna asked Celestia, confused from the reaction.

"It was due to being so forward. But now that it's out, and given Anon's reaction" Celestia stopped her words right there as she took a sip of her tea.

And if the sipping of the tea itself was some sort of trigger, Twilight's pupils shrunk to the size of dimes as she exclaimed "IT'S TRUE?! IT'S ACTUALLY TRUE!? T-THAT'S NOT POSSIBLE!"

You slam your head onto the table to hide your shame. Holy fucking shit. the madmare actually did it. Why?! Wasn't the judgement called off?

Cadance noted your silence, that’s when she realized it was all true as well and became a little frantic. "Why? How? We banished all of them. Why would Anon have them in his basement?"

You sigh, your mind was melting from the sudden reveal. Should you be angry? Should you be sad? Scared? Or maybe you should just bash your head until it cracks open.

You just slowly rest your head on your hooves as you look down at the table. Your head starting to hurt from all this craziness hitting it at such an instant rate. You open your mouth to speak, but you can't just get the words out. It scared you. How much do you reveal? How much would the princesses' reveal?

"Actually, there happens to be multiple circumstances as to how this occurred. First and most foremost, we, as the rulers and protectors of Equestria, had failed to collect proper intelligence on our enemy. The queen we sealed had turned out to be a common tactic decoy. The real Queen Chrysalis had been out with a scouting party at the time." Celestia speaks for you. Staying strong, never faltering, just moving forward to keep the meeting going along.

"W-what? So, we didn't...but, I was. No, I refuse to believe that Anon was protecting them. That isn't like him. Furthermore, I know Discord enough that he wouldn't let them in his house, he'd find them boring or something like that." Twilight went back to her previous notions. She hadn't come to fully believe it yet.

"I share some of your sentiments Twilight. However, that too is wrong. Queen Chrysalis has forced her way, along with her remaining troops, into Discord's home while he was out. To recruit Anon through her hypnotic abilities. But thanks to an intervention by Discord, he instead kept her and her entire hive in his home 'for the fun of it'." Celestia says.

"Indeed, my sister. Discord can be quite the lunatic at most times, this being no exception. However, I can see in both your eyes that there is still some doubt. Perhaps if Anon told you what his goal became once this happened, There would be a better understanding." Luna adds.

"Egh...why don't you two just tell it? I'm not in the mood. Why don't you just banish me and be done with it." You just...gave up

Celestia acts surprised by your depressive statement. "Anon, we are not having this meeting because we are going to banish you. We are having this meeting to discuss what is to be done."

Cadance crosses her forelegs as she gives a hard stare towards Celestia, angry that the bugs that threatened her family were still around. "Well isn't that obvious? Let's just get Discord to banish them. Then we figure out what to do with him since this is clearly all his fault. He's obviously been raising Anon like some sort of villain in hero's clothing. And this time? We make sure every single one of them are gone. They attacked my husband and me. And then tried again while I was still pregnant with Flurry Heart."

...Oh good gravy. "Nmmgh. A-actually, they didn't do that. That was actually me, on something completely unrelated."

" W-what?! Is that true?! Anon, w-why? Why would you.." Cadance had taken it wrong. Thinking you had tried to actually hurt her family.

Celestia shook her head. "Do not think ill of him, Cadance, he was merely made a part of his father's prank. There was nothing malicious about it. It was just Discord being Discord and causing well....discord."

"Right now, I don't know if I should consider that good or bad" Cadance was not amused.

"Me neither." Twilight practically imitated her sister-in-law's reaction.

"Yes, well. That aside. I agree with my sister. Anon, please tell Princess Cadance and Princess Twilight the mission you had placed upon yourself." Celestia looks at you with a motherly expression. "Please do not worry, this will not end in the way you think it will."

Would it? Just looking at Thorax, despite his silence, he was jittery as all fuck. "Fine..." You raise your head, roll back your mane with your foreleg, and speak with hopeless abandon. "I wanted to reform Queen Chrysalis. It felt wrong to just condemn her when some others had done just as bad and has gotten a chance."

"Reform?" Cadance was not expecting that.

"...." Twilight was in deep thought as a memory had struck her noggin instantly. It filled her with regret and sorrow. This memory, it just had to keep coming back to her. "....So when you came to ask me about...." She gasped and put her hooves to her mouth. "Anon, you really meant to do it, didn't you?"

You slowly nodded as you slumped your head back down. "Yeah. I had them in my basement and I thought I could do it. Dad made sure to pretty much defang them. They can't hurt me, and even when Queen Chrysalis is out and about in Ponyville. She's so weak that she can't actually do anything."

"Anon..." Twilight became melancholic as she looked down, she found something admirable about it. She saw that through Discord's shenanigans, you had the opportunity to reform one of Equestria's biggest villains. But, in the end, to her, you were too young, too inexperienced, And Chrysalis? Too cunning and merciless. "I admire the fact that you...wait" And then she heard she was walking around Ponyville "SHE'S WHAT?!" Twilight then turned her head towards Celestia and Luna. "SHE'S BEEN WALKING AROUND PONYVILLE,AND YOU BOTH KNEW?! Ahrm" She then forced herself to calm her tone when she realized who she was talking to. "Ahm.. Umm..h-how long did you both know exactly?" She gives them a worried smile. But god, it looked like she was about to detonate again if the answer wasn't good enough.

"Hrn, well my sister knew before I did. But I'd say it was very close to when it started" Luna answered, unshaken and unwavered by anything so far. Solid as a rock.

Then, from both Cadance and Twilight, a collective "WHAT?!" can be heard.

Your ear twitched. did you hear right? Did Luna just mention that they themselves knew for as long as you did? Even though that was mostly true. There was no way Twilight nor Cadance could find that agreeable. And yet the princesses put themselves in that place.

While a feeling of solidarity was hitting you, since the princesses were putting themselves under scrutiny. so was a feeling of dread. This could be some sort of endgame.

"My sister speaks the truth. So Discord and Anon are not the only ones to blame. We have given Anon our permission to continue his efforts, even when things started going a little out of control" Celestia did it, she made it official. They were to blame as much as you were.

"Yes, such as the vile queen portraying herself as Anon's dear sister. Something I find atrocious given the sanctity of a sibling bond" Luna adds, still forward as ever.

You felt everything crash, burn, explode, wither, and die as your face hit the table. Celestia nearly spit up her tea when Luna let out that bit.

"N-NYMOUS?! NYMOUS IS QUEEN CHRYSALIS?! THE PONY WE JUST THREW A PARTY FOR IS CHRYSALIS?!! HOW IS THAT POSSIBLE!? SHE WAS NOTHING LIKE SHE WAS WHEN SHE PRETENDED TO BE CADANCE! SHE WAS EVEN NICE AND SWEET! THAT CAN'T POSSIBLY BE HER." Twilight didn't care anymore. this was too outrageous for her.

"...It was her." You mumble.

"Ok, alright" Cadance seemed to have had enough. "So you three knew and we didn't. I get all of that. And given how it was you who also allowed the reformation of Discord. Part of me can understand all this. I can only guess the reason you didn't want anypony else finding out is because Queen Chrysalis isn't fully aware of who knows and who doesn't. But let me know this. Please, at least tell me some progress has been made. That no good love trampling insect doesn't deserve as much mercy as she has gotten so far. Not her, and not her hive." Oh yeah, she looked like she was ready to give you all a piece of her mind if she couldn't be assured Chrysalis was under control. She was doing her best to control herself.

"That is not for us to tell. Anon, you must add something to this. We cannot speak on this matter alone." Celestia's tone was a bit tougher this time. she wanted you to speak for yourself on this.

You slowly lift your head up again. It felt like their was weights tied to it. This felt so damn difficult. You looked over to Twilight and Cadance with a pathetic expression. Had you made progress? You let the thought linger for a moment, you then turned to Thorax. Surely Cadance meant the four of them. But perhaps things were so heated, and him so quiet, that she didn't notice or care that he was still in the room listening in. Or she felt that "Crystal Hoof" was out of the loop.

You sigh, and say your thoughts. If anything, Chrysalis was still your friend. You didn't want her gone, especially since you knew she could be reformed. "I think I have. While she is still mostly herself on the outside. She actually did help me save that other Equestria she had mentioned. Sure, she didn't say she was a part of it so she didn't look like a hero or something like that. But, and hear me out on this, she can be reformed. We already have a pretty close friendship. And if anything, that dimension we went to had a Chrysalis who was ALREADY reformed. So, given my educated opinion, I'd say I've made good progress." And then you stop, and wait for a reaction.

Twilight just closes her eyes and puts her hoof on her forehead. "I can't believe this. so we're just supposed to just hear these secrets then say it's ok just because there's some hope?"

"Anon, I'm sorry. But just because she's reformed in another dimension doesn't mean anything for OUR Chrysalis. Have you ever considered she's just been pulling one massive act? This wouldn't be the first time she's done that. she's a master of it, Anon. More than enough to trick a kid like you, no offense" Cadance felt you were unprepared. And felt unconvinced even if there was a GOOD Chrysalis.

But, it wasn't. Not all of it… "Hey! look. I'll be honest, she still doesn't like ponies. But despite all that, we have a good connection. She's saved my life more than once. She's risked her life for me. No matter what, anypony who was really evil wouldn't do that. All in all, I'd like to think Tirek is more evil than she is."

You felt a small defensive spark, you had to defend her. You felt like they were just going to banish her at the end of all this if you didn't say something.

"So you two have become friends." Twilight sighed as she shook her head. "All these secrets and putting ponies at risk. Anon, I would tell you, scold you even, on how everything was wrong if the princesses weren't in on this too. Because in my opinion, and I'm sorry Princess Celestia, Princess Luna.....But this is really wrong. This could easily end up like how Tirek and Discord worked out. It seemed good for Discord until the last second when Tirek got control of everything. I for one, am not willing to make that mistake by trusting her. And nothing more can be said to change that."

Twilight.... "TWILIGHT! C'MON! SHE'S MY FRIEND! I TOLD YOU I HAVE IT UNDER CONTROL! I JUST NEED MORE TIME!" Who the fuck says she can have final say?

"I agree with Twilight. Anon, a monster like her can never be reformed" Cadance seconded Twilight's notion. Of course she would.

Fuck.... "A-and? so what? It's still Celestia and Luna's decision. And their behind me on this"

"Actually Anon, part of the reason we are having this meeting is due to the fact that we have come to a unanimous decision. At least, with the way things are going so far" Celestia....her too?

wut? "YOU WHAT?! BUT I'VE BEEN WORKING SO HARD! YOU CAN'T TAKE THIS AWAY FROM ME! I'VE SEEN IT, I KNOW IT CAN BE DONE! YOU CAN'T JUST BANISH HER!" No fuck this. This was wrong. so very damn wrong.

Suddenly, you get enveloped in Luna's magical blue aura and get softly planted back onto your seat. "Calm yourself, Anon, we aren't banishing her either, not yet. We have just decided to make an alteration to the plan."

Alteration?

Cadance sighed. "So we're still going to attempt this? Despite the fact that she's still a huge danger?"

You were breathing hard. What the fuck was going on? What was next? Were they going to shatter your life too? Were they going to tell them...your past?

"Actually, we are going to try flipping things around. Instead of reforming Queen Chrysalis and working our way down. We'll be reforming her hive, and work our way up. I want everypony's support on this. But not without revealing a few other details first." Celestia says

"There's more?! What else could there be?" Twilight couldn't believe it.

"P-please don't tell me the entire hive has had access to Equestria too" Cadance was about to call shenanigans. She even wondered if this was a trap of some sort.

"No, only her captain has access. And that's who we'd like to mention first" Celestia says, surprising you. So, they were going to mention Scrappy?...Then...what about Thorax?

"Her Captain? Ohhhh" Twilight slumped her head to the table. "None of this sounds remotely logical."

Celestia's tone became lighter as she gave a small smile to her next words "Indeed Twilight, I too was astounded to find out that Applebloom's dog was the captain of the changelings."

Twilight's eyes went wide again as she sprang from her chair. "YOU WHAT?! SCRAPPY?! SCRAPPY IS THE CAPTAIN?! B-BUT...." She started flapping her wings in mid air almost instinctively, trying to find a place to zip out of the castle. "B-BUT THAT MEANS WE HAVE TO WARN HER, WE HAVE TO-"

"She already knows. she has known since she adopted him. According to a letter I've gotten from her yesterday, and my own sister's words, he's quite gentle and kind. And adores hugs" Celestia says with a calm smile as she sips her tea. What a fine time to crack that one Celestia. it was near cuntish.

Twilight was near pale as she slowly landed, and shakingly took her tea and poured some right on her muzzle without sipping. her mane came out of place from her stress. "Likes hugs.....r-right. Ok, and so...hah, even the crusaders knew before I did. How do....you like that..haha"

Cadance sighed, staying her patience the best she could. she took a sip of tea, then spoke. "You wouldn't let a changeling near that many foals unless you were sure. So what about this 'Captain' makes him different from the others?"

"I'll answer that, since I've been around him the most. As long as my word is taken. I really don't need any distrust right now." Nor did you need anyone else speaking for him. You felt you had this. After Twilight's reaction, maybe you could salvage this. Because all in all, this plan sounded bad. You can't just reform the changelings. They’re loyal to Chrysalis. It's just not done.

"As long as Princess Celestia and Luna don't have any objections, I won't raise any of my own" Cadance says with assurance.

Twilight was just sort of gargling. But you were sure she was listening.

"He's just a kid, like me. He only follows Chrysalis because it's more his mom than his queen. He really doesn't act too much like a changeling. That's why he became friends so fast with the crusaders. They love him, and he loves them. He's also brave enough, no joke, to sacrifice his own life to protect them over anything, even if it was just like, a fork. When he thought they hated him, Well, I think he was willing to just waste away to nothing. He wasn't doing so well. But, as it turned out, It was all just a misunderstanding. BUT he's not a reason to deviate from MY plan. Captain he may be, But he'd never truly betray Chrysalis. He loves her too y'know. That’s why I think my plan is better...just saying, he's not really a good example of anything"

Cadance looks to Celestia and Luna. who just silently nod.

"However, Anon. It is not Scrappy we wish to entrust with our plan. Nor is it you" Celestia goes back into serious mode. Looking stern on this decision

Uhhhhhhhh...wut? "...Are you....are you saying I'm out? Like, are you throwing my plan away completely? Celestia, I'm the only one who can even talk to them properly. Who else is there that has no loyalty towards them?"

Celestia said nothing. Her and Luna instead went and looked at Thorax, who merely gulped, but still kept in place. You could tell he was scared. But, Celestia and Luna? They must have talked to him before this meeting, he already knew. GODDAMMIT! THEY ARE GOING TO USE HIM?!

Cadance and Twilight had just realized he was still in the room. Not only that, but they were also just realizing he wasn't actually a pony. Slowly, but they were realizing it.

"No way." Twilight's eyes became locked to Thorax's as her mind flared with conclusions "Princess Celestia. I...he's not. He's not just a young pony. Is he?"

"Oh no...oh no..." Thorax finally reacted as he hopped off his chair and hid under Luna's. "I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I'm sorry! Yes, I'm a changeling! but I don't want to hurt anypony, I swear!" He covered his head as he shivered under her chair. He was so frightened of having done something wrong, he couldn't even focus on his form and slowly began to change into his buggy self.

Except for one peculiar difference, his wings. While still their buggish self, were blue, and kind of shiny. Weird. Was it always blue? No, no it wasn't. hell, it looked like they were still changing. as if it was some sort of metamorphosis.

"So it is a changeling!" Cadance became angered as she slammed her hooves on the table, staring directly at Celestia and Luna. It looked like she lost it, but she was still trying to hold on to that last shred of understanding she could hold on to. "You two took on a changeling as an attendant!? Do you know what this looks like? Are you even the Princesses?!"

"Princess Celestia, please, e-explain." Twilight look hurt. she couldn't understand how things could have gone so far.

"Alright, I shall. But first." Celestia still looked forward as she called the fear-fillled bug. "Thorax, will you please come back and sit on your seat? I promise you, it'll be alright. We can't proceed until we do what you wanted to do first." Her tone was soft and delicate. So much so, as if it was his actual mother, he looked up at her, gulped, and slowly went back to his seat.

Wanted to do first? What the hell was Celestia getting at here? She was really going to leave things to this pussy? The moment he was found out he ducked and hid like a rat. he's useless!

"Doing what he wants? Princess Celestia...I'm sorry, but if I sense even the smallest bit of deception, I'll have to act. I..ngh, It's my duty" Twilight was conflicted. Everything was spiraling out of control. She didn't know what to attack, what to defend, or where she even really was. Was this truly happening? Her thoughts were scattering as things became more tense.

"And I understand that. I can only ask you to be patient a moment more. But, just for assurance about-...oh" Celestia stopped speaking when suddenly the moon made a quick pass across the sun.

Luna's horn stopped glowing as she sighed "You take too long sometimes, sister. When our very identities are being questioned by our equals, we should really make more of an effort to quell those fears. No hesitation"

"Thank you, Luna. You are right on that." Celestia nods in agreeance, feeling Luna was in the right in that regard.

"Well, that settles that...Then." Cadance eyes shift towards Thorax as she takes a moment to settle down "...What is it exactly does "he" want?"

Thorax still refused to budge. He just began staring at Cadance, trying to get his words out.

"It's alright, young Thorax. We understand your wishes well. But we cannot help make them come true until you can take those first steps yourself. We shall be behind you, but you must make progress so my sister and I may help you along." Luna imparts words of wisdom to him. And like any Saturday Morning ponce, he gives in to it.

"Hrn...Well" Thorax looked down, but then forced himself to look back at Cadance with apologetic eyes. "Miss Princess Cadance, ma'am. I know you hate us, you hate me. And I don't want to waste your time by saying how we're not all bad or anything like that. Instead, I'd just like to say that I'm really really sorry about what happened in Canterlot. And, I want to make it up to you in any way I can. And Princess Twilight, I'm sorry too for what our queen did to your brother and to you and your friends. If I could, I wouldn't have let her do it. I don't like evil, or badness, or being mean. And, that's all I can say really. So if there's anything you need me to do. Please ask, I'll do anything to make it up." There were tears coming down those buggy eyes of his. He was being truthful. That you knew. But did they know?

"You're sorry? After everything you and your entire hive has done. All you can say is "You're sorry?" Do you really think I'll just accept that?" Cadance didn't seem convinced, and just stared at the bug with intense distrust.

"N-no...I-I guess not" Thorax looked down, feeling shame, more tears falling down his eyes. This time, it was noticeable as even his voice began to crack "I-I know ponies could n-never really f-forgive me a-anyway. T-that's why I-I'm fine just being an attendant to the p-princesses. They took me in, even after the b-bad stuff I had done. T-they’re my friends. And I want to r-repay that friendship...with my life. I-if you, or Princess Twilight w-want to hate me forever....it's ok. I deserve it. In fact, maybe if you b-banish me, it'll help make you feel better." He hid his face in his legs and started to sob. "G-go ahead..I-I-i'm read-dy"

No, ok. No fucking way can this guy replace you. He's a total fucking sap. Cadance just stared at him sob and weep. She could see the distress in Luna's and Celestia's face, and yet they sat there doing nothing.

"I-ve...I've never seen a changeling cry before. Twilight, is- Has there ever been any record of a changeling crying?" Cadance, was actually softening up.

Twilight still seemed on the fence as she looked at Thorax with suspicion. "Only crocodile tears. But..." Twilight could see large levels of liquid flowing out and about from under Thorax's legs and face. He was really crying. "T-those don't look like them, I think" Twilight was hesitating. She never EVER had read or seen a changeling react like this before. And she started to notice his wings as well. A peculiar color indeed.

"Thorax, can you look at me please?" Cadance asked him, in a gentler tone."It's alright, I won't hurt you."

Thorax slowly complied. When he looked at her, he was wheezing, sniffing, crying, and sobbing. He wasn't even wiping his tears away. He just wanted to do what he felt was right, such as listening to Cadance.

Cadance cringed. He looked so sorry, so pathetic. She couldn't imagine any changeling degrading themselves this hard to deceive someone. And even if they did, it'd be a pretty pitiful attempt. And this was pretty damn convincing. "Thorax, you can wipe your tears away if you want."

"O-oh..." He sniffed as he started to wipe his tears with his hooves, but then he apologized when he said he couldn't get them to stop coming.

Twilight herself was so stunned that she herself questioned if this was an act. And so, she decided to ask Thorax a question. "Thorax, you seem.....like a nice...changeling. Ahrm" She was having a little trouble getting the words out. But she wanted to sound sincere "What exactly do you want? I don't think anypony would put themselves in a room of powerful ponies without a good reason."

Thorax looked towards Luna, Celestia, then slowly towards Twilight with caution and nervousness. "W-well, I just want want friends. And, I don't want my siblings to be alone anymore."

"You don't want your siblings to be alone anymore? What do you mean by that?" Cadance asked, confused.

"I mean, after everything Princess Celestia and Princess Luna has taught me, I want to be able to share what I've learned about love and friendship. I want the hive to see that we don't have to eat love to survive if we can just learn to love each other. I know we can do it!" He started to become more confident as he spoke from his heart. "I know the queen could never see it. But they can, I know they can. Scrappy was one of the most loyal changelings to the queen and even he's managed to learn what friendship is. I think, after I've learned everything I need to learn, that I could help my siblings see the light!....oh erm.." And then he became nervous again "O-of course, i-if you think it'd be ok."

Cadance got up with a scowl on her face as she slowly approached Thorax. "Is that so? then I only have one thing to say"

"Y-yes?" Thorax whimpered as Cadance drew near.

"I...." Cadance started to smile and gently wiped the remaining tears from Thorax's cheeks. "Believe you"

ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! DID SHE SERIOUSLY!? Does...that mean?

"And what say you? Princess Twilight?" Celestia asked.

"I" Twilight stopped, and composed her thoughts for a moment before producing a gentle smile of her own. "Am willing to trust him. If Applebloom can trust Scrappy, and you all can trust Thorax. Then, I think, as the Princess of Friendship, I can give him a chance."

Thorax smiled wide, he beamed such a happy smile that he started to cry again. "T-thank you, t-the both of you! I-I promise. You won't regret it."

Holy shit....They were kidding you right? Even with everything said so far. How was this guy going to reform the hive? In fact, it was time to break your silence. "Welp, that's good. We're all friends now and I'm super glad. But the question remains, how exactly is he going to reform the changelings? Chrysalis is usually in the hive and she is NOT going to be happy when he waltz in to do his thing. And, to remind everypony, she thinks he's gone. You're afraid of Chrysalis acting and freeing her hive and all that stuff. But everything will fall apart if she realizes me and her captain betrayed her."

And so, their plan is ruined. And you can continue with your plan. Which while slow, makes more sense and has been slowly working. That's how you felt anyway.

"Oh Anon, thats ok, the princesses have thought of everything" Thorax said with a happy smile as Cadance had allowed him a hug. Totally ignorant to the fact you didn't agree to any of this shit.

Wut? "What do you mean they thought of that?"

"It's exactly as he says. You see, we would like to trust your father with the task of removing the queen from the equation for as long as he can. But it could cause undue suspicion, and then there's the fact that he could, in fact, go back on his word without understanding how dire the situation is. That is why you, Anon, will keep her busy away from her hive as Thorax attempts his work."

That was stupid. "You expect him to reform the hive in a day? Do you realize how unrealistic that is? Those guys cannot be reformed that fast, if ever"

Celestia shook her head. "Not a day, we could make a few arrangements to have you and her go on a trip of any place she'd like to go. You would present it as your gift to her, and that would give Thorax ample time to attempt his work."

That was better, but still stupid. "Uh huh, and what's going to prevent his sibs from ripping him limb from limb?"

"I shall go with him, along with Twilight if she wishes to assist me. And we will keep him safe from harm. I'm sure your father would be willing to give us a few safety nets in trade of a few of our own in case anything does go beyond our control" Celestia was very calm in her explanation. Though, looking into her eyes. she may have suspected that you weren't actually ok with this.

Twilight stood brave and tall towards Celestia, with determination in her eyes. "Of course, I won't let you down, Princess Celestia"

So that’s it? She basically made you a decoy while Thorax gets to do what is literally impossible. He was a fluke, and Scrappy is an idiot. There's no fucking way the entire hive would bend so easily. Which brings you to your final question. "Ok, and what if it doesn't work?"

That question made Thorax's buggy ears lower as his optimism left him. Even Celestia seemed down for what she was about to say "Then we'll have to banish all of them. Thorax would still stay of course. But Scrappy would have to make a decision. To stand by ponies, or stand by his queen."

"So were going with something that might not work. Over something that is slowly working. Is that what I'm hearing?"

Luna as well, had started to notice your objecting tone. "Anon, we have given you more than enough chances. We appreciate what you have done. And to hear that the queen of the changelings is partially responsible for saving an entire dimension as well as keeping your life from extinguishing is most exemplary in good character. But be that as it may, she only shows these tendencies towards you while still wanting the subjugation of Ponykind. And through you, she seems to think she'd be able to make that a reality. Or at least make her escape back to where we cannot reach."

“We can no longer risk Equestria for a goal that may never come. And seeing as Thorax is himself a changeling, he will have a better understanding on how to approach the situation and achieve the goal you yourself should be wanting. It does not matter how we achieve this goal, just as long as it is reached. But there are others at stake, Anon. Others we cannot put in jeopardy just to seek what might truly be unobtainable. I apologize to you, Anon. Considering we are willing to try one last operation before giving up completely should tell you that we still believe in your cause. But we can only believe in it so much. We hope, with one with such high intelligence that you possess, that you'd understand"

You raised her hoof to object. But, what else could you say? It was obvious this was not spontaneous.

"Excuse me, but don't you think I should help too? Even without their queen, the hive can still be dangerous" Cadance offered her help. Of course she did. Because in fucking pony world, prejudice melts away at a soft face. But evil can still use that to their own ends. You highly doubt the hive, especially with how evil the old captain was, would just change. Hell, you should actually try to prove that to yourself. You actually had a reason to talk to that ball bastard.

Celestia shook her head. "No, you are needed by your ponies and by your family. Twilight and I will be more than enough to handle the situation while Thorax does his work. Do not worry, I assure you we will be enough. It is the same reason I am entrusting my sister to handle things while I am out."

You couldn't believe this. All this planning, all this scheming, and they think they can do a better job than you can. How could they? They didn't think like you. You were able to understand Chrysalis. Have fun with her. BEFRIEND HER! And here they thought niceness and goodness could fix everything in a heartbeat. It doesn't work that way.

...It scared you. It actually did. Scared you enough not to want to ask what would happen if they succeeded or failed. You'd lose Chrysalis either way as a good friend. You actually liked her, she kept things fun and interesting. You knew she was evil, but she wasn't worth throwing away. But they were planning it...weren't they? If she didn't go with the program IF THEY SUCCEEDED, they'd just banish her anyway. You felt this was the case. Not like she'd have anywhere to run.

Aside from Discord, she was the only one you could be yourself with. You didn't want to lose that.

And even as devilish thoughts began to fill your head. Like even striking back. You thought of your other friends. Starlight, Scrappy, the CMC, Lyra and Bon Bon. And then… Fluttershy… Discord… Diamond...

They had you. You couldn't warn Chrysalis because she would seek revenge on you while still holding leverage against you AND Scrappy. And if you didn't help them. Who knows what would happen.

But you wanted to protect Chrysalis. You owed her that much. FUCK! WHY COULDN'T SHE JUST BECOME GOOD AND BE DONE WITH IT!? Whatever they were talking about now. You weren't listening. You didn't care. it didn't matter anymore.

"Anon, you seem worried. Will you please follow me so we may speak one on one?" Celestia was at your side, you hadn't even noticed. But you weren't startled. You don't even say anything. You didn't want to cause a scene.

So you just silently nod, and get up. And follow her outside the dining room. You felt so conflicted. Everything was out of your grasp. This one on one time, maybe you could at least get her to understand your position. Maybe make some changes. You didn't want to go through with it, even if it was a success, Chrysalis herself would never change through something like this.

You felt like you'd be the one to defend her, even if she would hate you because you betrayed her. A life for a life. After everything was said and done, you couldn't let Chrysalis suffer cruel and lonely banishment. That....was for sure.

Chapter 302

Celestia led you through the hallways. You just stayed silent, thinking, contemplating.

"nothing to say?" Celestia asked as she looked forward, It was then you realized you were walking aimlessly through the castle with her just to be alone and on pace.

You just tilt your head slightly downward and stare . You still didn't know what to feel. But you couldn't let this chance slip away. "I have plenty. Like the fact you are knowingly going to destroy my friendship with Chrysalis. It's a real thing. That exists."

"I'm aware, and I apologize. This decision wasn't easy to make once that fact had been considered."

"Then why? Why not let me do it my way?"

"Because, Anon. There is no guarantee she can be reformed. other dimension or no, the Chrysalis of this dimension is cruel and underhoofed and cares for nothing but herself and her machinations. Let me ask you this, and be truthful. Aside from your friendship, how have you progressed in her actual reformation in treating others with kindness,friendship, and respect?"

You stop, grimacing as you realize there really hasn’t been much progress in that at all.

Fuck, just as Chrysalis always says, and has even shown, there has been no progress in that regard. "..I mean....She treats me pretty good"

"I would hope so, considering how you defend your friendship with her. But that doesn't answer my question. Has she even considered having good will towards ponies?"

Dammit Celestia, c'mon. "Well, I mean, she hasn't done anything horrible to them yet, right?"

Celestia shook her head and sighed "Except for a filly, that would be correct."

Ouch, she said that to remind you of that moment. How she, without care, just watched as her children feasted on Scootaloo. Something that was also your fault.

You remain silent

"Anon, I didn't say that to hold something over you. I said it to make a point. Even as your friend, she has no care for even the most innocent of ponies. Your friendship with her has made no actual progress in her reformation. And I have to agree with my sister, we can't keep looking away while she does as she pleases."

"I have it under control. Better than Thorax would. How could you possibly leave it to him? He's a coward."

"Faith Anon, faith. the determination is there, the heart. And I'm sure you noticed the peculiar changes in his wings. It started when Luna and I started giving him lessons to improve his friendship making abilities. curious to be sure, but the most curious of all is the fact that his hunger for love has nearly disappeared. We all came up with a shared theory that changelings are capable of producing their own love. And in that sense, become self sufficient. But for there to be love, there needs to be harmony. Has Scrappy shown any odd changes since he's become Applebloom's dog?"

You groan and roll your eyes, looking away from Celestia as you continued to walk beside her. "You're trying to change the subject. Faith isn't going to make a difference here. They won't listen to him."

And just like that, Celestia stops answering or talking to you. Which frustrates you even more.
"FINE! sheesh. Yes, there's been a kinda change. He doesn't eat as much love as he used to. But his wings are the same. Which means Thorax is the only one with that weird mutation thing on his wings. Now can we stay on point?"

"Hrn, or perhaps Scrappy is only starting to truly understand friendship, as per our theory. But yes, let's talk about faith and-" You interrupt Celestia right there

"Don't. Don't do that. The guy nearly starved himself because he thought he hurt Scootaloo and he still didn't get blue wings. That's where everything falls apart. All you're doing is going to get the guy ripped to shreds unless you and Twilight put up a good barrier."

Celestia seems to take no offense, instead, she just continued. calm and poised despite your rude demeanor. "And from what we understand from Thorax. Changelings are normally ravenous with their never ending hunger. Causing uncontrollable urges to feed on large amounts of love at a time upon finding a plentiful amount. Thorax had succumbed a few times. But through forgiveness and care, that has ceased to be a problem. Since this issue was never brought up to me in Applebloom's letter, it's safe to assume that Scrappy's love for his friends is what sustains him and keeps him stable without even he himself realizing it. Just as Thorax's hope sustained him"

...wut? "So you're saying changelings don't need to eat at all if their all producing love themselves?"

Celestia nods "Exactly, if anything, that is one of our stronger points."

Egh, you hate to admit it. But, that's pretty good. Still, still....your friendship. "Ok, you really have put a lot of thought into this, I admit that. But Celestia, please, listen" You sigh, calming down realizing she may actually have a semblance of a better plan "This plan, it doesn't sound like you really want to try to reform Chrysalis, just her hive. I don't think she's going to be too happy when she gets back. And that's still going to cause a whole mess of trouble, the entire town has already accepted her as Nymous, what are we even going to do about that?"

"It depends on her, and on you. If we do reform the hive, she will cease being a threat. And therefore can remain in the basement of your home. It may seem cruel to do this to her. But as long as she has a friend, as long as she really wants to have one, then perhaps you'll be able to reform her afterwards."

So that's it then? just go for the hive and hope for the best? She wasn't even considering if it instead made her even more dangerous. Or as dangerous as she can currently be right now. "And what if Chrysalis goes insane? She won't listen to me, her betrayer. She won't listen to Scrappy once she finds out Thorax is alive. And what about Scrappy anyway? what about his feelings?"

"unfortunately, that is a gamble on how much he truly cares about his friends. If they are there for him, then I am sure things will be alright. As for Queen Chrysalis herself, I'm sure Discord wouldn't let her do anything drastic if it put Fluttershy at risk. Unfortunately, even our plan is not perfect. I understand the town will have suspicions once words gets out. For your sake Anon, my sister and I will take full responsibility for that. As far as anypony else knows. You,Discord, and nopony else knew the true identity of ‘Nymous’. "

What?! taking full blame? Lying? "And you think that'll work?"

"Chrysalis can be very convincing. Anon, to let you know. We would have made Thorax public much sooner already if it wasn't for the fact that Queen Chrysalis would find out. I don't like keeping secrets and hiding details from the ponies who look upon me for wisdom and leadership."

"Unless it's convenient. I don't think you understand how I feel. Chrysalis is really more than just a friend. She really is like a sister to me. We laugh together, we pick at each other, we have similar interests sometimes, we can be ourselves among one another, watch movies, share ideas. And? she saved my life, twice. Twice Celestia, Twice. Even if your plan is good, even if you're willing to take the blame, you're destroying one of my best friendships without at LEAST thinking up a better plan to keep it intact. There has to be someway, There's always a way."

Celestia shook her head "Unfortunately, Anon, I don't see one. And I already know many ponies will be hurt once everything is said and done. As for your friendship? I'm truly sorry, the best I can do for you is refrain from banishing her yet keeping her in the basement"

Keeping her in the basement. Like a fucking animal. Yep, just trick her. Take her children. Then lock her up while she hates you forever. "...That's cruel, Celestia"

"I know, and I am truly sorry. I understand how you feel Anon, you know I once-" but you cut her off, fuck that noise.

"no! don't even mention Nightmare Moon! Don't! Ok? Because that was some stupid jealous entity thing that was YOUR fault! Me and Chrysalis are close, Ok? And you just want me to betray her. That's it. That's the part that bothers me the most. Because you have this freaking notion that Thorax CAN reform the hive, that Scrappy will be alright, And that Chrysalis will stay put and not just hate ponies even more while I lose her as a friend! Where do you get off! Huh?!" You were huffing, puffing mad. That she could just drop this shit on you and make you feel as if you don't have a choice? That for some fucking reason, they couldn't come up with a saturday morning way to fix everything? That shit just don’t fly.

...even if you couldn't come up with a better plan yourself...

Celestia stayed calm, but she became more melancholic. She didn't like seeing you this way. It seemed to hurt her, Especially when she noticed tears in your eyes. "Anon, you're being selfish. have you even thought of how Fluttershy will react? Have you forgotten your other friends? In which Chrysalis would surely do harm if she ever schemed to use them in her escape? My sister and I have decided to take the blame so that your life can remain intact. "

"Really? Is that so?" You look up at her with discontent in your heart.

Celestia's tone then became cold as she stared down at you, finally finding your impudence
rather atrocious "I remind you Anon. Chrysalis has been an enemy of Equestria for countless generations. And long before you arrived on Discord's good graces. You yourself have said she has made no progress to accepting reformation. And there are others, many others, who deserve justice for the crimes she has committed. She is ruthless and cold down to her core Anon. And wouldn't think twice about destroying anypony that gets in her way. That includes the friends you hold dear. We have given you chances when we should have acted immediately. We ourselves have lied to our good friends for the sake of your friendship with one who would see our way of life destroyed. And we are willing to take a blow to our integrity to make sure the life you have made does not fall apart. To be quite honest, Anon, you have no right to question this. We are not doing this to ruin your friendship. We are doing this to protect our home and help those that may themselves be under a heinous rule that keeps them from understanding goodness and harmony. I have apologized for what will happen. But I will not listen to you chastise my decision or belittle the fact that I too had to make a regretful decision in my life, that without Twilight and her friends would mean that I would spend an eternity without my best friend and sister. Do I make myself clear?"

Holy shit, her eyes. That's some death glare when she approached those final words. It struck fear into your heart.

And her words. Dammit, what if Chrysalis at some point did do that? Use your friends against you? Just so she can be free. She hadn't done it yet, but what if she got desperate? She doesn't care about them.

But, if none of that was in the equation. Then she'd just be another good friend and sis that hangs in the basement.

Discord was cool and all. But he was so random, and always spoke in a way that didn't jive with you sometimes. And usually had some kind of thing going on. Chrysalis was a lot more chill. You liked that.

You were going to lose that.

And yet, how could you argue with Celestia now? Your life was that of a colt. You had more friends now than ever before. A marefriend even.Chrysalis herself keeps telling you she aims to ruin everything by making you “understand”

You started sobbing, you lose. You were going to lose something you cared about no matter what you did. You couldn't even bounce Chrysalis back to her original hive without being designated a traitor. And if you did do that, you could be dooming Equestria anyway.

Chrysalis, why couldn't you just reform?

Why? "Princess C-Celestia, I-I. I don't...I don't know how....I don't..." You enter a fetal position as the loss just hits you harder and harder "I don't want to lose any of my family or friends. Not one.." You hide your face in your hooves as you cry. "I can't think of a way. I can't. E-even if I don't do anything, she'd know I betrayed her when she knows about T-thorax. S-she's like family to me. S-she really is. W-when I gave her a Ferrari..." you gulp and sniffle "S-she was so happy. She was genuinely happy. It felt so nice.." You dragged yourself over to her and threw yourself at her mercy. Hugging her left foreleg. "How? How can I just do this to her?"

Celestia softened up again. She lowered herself onto her belly and let you cry into her side. "I'm truly sorry, Anon."

"I'm sorry too..I'm sorry about what I said, a-about L-Luna...and stuff" But even as you had this moment. your brain was racing.

Yeah, for now you'd accept this. And you were sorry.

But you did have your horn as well. Maybe, just maybe. You could pull something out of your ass that works for everyone. Maybe later, you could find a way.

Why were you crying anyway?

Was it because you lost?

Was it because even if you do come up with something, it wouldn’t be good enough?

Was it because you were going to lose Chrysalis?

Was it because of the conflict that held so much on the line? Your life, your friends, stability...

was it all of that?

Possibly. Defeat and worry was a recipe for tears.

even with your horn, what could you do? What could you do to get everything wrapped up in a neat little bow?

You had nothing. and it pierced your soul and let the tears come out.

You were going to lose her. And it was going to hurt.

What could you do? Follow Chrysalis? enslave the ponies who campaigned against her? Who would destroy your bond with her?

You couldn't do that. Your other friends too, were important. Fluttershy and her love for you, Starlight and her progress back to having a good life. Lyra and Bonbon and the fact they hung with you despite being a "kid". Discord and the fact that without him, you wouldn't even be here. The CMC, who have put up with your bullshit. And Diamond, the love of your life.

And Celestia herself. She held her patience with you after you told her to be quiet about Nightmare Moon, she didn't fling you into a wall or snap back like a venomous snake. Here she was. letting you snuggle into her side and cry.

But you still had to come up with something.

But what? Really, the only thing you could do is get a second opinion. Ask someone who knows the changelings well enough to know if they can reform in anyway. Because if they can't, then maybe you can have this called off and go back to the way things are going now.

You could ask Scrappy. But he's too dumb to give an accurate answer. Hell, the only one who'd know at this point is the Excaptain. Or rather, the X-captain.

....The X-captain...

But would he tell the truth? Does he even know?

Not like it'd hurt asking.He can't hurt you.

Damn, it's not even a good plan. But maybe you could make it work.

You just needed things to go back to how things were, you needed the course to be reset back to your favor. But if you couldn't. Fuck, what could you do?

Because there's no way Thorax could do it. No fucking way.

Your tears start to dry up as you contemplate your self admitted weak ass plan. It'll just have to do for now. "I'm alright now, Princess Celestia. I-I understand. I didn't make any progress for her liking ponies and you're doing this to protect everypony else. I'll help."

"Thank you for understanding, Anon. As I've said, this is in no way an attack on you or the surprising friendship you have. And I can only hope that Chrysalis follows the example we plan to impart onto her hive. It is regrettable if she does not, but the safety of Equestria comes first."

You sigh, of course it was. "I know, thank you for at least letting me try. But is there really no other way? I just, I really do care about her. And even if she hates me, I'll still care. The things we did together? I'll never forget it"

Celestia was silent for a moment. She was in deep thought.

"Princess Celestia?"

"Part of me doesn't agree with my own plan. I have great sympathy for you despite you befriending one of our greatest enemies. If Queen Chrysalis would just listen to me, there'd be no problem. If she was more open to negotiation, we could work something out. But she's actively trying to destroy us even now, despite friendship and restrictions. And as a princess, I cannot overlook this. And Anon…. All I can do is make it as easy for you as possible. That's all I can guarantee. I just hope you will not bear resentment over this.." Celestia wanted to do something for everyone. But her duty meant she had to do what was right. even if she herself did not like it.

She was making it really hard to plot when she was trying to empathize with you. Ugh, she was good at this. Maybe there was a legitimate claim that you would, maybe, turn a little vengeful when it happened. But c'mon, you wouldn't...right? "I'd never go evil or anything. I just, well you already know."

"Hrn, perhaps we should change topics while we're alone. Get our mind off of these troubling thoughts." Celestia suggested

You look up at her, curious. A change of subject? a change to what exactly? not like there's anything else that could be interesting. "Like what?"

"Well, I've heard that I have a son. Or rather, you're my son a dimension or two away." Celestia stood up and walked by a window as she stared towards the sun "I was wondering if you had met him. Or perhaps know what he is like."

FEGJIFDJLFKJDL

GODDAMMIT! THAT OTHER YOU, AGAIN!? YOU HAVE NEVER MET THAT FUCK AND EVERYONE SEEMS TO LIKE HIM. EVEN WHEN THEY TOO HAVE NEVER MET HIM! YOU WERE TRYING TO HAVE A SERIOUS CONVERSATION, BUT NOOOOPE! THIS ASSHOLE GETS MENTIONED AGAIN!.

Celestia notices your ears droop and the fluster in your face just from the mention. She was about to tease, but felt, for once, the moment wasn't appropriate. But she wondered why you seemed so visibly jealous. "You don't like him, I see."

"I didn't say anything..."

"But your face says it all. Have you met him before?"

You sigh and shake your head "No, but he's apparently suave,sweet, and friendly. I don't know. I don't trust him."

"Why not?"

"I....dunno. He showed up twice in this world. The second time with him apparently asking Scrappy some questions I don't even remember."

"Or you don't care to remember.As I understand it, he seems to be planning a campaign against the changelings. Coincidental, but given he trusts Scrappy, I can't help but feel his plan might be similar to my own in a few ways. If he's a prince, then there's no doubt I'd know about what he's doing, he'd be my son after all. I wonder how proud of him I am. And yet, I don't have to wonder. It's a strange feeling"

uuggghhhh "Well, I guess. Why are you really asking me this anyway? Not like I could be your son now. Or, what? did you want one of your own?"

Celestia shook her head "No, I'm content with how things are now. I just thought it was a cute thought. Though, speaking of family. Anon, can you count to five?"

Wut? "Uhhhh, why?"

"Just asking, if you were to count it. I'd like to ask you to do it right now. I want you to see a strange but humorous phenomenon"

Humorous, huh? "I dunno if I'm in the mood for funny stuff."

Celestia smiled a warm smile at you "I think you will, if only because you being around Discord must give you some shared small grudges you both hold over some indivisuals. I would just like you to count to five and see if it will make you smile. That's all."

whatever… "Fine....one, two,three,four,fiv-wha?!"

The moment you reach five. A frantic Twilight poofs right in front of Celestia. She was in a panic "P-Princess Celestia! Thank goodness I found you! I just realized a few seconds ago that it would mean that Fluttershy is Queen Chrysalis's aunt! What do we tell her?! WHAT DO WE TELL HER?!"

Celestia smile died. She knew Twilight was going to poof in for something. But she must have anticipated her reason to be something different. Like, what to do with the changelings and Thorax AFTER it's all said and done. An answer she felt she could have easily answered had that been it.

"Oh...Twilight" Celestia took a small breath as she grimaced, and quickly came up with something to say "I know you won't like it. But we cannot tell her."

"Princess Celestia, are you saying we just lie to her? About everything? She's one of my best friends. H-how can you expect me to do that to her? Chrysalis is pretending to be her niece. That's wrong!"

"Yes..it is. Unfortunately, that is what I'm saying. Anon has been doing it for quite some time and I can assure you, he does not like having to do it. Nopony wants to. But as the protectors of Equestria, we have too if we want to succeed." Yeah, Celestia didn't look happy about it at all.

"But, there has to be another way. We can't just lie to her." Twilight tried to reason with her.

"As I said,Luna and I will take the blame and the responsibility for everything that happens. It's not only to protect Anon, Twilight, it is also to protect you. I don't wish to keep things from Fluttershy the same as you" Celestia was really final on this. Christ, it wasn't just you. Twilight had second thoughts too. although nowhere near as dire. For a cartoon horse pony, Having to lie like that might as well be the equivalent of suicide. "But what must be done must be done."

"Ah- umm...ngh" Twilight tried to raise another point, but was having trouble retorting "Princess, I don't think it'd be good for you to take on so much blame. This is more than just Fluttershy. I want everypony to come out of this alright, that includes you and Princess Luna"

"As do I. But only fate will decide how things go. And thus, I will make sure none of you suffer a terrible fate. It will be a burden Luna and I will bear. No matter how great." Celestia was giving Twilight a lamentably serious look. Just like with you, she wanted Twilight to accept what has to be done.

"But Princess. I know this is important. But, you mean too much to me too to allow you to do that. Let me take the blame instead . At least I can do that much for you. I owe you so much for everything you taught me a-...mm?" Twilight stopped when Celestia gently planted her hoof to Twilight's head

"Twilight, you are the Princess of Friendship and a beacon of hope to everypony everywhere. Should things not go as planned or if ill thoughts still go by then I will not allow you to take any blame. You are too important for that, as is Cadance. It will be alright as long as we all work together. This is all for reforming those who very well may just need another chance and loving understanding. And that, to me, is more important than myself. Everypony who is good, who has heart, that is capable of love and care. Those are the ponies I will sacrifice everything I have for again and again if need be. But ponies will still need somepony to look up to should I be very wrong. And that somepony shall be you, Twilight. Do you understand?"

Twilight twitched, and then looked down as she started to tear up "I do."

"Thank you for understanding" Celestia gently wiped Twilight's tears away, and hugged her close.

After that. There wasn't much else too the meeting than fine tuning the edges. Everyone got along with Thorax great and Thorax himself showed more self-esteem as he conversed. He seemed happy. And Cadance accepted him.

Yep, the plan was set. And you were so conflicted on what to do on your own that you could feel your soul burning. Surely you could run a better plan before this all sets off...

And who knows how Twilight must feel. Now she was somewhat in the same boat as you. She had to lie to Fluttershy, and by extension, everyone else. It didn't sit right with her. She had to act like she didn't know and it ate her up inside. Even more so that she had to play nice with Chrysalis without letting her know as well.

Hell, you wanted to get home and speak to the X-captain immediately. You wanted to get that over with.and see if this was even all worth it.

But Celestia, she didn't want Twilight going home alone since Cadance would be staying longer to wait for a train back to the Crystal Empire. She asked you if you wouldn't take your shortcut home and instead accompany Twilight on the train back to Ponyville. She felt you both needed the company.

...fine. but dammit….it was only a matter of time now. Wasn't it? What were you even going to do?

Chapter 304

At the end of the train ride, Twilight gently woke you.

Returning to Ponyville, you decide to part ways with Twilight, explaining to her you needed a moment to process everything that went on in Canterlot. She agreed, she felt the same way.

And so you returned home, you had things to do, a crazy beholder monster to interview. When you bounce off your bed, you looked towards your window. Most likely, he was still floating right behind it. But first, you decide to peer over to your mirror.

Ugggghhhh… "I look miserable.Fuck, I really don't need this. Dammit Celestia..." You take a breath and head over to the floor door and open it. You peer down into the living room, it was empty. "Ok, she isn't out and about. Allllrighty." You walk over to the window again, and pull open the blinds.

And there he was, staring directly through the window, and right at you.

"Anon....open the window" he snarls at you.

Seriously? "Really? Are you still on that?"

"YES!" He spits "I'VE BEEN FLOATING OUT HERE FOR WHO KNOWS HOW LONG! LET ME IN THERE SO I CAN DESTROY EVERYPONY ALREADY! I'M BORED!"

You smirk as you shake your head and look him right in his singular eye. "Tell ya what butter ball. You answer my questions and I'll open the window for you"

"HOW DARE YOU MOCK....wait...seriously?" The X-captain believed it, near instantaneously. "That's the easiest trade I've ever made. World destruction will be...MINE! HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" He cackled as he flailed his tentacles in the air.

.....Ok then, he's a fucking idiot. "Yeah, ok speedy. Relax, just answer my questions and it'll be fine. You ready?"

"I'm always ready you silly man pony freak thing! Ask your questions! And then witness your doom!"

....Christ. "Ok then. First question, what do you think of a changeling named Thorax?"

"Thorax? HAH!" He scoffs, "He's pathetic. We always had to push him, prod him, FORCE HIM. And he was still as pitiful as the runt, which is sad because unlike the runt, he had potential. And then he went AWOL. Good riddance, I say, he had a lot of bad ideas"

Interesting. "Bad ideas? Like what?"

"Oh, ohhhh, hahaha" He snickered "He had it in his pathetic little head that changelings should be friends with ponies. That somehow, we should be able to produce love ourselves instead of taking what's ours. It's absurd! I've lived almost as long as our now useless queen. And it's never been done, it's totally impossible"

Ohhh no. You could see the roadblock ahead. "Uh huh. Let me ask you another question. Why do you think it's impossible? Exactly?"

"Because changelings DON'T love. We hate who we feed off of. They are our food! That's how it's always been. If there was a better way, sure, we'd do it that way. But there isn't. Not like I care anymore, chaos is all I am, will be, and will BRING!"

"Ok, so let me ask you this. What would happen if a changeling WAS capable of producing love? And could eat their own love that they feel and share it with other changelings?"

"Logically?" The X-captain rolls back a little as he scratches the side of his face with a tentacle "I guess changelings wouldn't need to use ponies as a food source. It'd mean the queen has been lying all our lives. And that all our starvation and suffering due to always being hungry was for nothing. But given no changeling has ever managed it, then that's not possible"

"And why has no changeling ever managed it?"

"Because!.....Because.....hrn" He seemed lost, he started to rub the underside of his neckless chin as he pondered. "Nopony has ever tried I guess. Look, can you open the window now? I want to crush you already"

"No, listen. We're not done yet. Because we found Thorax, and his wings are not only changing for some reason. But he can produce love and feed off of it, I think. He definitely really doesn't need to really eat love anymore. Your replacement is almost the same way, sans the wings. So, what do you think of that? T-that's just a fluke right?"

"Fluke? wait...what? WHAT?! NO! STOP LYING! THAT'S IMPOSSIBLE!" The X-Captain's eye suddenly goes from yellow to red, as he enters an instant rage "THAT'S IMPOSSSIBBBLLEEE!"

"Woah, woah! relax, just calm-"

"SHE LIED! WHAT WAS THE POINT?! WHAT WAS THE POINT OF STARVING IF WE COULD HAVE JUST FED OFF EACH OTHER?! DO YOU KNOW HOW MUCH IT HURTS TO STARVE?! DO YOU UNDERSTAND?! OHHHHH, OHHHHH NOW YOU'VE DONE IT, ANON! FORGET TAKING HER CHANGELINGS FOR MYSELF. ALL OF THEM, ALL OF YOU! YOU ARE ALL MY ENEMY FOR ALL THE CRIMES YOU HAVE COMMITTED! EXCEPT FOR ME.....my crimes are ok. BUT ANYWAY! YES! DESTRUCTION! DESTRUCTION OF ALL! OPEN THE WINDOW NOW AS PROMISED SO I MAY DESTROY YOU, THE QUEEN, AND EVERRRYYYYTTTHHHHIIINGGG!"

He was flailing about like a fucking retard. Unfortunately for you, it seems he didn't even know it was a possibility, given his ignorance and his answers. So, either Chrysalis had been hiding this from all the changelings, or she doesn't know it's possible, or she doesn't want to accept it. Ugh...either way. it's not good when it comes to you and her. Because Thorax was proving it can, in fact, be done.

You sigh as you begin to close the blinds, sending the X-captain into a panic. "WAIT, YOU SAID YOU'D OPEN THE WINDOW! KEEP YOUR WORD, YOU STUPID HORSE HUMAN THING! OR I'LL DESTROY....MORE!" he growled.

"Nope" You close the blinds.

Your ear twitched as his screeching was very barely audible through the blinds. He was pissed, but you never intended on letting him in, no matter what.

Crap, crappity crap crap crap. He didn't even fucking know. Was there really nothing you could do? At least, nothing you could do that wouldn't get you in trouble or ruin relationships? For now, you'd have to leave it alone until either you could figure something out or run into something that would be useful.

Well, you could still be a friend, you could see how Chrysalis doing. See how she's doing after being drunk last night. That's something...right?

You sigh with a heavy heart as you open your floor door, go through the living room, into the trap door, and enter the basement cavern. Looking into the dank abyss, you wondered for a moment why Discord made it a cave rather than an actual basement. Then again, an actual basement would be pretty normal, now wouldn't it?

"Errgghh, right there Captain. Right there, ugh" You could hear Chrysalis groaning as you neared her Race Track Lair. "How is it possible a drink can cause such pain? I don't even remember half of what happened last night."

"My Queen" As you came down the stairs, You could see the changelings gathered around Chrysalis's throne. Some watching from inside her car as she laid to her side, hanging her head down as the runt captain massaged her head with his hooves "If I had known this was going to happen. I would have forbade Anon from serving you, erm, whatever he served you"

"Hush!" Chrysalis scorns for a moment, making the captain flinch. But she groans again and gives her head a slight rub to signal the Captain to go back to his massaging "ngh....Captain. Don't imply that I'm too weak to handle my drink. In fact, I consider this a learning experience. If humans can handle that kind of drink, then so can I. I was caught off guard by how potent it was, that's it. I am the Queen!" Chrysalis rose up and raised her hoof in the air to defy her own pain "AND AS SUCH! I WILL NOT BE DEFEATED BY MERE PAIN! egh" She flinched, then went back into her resting position "But, for now. I will enjoy this massage, I clearly deserve it"

You walk in with a smile, a chuckle even. That was pretty cute. "How's the hangover, sis?"

But the Captain is the first to reply, some of his acquired doggie senses kicking in as he bends forward and growls at you. "Anon! How dare you show your face after causing our Queen pain!"

"Captain..." Chrysalis looks down at him with a deep stare, it was like a warning.

"m-mmm" The Captain backs off and resumes the massage. Huh, still overly protective of her even after what he's gone through. His wings, they were yet, still the same. It made you wonder.

"Anon, what is a hangover, exactly? You mentioned it just now." Chrysalis asks in a rather pleasant tone...weird.

"Oh, it's the headache that comes with getting drunk. Or really, after you got drunk. It's mostly common."

"Common. I see. Well, it doesn't bother me too much. But it makes me wonder, why would humans drink these drinks if it causes 'Hangovers' " It was kind of cute really, she was genuinely curious about fucking alcohol.

"Well, it's because some people drink them to feel good and don't care about what's going on in their lives. Some people don't even get hangovers. Others drink because their friends are drinking and it's part of 'having a good time'. Others just drink because it's something to drink. And..I dunno. People just drink it because it makes them feel good or it's a social norm. It's how it is"

"Really..." Chrysalis seemed confused yet enamored by the very idea that humans would drink alcohol so loosely despite its effects. Then she chuckles. "It's a shame you aren't more like your brethren, Anon. Even their party drinks are more fun than anything a pony can come up with."

You smirk as you approach her, you wanted to tease her a little. be friendly and act as natural as you could so she didn't detect anything wrong. "Oh, I know. So, how do you feel about chickens?"

Chrysalis's slight joviality drops when you ask this question. She raises an eyebrow at you, wondering what kind of question was that. "You should know the answer to that."

"Normally I would. I'd say you hate them. But what if their was a cute one with the name 'Caramel' "

"Cara-" Chrysalis's eyes go wide for a moment, she realized what you were talking about. She rose up again, away from the massaging hooves of her captain as she brushed her mane back with her hoof. She then looked at it with a bored expression "It's almost funny, Anon. You're being specific as if it means something. But all you're doing is boring me, so much so that I might as well ask you to leave if you're just going to be stupid."

Ahh Chrysalis, you really were adorable sometimes. This was something you didn't want to lose. Who else could you talk to like this? She may be the queen of deception. But she really was the only one you could be one hundred percent real with and get the same in kind. "Alright alright. Sorry. Sheesh, thought you could handle a little banter."

"Are you implying that I can't? Do you know how many ponies I've crushed in debates? How many I've decimated when they tried to nab me as some sort of prize?" Chrysalis chuckles to herself as she remembers a particular memory "I've even overturned a peace treaty by calling a king a worthless clown. It was true too. As the 'Future Princess' of the fallen kingdom of Stabledonia, my insult may have been a tad too much for the rivaling kingdom. Who was I to lie about such a fool?"

"Erm, my Queen. Not to interrupt or anything. But wasn't that a failed campaign because everypony ended up hating each other? I-in fact, as your captain, e-even though I wasn't the captain back then, I apologize for not being there to take that table that hit your face after you insulted the rival king" Scrappy recalled, wanting to remind his queen, worried that her believing it was a good thing was a mismatched memory. Not realizing she was just playing it up to counter you.

You snicker at that. "You got a TABLE thrown at your face?! Ha! So much for that, huh?"

Chrysalis looked down at Scrappy with a death glare. It made him immediately realize that he MAY have done something wrong, making him cover his head "I'M SORRY! FOR WHATEVER I DID!"

You flinch when you see her raise her hoof at him. But she stops, grimaces from her head pain, and just concentrates on looking tough. "You're forgiven. I don't feel like striking anything anyway, it would ruin my mane. hmph. As for you Anon, give me a good reason why I shouldn't make your life a living hell back in Ponyville."

Fuck...dammit Chrysalis. She was moody when she had a hangover. She'd usually just toy with you, but she just wasn't in the mood to return the bants. "Oh, erm. Actually. You wouldn't really have time to do that if we were say...." Maybe this would cheer her up? "watching a movie?"

"A movie?" That seemed to have struck a positive chord with her "...Why not another human documentary?"

"Oh erm. It's sorta like that. It's a movie based off true and real events. And uh, takes place in our olden times. when we were kind of just less militaristic and more...just living life."

"Almost interesting. As much as I want to see humans acting out human things. It doesn't sound too interesting to warrant a watch. What's it even called?"

"Goodfellas"

"Pass..." She swung her head down the side of her throne again as she called to her captain for another massage, an order he took very seriously.

You sigh, and start walking around her throne in a circle "Too bad. It's about the rise and fall of a man named Henry Hill. He was a gangster."

"Oooh, a gangster....Thrilling" Chrysalis mocks as she shakes her hooves in the air before rolling her eyes "Anon, hate to tell you this but Equestria also has gangsters. So I already know it'd be filled with incompetency and annoying voices"

"Maybe..." You hop up on the small open space on her throne and cuddle up to her side as you rest your head on her belly. "Or maybe human gangsters get shit done, live like kings, and don't let anypony stand in their way. And I mean anypony"

"Hrn, in what way? Give me an example" Chrysalis asks, not really minding your sudden affection.

"A guy named Tommy shoots this kid for talking back at him."

"Shoots him? In the leg?" Chrysalis was now curious

"He shoots him dead. He can't tolerate crap like that"

"Really...And he isn't punished?" Chrysalis started to gently shift to the side to give you more room to cuddle properly as she suddenly became more enamored.

"No, but other crazy stuff happens."

"Like what?" You can sense it, she was getting curious

"Just going to have to watch it" You try to goad her into watching it with you.

Chrysalis stays silent for a couple of moments. Then she slowly rises from her seat, moving you aside gently as she calls out to all her changelings. "MY CHILDREN! GATHER AROUND! AS I HAVE FORCED ANON TO SHOW US ANOTHER ENTERTAINING SHOW!" She calls out.

Forced? "Really?...Forced?"

Chrysalis snickers at you as you heard the buzz of wings and saw the movement of the walls. "Sounds pretty good, doesn't it? Now then, Anon..." Chrysalis gently brushes her hoof down your head and back as she gives you a sweet smile "Work your magic, and do me proud"

Maybe it was the fact that she was an older woman...mare...bug thing. But any affection she gave you, even if it embarrassed or angered you, always felt nice. And looking at the fact that she was interested? You could look past her vicious words from earlier. It was just nice to see her happy, it even seemed to instantly get her over her hangover. Maybe you were being naive, but you figured this was her way of being appreciative.

You had one charge left anyway, so you can do this. You put the horn on your head and recreate the movie theater from before. The love orb is set up for slushies, but you created a self serve popcorn stand just in case.

Each seat was filled by changelings. But you thought you'd change it up a little by adding balcony seats for you, Chrysalis, and the captain. Chrysalis looked around with a smirk and clapped her hooves as she looked around the theater. You had made it even more extravagant with beautiful gold lined blood red drapes, platinum gold walls, and a mural on the ceiling with beautifully drawn changelings flying about in the night black sky, a moon to illuminate their flight ever so slightly.

"Going all out I see..." Chrysalis said, with hidden wonder in her heart.

You were, you wanted her to be comfortable. "Only the best for the queen"

"Indeed.." She made herself comfortable on her seat and stretched her neck as she rolled her head about a few times. "A little pain, but manageable." She said to herself

The Captain, Scrappy, felt internally honored he got a seat next to his queen, up in the balcony away from the other changelings. And he felt bad he snapped at you. He sighed and looked to you with a frown, across from Chrysalis. "I'm sorry Anon, I didn't mean-"

Chrysalis just shifts her eyes towards Scrappy without turning her head "Captain, don't do that. Have pride. Don't act like a pony and apologize. If you felt what you did was right, then it was right....unless I say otherwise. Understand? Your work is invaluable to me, but don't EVER let yourself succumb to the pony way."

"Y-yes my Queen...never" Scrappy saluted, but it was a weak one. He felt guilt in his heart. And conflict once again on how to feel when around Chrysalis. He loved her to death. But he loved Applebloom too, and was liking the "pony way". Poor fella.

"Good, in fact, bring me some of that popcorn. I wish to treat myself like a human does." Chrysalis pointed down to the first floor where the machine was. But you took point, your horn was still on your head until the movie ended. So you used it's never ending magic to pop a huge bag of popcorn to her side and a love slushie in her cup holder.

"Hrn? Oh!" Chrysalis smiled as she looked at her snacks "Now that's service. What could be better than sitting between my loyal captain and my soon to be partner watching a movie about humans. I feel so much better now. Let's get started then, I'm really feeling anxious. Oh, I feel like this is going to be even better than the documentary. I just feel it." Or maybe she was wowed by the service and the nicer room.

"I'm doing this because we're friends. Don't go assuming I'm just going to give in."

"Oh, don't be a killjoy, Anon. Just accept my word of praise and let's get started." She rolled her eyes at you before taking a sip of her slushie. "Besides. We're all friends here. You don't need to take it so personally. Just accept it, that's all"

You were about to object further. But considering this could very well be your final moments… "...You're right. It doesn't mean anything anyway, I guess. Future partners it is then. As long as you're happy, I'm happy. and I guess that's all that matters."

Chrysalis found that odd. Very off as well. "Really?"

"Yeah, that's what friends want, right? For their friends to be happy. It's rare I ever get to do this with you, so I just don't want to spoil it."

"Hmmm..." Chrysalis ponders on that, It was like she wanted to say something. But held back. and kept it simple. "I suppose that's true, even with the friendship we have."

"Yeah...anyway, let's get the movie started"

The lights dim as the projector starts to roll, presenting the movie to the buggy audience. And what a start it was. You had forgotten it started somewhere near the middle timeline wise with the killing of Billy Batts. Well, the finishing off of him anyway.

The reaction from the changeling audience was instantaneous with gasps. What they were seeing looked much more cruel and crazy than anything in Starship Troopers considering how personal it looked.

Chrysalis was digging through the popcorn already. Excited by what she was looking at on screen. "Anon! This is already amazing and I don't even know what's going on!"

Well, at least she liked it. "Just wait, that's just to pull you in"

"It did a good job already. Such viciousness. It's exciting" Chrysalis takes a sip of her slushie. "Captain, take notes; This should be how you deal with ponies."

Scrappy, who before would have been delighted, must have been thinking of Applebloom when he spoke because he didn't seem so sure about it "Y-yes, my queen..."

Chrysalis didn't notice as Henry's voiceover started and the movie actually begun. You could see Chrysalis near immediately lose her excitement when she saw it was going to cover a young Henry Hill. "What's this?! Where's the violence?! Anon, this better not be a bait and switch. I'm already losing interest. Why does everything look so old?"

You chuckle, letting your depression slide by as you let yourself be carried by the nostalgia of the movie and Chrysalis's reactions. "It's how it is, but trust me. We'll get to the adult stuff soon. Even then, just relax. You might enjoy this part"

"Hardly, look at him. A slave to his family while he works at that 'Cab' place. Who cares about cabs? The ones we have and- wait a second what's this?" Chrysalis started to notice they weren't so legit. And as Henry explained and the movie went on, she noticed it wasn't simply a cab place, but rather a home of villainy, larceny, even people getting shot. Even as Henry's family disapproved of it, she only needed to watch further to see the gangsters deal with that.

"This, this is amazing. Whatever he needs they give him. Whatever they need he works to get it to them. And everypony...no...everyone bends to their will. Even the police!" Chrysalis was very astute in her observation. She understood, and she loved it.

"Yeah, it's like a family" Chrysalis shakes her head as she looks at the screen with evil delight "No, those sniveling angry parents of his are a family. These guys, these guys? This whole thing? This is a hive, Anon, it's a unified hive that controls evWHAT THE?! WHAT?! I THOUGHT THEY HAD CONTROL OF....ohhh" Chrysalis witnessed Henry go to court and then immediately get out of it, and then get rewarded for not squealing "Yes...This is a hive alright. And Henry? He reminds me of you, if you were a little more of a go getter. See Anon? This is the kind of thing you can have if you join me. Even the humans know how good it is. How could you argue that?!"

Hearing Chrysalis get so into the movie already, even as she equates it to the "Game" you both play, it made you smile, just for the fact that she enjoyed one of your favorite movies. It was like watching it for the first time all over again with a close family member. "I guess I can't. Still, it is but a movie."

Chrysalis swung her hoof in dismissal "Whatever, at least I'll be able to see how things would be like if we were gangsters in the human world. Oh, we'd control everything. DO YOU HEAR THAT MY CHILDREN!? EVERYTHING!"

Down in the audience, you could hear "shhh! I'm watching the movie!"

Chrysalis reached forward on the balcony rail and looked down in fury "WHO SAID THAT?! WHO!? WHO DARES TELL ME TO BE QUIET DURING MY GLOATING?! I'LL SHOOT YOU DEAD! I SWEAR IT!"

There was no reply. Some of them looked pretty scared or even sorry. Chrysalis sighed and went back to her seat "Egh, I'll deal with it later....what?! They already grew up?!..hrn. This restaurant" She hadn't even noticed that things were proceeding right along.

Chrysalis observed the drinks, the atmosphere, and she listened to Henry's monologue. Everyone in the restaurant looked like big shots. Each one a ruler in their own right. She was amazed that they drink their drinks with reckless abandon like it wasn't any big deal. She knew she had to overcome her weakness to alcohol just by looking at everything looking so great.

And then there was Tommy. "Who's this loud mouth? Ugh, he sounds like an angry pigeon" She groans.

"That's Tommy, one of the main three guys of the movie"

"MAIN THREE?! BUT HE'S SOOOO ANNOYING! This whole 'How am I funny?' bit has already grown tiring and hrn?" She then witnessed Tommy play away a bill. Even attacking the restaurant owner without retaliation, it was amazing to her. "I take it back. This man, he does what he wants, when he wants, and gets away with it like it's nothing. I like him. I can already tell he's going places"

You smirk and keep yourself from spoiling anything. Poor Chrysalis. She was going to get preeeetttyyy angry later. "All kinds."

The movie progressed as you remembered. Chrysalis got more used to Tommy, Henry, and Jimmy. But the introduction of Karen irked her at first. In fact, there was a question she asked you that made you bust out laughing when it came to the introduction of Karen's parents.

"Holy crap, Anon, what is a jewish and why are they so annoying?! She's not shutting up! It's worse than that Pinkie Pie pony. Look, LOOK. It's so bad that Henry came home, and then left because of that nag of a jewish. Why doesn't he just shoot her and be done with it?" Chrysalis looks at you, you were a laughing mess.

"What's so funny?" She asks

"N-nothing. Hehe, nothing. Y'know, I don't even know. He holds back sometimes. I dunno, I guess I'd shoot her if I had to deal with her"

Chrysalis chuckled at that remark as she continued to view the movie "Yes, I probably would too. Speaking of which. This Karen person reminds me a little of your marefriend. Not as pushy or rich. But more of the relationship side of things."

You cringe a little at one. You didn’t really want it to be compared like that. "I mean, I guess..."

"Just look at them, Anon. They care about each other. They protect each other. It's both disgusting and yet oddly satisfying at the same time. And listen to her,it really is like a hive. The entire gang do EVERYTHING together. It's beautiful. I just wish she'd stop being a nag sometimes. Henry has many things to do. Look, even nagging him for that paper money and...what is she doing?" Chrysalis found the part where Karen was about to suck his dick confusing.

You chuckle, surely she knew. Or maybe human passion escaped her. "She's about to go down on him. Y'know, suck his dick"

"Suck his dick...hrn" Chrysalis found that intriguing "I wonder if that works on Stallions. I'm sure there's a powerful and very lonely wizard somewhere out there willing to trade secrets" She snickered.

Wut? "You serious?"

Chrysalis laughed "No, that's just too degrading. Though, I was thinking back a bit on Paulie. And you know what? You do owe me some life debts so...Fuck you, Pay me!" She growls and then begins laughing at you.

You chuckle nervously. "T-that's a joke, right?"

"Of course it is, don't take it so seriously. Speaking of seriously. You get him Tommy! You don't let him bust your balls like that!" She cackled. "Billy Batts, what a fucking stupid ass name."

And then the movie went back to the start. Chrysalis listened in on the monologue of "Made guys". But shrugged it off. "Who cares if he was "untouchable", he deserved it. The schmuck"

"Say Chrysalis, if you had a chance, who would you beat to a bloody pulp?" You ask

"Oh? Now that's a question I can sink my fangs into. But before I answer, Why don't you tell me who you would beat the shit out of first?"

G-guh..what?! "Erm, I-I dunno. I don't think I should answer that."

"Oh you don't want to answer that? Fuck you, pay me!" She smirked at you.

Was she....was she serious? "A-are you seriously using one of the debts I owe you for this? Or is that another joke?"

"I'm not joking. This is worth your life. Now be truthful, Telll meeeeee" She chuckles softly as she gave you a gentle peck on the nose.

Fuck. Truthful, huh? "Ummm, if I had to pick a pony at the moment. I'd say.....these two punks names Snips and Snails. They annoy the shit out of me everytime. Or maybe that news lady I met like twice. Because twice is all I really needed to put two bullets in her brain."

Chrysalis cackled at your words "Now thats what I like to hear. I knew you had some guts in you, Anon. But a couple of colts? Ohhh, that's pretty dark..." Chrysalis gives you a sultry stare and rubs the bottom of your chin with her hoof "I like it"

She was siphoning from you as well. You could feel it. Not too much. But enough to notice. "Yeah yeah. Ok, your turn" You roll your eyes as you gently push her hoof away.

"Who do you think? That prick Cadance. I wouldn't have to worry about figuring out how she made all that magic if she just died."

Hrn. Maybe you should be careful. She was becoming more dirty mouthed and daring just from the influence of the movie. You just mumbled and nodded.

The movie went on as things became more dire. Tommy becoming more daring, Janice, Karen becoming vengeful. Hell, when Chrysalis was viewing Karen holding a gun to Henry's face, she fell silent. slowly sipping and eating her snacks. It was an intense moment. By the time it was over, she fell back on her chair, with some sweat going down her face. "That was insane. Humans are such powerful yet complicated creatures. Even having multiple females just because they can. It screams power. Almost makes me interested in romancing one." Chrysalis giggles girlishly "It could be fun."

No, it would be scary if she ever found a violent man to control. Ohhh, you shivered if she ever fucking romanced a crazy mongol or something.

When everyone went to jail, Chrysalis got angry, but only at first until she saw that even in jail, they had control.

"Simply amazing" She stared with a wide smile

"Yeah, real neat stuff. So, you liking the movie so far?"

"Liking doesn't even describe it. This is the most amazing film I've ever seen. even better than the documentary. Humans are so fascinating."

That made you want to ask a question. "Yeah. So, let me ask you this then. Do you think I'm fascinating?"

Chrysalis's eyes never left the screen as she answered "Yes and no. Ponies and that idiot Discord has tainted you some. But you're good enough to at least be allowed around me. And have the friendship we have, of course."

That’s a good answer. From her? That's a good answer. You liked that answer. But as the movie went on. Things started taking a darker turn. You could see Chrysalis get worried. She was making enough expressions to show that the whole "We're all alone" part of the talk in prison made her worry. But she wanted to focus. So she didn't say a word. In fact, as the drug trade stuff went on. Chrysalis started rubbing her forehead, even she could see Henry was fucking up

"Oh no. Dammit, Henry! Whatever that stuff is. Paulie told you to knock it off. You always listen to the leader of the hive..gang..whatever. Ugh. Come on. Anon, please don't tell me..no, never mind. Don't spoil. I'm sure everything will be alright" Chrysalis didn't want to think of the worst.

She seemed in higher spirits about the upcoming heist. But the drug stuff? It didn't sit right with her.

"You alright?" You asked

"I just don't feel what Henry is doing is right. If Paulie said to stay away from it, stay away from it. But even the foalsitter..er..babysitter? Anon, this kind of thing? It can bring down an entire hive. Destroy it even....Its just not good:"

And you already knew what she meant. And for some reason, more than it ever has before, it started to bother you. Though, as things started looking up in the movie. Chrysalis was put in a better mood. And with that, it put you in a better mood too. The heist, Tommy "being made", the call to whack the fucking wig man. Chrysalis had started to understand most of it at this point. She even understood why Jimmy started to cut off loose ends. No, she was excited for the big scene. Tommy being made.

"Ohhh, Anon, this is going to be great! I can't wait!" She was getting giddy.

At first you were happy that she was happy. But the realization of the truth. And something else.

Something else.... It was digging into your soul.

Then it happened.

Bang!

And Tommy was dead...

Chrysalis flew into an instant rage, she reacted more than even Jimmy. She was livid. "WHY?! WHY! WHAT DID HE DO?! WHY?! THOSE FUCKING PIECES OF SHIT!"

And that’s when it hit you. Chrysalis's rage was drowned out by a stronger feeling. Guilt. It was if you had pulled the trigger yourself. Worse, as the movie entered it's conclusion with everyone betraying each other and everything falling apart. You felt like a version of Henry Hill. And Chrysalis? She was Paulie. Probably the one who least deserved it from a gangster's sense.

Of course. Before that, before the end, Chrysalis was angry. Even during the end, she was angry. She couldn't sit still. And she kept yammering on on how Henry should have stayed away from the drugs. And even lamented that fact that maybe..just maybe..Tommy had gone too far. "I can't believe this. All of this ruined because of a loss of loyalty. All of this destroyed because Tommy somehow went too far. Anon. I...ugh" Chrysalis could feel the remnants of her hangover come on.

"M-my queen. A-are you alright?!" Scrappy jumped to attention. Ready to massage her at a moment's notice.

"Yes, Captain, I'm fine. Just a little overwhelmed by this film. It's been some time since I've felt such a mix of feelings. Anon, I'm glad we watched this together. It was a learning experience to be sure" Chrysalis looked over the balcony at her changelings and sighed "I can only hope that in the end, my little ones will be strong and loyal little Tommys. And not idiotic Henrys or just traitorous scum in general like Thorax. And you know what? Anon?" She looked to you with a smile "You may be an idiot most of the time. But after watching this, I'd like to think of me, you, and the captain as Goodfellas. But without the terrible flaws."

You weren't listening. You were stuck on the fact Chrysalis was shaken for the last part of the movie. You were stuck on the fact that your "disloyalty" would destroy everything.

But that's what was going to happen...wasn't it? You could look anywhere but straight.

You fucking monster. What would even happen to Scrappy? It looked like nobody even gave a shit about him, including you. You should have done something. But what could you have done? Chrysalis wasn't the only one hanging in the balance. You wish you were put in witness protection right now. Just to get out of all this. Anon, oh Anon....You were such a shit.

"Anon? Is there something wrong?" Chrysalis was in front of you. Looking at you. she looked...worried. Or maybe you were looking too deep into it.

"I guess that ending always gets me. Are you alright? You looked pretty shaken after Tommy got shot" You did your best to pull yourself back together.

"I've gotten over it, even if shooting him was a waste. It's just a film of a time long past after all. No reason to weep. Just have to learn from it, both the good and the bad. I can definitely see some ideas in the movie that I can use in my current state. As can you captain, I'm sure you noticed a few ideas, am I right?" She looked to Scrappy with a sly grin.

He saluted "Yes, my Queen, I think I noticed a few things. Erm...are you sure you're ok though?"

"Yes Captain. Don't do that, alright? Focus on yourself and your work. If you become clouded by such meaningless feelings like those ponies, they will have you for dinner! Only worry if there's danger, understand? I won't tell you again."

"Y-yes My queen..i-it won't happen again" Scrappy, poor Scrappy. He was already taken in by Applebloom. And he's learned enough to worry about Chrysalis's most minor problems at this point.

Even weirder that she accepted you asking if she was ok over her captain. Then again. She expected that from you most likely. From him? She needed him to be diligent and cunning. So it made sense.

You tapped your horn. Disabling the theater spell and setting everything back to normal.

You sigh. It was enough to get Chrysalis's attention again. "Anon, come on. It's a movie you had to have seen a million times already. And if you're worried about my reaction, then don't. You're setting a bad example for my children. Come on, where's that smile? hmm?" She smiles gently at you as she brings you close to herself. She then hugs you gently as she changes into her "Nymous" form. "Where's that love?"

But despite her warm and inviting nature, whether it be false or true, you couldn't get over the fact that the end of the movie was a reflection of what was about to happen. Not exact, but you were essentially selling her out by going along with Celestia's plan. Fucking...dammit. "I'm sorry. I guess watching it again just trudged up some bad memories. I am glad though, that I got to share the movie with you."

"It was good, I admit. But come on, Anon, it's still but a film. I'm over it. And that was my first time seeing it. It was amazing though, I admit it. I'd like a Tommy of my own. But alas, it was not meant to be...unless you want to be my Tommy. hmm?" She started to gently play with your mane and rub your head. Suddenly, her voice became soft and sensual "Or maybe. We could reenact that one moment with Karen and Henry. Whatever your marefriend doesn't know, won't hurt her, right?"

She was....trying to cheer you up in anyway she could. even tried to arouse you with an empty offer. But it just didn't work this time. "I'm sorry, I guess I'm really just not in the mood."

"Clearly" Chrysalis sighed as she reverted back to her buggy self "Why don't you just go to bed for now? Get yourself a nap. You're depressing when you're all mopey. And Captain? Return to your post. And try to keep an eye on the purple pest's import of books. The moment you notice anything useful, you let me know."

Scrappy saluted "Yes, my queen! I will do you proud!" and scampered off.

"I'm so glad I made him captain. Never questions me and gives his life to get the job done. Not a single cowardly spot on his entire exoskeleton. If only he was tougher, he'd be perfect. Anyway, Anon, we really must do this again soon. I had fun, I noticed you had fun. And I'd like to have this kind of fun again. There, I admitted to something 'fun' and 'entertaining'. Take it as you will."

You stay silent, and move close to her and give her a hug as you keep yourself from crying.

"Anon? What are you doing?" Chrysalis raised an eyebrow as she looked down at you. A little disgusted by your sudden display of affection.

"I just...felt like hugging one of my best friends. Thats all"

"You really are out of it..Fine.." Chrysalis gives you a more affectionate hug. Secretly, she even refrains from feeding off the love that was finally pouring out of you. She felt a small hint of fear that all of a sudden it'd suddenly break you. She had no idea why you were acting this way, but she blamed the movie . After a few moments, longer than she herself would have liked, she slowly slides you away "That's enough. I'm the only one allowed to give affection around here. Remember that."

"Y-yeah...still..thanks..."

"Hmmmm, Anon. Just go to your room and go to bed. Or go out or something. This is a little too ridiculous for me." She even wondered if her changelings were feeding off you. She didn't sense it, she just couldn't figure it out for sure.

"I guess I just need some air. Umm, ok. But, I'll see you later soon. Ok? Promise. We can have a drink together, like in the movie"

Chrysalis seemed fine with that for sure. She wanted to have another chance at holding her alcohol and it did seem like a fun social thing. She was also curious as to what YOU were like when drunk. It made her curious, and even anxious. She wanted this. But she played it off as something mediocre. "I guess we can do that. Just don't expect anything more out of it."

All you expected was just to enjoy her company for as long as you can, that's all. "I won't...take care, Chrysalis"

"Mhmm, sure, fine..leave already. You're actually disrupting the love we have from the orb with your moping." She shooed you away. But deep inside, she was trying to figure out what exactly set this off. Maybe it was just a human thing, like how humans acted oddly at times like in the movie.

And with that, you left. You left to your room.....Or somewhere. Who knows...? You didn't care. Sooner or later, It will all explode in your face.

Chapter 305

You slam your face into your bed, right into your pillow, and begin to tear up. You didn't want to deal with the day. Hell, you were hoping you never had to get up again. You were an asshole, you were just letting it happen.

Have to think of something. Have to think. Have to-

"A-Anon, are you ok?" You hear Scrappy's voice as you feel movement on your bed.

You tilt your head enough to look back. There he was, looking as worried as ever.

"I thought Chrysalis told you to go back to your post?" You try to sound stoic.

"I-I know. But I was worried. You seem really really hurt."

"I'm really really not. I'm just tired. Look, Applebloom probably wants to see you. Just go to her and let me nap."

"But, even the queen is worried about you. I have to make sure you're ok" Scrappy brazenly stepped close to you and started massaging your head. "Does this help?"

You shoo him away and turn the other direction as you get annoyed. "No, leave me be, Scrappy. Besides, did she say she was worried? Or are you assuming?"

"Well..erm. She didn't say she was worried. But I could feel it."

Feel it?

Being her spawn, it was possible he could have actually felt something. Especially since they feed off emotions in the first place. Chrysalis was worried? Was that progress? Or maybe, you really were the only one she could relate to. "Scrappy, let me ask you a question. Do you think your Queen really wants to crush all the ponies?"

You look back at him expecting something. But that something was a resounding nod. "Mhmmm! She's always thinking about it. But she doesn't think of crushing you. Just them...which...ngh" Scrappy feels a heaviness in his buggy heart. Enough to put his hoof to his chest. "W-which, I wish she'd at least think it over. I don't want my friends to be crushed. But she won't listen. She doesn't like any of my friends very much...she doesn't know they’re my friends..." Scrappy started to feel really down now as he slumped onto his belly. "Being the captain is hard..."

You just stared at him. What are you even going to do with him? What's going to happen to him? The only real thing you could think of is to separate him from what's going to happen and make him a permadog. But would he be happy if that happened? Or would he go nuts? Or just become depressed....

...fucking...

You sigh and reach over to him to give him a pat on the head. He instinctively wags his insect like tail, but he still looked pretty down. "I'll be alright. You really shouldn't worry too much, alright? I'll figure something out about that. You really should get going though. As a farm dog, you have a lot of responsibilities to take care of. You don't want to make Applebloom look bad by not showing up, do you?"

"N-No!" He quickly stands up and hops off the bed "I C-can't disappoint Master Applebloom! B-but..." He looks up back at you with sad eyes "I don't feel right just leaving when you seem so hurt by something."

You change your tone to slight annoyed anger as you wag your hoof towards him with a scowl on your face. "I said I'm fine! I'm just tired, dammit. And when you're tired, the best thing to let that tired pony do is SLEEEEEEP. All you're doing is making things worse right now"

"....O-h, s-sorry, Anon...I..I get it now. I'll go. Y-you sleep good, o-ok?" Now he felt bad. Feeling he was the cause of your current discomfort.

"Yeah, I will..." You flip around to face away from him. "Don't worry about it. It'll be fine"

"...Ok....bye" Scrappy, with a long face and down trodden attitude leaves through the portal door. Only hoping you would be ok after a nap.

But you couldn't nap. You lied. You were being bothered, that was obvious. But, how can you handle this? What trick could you pull that wouldn't piss off the princesses?

As you laid there, thinking, contemplating, you went back to Scrappy's words about Chrysalis.

Was she truly worried? Even if she was, it was too late. IT WAS TOO LATE! WHAT WERE YOU SUPPOSED TO DO TO PROTECT HER?! "FUCKING DAMMIT!" You grab your pillow and throw it at the mirror, but you don't even make a crack in it. "FUUUUUCK!"

You got up and looked at the mirror, you looked at yourself. What a piece of shit! A PIECE OF SHIT! You slam your hoof into the mirror, but you don't damage it in any way. No matter how many times you lay into it. "WHY?! WHY?! JUST...just..." You tried to hurt yourself through your own reflection. But as you look into it with tears, you realized you couldn't even do that. "....what else could go wrong?"

As you stared at your reflection, contemplating, a bright light appears next to you. From it, a scooter dashes forward and smacks into you, easily activating the house's personal barrier on you but still sending you into the wall, the ceiling, and then right to the floor, right on top of your head. It was like a game of pinball.

"E-eeee-eeegghh...ogh....w-what happened?" You just had to say those words...

"MAIL CALL!" Cried out the familiar voice of the mischievous spirit of chaos

You looked up in a daze. Discord was on a scooter in mailman clothes, holding some papers and a letter in his paw. When he noticed you, he looked down at you with a grin. "Anon, didn't you learn in school that standing in the middle of the road is dangerous?"

....FUCKING

"STANDING IN THE MIDDLE OF THE...WHAT?! YOU FUCKING PRICK! YOU RAN INTO ME WITH THAT FUCKING THING! THERE'S NOT EVEN A ROAD HERE! THIS IS MY BEDROOM!"

Discord ignores you as he puts down the papers that were held by a small rope onto the ground next to you. Then he put down a purple letter. "Don't blame me. I have a schedule I have to abide by. How can I provide for this family if I get fired?"

Suddenly, another Discord appears through the floor door, and starts yelling "DISCORD! YOU FILLED MY COFFEE CUP BY AN EXTRA OUNCE! YOU'RE FIRRRREEEEDDD!"

"Hrn..." Discord, the one in mailman garb, just shrugs and tosses away his hat "Never mind ,Anon, back to looking at the want ads."

Why did you even bother? "Discord...I'm having a bit of a crisis right now and...is this school work?" You look at the packed bundle, and it was indeed that. You toss it aside.

"Of course, you did miss another day of school. And for all the wrong reasons too. Meeting with the princesses for some tea party. Egh, please tell me you at least put a spider in one of their cups" Discord looked at you as if there was nothing emotionally or physically wrong with you. Just treating things as seriously as he wishes to.

"Discord...." Fuck it, never mind. You grab the purple envelope and take a look at the front. The purple envelope was from Starlight, one of your friends, someone you cared about....someone Chrysalis wanted to crush just for being a pony.

...Dammit. You go to open the envelope, but then you noticed it's already been torn open. ".....Discord, did you open my mail?"

He nods. "Mhmm, have to make sure there weren't any bombs, or knives, or killer centaurs. Things like that." He shrugs with a constant smirk on his face.

"....Yeah...." You pull the letter out of the envelope and start reading. It wasn't much. She was just letting you know she was ok and JUST NOW decided to make her way to the Crystal Empire, explaining she got held up by a few things. Part of you didn't care, another part hurt that there was a part that didn't care, considering Starlight was a dear friend of yours as well.

You just toss the letter aside, and try to summon up the energy to care. You shouldn't just care about Chrysalis. But she was the only one in immediate, or near immediate danger.

As you sat there, Discord suddenly plucked you by the scruff and placed you back on your bed. "Anon, What's the matter? You're typically more amusing when I do something like this. Is something wrong?"

"...What do you care?" You just look down in shame.

"It could be the fact that you're one of my best friends, next to Fluttershy. Come on, kiddo!" Discord snaps his paw, sending you both into a dimly lit study. You were on a long sofa as Discord sat beside you in a suede jacket. He held a notepad in his talons and a pen in his paws. "Tell me what the problem is"

You couldn't… "...I can't"

"Because Celestia said so, Anon? Whatever it is, it can't be that bad. And if you tell your dear ole dad, I bet you'll feel better than ever. And if not, we can go pull a prank on whatever princess bothered you during that little tea party. THEN you'll feel better. Either way, I'm not cold hearted. You're my friend, and I want to do anything I can to help. Preferably with the latter way of doing things" Discord said as he tried to look like a psychiatrist, sound like one too. He looked bored as he tapped his notepad.

You can't tell him. You can't.... But.. If he can help… If he could somehow help you make sure you don't lose ANY friends...

...But Celestia...

No fuck it, he was going to be told sooner or later..so why not now? Right now? ...Yeah. "Discord...If I tell you this. You have to SWEAR not to tell anypony else"

Discord holds his paw up. "I swear"

You roll your eyes. "Now do it without your talons crossed"

"Hrnnn....fine" Discord shows you his talons as he holds up his paw again "I swear"

"Tail fur..."

"Aren't you observant...fine" Discord shows you his tail as he once again gives you his word.

"And how about that third paw you got hiding behind your back? Also your horns. I see some ends of your antlers crossed."

Discord just stares at you grumpily as he snaps his talons, turning himself into a simple floating cube. one end comes out as a goopy hand and raises itself. "I swear, is this fine?"

You look around the cube. It seemed fine. You don't know why you kept this up yourself, it was obvious he could probably find another reason to say something. But you had a feeling he wouldn't, he was just fucking with you, and for some reason you just obliged him. "Yeah"

"Good" Discord flashes as he returns to his original form. "Now go on and tell me already. whatever it is, it simply MUST be juicy!"

...Here we go. Once you tell him, there's no going back. And so you do. You tell him everything that happened in the meeting in Canterlot. You then tell him how you felt and how you didn't want to lose Chrysalis as a friend. Discord doesn't say a word at all as he listens. He snaps his talons instead, returning everything to normal and plopping you back on your bed. "So....what do you think?

He stays silent for a moment longer as he gives you a stoic stare, stroking his beard as he pondered. And then he spoke "Anon, did it ever occur to you that maybe you made your life a tad more busy then it should be?"

What kind of answer was that? "What do you mean?"

"I mean, sonny boy, that I only intended for you to make friends with ponies and cause a bit of mischief here and there. Not throw your life into total turmoil because you decided to make friends with a villain."

...Oh. "Well, what do you want? We became friends, that's all there is to it. Do you even remember how it started? You're the one who locked her up in here in the first place" What was he even talking about? Even if that’s what he intended, things still went awry and changed. If he didn't want this, he shouldn't have locked her up in the house.

"Of course I do. But aside from what I may have said, I only intended her to stay for just a little while for fun. The only reason I've kept her around is because of you, Anon. Sure, she's fun to toy with. But she's not the type of company I like to keep. Never been a fan of the royal snooty sort...unless it's me of course"

So that's it? He didn't get rid of her because of you? So he was just being your friend. But it also seemed that his own feelings on the matter would not let him lend you his aid. "So you won't help me then?"

Discord smirked at you, and shook his head. "Don't be so hasty, Anon. On one paw, I don't care to stay as a host to our ungrateful guests. But on these talons, I see a phenomenal chance to cause some real chaos. Of course, it depends. What exactly do you need me to do?"

....Discord.. You got off from your bed and hugged him tightly. "Thanks for being a bro, Discord, Thank you so damn much!"

Discord slowly pulls you away with a serious look on his face "Don't thank me yet, Anon." The entire room started to turn darker as his face became scarier "For if this causes any harm to Fluttershy, you shall suffer one thousand years of spankings in the span of five hours. Do you understand?"

Uhhhh, holy fuck. You gulped at that, even shook. That was fucking scary to even hear, much less feel. The air was turning cold as it turned darker. You slowly nodded, still feeling confident despite the sudden worry. Then everything turns normal as Discord grins and clasps his paw with his talons. "Good, now what do you need me to do, Anon?"

...Scary. "I'm not exactly sure. We can't keep the princesses away forever though. Then again, they expect your help with this when the time comes so...."

"Make up excuses?" He asks.

"Make up excuses...but we need something else. Celestia can be pretty crafty. And Twilight has a knack for noticing when things are off, Even if it clobbers the hell out of her, like when she couldn't believe in Pinkie's Pinkie-sense"

"Hrnnn" Discord pondered. "This is quite the conundrum. Because if I know Celestia, she might get desperate enough to tell Fluttershy what's going on. And then?" Discord shrugs "It'd be over. I'm in no way willing to do anything to Fluttershy if it escalates to more than just turning her away."

At least he was being honest.

"Excuses is all I have right now anyway. I don't want to hurt anypony. But I also don't want Chrysalis to find out. And apparently Celestia wants to help with getting something set up for me and Chrysalis to be away while she tries to reform the changelings. So I guess you can prevent that from happening too, right?"

"I can, but as I said, there's a limit. We need something permanent." Discord produces a long bean bag chair under himself and plants himself on it with his back. "But that might be impossible. Ponies are persistent, Anon , ESPECIALLY Twilight. Eventually they'd catch on to the fact we're trying to keep them out and then Celestia would get all noble on us and complain about the fact we're preventing her from doing something 'Just'."

"..I know, they all would. The only thing I have as back up is you making absolutely sure Chrysalis wouldn't be banished."

"Easy, but if she knows you're involved at all. You could kiss that friendship goodbye. I'd have no idea how you'd be able to make up for the fact that suddenly her entire hive would be against her. Then again, would it really be that bad, Anon? Need I remind you that she wants to conquer all of Equestria?"

"...And you only care about that because it also involves Fluttershy, right?"

"Yes...BUT! It involves you too. Anon, you're startlingly way too involved with your friendship with Chrysalis. Take a lesson from your Daddy Discord. I made the mistake of making friends with an evil villain once, and that mistake nearly cost me everything. Chryssy could in fact just be using you to get what she wants. And if she isn't, all she wants from you would be your obedience as she takes over all pony kind. Is it really worth risking so much just for her?" Discord explains

Was it?

"Need I remind you of your other friends? Especially me. How am I supposed to explain to Fluttershy that you actually want to protect the changeling queen? How can I protect you when you are seen as a monster? What about dear Diamond Tiara's heart when she finds out you are as much as Chryssy's prince as you are hers? Not to sound like Twilight, Anon, but..." His head and voice changes to Twilight temporarily "But you might be making a mistake, one that puts your entire life at risk, is it really worth it?"

And the worst part was, he was right. Things would come crumbling down on you...wouldn't it? No matter what you do, you'd be risking something… You put your hoof to your face and start rubbing up and down until you came to a final conclusion. But it was hard. No matter what you could think of, it'd just end up pissing off someone. "....Stalling for time it is. Even if I can't reform Chrysalis, maybe she can trust me enough that when Celestia does pull off her plan, I won't actually lose her as a friend. Maybe even, I dunno, make up a situation where she 'tricks me' into telling her what’s happening while we're out. It'd give Celestia some time to try, and Chrysalis might not just break her friendship with me when I tell her....maybe"

Discord shakes his head at you when you didn't properly answer his question. He was looking at you like you were losing your mind. It saddened him. "That won't work.You can certainly try, but it won't work. I may not have a full handle on friendship yet, but I certainly know how I'd feel if that happened. If you go through with that plan, you'd end up making everypony angry. Unless of course, Celestia somehow managed to reform the changelings in like five minutes, in which you're back to an angry queen. But.." Discord lets out a soft chuckle. "Good luck with that. I'd actually give up my powers for a whole day just to have a front row seat of seeing Celestia trying to reform them. Because nothing she could do would get them to reform in that amount of time. Chryssy suddenly showing up would be gold. Imagine it, a battle of epic proportions that wouldn't work out due to my barrier. Turning everypony into living pinballs. Hilarious really."

Discord, you could tell, was trying to deter you while seeming in with it. It was his own way to protect you. You could tell, you've lived long enough with him to tell when he's thinking something different from how he's acting. He probably crossed something while he was in cube form, you were sure of it.

You sighed. "You're not actually going to help me, are you?"

Discord's smirk left him as he slowly rested on his back and looked up at the ceiling as it turned into a sea of stars. "Yes and No. No, because it's still my final decision and I'm worried about you. I have noticed that you care about her because you're able to connect to her on a humanly level. If she wasn't such a hated scourge, I'd completely reconsider..."

Dammit....Even Discord was siding with Celestia. Christ, you couldn't even challenge that. Even Chrysalis has said just how evil she was and could be. "..Then why the yes?"

"The yes is because I'd love to see all the princesses faces when I keep denying them their request to enter my home. If they don't know that I do know, then I can get away with turning them away a few times. Most likely with side splitting results. But eventually they'll catch on, and well..you know the rest"

So that was it then. You started to tear up again, your ears drooped, you actually climbed and wobbled up onto Discord's beanbag chair and starting cuddling your face onto his side as you whimpered. "...I'm a monster...Discord, I really...r-really fucked up."

Discord, at first, tenses up, but he gently takes you into his paw and talons and holds you to his chest as he gently strokes your mane. He could feel you shaking from your utter depression. "I really am sorry, Anon. Sometimes fate is very cruel. But is it really so bad? Is the guilt really that soul crushing?"

"...I just. It's not like I don't like everypony else that’s my friends, Discord. I just...it's tough. if it was back on earth, I probably wouldn't care, things like this happen all the time on earth...Relatively...but. Here? This entire world runs on friendship. And m-maybe it was a mistake being Chrysalis's friend. But sometimes Discord, a lot of the times, I get tired of being a kid. Sometimes I just want to talk to a friend I can relate to."

"Can't you relate with Twilight Two? What's her name? Hmmm.." Discord pondered

He meant Starlight… Starlight. That's right..she knew your secret. She knew your secret same as Chrysalis, more or less. But...no. Dammit, could you really have had a near similar friendship with Starlight that you have with Chrysalis?

Even then, the painful part is the fact you were Chrysalis's only real friend. She liked you. And you liked her. And the guilt of crushing all that over official royal business was hurting you really bad.

"...Yeah, but. Chrysalis is still a good friend, even if she is evil. Maybe you're right. Maybe it would have been better if I didn't befriend her...but it's too late now. And really? Wouldn't you feel terrible if you lost me and Fluttershy? Or really...just Fluttershy"

You hear Discord sigh from that. "As if you need to ask that question...Still, all I can do for you is stall Celestia and the other princesses for awhile and try to make absolutely sure she stays locked up in the basement. What Chryssy herself decides to do thereafter is entirely up to her. For all we both know, she could end up like in one of those horror books. A creature stuck in a basement who goes mad....That's all I can do for you, Anon."

He just continues to hold on to you and stroke your mane. If you looked at his face, you'd see that he looked utterly crushed about it. "...It's ok. I'll just have to try to do my best...Look, when we end up doing those classes. Try not to overdo it on her, alright?"

"I suppose I could try. Speaking of which, Anon, I actually came looking for you to see if you'd accompany me on checking out the classroom today. To see if it was on the up and up"

...You were way too depressed to do that. "Discord...I don't think I'm up for it"

"Come on, Anon" Discord enthusiasm slowly increases as he holds you up like a cat and smiles at you. "We'll be going tomorrow anyway. We really should see if this 'Muffin Top' is worthy to teach the great spirit of chaos and his son of mischief making. It'll get your mind off of things."

"Discord..." You sigh at him. "I really don't think so..."

"Anon, I'm going to do my best for you here. If there was less riding on this then I'd turn Celestia to stone until she agreed to leave it alone or something like that. Well, maybe not to stone. Perhaps just trap her on a luxury cruise until she gave in. Those massages are nothing to sniff at. But alas, I know Fluttershy is tied into this so this is the best I can do. So, come on. Let's go check things out, and try to get your mind off this ridiculous and depressive slump"

You look at him with big sad eyes. At least he was trying. "Do you really mean that? That you're doing your best?"

He nods. "Of course I am. You know as well as I do that having any kind of chance to mess with royalty is not something I'd just give up."

You believed that. You believed him. It just meant you'd have to think of something else if you could… For now, Discord is probably right. Chrysalis probably felt the movie was what got you down. But if you stayed depressed around her at all times, she might eventually catch on...and then who knows what might happen.

Fine...You'd do it. "Alright...let's go"

Discord doesn't jump up in happiness or say anything to exclaim his excitement. He gently places his paw on your head and gives you a warming smile. "Don't worry too much, Anon. There's always a chance things might just work out. I can't guarantee it of course. But I'll keep everything I have crossed, and hope for the best for you"

You give him another hug. "Thanks Discord....Thanks for understanding" And with that, and with a pat on your head. You both vanished from the room.

Chapter 306

When you both reappeared, you were in some sort of empty classroom.

The only thing around was a desk, a blackboard, a front door with a window on each side beside it, and two doors near both ends of the blackboard. On the left is a normal looking door. And while the right is also the same, you and Discord can smell something good and buttery on the other side of it.

Above the blackboard is a wide picture frame, holding a picture of what seems like a fishing dock. There's a few ponies in the picture as well. On the left side were two swanky looking pegasi males, each grinning while they wore some nifty red vests. They both had well groomed black manes and peach fur. They had their eyes closed so you couldn't tell their eye color, but they were definitely twins. They stood beside a much older, kind of portly pegasus pony wearing red glasses and sporting a tied top mane. The mane color was both a darker brown and a greyish white, her eyes were emerald green but you couldn't get a glimpse of any of their cutie marks due to standing so close to one another. On the furthest right was a very young Earth mare with cute overalls and a backwards red cap, she was closing her eyes with a happy little grin and also featured a grey coat with a black mane. Next to her was a very fat yet young earth stallion in the same attire and same fur color but with a mopley brown mane. And finally was an equally fat old earth pony with a golden fishing rod beside him and a huge beard adorned his chin and a messy mane on his head, also with the same attire as the two ponies on the right and sporting a gold tooth in his grin. They must have been a family, or still are.

The desk had a few things on it. papers, pens, and a...wedding photo in black and white. If you were right, they must have been the two most middle ponies from the family picture. Except the fat guy with the golden rod was wearing a tux and had no beard. And the old pegasus pony was slim, her mane was beautiful and flowing, with some covering her right eye ,and just like the family picture, they looked very happy

"Ohhhh, I could already tell this is going to be really boring. How am I supposed to work my magic when everything is so drab. I might have to offer my services as a masterful interior decorator to get this place looking a little more lively." Discord was lifting up the wedding photo and taking a look before putting it down. "I mean seriously, is this a classroom or a house sale we just so happened to miss? There's nothing here."

You sighed, you were still thinking about Chrysalis. Even thinking some dangerous thoughts. some extreme thoughts to get your way while battling yourself to not think them as they bordered on evil itself. "I guess"

"You guess? Come on, Anon, don't be this way. Take it from me. If you stay in a slump you won't be able to think of anything that can help you.with your problem. And then that problem becomes my problem. And then it becomes annoying. And then I'll be in a slump because you're in a slump. And then who is supposed to bring the real fun and joy to Equestria? Pinkie Pie?! Pffft, nope. She's can't handle that pressure. She has no talent for it"

But you just couldn't muster anything up. Not even a giggle.

"Anon..." Discord sighed "If you can't do it for me, do it for Fluttershy. You don't want to break her heart do you? If you can't pull yourself out of this now, you won't be able to do it later."

"I know...Give me a second...please" You tried. You fucking tried. You sat there, pondering. If you could think of just one thing, it might lift your mood.

But what? Discord could only stall the princesses, and that wasn't good enough.

But...wait. He mentioned Starlight.

And although Starlight seemed against having Chrysalis around. Maybe if you discussed the situation with her, she could help you think of something. She was pretty smart after all, she did manage to take over an entire town and come up with some insanely ridiculous spells like cutie mark removal. Maybe through her, you could have some hope.

But would she help you?. Maybe not, but it was an option. In fact, you'll have to see if she's still in the town tonight or if she went to the Crystal Empire already.

You just had to hope

And that hope was really little. You were still having trouble smiling or being upbeat.

And then you heard a soft gentle humming.

The portly pegasus mare from the family picture came into the room from the door on the right, with mitted wings as they held a silver plate with six fresh baked muffins on top. She was humming a gentle song as she placed the plate onto her desk and whipped her wings to remove the mitts and have them fall to the right of the plate.

She took a sniff and smiled at her work "How heavenly, I'm so glad the baking class let me use their ovens. A bunch of sweet kids, don'tcha know." She said to herself with a giggle, her voice was a motherly yet Canadian like..or maybe something else? It sounded northern at least. But the most curious thing about her was her cutie mark. It was four playing cards. Diamond,Spade,Club, Heart.

That must be Mrs.Muffin Top.

When she looked up, she noticed you and Discord. And instead of being frightened, she just smiled at the both of you. "Oh, hello there. I don't mean to upset you two boys but class is tomorrow, don'tcha know. Or did you have a few questions about it? Either way, I don't mind answering any questions you might have"

Discord turned back in surprise. He wasn't expecting her to show up. And the way she acted so nonchalantly at his presence irked him. He gave her a slightly menacing glare as he coughed into his paw and stepped closer to her. "Excuse me, but your attitude surprises me. Don't you realize who you're talking to?"

She nodded with a pleasant smile "Mhmm, you're the spirit of chaos, Mr.Discord. A pleasure to meetcha, don'tcha know. I've seen you in the papers and Princess Twilight has gone over a few things about you already. Even asked me to be careful but….." She tilted her head as she smiled "I happen to think parents are the most wonderful and most trustworthy type of ponies... and griffons…. And well, anything else that knows the joys of children. So all I have to say is welcome to my class, and would you like a muffin?" She slides the plate towards him "Their freeeeessshhh!" She exclaims in a sing songy way

Discord just looks down at one, then at her, then at one again and stares. "I don't even know where this has been."

"The oven" She smiles at him, and then finally, she notices you. She noticed you were bent over and depressed. She comes out from behind the desk and walks over to you "Oh dear, you look so sad. What's the matter, hun?" She already looked incredibly worried.

You looked up at her. That sweet face. Ogh, why did she have to look at you like that? She didn't know you.

She didn't approach you further, she instead planted her butt right in front of you and began to speak with you in a concerned tone. "What's wrong, hun? What's got you so gloomy?" She gently raises your head with her hoof so she could get a good look at your face.

Discord crossed his arms, feeling a strange sense of jealousy. He let out a "hmph" as he stared for a moment before speaking "My son is dealing with a very complex issue at the moment. Something that the likes of you has no way of fixing. In fact, if you want to see how it's really done, why don't you step aside while I work my magic." Discord was feeling both protective and competitive about cheering you up. He's failed thus far, but he wasn't going to let his "Teacher" and "Judge" see that he was a bad father.

But there was something about her. She seemed so sweet and caring. And that soft motherly touch. Just like with Fluttershy, it really got to you. "I-I'm just worried about something..that's all"

"Ohhh, well hun. Don't you worry. Momma Top is gonna fix that frown. How would you like to have a muffin? Or would you like two? You could have as many as you like, don'tcha know. I don't mind, I only made them for practice anyway and they sure do smell good. Then we can talk about what's bothering you" She must have had one hell of an instinct because she instantly cared about how you were feeling just by looking at you.

Discord scoffed, unaware he was being ignored "Bribery? hah! How elementary. How could you even hope to understand the complicated feelings he's feeling right now? Now step aside. And let me show you how it's really done."

"I can't talk about it. It's just something I need to personally deal with" You tell her.

"Oh, I've heard so much about you already, don'tcha know. The heroic little colt. Dont'cha worry, hun, if you don't want to talk about it you don't have to. But I don't want unhappy children in my classroom. So why don't you tell Momma Top what she has to do to get you up and running again. It can be anything, I'm even willing to bet two hundred REAL bits to your happiness that I can get you to smile if you at least give me a hint." Her smile was sweet.

but....holy fuck did she just..?! She just said “real”.... "U-uhh, a-are you serious about the bits? I mean, I don't need them but, isn't that a lot?"

"Hun, Me and my hubbie are pretty successful in our own right. I'm even willing to go double on the bet just because I'm feeling pretty confident that I can get that grin. Either way, you're gonna be pretty happy, don'tcha know. So what do I have to do?" She looked pretty confident and yet still motherly about it.

"Oh ho, I'm going to pull out a chair for this disaster" Discord literally makes one appear as he sits and watches "Maybe I'll buy the classroom from you afterwards and have my own class, perhaps the philosophies of chaos and such."

"Look, I don't think there's anything you can do ma'am. I shouldn't have even come here. I'm sorry." You apologized, it’s all you could do.

"Hmmm" She pondered for a moment as she examined your face "Trouble with a friend. He or she might be a troublemaker, but you care enough to not want to do anything to hurt them. But you're afraid something might or is going to happen. Ohhh, and it looks pretty bad too with the way your muzzle is turned. Am I somewhere in the park?"

....da fuck? Who was this mare? She was mostly right. How did she? "..How did you-"

"Know? it's part of my old profession, don'tcha know. And I was a master at it. Really good, but enough about me, hun. Let's talk about you. What's the problem?"

Maybe you could tell her a little bit. If only because you were interested in what the fuck she was doing to figure that much out. "W-well. I'm good friends with somepony who not a lot of other ponies like. In fact, something is going to happen that's good for everypony except her. It’s going to make her hate me and be angry for a very very very long time. I want to stop it, but I know I'd lose so many other friends if I did. I just don't know what to do"

"Hmmmm, now that's a toughie." She was paying close attention to your face. Was she reading it somehow? "I might actually lose this one. I don't think I've ever seen such a complicated face on a colt before. This must be a pretty heavy secret, dont'cha know. Well, Momma Top is going to take a crack at it anyway. I feel your friend doesn't fit in regular society. Given that your father is a spirit of mischief and chaos, I can take a guess that this isn't your garden variety friend. Maybe even somepony that's hated among others, and not just the ponies around you. But let me tell you something, Anon, listen to ole Momma Top. Sometimes there are things we can't control. Now I'm not saying it should or shouldn't happen, but it being out of our control is something that does happen. But I'll tell you this, hun. Friends who truly care about you last forever. And no matter what, if things were out of your control, then they will understand. And if they don't, they'll come to understand eventually, and then everything will be honky dory. If they can't understand that it wasn't your fault then they weren't a real good friend to begin with."

You sigh, you felt she was off. "It's more complicated than that. She has-"

"A lot riding on what she does. I can tell, I know how it is, hun. Doesn't look like what she does is something I'd call legal though. I won't judge though, I'm not here to judge, sweetie. I'm here to help you. That's all I want to do. Now let's see, if your friend is a friend that only really likes you but doesn't like other ponies and vice versa, then this might be something that's pretty big. I'm not surprised considering who you rub hoovsies with. But you look distraught, and as a mother of four it hurts to see such a young colt hurting so badly, don’tcha know. Because it looks like you really don't have any kind of control over it whatsoever. Anon, what I can tell you is this. Don't do anything you might regret, and put trust in your friend. If you put trust in her, she'll always see you as her friend, even if it won't be for awhile after whatever happens happens. So what you have to do, Anon, is make her feel more than a friend. Treat her like a sister, and I'm sure things will work out in the end."

Treat her like your sister?

Just let it happen? And just hope?

You already knew that...but

Why is it when she tells it. It feels right? It was like she knew. Like she was some kind of fortune teller.

But would Chrysalis really be your friend after all that? No...Muffin Top can't possibly understand. She can't.

When you look up at her, she looked melancholic

"I know I can't understand, hun. I know it's tough. I know my answer might even be wrong. Oh sweetie, I wish I could give you a definitive answer. But even if I can't, I can tell you're a smart enough colt to figure something out. But you have to trust in your friendship too. If there's no trust and you just let yourself fall apart, then you'll definitely lose your friend" She tells you as she gently wipes away a tear from your face.

D-dammit. You've only known her for a few minutes and she was already close to something. Your mind was close to breaking, you didn't know if she was right or wrong. Even if you heard it before, the way she just was figuring things out, it made you doubt yourself ,and yet it made you believe that maybe Chrysalis WOULD forgive you in the end.

You fell forward, you didn't even realize Muffin Top had caught you and held you close, hugging and comforting you like a mother would. "She's already like family to m-m-meee. I don't...I d-don't want to lose her. S-she's practically my sister. I-I don't care if s-she's bad or hated. I d-don't want to lose any of my close friends. They are closer to me than anything I had in m-my old world, e-every single one..I don't want to lose one..not anypony...no matter w-what!"

Muffin Top didn't understand what you meant by "old world". She just assumed you meant “orphanage”. But her heart was broken, she just rocked back and forth as she did her best to comfort you. "Shhhhh...let it all out, hun. I know it's hard. Oh sweetie..oh oh sweetie. Momma Top is so sorry, I wish I could do more for you" She started to tear up, and cry with you. "D-don't cry"

You look up at her, teary eyed, sniffing. You didn't mean to make her cry....it was your soft spot for the motherly or soft. You never wanted to hurt ponies like Fluttershy or her. They were too pure. Well, you didn't want to hurt anyone you liked. But ponies who were soft you felt bad about because they didn't have thick skin like tougher friends like Lyra and Bonbon would and they were always so nice to you to boot.

"L-look, I-I'm smiling. See?" You force a smile. You force a smile for a pony who was really trying to help. a pony you never met who felt like someone you knew for awhile.

"Ohhh, hun. You poor dear" She smirked at your smile, but still felt fairly awful "You're so cute, Now I know why your father chose you. You have such a big heart, don'tcha know. I'm glad you'll be in my class tomorrow. But listen to me, don't ever smile if it's not a real smile, Ok? You have to be honest. We may have just met, but I always feel a connection with everypony that steps into my classroom." She then slowly turns to Discord "That includes you too, Mr.Discord. I can see on your face that you're faking being a smuggy mcsmuggenstein, don'tcha know. I know you really want to help your son. So listen closely, because this is your first lesson. Be there for your son. Help him. Even if you want to be somewhere else, help him"

Discord sat there. He still had that smug smile but his eyes were so watery that his eyes began to slowly melt."....Do you even understand what you're talking about?"

"Not completely. I'm here to help, that's all I can do. I try to lead families down the right path, don'tcha know. As Anon's father, it's up to you to do your very best for him and help him. Not your best, but your very best. Even if it compromises your values." She said as she held you tightly and gently stroked her hoof along your back.

Discord said nothing at first.He didn't even know what to say. Then he stood up and walked towards the window and stared outside. He was thinking about you, about Fluttershy, and how utterly fucked up things had gotten. "I'm heading to Canterlot"

W-wut? "D-dad?"

That wasn't even keeping in line with things. You felt natural in saying it. You felt like naturally saying “Dad”

"Chaos is my game, Anon. I don't know if this will make things better or worse. But I'll have a little chat with you-know-who. I'll give it my very best try. But let me ask you this. You won't hate me if I make things worse...right? I won't try to make it worse. But you know me, you just never know what will happen" Discord slowly turned his head towards you with an honest and serious look. What the fuck was he thinking?

"W-wait" You nod towards Muffin Top and she let's you down. You walk over to Discord, he was talking crazy. He can't do this. Celestia will mulch him in a battle of words. And then who knows what the fuck will happen.

But you felt so touched. You've never seen him so serious to protect you and someone he can care less about. "You can't do this. ....I'd rather just do what Mrs.Muffin Top said and just be a family. That just..might be best"

"And so I'm reduced to doing nothing? Hrn, Anon. That won't do. I said I'd do my best and I've heard enough of what this pony has had to say. Believe it or not, it pains me to see you so broken up over this. And so..." Discord snapped his talons, causing the entire area to fizzle out to black. You were both alone now... "I will have my own discussion with Celestia. And don't worry, if I do somehow lose. I'll just go back to my stalling tactic"

"Discord...D-dad...If Celestia finds out you know. I..."

"You don't even know what she'll do, Anon. Celestia has been declawed and defanged for quite some time. She's more of a softie than she's ever been and the only reason she's doing this is to make sure nothing happens to her precious ponies. Well, I have a few ponies I need to protect too. Even if I don't care for the bug you yourself are protecting.."

"You're just going to go, no matter what I say. Aren't you?"

"Bingo! That's the plan. I just want you to trust in me, Anon. I, well, it's hard to say this. But I just want to feel what it must feel like to be as cared about as much as you care for somepony who, need I remind you, tried to off you several times before"

...Discord...dammit… "Discord...I...Did I make you feel like you weren't as important?"

But he said nothing, he didn’t respond.

"....Discord, I'm sorry...I didn't know. I didn't mean to make you feel like that. I didn't mean to make...anypony feel like they did...Discord. You're...You're the best Dad,bro, and friend anypony could ever have. I mean it, I mean it more than anytime I ever said it before. So much so that life wouldn't be worth living if something happened to you"

He still said nothing

"Discord?"

Then you heard a soft chuckle "Oh I'm here, I was just letting that sink in. So does that make me better than Chrysalis?”

G-goddammit "DISCORD! DON'T BE AN ASSHOLE! I'M SERIOUS!"

"Well, that answers my question. If you're serious then that's surely a yes. Well, I have a princess to defeat in the art of debate. Wish me luuuuuuck, Anon! And try to finish up with this pony. You're too emotionally attached to a ludicrous amount of other ponies already. Ta-ta!"

D-discord...that lovable cuntbag. He played you just for that answer. And yet...he was such a great guy.

But did you really make him feel uncared for in anyway? Maybe you were the cuntbag. Even after all the lessons you learned, you still fucked up. You needed to get better. You needed to make sure all your friends knew you cared. But at the same time, you had to make sure you didn't lose Chrysalis...or anyone...not one single friend.

And then, you appeared back in the classroom with Muffin Top

..Good luck, Dad...

Chapter 308

You are Anon, the colt from another dimension. You were outside heading towards Lyra and Bonbon's house with renewed vigor. You were in a positive mood with a better outlook on things, you wanted to become closer with your friends, and off the top of your head, Lyra and Bonbon would be the friends you've visited the least.

With Discord's abilities, determination, and intelligence, you were sure he would do just fine.

As for Mrs.Muffin Top. Well, she was a pretty kindly pony. When you had calmed down, you had asked her if you could ask some questions. These questions would be about her to get the current situation off your mind. Well, that’s what you told her. You told her just talking about something else would help you.

You also had to explain away Discord's disappearance as something extremely important that you understood and was for your well being. Which, wasn't exactly a lie. Though she did seem upset either way that'd he just leave.

Her cutie mark was probably what interested you the most, and her ability to read you. They apparently went hand in hand. She used to be a master dealer in Las Pegasus with an innate ability to read the faces of other ponies. That was her talent after all. She was so good at it that in every set of games she's ever played and dealt, she made sure to bring more money to the house than she ever lost. And apparently, she had never made a net loss.

That is, until a fisherpony by the name "Big Catch" came strolling in one day with money he had made from catching some legendary fish called "Mega Bassanova". He went to her table with nary a care of whether he won or lost. Apparently he had made decently good money as a fisher already and this money was just extra.

Muffin didn't believe it to be the truth at first, apparently no one ever plays at the tables with 'extra' money. But through his honesty and calm nature, she realized she couldn't read him at all. Apparently the guy is pretty absent minded at times when it comes to anything but fishing as well. And for the first time, she had caused the casino to lose money by failing to figure out what he was thinking. It also made her fall madly in love with him despite him being fat and not very good looking. She loved him for his unpredictability.

And for him? He had trouble keeping a mare because sometimes his fishing would takes weeks or even a month. They couldn't stand waiting or they just didn't want to deal with it. But apparently Muffin didn't mind. And in their marriage they had four children. Spade and Club, the stallions on the left side of the portrait, followed in their mother's hoofsteps.

Bait Masters, who you had to muster all your strength not to fall over laughing, followed in his father's footsteps and helps him on the boat. However, and this surprised you considering how young the daughter looked, but she was apparently the eldest and was aptly and accidentally named "Itty Bitty". Apparently she goes out on her lonesome not to just catch fish, but to catch the legendary uncatchables. Fish that fisherponies strive all their life to catch. She has apparently caught three so far. Impressive, especially since she has found no stallion thats willing to settle with her. Or more, she won't settle period unless the stallion is as spry as she is, as she was apparently very outgoing . She sounded adorable.

It was neat to learn. Gave you an idea of who you'd be around tomorrow. But enough about that, you wondered what BonBon and Lyra were up to. You remembered you also had to see them tomorrow with Scoots for some star gazing, but a visit today too should work.

Though, when you arrived at Lyra's house and knocked....there was no answer. In fact, when you decided to detour and try Bonbon's house....no answer. "...come on, I don't want to walk around all day…” You knock again, but no answer. "Ogh, don't tell me their both in Canterlot. I thought them being there and here a lot was just an exaggeration from the show. LYRA...BONBON! ANY OF YOU IN THERE?"

No answer.

So, what were you supposed to do with your day? Well, you were going to check up on Starlight, that could work. But what if she had left already? Uhhmmmm...why not? It's not like it'd be too much trouble to find out anymore now that you had a portal.

So, using your map and dumping it near a convenient puddle, you return home and use the portal door to enter Starlight's town. Hrn, there has been some progress in just a few days.

You enter the town from where you usually enter and look straight down to spot a building that looked completed at this point, it was right down the middle. That must be the new town hall.

It made you think how fast they managed to get it built within a few days, it was fairly impressive

With nothing else to really do, you might as well get something important done. As you pass by the straight placed homes, you look around to see happy ponies doing happy things. The town itself was much more vibrant now than it was from the show. Sad it was still in the middle of fucking nowhere, that alone still made it feel kind of dreary.

The new building itself was MUCH bigger than Starlight's old house. It was wide and made of marble with pillars lining the front. But it wasn't as big as say, an average government building on earth, It was about half. You wondered if Starlight lived here considering her house was now gone.

You look around, and spot a sign on the side plastered to the wall with some notes about furnishing. Lists of things like tables, seats, a podium, lots of stuff. But you didn't know why the list was there. Though ,when you pushed the doors open and peered inside, you could then see why.

The entrance hall was small and empty with no furnishings, and the walls being made of brown wood. It wasn't even painted yet.

"Hello?" Your voice echoes, but no answer.

You decide to take a look around. But each room you went into was just a big and empty square or rectangle. There was an odd thin hallway that was connected to the entrance hall as well that seemingly ends at a dead end.

But along the way was a sliding door that led to a staircase that spiraled upwards to another door with a weird rope on the side of it. There was a sign, but you didn't care to read it. You were too curious about what was behind that door.

Peculiar, what kind of town hall was this that had something like this out of the way? Seemed like a secret to you, even if the sliding door was obvious.

When you pushed the door open, it lead to a round room with a bed to your left, a desk on the right with filing cabinets to the right of it, and something else to hold..maybe food? Looked like a container of some kind, since there was a small stove on the side.

When you stepped forward, there was a sudden clanging noise. A clanging noise coming from the top of your head. Because a freaking frying pan slammed right onto your noggin, that's what fucking happened. "OGGGGH! WHYYY!" You fell to the ground, your face slamming right onto the ground from the force of the slam, and it fucking hurt. But it didn't knock you out. You felt dizzy as fuck though. "M-my...head...why?..always"

"Oh my gosh! Y-you're Anon! Oh..OH!" You heard a scared stallion's voice as he lifted you with his magic and gently placed you on his bed as he dabbed his hoof on your head and sifted through your mane for any big injuries. "Are you ok?! Ogh..I hope I didn't knock him out"

You groggily turn your head and look to your side to see a blue male stallion with a balloon animal for a cutie mark. "Starlight? When did you get so blue? And changed your cutie mark? And grew a dick..."

"A what now? A-anon, are you alright? Oh no...Everypony is going to get upset at me. Anon, I'm not Starlight. I'm Party Favor." He looked worried as fuck.

"....Why did you change your name?"

"Ohhh, I better get Starlight. H-hold on." Party Favor fetched you a glass of water and put it beside you as he dashed out to get Starlight.

You just rolled on your back as you groaned and held your head, looking around the empty room. "Ugggghh, I swear, when I find out who hit me, I'm going to shove my horn right up their ass...."

It took awhile, but your head finally cleared up enough for your senses to return. You looked around and get a little spooked until you remembered what you were doing. "Fuck..where am I? Is this part of town hall? Or was I kidnapped? Where the hell am I?"

You hop off the bed and take another look around. First, by opening the filing cabinets.

But when you open the bottom most drawer You got blasted with streamers and confetti.

"GYAH!" You fall onto your back as the confetti blasts onto your face, forcing you to spit a few times. You then look straight up at the ceiling, annoyed. ".....Who the fuck puts party shit in their filing cabinet?" ...Then it sorta dons on you. "....aside from Pinkie"

And then you hear the door open. Prompting you to hide on the side of the filing cabinet, because whoever it was, he was clearly fucking violent.

"I-I swear Starlight, I didn't know. He didn't ring the bell. I really thought he was a burglar." You saw Party Favor step in first, nervous about what he had done to you.

"Party Favor, it'll be ok, I promise. C'mon, you have to get a grip. You're the mayor now." Starlight said, she had a saddlebag on with a red cross on it.

"I know, but this is bad. What if I really hurt him?" Party Favor has his eyes completely on Starlight, he was frantic as fuck.

Starlight looked worried too, but not as much as him. "Well...let's just find out if he's....huh?" She noticed you weren't on the bed "Party Favor, didn't you say he was resting on the bed?"

"I uhh...yes?" Party Favor looked upon his bed, but you weren't there. He immediately started to panic and opened the window to look down "OH NO! WHAT IF HE JUMPED OUT THE WINDOW?!"

"Party Favor relax." Starlight tried to calm him down. "He wouldn't just do that"

"S-Starlight, It's just. My entire talent is entertaining and helping ponies, especially the kids. And now? I hurt one, really bad! I knew being mayor was a bad idea, but I didn't listen to myself! How can I be a good mayor if I go around smacking foals?!"

"PARTY FAVOR!" Starlight gave him a slap on the face. "Get a hold of yourself! I promise you it'll be ok. We just need to find him!"

Oy christ, the guy was having a meltdown because he thought he hurt you. Lucky for you, you were used to getting smacked on the head. But fucking mayor? Over Starlight? How the fuck did that happen? "Ok ok, relax. I'm here. Before anypony asks, I wasn't aware of where I was and I was afraid of who was coming in." You pop out and make yourself known.

They both noticed you. And while Party Favor still looked worried, Starlight could already tell you looked pretty ok. She let out a sigh of relief. "Anon, you're ok! That's good but...what are you doing here? And how is your head?"

You give her a soft smile as you approach her and give her a hug. "The usual, it works. Gonna take more than a frying pan to get the better of me. Oh, hey. Party Favor, relax dude. I'm fine. See? Ra-tacha-ratatacha!" You did a little dance and smiled at him to show you were fine.

"Oh thank Celestia. I thought I really hurt you. But, yeah. What are you doing here?" He asks, taking a moment to relax himself

"Um, well. I wanted to talk to Starlight about something and I thought she may have been in here, but when I didn't find her...I kept looking. It looks like somepony lives here after all."

"Well, I do live here. I'm the mayor of our town...which doesn't have a name still" Party Favor informed you as he relaxed himself further.

"Weird, I would have thought Starlight would have become mayor if you guys were going to have one."

Starlight gave you a sheepish smile, more calm now that everything was ok, but feeling a little anxious about the whole thing. "Well, I was mayor. For all of a minute"

Wut? "Ok, what exactly happened then?"

Party Favor chuckled nervously "Well, we held a quick election and Starlight chose me as her opponent. We didn't really need to campaign or anything since everypony knew us anyway. It was pretty short. And in the end Starlight won...then resigned. And here we are"

Well damn. "So, did you make that happen just to make him mayor no matter what? Why?"

"Well, I mean. I didn't. It's just I don't feel I'm really ready to lead the town again yet, e-even though I sort of have since I came back. Party Favor is a lot more qualified right now. Aside from...well...hitting you with a frying pan, he's pretty confident, good with the kids, friendly, hasn't enslaved a town yet, and is really good at setting up social events which helps attract more ponies to the town for trade and new residents" Starlight sighs. "I felt I should just give another qualified pony a chance to lead."

"And I just hope I can handle it. But, I-I know I won't be doing it alone. I have the support of the entire town. And I did promise to do my best for them. I guess I just lost my nerve for a minute" Party Favor chuckled nervously

"Well, it's alright man. I guess I didn't notice if there was a bell to ring or anything. My bad. Won't happen again."

Starlight approached you and gently moved your mane about to make sure there wasn't any bumps or bruises. Amazingly. you looked alright. "Ok good, you really do look ok. So, what did you need to talk to me about?"

You look to Party Favor, then back to her. "Actually, it's something really really private. And I'm pretty glad you haven't left to the Crystal Empire yet"

"Well, I was going to catch the evening train so I could sleep on the way over. I wanted to have a whole day to catch up with him...but um, private? Ok. Party Favor? you don't mind if we use your room to talk, do you?" Starlight asked.

"Of course not. I guess I better do some mayoring stuff anyway. Check on the town and all that. See if there's anypony with a birthday coming up. Take as long as you both need. And Anon? I'm really sorry about hitting you on the head" He still looked rather broken up about it.

You just grin at him, walk over, and pat the side of his leg. "It's alright, dude. Really, I've taken a lot worse. I'll be ok."

"Alright. I'll leave you two alone." And so, feeling a little better about it. Party Favor left you and Starlight alone.

Starlight put the medical bag on the bed and hopped into Party Favor's desk seat as you plopped your butt on the floor.

"So, what did you need to talk to me about Anon?" She asked

"It's complicated, I'm going to tell you some things first. And I want you to tell me what you think. Ok?"

"Alright, no problem. I hope it isn't anything serious. Oh..." She sighed in relief. "I'm glad Party Favor didn't use the taser I gave him either. Woo, that could have been pretty bad"

Wut? "You gave him the taser?"

"I gave him the rebuilt prototype to keep up here in a safe since I want it to be close but closed off to everypony. Only he and I know the combination. The safe itself is behind that filing cabinet there." She points to the cabinet.

Interesting, but not important at the moment. "Yeah, it's good he didn't use it. Anyway, Starlight. This is super important. So pay close attention, ok?"

"As if I wasn't. Anon, are you sure you're ok? You're looking pretty worried all of a sudden."

Of course you were suddenly worried. You were putting this fucking Celestia business back in your head. But it'd be ok, Discord had things handled. Really? You only needed to talk to Starlight for some of her advice and to be around her a little bit. It'd be fine, "I have a lot on my mind. And a lot to say. That's all."

But it seemed Starlight could read it all over your face. She didn't need to be an expert to know what was on your mind. And she didn't seem too happy about it either. "This is about Queen Chrysalis again, isn't it?"

Were you that obvious? "Yeah...but, there's a lot that's happened over the past few days and.." You stop, you could tell by her face that she didn't seem to want to talk about Chrysalis. But you needed this, you needed her advice. She was relatable and super smart. The only one you could really talk to about this.

You look right into her eyes, trying to show her with your expression that you wanted to discuss this. "Please, just hear me out. Please?"

Starlight sighs, she didn't really want to hear this. But she didn't want to shoo you away or give you the impression that she didn't like you. It just was what it was. "Alright, alright. I'll listen. So, what's happened? What's going on?"

"Well..."

You explain to her what's going on. What the princesses are up to, that you showed Chrysalis another movie, that you want her to reform. You explain more in depth about Scrappy and then go into Thorax's appearance. What Discord went and did. And the plan to reform the changelings over reforming Chrysalis. "...And that's it. They think they can do a better job than I can. Even though making friends with Chrysalis, I'd say, is a pretty big thing. Don't you think?"

Starlight looked to the right, looking away from your eyes as she answered. "Do you really want me to answer that?"

...ahg?! Really?! "...Starlight, you think I'm wrong?"

"I just know what I've read. And I remember when she showed up when I was in your house. There wasn't any good in her. I could just, y'know, feel it. Besides, if even her own changelings thinks she's pure evil then what do you expect me to think?"

You expected something different. "I expected you to maybe understand my side of things. Maybe? Y'know, don't you think it's kind of messed up that Celestia can just do that? What if something goes wrong? The entire hive will definitely be lost if it does. They'll just want to destroy everything."

"Yeah...that's pretty bad too." Starlight leans back on the chair and tries to think. "This is insane, thinking about it that way. If they screw up, things would definitely get worse. Chrysalis wouldn't trust you at all if that happened. Then again, we don't know what Chrysalis is up to either. I'm sorry, Anon, you say she's your friend and that’s fine. But you also said she hates ponies and wants to enslave us. You know she's plotting something. She's gotta be. For all we know, she might be able to use all this against Equestria"

Well...she wasn't wrong about her plotting. "I mean...she is planning...something. But, she's contained. There's nothing she can do when she's also stuck as a pony"

Starlight nearly fell over when you even admitted it. "Anon! So you know she's planning something and you think it's ok just because she's 'contained'? How can you be so sure she doesn't have a way to change back or a way to force Discord to change her back?"

"Now hold on. I know what you're thinking. Trust me, there's NO WAY she could reverse it. Not unless she somehow got back to her kingdom"

"Her kingdom? Why? What would happen if she went back there?"

"Well, apparently it has a anti-magic field throne that would cancel Discord's magic"

Starlight groaned as she put her hoof to her face and shook her head. "Anon, I'm not saying this to upset you. But are you listening to yourself? Can you not see how crazy this sounds to say...anypony else?"

You kind of did. But this is why you had things under control, as did Discord. "I know it sounds bad, Starlight. But like I said, I have things under control, and so does Discord. My only real problem though is that I can't really figure out a way to reform Chrysalis right now. All I have is her friendship. But I need to do more."

"Anon, let me ask you a question. What if you can't reform her? What if you never do? Then what? If you think she's going to just stay in your basement forever all nice and complacent then I definitely know you're wrong. From what I've read and what I know, changelings will eventually go nuts without real love to feed off of. They apparently get extremely hostile the longer they go without it. I don't know how long they can last on that orb thing you mentioned from before. And even if Chrysalis brings them love from ponies they can eat, their instincts will still eventually get the better of them and things will fall apart anyway. Reforming even them then, from what you said, would be totally impossible. So again, what's the long term plan here?"

Long term plan...No, you didn't need one. You KNEW it was possible despite what Celestia may think. "Chrysalis can be reformed. Like I said, that Chrysalis from that other dimension, which was, by the way, another timeline, reformed after some dire things happened to her. I'm not going to do anything to hurt her myself, but it lets me know that it's possible. That's why we need to put our heads together and figure it out. Starlight, please. Can we stop? I already went through this with Celestia. I came to you for help, not for this..."

"Anon...Let me ask you something about that other Chrysalis. After this, I promise I'll help you. But only after this last thing, ok?" Starlight was asking specifics about her? Huh, why? What does it matter other than it's your proof?

"Ok, that sounds fair. What's the question?"

"Are you sure it was a Chrysalis from another timeline? How sure?"

"Well, pretty sure. Discord mentioned he was able to open doors to other timelines due to some time manipulation from another dimension close to ours."

"That's what I thought..." Starlight got up and walked to the filing cabinet and used her magic to move it aside to reveal a safe, she then started to spin the dial to get it to open. Once she did, she started to take things out.

"What are you doing?"

"Taking a few things out that I was going to bring with me to the Crystal Empire to ask if they can be returned to Canterlot. And also apologize. I hid them in the safe considering how important they are." She walked over to the bed and dropped a couple of huge books and a scroll onto it.

"Canterlot? Return? You stole these? Starlight, what the? Why?"

Starlight shook her head "Don't get any ideas, Anon, these are the same books and scrolls I had in the cave where we first met. I just haven't had time to return them yet. But look..." Starlight picked up one of the books as she struggled with some sort of spell. She was actually sweating a little when she cast it on one of the books, making it thicker with more pages. Huh... "This book here? It has Starswirl's complete notes on what he's discovered on time travel. I already found a way to improve on his spell using this scroll, only took a little extra studying actually. But I wasn't aware of the effects or consequences. So, Anon, this is going to clear something up about that possibility you keep mentioning"

Time Travel notes? That's right, she had mentioned she had worked on it before. And keeping the stuff around and not having to watch her back must have given her more time to do research, even finding some secret notes of some kind. "Ok, but what does this have to do with Chrysalis?"

Starlight opens the book to the notes "A lot. Are you ready for this, Anon? This is a little bit of a mouthful. But it's going to make a few things clear, Alright? Like I said, no matter what, after this, I'll help you. But I just want you to hear me out"

This was interesting, even coincidental. You weren't aware she still kept the time travel stuff around and now it's apparently relevant. Plus, these were notes from Starswirl. Notes that even Twilight probably had no idea about. Starswirl the bearded seemed like a powerful guy, so anything he has to say, related or not, has to be interesting. "Alright, shoot"

"Ok, Ahrm" She clears her throat as she gets up on the bed and then looks over at the chair she was sitting on "Why don't you grab a seat? Make yourself more comfortable first"

"Alright" You decide to do what she says, and climb up onto the chair and spin it to face her. Huh...it was a spinny chair. Maybe a little later you could spin around a bit for fun. "I'm ready"

"Ok, so here we go. There are the secret notes of Starswirl the Bearded, regarding his further investigation into time travel. Let me read it out to you, ahrm. If you are reading this, then you have broken the seal on my notes with powerful magic all your own and wish to understand the complexities of time magic. Or moreso, what I understand of it. Well, let me just say at this moment that it would be ill advised to try to control time and space through magic due to the dire consequences it can hold. Allow me to explain."

"As you may have read, or even tried yourself if able, there is a time spell I developed which allows one to go back in time for only mere seconds. There is however, another way to make it last longer. But due to it's dangers, I will not explain how to replicate it in any of my notes. I will instead leave an incomplete scroll which holds the base of the spell needed to create a stronger time spell in which only a powerful and wise unicorn could figure out and use. One that I pray will be mindful and courteous with their ability to manipulate time as I myself have not mastered it yet. But that is neither here nor there."

"As for the spell itself, I had used a very VERY dangerous spell to energize two crystals with 'Chronos' energy. An energy I discovered, that unfortunately, when gathered, causes much of the life of the gatherer to wither away. That is why I will not share how to replicate the spell here. In any case, using one of the two crystals, I returned back to the past to meet with myself with full confidence that I had actually mastered time at this point. I returned to the precise moment in time I had before using the base spell. And in doing so, I had planned to impart my past self with with all the knowledge I gained throughout the years so he may study other magics and further improve his magical prowess. Things were fine at first. He understood, as did I, how important this was and didn't even mind my methods of using time travel to meet with him. Though, two things struck me as off as we spoke."

"One was that I don't remember this encounter myself, I only remembered an odd vibrating chill in my spine. I would think that speaking to my past self would mean that I would have twice as much knowledge studied. But it was not to be when I noticed the second problem. My younger self was drinking the vile black tar known as Coffee! Coffee, a drink that I could do without. It was bitter with a foul taste. But the worst part of it all was the fact my younger self was drinking it! And had apparently been drinking it for years instead of the calm serene taste of tea"

"We argued for what must have been about two hours before the crystal I was using cracked from the excess of magic and flung me back to the present. It took me awhile to get over the nausea from the sudden trip, but it appeared everything was as it was supposed to be. But it also meant my second crystal would only let me return for only so long, which meant my plan was a failure in that regard. I was ready to write off time travel for a very long time after the strange coffee anomaly. In fact, I just wanted to spend the day meditating while drinking my beloved tea to forget what my other self considered a 'good' drink"

"But to my horror, when my apprentice, Princess Celestia, had brought me my beloved tea and I took a drink; I immediately found myself heaving when I realized I had downed coffee. Understandably, I was angry. But it had seemed Princess Celestia had not understood my anger as I had apparently been drinking coffee all my life. This was an ultimate horror"

"I resigned myself to my study upon discovering this fact, and locked myself in for days as I tried to figure out what went wrong. Something had gone wrong with the time spell. But what?"

"Days turned into weeks, I don't even remember if they turned into months. But after many controlled experiments and further study into dimensional theory, I came to realize a horrifying fact. Returning back in time to a point I had already visited with a prior time spell had caused a ripple in time, that's what caused that deathly chill when I had returned to my past self. Going back in time twice to the same time and place had caused a temporal fusion and then separation of dimensions. Creating the regular time space dimension I was from, We'll call it Time Space A. And the time space dimension I find myself in now, Time Space B."

"My problem now was trying to return to Time Space A. I only had one crystal to use and forging more may have caused more trouble than it was worth. Of course, with my great knowledge, It did not take me long to figure out all I need to do is go further back in time and then return to my own time. And although I cannot do that manually, when the crystal shatters, it will happen automatically. As long as I go back further before the split in time space and make sure it was not a time I had already been too, It will work. As it will not cause any further splits in the time space continuum."

"Of course, if you are reading this you are well aware that it did indeed work. And I hope these notes, to whomever reads them, helps them understand the dangers of time travel. Especially if one should master it and create multiple time space dimensions by returning to a certain point in time multiple times. As it would cause subtle to drastic changes to events and even the personalities of beings within that dimension, and make things worse with every route created."

Starlight closes the book "And that's it. If that dimension you jumped into was another time space dimension, then I can only guess that somewhere at sometime around that time, I had managed to finish the time spell completely and carry out the revenge I was planning, causing anomalies that Discord managed to find and open doors to from wherever he was when he made those doors. And do you know what that means, Anon?"

"...Uhm...no?" You really didn't, you kind of blanked out a few times during that whole thing.

Starlight sighed. "It means that the dimension you jumped into may have had a ton of changes in it. A change in that Chrysalis that would have made her capable of reformation."

A change? "I don't think so. What happened was pretty traumatic for her. She even told me the Chrysalis of this world could reform. I think she knows what she's talking about. Besides, everypony seemed the same to me, mostly. It was just a different circumstance"

"So, aside from events being wildly different. There was nothing out of place in that dimension? Nothing that was so noticeable in the sense it shouldn't be there? Are you sure? Think carefully, Anon, I don't think Starswirl would write these notes if he thought he was wrong"

But what if he was.... "Let me think. Because I'm having trouble thinking of anything that was off"

And so you pondered. Aside from circumstances changed by time, everything seemed mostly normal. Well....wait........Sunset Shimmer was there.

And...she had mentioned the portal to Equestria had closed up due to some dimensional distortion, a time distortion?...No, fuck no. No...NO! "...A-are you telling me there really is no connection between that dimension and this one? Other than it having the same ponies?"

Starlight nods. "If Starswirl's notes are right. Then yes. I'm sure. Especially since you told me there was that many doors. I guarantee each one had a different timeline in it, each vastly more different than the last. So it's very possible that the Chrysalis from that other timeline was mistaken, simply because for different timelines to exist, there had to be multiple separations of time space by somepony returning to a point in time multiple times for some reason. So Anon, I'm going to ask you, what do you think now that you know all this?"

What you think?...W-what you think? How can that even be? Could she really be right? Was that really it? A time flux? It would mean that there really may be no way to reform Chrysalis. The only thing you could be sure of was her friendship to you. So what DO you think? What are you supposed to think? Was Discord right? You invested so much into nothing, when you should have invested into the friends that actually matter.

But Chrysalis matters too. The only reason you cared about her the most was because she was the one in immediate danger right now. But with this information coming out so conveniently, what were you supposed to do? "...I don't know what I think. I'm just...I'm afraid that even with Discord holding back the princesses, I can't do anything." You were just staring blankly ahead. This time, it was really hammered in.

"I'm sorry, Anon, but I felt you really needed to hear that. I didn't want you getting in over your head or anything like that. But I'm keeping my promise. If, for whatever reason, you still think it's possible to reform her, then I'll brainstorm with you until it's night time. Because after all that, if you still feel it's possible, then there really must be a way"

....Was there a way?

You felt stupid. You felt utterly stupid. Everyone was telling you the same thing and you refused to listen. Were you under Chrysalis's control? Or did you really just enjoy her company that much that you just slowly started to disregard everyone else. Everyone else was right, even some possibly dead dude who didn't even know what the fuck friendship was nor knew the situation you were in.

You felt foolish. You felt naive. You slumped over again. You didn't cry, you just felt empty. "Starlight, I goofed again. I put so much emphasis and work into this that I really did lose sight of what is important. I caused ponies to get hurt and I got angry at those who didn't deserve it. And yet, even realizing all this, I still want to save Chrysalis. And it makes me feel like a monster because it makes me feel like I don't care about anypony else....then so be it"

...You were such a fucking moron… When will you learn? When you looked up at Starlight however, she looked deep into thought. "S-starlight?"

"Hold on, Anon, I'm thinking" She said as she pondered. That was rather cold.

"...Oh..." Maybe she didn't actually care...

You lower your head. But as you do, Starlight suddenly springs up with an ecstatic "I GOT IT!" But you just groaned at your own failures. "Anon, come on. Buck up. I think I figured something out" Starlight smiles at you.

You still felt drained, what could she have possibly figured out? "W-what?"

Starlight's horn glowed as she picked you up and brought you onto the bed in front of herself. "Come on, Anon, don't be like that. I think I've got something that'll cheer you up. It's probably nothing as good as what Twilight can come up with. BUT! It's pretty logical"

You just lowered your chin to the bed and sighed. "..I hope so.."

Starlight rolled her eyes at you. "Geez, Anon, your excitement could power an entire city." Starlight used her hooves to sit you up. "Look, if this doesn't work then I'll let you just mope around like a slug, ok?"

You sigh, and straighten your back as you decide to give her a shot. "..Alright. What do you got?"

"Well, it's a two parter actually. First, you know how you've been obsessing over Chrysalis? And how it makes you feel like you've been disregarding your other friends, right?"

"...Yeah?"

"Yeah, well. Consider this!" Starlight smiles at you as she raises her hoof in a "matter of fact" like way. "How obsessed were you when you found out Twilight was coming to confront me about my return."

"Huh? Erm, well..." Hell, you remember wanting to get to Starlight at any cost. You even brought Lyra along to help you out. "I guess it was a lot. I didn't want to stop trying to get to you because I was scared Twilight would get to the town first. And then? I just wanted to protect you the moment I got there."

"Exactly!" Starlight points out "When you felt I was in trouble and needed help, you focused on me until everything was ok. I'm even willing to bet Chrysalis and I aren't the only ones you obsessed over when they were in trouble. Or, to be more precise, you have a tendency to just blindly hurl yourself into whatever trouble there may be for everypony you care about."

Wait… Was Starlight on to something?...Was she? "Thinking about it. I did sort of jump at the Chimera when I thought Fluttershy was in trouble. And then I got really zany when I thought Trixie got eaten. And even Diamond, I didn't like her at the time but I guess I didn't hate her either. I stood and fought for her even if it meant I'd get smashed. And..."

Holy shit....

"So, what you're saying is. That the reason I've been obsessing so much IS because I'm scared for Chrysalis. Longer than anypony else because the situation hasn't been resolved yet."

"Right! That's what I think anyway. Pretty good theory, right? Pretty much proves that you've just been in a rut because of what's going on. You've been putting yourself down and you haven't been able to focus because you think you don't care about anypony else too. Well, we know that's wrong."

Because of what's going on. Woah...So you've just had your mind constantly occupied. That's all, that's amazing. You already felt better. It wasn't your fault. It was just you losing your mind!.....huh

...Wait, that's not good. But it's better than the alternative! A little crazy never hurt anyone anyway. "Starlight, I...I feel so much better already. That's so awesome! You're AWESOME! Now I can focus on helping Chrysalis without worrying if I'm hating everypony else! Flippin' genius! I love it! I can focus much more now and...." Starlight was cringing however, why was she cringing? "...Starlight?"

"Yeah...see, here's the second part. And this one is from personal experience."

"It can't be that bad. I feel so good now. What could possibly be so bad about the second part?"

Starlight sighs "Well, the second part is simple. You let the changelings get reformed."

......Oh, yeah. That's pretty cringy. "W-what?! I thought you said you'd help me. H-how does that help me? How is that from personal experience?" How does that help at all?

Starlight's sudden cheer drops as suddenly as it came as she explains. "Anon, just think about it. When I had control of the town, I was a pretty bad pony. I mean yeah, I had a reason that I thought was good. But for this explanation, let's just keep it as simple as that. A bad pony who kept townsponies under her will. But then I lost them to Twilight and her friends and due to my own deception as well. I hid myself, and plotted revenge and felt...so alone doing it all. I was even alone while I controlled the town, but I just didn't care back then. And then? I ran into you. Or, rather foalnapped you. But it was probably the best thing to happen to me in my entire life. You stayed with me even after I threw a hissy fit. You listened to me even when my reasoning to be against cutie marks wasn't as sound as I thought it was. And you helped me find my way. And...here we are. Basically, what I'm saying is...When Chrysalis loses what she has, she'll most likely will be really mad about it for a long time. But then, she'll realize how lonely it really is. And who will be there waiting for her when she realizes it?"

You've been told this before. But only now did you feel it made sense...but… "Me...but she's so set in her ways. This could also make things worse.."

"For how long though? Anon, that bitter feeling of loneliness and hatred, when it piques? Oh, you have no idea. All I could see after mastering this time spell was finding a catalyst to use it on and a point in time to change. And finally? Bringing Twilight along with me so she could see her entire world crumble in a flash" Starlight looked out the window at the side of the bed, putting her hoof on it as she stared outwards towards the ponies outside "..But when everything came into perspective. I felt so empty inside, it was all meaningless. Even if I succeeded, I'd still be alone. After befriending you? And the townsponies? No, I could never go back. And the ponies of this town? They still need me....And I can't let them down."

Starlight turned to you, she was committed to the idea. But she wasn't happy about it. "So basically, what I'm saying, Chrysalis WILL get angry. I don't think I could imagine how angry she'll be. But that doesn't take away that eventually she'll need somepony to be there for her. Because once that loneliness hits, it's like being slammed by a bag of bricks. Do you get what I'm saying?"

It made sense...it made a lot of sense now that you were hearing it from her. It hurt...but maybe she was right. You couldn't help Chrysalis now...but you could help her later....or maybe.. "Starlight, I understand what you're saying."

Starlight sighed in relief. "Oh good, I almost felt that I was just wrong on that one. Since I'm still learning myself but..." She smiled at you. "I'm glad you understand. It helped, right?"

You nod...it did "Yeah, it made me realize something too..."

"Yeah? What's that?"

"That if I want to make sure the princesses don't screw anything up. I'll just have to speed up the process on that whole loneliness thing"

Now Starlight was lost...and worried "Uhhhhh, what?"

"Yeah, imagine it. What if one of the futures in those doorways Discord brought up was one where Chrysalis ruled? If I could find a way to get it to appear, I could show Chrysalis how empty ruling Equestria really is. Therefore reforming her AND not betraying her. It's perfect!"

"Oh, no no, Anon." Starlight thought that was a terrible idea. "You can't do that! Even if it exists, you don't know how dangerous it could be. Or worse, what if it has the exact opposite effect? What if Chrysalis just..I dunno. Do you know how terrible and crazy it'd be if she bumped herself off just to rule everything herself?"

Ahh, but you wouldn't let it happen. "IF she did that. Two reasons why it wouldn't. One, I'd be there and she wouldn't leave me hanging. And two? I could only imagine that future's Chrysalis being a lot more vicious. Our Chrysalis wouldn't win. Come on Starlight, don't you see how foolproof this is?"

Starlight could see how desperate and obsessed you really were now. She couldn't let you do anything like that. "Anon, I can't let you do that. Whatever future that would be, if it exists...I can't let you do it. I won't"

"I can handle it, Starlight, I have the horn remember? If anything goes wrong, I'll just use it. AND I am sure Discord would find a way to give it more juice for this operation too" You felt confident, even arrogantly so.

"But didn't you mention Chrysalis has some anti-magic throne? Yeah, think about it. Do you really think she wouldn't find a way to expand its influence if she ruled the world? If it can even nullify chaos magic, you'd be doomed the moment you step in there" Starlight reminds you...and damn...she was probably right.

"I...uhh...well....err..mnnn" You got sad again.

And the moment your ears drooped, Starlight lifted your head gently with her hooves so she can look right into your eyes. "Don't do that, Anon. Come on, You know I'm with you on this. I just don't want you do anything you'd regret. You have a tendency to do things without thinking it through. I'm not going to force you to do anything, I just don't want you to do anything dumb. If you want to try something else, fine. But think it through or at least come to me and we'll plan it together. But if you don't have anything then it just might be better to just let things happen and be there for her when she realizes that same loneliness I felt, ok?" She looked right into your eyes with a worried smile. "Alright? Come on, I'll treat you to a cinnamon roll before I head to the Empire. Sugar Belle's cinnamon buns are the best. I promise"

Starlight. She was a lot more confident than you remember. Maybe she had a handle on things better than you did...no, she totally did. "Starlight...how did you get so strong?"

"Strong?"

"Y'know..emotionally"

"Emotionally? Oh no no no, Anon, I don't think I'm that strong..I...just. I just got comfortable after a while. I'm still super nervous about meeting Sunburst after so long. I know I said I'd do it alone, but it's been driving me crazy sometimes just thinking about how THAT'S gonna go"

"But you're still going to go alone, right?"

She nods "Yeah, and hope for the best"

Starlight… "Ok, I think I have a grip on things now. I think I'll just try it your way. It's going to drive me crazy too. Feels like I'm just betraying her, y'know?"

"I know. But it isn't your fault."

"I know...They had dibs before me after all" You put your hoof to your heart, you could feel it thumping. "But it feels so bad. What if I relapse?"

"Anon, like I said. If you have a better idea, go for it. But if you're going to follow mine, then I'm going to have to make some time for you."

What did she mean by that? "Time for me?"

"Yeah, you know. Just some time to help you keep it together. Considering how obsessed you get, you're probably going to need some help"

"Yeah...I guess. But if I do come up with a better plan, you'll hear me out, right?"

"Yup, I'll even help you if you need me"

"Yeah....Starlight?"

"Yeah?"

"Thanks, I think out of everypony I've talked to about this with. You're the only one who really helped me out"

"I'm glad. You're a great friend, Anon, even if you're dense sometimes..."

"Hey! I'm not that dense!" Gyah! Why did she say that?!

Starlight giggled "You sure? You took that frying pan hit like a champ"

..Ogh. "Well, whatever. At least I took it like a champ. Anypony else would have clocked out"

Starlight let out a cute belly laugh "I guess, hmmm. Anon, thanks for being my friend. You interdimensional weirdo."

You grin at her. "Yeah, you too, you dirty commie"

You both share a soft laugh as you give each other a hug. She was still arrogant when she wanted to be. It was cute.

Though, it also made you wonder about Discord. Or mostly Celestia since she now knew you told him. You were going to have to figure that one out soon.

Chapter 309

You and Starlight head over to Sugar Belle's after she puts away Starswirl's notes and scroll.

As you both walked over, you thought it'd be good to ask how she's doing since she managed to put you in a much better mood. "So, Starlight, how are you doing then? I mean, about meeting up with Sunburst tomorrow?"

"Oh..." She suddenly seemed pretty nervous herself. "I'm sort of ready for that"

Sort of. That made sense.Still, if she would just let you go with her, it'd probably make things easier. "Sort of, huh? So, on a scale of one to ten, how 'Sort of' are you ready?"

Starlight sighed. "three...or four. It's been a long time, Anon. A really long time. Just thinking about it sometimes just brings back that horrible memory...." Starlight then gives you a hard stare "That's why I have to do it alone...got that?"

Cripes, Again...You were pretty damn obvious. "Alright alright, I got it. I understand. I won't even ask, I just wanted to make sure you were ok with it. Because once you get on that train tonight...well, there's no going back"

"Well, I could go back, actually. It's a round trip ticket. But I get what you mean. I do have a question though. Based on how he was acting, do you think things will go ok?" Starlight asked you as she became worried, looking forward to hide her nervousness.

You grinned just a little on how cute she looked when she asked that. You look forward as well so she didn't notice you caught on to her nervous expression. "There's nothing to worry about. The guy is as soft as a kitten and scatterbrained as an old stallion. He doesn't even act tough. He seems like a good guy, so I'd say it's gonna be pretty easy to approach him."

"Ok, well that bumps the four to a six. Thanks, Anon" She says as you both approach a table outside of Sugar Belle's shop. You both take a seat and sit down. "Now I just got to hope his new title doesn't make things harder."

"Harder? Why would it make it harder?"

"I...hrnn" Starlight took a moment to think. "I don't even know why I said that."

You chuckle at her. "Now who's all obsessed and nervous?"

"Oh, come on!" She gave you a mean look. "Can you blame me? It's been years! I mean, I'm glad he remembers me, but..." Her mean look softened to sorrow when she looked down at the table "It's been a long time for him too. Who knows how it's going to go"

Poor Starlight. He was the reason she went on her crazy equalization crusade. Now she was going to meet that very same guy and she was nervous it'd all come crashing down.

"Well, considering the advice you gave to me. Why don't you relax and just let it happen? If it's one thing I've learned about living in this world is that usually everything works out as long as somepony doesn't spaz out"

"Really? Is that a difference you noticed between your old world and ours?" She asked you. "I mean, thinking about it now. I can't believe I never really asked you anything about what your old world was like"

"Well, that's because we both were kind of preoccupied with things and-"

"Starlight! Hi, oh! And it's your little friend Anon too! What can I get you both today?" Sugar Belle comes from seemingly nowhere with a happy grin on her face, ready to take both your orders.

"Oh, Sugar Belle! Oh well, we were going to order a big ole cinnamon bun to share." Starlight was sweating a little, hoping she hadn't heard what the both of you were just talking about.

"Alright, any drinks?" She looked so cute and cheerful. Which was funny to you because she was just as cute when equalized.

"Water, water is fine. And..you didn't hear anything just now, right?" Starlight asked

"Hrn? Nope! Why? Is it something private? I promise I didn't hear anything" Sugar Belle smile lessened, but she seemed to be telling the truth.

"It's fine. Don't worry about it" Starlight answered as she calmed down.

"O-ok then. Umm, Anon. Do you want a drink? We serve drinks to foals for free so you can have whatever you want!"

Well, that's pretty awesome. "Can I get some soda pop!" You say in an adorable fashion, raising yourself up as you shook your tail.

"Sure! I'll get a big glass just for you. Drinks will be ready in a minute and the cinnamon bun in fifteen. But, y'know, Starlight. I don't mind making the order on the house for everything" Sugar Belle could see something was upsetting Starlight, and didn't want to stress her more with a bill.

"It's alright, Sugar Belle. We can't really have an economy if everything is on the house all the time, right?" Starlight says as she tosses a few bits onto the table.

"I-I guess..." Sugar Belle reluctantly took the bits. It looked like she didn't really want to do it, but she did. Arguing with Starlight was probably a useless endeavor "Alright..I'll be right back" And so she went to cater to other customers while fetching your drinks.

Starlight then turns back to you "Yeah..We'll talk about that later. But, I do have to ask one thing about it. What are your villains and criminals like? Just keep the answer short, we don't need anypony catching on to what we're talking about"

"Why are you interested in that?" what a weird question.

"Reasons of comparison. I want to know if your world has anything worse than what we got...anything worse than what I tried to do"

You exhale a big waft of air. This was a big one. "You sure?"

"Yes, I'm just curious about it. I beat myself up a lot for things I did. I want to know how much worse it could be, maybe it'll help me feel better about it"

....Ok. "Well, if we're going to be quick about this. One of our worst was a dictator named Joseph Stalin. Considered a monster that killed millions upon millions of our own kind, his kind..humans. And many of those deaths being those who followed him"

Starlight's pupils shrunk "That's..." She didn't even know what to say to that.

"Yeah, that's a lot. The guy was considered a monster and yet he was a leader of a country. Pretty bad, huh? I'd go into more details, but just that one seems to have caught your attention."

"Yeah..." She was stunned. "Millions? Really? My gosh, that's even worse than Chrysalis. I-is that, common?"

You shrugged. "It really depends. But for many, there were more ruthless killers and criminals than good people. It's not THAT bad. But anything we do is always a lot worse than what usually happens here. It's not rare. Except for Stalin, he's a rare exception of extreme evil." Maybe you shouldn't have said anything, she looked tense. If you mentioned the mongols or fucking Hitler, her head might explode.

"O-ok then..I...uhh" Starlight was nervous as she looked about. "I...erm.."

And then Sugar Belle appeared with drinks "Hello again! Anon, here's your soda pop!" She served you a really huge glass of soda with a bendy silly straw "And Starlight, a cup of....Starlight? Are you alright?"

"H-huh? OH! Yeah yeah yeah! I'm err" She took a few breaths and tried to act natural "Nervous, that's all...nervous about....tomorrow...morning..eheheh" She chuckled sheepishly.

"Oh, Starlight!" Sugar Belle giggled "You're going to do fine. We all believe in you. I'm sure Anon does too. So don't be a silly pony, ok?"

Starlight slowly nods "Y-yeah, I know"

"Good, now, I'm going to go work on that cinnamon bun. I hope you two have room for it, it's going to be one of my biggest ones!" Sugar Belle seemed proud about it. And you felt that it was going to be one of the best you ever tasted. If it's one thing you could trust about ponies is that if you go by their cutie mark, you can almost always expect top quality.

When she left, you looked upon Starlight.

She looked to you as well. "So, you were never like that..right?"

You shook your head. "No, but most any human doesn't compare to the compassion typical ponies have. Like Sugar Belle or you or our friends. Sorry, I didn't mean to shake you up like that, I was just answering the question"

"I-I know...I know" Starlight took a moment to calm down. "I was the one to ask it so...yeah. I'm never asking anything like that again, just thinking about it makes me feel so...terrible. At least I don't feel too bad about what I did anymore. Wow, Anon, no wonder you took Discord's offer, your world sounds terrible. I was getting more interested after the work on the taser, but I don't think I'm going to worry about that anymore"

"Yeah, I'm not too beat up about leaving. Compared to here? It's pretty poo. But I admit, if it's one thing we did a lot better than ponies, it’s technology. When I get a chance, I'll show you some real cool stuff from my old world. Trust me, it'll be neat."

But she seemed skeptical "Do I even want to see it? Considering what you told me?"

"Trust me, humans also happen to be diverse. There's a ton of cool inventions we made that are really nice and convenient. It'll be neat, promise"

"Hmmmm..." She contemplated on that for awhile. She was reluctant, but she did trust you, and the taser was interesting enough to give it a consideration. "Ok, but only because it's you. Woo, I really don't know how to feel actually. Other than right now I am glad to be a pony who DOESN'T live in your own world and.....Speaking of ponies...I know I said it'd just be one thing, but I really gotta ask this, does your old world have any ponies?"

Oh lordy, you give her a grin. "Do you want the answer to that one? Because it's more than just a yes"

Starlight's eyes went wide for a moment. And then she just put her forehead on top of her hoof as she took a moment to collect herself. "Never mind, Never mind. I don't even want to hear it"

A little after the question, Sugar Belle brought a plate with a huge cinnamon bun on it. It glistened from the melted cinnamon glaze and the white cream that adorned the top of it looked snow white and soft. Oh, and that smell, you could get diabetes from how delicious it smelled.

Sugar Belle smiled at the both of you as she announced that desert has arrived. "I hope you two really enjoy this. I think its one of the best cinnamon buns I've ever made! You'll both love it, promise!"

It was also the biggest you've ever seen. "Oh man, Sugar Belle, this is the best cinnamon bun I've ever seen!"

She giggled, feeling great about the compliment. "Thanks, Anon, but just wait until you bite into it! That's always the best part!"

Starlight was the first to take a bite however. And she let out a soft moan as she slowly chewed. "Oh, Sugar Belle, I don't think any place else in Equestria has anypony who can make a cinnamon bun as good as you. What's your secret?"

"My secret? Well, if I said what it was it wouldn't be a secret anymore, right?" Sugar Belle gave a slight tilt to her head as she smiled at Starlight

"Um, yeah actually. That's right" Starlight realized.

Sugar Belle giggled again "Come on, Starlight, I wasn't being serious. It's just a matter of always ordering the best ingredients from out of town. Flour from Canterlot, sugar from Manehattan. When you bring everything together and know what you're doing, anypony could make something like this."

The best? "That sounds right to me, but how do you afford it?"

"Easy. I make my own food so all my money always goes towards ingredients and maintaining the shop" Sugar Belle answers.

"What about monthly payments on your house and water and stuff?" You ask

"What?" Sugar Belle was heavily confused.

"Oh, Anon. We don't pay anything like that here. No rent, no mortgage, and we're pretty self sufficient on basic needs. And everypony helps one another here. So, yeah, it makes living really cheap and easy" Starlight explains to you.

Oh, that's...wait. How did you not realize that? It was obvious they weren't paying anything even before Starlight reformed. Ugh, you were definitely still a tad scatterbrained at the moment still. "Right, anyway. Let's see how it tastes."

You lean in and take a huge chunk of the cinnamon bun into your mouth. Oh god, it practically melted in there. the cinnamon oozed through your mouth as the soft and fluffy bun tasted fresh and heavenly. And the cream, oh.... "I could live the rest of my life eating this"

"Aww, Anon, I appreciate the compliment. But you don't want to do anything like that. It's very unhealthy." Sugar Belle was very delighted with your reaction, but she felt that she had to give you a motherly reminder.

You just keep chewing through it as you use your soda pop to wash it down. "Then I'm just going to enjoy what I have then, because I can't get enough! It's so good!"

"Well, I'm very glad you both like it. And Starlight? Good luck" Sugar Belle nods.

"Thanks, Sugar Belle. I'll be fine, I promise" Starlight says as she uses her magic to pull you away from the cinnamon bun "Hey, save some for me"

Sugar Belle had another happy little giggle before going off to serve the other ponies about.

"Ok ok, sorry. Got ahead of myself there. But it tastes sooooo good" Your mouth was still watering from how good everything was.

"I know, but you don't want to just dig in like that. You'll get one doozy of a stomach ache." Starlight begins to eat the cinnamon bun in a calmer manner than your own.

"Oh come on, I'll be fine. How can I let something so delicious have a chance to get cold." You dive back into it, and just start munching.

Starlight just rolls her eyes and smiles at your childish endeavor.

After finishing the cinnamon bun. You had decided to return back to your home to see if Discord was there and perhaps see if there was any other friends you could spend time with before the day was over.

You wished Starlight good luck as you spill a little bit of your drink to the ground to make a wide enough puddle to jump through.

"So, are you going to be ok now, Anon?" Starlight asks you

"I think so, I think I got a grip on everything now. You're going to be ok too, right?"

"I'm sure I'll be fine. It's gonna be awkward though. But, I'm sure everything will be ok"

And with a hug and a slight cuddle, you toss your map into the puddle and actually hope that Discord didn't burst Celestia's bubble. Subtle.

After bouncing off your bed, you go towards your floor door and open it up to look around from your room.

Nobody. "Discord? Discord! You down there at all?"

No answer.

When you turn around, Discord is immediately in front of you as you bump your head into him, yell from being suddenly startled, fall back through your floor door, and slam your head as you land on the living room floor. "GYAGH! NGGGH...A-Again?!"

You slowly lift yourself up from the ground as you look upwards at Discord, who was smiling at you from the top side of the floor door, waving.

"..Do you think that maybe for more than one day I can get through it without bonking my head more than once?" Dammit, just...dammit.

"And break tradition? Anon, how terrible of you." Discord grinned. He seemed to be in a pretty good mood at least, did he succeed?

You shake your head a little as you start to rise up on the gravity stairs. "Yeah yeah. So, what happened with Celestia? Did you manage to tell her what's what?"

Discord's reaction wasn't what you expected however. He went from his usual trickster self to being dodgy. Well, that was usually a thing with him too but you'd think he'd be pretty proud for messing with Celestia. "Oh that? That thing I did? I did do a thing about a thing I did. Mhmm, I did"

Wut? "So is that a yes or no? Because Discord, I changed my mind. I decided to let it happen, but under the complete guarantee that Chrysalis herself doesn't get banished. After talking with Starlight, it might be the only way I can reform her. It's bad. But even you have to admit that when you're just down to one friend, it really puts things into perspective, right?"

Discord seemed surprised at your words. Ahh, probably because he was remembering how he reacted with Fluttershy. "Why yes! That's exactly it. Brillaint idea, Anon. As for me, I didn't even see Celestia. I thought it might be a better idea to procrastinate for a day before doing it. You know." He shrugs with a chuckle. "To tease you a little bit. How coincidental that it turns out my course of action turned out to be the right one"

You chuckled at that. It probably would have bothered you had the circumstances hadn't changed. So that's what he was nervous about, huh? Maybe he had a bit of guilt of actually trying to mess with you for once. "Seems so, that's cool. So whatcha doing now?"

"Oh, thinking. Pets seem to be all the rage these days. Almost everypony has a pet of some sort and I was wondering if we should get one too." Discord smirked as he looked over to your window "What do you think? Move him to the front yard, put a leash on him, and call him fido. It'd be adorable"

"The X-captain? HAH! Hold on, Hold on. Let's put him on a chain link and call him Bow Wow! It'll be perfect." You'd have your very own one eyed tentacled chain chomp.

Discord snickered as he pulled up the blind and looked over to the ever waiting X-captain "How about it? Do you want to be our pet dog?"

X-captain had no idea what was going on as he heard none of it. But he instantly flew into a rage from Discord's question. "PET DOG?! NO HI? NO HELLO? BUT AN INSULTING QUESTION?! HOW BADLY DO YOU WANT TO BE DESTROYED?! OPEN THIS WINDOW NOW! I WON'T LET THIS STAND! OPEN THIS WINDOW NOOOOW! I JUST PROCLAIMED THAT I WON'T LET THIS STAND AND YOU'RE MAKING ME WANT TO DESTROY MYSELF BY ALL THIS STANDING THIS TOPIC IS DOING!"

Cripes, you know it was all in fun but this was depressing. Did he ever EVER leave? "Shut up already. Cripes, don't you ever leave to go do something else? Ever?"

"YOU'D LIKE THAT, WOULDN'T YOU? YOU STUPID STUPID HUMAN HORSE! I'LL NEVER LEAVE FROM THIS SPOT! SOONER OR LATER, I'LL GRIND THIS WINDOW GLASS INTO NOTHING AND BRING RUINATION AND DESTRUCTION TO EVERYTHING AND EVERYPONY! HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" He chortled as his tentacles wiggled about before furiously grinding his tongue along the glass....gross.

"Can he even do that?" You look to Discord for confirmation, speaking in a low voice.

"Nope. I haven't the heart to tell him either" Discord tells you, also keeping a low voice.

You just stare at the crazed beholder as he desperately tried to wither the glass into nothingness. It got so sad that you just walked over to the blinds and slowly closed them. "Well, that's enough of that."

"Indeed, I've driven many a being insane. But he ALMOST makes me regret all the fun I used to have back in my prime. So, Anon..." Discord looked to you, curious about your change of heart. He actually produced a pony heart that he changes into a carrot, then starts to eat it "Why the change of heart? IT can't be as simple as somepony giving you some advice"

And yet… "It's actually just that. Starlight made a pretty compelling argument. Being alone sucks. You get really angry and hateful at first, but once that loneliness sets in, well...You're gonna want to have a friend to talk to"

"Ahh, Hmmm, Yes....quite..." Discord was just throwing words out without actually understanding what you meant. "Well, it's your plan, Anon. I don't quite understand it, but if you say it works, then it'll work. Or it'll blow up in your face. Either way, it'll be quite the show." Discord chuckles softly to himself "Possibly one of those season finales you humans get all jittery about"

"Let's not get too meta, Discord. I don't want this to be any kind of finale. I just want things to go smoothly"

"I honestly don't see why you care that much about her, Anon, especially when Fluttershy, and less so, her friends are perfectly viable and not liable to cause utter ruination of your social standing...among other things"

"It's not that far fetched, Discord. Villains keep getting reformed every other attack. I reformed Starlight, and she could have been considered super bad considering she probably could have ended up destroying all of Equestria through time shenanigans....Speaking of which."

Despite you saying you wouldn't go with the plan of heading towards a future where Chrysalis rules. You at least wanted to find out if it existed. Maybe poke Discord for a little info about it. With Chrysalis always going on and on about Equestrian domination, you couldn't help but be curious on what that'd actually look like. "I gotta ask. Did any of those time doors have a future where Chrysalis ruled?"

"Hrn?" Discord looked at you with a blank stare for a moment before laughing. "Oh, Anon, seriously? It's not even happening. I told you before, I only have the door to King Sombrero. And besides, even I wouldn't let you go too far with that obsession of yours. Fluttershy would never let me hear the end of it"

"I-I didn't say anything about looking into it. I just kinda wanted to know if it happened."

"Really? Hrn..." Discord stopped his laughing as he suddenly pulled a rope. The room went dark for a moment before a single light shone on you. You were on a stool in front of a poker table, Discord behind it with a dealer's visor and vest. "My deal..." Discord tossed to you a rather large hand.

First you got a two of diamonds with Flim’s and Flam's face on it. Second was a Jack of Spades, featuring Tirek. Third was Queen of Hearts, With Chrysalis adorned on the front of it; That seemed appropriate. Fourth was King of Clubs, Sombra. Fifth was a....blank card?

"Discord, what is all this?" You pick up the blank card to get a better look at it, but after a moment of holding it, it turns to dust. Ominous. "What was that all about?"

"Oh nothing...really" Discord gives you an evil stare when it came to that card "Nothing" Then he became jovial again as he passed you two more cards "Anyhoo! It should be obvious by now, Anon. Ahh, and let me take that card since it's no longer necessary " He snaps his talons, making the two of diamonds disappear

The new fifth card was the ace of spades, Nightmare Moon. And the replacement first card was a joker, with Discord's face on it. It then became obvious to you what it all meant. "These were the other alternate futures, right?"

"Indeed, and look at that hand. Although a straight never beats..." Discord threw down his hand, which just happened to be a royal flush of a "chaos" suit. Each face card and the ace and ten with his face on it. "A royal chaotic flush"

"That's not even a real hand. Still..." You look at your hand, each card representing a terrible villain. It was depressing actually, that there were multiple Equestrias ruined by all of them. Including a version of Discord, from your guess, that was never reformed. "I didn't realize it was all this bad. I don't even want to know what that disappearing card meant."

"Oh it's not all that bad. That guy on the joker card is quite charming" Discord grins as he picks it up and admires himself through the card.

"You do know in that future, you're probably just tormenting Fluttershy. Right?"

Discord goes from a grin to firm annoyance as he tosses away the card "Killjoy"

"Yeah, well. Ugh, I can't imagine any of these futures even being livable after going through what Flim and Flam did. And you want me to go through Sombra's? Yeah, now I know why nopony wants me dimensional hopping anymore."

"Oh please. I'd be with you this time. Nopony has to know, especially big mouth Chryssy. It'll be fun!" It seems Discord was still on it. Of course he wouldn't listen to anyone when it came to his fun.

"I mean. I guess it could be if it means I don't have a chance of dying. But why not Nightmare Moon? That seems like it would be super fun. I mean, she's probably the most sensible out of anypony else in the deck." Except for one thing. "Erm, aside from her really ridiculously stupid methods of stopping ponies. Hum..." Thinking of that, you now imagine her rule being pretty moronic.. "I mean, what does she even do? Terrorize ponies with evil pranks all day and keep it night all the time?"

"Actually. She's a competent ruler who has tours at the castle. And I believe has a better job market than we do now. But then the bad side is that it is always night, and that does cause a problem with crops and a nasty breakout of carnivorous critters at times." Discord explains. "Oh. Never mind, that doesn't even sound that bad."

It really didn't. It just sounded like a meaner Luna with a chip on her shoulder ruling Equestria.

"You know, aside from the obvious issue with Fluttershy. I'm surprised you have no interest in my future. Just knowing it has me in it should have piqued your interest" He says

You shrug, and then realize that you think you know what his future would look like. And it seemed so obvious, that you thought you'd mess with him a bit. So you grin at him. "You mean the future where everything is topsy turvy? The one where you're usually sitting on your throne in the middle of a random town just watching everything go wrong...and that's it. That one?"

Discord grimaced from your explanation. "Ogh, way to make it sound mundane, Anon. Not my fault that you can't appreciate true vision."

"Dancing buffalo in a tutu is art? Or is that a fetish?"

"Ohhhhh, Anon. Watch who you're talking to" Discord looks at you with burning eyes "Or you'll be walking around town in a tutu"

....Ok never mind. "pfft. Baby..." you say in a low voice.

Discord shuffles the cards with his magic before making them disappear as the lights go out again and you both appear back in your room. "Anon, just so you know. I expect us to go into that future together at some point. Don't ask for my reasons, I won't give them other than the fact it'll be fun. But as you are, in your current state, you're too into that bug to focus on the merry making we would be having during our trip."

You would say it wasn't that bad. But even Starlight noticed it and even rationalized it. "Yeah, well. I'll be over it soon. I probably just need a night's rest to prep myself for what’s going to happen. Still..Are you sure there's nothing else you could do? If you haven't seen Celestia yet, maybe you could at least tell her or convince her that she's part of the family. That way she'd definitely go easy on her even if Chrysalis goes full on psycho. Which she will."

"Well, even if she did. My barrier would make sure nopony actually gets hurt. As for convincing Celestia...mnn" Discord oddly hesitated again. But then after being silent, he smirked and shrugged "She wouldn't listen to that kind of request from me. I am the spirit of chaos after all. She'll just be all straight edge about it. You know that's what she'd do"

You felt like he was trying to dodge Celestia altogether now. Then again, he's probably right. Celestia is pretty dead set on this whole reformation thing without any room for change to it.

It sucked that you had to hope. But it's fine...it'll be fine. "I guess" Then you noticed something else. "Discord, do you just want to do something with me? Like, anything?"

"I would, thanks for asking, considering that since our play on Prince Sissyblood went under, I'd like to make up for it with something else. Oh, And a friendly reminder. Once you agree, there's no turning back." Discord grinned as he started to press his paws and talons among one another.

"Well, I don't really have anything to do at the moment. It's not the Sombra thing, right?"

"As I already said. You're not ready for that yet. But what I have rolled up for us now is good enough."

"Well, what is it?"

Discord grins evilly with a sly cackle as opens the portal door to a desert canyony place with a small western town....wait. "Isn't that Appleoosa? Why would you care about Appleoosa?"

"Appleoosa?...Oh haha, excuse me" Discord shifts the image of the portal towards a bunch of teepees. "There we go"

...Wut? "The buffalo? The dumb indian buffalo? Why are we going to mess with the fucking dumb indian buffalo?"

"Why not? Do you realize how superstitious they are? And they'd NEVER be able to figure out it's us. It's already nearing evening and it'll give us plenty of time to spook them good." Discord says as he puts on a chiefs hat and holds up a tomahawk. "It'll be hilarious!"

"I dunno. Seems pretty easy to me. We could dance around and go 'ooga booga' and they'd probably freak out."

"Don't be the party pooper, Anon. Even the easy to toy with can still have it's entertainment value. Besides, what do you care about them? Have you ever even met one before?"

No...and considering you only ever seen how they act in season 1.... "Ehhhhmmm, no. I never met one. Umm, and you said nopony is gonna find out?"

"As long as we keep our mouths shut..." Discord zips up his mouth as a halo appears above his head.

"Then we'll be totally innocent. Ok, I see. Alright alright. So what's the plan?"

"I don't have one yet" Discord says as he looks towards the portal

Wut? "What?! how are we going to do this if we don't have a plan?!"

"Well, what do you want, Anon?" Discord shrugs "Buffalo are so boring. Their only real use is to have their superstitions prayed upon. Luckily for us that almost anything drives them nuts. A movement of the stars, tremors, spirits appearing out of nowhere. All easy to do, but not the goal I have in mind"

No plan, and yet he had a goal? "What's the goal?"

"To make the entire tribe try to appease their 'Deities' by making a delicious dinner worthy of a king and his little prince"

Wut? ".....You mind not speaking all grandiose there, buddy? Because as I understand it. It just looks like you're trying to get free meal"

Discord raises a single talon in the air "Correction! I'm trying to get us a free dinner while appreciating the culinary arts of a backwater buffalo tribe."

G-gnnn...All that for THAT?! "Don't you realize you could make a free meal with your magic...like you normally do?"

"Whhaaaaat?" Discord slaps his own cheek with surprise to your statement. "Anon, that's not a free meal. I have to expend precious magic to create that meal. Not exactly what I'd call free"

.....GODDAMMIT! "Are you serious?! So using your magic to mess with them until they make us food isn't the same thing?!"

Discord just grins as he sways to and fro with a happy smile. "Nooope. That'd be paying for the entertainment, completely different"

.......Dammit. "Alright...fine. It'll probably be fun. Let's do it..." You didn't sound too excited. But that was only because Discord's logic confounded you.

"Excellent! Let's go investigate the going ons of their tribe. But before we do" Discord holds out a small earpiece towards you and plants it in your ear.

"Gyah!" You nearly fall back, startled. "What was that?! What did you put in my ear?!"

Discord rolled his eyes as he placed one of those things in his ears as well. "Anon, I may not remember everything from Luna's little dreamshow. But I do remember these nifty things you call a 'Codec'. Should we need to desperate, we'll be able to communicate with each other like real super spies. ohhh, I already feel sneaky" Discord grins as he wiggles his talons with his paws and shifts his eyes evilly left and right.

"Oh...hmmm" Well, that was cool in all actuality.

So, there really was no reason to object at this point. He seemed prepared enough for this. And you really did not care too much about the buffalo. So yeah, it could be fun. So you and Discord make way through the portal during the sunset. Ready for another chaotic plan to take shape.

Chapter 310

When you both stepped through. Discord pulled you behind a boulder to spy on the small tribe of buffalo. "Woah! hrn? Why are we hiding? Aren't we invisible or something right now?"

"No, we're not" Discord says as he brandishes a telescope and starts to spy on the buffalo. "You can't just be invisible all the time, it takes away the excitement of possibly getting caught."

Wut? "Uhhhh, and what happens if we do get caught"

Discord continues to look about "Oh, I'll teleport away while the buffalo have their way with you. Something like that. Our fun time will be over if we get caught....Well, your fun time will be over"

He was kidding. He had to be kidding. "Seriously? You wouldn't do that"

"Who knows? Maybe I would. So let's not try to get caught, shall we?" Discord says as he drops a telescope down towards you "So, what do you know about these beastly things?"

You sigh, take up the telescope and look around. "Not much. They became kinda bitchy when they lost their stampeding grounds and went to war with Appleoosa for like a minute."

You spot some buffalo sparring, others eating, some seem to be praying, and there was Chief Thunderhooves himself around the fire. He seemed to be doing some ancient chant with an old female witch doctory buffalo. No Little Strongheart though. "Hn, and there they are. doing boring shit"

"Indeed, it's making it hard to think of something brutally side splitting." Discord seemed a little upset by this. It seemed he didn't expect them to be this boring. "I could put them all in tutus, but that won't be fun, I've done that more than once already"

"Hold on, Discord. Check out the chief, he's engaged in some sort of mystical thing with that shaman chick. I'm getting an idea."

"Oh?" Discord immediately had interest as a genuine smile appeared on his face "Do tell"

"It's easy. We move in, find out exactly what those two are talking about, and exploit it"

"Interesting. But how are we to do that when invisibility isn't an option?"

Was he really not going to let you go invisible? "Ugh....Fine then. How do we get close to them?"

"Glad you asked" Discord grabbed you and held you close to his chest. "We're going to do this like this"

You started struggling in his grip as he hugged you as close as he could. "Discord! Discord What are you MPDGGFGFDgff"

"Shhhhh, they'll hear you. Now then...let's move" Discord held your mouth closed as you struggled. He then slithered from behind the boulder and through the buffalo and teepees. Then he shrunk himself and you down to the size of a pebble. So much as a pebble that the rock he dragged you to that was next to the chief was boulder sized.

"Gyah!" You let out when he finally lets you go. "What the fuck was that all- HOLY FUCK!" You fell backwards when you looked onto the "boulder" and saw a huge ass fly. "WHAT THE FUCK IS UP WITH THE FUCKING FLY!?"

"Actually, Anon" Discord grinned as he gently scratched the underside of the fly's head as it drooled "The fly should be asking that question about us. Take a look behind that boulder"

Your eye was twitching from how freaky that giant fly was. You backed up from it and craned your head to the side to see everything was fucking giant. "REALLY?! NO INVISIBILITY?! BUT SHRINKING IS FUCKING OK?! WHAT IF A FUCKING SCORPION SHOWS UP AND SHISH KEBABS ME?!"

"Hmmm, I wonder how'd that taste with a little BBQ sauce" Discord wondered as he tapped his chin, then discarded the thought as he pointed to the giant Thunderhooves "But I digress, we probably should be paying attention to what's going on"

But you couldn't look away from the fly. "You mind doing something about him first? Please?"

Discord rolled his eyes as he snapped his paws and made the fly disappear "Baby, it's like you've never seen an insect before. Which is hilarious because I can almost swear you just want to dive into a certain bug's-"

"ALRIGHT! OK! GEEZ! DAMMIT! Sheesh" You exclaim. fucking dammit. "Let's just listen in, alright? Ok? We're supposed to be a team. Just save the pranking for them....geez"

"It's called warming up, Anon. You know, a bit of a stretch for the ole chaos noodle" Discord said as he did some stretching exercises.

Yeah..sure.

You both then poke your heads out from the rock and pay attention to the shaman and Thunderhoove's conversation. "Waterbrook, you are wise beyond your years, but surely this premonition is just a dream" Thunderhooves seemed to be worried about something as he spoke

"It is no dream, Chief Thunderhooves, it is the future! I have read the stars last night and they tell me a spirit will be coming tonight. One who bears us ill will" The shaman, Waterbrook, explains to the chief. With this closer look, you could see her fur was all white, her body was skinny, unlike the other buffalo, and she had a headband. Her face fur went down in front of her entire face. Only revealing her nose.

"What should we do?" He asked

"We must prepare ourselves. I have already sent young Little Strongheart to Appleoosa to fetch the supplies we'll need. We must create an effigy of the chief long past to guard us this night." The shaman seemed very adamant on this premonition.

"Huh, do you think she means us? Weird..." You ask Discord.

"How could she mean us? We're a spirit and a human turned colt. She's just expecting a spirit. She's must be batty, that's all" Discord said as he continued spying

"Well, either way, that's a prime setup to go fucking with them. They want to make a statue of their old chief, so that gives me an idea. So get this, usually how stories and movies go is that when they don't have these things made in time, weird shit happens. So here's the plan. I'll intercept Little Strongheart. And you wait for the EXACT moment they wonder where she is to work your magic. Start off slow, and work your way up every few minutes. How's that sound?"

Discord let's out a triumphant laugh "Brillaint! But how do you plan to stall her without revealing who you are?"

"Simple. Just disguise me in a different fur color and we're good. I don't even think I'll need any horn charges for this."

"Ahh, don't get too sure of yourself, Anon. A true master of chaos knows how to handle their magic. So for you, you'll have the usual two charges for this operation. Use them as you see fit." Discord snaps his talons, changing your coat and mane into another color "Haha! Now that's a horse of a different color."

You look at your legs and tap at your chest fluff. "This'll work. But then there's the problem of actually....actually......shit" You looked around and you were in another location, and the sun was nearly down too. The area was turning red to blue as things darkened. And then you hear that familiar ringing.

You put your hoof to your ear. It was the codec.

"Anon, You should be at the interception point"

"How do you know she'll be here?"

"Questioning me already? Anon, just trust in my skills. And I'll trust in yours. Anyway, I wish you good luck. Call me if you need anything"

"Alright, fine. I'll think of something while I wait." You look ahead, you could see Appleoosa in the distance. So you had to be between there and the tribe, perfect. You ducked behind a cactus and waited.

Then you heard it. You could hear Little Strongheart rushing towards your direction. "Alright, alright. Need a reason for her to stop. A good one..."

You look at your horn, having realized that it may give you away. But when you looked at it, there was nothing there. It seemed you already had a horn on your head. Discord probably did that to make sure you were identified as a unicorn. But still...you needed something to stop her.

Then you look at the cactus. T

he cactus. "...It can't hurt that much. I've got much tougher skin than a human now....I only have to pretend it hurts...ok...ok...let's do it"

You bring your foreleg close to the cactus and wince back a few times, scared to rub against it. Eventually, as you hear her coming close enough that indecision would cause a missed opportunity, you decide to slam your leg into the cactus. HOLY FUCK, WHAT ARE YOU DOING, YOU RETARD! WHO WILLINGLY STABS THEMSELVES ON A CACTUS?! GOOD WORD, DINGUS! "AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" You fall to your side, screaming in pain as the needles of the cactus stuck out from your foreleg. "AAAAAAAAHHHMMNGGGGGGGGGGGGG"

Then you heard her come to a skidding stop. "Wh-who's there?" You heard her say, obviously spooked. Half of you weren't even paying attention anymore as you dragged yourself away from the cactus, moaning in pain. "A colt? Out here?! Oh no.." Little Strongheart, as you could see her now, was carrying bags of supplies on her back. She gently let them down as she came over to check on you.

"Hey! Are you ok? What happened? What are you doing way out here?" She asked you, but you continued to moan until she noticed the needles. "Oh no, there's so many of them. G-give me a little time, and I'll help you out" Little Strongheart rushed over to her supplies to take out a small mixing bowl.

She had on her side a small bag that looked like it was made of leather or some sort. She took some herbs out from the small bag and put them in the bowl and quickly smashed them up. She then rushed to the cactus and kicked it without poking her hoof, she made a hole in which water poured out. She took the bowl of mixed herbs and filled it with some of the cactus water, mixed it again, and rushed over to you. She was damned quick about it too.

"This is going to really hurt for one second. But trust me, the pain will leave you soon." She explains as she gently tips the bowl over your wounds.

HOLY FUCK THE PAIN! You jolt and scream again from the pain and start rolling around. But she just stood there.

Eventually she was looking at you with a confused expression. "Does it really hurt that much?"

"Y-yes! It's the worst pain I've ever..I've ever......wait" The pain was gone. You didn't even notice it was gone until she mentioned something. But the needles were still in your leg. "I don't feel anything anymore. What did you do?" This was amazing considering no magic was involved.

"It's a remedy my grandmother taught me that has been passed down our tribe for generations." She explains

"It's amazing"

"Perhaps, but you should sit up now. We need to get those needles out of your leg and get it wrapped up and quick, I'm in a hurry" She was on edge. Of course she was, she was trying to get those supplies to her tribe as quickly as possible.

You just had to stall her. "Alright, h-here you are..miss?"

"Oh, my name is Little Strongheart" She says as she gently grabs your hoof as started to gently pull each needle out. It didn't hurt at all, amazing. "What's yours?"

"Oh my name is...Deli...Meats" Totally a normal pony name.

"Deli Meats? Now that's an odd name" She said as she kept carefully pulling needles. "What are you doing out so far from town Deli Meats? It's dangerous out here"

"I was...umm.." You really should have thought this through. But, lucky for you. You did have something in mind when it came to the usual and mediocre kid out of nowhere trope. "I'm running away from home"

"Running away from home?! Why?!" She stopped pulling for a moment from shock. But then later resumed, now very worried.

"My parents back in Canterlot were always fighting. I couldn't stand it anymore! So I ran away to be a loner out here in the open frontier"

"I don't think that's right. In my tribe, we have a belief that all families care and help one another, but may sometimes have a disagreement. I think that's all it might be. You didn't need to come all the way out here, Deli Meats. Why don't you..." She stopped for a moment and looked on ahead. She knew she had to get the supplies in on time. But as she then looked back at Appleoosa, she knew she couldn't just leave you here. "Why don't you come with me back to town? The ponies there can help you get back to your family" She says as she finishes wrapping up your leg.

You know. You thought you'd feel bad about this. But you really have no connection to the buffalo. And since it was a prank, there was no danger of any of them getting hurt anyway. "O-ok...omph!" You stand up and let yourself fall forward.

"W-what's wrong?" Little Strongheart asked as she helps you up

"I-I dunno...I just feel really weak for some reason. And thirsty too"

"weak and thirsty..." It then hit Little Strongheart, and made her worry grow. "How long have you been out here?"

"Couple days"

Now she felt dread "...Without food or water?"

"W-well, that's why I was trying to open up that cactus...I wanted water" Haha! It's like it writes itself.

Little Strongheart goes to the supplies and takes out a flask and brings it to you "I don't have any food with me. But you should drink this. All of it"

"What is it?" You ask as you take the flask

"Water"

Obviously. But, you keep up the act, and pretend to be unable to open the cap. "I-I can't open it"

"Don't worry, I can help with that" Little Strongheart took the flask, opened it, and handed it back to you "Here."

"Thanks." You take the flask and swig down the water. But, to keep up the act, you pant and rub your tummy. "Now I just feel hungry...ngh. I can barely move.." You let yourself fall on your back.

LIttle Strongheart was in a dilemma. She knew she couldn't leave you here, but she couldn't fit you and the supplies on her back. She had to choose one. "Alright. Give me a minute and I'll get you back into town myself. I just need to hide my supplies behind those rocks over there." She said before rushing off to huddle the supplies into hiding.

The moment she was away, you put your hoof to your ear. "Discord, yo, you there?"

"Oh, these things are simply convenient. I'm surprised I never thought of making them myself. Imagine putting one in Twilight's ear. She'd never figure out where that beeping was coming from."

"Discord...come on. Focus on the prank, not on Twilight."

"I am focused, Anon. But they haven't begun to worry yet. All they are talking about is how their ancestors will drive back this evil spirit that will soon descend upon them. It's all hogwash. So then, how are you doing?"

"Good so far. I have her stalled but she's trying to get me back into town. I'm running out of ideas"

"So? Use the horn then. Things will streamline once we get things started."

"...Ahhh, I don't want to waste a charge." You wanted to save it for an absolute emergency.

"A good mischief maker knows when to use their magic and use it with efficiency. If you can't stall her, then you'll have to do it"

"Alright alright. I'll figure something out then. Anon, out" You ended the call

Little Strongheart finished hiding her supplies and came back to you as she lowered herself. "Alright, Deli Meats, let's get you back into town."

"Do I have to? I-I think I was doing fine...erm. Can I just be a buffalo instead? It seems pretty cool." You say in a whine

"Everypony has a place they belong, Deli Meats. Your family needs you, they are probably very worried. So let's get you back to town so the ponies there can get you home before anything bad happens." She urges you to jump up on her back.

"Mmm...ok and WHATS THAT?!" You point towards the supplies.

"What?!" Little Strong heart stood up and looked around, but she didn't see anything "What's wrong? what did you see?"

"I-I thought I saw a monster. I guess I was wrong"

"The lack of food is affecting your mind, we need to get you...ngh?!" She was now worried your hunger was getting to you. But now there was a problem, at least for her. Her hoof suddenly got stuck in between some small rocks. But with all her strength, she couldn't move them

Of course she couldn't. Because the rocks were actually just an edged part of a boulder hidden under the ground, bent exactly in a way to trap her. Your magic, of course, was the cause. "My hoof! Oh no...Oh no, c'mon!" But try as she might, she couldn't get loose. Not until a few minutes anyway. By then, Discord should have something cooked up

"W-what's wrong?" You ask

"My hoof is caught in between these rocks. I cannot get it out!" She tried her best, but to no avail.

You scooch over to her leg and take a closer look "Yep, it looks pretty stuck. Do you have any butter or oil?"

"No, do you see any way to get those rocks loose?" She asks you

"Nope"

"I don't have time for this. The entire tribe is depending on me!" She was struggling harder and harder, but still she couldn't do anything.

"Yep, you're stuck pretty good. Hold on, let me see if there's anything in those supply thingys that can help." You adorably waddled over to the supplies. Little Strongheart wasn't objecting at this point, anything to be free.

You went to the side so you wouldn't be seen and call Discord again. "Discord, what's your status?"

"Ohh, sounding all official now. Well, Anon, they have finally began to worry about where the supplies are. Good work, give it a minute or two, and be sure to look out on the southern horizon for my signal. It'll be obvious."

"Gotcha, I'll be ready" You remove your hoof from your ear and begin to pretend to look for something.

"Found anything yet?" She asked

"Nope, but I'll keep looking" And so you continued to falsely search. Up until the point you hear thunder. Was it time? You look back to see ominous clouds swirling in the distance. "W-what's that?!"

"I don't kn-" Then her eyes went wide when she saw where the clouds were swirling over "OH NO! THE TRIBE!" She immediately tries to escape once again, and that's when the timer you set on your magic went out. She pulled out so hard her roundish body caused her to roll backwards right into the supplies like a fucking bowling ball.

STRIKE!

You giggled silently as the top mounted supplies just fell to the ground, a large supply of molding tools bouncing right off her head. It was just like a cartoon.

"A-are you alright?" you say sounding concerned. But you were just holding back laughter.

"I-I'm fine. Deli Meats, please, you have to gather your strength and follow me." She said as she quickly started to reorganize and tie together the supplies and put them on her back.

"I dunno, what's so weird about swirly clouds and..w-w-w-woah!" The ground started to tremor, knocking Little Strongheart down on her side. She quickly got up to once again reorganize the supplies, This was pretty damn funny at this point.

And then you could hear the buffalo, even from this distance, scream like little girls and panic.

Oh man, it sounded great. You had to get over there now. "I think I can run, this seems really important. Lead the way!"

And with that word, Little Strongheart ran as fast as she could towards the village as you followed as quick as your little legs could take you.

When you both arrived at the village, it was pandemonium. Mothers hiding their children, Warrior Buffalo either hiding like cowards or swiping at nothing, The Shaman was dancing about screaming for the spirits to leave them be, and the sky was nothing but a swirling vortex at this point that was getting an odd green glow.

Little Strongheart immediately rushed towards the chief's teepee.

Discord was calling. You slipped away behind some water barrels and answered the call.

"Anon, ohhhh Anon. What do you think?"

"It's awesome, it looks like you really got them good. Their freaking out all over the fucking place."

"And this is just the warm up. But before I continue, you are enjoying this. Aren't you?"

You look back, you could see three buffalo on top of each other actually trying to spin the opposite direction of the clouds to make it go away. That's fucking hilarious. "Oh yeah, this is some good shit"

"Then it's time for phase two"

"Phase two?"

Suddenly, the sky opened up with a green light as skeleton buffalo started to run down from the sky.

The panic from the buffalo only grew as they watched on in horror.
"It's our ancestors! they are angry with us!"

"How do we fight them?!"

"Should we fight them?!"

"Quick, we must appease them with water! OR food!? QUICK, THROW FOOD AND WATER AT THEM!"

"I WANT MY MOTHER! I BECAME A WARRIOR TO DEFEND MY TRIBE! NOT WET MYSELF!"

"MAYBE I ANGERED THEM!? ME!? I DID! I HAD TO OF! TAKE ME OLD ANGRY SPIRITS SO YOU MAY SPARE MY TRIBE!" But they just pass through him. "....ok, I didn't..anger them. So do...do..do I just...I'm...no..i'm just going to lay down" The spirit fearing buffalo just laid where he stood, and sucked his hoof like a baby.

Oh yeah...this was fucking funny. They've obviously never had to deal with this before. Their own warrior spirit was shattering instantly. You wondered how Thunderhooves and Little Strongheart were reacting.

You went sneaking around the small village as Buffalo went into hiding, some tried to strike at the spirits, others lost their nerve near instantly. And the sky was just getting worse as things go on.

Eventually you found Thunderhooves speaking to Little Strongheart as she explained what happened. You hid behind a teepee as they spoke.

"Little Strongheart, what happened? What took you so long?" Thunderhooves said in a stoic fashion. Oddly enough he looked worried, but he wasn't spazzing. He was keeping his nerve.

Which is less than what you can say for Little Strongheart. "I'm sorry, Chief Thunderhooves. But..but..there was a colt in trouble along the way. He was hurt and he had been travelling the wilderness by himself for days without food or water. I couldn't just...I'm sorry" She looked like she was going to cry "T-this is all my fault. I feel that I should have just done what I was told."

"Ahh, there you are" You hear Discord from on top of your head as he moved your mane like bushes so he may look over you "What do you think?"

"It's great. these ghosts are just floating around and wailing and it's making them all go nuts. I didn't think any of these buffalo were even capable of crying. Hell.." You point to the Shaman Waterbrook in the distance. Who was dancing around like an idiot as she waved a stick around. "They really can't figure this out at all, it's hilarious. So we're going to keep this up and then suddenly leave, right? Because I can only imagine them freaking out even more trying to figure out what happened."

"Exactly, We'll stay a little longer after we put everything away just to see their reaction and....hrn?" Discord then notices Thunderhooves just looking about with a stoic face "What's with him?"

"Dunno, either he's going to explode on the girl buffalo or he's going to have the biggest freakout out of all of them. It'll be great"

"Oh really?" Discord snaps his talons as you both appear across from him and Little Strongheart. Obviously invisible as they didn't detect either of you. You were both now on lawn chairs, a bag of popcorn on your belly.

"Then let's get a good view of the show, eh?" Discord says with a smirk as he drinks from a straw.

"Oh...now we're invisible?" You say in a sarcastic tone.

"Shhhh" Discord shushes you "I'm trying to watch the movie."

"Ok, fine..." You say with a huff as you prepare for the shitshow

But Thunderhooves just continued to stare, making Little Strongheart uneasy. Even more so due to the wailing ghosts.

"C-chief Thunderhooves?" She stammered

"OH man, here it comes!" You were shoveling popcorn into your mouth. So much so that Discord passed you a drink to help it down.

"Oh yes, the fruits of our labor is about to spring up. This was so easy. The entire village will end up in a psych ward for a couple of days after this, it'll be glorious"

Both of you gazed in awe as he finally made an actual movement. This was it!

"You made the right decision, a young child in need cannot be abandoned under any circumstances. Besides, I believe it was wrong of us to try to settle this matter by summoning our ancient chief to quell the angered spirit of our own kin" Thunderhooves explained.

"....oh no" ....Nooooo, please don't let it be THAT trope...

"Oh no? What's going on? What is he blathering about?" Discord was confused.

...you REALLY hoped it wasn't going to turn out like you think it was. "...I dunno yet..."

"C-chief Thunderhooves?" Little Strongheart seemed confused herself about what was going on.

"Do not worry, I understand now. As the leader of this tribe, it is my duty to handle situations like these myself. These are OUR ancestors that we have somehow upset, and I will ask them for their mercy and try to understand what exactly has angered them. We all must stand as one. But if I can't stand as a leader, then I can no longer call myself the chief of this tribe. If you brought that child here, tend to him. I will face these spirits myself."

....oh GODDAMMIT! "Booo!" You throw your popcorn at the ground.

"What? What just happened?" Discord was heavily confused now.

You knew exactly what happened. You watched as Little Strongheart went to find you as Thunderhooves stepped towards the fire and stared deeply into it as the ghosts randomly flew and screamed.

You just plant the side of your head on your hoof, looking bored. "It's a stupid fucking trope, that's what. He saw his brethren going nuts and being scared out of their minds and felt helpless. Now he's going to stand up to our power and try to stop the ghosts."

"Well, he can't. It's up to me to decide when they go away and it simply won't happen just because he grew a few extra nerves." Discord was getting frustrated as he could see the chief speak and stare into the fire with unwavering determination.

"Relax, relax. I still have a charge left. Let me put a little human ingenuity into this." You tap at your horn and aim right at the fire. The fire turns a ghastly green as a Buffalo head with bleeding eyes and rotting skin rises from the flame. Crazy ugly insects and vermin drop from it's underside or through the holes they were boring through it's rotted flesh. "CHIEF THUNDERHOOVES! YOU WILL NEVER AMOUNT TO ANYTHING. I AM THE CULMINATION OF ALL OF YOUR TRIBES FAILINGS. RESIGN YOURSELF TO MADNESS JUST AS YOUR BRETHREN HAVE"

"Ohhhhh, now that's good" Discord takes a snapshot of the buffalo head.

"I know right? There's no way he can stand against that" That was victory for sure.

But he did stand there, he didn't even flinch. "You are but a spirit of doubt, doubt I no longer have. Whatever darkness has descended here, I will lead my tribe to the light. We respect what you have done within your life. But unless you let us know what we have done, I will not just give up. There can be no peace among the living and the departed unless we come to an understanding"

You crushed your own soda cup between your hooves. "HOW CAN HE NOT BE SCARED OF THAT?! IT'S HORRIFYING!"

And even worse still. As he continued his speech, the other buffalo began to notice and stare in awe at their chief's bravery. And all began, one by one, to stand beside him.

"Anon..it's not working" Discord was getting aggravated watching them all stand together in unison and harmony.

"Hey, I just used my second charge. Why don't you do something then? Instead of complaining."

"A little destruction from the divine should heat things up! Watch this, Anon, this is how a pro does things" Discord slammed his paw digit down, bringing a lightning bolt right onto the chief's teepee. It burst into flames.

But even then, he stood proud. And the ghosts were starting to disappear.

"....Not even lightning? Goddammit..." You fell back on your chair and wiped your head as you already threw in the towel on this one. "It's over. We just helped him learn some valuable lesson instead of causing some crazy chaos"

"......." Discord sighed "Is that it? I could have sworn this was going to be easy"

"Never underestimate the power of a cheap saturday morning lesson. The guy must have been having issues about being a leader earlier."

"And what exactly does that mean for us?" Discord asked

"....It means our little prank was the challenge he needed to get himself back together,"

Discord's eyebrows twisted as his horns began to melt, his eyes bursting in flames from his fury "SO WE DID ALL THIS FOR NOTHING?! WE HELPED THEM LEARN SOME DUMB LESSON ABOUT LEADERSHIP AND UNITY?! I HAAAATE THAT! I GAVE UP SOME EXTRA TIME I HAD WITH FLUTTERSHY FOR THIS!"

Suddenly, the chairs began to catch fire. You had to hop off lest you burn into ashes. "Holy crap! Discord, calm down!"

"CALM DOWN?! CALM DOWN?!?!?!? I'LL SHOW YOU CALM!" Discord roared as he zipped into the sky and turned into a colossal buffalo ghost....oh no

"CHIEF THUNDERHOOVES! SO IT SEEMS YOU GREW A BACKBONE! BUT ARE YOU READY TO FACE OFF THE GREATEST OF YOUR ANCESTORS? CHIEF BALLOONBUTT?" The Discord Buffalo Ghost roared to him from the sky.

The other buffalo began murmuring to themselves. Hell, you were trying to fucking figure out what he was doing at this point. Balloonbutt? Seriously?

"Chief, I am afraid I've never heard of you before" Thunderhooves replied.

"OF COURSE YOU HAVEN'T! MY GREATNESS WAS SO LEGENDARY THAT I HAD MYSELF STRICKEN FROM SAID LEGENDS AS TO GIVE YOU LESSER CHIEFS A CHANCE! BUT NOW I AM HERE AND I AM ANGRY! AND I DEMAND RETRIBUTION! NOW!"

The buffalo seemed to be getting worried again. But Thunderhooves, still, did not falter. "I understand. All I want is peace. Please tell us what we have done to upset you."

The buffalo ghost pointed to a small box next to a teepee "THAT BOX HAS BEEN THERE FOR A FEW DAYS AND HAS BEEN OBSTRUCTING MY VIEW OF THE GROUND UNDER IT! I WANT IT MOVED!"

"....That's it?" Thunderhooves asked

"THAT'S IT!" The ghost yelled.

"...Ok then." He nodded to one of the buffalo, who moved the box very slightly. "...Do you feel better now?"

"YES! HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" And then the ghost disappeared as the sky became calm and clear.

Discord appeared beside you with an accomplished smile on his face...wut? "...The hell was that?"

"Well, if I wasn't going to be able to spook them. Then I'd at least force them to move something just because I told them to. All in all, I'd call this a successful night." Discord said with accomplishment plastered on his face. "And look at how confused they all are. I'd say I managed to recover this entire operation. give me some hoof" Discord holds his paw out at you.

...Every part of you told you you should just walk away from this fucking disaster. But then you heard Little Strongheart screaming that she lost you, and she was running around in a panic. Heh, watching her sperg about the encampment did feel like a pretty nice consolation prize. Fine....you'll give it up for Discord. "....Ok, now it's good" You clap your hoof at Discord's paw

Discord gave you a warm smile as he snapped his talons, making you both appear in your room.

"Ya know, it wasn't that bad. That was fun." You say with a content smile

"It was. But do you know what the best part of it was?" Discord said as he snapped his talons, changing you back to normal.

"What's that?"

"That we stuck with it until the end. You and me, Anon. Sure we didn't get the exact results we wanted, but it was fun nonetheless."

"Yeah, it was kinda fun. And while short, we did pretty good together. You know, it's exactly what I needed actually."

"Oh? And how's that? champ" Discord said as he stretched his talons up and down. Then clipped the edges with the claws of his paws.

"I feel better. A lot better. I guess I really was focusing on Chrysalis too much. And look, things worked out for the buffalo because Thunderhooves came to believe in himself...even though I had no idea he was having doubts. All I need to do is believe in myself and things will be fine." It seemed this was a lesson for you as it was for the chief.

"Good! That's very good to hear. Especially since tomorrow we'll be attending that silly little parenting class. Remember, for Fluttershy, we need to be all smiles."

You yawn as you climb into bed. "Yeah...what about Chrysalis though?"

"You let me worry about that, Anon." Discord puts your blanket over you and gives you a gentle pat on the head.

"Alright. and come on, cooome on. I'm not actually a colt, you know." You gently bat his paw away. Not too hard. His affection wasn't that bad. Just a little embarrassing.

"Oh, but you are, at least in body, and as part of the family......" Discord stops as he realizes he was about to get super sentimental "Ok, let's stop right there. I've had too many mushie moments with you for one generation. I'm off to bed."

....awww. "Alright...good night. Seeya tomorrow...Dad."

Discord stopped before he teleported away, and looked to the side "You really don't get it do you, I said I'm not going to be mushie right now...son"

You smirked. "I think that last word was enough. I just hope everything really does go well tomorrow. Try to go easy on Chrysalis, Huh?"

"I might. Sweet dreams, Anon" Discord says as he does a simple single wave

"You too"

And then he left. And sleep time came once again.

Chapter 311

However, waking up wasn't an easy thing. It never was. Except for today… Today you woke up at an appropriate time. It was morning.

You raised yourself up and rubbed your eyes and looked at your clock. "Morning? Heh, that explains why nobody came and woke me up yet. What time is that class thing supposed to start anyway?"

You get up and stretch with another yawn. You take a look in the mirror and smiled. You felt that things were going to go more smoothly now that you had a better handle on things. "Heya bud, how you doin?" You winked at yourself with a smirk. That's all you needed, a night's sleep.

Suddenly, your ears perk up when you hear yelling coming from the living room. "LET ME OUT OF THIS, YOU BUFFOON! WHAT GIVES YOU THE RIGHT TO TREAT ME THIS WAY?! HOW DARE YOU MAKE A MOCKERY OF ME!"

It was Chrysalis, she was yelling about something. Discord? Suddenly, Your floor door pops open as Discord steps up through it, holding a pet carrier… With Chrysalis in it. She was raging mad.

But Discord just calmly put down the carrier as he looked at himself in the mirror and adjusted a tie he had around his neck. "Spiffy"

"ANON! LET ME FREE! LET ME FREE RIGHT NOW! IF YOU'RE MY FRIEND YOU WILL NOT LET ME BE STUCK IN THIS STUPID FUCKING CAGE! LET ME OUT!" Chrysalis started slamming at the door with her head "LET ME OUT!"

"Discord...really? That's messed up" You weren't amused, even though somewhere in the back of your mind, it was kind of funny.

Discord was changing the color of his black tie to red as he answered you with a bored tone. "How? I explained to her the situation and she refused to take part. This was the only way to even get her up here"

"In a pet carrier?!"

"Better than a air carrier, am I right?" Discord winks as he finishes with his tie. Ugh, that was a bad joke.

"I HAVE A RIGHT TO REFUSE THIS! I AGREED TO BE HIS SISTER, NOT BE STUCK EXPLORING OUR 'FEELINGS' IN SOME DUMBASS CLASS! ANON! GET HIM TO STOP RIGHT NOW!"

Damn, she's usually a lot more calm than this. Being humiliated and subdued by Discord must be one of her buttons. "Chrysalis, I hate to say it. But this might be just what you need to see the good side of things."

Thinking about it now. Mrs. Muffin Top is pretty motherly, probably because she is a mother. And she was very kind and sweet to boot. Maybe if Chrysalis sees how regular pony families are, she'll see how terrible it'd be to tear them apart.

Chrysalis's eyes narrowed angrily at you as her tone became low and cold. ".....So that's how it is."

"Oh please, Chryssy. Don't be so icy about it. I really don't want to go at all either. Surely you even realize that me having to compromise on what is most definitely a punishment is something I don't want to do. But seeing as it is a family affair, you have no choice but to attend. Because you're right. You agreed to be Anon's sister. And well, this would be something Anon's sister would do." Discord said as he went over to the portal door and opened it to the cottage.

"Except I have nothing to do with this punishment! I should be exempt from it!" Chrysalis barked at him.

"No can do. The whole thing falls apart if you're not there and acting as the kindly pony 'Nymous' " Discord said as he bent down to look at Chrysalis through the cage. She just looked at him with eyes of death.

"Why should I even help you? You're not offering anything in return" She tells him.

"Chrysalis, Please. Just do it for me? Please? As a friend? Can you at least see this as part of our game? I want you to see how nice and loving pony families can be." You plead with her.

"As part of our game? Hah!" Chrysalis scoffs "You squandered that on the party. It should be my turn to show you my side of things this time."

Chrysalis...

Fine, she wanted it to be "turns"? Then yours wasn't up with. "..Except you got drunk at the party. Do you even remember most of it?"

"What?" Chrysalis asked, she seemed surprised by your question.

"Do you remember a lot of it? Or just bits and pieces?"

Chrysalis actually stopped to think, but then she gave you an annoyed scowl. "What does it matter?"

"Because if you can't remember that much from it then it doesn't really count. I also remember paying a lot of my debts through that single sitting of Goodfellas."

"W-what?!" Chrysalis actually seemed rather baffled, if only because she must be trying to recollect the actual going ons of the party.

You nod, giving her a soft concerned look. "Yeah, fucked off and paid you, remember? If anything, you owe me another try, right?"

"Absurd, so what if I did do that? Who cares? I'm not doing this" Chrysalis said as she scrunched up her face. Sore loser...

"Come on, Chrysalis. I showed you a good movie, gave you a good drink, and we had a good time. You can't do this for me?" You give her a wide smile. "Please?"

She didn't say anything for a moment, and then she looked to Discord. "And you need me for this? Of course you do." Chrysalis then looked back at you. "Considering your case, I suppose I can do it just to get past this situation. Of course..." She looks through her cage, right at Discord with a wicked smile. "Don't be surprised if Nymous shows that she's a better caretaker than her bumbling adopter."

"Hmm? Oh OHHH" Discord snickers. "I get it, you're thinking of upstaging my parental caregiving, is that it?"

She shook her head. "That's not difficult since I'm the mother of many. No, I'm simply saying that you should watch what you say Discord. Or.."

Chrysalis changes into her Nymous form and speaks in distress "I'll have to reveal just how stressful being your daughter really is" She then looks at him with confidence "So much so that I can take better care of Anon than you can"

"Oh, cute. But I wouldn't overdo it, Chryssy. Anon is still closer to me than he is to you. You tell something that doesn't sound correct to anypony else and...." Discord snaps his talons in front of her. "Everypony might see you as an exaggerator. Sure, still elegant and sweet. But just not tuned in the way of how I and Anon live. In other words, they'll think you're just being over reactive."

"Ohh, you think Anon would choose you over me, hmm?" Chrysalis looks up at him with an arrogant smirk.

"Well, Anon." Discord looks to you for reassurance. "Surely you wouldn't let her cause any issues. You wouldn't back anything she says that would make me look bad, right?"

Unfortunately for Chrysalis, you couldn't let her make anything up or exaggerate any of his negative traits. It'd just make everything into a train wreck. But you also couldn't let Discord just run all over her either. "Discord, I'll speak up if she tries anything on you. But just the same, you can't go being an asshole either."

But then they both spoke up at you.

"Seriously, Anon? It's not every day I can have some fun with the queen of the changelings in public. Why would you ruin that?" Discord puts his arms to his side as he looks down at you with disapproval.

"Forget him! What about me? What about you? Wouldn't you want a chance to show how abusive he can be towards you? What about our friendship? Does it not mean anything to you?" Chrysalis wanted you on her side one hundred percent. Of course, just so she could have control of the situation.

"It means a lot to me. And Discord, there's always a time and a place for fun. This whole thing happened because things got out of hoof, remember? I just want to get through this as a normal family. That's all. Meaning..." You look at Discord with a hard stare. "Shenanigans at an absolute minimum" You then look at Chrysalis. "Please, just this once. Just be my sister, ok? I just want this to work out. I know, in essence, you might feel you have no reason to comply. But, if we're friends, you'll do this just this once for me. What do you say?"

Chrysalis looked like she was contemplating. She was silent for a few moments before finally backing down. "Fine, I'll do this for you. I won't even ask for anything in return. And do you know why?"

Did you want to ask? "Why?"

"Because there's no way Discord could get through something like this anyway. And I want to watch him crash and burn." She started cackling.

"Says you. I too will agree with your conditions, Anon. I'll be an absolute darling." A halo appears over Discord's head as he grins. "If only to see Chrissy's face when she sees how well I pass this class."

Chrysalis didn't scoff or mock him. She just tapped at the door. "Fine, whatever you say. Now will you let me out?"

You sigh. Here we go.

You got what you wanted. But only because one wanted to see the other fail hard. Discord snaps his talons yet again, making the pet carrier disappear, allowing Chrysalis to stretch.

"Finally, now let's get this over with already so I can get to gloating" She said as she checked her legs and straightened her mane.

"...Umm, you do know this is more than just one day of class, right?" You ask her

"I already assumed that, Anon. It doesn't change the fact that I want it done as soon as possible. And besides..." Chrysalis looks at Discord with sheer arrogance. "It may very well just last a day"

"Bla bla bla bla" Discord mocks her by flapping his paws about like a mouth "Typical Chryssy, going all in without a clue as to what her hand even looks like. Now, I'm ready to be the perfect father and pick up your dear aunt from her cottage. Are you ready?"

"Oh, I'm so ready for this that I wish I could record the entire thing for nightly viewing" Chrysalis said, arrogant as ever.

You were just hoping this wouldn't turn into something that would cause Ponyville to explode. "Let's...just be civil..alright?" That's all you could hope for as the three of you go to greet Fluttershy.

You three stand in front of the door as Discord knocks. "Ohhh Fluttershy! Are you ready to go, my dear?"

Chrysalis was already disgusted. "Oh Discord. Normally I wouldn't care. But just seeing you say that unironically makes me feel ALMOST sorry for you. That's just...fucked up"

Discord shakes his talon at her. "Ah ah. A very long time ago I had to get onto Anon about his use of such vulgar language in public. I know you're getting used to it, but let's not use it out in the open alright? As much as I'd love everypony to see you as a foulmouth failure, we have appearances to keep. Or has that somehow become too difficult for the queen of the bugs?"

"Hmph, nice deflection you pompous freak. Fine, but get on with it already! What's taking her?" Chrysalis was already impatient.

"Come on everypony, let's just relax and..OHMP! HI AUNT FLUTTERSHY!" You are interrupted as you give an awkward smile to Fluttershy.

She just came out right in the middle of your sentence with a happy smile on her face. "Anon, Nymous, Discord!" She says, hugging all three of you. "I'm so happy to see you all ready already. Especially you Discord, it really shows that you want to improve as a father"

Discord smiles warmly at her as he returns her hug. "Well, you know me. I'm so perfect that I have to find a way to improve somehow to go beyond even that"

She giggled "Oh Discord. And Anon..." Fluttershy looked to you with a smile "You didn't give your sister any trouble getting out of bed, did you?"

Before you could say anything. Chrysalis put her hoof on your head and gave Fluttershy a warm smile. "He was actually up before I was. It made me very happy to see him ready for the day. A colt shouldn't be spending their day sleeping anyway, it's a bad habit. Although I haven't lived with my new father long, I ever so wished he would have taught Anon a little better. But he's not a bad father by any means, I suppose it's really just my opinion."

"Oh, Anon, I'm so proud of you" Fluttershy gave you a gentle happy hug. You loved it of course, but while Chrysalis made you look good, She was already poking at Discord. Because Fluttershy turned to her and nodded in agreement "It's not a bad opinion, Nymous." Fluttershy looked up at Discord with a motherly expression of slight disappointment. "I really do want you to get Anon out of that habit if you can Discord. It really isn't healthy at all."

Discord was already visibly peeved for just a moment before he picked you up and scratched your head gently with his paw. "I don't want to be too strict on him, Fluttershy. He's still so young and he manages to do what he needs to do just fine. If you really want me to work on it however, I can set up a special curfew for him."

Ugh, now this was embarrassing and you knew he was lying. He'd never go through with that, or at least not keep it up for any long period of time.

"I do, but I don't want you to be strict on him either. Just something in the middle will work." She then looks at you with concern. "And don't you worry, Anon, It's not because I think you did anything wrong. It's just to help you get on a healthy sleep schedule."

......Ugh. You just nod as Discord puts you down. "I know, Aunt Fluttershy." You just rub your head under hers to show you understood.

"Well, we all should be going now so we don't end up late. Oh I can't wait! I've heard so many good things about Mrs. Muffin Top that I know by the end that everything will work out!" Fluttershy said with excitement.

You certainly hoped so. Because as you all made your way, you could already feel the tension between Chrysalis and Discord.

When you all arrived, the rest of the class already seemed to be there. all on different places sitting on the floor. But you also noticed the class wasn't very large at all. You could see the back of two trenchcoated adults and a trenchcoated foal. Mrs. And Mr. Cake. Mr.Cake holding Pumpkin and Mrs. Cake holding Pound. Thunderlane and Rumble? Why even? Yeah...there was barely anyone here. What gives?

As you all walked in, Discord froze at the door, he didn't seem comfortable stepping inside.

Fluttershy turned around, and wondered why Discord had stopped. "Discord? What's wrong?" She asked him.

"O-oh nothing, nothing at all. I'm just tired from walking, is all" Discord was lying of course.

Fluttershy hovered upwards and gave Discord a gentle hug "Discord, don't be nervous, alright? You're a great father. You're going to do fine."

Discord eased up almost immediately as he slowly wrapped his arms around Fluttershy. "Well, it's certainly not that. But if it was, I'd feel a lot better about my abilities as a father right now thanks to you"

Chrysalis just looked back and scoffed silently. "This will be too easy."

With Discord's nervousness mostly quelled, you all decided to sit down next to the odd trenchcoated family. You sat in front of Fluttershy as she embraced you as Discord sat on her right, Chrysalis on her left.

You looked over to the trenchcoated ponies. they were wearing hats, and wore sunglasses, which was odd at first. But just looking at the color of their faces and manes. Holy shit, it was the Rich family. Haha....oh shit...

Finally, Mrs. Muffin Top enters the room from the kitchen class with a large plate of muffins. There must have been at least thirty of them, they smelled fresh and oh so good. "Good morning, everypony. I'm Mrs. Muffin Top, don'tcha know. And welcome to parenting class and-" But then she gets interrupted by Discord.

"Excuse me. But what’s with those two? That can't be that colt's father, he's much too young. Maybe I'm in the wrong class and-" But then Mrs. Muffin top interrupts him right back.

"Ahrm, that's easy to answer, Mr. Discord. 'Parenting Class' is just a term. Really, this class is all about communicating and working together with those you'd even feel you'd be a father to. Or to just learn a few pointers in being a parent. I don't like to be narrow in my views, don'tcha know. I like to help as many ponies as I can, as long as their willing to learn." She tells him, shutting him up quickly.

"You see me as your son?" Rumble looks up at his brother.

"W-what?! no no..it's just. Ya know, Mom and Dad said this would be good for us." Thunderlane seemed embarrassed. Was that it? Were they there because of their parents?

And what about the Riches? Diamond Tiara was taking peeks at you, but they were being awfully silent.

"Now, before we begin, I'll take roll call even though..." Mrs. Muffin Top giggled. "There aren't many of you to begin with. Golly, if it was the city, I'd have this entire room filled. Anyway, in no particular order. Thunderlane and Rumble?"

"Here!" They both say

"Mhmm, Mr. and Mrs. Cake! And of course their beautiful baby foals" She says.

"Here! Present!" They say, as the babies giggle and laugh.

"Miss Fluttershy, Mr.Discord, Nymous, and Anon?" She calls out.

You all let out a collective "Here!"

"Mr. And Mrs. Rich, And Diamond Tiara?" She calls out

"WHAT?!" Spoiled yells out as she looks at her husband with anger "YOU GAVE OUR REAL NAMES?!"

Mr. Rich just gave a confident nod. "Yes indeedy, it's not as if we came here because we're currently having problems, honey lamb. I just thought it'd help us communicate better as a family. Besides, you heard Mrs. Muffin Top. This kind of class doesn't mean you're some bad parent."

Spoiled just groans as she removes her hat and sunglasses "I swear, if there's anything in the papers tomorrow about this, I'll make sure that entire publishing company is crushed right into the ground..."

Diamond Tiara paid no heed to her parents however as she smiled at you and waved sheepishly and whispered "Hi, Anon",

You just gave her a confident smile as you waved back, it made her blush so adorably.

"Uh hum...erm. Finally on the list. Umm..hmm. 'Time Turner'. Gosh, I could have sworn it said family at the end, don'tcha know. Is there a time turner family pres-" Mrs. Muffin Top is once again interrupted as her door bursts open. Time Turner enters the class with soot all over his face and mane. He was cleaning it off with a towel as he dragged a desk and seat into the class.

"Hold on, Hold on!" He says in his whimsical British accent "Pardon me, I'm sorry I'm late. I had some trouble with an experiment and lost track of time. Won't happen again, I assure you." He moves the desk inside and looks to Mrs. Muffin Top first before taking a look around. "Excuse me, Mrs. Muffin Top, but where would you think this desk needs to be placed? I don't wish to get in anypony's way but the lack of furniture in this classroom is a tad disorienting."

"W-we don't use desks here" Mrs. Muffin Top looked at him oddly. This was off for her.

"You don't? That's preposterous! How am I to make notes?!" Time Turner was surprised by this.

"...We..we don't copy notes here, hun. As a parent, you need to learn all of this naturally, don'tcha know."

"Well, hrn. I am capable of learning 'naturally', of course. But having notes would be oh so much more efficient. Would you please make an exception?" Time turner asks her, as politely as he can.

"I-I suppose..." Mrs. Muffin tilted her head to look behind him. "May I ask where your family is?"

"Family?" Time Turner asked "What about family?" He seemed confused.

"Well, Mr. Turner. While this class has a very loose meaning of 'parenting', I still expect you to bring a son, or perhaps a young brother perhaps? A nephew maybe?" Mrs. Muffin Top has clearly never ran into anything like this before.

"Oh no, no no." Time Turner shook his head. "I didn't sign up for this class to better my relationship with any family member. I signed up so I may learn the science of family bonding and parental technique. I feel it will help me with my latest research!" Time Turner announced with great interest in the craft.

Mrs. Muffin Top didn't know what to say to that. "I-I see, well that is a new one. I guess that's ok, in case you ever end up with a little one of your own. But, no desk. I like to keep the classroom clear, don'tcha know"

"I see...hrmmmm." Time Turner pondered on this. "I suppose that will be fine. I do have a phenomenal memory. I'll simply write any notes I can remember after class. Alright then, just give me a moment and..." Time turner grabs the desk and starts to drag it back outside, causing everyone's ears to ring and ache from the scraping noise. He then comes back in and sits down at the corner of the room, everyone, including you, giving him a quick vicious stare that he remarkably is ignorant to. "There we are, I'm ready to learn professor!"

"I'm not a-....never mind. I-it's at least good to see you all here" Mrs.Muffin Top, you could tell, was now slightly out of her element. Not due to Discord, but by a guy who had no family to bring.

"Now then, I like to open every first day of class with a small explanation on why you're here. Now, you don't need to stand up and say anything if you don't want to. But I like to think it'd make everything go more friendly and smoothly, don'tcha know." She explains.

Time Turner immediately speaks. "So, would it be correct if I explain why I'm here again?"

"I....no, you're fine, Mr.Turner." Mrs.Muffin Top may have let him in, but she seemed uncomfortable about it. Maybe because someone being here just to learn in the sake of science didn't seem pure to her.

"Oh oh, I'd like to speak if you don't mind" Mrs. Cake raised her hoof.

Mrs. Muffin Top just nods at her with a smile. Giving her the ok.

"Well, me and my husband are here so we can be better prepared for the future. We only want to be the best parents we can be for our little Pound and Pumpkin." Mrs. Cake says with pride.

"That's right. When it comes to our children, we only want to do our best for them." Mr. Cake announces as well.

Mrs. Muffin Top nods with a smile. "Well now, that's very sweet. I really do wish the best for the both of you. I can tell by your faces that you both really mean it. Now, Anypony else? Perhaps you, Mr. Discord."

"Huwhat?! I refuse. You can't make me say anything about why I'm here!" Discord immediately becomes defensive.

"I-I wasn't making you, Mr.Discord. I was simply asking. Hrn, Anypony else?" Mrs. Mufiin Top asks, immediately taking away the attention from Discord as to not cause a scene with him.

"I would!" Nymous raised her hoof.

Mrs. Muffin Top smiled at first "Oh, yes? Nymous?....Hmm" Mrs. Muffin Top's smile lessened when she looked at Chrysalis's face. she didn't know exactly why, but something felt off about what she was looking at.

"I'd like to just say that despite my father having to serve in this class as a punishment, I hope that it teaches all of us to be closer as a family. He has many faults, I admit. Some may even say he's simply a terrible nightmare creature. But I don't, he's the first father I've ever had that actually cares, even if sometimes he can be quite needlessly childish himself. And I just want to say that we can't wait to learn everything we can from you." Chrysalis explains with an almost contorted evil grin.

Discord was fuming already. But Fluttershy just clapped her hooves with a wide smile, seeing nothing wrong with what she said. "That was very nice, Nymous. I agree, Discord does have his faults. but deep inside he's one of the sweetest and most caring draconequus I ever met."

You just sigh. Not only was he the ONLY Draconequus she ever met, but Chrysalis already was making more headway than he was. And here you were hoping things would just be civilized.

Mrs. Muffin Top, she didn't know what to make of it. Was that sincere? Or was this seemingly sweet pony being malicious. She was internally doubting her talent. and for the sake of everyone else, she clapped as well "Very well said, Nymous. Would anypony else like to speak?"

"Ahrm, I'd like to say a thing or two" Filthy speaks up, as Spoiled puts a hoof to her face.

"Please don't say anything embarrassing..." Spoiled whispers to him.

"Don't worry dear, it'll be quite alright" He whispers back

"Go ahead, Mr. Rich" Mrs.Muffin Top says.

"Why thank you kindly. Ahrm, I'd just like to say, for the sake of the entire Rich estate, that understanding how to be a better father than I already am is imperative for our future. My darlin' little princess deserves parents who are able to help her strive and succeed. I want to see her grow while my beautiful wife and I are able to guide her down the right road through life the best we can. And of course, to be able to understand my dear Diamond Tiara better in case there's some sort of horrible misunderstandin’. I would never ever want to make some sort of decision that would only end up hurting her, never ever." You can tell by his expression and the tone of his voice that he was telling the truth.

Even Spoiled's expression changed, she smiled, then hid it from view. She didn't say anything, but she was hiding her admiration for her husband.

Diamond Tiara just got up and hugged him. "Oh, Daddy!"

Even Mrs. Muffin Top was shedding a tear at the genuine care Mr.Rich exhibited. "That's so beautiful." she had to pull out a handkerchief to blow.

Time Turner was silent, simply observing. Rumble and Thunderlane seemed to have found it just a tad too mushy.

"It's so beautiful.." Fluttershy was tearing up as she cuddled you close "Isn't it ,Anon?"

It was, honestly. "Yeah. it really is."

You also noticed Chrysalis, she was staring. No doubt subtly feeding.

"Well, I can tell my entire class are all such wonderful and caring ponies. It makes me so glad. Now before we start our first lesson, would anypony like a muffin? they're fresh, don'tcha know." Mrs. Muffin Top gently pushes her plate forward to allow everyone in the room to grab a muffin.

Time Turner didn't take any, instead remaining where he was so he could pay close attention. Thunderlane and Rumble took three muffins each without hesitation, even having a bit of a struggle when they end up grabbing the same third one. Mr. Rich took three, and handed the other two to Spoiled and Diamond.

Mr. Cake stood up and grabbed two, and when he returned, he broke off small pieces of his own muffin to give to Pound and Pumpkin as he gave the other whole muffin to Mrs.Cake, who gave him a kiss in return.

Seeing the nice gestures from Mr. Rich and Mr. Cake. You decide to grab four muffins and bring them back. However, trying to carry all four makes you wobble and trip.

At first everyone gasped.

And as you inevitably fell forward to fall on your head, you felt something catch you. Not someone… It was Discord. He had caught you with his paw stretched out a few feet to catch you as the muffins float above.

"Careful there, son. You nearly tripped." He says as he gently sat you up straight and carefully put the muffins back in your hooves.

Fluttershy thought it was very heroic of Discord and complimented him before she sighed from relief. She also thought it was very courteous of you to bring all the muffins by your lonesome and gave you a gentle pat on the head as she took her muffin. Discord, only wanting to copy that good nature, says the same thing. However, when you try to pass it to Chrysalis...

"Oh, I'm not very hungry for muffins." Chrysalis states as she continues to undoubtedly feed off the love emanating in the room.

Discord spoke up when he heard that, trying to sound as hurt as he could. "Oh, Nymous, your brother went through the trouble of getting that muffin for you. He even fell in his attempt. And you're just going to deny his offer?" Then Discord gets louder for everyone to hear. "YOU'RE GOING TO REFUSE THE MUFFIN HE NEARLY BONKED HIS OVER FOR? OH HOW VERY VERY-"

But before Discord could finish, Chrysalis snatches up the muffin from you and slams it into her mouth. At first, she nearly barfs. But she holds it in and swallows and takes a few breaths as she smiles at you with a very weak smile. She clearly ate something she didn't like too quickly. "T-thank you, Anon. T-that was deli-delicious. A-and what I meant was that I wasn't very hungry for muffin, b-but I'd eat it for you."

"My mistake." Discord grins evilly as he looks forward, a halo appearing above his head.

Wait… Did he trip you up on purpose, knowing Chrysalis would initially refuse? This really was going to be a disaster, wasn't it?

"Well, I'd like to announce the results of the first lesson." Mrs. Muffin Top announced.

"Hrn?" Time Turner, among everyone else, was the most confused. "Pardon me, but I don't believe a lesson was even taught."

"Ahh, that's the magic of family, Mr. Turner. In cases like this, not all lessons need to be taught through words, don'tcha know." Mrs. Muffin Top explained. "Sometimes, you only need to make an observation and then explain what one did wrong. And I'm happy to say everypony passed!"

Nobody, including you, even knew if you should cheer or not.

"Well, everypony but Thunderlane and Rumble" She said with a hearty giggle

"What?!" Rumble said, confused

"How did we fail?! What did we even do wrong? What did everypony else do right?" Thunderlane couldn't even fathom what went wrong.

"The muffins." Mrs. Muffin Top said in a simple tone.

....The muffins? The muffins… Nobody knew what that meant.

Waaaaaiit. You actually can figure this one out. It's the way they acted. Typical Mr. Miyagi Saturday shit.

You raise your hoof to Mrs. Muffin Top. "I think I can explain why they failed."

Mrs. Muffin Top examined your face as she came out from behind her desk. She could tell you definitely had something on your mind. "Oh? Go ahead, hun, tell us." She said in a sweet tone. "If it's obvious to you, then hopefully they will be able to understand what happened."

"Anon, do you really understand?" Fluttershy asked you, a little worried you were about to do something embarrassing to yourself.

"I think I do. In fact, I'm pretty sure I do" You stand and walk forward a few steps, and clear your throat. "The reason they failed is because everypony else who took the muffins were thoughtful and kind about it. They thought about the others rather than themselves. And nopony complained either. And not only did Mr. Cake bring the muffins to his wife, they both shared some with their babies. And then there's Dad, who was quick enough to catch me. I don't know if that last part counts but I'd like to think it does. Meanwhile, Thunderlane and Rumble just made very selfish grabs for the muffins. I think they even fought over one...that's the right answer, right?"

Mrs. Muffin Top gave a gentle smile as she gave you a very gentle pat on the head. "Hun, you really are a hero colt. Nopony has ever managed to figure out the lesson until I explained it first. You are absolutely correct"

FUCK YES! You turn to Fluttershy with a giddy smile. "Did you hear that, Aunt Fluttershy? I got it right!"

"Yes you did! I'm so proud of you, Anon!" Fluttershy opened her legs to you for a hug. And boy, was it soft and cuddly. You didn't care who saw.

".....Oh..." Rumble looked down, feeling shameful "...I guess I did get kinda mean about it."

"Hey Rumble, don't worry about it I.." Thunderlane's ears drooped, he knew what he did. "It's my fault. Really, I really should have set a better example for you. Here, you want this muffin? I already ate all the other ones."

"Huh? Umm..no. I think you should have it" Rumble gently pushes the his hoof with the muffin away back to him.

"Mr. Thunderlane, Maybe you can try something else, hm?" Mrs.Muffin Top makes a motion of pushing her own hooves apart like she was slowly tearing something in two.

It took him a moment, but he finally understood. "Oh um, well. If you don't want the whole thing. M-maybe we can just share and..." Thunderlane pulls the muffin in half and holds it to Rumble. "eat it together"

"Yeah, that'd be pretty cool" Rumble slowly took it, feeling a little better now. Feeling happy about his brother's nice gesture.

"That's my, Anon!" Diamond Tiara cheered as she trotted over to you and dived into you, making you fall into Fluttershy. She just nuzzled her head under yours happily. "It's that kind of princely wisdom that'll make you the greatest husband ever!"

Fluttershy, although finding it adorable, flinched from that, as did Mr. Rich. Spoiled Rich didn't seem to react. She just stared, observing. You thought you saw a smile on her face, but it was faint.

You were just blushing. The motherly warmth of Flutters on your back. The blushy, sorta "boner inducing but better not because you'll die if you do, because someone in this room will kill you" kind of warmth at your front. This was the life.

"I hope I'm not being a nuisance by saying this but, I never took a muffin. Does this mean I pass? Or fail? I understand what's going on. But I'd also like to pass this class as well through my own merit and I feel like I may have failed the lesson" Time Turner speaks up from his corner. He really didn't know his place in the lesson.

And it seemed Mrs.Muffin Top had nearly forgotten about him. Hell, you did. "Oh, Well, Mr. Turner. I suppose since you have nopony to share a muffin with, then that means you technically pass if you understood the lesson that Anon figured out." She said he passed, but even her tone didn't sound so sure.

"Ahh I see, since I could not properly participate, merely understanding the lesson is enough to pass it. Yes, haha! This is easier than I thought. Yes! Then let us continue then!" Well, at least he sounded pretty happy with himself.

"Diamond, dear. Please come back. There's a place for affection and this isn't the place. A little is fine, but we're here to learn...apparently." Spoiled called her back. She didn't mind her daughter showing affection to you, but it was too much at this point. And she could see that her husband, who was at one point, totally ok with it. Has become on edge lately due to the fear things have moved too fast.

"Yes, mother..." Diamond Tiara doesn't risk a kiss on your nose in front of her parents as she trots back to her them and sits in front of Filthy. She didn't want to leave of course, but she didn't want to upset her parents either.

"Actually, Mrs. Rich. She's fine where she is as the next lesson will have the adults separated from their younger kin. We will sit back and observe the children while we talk and get to know one another. I think it's a great way for everypony to understand one another and help empathize with everypony." Mrs. Muffin Top states, but this seemed to irk Spoiled.

"Excuse me, but what does that even mean? Are you honestly suggesting I converse with some of these ponies?" Spoiled was showing her...well...spoiled side. Seems she was only willing to tolerate so much.

"Come now, darlin'. None of these ponies are bad, and Discord is quite an amazing gentlecolt. And besides, this class is for all of us, including Diamond Tiara. You can do this this once, can't ya?" Filthy tries to appeal to her. He didn't want there to be a problem and yet he didn't want his wife to feel insulted in anyway. "The lesson might be more important than either of us realize. And this IS Mrs. Muffin Top. She's world renowned."

"Yes, I agree!" Both Discord and Chrysalis let out at the same time. And upon doing so, looked at eachother with angry faces as they both realized they were trying to one up one another.

"We should all listen to Mrs. Muffin Top and-" they both stopped again. And waited as they stared at each other silently before they both yell out. "Get ready for this very important lesson we're about to learn!" Both Chrysalis and Discord yell at eachother. Both of them just wanted to kiss ass to make themselves look better than the other, but ended up doing it at the same time, with the same words.

Realizing this. It took all your will to not laugh because it was adorably hilarious. Fluttershy just found it off, she was thrown mentally off balance by the fact that despite it being a nice thing to say, it looked like they were just trying to say it to be mean to each other. "W-well, I'm ready..I think"

"Yeah, this doesn't seem so bad. I think we can pass this lesson. Right, Rumble?" Thunderlane says with full confidence.

"Totally. Plus I get to hang out with the hero colt! It'd be awesome if he gave me a few pointers." Rumble said with enthusiasm in his voice. For you, that felt kinda bad. But, then again, it was just him really. One doting fan isn't too bad.

"What about us? Our little Pound and Pumpkin aren't exactly old enough to do any conversing" Mrs. Cake said, feeling a little unsettled she can't truly participate in the next lesson.

"That's not going to be a problem, right?" Mr. Cake asks, he was wondering if there was someway to properly fully participate "Well, actually. We're not leaving the classroom, right? We can just leave them right here, that way they can kinda absorb how the foals interact with each other. That kind of thing works...right?"

"It can. Foals' minds absorb more when they are younger, don'tcha know. It's kind of like a sponge. Or at least that's what they say. And I'm sure there's nopony in this classroom who'd want to hurt any of them so I don't see a problem with it." Mrs. Muffin Top agrees with Mr. Cake, and allows the twins to sit in with you and the other foals.

And with that. The parents moved to one side of the room to watch as you and the rest of the foals decided to sit next to the twins in a circle. However, there was one more issue that needed to be sorted out.

"Nymous, shouldn't you be over there with the rest of the little foals? Hmmm?" Discord says with feigned innocence.

Chrysalis wanted no part in actually being around the foals. And being a "Teenager", she wished to be with the other adults. "Don't be...ahrm" She was about to sound more crude than she should be, she didn't like the false tone in Discord's voice. She took it as being equated to a child. But she also knew she had to calm down as to not seem like a twat. "Well, I am nearly an adult. Shouldn't I be here to observe my brother and the other foals."

"Hrnnn.." Discord pondered as he stroked his beard. He then turned to Mrs. Muffin Top to confirm. "Now, excuse me if I'm wrong. But, Mrs. Muffin Top, for the sake of the lesson. Since she's my daughter, she must be among the other foals. Correct?"

Mrs. Muffin Top nods "Yes indeedy." She then looks to Chrysalis with a gentle unassuming smile, and yet, she was paying attention very closely to Chrysalis's face and reaction as she spoke. "For the sake of the lesson, you actually need to be over there with the other foals. You're not quite an adult yet, hun. And since you're not the parent, you can't exactly be in the parent circle."

Discord's smile became wider, and more cruel. He didn't say a word, but he looked to Chrysalis with pure victory in his mind.

Admittingly, Discord has had a better foothold thus far. Showing up Chrysalis at nearly every turn. But only because he was the "father" figure.

Chrysalis was taken aback. She didn't want Discord to win something like this. Even if she was disguised, she didn't want to be compared to a mere child. "A-aunt Fluttershy, let's be reasonable. It won't be long until I am an adult, and perhaps even a parent. Don't you think it's a tad ridiculous to have me sit with the foals? It's not that I don't deeply care about them, I do. It's just, it's seems a tad insulting."

But it looked like Fluttershy would be taking Discord's side on this one. But not really for Discord, but because it was part of the lesson. "I'm sorry, Nymous, but this IS a class after all. But you shouldn't be embarrassed, we're all learning very important things today and it will help support our family if we just follow Mrs.Muffin Top's instructions"

Chrysalis tensed up. She looked to Discord, who waves happily at her, and her eyes slowly shifted to Mrs. Muffin Top. "But..."

"She's right, Nymous, but don't worry. I don't think anypony here sees you as a small foal. But my lesson stands, and it's very important too. Look at your brother, he seems to have attracted the favor of that young filly over there. Don't you think, as his big sister, that you should help guide those two?" Mrs. Muffin Top asks. Now she knew something was off. That "Nymous" seemed rather deceptive despite what she's been told. But she wouldn't press into it. Not until she has observed her for a longer period of time.

One of the reasons she couldn't be so sure however, was the fact that Discord was seemingly being malicious in his kind words. It also made her think that perhaps she was trying to say that there was more to Discord than he was letting on. But she just couldn't be sure. Both Discord and Chrysalis were so out of the norm for her. But for now, the lesson was the most important thing.

Chrysalis was silent as she looked over to you. She kept herself from muttering or saying something insensitive.

When she collected herself a few moments later, she said "Yes, although I have been doing that since I arrived in Ponyville. Perhaps that is why I felt I should be here. But no, you're right. I should be with them...with him. To always guide him towards the right path. Excuse me..." Chrysalis starts to walk over to your group as she looks back at Discord one last time.

He was stealthily holding up a sign with his tail, raising it just beside his leg that said "LOSER!". And that's when she showed actual anger in her expression. It was just for a moment, but she was getting tired of getting shown up. But even she had no idea how to get the upper hand right now. And that was truly aggravating her to no end.

Chapter 312

And there you sat, in a circle with Chrysalis, Diamond Tiara, Rumble, and the twins.

"So, what are we doing exactly?" Rumble was the most confused.

And quite frankly, now that the lesson had "begun", you were confused as well. What was going on exactly? "Um, I think we're just supposed to interact with each other."

"Well of course we are." Chrysalis says in a pleasant way. "We're obviously being judged, so let us all play nice so we can move on quickly to the next lesson."

"Not so fast!" Diamond Tiara raised her hoof to stop Chrysalis, her eyes pointed right at the twins. "I see an opportunity!"

Opportunity? Was that business speak? Why was she looking at the twins? Even worse, she then looked at you with a smirk. What did you have to do with opportunity?! "Uhhhhhmmm....why are you looking at me like that?"

"Why do you think? If you're going to be my future husband. I need to see how good you are with kids since we're gonna have a few of our own" She said in a near snooty tone.

Wait..wut?! You were stunned. Was she telling you to be a father? As you stood there, stunned. Rumble was giggling. He knew you had been "told" before by Diamond Tiara. But being a daddy? He may have found you cool before. But the cool factor was washing off. "Uhm, umm..I don't think that's the point of the class"

Chrysalis however, could tell this would turn into a never ending argument if you didn't comply. so she started to walk over to Pumpkin and Pound cake. "Anon, my dear brother, it's not that difficult. Here, watch this. Come here you precious little things." She neared Pumpkin first, but as she did, Pumpkin started to crawl back and whimper. Chrysalis stopped, and quickly attempted to try picking up Pound. But that too caused an upset. "A-ahrm...hrm. I think they might be a little cranky today."

"Cranky? Hmph." Diamond Tiara wouldn't accept any reason for you no to try and neared the baby foals herself. She then smiled at them and gave them a happy and motherly "Come here little guys." And just like that, the twins giggled, smiled, and hugged onto Diamond Tiara almost like she really was their mother.

“Woah, that's weird. I thought Nymous would have been able to do something like that." Rumble commented.

"As I said, they were cranky. And only for a few moments it seems. Besides..." Chrysalis gave Rumble a very soft yet alluring look. "I'm just a little out of my element is all. If it was,say, you I was babysitting. You'd do everything I told you and be a good little trooper." She bats her eyes at him. "Right?"

Rumble gulped, blushed, and saluted. "Yes ma'am"

Diamond Tiara noticed Rumble's action when Chrysalis spoke to him. She found it impressive. Before, when she was mean, she had to yell at ponies to get them to comply. "Wow, Nymous, how did you do that?"

"The same way you did my dear" Chrysalis said with a gentle smile and a genuine tone "You just have to know how to be a parent, with a little skill in subtle persuasion. Well, now that we can all see we're getting along. Anon, why don't you show us that fatherly skill of yours."

Goddammit. Did you really have to do this? Discord was probably going to tease the fuck out of you after this. Chrysalis may be trying to speed things along, but..… Well… It would probably make Fluttershy and Diamond Tiara happy.

"Alright, alright." You stretch your legs about a bit to get yourself ready. "I got this!"

You walk over to the twins, smiling at them. Diamond Tiara points to you happily announcing "Look Pumpkin, Pound. It's your uncle father, Anon. Why don't you say hi?"

You sat right in front of them with a cheerful smile. "Hey there little guys! Here I am, Anon the hero colt, here to bring smiles and happiness!"

The twins are silent. they look at each other, then back at you as they stick their tongues out. "blllllffft"

W-what?! Flurry Heart cried when she saw you. And these two won't even give you the time of day?!

Diamond Tiara stared at you with a hard stare "..What...was that?" she said in a cold and distant tone, already disappointed in your abilities.

"U-uhm. Hold on, hold on." You made a funny face and waved your hooves about. "C'mon fellas, don't you want to smile for your buddy, Anon?"

But they didn't react the way you hoped, they just turned away and went back to Diamond Tiara. While Pound was fully sick of your shit, Pumpkin was shaking just a little in fright, something Diamond noticed.

Chrysalis however, was just dumbfounded at how bad you were. Sure she failed too. But she only chalked that up to them being cranky for a moment. "Anon, not to sound rude, but surely you can do better than that?"

Wut? "HEY! NOT LIKE YOU DID ANY BETTER!" You yelled, aggravated.

Chrysalis didn't stoop to your level however, she merely looked to the side, ignoring your burst of anger. "There's no need to shout. Especially since they were obviously not used to being in this class, they were cranky."

"..For all of two seconds?! If that's the case why don't you-"

"Anon!" Diamond Tiara burst out at you. "Are you yelling at your sister?! WHAT KIND OF EXAMPLE ARE YOU SETTING BY YELLING AT YOUR SISTER?! OF ALL THE NERVE!"

And that stops you dead in your tracks. "B-but.."

"Don't ‘but’ me, buster!" Diamond Tiara goes back to the twins and gives them all a hug. "I'm so sowwy Anon is being a doody head. he just took sour grouch pills this morning. Do you both think you could do him a favor and try to put up with him? Pwease?"

The twins just let out little baby noises and hugged Diamond with their soft baby legs.

Rumble just sat there and cringed "..Ohhh, this is worse than I thought" he said to himself "They're already like one of those old pony couples who just yell a lot. Man, being the hero colt is rough sometimes. No wonder he got all angry when we wanted to be one too."

You just stare at Chrysalis, annoyed. Not hateful. Just annoyed. You weren't THAT bad. Babies just hated you...for some reason. They hated her too! Why do you always lose these things?!

"C'mon, Anon. I won't tolerate a bad father. Show everypony what you got!" Diamond Tiara half cheered, half commanded you to get your rear in gear.

Ok then. "Alright, here I go. I-I'll do it this time..." You just walk over to the babies, feeling rather defeated, and sit right in front of them. "Hey, look. I know you both don't like me. And I know I stink. I mean, I don't know what to say or how to act to get you two like me, but if you don't like me, I understand. I can be a bit of a jerk sometimes and-"

And then… They looked at you with pity, and crawled over to you and hugged onto you. Were they hugging you because you did good? Or were you that pathetic?

"Well,erm. That's not exactly what I'd do if I was a parent. and I NEVER EVER expect you to say something like that to our foals but. A-at least they like you now. Good job, Anon. Just work on how you talk, ok? Because I know you're no failure. I don't date absolute failures." Diamond Tiara did not fully approve of your approach. She can't really think of any time she's ever seen you so down. In fact, as she thought more about it, it made her feel something awful. "I didn't make you feel bad...did I, Anon?"

"Huh? Um..no no. It's nothing you said, Diamond. There's just a lot on my mind. I just haven't been feeling myself lately." That was only half true. Chrysalis treating you like dogshit and Diamond following up on it did make you feel rather terrible.

And it really sucked because you thought Chrysalis would ease up on you at least for today. But perhaps she was also sore at you for asking this favor of her.

"Well see, this is where me as a wife comes in!" Diamond Tiara walks over to you and gives you a hug, along with the twins. "To help cheer my prince up whenever he's down. And, after class, I want you to tell me what's been bothering you. No secrets."

Ok, now you felt a little better. At least she cared. As for "no secrets"...woo, you do wonder how long you'd have until eventually she knew. And would she still accept you when she did? No, for now you'd forget about that. She wouldn't have to know for a long time. Not until Chrysalis is reformed. "Alright. You got it."

As Diamond hugged you, she saw Rumble giving you and her an odd look. She looks back at him with a mean stare "What are you looking at?!"

"N-nothing!" Rumble turned away, he was actually just wondering what the hell was so wrong and why you seemed so unheroic.

"That's right nothing! If you even think of one bad thing about my Anon then I'll make you regret it! You got me?!" Diamond Tiara barked as she continued hugging you. She hugged you tighter and tighter as she grew angrier.

Suddenly Rumble completely understood why you were like that now. Diamond's anger, expression, and the fact she's rich was terrifying him to no end now. "Y-yes ma'am"

"See Nymous? That's how it usually goes with me. Even after I became a nicer pony, some ponies sometimes need a little meanness so they stay in line." Diamond Tiara nodded, proud of herself for what she just did.

Chrysalis, as usual, enjoyed the method. It's probably why she approved of Diamond Tiara's coupling with you at some level. Her potential and ability to be so demanding and get her way was a positive in her eyes, "Indeed, terrific job, Diamond Tiara. I'm afraid I am a little too frail to act in such a way. That's why I'm glad that you can handle yourself in ways I cannot. And protect my little brother from ones who'd take advantage of him or make him feel bad."

Diamond Tiara, of course, approved of such praise. "Thanks, Nymous, that's why you're an awesome future sis in law. You understand things and me so well." Diamond Tiara giggled triumphantly as she let you go from her ridiculous grip "So, how do you feel now, Anon?"

You fall over backwards, blue in the face as Diamond puts a hoof to her mouth in mild shock as she says sheepishly "O-oops. I think I squeezed too tight. S-sorry, Anon"

Meanwhile, at the other end of the class. The parents and Mrs. Muffin Top observe.

Which of course, calls for a change of perspective.

You are Discord, the greatest father in the universe. And as such, you decide to dial back the events through your perspective. If only to show how others feel about the whole thing. That's a thing, right? "So, what exactly is the point of this again? I already know my son, and I suppose by some sort of extension, my daughter are the best ones there."

"Discord, weren't you listening? This isn't about anything like that. We're going to see how all the children interact and um...what do we do again, Mrs. Muffin Top?" Fluttershy was a little confused on the finer details of the lesson.

"It's very simple, don'tcha know. We observe the foals and see what they do, absorb it, and understand it so we can better raise them, while also getting to know one another. Hun, you'd be surprised how well you can get to know somepony with a little conversation." Mrs. Muffin Top said as she looked upon Anon and the other foals.

"I really don't see the point in all this. Yes, there may have been a few issues before. But I know my daughter, I know my husband, and I know myself. This lesson is pointless." Spoiled Rich stresses. You mostly agreeing with her, silently. You were pure perfection after all, even had a lead on ole buggy McInsectoid.

"Well, I hate to sound contrary, but you didn't know I entered our real names" Filthy says, as a way to show her she didn't know him enough to know he'd do such a thing.

"Mmnnn...I guess that's true. But my point still stands" Spoiled however, would not falter.

"Now hold on for a moment. As I am quite the expert on making points. If your point did indeed stand then there wouldn't need to be a correction from your husband. Therefore, I conclude that the validity of the point is quite incorr-" Time Turner, who lives on science and facts, is stopped cold in his explanation as Spoiled gives him a demonic death glare. She was not pleased that some pony she never heard of was correcting her.

"Finish that sentence. I dare you" She challenged him. A challenge even Time Turner was aware enough not to take.

"Yes, perhaps I should in fact, check my calculations again.....erm..Or rather, stay silent altogether...perhaps forever" Time Turner backs off and keeps his mouth shut.

You found it odd, of course, that this scientist didn't have interest in you at all. No surprise or anything. But you'd think he'd be rushing up to you to study on the great king of chaos. Yeah, you could get behind Spoiled on what she thinks of him. He was rude. How could he not take notice of your grand majesticness.

"...Scary" Thunderlane mutters under his breath before looking back at the foals, hearing the babies' cries. "Oh man, that's weird. Those foals don't really seem to like Nymous or Anon much. Weird, he's the hero colt, isn't he?"

"Oh dear. You don't think we should go to them, should we? What if they need a diaper change or a hug?" Mrs. Cake was immediately worried when she saw her little ones whine.

But just as immediately as they whined. They stopped when they seemingly looked at Anon with suspicion. Well that's no good, how is he supposed to be stealthy in his chaos making if even babies can figure him out?

"O-oh. I guess it's ok now. Look, they stopped crying. I wonder what happened..." Mr. Cake wondered. "Hrn, maybe we should...aww. Look at that" When Mr. and Mrs. Cake saw Diamond get a nice hug from the babies, they couldn't help but find it adorable.

"Mrs. Rich, Diamond Tiara is really a natural born mother. Our little Pumpkin and Pound look very happy just being near her." Mrs.Cake commented, looking lovingly at her children's happiness.

Spoiled Rich was not expecting any kind of kind comment towards her at all, especially after she threatened Time Turner. "Well, thank you. She is my child after all. A natural born leader, future entrepreneur, and in years to come, a loving and wonderful mother. Hrnnn..." Spoiled Rich continued to observe. She was considering it a good blessing that the twins loved her daughter so much. To her, it meant she'd be a good mother indeed. "Your children...they....If I had to compliment them, well, they have excellent taste and are rather adorable."

"Thank you. We do our best to teach them what's right even if they are a little too young to understand." Mrs. Cake says.

"I don't know, honey, sometimes I think they understand a little too well. W-which isn't a bad thing. I mean, just look at Pound Cake. He's going to either be an athlete, or a really good baker like us. And with these classes...erm " Mr.Cake said, stopping for a moment to thing. Any sense of danger he felt was gone now that his children seemed so happy. But when he noticed Mr. Rich being a little tense, he began to feel curious about it. "Is there something wrong, Mr. Rich?"

"Huh? O-oh" He was staring at Anon. in his mind, he kept wondering how innocent Anon's and his daughter's relationship really was. He wants to support it, it's a prime choice after all. Oh yes, Anon is top notch. But it seemed he was just worried that one day, things would move too quick, and it'd slip by right under his nose. As it should be really, the idea of love does seem to usually go about in such a way through it's machinations. "Nothing, just observing. Just as our fine teacher suggested"

You looked over to Thunderlane, who was looking at Rumble. It was like a big ball of nothing, just extras to fill in a number quota. "Are you going to say anything? Because I do believe we are supposed to be talking or chatting or something. I don't know"

"HUH?! Oh erm...umm..I..." This pony, Thunderlane, he seemed afraid of you. Good, might be a great target for later. SOMETHING has to come out of this disaster.

"Oh come on. Out with it!" Was he really this boring?

"Umm...." But he wouldn't speak. Typical, couldn't handle your greatness.

"Discord...You don't have to be so abrasive. Here, try being softer. Like this!" Fluttershy walks over to Thunderlane and greets him with a gentle greeting. "Good Morning, Thunderlane. I've noticed your little brother is getting along with Anon and Nymous and everypony else. Isn't that wonderful?"

Thunderlane immediately calmed down. Now Fluttershy? He could handle that. "Good morning, Fluttershy. Yeah, It's pretty cool that he seems to be getting all friendly with your nephew. He's the hero colt, right? That's pretty cool"

"Oh yes. I don't know what to make of it at times, but as long as he's safe and happy. Then that's all that matters to me and-" But then she's stopped

Suddenly, everypony's attention is on the foals when Anon shouts something. You readjusted your ears to get exactly what it was, but as things seemingly began to calm down with Anon hugging the foals and entering a depression, you now realize what was going on.

Chryssy. She was bullying Anon, and Anon was just taking it. That little filly was defending the bug while making Anon feel bad. Probably on accident of course, She was too into him to consciously crush his feelings. Chryssy is quite the manipulator indeed, just not as good as you are.

You stop to look at Fluttershy, who was ignorant to what was going on. they all were. All they saw was what looked like Anon trying to be a father, and succeeding in a miserable way as it seemed the foals only now accepted him by him appealing to their pity.

You felt it, raw anger. How dare she! Anon was one of your best friends! And therefore was yours to mess with! She wasn't even doing it in a fun way. She was just ignoring her own faults while exploiting his. It put you into thought on how Anon could be such a doormat to her.

Did it...hurt you? Maybe. But perhaps this class was teaching you something after all. Anon, from your own experience anyway, was missing a lesson that if you had not learned, you'd be alone. Free, but alone.

Fluttershy...dear Fluttershy. She put up with all your shenanigans when Celestia let you free.

She put up with so much. She only wanted you to be comfortable and happy. And then you threw it all away for an ice rink. You thought she'd fold, but she didn't. And that's when you realized having fun...alone...was never really fulfilling. There's no point without an audience. Whether it be with a wonderful pony friend or a human, who deep inside, is capable of as much chaos as you are.

Anon, he was missing that one key element. Oh, what is this? What in the wide wide world of Equestria is this? You were having a Twilight moment. Ewwww! Let's call it a Fluttershy moment. Yes, muuuch better. "Ahrm, Mrs. Muffin...thing. I hope you won't mind delaying the lesson for a moment, it appears I have to use the little Draconequus’ room. I won't be long."

"Oh, well, alright. We don't really have a bathroom in the classroom, couldn't tell you why. But if you take the door to the baking cla-"

You didn't have time for any of that. You just teleport into a dimension of emptiness and make a call on that human tech thing called a "Codec", which again, calls for a perspective change.

You are Anon. And you are still dazed from that hug. And still feeling like crap because you just couldn't win.

...This sucks. Why can't you just win?

"!"

Wut?

"!"

What?

"!"

Was that? Was that thing still in your ear? Even laying there, you instinctively bring your hoof to your ear. It was Discord.

"Well well, Anon. Don't respond. Think of this as a message that I hope gets into your titanium skull. First and foremost, I'm disappointed in you. Are you ready for Chryssy's hive to be reformed? Probably. But reforming her? Nope. You're terrible at it. And trust me, I know what I'm talking about. See, like you, good natured Fluttershy let me do whatever I pleased when she first started to 'reform' me. I admit, getting her to promise not to use her element was genius and a pivotal part in my plan to rule Equestria. And, it would have worked if it wasn't for something else she did. Don't play coy, you are as big a fanatic of our world as every other idiot from that dimension. And trust me, right now? You're below even them. Simply for the fact that a crucial element to possibly reforming that contemptible bug has been in your memory this entire time and you missed it! You missed it, Anon! Terrible really, I'd expect more from you.

“Anywho, since I can't stand watching you just lay over and give up, I'll give you the answer. When it came time to have a skating duet with Fluttershy, she instead put her hoof down. Oh, she did. She kept her promise, but without her to be entertained and laugh with, there really was no point in creating chaos for myself anymore. I mean, what good is messing with ponies if you don't have somepony to share it with? That's where you and me are, Anon. I share my good taste of ruining days with you because I know you have the sense not to care about EVERYTHING like ponies do. And yet, when you finally have a chance to use a lesson you learned from our 'show'. You instead lay there and give up. I for one, Anon, am sick and tired of it. Grow a backbone! Or I'll shove one into you. And trust me, you won't like that at all. Anyhoo, before I go..." Discord's tone went from fatherly with a dark tone to gossipy. "I have one last thing to say. And I know you'll agree with this, but isn't Thundercrane and Bumble really boring? It's like you could just shove them in the background and nopony would ever notice. Why are they even here, really? Their parents? Pffft, you have to be REALLY boring if your own parents have to send you into a dump like this. Nod if you agree, or shake your head if you're just an idiot."

You slowly nod.

"I knew you'd agree. Now then, don't let this be a waste of breath, Anon. If you don't push back where it matters, and just keep folding, even once more, you'll never get ahead of the game. Now if you'll excuse me, I have a few pounds of soap to eat. I told myself that this was a Fluttershy way of teaching you something but it tastes oddly purple, be back in bit."

And the line closed after that. But he was right, no reason to even question it. Sure, you wanted to be friendly to Chrysalis to teach her, you wanted to protect her. But you knew Discord was right, he was actually right. Chrysalis would never respect you if you didn't push back. Even with Celestia's plan, if you don't push back, you'd have no way of getting to Chrysalis in her eventual rage if she will never pay attention to you when you need her to the most.

Ok..fine. You knew what you'd do first. She said the twins were fussy when she tried to hug them. So, being a little deceptive yourself, you'd show her that you could outplay her if you so wanted to. But you wouldn't do it for fun, you'd do it to make a point. And most of all, you wouldn't let up. No matter what.

You get up from your daze, plan in mind. First, you look over to a worried Diamond Tiara. Aww, she looked upset that she choked you in her hug. "Aww, come on Diamond. Don't look at me like that." You give her a cheerful smile. "If you thought you hurt me or something. well nah, you didn't. I'm the hero colt, remember? I'm stronger than that. And besides." You give her a boop on the nose. "You're too cute to frown like that."

Diamond blushed deep after what you said. It was always a pleasure for her to be complimented like that. "Really? You think I'm cute?"

"Well duh, come on. That's one of the reasons why we're together. And hey, given how you handled..." Moment of truth number one. You grab Pumpkin gently and pull her over. You prepared yourself for her whining, but she didn't. She still gave you that look of pity though. Egh, it'd be fine. You had something in mind. "These little guys, I'd have to say you'll definitely be the best mom ever too!"

"Oooohh!" Diamond Tiara was swaying to and fro as she brought her hooves to her cheeks. "He'd think I'd make a great mom!" She squealed.

Adorable. You'd dare a kiss, but not in front of the Riches. Instead, you then look to Rumble. "Hey, Rumble. You mind doing me a favor?"

"Y-yeah? What's up?" Rumble seemed a little reluctant. The whole situation caught him off guard due to how quick everything was. And he was a little envious as well from how Diamond treated you compared to him. Though, if it came to mares, he so wanted to be cuddled by Chrysalis.

"This is up. Mind holding on to her for a sec?" You carefully pass Pumpkin to him and hope she doesn't make a fuss. She doesn't as Rumble complies and takes her. In fact, she looks even happier than before, perfect.

"Awww" You heard Diamond coo.

You take a look at Pound as well, who has crawled back to Diamond Tiara and began to hug onto her. Now then. "Hey sis, why don't you get in on some of this? The babies aren't fussy anymore. And I bet Diamond would love to see your nurturing in action"

There we go. If you were correct, those babies were gonna get fussy again real soon. It sucked you had to use them for this experiment. But Discord was right, he had to be, season 3 said so.

"Keep calm and Flutter on" was circling your head. Just the mere mention and comparison to how you and Chrysalis are was giving you a sudden new drive. This drive, this determination you now felt, it was sudden due to the fact that you didn't have much time left. And it was the only thing you had left that made sense.

Chrysalis took notice of the foals happy nature, though she had no idea what you were thinking. She thought you were being serious, and Chrysalis, her pride rather, couldn't allow absolute failure like that when it comes to infiltration. She felt that this time, it'd work, and they wouldn't fuss. "Thank you very much, my little brother. Come here little one, mother Nymous is he-ahh!" When Chrysalis went to take Pumpkin from Rumble, she immediately started to wail and cry.

As she stepped back in surprise. Pound joined his sister in crying as he hid his face in Diamond's chest. Well well....guess it wasn't the fact they were cranky or fussy.

"Oh sis, I'm so sorry. I-I guess they don't like you." You sounded like you felt sorry for her.

You didn't. You needed a certain reaction from her.

"Don't like me? I'm sure that's not it, in f-" But before she could even finish her sentence, they started to cry louder when she approached again. When she stepped back, they started to calm down.

"Yeah, I'm sorry. It looks like they really don't like you. Dang, that must feel pretty bad. Huh?" In all honesty, it probably didn't. But you had to make her feel something without looking insensitive.

"I feel...a certain...hmmm" But what you didn't realize is that what the feelings she's feeling is rage. Rage that a couple of brats somehow didn't see her as motherly as she felt she could be. A mother of a hive can't control two baby foals? She thought it was utterly ridiculous. She wanted to make another approach, but she could feel their feelings, they really just didn't like her. They were making a conscious thought to not like her, she couldn't fathom why. "Surely it can't be that. Everypony likes me. You, small colt, you like me, don't you?"

...That was odd. She was talking like a mix of her disguise and her usual self. No, did...was this working? Or was it something else?

Rumble gulped and blushed "M-me? Erm, yeah! I like you! D-do you like me?"

"Of course no-" But she stopped. She stopped because you and Diamond were still staring. She nearly slipped up, enraged that mere babies seem to be able to look through her like she was glass. "Erm, I do. I do like you."

Rumble nearly fell over. "R-really?!"

"As a friend of course." Chrysalis regained her composure and patted him on the head. "I like all good little colts who know how to listen and are good and kind"

"Oh..." Rumble was still blushing, but his heart was devastated.

You looked back at the adults, watching as Discord warped back in with bubbles coming out of his mouth. Wow, he was serious about the soap thing.

"Nymous, are you ok? You're acting a little weird. You're not upset because of the foals, right? It's not their fault. They don't know any better." Diamond tried her best to console Chrysalis.

"Yes..yes I know. I'm alright. No need to worry" Chrysalis looks at you with a quick death glare. She figured it out, that you did it on purpose. Not like it was tough.

At first, her stare frightened you. But only at first. Discord entered your mind, his words, and all those failures. All of them seeming so much worse after realizing you fucked up such an important detail for so long.

Maybe...she would have been reformed if you had done it sooner. Now all you had was hope that sooner or later, she'd realize she couldn't push you around anymore. At least, you hoped she couldn't. So, you return the stare right back, and it surprised her. But only for a moment when she noticed the adults were stepping back towards the group.

Mrs. Cake and Mrs. Rich seemed to be conversing with each other about something. Odd, you didn't think those two would get along. Only Time Turner hung back, taking care to observe and listen to everything that was happening.

"Well now, I think today was a successful pair of lessons, don'tcha know. In just one morning, we've already made more friends than what we all started with." Mrs. Muffin Top said with a cheerful smile.

Wut? "Huh? It's over? Wait, isn't this a parenting class? What does friends have to do with anything?"

"Well, that was the point of the first day, hun. We can't very well have a class until everypony is comfortable with everypony else. I know it may sound confusing now, but think of it this way. Watching foals get along help stallions and mares get along. Especially when the foals are their loved ones. I'd like to think that most everypony here has learned that lesson." Mrs. Muffin Top gave a happy nod as she looked over to Mrs. Cake and Mrs. Rich, and then over to Discord. Could she see that he helped you out? In his face? Nah, she can't be that good. Or she'd have mentioned something about Chrysalis. Still...it looked like maybe she may have been subtly on to something.

"I admit, I didn't think anypony else here would have been worth my time. But you, Mrs. Cake, and your husband of course, you both seem to click very well to me. At least, given the interactions of your children and our daughter." Spoiled Rich said, in her dominant arrogant tone.

Mr. Rich felt like he needed to step in and tone down her words a little. "What she means to say is that we would like to invite you and your wonderful family to dinner tonight. Maybe talk a little business on the side. Barnyard Bargains and all its affiliates are always looking for the next big thing."

Mrs. Cake giggled, but declined the business offer. "I'm sorry, Mr. Rich, we do appreciate the offer, but I think we'd just like to be friends rather than business partners. Oh! And if you don't mind., I'd like to bring a few of our specialties along for dinner. That way, if you decide to have us cater any party your wife and yourself might have, you both will already have a favorite in mind"

"Yes of course, that would be mighty fine of you both" Mr. Rich agreed to that much.

"I'm just glad everypony got along so well. Oh! But Discord, did you learn anything today?" Fluttershy asked him, with a wide gentle smile on her face.

Discord stopped for a moment. It looked like he was conflicted on how to answer. But when he felt Fluttershy poke his belly, he looked down to see that she was still waiting with a smile still on her face.

"I know you learned something good. Come oooon. Say what it was. I really really want to know!" Fluttershy was eager to hear what Discord learned today.

Discord groans as he looks to the side, rubbing his cheek. "Can't I just write a letter or write in a journal about it?"

"Oh? So you did learn something then?" Fluttershy got him to admit he indeed learned something. Not what it was, but that he at least learned it. And considering how he helped you, you knew what it was already.

"It's alright, Aunt Fluttershy. You know how Dad is."

The class ended.

It seemed the Riches got closer to the Cakes. Thunderlane and Rumble? They didn't really improve, they were barely noticeable. Chrysalis? Egh, she left without much of a word when class was over,she didn't seem too pleased. For now, that'd be fine.

Fluttershy was of course, happy. She seemed pretty glad that Discord did in fact learn something, even though it wasn't what she was expecting. She was a little worried for Chrysalis as well, she felt something may have been wrong, but Chrysalis assured her she was just tired.

Mrs. Muffin Top was heading back to the inn. She told everyone she was glad that they were closer as friends, she could really step up the lessons for tomorrow since today's lesson was a success.

As for you? Well, Diamond wanted to have a word or two with you before going home with her parents. In fact, you opted to follow her along to her door at least, telling Discord you'd meet up with him later. You wanted to talk to him more about what he had told you, you of course also gave Fluttershy a hug and a goodbye.

That should be everything, right? Huh...you hoped Time Turner realized class was actually over for today. Because he may have missed that, he was still inside waiting for whatever he was expecting to happen to still happen.

Chapter 313

"Hrn, that went better than I expected. And the bigger surprise was there was no paparazzi. Interesting" Spoiled mentioned as she looked around for any unsavory types.

"Well, as I said, Mrs. Muffin Top is an expert in her craft and so sought out that even our resident Princess went a hollarin' for her. I mean, heck, even Discord was there and there weren't a bit of trouble at all. Speaking of which" Filthy looked over to you as you walked beside Diamond. "Mr. Anon, there was a mentioning of a punishment. I'm guessin' your father have upset our princess with one of his harmless pranks. Am I right?"

He was interested in that? Unfortunately, that wasn't the right answer. "Actually sir, Dad just overdid a few things when it came to me. It wasn't really that bad. Princess Twilight just overreacted I think."

Diamond Tiara gasped. "What?! I don't think Princess Twilight would overreact to anything like that. She's a princess after all. Composure is very important"

"Composure is very important even when you're not a princess, Diamond Tiara. But in Discord's case. Anything he does would cause white hairs to grow out of any mane." Spoiled scoffed. It was clear that even after all that, she didn't like him still.

"Now now. Mr. Discord has a few edges that need to be shaved, sure. But he's reformed and clearly has been a good father. Considering he is friends with the elements, I don't think there was any friction between him and the princess. It may have just been a precaution in case Anon went on one of them adventures I've heard about. I don't think anypony that young should be doing anything dangerous, and it's possible the princess is on the same page." Filthy was thinking that Discord being put into the class was simply because of your adventuring.

"Well, I don't think that's bad." Diamond Tiara rubbed her head gently under yours. "My Anon is the hero colt after all. You know, like a knight. He can handle anything. So how is he supposed to be heroic and stuff if he can't go adventuring anymore? I don't want my future husband to be a slouch."

Filthy tensed at those words. "N-now, let's not go talkin' about 'Future Husbands'. Mr. Anon is certainly a nice colt. But you're all a little too young to be talkin' about getting hitched. I mean, it could happen. But ponies change as you get older and-"

But Spoiled cuts him off with a smirk. "Dear, is that worry I hear in your voice?" She snickers at him. "It was you who let him in our home, practically set him up with our daughter, and made him out to be similar to you when you were young. Considering we just came out of a parenting class, I'd say we just let fate take it's course and make sure that these two don't do anything uncouth. Especially..." Spoiled then looked down at you with a seriously scary expression. "You. You still need a little refinement, Anon. A little more understanding of the finer things. And of course, I expect you to understand your place when you get older and have decided that my daughter will in fact be your marefriend until marriage"

What did she mean by that? That made you feel a pit in the center of your stomach. "My place?"

"Oh, she means if you're going to be my future husband. You're going to have to follow a lot of rules. Don't worry. You'll do fine." Diamond Tiara couldn't help but rub against you, she was like a fucking cat. It warmed your body. Good, since "Your place" was making your blood run cold.

"He better." Spoiled Rich said. She then turned her attention back to her husband, she wanted to talk to him about setting up a dinner part with the Cakes.

"Anon....do you know what I was thinking?" Diamond said as she moved away from you and gave you a sexy looking little grin. Ohhhhh....wait. Dammit, why are you getting excited? It's not sex. It's probably going to be something kiddy.

"No. What is it?"

She giggles and moves up to whisper in your ear. "I-want-to-go-ad-venturing-with-you"

"...." And now your body went as chilled as your blood. You were stone cold scared of those words. "W-what?"

"You heard me. I want to see the kind of things the 'Hero Colt' deals with. If it's anything like how you handled those foalnappers, then it has to be pretty exciting. And I want in." Diamond said, determined to get a yes out of you. "You can't say no. It's been a little bit since our last date and this time I want to go on an adventure"

No! Fucking...she can't. You couldn't allow this! "B-but what about the sleepover? We did that pretty recently."

"Oh that? That's just a sleepover. It doesn't count." She says, dismissing your words.

SHIFT TACTICS. "Well, it's not like I know when I'm going on an adventure. It kinds happens at random. And even then, they’re pretty rare. Something like the whole dimension thing isn't gonna happen any time soon."

"So what you're saying is you don't know when it'll happen. So usually it'd be too late to come get me?" She asks

"Yes, that's exactly what I'm saying"

Diamond then giggles at you. Why was she giggling?! "In that case, I'll just ask your dad about it. That way, when something does happen..." She walks right in front of you and walks backwards as she faces you with a smirk. "I know I'll be right there with you. And there's nothing you can do to stop me either. Your dad likes me afteraaaaaALLLL!" Diamond tripped, nearly falling back, but when she tries to rebalance herself, she instead falls forward as she tries to maintain her footing.

"Diamond!" You quickly drop to the ground, acting as a safety net for her to fall on. She lands right on you, her belly slamming your face right into the ground. U-ugh...

When Diamond realized what happened, she quickly hopped off of you and helped you up, worried and apologetic. "A-Anon! A-are you ok? Are you hurt?"

You weren't even dazed this time. Dirty, but not dazed. "I'm fine, totally used to it"

"Hmph..." Diamond Tiara gave you a scrunchy angry look as she wiped off the dirt from your face with her hoof. "Well, you shouldn't be. You should have told me to watch where I was going! Now I went and made your face all dusty and dirty."

You giggled a little from her reaction. "I wouldn't do that. I'd like to think you always know where you're going."

"I do know where I'm going..e-except that time. mmnnn..." She felt bad for tripping as she continued to clear your face.

Her mother turned to her and handed her a handkerchief "Diamond. I don't expect a silly mistake like that to happen again. And if you DO have to clean a pony's face, do it with one of these. You look like a hobo when you do that" Spoiled wanted her daughter to act more "Rich". She wouldn't tolerate anything less, at least in her presence. Though, she also didn't thank you for using yourself as a pillow to save her daughter. Eh, probably didn't see it as anything extraordinary.

"Yes, mother" Diamond says with a quiet half sigh as she takes the handkerchief and gently cleans your face. "There we go. You look a lot better now, Anon" She then leans close to you with a smile and whispers "I'm still going to ask your dad."

Oygh, as forceful as ever. She was going to do whatever it took to get what she wanted. And if it wasn't for her parents being here, you'd explain to her why you couldn't let that happen. Because the last thing you needed was the adventure spiraling out of control and her getting hurt, or worse.

Besides, you had a codec now. If you needed to get in touch with Discord, you only needed to tap your ear, perfect to get him distracted in case an adventure does happen. Amazing really, why didn't you think of having one of these before? So for now, you wouldn't argue. And you whispered. "You can ask him if you want. But adventures can be pretty scary, Y'know?"

But she only heard the "You can ask him" part. She beamed a smile at you as she whispered. "Good, I will"

...Oogggh. You wondered how'd this have gone if you had gone with Applebloom instead. Better? Or would you be taking the whole CMC along for the ride?

"Ahh, here we are. Home sweet home" Filthy Rich said as he eyed his mansion. He then looked up at the sun, it was noon. He chuckled. "And with plenty of time in the day to get in a right tasty lunch"

"Though not enough to plan a brilliant dinner. When our guests arrive, I want them to see that when you dine with us, you dine with the best. So you'll be having a normal lunch and helping me direct the maids and butlers. I don't want a single slip up" Spoiled said with a scowl on her face. Not really towards her husband's comment, just in the fact she didn't want any reason to seem even less than best.

"That important, huh? Well, if that's what you want I guess I can cut out some of my lunchtime. At least I know dinner is going to make this pony fat n' happy." Filthy immediately agreed with his wife. He didn't want to upset her after all, though there was a hint of disappointment in his voice. And tonight should make up for the average lunch he was going to have anyway.

"It's very important, yes. The Cakes may be of the average wage class. But the fact that they do have a good reputation in town mixed with the fact that they are obviously compatible with us makes them worthy enough for at least one good dinner with us. Perhaps more, depending on how it goes." Spoiled said as she already began calculating what she wanted done in terms of style and flair.

"All that over their foals likin' our little Diamond, eh?" Filthy chuckled.

"Obviously not. It'll take more than that to win my favor. Now hush, we're wasting time. Come along, Diamond Tiara, there will be plenty of time for your coltfriend later. We need to go over a few things for tonight." Spoiled said.

"Yes, mother." Diamond let out a little giggle as she looked deep into your eyes and whispered. "I can't wait, Anon. Goodbye, seeya later."

...Mn, you couldn't say anything now. Not when she was looking at you with those doting eyes. So you just rub your head gently to her side, a little love nuzzle. "Seeya, my princess"

She giggled at that, and blushed deep as she followed her parents into the mansion. She was in love with you so hard. If you had to think of a lewd thought, it'd be about how good the sex was going to be when you both were old enough. It was going to be beast.

Welp, no time to dawdle. Let's see if this codec thing works from whatever distance you are from Discord right now.

But when you put your hoof to your ear. Before you could even make the call.

"Anon!" Came a familiar cry. Out from behind some bushes, Scootaloo, with a helmet and her scooter, came riding out towards you, with worry on her face "A-are you done yet? I need you, really bad!"

Wut? Was she following you? "Scootaloo? What are you doing here?"

"I followed you. I was waiting for you to be done. Because, well...y'know.." Was it really that important? Because you already figured out why she didn't stop you. Probably didn't want to face off with Spoiled.

"She's not that scary. If it was important, you should have just....wait" was she jealous?! Was she stalking you? Was that why she was suddenly stalking you? "Scoots...Don't tell me you...like me. Y'know in th-"

"ANON!" Scootaloo immediately gave you an angry look. "I'm not in love with you, you dweeb! This is actually super important!"

Wow, you felt like an idiot. But come on, that usually happens right? When you're being tailed by a girl? Then again, 80% of Equestria are girls. You're friends with a lot of girls. that doesn't make you gay, does it?

"Anon?" Scootaloo was staring at you awkwardly as you found yourself lost in thought.

"S-sorry, ahm. W-what's the problem?" You couldn't even look her in the eye, still embarrassed about your mistake.

"Anon, look. I don't know what happened in that class but you need to get it together. We might have a real big problem" Scootaloo said, worried as fuck.

But then you realized something. She said "might". "Might? What do you mean 'might'?"

"That's the thing. I don't know really. But, see, I was working on my scooter in the clubhouse when I thought I saw a purple light outside. I took a look and there's this weird looking bush that kinda glows purple sometimes" Scootaloo explains.

That's weird. Though purple could definitely mean it's Twilight. But why would she be a bush? "Ok, that does sound kinda weird. But then what's the problem? Why would Twilight even be there?"

"I....I think she knows about Scrappy. Applebloom is training him now in some sort of advanced 'Scaring away bigger pests' lesson..thing. I dunno, you'd have to ask her. But I think Twilight is spying on them."

...SHIT! wait. She already knew. Why would she…

Oh no, was she just wanting to see Scrappy for herself?

The hell is she even doing? Fuck, you don't even think Celestia would be happy with this. "Oy, ok ok. But the clubhouse is pretty far away from here. If that is Twilight, then we're going to probably have to use my horn."

"Your horn? You mean teleportation magic like Twilight uses? That's..not gonna hurt is it?" Scootaloo wondered. A little worried if you had the necessary skill

"I mean..it shouldn't." You put the horn on your head. "Dad does it all the time so it should be easy."

"You say 'should be' like you've never done it before." Scootaloo was being a little antsy now about teleporting, since she wasn't sure if you could handle it.

"I have. I've used it once or twice so it'll be ok. Come on, Scoots. If it's important, then now is not the time to be scared of a little chaos magic."

"I'm not scared!" Scootaloo barked at you "I'm just..." She sighed "I'm just worried about Scrappy. If Twilight finds out about him..."

"Don't worry, Scoots. We'll get is straightened out. Alright, ready?"

"Ready.." For Scrappy, or really, any of her friends. She was ready.

You point your horn straight up as you and Scootaloo get enveloped in a light. And in a flash, you both appear in the clubhouse.

"Woah..That was awesome!" Scootaloo said as she looked around the familiar surroundings. "That didn't hurt at all!"

"Yeah, ok. So where do you think Twilight is?" You took a look around the Clubhouse. Everything was in its usual place, though that chessboard was recently set up. Did he really become obsessed with Chess? Why? He only beat you with flukes. He can't be that good...

"Oh right! Over here." Scootaloo went over to the side window and pointed down in the distance. "Right over there, see that bush? Doesn't it look a little weird?"

You walked over to the window. You could see Applebloom dressed as a Timberwolf as Scrappy barked at her. You had no fucking clue what was going on. So you then looked over to where Scootaloo was pointing, the bush looked pretty normal. "Looks fine to me"

"Just keep looking" She says, and so you do.

And then that’s when you saw it. A pair of binoculars innocently poking out for a few seconds and then back into the bushes… Fuck. "Yep, It's Twilight"

"Oh no! She must have found out about Scrappy! This is bad. What if she takes him away?!" Scootaloo was really starting to worry now. She knew Twilight well enough that if she suspected a changeling, Scrappy would be gone.

But you just remain calm. Even though on the inside, you were questioning if you should call Discord in for this. Because this? This was unacceptable. And just like, thanks to Discord, you weren't going to take Chrysalis's shit, you weren't going to take Twilight's shit either. You hoped anyway. "Applebloom doesn't know she's there, right?"

"No, I didn't want to tell her. It might make things look even more suspicious" Scootaloo said as she made another peek through the window.

"Ok, ok..so.." You sigh. "Listen. Twilight knows already, so does Cadance. We had a whole thing about it back in Canterlot."

"YOU TOLD HER?!" Scootaloo said in surprise

"N-no! Princess Celestia and Luna did. Because it's apparently important for them to know or whatever. There was nothing I could do about it either. But if it makes you feel any better, Twilight isn't allowed to actually do anything."

Scootaloo was still worried, despite your words. "Look, Anon, I really like Twilight as a friend. But sometimes she can get weird. Like this one time, before she became an alicorn, she got reeeeaaaalllyy freaky this one time about not getting some friendship lesson done. She got so weird that she put the entire town under this weird spell. She really hasn't done something like that since. But I get really worried when she's doing things like hiding behind bushes."

Lesson Zero.... "It'll be ok Scoots. I got this. I'm just going to go and confront her, that's all." After all the shit Twilight has given you and Discord about doing things under ponies noses and such. This, you thought, was unacceptable, for fucking sure. You had your right this time.

"Really? I dunno. Won't that make things worse?" She asked, looking down at Scrappy and Applebloom with dread "I don't want anything to happen. Scrappy is a great friend, and the best changeling ever. And Applebloom? I think she wouldn't be the same if he was gone. It's sorta weird, but it's really like he became her dog. If you ask me, I think Twilight should just get rid of bug breath. That way nopony has to worry anymore."

"Scoots, I...." It'd be pointless to say anything. Scootaloo obviously hated Chrysalis a lot more now than she did before. And no doubt did not approve of whatever friendship you did have with her. There's no use explaining that you're still trying to reform her. "Never mind, I'll just go deal with this. Stay here, ok?"

"...Ok. But you better come back and tell me what happened. Got it?"

"Got it."

And so, you made your way towards Twilight. You stealthily left the clubhouse without Applebloom or Scrappy noticing and took a winding path to get behind the bush Twilight was in without her spotting you. You could hear very soft noises coming out of the bush and see a faint light of purple. Yep, most definitely Twilight.

You moved in a little closer. You dared to move some of the leaves and could see the end of her tail sticking out. You really should call in Discord for this. But he'd probably do something that would make the situation blow up in your face. You loved the guy, but you didn't need his pettiness ruining this. "Hey, Twilight, how's the view?" And then all the subtle movements and noises just stopped. There was no answer. "Ok, Twilight, I know you're in there. What are you doing?"

You waited a moment more, and finally, Twilight poked her head out of the bush. She was wearing a cap and one of those silly glasses mustache things Pinkie would probably have on her. That wasn't....proper stealth attire.

"Uhhhhhhh..." Twilight just looks down at you, she didn't look too happy to be caught. She seemed nervous "A-Anon, how did you know I was here?"

"Scootaloo spotted you. Mind telling me why you're hiding? And what's with the get up?"

Twilight sighed as she used her magic to remove the glasses and cap. "A disguise in case I had to hide myself.. I got it from Pinkie A-and....never mind..."

Huh, she couldn't just use magic? Actually..you should just ask that. "You couldn't just use magic?"

"I was using my magic on the bush."

"And that's exactly what got you caught. Scootaloo caught you when you were setting up." You were giving Twilight a calm expression. But you were fortifying yourself for what's to come.

"Oh, Anon. I know what this looks like. And I wouldn't be able to live up to my duties if I didn't admit it now. So, I'm just gonna say it, I was spying on Scrappy" Well, at least she was being honest.

"Yeah, I already guessed that. Mind telling me why?" You already knew though, with ninety percent certainty.

"Because, well..." Twilight scratched the back of her head with her hoof as her nervousness mounted. "Y'know, he's a changeling and..and..." Twilight immediately gave up before you could say a word. She knew what she did. "Look, I'll be honest with you. He's a changeling. THE changeling captain. Do you know how hard it is just to let it go when he's hanging around Applebloom like that? What if he's concocting some sort of evil scheme? What if it's all an act? That's what changelings are good at in case you didn't know."

Welp, that proved that Twilight didn't trust you. "One, he's A changeling captain. He's a last minute replacement because the original captain defected, ran off, and came back as some horrible abomination that wants to destroy pony and changeling alike. Scrappy is, by all accounts, an idiot. But as dumb as he may be, he is also good hearted. As I said, he'd sooner give his life than let anything happen to Applebloom. But you know, it's not the fact that you didn't believe me that bothers me, it's the fact that you just won't leave well enough alone that does."

"Anon, you need to understand, I can't take this situation lightly. Not even as a princess, but as a friend, I had to make sure nothing bad was going to happen to Applebloom. You have to think about Applejack, Big Mac, and Granny Smith. How do you think they'd feel if something happened to Applebloom?" Twilight's explanation. Even if it was sound, you cared not for it.

"Except things ARE fine. Y'know, I really don't get it. I really don't." You started to put anger into your speech. "The four of you already decided to come crashing in on MY plans. So, what more reason do you have to meddle? Do I hate it? Yeah, but I've learned to accept it. But then this happens. Listen, Twilight, you've given me a LOT of guff over what I've done in secret. And then you go and pull this on me? Isn't that setting a bad example? Even Luna accepts Scrappy. So why can't you?"

"Anon, this isn't up for discussion. If you want an apology, fine, I'm sorry. You're right about the fact that I shouldn't have done it in secret. I only did it to make sure he wouldn't act innocent just because I was there. But I admit I should have told you first. But...he's still a changeling, and he's around MY friends and MY friends' family." Twilight started to cop a little of her "know it all" attitude. "After what happened in Canterlot, like I told you, I can't take this lightly"

Fuck..that was actually a pretty good argument. No fuck it, keep momentum. "I don't care. All you've been doing is telling me AND my dad what to do whenever you think something off happened. You nearly sealed me up BECAUSE CHANGELINGS. Maybe I was super suspicious and seemed like I may have been Queen Chrysalis when you did that. But hey, everypony managed to move past that and even forgive you. Until today, when BECAUSE CHANGELINGS, you just decided to do what you want AGAIN! Because you panicked. And trust me, Twilight, I know what happens when you panic. It becomes like a coin flip. Heads, you save the day. Tails, you have the entire flippin town going after a ragdoll. Well, Twilight, you flipped tails again."

You both were staring each other down silently with that. But you could see Twilight's mouth twitch. She was remembering what she did when she was "Tardy". Thank Scoots for reminding you of that....in fact. "In fact, your princesshood's foundation is based on a major screw up which could have ruined all your friends' lives forever. And even AS a princess, you couldn't make peace with the Yak Yakistanis by yourself NOR could you even fix things with Moon Dancer without Pinkie's help. You went into all that without properly planning things out and got mulched. I mean, you even got ambushed by Starlight AND let her get away. Then I came along and I fixed what you couldn't. And right now? You're over meddling in my zone, and you're screwing things up..." Holy fuck....did that...did that come out of your mouth? Maybe you should have called in Discord. He'd have loved to see this.

Twilight's ears, they drooped downwards. You won...YOU ACTUALLY WON.

"I still don't understand how you would know THAT much. And I admit, I make mistakes. But....This is important. I..." But then Twilight filled herself with her own patented determination. "Even if I flip tails on that coin. I'd rather take the chance over failing to make sure my friends are safe."

DAMMIT TWILIGHT. "Except that this is my business, not yours. You only got pulled in because of Princess Celestia. Those are also my friends too, remember? And Scootaloo? Guess what, she was scared you were going to do something to Scrappy." That caught Twilight off guard. She flinched at that. "Yeah, hurts knowing that somepony you consider a friend is afraid you're going to hurt somepony they care about, huh? Face it, Twilight. For once, FOR ONCE, just leave it alone. Because the way I see it? I'm going to lose Chrysalis as a friend and there may be nothing I can really do about it. All I wanted to do was redeem her. But it's fine, I've accepted that in the end, she's still a criminal with a ton of crimes she has to own up to. So for now, if this is it, I want to do my very best at my last attempts to make her see the light. So yeah, I don't need you coming around and messing things up for me and taking away from what I can do for her. And Applebloom and Scrappy? They are super close. Heck, it's because of Applebloom that he's practically reformed already. As I said, he'd give his life for her. He gets emotionally destroyed if anything happens to Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, or Applebloom. So your presence isn't needed. Things can get along without you just fine. Leave..everything...be"

That was it this time, Twilight couldn't come up with any words. She just stood there and pondered. Both your ears perked up, the sounds of Applebloom's laughter and Scrappy being happy that he was doing a good job can be heard. "See? Is it weird that he likes being a dog? Yeah. But that's really how it is, Twilight. This time, your suspicions are wrong. Please, just back off."

"...I will. I can't think of anything to counter that argument. I just..." Twilight was indeed defeated. She was having trouble thinking. So she focused, and only had this to say. "Friendship is sometimes a very difficult subject, Anon. I may be the Princess of Friendship. But really? I'm only as good as the bond I have with my friends. So, I guess I'm a little out of my element having to keep this secret from them. If Applejack ever found out, I don't think anypony would be able to reason with her. I worry about things like that too. Because I'd have to be the one to stop her from hurting Scrappy if it did happen."

You didn't say a word to that. You didn't want to give one.

Twilight sighed. "I can see you're really committed to this. Ok, you won't have to worry about me again. But Anon, your friendship with Chrysalis..."

Here we go. "Yeah?" You raise an eyebrow at her.

"I know things look bleak. But I really hope you're able to work something out before Princess Celestia carries out her plan."

Ok....now you were caught off guard. "What? You...do?"

Twilight nodded. "Mhmm. Just because you don't like somepony, doesn't mean you should wish nothing but bad things on them. Anon, ever since Discord was reformed, I've come to realize, even if I also deny it, that anypony, no matter how bad they are, has a chance to redeem themselves. You even solidified that truth with Starlight Glimmer. So even though I know Queen Chrysalis is a criminal. In terms of friendship? I wish you the best of luck."

So that’s it? She went just heel turned from distrust to trust? "Do you really mean that?"

"I do. You're pretty amazing for a colt, Anon. Saving worlds, reforming ponies I couldn't. I guess maybe the situation just has me rattled. I haven't even been able to focus on the fact that Rainbow Dash is about to become an official Wonderbolt soon, something I should be head over hooves about. So, just leaving it to you is probably what I need to focus on what's important in terms of friendship."

Finally she und-..wait. "Wait...Rainbow Dash is becoming a Wonderbolt? Nopony told me. I would have thought Scootaloo would have told me."

Twilight shrugged. "I don't know. You never really seemed too big on Rainbow Dash in the first place. So unless you asked, then it's most likely that nopony thought to tell you about it."

Huh… "Ok. W-well. That's cool. good for her. I'm glad for her." You were more shocked than anything else.

"So am I. It's been her dream for just about her entire life. And with all this going on? I haven't been able to spend the time I should be giving to helping her achieve her dream. So.." Twilight puts her hoof on the shoulder of your right foreleg. "I'm being honest. I'll leave it to you, and wish you good luck. But Anon, understand also that the changelings being reformed is also extremely important. I honestly believe in the princesses apology to you. If your friendship with Chrysalis is true, you shouldn't have to go through something like that. But she has terrorized ponies for a very long time without any care or remorse. And there are ponies out there that would sleep easier knowing they no longer have to fear the changeling menace." In other words, either way was good for her.

"Ok...I'm glad we've come to an understanding."

Twilight nods in agreeance. She then gave you an awkwardly cheerful smile. "Yeah...so...how did class go today?"

"...." really?

Twilight chuckles sheepishly as she makes her way out. Realizing you were still in fact, upset. "Yeah..mn..sorry. I'm just..going to go now."

And just like that, she teleported away. You fell over, breathing hard. Holy shit...that was ridiculous. It actually tuckered you out. But as you began to relax, that familiar teleport sound pops back in.

"On second thought. Since we're alone, there's a very important question I want to ask you" Twilight says as she pops back in.

You just go wide eyed, with a small twitch to your left eye. How?! just...how?! Surely that was enough to get her to fuck off. Why is she back?! "What even? Didn't I make it clear that I just want you to stop?"

"I am stopping" She says in a calm, matter of factly like way. "But I came back because I realized there was an itch in my brain that I want scratched."

The fuck did that mean? You stood up, and gave her a grouchy look. "Then go and scratch it then."

"Anon" Twilight smiled as she shook her head as if you were a silly little pony. "You can't scratch a brain. And the question I have I feel is so important, that maybe, depending on how legitimate your answer is. Well...maybe.." She gives you an unsure smile. "I can help?"

...Oh. Maximum levels of wut. "Help? Help with what exactly?" You looked at her with great suspicion.

"Well, that's the thing. You're a colt who says you're good friends with an infamous villain. It's pretty unbelievable no matter how you slice it. That's why..." Twilight lowered herself onto her belly, she was in a listening mood. "I want to hear what makes your friendship with Queen Chrysalis so special."

Fucking...Really? You sighed quite heavily. "Twilight...Twilight...Look." She can't be serious. How could you even explain that? “Why does it even matter? Just leave me be. Even if you knew, what could you do?"

"Well. if I understood, I might be able to help you in some way. Anon, if you really do have a friendship with her. if you really mean to reform her, then...Then" Twilight looks down. She was doing it, she was letting go of all of her ill will for Chrysalis. She then looked to you with determination. "I want to do something to help"

You nearly laughed from the insanity of it. Fucking hell. Why won't she stop?! Why can't she leave things alone? She's so stupidly obsessive! You were getting annoyed. "You can't do anything. And you'll never understand. Leave it alone, Twilight."

"Anon, don't be that way. This affects all of us whether you like it or not. I want to help. So please, just help me understand how this friendship even exists."

"You wouldn't understand, no matter how I told you."

"Try me" She looked at you with confidence.

"Really, Twilight? Really? Can't you just accept that I don't want your help?"

Twilight went silent, she looked up towards the sun, as if she was looking to Celestia for advice. She then turned her attention back to you "How about this then? If you tell me, I will promise that no matter what you do in the future with your father...within reason, I'll leave you alone. Or if I'm involved, I won't judge or force anything or even give a friendship lesson even if somepony reeeeeeeaaallllyyy needs it."

Ugh, she didn't get it. But that was one hell of a deal that you felt she'd uphold. "Really? So what if we just decided to flood the castle with water?"

"Within reason, Anon..." Twilight gives you a hard stare.

"Alright alright. Then you'd leave me alone if I say, went on another super cool adventure, or put a whoopee cushion under your butt?"

"Well for one. You really should think about your aunt if you're going to do anything 'Super cool'. And for two, even Pinkie Pie does that sometimes, So I guess that's pretty low priority on my list of things that bother me."

"But you yourself would just leave me alone, no matter what?"

"Yes, for the most part"

Not good enough. "A solid yes, Twilight. Yes, or leave"

Twilight had to stop. Somehow, she was starting to see how you could relate to Chrysalis. You weren't acting like the sweet colt most know you for, she could sense something dark about you at this point. No colt talks like this, no colt is that sound in logic, no colt would be able to bring up past events they were never there for. Was this Discord's doing? Or Chrysalis? She couldn't figure it out, but to come to an understanding… "Yes."

She did it. And now the ball was in your court. Hell, Discord would kill to be able to have Twilight look the other way in his own chaos dealings. And all you had to do was explain your relationship with Chrysalis. But how to do it without giving away your true past.

Hmmm… "Alright then. If you want to know that badly, the reason why me and Chrysalis are friends. Then listen closely. We simply agree on a lot of things and, believe it or not, we like to do things together."

"Agree on a lot things? Do things together? Mind elaborating on these 'Things'?" Twilight wanted more details.

Ok, where to start? "Well, take movies for example. We've watched a couple of movies together and it's turned out pretty nice."

"Turned out pretty nice? What kind of movies are these? Chrysalis doesn't seem like the type to enjoy movies any pony has ever made."

"Good movies, Twilight. One was a documentary, and the other was a mobster movie based on real events."

Twilight could maybe believe the mobster one, but a documentary? "A documentary on what?"

Erm. That was a tough one. "On, what the future could be like. Sorta..kinda"

"Hrn?" Twilight's face just lit up. "Really? Interesting. You wouldn't mind me taking a look at that documentary myself, would you? It sounds pretty interesting already"

"No, Twilight. It's something that's between just me and Chrysalis. Also, as I'm sure you know already, she has also saved my life, more than once."

"Yeah, at first that sounds really weird. But I can see it if the bond you have with her really is strong. So, what do you two talk about then? What can you two possibly agree on? All she seems to care about, at least from the little I do know of her and what I read, is crushing ponykind."

Well, there was that one thing. You kind of wanted to hear Twilight's opinion on it. "Ok, so check this out. We both think that the way she was defeated in Canterlot makes no sense whatsoever."

Twilight's pupils shrank for a moment. She then exploded in a wave of pure autism "What?! what do you mean it makes no sense?! It makes perfect sense! And, if it didn't happen, then who knows what Equestria would look like right now! How could you possibly agree with something like that!?"

Great, now she was all stupidly adorkable, but in a way that was annoying. "Uhm, because it actually makes no sense. Princess Cadance was weak and tired from being stuck in the crystal mines, and your bro? He had been holding a shield for a long time while Chrysalis fed off of him like every second of the day."

Twilight grit her teeth at that memory, she did not like it one bit. "Don't remind me...still" She calmed herself. "That's an interesting thing to agree on. Did she convince you that it didn't make sense or-"

You shook your head. "Since the first time I heard of it, before I even met her, it made no sense to me."

"Well, it's actually a fairly simple explanation. Want to hear it?" Twilight looked all to eager to explain this bullshitty mary sue phenomena.

Did you? Fine, might as well find out what the fuck ACTUALLY happened. "Y'know? Yeah, what happened? Explain it to me."

"Alright!" Twilight's horn started to glow as some "electronic" looking board appeared, with purple neon lights spreading about and forming hearts. "So, these hearts represent the feeling of love. Now, it can be deduced that Chrysalis's ability to overtake Princess Celestia in their fight during the faux wedding was due to..." You see hearts going into a green neon Chrysalis mouth "her ingesting the emotion of love. Which, like the magic of friendship powering the elements or our Rainbow Power, is it's own source of power. Now, you don't disagree with that do you? There is a reason that changelings feed on love. It's their food and power source."

"Ok, I get it...go on" Where was she getting at?

"Well, despite my brother and sister in law being weakened in their own way." Twilight made the board show a neon disheveled Cadance and Shining Armor. "Their love for each other was pure. Pure and powerful." A huge neon heart appeared over them, and began to flow into their horns. "So powerful, that it revitalized their ability to use magic and..." Suddenly, the board exploded "temporarily brought their abilities beyond normal levels. Add to the fact that they combined that magic, creating a huge chain reaction, and you have a blast formed from a wish to keep all ponies safe from the changeling menace!" Twilight seemed pretty cheery to teach you something "So, any questions?"

You have to be kidding… "So, you're seriously telling me that love LITERALLY conquers all?"

"Is it so hard to believe? Changelings are able to feed off of it after all, and convert it to power as well. So why can't ponies harness that power to save everypony from disaster?" Twilight gave you a smug look "C'mon, refute it, smartypants"

Smartypants? Where did she get off! "I refuse! I mean...sure, changelings get more powerful when they feed off love. But it's like an emotional thing. How does love actually become a power source?"

Twilight was already noticing you get into things with her. In other words, you were calming down about the initial incident of her spying on Scrappy and even your put down on her. She still felt the sting of her failures. But, in true fashion, she knew she could learn from them. Just like she was learning now to better communicate with you. "The same way friendship does. Even the windigos of long past grew more powerful from the emotion of hatred and disdain. Emotions are in itself, a mysterious power that can be harnessed for both good and evil. So, there you go. Any other objections?"

You just went silent. Fuck...she sure told you. "Ok, fine. I guess that makes sense..."

Twilight giggled. "Come on, Anon, don't be that way. I was only coming up with a retort"

"Yeah yeah, whatever. But yeah. I guess...we're both wrong on that. Me and Chrysalis I mean. Still, the bottom line is that we have a similar way of thinking sometimes. I'm not evil or anything, it's just how it is. I really wish she'd just give up on it actually, being evil I mean. Then maybe I could actually show her to my friends and have a good time. I mean, we do have good times together. But it's always just us and her brood. And lately, I've been super worried about her because of this whole thing thats going on now. I have this problem of getting obsessive whenever a friend is in trouble."

"Like Starlight" Twilight answers.

"Yeah, like Starlight. But I've accepted whats going to happen. I'm even putting a bet that if Chrysalis is alone, she might realize how lonely being evil and hateful really is."

"I don't want to say that it'll work or not, because I really don't know. But I'm having an idea."

An idea? What is she talking about? "What kind of idea?"

"It depends. How exactly are you trying to reform her?"

"I've tried a lot of things. I really just want her to see that ponies aren't so bad and that it'd be better just to make peace with everypony."

"That's a tough one, Anon. She doesn't even seem like she's willing to give it a chance."

"She's not. But the fact she helped me save a world, the fact that she risked her life to save mine. It tells me that she's got some good in her. If there was a way to bring it out, then everything would be fine."

"Then let me ask you a question. Do you think you could convince her to come to the castle tonight? We could all sit down, and try to work things out"

Wut? "Twilight, I don't even think she's supposed to know that you know. Didn't Celestia say not to mention that? I don't really remember actually. Either way, Chrysalis hates your guts, she'd never agree."

Twilight sighed. Suddenly, she cringed and shivered. "....What if....I slept over at Discord's then? And tried talking it out there with her?"

Oh...god. "Twilight. Ok, look. I have my problems with you sure. But that's ridiculous. Forget Chrysalis. My Dad , no joke, would take full advantage of that. I mean, sometimes I think you deserve a good prank. But you'd be dealing with a double whammy. Just forget about it, ok? And remember your promise."

"Anon. Are you sure you don't want my help? I think-"

But you didn't. There was nothing she could do but just make Chrysalis even angrier and more spiteful. There was no way Twilight would be able to handle it, nor could you allow it, since it may give away your secret. "It's fine, Twilight. Really, thanks for the concern. I actually appreciate it. But just leave it alone, ok? I gotta go tell Scoots that everything is ok, anyway."

Twilight really didn't seem like she'd accept that answer. But with no way to make it through your barricade of secrets, she felt like all she could do was just wait on standby in case you ever did need her. "Ok. But Anon, if you even need a pony to talk to about this, I'm willing to listen and understand, ok?"

She wasn't being too troublesome, or dickish. But you just wanted her to leave things be. You'd be fine. "Alright, thanks, Twilight. You have a good day, ok? And don't worry about it so much. I got it."

Twilight leaned forward and gave you a hug. And with a reluctant goodbye, she teleported away. Leaving you alone.

That was tough. And it made you think that maybe you should have explored her offer. But at least you got her to agree to back off.

Which, was sort of amazing in itself. That love explanation was still bullshit though.

Time to go see Scoots.

Also, speaking of friends you care about. You realized Starlight never mentioned Trixie. You do remember sending her her way. Hmm, maybe she hadn't made it yet.

Chapter 314

Hell, as you head back the way you came, you wondered two other things as well. How well Starlight was doing in the Crystal Empire, and why Twilight had to be so nosy. Everytime you guys have a moment, she has to do something that fucking ruins everything.

When you went back to the Clubhouse, Scootaloo was still staring out the window, she didn't even notice you. "Hey Scoots."

"Anon?" Scootaloo turns around, looking worried. "W-what happened?"

You give Scootaloo a sly grin as you step towards her all-cool like. "It's settled, that's what happened. Twilight is gonna just leave everything alone. Scrappy is safe."

"Woah, really? You actually convinced Twilight to not do anything to him?" Scootaloo went from worry to wonderment. She was so happy to hear that.

"Yeeeep" You say proudly.

Scootaloo rushes forward and gives you a big hug. "Anon, that's totally awesome! I mean erm.." Scootaloo backed off, as she realized the implications of her actions seemed rather doting "It's nothing against Twilight or anything, I just seen how she gets."

"Well, you don't need to worry. But, um, she did mention something interesting about Rainbow Dash. Is it true she's a Wonderbolt now?"

"Yup! Isn't it amazing!" Scootaloo said with excitement, even hopping around. "And she's the best one too!"

So it's true. Damn, the shit that happens when you're doing other things. "Yeah, it's just weird nopony told me."

"Wha?" Scootaloo stopped as she tilted her head, wondering what you meant "Weird? why weird?"

"Because, y'know. I would have thought SOMEPONY would have told me. You, my aunt, I dunno...somepony" Fuck what Twilight said, you needed to be in the know.

"Anon..." Scootaloo just stared at you. "You don't even think Rainbow Dash is a big deal. Nopony told you because you don't really seem to be friends with her. I mean, why would anypony tell you if we thought you wouldn't care?"

Damn, Twilight was right about that then. "Erm....." You had nothing to say about that, causing Scootaloo to laugh.

"It's ok, Anon, I won't hold it against you if you don't like the coolest and most awesome pony that's ever lived, who is even more awesome than ever now." Suddenly, Scootaloo's expression softened as she thought about something pertaining to you. "Actually, she really is so awesome just because she managed to do it all on her own. She's trained hard her entire life for it. And it made me realize something"

"What's that?"

Scootaloo didn't answer at first, she went to the back of the room where she had a saddlebag in the corner. She opened it and took out the....cardboard wings. She looked at them with sorrow filled eyes. "I realized..." She then looks with determination as she holds them out to you. "That I don't need these anymore, for real this time. If I want to become like Rainbow Dash, I need to practice and train and learn to be cool on my own. So, thanks, Anon. Thanks so so much for being awesome and letting me have them. But I don't need them anymore. "

You slowly reach out and take the wings. Wow, after all this time, you had them back. "You sure?"

Scootaloo nods. "I'm sure. I'll get to flying eventually on my own eventually. If I keep using those things I don't think I'll ever get to flying. So yeah, It's no biggie."

"Well, Scoots, that's pretty cool of you. Real mature. I bet Rainbow Dash would be proud."

"I know she would" Scootaloo grinned with a cocky giggle.

Then, you yourself had a fun idea. "Heh, it's been a long time since I had these babies. I'm gonna give em a ole practice run"

"Yeah? Do you think you can handle em after not using them for-...wait..." Scootaloo stops as she notices you opening the window. "Do you mean like, right now?"

"Well duh. Can't think of any other reason not to use em right now."

You crane your head outside the window and look about. Oh man, this is gonna be great.

"A-anon. You really shouldn't" Scootaloo's voice suddenly became shaky.

"Why? It's gonna be fine, Scoots. I'm not that bad. I remember the basics." You toss the wings on your back and wiggle your butt to get ready.

"Anon, no seriously you don't want to-" But you cut her off.

"I'll be fine, Scoots. C'mon, just because you don't wanna use them doesn't mean I don't get to. Relax, it'll be fine. Flying out of windows is easy"

"But Anon! Your w-NO DON'!" Scootaloo reaches out to you when you jump out the window

"GERONIMO!" You fly out the window, having the time of your life. Up until you realize you aren't moving far, or even up for that matter.

"ANON, I ALREADY USED THEM TODAY!" Scootaloo yells, but it was already too late.

You just whisper under your breath "Fuck me..." And then fall down all the way to the ground, head first.

You slam your head so hard you leave a small crater, the thumping sound enough to catch the attention of the Timberwolf garbed Applebloom and Scrappy as Scootaloo poked her head out the window, cringing.

"Anon!...you ok?" Scootaloo called out to you.

You just moaned in pain.

"What in tarnation?! Anon?" Applebloom rushed up to you, and then realized as she looked up that you jumped out the window. She looked up at Scootaloo, worried and frantic "Scootaloo! What happened?!"

"He jumped out the window" Scootaloo called out "I didn't get a chance to tell him that I used the wings already. He wanted to fly."

"Ohhh...oh" Applebloom cringed as she lifted your face up from the dirt and flipped you to your side. "Anon, you ok?"

You were so dizzy, so out of it, all you could say is. "I want to cuddle with you soooooo much, wolf of wood"

Applebloom backed off just a little, looking at you, thrown off by your words. "Yeeeeaaahhh. Erm, Scrappy"

Scrappy saluted. "Yes! Master Applebloom! What is your bidding?"

"Do ya remember how ah told you to get help?" Applebloom asked him.

"Yes! I am to use the 'Whimpering and barking dog' maneuver while tugging and pushing my target to the requested spot. Erm, but um. Who do I get?" Scrappy asked, a little confused.

"Get Granny Smith. If ya get mah sister, she's just gonna try and figure out what happened." Applebloom tells him "And remember to point to the medical box"

"Yes Ma'am!" Scrappy saluted again and turned around and rushed towards the farm, barking up a storm.

Scootaloo rushed down to check on you. "Applebloom, is he ok?!"

"Woah....there's three Scootaloos." You could see three of them.

"Ah don't think so. C'mon, let's help him inside." Applebloom dug her snout under your side and flipped you up onto her back. She shook a little, her legs wobbling under you weight until she had for sure and steadied herself. "There we go."

Scootaloo gave you a gentle slap on the face. "Anon?"

You just looked up at her, booped her nose, and limped your head back down as you were carried into the clubhouse. Scootaloo also noticed the oddest thing, you had scuffs sure, but your outward injuries were very minuscule."Man, Anon has a pretty hard head."

"Yeah, no wonder he's so stubborn. Scootaloo, can ya get mah sleeping bag ready?" Applebloom asks.

Scootaloo nods, and sets up the sleeping bag and helps Applebloom slide you inside.

Applebloom and Scootaloo now take the time to closely examine your head a little closer, moving your mane around for any bumps.

"Wow, He doesn't look too hurt at all" Scootaloo sighed. "That's good. I should have told him I used the wings before I gave it back to him, this is my fault."

"Now don't go talkin' like that Scootaloo. You didn't know he was just gonna jump out the window." Applebloom carefully moves around all your legs. "Woo, that's good. Nothin’ seems to be broken either. Maybe we didn't need Granny Smith after all"

"Well, maybe. I think we should wait for her anyway and-" Scootaloo gets cut off from your groaning.

"Anon?" They both say

"...Ogh, what happened? I feel like I zoned out for a few minutes. I feel like I got hit by a train..ngh" Your head was pounding.

"That's because..well" Scootaloo hesitated. She didn't want to make you feel too stupid on the fact you hopped out the damn window. "You just accidentally hit your head."

"Feels more like I fell on it. Last thing I remember was opening the window"

"That's because you hopped out the window! Anon, what were ya thinking?" Applebloom was frustrated at your stupid move, and was not being as hesitant as Scootaloo. She could swear she's never seen something that stupid before.

You then remembered, and you felt so idiotic about it. You put a hoof to your face. "Ahh geez. I remember now. I was going to fly out and about for a bit. What happened?"

"Anon, I tried to tell you. I already used the wings today." Scootaloo said

Oh, well. At least you were ok. "Egh, I guess I should have checked before I hopped out. I got over excited to try these babies out again. Ahh well, I'll give em a shot tomorrow" You just rolled out of the sleeping bag and stretched your body a bit, aside from a small headache, you felt pretty ok.

Applebloom sighed, annoyed at the fact that you didn't seem to be taking this that seriously. "Anon, you landed on your head. FROM OUR WINDOW! Aren't ya hurt or anything? Do ya feel dizzy?"

"Woah, calm down Applebloom. I'm feeling ok."

"Anon, I don't want to sound pushy. But Applebloom has a pretty good reason to get on to you like that. You just fell down from a pretty high spot, right on your head. You should be telling us if you feel anything weird or wrong." Scootaloo says as she squints just a bit at your forehead, she still found it odd you looked ok after such a fall.

"That's right. Mah sister says injuries are no joke, and if you're feeling bad in any way then you should go to the doctor." Applebloom cites, almost in a way Twilight would say it.

"Applejack said that? Weird, I've seen her get hurt a couple times and she just keeps on going anyway." Scootaloo remarked. She had obviously noticed Applejack's own stubborn nature.

Applebloom pointed at Scootaloo, feeling a little insulted for her sister. But a quick second of thought made her realize how right Scootaloo was. "Yeah, yer right. Applejack is pretty stubborn. You could probably break her legs or somethin' and she'd still try to buck apples."

"Yeah, but you're right too about the whole feeling bad thing." Scootaloo turns to you, giving you a worried expression. "Are you sure you're ok, Anon? You don't feel anything off or wrong?"

Woo, that call on Applejack was pretty beast. As for yourself, you moved your legs about, and tapped at your head. Nope, you were fine. Then again, how could you not be? You've taken a hit from some trap cannonball shit back in the alternate world. "Yep, I feel dandy and-"

Suddenly the door busts open. "ALRIGHT! AHM HERE! WHICH ONE OF YOU IS A NEEDIN' SOME GOOD OLE FASHIONED HEALIN' TREATMENT!?" It was Granny Smith. Garbed in a old and scuffed up nurse's hat. She was wearing a medical saddlebag around herself as she frantically looked around.

"G-granny Smith?!" Applebloom didn't expect her to get here that fast or with such a thunderous entrance.

"That's mah name! Ah think? Ahh goobly gums, there ain't enough time for small talk, Applebloom. Who's hurt?" Granny Smith said as she narrowed her eyes, and thought she noticed something rather dangerous.

"Well, it's Anon. But ah think he's going to be-" But before Applebloom could finish, Granny Smith jumped in front of her and Scootaloo as she faced you down with righteous fury.

"AH DON'T KNOW HOW A BEAR GOT IN HERE! BUT DON'T WORRY GIRLS! YER OLE GRANNY SMITH HAS GOT THIS! SCRAPPY, YA GET HIS SIDE! WE AIN'T LETTIN THIS FUZZY FURBALL GET AN INCH ON ANYPONY!"

Scrappy rushed in through the door and immediately heeded her command, making a jump at your side.

"Scrappy! It's me! A-WOAH" You jump backwards, Scrappy barely missing you with his sharp fangs. The fuck was his problem?!

"Granny Smith! That ain't a bear! That's Anon!" Applebloom cries out as both her and Scootaloo held her back.

"Wha huh?" Granny Smith stopped and took another look at you as you backed off into a corner, Scrappy growling and getting closer.

"Oh, it is Anon. Well, ain't that a kick in the head. Ah thought he was a bear again. Ain't that the darndest thing?" Granny Smith chuckled to herself.

"SCRAPPY! SCRAPPY, DOWN! SCRAPPY, HEEL!" You yelled as you constantly made kicks at his face. He wasn't relenting.

"Scrappy! he ain't a bear. C'mere, danger's over" Granny Smith called over Scrappy, who heeded her call and ran towards her with happy, self satisfied barks. She gave him a pet, and he went to join Applebloom's side.

"Why did you think he was a bear?! He doesn't even look close to it!" Scootaloo was surprised. She had never personally seen Granny Smith mistake you for a bear before.

"That's what happens when ya get old, Scootaloo. Sometimes yer old eyes play tricks on ya." Granny Smith then turned to you as you leaned against the wall catching your breath. "You ok there, Anon? Ah hope ah didn't give ya too much of a fright" Granny Smith lets out a light hearted cackle.

How could she find it funny?! And why the fuck did Scrappy try to kill you? Unless the little changeling gone puppy really took all these lessons Applebloom was giving him that seriously. Fucking christ, he wasn't kidding when it came to all training and such. He really enjoyed playing the part of Applebloom's puppy.

"I-I'm fine, e-erm. G-granny Smith, don't you think you should look a little better before siccing a dog on me? This has happened before, remember?"

"Course ah remember. But if ah see a bear threatening my little Applebloom and her friend, ah gotta snap to it, otherwise they could end up as a dinner." Granny Smith said, in an almost annoying casual way, as she went and placed the medical saddlebag on the small table. "Now, which one of you got hurt? Scrappy was barkin' up a storm, so ah brought the big bag."

That was a good reason. Sorta. Well, it's a good reason if you were actually a fucking bear. "Yeah, well. I'm the one who's hurt. But I think I'm fine so..."

"Ya think yer fine? I'll be the judge of that! Now step over here so ole Granny Smith can have a closer look at ya." Granny Smith pointed right in front of herself.

You hesitatingly step closer to her. You were immediately starting to feel that her "healing" you may be more dangerous than her attacking you. "Look, Granny Smith, I appreciate you coming here to check on me but..." You stop a couple of feet away from her. You were scared, you were actually scared of her performing any kind of medical nonsense on you. "I'm fine. I just took a small hit on the head and-"

That's all it took. Next thing you knew, she darted right in front of you and placed her hoof to your side to keep you in place as she examined your head. "Hit on the head, is it? That ain't no small thing, Anon. One bad bump can take even the biggest and baddest ponies down."

But you couldn't even respond as she stretched, smooshed, moved, and tapped at your head in rapid fashion. It was seemingly funny too because you could hear the stifled giggling of the two fillies.

"Hrn, ah don't see nothin' wrong with ya. What happened exactly?" Granny Smith asked as she looked closer at your forehead. "Looks like an itty bitty scratch to me, whatcha bein' a baby about, Anon? Aren'tcha ah hero colt or some nonsense like that?"

They couldn't hold it anymore. Scootaloo and Applebloom burst out laughing as you just stared forward, annoyed and embarrassed. You answered in a pretty deadpan fashion. "I jumped out the window."

"Did ya now? That explains the light injury then, ya got a super thick skull. Boy howdy, Anon, in all mah years ah never seen such a steel clad noggin'. Err ahm.." Granny Smith turns to the mirthful fillies, confused about something "Anon ain't havin' any trouble in school, is he?"

Scootaloo hid her face in Applebloom's side as Applebloom herself answered with small titters. "H-he's actually the smartest, Granny Smith"

Goddddammmmiiiitt. "Yeah, I am. Just because I have a hard head doesn't mean I'm dumb. So, can we end this now, please? This isn't helping at all."

"Now you hold yer tongue there, sonny, I ain't done yet. Ya want help? Well, stand still and ah'll bandage those scuffs on yer head, since yer being a little whiny an' all" Granny Smith says as she pulls out some bandages from the bag.

"Whiny?! I'm not whining! I just think this is pointless! If I'm ok then I'm ok!"

"Hoofswoggle, you can feel ok, but them scuffs still need to be covered up or ya can have all sorts of nasty bugs gettin’ to em'" Granny Smith said as she planted bandage after bandage on your minor injuries.

Well. You probably couldn't argue that, you let out a soft groan. You still felt it was ridiculous. "Thank you...I guess"

"Ain’t need a thankn', Anon. I've been doing this kinda thing for years. Just comes naturally. Ya should thank Applebloom for trainin' that pup of hers so good. Ah swear, even Winona don't listen as good as Scrappy does. Almost makes ya think he actually understands pony, eh?"

"Oh..um" You nod, smiling falsely. "y-yep! I agree. Um, we done?"

"Yeppers, ya oughta be ok now. Welp, ah gotta get back to my nap. Need mah energy for makin some of this nightglow pie ah got a recipe for. Been told it's better than mah homemade apple pie..."

Nightglow pie? Da fuck? That has to be made up. "Oh, I bet it'll taste delicious."

"HOW COULD YA SAY JUST A THING?!" Granny Smith yells so ear piercingly at you, you fall on your back.

"B-but you just said it might-"

"AH KNOW WHAT AH SAID! AHM GONNA MAKE THAT PIE PERFECTLY SO AH CAN SAY IT AIN'T AS GOOD AS ANYTHING OLE GRANNY SMITH CAN MAKE! WHY ELSE WOULD AH MAKE THAT KINDA PIE?! YA YOUNGIN'S THESE DAYS!" Cripes, you really set her off.

"O-ok Granny Smith. We didn't know you were napping, maybe ya should get back to it? Ya seem a little cranky. If ya want, ah can make ya some tea before you take a nap." Applebloom was taken aback by Granny's reaction.

"Well that would be mighty thoughtful of ya, Applebloom. Alrighty, yer good, Anon. Try not to go jumpin' outta windows or buildings and what not. Ah gotta get back to mah nap." Granny Smith, with a renewed smile on her face, headed out. Applebloom told Scrappy to stay as she'd be back soon. She took off the Timberwolf costume, which really was just a few tacked on sticks and leaves, and followed Granny Smith.

Scootaloo started giggling again the moment they left. "Hehehe, that was pretty funny."

You make a gruff groan at Scootaloo. "Well, ha ha...glad everypony thought it was hilarrrious. And you..." You look at Scrappy with a hard stare. "What was that all about?"

"What was what about?" Scrappy asked, confused.

"Really? Seriously? You tried to kill me..."

Scrappy giggled as he threw his paw forward. "Oh that? Master Applebloom has been helping me get better at protecting the farm from bigger and badder animals and monsters. I didn't think things like vampire fruit bats were good enough. I want to be able to handle more stuff than that other dog. I want to do my very best for Master Applebloom and my friends!" He stood true and strong.

"Yeah, Anon, he was just doing what he was told. I didn't know Granny Smith was gonna see you as a bear." Scootaloo explained "We weren't going to let him hurt you anyway."

"Did I do something wrong?" Scrappy looked to Scootaloo with a frown. "I thought I was told to attack Anon"

"...Scrappy" God, he was fucking stupid. "It didn't occur to you at all that you were attacking me?"

"Oh it did. But Master Applebloom says I should listen to her family when they need help if I'm going to be a good dog. I like being a dog. It gets me a lot of hugs and pets." He says with a dumb smile on his face

God fucking dammit. There goes your momentum. You'd lose for sure if you stood up to Scrappy. No, you better go see Chrysalis now before you lose your nerve. "..Ok then. That's great for you. But I'm gonna go now. Scoots, ya got a juicebox or something?"

"Yeah, you're leaving already? Shouldn't we tell Applebloom about...the thing?" Scootaloo asked as she went to grab a juicebox.

"There's a thing? What thing?" Scrappy asked, confused.

"Oh, erm." Scootaloo had just realized that Scrappy probably would have asked that question no matter how she worded it.

So you intervene. "It's a private thing. Don't worry about it, Scrappy. But yeah, you should tell her."

"Private? Ohhh! Do you mean you've been training yourself in the mastery of chess? Because there's no point. You'd still lose" Scrappy shrugged at you with confidence.

...FUCKING. That fucking other you. Giving him some fancy smancy chessboard. Fuck it, next time you get a chance, you'll just fucking cheat. "...Sure. Whatever you say, Scrappy."

"Yup, because what I say is true!" He says in delight, which inadvertently just makes you more angry.

You just let out a quiet groan. Then you feel a tug at your side, it was Scootaloo. "Hey, Anon, we're still going to Lyra and Bonbon's right? For stargazing?"

"Huh? Oh...yeah. Right, that's tonight. Sure. Erm...Think we should invite the others?"

"Awww, you guys are going star gazing? That seems like fun..." Scrappy lets out a low whimper as he lowered himself onto his belly. "I wish me and the master, and even the queen could go. But I have work to do tonight, the queen hates that stuff, and the master has to go to bed early."

Work? "What? What do you mean by work?"

"Oh, I have to do more spying on Princess Twilight. I can sense it, some sort of book that can help us escape Discord's evil basement!" Wow, Scrappy just says that without a hint of hesitation.

"You're still doing that? And everypony is ok with it?"

Scootaloo shrugs. "Yeah, he does that almost every night." Scootaloo leans in and whispers. "I don't think he's ever going to find anything though. I doubt Twilight has anything that would help bug breath."

Hrn. Well. As long as he's never found anything. And he's never been caught, that's pretty amazing actually. But still...

You whisper back. "But Twilight knows now. What if he gets caught?"

"He's never been caught before"

"Twilight probably didn't think of him as being an invader before. Now that she knows he exists, she might notice a few things are off in her castle."

"What do you want us to do then? It's one of the few things he won't listen to us about."

Huh, is that so? "Even if Applebloom told him?"

"Yeah, no matter how hard we tried, he won't give it up. And he gets upset if we try to force him to think otherwise. He even gets scared. We don't want to scare him"

Scared? "He gets scared?"

"Yeah, you've seen it. He doesn't want to hurt anypony he cares about. That includes his queen."

That makes sense. "Alright alright. So, here's what I think. If he does get caught, I'll just deal with it, I think I can handle Twilight. And I'll try to set it up where he won't want to try again."

"I dunno, that seems risky..."

"What else can I do? He's the one sneaking around. The best I could do IS that. C'mon Scoots...he's gonna get caught sooner or later. And that's gonna be bad for everypony"

Scootaloo stopped to think on that. "..I guess you're right"

"Good, ok..before I go. I have one question for you"

"What's that?" Scootaloo asked

"You don't really think Scrappy is better than me at Chess, right? You know that was all a fluke...right?"

"I dunno. We haven't been able to beat him since. And he sure loves playing every time. I don't think he ever gets sick of chess. So I guess it probably wasn't a fluke"

Dammit. "....whatever, fine. Ok, I'm leaving. See you tonight"

"Alright. Anon, your head, you sure you're ok?"

You felt fine. For sure. "Yeah" You get the juicebox and pour some juice to the ground. You say bye to Scrappy and Scootaloo, and go to face Chrysalis.

Well, almost. Before you jump in, Scootaloo stops you one last time. "You super sure?" She asked, giving you a worried look.

"Yeah, trust me. Anyway, I really gotta go. Seeya tonight."

She didn't seem to want to let you go. She must have felt guilty about letting you just jump out the window. Or something. She wasn't blushing or anything so it wasn't lovey dovey feelings.

You sigh, and answer her in a calmer and more caring manner. "I'm fine. Really, trust me. You'll see I'll still be walking around fine by tonight."

"Ok..Well, I'm gonna try beating Scrappy at chess until Applebloom gets back. Seeya Anon."

"Seeya"

Ok, now you go back to your room. When you fall on your bed and retrieve your map, you could hear the sounds of beeps and boops at your side. It was that arcade game. Huh...you forgot about that. And someone was playing it. It was...Chrysalis?

"Stupid fucking shitty game. Putting me in it as some sort of easy early level guarder thing." Chrysalis seemed to have made some more progress than she had when she first played. But, it didn't last long before she screamed from her failure and tipped the machine over.

It miraculously survived. Well...until she zapped it into dust. "WHO'S DEFEATED NOW?! YOU PATHETIC MACHINE! THE GAME IS OVER, I WIN!" She growled in anger.

Oh joy....now you were worried

Ok ,Anon, relax. RELAX. You had nothing to feel bad about this time. No one to worry about. It was just you and bugbutt. You had to show her you were the one in control, that you wouldn't let her treat you like shit anymore. You had to show her that friendship goes both ways. Maybe then, she'll understand. Or at least know she can't mess with you in such a malevolent way.

Here we go. You speak out to catch her attention, in a rather arrogant tone. "Well, technically. Getting a "Game Over" means you lost."

Chapter 315

Chrysalis slowly turns over to you. At first, there was a menacing and angry expression on her face. But then she began to smile, and chuckle an annoyed chuckle "Oh hoho, look at what we have here. It's Anon and his newly grown spine rearing its head yet again. I wonder how long that will last I wonder."

You just chuckle right back. Doing your best to keep your nerve as she approached your bed.
"It'll last longer than your temper. Still salty about this morning?"

Chrysalis narrowed her eyes at you, stopping her approach as she lets out a soft groan. "Salty? No, I was just surprised. Tell me, why would you even dare to try to test my patience in front of everypony like that?"

"Because you're always testing mine. Chrysalis, I'm done. I'm done letting you bully me and push me around." You went straight to the point. You didn't want to dance around it.

"Bullying? Pushing you around? Hrnn..." Chrysalis thought on it. At first you thought she hadn't realized it. Until... "And? What's the problem?"

..dammit "What's the problem? Are you serious? That's not how friendships work!"

Chrysalis sighed as she shifted her eyes up and shook her head "I'm not repeating myself about our friendship. It’s become like a broken record at this point"

"No screw that!" You get up and march to the end of your bed. Staring right into her eyes. "I get treated like a kid a lot. I get treated like I'm dumb. I even get treated like what I'm doing sometimes is just plain wrong. Starlight and sometimes Discord are the only ones who fucking treats me like an equal, and sometimes....sometimes, I'd just wish you would too. You said you want out of this, right? Then why not? You'll never get out if you keep acting like a bitch!"

Chrysalis gently places her hoof on your forehead and pushes you back gently. "Give me some space, Anon. You're getting your saliva on my face."

DAMMIT! "THAT'S ALL YOU HAVE TO SAY?!"

"Yes. Anon..silly little Anon. You don't seem to realize that, whether you like it or not, you'll never be my equal. I converse with you because I find you interesting. I sometimes have fun with you because unlike ponies, you and your original race know how to have a good time. And, given what I've seen so far, you're more than capable of joining my side. But as you are now?" Chrysalis flicks your nose with her hoof "You're a silly little do gooder who doesn't have the heart to betray your pony friends to be with a real winner. There, I explained things yet again….I wonder if there's an award for something like that"

You step back and rub your nose,then look at her with anger. "Chrysalis! Life save or no. I've done a lot for you. Shown you movies, given you a car that I swear to whatever real god this world has that you care more about than almost anything else, and you have my friendship which if it really only meant that much then you wouldn't have bothered saving my life! TWICE!”

"Your point? You seem to forget that I'm the queen. I do what I wish on my own whim. Face it, you're blowing smoke for nothing and your little act is meaningless. Just lay down, Anon, lay down and give up." Chrysalis leans up and stares at you a very inviting stare "I'll give you a belly rub. Does Anon want a belly rub? I bet you do if I rub just low enough."

D-dammit...

no..don't..don't let her. "Stop! Ok? Stop! The only reason you do that is because you know a human's libido is much higher than a pony's. And I happened to have kept mine through transition"

"Again...your point?" Chrysalis asked as she boredly looked at her hoof. "You're only stating what we both already know"

Dammit. You thought you were prepared for this. But she wasn't even taking you seriously anymore. "Fine...how about this?" If she thought you were being silly. Then it was time to be a little dark.

"Chrysalis. I don't know how long our friendship will really last. I do think we have fun together. I'd like to think that's genuine. I want to make sure all my friends are safe and happy. I don't know, maybe it's because as a human I could never have that. But you're seriously pushing it. And all this evil shit? It won't last. It never lasts in this world. Sooner or later, you'll have to see things my way. Or else it'll just get worse for you."

Whether Chrysalis felt something wrong from you, or it was just your words. Her tone and expression became serious all of a sudden. "Are you threatening me?"

"I'm just telling you. Look at every other villain, reformed or locked up. For you? Who knows? Being stuck here was probably better than whatever failure you were setting up for before you met me. Chrysalis, you'll never win the game against me because I came to realize something. Something that was mentioned to me. I get obsessive about my friends, I can't abandon them all like that, nor could I ever fight them. I could never live with myself if I did. You on the other hand, don't seem to care about anything. And in the end, you'll end up alone Chrysalis..."

You sigh, you didn't want that "And I don't want that to happen. But if I keep letting you push me around, then you're just going to keep doing what you're doing without respecting my feelings. So no, I can't let you do that anymore. You're going to have to have a reason to stop being so evil. It'll do you some good."

Chrysalis was silent. Her ears then drooped "A-Anon....d-do you really feel that way?"

She sounded so soft, and sincere.

You nodded, with genuine concern for her. "Yeah, I do"

Chrysalis looked down in shame "I see...well...I suppose I could change for you"

Woah… "Really?"

"Mhmm...first" Chrysalis put her hoof on the blanket you were sitting on "WE DO THIS!" Chrysalis jumped and flew up and threw the blanket over you. "THEN THIS!" She grabbed the ends up the blanket to trap you like it was a makeshift bag. You struggled, yelling her name, but it was to no avail.

"CHRYSALIS!"

"Shut up, you little worm! You want to change tactics? Then so shall I!" Chrysalis kept her hoof at the ends of the blanket bag to keep you from escaping as she opened the blinds.

"YOUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU! COME FOR ANOTHER ROUND? HAVE YOU!?" Screamed a familiar voice.

You could hear him. The Ex-captain, still lurking. Still hovering outside....wait.

If you could hear him...

No...NONONONONONONO "CHRYSALIS?! CHRYSALIS, DON'T!"

But she ignored you. "Ahh, my loser of an ex-captain. Tell me, how would you like a little snack? Hmm? A sort of raw Anon served on a blanket."

X-captain stopped to think, then smiled evilly at her "And then you for dessert, right?"

Chrysalis shook her head. that was embarrassing, even for her. It's as if he lost all his ability to reason. "No, just him. Unless of course, he suddenly decided to become my little lackey." Chrysalis poked at you through the blanket. "How about it, Anon? Do you want to serve? Or be served?"

She can't. She won't! "Chrysalis! Chrysalis! You can't do this! I know you can't!"

You could hear Chrysalis chuckling. ”Oh can't I? All I have to do is open this window and throw you out"

"I DON'T WANT JUST HIM! I WANT EVERYTHIIIIIINNNGGGG!" You could hear the X-captain screech.

You could hear Chrysalis let out a groan "You're so pathetic. To think you were ever my captain in the first place."

"PATHETIC?! WHO'S THE ONE STUCK IN THE HOUSE, QUEENIE?! HMM! I ONLY NEED TO BE LET INSIDE! DRAGGING YOU ALL OUT WILL BE EAASSSYYY! NOW QUIT STALLING!" He erupted in vicious anger.

But Chrysalis ignored him as she prodded the blanket bag again. "Tick tock, Anon, make your choice."

She couldn't. SHE COULDN'T. "Chrysalis! CHRYSALIS! YOU CAN'T DO THIS! HE'LL KILL US ALL IF YOU OPEN THAT WINDOW!"

"Well, only if I also let him inside so he could drag us out. All I have to do is throw you out quickly and close the window. Though, the threat of losing your life here. Doesn't it make the choice to join me that much more enticing?" She prodded you again.

Wait...

WAIT...

Your horn. You had...

A second charge,

A second charge...

A SECOND CHARGE!

AHA! THATS IT! HOLY FUCK! DEUS EX MACHINA, YESSSS! You had a safety net! "...fine then. Do it"

"What, huh? Are you an idiot? You won't survive being thrown out there" Chrysalis spouts at you.

"If it means keeping Equestria safe." You sigh "well, I can't live with a guilty conscience, better you be stuck here than ruling the world"

Chrysalis sighed and closed the blinds.

"HEY WAIT! I THOUG-" was the last you heard of the X-captain.

Chrysalis released her magical grip on the ends of the blanket.

You poked your head out, then looked at her with a smirk. "Couldn't do it, could you?"

Chrysalis rolled her eyes as she went back to the arcade machine and put it back in place, it appeared to have repaired itself somehow...mostly. Discord’s barrier? Chaos? Who fucking knows. However, the screen was jittery now. A few bangs on the side got it back to working order, sorta. "Your father’s magic is faulty, it can’t even fully fix this thing. Stupid cheap machine"

You just circled around your bed to her side, still smirking. "You care about me enough not to kill me, right? C'mon, you can say it"

"Anon...just use your horn to get this screen back in working order. I know you have at least one charge left in there." She gives it another tap and a bang. The screen went from sorta to worse.

"I uh...what?"

"Ohhhhhhhh." Chrysalis let out a girlish giggle as she looked down at you and rubbed your cheek. "You thought I let you go because I care that much? How sweet. No, I knew you REALLY wouldn't give up your life unless you had a charge in that thing."

G-guh...were..you that obvious? "No, wait! NO! Fuck off. Charge or not! You wouldn't have done it!"

Chrysalis let out another dismissing giggle "I guess we'll never know. Now get to repairing that screen."

....fucking...FUCKING "I can't! Chaos magic can't just do that unless I made the arcade machine alive or have bat wings or some shit. Now fuck off! I know you care. You have to!"

"Oh, you can't?" It seems that's all Chrysalis cared about, the fucking arcade cabinet "What a shame. Now I'm going to have to learn how to repair one of these stupid things myself."

No..nonono. You can't let this slip through your hooves.

You put your horn into your saddlebag and walked over to the portal door. You opened it to outside Starlight's town....and tossed the bag through.

Chrysalis was watching from the corner of her eye. Turning to face you once you closed the door. "What are you doing?"

You went over to the window blinds and pulled them up.. "Yo, you want a snack?" You ask the X-captain.

"I don't even know anymore. Are you actually going to open that window? Kind of tired of being given the run around and....hrn?" The X-captain noticed you put your hoof on the latch. "oohhhhh...could this be? COULD THIS BE?!" He smiled a wide vicious smile.

Chrysalis only scoffed and mocked you "You won't do it, you imbecile. Or...You know what? Go ahead." Chrysalis walked over to the portal door and opened it. She could see the bag sitting right there. "I now have everything I need for victory."

"Stop...you take a step. And I'm unlocking this window" You warn her

Chrysalis chuckled "You bet on the wrong horse, Anon. I'll be sure to come pick you up tomorrow along with the rest of the hive."

You just stared at her. a cold hard stare. You had your hoof shaking on the latch of the window.

"You think that's going to work? Truth time, Anon. I saved your life from the excaptain because I didn't understand the power of the horn yet. I saved you from that machine because without you, I'd have been stuck in that world. Now? The horn has more power than ever. And combine that with the safety of my hive and Equestria will be mine within the week. Goodbye, Anon. See you tomorr-" Chrysalis stopped.

The lock on the window clicked.

There was a dead silence.

Chrysalis staring at you

You staring at her.

the silence felt like a lasted a minute When suddenly, you slipped into a sleeping darkness.

Maybe...that wasn't such a good idea.

But then...you awoke.

You were in your room.

Your horn necklace was right on top of your belly.

was it a dream?

You look to the side first.

The Arcade machine still had a fuzzy screen.

You look to the end of your bed

Sitting at the other end in front of your bed, on a chair, and reading a book upside down was none other than Discord.

"Discord?"

Discord had a pair of reading glasses on, and a serious look on his face. He lowered the book and looked at you. "Welcome back, Anon."

"...w-what happened?"

Discord went back to looking at the book. "you unlocked the window"

...oh shit. "...I...really did do that...WAIT WAIT! SO WHAT HAPPENED?!" You nearly jumped out of bed. Holy fuck. Could that mean...?

Discord let out a quick disinterested chuckle as he adjusted his glasses. "What do you think happened?"

"Well, Chrysalis saved me. Right?"

"Care to try again, Anon?" Discord says in a deadpan voice as he focused on the book.

"I..I" You could feel dread. a pure empty void going into your heart. "...A-am I dead?"

"No." Discord says simply.

If Chrysalis didn't save you. And you're not dead. Then that simply meant you fucked up. And you had no idea what happened. "...W-what happened?"

"Well, where to begin. First, you idiotically threw your horn in a place that I had blocked off Chryssy. She can only use the door to Ponyville y'know. So, there's that"

....oh. "...t-then...w-what , then.."

"Relax, Anon, I'm not done. Because there's indeed more" Discord closed the book and tossed it behind him. "You see that lock? That lock has a direct connection to me because I knew just telling you not to open it wouldn't be enough. I knew for some reason, at some point, something chaotic would happen that would lead to the opening of that window. Trust me, I really did know you’d foul up sooner or later, spirit of chaos and all that. You can't get things like that past me. Anyway, when I showed up, you had been eaten by the giant meatball, didn't even bother to chew. Rude, isn't it?"

So...did you just get pulled in instantly? Fuck, then… "W-what about Chrysalis? What was she doing?"

"Ahh, that's the important hard pressing issue, isn't it? How did Chryssy react when you got devoured. Did she cry? Did she stop, stone cold? Ohhhh, the suspense...it's murderous, isn't it?" Discord slowly grinned at you.

"C'mon Discord. Just tell me. It's important."

"Important enough to risk your life?"

"Erm...well, that was a sorta accident to be honest. I sorta got really into it. I was gonna close it up at the same moment I unlocked it to make it seem like I unlocked it through the clicky noise and..."

"And you forgot to close it back up due to the ‘heat of the moment’. Yes, hence why I had an internal fail safe set up. Anyway, let's get to Queeny McBuggybutt. From what I noticed. When she realized she couldn't get the horn, and you had been snatched away, she actually engaged in conversation with her excaptain. Offering herself up as a trade under an extra condition that he would take her back to the hive so she can look at it one last time. Which, listening to that myself, struck me as odd. Considering homesickness didn't strike me as a feeling Chryssy would have. in anycase. I certainly didn't want to wait for his answer so I cast the ole family fishing line out and caught me a dubious little colt. Chryssy, after I saved you, said nothing more. I asked her myself if she cared about you, as a courtesy to you of course. But alas, all she had to say was that you made an idiotic move. Which is true, it was idiotic. She went downstairs after that. And so, for the rest of the day, I've been sitting here....bored...watching you. Making sure you don't cause a reason for me to have to send you to the hospital, again. Fluttershy would never let me live it down.” He stops for a moment to think, then continues “OH yes, also because I care...I guess. Nevermind the fact I was having a good time with Fluttershy, she was praising me on how well I did today." Discord gave you an insulted expression before suddenly happily grinning at you "Good to see you're alright, you chaotic little butter ball. I’m glad you’re ok"

You smile back at him "Thanks. Yeah, me too"

Chrysalis. She knew she couldn't do anything without the horn. She tried to save you. But it was obvious she was also going to try to bolt to her hive at the same time.

She knew she couldn't beat the X-captain. And given his form, does that mean he'd be affected by that throne she mentioned? If he did, he wouldn't even be able to float. He'd literally just be an angry ball rolling around on the ground, constantly screeching like an angry cat.

Though, knowing the X-captain. He wouldn't have agreed, he was too insane to wait that long to do anything.

So all thats left is what would she have done had Discord not shown up.

You'll never know. "What time is it exactly?"

"You haven't missed that stargazing thing if that's what you're asking about. Yes, I eavesdropped. Not like you can stop me." Discord shrugged with a grin.

"Ok, that's good. And Chrysalis is in the basement?" You weren’t even phased by something like that at this point.

Discord nodded

"ok. That was the only real power play I had." You bring your head down on your pillow and look straight up to the ceiling. "I guess in the end she really does want both.She wants to keep me and rule the world. I kind of wish you didn't save me so soon. If only I had known what else she would have done to save me..."

"Sorry. I didn't know what you were doing. I just know you had done something dumb."

"Yeah, well. It seems the whole reform thing is definitely the thing that has to happen then. I just hope Chrysalis doesn't hate me too much. But, that's it, there's no use getting depressed about it. This is Equestria. It'll work out in the end as long as I show her that I still want to be friends"

"That and my barrier keeping you from having your throat crushed once that does happen."

"Yeah, uhm….” Maybe you should change subjects “What about the window?"

It's the same. Only you and I can open it at this point. So unless you decide to be an idiot again, things should be fine"

"Ok.I think I can fully accept Celestia's plan now. If it's one thing that's for certain, Chrysalis can't be allowed to get back into her hive. I'll just have to work it out during the aftermath. It sucks, but she's getting more desperate."

"Yes...Because of some throne thing." Discord scoffs "after listening in on that malarky, I've sometimes danced the thought of testing to see if it'd really stop my magic. But then I realize that I'm already amazing and that it wouldn't. Not at all." Discord flexed about like some super strong deity

You wondered if that was really true. Could it stop him? Is some throne really that powerful? Or was Chrysalis making it up? At this point, you couldn't tell. "Well, I guess I better get ready for the stargazing." You sigh

"Something the matter there, Anon?"

"Yeah..it's just one thing. Discord, do you think I'm making the right decision with Chrysalis? Just letting Celestia do what she wants?"

"Does it matter? Like you said. It'll work out in the end....apparently"

"Yeah..." You'd just have to get your mind off of it. You had to. Chrysalis was your friend. But she was also clearly dangerous. Like it or not, she had to be defanged.

Discord left you to yourself soon after, merely telling you to be more careful. He even hesitated leaving when he reached the door. But you told him you'd be ok and that you had to get to that stargazing thing.

Just had to get your mind off of it. Chrysalis made her choice. If she wants to reconsider, she can mention it when you see her again.

You had to get back to your life.

You couldn't waste it on someone who didn't want to be saved.

Just ignore it...

Of course, as you switch the dial to Ponyville. You also start to realize that you were never told where to meet. Was it Lyra's? Bonbon's? A particular spot?

...fuck man. You wouldn't even know where to find Scootaloo.

You could use the map. Wherever Scrappy was, Scootaloo had to be close by.

So you hop through the portal. And then open your saddle bag to… "Anon, there you are!"

GRDFHGHG

You jump, startled, and fall on your face as you let out a yelp.

"Woah geez! Anon! Relax. I-it's just me." Said that familiar young voice

You slowly get up, wiping your face as you look behind yourself, seeing a giggling Scootaloo in a helmet. She was on her scooter.

"S-Scootaloo?"

"Hehe. Yeah, it's me. Why do you seem so surprised?"

Because she was just there "How'd you know I'd be here? Also, that wasn't THAT funny"

Scootaloo shrugged "I've seen you just show up here a few times. So I figured you'd be here if I wait. also, yes it was."

"It wasn't."

"It was" Scootaloo said with a smirk.

"Really...?" You weren't in the mood for this. But fuck, she's just a filly. And the fact she's figured out your entrance point is pretty convenient for situations like this. Just relax, Anon. Think of something light hearted and funny. "Well if you really th-HOLY CELESTIA, WHAT IS THAT?!"

You point behind her. But she doesn't buy it. "..Really, Anon? That trick is like, baby stuff."

You just snort and look at her with narrowed eyes.

"Aww, come on, Anon. I didn’t mean it that way." Scootaloo didn't think you'd react like this. She was only playing.

You sigh and give up "Yeah, well. You better watch out next time, Scoots. I might get ya!"

"Yeah no, I don't think you will" Scootaloo seemed pretty sure of herself.

You let out another snort. "I'm the son of chaos. I can do whatever I want to you and you would NEVER see it coming."

"Yeah? Well, I'm Rainbow Dash's number one fan. And I've learned everything there is about dealing with ponies like you" Scootaloo lets out an arrogant chuckle.

"Yeah?" She didn’t know shit

"Yeah"

"Alright, I needed something to get the ole mind processin' anyway" You drop your saddle bag to the ground, staring intently at Scootaloo.

"What, huh? What are you doing, Anon?"

"What's it look like? Challenging a future Wonderbolt to a spar. Whoever takes a good hit first loses. I wanna see if you can handle the bonafide Hero Colt" She wants to be cocky? Then you wanted to see what she’s got.

Scootaloo raises an eyebrow "Really? That's random. And we gotta get going. Lyra and Bonbon are already getting set up. I told em I'd go and get you."

"Oh? is that a translation for ‘Cluck cluck. Bugawk?’ " If she knew how to handle you, then she won’t back down. Dammit, you weren’t a fucking pussy!

Scootaloo narrowed her eyes at you "Are you calling me a chicken?"

"Maybe, when you gonna lay that egg?"

She wanted to make fun of you? Fine, but you were sure, with all the experience you had, you could show her who was top dog. That you weren't to be taken lightly.

"Fine" Scootaloo removed her helmet and put it down "Don't go crying to your dad saying you lost to a girl"

"Less cluckin', more hittin'"

"Oh, that's it! You're going down, Anon!" Scootaloo started fluttering her wings angrily, and rushed right at you for an immediate take down.

Dodging might not work. All you had to do was overpower her and take her down under you and she'd be done.

So you kick your hindlegs and push forward with a loud battlecry.

All you had to do was time your tackle.

Just time it.

But as you both rush towards each other, something happens.

Scootaloo goes too fast, and smashes right into your head.

You barely felt it.

But for her, she was holding her head. She was seeing stars. She walked backward, wobbling and tilting as she held her head. "O-ogh..t-too fast..T-too hard. W-what did I even hit?"

Don't relent Anon! Don't RELENT!

You dash over to her and...

You stopped. You almost threw her down in all actuality. But seeing her stunned, and realizing maybe you were being a tad too sensitive, made you instead opt to just push her down gently. Either the fact she was a kid softened you up or that knock on the head cleared up a few thought synapses, but you realized you were being uppity for no reason.

"Omph..oohhh...wait..WAIT! OH NO!" Scootaloo realized what just happened.

And just like that, you won.

Well..against foal..a girl….but still...pushing her like that? It still gave you a certain feeling..

AHH WHO CARES! YOU WON! AND IT FELT GOOD! "OH YEAH! The Hero Colt wins! What do you gotta say to that?"

Scootaloo looked pretty sore about losing as she stood up, rubbing her head. "Yeah yeah, so I messed up a little."

"Mhmm, ok. Whateveeeer you say. Wow, ain't so ‘cocky’ anymore. Eh, Scoots?" You couldn’t hold it in. It was rare you got to be on top of anything these days. Especially with ANY of the CMC.

"Ok ok, no more chicken jokes. I get it. I'm sorry" Scootaloo says with a defeated and aggravated sigh.

"Apology accepted. Now, lead on." You bow and extend your hoof to the side, like a gentleman would.

That really did feel pretty good. You were glad you didn’t actually hurt her either. But only because actually hurting her would have soured this win.

"It's over here." Scootaloo said as she put on her helmet and slowly pushed forward towards the outskirts of the town, towards a grassy hill. "You're not going to tell anypony, are you? I don't want Rainbow Dash knowing I lost a fight."

Awww, her worrying like that was kinda cute. It made you feel just a little bad. "I won't tell anypony. Besides, my aunt would get pretty angry if she found out I was fighting."

"What? Fluttershy? I don't know about that" Scootaloo doubted Flutters ability to get angry.

"Oh trust me. Even if she doesn't show it. You can just feel that raw anger. So yep, mah muzzle? It's shut."

"Thanks.." Scootaloo started to feel less tense. She calmed down.

You were glad she didn't mention anything about your titanium cranium. You didn't need any cracks about your hard head.

When you both entered the grassy hills outside of town. Scootaloo propped her helmet and scooter to a tree and continued forward, telling you it wasn't much further.

After a few moments. you both arrived on a high hill, with a picnic set up with some soda drinks and sandwiches.

Next to it was Bonbon working the telescope as Lyra tried to tell her what to focus on.

"Oh, Oh! Look at that one! Point the telescope on that one!" Lyra pointed to a particularly bright star.

"Hold on, Lyra, this takes time. I can't just point the telescope to it. I have to find it on the viewfinder first." Bonbon responds, focusing on adjusting the telescope.

"Oookk..." Lyra said impatiently as she gazed up into the sky, then sighed a lighthearted breath "It's pretty nice out to be honest." It was indeed a beautiful and star filled night. The sky dimly lit by a sea of stars.

"Yeah, it is. We certainly got lucky the pegasi didn't decide to give us a cloudy night" Bonbon said a she continued adjusting.

"Mhmm, oh!" Lyra noticed the both of you and waved "And the night is going to get better! We have a full team now!"

"Hmm?" Bonbon turned around, and smiled at the both of you "Hey there you two."

"Hey girls! How's it going!" Scootaloo waves with a happy grin on her face.

"Oh." Bonbon goes back to adjusting the telescope "Almost done, going to get it pointing at the perfect spot and lock it in place"

"Do we even need a telescope really?" You looked up at the night sky. The stars were like beautiful jewels in the sea of night. Better than anything you ever saw on earth. "Everything is so shiny and bright. It's already really pretty"

"Yeah. But imagine how super pretty it'll be once Bonbon gets everything set. In the meantime, we got snacks while we wait!" Lyra takes a sandwich and begins to chowdown.

"I am a little hungry" Scootaloo says as she sits and joins Lyra.

"Yeah, me too"

And so the three, and soon, four of you sit down and have a snack. The telescope set up after a few extra moments.

The small talk was kept to friendly levels. Nobody mentioned Chrysalis. It was more on how everyone's day went and favorite snacks and friends and such. Pleasant and safe is the words you'd use to describe it.

"I remember when I did this with my other friends. And Rainbow Dash was there too! It was soooo cool" Scootaloo said with a squee.

"This is my first real time just sitting out here relaxing and looking at the stars with friends. It's relaxing really. Makes any worries I have seem like a memory." This was the true meaning of the word “comfy”

"Well, that's the point. We're not here to worry about anything. We're here to keep each other company and look at the sky." Lyra says with a cheerful grin

"That's right. Even busy ponies like myself need some R&R. And some soda" Bonbon takes a swig from her soda cup. "The telescope is ready, by the way. If anypony wants to take a look see"

"I'll take a look. Never seen a star up close before." You get up and take a look through the telescope.

What you saw was truly wondrous. If you could describe it. It was like looking at Vegeta's Big Bang Attack up close and it not coming in to kill you. Hell, you could see shooting stars that you swear looked like hadokens and energy balls and…..goddamn, you gotta stop with this pop culture thinking.

In anycase, the sky was just bustling with spectacular stars. Bonbon did a great job positioning the telescope. "Woah...it's...so beautiful."

It made you feel.....serene.

No wonder Luna wanted ponies to enjoy the night so much. It was so much better than Earth that it was unreal.

"Isn't it?" Lyra lays back on the picnic blanket after moving the basket aside "I don't think I'd mind sleeping out here. The stars would be my night light."

"Well, if you wanted that then one of us should have brought a tent." Bonbon chuckles.

"I wouldn't mind. But I can't stay out too long." Scootaloo mentions.

"I could probably get away with it, almost. I don't think my marefriend would like me cuddled up between two mares."

Lyra looks at you with a cocky grin "Cuddled up between me and Bonbon, huh? That's a weird thing to say, isn't it?"

Shit...did you say that? "I-er...um, it was a mistake?"

Bonbon snickered "Was it? seemed really specific to me"

Bonbon and Lyra have a giggle.

"What's going on exactly? Things feel weird all of a sudden" Scootaloo didn't understand

"Nothing! Nothing at all! Moving on. Stars...that's what we're doing! Let's continue to look! yes! Let's do that!" Fuck, you had to watch your mouth. Though..who wouldn't want to be between a Lyra and Bonbon?

"Yeah, let's just sit back and let the starlight do it's thing" Lyra said as she went back to relaxing.

Wait… "What did you say?"

"Wha? I said, let's just sit back and let the starlight do it's thing..why?" Lyra found it odd that this needed repeating.

Starlight.

Star....Light.

Ahh shit.

Fuck!

You utterly forgot that quite possibly, Starlight was in the Crystal Empire right now.

And what's worse. She could have made a fuck up that shattered her entire world view.

Or maybe that chump Sunburst fucked up.

Fuck...FUCK.

You know Starlight told you not to worry.

But this was a cartoon pony, prone to the sudden whims of plot contrivance.

And what could you do? Well, right now. You were supposed to be enjoying this night with friends.

But, you also had to protect Starlight. Which you could do with the portal door and horn. "No reason. I just thought it was a beautiful thought"

"Really? Awww, no wonder your marefriend likes you so much. You're really sweet on the inside" Lyra smiled as she went back and focused on the stars as Scootaloo looked through the telescope.

"No more shooting stars tonight. That's fine. With Rainbow Dash being a Wonderbolt now, she'll be able to train and become even faster than the fastest falling star ever!"

Oh Scoots...

Actually, reflecting on Chrysalis, it made you think of the term “Friendship” itself.

It made you feel melancholic. Enough to ask a certain question. "Hey, I got a question. For everypony, actually."

They all turn to face you. "Yeah?" All three say

"Do you think we'll be friends for a really long time?"

"Really long time? That's a weird way of saying forever" Lyra says with a grin

"No, I'm serious. I like all my friends. You guys, Applebloom and Sweetie Belle. Diamond..my Dad..others..y'know. That's why I want a serious answer. Especially with the age difference and all" You wanted a serious answer

"Again, that's a weird way of saaaaying forever" Lyra giggled

"C'mon, really? Do you think it'll last that long?"

"Well, isn't that how it's supposed to be? I know even if I was an old mare, I'd be friends with every friend I made. And no matter how old Rainbow Dash gets, she'll ALWAYS be the best. So, yeah. Forever!" Scootaloo says with certainty.

"You already know my answer. I couldn't imagine life without my bestie. Even when we fight, or even when it seems like we hate each other, it never lasts. It just always comes down to an apology, some hugs, and then we have fun times again." Bonbon explains from her perspective.

And that's how it's supposed to be.

Isn't it, Chrysalis?

The rest of the night pretty much went on like this. Eating, drinking soda, laughing. Even you had a good time talking on lighter topics and regaling the group about your adventure in the alternate Equestria. Omitting a few things of course.

Scootaloo mentioned what she knew and saw when it came to RD becoming a Wonderbolt. Apparently it wasn't as smooth as you thought it'd be.

Lyra and Bonbon were just being adorable as usual. Talking about more minor things like window shopping and such in Canterlot.

You felt, for once in the rare times it happened, happy, and even comfortable being a foal.

You really had nothing to worry about. Cept for Starlight, you still had to check on her when this was over.

For Chrysalis? Well, you already made up your mind on that. and this solidified it. She'll have to understand the real friendship between you two eventually. She just had to.

When things got late. All of you joined up for putting everything away.

It really was a beautiful night.

And you all got along, and left on such a good note. Scootaloo even mentioning that if she ever became as great as Rainbow Dash, she'd like you as a rival hero.

...it was adorable.

A rival in Scoots. Well, you felt so humbled that you told her that she was guaranteed to make the Wonderbolts one day. And the smile on her face was heart melting.

And with goodbyes. And one soda in your possession, you poured it down and went home as everyone else went to leave.

But the night,It wasn't quite over yet.

You had to make sure Starlight was ok.

Chapter 316

You look at your clock. 10:30 PM

As you adjusted the dial once more for the Crystal Empire, you couldn't get Scoots out of your mind.

Out of the three CMC. She was the one you got along with the best.

And now? She was a rival. Which is kinda neat.

In a sense, she is your "childhood" best friend.

you didn't know how to take it, But it was pretty cute.

You hoped she would never come to find out the truth about your past. That would kill the dynamic pretty bad.

You open the door, and step through.

You were now in the empire. However, you immediately headed towards an alley near the castle instead of the castle itself.

You knew you couldn't just waltz in. If Starlight was there, she'd probably be upset that you came to check on her.

So how would you do this?

Oh..pfft. "Hah, of course. I have a deus ex machina horn. duhhhh, Anon, super easy and...er.." You look around, nobody was there.

You just wanted attention, didn't you? That’s why you always talk to yourself, right?

Nah, that wasn't it. It was just a mistake.

In anycase, all you had to do was slap the horn on your head, make yourself invisible, and give yourself sticky hooves for wall and ceiling movement.

Easy

You slap the horn on your head and cast the spell.

But after casting it, you feel...rather queezy "Ergh, what the? Why do I feel weird? Invisibility doesn't make me feel weird."

"EEEEEEK! A MONSTER!" You hear in front of you.

The fuck?

You look up, and you could see a crystal pony earth mare gazing up at you in fear.

Gazing up? Shouldn't that be down?

"Monster?!" Was there a monster behind you? Was it...lifting you up? "Where?! WHERE?!"

"Huh? N-no..you're the monster." The confused mare said as she pointed at you with a shaky hoof.

You're the monster? "Me? I'm not a monster. You're probably just confused because HOLY CRAP MY HOO..HAND?!" You had fingers, green scaly fingers. And you were standing upright. And your vision was sideways and all over the place.

And your tongue...

"See...I told you" The crystal pony rolled her eyes, calming down."Anyway….MONSTER, HELP! MONSTER!" She suddenly ran away screaming

You just looked at your "hands" in fear. What the fuck happened?! "Shit, I need to hide. I NEED TO....what?!" Your "hands" started to vanish. Or rather… "I'm turning invisible..."

You could still see your hands if you looked really hard and moved them a little due to light refraction. But you had to look really hard, it was good enough for what you believed needed to be done.

You then realized what you had become. "Woah...I'm a fucking chameleon. COOOOL!...what wha?!"

The crystal pony rushed back with a couple of guards. They were right in front of you, but they couldn't see you.

"I-I swear! It was right here!" The mare said as she looked around. With you right in front of her.

The guards' tension lowered as they laughed to each other silently and told the mare that maybe it was a little too late for her to be up.

As for you, you silently cackled as you slipped away. Amazing, you could move pretty fucking quick for a chameleon. You were able to skulk about on the walls and floors quickly like a bug. And your scaly feet didn’t seem to cause any noise as well. Perfect.

You darted around unseen until you reached the castle. Hell, it was easy to slip through the doors, especially since the castle had like four entrances from the underside of it.

But when you got inside. You could see a few guards patrolling about.

Ok, it was time to see what you could do with these hands of yours.

You gently place one on the wall and plant it firmly, then pull gently.

There was a viscous goo coming from between your hand and wall.

Your smirked as you wiggled your fingers and placed your hand back on the wall and started to slowly adjust and climb.

This was badass.

You wormed your way up to the ceiling and began to crawl on all fours.

Though, you had no fucking clue where you were going. All you had to do is see if there were any room with lights on and hope it wasn't Cadance and Shining Armor's room.

Weaving through the castle was easy like this. You didn't have to worry about bumping into anyone and you could move pretty quick, even while on the ceiling.

As you traversed the castle, you noticed beautifully stylized double doors with light shining through.

Ok, just be careful opening it, and it should be fine.

You open the door gently from the ceiling and crawl inside.

Behind the doors was a vast library. And in this library, you could hear..YES! Jackpot!

There was Starlight and Sunburst, chatting it up as they sat at a table filled with books.

But what were they talking about? You wondered.

You jumped onto the ground and crawled towards where they were talking.

When you arrived, you could see them sitting across from each other at the reading table.

"....I'm sorry, Starlight. Oh my, I really am. If I had known, I would have tried contacting you in some way. I never knew it was THAT bad. I only had what your friend Anon had told me. And erm...it already sounded pretty bad.." Sunburst said as he drank from a cup from what you presumed was tea.

"Don't sweat it. Really...I just want to get past that and....wow" Starlight just tapped her cup "We've been doing this for hours, haven't we?"

"......" Sunburst just stared forward. Blank eyed until he sighed and slumped. "...yes"

"I mean, it's nice that we got past the whole....ummm." Starlight was at a loss for words.

"I think we're still trying to get past the parts where we messed up and….erm….Well, I abandoned you and you did that...thing you don't like mentioned" Sunburst too, didn't seem to know what he was doing.

"Yeah....Sunburst." Starlight sighed "It's really good to know you're still the same guy I knew as a foal. I came here because I wanted to move on from this. But all we've been doing is apologizing…..For the past two hours"

Sunburst took a sip of his tea to calm his nerves "Y-yes, I know. But, I also don't have much to talk about in ways of myself. I've secluded myself for a very very very long time. And then, well. I'm a magic adviser now...That’s erm…..about it"

"Well, that's great at least. You get to work with royalty and you get to live in the castle and your house whenever you want. In a way, you became successful. That's..something, right?" Starlight gave him a sheepish smile as she used a spoon to stir her tea.

"Oh, don't get me wrong. I-it's certainly an honor alright. But I have all this knowledge and no skill in using it! Ugh!" Sunburst slammed his face onto the table and just kept it there "You're the real star, Starlight. You've always been better than me at magic. And now? Y-you're just really incredible. I'm.." He slowly looked up at her, feeling ashamed of himself "Surprised you didn't want to accept mayorship in that town you mentioned."

"Oh...I'm..." Starlight dropped the spoon she was using to stir the tea as she looked down, feeling some shame herself "I'm not cut out to lead anypony. I was never really destined for anything great..."

No...NO! "But that's wrong!" You yell out, then back off a little, realizing you spouted some words.

"H-huh? Wrong?" Starlight looked to Sunburst. confused.

"I erm...Did I say that? I-I guess I did...actually" Sunburst pondered on it. "I think you are wrong. You made friends, you even made genuine friends with the princess of friendship herself! And her friends too. You're even friends with the spirit of chaos's son. Who...erm, well, when I met him one on one....he was kind of..rude? I think that’s the nicest way to put it...I think."

Starlight giggled "Yeah, he's a bit of a weirdo. But I owe him a lot. Things probably would have been a lot worse for me if I never met him. I mean, think about it. I had this whole major evil plan. I probably would have either ended up in prison or....or...erm..never mind" She looked away, nervous again.

"Well, then..to Anon" Sunburst raised his glass "For bringing us together again"

Starlight slowly holds up her cup "To Anon."She then begins to slowly smile

Awwww. You did good, Anon..you did good.

Starlight and Sunburst take a sip, and put their cups down. Then silently stare at each other.

Sunburst "What now? hrrrnnn...WAIT! Wait! I think I have something! Perhaps, it'd even be something you'd like and hopefully not scare you away."

"Not scare me away? That already sounds scary...what do you have in mind?"

"Something from our past." Sunburst looked to the books around the library and used a simple telekinesis spell to bring in a bunch of books to the table and stacks them up. "If we're agreed that I'm well read in magic, and you're well versed. Then let's just study until we fall asleep. Like we did as foals. Maybe that will calm our nerves because..." Sunburst looks at his cup, is was empty, and yet he still felt jittery "This isn't helping."

"Sunburst..." Starlight slowly smiles at him "I'd love to. It'll be just like before. Except our parents won't nose in on us this time"

"..Our parents did like to do that..." Sunburst said, as if he was having a bad memory

Starlight interrupts him "Sunburst" Starlight giggles "Let's just get to work, huh?"

"Right, let's start with this one" Sunburst picks up a book and walks over to Starlight to read the book with her.

And you?

You sighed. Maybe Starlight didn't need you here after all.

But the way they thanked you. You felt good that you were at least needed.

You were sure, when you both meet again, she'll tell you all about this.

You couldn't stop smiling. But best to leave before you accidentally reveal yourself.

You head back through the halls of the castle, trying to reach the main room and then exit through the doors. You seemed to have gotten a little lost, still, at least you were relatively safe.

No guard could see you. What chumps.

However, it seems you were coming through a more heavily guarded hall as you heard the cries of a baby.

A baby?

That baby?

The guards tensed up when the cries became ear piercing, and started to disperse just a bit to get away from the noise.

Interesting.

Time to investigate!

You head to a pair of very grandiose doors and sneak on in.

Aha, so this is indeed the source. You were in Cadance's and Shining Armor's bedroom. The last time you were here you were kinda tied up.

You could the baby’s crib not too far off from their bed. And man, was Flurry crying up a storm.

"D-don't worry, honey, I got it this time" Shining said groggily as he slowly got up and yawned as Cadance twitched in her bed.

You started to slowly make a climb up the wall and dragged yourself close to the crib as Shining used his magic to bring Flurry close. He sat and took her into his forelegs and rocked up and down.

But something was off. At first she was quieting down. But then, you swore, you just swore, that she took a look at you. She then started whining again and hugging onto her father. Hiding her face.

Did she see you? No, that's impossible. You were invisible.

"It'll be alright. C'mon, Flurry, your dad is here. Hmm" Shining pondered as he slowly looked over to his wife "Cadance?"

She didn't respond.

Shining slowly put Flurry back in her crib as he smirked "Alright, I know what you want then." Shining whispered as he reached from under the crib and pulled out a comic book "The exciting conclusion of Power Ponies versus Dr. Inferno. But we gotta be quiet, Mommy would get mad at me if she knew I was reading this to you. You ready?" He smiles as he gently pokes her nose.

She giggles at first, even nods. But then she slowly peers back at your position.

Were you being loud? Was that it?

Maybe you were releasing some heat or something. Whatever, it was probably nothing.

And what’s with Shining? Because if it's one thing you knew for sure. Is that Shining shouldn't be reading ANY comics to a baby.

Not because of the baby. But because comics have sucked shit for many a year. And Power Ponies? No, to be more exact, a comic made by ponies? No doubt had to be trash tier.

And no pony princess deserved to grow up to be a trash tier nerd.

Something had to be done.

You slowly began to climb up to the ceiling as Shining quietly read to Flurry and showed her the pictures of the comics.

She seemed to be half paying attention. Dammit. you had to be quiet, she was taking glances at you every so often. Were you even making noise? You couldn’t hear shit, and neither could Shining.

Ok, all you had to do was whip your tongue down at the comic and bring it back up.

No one would even be able to figure out what happened.

You hold in a snicker as you slowly open your mouth.

And as you opened it. Flurry slowly began to fly up out of her crib, and hovered over to her father.

Holy fuck. She can do that already? And so well? That's pretty overpowered.

What's worse. Now he was quietly giggling and repositioning himself to show her the comic as she hung from his shoulder.

Now you had to be careful, he had the comic close to himself and her. Close so she can constantly see all the pictures, but in a position that one bad tonguelash would compromise your position.

Ok, then.

You started to slowly come down towards the closest lower wall and positioned yourself to be right in front of Shining and the comic. All you needed to do was shoot between his hooves, pull back, done.

But then Flurry began whining again. Climbing to his upper back, Shining let out a tired sigh. But then smiled as he got up and slowly laid on his belly on the floor to continue reading to her while she rode his back. He carefully laid the comic on the floor to read as she looked over from time to time and cooed.

Was she? No, she couldn't be strategically forcing a repositioning to make you miss your mark.

It's fine. You'll just have to be quick.

You quickly climb to the ceiling again, ignoring any noise you make as you prepare a quick tongue lash. You'll immediately shoot out your tongue once you reach your desired position.

Straight down, that's all you had to do. Straight down.

But then it crashed, and burned into some invisible barrier right above Shining. You brought your tongue back in and whined in pain as you felt small painful jolts shoot through you. What the hell happened!?

"O-oh. What was that?!" Shining whispered as he looked back at his sleeping wife "Cadance?"

No reply.

"Weird. Well, I guess that's what lack of sleep will do to you. Flurry, are you ok?" He says as he looks back at her.

She was focused. Staring. her horn was glowing as she looked straight up at you with a scrunchy face.

Shining looked up, but he didn't see anything.

"Oh, don't worry, Flurry Heart. There's no evil doctor dragons up there. It's chill" He says to her, which prompted her to smile, throw her hoof out like a flying super hero, and then lay on her belly on top her father's back as she giggled. It warmed his heart. "Alright, we're almost done. Looks like you're getting pretty tired, huh? Don't worry. Almost done" He says as he goes back to reading.

There's no way it could be her. Was it Discord? Or maybe your tongue didn't go that far. And it hurt if you brought it out all the way, it seemed.

But you were determined to make sure Shining knew that he should just read her normal fucking books. And not fucking comics.

You moved back to the wall and slowly inched down.

But Flurry peeked out from between Shining's ears, eyeing your every moment.

Just ignore it. go for the comic.

You were closer now. Close enough that you shouldn't have a problem.

When you gazed at the comic, Flurry started to make noises.

Not whines, not coos, but rather angry murmuring. And her horn started to grow brighter and brighter by the second.

The fuck?

"Flurry? Flurry Heart? Are you ok? Oh man, I hope this wasn't a bad idea. Your mom would kill me if she found out I traumatized you by reading a comic. I'll just..." He started to put it away. But Flurry broke her attention and reached for the comic and whined.

"Huh?" He held the comic close to her, she smiled and pointed at it. "Oh? So you do want me to finish? Weird..." He took another look around "Really weird. Got this feeling we're being watched" But then he shrugged. And went back to reading the comic for Flurry Heart.

Then when he went back to reading, she darted her eyes back to you.

Ok, no. She MUST know you were there. No question now. Well, the only question was how could she see you?

You whisper very silently. "You'll thank me for this later. Trust me" You aim your trusty tongue and shoot it out once more.

But then, before reaching the comic. Flurry's horn glows bright as some invisible force catches the end of your tongue, preventing you from pulling back. "Gmna?! guh?!"

Was it her?! Dammit! How could she be doing this!?

Shining stopped, he heard the noise, but didn't know what was going on. So he looked around again. "H-hello?"

Flurry only giggled as she flung you up by the tongue and slammed you into the ground, head first. "OGH! Ohhhhhhnnnmnnnn"

"Oh man. Ok, maybe I do need more sleep. I swear I can hear the fight between the power ponies and Dr.Inferno in my head" Shining said, scared that he may have been too sleep deprived.

Flurry laughed at you as she pulled you back up and span you around in mid air as she clapped her hooves.

Shining just looked back at her with a smile "Atleast you enjoyed it. Ogh, you ready for bed Flurry? Daddy is pooped"

But she wasn't done. She flung you hard onto the ceiling.

"O-ohhh. Why? I was only..trying..to" But you wouldn't have time to finish that sentence as Flurry Heart released a powerful magical blast. So powerful, it shot itself, and you, through the ceiling and towards the icy mountains as you screamed in hilarious agony. And waking her mother of course, not like you had time to notice. "AGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHOOOOOOOOOOOOO!"

Your screams filled the night sky as you arced up then down towards the snowy mountains and crash landed near the peak.

The thick snow formed the shape of your chameleon body as you smashed through it.

When you reached out from the snowy hole, you realized you couldn't really get a good grip on anything. You changed back into a pony it seems. "N-ngh..T-that.....is the scariest...fucking...baby...e-ever."

You slowly began to pull yourself out of the hole, twitching in pain. "ngh, t-this is worse than the chimera. Nobody can ever k-know that I lost to a fucking b-b-baby"

When you pull yourself out, you only end up sinking back into the snow, making a pony shaped hole.

You groan. "...fuck"

As you trying pulling yourself out again. The chill of being so high up in a snowy mountain began to pierce your body. "F-fuck. I-I need a way out. I-I'm gonna die out here if I can't get some water, b-but..where am I going to find some?"

You look around at the snow around you. Them scrunch your nose at your own stupidity. "...Right..."

You pile up some snow under you and start smashing and grinding your hoof on it to produce as much friction and heat as you can until you make a small puddle under you. "P-Perfect!"

You sigh, and look up into the night sky. "...nobody....can ever know"

You throw your map into the puddle and dive in, landing back first into your warm bed. "Ahhh! Now this isWREGAWFDWF" From above, A small avalanche of snow followed you through the portal, All of it landing on top of you.

The snow quickly melted from the magical warmth of your bed as well. Revealing a very soaked and very grumpy you. "....fuck it...whatever. I'll be dry by tomorrow"

You put the cold blanket over you, and shiver as you try to sleep. "Stupid baby, stupid magic, stupid snow, stupid water, Stupid....stupid stupid..."

And you lay there, grumbling and being stubborn as you try to sleep. It wouldn't take long for the water itself to become warm through the bed’s magic. But you were still soaked, and it made things uncomfortable.

God, how would Diamond react if she knew you lost to a baby?

No, what about that other you? Motherfucker. Bet he's laughing at you right now. "...Stupid..."

and that's all you pretty much repeated to yourself as you finally drifted off to sleep.

Tomorrow would be another day.

At least...Starlight is ok.

Chapter 317

And so you slept. It wasn't the best sleep in the world. But at least the magical warmth of the bed kept you from freezing your ass off from the ice cold water. Which that too, had become warm due to it.

"Anon"

The heated water, or rather, whatever was left of it that hadn't evaporated made things chaff and become uncomfortable.

"Anon..."

You were asleep, but you were tossing and turning a few times as you did.

"..Screw this"

Suddenly you feel the blanket get snapped away from you so hard that you flip up and off the side of your bed. "W-ha?! WHAT?! WHO!?"

You look around, you get up and try to find out what just happened, your slumber being broken by your fall. When you gaze over the side of your bed, there stood Chrysalis, looking at you, just staring. And so, you stared back, wondering what was going on. Because a quick peek at the clock showed it was too early for the parenting class thing.

Chrysalis rolled her eyes as you continued to stare. "Are you going to just stare at me or are you going to hop back on here so we can talk."

Talk? "Talk about what? Yesterday?"

"Yes, and other things. I made sure we would have plenty of time to discuss this. Now..." Chrysalis stamps her hoof on the bed a few times. "Get up here so I can talk to you."

Curious, and suspicious. "You just want to talk? Really? I don't buy it. What's really going on, Chrysalis."

"What's going on? What? Do you think I'm going to chuck you out the window?" She seemed a little offended by your caution.

You duck your head down behind your bed, peeking up at her for a moment. "Maybe...I have a full double charge you know"

"Anon, for once, I'm going to be calm, sincere, and even..." She nearly spits up. "Pony-like. Now get up here before I ACTUALLY toss you out the window"

Well, she couldn't. But that did make things interesting. You were curious enough now to hear her out. So you hopped back onto your bed, laid on your belly, and looked at her.

"So, what is it?" You weren't too keen on her right now either. Considering she tried to use yesterday's mishap to get back to the hive.

"It's two things, Anon. But the latter will come depending on your answer of the former. So, let me get this out first." Her face started to contort a little, it looked like whatever she had to say, she didn't really want to say it. "I'm...ngh." She held back for a moment.

"Chrysalis? What's wrong?" She actually looked like she was in pain.

"I'm sorry, you moron!" She yells out in anger. "I'm sorry about yesterday! Even if it was caused by your own idiocy! There, I did it." She shivered and tensed. "And I'll never EVER be doing that again."

Holy crap, she apologized. And given her reaction, she meant it. "Woah, well, erm, apology accepted, Chrysalis. See? That wasn't that bad, was it?" You looked to her with a hopeful smile. "I mean. You are starting to see my point of view now, right?"

Chrysalis furrowed her brow inquisitively at you "Are you serious? Or did you really SOMEHOW pick that up from my apology?"

Welp, looks like you weren't even close. "Sometimes it's good to believe, Chrysalis. But really, I accept your apology." You chuckle about it. "And I want you to realize that it's because we're good friends that I accepted it without hesitation. That's why it's ok"

Chrysalis starts to really get annoyed. It looked like she was about to spout off. But she stopped, and let herself calm down. "You're overdoing it. I don't want to hear any more of your rubbish until I'm done. Understand?"

Hrn? "There's more?"

"Of course there is. I said there was. Because, Anon...Anon" She sighed, and let her head rest on the side of your bed as she looked right into your eyes, she entered a serene sort of melancholy. "I didn't want to lose you."

No way.... You gave your leg a quick smack, but nothing changed, you weren't dreaming. "You really mean that?"

"I do. Anon, I've thought about our friendship. I've thought about the amazing things humans are capable of. Cars, spaceships, weaponry, murder. All of it more than worthy of my attention. And all of it brought to light thanks to you. Furthermore, being around you has made me realize that once I do conquer Equestria, it'd eventually become tiresome. Perhaps you poisoned me on that one, Anon. I touched the forbidden human treasure and now my thirst for conquest needs more to be quenched. Anon, I can see myself on my throne, bored with terrorizing ponies, I'd be in need of something to make the day go by. A good movie, a pleasant talk of new ways of making them miserable, perhaps owning and riding one of those star cruisers, many things actually. To be forever bored would be a crime within itself. In other words, I'd want you by my side because I really wouldn't want it any other way. On my terms, you are my friend. And I would protect you, even from your own foolishness, if it meant keeping you around"

Chrysalis looks at you with big soft eyes. "Anon, forget these ponies. They only know you on the surface. As a colt. But I know you as a human. If they ever found out, they'd never look at you the same way ever again. Surely you see that."

You couldn't believe it. Not only did she sound sincere, she looked it too. It was so natural that you swore that this meant, for sure, she meant everything. The problem was that she MEANT everything in a way you couldn't follow. "Chrysalis, I can't. I won't betray my other friends. I've already gotten past the fact I used to be human. I'm sorry."

Chrysalis's soft expression became that of aggravation as she raises her head and narrows her eyes at you "I bet you are. I poured my heart out, Anon. I meant every word, and yet you still foolishly cling on to the pony way. Well then, the only thing I can do it seems is change the rules of the game."

The rules? There were rules? "Chrysalis, c'mon, it's never ending at this point. You're never going to convince me. And while it's seemingly impossible for you to see it, I know that sooner or later you'll understand how pointless being evil is. It already sounds like you may have realized something if that's your reason to have me around. Chrysalis, we can have as much fun as you want if you just stop being evil. It'd make things so much easier. I mean it. Being evil is lonely, it sucks. So why? Why still be evil?"

"Hmph, because" She gives you a cruel smile. "It's what makes me feel soooo good. I'd rather have those times where I'm bored than suffer the pain of the good will of the ponies. But you see, what's why I'm changing the rules, as yes, I've seen the pointlessness in convincing you. Especially after my torn heart felt explanation fell on deaf ears just now. First, everything for you is the same. You can continue wasting your time trying to convince me to change."

She really was hurt, you could tell in her tone of voice that she was frustrated, with a hint of stinging rejection. It made you feel sorry for her, that you couldn't give her what she wants. But you had other friends, you didn't want to hurt them or disappoint them. And after watching Starlight last night, you could never even fathom betraying her. In fact, you couldn't wait to see her again and hear how everything went from her own perspective. It'd probably be cute.

"Then...what's different?" You ask

"I will no longer attempt to change your mind. Which incidentally means I'll be nicer to those who really don't deserve my time."

Wut? "Uhhhh, then what's the insidious evil part of this rule change? Because I know you, it's in the fineprint somewhere."

"Nothing insidious, Anon. It's more political than malicious. You see, all I want from you is a friend's promise that should I free myself from this illusionary coil, you will join me at my side. No ifs, ands, or buts about it. In other words, things would be smooth sailing for you up until I escape, is that fine with you? In which then, through a friend's promise, you'd be mine without complaint. A fair trade for my compliance, I think."

What kind of rule change was that? You could never do that. "Chrysalis, that's...look, if you ended up escaping, I'd most likely be stuck here while some force brings you down. Or I'd have to go and stop you myself. I can't just agree to join you, I can't"

"Anon, I'm making things easy on you, how could you not accept? I'm trading in treating you maliciously for having you yourself should and if I escape to my hive. We both know I haven't figured anything out yet, so you'll be fine. You do trust in your own ability to keep me contained, don't you?" She gives you a pouty face as she bats her eyes.

Thinking about it, it did sound pretty good. You knew she had no way out, or else Scrappy would have mentioned something. And if she'd be more willing to play ball, then all the better for you. Yeah, if she really means it, then you have no real reason not to accept. There's no way she could get to her hive anyway, even if she was planning something. "You know what? Sure, I accept."

Chrysalis gave you a happy little smirk. "I'm so happy to hear that, Anon. So much so that I think you deserve a reward."

A what now? "A reward? Um, I dunno. I just want to go back to bed. I'm good"

Chrysalis chuckles as she climbs onto your bed, fillyfying herself as she does, speaking with a sultry tone and giving you bedroom eyes. "I think you misunderstood. you can't say no."

You tensed up, not this again. She looked so damn cute and...oh boy. "Chrysalis, c-c'mon, I have a marefriend. B-besides, all y-you do is blue ball me"

Chrysalis slowly moves up and presses your forelegs back with her own as she lays on top of you, bringing her nose to yours. "Mhmm, but sometimes your lust does get mixed with love sometimes. Since you care about me, it makes for a delicious little snack." She licks the side of your cheek and giggles into your ear "You can't deny me, Anon, you never could"

You were beat red, frustrated and aroused. She was NEVER going to give it up. "T-this is wrong...and NGH!"

She gave you a gentle kiss on the lips, And cuddles, bringing her head to the side of yours, onto your pillow, and closing her eyes. "Have a good rest, Anon. And don't think about it too much. I'm always in a better mood when I'm well fed."

You tried adjusting yourself, but she was too strong, and cuddly, and huggy and… Ugh, and she was draining you harder than usual, weakening you. She was doing it on purpose to sap your strength and make you less resistant. "Y-you know, if you're going to do this to me. You could at least let me try it at least once"

Chrysalis giggled as she cuddled you a little tighter and sighed a happy sigh. "Don't be a moron, Anon. You wouldn't even last two seconds anyway."

.....Dammit. "I-I mean, w-we could find o-"

Chrysalis places her hoof gently on your muzzle to hush you and slows her draining. "Don't be silly, Anon. You have a marefriend. Though, she wouldn't be happy to see what we're doing either way. I do this because it's good food, and because it's more fun to torment you this way. Especially since it won't lead to you idiotically ending yourself. And of course, don't forget.." She began to gently whisper in your ear. "The moment I free myself, you're mine either way." Of course, she meant that platonically, but still.

Dammit, you had to keep Diamond in your thoughts. In your thoughts, in your heart. Goddammit, mini-Anon, you did love Diamond. But dammit, it'd be so long until you got your dick truly wet. The blue balls were real. It was even more difficult to get back to sleep due to it. She was right on top of you. All this teasing and she never EVER wants to go all the way with it! Dammit....forget it, Anon, Diamond would never forgive you if you did the nasty with a bug. At least, if Chrysalis keeps her word, things should get easier.

Still...the fact that Celestia can be upon you at anytime, it irked you. But you kept in mind that you accepted it, even believing it could be key to reforming Chrysalis. What a mess.

It was hard to sleep. You just couldn't do it despite being drained."Chrysalis?" You would whisper from time to time. But she was actually asleep in her filly form as she cuddled into you. It went from arousing to just cute.

You reached your hooves around her and gave her a gentle hug. Sure, awake she was a mean queen. But asleep? She was like a kitten. It was like having a little sister, scared of a nightmare and seeking your protection. Well, that's how you imagined it for a second.

Her rule change. Even if she succeeded, would she even expect you to keep your promise? Not like you had long to even consider it.

Celestia, Thorax… How would Chrysalis take it once it happens?

It doesn't matter. All you could do is be there for her once it does. You hug tighter, you thought on why it was this important to you. You could just end it. You could just destroy Chrysalis and gain the glory of being the first to truly end the changeling army. End this torment while doing the good all would expect you to do.

But you couldn't. And the reason why Starlight doesn't quite compare when it comes to mutual level of understanding? Well, you doubt Starlight would approve of the movie "Goodfellas" or your darker side and views. But Chrysalis does, you didn't want to lose that.

Essentially, you were sharing the best parts of your humanity that you cherished with the only one who was that curious about it. You really were a schmuck if that was some of your best reasoning, it was pathetic to think that you obsessed over this just because Chrysalis was on your level when it came to "humanity", but perhaps that's what it truly was. But you also had to keep in mind that if she had her way, she'd ruin the world, and you'd lose your friends. This really sucks.

So you laid there, contemplating, but also hugging her as you imagined her as a nicer little sister you could protect. That'd be nice.

"...Anon?" You hear a voice come from the floor door, the voice of the pipsqueak himself.

Shit… "S-scrappy?" you say in a low voice.

Scrappy flies up to the ceiling and looks down at you with an angry face "What are you doing with the queen?"

Uhhhhhhhh… "U-uhm...she came to rest with me?" You keep your voice low. And yet, if you had to, you'd have to throw her off to dodge Scrappy's attack.

Scrappy was looking upon you, then Chrysalis, noting her filly form. He'd seen her do it before, So he believed you that, perhaps, Chrysalis chose to rest with you. "Ok, I guess if the queen thinks it's alright." He then smiles at you. "So how are you?"

Wut? What a shift… "U-umm..fine? Just waiting for Discord to show up"

"Oh. Erm..speaking of showing up" Scrappy's smile became wider and more cheerful. But he kept his voice as low as he could. "Have you ever met your other self? Because erm, I was wondering if you'd know when he would come back. I noticed Sweetie Belle sorta liked him in some weird way, and I like him too. And if I captured him, it'd make her very very happy. And I'd be happy if she was happy and I'd be happy also because he's pretty neat."

Wut?! Your right eye began to twitch. This fuck came to ask you that?! How could Sweetie Belle even still like him?! The guy doesn't even live here! Unless...

Ugh, it's girl shit, isn't it? Charmed by a faraway prince who took notice and laid on the charm. Fuck this noise. "No....I have never met him. And I don't know when he'll back. Did you seriously come into my room to ask that?” You were trying really hard not to sound snarky or raise your voice.

He shook his head. "Nope, I just thought I'd ask. I actually wanted to report to the queen and tell her I haven't found anything yet. In my midday report yesterday, she said she couldn't go anywhere but Ponyville when it comes to the portal. But I can still go anywhere, so I wanted to ask if she'd want me snooping around in Canterlot."

OH GOD NO! "Scrappy, you shouldn't ask her that"

"Why not?" He tilted his head in confusion

"Because..." You needed to think of something. "Because, I...already checked. And there's nothing there. You really should just stick to Ponyville anyway. Everywhere else has much better security."

Scrappy narrowed his eyes at you "Are you saying I can't handle it?"

FUCK! THINK! THINK! "Well, no. It's just.....Master..Applebloom probably would get really upset if you got caught or spotted. She'd be super worried. Maybe even...worried sick?"

"Worried sick? I think I've heard of that...Oh no" Scrappy's eyes went wide as his wings fluttered "I-I can't let Master Applebloom get sick."

"Y-yeah, so. Don't worry about mentioning that kind of thing to Chrysalis, ok?"

"Mhmm, got it. I..better go back and check on Master Applebloom..." He slowly hovered down towards the portal door and set the dial to Ponyville. But before he went, he had one more thing to say. "oh, and Anon..."

"Y-yeah?"

He opened the door and looked about, making sure no one would see him just appear. "Why do you smell roasted?"

Dammit...Did you still stink of blasted baby magic? "I ate some roasted chestnuts."

"Oh, ok then. bye Anon, I'll report to the queen later when she's awake."

You return his goodbye as he leaves. Then give Chrysalis a small shake, still asleep. God, you now felt stupid saying all that with her so close. But if Scrappy was fine with it, then surely he could tell if she was feigning sleep. Just forget about it, Anon. She would have lost her shit if she heard even a shred of that conversation.

But then there was Scrappy himself...

Dammit. DAMMIT! How could he like that other you more than you?

HOW COULD SWEETIE BELLE FAWN OVER HIM?! YOU WERE AN ACTUAL HERO! YOU KNOW WHAT?! FUCK IT! THE PRAISE YOU HAD WAS JUSTIFIED! YOU'RE THE GODDAMN HERO COLT! LOVED AND ADORED! AND YET SOME LOSER VERSION OF YOU CAUGHT HER ADORATION?! IT'S NOT EVEN THAT YOU'D WANT HER ADORATION YOURSELF! IT'S JUST THAT THIS FAKER DIDN'T DESERVE IT! ALL HE DID WAS SHOW UP!

"That's it, if I ever see his face, I'm going to pummel it and stick my horn into his eye..No, I'll blow his mane away and make him bald. That'll show him.....yeah....mmm" Ergh....what's the use? You had your chance, and you didn't even take it. Stupid fucker.

So you laid there, raging silently, Chrysalis woke up with a yawn another hour later, around the same time the floor door opened again, Discord floating up through it. Chrysalis was quick to hop off and change back to her original form as to not draw Discord's complete suspicion. In fact, despite seeing you were awake, she quickly shifted to anger and moved the pillow from under your head. "Get up, you twerp"

Welp, so much for sincere. "You don't need to be mean about it." Sheesh

Discord notices at the last moment, only finding it somewhat strange. "Chryssy, how odd. You're here. Well, that's no fun" Discord held up a pogo stick with cuff locks on it. "I had a really interesting way of springing you from your slumber." He tosses it away into a portal he opens for a second and shrugs "So much for that." He then smirks at her. "Didn't expect you to be a go getter so soon."

Chrysalis turns back to him with a leer. "The only thing I was getting was this lazy friend of mine. I want to get this over with as quick and painlessly as possible."

"’Painlessly’ she says" Discord snickers. "Considering how hard you failed to get at me yesterday, that's probably your best bet. Getting through these classes quickly, I mean. The longer it goes, the more victories I'll chalk up"

You expected her to reply in anger. But instead, she ignored him and looked toward you as she pointed down to the floor. "Whatever...Anon, hurry up. Didn't you have a comfortable rest in that bed of yours last night?"

You didn't know whether to find this cute or exhausting. But fine, you yawn and hop out of bed. "Yeah...reeeal comfy." You then turn your attention to Discord. "Alright, ready. And.." A snack bar appears on your hoof. "Wha?"

"Your breakfast, Anon. it doesn't seem like much, but trust me, It's filling. I'm with our resident queen on this one, I want to get this over with as soon as possible as well. Since we all know that if I really was a parent, that'd I'd have mastered it within a few hours. This is all just formality"

"Y'know? I'm with you as well, I thought it'd be interesting, and Mrs. Muffin top is nice but..." You chomp down on the snack bar. "I have things I need to do."

"Unfortunately, we still have a little ways to go before it's all over. So let's all do our best. Maybe we'll be let off early if.." Discord stretches his arms and grabs both you and Chrysalis and hugs you both close. "We show just how great we work together." He then lets you both go as he adjusts the portal door to Fluttershy's and opens it. "I mean, after yesterday, I'd think our dear Chryssy took enough abuse and loss for one lifetime"

Chrysalis grit her teeth, feeling anger from his words. But she amazingly held it in. "I was simply out of my element. But seeing as you seem to be wanting a truce, I assume something else has bothered you."

"It's probably the fact that he really hates that this IS a punishment brought upon us by Twilight. That's what it is, right Discord?" You ask

Discord started to rush the both of you as he answered, annoyed by the mere mention of Twilight's name. "Yes, yes..That's it. So come on already, Fluttershy is already waiting and it'd make her simply delighted if she saw you, Anon, awake and ready to go"

"Hey, you don't need to tell me twice. Making Fluttershy happy is as important to me as it is to you" And with that, you put on a cute little smile.

The three of you meet with Fluttershy. as usual, she was happy to see you all up and ready to go, especially you. She hugs you,Discord, and Chrysalis. Chrysalis taking it like a champ as per the deal.

You all head off towards the classroom, wondering what Muffin Top would have this time.

But when you all arrived. Everyone, including Muffin Top, was outside. Everyone seemed kind of annoyed at her. You wondered why.

"So you really don't have a key? How could you not have a key to your own classroom?" Spoiled Rich said, this time dressed in a more stylish attire, with a large white sun hat and holding a parasol up.

"I was only renting the classroom, don'tcha know. They never gave me a key. But I swear, I kept the door unlocked when we all left." Mrs. Muffin Top said as she turned towards the knob and twisted it again. "I'll just go around to the cooking class on the other side and open the door from there.....once the teacher arrives to unlock her door"

"Oh dear, what's going on?" Fluttershy went and asked Mrs. Cake as you all approached.

"Oh, Fluttershy. Well, it appears somepony may have accidentally locked the door. Some of the others are getting antsy too, oh dear." Mrs.Cake said. She sounded ok, she didn't seem annoyed or aggravated, just a little worried.

"We've been waiting for about ten minutes now. I feel I have to do something, I could just go get a locksmith to sort it out." Mr. Cake suggested to his wife.

"But would they charge Mrs. Muffin Top? Oh..." Mrs. Cake sighed. "I don't want to cause any trouble for anypony else. We could just wait. As long as the twins are ok. We can wait a little longer."

"Excuse me" Discord said, grinning as he slithered in between Fluttershy and Mrs. Cake. "But did somepony said they needed FREE help? Well, look no further. I'd be willing to help everypony open up the door. Not only would it be to my own family's benefit. But it looks like it would help our dear teacher as well from suffering revolt."

"Oh Discord, would you?" Fluttershy looked at him with a cheerful grin. "I'd really appreciate it if you helped everypony"

"Ahh, have no fear and do not worry. I was going to do it whether you liked it or not. And the fact you like it makes it soooo mu-huh?" Discord hears the doorknob turn.

All of you turn to look at the door when you realized there was in fact, one person missing from the group. And it was the one opening the door.

"Ah ha! Good morning, Everypony! I'm glad you're all here. I was just finishing up yesterday's study of the science of parenting. Using what I've learned thus far, mixed with Mrs. Muffin Top's lesson planner I happen to have found. I have learned many things indeed. But I can't help but think that I still may be missing a few key elements. So I cannot wait to see how today's lessons will pan out. It's going to be just smashing!" Time Turner says with a grin as he walks out the door.

"Woah, wait." Thunderlane said. "You've been in there, like...all day?"

"Huh?" At first Time Turner seemed confused, then he laughed "Oh no, young stallion. That's preposterous. I had to venture out just once to acquire nourishment. Then I locked the door so I can remain undisturbed until I was ready. I even brought in some of my supplies to help test a hypothesis or two."

Spoiled Rich was NOT happy to hear that, her right eye twitching in anger. "So, do you mean to tell us that you've been there the entire time? Awake? And you didn't hear us knocking all this time? And in not noticing. We had to stand here, in the sun..."

"I...err...suppose that may be the case" Time Turner said. He seemed a little off put by how Spoiled worded it.

"Hrn, Is that so. Mr. Turner, I'm fascinated with your work. Would you mind stepping, say, two steps closer from the door to explain more?" Spoiled Rich said. She looked calm, but that eye was still twitching.

"Ahh! You're interested? That's wonderful! Of course I'll fulfill your request if it gives me a chance to explain what I've learned thus far." He was delighted, and did as Spoiled Rich asked.

"Now, Sweetie Pie, don't you think, considering where we are, that we should demonstrate some good ole' fashioned patience?" Filthy said. Worried his wife was about to explode, and he didn't want there to be a scene.

"Oh, don't you worry about that dear. I'm very patient." Spoiled then looked down to Diamond. "Diamond Tiara, do you remember when I told you that if something is bothering you, slamming a door is a good way to release stress?"

Diamond Tiara nodded. "Yes, mother, you said it was also a good way to show everypony that you shouldn't be bothered"

"Exactly, that is exactly it" Spoiled Rich reaches for the door, and slams it right on Time Turner's face. Enough to make him stagger and see stars "And it works too. I already feel better" She smirked as she saw Time Turner wobble.

"Aheheaha...heh...ogh..I-I think I need to change my study to astrology for the rest of the morning. I-I'll c-come back later for the cliffnotes" Time Turner said in a stupor, half his brain also telling him he may have fucked up really bad. And in terms of flight or fight, he chose flight. "I also may need to apply some medical aid..for...my face" He walked off, wobbling and dizzy. Practically everyone turned their looks to Spoiled for what she had just done.

"Hmph, don't look at me like that. Not unless you want to make something of it" She made a threatening glare. Holy fuck, it could rival "The Stare". Because just about everyone just turned away from her, not wanting to say anything more.

"Ahrm" Mrs. Muffin Top said as she started to walk inside. "I-it seems Mr. Time Turner will not be joining us today and....ohg.." She looked into the classroom, which was now looking like a science lab with his custom desk set up in the center. The room was filled with beakers, vials, notes being messy everywhere, and racks. Hell, the floor was littered with discarded balled up paper. It was one hell of a mini lab. "...hrn.." Mrs.Muffin Top closes the door, leaving it unlocked as she turned to face all of you "Well, perhaps we should take our lesson outside."

Chapter 319

And so everyone traded off.

This worried not only you, but also Discord. Enough that he temporarily pulled both you and Chrysalis aside for a "fatherly chat with his children"

Through that, Chrysalis made it clear she'd be on her best behaviour. In fact, by the end of the chat, you all voiced to each other that you all wanted it to be over. This whole thing was like a weight that was preventing everyone from doing what they wanted to do.

And so, with that being said. You went off with a rather nervous looking Filthy as he walked with you on the street towards Sweet Apple Acres while Spoiled took Chrysalis to god knows where.

You didn't say anything to him, you just focused on looking forward, trying to figure out what was the matter with him without looking judgemental.

Until finally, he looked down at you and spoke "Anon, ah know I'm supposed to be fatherin' you right now, but I've been bouncin' a question about in my noggin' and I was hoping you could answer it for me"

A question? It probably had to do with his nervousness. In fact, it made you think back to the sleepover. Was he still bothered by those thoughts? C'mon, you weren't going to get Diamond filly pregnant or whatever. "Sure, what is it?"

"Well, normally any colt or filly answerin' this question would probably say an outlandish thing or two. But ya seem like a smart colt who knows what he wants and...well..." He hesitated as he looked the other way for a moment "Say you do get married to my little princess, ya haven't got any longterm plans, do ya? I know, I know, ya probably haven't thought about it. But if ya have, well, you wouldn't mind lettin' me know, right?"

And then it became clear. He was afraid of what would happen if you did get married to Diamond. Maybe he thought it'd be a life full of chaos and adventure and all sorts of crazy shit. But really? After dealing with another universe, Chrysalis, Chimeras, and Princess shittery. Nah, you'd like to have a nice calm life. "Well Mr.Rich, I'd just like to live a relaxing life. Maybe have a couple of kids. Maybe one thats like me and super smart, and a cute little well behaved daughter of my own. I know I've got this chaos cutie mark and all. But really? If I was an adult? I'd just want to relax. For the most part anyway...But maybe..."

Maybe, if you did become a Rich, you could use your earthly knowledge to be a part of the business. Introducing the board game Monopoly would be amazing! "Maybe I could be a part of the business. You know, learn it and work with it and...stuff? I dunno, it sounds neat to me, even if some of it is boring."

Filthy Rich stopped, he was deeply thinking on what you were saying as he didn't expect such a mature answer. "Really now? Didn't think you had an interest in the orderly stylings of big business"

You shrugged "Well, if I'm also going to be your son in the future, then I want to do something to help. Does that sound weird? I dunno, if it does, I'm sorry. I mean it though." You did. Hell, at this point, there was a part of you that felt befriending Chrysalis at all was a bad idea. Everything surrounding her was stressful as fuck, you really could use a few years or more of R&R.

Again, Filthy pondered on it.

and as he did, he first began to smile, then he let out a hearty laugh. "haha! Well now, don't that beat all. In all my years, ah never met a colt with such a realistic view on his future. Anypony else would have mentioned being a superhero, a ruler of the world, or other nonsense like that. But you, Anon? Ya got your priorities straight. And here I was thinkin' them second thoughts. Should have known that the hero colt always has a surprise or two hidden somewhere. Well, if that's what ya want, Anon. Then boy, do ah got a treat for you"

Ha, wow, that's all it took, you had his full approval to marry his daughter, that was easy. Then again, if you had a daughter and some freaky chaos guy showed up to whisk her away somewhere, you'd pound him into dust and...wait..

You were some freaky chaos guy.

Well, you wouldn't call yourself freaky. More like...gentlemanly. That's it, gentlemanly.

So whoever would whisk your daughter away would have to be gentlemanly. Or else they get to have a date with ye olde bat.

"Anon?" Filthy looked at you, wondering if you heard that last part.

"H-huh? Oh, umm. Sorry, blanked out." you chuckle nervously "Was thinking about how classes just kinda came and went."

"It did, didn't it? But that's only because, as Mrs.Muffin Top said, we are a well adjusted town with well adjusted ponies such as ourselves. But ahrm, I was wondering if you wanted to help with my business. It's nothing too big, just a supply run. Ya mentioned you wanted to be part of the family business, and well, if you're serious, then this would be a good start."

A supply run? Well, considering where you noticed you were heading, it seemed to be business with the Apples. But, wait, was it zap apple jam type of business? "Sure, I'd love to. So, what are we picking up?"

Filthy grinned at your answer as his steps and speech became more enthusiastic. "an important item for the Barnyard Bargains right here in Equestria. The Apple family's sweet apple cider. Been low on stock for a couple of days and been needing to resupply. Sounds boring, ah know, but it's actually very important it gets done. the apple cider from Sweet Apple Acres is the best cider this side of Equestria and one of our biggest sellers. Havin' none to sell ain't good for business. So, that being said, ya still want to help?"

That didn't sound too bad at all. Hell, it'd definitely get you brownie points with Mr.Rich. And the best part? It'd be NORMAL. NORMAL and SAFE. For once, you could relax with a level headed guy and not worry about shit. "Mr. Rich, I'd be honored to help."

A tear appeared on Filthy's eye as he quickly wiped it. He was touched to see a colt with such work ethic. His, most possibly, future son. "Right, well, let's a mosey then. I want to be as early as possible to help load the barrels."

"You actually load the barrels yourself, Mr.Rich?"

"Sometimes, Anon. See, I gotta stay fit for them long and arduous type business trips. So sometimes I come early to help load the cart. It's not an everyday thing, of course, but I don't want to end up fat or flabby like some of my competitors. Now, it's no ill will towards them, but ah don't want to be the type of pony who takes a couple of moons reaching over for a quill." Filthy Rich says with a little bit of a cocky smirk as he finishes his sentence.

That was actually pretty funny. You didn't figure he would joke at the expense of others. It wasn't anything too harsh, but funny nonetheless. "Heh, that's kind of funny, Mr.Rich. I guess with you staying in shape, you really know how to hold that big business on your shoulders, huh?" you grin as you give him a nudge.

But he didn't even crack a smile at that. "Now I don't want to be a downer, Anon. But that was right terrible. You may want to work on your jokes a little bit or you'll be doing more than just breaking the ice. You're friends with Pinkie Pie, aren'tcha? She should be able to help."

Oh man, that was a real downer. You thought you could impress Filthy with a good joke. But it bombed.

It wasn't that bad was it? You thought it was pretty good. "Erm, yeah. Erm...I'll work on it."

When you both arrive at the farm and approach the barn, you could already see Applejack and Big Mac beginning to bring out the barrels of cider.

And it made you think. "Mr.Rich, do you come get the barrels everytime? What about when you're on business trips?"

"Well, I usually try to schedule my trips in a way that'd I'd be back to make a pick up before it'd become too late. But if I am kickin' the can a little too long then I usually have a butler on standby to make the pick up. Randolph is putting on years. But by Celestia herself, he's the spriest we got."

So, he always does thing physically. That made you wonder. "So, let me ask. You never have any unicorn butlers make a pick up?"

"Hrn.." He didn’t seem to keen on that question "You're implyin' if any pick up is done with magic, ain'tcha?"

"Well, not exactly. I was just thinking, wouldn't it be easier and more efficient to have this kind of stuff done by magic? I'm just thinking like a businesspony would and I think it'd help with the profits, right?"

"Hrm....You're right, Anon, it would. But take a gander over there, tell me what you see" He points over to Applejack and Big Mac, they were a small ways a ways and were busy getting the barrels out.

"Applejack and Big Mac bringing out barrels?"

"Mhmm, good. Now, ya don't see them using magic, do ou?"

Where...was he going with this? "No.."

"Exactly. Sweet Apple Acres would see a large increase in profit if they had a unicorn to use powerful magic to help with the work. But they don't. They put their own hard work and sweat into it and they get by just fine just through that. It's tradition, it's family values, it's the satisfaction of doing the hard work yourself. And that's how the Rich family has been doin' it since the inception of Barnyard Bargains. We always did it by hoof, no matter what." Filthy looked towards the pair of farm ponies with a sense of deep respect.

He then turned to you, and put his hoof gently on your shoulder. "That's why, if yer gonna be a Rich, ya have to promise me to not use that horn doohicky if you're ever going to take over the family business. Not even once, Mr.Anon. It may seem like a bunch of hooey, but without tradition, everything falls apart. So...please, promise me. I trust your word, so don't even worry. But ya have to mean it. Don't make this promise if ya can't keep it"

The look in his eyes were strong...and almost scary,

It felt like you were making a promise with god himself. A promise so sacred that there'd be no coming back if you broke it.

And thinking about it, how hard could it be? You were an Earth Pony yourself. They seem pretty tough. If he brought you here then that meant you were more than ready for some physical labor.

And he's been worried so much about the future of his daughter. You felt for him. So...yeah, you could do this. "I Promise, Dad!" You saluted him

And it made him tear up "Oh, c'mon, Anon. Don't do that. Stallions aren't supposed to cry"

Awww...

You then hugged him. You felt he needed the reinforcement.

You could feel his foreleg slowly wrap around you. "T-that'll do, Anon...T-that'll do" He gives you a gentle hug and pulls away slowly before patting you on the head. He then sucks up his tears through his own eyes. "N-now, l-let's not dilly dally or we won't get to load them barrels."

"Yessir!"

Heh, you were kind of getting into this. You marched along next to him until you came into Applejack's and Big Mac's view.

Applejack stopped and laid up a barrel when she saw Mr.Rich walk towards the barn. "Well Well, if it ain't Filthy Rich. Here for another early run?" Applejack says as she wipes the sweat from her brow

"'Course, can't let you two have all the fun, now can I?" Filthy Rich says with his lighthearted smile.

"Shoot, ya know we don't mind loading up the cart. Oh, by the way. Big Mac, ya don't mind getting that other cart out, do ya?"

"E'Nope!" Big Mac says as he walks off to get an empty cart and bring it over.

"Well, Applejack, ya know it's always appreciated. But loading the cart up is the best exercise a pony like me can get." Filthy Rich said as he stretched a his legs.

"Well ain't that the truth. Well, if that's what ya...hrn?" And that's when Applejack noticed you "Well now, if it ain't Anon. Didn't expect to see you...wait" Now she was confused "Why is he with you, Mr.Rich? Ain't he supposed to be in that class thing Twilight signed him and Discord up for? What's he doin' with you?"

"Well, by coincidence, I signed my family up for the same class, and wouldn't you know it? Everypony turned out to be the best parents the instructor has ever had. Don't that beat all? Right now, we're doing a bit of a foal exchange and Anon is my son for the rest of the day. I think. I don't know how long it's supposed to be but at this point I don't mind if it's the whole day." Filthy answers. Feeling pride that the classes went well.

"Everypony? Really?" Applejack was skeptical "Even Discord?"

"Hey!" You chime in. You didn't know what it was. But you resented the way she expressed that. "I know dad causes problems sometimes. But he's still my dad. And he's great. He never treats me bad or anything. And.." You clutch your horn. You knew Discord cared. He was one of your best buddies. And this horn? Well, who else would be willing to trust you with so much power but him? "I love him."

"Well, Anon, ah didn't mean it like that. Ah just..." Applejack was at a loss. She didn't mean to upset you. She sometimes forgot that he even was a father as she barely sees you or him these days. She sighs, and leans her head down "Sorry, Anon, that weren't right of me at all"

Damn fucking straight.

But you just give her a hug. Didn't want to be an asshole in front of Mr.Rich and all. And it wasn't anything personal to Applejack either. It's just that Discord didn't deserve that unless he was indeed being a gigantic shithead. "It's ok, Applejack. I know you didn't mean it. But yeah, I'm here to help load the cart with Mr.Rich. All without magic!" You look back at him with a wink.

"Oh..erm" Applejack started to sweat from those words as she looked to Mr.Rich. It was like she was trying not to say anything that was offensive again. "Well now. Mr.Rich, ahm. Well? Are ya sure you want Anon helping you out?" She was remembering from when you fought Big Mac and how weak you were against him "He may be pretty spry, but he's about as strong as a..." She was thinking of a saying that made you out to not be as weak as she thought you were, but also actually got her point across "As a worm breakin' out of a barn made of steel"

Hey, a worm breaking out of a barn made of steel sounded tough. Good to see Applejack thought highly of you.

But Mr.Rich rubbed the underside of his chin, confused. "Er, as far as sayings go. I don't think a worm could ever actually do that"

...wait...

....was she saying you couldn't do it?

Just as you realized this, Big Mac came out with a cart and lowered a ramp for the barrels to be pushed up onto.

You gave Applejack a mean look. "Weak as a worm huh? I'll show you!"

Applejack cringed as she tried to once again apologize "C'mon, Anon. Ahm sorry. It's just that…. Ahh shoot, Anon. C'mon, yer not gonna get a barrel up there"

"Applejack! How could you say such a heartless thing. There ain't nopony who's that weak, especially a foal his age. Even if he is a little smaller than most, big things come in small packages." Mr.Rich said in your defense as you walked over to a barrel.

"Mr.Rich, ah know big things can come in small packages but..." Applejack looked over at you and cringed as you tried to tip the barrel to its side.

"C'mon! C'mon!" You tried biting at it, slamming into it, even bashing your head at it. It wouldn't budge. "Stupid barrel, probably overfilled or something..."

Now you were getting angry. But no matter what, it'd just slightly bobble. It was taunting you.

Applejack just silently pointed at you as she looked at Mr.Rich.

And Mr.Rich himself? He began to sweat and smile sheepishly at your terrible attempts. "A-ahrm, well. Maybe Anon is just a little tired is all"

But Applejack continued to point at you, giving a harder stare at Mr.Rich.

You were ramming the barrel at this point. And it still wouldn't budge.

Mr.Rich sighed. He didn't realize you were so weak. But he didn't want to fully give in just yet. So he put on a smile and walked past Applejack as he put his hoof on the barrel and put it on it's side. "There ya go, Anon, this one's just brimming with cider so ah can understand why it's a little tough. So how about you get it up the ramp while I go work the barrels right there."

Dammit. He didn't have to go and do that. You almost had it.

...But whatever..fine. As long as you could show that you could get the barrel up there, you could prove you were strong.

You mustered up all your strength and started shoulder pushing the barrel. Getting all four of your hooves automated to just go forward. And at first, tt was working. The barrel was moving forward.

"There, you see? ah knew Anon could do it" Mr.Rich said as he watched you successfully roll the barrel up the ramp

But Applejack just looked on. unconvinced. "Ah'm not so sure..."

And right when you were about to get the barrel up the top of the ramp and into the cart… "...A-Agh..." Your legs began to shake. the momentum you had was gone and the barrel began to slowly roll backwards. "N-ngh..C'mon..C'MOOOOOHHHHHH!" The barrel rolled back and took you with it as you got rolled onto three times before it left you on the ground.

Everyone cringed hard at that.

Big Mac went to recover and load the barrel as Applejack and Mr.Rich went to check if you were ok.

You were on your back. Looking straight up, in pain."D-did I do it?"

Filthy couldn't hold it back anymore. As a magic user, you were probably top notch. But an earth pony who couldn't load a barrel? You were going to seriously need to toughen up. "Well, Anon, the important thing is ya did your best and nopony can take that away from you." Filthy said as a way to lessen the blow.

But in your stupor, you took that as a win as you pointed at Applejack with a cocky smirk "See, I told you I can do it! And...urrrrrmmm" your eyes nearly rolled into the back of your head as you felt dizzy. "And uhhmm...C-can I get some Applejuice? Please? I feel weird."

"U-hrm. S-sure, Anon, whatever ya say. Mr.Rich, would ya like a glass?" Applejack felt really bad for you. She had never seen an earth pony fail that badly at something, especially since Applebloom could do barrel pushing no problem. She was even thinking it was probably for the best you and her never worked out.

"Y-yes, I'll take a glass. Ah'll...just watch Anon til ya get back" Filthy was a little worried. He thought you might even have to go to the hospital. And he felt terrible for that even being a possibility.

But this injury? Aside from the stupor, you've done a lot worse. Still...you were achy.

After drinking your apple juice, you were taken aside so Filthy,Applejack, and Big Mac could fill the cart with the barrels of cider.

You felt better now, physically.

Mentally however? You were fucked.

How could you screw up something as easy as moving a barrel?

As you looked on, seeing the ponies work, you wondered what they thought.

An Earth Pony who couldn't move a simple barrel of cider?

....dammit. It was humiliating. You actually felt humiliated that you couldn't do something that even Applebloom could do.

"Whatcha doin' Anon?"

maybe the barrel was overfilled? Hell, you were kind of small. An overly filled barrel could have been too much for you.

"Anon?"

Maybe if you got back in there you could show them. Show them what you could really do.

"Anon!"

You felt something tap you "GWAH!"

You fall over on your belly as you hear cute southern giggling behind you.

...Applebloom

"....ughhhh"

"Anon?" Applebloom walked over to the front of your face and looked down at you "Are you ignoring me?"

"No..." you grumble as you sit yourself back up "I was just thinking. What are you even doing here anyway?"

Applebloom tilted her head in confusion, looked back at the barn, then back at you as she pointed towards it "Ahm, might be because ah live here"

.....right "mmnnnnn"

"C'mon, Anon. why are you being such a grumpy sourpuss?" Applebloom said as she tried putting on a grin and tapping your shoulder.

You just slowly place your hoof on hers and slowly push it away "If you gotta know, it's because I tried pushing a barrel that was overfilled up that ramp and couldn't do it. Made me look like an idiot. I could have done it if it was filled normally"

"What?" Applebloom looked over where her siblings were working "Those barrels?"

"Yeah, those barrels"

"Urm" A sense of dread his Applebloom, dread and pity for you "Anon, all them barrels are filled as much as they can. And erm...it ain't that hard to get em up the ramp."

What?!

You stared at them working at the barrels again, then at Applebloom, then back at the barrels.

You put your hooves to your face when you felt your delusions shatter before you.

All those lost fights, getting beaten by a Chimera, all of it.

It smacked your pride pretty damn hard when you realized how weak you really were.

You didn't even answer Applebloom back. It really stung.

Applebloom noticed her words had seemed to worsen your mood, and she felt rather bad about it. "Ahrm, Anon, ah didn't mean to make ya feel bad. Ah was just saying is all. Besides, ahm an Apple. All the Apples in the Apple family are pretty strong. Ya gotta be if yer gonna be able to buck apples and whatnot."

You didn't know what it was. Maybe it was because you wanted to justify your weakness. But you felt the urge to actually talk about this issue with her.

So you sighed, and pressed on. "I don't think it's that Applebloom. And even if it was. Mr.Rich? He's a nice dude. I just made a promise that I'd always do this sort of thing physically after marrying his daughter. And well? I can't even do that. I feel....shame. I feel bad that I couldn't do something this simple."

Applebloom blinked a few times "Erm..did you say, marry?"

"Yeah, why?"

Applebloom didn't realize you were thinking that far ahead. Not that it bothered her romantically. It was just jarring to her. "J-just askin'. Well Anon, if ya really want mah opinion. Ah think yer just thinkin' too much. It's obvious that you ain't too strong because yer always solvin' your problems with that horn thing. And that ain't a bad thing. But if ya wanna get muscle, ya gotta do all kinds of exercises. And even then, why are you feelin' ashamed? Ya saved Diamond Tiara, ya beat up some griffins, ya saved an entirely different Equestria! Heck, even though they don't know, yer doin' your best with the changelings. Ah never would have met Scrappy without ya. Though, ya could stand to be a little nicer to him sometimes."

Well, that was mostly uplifting. "I g-guess. But about all that heroic stuff. You think it makes up for my lack of....y'know"

"Anon.." Applebloom giggled "Are you really acting this way cuz you couldn't push a barrel? C'mon, this ain't like you. "

"I mean, I know it isn't. It's just, y'know…..That's Mr.Rich and he sees me as his future son. Which is kind of cool. Not that it replaces my current dad, he's cool too. It's just, I was having a normal moment with him. And then I told him I can do this. And now I look like an idiot."

"Ah think yer overeactin', Anon. Ya saved his daughter for Celestia's sake! That counts for somethin', ah think. If yer really that worried, just talk to him about it after they’re done. It's not like ya can't just get some exercise later anyway. Ah'm sure he'll understand"

If you were a lesser colt, you'd probably deny all that. But Applebloom was most likely right. Ok, well….You didn't ACTUALLY save DT. But nobody really knew that. And you did do all those other heroic things. You'd have to be an idiot to think you'd be seen as less after saving an entire dimension. "Holy beans, Applebloom. You know what? You're right!"

You balanced yourself and stood on your hind legs, raising your fore legs up like fists.
"I'm the hero colt! And everypony knows it! So yeah, I just need to balance my high magical prowess by doing some exercise. Just you wait! Nothing will be able to stop meeeWFSF" You take a step forward, and step on the flat of a rake, making the pole end swing up and slam into your face, knocking you onto your back.

Applebloom winced, and chuckled nervously "Oh, hehe, erm...ah was lookin' for that. T-thanks, Anon"

You really couldn't have a moment...could you?

Chapter 320

Applebloom tried to keep you cheery the best she could as the last of the barrels were loaded onto the cart. But she was only doing so-so. How could you not notice the fucking rake? You felt foolish, but maybe you were taking things too hard.You were the hero colt, that’s what you needed to remember. No matter how dumb a move that was, you were still great!

Filthy called you over to follow him to Barnyard Bargains, so you just bid Applebloom a farewell as you tried to get your thoughts in order.

Filthy looked at you a few times as you focused on your words. Eventually, he spoke before you could. "Y'know, Anon, That wasn't anything to be too ashamed about. You're a bit of an anomaly after all, like rise in stocks during a terrible economic crash. You use that horn of yours to solve all your problems, don'tcha?"

Just as Applebloom said, he seemed to be understanding about it. But still… "I guess. But I still must have looked pretty stupid trying to move that barrel. It made me realize I win most of my fights using magic instead of my own hooves. That's pretty bad for an Earth Pony, right?"

"Well, an Earth Pony doesn't usually have access to a magic doodad, Anon. I think it's weighing you down a little bit. But I know you're a sharp colt. The answer to your problem should be pretty dang clear."

Well, of course it was clear. "Is the answer exercise?"

"A little more than that, Anon. Exercise is one thing, but if you want some meat in them legs then you're gonna need some training. Training from somepony who really knows how to work them glutes and pump that iron." Then Filthy clicks with an idea "Say now, you're friends with Princess Twilight, ain'tcha?"

Sorta maybe? Even then… "Yeah but, uhhh...I don't think she's the muscle building type."

"No n,o Anon. I mean, if you know her, you know her friends. Which I'd guess you know Rainbow Dash. Heard she recently became a Wonderbolt. See where I'm goin' with this?"

What? Wait… WAIT! Your eyes go wide as you feel a chill go down your spine. A horrid chill. "You want me to ask Rainbow Dash to train me?"

"That's exactly what I'm saying. Rainbow Dash is quite the hero herself. You two together should work out as fine as apple and cinnamon mixed together"

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOPE! "Oh erm, I'm sure we would but, y'know. She's a Wonderbolt. Probably way too busy to train a colt like me. I mean, I totally would but....erm.... Besides, there's like a million other ways I can get strong, right?"

"Well there is, but..." Filthy looked at a low hanging cloud that was floating past the middle of the street. "I don't think the little lady is too busy right now"

Wut? How would he know? "What makes you say that?"

"Well, she's napping on that there cloud right there." He put his hoof near his mouth and hollered at her. "MISS DASH! BEG YOUR PARDON! BUT CAN WE HAVE YOUR ATTENTION FOR A MOMENT?!"

His yell. Cripes, it was powerful, even made Rainbow Dash's mane spring up on end when she nearly fell off the cloud from being suddenly woken up. When she turned, she did look a little angry. But when she noticed who was calling her, she seemed to calm down into a sort of confusion. "Anon? And you're..hey, you're that Filthy guy."

Filthy cringed form those words, it made him sound foul. "Ahrm, Umm. Mr. Rich would be just fine, Miss Dash. In anycase..." He clears his throat again and smiles. "Seems you do indeed know Anon here"

Oh god oh god oh god oh god oh god oh god...please no.

"Oh yeah, I know him alright. So what's going on? Is this part of that class thing Fluttershy is in right now or what?" Rainbow Dash was trying to figure out what was going on and why she was woken from her nap.

"Yes indeedy. Travellin' up to my second pride and joy right now. But before we do, we came upon a little something that you may be able to help us with" Filthy said with a little charm in his voice

OHHH FUCK, PLEASE NO!

"Oh really? Well" Rainbow Dash smirked as she flexed her right leg. "I am a Wonderbolt, an Element of Harmony, and the greatest hero this side of Equestria. So whatever you need, Mr. Rich, you can bet I can get it no problem"

"Well, it ain't what I need" Filthy looked upon you with a smile and tilted his head towards Rainbow Dash. "Well, Anon, go ahead, ask her"

NONONONONONONONONONO! "I dunno...she might have some heroing stuff to do? Or Wonderbolt things?"

"I just said I'm gonna get something no problem. So whatever that something is, just ask, and watch me get it in seconds. It's what I do." Rainbow Dash shrugged with a smirk.

DAMMIT!

Filthy didn't know why you weren't asking. It seemed pretty clear cut to him. Then he thought you must have not understood that Rainbow Dash really did have time on her hands. "Well, it ain't somethin' to get. Ya see, Anon needs a personal trainer for a little bit. Until he can get the strength to do the things Earth Ponies can do. With you both being heroes, it should be an interesting experience."

"Anon? Personal training?" Rainbow Dash looked at you, she was really confused now "You? What happened? You lose your nerve or something?"

...What?! NO! "I didn't lose my nerve. I'm the son of the spirit of chaos, remember? It's just...Look, I don't think I'll be needing your help." You look over at Mr. Rich. "Mr. Rich, I can train on my own. Trust me, I can make up my own cool personal regimen and stick with it and everything."

"Woah woah, what's even going on? Why does Anon need any kind of training at all? As far as I know, he's still the hero colt, right?" Rainbow Dash's confusion was reaching maximum.

You didn't want her knowing. You didn't need this. "Yes, I'm still the hero colt. No, I really don't need any training at all."

"Then why...?" Rainbow Dash looked at the cart, noticed the barrels, then noticed it was Mr. Rich who was pulling the cart. That's when Rainbow Dash realized it. "Oh...Don't tell me..." She held in a snicker. She had already jumped to the conclusion. "You couldn't roll a single barrel?"

She was doing her best to compose herself. But you? You could feel yourself shaking in anger. "W-what makes you say that?"

Rainbow Dash turned her head so it wouldn't be so obvious she was smirking. "Just noticed a few things. Mr. Rich looks pretty worked over. You? It looks like you didn't really do anything. So I'm guessing you need some sort of physical training or something. Wow, man, didn't see that coming. I mean, what happened, Anon?" Rainbow Dash hovered over and gave your horn a playful tap. "Do you do everything with this thing?"

You grumbled as you whapped her hoof away. "No, I don't! But fine, yes, you're right. I couldn't push the barrels. But..." So, she wanted to mock you huh? "It's not like it really matters when it comes to being a hero. I did save an Equestria by myself, beat up some foalnappers AND some griffins, and other kinds of stuff all on my very own. Didn't need any friends, or strength, or none of that. Just my brains and my know how with chaos. I mean, you're good too but without the other five. Well...Ya know."

That should show her who's top dog. Not like she could touch you anyway. You whooped her ass back on Nightmare Night like it was no big and… Wait, why is she looking at you angrily like that? Why is she revving up her hoof? Why is she?!

"GYAH!" You flinched and nearly fell over in complete fright when Rainbow Dash's hoof came flying towards you. You couldn't even dodge it. But...you didn't need to. It stopped right in front of your face.

"Miss Dash?! Why in Equestria would you do something like that?!" Mr. Rich was astonished, to him, it almost looked like she had hit you.

Rainbow Dash pulled back with a smirk. "Reflex test, and oh boy, Mr. Rich, it's a loooot worse than I thought. Anon is in a pretty bad place when it comes to being athletic. No power, no reflex, and no nerve. Yep, he's pretty bad. In fact..." Rainbow Dash started to hover upwards with an arrogant shrug. "He's WAY too weak for my sort of training. Hero or not, he'd fall apart in seconds."

"Really? hrn..." Mr. Rich started to think on it when she said that

Looking at him ponder on it, it was unsettling. It was...scary. Suddenly, being the hero colt really was important to you at a higher level than you could ever imagine. It looked like he was thinking you were some sort of pussy. Goddammit, you weren't! All you did was flinch, that's all! She didn't give you time to react.

"Woah, hold on, So my reflexes got a little flimsy. So what?"

"Means a lot of things. Say big, tall, and dumb came around again and started wrecking Equestria. He'd take your magic and you'd be sooooo done. You need to be quick, fast, and brave if you want to take him down like we did. Sure there's six of us. But the way I see it, the six of us together could take down any threat that shows their ugly mug. I mean..." Rainbow Dash gives you a REALLY arrogant smirk "I'd say if it was my Rainbow Power versus your chaos horn thing? Ehhhh....I'd win, ten seconds flat"

What?! What even gave her that idea?! "And hooooow would you even manage that? I'm pretty good with this thing. I saved an entire world y'know" Check and mate.

Or not… "Yeah, and that's awesome. But your dad? He can't even handle the elements of harmony. NO WAY that thing could take the super awesome blast of Rainbow Power. I know your dad has told you a lot of stories about us, so you know I'm right. Can't be a hero with just that horn alone, Anon. You're the hero colt, for sure, but you're still just a colt. It's just how things are. And I don't mean it as an insult or anything, it's just you're not old enough to see through your own rookie mistakes yet. And you're not strong enough for my training. It's how things go" Rainbow Dash explained this to you, her arrogance subsiding with every word into a more serious tone.

..No. NO! How dare she. HOW DARE SHE! You were capable of smashing her up no problem. You wouldn't be idiotic enough to stand there to eat the goddamn rainbow. And you have two charges now. There's just no way! "That's what you think! Fine, I accept your training. And don't tell me I can't. I can! I'm the hero colt! And I NEVER give up!"

"Oh, ok then. If you say so" Rainbow Dash gave you a cheerful smile before flipping about as she raises her altitude. "I'll just have to clear it with Spitfire and that's after a week of my own training. But hey, I'm an Element of Harmony, and Twilight's friend, so it should end up with a big big yes. So, if you think you can REALLLLLYYYY handle it....check up with me in a week. But right now? This Wonderbolt needs to get some snoozing done. Good talk, Anon, seeya soon!" And she turned and blasted off at a speed that left her usual rainbow trail.

Did you just?.....No. NO FUCKING!.....She...she..did she trick you? Rainbow Dash...tricked you? And got the better of you in an argument? RAINBOW DUNCING CRASH DASH?! You just stood there, and stared into the oblivion that was your own foolishness.

"Now how do ya like that?" Mr. Rich laughed a boisterous laugh "Going beyond the beyond to make yourself better. That's really how you conquer the opposition. Yes indeedy and...oh wait" Then he realized something "Anon, are you sure you're even up for this? The way it sounded to me. It may be a tad too dangerous for you."

Your eye twitched. How could you be so stupid?

"Anon, you alright, son?" Mr.Rich gave you a gentle tap. But it failed to snap you out of it. "Anon?"

"U-umm...erm.." And you couldn't use your magic, could you? You'd have to do it without the horn.

Wait...but by being worried, you were admitting you were weak. You weren't weak. you could do a pretty ok "Shoryuken"! What does that cunt know? She doesn't know. You'll show her.

And when you're done? You'll challenge her to a spar. That's right, a spar...a public spar. Your magic and finely tuned skills vs. her physical abilities. You'd be able to augment your movements with the training and really show her what you could do. And everypony would see it.

An evil smile curled along your face. "Oh, don't worry Mr. Rich. I totally got this. I'm the hero colt, remember? I'm just a little off my game" But not for long. You totally weren't just reasoning with yourself.

"Are you really sure, Anon? You really could just do some regular exercise. You ain't got to prove anything to me. You already proven your worth when you saved my darling little princess" Mr. Rich was worried now that you may have bitten off a little more than you could chew

You didn't care. You had this. Rainbow Dash wouldn't know what hit her

The walk continued back towards Barnyard Bargains as Mr. Rich tried to shift the mood to a little bit of a history lesson and some advertisement. Part of you listened, the other part of you contemplated on how to beat Dash into submission.

You could just smash her with a few hits of "Devil may shy". Or just go full Akuma on her. So many ways to pound her. Then she'd never be able to make fun of you again.

"...And here we are! Barnyard Bargains" Mr.Rich says as he parks to the side and lowers the ramp. "Why don'tcha take a look inside, Anon, enjoy the sights while I unload these here barrels."

You snap back to reality after realizing the trip was over. "Oh er..sure. I always wanted to see this place first hoof." You did, you kind of wondered what the place that kept the Richs'....Rich looked like.

You step inside with a small breath and take a look around. The first thing you notice is the smell. It was nice and sort of nostalgic and old timey. And the shop itself? Holy fuck, it looked like an old styled general store. Complete with an old styled cash register. It was a fucking general store. And yet, ponies were shopping here. It....was kinda nice

The prices, wow...they were pretty good. The shelves were well stocked and well organized. And there in the corner was a sign for apple cider, but nothing was there. Obviously this was the place the barrels were going to be placed at. This was Barnyard Bargains? It was....cozy. None of the clutter and bullshit of a modern store.

You liked it. It was nice, the smell reminded you of the finer points of Earth, and everyone seemed pretty pleased to be here.

Mr. Rich himself was already rolling barrels in, he was even stocking them himself despite a worker coming to his side asking if he needed help. But he just lightly shooed him away, saying he could handle it.

Filthy Rich let out a gentle chuckle as he stood the first few barrels up. "So, this your first time stepping in here, Anon?"

"Yeah, I like it. It's nice and homey"

"Isn't it? It has all the right touches of success. A place everypony wants to be. A place anypony can just come and relax and buy what they need without the hustle and rustle of the more modern stores around Equestria. And most importantly, workers who are genuine and friendly. Including yours truly and..."

"Hey Mr. Rich, oooohhh" A familiar purple pony with a berry grapey cutie mark looked over staring at the barrels of cider "That the new shipment of apple cider?"

"Yes indeedy, fancy a barrel, Miss Punch?" Mr. Rich said with a country flair and massive charisma.

"Oh boy, you know it. How much?" Berry Punch asked.

"For you? Why, you are always buyin' a barrel everytime we get a new shipment that I couldn't possibly let you get away with paying anymore than twenty five bits. No, in fact, we appreciate your business so much, that I'm gonna bump off five bits off the whole sale, how does that sound?"

"That..would..be...AWESOME! You're the best, Mr. Rich!" Berry Punch seemed exceptionally happy with the discount.

And so the sale was made, with an insanely happy if a little dopey Berry Punch leaving the store with a barrel as Mr. Rich waved goodbye to her. He then let out a satisfied sigh "....Anon, this is my family's legacy. My legacy, and the legacy of those after me. My little Diamond Tiara seems very keen on marrying you. As I said, I ain't ever seen a young filly so love struck before in my life. And the way you romance her? It shouldn't come as a surprise. But being a Rich means more than just living the high life. You have to be willing to put the work into it. You're not just working for you. You're working for your family, your employees, and for the customers who come knowing where the best prices are."

He looked to you with a look a father would give his son when he expected a promise. "Thats why I'm asking you again, for another promise, that if you do end up with her, that you won't let her down, us down, and these fine ponies down. It's all I can ask of you, Anon. You can do that for me, can't ya?"

You know you told him yes. but seeing the place for yourself? The real bonafide Barnyard Bargains? You could FEEL how much it meant to him. Everything, inside and out, from the customers to the care taken to maintenance and stock. This was his, this was a big cog in his life. If anything happened to it, he'd never be the same again. And he was willing to put his trust in you to keep it all going.

Even after seeing........holy fuck......Dammit Rainbow Dash…

Through her mockery, it seemed in the end she was going to help you. She was going to help you protect this legacy. A legacy, should you ever have kids of your own, you'd have to make sure was protected when you pass this information down to your son..or sons.

As much as Rainbow Dash was a cunt. It looks like you had to take her offer seriously when she had the free time to train you. So you look up to Mr. Rich, and give him one of your most confidant nods as you stand strong and firm. You truly understood now. "I promise. And If I ever have a son. I promise to teach him the same way you taught me, Mr. Rich. And I promise as well, to get fit enough to move these barrels myself."

Filthy Rich..he could feel how genuine you were just now. He started to cry, and cry he did as he hugged you tightly, again, to a point it was suffocating you. "Anon, my boy! You're already making me so proud to be your future father and..."

Mr. Rich notices other ponies were looking. He gently put you down as you wobbled a bit. "Sorry folks, I was having a family moment. Was proud of my future son here, the future owner of Barnyard Bargains. The Hero Colt, Anon!" Filthy Rich takes the time to hold you up high with his hooves to show you off to the crowd..

And, amazingly enough. The crowd liked it. They were letting out awwws, others cheered, and all stomped their hooves on the ground in approval. It warmed your heart how accepting everyone was. You waved your hoof and smiled at them.

The title of Hero Colt. A title you always put on and put off due to such petty reasoning. It may have been best to meet it down the middle. Because for some, it really meant something more. It was a title to be proud of. Even if the original way you earned it was dishonest. The ways you proved it later was not.

So, now...you fully accepted what it meant to be a hero colt. It wasn't just the deeds you did, or how others worshipped you, no, it was how it made others feel and how comfortable it made others knowing there would be someone there to protect them..or their loved ones. It was a title of respect. Not just for you, but for you to show respect to others as a hero would.

All this, by usual saturday morning cartoon standards, from a guy you'd expect to be a greedy assfuck. Filthy Rich...you'd do him proud.

Chapter 321

The both of you hung around the store a little longer so Mr. Rich could do some personal work and inspecting...and of course, using you for a little advertisement. You didn't mind, he was a business pony after all. And he wasn't being slimy about it. No, he seemed mostly proud to present you.

And with the acceptance of your title, you stood proud, waved to the crowd, smiled, bowed, and even signed a few autographs. You were sure if Snips and Snails were here, they'd be among the ones asking for one. And....you wouldn't mind signing it if they didn't overdo it.

After some time, you and Mr. Rich made your exits and headed to.....er. "Where are we going now, Mr. Rich?"

"Dunno...Usually when I clear a day for rest and relaxation, I either stay home and work on a bottle ship, read, or I go on a trip and spread the name of Barnyard Bargains. Hrn." Mr.Rich turned his head and started to stare at the horn on your neck "Anon, can I tell you a little secret?"

Oooh? A secret? From Filthy Rich? This...could be interesting. "Sure, Mr.Rich, what is it?"

"Well, I have to admit. Your heroism does border on the line of 'Super'. And I've always had a...well..attraction to that sort of thing. But a Rich liking something so silly? It is rather unheard of. But despite me not taking up the comic reading or hero worship like the young foals, I have had a few dreams of...ahrm" He cleared his throat and spoke in a low voice. "Being a superhero type pony"

Whhhaat? Wow...this really was interesting. "So you dream of being a superhero? What kind of superhero?"

"Well, imagine this. A brave and snappy dressed pony with an eye mask. Able to release a stream of never ending bits from their hooves to ride in the air and defeat ne're do wells with the justice of capitalism."

"Justice of capitalism? What do you mean by that?"

"Well, Anon, I would literally shoot bits at them until they gave in"

..Wut? "Uhm, how would shooting bits at them make them stop? Wouldn't they just take it and run?"

"Anon, have you ever been hit with a sack of bits?"

No, but you were beginning to see where he was going with this. "Never mind, I guess being slammed with a stream of bits would hurt."

"Exactly, it would stop em right in their tracks."

Right...but, now that you thought about it… "Y'know, that all sounds pretty cool, Mr. Rich, but why are you bringing it up all of a sudden?"

"Welllll..." Mr.Rich looked around to make sure no one was too near. He then whispered even lower. "Pardon me for sounding a irresponsible, but I was wondering if maybe we could do some 'Hero Work', so to speak."

Wooah woah. "Wait...Mr. Rich, are you saying you want to go on an adventure? You do know that's dangerous right?"

"Well, we'd be relying on your magic and I'm sure as the hero colt, you'd know how to handle it. "

...Wait. "So what you're saying is that you want me to make you into that hero, we go find some bad guys, save the day, then come back to Ponyville?"

Filthy Rich gives you a wink. "That's about right"

Geezez. Could you even let that happen? Was that a good idea?

"Where would we even find trouble? I dunno, Mr. Rich, it doesn't sound like too keen an idea to me."

"Well, Anon, if we're both wielding powers of good and justice than I don't see what the problem is. Besides, I already have a place in mind when it comes to stopping some no good criminals"

"What about all that training stuff? Y'know, not using magic and all that."

"That's for work, Anon. Criminals however, aren't the type to play fair. As for the ones I have in mind? Well, the criminal types I'm thinking of shouldn't be all that difficult. They're the classic thugs that take and steal without thinking about how it affects the common folk. We should be more than enough for em."

More than enough, huh? Well, common street thugs should be pretty easy to deal with. "Ok ok, if it's easy and doable then I don't see why not. We'd be doing everypony a favor anyway. But where are these thugs? And how do you know about them?"

"Well, looks like somepony hasn't been reading the papers. The criminals we're after are somewhere between Trottingham and Winnieopolis. Seems a pair of thieves has been robbing anypony who tries to cross the roads there. And the police ponies from either city haven't caught them yet."

Trottingham? Pair of thieves? You shrugged, it sounded familiar. "Are you sure their bad? What if these thieves have been stealing from the rich to feed the poor or something?"

"Arrow Eye and his merry band of ponies? Anon, Ah dunno if ya heard but they disbanded years ago. The ponies I'm talking are the type who even steal from the young'uns. And that's just as bad as a rock bottom stock prices"

THOSE BASTARDS! Stealing from children? That's pretty fucked up. "Well, that's good enough for me. But if we're going to do this as superheroes, we're going to need to use super hero names. In fact, how do you feel about Captain Capitalism?"

"I like it!" He let out with enthusiasm. "And you can be the....hrn. What abilities would you have exactly, Anon?"

Abilities? Well, thinking on it, magically increasing your physical prowess for this might give you an idea for what you are in store for later. And you did like your shoryukens… "Well, I guess I could augment my physical abilities with my magic. As for my own hero name? I already have an idea for it. I'd be called....Ryu! Pretty cool huh?"

"Well that ain't very super hero like. Just sounds like ya came up with a new and random word."

What?! Ryu was timeless! "Hey, it's a pretty strong name. I've even heard that the name Ryu means 'Dragon'. And that Mr. Rich, is super cool"

"Super cool? I don't think so. Most dragons are mischievous or darn right malicious. Though the word is that has changed since they now have a princess that seems to have a good opinion on us pony folk."

Guh wuh? A Dragon Princess? What is with this OC shit? That can’t have possibly existed in the show. "W-well...erm. It's meant to strike fear in the hearts of do badders"

"Oh...well that makes sense then. So then, how does this work? Do you need ingredients for a spell or do you just work your magic?" Filthy wondered as he eyes your horn.

He seemed pretty anxious to begin. It was weird. You didn't peg him for wanting to do cool things like this. Or maybe he was having a mid life crisis? "Well Mr. Rich, are you even sure you want to do this? I mean, this is the kind of thing I'd get disciplined for if things went wrong...well, actually I'd be disciplined for just putting ponies in danger, but that's besides the point."

"I'm sure, but only if you think we can manage it. Ain't no point if we can't manage a win. But I imagine, you being the hero colt n' all, that some common muggers would be easy for somepony such as yourself to subdue."

Oh no, it'd be fucking easy as shit. "Yeah, and I guess putting them to justice would do everypony some good. So then, I'm gonna ask again. Are you sure?" You put your hoof on your horn and place it on your head. "Because there is no turning back after this" You hold your hoof out towards him, and wait.

Mr. Rich was thinking. He wanted to live out this dream at least once. To be a real superhero like the comics he read when he was a lad. As an adult and a business pony of the highest class, he doesn't have the luxury for such childish things. But through you? This once...he just wanted to know what it was like before he put it to rest for good.

He put his hoof on yours with a confidant nod. "Wasn't plannin' on turnin' back until we bring those criminals to justice."

"Then hang on, Mr. Rich" You say as you both get enveloped by a bright violet light. "BECAUSE HERE WE GO!"

You both are teleported to a cliffside overlooking a set of train tracks set alongside a forested path. It ran through the side of the cliff into a tunnel, with the forest to it's right side. You both were on the left.

When you both appeared, You were in a red gi with a yellow mane, while Mr. Rich appeared with a blue eye mask, an enhanced version of his suit with golden shoulders and a gold lettered "CC" on his tie, and a cape on his back waving in the wind.

When you appeared, you looked down at yourself, then frowned. "Ken?...Are you serious? I was definitely going for Ryu..."

Then you heard Mr. Rich squee as he waved his cape around and looked at his tie. "Well, I'll be a Ursa Major's uncle! It's really happening! I look like a true blue bonafide super hero! Just like in them old comics I used to read. And Anon, you look....erm"

When he saw you, he had no idea what you were supposed to be with that red gi. "You're er, an oddly dressed karate master? Well alrighty, I don't have a right to criticize I suppose. I do have to say though, I do like that new style of mane you got there. Looks like something a rich pony would have if they had no cares in the world"

Well, at least he liked it. But goddammit. That means you wouldn't be able to do Shin Shoryuken for a badass finish. "So the magic sort of worked off you Mr. Rich, meaning everything from your suit to this location came from what you wanted, so do you know exactly where we are?"

Mr. Rich took a quick look around then stood heroically at the cliffside. "I do, Anon, we're between Trottingham and Winnieopolis."

"Oh.....hrn?" You turn around, and in the distance across what seems to be open waters, you see an island with a small town at the end. "What's over there?"

"Trottingham" He said

Wut?..but, it wasn't even connected by train! "So where is Winnieopolis?"

"Way southeast from here, down directly south of us in Griffonstone"

...Wut? "Then...wait. Then we aren't between those two places at all! Are you sure we're even in the right spot, Mr. Rich?!"

Because from his words, it didn't make any fucking sense. Mr. Rich laughed heartily as he looked down upon the tracks. "Tell you the truth, Anon, I thought that maybe there'd be somepony who was listening in on our conversation. So I made it sound a little like nonsense to throw anypony off. But trust me, somewhere down there are two dastardly ponies ready to rob innocent passerbys. They even been robbing the griffons that pass by. And that ain't a good thing, griffons get awfully mean if they get robbed."

You stand by his side and look down. If they were down there then how the fuck would you both find them? "Yeah but, how are we supposed to find them?"

Mr. Rich held his hoof up and started shooting a tiny amount of bits from his hoof. He giggled giddily to himself "I can't believe this, it's really happening"

Ogh, this may have been a bad idea. There's no way he could get used to the powers you gave him. And without a place to start, this could take long enough to worry both yours and his family.

"Mr. Rich..." You give him a nudge.

"H-huh? Oh right right...Well, Anon, given the type of heroes we are, how would you find em?" He's asking you? How the hell were you supposed to know?! Without an idea of who they were, you couldn't teleport right up to them.

"Well, first I'd like to know who we're dealing with. Maybe I could use my second charge to find them."

"Sorry, Anon, these two ponies wear camouflage and wear weird masks. All we know is one of them is a pegasus and the other a unicorn. Don't even know if they are mares or stallions."

....Great… "Then I got nothing..."

Mr. Rich seemed surprised by your answer. "Really? C'mon, Anon, it should be pretty obvious. If you want to catch some thieving criminals, ya gotta use the right bait. Like so.." Mr.Rich pointed his hooves down, like he was aiming a gun. He then shot a stream of bits by the train tracks below, making a large pile of cash.....oh, well, that should have been fucking obvious.

"That's pretty good, Mr. Rich, but uhhhh....do you really think they'd do something as dumb as go for some obvious bait?"

Mr. Rich rubbed his chin as he thought on it. "You're right, Anon..." He held his hoof up again, and shot more bits, making the pile even bigger. "There we are, nopony could resist that much loot"

Probably not, but as you look up, you see a greedy old griffon eyeing the pile, and he immediately makes a divebomb straight into it. "Yeah...apparently neither can the griffons." You both look down as the griffon starts swimming and diving into the pile like he was Scrooge McDuck. "So, what now, Mr.Rich?"

"Hrn, dunno. Didn't expect a griffon to be flying by." He looked down as the griffon began to fill his bags with cash. He didn't seem too deterred by this though. "But a hero knows how to make their plan flexible, like my old hero, Commander Helperhoof! If something didn't go his way then he just adjusted for the situation. And I think I know exactly what to do"

Mr. Rich walked towards the very edge of the cliff,looked straight down, and took a breath as he held his hooves out. What the...it looked like he was going to dive. Wait, didn't he mention… "Mr.Rich! Wait! Shouldn't you practice that bef-"

But it was too late, he jumped. You tried to grab him, but even with your enhanced physical abilities, you couldn't reach him in time. "MR.RICH!"

You couldn't see him at first. You were quickly grabbing your horn to place on your head to bring him back up. But then you heard his heroic laughter as he started riding up, then down towards the griffon on a stream of bits. Mesmerizing you and the catbird from his wave of golden treasure. He expertly hops off the wave of bits and lands right in front of the griffon.

Holy shit...how did he get a handle of it so damn quickly?! ON HIS FIRST TRY?! He looked up at you and waved "C'mon down, Ryu! So we can talk to this fine griffon about helping us."

You looked down. How the fuck were you supposed to get down there? "H-hold on, Captain. I'll be down in a sec."

"Alrighty then." Mr. Rich looked back at the griffon, who went back to filling his bags. Noticing he was in a hurry, Mr. Rich quickly began negotiations without you. Offering the griffon a few more bits if he would call out as loudly as possible about the pile of bits he was already pilfering. The plan was to use him, a griffon who certainly loved bits indeed, to alert anyone around to his presence without it seeming like a trap. In other words, a griffon stealing from a pile of bits would seem totally normal and would totally attract a couple of thieves. The griffon, seeing no issue with this if it meant more cash, agreed.

As for you, you did realize that you had the Tatsumaki hurricane kick. You could use that to get down. "OK, CAPTAIN! HERE I COME! TATSUMAKI SENPUUKYAKU!"

You leapt in the air, outstretch a single hindleg, and began to spin. It was ridiculously dizzifying and you were moving much more horizontally than you thought you would as you came down.

You couldn't control it. And you smashed right through a tree below. That's right, "through". Your hurricane kick was so powerful, it lopped the top part of the tree off as you landed behind some bushes.

Y-you did it...YOU DID IT! YOU LANDED SAFELY! ON YOUR HOOVES! You poked your head out from the bushes and waved to Mr. Rich "Captain! look, I'm OWRFDSDFSD" Your victory was short lived however, as the top part of the tree you sliced off with your hurricane kick came hurtling down towards yo, smashing right into your head and bouncing off, making you fall back dizzy.

K.O.

Mr. Rich, with an elated smile on his face, joins your side, ignorant of your head bop as he was still a little focused on the grand situation he found himself in. And he also seemed pretty ecstatic about your choice of landing. "Great initiative, Anon, this here bush will make the perfect hiding spot. Once those two thieves come to take the bits, we'll spring our trap and face them like true heroes would!"

"Hh? What?..Ngh,...s-sure" You slowly get up, rubbing your head. Could you not go one fucking day without something hitting it? Well, hopefully you met your quota because you couldn't risk any more head smashes. "R-right..right. So, what are we doing exactly?"

"Waiting for the thieves to make their move. That griffon over there is helping us by being the hapless traveler." Mr. Rich then politely raises his hoof and shakes his head. "I know, I know. heroes don't usually involve civilians. But we happen to be in luck that our griffon friend is a master hunter. He'll know to run once the thieves arrive as to not scare em off. Y'know, like he wasn't scarin' off prey and whatnot. And as long as we leave him the bits, he won't give away our position"

Huh...sounded like the griffon was a bit of a greedy dick. "Mr. Rich, I don't want to make your offer sound dishonest. But all those bits will probably disappear when we change back."

"Ah figured, Anon, tried to explain it to him but the nasty eye of greediness got a hold of him. That's why I gave him a bag of my own money as 'extra incentive'."

"You mean, so he'll still have some money after it's all over because it'd be dishonest to leave him with nothing, right?"

"Exactly, Anon, exactly."

Typical Saturday morning thinking. You wouldn't have left the guy a single bit if he made the threat of revealing your position. But Filthy was a pony of integrity, and doesn't wish to be dishonest.

And so you waited. Both of you keeping a vigilant eye on the griffon and pile of bits. You took quick glances at Mr. Rich from time to time. He was like a kid in a candy store. You knew he couldn't wait to pop out and heroically bring these thieves to justice.

You? Despite the issues, you were just glad he was happy. Plus, you could show him your own heroing skills, you bet he'd love that. Though, waiting for the thieves themselves was kind of boring. And then, what if they don't come?

"Mr. Rich..Are you sure this will work? That griffon looks like he wants to bolt." You could see the griffon getting impatient. And given the rocky start on how Mr.Rich said this was supposed to take place compared to where you both actually ended up, you started to have the feeling he actually didn't have any idea where you both were supposed to actually be.

"I'm sure, Anon. Even if I end up wrong, I'm still sure. For when it comes to justice, it's better to be sure and try, than to quit and give up. Diligence, Anon! Diligence. We have to be like the garnish on a dinner plate. Unnoticed, and yet there because we have to be!"

Wut? That didn't seem right. "Uhhh, does it really need to be there? I mean, nopony ever eats it anyway, right? Why even put it there?"

"Trust me, Anon. In my world, many ponies would never go back to a restaurant if they didn't get the preparation right. even if they weren't going to eat any of it at all. It's the way of the wealthy. Though, personally, I'm a tad more relaxed about it."

Huh, well. You couldn't really argue that, as you never really hung out with any rich pony outside the Riches themselves. If he said it, it was probably true. "Alright then, I'll stick by you. I just hope these guys show up soon. I'm getting hungry.”

"As am I, I’m going to have one heck of a hearty meal after this"

"Me too" Then something else crossed your mind. "Wait, Mr. Rich. Since we're doing this as 'Superheroes'. How exactly are we going to handle the aftermath? I can't imagine us doing this again. And it'd be pretty weird for two heroes to show up and then never return"

"Got that planned out too, Anon. Our best course of action is to deliver them to the local authorities without them getting a good look at us. Our heroism will become that of a strong rumor and may deter other ne'er-do-wells from repeating their mistakes."

Huh...Mr. Rich really had this all planned out to a T. "You really thought this through, huh?"

"Anon..." Mr.Rich sighed with a smile and gently put his hoof on your shoulder. "I've been wanting to do something like this since I was a young foal. My own father, bless his soul, got me every comic a colt could ever ask for. And I enjoyed it for as long as I was young. You've given me a chance to live this stallion's childish dream. A dream I've imagined time and time again. Even if life isn't like the comics I used to read, getting it close and living it out while making Equestria a safer place for all is a great honor within itself. So in terms in having a plan? You can bet this business pony has somethin’ up his sleeves"

Mr. Rich.... He really wanted to make this work. His one chance, and he wanted it more than anything else right now. And he was such a good and nice guy. A guy who believed in you. A guy who believed in good and justice. It left you in awe.

Fuck it, you'd wait til your dead if it made him happy. Well, you probably wouldn't. But the sentiment was what counts. So you give him a salute. "Alright Captain, I'll stick by you until the end!"

Mr. Rich saw your cute little salute and started to tear up. He had to look away as he sniffled and wiped his tears. He took a moment to compose himself then looked back at you with a gentle smile "A-at ease, Ryu, w-we are on a stake out after all. Ahrm..." He cleared his throat and tried to look more serious. "We must stay vigilant, and keep our eyes peeled and...hrnn.." But he couldn't keep it up for long as he breaks into a sigh. "Thank you, Anon, you're a real stand up stallion. Now" Raised his hoof with a confidant smirk. "Let's catch some crooks!"

"Right, Mr. Rich! I won't let you down!" And so you both went back to waiting.

But that griffon was obviously losing his patience as he started to put the bits in his bag with greedy abandon. But at this point, it wouldn't matter as long as he left most of the pile. All you had to do was watch the pile, and wait for these pair of crooks.

Don't lose interest. Don't get bored. Don't falter. Don't think lewd thoughts. Be vigilant. Keep eyes peeled. Stay awake.....Come on...

"Psst, Anon..Anon, look" Mr. Rich pointed forward. Two masked ponies, in full black garb, stepped out from the trees. One had blue wings and had a female voice. The other had a pink horn and was male. Pink and a guy...poor fella.

"Oi! Griffon! Nice pile ya got there, why don'tcha shove off and leave it to us." The pegasus mugger said, spreading her wings to reveal two attached dart launchers. They looked much more simplistic than the ones from the other Equestria. But still, Cripes...

"Ya heard the lady" The unicorn brandished a couple of bombs and lit a match. "Don't need to get nasty now, do we? It ain't worth rufflin' yer feathers, right?"

The griffon looked like he wanted to fight them off with his life. But instead, he just gave a semi believable shriek and flew off. Thank god, he stuck to the plan after all.

"Lookie here, Quick Wit, I don't think I ever seen so much loot in one place. Makes me touched that idiots still travel these here roads with oodles of bits" The pegasus said as she eyes the bits, closing her wings.

"Too right, Target Shot, too right. We're going to be eating better than the princesses tonight, that's fer sure." Quick Wit snickered as he put the bombs into a little bag he had on his side. "Ahhh, larseny is a beautiful thing it is. For us anyway"

..They sounded rather limey… "That's gotta be them.."

"Agreed, and they seem nastier than a latrine on a hot day." Mr. Rich was looking towards their direction with a scowl. "And them weapons they have. To think there'd be ponies that ruthless."

"So, what's the plan?" You ask

Mr. Rich seemed conflicted "I...mnnn..I don't know." He seemed worried, he didn't want to admit it. But a big part of him didn't expect them to actually show up. He got so caught up in the glamour that he didn't realize the danger. He didn't want you to get hurt. And he didn't know how to approach this. He didn't know if he should.

"Mr. Rich?" He seemed stunned

"Anon, maybe we should get the proper authorities here pronto instead. We may be in over our heads..."

What?! after all that..he wanted to quit now?! "W-what? But I thought you wanted this..."

"I do..I..I..ah did" Mr. Rich sighed. "But ah guess I didn't realize how dangerous it could actually be. And...." Then he realized, he must look like a coward right now. "Ah guess I look right foolish right now. Getting excited and then giving up at the most important of times. I guess I got caught up in the spectacle of it. Now, at the most important moment, I realized I'd be making an irresponsible decision. as a Stallion, as a businesspony, and as a father....I'm sorry, Anon...."

You couldn't have that. How was he supposed to live out his dream if he gave up now? He didn't need to be worried for you. You had this! "Mr. Rich, I know this is irresponsible and dumb. I know we can get hurt. And yeah, that sounds really bad and irresponsible. But we're the only two ponies who know and will ever know about this. This is your chance to live out your childhood dream, Mr. Rich. I made this happen for you because I respect you. And I'm willing to follow you all the way to the end! You and me, Mr. Rich. We're just a couple of ponies living out the fantasy. Besides, if anything happens, I can just zap us to safety. So c'mon, don't give up. We both have powers now. We can do it!"

"But, Mr. Anon....." He stopped, turned away, then looked back at your horn with worry "Anon, do you realize how dangerous this is?"

"I saved an entire world, so yeah. I got it. These guys are peanuts compared to what I'm used to."

"Right, you have, haven't ya?" Mr. Rich stopped to really think about it. "...So, what you're saying is. I was given the power and responsibility to stop them criminals, and to give up now would be spitting on that responsibility and those ah said I'd protect..." He took a deep breath, trying to force himself to get back into the groove. "Are you sure we can do this?"

You just give him a cocky smirk " We're heroes, Captain, and over there are some bad guys willing to hurt ponies if we do nothing. So come on, let's do it. Let's save the world..er..stop some criminals!"

Mr. Rich went silent, looked at the pair piling the bits into sacks, and pondered. To Mr. Rich, this was the dumbest most irresponsible thing he could ever do right now. But if he didn't act now, then those two ponies would just attack more innocents. "Alright, Ryu, let's go get em!"

You wanted to correct him that you were Ken now..but whatever, he didn't know what the fuck Street Fighter was. Besides, it was go time! "Alright, Captain!"

You and Mr. Rich jump out from the bushes and go to confront the thieves. "Hold it right there villains! For you have been caught by the golden eye of Captain Capitalism and his trusty ward, Ryu!" Mr. Rich said with confidence and pride

"Yeah, so you better stop what you're doing, or else!" You barked adorably at them

"Oi, Quick Wit. Get a look at them. They be wearin' their knickers inside out they is." Target Shot scoffed.

"Blimey, they is, ain't they? Shove off you two, or else you might get hurt. The treasure is ours for the taking!" Quick Wit threatened as he opened his bomb bag.

"It is you two who should 'Shove off', lest you wish to face our mighty and rich set of villain er...takedownery" Mr. Rich fumbles a little with his words, making the two laugh at his foolishness.

"Oi, you serious mate?" Target Shot opened her wings to reveal her dart guns "We ain't tellin' you again. Either leave or you're gonna get really hurt. We're busy, but we ain't above hurting a foal to make a point."

God, who were these clowns? Maybe you were feeling big for beating down a robot. but these two seemed to be amateur hour. "Ohhh, scary. Look, sorry to say, but you've been caught by Captain Capitalism. Either give up now or face his golden justice. Not to mention my flaming hooves."

"Flaming hooves?! Golden Justice?!" Quick Wit started to laugh hard. "I'm gonna die laughing from your words of stupidity before I see any of them things!"

"It's not wise to mock my young ward. Or do you want to personally have a taste of what this stallion can do?" Mr. Rich pulled up all his bravery for this, it was now or never as he stepped up.

You whispered at him. "Be careful, Mr. Rich, remember. You have powers now. Use em"

"Ah know...." Mr. Rich was ready. "I'm gonna do my best..."

"Oi, what are they whispering about Quick Wit?" Target asked, annoyed with the quiet words.

"Couldn't tell ya, but if they want to make a spectacle then let's start with a bang, eh?" He used his magic to pull and light two bombs and threw them at Mr. Rich "Catch!"

Bombs, Already?! You tried to make a move to do something. But it was too late, Mr. Rich was caught in the blast before you could do anything. All there was was a cloud of smoke where he stood.

"...Well, that was easy..." Quick Wit turned to look at you. "whoever ya are. Shame about yer father, but we gave ya a chance and ya blew it mate. Best be leavin' while you can"

"He won't be going anywhere" A not so mysterious voice said.

Everyone looked in surprise at the cloud of smoke. All except for you. You just smirked, because you now knew,that he was ok. If he wasn't, then there would be some bits strewn about...and you didn't mean the golden kind.

Mr. Rich stood bravely, while sweating heavily from a quick bout of fright. He was holding up a shield of bits. He blocked the explosions with a shield of fucking bits.

"Brillaint, Captain! a masterful defensive move!" You cheered

"What in the hay?! Oi, Quick Wit. What's all this?!" The pegasus mare hadn't seen anything like it.

"Dunno, but I don't like it. Probably threw his bits at me bombs he did. Won't happen again" Quick Wit prepped three bombs this time, and threw them at Mr. Rich.

"SHORYUKEN!" With a fiery hoof, you launch upwards at the bombs, sending them up in the air and causing them to explode prematurely as you fall down.

You look at your hoof and gasp in surprise. "Huh...woah..I forgot Ken could do that."

"Oi, Quick Wit...t-there's somethin' funny about these two blighters..I-I ain't s-seen nothin' like this before" Target put her wings at the read and aimed. Ready to fire at Quick's command.

Quick Wit growled "It's a trick, Target Shot, just use yer darts and knock them two out!"

Target readied her shot. But you were ready, you knew how to beat a projectile.

Mr. Rich looked ready himself "Ya got something to block that shot, Ryu?"

"Yessir, Captain"

"That's what ah like to hear" Mr.Rich said with a nod

Both of you we're ready, each with your own way of easily blocking the shot. Target fired her twin shots at you and Mr. Rich, bending her wings accordingly to aim.

"HADOKEN!" You fire a fireball at the incoming dart, obliterating it. Meanwhile, Mr. Rich blocks the dart with a single summoned bit.

Wait..no, he didn't block it. He deflected it back at Target Shot, knocking her out instantly. "W-woah...C-captain, how did you do that?"

Mr. Rich just chuckled as he span the single coin on the frog of his hoof. "Ahm a business pony, Ryu, I know my way around a bit"

...Woah...what a fucking badass.

Quick Wit was shaking now. "Monsters, Blumin' monsters! Nopony can do that! not even a bloomin' alicorn!"

He tried opening his bag to get out more bombs, but he was already out. And it didn't seem he cared too much about his associate because he turned and made a break for it. You and Mr. Rich looked at each other with cocky smirks. You both already knew you had victory.

Mr. Rich was internally surprised how well it went, and felt a new burst of energy within himself.

"You got this, Captain?" You asked him

"Indeed I do, Ryu. If you'll just pardon me" Mr. Rich immediately began to ride his stream of bits created by his hooves towards Quick Wit. As he neared, Quick Wit yelled back at him to stay away.

"Villain!" Mr. Rich said heroically. "You have caused many a crime and hurt many a pony. And so, justice demands payment! and I am it's cashier! Prepare to BIT the dust!" Mr. Rich slams him with a huge block of bits, burying him and knocking him out from the impact. He buries him deeply enough that he can't escape, but keeps his head above the pile so he can get air.

...Also, not the words you'd have used but still....fucking amazing.

Mr. Rich returned to the ground next to you as he stood on a small pile of bits created by his stream. He looked so goddamned pleased with himself. "Mr. Anon.....this was, without a doubt, THE GREATEST HERO HOEDOWN AH EVER DID HAVE! YEEHAW!" He reached over and hugged you tightly. Not in a way that'd make you gasp for air thanks to your powered up body, but enough to let you know he was so damn happy.

...so..damn...happy.

Chapter 322

After the defeat of the criminal pair, the griffon returned to try to receive some extra payment for having to wait so long. Being the heroic and fair pony he was, Mr. Rich provided him with yet another small bag of bits.

As for the criminals themselves, Mr. Rich bundled them tightly into a ball of bits. Then, on a stream of bits, you both rode off to Trottingham to drop off the pair at a police station or whatever pony equivalent there was and leave before being seen, or at least you think, kinda hard not to notice bits being strewn about everywhere. Still, you both decided it'd be better not to make yourselves known.

Mr. Rich, however, traveled all the way back to the same cliff you both started at rather than going home. He stood heroically at the edge as his cape blew in the wind. You just looked at him as the cape slowly began to turn to dust in the wind, as did his facemask.

Your mane started to change back to normal as your gi started to deteriorate. "You ok Mr. Rich?" He wasn't moving, but you noticed some tears coming down off the side of his face.

"It's nothing, Anon, just remembering some things from my own colthood" He said as he continued to look on. "Thanks, by the way, ya made this pony feel young again..." He didn't even bother to wipe his tears as he continued looking. "Y'know, I suppose that it would be fair if I returned the favor, and took you out to the highest class restaurant you ever did see."

Mr. Rich… He didn't have to do that. "O-oh no, it's fine Mr.Rich, you don't need to do that. I was just happy getting to hang out with you and all."

"Ah don't think so, Anon. I insist. I'm taking you out to a five star experience, one of the best you'll ever have. I ain't going home until you say yes. And just to let you know, we Riches are as stubborn as mules"

Given Diamond Tiara..you'd believe him. Probably best to accept his offer then and get it over with. "..Umm, I guess? In that case, yes. Sure, whatever you want, Mr. Rich"

"That's what I like to hear. Now, you wouldn't mind usin' that horn of yours to get us to Canterlot all pronto like, would you?"

Waste a charge on a teleport? Fuck, you'd just pay for a train ride. "Well, we could just take a train. Couldn't we?"

"Well, that'd be a good idea if that griffon down there didn't spot me. He looks mighty angry, I think he recognizes me." Filthy could see the pile of bits starting to fade.

Wut? "W-what do you mean by that? Didn't you pay him?"

"I did...but I guess he really wanted that pile too and-OH MERCY!"

The griffon flew up high, wings spread and talons bare. "STIFF ME, WILL YOU?! I'LL TEAR YOU BOTH TO SHREDS!"

You both gulp as you slap your horn on your head. "GREAT IDEA, MR. RICH! HERE WE GO!" And before the griffon came down, you both were whisked away in a light.

When you both appeared, you were in the middle of Canterlot, both your manes frazzled with fright in both your eyes. Mr. Rich and you immediately noticed others looking at you. Mr. Rich calms himself, plays it cool, slicks back his mane, and walks forward as he whispers to you, "Just act natural, Anon, the upper class will eat ya alive if they spot you a mess"

You didn't see too many upper class ponies about. And fuck, he recoiled quick from being nearly torn apart. Still, you followed his words anyway and tried to get that griffon out of your mind. Plus, you were impressed. Filthy was acting as if the whole adventure never happened. A pony of class indeed.

You both walked until you came upon a building that seemed to be made of pure platinum. It shimmered in the shine of the sun. It had wonderful windows of golden color and steps of ivory white that lead to twin ebony doors with golden trimmings. This place...was fancy. It even had a massive gem adorned on top of a spire on the roof.

"Woah..what is this place Mr. Rich?"

"The Platinum Crown. A step above gold they say. And the place we'll be eating at." Mr.Rich lead you inside as you looked around the lobby. Even inside, the ivory walls and platinum pillars shimmered like no tomorrow, the silky red waiting sofas looked like furniture for a fucking mansion, and the potted plants slowly changed color naturally. Amazing.

The line for waiting however, was very fast. Show a reservation ticket, go inside.Very efficient. The waiter letting ponies in was a monochrome colored earth pony. His eyes were grey, and his tux black. He didn't seem very jovial either. When Mr.Rich stepped up to him, he gave him a toothy grin and a hospitable greeting. "Hello Greyscale, working the counter again?"

"Hello monsieur, Rich. Unfortunately, yes" Grayscale said in a subtly frustrated french tone

Mr. Rich gave him a small bag of bits. Feeling generous, and also wanting to secure a seat. "Too bad. I feel for ya. You wouldn't mind seating me and my little friend here in the usual spot, would ya?"

But Greyscale pushed the bag away. "I'm terribly sorry, but we're full."

"Full? Hrnn, then I'm guessin' some real big money must be here today. Who is it? Hoity Toity? Fleur De lis?" Mr. Rich didn't seem too hurt that he couldn't get a seat. He didn't anticipate it of course, but he wasn't going to complain. He also seemed to want to be in the know of who was inside, you couldn't really figure out why, probably a rich pony thing.

"Princess Celestia herself! We're packed. The reservations that were made are from a month ago. There's no way we can get you in." Greyscale said. He seemed to have respect for Mr. Rich, and found it regrettable he couldn't seat him.

....Wait.......Celestia is in there? "Erm...Mr.Greyscale? Would you mind telling us what she's doing?"

"Hrm?" Greyscale looked like he was about to get snooty for a second. But that was probably because you still looked a little messy. He looks to you, with a stoic face, and spoke "Well, she's here entertaining a few dignitaries who have foals in her school. Though, it's odd. She has a young foal of her own, and it's not even her son. I'm not too clear about who he is, but he's caught the eye of a few of our patrons."

A foal?

Young?

...Wait.

....She brought the fucking changeling to a fucking restaurant?! Well fucking shit, Celestia, what are you doing?! Serving him "Love Souffle"?!

You had to get in there, you just had to. No matter how kind Thorax may be. He's a changeling, put him around that many ponies and he's bound to snap out of hunger. Mr. Rich looked like he was about to take you somewhere else too, you couldn't allow that.

"Wait, hold on. If Princess Celestia is here, then we can totally get a seat. I happen to know her personally"

"Really now? And who might you be?" Greyscale asked, he was in disbelief of your words.

You stand heroically, finally ready to put your title to good use. "The Hero Colt! Anon at your service" You bow, then flash your horn. "The necklace itself was given to me by Princess Celestia"

Greyscale called you over to give the necklace a look see. After a quick look, he could see it was of amazing quality. and the style screamed Celestia "Well, so it seems."

Mr. Rich knew you were friends with her. But could your title really secure a seat by her side? Well, that wasn't important to him in all actuality. All he wanted to do was just treat you to a good meal.Well, you're gonna have fucking both

"Do you really think you can get us a seat with the Princess, Anon?" Rich asked.

"I'm sure I can. But...we need to be allowed inside." You say

Mr. Rich looked over to Greyscale. "Discount on the next batch of Zap Apple Jam."

Greyscale said nothing at first. Then he stealthily kicked the velvet rope down and looked away. "Hrn, there seems to be a spot on that window there. It would be a shame if somepony tried to take advantage of this terrible distraction"

Based Rich.

You both enter the main dining room, and holy shit, the smell....was the most delicious smell you ever smelled. A cornucopia of the fanciest eats you ever did see. Well dressed and beautiful ponies pretentiously laughing about things. A huge diamond chandelier was above you, it spanned nearly the entire ceiling. A fountain was in the center, it was made of pure platinum. There was a classical band up on a stage. With ohh..There was Octavia. And…Well...damn, she looked hot. You'd fuck that horse.

"There she is, Anon, over there." Mr. Rich pointed to her.

Princess Celestia herself, with Thorax at her side, had about three other rich looking mares prattling on about a whole bunch of stupid shit. Celestia's smile though, it was kind of creepy. It was the same kind of false smile she had when she was speaking to Chrysalis in front of Twilight. Huh, was this kind of thing something she had to do often? Because you could see through that smile, it didn't seem like she was enjoying herself at all.

And then there was Thorax, in his "Crystal Hoof" form. He seemed nervous about being there. And yet he smiled, and waited patiently. Why was he even here? Friendship shit? With these vapid cunts? Though, and this was the important part, he seemed to be controlling himself just fine. He didn't seem to be feeding.

Then again, how could he in a place filled with superficial ponies?

Still, if he fucked this up, then everything would be made worse. And not just for Chrysalis. Discord too could suffer immensely if he gets found out.

You? No one would believe you had any real hand in it due to your "age", right?

Dammit Celestia. You think you're so smart, but you can't even fathom how dangerous a mistake this was. And you'd prove it to her. You could tell when your love was being drained, for sure. If Thorax fed on you then that means Celestia's plan was worthless. Meaning it could go back to being your plan again.

But...If it turned out everything was fine… Then how long left did you have until judgement day?

So you walk up to her and say "Hey, Princess Celestia" You bowed to her "How interesting to see you here this day, mind if we sit in?"

"Anon? Oh, Hello..erm" Celestia seemed taken aback by your sudden appearance. But naturally, she goes with the flow as the other ponies at the table looked upon her for her reaction. "How are you this day?"

You smirk at her "I'm doing just fine, Mr.Rich decided to treat me to a lunch and well, heh, who would have thought we'd run into each other like this? Weird, eh?"

But before Celestia could answer, an old unicorn looked upon you with heavy scrutiny. "Princess Celestia, who is this colt?"

But you speak before she could answer, yeah, you had this. "The hero colt, Anon. Pleased to meet you, er..."

"Mrs.Luster" She seemed to soften up just a little from hearing your words "I've heard of you and of your exploits. Considering you have the favor of all four of the princesses, it'd be an honor if you come and have a seat with us."

You looked at Celestia for just a moment. She didn't seem to pleased, but you didn't care. You also noticed a pony getting up from his seat after finishing his meal. "I'd love to...Oh, Mr.Rich, I see an empty seat over there, want me to bring it for you?"

Mr.Rich was just stunned you managed to get a seat with the princess so easily "Ahrm, no, son, no. I can stand. Why don't you go get it instead?"

"Right-o" You salute as you give a quick glare at Celestia. Yep, she didn't expect you at all. Haha!

However, when you went to get the seat, you noticed it was heavy as fuck. You had to push it all the way to the table. "Hold..on....almost.....almost.....hold on...hold on...just a little heavy....hold on....hold on.....hold on....ok..ok..there we go! Got it!"

When you got the seat placed, you hopped onto it with a sweet smile on your face. But everyone was just staring silently at you. Mr. Rich even put his hoof to his face and shook it. Celestia was looking away. Thorax looked a wreck, like his sensitive ears popped or something.
The hell happened in the minute you were gone? Someone tell a bad joke?

"Well..that was...certainly something" The unicorn chuckled nervously before clearing her throat and looking towards Celestia. "In anycase, Princess Celestia, about the potions class professor. We believe some of the potions he teaches the students to brew may be...a tad dangerous."

"I can assure you, Mrs. Luster, Professor Concoction knows exactly what he is doing. He has been for the ten years he's been with us. He's never caused an accident, nor allowed one. I assure you your son is safe." Celestia reassured her.

Mrs.Luster didn't really answer, she just muttered to herself as she pondered.

You could see Mr. Rich looking through the menu and waiting for his turn to speak. Once he had a chance, he looked to you with a smile. "Ahh, here we are! Anon, I'm going to order us the most expensive meals here. If only because they’re also the best. Can't get you any of the drinks in here, though. Adults only n' all"

You nod with a sweet smile. "That's alright, Mr. Rich. Oh...Princess Celestia, can I ask you something?"

Celestia looked to you and nodded. "Yes? what is it, Anon?"

"Welllll, I noticed you brought Crystal Hoof with you. What's the occasion?"

"Oh! Can I answer that, Princess Celestia?" Thorax looked to her with a smile.

Celestia gave you a stare of suspicion before going back to a gentle smile. "Of course you can. Crystal Hoof"

Thorax seemed pretty excited to say what he had to say. "I asked! It was very kind for the princesses to take me in. And well, Princess Celestia always seems to have a tough day, the same way Princess Luna always seems to have a tough night. So I wanted to come with Princess Celestia during the day to show my support. And later, I'll be there for Princess Luna! It's um...the least I can do. I know it isn't much. But I want to try, at least"

Huh, how curious. Why would he decide to do that all of a sudden? You needed more information.

"What a respectable little fellow. With that kind of dedication, one could mistake him for your son, Princess Celestia. I must say, it was very kind of you to take in an orphaned crystal pony. The times with King Sombra must have been dreadful" Mrs. Uppity, another one of the ponies at the table, said as she noticed a waiter finally coming to the table.

The way ,Melancholy, yet another old crone at the table, scoffed as he approached meant they must have been waiting awhile. Or they were just snooty. "My my, quite the coincidence. A colt taken in by a princess that well represents harmony, and of course, our hero colt being taken in by the master of chaos. It's like destiny. And considering you know the princess pretty well, Anon, I'd wager my right hoof that you and Crystal Hoof must be the best of friends"

"Well, I'd like to think we're friends. So yes!" Thorax nodded in agreement. "We're friends!"

Ugh, the things you had to agree to."Oh yeah, we're pretty good buddies"

Celestia gave you another look, knowing you were fibbing pretty bad.

When the orders were made, discussion went along as normal. You became more of an observer over anything else as Celestia continued to talk to her guests with some mentions of you and your adventures since the mares seemed interested in your escapades. Mr. Rich engaged in some discussion of his own, or more rather, a little advertising and swinging his big corporate dick around a little bit. But he was being polite about it, no hint of smug. He was also telling you how excited you must be for all the food he ordered for you and him. You sort of just nodded to him while eyeing Thorax. He seemed happy, he was responding in small words when asked a question, but he was mostly sitting there with a smile on his face.

You didn't feel any different from before. But he seemed pretty focused. You didn't think he'd feed on purpose at this point, but he still had to feed. But it didn't even seem like he was taking nibbles even. or maybe he was too nervous since you were there. Fuck, your thought process was a mess.

After some time, food was finally served. Everyone, including yourself, got some pretty fancy meals. You didn't know what it was, but it looked pretty ok.

You noticed Thorax was eating like a proper pony should. Huh… The fact he was eating it at all was rather odd.

"Ahrm, Mr. Anon, you know, Since we're all here. Why don't you all tell us how ya managed to save that other Equestria? Ah betcha it'd make a rousing lunch story." Mr. Rich asked. He felt it would be the perfect time to hear it. Also, he just really wanted to hear the whole thing for himself and this would be the perfect time to listen in.

The mares seemed to agree. They too wanted to hear the tale. But you weren't too interested in telling any variation in the story at all. "Erm, I dunno, Mr. Rich. There is a lot on my plate right now. Not that I don't appreciate your hospitality or anything. but, ya know, I'm just tired and a little too hungry to tell it."

Mr. Rich's ears drooped a little in disappointment. "Ahh, no no, you're right. Ah understand. Besides, ya have done enough already. Wouldn't be right to ask you for more than that."

Well, he understood. that's good. The mares looked pretty disappointed too, but what could you do? You had to make sure everything would be alright. You couldn't lose your focus on Thorax due to telling a story.

"....Anon, is there a reason you keep looking at Crystal Hoof like that?" Celestia...she may have caught on as to what you were doing however.

"Oh, uh. I was just looking at his food. It looks pretty good"

Thorax pushes his plate gently to you "Do you want some? I wouldn't mind trading for some of yours...unless you're really hungry...then you can just take a little, if you want"

Fuck...You didn't expect him to actually offer some food. That's...even nicer than what you'd expect from any changeling, even Scrappy, "Oh, umm..sure! I'll..trade you this for that."

That was the best you could do to make it look convincing, was trading some random food.

After taking some of his food, you immediately eat it, chew, and swallow....it was pretty damn good. "Mmmm! That was great!"

"I know, all the food here is very very good. Thank you, Princess Celestia, you're really really kind." Thorax said with a giddy smile

Celestia gave Thorax a gentle smile and gave him a pat on the head. "It's no trouble at all, little one. Think of it as a reward for all the progress you have made." Celestia then gave you a dark glare. "It's more than I can say for some who truly do not wish to understand the magic of friendship"

Fuck, she wasn't buying it. She must have really figured out what you were up to. You tried to focus on your meal the best you could, trying to act as if you really had nothing more to say.

"How's the food? Mr. Anon. It's some of the best food money can buy. So I can only imagine how satisfied you are" Mr. Rich, he wanted to make sure everything was to your liking to match what you had done for him.

"O-oh umm..it's ok" You say, not really paying attention as you try to act innocent.

"Oh...well, erm..I suppose 'ok' is alright. As long as ya like it..." Mr. Rich was tapping on the table, looking down at the ground gloomily.

Dammit. What was going on? You could swear on the damned bible that something was going to happen. But nothing was happening. And nothing did happen as the conversations continue. Mr. Rich seemed to be in a less than chipper mood now. Hrn, interesting...was that Thorax's doing?

"So, Crystal Hoof, buddy, pal. How you feeling right now?" You ask him

"Oh um. The same! Happy to be here. Why?" Thorax asked as he tilted his head, wondering why you asked the question. He did seem like he was having a good time throughout.

Damn, how could you get him to spill the beans without spilling the beans? You had to try to steer the conversation into something that would be more telling."Oh, just thought I'd ask. Because if you felt uncomfortable, I just wanted to tell you not to worry about it. Because it's going to be fine"

"Gee, thanks Anon. I already feel fine. But I'll keep that in mind, just in case!" Thorax says with no hint of falsehood or maliciousness in his voice. Damn, you needed to think of something else.

But you wouldn't get the chance. Princess Celestia stood up, and made an announcement to the table. "Pardon me, I know it is unlike me to walk off in the middle of lunch. But I promise it will only be for a moment. I just wish to have a word with our brave hero colt."

She wanted to speak to you alone? Shit, that wasn't part of your plan. You just wanted to scope out everything so it'd be ok. Not actually chat with her one on one during the actual lunch.

And as you looked to Mr. Rich, Thorax, and the three old mares. You knew this was something you couldn't just refuse without seeming rude. "Oh, sure! of course! It'll be my honor, Princess Celestia!"

"Then please, follow me outside so we may speak." Celestia lead you back out through the front of the restaurant just outside it's steps.

"Ummm....So uhh...what is it?" You noticed her horn starting to glow. She wasn't responding to your question, which only made your heart sink into more worry. "P-princess Celestia?...you're not going to zap me with magic..are you?"

"No, Anon, I'm merely casting a listening spell. It will make it appear to other ponies that we are talking about something else. Because what we're going to talk about is your abhorrent behavior and distrust"

Abhorrent?! The fuck? No no no, you weren't going to take that. You were just making sure nothing was going to go wrong. "Huh? Woah, that's a pretty heavy accusation Celestia. I didn't do anything 'abhorrent'. as for the distrust thing? No, not really. I know Thorax is a good guy, but a changeling has got to eat. You don't think it was reckless letting him out into the public like this?"

Celestia just raised an eyebrow at you. "And letting HER out was any better?"

You nearly faltered at that one, but you pointed your hoof at her with a smirk. "Aha! But she's cursed to stay in a single form."

"And yet she can still feast on ponies however she wishes. The ponies I swore to protect, the ponies you are letting being drained through her presence"

You raise your hoof again, but then you realize that Celestia was right on that one. "Well...yeah, but. Y'know. She can't really hurt anypony...." Shit....How the fuck did you walk into that one? "S-still, me and Chrysalis are getting closer everyday. I mean, yeah, I've accepted the inevitable and all. But I still have to make sure nothing is going to go wrong. That includes on your side too. If Thorax gives in to temptation, Chrysalis can exploit that. And if that happens? You, Discord, Fluttershy, me, Luna, and Twilight. We could all be in pretty dire straits after that"

"Really?" Celestia didn't seem to be taking you too seriously "Temptation you say? Please elaborate, you have been around changelings much longer than I have. So explain to me what EXACTLY is the problem."

"Well...the problem, as I explained, is Thorax giving into temptation. I know Chrysalis will be away while he reforms the changelings. But all it'll take is one slip up from him to ruin everything. And should a changeling go back to Chrysalis due to that, she'll manipulate things to go back to the way it was. And she'll also know Thorax is alive. And then everything will just blow up all around us, figuratively of course. Bringing Thorax to a public place could undo everything you and Luna have been trying to do for him. I think it's too early. I mean, look at Scrappy. He loves Applebloom and the others to death and he still feeds. So yeah, my theory holds prettttttty good water I think."

But Celestia just speaks in a sarcastic tone to you, disrespecting your theory. "And I'm sure that's exactly what your reasoning would be if you were fully telling the truth. I do have something to say about Thorax, but let me tell you what I think about that first. And it comes down to a very simple fact. No matter what you tell yourself, you are obsessed with maintaining your friendships and protecting those you care about. Which is admirable, it’s through that that you managed to defeat and reform Starlight Glimmer. You would obsess over her welfare and safety until you were sure she would be alright. That same obsession is what drives you to do what you are doing with Queen Chrysalis. The difference is that she is, and still proves to be, a monster and a blight to pony kind. And, as it seems, even her own children. Your obsession has blinded you, Anon. You should be focusing on the friends who truly care about you, and not on her. You should be helping your friends, like Filthy Rich for example"

Huh, what did she mean by that? Mentioning him directly like that...it was odd. And your obsession? It wasn't that bad! You were just doing for Chrysalis what you did for Starlight. And what did she mean on that whole children thing? "Woah woah, backtrack to the children thing. What do you mean a 'blight'? What gives you that idea?"

"I'll answer that question, Anon. But first, I'd like you to answer one of mine. Do you believe that a changeling needs to feed on others love to survive?"

What kind..of question..was that?! DUHHHHHH, of course they needed to feast on love. That's their entire shtick. "Yes, now answer my question please"

"Hold on, I have one more." Celestia's stare became more focused, more serious, as if this was one of the most important questions she ever asked. "You believe they need to feast on love to survive. But tell me, Anon. Regarding their food source, haven't you noticed anything off about Scrappy? Do you even know anything about Thorax's progress?"

Thorax's progress? On what..being nice? Because you didn't know what that had to do with their food source. But Scrappy? "Well, admittingly, Scrappy does eat a lot less than the other changelings. But I don't see what that has to do with anything. For all we know, all that fasting from food can cause them to engorge themselves later. So I don't see the point in bringing it up"

"Just as I expected. Anon, I sent a letter today. Had you just been patient, you would have known that last night Thorax had finished the odd metamorphosis that was happening to his wings."

"Metawhat now? His wings? What does that have to do with anything?" No seriously, why even bring it up?

"Anon. Thorax hasn't needed to feed since then. He doesn't need to sustain himself on love anymore. His wings, they became beautiful and elegant just as he was learning what love and friendship truly meant. In fact, I think he reached this state because he understands love and friendship the same way a pony does. He only needs to feed on normal food now from time to time as he himself produces the love he needs to survive. Furthermore, perhaps had you waited, you would have seen in that letter that I wanted to talk to you personally about a change in plans."

...His wings? He doesn't need to feed? And a change in plans? "W-wait..." No..fucking. Did that mean? You were dead wrong? Thorax doesn't even need to eat love anymore? How how does that even work!? Chrysalis would have surely known about that kind of shit if that's the truth. And yet, this was Celestia. She wouldn't lie to you to get the better of you. Holy fuck..she was serious. "..I...er"

"Hold yourself, Anon.." Celestia noticed you were faltering now. She could see that you didn't nor even could have seen something such as that happening. But she had hoped you had at least pondered on it, given what you were told before. "I can see now that you are realizing your mistake. But I cannot let you off so easily. Because I can tell you still don't understand. Simply put, we had tried to accommodate you when it came to Queen Chrysalis. We had given you chances, given you leeway, and even tried to make the end result of this plan benefit you in some way. And yet you still act selfishly. Anon, there are others who care about you deeply. And you ignore them, or cast them aside for your foolish whims."

Celestia looks towards the doors, as if she was looking straight at Thorax, with sorrow in her eyes. "And it is those whims that have changed Thorax's mind about reforming his siblings. He still wishes to reform them, yes. But he also wishes to face his former queen at the same time. Anon, he wants to try to reform her as well, just for your benefit. He believes you are one of his good friends, and thats why he's willing to go so far for you. He is loving and kind, Anon. He wishes to better himself and fix the reputation his kind has. And so holds on to friendships very dearly. And yet you? You don't really care about him at all...do you?"

...Oh fuck… He was going to try and face Chrysalis as well? For you? He was doing it for you? So there really was no issue. And he isn't a threat. In fact, now you knew that. perhaps. all the changelings could change their wings and appetite like he did.

The worst part was Celestia was right. You didn't care about him too much. But, it seemed he cared about you. "I er...ummm.."

"And then there is Mr. Rich, who seemed to have wanted to treat you to a good meal, a meal which you squandered through your distrust. Had your motive been to simply comply with him, I would not have personally minded you eating with us at our table. But you cast his feelings aside just to try to prove something to me. Tell me, Anon, knowing what you know now, was it worth it?" Celestia looked back at you like a mother lecturing her son. Something you couldn't fight back against.

How could you have fucked up that hard? You couldn't counter anything.

"......." You hung your head low. You felt god awful. Thorax, through his interactions with the princesses, had become something else. He was the end result of a reformation. Something that you still haven't been able to achieve with Chrysalis.

And then there was Mr. Rich. He just wanted to pay you back. He just wanted to make you happy, and you just threw it away.

And now you understood your obsession. Chrysalis was never going to change… It was a wasted effort. Even if the others change, she won't. Your quest was doomed from the start. "...When is it happening?"

"Within the week, Anon. I still need to speak with Discord. Which, should he read the letter I also sent him yesterday, will be soon."

Within the week...

Celestia gently put her hoof on your shoulder, making you flinch, and look up at her with sad eyes. You were so conflicted with how you were going to handle all this. But you still fucked up. She really was right...

Really, there was no future for this friendship. And you felt foolish for it. All your other friends, you were throwing them aside for someone who saw you as a commodity rather than a friend.

"I'm sorry, Anon, but now you must understand why it must be this way. A real hero knows what's important. Saving those who are a prisoner to their own lust for food and power, stopping one who wishes to cause ruination to all, and bringing harmony to those who need it. So much is at stake, Anon. A hero knows when to make sacrifices."

You cringe from the thought. But she was right, there was no other way. "I know..."

"Anon, some things simply must be. I know it hurts, but you ignored the risks. And there's nothing anypony can do about the consequences. My advice to you is to focus on the friends who truly care about you. Help them, and let them help you. When Chrysalis is gone, if Thorax cannot reform her. Then you must accept that that will be it. She is a criminal, a monster, caring for nopony but herself. I simply cannot let that go unchecked as she continues to exploit you and Discord to extend her reach. I understand it will be difficult, but you will have the support of your friends to help you through it." Celestia brought you close for a hug. She didn't hate you, but she wanted you to stop your shenanigans. It was unhealthy, and ludicrous.

Within your depression, you realized more and more how hurt your friends must be seeing you focus on her. Scootaloo suffered trying to help you, Starlight tried to warn you, Thorax wants to give it a go for you. And you disregarded it all for Chrysalis.

Mr. Rich… "Princess, can I go back inside please? I don't want Mr. Rich to feel like what he did isn't appreciated..."

Celestia nodded. And you? Without anyway to validate your own situation, you fully gave in to the truth. You'd have to stay away from Chrysalis from now on. Not like she'd really notice anyway....right?

You just turned and walked inside with your head held down. Celestia didn't follow at first, she pondered instead. She knew she made the right choice. The needs of the many, in this case, outweighed the needs of the few. She just never thought that Chrysalis would be capable of friendship at all.

Maybe Thorax could do it, maybe he couldn't. If Chrysalis cared about you that much, then she too...should understand sacrifice.

You approached the table, summoning up a smile as you take your place on your seat. Celestia coming in just as you sit down.

"I don't suppose that was all private, correct?" Mrs. Uppity asked

Celestia nodded as she took her seat "I apologize, but it is. It's nothing to worry about however" Celestia let's out a gentle giggle "In the grand scheme of things, it's just uninteresting business."

"Indeed..." Mrs. Meloncholy mumbled boredly. She didn't seem too interested if it was uninteresting.

"Oh um, Mr. Rich. Let me just say that I apologize for seeming rude. I was just overwhelmed by everything. I thought I could handle it but..." You chuckle nervously. "Well, you can say I feel like I'm being judged by everypony."

At first, Mr. Rich just stared. Then he let out a chuckle, a chuckle that signified that all that horrid feeling he was feeling was washing off as everything became "clear" to him. "Well, that ain't too far from the truth, Anon. But I knew something had to be wrong with you actin' all off like that. Especially after the day we had. So I'm going to guess you really did enjoy that food, right? Because I ordered dessert. No need to thank me, I just got the impression that maybe it'd cheer you up."

Dammit… You didn't mean… No, Celestia was right. "Oh Boy! Dessert! Now you're talkin'! Thanks Mr. Rich! You're the best!" A little forced, but you truly felt thankful.

Mr. Rich grinned big, he enjoyed your zeal and words.

"So then, I don't suppose you'd be willing to tell your story now. I want to hear what the Hero Colt is actually capable of. Since the Princess assures us it's the truth" It seemed Melancholy really was interested to hear this wacky tale. You didn't think or even consider why she'd be interested. You just agreed to tell it as to not be a party pooper this time. Of course, with a few personal edits.

During dessert, you told your tale with vigor and energy. Leaving out Chrysalis and everything with "Mr. Audit", of course. You spun your web of action and magic as everyone stared upon you in awe as they slowly ate. When you got to the part where you beat up the robot however, you accidentally smashed your hooves into your dessert in excitement to represent your punching. it got cream all over your legs, table, and on Princess Celestia's face, making everyone on the table gasp.

Celestia merely smiled and licked her tongue along her muzzle, took in the cream, and giggled. "My my, sounds like you had a 'delicious' victory, Anon." She was really good at acting like nothing happened. Keeping herself from showing any notion other than pure enjoyment for your story.

"A-and that's pretty much it...erm..I'm sorry Princess Celestia." You look down at your battered dessert and poke at it. "I got a little too into it."

"You don't need to fret, Anon. Considering how perilous your adventure was, it's only natural to get so excited when talking about it. Reminds me when my sister and I faced down King Sombra all that time ago. Of course, everypony knows that tale by now." Celestia said with a gentle grin as she finished her own tasty delicious little cake.

"Oh..Yeah.." You slowly began to eat your battered dessert when something came to mind. "...umm, refresh my memory on that. There wasn't a 'Radiant Hope' anywhere, right? Ya know, In facing off with King Sombra?"

"Who?" Celestia had no idea who you were talking about.

Thank Christ. "Oh erm...nothing. Oh and, I'm sorry about the dessert, Mr. Rich, it's super tasty though!"

"It's no trouble, Anon, but I could order you another one if ya want." Mr. Rich said with a quiet chuckle. He thought it was cute you were still eating it. It did his heart good to see such innocence in a young colt. Made him feel even better about you marrying his daughter after being so strung up about it.

"No no, it's fine. I don't think they could whip up anything better than what I have right now. I've never had this before." You just start digging in, taking huge bites. It was pretty fantastic. "Mmm! Mmm! Really good!"

Thorax calmly ate his dessert. He didn't really have too much to say,conversation wise. He then looked to Celestia with a cheery smile. "Princess Celestia, can I ask you a question?"

Celestia looked to Thorax with a motherly smile. "Yes, Crystal Hoof?"

"Do you think, perhaps tomorrow, we can go to the school again so I may read another story to the students? I thought it was fun...erm..and I don't want to seem too much of a bother, but they did look happy and-"

Celestia put a hoof gently on his shoulder and nodded. "Of course, I too saw how happy they were to be read a story. Your puppet act really added on to the reading as well. So yes, of course. Just be sure to let either me or my sister know when you’re leaving so we can plan accordingly."

Thorax nodded. "Thank you, Princess Celestia." Just like that, she trusted him to go do a reading to a bunch of foals on his own.

Dammit Anon, how badly did you fuck up on this whole reformation thing?

After dessert was over. You and Mr. Rich said your goodbyes. Thorax however, couldn't leave without giving you a hug. He whispered in your ears. "Thanks for finding me, Anon. You, Princess Luna, and Scrappy. You're all really good friends. And I promise I'll do my best to repay you"

You gulped, and just whispered back. "Y-yeah..erm..you’re welcome"

Thorax, he was obviously talking about reforming Chrysalis. He really had no ill will towards you. You wonder if that'd still be the case if he knew what you thought of him before. Or maybe..he did. Changelings can sense feelings. He may have already known back at the meeting, but didn't say anything about it. Maybe, when you can speak to him more privately, you should talk to him about that. Maybe you should respect Scrappy a little more too.

A lot more.

Dammit….

You and Mr. Rich take a train back to Ponyville. Without a charge in your horn, teleportation was impossible. And fuck using the map. If he got even one look at any of the changelings who might or might not be in your room, you'd be done.

Mr. Rich was once again thankful for what you did for him. He also asked you a few fatherly questions. He asked if the food really was that good, if it caused you to have any stomach aches, and to not tell ANYONE about the adventure. He then went on with a few tales of his own about his business. And of course, he asked about what you and Celestia talked about.

You made sure to listen to every word he said and answer accordingly. But you couldn't tell him what you talked to Celestia about. You politely told him that it had to be a secret. Which thankfully, he understood.

The train ride wasn't too long, but it was already late afternoon. When you both stepped off the train, you both decided to see Mrs. Muffin Top at her classroom to see when exactly the swap ended.

When you both arrived, Mrs. Muffin Top was already packing things up and getting ready to go. "Oh, hello you two." Mrs.Muffin Top said with a cheerful smile when she saw you two come in.

"Good evenin', Mrs.Muffin Top. I see you're packin'. Ah can only assume class is over." Mr. Rich said.

"It is indeed, dont'cha know. Your wife was wondering where you went by the way." Mrs. Muffin Top giggled. "She had her maids look all around town looking for the both of you after everypony swapped back. Even after I told her that you two were probably out having a father and son experience. Speaking of, did you two go fishing? Or something else?"

"Somethin' like that. Let's just say we caught us two real big whoppers. Anon, he's an amazin' little go getter and the most honest pony ya ever saw. Twas an honor to be his father for a day" Mr. Rich said as he rubbed his hoof gently on your head.

...Dammit. Just get through this Anon… "Yep! And Mr. Rich is super cool too! I finally got to see inside his shop for the first time. It was so cozy I didn't want to leave!"

Mrs. Muffin Top couldn't help but smile hearing that as she closed up her saddle bags. "And that's what I like to hear. It really does look like I didn't need to come here at all. Everypony passed....well, by varying degrees, but still. Much better than any of my other classes, dont'cha know. You two aren't even related and yet I can tell from looking at your face, Mr. Rich, that you already see him as your son. I suppose given your daughter's reaction, that it shouldn't be a surprise. But Anon..." She noticed something...sad..about you. "Is there something wrong? You can tell little old Muffin Top, don'tcha know." Mrs.Muffin Top, Dammit...you forgot she could see through acts.

"Anon, is there somethin' wrong, son?" Mr. Rich looked to you with worry.

Shit! Shit! Shit! Think of a good lie! Dammit! It wouldn't work...unless..there was some truth to it? "Oh...I..yeah. I guess there's something. I guess I was just worried that somewhere, I made a mistake during this whole thing" That was vague enough to work..right?

"Oh, Ah get it." Mr. Rich was the first to respond, thinking he understood what was going on.

Mr. Rich explained when you both met up with Celestia. His version of your explanation was that you probably just felt you may have not seemed worthy enough to be in her and her guests' company. Which Mr. Rich then assured you that you did perfectly fine. Something you pretended to be reluctant to agree with to throw Muffin Top off the trail. And thankfully, it seemed to work.

She didn't even seem to be suspicious of Chrysalis, who no doubt, wanting this to be over, did her thing to fool her with honest dishonesty as well. Muffin Top then said her goodbyes. Extremely thankful that she got to experience the breath of fresh air that was Ponyville. Mentioning that she'd probably have a family gathering here one day.

And with the fact that Spoiled had sent maids to find the both of you. Mr. Rich said his goodbyes quickly, realizing he needed to get home or else there may be trouble. He didn't leave without giving you a hug however. And once again thanking you for the "trip". In which you thanked him back for the meal.

And with no one realizing you were back. You felt it'd probably be good to give Fluttershy a visit. Let her know you were ok and that nothing bad happened. You didn't want her to be worried.

Then you had to get back home...and ask if there was a letter.

Chapter 323

You walked over to the cottage, Celestia's words still fresh in your head. "Ok… Chrysalis..Chrysa-lissss...erm. Dammit. I can already see how this is going to go down. Thorax is going to go down there and reform the changelings. They’re all dumb as shit. And then...OH FUCK! It's not even just that. I remember, some of them wanted to try to leave with X-captain. How could I have been so blind? Some of them don't even want to be down there anyway. Only reason they stayed was because.....oh geez"

Chrysalis gave them a ridiculously scary ultimatum. And with the way the excaptain morphed. Well, no other changelings would want to try to rebel unless there was a way to certain freedom. And Thorax would be that freedom. "Christ. Chrysalis, really?...Ugh, c'mon. You're just giving them a reason to want to betray you the moment they can....Dammit"

Part of you wished you didn't realize this. Because it just made Celestia even more right. Chrysalis was a monster if it really did turn out that all of her children could go through the same process as Thorax did. And if Scrappy was any indication, that may very well be the case. And yet, even if she was a monster, she was still your friend. She saved an entire world with you. But… only for the sake of escaping it.

No matter how you tried to get yourself out of it, this inevitability, you just keep realizing how right Celestia really is. The only truth is that Chrysalis is your friend. But so are many others who count on you, love you, and need your protection. Like Scoots did...and you failed. These same thoughts cycled through your mind on repeat enough that it was getting harder and harder to shrug off.

Unless Thorax could manage it, you really had no choice but to tell Chrysalis off. She was like the friend that ruined everything for everyone else but didn't mean to. Except she means to. And you perhaps, would have to tell her that it was either you or Tartarus if it got her to calm her shit.

Maybe, if this was going to be a success, you could just avoid her. You'd stop caring, and you wouldn't care when it happens. Not the best solution, but it was clear. Chrysalis needed to be stopped. Or at least, maybe...if all the changelings change their ways, she will too… That's some grand delusions you got there, Anon. In truth, you wanted it to still go your way. But it wouldn't, you knew it wouldn't and it pissed you off.

As you approached the cottage, you looked at the family statues. You looked at Nymous. You walked up to it with growing anger and tears, and slammed your hoof right into it's face.

you did no damage, so you punched it again, and again, and again. And still it stood. You wanted to scream at it, at her.

It started to rain, you didn't even notice the clouds gather, and still you stood in front of that damn statue.

"You stupid bitch. Why? Why do you have to do this? I wanted to save everyone, dammit! You know I did! Everyone. I saved Starlight, I saved the world, I mean fuck, without me, Scrappy and Thorax probably would have been fucked too....but no, not you. You didn't want it."

You looked at the statue with angry dark eyes. "If you were really my friend, in any sense, you would have realized by now that you couldn't be evil if you wanted to maintain it. But nope, noooope. You just keep on going, every day, until you get what you want." You were breathing deeply, whipping your wet mane to the side as lightning struck in the air.

You stared at that statue silently as tears began to form in your eyes. "There's nothing I can do.....This is it. Chrysalis, if you can't reform, then that’s it. You'll have to be my enemy. Because I know, I know how you are. And I can't let you hurt any of my friends either. I could never forgive myself if I let myself be so blind as to let you do as you please." You turn away from the statue and walk over to the door as you wipe your eyes and face. "That's just how it is"

"It is, isn't it Anon, mah boy"

That voice… You turn around to see Discord, holding an umbrella that had it's upper part upside down. "...Discord...You...saw all that?"

He nodded "I did, I've also had a chance to read those letters. Both yours and mine. Sorry, couldn't resist peeking." You didn't know how to feel about that. You didn't care about him reading your letter since you already knew about it anyway. It was just the moment itself that was awkward. "I also heard most of what you did. Kind of hard not to when you left that nifty little gadget in your ear on for me to hear."

The codec...fuck. You didn't realize it was on. You forgot all about it, you assumed it had vanished. "So what do you think? Y'know, do you think she can be reformed?"

"Probably not. But we'll find out tomorrow, I'm sure it'll be a hoot" Discord says with a shrug.

"Yeah....wait..WAIT!" Did he just say… "Tomorrow?! As in, it happens tomorrow?! SHE DIDN'T SAY IT WAS HAPPENING TOMORROW!"

"Ahh, I suppose that's why there was a separate letters for the both of us" Discord spins his umbrella around and drinks the water that spilled down from it "Ahh, refreshing. But yes, my letter tells me it's happening tomorrow. Yours doesn't. But Princess Celestia didn't lie, It is indeed happening within the week...which is tomorrow. My my, it's almost as if she didn't want you to interfere tomorrow by doing it all while you were at school. How sneaky of her."

But you were silent. You could reason that she tricked you. But what was the trick?....No...rather it was. "....No, I think she doesn't want me to be there when it happens. I think she feels that Chrysalis won't.......fucking...dammit." ...It's hopeless. "She doesn't want me to see it happen. When Chrysalis decides to be stubborn...." So then.... "Discord, what's going to happen afterwards?"

"Couldn't tell you, Anon..." Discord walks over to you and holds the umbrella over you as he looks down at you with a worried expression. "As much as I hate agreeing with Celestia, it's true Chryssy hasn't been good for you since she moved in with us. even if she is friends with you, she has been playing you the entire time. Trying to make it where she can stall for time and get what she needs to eventually make her escape. Something I wouldn't let happen of course, but hey...always a possibility. Really, none of this would be happening at all if you just didn't let her stay"

You look up at Discord with an accusing expression. "You're the one who let her stay with us"

"Now now, Anon, let's not point hooves. That's not what's important right now. What is important is the fact that after she is gone, you'll be able to move on with your life. You'll be able to appreciate the friends you have even more than you do now. Which doesn't seem to be a lot by the way, just saying. And, oohh yes, we could focus on pulling a proper little prank on Twilight as well. I do think she's due for one from the ole Chaos duo..." Discord gives you a slightly motivated chuckle. "Don't you think?"

"I guess....So...she's just going to be put in Tartarus, just like that?" You ask

Discord looked dissatisfied that you didn't humor him, be he continued along the conversation path anyway "Most likely. Can't imagine Celestia missing her chance at sealing away somepony as reviled as she is. And, just to let you know, I'm not going to stop her either. As for the whole 'Nymous' experience, it'll obviously be easy to explain it away as Chrysalis tricking her way into our little family."

"I kind of figured it'd go like that anyway. Also, I don't expect you to save her in anyway. She didn't want to listen to me, so it's her own fault" Come on, Anon...just stop caring

Discord sighed. "Ahh, you're trying not to care. I know how that feels"

"I know you do. And that's how it's going to have to be. Because today? Today I learned what happens when your priorities are all messed up. Mr. Rich didn't deserve what I did back at the restaurant. And I was only lucky that Celestia set me straight enough to fix it without him noticing. Thorax genuinely cares about me despite me thinking he's an idiot. And....And I guess I'm being selfish too. Ugh.." Scrappy entered your mind. "Scrappy would be a lot better off with Applebloom than with Chrysalis. I mean, we didn't even kill Thorax. Sooner or later she would have found that out and...well, your barrier doesn't extend at all outside the house, right?"

Discord nods.

You thought so. "Yeah, if she found out. She probably would have made him go on a mission he'd never come back from. I should have thought about that when we let Thorax live in the first place. I guess I didn't really care....and if it had happened, I don't think Applebloom would ever forgive me."

"Friendship is quite the conundrum, isn't it?" Discord says as he stares up, using his free paw to bring a pipe to his mouth and blow bubbles into the rain.

"Yeah, it kind of put things into perspective as well. I guess, all I can really say for all of this is I'll miss the good times we had. And I'd be the first one to accept her when and if she actually wants to change." You sigh, and look back at the door to the cottage. "I...kind of not want to think about it anymore. I heard Mrs. Rich sent out a bunch of maids to look for Mr. Rich. Was Fluttershy worried too?"

"Not too much. Little Tiara is quite the gem, she explained to our dear dear Fluttershy that the reason her mother was upset was more on the fact that she was afraid they, they being you two, would have done something...distasteful"

Distasteful? "Like what?"

Discord shrugs. "No idea, but I'm sure that could be turned into a nasty little human joke. Am I right?"

You chuckle, just a little, thinking of it as a bit of a lewd context. "That's pretty wrong. But, a little funny if that somehow was the reason she was freaking out, due to how extreme it sounds."

Discord smirks. "I suppose. But let's not get into it. You need a little cheering up, my friend. So let's go inside, greet Fluttershy, and bask in her ever goodness. The time for badness will come later."

You sigh...trying to empty your feelings as much as possible. "Alright...Let's go"

Discord took you inside as he tossed the umbrella into the rain. He put on a big smile as he presented you to the waiting yellow horse "Ohhhhh Fluttershy~!" He says in a merry sing songy way. "Look who just arrrrrrived."

"Anon!" Fluttershy walked over to you with a happy smile..until she noticed how soaked you were. You hadn't even noticed you were wet from before Discord had put the umbrella over you. Sheesh, least he could have done was dried you off. "Anon, you wait there, alright? Ohhh, poor thing. You must be so cold" Fluttershy went upstairs to grab a towel and a blanket.

You raised your hoof and gave it a shake as water started to ring out from left to right. Looking down, there was already a puddle. Fluttershy came back down and wrapped you in the towel and began to gently rub it into your sides, onto your back, and massage the towel on your head and mane to get you dried. It admittingly felt great, especially since you felt so loved by her. Considering where you were at emotionally, you needed this.

"Anon, whatever were you doing out in the rain?" Fluttershy asked as she finishes up and begins to bundle you up in the blanket.

"I thought you'd be worried that I was gone for so long, so I hurried here after getting back to Ponyville."

"Back to Ponyville?" Fluttershy was confused, then looked towards Discord "Oh Discord, you were right. So um..Anon, how was your trip?"

She didn't seem to worried you were gone. "You weren't worried or anything, Aunt Fluttershy?"

"A little. But your father said you were alright and that you most likely were out with Mr. Rich on a special trip. That's what it was, wasn't it? Whatever did you both do?" Fluttershy asked.

You shrugged. "Oh, you know. He took me out on a dinner trip. Or...Lunch trip. A food trip" You chuckle nervously. "Me and Mr. Rich are pretty close. Especially since...well..y'know"

"Oh yes" Fluttershy giggled "I know. You and Diamond Tiara are such a cute couple. She loves you oh so so much. Why, I already think of her as my niece. She's told me so many things too. Like how you just melt like butter when she kisses you."

What?! if anything, Diamond is the one who melts! "I mean, that really should be the other way around."

"Oh really?" Fluttershy gives you a gentle boop on the nose. "Or are you just being a shy little colt? I bet your sister would be able to tell me if it's true or not and..actually." Fluttershy looked up at Discord. "Discord, why don't you bring Nymous here? We can enjoy the sound of the rain together and have some dinner."

"HRN?! Oh...errrr" Discord takes a step back as he looks to the right, looking away from Fluttershy's eyes in a dishonest fashion. "Well, you see, I would do that. But Nymous had such a tiring day it seemed that she went to bed early"

"But, it's not even really night time yet...." Fluttershy was again confused.

You gulped, and gave Discord some support. "Yeah but...woo!" You stretched and yawn. "Considering this was gonna be graded and all. We both sort of stressed out that we might fail, and then who knows what would have happened if we did."

"Oh...I suppose that makes sense. Are you tired, Anon?" Fluttershy asked.

....well, it was more like you wanted to get tomorrow over with. But you didn't want to worry Fluttershy either. "I'm a little tired. But I don't mind cuddling with the best aunt ever!"

You scurried up to her, she sat down and held you close as she cuddled your blanketed form. "Oh Anon, I hope you never grow up"

You and Discord, knowing what was to come, spent the next few hours in Fluttershy's cottage. There were cuddles and snuggles and even wuggles. Fluttershy wanted to get a little in depth about your relationship with Diamond, which you kept simple. She asked your future plans, which you made sure to keep cute. And she asked what activities you and Mr. Rich partook in, which you kept as truthful but vague as possible.

After dinner, with a hug and kiss to Fluttershy, Discord took you home and plopped you on your bed as he tapped his talons on your nightstand. "Hrn, tomorrow is going to be interesting, Anon. So, are you prepared to deal with the results of tomorrow's festivities?" Discord asks as he turns to face you with a dark glare.

"No, but whatever. Everyone else wanted this and Chrysalis wouldn't listen. So who cares..." You just wanted to stop caring. It didn't matter anymore.

Discord chuckled and wormed his way onto your bed and wrapped around you once and began to pat your head. "Oh my dear not son. You keep trying to deny it, but you do care. And as much as I'd like to tell you it'd be ok." Discord poofed to the end of the room as his mouth span from a smile to a frown. "We have to let nature run its course. Besides, you're right, everypony does want this. She's committed atrocities and destroyed entire civilizations without any remorse. Amazing to one like me, but a threat to Fluttershy...Something I will not allow"

You'd comment on how he also did that, his atrocities, but he could easily retort that he at least listened to Fluttershy and reformed. "I know. I get it. I just wish she'd listen. I just wish she'd stop being stubborn. If I had just...I dunno. Something, anything. I mean, Yes. I obsessed over it. But I was so close! I was so damn close, Discord. But she kept finding a way to deny my reasoning. Which is stupid! she has nothing to gain by staying evil."

"Maybe so, and excuse me if this makes total sense, but you have EVERYTHING to lose by still obsessing over it. Anon, I miss our time together. I'm sure Twilight Two would be happier to know you cut the bug queen out of your diet. And let's not forget Fluttershy, Diamond Tiara......everypony else...Me again, me a third time too"

You sigh, that’s what everyone goes on about. That's what Celestia says. But you can handle it, this is your last day after all. You were allowed to obsess one more day. You were over it....your mind was so contradictory. "Discord, look. Tomorrow, it's not even going to matter, ok? Do you know how it feels not being able to save a friend who obviously doesn't want to be saved? But understands you and even acts in such a way that you can be natural around them without there being too much of an issue?"

"Anon, call me crazy, but I think I understand you pretty well. And then there's the fact that Diet Twilight Zero also knows your secret and seems pretty ok with it. All Chryssy wants is to conquer Equestria. Which would mean Fluttershy gets hurt. Which would mean we'd have a new doorstop of the exo-skeletal sort, So to speak. Why do you care THIS much? She's abused you, made a fool of you, she's taken advantage of you. All admirable traits except for the fact that she's doing it in a way that would ruin MY fun. So tell me, Anon. What's your secret to your stubbornness"

…

"Because she's almost like a human, in a sense. Ponies are ok. You're ok. But who else am I going to talk to about movies from my world? Who else is going to have a chat with me on my level, curse words and all. Who else is going to not be stupid and moralistic about things? I mean there's you, But you're so random that there's no point. It's not fulfilling. With her, it is. I don't want to lose that."

Discord..he seemed pretty hurt by those words. "So that's how it is then? I'm not good enough to enjoy your 'Human' things and your cynical views of ideas and events? Anon, I really thought Celestia got through to you. But obviously you care more about somepony who would destroy us all should she have the chance over those who care about you. And F.Y.I Anon, I care about you."

Wait..that's not how you meant it. "Discord, come on. Don't be like that, It's just a different dynami-" But he disappeared with a violent expression. A burn mark left on the ground from his fiery teleport.

...GODDAMMIT! "FUCK YOU, DISCORD! YOU KNOW THAT'S NOT WHAT I....FUCK!" You throw your pillow at the burnt mark in rage. "GET BACK HERE, YOU FUCK!...YOU!...you..." You groan and wrap yourself in your blankets. "whatever. Fuck this shit.....Fuck him, fuck Celestia....fuck.."

You turn to your side, anger flickering in your eyes. "That's exactly what I meant. Everyone gets so upset over every little thing. It's fucking retarded. Always blaming me. Always criticizing what I'm doing."

You closed your eyes and tried to sleep. But, you couldn't. Because somehow, you hurt his feelings. You hurt Discord, of all fucking people, feelings. "...Guh, I better go apologize...I guess." You got up and went to the floor door, except when you got there… "Uhhh, really? He took away the door?" You gently tapped the ground a bit, but it wouldn't budge. it was just a normal floor. "What a baby..."

You turned around to head back to bed, when you noticed another oddity. The portal door was slightly ajar. You walk over to it as a hideous thought entered your head. Was Chrysalis eavesdropping? "Goddammit. Please don't tell me she heard." If she did. Then what could she do? What would she do? You didn't even have a charge to use to stop her should she do....something.

Or maybe, maybe you just had left it open yourself. Don't panic, Anon. If she was inside, You would have noticed. Discord would have fucking noticed. "Yeah, I just have to be more careful."

You begin to close the door, but stop when you notice the light coming from the other side seems to be a reddish color. "That's weird..."

You look at the dial, it was set to Ponyville. But it wasn't sunset, that had already passed. So you slowly open the door instead. And what you see beyond the door is… "...What..in the fuck?!"

Ponyville was on fire. "No..No no no...That's not right! It can't be!" You slam the door closed and take a breath, and slowly open it again.

Still on fire, and you could see ponies running and screaming, some on fire themselves. There's no fucking way. No one was that violent.... Nobody except a changeling queen with knowledge of human cruelty. But even then, how did she do it so fast and… Wait...if ponies are...WAIT! YOUR FRIENDS!

"FUCK! FUCK FUCK FUCK!" You run through the door and take a look around, and what you see is more horrifying than you thought. And it wasn't Chrysalis either… The town was in flames, ponies either being hunted by ever smiling ghoulish ponies, while others were being put in cages. Smiling soulless ponies marching down the main streets holding up banners of an equal sign. An equal sign?

...No fucking way. "No...no no no."

"There's another one. He has a cutie mark." You hear one of the smiling ponies say in a drab way. All of them, they were attacking with deadpan emotion, but with deadly ruthlessness.

And they have spotted you. You didn't have time to think, you ran as fast as you could away from them and dove into a random building. Like any cartoon character giving chase, they seemed to have lost you when you ran inside. You looked out the window as they began to split up and look around.

Between another marching set of troops, you see Starlight Glimmer behind them. An evil smirk curled on her face as she began to look at the cages full of ponies. She approached them and began to rip their cutie marks right from them."Don't worry everypony, what is happening now is just a unfortunate circumstance of progress and peace. You all will thank me for it later"

You duck your head down and find a shelf to hide behind as you try to make sense as to what the fuck is going on. "..Holy fuck. Starlight turned evil. But wait? Why would she turn evil all of a sudden? Where did she get a cult so fast? Why..why is suddenly?"

Luna....wow, the cunt just couldn't leave you alone. "....Really, Luna? Seriously? A dream with ponies burning alive? Being hunted? and an evil Glimmer? Wow.." You start to clap sarcastically "Real winner this time. What exactly am I supposed to-WOAH!"

You hop backwards as the very pony you were calling out gets sent through the wall of the building, landing conveniently right beside you. No way.

Luna began to slowly stand. Despite being sent through a wall, she only seemed mildly hurt as she brushed some wood off her right wing, limping just a bit. "I can't believe this nightmare is giving me this much trouble."

"Luna?...Is that you?" Was it? Why...did she seem like she was just fighting something?

"Anon? Anon..there you are!" Luna sighed in relief, as if she wasn't controlling this manufactured nightmare. She was controlling it right? You felt lucid enough.

"Yeah, here I am...uhhh...you mind telling me what's up with this dream? Did you try to set up some horrible nightmare and mess up so bad that it's kicking your butt? Are you even alright?" She looked fucking stressed and even battle fatigued. What the fuck?

"A light injury to my wing. But it will be instantly healed upon leaving the dream world." Luna looked back at her right wing, some of the feathers were off and the wing itself seemed a little marred. But it wasn't anything serious.

"Ok, now what about my other question?" You point to the window. "Because I don't see how making Starlight evil is supposed to teach me diddly. And what's with the ridiculous violence? There's ponies screaming and dying out there. It's horrible...."

"Anon...I have nothing to do with this. This nightmare is one of your doing. I've been trying to defeat this ghastly illusion since I first entered it. But this dreamscape, I don't understand how anypony could dream up such horrid visions. The apparitions here are much more powerful than in any typical nightmare."

Wut? "...Are you saying I made this whole place up?"

Luna nodded. "Indeed. From my guess, it seems to have been built upon your guilt and stubborn rage. Anon, what has been going on in your thoughts to generate such a terrible place? I've been in many a nightmare, even my own, and this place is much more terrifying than anything I've seen put together."

"How am I supposed to know?! I just blinked and BAM! I'm asleep apparently. Look, whatever is going on. Just, y'know, wake me up! Because I don't want to be lucid for this. It's terrible!"

"I cannot"

..no..what?! "What do you mean 'I cannot'. Just shake me or something. Zap me with magic. SOMETHING!"

"This is a strong nightmare bathed in a chaos beyond my control. For me to be able to defeat it, you must come to understand what is causing it. But fear not, it is my duty as the princess of the night to protect her subjects from the dreams that would do them harm.In other words, Anon. I shall be your protector until we can defeat this nightmare together."

But...you didn't know what to do or what was even causing this. So how could you understand it? "But what's causing the nightmare? I mean, Starlight is outside with some kind of army just maiming ponies and capturing others. What could that mean? I don't think I was afraid of her going back to her old ways after awhile. And..." You stopped yourself from mentioning your eavesdropping. "No no...I'm sure there's something about this dream version that should make sense"

"Hrn, Your ability to perceive dreams as they are is impressive, Anon. Nopony is usually able to see it as mere figments."

"Yeah, I'm good at that. So, since I understand they are all figments, and this is an illusion and all that. That should make it all go away, right? This isn't some sort of Freddy Krueger type thing, is it?"

Luna frowned as she slowly tapped at the ground with her right foreleg "Well, Anon, I have no idea what a 'Krueger' is. But unfortunately, this kind of nightmare has created a form of tantabus within your mind. There's no waking up unless you allow yourself to be engulfed in it's darkness, or are able to clear it at it's source."

Tantabus?...Like...wait. You remembered that episode. "Woah woah woah! Hold on. One, why is this situation suddenly even worse. And two, how can I make a tantabus whatever? I thought you were the only one who could do that."

"To answer your first question. I had time to rest in this spot, and can feel a strange overwhelming darkness from within this dream. And two, I thought I was. The Tantabus can only be created through magic and emotions. Emotions of fear, doubt, hate, self-loathing, rage, sorrow, and hopelessness. These must be feelings you must have been feeling, including the overwhelming feeling of something you couldn't escape from. As for the magic, I do not know where it came from. Perhaps it's from the chaotic traces of magic from your chaotic horn." Luna seemed to be more troubled as she spoke more and more about it.

You didn't know what to say to her. You didn't know why you were having this dream. But Starlight had to be the key for some reason. You just had to find a way to approach her.

"Anon?" Luna looks down at you, curious as to your thoughts.

"Nothing. But I think the answer is in Starlight. We just have to figure out how to approach her. Can you fight off any of those dream nightmare...whatever..ponies?"

"I can, but as your tantabus grows more powerful, so do the illusions. Do you have any idea where it may be?"

"I do...Come on." You sneak around to the house's entrance and look outside. It was a painful sight. You could see ponies being dragged from their homes. But was even more curious was when you looked up… "Oh god...Changelings too? Great...this just keeps getting better. Why are they here?"

"I do not know, but what is the plan, Anon? Do you know which one of these apparitions may be the Tantabus?"

You look over to the far end of the street, watching Starlight rip more cutie marks from the ponies. . "She has to be it. I don't know why. But it's gotta be her."

"I understand. If we are going to sneak up on her, then allow me to give you some advice. Should one apparition find us, they all will know."

Fuck. "Ok...good to know. We only need to beat the crud out of that Starlight anyway and we should be good."

You look up again, and you could see Lyra being torn away from BonBon in the distance by a group of changelings. You had to remember...it was a dream. It was a dream.

You and Luna start sneaking about, building through building, through windows and doors,yrying to be as stealthy as possible. "So...Are you sure there's nothing else you can tell me about what's going on?" You whisper.

"No, other than the fact that the dreams of a human are more malevolent than I had previously thought. I've never seen such horrifying imagery taken form as the land I love so much"

"Yeah..well...Don't go poking around in my head then when I'm having thoughts about a guy named Satan."

"Satan?" She asks

"Don't ask" You moved in from the backdoor of another building to find yourself in a ransacked and abandoned store. A familiar store you had visited for the first time just recently. You were so close to Starlight, but...something felt chilling about being inside Barnyard Bargains. "....I have a bad feeling about this.."

Luna had lowered herself to hide from view, poking her head up to look out the window. "Do not fret, Anon, I think I could blast away a few of the Tantabus's guards. But it will be up to you to face it down."

"Yeah..." You say, looking around, something felt off. "Maybe I could use something as a weapon?"

You look around, looking through the shelves and such until you reach a separated aisle. When you look around the other end, you feel an intense rush of fright and utter shock upon turning the corner.

It's just a dream. It's just a dream. It's just a dream.

You started to tear up. It's...just...a....

There before you. Was Spoiled and Filthy Rich, embracing each other in death over a dead Diamond. It was like they tried to protect her. "It's....just....ngh"

What fresh hell was this?! Why?! how could you imagine something like this!? You didn't..you forgot. You didn't feel like it was a dream anymore. You failed. You failed to protect them. You were frozen, just staring as tears ran down your eyes. You were so used to everything being so child friendly. That this....you couldn't take it.

"Anon!..." Luna grabbed you and turned you away, hugging you gently as you weeped into her chest.

"L-Luna...I..."

"Shhh, Anon...it's merely a nightmare. Shhh..." She was comforting you the best she could. Bit upon viewing such a sight herself, she couldn't believe the atrocities that existed within your own mind. But she could see it was tormenting you like no other. She felt, almost like instinct, that she had to protect you at any cost.

"I let them...I let them.."

"Anon, do not lose yourself. It's what it wants. Whatever the Tantabus wants, it is trying to get you to give up. You mustn't let it win!"

"I...I..." ngh....

"Well well, Looks like the little coward has shown himself" Oh shit...

You look up, crying as Luna raises a barrier around the both of you. Starlight was standing behind the both of you, a grim expression on her face as she was surrounded by her guards.

"Starlight....Starlight..why would you do this?" You didn't care if she was an apparition, your mind was too fucked to tell fantasy from reality.

"Why would you? I warned you, Anon. I warned you about her. But you let her have her way. She destroyed nearly everything." Starlight explained

W-what?

"Stay back, you cur!" Luna growled at her. "We know you are the Tantabus! Give up now! Or face my wrath!"

"I have no idea what you're talking about 'Your Highness'. But I can already see you're as guilty as he is. You and your sister. Everypony...That's why I'm forming my own army. No matter what, it's her or us!" Starlight says as her guards began to come closer.

Wait… Starlight. This was Starlight after her reformation. If this was her afterwards.... The changelings in the sky. An army… Oh god..you made a mistake. "Starlight...you mean, Chrysalis. You mean, Chrysalis escaped?"

Starlight scoffed. "You mean Chrysalis decimated nearly everything. All because of you! Anon, give yourself up or else! Face your crimes after we stop her or face them now. It doesn't really matter."

"Starlight...I'm..I'm so-" But she interrupts you

"Sorry? hmph..you should have thought of that before . It's too late now! Alright everypony! prepare to converge!"

She wasn't the Tantabus. Chrysalis was… And you had a feeling on where she might be. You wiped your tears, but you still couldn't focus. Diamond looked so real, Starlight looks so real. "Starlight..I should have listened. But she was still my friend, what did you want from me?"

"What do you think?! ANON! HOW COULD YOU ASK THAT EVEN NOW!?...I told you to be careful. I thought you wouldn't let her get the better of you." Starlight looked down, she frowned, feeling hurt you'd ask that question. "If you could reform her, then I suppose it would have been alright. But she was never close to it, and you lost sight of it...you let everypony down..." She growled at you in anger. "YOU LET ME DOWN! AND I CAN NEVER FORGIVE YOU!"

You cringed in pain. Your chest was hurting. Part of you felt that maybe you deserved this. You started to back down again. What if in the real world, this was already happening?

"Anon..as I also admit to you having handled the situation extremely poorly, it has not all been for naught. If what Thorax believes in is true, then Queen Chrysalis's hive have been suffering in ignorance due to her lust for power. And we would have never known that much without your persistence to try to reform her. But the time has passed for you to carry on that burden anymore. This future you created for yourself does not have to come to be. You need not lose yourself in this." Luna said, hugging you close as she continued to hold up the barrier.

"Utter nonsense. Everypony! Destroy that barrier!" Starlight called out. The ponies gathered around Starlight began to smash and pound at Luna's barrier, luna doing her best to hold it up against the horde.

"Luna...Just forget about me. I deserve this." You tell her.

"Anon, don't say such things! If you let yourself fall, you'll never be the same. You'll never recover from this. Your mind will be so far gone that nopony would even have a hope of bringing it back. This doesn't need to be the end. Despite the bad actions you have made, you have also made good ones. Remember that, Anon. You have friends and family who care about you. Would you be so selfish as to let them suffer?" Luna called out to you as she struggled to hold up the barrier.

Would it matter? Diamond could do better than you. Discord? He had Fluttershy. Fluttershy? She had her friends. BonBon and Lyra? They had each other. Starlight...she was doing alright now. Scrappy would be ok with Applebloom. The CMC would get on with their lives. Chrysalis… Oh god… You really couldn't let her go..could you?

You were trying so hard that you put her above everyone else. And even after realizing it, you ALWAYS rationalized yet another set of thoughts to put her back on top. And..for what? No matter how things ended, you'd have to go against her. You knew this, you realized this, but you failed to truly understand the consequences of letting her have what she wants.

What if you couldn't do anything? What if this really was the end result? Why couldn't you stop yourself from entering the same circle of thinking! "Luna...Princess Luna. C-can I ask you a question?"

Luna grunted as she did her best to hold her barrier up, but it was starting to crack. "Anon..I don't think now is the best time!"

"Please! It'll help me..please..."

"Ngh..Very well! But what is it Anon?!" Luna was doing her best to focus, she didn't understand why now you had a question.

"...You've been inside all my friends and families dreams, so you'd know best, better than anypony else. How much do they care about me?"

Luna went silent for a moment, as if she was putting some of her focus aside to think on those words. Then, she answered. "Anon, your friends and family love you more than you know. Young Diamond Tiara dreams of you every night. Fluttershy adores you, she acknowledges your flaws and does not fault you for it. Even Discord thinks of you fondly often. Before I came into your nightmare, he was having a nightmare of his own. He feared of losing you, that you were no longer his 'Chaos buddy'."

Discord....

"Starlight isn't the Tantabus. I think Chrysalis is, for sure. We need to get out of here"

"But to where, Anon?" Luna asked, her barrier nearly shattered.

Where else? but a place where she could rule. It wouldn't make sense in the real world. But in the dreamscape? She'd be nearby at a place of power. "Twilight's Castle, can you get us there?"

"...Are you prepared to face what lies ahead?"

"I don't know, but if we hang around here. We'll be done"

"Good enough" Luna used a good portion of her power to blow up her own barrier, causing it to smash into the attacking force and blow them out of the shop. You and Luna then used that chance to escape as you both rushed over to the castle. The Changelings above began attacking by lobbing green blasts of magic down.

But you and Luna ignored it. As long as you focused, then they shouldn't be able to hit you. As you approached the castle, you did have one fear though...

Oh wait. never mind. Twilight's doors..even in a nightmare....Were fucking unlocked. Even in a dream, Twilight was a dunce.

You both smash through them , Luna using her magic to seal the door in a barrier. "I do not know how long this will hold. But what makes you think the Tantabus is in here?"

You looked down the hallway that would lead to the cutie map room. But the hallway itself was twisted, broken, the walls were torn away to reveal black space. "...Just a hunch. "

"Anon… So you are going to face the Tantabus?" Luna asked you.

"Yeah...and let me guess. I have to do it alone from here, right?"

"Unfortunately, yes. Should the apparitions interfere, we would be overwhelmed and outnumbered. That is why I shall do my best here"

"Thank you Princess Luna. And thank you for coming to save me. I don't think I could have gotten this far without you"

"We care about you, Anon, as we do all who follow the path of good and harmony. I wish you good luck."

"Thank you..." You turned around, and walked towards the door.

When you opened it, you expected to see the hive on the other side, with Chrysalis on her throne. But instead, it was a hall of mirrors. "...The hell?" Was she on the other side?

You started to walk into the blackened hall. Yet, despite the darkness, you could see each reflection of yourself in the mirror. You made sure to keep your eyes peeled. For all you knew, one of those reflections could have been a changeling. You could have been attacked at any time.

"What's with the mirrors? This is....what?" You noticed as you walked further, the reflections stopped moving along with you. Only staring at you as you pass by. It gave off an unsettling aura. "Ok...T-that's creepy..."

As you continued to look at the ever staring reflections of yourself, you smash headfirst into some sort of wall ahead of you. "N-Ngh!..a-are you serious?! Even in a dream I'll.....woah"

Ahead of you was a grand mirror with black edges around it. A horrible black mist coming out from the sides. When you stare directly into it, You see a dark and shadowy version of yourself staring right back.

...Oh fucking hell… "...Are you serious...? You're the Tantabus? Me?"

The dark version of you steps through the mirror with an evil grin. "That's right. Well, close to it. You created me because you couldn't get your shit together. Me? I already know what I want. Ponies are stupid, and deserve to be crushed under my hoof. And you? Just give up and let me have your body. You'll still exist, sort of. And you'll learn a thing or two about putting your hoof down and getting shit done."

Who the fuck did this thing think it was?! "Grrr! You listen here you little shit! This is my mind, my body, my rules! What the fuck do you even represent anyway?"

"Well, isn't that what you're trying to figure out? You probably never ever will. So..." The Tantabus grabs it's horn and places it on it's head. "Time for somepony with some ambition to take over."

"Two can play at this game!" You go to grab your horn....but it wasn't there.

The Tantabus starts laughing at you. "HAHAHAHAHA! Did you really think I'd let you have that kind of power? I control EVERYTHING in this nightmarescape." The Tantabus rears back his head and blasts you with a strong blast of magic, throwing you back into the ever expanse of darkness. The hallways itself had become a large empty space after encountering the grand mirror.

"Gyagh!" You bounce back, sliding off the top of your head before falling onto your stomach.

"Give it up, Anon, this isn't an anime. This isn't a cartoon. If anything, this is your wake, for your conscious anyway." The Tantabus scoffed.

But you got up. you coughed a little from the initial hit, but you felt you could still stand. "Fuck off, you piece of shit! This is my body, and you're going-" But you're stopped again as you take another blast.

"Good god, you talk a lot, y'know that? Look, you can't beat me because you can't figure out what created me. You're fucked. So give up now or I'm just going to torture you for the rest of the night. How about that?"

But you couldn't. Luna's words ran through your mind as you stood up once again. Your friends cared more about you than you realized. You were so far up your own ass that you didn't realize or care about what they truly thought. Yes, you were an ass...And they still cared.

This Tantabus, you figured out what he was. There was only really one thing he could be. He was your indecision, your inability to compromise, your lack of will to just tell Chrysalis that it's the good way or the highway. "So...let me ask you something. How do you feel about Chrysalis?"

"Oh, that's a cute question. Well, I guess you deserve to know before I blast you into next week. I'm just going to take her offer. Because really? Ponies are shit. Who cares about their shitty problems when I can be knee deep in pony pussy." the Tantabus snickered.

"That's what I thought. You're just the weakness in my heart. You're the very thing that has prevented me from doing what was right the entire time. Or really, it was me fooling myself to try to keep things going without having to make a hard decision myself."

It raised it's eyebrow at you. "Your point? It's not going to matter now"

"You're wrong. Because...this is my body and MY mind! You listen here, you piece of shit...I think I'm starting to realize it. I didn't know....no, that's not true. I didn't care about how much other ponies cared about me. I just wanted to do what I wanted to do because I felt it was right. And I didn't want anypony to tell me otherwise. It's the human condition. Or...just my fault. I didn't want to listen because I felt I knew everything. I guess my friends really were right. I was being high and mighty. I also realize that Chrysalis cares about me too. And I care about her. That's not going to change...maybe. But what has to change is her grand plan, I have to stop enabling her.

“She made everything a game because she knew I'd keep playing until I won. She was never really playing the game to win, just to bide time. So I know, that as her friend, as everyone's friend, I sometimes have to bite that bullet and make the decision that isn't the best for me, but best for everyone else, Best for the world. It's a hard decision for sure. But everyone has to make that decision sometimes. It'll be hard for Chrysalis too. And I know it'll hurt if she decides not to reform. It'll be ok though. It'll be ok to be sad because I'll have my friends to support me, and I'll figure out the rest. I can only have hope that in the future, she'll change...That's all I can do"

"Ngh...Y-you got to be kidding me...H-how did you realize all of that so quickly?!" The Tantabus started to crack as bursts of light started to pierce through him.

"Because of my friends. Because of Princess Luna and Celestia. It's already been drilled into my head multiple times already. I just needed someone to give me the push to get it all together. And nothing fucking scarier than some little shit trying to get inside my head, literally. Really puts shit into perspective"

"....Are you saying the threat of losing your existence pushed you into figuring things out quicker?" He narrowed his eyes at you.

You shrugged. "I dunno..sorta? Yeah, mostly. The other was the shit I saw before getting here. You overdid it with the corpses, dude. Really shitty move by the way. If this was all real, I would have blasted you with a shotgun."

"Man..whatever, fuck you!" The Tantabus yelled out in frustrated rage before exploding into nothingness.

"...." You sigh upon his defeat. ".....I really hope. I really really hope I got it this time. That fucker...no..me. I really gotta do this. I can't let Thorax try for me. I have to talk to Chrysalis myself, and if she refuses? Then that's it. I have to stand my ground and show her she can't control me. And that will be that."

For everything after, you'd just have to hope fate would have mercy on her. As for the nightmarescape? You noticed it started clear up as the dark space around you began to light up with lights as if you were in space.

Chapter 324

"Well...that was easy" You look around the starry space for Luna, since it seemed to be over. "Luna? Luna, you around?"

"I am here, Anon" Luna appears in a burst of light in front of you, her form majestic as she hovers for a little bit then lands.

"Ok, cool. So, I beat the Tantabus. And the nightmare is over. And I did it in like, thirty seconds because the idiot made beating this nightmare WAY to obvious. I managed to get over my obsession and defeat him. Pretty neat, right?" You said as you stood triumphantly. Yeah, you were pretty ok with this. It wasn't very hard at all to win.

"Hmmmm..." Luna didn't seem impressed as she looked around

"Uh, Luna? You don't think that's even mildly impressive? I solved my issue and beat a Tantabus. I'm ready for tomorrow morning."

"Anon, if you had beaten the Tantabus, then you'd be awake by now"

Wut? "Woah woah. That's not right. I did beat him, I watched him explode."

"Anon, I only know that the Tantabus will keep you within this dreamscape until it gets what it wants. It doesn't seem intent on letting you go."

"But I killed it...wait" Oh shit! LUNA IS EVIL!

You jumped at Luna's neck and tried to wrestle her down to the ground. "NGH! GRRR! NGH! TAKE THAT! TANTABUS!"

Luna just gave you a hard stare, unaffected by your attack. "Anon, what are you doing?"

You hung onto her horn as you looked down at her face. "..What?...Y-you're not the Tantabus?"

"...No" She narrowed her eyes at you, annoyed and confused by your need to choke her. Though, it seemed you didn't really do any damage.

"...Oh" You smile sheepishly as you slowly get off Luna and rub her neck gently. "S-sorry, didn't mean to hurt you if I did."

"FOOLISH BASTARD! I'M NOT DONE YET! NOT WHILE I HAVE ANOTHER AVENUE INTO YOUR MIND!" Screamed a voice

...Oh fuck..what? You look behind yourself to see a dark shadow rise up in human form. It is a giant, as big as a skyscraper, and it grew arms,hands, a head, and devil horns as it's burning eyes began to alight in flames and lightning.

"Is that?!" Luna was surprised, she didn't think the your version of the Tantabus was capable of such horrific power.

"HEY! I KILLED YOU!" You bark at him

The shadow laughed as it pointed down at you. "Idiot! You should have known I'd have a true form!"

Shit....you should have realized. He was sorta final bossy. "Excuse me for being a little rusty. But whatever. so you're big and bad, so what? You have nothing on me. So, Princess Luna can beat you down. So erm...get em..Princess Luna..please?" You look back at her, expecting her able to put the final smack down on the tantabus

"I'm afraid I cannot. Nothing I can do can hurt this Tantabus."

...Wut? "But...why? He has nothing on me"

"Oh, but I do. Let me ask you..." The Tantabus leans in close to you with a malicious grin as he rests his chin on his palm "Did you ever stop to think what was going to happen AFTER the reformation?"

"After?...I uh..." wut?

"You did actually, a few times before. But that's the thing, you never really had any visual representation of what was going to happen. And I promise, any one of these can happen." The Tantabus stood back up as he opened his palm, facing upwards, to release a series of giant orbs.

He pointed to the first one, showing Starlight battling the changelings. "This one I think you're familiar with. This could happen should the reformation fail, or appears to succeed only for it to be a trap. Starlight would be the only one available then, and she'd have to take extreme measures to defeat the changelings as they take over Equestria."

"Silence, monster! You know not of what will truly happen. Nor do you understand!" Luna yelled, standing in front of you in your defense.

"Yeah, that's a retarded possibility. It'd never happen!" Because, y'know, there was also the fucking princesses.

"Anything is possible, but I suppose it's also unlikely. So how about this?" The next orb begins to show Fluttershy in utter disappointment, looking at you and Discord with disapproval. "This is more believable, isn't it? Now that the changelings are reformed, Fluttershy would have to find out eventually about your alliance and friendship with Chrysalis, maybe even your human identity. All that lying you and Discord have done, she couldn't handle all of it! Her heart would break, and then what would you do?"

Princess Luna stepped a step closer. "Fluttershy is a kind hearted soul. She would know Anon meant well!"

"Who are you to say she would? You think she'd find it ok that her nephew is actually a dirty little human? Or maybe.." The orb starts to expand, showing the CMC, Diamond, and the Riches as well.. all shocked and disappointed. "We need to expand. You can't tell me one of these ponies wouldn't find it rather shocking."

What? Oh no...

"Still unlikely, you underestimate the bonds of friendship and love ponies are capable of" Luna stood her ground.

"...Is he?" You say, in a soft defeated voice

Luna gets surprised, and looks back at you confused "Anon?..what do you mean 'is he?'"

"I mean..." What was the exact plan they had after the changelings reformed? They said they'd keep you out of it. But anything can change, and things can go wrong. "I mean, what exactly are you going to do after the changelings reform?"

"Anon, well.." Luna seemed to take some time to think about it. "My sister and I have talked it over with Thorax, who wishes to be able to live among us in Equestria. He wants to be known, he wants the changelings to be known. He feels he can repair the reputation they have with ponykind. It does not, however, require revealing your past life. Which is not only moot, but might as well not exist."

"...So Fluttershy and the others are going to know about Chrysalis at least? For sure?" You ask

"More than likely. But Anon, it's nothing to fret over." Luna tries to explain.

"Oh, but it's TOTALLY something to fret over. You can't tell him with certainty that everything will be ok, can you?" The Tantabus smirked arrogantly as another orb appeared. With ponies losing faith in the princesses. "The changelings have been hated for many moons, have they not?"

"As true as that may be, you cannot be certain that everything will run afoul" Luna stays confident, trying to force the Tantabus back with her words "Anon, you mustn't listen!"

More orbs began to light up, showing you possibilities. All the more likely than everyone just being like "Welp! I accept the bugs". That would never fucking happen. That'd be like Starlight becoming Twilight's student or Rainbow Dash's parents being adorably awesome. It just doesn't happen. "...ngh..."

Then you saw one. Of Discord losing hope in you, that he was still mad at you. So frustrated that he just cast you aside. It hurt. It hurt because once again, you had to be hard headed. As you looked down in shame, you started to be enveloped by darkness.

"Anon! Do not give in!" Luna frantically started blasting at the enveloping darkness. But it was no use, you were becoming too far gone.

The Tantabus started to laugh maniacally. "I'M SO CLOSE! HAHAHAHAHAHA!"

You didn't even realize that you were being sucked away into the darkness as your mind became riddled with lost hope. "I'm going to lose everyone...I'm going to lose my family. Discord...I'm sorry." You started to cry as you hid your head into your hooves. "I should've listened. I shouldn't have been so hard headed. Everytime, I just....relapse...or just end up being a dick. You're the one who brought me here dammit! I should have been focused on you. And Fluttershy...our family"

You cried tears as you sniffled, your face crimson from the sheer amount of stress on your mind. "Discord..I'm sorry....look, when...if...I get back. Let's go mess with Twilight..huh?" The Darkness was starting to eat away at your body. "I'd like that"

"Is that a promise?" A voice says from within the darkness.

"Yeah...I....wait"...Discord?..he couldn't be. "Discord?...O-or am I...holy shit, things got dark quick" You looked up to see that the darkness was all around you. You hadn't even noticed it before.

"Indeed, things do look rather grim. But still, are you willing to make that a promise?" The familiar voice says again.

"Y-yeah, if you forgive me...d-do you forgive me?"

"Maybe. we can toy with purple prudey princess. Or, if you truly want my forgiveness, you can guarantee we'll do it at least three times without you whining" The voice says.

"Yeah! Y-Yeah!..But… Aren't you mad at me?"

"I was, until you promised. Heck, the only reason I'm here is because you were screaming in your sleep 'Ohhh nooo! Starlight!' 'Agh! Diamond!' 'Oh no, not a stupid version of me! Whatever will I do!?' It's hard to sleep with all that racket so i might as well get SOME compensation out of having to hear you yell like that."

.....

"You're an asshole, Discord" seriously?

"I prefer to call it whimsical" Discord's paw bursts through the darkness and holds itself out to you. "Now let's get you out of here before I change my mind"

You smiled as you cried tears of happiness. You grabbed on as he grasped you tightly and pulled you out of the darkness. "Haha! Discord! You're so damn awesome. I didn't think I'd be able to get out...of...the...dream?"

You were still in the starry spaced nightmare. "...Discord...why aren't we out of the nightmare?" You looked back, and saw the Tantabus screaming it's head off. "...what's going on with him?"

Discord shrugged "Ahh, about that. I thought i'd pull one of those 'Deus Ex Machinas' from one of those human cartoons. Turns out I lack a certain knack for dreams like wittle Woona does when it comes to putting down a creature like that. Soooooo, while you still have doubt in your mind, that Tantabus still exists."

"Uh huh..." But… "That doesn't explain why it's screaming it's lungs out"

"Well, Anon, you see. hmmm, how to put this? Well....I tried destroying him with my magic. But I accidentally gave him more power than he could handle and now he's going to explode and take your mind with it, leaving you a mindless blithering shell in the real world"

Oh, was that all? "WHAT?! I JUST FORGAVE YOU, YOU DIPSHIT! I'D RATHER STILL HAVE A CHANCE TO COME BACK THEN BECOME A DAMNED VEGETABLE!"

If you had fingers, you'd be curling them from the seething rage you felt right now. You looked back at the Tantabus and pointed your hoof at it. "I think everything will be alright! So go away!"

Nothing. "I THINK EVERYTHING WILL BE ALRIGHT! SO GO AWAY!"

It was still there, screaming, as the walls of the nightmare began to crack. "Why isn't it working?"

"As I said, you still have doubt in your mind. Or at least, that is what Princess Luna said."

Princess Luna? Actually, looking around, she was gone. Where did she? "You....didn't poof her away trying to be a hero...did you?"

"Oh, good heavens no. She went off to bring some of your friends here to help you get over your doubt. All I had to do was pull you out of that nasty darkness. So, I might as well have gotten that promise out of you in the process while I'm here. Everypony wins!" Discord smiles cheerfully as he raises his arms victoriously.

"...Oh, yeah...super overjoyed here" You say in a sarcastic tone. "But, wait. What do you mean bring some of my friends here?"

Discord shrugged. "No idea. But I do know that should they come, they also risk some sort of mental break from the Tantabus reducing your mind to mush. Nothing severe, but the knowledge of knowing they failed will be embedded deep into their mind"

"...That....is not comforting. And you say that as if it's no big deal"

"Hey! I'm just saying it as it is, Anon. I'm here too, I would suffer the same fate as the rest of...whoever is showing up. I mean, I showed up of my own free will" Discord said as he put on his sunglasses "I'm just cool like that."

Ugh, Discord. You.....great guy...bastard. "Then you should go. If it's that dangerous, nopony is going to come for me. And there's no point in you suffering"

"Nice try, but I'm going to see this through to the end. Can't have you backing out of your promise by saying I backed out of your head" Discord snickered.

...

You turned around, and gave him a hug. "I hate you so much right now....buddy"

Discord softened up a moment, and hugged you back. You could feel that he was shaking ever so subtly. He was afraid. He was afraid of you failing. With each passing moment, the walls of the nightmare began to crack as the Tantabus continued it's screaming.

Suddenly, a hole opened up beside you two. Luna came out first, as the CMC, Starlight, and Fluttershy came tumbling down through the portal. "I have returned, and have brought help!" Luna exclaims as the piles of ponies composed themselves and begin to get up, looking around and seeing the abominable horror.

"WHAT THE?!" Discord noticed Fluttershy,and looks to Luna with shock "YOU DIDN'T SAY YOU'D BE INVOLVING FLUTTERSHY!"

"You would have stopped me if I had said I was, Discord. She is important to this. Without her, Anon will never be able to come to terms with what he's afraid of" Luna says, as she steps aside for the group. "And I know you don't want to lose him anymore than anypony else. Don't be stubborn, or you WILL lose him"

Discord just looked at Luna with dark anger "Of course.....you just better be right. "

"Woah! Is that that there Tantabus thing?! It looks worse than Luna's" Applebloom said with a shout, pointing at it.

"...It's noisy too. Ugh!" Sweetie Belle said as she put her hooves to her ears.

"It's big, but it doesn't look that bad!" Scootaloo looked like she wanted to touch it.

"Ok, I'm here. and WHAT IN EQUESTRIA?! THAT'S A TANTABUS?!" Starlight was in shock

"...Anon?" Fluttershy was looking around. When she saw you, she rushed up to you and gave you a big hug. Holding you as if to protect you. "Anon! What's going on?! Princess Luna said you were being attacked by a Tantabus. Your Tantabus. And...that you'd lose yourself if you lost."

You almost expected Diamond to be among them. But it'd make sense Luna wouldn't go to her, She would probably complicate things more than anything. She probably wasn't used to Princess Luna and the ways of the Dreamworld like the CMC and Fluttershy. Starlight though? She's wigging out.

You hugged Fluttershy, and began to tear up. "Aunt Fluttershy, you came to help me? D-didn't Princess Luna say what'd happen if I lost?"

"She did, and I didn't care. You're family, Anon. If I can protect you, then I will. No matter what" Fluttershy said as her hug became even more compassionate.

Fluttershy...

"What about you guys?" You look back to the rest of the group

The CMC cheered. "We couldn't let ya do it alone, Anon!" Applebloom smirked

"I mean, duh. You're kind of hard headed. You definitely need us" Sweetie Belle said.

"And we're friends. And friends don't let other friends down!" Scootaloo was totally ready for a fight.

Starlight just kept staring at the Tantabus. "Anon, I'm here for the same reason they are. But oh my gosh! I was not expecting this..."

You had your friends, and you'd think that'd have been enough. But still..the Tantabus persisted. "They’re here, I feel better. But it's still there. What's going on?"

"You still have doubt, Anon, about the future. You are afraid you'll be misunderstood. I brought your friends and family who knows varying levels of your past. To secure your future, you must come to terms with the now." Luna explains to you.

"....That makes no sense, whatcha mean by that, Princess Luna?" Applebloom asked.

"And ummm...I don't see Nymous anywhere. Did....did she not care to come?" Fluttershy asked, feeling a little hurt that your own sister wouldn't come to save you.

Of course, Luna never even went to her for obvious reasons. And you tensed up, you knew what she meant.

"Anon?..What does Princess Luna mean?..Are you alright?" Fluttershy asked, worried now that you seemed frozen in fear.

No..not now… Why now? Starlight already knew most of everything....She must have been brought because she knew. The CMC...didn't know you were human. And Fluttershy… Nymous.

"Anon, you don't have much time. You may choose how to defeat the Tantabus. But if it doesn't actually defeat it, you will be lost forever. Whatever it is about the future that bothers you, now is the time to remove that fear." Luna said as she saw you didn't have much time. The walls were nearly gone.

"Why can't we just pound it?" Scootaloo flew up, giving the thing an angry eye. "All of us can take it, can't we? We can't just let Anon be 'lost' forever!"

"I could try to whip up a spell, but from what Princess Luna said..." Starlight turned to you. "Anon..." She could see you were in shock. "Anon, hey. What's wrong? Anon?"

...You had to tell them the truth. But...you couldn't.

"Anon..." Fluttershy held you close. "Please, whatever is going on, you have to tell me. It can't be that bad. I....I promise, no matter what it is, I will never stop loving you. You have my word. Please don't be afraid of me...please don't be afraid of your aunt. I just want to help. I..." Fluttershy started to cry. "I don't want to lose you."

Fluttershy… You never thought you'd see this day. You were hoping you'd never have to tell her. But since you were technically going to die anyway.... "Starlight, do you mind helping me out with this? I'm going to explain....y'know...those...things" You slowly stepped away from Fluttershy, giving her a short hug as you walked towards Starlight

"...You're really going to do it?" Starlight asks.

"Yeah, and I need your help to clear things up in case my explanation isn't clear. Can you do that for me?"

Starlight nodded. "Of course."

And so you began. It was hard, but first you began with Nymous, you started to explain how that all started. From messing with Chrysalis, to her becoming Nymous. The CMC seemed to be ok with understanding it better. But Fluttershy seemed more and more hurt as you explained. By the time you were done, she seemed deep in thought.

"...So yeah...that's it. I was a big idiot. It was a lie..."

"But! But! Like Anon said, he only had good intentions. He wanted to try to reform her like he did me. But it looks like things....kinda got out of control" Starlight gave a big smile, to try to lessen the blow.

"Well, of course Anon had good intentions. Ah mean, bug breath ain't ever gonna change. But if it weren't for Anon tryin', ah'd have never met Scrappy. He's the best changeling ever!" Applebloom said with a cheerful smile.

"W-what?!..So Anon, you really are....And..w-wait..A-a-applebloom. Isn't Scrappy your dog?" Fluttershy seemed utterly confused

"...Oh...I didn't realize she still didn't know. It's not bad that you know that part, right?" Sweetie Belle asked, looking away nervously.

"U-uhmm..Does Applejack know?" Fluttershy asked hesitatingly.

The CMCs shook their head.

"......." Fluttershy fell silent, which made you feel tense.

"Aunt Fluttershy. I know it was stupid of me to try, that's why I said Celestia and Thorax are going to come tomorrow to deal with it. I know..it's...bad that somepony you considered your niece turned out to be an enemy. And...I'm sorry I didn't tell you. And..it gets even worse than that. Something, that even you three don't know. I..."

Fluttershy's eyes were shimmering. The CMC seemed surprised. They thought they knew everything about you. You didn't know if you could continue. Then you looked at Discord, who was nervous, and swiping his talon across his own throat, telling you silently to not mention that part.

You look to Starlight, knowing that for this, Discord wouldn't help. Starlight smiles back at you. "Anon, go for it. I mean, I don't hate you. I kind of had this feeling of wanting to study you a little. But y'know. Eheheh" She chuckles nervously. "That may have been a bit too much."

Should you mention it? All in all, Fluttershy was pretty forgiving..but.....the CMC… The dread that just left you washes back over you. But the dread of losing your mind was even worse. You were going to lose Fluttershy, or the CMC, or both if you take this path. But it was the only way...

"Anon...what does she mean?" Fluttershy asked "Why would she want to study you? Does she mean your horn?"

if the situation wasn't so serious, you'd make a joke out of that…

Still, looking into her eyes, she was in distress. Just get it over with. "Aunt Fluttershy...Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, Scoots....I'm....not a pony."

They of course gasp, all yelling "WHAT?!". Discord just slaps his own face.

"I mean! I didn't used to be..look. Before anypony says anything, I just want to get thi-"

"How is that even possible?! Anon, you can't have been anything else but a pony, right? How would you even change into a pony?" Scootaloo interrupts.

You silently point to Discord.

"...Oh right...But, then-" you interrupt Scootaloo with a raise of your hoof.

"Scoots, please....look. Everypony..look. Before Discord brought me here to Equestria. I lived in another dimension on a planet called Earth. I was something called a 'human'. It's kind of like that screaming guy there. But without the horns, smaller, and not as scary. But humans themselves? They could be scary, and many were. There's no such thing as 'the Magic of Friendship', or any magic really. Humans would hate each other, fight wars, insult each other, and even sabotage each other. Many would… well, die for stupid reasons. There was no happiness for many humans, only a future working a job you hate, having dishonest friends, parents who don't care about you, and any one thing breaking down capable of ruining your life. I guess if anypony was wondering why sometimes I got kinda dark, well, that's why. But, as a human. I was pretty smart....and..."

Sweetie Belle started giggling. Presumably at the last part.

"Uhhhhhhhhhhh...something funny there Sweetie Belle? Because this is pretty heavy for me"

"I mean..it's just the...I mean, all of that was really horrible and I was getting chills and stuff...but then....no, nevermind. But Anon, why does that all matter?" Sweetie Belle asks

"Because humans are terrible beings. And the only reason I even got here was because Discord offered me a deal in the paradise of Equestria in trade of pretending to be his son to make Aunt Fluttershy happy and mess with Twilight...that might be it"

Discord winced at that. And as Fluttershy turned to face him, he gave her a nervous smile. "N-now now, Fluttershy. What is said MAY be true. But...but...."

"Discord...why wouldn't you tell me this?" Fluttershy asked, with a heartbroken tone.

"A-aunt Fluttershy...It's not his fault. Well, I mean, it is. But..it's mine too. In fact, it's mostly mine. Discord did a lot for me, and sometimes I realize this, but then I mess up and give him guff for it. Or worse, I make him angry over my own insecurities. He gave me the horn, he gave me a second chance at life, And I, who's supposed to be his pretend son, can't even do that right. And then there's you. There was a time where I felt awful lying to you. The princesses, they told me that my old life didn't matter anymore, and to accept this new one. And for a good while I was doing that. But....for how long would I be able to keep that secret? I'm not your nephew, I'm not his son. I'm just a guy who came looking for a free ride. And..."

You look over at the Tantabus. "That's why none of you should even be here. You came for Anon the colt. But I'm just Anon the fool. Trust me, your lives would be a lot better off without me."

"Well...that ain't true" Applebloom says outright. Like..if everything you said didn't matter

"What?" seriously, wut?

"What do you mean, 'what'? Anon, who cares if you're from some other dimension? Unless you're telling us that you're not the hard headed, high and mighty, but great and brave colt we got to know. Then I don't see the problem" Sweetie Belle said, smiling a bit of a cocky smile at you.

"...I...er"

"Yeah, I don't think you could fake all that stuff. I mean, if you were faking it, you'd have never let me have your wings from before. That meant a lot to me, Anon. That was something a pony would do. So don't go being all dumb now about it!" Scoots said as she sat and crossed her forelegs together and nodded. Sure of herself.

"...Scoots...Applebloom...Sweetie Belle..." You started to tear up as you look to Fluttershy. "But..I lied to you the most. I mean, I'm not even a little k-" You get interrupted before you could finish that.

"Anon" Fluttershy interrupts you, as she gives you a sad hard stare. You stopped, and froze up, tense. "I only know you as Anon, my nephew. My sweet little gentlecolt. I don't know you as anypony else." She started to weep. "A-anon, i-if it really is all a lie...does that mean...You don't love me? That you don't love your friends? That it's all been an act?"

WHAT?! "NO, NO, I DO LOVE YOU! YOU'RE THE SOFTEST AND NICEST PONY I KNOW! YOU ALWAYS MAKE ME FEEL GREAT WHEN I FEEL BAD! And..and.." You started to tear up again. You couldn't continue your words.

"I see..Anon, what about when I hug you, or when you rest beside me, and I put my wing over you to keep you warm. Was...that a lie?" She asks.

"N-no...I...love resting under your wing. It makes me feel safe, as if nothing can hurt me, even my-myself" You start to whimper and shake.

"Anon...I-I have one more question" She took a big breath, as did you… What could it be?

"...You never really liked that healthy meal I made for you the other day. did you?" She asked

...Ngh. You felt ashamed. "...N-no...I....I only said I did to make you happy. Because...I didn't want to see you sad. I...I..." You lurch forward and fall, crying your eyes out. "I'M SORRY! I'M SORRY! I'M SORRY! I'M SORRY! I'M SOR-"

You felt yourself in a warm embrace. Fluttershy was hugging you. crying, rubbing your head with her hoof. "Shhhhhhhh.....it's alright. I knew you didn't like it, but I didn't want to make you sad by saying anything. I didn't want to make you feel bad."

The CMC seemed confused as to why that last part was brought up at all. Scoots theorizing it was probably a family thing.

"Y-you're not mad?" You look up at Fluttershy pathetically.

"No. Because you're still Anon, the Anon I know. You didn't ever try to really trick me, you even risked your life for me. Anon, how could you be a fool, a human, or anything else when you have always been just...Anon. If you were faking it, I would have known. I never knew you before I met you, I only know you from when Discord first showed you to me. And I know that you're sweet and kind deep inside." Fluttershy's warmth, her hug, it was so full of care. You just sobbed as you dug your face into her chest.

"I love you, Aunt Fluttershy. Please don't hate me.."

"I love you too, Anon, now shhhh...you don't need to worry anymore. I'm here, I'll always be here, always. No matter what."

The CMC found the whole moment touching, they couldn't help but cry and join in. Even Discord broke out, and grabbed you all and hugged. Luna had a tear in her eye as she sniffed. Starlight just looked on at the Tantabus as the area started to shatter "H-hey everypony, I hate to be the party pooper here but there's still the little problem of Anon losing his mind."

Everyone's eyes went wide as the Tantabus' yelling became the focus once again. "O-oh right..but..what do we do? How can we stop it?" Fluttershy asked, ready to fight if she had to.

You looked back at the Tantabus. You looked at your friends. They didn't care about Anon the human, they cared about you...who you were now. And now...you knew what to do. "I know what to do now...."

You started walking towards the Tantabus. Fluttershy felt afraid, and tried to hold you back. But Starlight held her, And told her you'd be ok. Everyone wished you good luck, they were rooting for you, and you felt their strength course through you.

"I won't let myself be lost, Tantabus. Your mind may be broken, but you're still there because of my doubt. Well...NO MORE! I HAVE MY PRIORITIES STRAIGHT AND I KNOW WHAT'S IMPORTANT! MY FRIENDS! THEY CARE ABOUT WHO I AM, NOT WHO I WAS!...And I thank them for it. Even when sometimes, I don't show it. You're no longer needed. You only exist because I needed a guiltless out. Well, no more! I'll face any challenge head on...mostly. But you get my point! NOW GET..THE FUCK..OUT!"

The Tantabus' mad screams changed into pained ones as it started to light up, and explode violently, covering the entire area with a white light. A warming light. A light that felt like everything for you would be ok.

When you turned, you saw Discord standing behind you, wearing four pairs of sunglasses. "Egh, a light full of harmony and love. You didn't need to be that dramatic"

"C'mon Discord, I saw you hugging. Don't be a dick" You smirked at him.

"Ehhhh, I got caught up in the moment. But it seems you managed to beat the Tantabus. Huzzah for you. Still, Fluttershy didn't need to hear that last part."

"What, the human thing?"

"No, that curse word. You didn't need to say that."

...Doh. "O-oh....erm...ugh. I'm sure she didn't really hear it..umm..where is everypony else. Anyway?"

"I'd imagine they woke up. That was quite the blast."

"Yeah I'm sure...but. I feel better now. And I mean it this time. And....you're not upset about me blowing up on you, right? Cuz I'm sorry about that"

"It's alright, Anon, water under the bridge. Besides, we get to have sooooo much fun with Twilight later. So it's alright. Ahh, speaking of fun. You'll be waking up soon. How are you going to handle Chryssy? Because at this very moment, Princess Celestia and Thorax are in my living room."

WHAT?! "ALREADY?!"

"Well, Anon, you have been sleeping for a good while after that blast. You already missed school. I kept them busy with some....normal...plain..tea" Discord said, mouthing the last few words painfully. "But Celestia is stubborn."

"Well, did you tell her about this dream? I can't imagine her being stubborn when....ugh..you didn't tell her shit, did you?"

"Of course not, I'm a being of chaos, Anon. I have to keep you on the tip of your hooves." Discord said with a grin.

"Yeah...I can only imagine I'm gonna be stressed as fuck after all this. I think..I'll go see Fluttershy when it's over, take a nap under her wing. That'd be nice.....And of course, I'd let her know how much... Ahh damn! I should get her a present!"

"Hmmm, I should also give her a present. Annnyyyhoooo. I hope you really are prepared, Anon. Because it's just going to be you, Celestia, and the bugs. I'll be sitting in the bleachers watching the show."

You snickered. "Course, I wouldn't have it any other way....I really wouldn't" You look at him with a serious look. "I want to try talking to Chrysalis. Whatever she decides, that's it. I won't betray my friends for her, I won't even think about it. But I still have to give it one last go" You started to feel a little forlorn when you started to realize that moment was finally coming. But you couldn't let yourself slip up, you had to pull in all your confidence for this.

"I know you won't. Fluttershy would never forgive ME if you flubbed up. So, just do your best. I believe in you, yadda yadda. You know what I mean" Discord said as he waved his paw dismissively. "Ahh, good job on not mentioning your true age, by the way. That may have been a bit too much."

"Yeah..." You were about to, but you were interrupted before you could say you weren't a "little kid". "I can live with no one really knowing that part, it doesn't really matter"

"Nope, it doesn't. Because as you are now? You are in fact, a colt...And my little chaos buddy"

"I know...put it there, pal" You hold your hoof out. Discord goes to grab it, but you dodge and hug him suddenly. "Thanks Dad...I wouldn't be here without you."

Discord was silent. But you could feel his arms gently wrap around you, and embrace you in a hug as everything went into a haze.

When you awoke, you were back in your room. Everything was in place as before. You stretched, and looked forward with a smile. thankful for all your friends and what they do for you. You yawned, got up, and opened the portal door to Ponyville. Behind it was the town basked in another beautiful and sunny day.

The floor door was there. And you knew Celestia and Thorax was just beyond it. Just talk to them, Anon. No tricks.

You smirked. "Ain't even stressin'"

You got up, and opened the floor door with confidence in your heart. You stepped through, and fell, right into the living room floor headfirst. Because as you were focused on your newfound confidence, you forgot to focus on the gravity stairs.

"..........course" You said as you tapped your hoof on the ground, aggravated at your mistake.

Chapter 325 (The Final Chapter of Book 1)

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

EXTRA: The After Years

Author's Note

This chapter originally took place after Chapter 318. So I guess you could say this is how I tried to brush things away after my ragequit on 4chan. Still, this chapter works for the regular end of the story as well since Book 2 and the movie chapters exist.

This chapter also saw A LOT of changes. Retconning a few things that I would've had to right for Book 2 that would not have been fun (The original pastebin version of the chapter is still intact, so it would be obvious to see what I mean)

I hope everyone enjoys the true final chapter...To book 1.

And yes, there are MORE chapters with the children. But, I won't upload them unless there is actual demand for them

EXTRA: The After Years

And then suddenly a meteor came from the sky, landed in Ponyville, and everypony exploded!

"...And that's the end of the story." You were sitting on a chair in a large and extravagant room with three beds. The chair was set in front of the set of beds, and each bed contained a foal.

A young filly with the striking image of Diamond Tiara. Same mane color even. But she wore it in a ponytail and her eyes had more of a resemblance of yours. She had no cutie mark, and was rather puny for her age as is.

A small,strong, but very slightly pudgy colt. He was older than the filly by three years. He seemed tough, rambunctious, and a little dumb. His cutie mark was a bomb. He beared a strong resemblance to you when you were young.

And finally, the middle colt. With spiked up hair and a set of glasses, his frame rather slim,and his cutie mark was a set of beakers. He too, had a strong resemblance to you. But not as much as the eldest son.

"Actually, father, if that was the end of the story, I don't think we'd be here. I hope that wasn't an attempt at a joke" The smug intellectual foal looked at you with a smirk.

"ugh, c'mon, Illustrious. Don't be such a party pooper. I just wanted to add little pazaaz" You tell your middle son. You thought it was funny….dammit.

The middle colt's name was Illustrious Rich. He was named by Spoiled Rich, who almost had you by the throat when it came to naming him.

"It was scary, I almost thought a meteor really did hit us!" The little filly shook in her bed as she looked at you with big scared eyes "That would never really happen, right, Daddy?"

"Aww, Jewely. Nah, it'd never happen. Besides, even if there was a meteor. Your daddy only needs to look at it with his super horn and BAM! It's gone, just a big ole pretty firework for you too look at" You tell her with a fatherly grin.

The youngest, the filly that is, was named Crown Jewel. Obviously named by your wife. You liked calling her Jewely, it was cuter.

She looked up at you with those pretty eyes and a sugar sweet smile on her face "Pretty fireworks? I like fireworks! That sounds a lot better than a meteor"

You give her a warm smile as you nod. "Yep, and it'd all be for you. I'd make it the prettiest thing you've ever seen!"

"Fireworks? Agh, that's fucking laaaaame. It should just be like that nuke thing like in the story! That would be the coolest thing EEEVVERRR!" Anon Jr. said bombastically as he slammed his hooves down in excitement. Ahh Anon Jr., your first son, you wanted him to be the striking image of you in every way. Unfortunately, he wasn’t too bright at times. And Spoiled took that as some sort of “Human” curse and made triply sure you’d never be able to name any more of your own children.,

"Yeah, that would be pretty ex-...wait...Junior, what did you just say?" Did he...no...he didn’t...Right? RIGHT?!

Oh god no, if Diamond heard him say that. She'd...oh god. Where did he even?

"Fuck. why?" He looked at you, tilting his head in confusion.

"ooooooh, you said a bad wooooord. Only adults can say bad words" Jewel said in a matter of factly way.

You just gave a scowl towards your eldest son "Where did you even learn that word?!"

Illustrious answered for him as he adjusted his glasses. "I believe that would be you, father, you were cursing throughout the entire story after all."

"........" Diamond was going to kill you. She was going to throw you into the fireplace.

"Oh, I know that look. Is mommy going to make you sleep on the couch again?" Jewel asked, putting a hoof to her mouth as she looked at you with curiousness and fright.

Fuck that noise. "Nooope, not unless Junior curses in front of her. So er, son. Let's just keep it between us? k?"

"Fuck yeah! I can do it, Dad! You'll never hear another fucking curse out of this fucking guy!" Junior pointed to himself with energized vigor

You're doomed. "....right"

Illustrious leaned over to put away his glasses on his night stand as he made himself more comfortable. He could already see his brother causing your utter doom. "Well, chin up, Father. It could still work out for you. Oh yes, will we still be flying kites with Aunt Starlight tomorrow?"

You cringed "I think we'll be flying more than kites tomorrow, son. I just wonder how well...my skin….will fly in the wind..."

"Awww, Daddy..." Crown Jewel hopped up, and stood at the end of her bed looking into your eyes with sorrow and worry. "Don't worry. I won't let you sleep alone on the couch. It can get scary being alone. I'll sleep with you if you want."

Well, if you could count on one of your children to make you feel better, it was Crown Jewel. "Aww, Jewely. I can always count on you to cheer me up" You give her a weak smile as you get up and lean over to kiss her forehead, making her smile and giggle.

"What the fuck? Dad! I said I wasn't going to curse anymore!" Junior spouted angrily at you

"AJ, you do realize that the word ‘Fuck’ is a curse word, right?" Illustrious told him.

"Wha? Wait...I thought curse words were like ‘ooga booga’ and ‘alakazam’ " Junior looked so confused

You and Crown Jewel just smack your own foreheads at Junior's comment. You were totally doomed.

"Well, somepony wasn't paying attention. Welp, father, siblings, I bid you good night. Oh yes, and good luck to you father…..You’ll need it" Illustrious said as he made himself comfortable and closed his eyes.

"I-I still don't get it..." Junior looked really confused.

"Don't worry about it, son. Just get some sleep and we'll have more storytime tomorrow night...maybe...hopefully."

"Oh..come on, Dad! Grandpa Discord would let me stay up whenever I want!" Junior complained.

"I know, and when you and him blew up one of Twilight's towers. Aunt Fluttershy scolded me and Grandpa Discord about it. Why me, anyway? I don't even know. I wasn't even involved!" Why?! You were innocent in all of it!

You hear Illustrious yawn, still cuddled in his blanket as he speaks "I believe that is due to ‘Parental Responsibility, Father."

You swear you could hear him snicker silently. You loved all your kids, but you swore Illustrious felt a little interdimensional in his upbringing. "Whatever...Junior. Just go to sleep, we'll talk about ‘cursing’ tomorrow"

"Ok, Dad, fine, I'll go to fucking sleep." Junior lowered his head begrudgingly onto his pillow and closed his eyes.

You sighed as you looked over at your daughter. She was reaching out to you.

Awww..

You moved close enough so she could hug your neck with her little body. "Don't worry, Daddy! I'll never curse in front of Mommy! Promiseys!"

Awww.... "I know you won't, Jewely. You'll always be my little princess" You give her a smooch on the cheek.

She giggled and held up a strange doll. "oh, oh! can you give Chryssy a kiss too?"

Chryssy?

That name...

You hadn't heard it since… "Where did you get that doll?"

"Oh, I found it on my bed, I think..erm...yesterday? I like it a lot. It's like a cute little buggy pony! Just like in the story!" She hugged it tightly and held it close to you.

It can't be. Chrysalis…? Nah….

You hadn’t heard from her in years. Sure, she kidnapped you a few times. But as time went on, she made less and less appearances until eventually word had gotten out she had died. When you were told the news, it upset you greatly. Even though you had indeed gotten over her when it came to your obsession, you still cared about her as a friend and was still able to have SOME good moments with her whenever she tried some evil scheme. Sure you had to stop it, but it was almost like a rivalry sort of thing at one point. But then that day came and….you were sad. Hell, you still make sure her car is kept in perfect working order to this day.

You held back a tear and hugged onto your precious daughter.

"Daddy? Is something wrong?" She could sense you were suddenly sad about something. "It's not mommy bringing you doom, is it?"

"No...Jewely. My little princess. You take care of Chryssy, ok?" The doll, it did look a lot like her. How odd….Probably just Discord...

"I will! You don't need to cry, Daddy. She's already my bestest friend!" She says cheerfully.

That nearly made you choke. "I'm glad...well, you get a good sleep too, Jewely. And I'll see you all tomorrow. I love you all."

Crown Jewel jumps into her bed and hugs her doll tightly as all three of your children bid you a good night.

You walk out of their room, and dim the light. Looking to all of them. They were great children, and you loved them.

You made your way to your bed chambers, greeting the maids respectfully as you passed by. Heh, this manor. It was as nice as Mr.Rich’s place. From the chandeliers to the sturdy well painted walls. To the beautiful flora in the flower pots to all the neat antiques. And it was all yours.

You then reached your bedroom. And there, asleep and tired from work, was your beautiful wife, Diamond Tiara. fully grown, sexy, and very nice mare that was probably going to murder you eventually.

Yeah, you married her alright. Her affection for you never died, even to this day.

Of course, some of that rough and richly self became more prominent after marriage. Pushing you into things you didn't want to do or giving you lip when you tried to argue her on something.

But, she also became the main money maker of the family. Taking over her father's business, Barnyard Bargains, and its affiliates.

You? Welp, no magic in the world could get you to be as successful as any Rich. Though, you were able to pull in some revenue yourself by selling powerfully and magically sturdy safes in Canterlot. Them rich ponies did like making sure their assets were secure.

Hell, the only real big mistake you made was introducing Monopoly to the ponies. Not only was that a financial disaster, but Twilight herself had to step in due to sudden friendship issues. So much so that you feared introducing Mario Party would have ended Equestria as you knew it.

But despite your mistakes, she loved you just the same. And as long as you were the heroic and strong stallion she married, she'd always love you, and adore you.

You slowly got into bed and cuddled into her.

Poor girl, she was all strung out and tired. you could feel it.

You just hugged into her close, kept her warm, and whispered to her that you’d always keep her safe. She always loves that. And best of all, sometimes she didn’t mind you getting a little….sexual, even when she was asleep. She, oddly enough, was a little into waking up to you for a little ‘R&R’, she found it exciting. Of course, you also wanted to get a little fun in before she found out your ‘cursing’ mistake and banned you to the couch for a year….or worse.

Of course...

It being you

Nothing could ever go your way.

Just as you tried to get a little raunchy and get in a few pokes of her plot.

Discord, in a giant hot air balloon, bursts through your wall. Waking your wife and surprising you. "ANON! DIAMOND! OH MY PRECIOUS KIN! THERE'S AN EMERGENCY!" He yelled as he frantically waved to the both of you.

GODFUCKING "DISCORD! DISCORD! THAT WAS OUR WALL! WHAT ARE YOU EVEN....DO YOU...WHY?!" You couldn't even come up with words for him.

Diamond did a small stretch, and yawned as she calmed down from Discord’s entrance."....six thousand bits, Dadcord....plus one hundred more for waking me up.." Diamond however, was much more used to this ridiculousness. Or as long as Discord paid up for any destruction he causes whenever he fucking decides to be retarded. And of course, he just smirked and tossed a bag of bits onto the bed.

You just groan as you look to your wife. "Really? You're just going to indulge him like that?"

"Anon, I love our Dadcord. But it's not like we can stop him. The most we can do is charge him for it. Oh also, Dadcord" She looks to him with a very serious face "Since you're here, did you get it?"

"Ohhh! yes, yes I did!" Discord smiled jovially has he snapped his talons, making a beautiful princess tiara appear and float in front of Diamond Tiara. It made her smile a warm smile.

"..Look at it,Anon, it's more beautiful than I could have ever hoped. It's going to make Crown Jewel so happy. Don't you think?" She turned to you with a hopeful smile.

"What about the wall?" You ask, you didn’t want to sleep with a cold draft coming into the room.

Diamond Tiara nudges into you hard as she gives you a scrunchy grump face.

You sigh "Ok ok, I admit. It's beautiful. And I know Jewely will love it."

You sigh again, and then look to Discord "So what's the emergency?"

"Ah yes, that, weeeelllll. It seems somepony under your employ let one of the flowers from the seeds Fluttershy had given you die in the field. A grievous crime indeed!"

........

You, and even Diamond Tiara just glare at him.

Discord smile becomes more sheepish as he starts to have the balloon slowly move the opposite direction and out of the house "Well, it seems that perhaps that wasn't too much of an emergency. Anyway, I did my job here. Pleasant dreams, everypony! I'm off to ADVENTURE!" Discord said as a pair of pilot's goggles and a scarf appeared on him. He then floated away into the distance.

"Yeah...I knew he wouldn't fix our wall." Dammit...

"I know. Still..." Diamond smiled as she looked at the tiara,and then carefully put it away before cuddling into you "He's the greatest Draconedad anypony could ever have"

You chuckle at that "I prefer Dadonequus"

EXTRA 2: Face your fears

Author's Note

Decided to spend the night getting another one of the 'after years' chapters up. This one, I felt, was too cute not to put up. So enjoy

EXTRA 2: Face your fears

It's the dead of night.

You were walking through the unpaved streets of Ponyville Your little daughter, Crown Jewel, or Jewely as you call her, in tow.

She was shaking something fierce. Not from the cold, but from the fear she had of the dark. "D-daddy, I'm scared...I-I want to go home" Jewel said with a shaky voice.

"C'mon, you're the one who got me up for this, Jewely. You don't want to be scared of the dark all your life, do you?" You say with a tired yawn. She had pulled you out of bed under the guise of getting her water. Which she did want, but then she asked you if you could take her outside to conquer her fears of the dark. You thought it odd she'd ask something like that out of the blue, but apparently her doll had told her that she needed to overcome her fears if she wanted to become great. She must have been dreaming it, because there's no way a doll could tell her anything.

Being the great father you were and loving Jewely as you do, you agreed to her terms and decided to take her out to show her that the dark was nothing to be afraid of. All you were going to have her do was walk towards you. You were going to place her down, have her wait as you step back, and call her over. That's it. nothing stressful

"..No. But I didn't know the nighttime was going to be this scary...There's nopony out here. It's really spooky"

"Well, it's a little after midnight, Jewely."

"Really?...Daddy...I didn't mean to wake you up this late. I thought it was earlier." She whined in a soft tone as she cuddled onto your back. "You're not upset with me, are you?"

awwww..how could you be? She was too adorable to be mad at. "Nah, I used to stay up like this all the time."

"Really? But wouldn't grandpa send you to bed early?" She asked

You chuckle at that. As if Discord would ever force you into bed early. "Nope, but just because he wouldn't put me to bed doesn't mean it's good to do. I'd be late for school sometimes because I would still be asleep."

Jewely suddenly took a familiar stern tone with you and gently patted her hoof on your head. "Bad Daddy, Bad! School is very important. You should never be late for school."

You giggle at that. "Yeah, I know. That's why I'm so glad you don't sleep late or have trouble waking up. It makes me proud that I didn't mess up when raising you. I-I mean...not like I messed up with your brothers or anything..." Though, you did seem to really mess up with Illustrious. No matter what you tried. He never really seemed to take you seriously.

It was saddening really. If only you could figure out a way to connect to him. It hurt that he never really seemed to look at you as a father figure. It was almost like he was son of some other colt, or a manifestation of one.

"You never mess up, Daddy! That's why you're the greatest Daddy ever" She hugs the back of your neck.

"I know I am. Alright, so this looks like a good spot" You say as you lower yourself to let Jewely off.

"A good spot?" Jewely looks around, and realizes she's still outside...in the dark. "W-wait! Daddy! no! I'm not ready!" She holds on as tightly as she can as she hides her face in your mane. But a gentle head flick had her easily lose her grip and fall to the ground on her side. you quickly got up to prevent her from getting on your back. But she went for your leg and hugged on tight "Daddy! Daddy! please don't leave me in the dark, Daddy! I'm scared!"

That twisted your heart something fierce.maybe it was a bad idea, maybe you shouldn't be forcing her to get over her fear of the dark. But it wasn't like she was going to get hurt either. Maybe if you coaxed her a little… "Jewely, I know it's a little scary. But you're the daughter of the AMAZING hero stallion. That's me, of course. Which means, in your very blood, lies the soul of a legendary hero."

"L-legendary?" She looks up at you with shimmering scared eyes "Do...you think I'm legendary?"

You give her a snarky smirk "I ‘think’ that you're better than I am."

She started to show hope in her eyes "Really? B-but, you're so awesome, Daddy....." Then she started to feel sad, feeling she could never amount to how great you were "...Too awesome. I could never ever be as great as you are."

"Jewely, let me tell you something." You gently brushed her aside so you could lower yourself and look at her at eye level. "Heroes aren't something that can really be compared. I mean, look at Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. They are heroes, even today, for maintaining the balance of harmony in Equestria."

Jewely just looked at you. Confused "But didn't they also beat up bad guys too? Wouldn't that be the reason they're heroes?"

You shrug "Yeah, I mean, sure. But they did that kind of stuff since before even your daddy was around. Today? They just make sure everything goes smoothly here in Equestria. And that alone makes them heroes"

"So...what you're saying is. If I manage to overcome how scary the dark is, I'll be a hero?"

You gently boop her nose, causing her to giggle. "That's right, kiddo! Plus, I'll be super impressed too. So impressed, that I think my little legendary hero deserves a night with mommy and daddy."

Her face lit up like a christmas, or rather, Hearth Warming's light. "Really? I can sleep with you and mommy if I can do this?"

You nod "You bet"

you give her head a gentle rub as she squees in delight "EEE! Yes! Yes! I can do it! Don't worry, Daddy! I won't let you down!"

Well then, she changed her attitude real quick. You were such a good dad. "Ok, so check this out, Jewely. You stay here, and I'm going to walk over there by the town hall. Ok? Then all you have to do is walk towards me, and you'll have conquered your fears"

"Wait..." Jewely moved her head to the side to look behind you. To her, the town hall did look awfully far. "All the way over there?"

"Mhmm, should be no problem for my little legendary hero, right?"

She started to shiver, feeling a little spooked. But she nodded just the same "R-right..."

"Good, now you wait here while I step over there and we'll get started." You turned to make your trek to town hall. But as you did, you could hear the clippity clop of little hooves.

You don't even turn around as you say in a gentle tone "Jewely, you can't just follow me. You have to wait."

"...o-oh..I thought..." Jewely's voice was stuttering. She knew she had to wait, but she got scared and tried to follow you.

"It's ok." You turn around and pet her head once more. "We'll just try it again. Now, just wait here, ok?" you say as you plop your horn on your head.

"Ok...." She just looks up at you with worried innocence.

"C'mon Jewely, I know you can do it. Now, do you remember what to do when I tell you ‘let me see your war face’ ?"

"I'm supposed to growl, like this! Grrrrrr!" She made an adorable squeaky growl as she angrily grit her teeth.

It was just too adorable, your heart would explode if you were a lesser pony. "Good, now hold that thought."

You instantly poofed in a flash of light from in front of Jewely towards the side of the town hall building.

"Ah! Daddy! Where are you!" Jewely cried as you disappeared from her sight. She was looking around frantically for you without moving from her spot.

"Jewely! Jewely! Calm down, I'm right here. Ok! Right here!" You waved to her and called for her attention.

When she noticed you, she plopped her butt down and started to look around in every which direction, feeling that the darkness all around her would not let her reach you in any capacity. "D-Daddy...p-please come back. I'm scared...it's cold" She whines in a low voice. Even with the promise of sleeping with you and Diamond, she was still very scared.

You weren't even too far from her. it'd only take her about ten seconds for her to trot on over to you. "Jewely, come on, face your fears! Whatever they are, just look them in the face and laugh. Laugh at how silly they are."

"But Daddy..." She says as she begins to shiver more

"Yes sweetie?"

"...Darkness doesn't have a face"

.........fuck "E-erm. Well, just walk over to me in a straight line then. It'll be ok! There's nothing that can possibly hurt you. This is Ponyville after all, the only time there's ever any real big trouble is when a monster attacks"

"Monster?! EEEEP!" Jewely ducked down and covered her head in fright "Daddy! Daddy! Please! Help!"

....why the fuck did you even say that? Even if it was true, you should have known it would have scared her. "Jewely, there's no monsters out. Come on, it's not so bad. there REALLY is nothing to be afraid of. If anything tries to hurt you, I'll beat them within an inch of their life"

Jewely slowly pokes her head up from her forelegs. "R-really?"

"Course. Again, I'm the hero stallion. Hehehe" You snicker in arrogance.

Jewel tries to raise herself up, she tries to be brave. But then she hears a bird, and ducks her head again, shivering. "Daddy! C-could you come closer. P-p-p-p-please?"

"Jewely...c'mon, you'll never learn to conquer your fear unless you take it down by the neck."

But she couldn't. She felt she couldn't. So she called again, the will to move was lost on her. "Please...."

"Jewely...I...mnnn" The poor little thing. Maybe one step wouldn't hurt.

But no, if you do, she'll just ask for another. And then another.

You had to stand your ground. "I'm sorry, Jewely. But I'm not going to move. If you want to be near me, you have to come over here"

you sounded stern and strong.

She however, didn't take that in a bad way. But it did make her even more scared, if that was even possible at this point. "D-daddy...I'm sorry. It's just..so scary"

Dammit. There had to be some way to convince her to face her fears. But how?

Then she called out again "Daddy...I'm not a hero! I'm sorry! I'll never be as brave as you. I'll never be as brave as Mommy,AJ, the princesses, or Chryssy...nopony. I'm sorry that I'm a big scaredy cat! Please don't hate me! Please!"

Ngh....

Her words, it pierced your soul.

You started to tear up. Your little Crown Jewel, who brightens up your day, every day, even moreso if you ended up on the couch. She was losing hope. Hope in the situation.Hope in herself.

She always seemed to be at her happiest when among friends. But she always got scared at night. She was happy to share a room with her two brothers if only for their ‘protection’.

But you knew one day she'd have to have a room of her own. And if she never got over this...

No...

No, you can't lose hope in her. She is your daughter after all. And she looks up to you in a way others haven't in such a long time.You couldn't fail her now.

in fact, maybe you could turn that around....maybe, you could look at hope...through her. "Jewely...I'm really scared too" When you said that, her little ears perked up. But she hadn't moved from her spot yet. "Being here by myself...it reminds me of all the times I fought in battles, thought I nearly lost somepony, and worst yet...made your mother angry at me..."

"...Daddy?" She slowly starts to look up at you. "I-Is that true?"

"Mhmm..."

You look down, filling your head with as many dark memories as you could. "I remember the time I made my own Tantabus...you remember when I told you about that, right?..that was...probably one of the scariest things I ever saw...because it meant I was about to give up...and I'm scared, of ever ending up like that again..like how I used to be"

"Daddy...I-I would never let you go into that kind of darkness..." She said, with sincerity and love in her heart

"Jewely..." You call out to her weakly, quietly.

And then you noticed it. She was getting up, she was forcing herself to stand, and step towards you, itty bitty step by itty bitty step, each step becoming braver and bolder which every movement. "Daddy, I-I won't let you be scared. I'll snuggle with you until y-you're not scared anymore"

She was doing it,your little filly was doing it,she was marching on over to you.

You were...so proud of her.Your little girl, walking in the late night, by herself, towards you. She was determined to make the bad feelings you conjured up go away. And as you looked on in pride...something sinister was about to occur

BANG!
CRASH!
BAZAM!

Out of nowhere, an anvil,piano, and crate of heavy balls landed onto Jewely's position, creating a small crater.

You immediately turned white in dread.

You look up..to see a familiar clumsy pegasus fly by with a now empty cart. "J-J...J...Je..."

You couldn't get the words out.
You couldn't speak
You couldn't move...
Your little filly...
Your innocent little girl
.....

"JEWELY!" You rushed over to the pile, forgetting that you had the power of the horn, and instead tried to move the heavy objects with your hooves. "JEWELY! JEWELY! SPEAK TO ME! PLEASE! OH GOD!"

You started to cry hysterically as you did your best to remove the debris.

What you hadn't noticed however, was a little filly innocently stepping away from the pile, with only a teeny tiny little bump on her head. "Daddy, look, I did it! I walked all the way over to you and I didn't get scared! Are you proud of me?"

But you weren't paying attention, you were trying to move the damned piano!

"Daddy? Are you ok? What are you looking for?" She tilted her head, curious

"Jewely! I'm looking for you, Jewely!" You said frantically

"Daddy, don't be silly. I'm right here, see?" She waved to you

wut?

WUT?!

You slowly turn over, still white with fright.

You see a smiling little filly. waggling her tail about, looking up at you with pure pride in her heart. "Hi Daddy!" She says with a cheer

"....Jewely...y-you're ok..." There she was, safe and sound...

"Mhmm! I think something hit my head though. But I'm fine, see! I barely felt it! Are you proud of me?"

You gave a crazed chuckle as you slowly went to lay on your side."Something" landed on her head, she says. That fucking anvil landed on her head..Holy shit...just… "Yes Jewely, but Daddy is feeling more scared than your Aunt Fluttershy in a haunted house right now. And so I'm just going to lose consciousness for a second or thousand..ok? Ok" And then you conked out like a light.

"Oh no! Daddy must have really gotten afraid of the dark!" Jewely went and cuddled under your belly as you laid on your side, she then slowly climbed up and hung around on your side as she looked behind your back with vigilant eyes. "Don't worry, Daddy! I'll protect you from the darkness until the sun comes up! I'm a brave legendary hero now! Just like you! And I'll protect you no matter what!"

And little Jewely was true to her word, for the most part.

She tried staying awake as long as she could until she eventually fell asleep, snuggling onto your belly after she slid off your side.

in your unconscious mind. You could see her...feel her.

She was safe with you, and that's all that mattered.

Everybody was probably going to wonder what the fuck happened when they find you in the middle of town, asleep with your little filly in tow. But you didn't care, little Jewely conquered her fear, and thats all that mattered.

The only thing now was trying to explain away the anvil and such. Your wife would kill you if she found out any of those came even close to Jewely.

You probably wouldn't wake up in time to make them vanish with the horn.

Ah well, what's another night on the couch? If it meant that Jewely is a better filly out of it.

You were so proud of her.

You'd always would be, and that included your sons too.

You were lucky to have them, and lucky to have such a wife. Even if you did fuck up sometimes.

This was your family. And they came first. And you would protect them the best you could.

And that thought made you gently hold Jewely ever closer in your sleep, your precious little Jewel.

You did good, Anon, you did good.

Chapter 1

You sighed, of all the goddamn ways to finally enter the land of fantasy and happiness. You somehow found yourself plucked and dropped right onto it's rather grotesque backside.

"I thought you said a ticket to Equestria came with no strings attached? W-" you stopped yourself for a moment, and thought hard on your next words. Only you and Discord knew of not only this pact. but the fact that you came from a world disconnected from Equestria in all ways except by a simple TV screen.

You sighed. Might as well get the answer. Maybe it can help you get out of being a little colt by finding some loophole...or something.

"Why do I have to be your.....ahh..son? Exactly?"

Discord chortled "Well that's very simple Anon. It's because I'm bored and I thought I'd have a little fun at your expense. Besides, hasn't it always been your dream to be my son?"

it wasn't… Friend maybe… But not his "Son"

"Yes… yes.. I mean.. YES" You blurted out. You couldn't say no for some reason. no matter how hard you tried. You couldn't get out the words "No". You panicked and fell backwards before realizing it must be one of his chaotic tricks.

"Ahh see? That's why I, being the good natured father that I am. Took in you, Anon. A poor, defenseless, little colt. And about the strings..."

Discord held up some strings in front of your face before tossing them backwards. "As you can see, they weren't attached to anything. Anon, it hurts to see my son being so inquisitive of my nature when it's plainly clear that I've kept up my end of the deal without a single HINT of malcontent. Now....about that hug?"

You groaned. You couldn't argue that logic. But only because he'd just find a loophole through whatever loophole you could find. But being his son? You were sure that was another name for "Plaything"

You just looked at him. Annoyed. And turned around. Only to find yourself on a precarious and tiny platform. below you a host of spikes

The platform quickly shrunk, making you jump backwards....and right into Discord's arms
Discord snuggled you and laughed "There we go, don't you feel all better now that you got a hug from the best dad you could ever hope for?"

You were shaking in fear. You almost died "DON'T LET ME DOWN. PLEASE. DON'T DROP ME!"

Discord giggled "Anon, pleeeeease. I'm your father. I'd never do anything so heinous as to let you fall down"

You weren't paying attention. You never were so close to death in your life. You actually found yourself snuggling your face into his chest.

"However..." Suddenly Discord just lets you go.

You scream as you fall......upwards?
Before you can finish your panicked yelling. You immediately slam headfirst into some grass. You feel a little dizzy as you try to orient yourself and spit out a few blades.

"That's not funny As-" Before you could finish your sentence. You found your mouth suddenly zipped up with a physical zipper. Discord suddenly appeared before you. shaking his taloned finger at you

"tch,tch. Anon. You should know cursing won't be tolerated. Unless..well...hmmm"
Discord twirled his beard for a moment. Thinking of his next words. As you tried to open your mouth.
"Well....unless it's a fun magical curse. otherwise, no cursing. Are we clear?"

You just make muffled noises. Discord shook his head and put his arms to his side. "Heavens Anon, when I ask you something. I expect a clear and concise response. No mumbling....are we clear?"

You try to yell louder, your face becoming red before you realize he's just messing with you some more. He's just staring at you with a cocky smile. You give up, and fall forward into the grass. It was clear going against him was definitely not an option.

Suddenly, the zipper zips back down as Discord pats you on the head. "Good. Now, I have a question for you Anon"

You just lay there, defeated, putting your face in the ground as you feel the humiliation flow through you. "what...?"

"Well, I've never been a father before, you see. I haven't the faintest clue on what to do first. What would you suggest?"

You didn't even bother to look at him. With a dead tone, you respond. "How about you throw me in the river, since I won't be able to be with my waifu"

"EXCELLENT IDEA!" Discord chimed as you suddenly flew up and darted right into a nearby river. Before you knew it, your vision was muddled by the river's water as you twirled about in it's depth.

You held your breath and struggled to try to get topside. But these damnable limbs. You weren't used to them but you couldn't let yourself drown. You tried desperately. You managed to get your head above water as you yelled for help. "SAVE ME!"

Discord poofed above you. He seemed confused. "Save you? But didn't you want this?"

"I WASN'T BEING SERIOUS! YOU JERK! S-SAVE *blub* ME!"

You found yourself struggling to stay afloat as you yelled for Discord's help. "hmm, No. I don't think I should.....not unless you say the magic word of course." Discord, said. Giving you an almost evil toothy grin.

"YOU CAN'T *glurg* BE SERIOUS?!"

Discord said nothing. And you were beginning to tire and sink. Would he really let you drown? Well, this wasn't a time to find out.

"F-FINE! SAVE ME, PLEASE!" Within a flash, you found yourself out of the water and upside down. Your hooves clipped by clothespins as you hang from a wire.

"Wow Anon, my lessons are really leaving you out to dry. How are you supposed to learn anything when you just insist on hanging around? Hmmmm?"

You were furious now. This wasn't worth it. "YOU PI-" Suddenly, you find your mouth zipped up again.

Discord frowned "what a terrible father I've been. it's only been ten minutes and I haven't been able to teach you a single lesson. How am I supposed to impress Fluttershy when my own flesh and blood refuses to behave."

Suddenly, your anger partially subsides the moment he says "Fluttershy". That was one of the ponies you wanted to meet! Well yeah duh. of course Discord knows her.

You struggle to free yourself from the clothes pins. You succeed. And fall face first into the grass again.....you were getting real tired of falling about at this point. Discord took out his teary eyed eyeballs and rubbed them like glasses with a cloth. "I can't just start over either. I've already grown quite attached to this little colt."

As you try to unzip your mouth with your hooves. You suddenly find yourself flying like a dart right into Discord's side. And just sticking there. You just let your hooves hang as you look ahead, annoyed.

"Why, I probably could have gotten points with my other friends too. I bet even Twilight, as self centered and snooty as she can be, would find me being a good father worthy of praise....and perhaps a chair in her castle."

You couldn't tell if he was being sincere. But it did seem that he planned on showing you off to the Mane 6. You did want to meet them. You sigh. If you kept struggling. You might either get sent back home...or worse. But if you played along, you'd be able to meet them...as long as Discord wasn't rusing you. You made your choice.

You thought for a moment. Until you just decided to wrap your hooves around him and give him a hug. It was the only way you could display complying with him. Discord stopped his words, and curled about to look at you, hugging him. "Anon...are you....hugging me?"

You slowly nod as you continue your nuzzling. Discord smiled. "Does that mean....I'm doing a good job?" You nod again. "Does...that make me the best father...ever?" You hesitate....and then slowly nod.

"SPLENDID" Discord yelled as he grabs you and hugs you back before throwing you up into the air as he appears in a school cap and gown, a diploma in his hand as fanfare can be heard.

You however, fall flat on your face again. You just quickly lift your head to shake off your pain.
Suddenly the extra garbs on Discord disappears as he picks you up, unzips your mouth, and brushes you off with the end of his tail. he then puts you down and pats your head. "There we are, good as new. Now then, shall we continue our lessons Anon?"

You gulped as your eyes went wide.Nooooooope. You turn to Discord, giving him a nervous smile, as you shiver. "a-actually Dis-d...ahrm..Dad.."

"Dad", that did sound better, You were going to try to appeal to his better sense. Whatever that was. And try not to get into something that won't kill you. "...M-maybe we can do something else?"

"Something else? hmmmm" Discord tapped his chin. "Wellll...Something else does sound better than something as boring as "learning". I'm sure we can figure things out as we go. I mean" Discord chuckled "It's not as if we only have one life to live...right?"

You gulped, but agreed with him. Just agree with him. That was the plan. Stick to that plan.
Discord started pacing "now then...something else, something else. Well...hrn...being the good father that I am. I should help you get some friends. Can't live in Ponyville, the VERY epicenter of friendship, without some friends."

Ahhh shit, this was it. You jumped in place and threw out a suggestion. "Pinkie Pie! How about we meet Pinkie Pie and I become friends with her!"

YES YES, FINALLY. WHAT YOU CAME FOR! YEAAAAAHHHH

"Pinkie Pie? hrnn. No no, as your father I have to make sure you have friends your own age"

"B-but. She's friends to everypony! of all ages! P-" You stop yourself. you weren't about to say "please" again. You wanted to retain some of your dignity.

Discord again patted your head. This time, it felt condescending "Anon please, I've seen the contents of your computer."

You blush red, ahh shit. So he knows. Goddammit, It's not like you just wanted to fuck Pinkie and the others right then and there. It was just porn. You valued friendship. You did...you know you did.

"a-a-a-hm. C-come on, that's just..you know....what were the chances of me actually coming here..and um...you know..a guy...has needs....you're a guy right? I mean..you are...right, Dad?"

Discord nodded "Of course I am. And I understand wholeheartedly, That's why I decided to actually comply with your little request"

You took a double take. Did he suddenly change his mind...well yeah duh...of course. He's Discord. He's never final on anything. "Seriously? We can go see Pinkie?!" You were excited.

"But of course!" Discord snapped his fingers as a portal opened behind you. You heard it, and turned around with a smile before you could see what lied beyond it.

Tentacles, tons of them. and They were just slithering and jutting about. a few seemed to have noticed you, and slowly started to reach out of the Portal. Reaching for you. You yelp and crawl backwards away from the portal and into Discord

"WHAT IS THAT?! I THOUGHT WE WERE GOING TO SEE PINKIE PIE!"

Discord snickered "Well we are.....after we get acquainted with these tentacles first. I saw one of your folders filled with these and figured you wanted to make friends with them. Since they're on the way and all....or...we could just have you meet some friends your own age. I'll let you pick. And I'd hurry. These tentacles are *extra* friendly"

One of them manage to latch onto a hind leg as it slowly drags you into the portal. Due to your hooves, you can't grab onto anything. You just yell, and agree again with Discord.

Then suddenly, the tentacles and portal disappear as the world shifts around you. You get a little dizzy and you try to compose yourself as you suddenly find yourself in front of the....CMC clubhouse? "Dis-...ahrm..Dad...no..come on"

"Why not, Anon? there's three of them. Three whole chances to make friends. And you don't even have a cutie mark. A perfect candidate for their silly little club"

Yeah they were cute. But oh no. Actually dealing with the ACTUAL CMC who get into ACTUAL trouble and even ACTUAL mortal danger that with you in the equation might lead to ACTUAL death? Also, they were kind of annoying with their single minded quest to earn a cutie mark. Something you weren't exactly running first in line to get. Since it seemed pointless to you.

"Come on, Dad. You've been around them. You know I'm not an actual kid. I'm a mature, intelligent adult."

Suddenly, Discord burst into laughter at those words. You look at him, annoyed "Hey, What's so funny!?"

Discord wiped a tear from his eye "Oh nothing..no..no, everything with that statement was simply hilarious! Especially the "mature" part. You might be able to top the element of laughter herself if you keep that up!"

"Hey I am mature! I'm-" But you get cut off by another load of guffaws from the Draconequus.

"I am! I-..ahh......" You frown, as your ears lower. "...forget it"

It was clear he didn't care that he insulted your pride. But..you were right, right? You weren't some whiny manchild. Right? You look at Discord again, whose laughter was still pouring out of him.

You couldn't win. Even if you could beat him in words. He'd just shut you up or threaten you with magic. Was this really the price for happiness? Was this happiness? You always thought Discord was a cool character. But actually meeting him....it wasn't what you expected.
Suddenly, you hear a southern young voice behind the door of the clubhouse.

"Is somepony out there?"

You gulp, That...that had to be Applebloom. She must of heard Discord laughing.

You turn to him to try to get him to teleport you out of there...but...He was suddenly gone.
The door suddenly opens, and there she was. Big bow and all. You immediately started sweating profusely. Nervous.

"Oh heya! Ah never seen ya around before!"

Chapter 8

"Mommy!?" Discord raised his arms up in anger as his eyes began to flare up… literally. "MOMMY?!?!"

You begin to back up slowly; looking up at him in fear. "H-hey now Dad, let's calm down...I-I mean. It's not that big a deal right? Remember? Lost foal? No parents? That? Remember?"

Discord levitated you upwards as a portal with those tentacles appeared behind you "And do you remember what I said about being too friendly? Because if you think I didn't notice you blushing and being oh so affectionate… Well, Anon." His face became stone cold serious "You'd be wrong"

You start to float about. Trying to get back to the ground but to no avail. "Woah woah woah woah! Hey! You told me to be of my best behavior remember?! Girls like cute things! Remember… Look at the bowtie Discord! LOOK AT THE BOWTIE. YOU MADE ME IRRESISTIBLY CUTE!"

Discord brought you closer. Eye to eye. looking at you with serious fury "Just because I made you irresistible doesn't mean to BE Irresistible!"

WHAT?! WHAT LOGIC IS THAT?!... Oh holy shit you were going to die! "H-hey, come on. I get it. You don't want any kind of lewdity or whatever around Fluttershy. I-I didn't do any of that. I kind of just got caught up in the moment."

Discord said nothing. He just stared deeply into your eyes. You began to panic. "COME ON MAN, I'M SORRY! YOU AT LEAST GET TO HANG OUT WITH HER MORE RIGHT?! CUTE KID MEANS MORE CHANCES FOR PICNICS AND STUFF! COME ON! I'M BEGGING YOU!"

You began to sob and cry. And just as you did. The portal behind you disappeared as Discord embraced you in a hug. "Anon! That's brilliant. I didn't even think it'd give me more of a reason to be around my favorite friend. I only wanted to show her that I was above Twilight's judgement. But now, that changes everything! Who would have thought that I, Discord, would have a son nearly as intelligent as I am." He sounded absolutely thrilled.

You however, were silent. You were shaking in pure fear as sweat ran down your fur. You were looking over Discord's shoulder in a blank, dead, frightened stare.

"..."

Discord pulled you away and held you up at eye's length, he seemed puzzled. "Oh my poor little colt. Are you cold?"

"..."

Discord smiled "Excellent! Then I know one last pony you should meet before we settle in for the rest of the day! She's just a ray of sunshine!"

"..."

Discord put you down and gave you a pat "Are you ready Anon?"

You just stood there, frozen and shocked. Discord lowered his upper body to your face and grabbed your jaw with his talons and moved it up and down to make mock speak. "Why yes Daddy, You're the coolest, I would totally love to mess with Princess Celestia for a little bit!" Discord chuckled "That's my boy!"

As Discord opened a portal behind you. It suddenly just hit you that you were about to meet...and mess with...Princess Celestia. You look up at him with a panic. "NO! nonononono! We can't do that Discord! Not her! Not ever!"

Discord noticed your reanimation and looked at you unamused. "Oh? And why not?"

Your eye twitched. "Why not?! Gee, I dunno. I SURE DO want to be banished, turned to stone, or imprisoned for one thousand years!"

Discord chortled "Oh Anon, loosen up a little. We get into one little skirmish and you are suddenly afraid of everything. It's unbecoming!"

You felt a bubble of anger suddenly hit you as you yell out. "YOU WERE GOING TO KILL ME JUST 5 MINUTES AGO! YES, I'M SCARED. AND NOW WERE GOING TO GO MESS WITH SOMEPONY WHO EVEN BANISHED HER SISTER! HER SISTER, DISCORD! SIIIISSSSSTTTEEEERRRRRRR!"

Discord laughed again "Anon, you watch too many cartoons"

Nope....he wasn't listening. You just crossed your arms..legs..whatever and looked away defiantly.

"Nope, I ain't going. You can do this solo. Twilight is one thing. But I don't care how nice Celestia has always seemed. Messing with her always seems to end in thousand year banishments."

Discord laughter became crueler "Anon, you make it sound like you have a choice"

Crap… No no, don't give in. If you had to. You were sure you could find an exit from this crazy dimension somehow. "I can just run away Discord. There's such a thing as runaways you know?"

Discord smiled arrogantly and opened his front door with magic. Suddenly, lightning struck everywhere from outside the door. "There's the door, you can leave whenever you wish"

Pfft… If this is like any cartoon universe. Then he's only trying to scare you. You knew you could pull a one up on him by running out anyway. You also knew that ultimately. He can't let any harm befall you now that at least Fluttershy knows you exist… What a sucker.

You quickly turn and run towards the front door. That's it, you got him right where you want him!
Discord reached out for you, but missed "Anon, wait. I'm sorry I didn't listen to you, but if you keep going you'll… YOU'L- ANON DON'T!"

He sounded… concerned… but no. You were already in full sprint and you wanted to make a statement that you weren't just something to be manipulated. You leap out the door, you were free! FREE!

And then the next moment you fall on your head on a regal white floor. Pillars about you. Everything squeaky clean. stain glassed windows about… Oh shit... After taking a quick glance, you plop your face to the floor. "...Dammit..."

Discord picks you up and again dusts you off with his tail. "I tried to warn you Anon, I didn't want you to hit your head again but you went and did it anyway. Now why did you go and do such a silly thing like that?"

You just grumbled....no matter what you did..or do. You can't trump his magical abilities.
"We're in Canterlot Castle… Aren't we?"

"Indeed, sharp eye. I knew you'd change your mind about this if you just gave it a chance" Discord giggled to himself as he rubbed hard on a scuff on your forehead. Making it vanish completely.

You let out a very annoyed sigh. "...Fine, whatever, let's do this already. But no more visits....not unless it's Pinkie Pie.."

Discord scoffed "Fine fine..I suppose we need a little moderation on all this fun we're having."

You took in a deep breath, and slowly let it out. "That's supposing we don't end up as statues or something."

Discord, looked into your eyes for a moment, it seemed he was noting that you weren't being enthusiastic this time around. "Anon, you need to look cuter and happier than this. If it will help, then I promise that as some point you will have an audience with Pinkie Pie… How does that sound?"

You cock an eyebrow at him, unsure whether to believe him or not. "Are you lying to me?"

Discord gave you a gentle pat. "I am not lying, you can be as affectionate as you want as well. I don't mind. As long as your extreme affections go towards her and not Fluttershy, then of course I'll keep my word."

You gave it some thought… Then realized... "Yeah… but then again. I could just meet her on Applebloom's "Tour" eventually right?"

Discord nodded. "You can… but you'd have three fillies trying to push you along to the next spot. What I'm offering is one on one time"

You immediately blushed. "o-one on..one time?"

"Of course! But I don't want you to get your hopes up too much. You should realize she'll never be your special somepony..." You look down… That's right, you were just a colt.. "...Of course, that won't stop her from hugging, cuddling, and nuzzling you. She's a very hoof on type of mare. That should suffice. Right? It's not as if you won't have her friendship."

...Nuzzling and cuddling and friendship? Fuck it. That's good enough. One day, you will probably get the hots for another pony. But for now, affection from your favorite one and guaranteed friendship? Yeah ok… That’s fine. "...Ok, hold on."

You pump your right front hoof to your chest and take a breath to calm yourself. “Whewww, ok, I'm good. I can do this. I trust you… Dad. Let's make Celestia blow a fuse."

Discord snickered "Yes… Let’s..." Discord teleports you and himself into Celestia's chambers. It seems private..and unguarded. Celestia seems to be enjoying a spot of tea alone.
Well, she was alone. Until you and Discord showed up. While Discord appeared opposite of her with a tea cup fashioned in a style of his own accord. You floated slightly above… Invisible again of course.

"Helllllo! Is it tea time already? Silly me, I must have missed the invite. How are you Princess Celestia?" Discord said with a grin

The Princess remained stoic, only putting on a small smile as she used her magic to bring a cup to her mouth and take a small sip "Good afternoon Discord. I must say, I wasn't expecting your presence. But then again.." She giggles "...I suppose nopony ever does"

Discord seemed a little miffed that she didn't have a bigger reaction. But he pressed on, with a light hearted chuckle "Well, yes. I am the spirit of chaos after all."

Celestia took a small bite of her cake, before looking at him with a smile that would make the sun come up "Of course, and I'm glad to see you doing well. Tell me, how did that Equestrian Law seminar with Twilight go? Good I hope"

Discord brought his paw and talons together and tapped, keeping his eyes on Celestia's face for any sudden changes "It went smoothly. In fact, you can say I took it to heart more than any other pony would."

Celestia remained composed. and took another sip "That's very good to hear, though I assume you learned it in your own way as well, given you saw fit to visit me so suddenly. Although, I do enjoy having lighthearted company from time to time" Celestia gave a jovial chuckle.

"Why Princess Celestia, you are quite observant as always. I did indeed take it my own way… In such a way, that you can say I am undergoing the ultimate test."

As you could see, it seems Celestia was already used to Discord pulling tricks.This actually might be funny. Not worth a 1000 years. But you were actually anticipating a hilarious reaction. A sudden break.

"Ultimate test you say? Oh Discord, now you have me riveted. Tell me, what is this "Ultimate" test?" Celestia looked to him, she seemed quite interested.

Discord seemed to be getting a little antsy, and cut to the chase "It's simple, the test itself is being responsible for another life. So, without further adieu, Princess Celestia, I present to you… Anon… my son!"

Discord snapped his fingers...and this time..thankfully...you appeared right on Celestia's tea table...though now your butt was covered in cakes. You gave Celestia a wave and went into your routine. It was kind of scary. But maybe it really was worth the laugh.

"Hello! I'm Anon! Nice to meet you!"

Celestia didn't even looked stunned. She just was silent for a moment. Then smiled at you "Oh my, Discord, he's adorable!"

Discord....was stunned "HE'S WHAT?!"

You too..were taken aback. "...I'm what?"

You already knew being adorable was the shtick...but...either you did it too well...or.....what just happened?

Celestia lifted you up with her magic and put you down directly in front of herself. You felt a little fuzzy. her magic aura was warming. "A little bit of a crude place to introduce him. But a bath will fix that. Hello little one, how are you doing today?"

...Not one reaction… not one. you almost thought to question it. But that'd seem suspicious of an adopted foal asking why she isn't freaking out. "Gyum… ummm, I'm good."

Celestia smiled wide, she seemed happy as a clam "I'm glad, it always makes me happy to know a young colt or filly is having a good and wonderful day."

Discord slammed his paw on the table and locked eyes with Celestia's as he got frustrated. "What?! Are you not surprised or horrified that'd I take on such a ridiculous responsibility?!"

Celestia giggled sweetly at him as she gave your head a gentle rub with her hoof. It was… as warming as the sun. "Oh Discord, it's not ridiculous to want to care for another. If anything, it shows me just how much of a heart you have. And besides," She looks down at you "He seems healthy, and he's clothed in very fine clothing, and he seems very smart. So that tells me you've already been doing a good job. Tell me Anon, do you like your father. You can tell me the truth."

..You did… And you didn't… And due to that Pinkie Pie promise… You did more than you didn't. So you nod. "yes, I think he's pretty cool. a little weird sometimes. But he's pretty great."

"Well then...I see no reason to have any objection whatsoever."

Discord came to a mental crash and raised his talon in protest, but sounded defeated "But… but… aren't you wondering..umm..uhhmm..hrn.."

Celestia chuckled and walked over to him, and gave him a slight nudge with her leg "Discord, you don't need to hide it. I know you came here to receive a personal royal blessing and I of course give it to you. So you don't need to be at a loss of words. It's simply a blessing from a humble princess such as myself."

Discord… fell silent.

...oh man. OH MAN. OHHHHHMAAAANN. DISCORD GETTING BTFO. OHHH OHHHHHHHHHHHHHH. HOW THE TABLES HAVE TURNED. You held on for dear life the laughter within you. Holy shit… Pure fucking gold.

Celestia sat back down, and resumed her tea drinking "I'd offer you both a slice of cake.but I'm afraid they've gone flat. so..Anon, would you care for some tea instead?"

You hobble up on a chair and sit down. Celestia giggles as some of the cake drips from your butt, and the rest gets on the chair. "No, I had a lot to eat already. Dad fed me pretty good."

Celestia refilled her cup as she gave a glance to the stunned Discord. "very well hmm? It sounds like he gave you a personal feast"

You nod. "Yup! lots and lots and lots of food. It seemed endless!"

Celestia's smile never relented "Sounds like the amount of food is the same as the amount of love he has for you."

Discord's eye twitched as he came close to Celestia in a fit of frustration "Now see here! I am not some cuddly wuddly being of love! I am the Spirit of Chaos! The wreaker of havoc! I am Discord!"

Celestia didn't even seem like she was paying too much attention to him as she passed you a cup of tea. "Here Anon, at least try this. It's very soothing"

Welp… whatever. Better not reject a princess's offering. "Thank you Princess Celestia." You smile at her and carefully take the cup and take a sip… It's… warming. It makes you feel a little calmer.

Celestia then turned to Discord and offered him a cup "Discord, I think you should definitely have a cup or two as well. You seem all bent out of shape about something. It's as if you came here for a different reason than the one suggested."

Discord's eyes burst into flames...for all of 2 seconds. Celestia still remained unmoved by his actions. After standing threateningly over her for another moment. He took the cup, let some steam out of his nose, put out his eye fires, and sat down on a chair with a huff. "Fine..."

You couldn't stop smiling. You had to dig your hoof into your other leg to create some pain to counter your urge to giggle.

Celestia took the time to use her magic to refill everyone's cup "There we are, now we can have a pleasant tea party." She then looked to you "That's alright, right Anon? I don't want you to feel it's too girly or feminine."

You took a sip. Oh man, good stuff. You then looked up to her, and smiled. You weren't about to be rude to her hospitality. "No, it's fine. I actually could use this right now. It's been a really exciting first day."

Celestia giggled "I can only imagine, given who your father is. Though, if we meet again. I'm sure we can find a more exciting activity. I'll even invite you to this year's Gala. I'm sure you'll have fun. The last two were quite exciting."

Yeah… you knew. She was pretty slick when it came to that. Maybe that's why she was calm now. She knew Discord wouldn't pull anything evil. And therefore had nothing to fear… Holy shit, you hoped that was it. Because you weren't too sure. She's messed up before. "Galas seem… I dunno… a little girly to me. I don't mean to be offensive but um, It just sounds all about dances and fancy music."

"Usually, but I can assure you. I'm sure something might happen that's sure to pique your interest." Celestia's smile...it hid the fact that she was indeed about fun in less serious times.

Not like you were going to deny the gala anyway. You just needed to play the part. "Well..then...I guess I'll go. I mean...if you'll invite me."

Celestia nodded "Of course, and you too Discord… You've been rather silent all of a sudden. Is anything the matter?"

Discord was slowly eating his cup as the tea stayed in place in the air. He seemed frustrated. "Nothing's the matter… whatever.. Would.. give you that.. Idea?"

"I was just worried due to your silence. hmm..Anon, I think your father wants to go." You looked over to him… he was not enjoying himself at all.

"Yeah..I think he might be mad about something. I don't know what it could be though. Are you ok Dad?" You almost let out a laugh again. Gotta keep your cool. You knew exactly what was up.

Discord didn't even turn to look at you "I'm...just..peachy.."

"Hmm… Well, Anon, I enjoyed both yours and your father's time here today. If you ever feel uncomfortable about anything. Let me know, I'm sure you can find a way to bypass all my security" Celestia again giggled. Did she know her royal guards weren't that great? ...Nah.. Probably just the fact you can get here through Discord's magic.

"Yes, umm, Princess Celestia. Actually, when I get the chance. I'd like to ask you a few things."
There were a few things you were interested in. You wanted to pick her brain about a few things the show was fuzzy with. But you wanted to do it without Discord present. Since some of it regarded the pre-battle experience with him.

Princess Celestia nodded "I'd be happy to answer some questions. I'm sure they'd be very insightful to you. I love teaching young ponies history and magic. It’s a shame you aren't a unicorn. I'd have had you enrolled in my school that I have here in Canterlot. I'm sure you'd be exceptional as you seem very intelligent already. But nevertheless, I'd be happy to grant you my time to answer any question you might have on your next visit." You could swear Celestia herself gave Discord an arrogant glare as she said this.

That was awfully generous and nice of her. You get off your chair and give her the most courteous of bows "That would be an honor Princess Celestia, I truly appreciate it"

Princess Celestia suddenly leaned over and gave you a peck on the forehead. "My, you really are a little gentlecolt, aren't you? I'm sure whatever mare comes your way will be very lucky to have you."

HURDDURSFSDSKSFDFEFEDSDCDS... You fumble about, as you quiver, and have a goofy smile on your face. You can't even look at her. "uahm..a..ahm..thank you."

Celestia giggles as you wobbly walk over to the silent Discord. "a..a..d-dad..time to go."

Discord, without a word raises his talons to snap you and him out of there before Celestia opens her mouth. "Discord, are you not going to say goodbye to me, seems like a poor example to be setting into your son, don't you think?"

Discord winced… his plan as playing the "caring" father had been completely overturned. "o-of course… Pleasant day, Celestia.. I've...had..a..lovely...visit.."

Celestia nodded "And it was lovely to have you. You both have a pleasant evening."

You smile and wave to Celestia. As Discord snaps his talons. Warping you both out.

Celestia had turned it into her favor pretty good. Even if she was unaware of the truth. She sure got under Discord's skin.

Chapter 18

Fluttershy looked at Discord, then you, then back at Discord, confused. "Did something happen?”

Discord shook his head "Oh heavens no, we merely forgot to shut the oven off back home, isn't that right Anon?"

You nodded "Yeah, that's it. Didn't want there to be a fire. I kinda like where I live."

Fluttershy nodded, with some worry in her disposition "Of course..Anon, speaking about where you live. Are you fine living there? It's not scary?"

You shook your head. Aside from Discord himself. You've been pretty safe as long as you were inside "It's fine. I have my own room and everything. The door is on the ceiling, and what's super cool is all I have to do is put my hoof up in mid air under it and suddenly theres invisible steps. It even does this neat gravity shifty thing. It's awesome!"

Fluttershy's worry fades as she is humored by your zeal. "I'm so glad to hear that Anon. Nothing seems to bother you. It's as if you already knew what to expect."

you chuckle nervously. Because you semi did. But as long as she never figured that out it should be fine."N-nah, I just trust in my dad. I know he'd never let me get hurt."

Fluttershy just couldn't stop grinning. "You and Discord make such a great and cute pair. You must be learning so much from each other to be able to trust in one another so well. It almost makes me want to cry..."

You and Discord look at each other. Not the words you'd describe the relationship. But things were getting better. You both give each other a wink of good will.

Fluttershy then gasped "..Oh no...I forgot! She turned and grabbed a large plate with her mouth. It had sandwiches on it.. "havme somfe samdmfiches". Her voice was muffled from holding the plate.

"Thank you Fluttershy...ahh yes, just the way I like them." Discord takes his and starts munching away "perfection"

You look at the plate. You then looked down at your hooves. Damn...

Fluttershy started to become concerned that you weren't taking any sandwiches. and holds the plate closer to you.

......only one way.

You plunge your face into the sandwiches and slam them into your mouth. creating two large bubbles of fur on either side of your cheek as you chewed profusely and swallowed.

Fluttershy put down the plate and was astonished by your act "I-I guess you were really hungry Anon..."

you had to take a breath from taking in such a huge load of food at once as you rubbed your adorable plump tummy, a little embarrassed that you had to do an uncouth act to eat a sandwich .
"You can say that...."
With the sandwiches gone, Fluttershy had wondered if she should make more.
"Did you both enjoy your sandwiches?...Do you need anymore?" Fluttershy asked.

"I do, but I can just do this if I so desire...in fact. I think I will do it." Discord reached into his mouth. Pulling one of his sandwiches from the reaches of his stomach. He then smashed the sandwich between his talons and paw. And when he pulled them away. The Sandwich had grown 20 times bigger. He then tossed it in mid air. and opened his mouth as it went smoothly down his throat.

you smiled. Seeing magical acts that are not only cool, but leave you intact. Was one of the many reasons you wanted to be here.

Fluttershy giggled, amused at the act. "That was amazing Discord!"

"Naturally, if it wasn't amazing then I'd have to call myself Norman" Discord took his bow.

With that done, Fluttershy then turned her attention towards you. "Speaking of learning, Anon...How do you feel about school?"

School...You hadn't really considered that at all. With your superior human intellect. It seems sort of stupid to have to go through it again.

"It's..umm..it's ok I guess. But I'm much too smart for that sort of thing....For a young colt such as myself to be held down by the shackles of education when I myself have both great intellect and a compendium of knowledge. Well...It's simply criminal if I do say so myself"

Fluttershy, was again, astonished. She didn't think any colt your age..or what she thought was your age...could have such linguistic skills. "..U-umm..I...umm" She didn't know how to reply to that.

Discord cleared his throat "Ahh but young master Anon, have you ever inquired to yourself that your compendium of knowledge may be rendered inert due to the elementary fact that said knowledge might not be as polished as you may think?"

You knew enough. You had five seasons of ponies under your belt.
"Well then father, if you wish. You may challenge my wisdom and knowledge at your own behest. I'm ready and willing."

Fluttershy just blinked. silent. She had no words.

Discord put on a professor's cap and put a pipe in his mouth. "Well then dear colt. Tell me, in the first battle between me and Princess Celestia and her sister. What spell did they use to try to vanquish me?" As Discord spoke, bubbles came out of his pipe.

You grin arrogantly

"Well dear father, it was obviously the spell that comes from the elements of harmony"

Discord starts to grin, as he removes his pipe and stares down at you "Are you sure about that?"

You nod. Starting to feel nervous.

"Anon...that was actually the final battle. Princess Celestia and Luna actually used a powerful imprisoning spell to send Discord to Tartarus. Or at least that’s what it says in the history books" Fluttershy interjected, as she patted your head "It was a good try though"

"Ahh, that was a lovely thirty second visit. Had I not been imprisoned for a thousand years I'd probably be able to find where I left some of the pictures I took." Discord added, giving you a smug look as he did.

Shit....First battle..first battle...there was nothing in the show about that.

You clear your throat, and look around, irritated with yourself.
"W-well, that bit of history is sort of advanced...even for one such as myself."

Discord had to hold in his laughter. He turned away as you could hear some titters coming from him.

Fluttershy raised her hoof however, in a matter of factly kind of way "Actually Anon.... that's something all colts and fillies learn at a young age. Usually with a field trip right where Discord used to be...as a statue of course."

fuck...FUCK..SHE'S RIGHT. Season 2 OPENER...GODDAMMIT. YOU NEED TO RECOVER.
"ahrm..ahm..ah..well, I guess I just sort of forgot. Quick, give me another, I'm ready this time!"

"Alright then, let's see...ahh yes. Tell me how changelings acquired the holes on their body," Discord tapped his pipe on his talon. as a bubble five times bigger than the pipe just "burped" out from it.

Ok..you started to feel your confidence return. You had more knowledge on pone than most Anons would. Or you thought you did. You knew you had enough to answer this one.
"Everypony knows it's from a battle with Princess Celestia, come on, way too easy"

Both Discord and Fluttershy quietly stare at you. Fluttershy with confusion, Discord with his signature grin.

"....uhm?...That was right, right?"

Fluttershy shook her head "They just naturally grow them, it's a sign of maturity for them Anon."

Discord gave you a demoralizing and patronizing pat on the head "What a silly thing to say Anon, I think you've been reading too many comics."

You could say nothing. Even with the knowledge you had. It wasn't enough.

Fluttershy gave you a sweet little hug to help you feel better "It's alright Anon...please don't feel ashamed or feel that you are dumb...you're not. You just didn't know those things...But if you go to school, then not only will you learn about those things..but other things too...doesn't that sound wonderful?"

She was hugging you....you felt such a motherly warmth from her. You couldn't even imagine what Pinkie hugs would feel like. You now she'd probably be more zealous. Either way, without fail, you feel yourself in a fuzzy trance. And yet, you couldn’t shake the feeling of failure.
"yeah...wonderful"

Fluttershy smiled as she squeezed you just a tad tighter "I'm so glad to hear that! I promise you'll enjoy yourself Anon. You’ll learn so many great things. And you'll be able to make so many friends."

You open your eyes wide......oh shit. Was there no avoiding school? You knew you knew enough. You had to have...right?

Chapter 21

the CMC's tour was very miniscule in scope compared to what you were seeing now. You were in the middle of town. The hustle of ponies, many a cutie mare, running around happy or with some sort of problem that could be solved in twenty two minutes. No shooting, no overprotective parents, kids playing happily, everyone saying hi to one another....truly paradise. also lots of mare booty.

You stop every so often to play "Spot the BG pony" or look at your map. It wouldn't be much longer. You wondered what would happen if you ran into Lyra, you wonder if the human fetish thing extended out of the fandom.

after awhile, you reach your destination.. There it was. THERE IT WAS...Sugarcube corner.
As you walk towards it. You finally see her. Just outside, that literal party animal, Pinkie Pie.. And she was using her Party Cannon for something.
It seems she was aiming at a new signboard just above the entrance. next to her was a very worried Mr. Cake.

"Pinkie, are you sure this is a good idea? I could just go up there and hammer those nails myself."

Pinkie just gave him one of her usual big smiles and in a big bubbly voice "Not to worry Mr. Cake! Why go up there and risk falling when we can get all the nails hammered in one go. all safe and sound from down here"

Mr.Cake looked at the signboard, then around at the other ponies going about their day, then back at Pinkie. Even more nervous. "I don't know Pinkie, I don't think shooting hammers out of a cannon is safe for anypony. Are you sure you want to do this? I can just go up there and hammer it myself, really!"

Pinkie prepares to pull back the string "Truuuuuuuuust me, have I ever let you down before?"

Mr.Cake's voice began to stutter. "W-well no Pinkie, and I really do appreciate the help. B-but I was just thinking this wasn't as good sounding an idea as when you first told it to me."

Pinkie seemed to be making some final adjustments. You inched closer. But still kept a distance. You didn't want to interrupt her. "Are you sure? I just don't want you to hurt yourself again Mr. Cake. You fell down yesterday trying to put the sign up and hurt your leg."

Mr.Cake seemed hesitant, then raised his leg and shook it. His face was slightly contorted form the pain. as if he was trying to hold it back "It's not that bad..ngh..Pinkie..s-see?"

He was lying, you could see the bruise from where you stood. You decided to move just close enough to be right behind them.

Pinkie's ears drooped as she frowned "....ok..."

Mr.Cake rubbed the back of his head, he felt a little bad for getting her hopes up like that "..umm..Well Pinkie, if you really want to help. You could hold the ladder for me. That way I won't fall down and hurt one of my other legs. Is that ok?"

Pinkie immediately beamed and saluted to him "YESSIR MR.CAKE SIR. I'LL BE RIGHT BACK WITH THAT LADDER!"
And she zipped off into the shop before you could even say a word.

Mr.Cake chuckled sweetly "That Pinkie Pie, always eager to please...I hope she isn't upset, ngh.and I hope this leg heals soon. Can't have the Mrs. doing all the work."

It was now or never. You'll just walk up and speak to Mr.Cake first so it doesn't look odd to anyone that you're just sitting there. Besides, you wanted to get a look at that party cannon.

"Hello!"
You say as you approach the sitting cannon.

"Hello?" Mr.Cake looked around, until noticing you, he then put on a rather fatherly smile "Well hey little guy, didn't see you there, how are you today?"

you tap the cannon, nothing happens. clings and clangs with every tap.
"I'm alright, just looking at this really cool cannon and stuff."

"Well it is top of the line. Owned by our very own party pla-...say...I don't think I've ever seen you before. What's your name little guy?"

You turn to face Mr. Cake. He was the one of the proud owners of this establishment of course. And from what you remember from the show. He and his wife are pretty nice. They did let Pinkie live in an upstairs apartment within the place itself.
"Oh...I'm new, I've never really been around Ponyville before, so I'm just exploring. This is Sugarcube Corner right?"

Course it was

Mr.Cake nodded and started to reach into the pocket of his apron and pulled out a green cube. "Yes indeedy, this is where you can get any kind of cake or pastry you could possibly imagine." He holds the cube near you. "Want a flavored Sugar Cube? This one is green apple, we started selling these today!"

Selling?....OH SHIT..that's right. You didn't have any money. And didn't even think of asking Discord for a few bits.
"I'm sorry, I don't have any money"

Mr.Cake just gave you a gentle smile and reached back into his apron to pull out a few more along with a cloth and string. And with quick skill, he wrapped it all as a little bag and put it in your saddle bag. "It's on the house, there is such thing as free samples. Besides, you don't even have to eat them now. You can use them to decorate a cake or even give a drink an extra punch. They are really cheap to make and full of flavor!"

You giggle, that was a cute sales pitch. And he was nice enough to wrap up a small bag's worth for you.
"Thanks mister....say..who was that Pony who was with you?"

"You mean Pinkie Pie? A friend and the best party planner Ponyville's got. Speaking of, if you plan to stick around. You better prepare yourself"

You had an idea why, but for childish whimsy sake, you ask why anyway
"How come?"

Mr.Cake chuckled as he looked up at the signboard for a moment to make sure it hadn't moved. It was place up there but not nailed in yet. "Well, since you're new. And you've never met Pinkie...well..that means she'll probably be more than happy to meet you. She's the friendliest pony you'll ever meet."

You wanted to rub your hooves together like some evil mastermind, all according to plan. You continue to feign ignorance.
"Golly gee, is she really that friendly?"

"You betcha, She's friends with everypony in town. Sometimes I wonder what'd we do without her. Oh, look. There she is."

Pinkie was balancing herself on her hindlegs as she bumbled about holding a rather large ladder "MR.CAKE I GOT THE LADDER! HERE I COME!"
Pinkie bumbled and wobbled over and placed the ladder right under the signboard and then wiped her brow "Wooo, almost thought I was gonna trip. But no siree, Mr.Cake said he wanted a ladder and I got it!" Pinkie then turns to Mr.Cake and salutes "Missio-....HEYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!" Pinkie suddenly yells out in a high pitched shrill. Mr.Cake seemed fine with it. You however, now hearing it in person, felt your ears rings.
Before you could say a word, Pinkie dashed right over to you. And leaned down to your eye level. Looking directly at your own eyes, a big smile on her face "I've never seen you before!What's your name?!Where are you from!? who's your mom and dad?! What's your favorite color?! Is it your birthday?!"

Oh geez, she was shooting questions at you like a machine gun.
"u-uhhhhh"

Mr.Cake chimed in and gave Pinkie a pat "Slow down Pinkie, I think you're going a little too fast. Why don't you ask what his name is first?"
Pinkie chuckled in embarrassment "Oh right....Guess I got overexcited again.. So, what's your name?"

you felt a warmth in your heart. She seemed really happy to see you. Then again, she's always happy to see anyone. Still, it's still enough bubbly happiness to make you feel special.
"My name is Anon,Miss Pinkie"

"Miss Pinkie?" Pinkie blew a raspberry, she didn't like that "Just call me Pinkie Pie! or Pinkie! You don't have to say Miss or anything like that. too formal"

"Right..umm"

Now that you were face to face with her. You had no idea what to say. You were limited on what you thought you could talk about. And you didn't want to get into anything needlessly complicated like your "origins"..unless she herself asked of course.

Pinkie however took it as a sign of nervousness and immediately picked you up, Rolled onto her back, and cuddled you onto her belly "You don't need to be nervous Anon! I'm not gonna hurt ya! I'm as soft as cotton candy!" She giggled.

Mr.Cake smiled at the sight. But he had work to do, and pulled a hammer out of the cannon before going up on the ladder.

You were immediately lost, and bright red in the face as you were cuddled onto Pinkie's near gelatinous, fuzzy soft and warm body. You instinctively nuzzled back.

"Awwww, you're an affectionate little guy. Usually when I hug a colt they yell out that I have cooties or something...I don't even know that that is."

You don't say anything, you just cuddle right there. You wanted this to last forever.
But unfortunately, all good things must eventually end, except in the case of Pinkie, which things only get better from. Pinkie picks you up gently with her hooves, boops your nose with her own. and leans over to put you down as she spring upwards, spins,and lands on her hooves "Ha! Perfect landing!"
You still said nothing, That boop bump left you intoxicated with the fuzzy feels.

Pinkie looked at you and noticed your blushing, she inched over in concern "You ok Anon...You aren't sick are you?"

The tone in Pinkie's voice from happy to concern snaps you out of it some. You realized you may have been in some kind of stupor and so tried to recover
"O-oh no no, just umm..got a little dizzy from all that hugging."

"Really? Nopony has ever got dizzy from my hugs before. awwww, does that mean I can't hug you anymore?" Pinkie frowned, she really liked hugging.

WHAT?! NO?! NO FOR FUCKS SAKE. QUICK, QUICK RETRACT STATEMENT!
"O-oh..umm..what I meant it being so sudden...I mean..I liked the hug. I really really liked it."

"ooooooooohhhhhhh....so no surprise hugs then" Pinkie felt she had figured out what was wrong

GODDAMMIT FUCK....THINK ANON THINK. YOU IDIOT.
"No..I..uhm..like surprise hugs too...It's um. just..."

You had nothing, half your brain was thinking while another half of you was thinking something lewd..
Fuck it...you wanted another hug. That was the warmest welcome you've had yet. She didn't even make mention of your name being "off".
You jumped up onto Pinkie's back and started rubbing and hugging onto her. You had quite a spring to your step. Must be horse legs.
"I-I just liked to give surprise hugs too!"

You felt like a kid again, for real this time, with some added soft list. This had to be some voodoo magic Pinkie witchcraft. You didn't expect to get this nuzzly.

"Awwwwwww" Pinkie turned around and gave you a nurturing ruffle of your mane with a hoof "You're the cutest colt I ever met, but ya better not hug me too much! your mom might get jealous!" She giggled "Speaking of parents, where are they? Have I met them? because if I have" She suddenly growls and makes an angry face as she shakes her hoof "I'm gonna be awfully sore they didn't tell me they had a son. All those missed birthdays....." she narrows her eyes "...All...those...birthdays..."

Suddenly, you could feel every warm feeling being replaced with dread. You didn't want to tell her you were an orphan. You knew what that would do to someone like her. this was not the time for it, you had someplace else to be after all.
You hopped off her back and inched away from her
"oh umm..well my mom's not here"

"Oh..so are you out with your Dad? Where is he? HEY ANON'S DAD! COME ON OUT! YOU SHOULDN'T BE LEAVING YOUR SON BY HIMSELF! COME OUT SO I CAN GIVE YOU A HUG TOO!"

Oh geez....how to approach this...
"no no, Pinkie, I'm just travelling around by myself.my-"
You whisper in a lone tone, the singular word
"Parent-"
then go back to speaking normally
"Are doing other things, I'm out exploring!"

"Oh, ok! I guess I can meet them later! Maybe we can have a big family party to welcome you all! Since I know we're all gonna be great friends!"

Wow, friends already. She works fast...jackpot. Now that you regained control of the situation. Time to put on the ole Anon charm.
"Y-you wanna be friends with me?"
You were so coy. All you had to do was act snuggly and cute and she just ate it up like a cupcake.

"Of course silly! I can tell just from your face that you really really really want to be friends with me too! It's weird, it's almost like you've known me for a long time from a distance so far that I'd never be able to notice, not even with my Pinkie Sense! and also! was in love with me or something with how affectionate you are!.....but that's just silly. You're just a sweet nice little colt!"

..............shit

You immediately force fake laughter from yourself.
"haha, that's really something..hahaha...ha"

Pinkie tilted her head and looked at you more sharply for a moment, as if she knew your laugh was fake. But then she smiled and giggled and gave you a soft hug. "I like you Anon...and since you really really wanna be friends. I gotta think of a cute nickname to go with your cuteness. How does Nonny sound?"

OH SHIT. SHE SAID NONNY! JUST LIKE IT WAS FORETOLD IN THE TEXTS OF GREEN!
You nod profusely, you didn't want her to switch to anything else. You looked like a damned madman with the way you flailed about.
"YES YES YES! THATS GREAT, THATS GOOD!"

Pinkie looked at you suddenly with a face of confusion. She was looking at you as if you had just lost the lottery but was celebrating anyway.
you calmed yourself to meekness
"..ahrm..I mean...t-that's great..."

She then immediately goes back to her endearing smile and gives you a pat "Nonny it is!"

Now that nicknames were being given out. You wanted to try and press your luck. If the scriptures of the green was truly on your side. Then this should work.
"Can I give you a nickname, Pinkie?"

She nodded "uh huh! Lay it on me Nonny! I'm ready!"

You had to let out a light hearted giggle. Pinkie was the easiest friend you've made so far without causing some sort of trouble . Well except for that line about you being from a far off place and being in love with her. It did sting your heart a little being reminded you're now too young for her. But with all this good feels. You could let it pass. You got this far after all.
"Can I call you Ponk?"

Pinkie went silent for a moment and rubbed under her muzzle "Ponk?...hmmmmnn..Ponk.."

Oh shit..did she not like it? You were hoping she'd take to it immediately.
"Righ-right sorry..it's a du-"

But you get cut off as Pinkie continues to say it, then add on to it. "Ponk, Ponka...Ponka Poo, Ponka Pee, Panka Pa!" She then starts to hop about, saying names in a sing song fashion "Ponka,Panka,Pinkie,Pookie! That's really fun to say!"

nevermind, she liked it.

Suddenly, Mr.Cake calls out "Pinkie, can you please hold the ladder for me? I'm going to try to hammer in the higher nails now"

Pinkie snapped to attention "Right away Mr.Cake! Wait right here Nonny, I'll be right back!"

....as much as you wanted to wait. You were sensible to realize you still had other shit to do. And you didn't know how long you'd be stuck with Pinkie if you waited for her. It's not like you wanted to leave, you just didn't want to make Discord wait too long. You knew..or at least hoped..he hasn't been watching you. You knew he had plans, and absurd as it sounds for him to be troubled by your little detour may sound, it was not something you should risk. You weren't some cartoon character who would have lost track of time or anything. You were sharper than that and this detour already ate up some time as is.

"A-actually Ponk..I gotta get going. I got a few more things to do and then I gotta meet up with my Dad...It was really really really great meeting you though!"

Pinkie frowned "Awwwwwwwwww....ok. But be sure to visit again! and bring your parents too!"

yeah no...she'd find out eventually about the whole parents thing. But you weren't even sure if you could make that happen, nor did you want to bring Discord over. you felt you wouldn't approve of any tricks he'd pull...You liked Pinkie too much. Hell, it hurt knowing you had things to do. You'd really rather just stay with her for as long as the day allowed. But you just couldn’t risk not being on Discord’s schedule.
"I will! It was really nice meeting you Ponk! Bye Bye!"

"Seeya soon Nonny!" She waved to you, making you wave back in response.

That went smoother than you could imagine, she became your friend in an instant. At one point, you had to come back FOR SURE. For now, you had one last stop however before returning to the cottage.

Chapter 48

You start to head over to Bon Bon's house. But you still couldn't get a sense of happiness from having a visit.

...Whoever that pony was. She was unusually vicious. And it actually hurt you. You had no idea why. You shouldn't care at all. She even did you a favor even. And yet, the way she just made you feel.

It was probably perhaps she was right to some degree that there was indeed deception involved. Or maybe it was just the fact that she demolished you verbally and you couldn't do anything about it. Whatever it was, You didn't like it. It made you angry and frustrated when you tried to reason with yourself that you had no reason to actually be upset. Though, you did worry what would happen if the CMC ran into her. If you felt this bad, you couldn't imagine how they would feel.

Hopefully, Bon Bon and Lyra's company could cheer you up. You reach Bon Bon's door, and put on a big smile. "Relax Anon....she just said some nasty words, it doesn't mean shit. Just get on with your day." You take a breath. And knock on the door.

It takes a moment, But the door opens, revealing Bon Bon, who had a saddle bag to her side, she raised an eyebrow to your presence. "Anon?... Why are you here? Shouldn't you be in school?"

...Ohh… Not the greeting you were hoping for. It just kind of made you feel even more shitty. Your ears droop as you rub the side of your right front leg. "Ummm. Actually, I am not scheduled to go to school until like a day or two..I forget. But, all my other friends are at school. So I was wondering...if I could hang out with you and Lyra today. You guys are really nice."

Those words seemed to put a melancholic expression on Bon Bon's face. "Anon, we only met once. Are you sure there's not any closer friends you can hang out with that are… more your age?"

Ouch… but… she was right. You couldn't exactly be considered close just through one meeting. Well… you might as well go home and sleep until the afternoon. "...I'm sorry, I'll just leave you two alone then."

You begin to turn, and right as you are about to turn around. You hear a "Wait!"

"Look..." Bon Bon noticed you were hurting, she didn't know why. But she didn't mean to turn you away. "I didn't mean you couldn't hang out with us..I was just wondering why you just wanted to hang out with us. Looking at your face though… let me guess… something went wrong with that whole mess you got stuck with ,huh?"

...Yes and no..You didn't want to talk about it too much. You just wanted it out of your head. That was the whole point anyway. To not have to worry about being stuck with DT anymore. "...I'd rather just not talk about it."

Bon Bon nods, she was curious as to what happened. But given your attitude, she wouldn't press it now. She'd try later, she thought. "Ok, wow. I don't think I've ever seen a colt so down before… I hope we can cheer you up somehow, because all we were going to do was go and look at some hats, and maybe buy one."

"That's fine" No matter how you tried, internally. You couldn't cheer yourself up. This was absurd. You've been depressed a shitton of times before, and made fun of plenty. Why should this be any different.

You may have not been able to figure it out. But the truth of it was the fact that you weren't much of a success back in the human world. And what this pony did, she made you feel just as worthless as a pony as you did as a human. An inescapable feeling.

Bon Bon stepped out, and started to head off to a hat store "Well… follow me then. Lyra is actually waiting for us there. She just kind of wanted a hat out of the blue. Had to run home to get myself some bits just in case I wanted one too. I… I wouldn't mind sparing some my bits to get you one if you wanted."

Bon Bon examines your face for some improvement. Nothing.

"..no it's fine...I still have some money of my own" You tell her as you look back at your saddlebag

Bon Bon felt incredibly awkward. She was just going to have a day with her best friend. She didn't think you would show up in such a depressed state. She was in fact. A little annoyed. But seeing you so depressed and downtrodden. She couldn't figure out if the advice she gave you backfired or it was just your rotten luck. And she didn't want to just send you away. She did want to try to cheer you up in some way. "So Anon, do you like Ponyville so far?"

"It's great… It's a place I always wanted to live in" You didn't sound so enthused though.

"Right..Anon, look. Are you sure you don't want to talk about it? It might help"

You felt it wouldn't. You were slowly starting to pinpoint in your mind why you felt like shit. you just couldn't make any final connections. "...I'm fine. You wouldn't understand..."

"Wouldn't understand? Anon, I was a filly once too. Why don't you try me? I may not look it, but you'd be surprised how much I actually know. You can say that I'm… good at picking up intel."

To anyone else, that may have not been a hint to anything. But you knew… agent Sweetie Drops. Still… you didn't feel like saying too much. "...no really. it's fine. It's not a big deal."

Nope… Bon Bon wanted to bring you out of this funk before Lyra saw you. She didn't want her to be brought down by your negativity. "Says the Gloomy Griffon. If it wasn't a big deal, you wouldn't be acting like this. Tell you what, if you tell me what's wrong… I'll give you something cool… something I think a colt like you would really like."

...hrn?... Ok… She's got your attention. What could she possibly give you that's "cool"? "...Really?... Like what?"

"Well… colts like cool stuff that adventurers use right?... Well I've got a… hrn.." Bon Bon reached into her saddlebag and pulled out her emergency grappling launcher. "..grappling hook… that I won at a carnival..." She gives you a smile, you swear you hear a squee.

...Well, that makes things more obvious. And… that was super tempting. A grappling hook launcher?... you could be like batman, and spy on shit… Yeah, that was cool. Maybe eavesdrop on some juicy conversations and find out if ponies are as innocent as they seem on the show. "That… does look pretty cool."

Bonbon gave you a sly smile "And It can be yours, if you just talk about what's got you so down."

...Sparkle sparkle..

"...Ok ok… umm, I went to Diamond Tiara's house to see if she was home. I was gonna get her to take me to Silver Spoon so I could talk to both of them… but I didn't realize at the time they were all at school. And I… I ran into her mom."

Bonbon then realized what was up "You ran into Spoiled Rich?... Well… that explains it."

...So that's her name… Fitting. "Explains what? I've never even heard of her. She wasn't there when I visited before."

"She wouldn't be, she has been in Manehatten for awhile now. I didn't realize she came back to Ponyville. hrnnn..." Bonbon seemed surprised that she missed that she was there.

"...what's with her? Do you know her?"

"Never met… but uhm… I've read she's a lot more socially oriented than her husband. Keeping good relations with the wives of other major business owners and holding major social events from time to time. Manages the subsidiaries of Barnyard Bargains too since Mr.Rich likes to stay here and handle the old store . Rumor has it she's not very accepting of ponies she deems… lower than her… but that's just what I've heard."

...That was an understatement. "She said some really horrible stuff to me. She even called me vermin… I mean. She did the things I was gonna do anyway. You know, fixing the friendships I messed up and all. But she only did it because apparently she thinks I did it on purpose or something. But, most of all, the things she said… It felt so… familiar.."

"...As if you heard them before? You poor guy..." Bonbon felt a sense of despair from your words. "...Did you have trouble at the orphanage?"

...More like..your old life. "..You can say that. I tried making friends, but it felt like the only friends I could make were ones I never actually met."

Bonbon didn't quite understand what you meant by that. Imaginary friends? She started to think that Discord picked you to save you. A noble gesture indeed. "So...you never made any real friends?"

...You did, on the internet. "I guess it depends on what you mean by that. I mean, it wasn't that bad… Not the way you put it anyway."

Bonbon doubted your words. She couldn't imagine what it was like not having a single friend, nor any parents to make you feel loved. "Anon, do you want my advice on all this?"

You look up at her. Awaiting to see how much she truly understood. Your ears still drooped.

Bon Bon gently puts her hoof on your head and gives you a gentle smile "You shouldn't worry about where you came from. And you shouldn't worry about what Spoiled Rich said to you. She may be part of the "Elite". But with a name like hers, well. You can see how much it fits, right?" Bonbon gave you a giggle "Now if only we could change her last name to "Rotten" , right?"

A simple joke… But, It made you smile a little. Bonbon's advice was something you were already trying to do. But hearing it from someone else. It put things into a more positive scope. Since it meant she didn't care about your past. She just cared for what she saw. This was probably the same for Fluttershy and the CMC

Your old life, whether it be the perceived orphanage or your real old life back on earth. It was gone. You could never return, not unless it was on Discord's whim… And he didn't seem keen on sending you back; If that set of statues was any indication. In fact, the more time you spent with him. The friendlier her got. And in turn, you liked spending time with him. Despite his pranks, he was your friend. Just like the CMC made you their friend. Pinkie, even meeting her once, was your friend. And now you even made friends with BG pones. It may seem sappy. But what you lacked in "Proper Etiquette", as Spoiled put it, you made up in the fact you actually had something that mattered… friendship. And it was something you wanted to build upon… Oh christ… Friendship really was magic!

You look up at Bonbon, as a smile creeps on your face. "Spoiled Rotten? Eh, too easy. Why not just "Stool Pigeon"."

It took Bonbon a moment, but then she got it and laughed "Hahaha, Anon, do you realize how vulgar that is?"

You nod, with a bigger smile. "Dunno, it might not be vulgar enough actually."

Bonbon laughed again, and ruffled up your mane with her hoof "alright alright, let's not overdo it. I don't think other ponies would find this funny. So… feel better?"

...You did. You didn't expect that from Bonbon. She must have picked it up from... whatever she does… Bonbon opened up your saddlebag and slipped in the grappling hook launcher "Well, a deal is a deal. Here it is! My grappling launcher… that I won at a carnival. Make sure to keep it lubed up before you use it to prevent it from getting stuck, ok?"

You nod. Should be easy enough to remember. "Thanks Bonbon...I promise to take good care of it. I can't wait to try it out!"

Bonbon had to warn you, she didn't want you to get too excited "Anon, make sure you practice with it first. Real low to the ground stuff. You could get hurt if you just shoot it anywhere...." She had a feeling she shouldn't have even given it to you. "And don't shoot it at anypony either"

And you could tell she had some regret in passing it along to you. She jumped the gun yeah. But you knew how to be responsible.

"Don't worry, I'll be really careful and practice until I feel comfortable enough to shoot it higher. Trust me, I won't do anything reckless."

Bonbon felt a little reassured "There's that high intelligence again, any other colt would just go shooting that thing off left and right. You promise to be careful?"

You nod. "You can count on me. I'll even make sure to use it by myself so I don't put anypony else in danger of me shooting it at them or something"

Bonbon cringed "Right… Yeah, that would be bad… hmmnn… Just be super careful.."

You and Bonbon walked over to the hat shop. hrn, there was a small gathering of ponies at the entrance.

And, the moment you and bonbon entered the vicinity, a familiar mint pony started jumping up and down from within the crowd. "Bonbon! Bonbon! Over here, I saved us a spot!" With another hop, she then noticed you "Anon! hey! Cool! Now we can all get hats!"

...Heh… she didn't even care that you weren't in school. The moment she saw you, she just included you in like it was no big deal. It made you smile all the more.

Chapter 77

Twilight rebegan her lecture. This time taking a less scientific, simpler approach

"Where'd you go Anon" Diamond Tiara asked you, concerned on why you had left without a word.

"Just wanted to check of Princess Twilight, she was looking sorta upset..you know..just a thing I do"
You shrug, and smile sheepishly

"Oh..umm..Well, was she ok? She got really angry there" Diamond asked you

You started to go into a low whisper. Ready to spring your question
"Oh..yeah, she's fine....Hey Diamond, I got a question...can you meet me at the Crusader Clubhouse after school?...and without Silver Spoon?"

"....you mean...alone?" Diamond whispered. she was intrigued by this.

"Yeah...can you? I want to talk to you about something in private."

"Private? But won't Applebloom and the others be there too?"

"Ehhh...not really, maybe"
What a lie..

Diamond was even more intrigued, curious, wanting of this. "I think I could convince her to go somewhere else is she is.I'll just tell her we're gonna try getting your cutie mark in "mud wrestling"...how does that sound?"

Mud wrestling.....yeerrrnnnn...you wondered how pure that suggestion really was...
"...ummm..yeah, that'-"

"AHRM.....am I boring you two?" Twilight looked at the both of you, annoyed that you'd whisper through her lecture. "This is very important you know..."

shit...

Diamond immediately snapped to attention "S-sorry Princess Twilight, it won't happen again"

"Yeah...sorry.."

Twilight nodded, and continued her lecture. She was explaining about how doing good deeds and telling the truth was an important part of friendship, and then after that moved on to how sharing and being generous was another, and so on and so forth.

Cheerilee was staring at the clock. Given where it was last time recess was called. It seemed to be getting close to that time.

"....now then" Twilight took a breath, this time ready for anything "Does anypony have any friendship questions?...that relates to friendship?"

hmmm...Twilight was helping you out...maybe you'd throw her a bone and offer up a challenging friendship question. You had just the right one in mind.
You threw up your hoof faster than any other student in the class.

Twilight prepared herself, and pointed to you "Yes?"

"Well, I was wondering. Do you think villains like the changeling queen or Tirek will ever be able to embrace friendship and become friends with ponies?"

Twilight was caught offguard...she wasn't expecting a question asking about her past foes. "...That's actually a good question...and a little difficult to answer. But, I'll do my best"

Twilight wasn't going to let a question like this slip through her hooves when it's for the benefit for the class. "That answer is complicated. I don't think either of them have ever had a friend. Or...ever had a friend they could relate to rather than manipulate. I think if somepony could show them the magic of friendship, then there's always a chance. Actually, I must admit. Before I became a princess I thought it was actually an impossibility. But a dear friend of mine showed me that even the most powerful and seemingly evilest of beings could have a change of heart once they experience friendship for themselves. To put it simply...Yes, I think it's possible...just highly difficult to manage." Twilight nodded

...hmm..she was obviously talking about Discord...evil?..nah, he just loved having fun. That's what you saw anyway...he was just a colossal dick...he's still a colossal dick..

You nod to Twilight
"Thank you for the answer"

Not really, that was an obvious and heavily generic one. But eh..what were you to expect?

"You're welcome" Twilight said with a smile, feeling things were finally going somewhere "Now then...Any-"

The bell rang
"What?..what was that?" Twilight looked around, confused.

Cheerilee assured her it was normal "It's the bell for recess. You don't mind if the students go out and have their lunch and have fun? Do you Princess?"

Twilight was disappointed that she had to be interrupted so suddenly. But, she couldn't hold children back from eating. She smiled to Cheerilee "No no, it's fine. I'll just continue when recess is over."

"But...Princess. We do need to give the students some time to continue their projects too. Don't you think?" Cheerilee didn't want to go off schedule. She always tried to have a seamless curriculum.

"I think..well...can't they work on it tomorrow? This is important." Twilight was intent on finishing up her lecture.

"...There's no school tomorrow...or the day after that" Cheerilee said, despite Twilight being a princess. Cheerilee was adamant on keeping to schedule.

But Twilight was just as adamant as her at getting her lecture across "Well, hrn. Then how about giving them a break and then letting them finish on the next school day?"

Cheerilee tapped a hoof on her desk, pointing to her planned curriculum and schedule on a notebook "Princess Twilight, as you can see here. I already hired professionals to move all the projects to a special storage until the day of the festival. I can't just cancel that, they don't allow refunds."

"T-Then I will personally go up to them and have them reschedule, t-this is important!" Twilight stammered, the lesson must go on!

Cheerilee relented at that...that..would be ok..She didn't want to go against the princess completely. "...Well...If you can do that. Then. Well..you're the princess..." Cheerilee then turned to her students "Recess everypony, and please don't forget to eat your lunches...oh..and Anon, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, Diamond Tiara, And Silver Spoon...I do believe we need to talk about some holes you left around the schoolyard yesterday,,,"

Well damn, still on that?

everyone, including you ducked down a little.

"That's what I thought" Cheerilee nodded, looking at the guilt "I want you all to eat your lunches and then spend recess filling those holes. Understood?"

you all nod and reply.

Well godddammnnnnn.....Well..it'd be fine..

Silver Spoon was whining though. She didn't want to touch the dirt at all.

You bust out your lunch box and unwrap your sandwiches and start eating, as you open your thermos to drink. huh...how nostalgic..

You look over to your two compadres. ....well damn...their lunch boxes were much nicer than yours. Particularly Diamond Tiara's. It was two times bigger and encrusted with gems.

"...Don't worry about it Silver Spoon, you can just stand there and we'll do the work, You weren't even digging with us in the first place."
You actually just wanted her to stop whining. That seemed to do the trick.

"...Thank you Anon. That's very gentlecolty of you"

Gentlecolty..
Gentle...NOPE. Can't let that in. CAN'T LET HER IN.
"It's just the truth. If you had dug some holes. Well, that'd be a different story"

You take a bite of your sandwich as you peer over to Silver Spoon. she seemed a little peeved by that comment. But says nothing....good.

You look over to Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle. Aww...they were trading lunches. That's cute...why was that cute? You had no idea.Just looked cute in a friendly sense.

Twilight seemed to be doing some mental exercises. Psyching herself up for more lectures and questions.

this was no problem. If anything, your plan was now fully a go. Nothing could ruin it really. You had all the pieces in place. All you had to do was make sure it all worked .

After everyone's meal. You all went to fill the holes as ordered. Being ponies, it seemed you had no need for shovels as your hooves were rounded and strong enough to do the job. Silver Spoon just watched as each of you, even Sweetie Belle and Diamond Tiara. Came together to fill the holes back up. Scootaloo had a unique way of doing this herself. Using her wings to create a push on the bigger piles of dirt to send them down into the hole. Huh....and she still wasn't able to fly.

You all didn't strike up much conversation. Instead focusing on filling up the holes as quickly as possible. It was boring work, but your pony body gave you more vigor than your old human one. You had the energy and strength to keep going.

Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo looked like they wanted to talk about something. Probably about the plan. But they didn't want to talk in front of Diamond Tiara. Or that's what it looked like anyway.
Finally, you all finish up the final hole.

"hah! That wasn't so tough!" Scootaloo said as she patted down the dirt

"Yeah but now we gotta go back to class soon. And Twilight is being sorta...well..she's being a little boring" Sweetie Belle said, she didn't have that deep an interest in hearing about things she had already been told many times before.

"Well, I think it's important to hear what the princess has to say. Isn't that right Anon?" Diamond Tiara looks to you to agree with her.

......

In this world, it was pretty important. Friendship is Magic and all that. But, you didn't want Diamond to get anymore into you. And agreeing with her may...ahh whatever. You were going to tell her the truth later anyway. You only needed to last awhile longer.
"Yeah, It's pretty important. Friendship seems to make everything go round in Equestria. I mean, without friendship. My dad would still be a statue and.."

Suddenly you felt a small sting in your heart.
"And..I guess I wouldn't be here"

.....yeah....Twilight's lecture was important. Even if you understood it at your own level. It was important for these growing fillies and colts to learn and understand it too. Without it, you'd never would have had the chance to even come here.

"Anon?..Are you alright?" Diamond Tiara noticed your expression become gloomier. It worried her.

you nod. quickly snap back to reality. And give her a smile. This was no time to be sappy. Stick to the game plan

"yeah I'm fine. Let's just head back to class and wait it out. I doubt we'll be able to get anything else done."

You all agree and decide to go back inside the schoolhouse to wait things out. But there was already students returning. Seemed it was a decent idea as any then.

Twilight looked prepared for more questions. And for another lecture.
And with everyone seated, another bell ring soon followed.

"Alright Class, please put everything away and we shall resume the lecture with Princess Twilight" Cheerilee stated. a few of the other students had a few things out. like lunchboxes,toys, or books. They started to put their things away as Twilight took the stage once more.

"Now I want to hold off on questions for now. And speak about something else about friendship that's very integral to it's foundation. And those are the elements that make up friendship. I'd actually like to go more into detail about each one..."

And so she did. Twilight went into explicit detail about each element of harmony as a quality to friendship. It was actually really boring. But it did have most of the class impressed. Sweetie Belle looked like she'd doze any second though. Scootaloo was handling it just fine, especially when she got to the part about Loyalty.

"...and now...a few more questions. I hope you all really get the idea of the concept of friendship by now! So please, don't hesitate to ask me a question" Twilight said, smiling, feeling satisfied with herself.

And it seemed they finally did. most of the students were finally asking questions pertaining to basic friendship and friendship problems such as "should i tell the truth to my best friend, even if it'd hurt their feelings?" or "what's the best way to make new friends".

Twilight took every single question head on. Delighted to give her sound advice to everybody who asked her. She got so lost in it that the bell rang in the middle of one of her answers.

"W-wait? That's it? But...there's still so much to talk about" Twilight looked a little devastated. She got so into answering questions she just failed to realize the time. But, she took it in stride, she wasn't going to keep you all there forever.

Though..this was perfect for you. It meant it was time. It was time to get the ball rolling and hopefully not have it totally crush two hearts. All you had to do was make your intentions clear without causing any issues.

"Well that's the bell! I'd like you all to give a big thank you to Princess Twilight who took time from her busy schedule to give you all her lectures on friendship. In fact, why don't we all give her a nice round of applause" Cheerilee gave her students a loving smile as she raised her hooves to clap for Twilight. The rest of the class joining in, even you joined in. Twilight did try her hardest. And answered questions to everyone's satisfaction.

"Thank you everypony, it was a pleasure to pass on my knowledge of friendship that I had learned by coming to Ponyville with the rest of you. I hope you all have as good as an experience i've had with friendship."

It almost looked like she was going to cry. Was it because she did a really good job? Or because she was looking into a crowd of hopeful students that would take her to her word. probably the latter...maybe both. Or maybe she just wanted to keep her lecture going forever. The world would never know.

You get up and take a stretch, raising your butt in the air. It was weird being a pony sometimes. sometimes you felt like what a cat must feel like...or a dog.
"Well...I'm gonna go head off to the clubhouse. Get some things done. And other things prepared...you know..stuff.."

Stuff indeed. in your explanation to Twilight. You had told her where'd you planned to be when this all went down. So she should show up, maybe even before you do. To discuss anything further. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo would nab Applebloom. And Diamond Tiara..

"I'll meet you down there soon Anon, I just want to ask the princess a few more questions before she goes. " Diamond seemed to have gotten distracted by Twilight's presence. Some things never change you guessed. But that was fine, Now she had no reason to straight out follow you.

"Yeah, I'm gonna stick around too! I want to ask the princess some things about....well..being a princess!" Silver Spoon said, excited that the lecture was over. She felt she could get a question not relating to friendship in. This too would be fine. You definitely didn't need her following you for any reason. Good job Twilight, you even made a good distraction.

Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle say goodbye to you, and give you a confident nod. A nod that told you they were going to get Applebloom immediately. Perfect. Applebloom only lived little ways away from the clubhouse. But you hoped she'd listen to her friends and actually go there.
All the pieces were falling into place.

After Miss Cheerilee said her goodbyes to her class. You made off to the Clubhouse. To wait for everyone to show up. And get things over with.

Chapter 94

Fluttershy at this point had passed out the food to everyone. Treehugger had her simple hay sandwiches. Fluttershy and Discord had their cucumber sandwiches, though while Fluttershy also had a few things as a side, like an Apple. Discord had more of a spread of food from his own picnic basket, which was fine because things like a poison joke sub didn't sound appetizing.

You got cucumber sandwiches, a juice box, and woo, potato chips! Haven't had those in a while. You are the first to speak since the little drama show. You look over to Treehugger and ask her a question about her usual state of mind. "Hey Treehugger, can I ask you a question"

Treehugger takes small gentle nibbles from her sandwich, "Sure, what's up?"

"Well, I noticed that you always got this, Ummm, how can I explain it. This… this. this dream like look in your eyes all the time. You seem like you’re always chill over pretty much everything. Is there a reason? Is there something… I dunno, that you eat or-" You stop yourself, don't say smoke. "or, er, take or something?"

"You mean like a potion?" Treehugger asks, she thinks that's what you meant. You nod, because that was plausible too given you were in Equestria.

"Nah, it's not a potion. It's actually like, when you see the world, you see it differently from everypony else and you can see the beauty in everything no matter what, and like, you know some things have bad vibes but you know they are just vibes and any bad vibes can also be turned into good vibes, and everything just emits this… aura, ya know? And when you're like, in tune with it. It always gives you this bodacious good feeling. And I always try to be where those good auras are at because bad auras always bum me out. And I also eat naturally, mostly, so I eat a lot of herbs and like, mash em up myself, I've got like, so many recipes, but you know, a lot of these herbs don't grow around here. But some crazy ones do grow in that Everfree forest over there, I've personally never been yet but I bet I could make some killer stuff if I went looking around,"

Well, that was long winded. Answered your question though, almost. Maybe it was just the herbs.

"Oh, you don't want to go too deep into the forest Treehugger, it's dangerous! there's all sorts of dangerous things in there that don't really like ponies very much. I know some of them are actually ok deep inside, but some are actually downright nasty." Fluttershy warned Treehugger, she's seen first hand how dangerous the forest could be.

Discord sips some tea, saying nothing, not even a retort on how Treehugger should go inside anyway.

"It's cool, I know the place is bad news, don't get a lot of good vibes from it anyway."

Treehugger then asked you a question, with friendly curiosity. "Yo, so hey Anon, I noticed you don't have your cutie mark yet, you got any idea on what your special talent might be?"

You shake your head. "No, I'm still trying to figure it out with a couple of friends of mine… actually, I notice your heart tree cutie mark. What does it mean to you Treehugger?"

Treehugger shrugged "I actually don't know, but I really love nature and stuff. Oh right..." Treehugger giggled to herself "It's because I'm really good at loving nature and stuff."

You don't laugh, but you found it cute and amusing that she forgot what her cutie mark meant for a moment. "Oh, well you seem really in tune with nature with all this vibes and aura and chi stuff."

"Yeah dude, really. Everything in Equestria has so many more things about them than what you can just see with your eyes, and like. I can feel them, it's all around us. So like, I go around and try to help nature, whether it's like, animals or plants or things like that, It's the righteous thing to do," Spoken like a true hippy Still, she's probably tons more effective than a human hippy.

"That's actually really cool of you Treehugger, I think there should be more ponies like you, really" What you meant was back on earth. You weren't some environmental nut job. But even you could see the planet was getting it's ass kicked… or maybe you just watched too much Captain Planet.

Treehugger's beamed a happier, less drug induced looking smile at you. "Thanks little dude, I don't really hear that from ponies your age. They usually find me boring or something" Treehugger shrugged "I can never figure out why" You could. But you better not say.

"Oh! Discord, Treehugger. I thought of something fun I could ask the both of you!" Fluttershy lit up, Getting pretty excited.

They both looked to her with curiousness, hell, you did too.

"Well, me and Anon had a conversation yesterday about alicorn royalty. And I thought talking about it was really fun AND interesting. I was wondering. What would you both do if you became alicorn royalty? OR… erm… in your case Discord. If you erm… became the ruler of Equestria again… this time, without all the badness.."

"Well, that's an easy question for me to answer, I would rule with chaos spread all over the world!" Discord began to laugh maniacally as lightning struck from seemingly nowhere.

"Discord! I said without the badness! How could you still want that?" Fluttershy was already getting upset, her fun being turned to ruin.

Discord instantly calmed down, and looked to Fluttershy with a gentle yet sly smile "You misunderstand me Fluttershy. Chaos isn't inherently bad, Picture this! A world where there'd be no litterbugs, for if anypony litters, they get attacked by literal litterbugs. Nopony would go starving as it rains chocolate milk and hay every now and again. Villains would be rightfully punished whether through perpetual tickle torture or being forced to watch grass grow from a seedling to 100 miles high, no pony would never be homeless, because if they are, then they could simply plant a seed to grow a new home. And the sky would always change to the color befitting of their king's, that would be me, mood. And every day would be party day! And that you can't tell me is bad because I'm sure a certain pink friend of yours would be absolutely ecstatic to hear that."

Fluttershy thought about it, none of that seemed bad, sorta… maybe? "Well, erm. That's actually not as bad as I thought. But erm, the erm… the litterbugs wouldn't actually hurt anypony, would they?"

Discord almost nodded, but seeing Fluttershy's worried look, he changed his tone. "Nooo, noooo, perish the thought. They'd just scare them so they never litter again"

"Oh, well that's ok I guess. Hrm, well Discord. It sounds like things would always be fun and interesting with you as our ruler. And I'm so happy to hear those things about you helping less fortunate ponies. I didn't even think chaos could be so beneficial." Fluttershy was impressed.

And you know he was probably talking out his ass. Maybe. You know if he ever did get the throne that he would never do anything to harm Fluttershy. But even then, that kind of power could go to one's head pretty quickly.

You were interested in Treehugger's answer. Though you could probably guess that it was probably some "save the world" kind of generic. It could still be interesting. Fluttershy's, while being "save the world" stuff, was still cute to hear. "So what would you do Treehugger? Is it something like, protecting nature?"

Treehugger looks to you when you spoke to her, and then simply said "Yup"

"And er… what else?"

"Ponies, animals, ummm… I think that's it, this alicorn stuff sounds really hard, I'd probably just hire like, some other like minded ponies so they could do other stuff while I focus on protecting stuff."

What a very… boring answer. "oh..."

You waited for her to maybe say something else, but nothing else came. That was really simple.

Fluttershy gets the hint that you weren't too impressed. "Anon, not every answer has to be interesting. The important thing is the intent and what you would do as an Alicorn princess or prince. And I think Treehugger's answer is alright. Protecting everything is a very good answer"

Yeah it was. Just… really boring.

"Oh hey, Nightmare Night is coming up really soon. You guys going to go around that night? Going to be totally awesome, like, really good fun" Treehugger seemed pretty excited for it, hell. You didn't even know it was coming up. Ha, heh. Your first Nightmare Night.

Fluttershy shook her head "N-no, Nightmare Night isn't really my thing, it's erm… a little too scary"

Discord shook his head as well "Nightmare Night does sound wonderful, but any scares I could conjure up would be attributed to Princess Luna. I don't really understand why the day can't just be about candy and scaring others without it being connected to a legend that probably isn't even true."

Fluttershy cocked an eyebrow at him "Discord, Nightmare Moon really happened. And then me and everypony else managed to turn her back into Princess Luna"

Discord scoffed "Well, I don't remember it."

"Er, you were still in stone when it happened. even then, I've told you about it before" Then Fluttershy thinks she figured it out "Discord, are you not going to Nightmare Night because I'm not going?"

"Mmmm well..." Discord was shifting his eyes, looks like he didn't want to answer that

"Oh Discord, don't let the fact that I'm not going ruin your fun. Besides, I bet you could go and have fun with Anon!" Fluttershy looked over to you "Anon, you've celebrated Nightmare Night before, right? You could show your father how it's done"

"Actually, this would be my first ever Nightmare Night too."

Fluttershy's happy smile suddenly turned to that of a devastated frown "W-what?"

Yeah, what the fuck? What got her so freaked out all of a sudden?

"Yeah, it's my first one ever. But don't worry, I bet me and dad could turn it… into… Aunt Fluttershy?"

Fluttershy started to cry as she flew over to you and cuddled you tightly. "Oh Anon...t-that's terrible!"

What?! Why was it terrible? What was she doing? "u-uhhh.."

Fluttershy held onto tightly, gently cuddling you, you could feel her tears get onto your coat. "D-does that mean you've never had a Hearthwarming or been to the Summer Sun Celebration? O-or anything?"

Treehugger looked on as well, she was finding this to be a real bummer.

"Uh-uhmm" Shit...

Fluttershy started to cry even more "What kind of orphanage doesn't even let the children out to special events?! Did they just keep you inside all day?!"

"E-eerr"

"That's it! No, that's wrong!" Fluttershy slowly let you go and stomped her hoof "Oooohhh! That's a terrible way to treat children! I swear, I'm going to write them such an angry letter! no! A lot of angry letters! I might even get a ticket and go over there myself! How dare they!"

Not only did that make you panic, but you could see Discord was really uncomfortable with that as well.

"Now now Fluttershy" Discord flew over to her as quickly as he could "Let's not get too hasty. I-I mean, I don't think a letter or a personal visit is going to do anything"

"You're right Discord" Fluttershy agreed. Both you and Discord wipe your own foreheads, that was close. "I'll ask Twilight if she could go, She'd definitely be able to set them straight" OH GOOD GRAVY. NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

"I dunno Aunt Fluttershy, I mean it wasn't that bad. It's just, from my understanding, the orphanage was always low on money. A-and, they didn't want to make us go out to collect money because the streets were dangerous. So, umm, they tried to do it themselves and I guess it's sort of hard because… they… aren't… as cute as I am? Yeah, that's probably it."

Fluttershy began to calm down hearing that, but it didn't help her mood "That's still horrible. Oh, if that's the case. Then maybe we need to do something to help raise money for them. That seems like the right thing to do."

Discord could work with that, you even knew he could. Money and faking things was something he had no problems with. Discord nodded "I agree Fluttershy, but we don't have to do anything. I could simply send them enough money that all those colts and fillies would be able to enjoy holidays like we do"

That did it, Fluttershy looked up to Discord with hope and happiness in her eyes "Really Discord? You'd really do that?"

Discord bowed to her "I would"

Fluttershy went and gave Discord a big big hug. "Oh that's very nice of you Discord! You'll be making so many colts and fillies happy!"

"Indeed, I've also decided that I will be going out on Nightmare Night. Me and Anon might very well have a blast. But Fluttershy, won't you join us?"

Fluttershy shook her head "I'm sorry Discord, but Nightmare Night really… really isn't my thing. And I don't want you both to think you need me just to have fun. I want you both to have a good time. I'm sure it'll be ok without me."

Discord internally groaned and looked to you, waving his arms from you to Fluttershy. Wanting you to say something to convince her. You could tell just by the look on his face.

But you had no reason to convince her. You saw the Nightmare Night episode years back. Fluttershy was in her cottage and just looking at Luna scared the living shit out of her DESPITE knowing that she had done her part in changing her back. You could only imagine what other terrors would await her. "I think we will be ok Aunt Fluttershy. I don't want you to go if you're going to feel uncomfortable. Me and Dad will make it work."

Fluttershy moved over to give you a kiss on the forehead "That's very sweet of you Anon. I really hope you get to enjoy Nightmare Night. If your costume isn't scary, I wouldn't mind seeing you in it"

Awww, you wouldn't mind hearing a compliment from Fluttershy. But not scary huh? Hmmnnn… maybe a pone version of Dante would work. He was pretty stylish. "Well, I haven't decided on a costume yet. But um, when I got an idea. I'll definitely show you."

"Oh, in that case. Don't forget that you could ask Rarity for help if you're trying to make a costume. She's really good at making things just have that extra spark… I think that's what she calls it"

Well, you wouldn't need Rarity's help on that. You had a horn... The horn… That's right. Maybe you could banish Chrysa… oh, probably not. Like the rest of Discord's random restrictions. He probably already nullified any way of sending Chrysalis to Tartarus. Maybe. "Thanks Aunt Fluttershy, I'll remember that"

Discord just slapped his paw on his face and rubbed it down, frustrated. He expected you to convince her to come. He was just going to have to understand that she just really didn't want to go.

The rest of the picnic pretty much went like any normal picnic would go. You all ate your food, and with the chaos that had already been caused during the picnic. Both you and Discord managed to behave yourselves. Keeping to pleasant conversation. The topics were lighthearted. Such as how one's past days have gone. Of course you and Discord couldn't disclose anything relating to "The Truth" and the changelings, but you both conducted yourselves just fine.

Discord did little tricks to amuse Fluttershy from time to time. Such as making a tree taller for more shade, or making the grass greener for a rather heartwarming "The grass is always greener on the other side" joke. You didn't realize that was a phrase in Equestria too. Then again, they also had bowling. So eh.

Treehugger spoke more about her work, or seemingly lack thereof. Fluttershy liked it at least. It was similar to hers when it came to helping animals and such. Things went dandy and fine. You almost forgot the horrors that was waiting for you back home… almost.

The picnic itself lasted a good while, not long enough for you to not have any daylight left though. There was still plenty of time to do things. And everyone seemed to be in much better moods.

"Wow, I can feel like, everypony is in sync with eachother right now. It's giving me this nice fuzzy feeling"

Discord chuckled "Yes, I think I must agree with you Treehugger. I do feel much more uplifted. How about you Anon? I'm sure you must be as happy as a clam"

You nod. "Yeah, I'm feeling pretty good. Plus," You roll on your back cutely and rub your tummy. "I'm feeling pretty full"

"I'm so glad we were able to all get along in the end! See Discord? Treehugger is a nice pony once you get to know her. I'm so glad everypony was happy with the picnic! It means we should probably do it more often!" Fluttershy was absolutely ecstatic

"Yes, I suppose she isn't so bad now that I've had the time to know her a little better." Discord hesitatingly admitted.

"Yeah, this whole picnic thing was really enlightening to me. Makes me wanna go back and see my folks, actually. Yeah, I think I'm gonna go do that right now. Haven't seen them in like a month" Treehugger said, as she got up and dusted herself off "You guys need help cleaning this all up?"

Discord chuckled "Oh, no need for that."Discord put his talons and paw on the picnic blanket and pulled back in such a way that nothing moved. Then all the leftovers and baskets and such flew towards him as he caught them within the blanket. Making it into a bag. He then pulled the bag inside out. Making everything, including the bag itself. Disappear "Ta da!"

"Woah.......radical" Treehugger was blown away

"Way to go Dad" You clap for him.

Fluttershy giggled, finding it cutely funny, and clapped as well. "That's amazing Discord, and not a single bit of litter on the ground! You're amazing!"

Discord chuckled arrogantly as he bowed to the adoration "Of course I am… but… hmmnnn" Discord suddenly became serious "I must go back home to deal with a little problem. It's nothing to do with Anon, so don't worry." He then looks to you "Anon, will you be coming with me? Or will you be enjoying your day out here."

Yeah… nope, you didn't want to deal with it. You were sure he could handle it. "Um, I kind of want to stick around. I want to go see Rainbow Dash for something"

Well that got Fluttershy curious, she was sure you hadn't interacted with Rainbow Dash too much to just want to visit her.

"Hmm, then you will be needing this of course." Discord snapped his talons. Making your saddlebag appear at your side. "Before you go off, I'd like you to make sure everything you need is in it. In fact, you should show your aunt the reason you're going before you actually go. In anycase, ta ta everypony. And a very nice goodbye to you Fluttershy, I had a wonderful time"

"Awww" Fluttershy flew up and gave Discord another hug "I had a wonderful time too. I hope whatever you're dealing with isn't too big a problem"

"Oh not to worry my dear, it's simply a little infestation that needs to be put in it's place."

"Oh, well, try not to be too mean to them Discord. I don't know how things are in your dimension. But if they are as nice as the Smooze, then please don't do anything too rough."

"I won't. Goodbye everypony, seeya later Anon" Discord winked to you as he disappeared.

Treehugger, who was initially going to leave. Did get curious as to what you should show to Fluttershy and hung around. Fluttershy then looked to you, wondering about it all. "So Anon, I just remembered. Are you going to Rainbow Dash's for that flight she promised you?"

"Woooah, Anon can fly?" Treehugger was again, blown away.

Fluttershy giggled "Hehe, oh no no. What I meant that Rainbow Dash was going to hold onto Anon as she flew around a bit. Well… actually… I'd hope that she would strap you to her in some way. Just to be safe."

"Actually Aunt Fluttershy. Treehugger wasn't too far off… here, let me show you something." You pull out your cardboard wings. On it, you notice was a small note.

"You get an extra horn charge today Anon, just for today. One to show Fluttershy and make her smile. And the regular new and improved charge for your little flight training. Well met on getting my back by the way, expertly done. I'm very proud of you. But that doesn't mean I'm happy with you. Enjoy your day Anon."

The note immediately disappears upon you reading it. You gulp, you hoped he actually meant that last bit.

Chapter 119

"Wow, checking this place out in person. It's really desolate. Why did you set up the town so far away?"

"I didn't want my town to gain too much attention until I was ready to span out. You know how it is."

"That makes sense. You didn't want anypony judging you until you had more support to persuade a positive outcome, right?"

Starlight nodded. "Right" She wanted to focus on the conversation, to get her mind out of the negative slump she was feeling deep inside. "I don't understand how you don't have your Cutie Mark. It clear that you're talented, or at least, very intelligent. Do you have any special skills at all that you're good at?"

Not any worth mentioning. You were smart because you were actually an adult. Otherwise, you really haven't learned to do much of anything else. Especially in your pony body. "Couldn't tell you, I think I would have gotten my Cutie Mark by now if I was good at something in particular."

"Well, it's not just about being good at something. It's also about realizing your destiny."

...Destiny, that irked you. That was a subject that you feel nobody would be straight with you about. It was also something you didn't feel Discord actually knew about. Since he himself didn't have one. "Yeah, about that. When everypony says "Destiny", does that mean that's what my life is going to be like? Just, completely centered around my Cutie Mark?"

"Given the situation, I would have to say no. I have my cutie mark, and it doesn't look like I'm going to be going through with my plans anytime soon… Mnnnn..." Starlight felt her heart jump when you both approached a cliff overlooking the town. "There… it is."

Yep, there's the town. It… really didn't change too much since Starlight got run out of town. It looked a little more vibrant. But… it was still the same. "Yeah, looks like everypony is still down there too. Alright. So… how exactly do we get down from here?"

"We could take the long way down."

You felt that you didn't have time to take the long way. You did leave without telling anyone. And while you knew everyone else could assume you were sick or something. Discord could come looking for you. And the last thing you needed was him butting in on this. "What about a shorter way? Don't want to tucker myself out walking all the way down."

"There is another way" Starlight looked at your horn "But you're going to have to change me back."

You felt you could trust her, hopefully… God, you hoped this didn't come back to bite you. "Magic huh? Are you sure about that? It's a pretty big drop if something goes wrong."

"Just trust me" Starlight was scanning the horizon, notably, a huge boulder that was sitting just outside of town. "I won't let anything go wrong, in fact. I kind of want to show you something that would make something like wings, obsolete."

"You mean hovering with magic?"

Starlight was too worried to act arrogant, she just wanted to move things along. "It's more than that, change me back. And I'll show you."

Here goes nothing, hooves crossed she doesn't do anything bad. "Right..ok… Hold still… annnnddd...."

You point your horn at her, and zap her with a ball of magic. Covering her in a blue smoke cloud with white static around it. You can hear her grunt and groan, her pitch deepening as moments go past. Until finally… the cloud dissipated, and she was back to normal. Horn and all.

Starlight started tapping her horn, to make sure it was there and not popping off like yours just did. "Amazing, I feel like myself again… thank you Anon.."

"You're welcome...hrn...hmm.." Things felt a little uneasy for you. Seeing her back as an adult gave you a bit of a chill. You didn't know what it was, but you felt things were more fluid when she was a filly.

Starlight however, was truly thankful. She turned towards the cliff, and again looked down at the town. She took a breath. "Ok… here we go...."

Her horn started to glow. And as it did, both you and her started to glow as you both rose up.

You gulped. "You sure you got this?"

She nodded "Not just got, this is something I managed to master. Anon..." She looks at you. "Have you ever flown before?"

"Sort of, just not very well."

"Then this is going to be an experience" She slowly moved forward, looking down at the boulder. "Try to relax, and don't breath too fast."

"What do you mean? We're just going to hover down right?"

She shook her head "No, we're going to fly."

Oh good lord, here we go. You knew not to even question it. She somehow mastered flight. You could see it in her determination… You just hoped she's learned not to drop a passenger during flight. You braced yourself… ooohhh shhhiiitt.

And there she went, with you floating right behind. She zipped downward and curved, flying straight to the boulder. And while you weren't screaming, you were making a very annoying "mmnnmmmnnrrmmmmnnhggmm" noise the entire time.

She flew right behind the boulder and stopped. "Well... that was...refreshing."

You however..your heart was pumping hard. Holy shit, You didn't think a unicorn could do that so skillfully. And yet here was Starlight, able to do shit Twilight could never do. Even as an Alicorn. Maybe she didn't need a companion at all for that season finale. She could probably take Twilight on her fucking own.

But Starlight already felt her confidence draining as the town only stood a few yards away. She looked around the boulder for only an instance. And felt like her heart had been poked.

"I..geez...that was, I..w-woah. Starlight that was...Starlight?" You notice she looked more and more unsure of herself.

"Y-yeah?"

"Hey, don't quit on me ok? The town is right there."

"But..I just can't walk into town. They are all probably still angry at me for what I did to them.."

You look around the boulder, you could see a few townsponies. Smiling, getting along, it looked really natural. As opposed to when they had equal signs as cutie marks.

"Maybe, but that's where I come in. I'm going to go in there, and have a chat with whoever their leader is. I'll be upfront, cool, and I'll get them to see reason. All you have to do is show them that you're ready to change. I know it's going to be tough, but if we both do our part correctly. Then it should be fine."

"How can you be so sure?" Starlight wanted to trust your word, she found your intelligence impressive yes. But you were still… only a colt. "Do you think they'll even listen to you?"

You felt they would, all you had to do was be dutiful in getting your point across. "I think they will. It's probably going to take a lot of persuading. They probably don't have many good memories about you. But that's not what it's about. If my Aunt could befriend my Dad in a day. Then this should be no problem."

"I hope so… So, I just wait here?"

"Yeah, I'll bring them over here. And.." You stop

You turn to Starlight and give her a gentle smack on the chest. "Stop being so scared, it doesn't suit you. To tell you the truth, When you're all confident and even cocky, I kind of find it..." ...Wait, where were you going with this? Oh geez… Don't say "hot".

"Inspiring?" She asks, confused.

"Yeeeeah… that's the word I was looking for." If it also meant....sexy...anyway.

"Well, they do say ponies follow other ponies who are full of confidence and leadership..." Starlight sighs, "...but we have more important things to do then talk about things like that."

Right..the plan… Ok.. "Ok, then I'll be heading in. Just trust in me Starlight, I've got this." You give her a confident smile. Surely you could do this. You've got saturday morning cartoon knowledge after all. You would just have to show them in some way that she was good now, even if it has to be a grandiose display.

"Good luck Anon, I… really hope you you can do this."

"No worries, I've got this"

You hoped. And you were off. Off into the town to look for it's current leader. "Ok Anon, just act natural. You can do this. ...you...can do this..."

You didn't even need to really sneak in or anything. Most of the ponies you were passing by seemed pretty busy painting, fixing up, and conversing with one another. No foals about. Must be at some sort of school within the town.

You started heading towards Starlight's old place. Maybe whoever was mayor or whatever was in there. Hah… this is easy. Super easy.

Then, you feel a tapping on your back. You jump forward and turn around, startled. You weren't expecting that.

"Woah, woah...who did that?!" You look forward, nobody.

"Up here."

You look up, a white mane, midnight blue pony was flying above you. Night Glider… you think her name was. It had been a while, and she wasn't THAT noteworthy. "o-oh, hey. Ummm… what's up?"

"That's what I should be asking you, I don't remember being told a new family moved into town" She chuckled "How am I supposed to show you the skies if you don't let everypony know you just moved in."

The skies?

She was just being friendly. It seems she likes to fly around with foals. Probably so they can have fun zipping around in the open skies. Not what you came for however. "No no, you got the wrong idea. I'm just visiting"

"I'm?" Night Glider realized that you didn't say "we're". "You're alone? Wow, I've never seen that before. Why are you out here all by yourself? Are you running away from home. Because… you know, I can promise you, whatever it is. It isn't that bad."

Night Glider landed, and came closer to you, she was trying to be warm and inviting. "If you let me tell my friends I'm going out, I'll fly you back home. We can talk on the way, how does that sound?"

...Oh good geezez. You felt like the foundation of a "run away kid" episode. "I'm not a run away."

"Hey, I know. I know. But your parents are probably worried about you. Maybe we can get some lunch. Do you like candy? or eclairs?" She was still talking down to you as if you were a kid. It was, honestly annoying. But you held it in. It was pretty weird for you to appear just, out of nowhere. In her case.

"Look, I know what you're thinking. But I'm actually here on official business of....." Of what exactly?...Fuck, what's a good way of putting it?

"of?" Night Glider was waiting for your answer. Whatever it was, she was going to take you to get a snack right after.

Of....of...wait. Duh, there's a fucking obvious answer. Especially here in magic horseland. "...Friendship"

"Well, hey. That's no problem, because we can be friends right here, right now. Mission accomplished" Night Glider gave you a friendly grin.

For fucks sake. You felt like you were starting your life in Equestria all over again. Except even harder because you didn't know too much about this town. It wasn't exactly a character highlight post Starlight. Keep your cool Anon, keep your cool...keep..your cool.

"Look, I know you're being nice. But I'm being serious. I need to see the mayor of this town. It's urgent."

Now that struck Night Glider as odd. You were looking pretty serious, And she didn't expect you to be looking for a leader. Especially… since the town didn't have one. "Sorry to say, but we don't have a leader. We're sort of what you can say, "a team""

"A team? But then who manages the town?"

"Nopony, we all work together to make it the way it is. Everypony is always helping everypony else, we’re a community that sticks together and works together to make everyday a good one. We've always been like that."

...Always? "What do you mean? Didn't you guys have a leader at some time… where… things happened..?"

"Yeah, we did actually. Her name was Starlight Glimmer. She, well. I don't want to go into detail. She was a bad pony, with a bad message. But the way she ran things wasn't really that bad. Everypony knew each other, and everypony worked together. Essentially, everypony was equal. But that also held us back, and kind of made us mindless… speaking of… are you doing some kind of report on our town?" Night Glider asked. "Because, I have a few friends who could probably help you if you're doing some kind of school report."

Night Glider was trying to come up with the reason you were in town. If you weren't a run away, and you were on official business. It could be a school report.

You shake your head, though her offer of seeing her friends might be helpful. Still, how were you going to open this up to "Hey, Starlight is here and she wants to make up with you all."?...or maybe, maybe it'd be that simple. First, you should probably see what she thinks of Starlight, then work on changing it when you meet up with the others. "What did you think of Starlight Glimmer herself? What are your thoughts on her,"

Night Glider took a few looks around you, you definitely weren't doing a report. She was trying to figure out what you were doing. In fact, she didn't even know your name. And that irked her. "Well, hold on, let's not get ahead of ourselves. We don't even know each other's names. I'm..."

"Night Glider, some of your friends go by Sugar Belle, Double Diamond, and Party Favor" You were totally going to get ahead of this. She wasn't taking you seriously. You needed her to realize you weren't here to play.

That knowledge however, made her both suspicious and astounded "How did… how did you know all that?"

"I know all about this place. I know about the ponies here, and I know what happened when Starlight ran the town. I need you to take me seriously. What I have to say is very important. As for introductions, I'm Anon. Son of Discord."

You hoped you didn't go too far with that, but you were getting annoyed. You felt you weren't going to get anywhere if she was going to treat you like a garden variety colt.

Chapter 140 - The Nightmare Night Arc

After the nuzzling was done. Celestia looked back to the television screen and gave a sorrowful sigh.

being unable to look up at her in your position. you felt another affectionate nuzzle was in order, that sigh didn't sound very happy. As for you, you felt this feeling before. The feeling of absolute safety and comfort. The same feeling you get from Fluttershy.
"What's the matter?"

"I'm just a little sad. You gave me this wonderful gift and I can't spend much time enjoying it."

"Why? Princess stuff?"

Celestia nodded "Mhmmm, it doesn't leave me much time to do things at my own leisure. And considering how interesting this all looks. This would be something I'd like to spend some of my leisurely time with"

"Oh.."

Well, she wouldn't have that much to worry about. Your guess was she probably thought she'd have to restart each time she plays.

"Don't worry. The games have these things called "Save Points". Just use one and you can continue where you left off on your next session."

"Really...." Celestia found that convenient "So I needn't rush or panic if say, I had to go commemorate something. Or deal with legal matters."

"Yep, you could just save and do what you need on your next session...OH WAIT..one more thing"

You zap a couple of more games. Namely Super Mario All-stars +Super Mario World,Super Smash Bros Melee, and Power Stone. Then zap a paper onto the console that has special instructions for proper game and console handling.

Celestia looked at the new items that appeared with even more confusion. one was a very small disc, one a brick with a sticker, and the other was a larger disc. "Are those games aswell? Anon, even with save points. I don't think I have time to enjoy ALL these games"

"ahh, nah. these games in particular is to enjoy and share with your sister."

Celestia was even more intrigued. She knew arcade games had two player. But it was always switch outs. Seeing what you had shown her already, she was too curious not to ask the basic question of: "What do you mean?"

"These games can be played with you and your sister at the same time. mainly just games to beat eachother up in really...and um...hold on."

You zap in another game, Donkey Kong Country one and two
"And these two particular ones can be played cooperatively. with each of you controlling one of the playable characters. Trust me, if you both get the time. You'll have a real blast."

Celestia looked back on the screen. Still curious. "But at the same time? How could that screen allow it? From the game you showed me, it seems impossible."

oh man, this was both cute and a little annoying. But it was fine. And that was simply because no horse could be prepared for this. It made you feel like a godly master of video gaming.
"There's ways. You'll just need to pop them in and see for yourself. Trust me, you'll have a lot of fun."

"I'm sure. Hmmm...." Celestia stands up and walks over to the console, and magically levitates the paper with all the instructions and features and slowly begins to read "Hmmm, none of this looks very complicated. Perhaps I'll feign illness tomorrow so I can have time to learn all of this"

"You'd do that? Is that really a good idea?"

You really wondered this, you didn't want her to miss anything important just because of video games. You didn't know how important her job really was. But you'd not make the mistake of underestimating it either.

Celestia looked back at you, and smirked "Anon, you shower me with this many gifts and you're going to expect me to let them sit here and collect dust? I'm only going to take one simple day off to familiarize myself with everything. Unless you want me to make you a royal advisor on my play time....which I would just ignore you anyway"

ouch

"ok ok, alright. Fine. I don't even know why I'm worried or arguing with you. You're an adult. You've lived like...forever"
You look towards the outside. The sun was slowly starting to set.
"I should be heading out anyway, I don't want to miss Nightmare Night with my friends."

Celestia's horn started to glow as she peered outside towards the balcony as well. "I hope you enjoy yourself Anon, I really do. But...before you go, raise your hoof"

"what?"

"Trust me, just do it"

hrn, well. no reason to fear her. She wasn't Discord. She wasn't going to put a bomb on you or something.

You put your hoof up as Celestia pulls a single piece of wrapped chocolate from her royal dresser and plants it on your hoof.
"What's this?"

Celestia giggled just a little, and looked at you with a mirthful warming smile. "Anon, are you going to tell me your world doesn't have chocolate?"

Well...it did look like chocolate.
"It does...just wasn't expecting it. aww, thanks."

You smile warmly as you go to open it. But right at that moment. Celestia whisks it away.
"H-hey! what gives?!"

Celestia giggled "Well you can't just eat it silly, I was just getting you to an early start to offering your candy to Nightmare Moon so she doesn't do unspeakable things to you"

ohh hell no.

You use your horn to slap the chocolate back to your hoof, then smirk at her.
"At this moment, I am much more powerful than Nightmare Moon. If anything this is a tribute to me for not doing anything unspeaka-HEY!"

She tries to hover the chocolate away from you during your monologue, but you use your own magic to keep it in place. then laugh.

"Haha! Sorry Celestia. But you won't keep me from at least having one win on you."

Celestia stopped trying. her expression became that of stoic patience. "Hmmm, I should have saw that one coming. You enjoy power, don't you?"

oh, why'd she have to ask it like that? that's sort of a buzzkill. Still...you did enjoy the power. She was right.
"Come on, don't do that. I only get a day doing whatever I want with this thing. And I've never had a high quality chocolate candy before. Like I tried to tell you, I'm not a kid."

Celestia nods "You're right, I got a little carried away. It's hard not to when you look and act like an adorable,clueless, innocent little colt"

"That's righ-HEY!"
You look at her, your cheeks slightly puff with anger. But it was an anger she found cute.
"I'm not clueless! adorable..well. Yeah duh. But I'm not clueless! If you're referring to the whole dream thing? That was just you and your sister being really underhanded"

You calm yourself, because you truly felt you were right. and you did have the chocolate. So you technically already won.

Celestia nods, and seems to back off "You're right Anon. You're smart enough to reason that it was indeed an underhanded tactic. You may have the chocolate"

woah wait...did she just admit defeat?
"Really?....just like that?"

Celestia nods
"Just like that"

haah, well. Finally, some actual respect for your adult thinking mind. It actually made you feel proud.

You look to the chocolate. Yep, you definitely earned it now. You unwrap it with your magic and toss it up to catch it in your mouth.

As it comes downwards. Celestia immediately aims and blasts the chocolate, turning it into a blast of chocolate mush that hits your face.

Celestia starts laughing, as you just continue to stare up in the air. taking an actual second to realize you were in chocolaty goopiness.

you look at Celestia, which only illicit more laughter caused by your chocolate covered face.
"A-Anon...y-you look ridiculous" Celestia laughed all the more.

You really must have. chocolate you got into your mouth tasted good though. But not as good as to what you were about to do. There was no retarded dream world to hold you down this time. So this was no real big deal.

you silently aim your horn as Celestia continues to laugh. Before she even realizes what happens. You blast all the chocolate from your face to hers.

You then laugh, and laugh rather heartily. Not only from the fact that Celestia's laughter immediately ended the moment you hit her. But because you managed to one up her in the process.

"Take that! oh yeaaaaah! Anon shoots, and he scores! the crowd goes wild!"

Celestia couldn't hold it in though. She starts giggling along with you as she rubs her hoof along her face and starts licking at her hoof. "Very well played Anon. "

That was actually...kind of fun. Maaannnnnn, why didn't Discord just make you a unicorn in the first place? Being an earth pony sucked.

Though, you beat Celestia in a silly little fight. You had fun. And soon she'd know the joy of gaming. Despite the loss in the dream world. This didn't turn out all that bad. Especially since you could be honest with her. That being probably the best part. And unlike Discord, she was playful in the way she conducted herself. And was very nice to you. Sad she never had a kid of her own to raise after all these years.

"Well Anon, you can go now. I need to go see my sister and see what she plans to do for the night. You have a fun first Nightmare Night. ok?"

"I will, don't get too addicted to them games now" You give her a grin.

"I won't, don't go doing anything you'd regret with that horn....I do seriously mean that"

"I won't. you can trust me. But I'm still gonna have some fun with this thing before the night is over. Seeya later!"

You wave to Celestia, who both waved with her chocolaty hoof and continued to give it a few licks as you charged yourself up like a rocket. Ready to blast off through the balcony.

And with a final salute, you blast off outside and weave around the mountain Canterlot rests against and back into the sky.

Holy shit, you'll never not like flying around with magic. The speed, the scenery, the control.

As you looped around and through clouds. You couldn't shake the warm feeling of being able to be truthful with someone without them using it against you or actually mocking you. Celestia was fucking based.

Though your thoughts slowly shift to Discord. You actually hoped he was ok...you hoped taking a loss like that didn't hurt him too bad.

......eh

...................eh

He'll be fine. Now was the time for flying.

Actually, as you zipped through the air crazily. One more thought hit your mind.

Fluttershy

But, nah. She'd be fine. She's manage to handle Nightmare Night every year. That seems obvious. You had to get these thoughts out of your mind if you were going to enjoy the night. You could check on Fluttershy afterwards though. Discord though...eh...he'll be fine.

And you still had plenty of time in between. And there's two very friendly ponies on your mind that you were sure would love to see your costume.

Lyra and Bonbon time.......hopefully they won't ALSO make a conclusion that you were a mob boss.

Chapter 166

You knock on the door to the cottage. Brushing up your mane and straightening your saddlebag one more time so you look your best. It didn't take long for Fluttershy to open the door. Already greeting you with a friendly and warming smile the moment she sees you. "Welcome back Anon, did you have fun with your friends?"

You nod. "Yeah, I had a good time. We did this and that...stuff"

Fluttershy steps aside so you can come in. "That's good. I actually thought you'd come back a little later though. I hope you didn't feel like you had to leave your friends early just to come spend time with me"

D'awww, she really does care. "No it's fine. We got done what needed to be done....fun and all. So, what're you up to?"

"Oh, well I just finished putting out food for everypony. So I thought I'd sit on my sofa and read a book until you got here." She then giggled "Looks like I had less time then I thought I did. But that's ok" She gently puts a hoof on your head and gives you a gentle rub "I'd like to be able to spend some more time with you anyway."

Awww...that both warmed and hurt your heart. It always did. But at this point, the truth would only crush her. "Thanks aunt Fluttershy, I really like spending time with you too. Dad is cool and all, but he's high energy sometimes. Really takes it out of me with all the fun we have. Sometimes it's just good to have a nice lazy day."

"Those kinds of days are nice. A day where nothing bad happens. You can relax all day and not worry about a scary monster or big bad guy showing up and ruining everypony's life. Those kinds of days are my favorite. Right next to days where I can spend time with my friends. Ohhh! Speaking of which. How did your first Nightmare Night go? I know what you and your father was up to. But You also got to spend time with your friends, right?"

You plop your butt to the ground before answering. You had a feeling some sort of conversation was gonna start.....man, did it feel comfy to be able to just plop your butt down everywhere and it feel natural. Is this how dogs feel when they do it? "Yeah, we went to houses and got some candy. And played this ball tossing game over at the town's square. And that's about it really. But still, it was a lot of fun. And look at all the candy I got to keep!"

You open your saddle bag to show off the candy bag. Yeah she's already seen it. But you wanted her to have some. Since It was of high quality. You take a few wrapped candies out of the bag and slide it towards her. It felt odd sliding it on the ground sometimes. But these were ponies. Where flower sandwiches exist and they eat with their faces.

"Oh no no Anon" Fluttershy slides it back to you "It's yours, you don't need to give me any."

You slide it back. "Come on Aunt Fluttershy, it's pretty good" You thought anyway, again. Assumptions. But you really did want her to have it.

She slides it back "It's fine, really. You deserve all that candy. It was your first Nightmare Night after all."

..Mnnn. You slide it back, and give her a soft but stern look. "Come on. I got a lot more of this in the bag. It's high quality candy. And I want to share, isn't sharing a good thing?"

Fluttershy grimaced. She felt really bad. She didn't want to take the candy, but she didn't want you to get the wrong impression about sharing either. "O-oh...well. If you really want me to..." She takes it, opens up the wrapping to reveal a chocolate, and pops it into her mouth.

You could see her pupils shrink a little as she slowly chews on the chocolate. "...oh my....this is incredible."

Huh....it must be better than you thought. You had to make a mental note of trying some for yourself when you actually were in the mood for chocolate. For now, you were happy she was enjoying it.

"Thank you Anon, that was delicious. But...where in Equestria did you get this kind of chocolate? We don't sell anything like that here in Ponyville"

You shrug. "My friends and I won it in a ball toss game. Through friendship and teamwork we managed to win the grand prize. Which was this candy. Cool huh?"

"Mhmm! It sounds like you may have learned a lesson or two on friendship. I can't imagine this candy being easy to get without teamwork."

"Yeah...sure. Yup" ...if only she knew. Or..probably better she didn't. "So....how did your Nightmare Night go? Did anypony spoooooky visit the cottage?"

Fluttershy giggles at that, taking it as a joke "No...actually, I did have quite the night myself. It was fun, but...it hurt seeing all my friends so scared." She frowns a little.

Scared? Oh shit...did something episode worthy happen? Did Fluttershy face her fears against some ghoul?! "Woah wait. What happened? Did some crazy monster attack you all or something?"

Fluttershy shook her head "No, nothing like that. Well, actually. If you consider my animal friends dressed up as scary monsters. Then I guess that counts."

Wut? "What do you mean?"

"Well, Twilight and the others really wanted me to enjoy Nightmare Night. So, I tried actually scaring them. But....nothing worked. But Angel had an idea where we all dress up and scare them where they nearly had to go to the bathroom. I even dressed up as a vampire fruit bat. It worked....mnnn...a little too well actually" She started to feel a little bad for what she did, turning her head and rubbing her leg with the other nervously.

"Woah....that's actually really cool. I wish I could have seen it myself. Probably would have been pretty funny"

Fluttershy frowns even more "...It wasn't too funny...I only wanted to scare them a little."

Hmm, it seemed she didn't like the thought of scaring them. Or scaring them to the degree she apparently managed. Fucking Christ. Did she make them piss themselves? "Aww, come on Aunt Flutttershy. It was just a one time thing. I bet in a couple more days you and everypony else could look back on it and have a good laugh. I'm sure they think you we're really really cool managing to scare them the way you did...however you did it."

That cheered Fluttershy up a little. But she still looked a little nervous about it "Maybe....it was kind of a little funny to see Spike get scared when I bit his head off"

WHAT?! "Y-you did what?"

"I bit his head off, he had a two headed dragon costume. So I thought it'd be reeeaaaallllyyy scary if I swooped in and took one off. He reacted like he really did lose his head."

...Ohhh...wooo. That explains it. You almost thought she had started to go back to a personality that matched her fruitbat side. "Oh...haha. That's pretty funny actually. Aww, Aunt Fluttershy. You shouldn't worry about it. Like I said, you'll all be laughing about it later"

Fluttershy nods, feeling a little more confident from your words "You're probably right. I guess I got a little worried that they would have held it against me."

"Nah, you're the Elements of Harmony. Like, the tightest bunch of friends I've ever seen ever. You guys always band together and find the good and funny in things. Well...Pinkie does at least"

"...Awww" Fluttershy moves up to you and gives you a little hug "You're very sweet Anon, actually...do you want to know a secret?"

Oooooohhhhhhh a secret. You nod. "Sure...but what is it?"

She whispers in your ears. "I bet your father would make a lot more friends if he was like you"

Oh....

Hmm, she was probably wrong about that too. Well, not wrong if things went by her perception. OR...maybe she was right. You've managed to make friends and keep them. Not everything was a lie. And at least your feelings were true. Mnnn...Or maybe ponies were reeaaallllyyy trusting. "oh, well. um...I mean I guess"

Fluttershy smiles and gives you another head rub "You don't need to be modest around me Anon, I am your aunt after all...Ohhh! Do you want a laugh?"

A laugh? Huh...wonder what she means by that? A joke maybe? "Sure, I didn't know you told jokes though"

"Oh..I don't, but, since you mentioned looking back and having a laugh about my Nightmare Night. I thought you'd find it funny if you saw one of the ways I tried to scare them before Angel helped me" Fluttershy went through a drawer where her lamp sat. And pulled out some paper cut outs. "Now don't laugh too much, but..." Fluttershy stifles a giggle "Don't you think it's a little funny I tried to scare them by saying we had these as "uninvited guests". Looking at them now, they don't look the least bit threatening. They even look cute" She holds them up.

You take a step closer to get a good l-....hollyy shit.. HOLLLLYYY SHIT!.. Nooooooooooooo.

Noooooooooooooooooooooooooooo. These were anime characters...as ponies.

You gently pluck one from her hoof and take a look. "Bulma?"

"Hmmm?" Fluttershy found your response rather odd "is that slang for good?...or.." Her ears droop a little "..bad?"

She noticed your astonished look. She expected you to laugh. She hoped they weren't too bad.

"U-um...nothing...l-let me see the others..hmm..."

"....." Utena,Sailor Moon, Rei, and Ranma too. There's....no...fucking...way.

"A-Anon...A-are you alright?" Fluttershy was now really worried.

"....y-yeah...umm..These are..." You shift your eyes towards her, she looked....really worried. You were going to have to do your best to relax. B-but..still. This was.....way to strange.

Wait, maybe it's Discord fucking with you. She didn't make these. haha, you feel relief wash over you already. "These are pretty cool, but. are you sure these are yours?" You hold up the cutouts back to her, expecting her not to recognize them.

But unexpectedly, she nods. "Yeah, I definitely made them. Ohhh! I get it!" She smiles "You're joking with me making it seem I'm uncool, but if you found those cool, then you actually mean I'm cool too right?"

...Good god...she actually made them. "Y-yeah, s-sure...ummm..yup..." You didn't know what to say. This was fucking insane. The best you could do is try not to upset her. But goddammit, you had to get to the bottom of this.

Fluttershy felt really good about herself as she grinned happily "Yay! I think I'm actually understanding how foals think. Before you know it, I'll be able to understand and share all the cool things you like to do. Doesn't that sound great? Aunt and Nephew! On a new level of understanding one another. Just the thought of it makes me so happy."

...There was something about Fluttershy that was just...calming. Even with your tension being high due to trying to figure out how these cut outs came to be. Her just genuinely wanting to be part of your life was heart warming. And made you not care as much about the situation.

....But still.

"Yeah, you got it exactly right Aunt Fluttershy. You're really really cool. The coolest Aunt anypony could ever have"

"Really?...Do you really think that Anon?" Fluttershy felt so great about herself, she never thought she was cool. And would normally feel like she wasn't no matter how many times she was told. But she assumed you were probably pretty "cool". And if you thought she was "cool", it must be true.

"Mhmm. I do. I'm pretty lucky to have you as an Aunt"

And now....Fluttershy thought you were being a tad TOO generous. "...oh Anon...I don't know. I've never even really taken care of foals before. I babysat your friends once...but...I didn't do too good a job."

"Pfft, everypony has a screw up once in awhile. But that's balanced out that you saved Equestria a bunch of times. You've even managed to tame one of the biggest baddies Equestria has ever had! Twilight may be a princess, but she can never say she tamed a god." If that didn't instill self confidence in her. Nothing would....still, you wanted to shift the topic as soon as possible to ask more about the cutouts.

Fluttershy blushed from embarrassment. She was being modest to be sure. "I...guess that's pretty cool. Well...." Fluttershy smiles and sighs "If you really think I'm cool because of things like that. Then I believe you. Actually..." She looked upwards, in wonderment, then giggled "I guess when Rainbow Dash was telling me I could be pretty cool, she wasn't joking. Hmmm..."

Fluttershy looks back towards you. "Thank you Anon, this actually makes me feel really good about myself. I kind of had a fear that sometimes I embarrass my friends in public. Or...worse. I know a lot of ponies had been giving me weird eyes whenever I'm spending time with Discord. But...they don't do that much anymore. And I'm really happy about that"

.....D'aaawwwww. "It's no problem. I'm really glad things have been getting better. And you know what? they should have a lot sooner. You're the element of kindness. You'd never ever do anything hurtful to anypony."

"I try not to, Nopony deserves to be hurt"

"And that's what makes you great too. if there’s a way to solve a problem without violence. You're the mare for the job."

"Well, I do hate violence. So I always try to find the most peaceful solution. Wait..." Fluttershy smirks at you "are you trying to butter me up for something, Anon?"

"What?"

"Oh don't be coy" Fluttershy giggles, and once again gives you a gentle pat "You don't need to be so obvious. You can just ask"

"Ask what?"

Then Fluttershy realized you were genuinely over praising her. "Erm...nothing. But you don't need to praise me that much. I'm not that great. So let's uhh....uhmm.." Fluttershy looks around. Wanting to change the subject as she felt uncomfortable to such praise. "mmnnnn....How about...we play a game?"

A game? Well...that suddenly seemed out of the blue. But looking at her expressions. It seems you may have overdone it with the positive reinforcement. You actually felt a little dumb yourself praising her so much. But, she seemed pretty happy about feeling "cool". You just wanted her to feel like she really was. "Er, ok. But can I ask one more question?"

She nods "Ok"

"Have you ever heard of anime?"

Fluttershy had never heard that word before, it confused her greatly "An-eee-may? Oh, um...is that something the foals are into nowadays? I've never heard of it."

Ok, so you've deduced she's never heard of anime before. So it's safe to say it doesn't exist at all in Equestria. So, it all goes back to Discord's theory. Christ, you don't even want to imagine how the idea for those cutouts got into her head.

"Oh no, it's just something my Dad mentioned once about another dimension. It sounded a little interesting and I thought it's something you may have heard about. But since you haven't, let's get to that game."

"Oh, ok..... Well I have a few. I even borrowed one of Rainbow Dash's favorites. It's right up here." Fluttershy floats upwards and grabs the battleship like cloud game and brings it down.

You look at the box while she sets it down. Yeah, it definitely was the game from the episode " Read it and Weep.". Eh, you were never much for battleship. "Oh, that's cool. What other board games do you have Aunt Fluttershy?"

Playing board games actually didn't sound too bad anyway. It's nice, relaxing, and a good way to unwind after the day you had. It just had to be the right one.

"I've got Apple Bucket and Questionnaire Chase. Would you rather play one of those instead?"

"What are they exactly?"

"Well Apple Bucket is a game where you roll a die, and then fill the bucket up with the same amount of apples as it says on the die. First to fill their bucket wins. It's a very simple game so nopony ever argues about the rules."

Wow...that sounded a little...too boring. "And the other one?"

"Oh, I like to play this with my friends sometimes. You basically move across a board with a die and answer questions based on the color space you land on. I do really good when it's a question about animals or wildlife. But, I don't get a chance to play it much anymore since Twilight usually wins anyway and nopony wants to play due to that"

So basically Equestria's Trivial Pursuit. Actually...that didn't sound to bad. If anything, you could put your mind to the test to see how much of Equestria you actually knew about from your time spent here and from what the show gave you. "Let's play that one"

"Are you sure? Some of the questions are really really tough." Fluttershy warns

"Hey, I'm pretty smart remember? If anything, this game will let me test how much I actually know."

"Ok then, I'll get the board set up. Would you like anything to eat, or perhaps a snack before we play?"

That sounded pretty good too. So you nod. "Yes please, I am pretty thirsty."

Fluttershy nods and fetches you and herself some water and a bowl of crunched up flowers. She sets them down by the game box and starts to set up the game. "So Anon, while I set things up.Let me ask you another question."

"Sure"

"Ok, well. It's about your future actually. Is there anything you'd like to be when you grow up?"

....fuck. "Erm, I never gave it much thought. Don't you usually take a job that your cutie mark represents?"

"Not exactly, a cutie mark represents your special talent. But it doesn't make it your job. There are plenty of ponies that have jobs that utilize their talents but doesn't center around it. Like, for example, Rainbow Dash. She does a LOT of different things and jobs that utilize her special talent, but it isn't just one thing." Fluttershy stops setting up the board to give you a reassuring smile "So if you thought you had to grow up causing chaos, you'd be wrong. But maybe you could find a job where chaos can be used for good things."

"Chaos used for good hmm? hmmm....Oh!" You got one. "Like demolitions?"

Fluttershy nodded "That's not a bad job. It's mostly done in the city. But I suppose blowing up old buildings or obstructions on train tracks is a form of chaos. Nice thinking Anon. See? It didn't take you long at all to think of something. Good job"

Demolitions, huh? It was a thought that came to you. But not a job you really wanted to do. Not as an earth pony who may have to actually handle dynamite. Unless you could use the horn at anytime, It wasn't your kind of job, even if it sounded pretty badass.

Fluttershy set up the game, shuffled the question cards, and her and you picked the playing pawns you would move. And the game was on.

And what a game it turned out to be. It lasted a good while. And you managed to get halfway across the board. But it just wasn't enough. There was too many questions about shit you never even heard of. Or events that were never covered in the show. Fluttershy, unbeknownst to you, she was even purposely answering questions she'd get wrong to try to let you catch up. But it was no use. She still slaughters you. She was a little baffled that you didn't get further. Considering how smart you seemed.

And what's worse. You felt like you could have done better if you had gotten more show related questions. Dammit, fucking dammit. You thought you could do better than half, hell. You thought maybe you could even win.

You don't really say anything. You just sigh, and fake a smile at Fluttershy. "Good job Aunt Fluttershy, I guess I'm not as smart as I thought."

"Oh..Don't say that Anon. You got halfway, that's still pretty good. In fact, we we're playing the adult version. So you still got further than most foals your age."

Most...but not all. "I guess so.. But, whatever. It's just a game. I'm still smart." You say, more to convince yourself than anyone else. You started to notice something about yourself. You noticed you we're a little more emotional and brash than you used to be. But you couldn't pinpoint why. Whatever the case, you we're definitely miffed about losing. You just did your best to hide it.

"I think so. You were probably just off your game." Fluttershy puts away the game. Internally, she was worried about you. She sensed that you weren't fully alright. Almost like an instinctual tip off. Maybe if she… "Anon, it's gotten pretty dark out and we haven't even had dinner. So, I was thinking. How about a special something to go with dinner?"

You tapped the box to the game a few times, looking at it. You kind of wanted to look at the cards and see exactly how good or bad you really are. You were paying attention, but damn. You just wanted to know. "Something special?"

"Mhmmm, I was thinking of a shake! I can make a delicious banana or chocolate or even an oat shake if you want. I don't have any strawberries at the moment though. But you don't mind, do you?"

A shake? that...doesn't sound too bad. Still. "Sure....but erm. While you make dinner, do you mind if I take a look at a few of these cards?"

"Go right ahead, I don't mind. I know you won't lose any of them. So, what kind of shake do you want?"

"Can I get a banana shake? And some whipped cream on top please?" Fuck, you never even asked Discord for a delicious shake before. Now you were glad you didn't. You bet a homemade shake made by yellowhorse was much better than something Discord could conjure up. Even if his would be more healthy.

It even put you in a slightly better mood knowing you were going to get a tasty treat. And as Fluttershy went to work on dinner. You opened up the game board. And started inspecting the cards.

Chapter 179 - Twilight Week Arc

Twilight lead you towards her room, her stride was a little wobbly, shifting to the left and right. Her thoughts consisted of both sleep and Discord's reaction. To her, it seemed like he wanted praise for what he did. But perhaps positive praise hurts him? Or maybe he really wasn't ready for it. She found it curious, but she knew he'd have to get over it.

You?....you just felt sorry for him, he was really looking forward to her reaction. Hell, you were too. Too late now...

Upon entering Twilight's room, you could see Spike in his little bed, dreaming his little dreams. Twilight's bed...well...that was pretty big, perfect for a princess of course. And at the end of the bed was a mattress set on the floor. It had plenty of room. It had about three super soft looking pillows and a very snuggly wuggly quilted blanket.

Twilight gave you a dreamy eyed look and pointed to your bed. "That's where you'll sleep, I hope you like it. Fluttershy said you really liked things to be extra soft and comfy, so I got you the softest bed and pillows I could find. And that quilt? I can bet my library that you won't feel so much as a chill in that." Twilight yawned, and gave you a gentle pat "Thank you Anon, you and Discord, for agreeing to this. I'm sure we'll get along great."

"Yeah...I'm sure we will" You smile at her, oh geez. it was a false one. But one you actually hoped could be one of truth later on.

"I know we will....annnnyyywayyy, i'm sure you're as tired as I am so...let's hit that hay, huh?" Twilight swings her hoof to the side to emphasize wanting to sleep while keeping a cheerful demeanor.

You agree with her, and set your saddle bag to the side of your bed as Twilight herself hurriedly jumps into her bed and snuggles on her pillow and cuddles into her blanket. It felt so good to her, she really was that tired.

For you, the bed was pretty fine. Comfy, soft, it only lacked that magical warmth effect your actual bed had. But still good.

And then..for all...things fell dark and silent.

Day 1 begins.

You are still snuggling in your bed when you feel something gently pushing and poking you.

"Hey Anon! Yo dude, time to get up. Breakfast time, made by yours truly"

You thwack whatever is poking you away and turn over.
"mnngh...not today Chrysalis...sleeping still."

"Crystals?...what?"

Wait....that wasn't Chrysalis....you weren't home.

Your eyes open wide and quickly turn around.

It was Spike, in a chef hat, apron, and some dough on his cheek.

"Spike? huh..what?..oh...erm..yeah...crystals...just..I was dreaming of the Crystal Empire. It's...a pretty neat place." You chuckle nervously

Spike immediately grins, then starts rubbing his claws on his chest before blowing on them "Crystal Empire huh? Yeah, that place is pretty cool. Did I ever tell you who the hero of the empire was?"

Did he? You couldn't even remember, and if he did. He didn't remember either. But..since you already knew anyway.. "Yeah, you're the hero right?"

"Oh....I guess I did tell you. That's cool, I don't have time to tell you the amazing story of me anyway. You're waffles will get cold if you don't hurry up."

"Waffles? What about Pancakes?"

Spike shrugs "Ehhh, I was in a waffle making mood today. Now come on already! My waffles are getting cold too, you know."

Right

You grab your saddle bag and follow Spike through the castle into the room with the cutie map....oh shit...everyone was there. The entirety of the mane 6.

"...That's actually very odd Twilight, when Discord told me about what he did. He seemed happy that I was happy. I don't know why he'd react like that towards you" Fluttershy said as she munched on her waffles.

"Really? huh....Anon said something about a type of praise. Maybe it's just the way I said it...hmmm" Twilight pondered.

"You know what I think?" Rainbow Dash looked around the room, distrust in her face "I think he wanted to get under your skin. Twilight, you know how he is"

"Rainbow Dash..." Fluttershy looks to her with concern, she didn't want to think Discord did such a thing for bad reasons. "I don't think he would go through so much trouble to help a family only to rub it in Twilight's face,"

Rarity nods in agreeance "I agree. Why would he do such a thing? I know Discord can be a brute. But solving a friendship problem of his own volition? Come now, something like that could only be done through an incredible force of will. Similar to something like...hmmm" Rarity thought for a moment, then smiled as she came up with the perfect example "Like dipping hooves into mud. No, I think Discord would have done something completely different if he wanted to annoy Twilight"

"Ah gotta admit, It's a little weird for him to act that way. But ahm with Rarity and Fluttershy on this one. Discord wouldn't EVER do ah honest act like that, not even to get Twilight all uppity. Poor fella probably can't even take in the kind of praise Twilight gave. Gotta be rough"

Pinkie is just munching on her waffles. "This is good stuff!"

Oh geez, Twilight must have decided what happened last night was good for breakfast conversation.

Spike pointed to a chair set up just for you next to Fluttershy "Already got a seat prepped up for ya, got a pillow on it too since the chair is kinda stiff. If you need any more waffles.." Spike points to where Pinkie is sitting, next to her was a huge plate of waffles she was resisting dipping her face into "We got plenty for everypony, so don't sweat it if you feel you're gonna take too much"

You nod, that was actually normal, and helpful, and goddamn did you like waffles.
"Thanks Spike and.."You look over to everyone "Good morning Everypony, how you all doing today?"

Before anyone can answer. Pinkie zips up right towards you and gives you a huge hug. "Nonny! How ya been!? It's been like....forever!"

It wasn't a tightening grip either, it was a warm and friendly hug. Though, it didn't feel as warm as you'd usually would think. The waifuism you had for Pinkie wasn't.....quite as strong as it used to be. But you do return her hug like you would any friend.
"Hey Ponk, I'm doing ok. How are you?"

"pffft" Pinkie waves her hoof at you "You know, same old same old. Making ponies smile, planning parties, solving friendship problems. And of course..." Pinkie leans down, and amazingly backflips all the way back to her chair, and cheers "EATING WAFFLES!" and then brings her face right into her plate, gulping down half her stack of waffles.

Yup...that's Ponk.

You walk over to the seat next to Fluttershy. She smiles a gentle smile at you and gives you a quick peck on the cheek. You didn't mind. There was nobody there to make fun of you...though.

"Awwwwww! Is that not the sweetest sight you've seen all day?" Rarity fawned over the moment.

Rainbow Dash looked upon the sight and cringed "eeeeyyeeaah..cute" And upon looking at you, she notices something on your flank. "Oh, hey. He's got a cutie mark now. What's with all the arrows though?"

You find Rainbow Dash's reaction to the kiss very mehsome, of course she'd find it uncool. And of course she wouldn't know what your Cutie Mark meant too. You yourself weren't embarrassed by the kiss either. not among the Mane 6 anyway.
"It's the symbol of chaos"

"Chaos? now that don't seem right.." Applejack said, she seemed a little confused "Ah know your dad adopted you an all, but ah don't think ah ever heard of no pony gettin’ a cutie mark like that”

"Well Applejack, erm...Anon does have a way of getting into some trouble of his own....not that he's a bad colt or anything. He's actually a very good colt, but....well" Fluttershy seemed to get nervous at Applejack's confusion.

"What?, did he get into another fight with some crooks or something? Geez, what pony is stupid enough to mess with Anon at this point? Everypony knows he's Discord's kid" Rainbow Dash said, surprised that anyone would actually try anything on you.

You actually hadn't thought about that. If anyone did try to hurt you in a severe way....that wasn't Twilight....Discord would probably fuck them up. Same with Fluttershy most likely.

"Actually, I know you're all going to find this surprising. But I think it's best if you all know that Anon here. And yes, I know it's going to sound pretty strange. But Anon actually had a run in with Starlight" Twilight mentions

Rarity,Applejack, And Rainbow Dash all react. Pinkie Pie, who was chewing a huge amount of waffles. Swallowed, and then gasped late, getting stares from everyone else from her delayed reaction.

"Woah woah, hold on there Twi. You tellin' me Anon ran into Starlight? When did this happen?" Applejack questioned, this was totally out of left field.

"Yeah what gives!? That's a joke right? That's gotta be a joke." Rainbow Dash couldn't believe it.

You shook your head, you wanted to say something before anyone else could. "It's not a joke, I met her after the party Pinkie threw for me."

Rarity put her hoofs to her muzzle and gasped "Oh my, Anon! You must have been so frightened!" And then, Rarity let out a small ladylike bit of anger "How deranged. foalnapping a colt. What was she thinking?!"

"She wanted the power of my horn. She thought she could use it to make her dream come true. But, instead. we became friends, and now she's back in her old town, redeemed and wanting to do some real good. it's as simple as that." You said this with confidence. That was one hundred percent truth.

Pinkie shrugged "Makes sense to me!" She then went back to her waffles.

"Woah,woah,woah,woah...Woah!" Rainbow Dash hovered upwards and looked down at you, zooping right above you. "How in the world did you manage to reform Starlight? There's no way....wait! Let me guess, Discord did that weird mind thing, right?"

You shake your head "No, Dad didn't even know about all of it until after the fact"

Rainbow Dash chuckled in disbelief "Yeah, right. You expect me to believe she just changed, just like that? ok..." Rainbow Dash turned to Twilight "Twilight, I really gotta say, jokes aren't really your thing. You should leave it to the professionals....just saying"

Twilight looked up to Rainbow Dash, no hint of mirth in her face. "It's not a joke Rainbow Dash. Anon really managed to do it.And I admit, I was as skeptical as you were. But I went down and I saw it for myself."

"So, you all made friends then?" Applejack wondered

Twilight tapped her hooves on the table, and took a breath, looking up at the ceiling before looking at Applejack "Not...exactly...She's friends with Anon. But, I don't think she wants to be friends with any of us"

"She don't?" Applejack asked "I thought Anon reformed her"

"He did...it's just. I don't think she wants to be our friend" Twilight was looking a little nervous saying this. as if repeating that she can't make a friend physically hurt.

"Twilight is right. And I support Starlight's decision. She has a right to choose her friends. So can we change topics please? Because I can already see where this is going" You really didn’t need this sort of drama in the fucking morning.

"No we can't just change topics! This is a big big big thing! She steals cutie marks. CUTIE MARKS! Do you know what that means? Anon, you're kinda cool, but there's NO WAY we can overlook this. I say we ALL go and make sure she isn't planning anything. Check every nook and cranny, question everypony. There's gotta be SOMETHING wrong" Rainbow Dash tried to rally the others behind her.

"Rainbow Dash! Calm down! I already said, nothing is going on." Twilight tried to reason with her

"Well how do ya actually know that, Twilight? We didn't know anything was wrong before and we almost lost our cutie marks forever" Applejack seemed to be behind Rainbow Dash on this one.

"I don't know. It all sounds very suspicious....But Twilight is usually right about these things. And Anon, you're absolutely sure nothing is amiss?" Rarity looked to you, ready to be behind you and Twilight depending on your answer.

You nod "Yeah, she was having freak outs about not being accepted. Even hiding away to work on a town center to make everypony's lives better. I helped her with that too, she didn't need to hide. The other townsponies were every accepting and just wanted to spend time with her as is"

Rarity nods "Then I don't see why we should intervene. If that's how it is, we could just make things much worse should we show up."

"...I'm sorry Rainbow Dash...but after all the trouble Anon went through, I'm going to have to agree with him...I don't think we should go.....sorry" Fluttershy of course, didn't want to upset anybody. But she was behind you as well.

"Well, considering it should be a majority vote,, that just leaves Pinkie. Pinkie, what do think?" Rainbow asked

everyone turns to Pinkie, who was just happily munching on waffles with careless abandon. "But we already fixed the problem in Griffonstone. Why go back?" Pinkie says, looking confused.

"What? no!" Rainbow Dash facehooves herself "Weren't you paying attention at all?! We're talking about confronting Starlight! Come on Pinkie, be serious, you were the first one to really notice something was wrong. Back me up here!" Rainbow Dash tried to appeal to her.

"Ohhhhhhhhhh, I getcha. You mean how Anon fixed everything up with Starlight but she didn't even want to talk to Twilight? No, Anon's right. We shouldn't bother her. From everything I heard, Starlight is doing ok. She'll come around eventually anyway" Pinkie said, still munching on the rest of her waffle.

"WHAT?! PINKIE! COME ON!" Rainbow Dash was finding the whole thing ridiculous "You make friends with like, EVERYPONY! But reality check, she’s the only one who doesn’t want it! It’s super suspicious! What makes you so sure everything is ok?"

Pinkie giggled "Oh, I saw that Lyra was late coming back from her trip and decided to catch up. She became friends with Starlight too, isn't that great? Yep, things seem right to me. Besides, that will make a surprise party for Starlight that much more surprising. She'll never see it coming!"

Dammit Pinkie...Well..maybe not dammit. if there's anyone who could make a friendship in such a fashion. it was her. So it was 4 to 2 now. Rainbow Dash lost.

"Well, Rainbow Dash. We're kinda out voted here. And after hearing Pinkie Pie's vote, ah gotta say. I wanna switch mine too" Applejack flips her vote

"So that's it? We're just going to let her go just like that? Do I need to remind everypony what happened the last time we let somepony off easily?" Rainbow Dash tried to appeal to everyone once again.

"..Rainbow Dash...Discord is different. For a very very long time he never knew what friendship was." Fluttershy tries to calm down her friend.

Twilight adds on to Fluttershy's words "She's right Rainbow Dash. And not just by our words, even Princess Celestia wants us to trust in her. To trust in Anon's decision."

"What?! WHAT?! No way! Hello...he's a colt...A COLT! I don't care if he beat up Queen Bugbreath or King Crystalface. There's no way he's old enough to decide if she is up to something or not. And now you're gonna tell me Princess Celestia herself is on his side? Doesn't ANYPONY find it weird? Twilight, come on, I know you. The Princess was wrong before, wasn't there something that seemed off about it?"

Twilight shook her head " I'm sorry Rainbow Dash, but even if I did. I'm going to stand by Anon on this. We have to put a little trust that he knows what he's doing."

Rainbow Dash was frustrated as all hell, but she sits back on her seat and pushes her plate away. murmuring "..yeah ok..fine...just don't go whining to me when something goes wrong."

You were pretty frustrated yourself. You hadn't hung around Rainbow Dash for too long. So you forgot she too would have probably found the whole thing suspicious. Pinkie truly was the wildcard and thankfully, she stood behind you.

Suddenly, you feel a soft hoof rubbing the shoulder of your foreleg. You turn, to see Fluttershy smiling at you "It's alright Anon, don't you worry ok?"

She must have sensed how frustrated you were. You looked up at her, just looking into her confident yet worrisome eyes calmed you down.

Twilight Spoke up "Ooookkkk...I think we should shift the subject to something else. Anypony have anything they'd like to talk about?"

Applejack decides to speak up "Ah do" Applejack looks to you, she was still curious about the cutie mark "Anon, I think ah see how ya got that cutie mark now, but if ya don't mind me asking. Ah gotta ask, how do ya feel about it? Ah don't mean to make ya feel bad about it, that ain't my intent, especially since it don't even seem to bother ya. Ah just wanna know is all."

it actually didn't make you feel bad that she was asking. The entire mane 6 were here. So you could get this out of the way in case they ever make an actual insulting inquiry about the mark. Besides, she wasn't wrong. Chaos enveloped your new life, things even the mane six...hell even Celestia herself had never seen. At this point,the mark was appropriate.
"It's alright Applejack. I can answer your question. And honestly? I like the mark, I like the fact that my life can go any which way...even if I hate it. Yeah, chaos has surrounded my life for awhile. But it wasn't until I came to Ponyville that I discovered that chaos isn't always a bad thing. And that I can even help other ponies through chaotic means. Thanks to chaos, nothing is impossible when it comes to making somepony else happy. So, yeah, I wouldn't change this mark for the world. Does that answer your question?"

Applejack nods, with a gentle smile on her face. "uhuh, ah never even thought chaos could bring about good things. Ya learn something new everyday"

Breakfast didn't last long soon after your explanation. everyone ate their waffles, said some small talk. Rainbow Dash being the most silent, still murmuring about how she didn't trust Starlight.

When breakfast was over. The rest of the ponies got up to go about their day. Fluttershy of course gave you a hug and a kiss, and made sure you were ok with staying with Twilight.Which you assured her everything would be fine. Pinkie nearly squeezed the life out of you And congratulated you on your cutie mark. Rainbow Dash just left, muttering a goodbye. Applejack thanks Spike for the waffles, commenting that nothing beats home cooking, and said goodbye as well. But Rarity...she stopped for a moment to have a word with you.

"Anon, can I have a little bit of a word with you? just a teeny tiny little conversation if you don't mind" Rarity asks, seeming concerned about something.

Rarity has always been pretty nice to you whenever you saw her. You could spare her your time for sure. "What's up Miss Rarity? everything ok?"

"Oh yes darling, everything is fine. but, I'm just curious. This whole Starlight thing, it still surprises me. Would I be correct in saying the townsponies just accepted her back?"

yeah...you guessed it would seem peculiar and had to be on someone's mind that it would be odd for them to take her back so easily. "Yeah, the reason though is actually kind of ironic. It turns out Starlight's teachings weren't really wrong. Just put into practice the wrong way. The more they realized how helpful it could be, the more it seemed they we're willing to accept her back....you know..as long as she didn't go all cult crazy again."

"I see...well..Anon" Rarity gave you a gentle pat on the head "You're growing up to be a fine colt. I must admit, I feared Discord was going to turn you into a little terrorizer. And I'm so very glad I was wrong. It even seems you're teaching him a few things about friendship and caring. It's all very amazing."

Awww… "Well Thank you Miss Rarity. It always means a lot to me to get a compliment from you" It really did, Rarity was probably one of the more genuine ponies when it came to compliments and criticisms.

"Well, it's well deserved. Which brings me to my next question. I understand you've gotten the affections of a few young fillies. Is this true?"

....wut?...er, "I..uh..yeah I guess. But, all that stuff was kind of too much for me. You know, i'm just too young for that stuff...erm..why do you ask?"

You say, thinking of Diamond Tiara. Wanting to speak with her, make sure she's ok, take her out to a movie...cuddle....geez...cuddle? you were thinking thoughts. Maybe that's how Chrysalis did it. She got you to agree with her advice, which, to your memory, sounded agreeable. and then lulled you into a trance state.

"Well, I don't think you're TOO young Anon. I think you're just right actually"

WUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUT "M-miss Rarity?...u-uhhmm...what do you mean by that?"

oh god, oh god...oh god...Spike's dream was becoming your nightmare. What, was she going to do, invite you into her room at night?

"Well Anon....." Rarity sighed "I sometimes fear my younger sister might find herself in a less than desirable situation one day. One that could very well leave her hurt. I'd love for her to have a positive influence, such as yourself. I was just wondering if you had any interest in her. I could help set up just the cutest little date if you'd like. How does that sound?"

GRGH..DATE SWEETIE BELLE?!

NOPENOPENOPE...even if Rarity had the best of intention. and even though Sweetie Belle is probably....ergh...very doably adorable....doably...cripes...Yeah..even then, that would just piss Diamond Tiara off. And Sweetie Belle seemed to have just as little interest in you as you did her.

"Miss Rarity, I'm really sorry...I actually...have something to confess" Yeah, it was probably alright to confess to her. Especially with what she brought out. In fact, as things cycled through your mind. Maybe telling Rarity would be a good thing. She'd have in her boutique a few things a girl would totally love as a present....holy fuck...you're thinking of getting DT presents...what's wrong with you?

"Confess? What is it?" Rarity tilted her head, confused.

"...I...actually still have feelings for one of those fillies...I never really thought about it until last night. Is it wrong to like somepony you essentially broke it off with?"

Rarity didn't seem insulted at all, instead of mentioning any disappointment you thought she would have had. She instead tries to help you. "Does she like you back?"

you nod "Yeah, I don't think she ever stopped liking me. I guess saving a damsel in distress really does affect a girl's heart."

Rarity smiled "oooohhhh, it's THAT filly. That's adorable Anon. Well, I can tell you this. I don't think it's wrong as long as you both like each other." Rarity was thinking innocent thoughts. She thought your mind was riddled of the adorable puppy love a colt would have "And if you really like her like it seems you do. Then you shouldn't ignore her either. Be a gentlecolt, and always treat a lady with respect."

that'd never work in your world. But, saturday morning cartoon ponies. probably most definitely.

You nod to her. a nod that suggests you understood. "I understand, and thanks again Miss Rarity."

"Don't mention it darling, now you have a good day. I do have other things I simply must attend to."

She bid you goodbye, and just like that. the room was empty once more. Leaving you with Twilight and Spike. Overall, that wasn't too bad. not bad at all. Cept for Rainbow Dash. You forgot she could be as suspicious as Twilight. sometimes even moreso. You hoped she didn't do anything stupid.

Chapter 189 - Twilight Week Arc

You could say nothing…
Snips and Snails....

Those two fucking fuckwits, you were sure you had fucking dealt with them and their nuisance of a hero worship back at the apple farm. And yet those two idiots were still at it. And like Rainbow Dash. It seems growing word of your exploits were starting to cause some influence in ways you didn’t want.

Twilight looked to Star Prancer with a little concern "You don't need to join a club to be a hero Star Prancer. Being a hero comes from within. And you don't even have to do anything dangerous to be a hero either."

Star Prancer tilted her head in confusion "I don't?"

Twilight shook her head with a smile "No, all you have to do is help anypony in need. no matter how small it is, if a pony is happy with how you helped them and thanks you. Well, that already makes you a hero. You don't need flashy battles or cool costumes to be a hero. Why..I bet you've helped so many ponies already that you can already be considered a hero."

"Well" Star Prancer gave it some thought. Then once again smiled that joyous naive smile "I have helped my friends with homework and hard math problems before!"

"See, and that already makes you a hero. A hero to your friends. And that's all you'll ever need when it comes to being a hero. Right Anon?"

"Right..." You say it in a low, near annoyed tone. Nobody picks up on it. But your mind was filled with rage towards those two idiots right now.

Star Prancer takes Twilight's words to heart and your agreeance as hard proof. "T-then, I'm going to continue helping my friends whenever they need me! I don't need that dumb club. Thank you Twilight, and thank you Anon. For everything..."

Then you saw it, happy tears in her eyes.

You couldn't stay mad...that'd be for later. For now, you smiled. And give Star Prancer one last hug before you all part ways.

She was a good foal. She'd do alright.

You turn to Twilight. Seeing her actually give that kind of lesson in person. it was kind of inspiring. "Twilight, that was..." it really just hit you. You just witnessed a true, bonafide, end of episode friendship lesson come from Twilight. And it pierced your heart. Star Prancer's reaction was just....oghh...your fucking heart….too cute "That was pretty cool. Like, really. I mean that. I...never seen anything like that personally before"

Twilight turned to you, she looked so...majestic for some reason. "It's a just a thing I do Anon. Friendship is very important to me. And I never want to see a pony, no matter how young or old, lose their way over something silly or dangerous. The way Star Prancer took my advice, I could tell all she really wanted to do was be helpful. I just wanted her to realize she didn't need to try to be a "hero" to be who she'd really want to be."

actual good words. huh, then again. why wouldn't you expect this. Twilight had many forms. From sperg to gentle teacher to adorkable scientist.

Twilight then sits back on her chair to finish her food, making one last remark on the subject. "..and I'd like to hope being the "Hero Colt" hasn't gotten to your head, Anon. And I say that as a friend"

You go back to your seat. You gently shake your head as you take a small drink.
"Nah, I'm not like that. It's just a title that gets thrown around. That's how I see it"

Really, that's how it seemed it was. You knew the dangers of hero worship. Too bad those two idiots were causing trouble with it anyway. You'd have to really find a way to deal with that later.

"That's good. You have no idea how many colts would have such big heads over it if they were called "Hero Colt". Then again, Rainbow Dash still has a little trouble not letting things overwhelm her sometimes." Twilight shakes her head as she rolls her eyes and giggles "Always has to be the best at something"

"Yeah,I sorta of noticed that. Ehh, that's not really for me. I kind of just want to live a nice life here in Ponyville. Dad's pretty good about that. I know you don't like him much. But me and him really do get along." Perhaps none of that statement was completely true. You have become accustomed to causing some mischief every now and again. And while you and Discord do get along, he also messes with you from time to time.

"That's very good to hear Anon. I don't know how things were in your orphanage. But here in Ponyville, there's many a friend to be had. And many things to learn. But I'm sure you knew that already. Since you already have such good friends."

"I do, and I wouldn't trade them for anything really. Hey Twilight, that actually makes me think of something. Are you immortal?" Would she be? It popped into your head when the thought of friend longevity came to mind.

Twilight blinked, she looked a little confused at that question "What?"

"Are you immortal? You know...can you grow old, and er...kick the bucket?"

Twilight herself didn't seem to know "I...don't know. I know Alicorns live a long time but. hrn...I..."

Maybe that wasn't a good question to ask. Fuck, why would you even ask such a depressing question so out of the blue like that? Twilight looked utterly uncomfortable trying to come up with an answer, Though at the same time. She didn't seem like she was tying the question to that of the lifeline of her friends. "I'd have to ask Princess Celestia and Princess Luna. I just don't know the answer to that. And it's...it's not important to think about."

...hearing that, you just drop the conversation and move on to something else.

avoiding anything that might be touchy or make Twilight realize what you meant by bringing up the matter of immortality in relation to friends. You just stick to talking to her about smaller and less touchy subjects. such as what she thought about her brother being with Cadance. and although the conversation started to become boring and predictable. It still was interesting enough to at least know her personal feelings on it. even if you had already guessed she was all for it.

After breakfast was done. Twilight asked you if you still wanted to go to the spa. You did, you wanted to relax and get the whole Snips and Snails affair completely out of your head...and meet some spa ponies. In reality, this may be your final time to enjoy sexy female company that isn't a sneaky bug pone before you try....dating Diamond Tiara.

...yeah..now you really needed to relax...oh boy...dating a filly. What would your mother think? Best to get it out of your head.

You both get up and head to the spa. You wondered what it would be like to be pampered by gentle and professional spa ponies. Oh god. Just thinking about it made you want this. It'd be fine. it's just business.

Oh yeah, it was business alright. Even when you both arrive. You just couldn’t get a few kinky thoughts out of your head.

"Anon, you're going to really enjoy this." Twilight said as she opened the door, and stepped inside with you."if you ever had a single worry in your mind, a massage from here will make it all wash away"

Hell, just stepping inside. the place itself had a gentle and relaxing aura to it. Oh man, this was going to be awesome. So goddamn awesome.

The lobby was quite nice. Exactly what'd you expect given what you seen of the spa from the show. the nice dark walls were actually quite disorienting for a moment, as you were used to brighter colors.

"Princess Twilight!" And there she was, one of the spa ponies you knew of from the show. The blue colored spa pony with the pink mane. Lotus Blossom. Behind her gold rimmed counter. Immediately spotting you two the moment the door opened.

She takes a bow "How may we be of service to you today, your highness"

That accent...you could never figure out or remember what it's supposed to be. You should have looked it up. Though, that was probably pointless now.

"Oh..erm" Twilight, as usual, always seemed irked when referred by her title. "Good Morning, umm...Do you think you could fit in me and this colt for a morning treatment of some kind? That would be very appreciated"

"Of course! We actually have every available option open at this moment as it is still morning! Of course, not to mention that serving royalty is our pleasure. Just name it, and it will be done."

......errrrghhh...so tempting..to say...seeexxx

You already felt tingly. holy hell she was hot.

"Well...." Twilight looked to you "Anon, I'm just going to make the basic request for a massage. Are you comfortable with being touched along your back by other ponies?"

...YES DO IT! "Oh erm...I don't mind. But do you think we can do something more than a massage. Like...maybe everything?"

"Well, I..." Twilight looked over to Lotus "Would that be possible?"

Lotus nodded her head "Of course this we take as an honor"

"Then I guess it's ok. I just didn't want to overwork anypony." Twilight was so considerate...and naive

"Not at all. The spa is our livelihoods. There would be no point in existing if we were not capable of going beyond the expectations of our customers." Lotus informs Twilight. Already eager to get started.

"Well, hehe" Twilight chuckled nervously, she forgot how eager the spa ponies could actually be. But, money was still an issue. She couldn't possibly pay for that much for the both of you. "Anon, I don't think we can affo-"

Oh fuck no, you could immediately figure out what she was going to say. Before she could even finish, you drop a huge load of bits onto the ground.

"ord....i-it? A-anon, that...that's...how did you?" Twilight was astonished by the cash you had.

"Dad. You know how he is, no concept of how much anything is worth. So he gives me this as my allowance and.." You were so fucking ready for this, you look to Lotus with a smile. "Is that enough miss?"

Lotus came out from behind the counter and looked over the bits. expertly getting it reorganized onto each other in a hurry for easy counting.

after counting. She nods with a big smile "Yes, this is enough for the both of you, it's even more than we charge. However, I'd like to hold off payment until we are either done or you are satisfied. We don't usually get anypony that orders everything and we'd not like to take more money than we should if we don't even finish the treatment. It's simply not how we do things here"

Not liked it mattered to you. Cash was thankfully something you easily come across.
"Oh, that's fine then. But, what does paying for everything entail exactly? What do we do first?"

"Well, in all actuality. There are a few split choices. Such as either resting in our sauna or using the hot tub. and choosing one from a large selection of massage styles. to various degrees of a hooficures. But no matter the choice, you will be cared for as if you were our very own foal." Lotus gives you a gentle rub on the head and....ohhhh...her hoof was nearly as soft as a hand. So well kept. "As for what to start with first. Well, that would indeed be the first on the list. Would you two like to use our luxurious sauna or our relaxing hot tub?"

"Hot Tub!" FUCK YES.

"Oh, sauna for me. I don't really want to get myself too wet right now..and..hrn.." Twilight was still irked by your amount of cash. But she would keep it to herself. She would stay out of your business, and continue to treat you as her "equally aged" friend.

Split choices. With that, Lotus tells Twilight that another spa pony, most likely Aloe, will be with her shortly. And Lotus will be the one taking care of you.

There must have been fillies and colts who have rolled through here before. In fact, they must have. Spike was a baby dragon. So it seemed age really didn't matter. She didn't even question where the money came from. Either because it was just that, money. Or she just wanted an opportunity to perform the favorite part of her job. Or maybe because you were around Twilight.

When the spa pony arrived for Twilight. She looked back at you, she wasn't worried. and she already figured you'd be fine without her. But out of courtesy she asks if you'll be alright. “Anon, will you be ok?”

of fucking course you will. "Yeah, I'll be fine. You said relaxing right? Well, then I think i'll be perfectly fine."

Twilight silently agrees. And wanders off with the spa pony to the sauna. Lotus then becomes your center of attention. As she makes you hers.

"Well.." Lotus gives you a warming and gentle smile, as she examines you with her eyes. "Your name is Anon, am I right?"

You nod, of course she knew your name from when Twilight paid at the counter. "I am"

"Well then Anon, I'll be your masseuse and beautician for your entire session. You can call me Lotus Blossom. Will you please have a seat while I prep the hot tub for you? It won't be for a moment. I just need to make sure it's ready for one of your height."

Wow, she was pretty professional for one so eager to work. But you seen how her and Aloe work in the show. They are quick and efficient and apparently masters of the craft. You had nothing to worry about. "No problem"

You plop your butt down right where you are. And look up at her, almost like a dog. It causes her to giggle.

But the giggle is short as she snaps back to being kind and professional. As if she wasn't supposed to be doing that at all. "Ahh, Anon, sir. You may sit on a seat if you wish. No need to sit down on the floor"

You were fine, you were used to sitting your butt down like a dog at this point. "I'm ok, Trust me, I really am"

Lotus nods, she doesn't even give a semblance of wanting to argue one bit. She simply accepts it. "Yes, of course. I shall return in a moment"

And she goes off, it doesn't take her long though. Not long at all. Already this place was pretty amazing since you didn't have to wait too long.

"Your hot tub awaits. Please follow me."

those eyes, that voice....ohhhhh...you'd foll..NO...nooooo...as much as you'll enjoy the massage and other things. You had to try to keep your mind clear.

You follow Lotus to the wooden tub. steam coming out from the warm mineral water that occupies it.

Lotus leads you to backside of the tub. And starts explaining what she had done to prep the tub. "I have prepared a platform under the water so you may be able to sit and relax while only being submerged neck deep." Lotus steps back and does a little bow "Please watch your step as you step inside the tub"

Oh man, now you felt a little like royalty. ohhh..this was going to be gooooood.

You step towards the hot tub and look down at it. The steam hitting your face felt rather nice. And the overall warmth was very comforting. You stick your right foreleg carefully in the water to see how it feels. Oh man, whatever was in the water. It gave you the tinglies.

You turn around and slowly step into and submerge yourself in the water before letting out a soft sigh.

This was the life. You weren't even at the massage bit and you already felt yourself calming down. Hell, even Snips and Snails was becoming a distant memory.

You leaned back. and bent down just a little to let your head sink into the water a bit. Your nose just above the liquid. You were having urges. Urges to playfully splash or even wade around. But...this was a spa. Not a playroom.

As you lounged in the hot tub however. You suddenly feel a set of hooves rummaging through your mane. Making you jolt forward.

"G-gyeeh. W-what was that?" You turn around, Lotus was sitting right behind where you were lounging, right out the tub where she could reach your head. She seemed pretty confused by your action "Is something wrong? I didn't hurt you did I?"

ohhhh...oh. Shit, that startled the fuck out of you. But, it was just her. What was she doing exactly?" "N-no, but erm. Why did you sneak up on me like that?"

Lotus gave you a gentle, yet still ever so eager smile "I didn't sneak up on you. I was just performing a gentle head massage to help you relax even further. It's what you paid for after all. Or would you rather just enjoy the hot tub. We don't mind refunding some of your money if there's some actions you don't wish for us to do for you."

Paid for..right. Hell, why the fuck not? Those hooves of hers must feel like angelic bliss.
"I-I was just a little startled, that's it. I don't mind a head massage. I just sit facing away from you. Right?"

She nods "And please, relax"

You follow her instructions and sit back. You take a breath, and let yourself relax, leaning your head back beyond the tub.

And that's when you feel it.

Lotus starts to somehow, with fucking hooves, massage your head, running her hooves gently through your mane and pressing,cupping, and rubbing your head at just the right spots.

Your eyes roll back as you slowly sink just a little more into the water. Holy fucking fucks of shits. How? HOW?! This head massage..oh god.

Your mouth slowly opens as, small amounts of drool start to drip from one side.
"nnggghmmmmmmmmmmmm"

Lotus said nothing as she massaged you with gentle earnest. She wouldn't engage in speech unless you yourself wanted to start a conversation. She could feel all your tenseness loosen up with every rub. To the point she could expertly move your head around with her hooves. Allowing her to get every tense spot like she was scrubbing your brain with a gentle brush.

This was amazing. You never wanted it to end. Not even Chrysalis could give you this kind of pleasure.....well, ok. She could in ANOTHER way. But you doubt she had this kind of skill with her hooves.

You were even subconsciously nuzzle into her hooves the best you could. Lotus never once missed a beat. constantly sending that surge of relaxing pleasure through your body with every rub as your body was comforted by the warm water.

She did notice how relaxed you were. She couldn't think of anypony else where a head massage caused one to melt like butter like you are. She internally finds you adorable enough to not disturb you even after your time is up. Giving you a few extra minutes of massage time.

For you, it was like time had stopped. Holy crap, you started to get all kinds of sexual thoughts now. What if she was this good on your junk as she was on your head? Holy shit, would you transcend dimensions or something?

Lotus stops after a while more before putting your head down gently. Unfortunately, for you. You were so relaxed that you didn't notice and slipped onto your back and into the water.

You quickly sit back up and start spitting and rubbing your hooves at your nose like a cat as you squeeze out water you had accumulated from the slip up. "N-nghhh...!"

Lotus was surprised, she knew she didn't make a mistake but she didn't realize she did such a good job that you would just sink into the hot tub like that. "Are you alright? Do you need anything?"

You squeeze your nose again and turn around. Giving your nose a small wiggle before looking upon Lotus. Damn, why did she have to be so damn sexy and cute? And the way she worryingly looked at you.....stay calm...staaaayyy calm. "N-no, I'm alright. Is hot tub time over?"

Lotus nods "It is, but not to worry. Next comes the combination face mask and full on hooficure. You'll be seated next to Princess Twilight so you can engage in conversation with her. Will that be ok with you?"

wait....awww goddammit of course. Right...hooficures...and..face mask. You utterly forgot that'd probably be part of the package. "That would be fine. And erm.."

You blush a little...those hooves. "You did a really good job"

Lotus, unlike most ponies. wasn't ignorant. She could already tell what she accidentally did. She had garnered the "puppy love" kind of affection from you. At least that's what she thought. She almost thought of provoking more cuteness from you. But she was a professional, and would not be lulled by the adorable actions of a colt. "Thank you"

That's all she says as she steps aside to let you out of the water. Lotus gives you a towel to dry off before proceeding to the next step. After you dry off, she steps forward and says. "Please come this way"

awww...didn't seem she found you cute. That's what you thought anyway. As you followed her, you wondered how she could resist your charm. Because you certainly couldn't resist hers.

You enter a room with sets of chairs to lean back on. There was already spa ponies, both male and female, working on other ponies. However, the opposite colored Aloe was already working on Twilight. Who was in a robe and head towel.

Lotus steps over to the empty seat next to Twilight and tilts her head slightly towards it "This is your seat. Anon. Please sit down and relax. And when you're ready. We can begin."

Twilight was getting her hooves filed by Aloe, it looked..painful. Atleast with the rate Aloe was going. But Twilight seemed happy and at ease. And hearing your name, she smiled and called out for you. She couldn't see due to her face mask and cucumber slices on her eyes. "Oh, Anon? Is that you? How are you doing?" She asks, wanting to hear what you thought of the spa thus far

You hop up onto the seat and lay on your back. This was gonna be weird. "I'm doing great actually. I just got the best head massage I've ever had...ever. How about you?" Really, thats all you could say. Because that head massage was so good that your current problems were pretty much melted butter at this point.

"Oh...I have to admit. I'm feeling very relaxed and energized already. But if that’s how your massage was, well, my upcoming massage might be a little too much for me now." She giggles "But, your treating so. I think I'll accept being treated like a princess this one time"

Well, looked like she was having a good time.

"Oh" a thought clicks in Twilight's head "Anon, I have a question for you."

"Yeah?"

"I don't remember if I ever asked. It has been awhile but...Do you read Daring Do?"

"ehh, not really. I don't really read too much. Always busy you know"

Then you look over, and noticed...Lotus was still waiting on your word.

oh boy....well..at least she was patient, smiles and all.

"Oh..ermm..you can start now" Lotus immediately hops to it the moment you give her the word. She asks you to close your eyes as she applies the face mask and cucumbers. And zips around at blazing speeds to grab her hoof file. And immediately begins filing your hind left hoof. At first you flinch. Which causes her to stop. But, the moment you slowly put your leg back. She begins again. And despite it being a huge file. It felt...rather nice.

You then proceed to answer Twilight's question. "No, I don't really read"

Twilight lifted up her head, the cucumbers flying towards the ground. Making Aloe back off from her filing. "YOU DON'T READ?!"

Oh shit...so much for relaxing. You almost end up opening your eyes. Lotus does her best to focus on her work. But is ready to jump back if it becomes heated. "N-no...I...err"

.....why didn't you expect this reaction? maybe because you'd expect her to keep her sperging to a minimum due to the environment around her.

"Anon!" Twilight's head towel unwraps as she hops off from her seat to speak to you more closely. "How can you not read?! Wait..Wait..." Twilight stopped herself, putting her hoof forward "I'm jumping ahead of myself, you meant you don't read Daring Do right?"

You don't answer her . You had nothing to say to that....nothing.

"ANON! HOW COULD YOU NOT READ ANYTHING?! HOW CAN YOU BE SO WELL SPOKEN IF YOU DON'T READ?!"

goddammit. DAMMIT TWILIGHT....all this......wait...actually. This was actually a good "Twilighty" reason for her to sperg out. Even if it was still annoying.

"I..you know..I'm smart"

"BUT STILL!" Twilight was wide eyed and frantic "HOW?!"

"T-twilight...erm...ummm" You pull your hoof away from Lotus. You couldn't see but you ask a question of her. "C-can you excuse us for a moment, please?"

She simply nods and walks away backwards. Aloe actually backs up with her in unison.
"Twilight...it's just a lifestyle choice I have. I'm doing too many things to get into a book"

"Anon....There's no way, Noooooo way that you don't have time to cuddle in a blanket and read a good book now and again."

you raise your hoof to wipe off the cucumbers from your eyes so you can look at her, you lift your back up and turn towards her. Dammit, she looked as surprised as she sounded. "I...erm.." Actually, you didn't actually have a good reason. "...Twilight...maybe we should talk about this another time? Maybe?"

"..I..." oh god, it seemed to have worked. She takes a look around and realizes she's still in the spa...in the middle of spa treatment. "...Oh no..UGHHHHHHH!" Twilight let's out exasperated grunt of frustration "I can't believe I'm reacting like this...b-but...mmnnn" Twilight nods to herself, she mentally attempts a quick recovery. "Anon, tonight you're sleeping in my bed and we're going to read Daring Do together. Got it?"

Wait what?! In her bed with her?! She ain't Fluttershy or Celestia. She was fair game and not motherly enough to stave off her sexy wiles. What if lewd things happened?! Lewd thoughts even! "T-twilight. I dunno, I mean. I'll be tired and stuff and...erm...you know...supposed to be on equal levels?"

Twilight shook her head, she had you this time. Due to an incident that happened in a much earlier season. "Sometimes I have to do things like this Anon, but I had a friend of mine who got really interested in reading Daring Do after I left her my copy. So if I can do that for her, then you are going to at least spend one night with me reading a book. Understand?"

.....she looked so damn determined. Well..fuck. Whatever, right? You'll be fine. It's just Twilight..in a bed..cuddling with her. Why did that even bother you? Did you have an attraction to her adorkableness or something? Well, you better fuck off with that. There was still DT to deal with.

You sigh in defeat. You'd let her have this. "Fine...but I get to have a night snack, ok?"

"Night snack? on a bed?...mnnn.." Twilight didn't want you to get crumbs on her bed...but.. She at least got you to agree...so..maybe an exception would be ok. "Deal! Now....errr"

Twilight looks around, and chuckles nervously "I-I think I'll move on to the massage now..erm...see you in a bit Anon..."

Twilight calls for Aloe, who was waiting just outside a doorway. Twilight seemed pretty nervous now about how she sperged out. But she was also glad she got you to agree. So a massage would do her some good at this point.

Lotus then steps back in after Aloe, and steps up to you. She frowned at the fact that you removed the cucumbers from your eyes, and due to the fact it seemed you were having an argument and didn't seem at all relaxed anymore. But it wasn't anything she couldn't fix. "ahrm..Anon..sir..actually, I do not know which name you'd prefer."

"Umm..Anon will do. We don't need to be so formal." Mostly because it felt awkward to you to be called sir

"Well then, Anon, would you like to resume the treatment? Or would you like to move on as well?"

Considering how upset she always looks at the slightest interruption. You thought it'd be nice to just continue where you left off. Poor girl, all she wanted to do was do a good job.

"No, I'd like to finish this..erm...thing you were doing."

Lotus smiled from that. And she asked you to lay back down. The moment you did, she clapped her hooves to the ground. And suddenly. Spa ponies zip around you. Once again putting cucumber cuts over your eyes as your hooves are taken care of, quadruple time. They are filed, rubbed, and gently massaged. It didn't even tickle. It was like four different pleasure surges going up your legs. It was amazing.

Chapter 200 - Twilight Week Arc

"I'm just going to tell them the truth. That the dragon they fought was me. I decided to mess with them on Nightmare Night..." You sigh at the full realization of it however. "I guess it sorta backfired."

"Everything backfires when it comes to those two Anon, don't feel bad. Still, you made yourself a dragon huh? How did you lose to them then? What do they mean by a talking parasprite? Parasprites don't talk." Spike was confused by the whole thing

Now you felt a little embarrassed; The realization of losing to Snips and Snails was a little heavy to bear. "Well you see..I sorta overdid the spell, I warped reality in such a way that I sort of.....made myself lose. It's kinda complicated."

Spike just shook his head at the shame of it. "Wow Anon...just...wow. You were a dragon and you still lost? Even if you did overcast the spell it's...y'know.....them. It's not even funny...it's just...sad."

Well Spike, nice job on losing that based status you had there. Even if the truth was painful to hear. He didn't have to actually mention it. "....Yeah....w-well. I'd rather just not talk about it. Just back me up on this alright?"

Spike nods, but is still overwhelmed from hearing about your loss "Alright....still...kinda sad."

Eghhh.. You just sigh as you reopen the door to address the crowd. The moment you step out, they cheer again. "Hurrah for Anon!"

Geez, this was embarrassing. So many young ponies here...so deluded...dammit! "Hey, I have something to say to you all. So if you all could quiet down please?"

But they didn't, they just continued to cheer. "Come on...Hey! I said I want to speak!" You start to get a little angry. They just wouldn't stop. Not even Snips and Snails was trying to calm them down.

"HEY! THE HERO COLT IS TRYING TO SPEAK! CALM DOWN BEFORE I GET REALLY ANGRY AND...umm...TURN REALLY BIG AND EAT YOU ALL!...YEAH, THAT'S IT.. I'LL EAT ALL OF YOU UNLESS YOU SHUT UP!" Spike yells out, threatening them to be quiet. Funnily enough, it works. Each and every one of them shuts up and sits on their cute little asses.

Did he really have to yell at them? Then again...why did you care? You should have done that yourself really. "Thanks Spike."

"No problem, now wrap this up so we can go bowling already" Spike says as he steps back to give you the floor.

"Fellow colts and fillies! I have an announcement to make!" You then clear your throat. "...I was the Shelled Dragon that Snips and Snails fought..."

Just from that, murmuring among them began. They couldn't believe it.

"I can prove it. The dragon's name was Bowser, and the parasprite was ParaPara. It was all a created simulation generated by my magic.The reason I did it was because I just wanted to mess with Snips and Snails..."

You heard them all gasping in surprise now, Snips and Snails looked confused.

"Furthermore! A wise princess by the name of Twilight Sparkle has said that heroism can be anything. You're all technically heroes already. For even helping a fellow pony with even a small problem makes you a hero simply because you are going out of your way to do it. I hope you now understand that you don't need this club, and that you all can go home. Again, you're all heroes. So says Hero colt Anon!"

You expected cheering, you expected the crowd to cheer and see themselves as heroes. But they all just looked confused. Holy shit, how dumb are they? And then....to your chagrin...Snips spoke up. It seemed he believed you without question. "You heard him fellow ponies! He was using his magic to turn into a shelled dragon. Which could only mean one thing!"

"Yeah! one thing!......" Snails said, looking dumb until he realized he didn't know what his friend meant. "Er....what is that thing?"

"Well buddy, it's simple really! Anon was once again testing us! And he's testing us once again to see if we'd give up. Being a hero doesn't mean doing little things, You know that! Everypony knows being a hero is saving damsels, beating monsters, and saving Equestria. But we will not falter! All hail Hero colt Anon! Let our...err....Wanting to be heroes grow bigger!"

No… Your ears drooped as your pupils shrink. They were cheering again, and stepping closer. You immediately step back behind the doors and call in Spike before slamming them shut.

"Wow, that just......." Spike slapped his hand onto his forehead and shook his head. "Nope, I'm right there with you. That's gotta be the most annoying thing ever. I can't even explain how dumb that all was."

"...I just don't get it Spike, shouldn't that have worked?" Shouldn't it?! You had to ask him because you felt like your logical mind just broke into pieces

"I don't even know dude, it's Snips and Snails. They thought it was a good idea to wake up an ursa minor just to prove that this pony named Trixie was better than Twilight. Their dumb as bricks. But hey, we got a door between them and us. So all we gotta do is keep them locked and come up with another plan. Because trust me, it can't get any worse than this."

"I hope you're ri-"

Suddenly, you hear the familiar yell of a young tomboyish chicken."SNIPS! SNAILS! I KNOW YOU'RE HERE! GIVE ME BACK MY MEMBERS YOU CHEATING CHEAT CHEATERS!"

.................

God..fucking...dammit..

You open the door slightly to peer outside. And you see in the distance the familiar scooter riding filly. Scootaloo was looking down at the crowd with anger. She was donning her Rainbow Dash wig. At her side was Applebloom and Sweetie Belle, who also donned their own RD wigs. It also explains why Sweetie Belle hadn't come to nag you yet.

You look at Spike with a annoyed and angry face. "Never...ever....say it can't get any worse ever again...got it?"

Spike cringed, the look you gave him was enough to make him feel like his soul was pierced. "Yeah...got it.....it's kinda funny though...right?"

You just give him a death stare, this was not AT ALL funny. No, fuck this shit. You could tell this was going to explode into some super horseshit.

"...I guess not..." Spike backs up

You continue to peer through the door. Wondering why Scootaloo and the others were here. What did this have to do with anything? Snips and Snails goes out of the crowd to face CMC. Snips smirks at them "Cheaters? Well, nuh uh. We didn't cheat at all. All your members joined us because Rainbow Dash isn't nearly as great a hero as Anon."

Scootaloo growled. "Not all of them, I still have Applebloom and Sweetie Belle. So take that!"

Snails just peered at them for a moment. He seemed confused. "Were they even members before? I don't remember, didn't you say last time that we took all your members and that you'd get us back?" Snails looked to Snips in confusion. "That's what she said right?"

Snips nodded "That's what she said. So that means those two aren't even real members to your hasbeen club! So ha!"

Scootaloo was shaking in rage. "’Hasbeen’?! So are you saying Rainbow Dash isn't a real hero at all?! Is that what you're saying?!"

Snips nods. "Yup! She can't do anything without her friends. That just isn't hero material. Meanwhile, Anon is able to do everything on his own. Only a true hero can do that!"

Applebloom then speaks up, knowing for sure that was wrong. "Er, he uses that horn doesn't he? That's kinda cheating. Also.." Applebloom gives Snips a mean look. "Ah hope you ain't saying my sister isn't really a hero either. She's saved Equestria tons of times"

Sweetie Belle nods in agreement "Yeah! and my sister too. That's how the elements of harmony work. If it wasn't for our sisters and their friends, we'd still be running scared from Nightmare Moon! So there!"

"Eh" Snips waved his hoof dismissively. "All they did was shoot a magical beam at her. That's what I heard anyway. Anon managed to beat up a couple of foalnappers WITHOUT the horn. And even managed to trounce Snails and me. Anon just uses the horn when things get a little dicey. He's a pony of action! A lone wolf, while although he needs a sidekick, is capable of beating up any bad guy that goes up to fight him. And yes, that's right. Even if Rainbow Dash came to challenge Anon. She'd go down in like...ten seconds. So nyaaaaa!"

"Nyaaa, ay. Rainbow Dash is just a loser" Snails adds on.

Scootaloo's veins were now a poppin'. She started yelling how she was going to tear those two apart. Applebloom and Sweetie Belle had to hold her back and yell that it wasn't worth it. Too bad, you actually would have loved to see Scootaloo go postal. Still, seeing Scootaloo upset hurt your heart. Her club was now barren...because of you....well, kinda you. Mostly them...but dammit. It was hard not to feel somewhat responsible.

"We gotta do something about this Spike. This could turn into a total war"

"I know what you mean" Spike could see the concern in your eyes "They are gonna tear each other apart if we don't do something. But what can we do? Everything you say gets twisted into something else. It just makes things worse."

"I know, and I'm out of ideas when it comes to talking to them. What's worse, Scootaloo lost her club. We need to try to fix that too."

"Woah Anon, one thing at a time here. First we gotta diffuse the situation..." Spike rubbed his chin, pondering. "But how?"

"....The only way I see fixing this is if we managed to make them see that I'm not as great a hero as they think I am. But knowing them, if I purposely screwed up, they'd just say I was having an off day. And I don't want to say I lost the horn, one of those goofballs might get the idiotic idea of spreading it around. And if that got out, there’d probably be some kind of thief that'd go after it.It would cause Princess Celestia a lot of trouble"

"I didn't even think of that. So, if we can't use the horn. What can we do? How can we come up with a way to make you seem "not that great" to them?"

You hadn't the foggiest. "I have no clue, the only way I can see it happening is if some bad guy showed up and Twilight and the others demolished it before I could."

With those words, an idea popped into Spike's head. He had found the solution "Stay with me on this one Anon, cause it's so genius, even Twilight would be impressed. So, since we don't have a bad guy to fight. Then that means you're gonna have to fight something. And that something is a something that would be in on the plan. Or, given we don't want Scootaloo to tear everypony up, you and Rainbow Dash fight each other"

Wait...you weren't an idiot. You think you just realized what Spike was thinking. "But it's not a real fight, right? It's just to show that Rainbow Dash can fight me hoof to hoof?"

Spike nodded with a grin as he threw his arm around himself, finger up. "That's right! You and Rainbow Dash have a convincing fight, and then BLAM. Rainbow Dash beats you down! Fixing the problem."

Beats you down? Ehhhh, no. As good as a plan that was. You still had to keep up a rep. You had a girl now, and you didn't need her going on a ragetrip that you got "beat" by Rainbow Dash....actually that was a shit excuse. You just didn't want to have to throw a fight to her. You immediately try to make a small change to that plan that you could live with.

"Or...orrr...we can just end it with a tie. Everypony will see that Rainbow Dash and I are "Equals" and Scootlaoo and......oh...I really do have to take a dive, don't I?"

"Yup, sorry bro. But if Scootaloo is gonna get her club back, and if we're gonna get at Snips and Snails, then you're gonna have to lose the match.No other way around it."

.......Fuck. Dammit, you didn't just want to lose. Not like that. Yeah, you didn't like this overabundance of attention. But being the undefeatable Hero Colt did have some perks you liked. Eh, what are you thinking? Be reasonable Anon, be reasonable. One loss doesn't mean anything. Hell, your title shouldn't mean anything. It didn't really mean anything personally before...maybe it's just because you'd be losing to Rainbow Dash. Who, while you came to an understanding with, was still a cunt for following you and DT in the first place.

You had to remember that it was just a title. A title for the most part that's brought you more trouble than it's worth. Caring about it now just because you had to go against Rainbow Dash was silly. Just stick with Spike's idea. "Ok. So, how do we get this all setup?"

"Just go out there and say you'll be having a fight against Rainbow Dash later. Like in two hours. Then we go see Rainbow Dash, tell her what's up, and the rest will work itself out. It'll be easy. Trust me Anon. These guys have already shown they aren't going to listen to reason."

You nod, that sounded like a solid enough plan. And sure, you had to lose to Blue Fast. But if it meant stopping this mess. So be it. "Ok...got it"

You open the doors wide, and step outside. Scootaloo still not calm and still attempting to break out of the grip of her friends. You clear your throat. This time, you'd make sure they'd listen.

"HEY! EVERYPONY, LISTEN UP. ALL OF YOU! LISTEN UP OR I'LL COME DOWN THERE AND MAKE YOU LISTEN!" You say it with an angered snarl, making everyone jump to attention. Even the CMC.

"SO, YOU ALL WANNA SEE ME SHOW OFF MY SKILL, RIGHT?!"

Suddenly, the crowd fills with excitement. They all cheer for you. Meanwhile the CMC sit there dumbfounded. Wondering what the hell got into you.

"THAT'S WHAT I THOUGHT! WELL, DO I HAVE A SHOW OF SKILL FOR ALL OF YOU THEN. IN TWO HOURS, RIGHT HERE IN FRONT OF THE CASTLE. I, ANON, WILL BE GOING AGAINST EQUESTRIA'S TOP FLYING ACE, RAINBOW DASH, AND I'M GOING TO SHOW YOU ALL JUST HOW GREAT I REALLY AM!" You make a pose, causing the entire crowd to cheer. And making Scootaloo snort steam in rage.

Snips and Snails joined in on the cheering of course, yelling out that they just knew that you were going to win.

"YEAH, THAT'S RIGHT. BUT....you all gotta shove off from here until like, two hours. I got stuff to do till then and there's no point in hanging around here. Got it?" You wave your hoof to the side as if pointing to leave

They all nod...all of them.

"Cool, so uh..seeya all in two hours.....NOW SCRAM! THAT INCLUDES YOU SNIPS AND SNAILS. OR ELSE I'LL GIVE YOU BOTH A TEST THAT YOU'LL ALWAYS REGRET HAVING TO TAKE!"

They shook in fear. They loved your tests yeah, it just fed into their ego. But to be told of a majorly grueling one? Even if you were just bluffing, they didn't want to do anything any harsher than fighting "Bowser". They all ran off after that. gone to do whatever until the "Big Fight".

All except the CMC of course. Snips and Snails went up to Scootaloo, and mocked the fact that Rainbow Dash had no chance.. Her reaction was typical, stating that Rainbow Dash was going to drive you into the dirt....yeesh, she did remember she was your friend right?

And of course, after Snips and Snails left. The CMC stayed to pick a bone with you. All of them, all three, wanted to know what the fuck was going on. And to add, You knew Sweetie Belle would probably ask about the date. But you didn't want to speak out in the open. You could already see Scootaloo breaking her friends hold and charging towards you. "Anon! ANONNN!! HOW DARE YOU! HOWWW DARE YOU MAKE FUN OF RAINBOW DASH! YOU WON'T BEAT HER, YOU WILL NEVER BEAT HER!”

You wanted to step back inside to keep things private, but holy shit. Even without the enchanted cardboard wings, she was fucking quick when her chicken wings fluttered at the speeds of a hummingbird. She ran right up to you and looked you dead in the eye. Ready to buck you with just one mocking word. "How could you Anon?! How could you do this to me?!"

You could already see tears welling up in her face. The poor thing… Losing her club members, getting mocked, feeling like shit. Yeah, she had every right to be angry. You take a step back, and try speaking in a calm and gentle voice. Almost like Fluttershy herself. "Scootaloo, wait. Can you calm down so I can explain myself?"

"EXPLAIN YOURSELF?! WHAT'S TO EXPLAIN, HUH?! SO "HERO COLT", DO YOU LIKE CRUSHING DREAMS? HMM? DID YOU LIKE MAKING IT FEEL LIKE RAINBOW DASH IS NOTHING?...HMM?!"

"Woah woah, hey Scootaloo. relax, Anon isn't really going to fight Rainbow Dash. It's just going to be an act." Spike can see how upset she is, and tries to calm her down.

Applebloom and Sweetie Belle manage to rush up to Scootaloo, ready to scold you as they had not heard Spike's words.

"Anon, how could ya do this?" Applebloom says as she comforts Scootaloo, it seemed she wasn't paying attention to what you and Spike really had to say.

"Yeah Anon, how could you?...And er..how'd things go yesterday?" Sweetie Belle asks, her angry expression immediately changing to that of wanting to know an answer. Really Sweetie Belle? you didn't expect her to be that obsessed.

You ignore Sweetie Belle for now, trying to get out what you mean about everything. "Calm down everypony. Like Spike said, it's an act. I'm not really going to fight Rainbow Dash. I'm just going to mock fight her and then take a dive so she looks like she's better than me."

"Wait, that's what yer gonna do? Why?" Applebloom asks, confused as to why you'd WANT to lose.

"Because, I don't want that kind of following. And I feel bad that it caused Scootaloo to lose her members. I just want to try to fix everything"

"Hey, that doesn't sound so bad actually. That's a really smart plan....Spike, you came up with it right?" Sweetie Belle asked as she pointed towards the purple dragon

Spike nodded "Yup, pretty smart huh?" He smirked.

Sweetie Belle nodded "Yup, it's a good thing you were around too. Anon would have never come up with something like that."

...........again...Really Sweetie Belle?

"I can't believe all of you. Really?! Really?! you think this is all ok?" Scootaloo said, still furious at the situation.

"Scootaloo, what's the matter? Anon said he'd throw the fight. That should fix everything" Applebloom informs her

"Yeah.." Scootaloo says in a sarcastically bitter tone. "Throw the fight. Sure, that might fix everything. But then we'll never know who's actually better. I want to see Rainbow Dash mop the floor with him fair and square, that way everypony really sees how great she is!"

"Scootaloo! don't say things like that, Anon is our friend, remember?" Applebloom scolds her, wondering how the hell she could think any of this was a bad plan.

"He's no friend of mine. He thinks he's better than Rainbow Dash, just look at him. He thinks he's better than everypony. Just because he's Discord's adopted kid he gets to rub hooves with everypony, even royalty. Well fine, let him "fix" things, but unless Rainbow Dash wins fair and square, then I'm never being Anon's friend again...and you know what?.."

That's when you noticed it. Scootaloo DID have the wings on, but the charge on them had already been used up at this point. She grabs them, and tosses them in front of you. "You can have this back, I don't want to be a dirty cheater like you. Now you can pretend to be an all powerful Alicorn. Since you already think you're better than us." Scootaloo sniffs, she was getting a runny nose, her tears flowing even harder. "I'm leaving. I don't want to have any part of having Rainbow Dash not winning a fight on her own..it's just wrong."

And with that, Scootaloo turns the other direction and stomps off. ...Damn. Fucking damn. This should have been easy. It should have been. But it seemed this cut into her deeply enough that she couldn't see that you were mostly doing this for her. You all try calling to her, but she doesn't listen.

Applebloom takes a few steps back then looks to the group with concerned eyes. "Don't worry, ah'll have a talk with her and see if I can get her to buck up. You all just get everything set up. Sweetie Belle, ya mind helpin' me out?"

Sweetie Belle gulped, she looked to you.....she REEAAALLLYYY wanted the details so she could write back to Cadance. But… "Yeah, this is kinda serious. But..." Sweetie Belle turned to you "You better tell me every detail when we're done, got it?"

...Dammit..Sweetie Belle. "Alright alright, but after the fight ok?"

"Deal! Ok Applebloom, I'm coming" And with that, Sweetie Belle and Applebloom went to comfort their angered and jealous friend.

Well then, this really was quite the pickle.

Chapter 211 - Twilight Week Arc

But the truth itself...

Twilight probably knew...it bothered you. It bothered you that even despite the dream, it still seemed disadvantageous to tell the whole truth.

Or maybe it was disadvantageous to lie at all.

That dream, it had to be caused by all the stress.

You remember back to your date...talking with Luna and Celestia. Perhaps there was a little more to that than you initially thought.

Your old life, totally gone. But if you kept lying about your new life...well. Eventually the ponies would stop believing you....believing in you..

You look over to Fluttershy...she'd...stop believing in you too. She wasn't blood related to you, and no matter how soft flutter butter was. There had to be a limit where she'd stop taking that kind of shit.

....lordy...

You look over at the gentle napping pony, and slowly get up onto your hooves. Your back....it did hurt.

And as you look back, you could see your back was wrapped with bandages and such. That made sense. Due to the chimera pressing on you.

You slowly get off the bed and move over to Fluttershy, giving her a gentle shake to awaken her.
"Aunt Fluttershy....Aunt Fluttershy..Can you get up please?"

Fluttershy softly moaned as she shifted and slowly opened her eyes. The moment she saw you out of bed, she immediately sprung up. "Anon..Anon?! What are you doing out of bed?"

"Well I didn't want to yell to wake you up, I want to talk to you about something."

You notice that like in your dream, Fluttershy had a blemsish on her face. But nowhere near as bad as your dream made it out to be. It seemed as to fit the goat's intelligent nature that he also hit pretty wimplike.

"Anon...you shouldn't be moving around at all, you're hurt...mnnn.." Fluttershy was closely examining you. She was deathly afraid that you were mentally scarred as well, she was worried you woke her up due to some nightmare. But..you seemed ok...that was odd. "Anon...do you remember what happened?"

You climb back into bed as to not worry her, answering her as you do "You mean with the Chimera...and Trixie? Yeah...she's really ok, right?"

Fluttershy nodded, but she still looked worried. In fact, she was even more worried. "Anon...Are you alright? Do you wanna talk about anything? I'm here if you need to say anything, or cry. Or if you woke up from a nightmare, talking about it will help."

She was probably worried that you nearly died. But, that didn't bother you so much as it probably should. You were getting so used to Equestria that you still had the mindset that you would have been saved. Which you were...no, it was what nearly happened to Trixie that probably would have left the scar.

"...There is something I want to talk about."

Fluttershy sat up, waiting and willing to listen and help you with anything you might need. She wanted to be there for you. "Then I'll listen, but if you feel uncomfortable at all. Or want to stop talking. Just let me know..ok?"

...she was so sweet...dammit. Yeah..for her most definitely, you had to do this. "...I'm not really worried about what happened with the Chimera. That's all settled up I think. Aunt Fluttershy, I want to talk about what I said after you guys pulled me away"

Fluttershy shook her head, she didn't want to hear it "No Anon, you don't need to say anything about that. That's not what's important right now.....I don't want you to stress yourself.."

"..Aunt Fluttershy, I want to talk about it though. It's eating away at me..please" You sounded so damn sincere about it that Fluttershy right there, right then realized that somehow, at least from her perception, that it was somehow eating you up more than the trauma she thought you suffered would have. Any other foal would have had nightmares about the chimera. But you… "Anon....Anon wait." Fluttershy hovered from the bench to your bed and planted herself to the side of you, close to you.. She wanted to be there, close to you if you needed a hug. Because she realized she might not be able to stop you from speaking and getting emotional. "Anon...are you sure that's what you want to talk about? Nothing else is bothering you?"

You shook your head...no, being nearly killed didn't bother you. Human life brought you to that point once or twice. But causing someone else's death? In a world like this?....yeah..that'd do it...and the guilt of lying to boot. "Aunt Fluttershy...please, I just want to talk about the fact that I lied to everypony. Why don't you want to talk about it?"

Fluttershy softly murmured to herself "Because..it's not as important as your health and wellbeing right now."

"But nothing else is bothering me right now...and I know at some point, it's going to be brought up...probably by Twilight, right?"

Fluttershy hesitated, then nodded. "...right...she was wondering about all of that. But we're more worried about your health right now. More than anything else."

"...Aunt Fluttershy...What I did was wrong. I shouldn't have lied about the horn, to Trixie, or to Twilight."

Fluttershy was being really reluctant on answering that. She didn't want to hurt your feelings or make you worry about any consequences....but. "....of course you shouldn't have. You should have been more honest with all of us. It worries me that you lie like that, it seems to happen more often than I thought it did...." Fluttershy stopped herself "Anon, we really shouldn't talk about this. Not until you're at least feeling better..."

You lay back, looking straight up at the ceiling. feeling frustrated that she was being dodgy about you being...dodgy. "Aunt Fluttershy...please. I really just want to get this off my chest. It'll make me feel better more than anything else." You roll to your belly, and scooch yourself to look directly at her with your guilt ridden eyes. "Can..you treat me like a mom and a friend would? Instead of an Aunt? Please? I just want to be taken seriously.I want you to listen to everything I have to say...and tell me what you have to think. I really need this, it really will help me.."

Fluttershy could see it in your eyes the desperation to talk about this. That was really odd to her. Normally a child would try to hide it for as long as they could. or just not want to talk about it. Only talking about it when called out on it or if something related to it happens. In that sense, it meant she’d be able to help you after you were healed, but that just wasn’t the case.

She was reluctant yes...but if it meant helping you, her nephew, she would. "..Anon..if you really think this will help. Then ok. But don't over exert yourself. in fact, as your mother and friend." She started to sound firmer now "If you start over exerting yourself and don't tell me, then I'll punish you by making you rest in bed until you're better.....got it?"

that nearly made you laugh. But you held it in...you couldn't hide that smile though. Fluttershy was pretty cute when she was trying to be more firm. It actually put you in better spirits.

But now came the truth. "Ok, look. What I said back there. everything..it's true. I lied to Trixie and Twilight about the horn. Princess Celestia took it from me for the rest of the visit because I used it to get into her castle. You know, to show off for my date... I know it was wrong. Why I lied about the horn to Trixie and Twilight? I didn't want them to know what happened, and I wanted to know if Trixie could be trusted. If she thought I had the horn, then she would probably either act like she was being nice, or actually try being nice. And if she attempted to take the horn from me...well..you know. She'd find nothing and she'd have been outed. But I was wrong...I should have told everypony the truth. If I told them the truth, then maybe..." Well actually, truth or not. the chimera thing would have happened regardless. "...well..I guess that attack would have still happened. So I guess, the only thing that would have been wrong would be after the lessons. I would have had to keep my end of the deal, and then everypony would either know I lied...or.."

"You'd have to come up with another lie, so you could hide the fact that you didn't have the horn. And then that would have turned to more lies...and even more lies as you try to cover your other lies up. Anon, why do you have to lie at all? I understood with Starlight, but I only accepted it because I thought Twilight was being too harsh. Now it feels like you just lie so you don't end up getting in trouble...Anon, it hurts me to know that it could be that..."

Your ears droop..because it was mostly that. You turn your head away in shame.
"....it's...pretty much that. Aunt Fluttershy...I try to tell the truth sometimes. But then there's the times I lie. I don't like lying to you...it hurts when I lie. You.." You look up at her, there was something you had to hear. something..that you hope she'd say no to. "...don't think I'm a big liar, do you? I can do better...I promise that I can..."
It was taking her a moment to answer, and a moment was all it took for tears to start welling up in your eyes.

The shame....damn..that dream. Maybe it would have been better if it was real.

Fluttershy shook her head however. She didn't want to make such a big assumption. Not on a colt, and especially not on you. You hadn't shown yourself to be that bad, especially with how apologetic you are. "You're not a big liar to me Anon, not one bit. You just need to do a little better next time. You do understand that lying is wrong, right?"

You nod, oh god, you couldn't hold back the tears. "M-Mhmmmm"

Why were you crying? why did it hurt so much? You should have been bigger than this. were you really so much a child that you couldn't handle keeping a straight face during lies anymore? That they crushed you so badly that you had dreams about it? Because you were truthfully hurt for everything you did. you couldn't hide it.

And Fluttershy could see you were already exerting yourself. "Shhh..Anon..shhh..come here...you don't need to say anything more."

You gulped, and whimpered as you dragged yourself on your belly into her, and hugged onto her.
"A-Aunt Fluttershy...I-I'm so sorry...I got you hurt too...I almost got you eaten..I-I'-"

"Shhhhhhh....no more talking Anon...none at all.." She holds you close, and rubs her hoof along your back gently. "We're not going to talk about this anymore, ok?"

You couldn't stop crying, you could feel weight on your conscious. But until you could talk to Trixie and Twilight. It'd have to wait. You also had to try to start fresh from here. You couldn't reveal everything you've done with your new life. Like how you became a hero colt. It involved Discord... You just had to accept that as a truth. Even if it still made you feel like a schmuck.

You couldn't stop. You just couldn't. If this was the human world, it'd be so easy to lie. Everyone does it. it was a necessity.

But here...lying to your friends...lying to her...It was becoming more overbearing with each lie.

You cried, and cried...and cried until her fur was damp and your eyes started to become red, your face flushed and soaked in tears.

Fluttershy could see just how badly this really affected you. To her, it was like you felt that you lost all your credibility and that no one was going to be there for you anymore. That just wasn't the case.

So she gently went on her own back, holding on to you so you could rest on her belly. She moved her back leg to get it under the blanket, and then tossed the blanket upward so it went over you, it wasn't the best toss, but it did the trick. She then hugged you close to her., and started to sing a lullaby.

Those soft soft tones...she was singing just for you. You knew she was...you felt safe,loved, forgiven. As long as she forgave you....everything would be ok. Because if you couldn't get her forgiveness...then all was lost.

Fluttershy sung her lullaby until your sobbing stopped.All you could think of now was nuzzling your head gently on her warm chest. You loved Fluttershy so much..and it was times like these you were so glad you were actually a colt. She'd never love you like this if you weren't...no one would. it actually was scary to think that even in this place, that being a grown stallion could be as lonely as being a human if you had no connections and no family. In truth, you had to silently thank Discord for this. This was something you never...ever...wanted to lose.

"I love you....Aunt Fluttershy" You say as you drift off to sleep.

"I love you too..my little Anon" You didn't know it, but she was crying too. but she held fast...for you. Not shedding a single tear until you were asleep. She was hoping you'd be ok. She was hoping that Twilight, when she did get around to addressing this herself, wouldn't judge you too harshly...you were just a colt. A colt who for all she knew grew up in a bad orphanage and was doing better than anyone could expect under Discord's care. She truly believed in you, and wasn't going to doubt you. She couldn't just do that to you. But she also hoped you would trust her more, and tell the truth all the time. She was proud of you, and didn't want any reason to be disappointed in you. She never wanted to reach the point where she'd have to scold you, and if she had to...discipline you. If Discord wouldn't do it..she knew she'd have to be the one.

Chapter 232

Next stop, Diamond Tiara's. Lordy, the shit you get yourself in. As you rush over however, a thought occurs to you: Bonbon. It almost seemed irrelevant until you realized she was an agent of some kind. And being an adult, if she ever found out about Chrysalis, It could either go two ways. She'd either butt in and try to handle it herself or alert the princesses.

Or..that's what you thought anyway. It also occurred to you that you really should hang with her and Lyra more often. Out of all your friends, they were the most pleasant next to Starlight...also had to remember you had to go bowling with Spike tomorrow. maybe you could get Lyra and Bonbon to join in.

These thoughts cross your mind, as well as what Chrysalis could be doing at any moment.
In fact, all these thoughts. Relevant or not fill up your mind so much that you crash right into the door of Diamond's mansion.

"AGH!" You fall back and rub your head. Always the head! ALWAYS! "Gng...geez, how did I lose track of where I was...egh...nevermind." You stand up and dust yourself off. "Ok...if there's a situation, defuse it. If there isn't, charm her..lord...why couldn't I just be molested by a mare. That'd make things easier...It's fine...wait..."

It wasn't fine, you were actually thinking back to Sweetie Belle and her advice. "....Either way, she'd probably be upset about earlier today. I'm gonna have to show her that I still care...." You tap at your horn, and think. "....What a waste of a charge. First time I really get to use the thing after a week and it's gonna be wasted on this....It's fine. Not like I'd need it for anything else. I hope she appreciates this..."

You put the horn on your forehead. It once again turns from a Sombra Horn to a regular Unicorn's horn. You then use it to don a clean white tux, a tie, a bouquet of white roses, and a box of chocolates in a heart shaped box. The set up almost made you cringe. "Ugh...the things you have to do to impress a girl.."

You knock on the door. And prepare yourself for either a maid or Mr.Rich. The door opens...it's a maid. Woo, these maids man, even though they got a cute little maid cap and maid apron like thing. It somehow made them sexy.

"Ahh, Master Anon. I'm guessing this is about Lady Diamond Tiara? A little much, don't you think?"

"Well y'know...nothing is too good for her" You gave a confident grin

"I see..well, she's been in her room with her friend all day. Probably doing homework." She steps aside. "Of course you are welcome inside, but try not to disturb Master Rich. He's very busy, but I will alert him of your presence"

You nod. "Thank you"

"No need, it is my pleasure to serve.."

Ohhhh....if only the pleasure could be all yours. This maid in particular had a very stoic voice, and yet always had a small and gentle smile with her beautiful emerald eyes and purplish blue coat.

You step in and head up to Diamond Tiara's room. Taking notice that the horn, instead of falling down, just hung back on your neck thanks to the golden sun necklace that ended at a latch behind your neck. All of it high quality. This was actually a nice gift from Celestia, top notch. There was the door, you prepared yourself, and knocked on the door.

"Who's there?" You hear Diamond say, in a slightly annoyed voice. Yep, she might still be sour.

"It's me, Anon, your..." ...oh god...the words..they tasted so corny. "Your future husband!"

Silence.

You get the flowers and chocolate ready. The door slowly opens, Diamond Tiara peering from behind it, she looks up at you, then down, then back up. And then blushes...feeling meek. "A-Anon...erm...is that all for me?"

Bingo..right at the get go. She was melting from your gesture of love. "Well..unless there's another Diamond Tiara. Then I guess it is."

You give her the best charming smile you could muster. She responds by opening the door completely to let you in. "Anon, I didn't even think you'd come...I thought, after your dad took you, that you were going to be upset about that whole thing with you,me, and Applebloom."

And then, without you even noticing, Silver Spoon, Who was also in the room, apparently has something to add to that. "And you shouldn't be. Diamond Tiara didn't do anything wrong, I asked Applebloom's friends if it was really important. And then I asked them why...and they wouldn't answer. The whole thing seemed suspicious to me."

Ahh yes, the maid did say she had a friend up here. Silver Spoon, ever defending her best friend. "Well, it was just a crusader thing. You know how it is...The important thing is that I'm not mad at anypony, and that I came to see my favorite gal"

Diamond Tiara couldn't help but blush from that. She almost felt shy from all the praise you were suddenly giving. That was good, the further you got her thoughts away from what happened, the better. She didn't need to know shit about Chrysalis. "Oh..Well..if it was really that important..then..I guess it's fine. I guess I got a little jealous.."

"Wait, hold on..." Silver Spoon interrupted. "Weren't we going to ask Anon why it was important when we got the chance? Why not ask him now if it really was that important?"

"Ummm...yeah. Actually, she's right Anon. I was kinda curious all day why it was important enough for Applebloom to act like she owns you. She doesn't..." Diamond Tiara started to speak from cute and meek to inquisitive and possessive. "She had no right to be so intrusive. What could have been so important that she couldn't wait?"

......FUCKING...DAMMIT...

What the hell were you supposed to tell her? How the hell were you going to make up something that she would buy? If it's weak...well, in actuality, if it's weak. She'd probably mock Applebloom...and that would actually annoy you. If it's strong, she might get nosy. So...what could you say? Maybe if you… "Well, it's a...it's a secret."

Diamond Tiara steps closer to you, curious as to what it could be. "What kind of secret? You know you can tell me, right? I won't tell anypony else. Silver Spoon won't either. I just want to make sure it's important."

Well, ok..why did you think that would work?... "W-well, it's not my secret to tell. It's about another pony, highly values their privacy. I'm really sorry Diamond Tiara, but I made a promise. But you don't need to worry..."

You move your head to hers and give her a peck on the lips, making her blush hard. This was your trump card. You'd make her so enamored with you that she'd hopefully drop the subject. "It's not as important as you are."

"U-uhhhmm..o-ok" She stammers and blushes, smiling, even letting out a giggle.

Silver Spoon said nothing. She could tell her friend wouldn't pursue it now. But something to her....was suspicious. "So you're not going to tell us then? If it's a problem, we could probably solve it. We do have a lot of money."

.....Why won't she just drop it? "I said I can't. And I also have a lot of money. Let's just forget anything ever happened, ok? It's not nice to snoop into other pony's businesses. It's rude..erm..right Diamond Tiara?"

"You're right Anon..." Diamond Tiara turned Silver Spoon "If it's somepony else's secret then we really shouldn't pry. But..." Diamond Tiara looked back at you "Anon...I know Applebloom also likes you, I can see it in her eyes...are you sure she's not just trying to get you alone or something?"

You shake your head...dammit, just drop it! "I'm sure, the whole group was there when I visited them. After we finished discussing things, I hurried here with these flowers and chocolates...and look. These white roses are thornless..so I can.." HERE’S THE CLENCHER! IF THIS DOESN'T GET HER MIND OFF OF IT, NOTHING WILL! You take a white rose into your teeth and gently slip it into her mane so the flower itself sticks out from it. And wow....it actually made her look pretty cute. "...do that.."

Diamond Tiara wanted to see, she hurried to a mirror to see what you did. and when she saw that white rose in her mane. She smiled deeply. It was so romantic to her, so much so she entered a soft dreamlike state. "Anon...y-your so sweet.." She blushed, she admired the gesture, she felt like the flower accentuated her looks to absolute perfection. She looked to Silver Spoon, excited to hear her opinion "Silver Spoon, don't I look pretty?"

Silver Spoon was impressed by your gesture, only someone who really loved someone else would do something so romantic...that was in her head anyway. "You look more than pretty, you look perfect! Awwwwww, it's sooooooo beautiful. Anon really is your prince charming"

"I know! I KNOW! There's no other colt like him. All the other ones are either gross and fart or burp or they are nerdy and weak...I-I mean there's nothing wrong with that. But, Anon is strong, brave, and...erm....cute" She was completely red in the face at this point.

Mission accomplished? Yeah, in more ways than one. Diamond Tiara was once again..totally into you. It wasn't too bad, you supposed. It was nice to have a girl's attention like that. Not like you ever got it as a human.

"Well, Diamond. You're cute too. The cutest filly in all of Equestria. The cutest..and most beautiful. You make my heart all aflutter." Oh god, the cheese, it was triple decked. But what else could you do? This was your life now, and as you had already said you had to make the most of it. You were a kid, she was a kid....perfectly natural.

Diamond Tiara was entranced with you, she stepped closer, looking into your eyes with those bedroom peepers. "Not yet I haven't"

Wut?

You didn't even have time to react when she gave you a long kiss on the lips. She kept it up for ten seconds. no tongue of course. But it caught you totally off guard. and made you blush hard. But then...it got worse. She lost her footing, and pressed to hard, making you fall backwards as she landed on top of you.

Silver Spoon was just staring, she found the whole thing to be....nearly scandalous

Both you and Diamond were staring at each other. lost in eachothers' gaze. She was on top and for some reason...you were finding her increasingly attractive.

Well no fucking wonder, she was on top of you. Anon, stop being stupid. Not too close..NO WHAT WAS SHE DOING?! She, as if by instinct, hugged gently onto you, and nuzzled her head right next to yours. "Anon...I-I didn't mean to knock you down. But...can we just lay here awhile. I admit, I was still kinda worried...but I'm not worried anymore..."

Worried...still?...mnnn… "It's ok...I don't mind...." You put your hooves around her. And hugged gently. "The floor is pretty comfy anyway"

You both chuckle, Diamond Tiara then lets out a soft sigh "I love you Anon...."

...Mnnnn. What could you do… "I love you too...Diamond"

Silver Spoon could see you both were having a moment. She silently let herself out, wanting to be polite. Leaving you both alone. After that display, she felt pretty sure things were as it sounded. But this also created a new problem....

You could never turn back after this...you could never end this relationship yourself. You could sense it. Diamond's heart was fragile. Unless she became somehow bored of you or felt it'd be better for the both of you to just be friends. this would never end.

"Anon..."

"Yeah Diamond?"

".....Would you want to have a boy? or a girl?"

Your eyes widen. "U-ummm...isn't it kinda early for that kinda thing?"

"I don't think so. Come on, it might be a fun to talk about while we lay here"

Easy for her to say, she didn't have her back on the ground. She was laying on your cuddly colt tummy. "..Ermm..ok...but you first."

Diamond Tiara giggled. "Well...I'd actually like to have a boy. I'd want to raise him to be just like his dad. Smart, brave, and eligible for any mare. He'd be adventurous and curious. And as his mother, I'd like to be able to share in that. It'd be fun! if he wanted to pretend to fly, I could lift him so he could feel like he's flying. If he needed help attracting a mare...like he'd need it" She giggles. "I could give him the right advice...which would be to just be like you. Also...I could judge any mare he brings home. Because no child of mine is gonna marry a hussy!...And that's why I want a boy. Your turn Anon!"

Huh...she really thought it through as far as a kid would.

It didn't take you long to think about. "I want a girl. It kinda sounds weird. But I'd just like a nice little filly who'd look up to me. Who wouldn't get herself into too much trouble. And would try her best at school. I don't think I could handle a little colt getting into mischief...." You cringed. "And considering who their grandpa would be...I think he'd be less inclined to pal around with a filly, which is good."

Fuck...it may be years away. But Discord spiriting your future son away for mischief and adventure scared the shit out of you.

"Oh......right...Discord would be....a grandpa." Diamond Tiara didn't like that at all. "I forgot about that....mnn, well, it shouldn't be too bad. We would still be the parents, we could tell him off if he decides to be all chaotic and stuff. But...don't you have other reasons for having a daughter that doesn't have to do with your dad?"

"Well, yeah. I guess, aside from the staying out of trouble thing. I guess there's also the fact that....hmmnn.." Was that the only real reason? Having a boy would be cool too....there was a lot of things you could do with a boy than you couldn't with a girl. "Actually, I don't really mind how they come out as. If it's a boy, that's good too.." You chuckle. "I wouldn't mind having a little me, I mean, what the hay, so what if he's a little adventurous? Not like he's going to get into the kind of trouble I'd get into. We'd be the parents, And with my horn, It'd be pretty easy to keep an eye on the bugger. I'd just want, whether it be a boy or a girl, for them to achieve what they want in life..and be happy."

"Anon" Diamond Tiara nuzzles into you. "You'd be the greatest father ever...I don't mind if they are a boy or a girl either. I'd just be happy having a foal...with you" She was blushing hard, she was looking at you with dem eyes, she was cuddling ever more gently, almost...rubbing her body on you.

You were blushing harder than ever, terrible, terrible thoughts running through your head. Wait..WAIT. If you're thinking terrible thoughts...and she wants kids. That means...oh no..OH NO! "D-diamond, I-I think it's time to get off....erm...I'm getting kind of cramped"

AGH, AGH, THE PERISCOPE, YOU CAN FEEL IT GOING UP TO CHECK INTO THE CAVES!

"But Anon...I-I wanted to snuggle more...and ask you..a very special question"

Oh god...oh god, she was giving an innocent smile that suggested not so much innocence. the best you could do was turn your body as you thought of thoughts not having to do with the dinky derby! "A-a special question?"

"Mhmmmm"

AGH! NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! YOU COULDN'T HOLD IT MUCH LONGER! AND IF SHE ASKS "THAT" QUESTION. YOU'RE DOOOOOOMED! "S-sure...b-bu-"

She puts a hoof on your mouth and giggles. "C'mon Anon, if you keep talking and stuttering, I won't be able to ask. now's not the time to get shy."

SHY?! SHY?!?!?! YOU WERE TRYING TO HOLD IT IN DAMMIT! NOW ALL HOPE WAS LOST!

"Anon...." She finally asks "Where do you think foals come from? I asked Daddy a few times but he keeps saying he's too busy to answer...and it's always that question...I thought since you were super smart, you might know"

EWRFEWFFEFAEDFAEFGREE WHAT?! Your head falls backwards to the ground as whatever build up you have leaves you at the sheer naiveness of that question. You just look up at the ceiling in relief and dumbfoundedness

".......I have no idea"

"Oh.." Diamond Tiara hops off of you, gives you a kiss on the cheek, and heads over to a drawer. She takes out a handkerchief and drops it beside you "Here Anon, you're really sweaty for some reason. I hope I wasn't too heavy for you. I just wanted to snuggle a little. I guess we should have done it on the bed instead on the ground, huh? Is your back ok?" Diamond Tiara was daintily wiping your face with the handkerchief as you just laid there.

Oh...god...that was close.

"Anon..are you mad at me? You didn't answer"

"H-huh? oh...erm..no I'm fine.." You give her a reassuring yet nervous smile. "Just, y'know. Been a rough day." You quickly roll to the left of her and get up. Taking a few breaths to calm down...fuck that was close. "I feel relaxed now, thanks to you"

"Well, I'm glad. Anon, actually. This made me think of something."

Hopefully not sex. "What?"

"Can you sleepover sometime? Not today of course, but another day? Oh! and can you bring your sister along? She's a bit older, she might know where foals come from. And I'd love to get to know her!...I-I have to ask Daddy of course. But I just know he'll say yes!"

......That was worse than sex. "Ummmm, I'll think about it. Y'know Dad...always random. But erm. Yeah, I'll definitely think about it and....woo" You look towards the window, you didn't care what time it was, it was time to vamoose. "Look at the time, I got homework to do."

"But you'll think about it? Leaning more towards a yes?"

You nod, it was probably not a good idea to disappoint her.

"Yeah!" Diamond Tiara jumps in joy until she realized she was being a little undignified. "Ahrm...I'm glad. Well, don't wait too long on giving me the answer. And, good luck with your homework. I know you won't need it though."

With kisses on the cheek. You leave Diamond Tiara with her flowers, candy, hopes, and dreams, and exit the premises. You let out a heavy sigh and nearly collapse from nervousness. Holy kapoly sholy. "Note to self...don't let her get on top. Sheeesh, Anon. What were you doing? You almost gave her the real answer. The D....egh...I feel dirty, part of me wanted that too. Gotta relax...just gotta wait a decade...egh."

You return home via a nearby water source and your map. You now had a lot to think about. The relationship with Diamond Tiara was getting deeper. And now she wanted to have you and Chrysalis over for the night. Fucking Chrysalis, you could only imagine the bullshit she'd spew to the young filly. Cripes, you couldn't even think of how it'd actually go. You just hope it didn't end with you and Diamond doing the horizontal shuffle.

These thoughts clouded your mind as you tried to focus on your homework. Your writing had gotten better. But with your thought process being muddled, it was hard to write something that would impress Cheerilee. Maybe that was a good thing. Or maybe she'd get annoyed and tell you to apply yourself. It'd have to do.

You put your homework away. On it written your notes and knowledge of Manehattan written in a different way as to make it legit. You still had some time in the day before having to go to bed....maybe you should check on Chrysalis...see if you could try and make things a little more even between the two of you. According to the map, she was here, as was the captain.

Part of you didn't think this was a wise decision. Once again you were thinking deep into your thoughts again as you open the floor door. Before stepping down. You think about WHY you were going to visit Chrysalis. "Even with the horn, she still treats me like I'm an actual kid..and plaything. I have to show her that we're equals. If I can manage that. Maybe I can get some damn respect from her..."

You nod, and head down the floor door and head straight into the basement. Dark and dank as always. You took out the map and kept an eye on the dots. Chrysalis's dot stood in place. But the Captain's was pretty far out, deep into the cave. He was moving...but you wonder if he was alright.

You watch your step as you head down the long stone stairway into Chrysalis's lair. As you go ever closer. You can hear the beating of bug wings, low voices, hissing, and can see the glow of the orb.

When you reach the bottom and look on ahead, there you saw her, Chrysalis...sitting idle and bored on her throne. She didn't even seem to notice you. You take a few steps forward. and announce yourself. "Chrysalis...."

All the changelings stop, and look at you, the captain wasn't among them. Well, not from what you could tell. But you'd be able to pick him from the crowd if he was wearing that oversized helmet.

Chrysalis looks over to you. "Anon..." She says, still bored. But her muzzle, she was slowly starting to smile "What a surprise, come to see your sister? I didn't think you cared that much to come visit me on your own"

You keep up a brave front.

Chapter 236

And then...you wake up.

You wake up to the sound of your class slowly pouring in. All of them taking a gaze at Discord as he sits by Cheerilee's desk, calm and cool, Just giving them a few waves. Many of the students seem on edge. You wiped your eyes, yawned, and looked around. Some of them seemed kind of anxious, some curious, some were even whispering while smiling, talking about that something "Awesome" will happen.

Everyone arrived to class in a timely manner.

The CMC arrived next to last.

"Discord? Whatcha doin' here?" Applebloom blurts out in surprise upon entering the class

Discord waves with a smile "Hello little Apple......errr"

Applebloom raises an eyebrow at him, feeling a little insulted "Applebloom...y'know, Anon's friend? Applejack's sister? She kicked yer butt once?"

Discord shrugs "You can't expect me to keep track of everypony's name now can you?"

"Ah dunno, why are ya even here?" Applebloom looks towards you as you look back at her. What...did she want you to say something?

"Actually..Mister Discord is here to teach us about the history of his rise and fall as king of Equestria. He's been very nice and calm during his morning stay in the classroom..." Cheerilee then looks at him with dagger filled eyes "And it's going to remain that way, Right?...Mister Discord?"

Discord merely smiles and nods "Of course, I just felt a little threatened tis all. I only got a name wrong. Is that so bad?"

"Miss Cheerilee, ya actually let him in here? Applebloom was in shock, as was her fellow friends.

"I did, this could be an interesting and educational lesson for all of us Applebloom. And believe it or not, he's been behaved and has shown real heart in wanting to teach us all about this. The least you can do is give him a chance." Cheerilee didn't want there to be trouble. she thought if she defused the situation, everything would be fine.

"But..." Applebloom protested

"Applebloom" If was going to look at you as if you did something wrong. you might as well speak. "It's gonna be fine. Trust me."

"See? If my son says it'll be alright. Doesn't that mean it will be? He is the hero colt after all" Discord waves a talon at her as if he was some grandpa making a point.

"Yeah but...mnnn.." Applebloom didn't know, it's not that she had anything really against him, she just generally didn't trust him. even he was your "father". She had noticed the way he just used you as a baseball. and she didn't like it.

"Well, if Anon says it'll be ok. Doesn't that mean it'll be ok?" Scootaloo asks Applebloom, then smiles "C'mon, it'll be ok." Scootaloo was pretty optimistic about this. Since in the end, when it comes to you and her, you always seem to try to better her life or get her out of a jam, so she always seems the most friendly to you out of the three. That’s good...

"....it should be ok, right?" Sweetie Belle wasn't sure, but if you and Cheerilee were ok with it... "I mean, even Miss Cheerilee is ok with it"

"..ah guess....ok Discord." Applebloom let's out a small cheerful smile "Ah guess ah can trust ya. Ah mean, ya wouldn't do anything crazy, woulda ya?"

Discord shook his head "Not a thing, this is purely an educational venture"

And with that, the CMC sat in their seats and waited for class to start.

The only thing missing was.....

You notice Silver Spoon...alone, she was looking back at the door. probably waiting for Diamond Tiara.

And that was the thing. where was she?

And right as the bell rings, Diamond Tiara starts rushing in "S-sorry! Sorry! I'm not late, am I Miss Cheerilee?"

Diamond Tiara hadn't even noticed yet that Discord was there.

"You're right on time Diamond Tiara" Cheerilee says with a smile "If you can take your seat, the day will begin."

"ok" Diamond Tiara takes her seat next to Silver Spoon, and then notices Discord, and gives him a cheerful wave "Good Morning Mister Discord, what are you doing here?"

"Ahh..the ever lovely Diamond Tiara." Discord gets up to take a bow "I'm just here to teach a lesson. That is all"

Wut?

Applebloom was also having a wut moment.

"What?! ya remember her name?!" Applebloom felt insulted....to a point that she didn't even realize why. it was a form of jealousy she didn't comprehend.

Discord shrugged "Of course, She is of course, my son's marefriend and most likely future princess of Equestria"

Diamond Tiara blushed and grinned big "Ohhh...Mister Discord" She giggled in embarrassment.

........ogh....

you just whisper under your breath "Kill me"

It looked like Applebloom was doing the same thing, with a heavy groan.

Why did he have to say that? You just took a glance around and it made the whole class speak. Some giggling, some seemed jealous, others found it gross in general. And even worse, that whole "princess" bit probably cemented Diamond to your side for good, well cemented it gooder...that’s not even a word.

"Ahrm..Now that the everypony is here. We can start the class. Now then..." Cheerilee gave her students a huge smile "Good morning class"

"Good morning Miss Cheerilee!" They call cry out, Including you.

"Today is a very special day. For those who did not hear. We will be learning about the rise and fall of the age of chaos. Mister Discord here has taken time out of his day to teach and talk about a time that no historian has ever written about.So please, take out a pencil and some sheets of papers and prepare to take notes." Cheerilee then looks to you with a little bit of a joking grin "That includes you Anon, just because he's your father doesn't exempt you from writing notes." She says with a small giggle

....right, that wasn't actually funny.

But you smile to save face anyway. While things run through your mind. Mostly...why wasn't Diamond with Silver Spoon then morning? She rushed into the door, but she didn't look like she ran or rushed from home. It was like she was just standing around near the school, waiting for the bell.

"Alright then" Cheerilee looked to Discord "Mister Discord, you may start the lesson now. You'll have free use of the chalkboard to illustrate or write notes for the students to follow. But first, why don't you greet the class?"

"That sounds like an excellent idea.."Greeting the class"...hmm" Discord stroked his beard, puzzled with himself "Why didn't I think of that?"

"Mister Discord..it's just a common courtesy...." Cheerilee said, already feeling a little miffed that he seems to be losing the positive attitude he had. It just seemed rude to her.

"Of course of course. Forgive me...You know how it is when you barely ever had friends before" Discord says as he stands, preparing to greet the class.

".....o-oh..Sorry, I just.." Cheerilee now felt like a dick, she had forgotten that friendship and courtesy was something he was not accustomed to.

"It's alright, i'm quite used to being treated in such a way. It's neither here nor there. Let's drop it, and get to what's important. Teaching these wonderful students about MY history." Discord takes a bow, and smiles at the class "Good morning students!"

"Good Morning Mister Discord" The class said aloud....though, with varying amounts of enthusiasm.

"Today, as the gracious Miss Cheerilee mentioned. We will be learning about the age of chaos!..and.."

Discord walks over to the chalkboard, and by turning his claws and talons into various colored chalk. He quickly scribbled, what looked like, the twisted lands of Equestria he created during "Return of Harmony".

"And there it is...." He presents it as if it was something huge.

oh shit...A landscape in a chalkboard?! Fuck...FUCK. You knew what he was gonna do....but.

But..why stop it? Why say anything about it? You knew he was gonna pull this kinda shit. Why did it even surprise you? No..this...whatever this was....was going to be fun. He was your friend, you got him here to do this...just trust in him..this was your destiny. Your only worry was that he didn't go too far with Cheerilee.

Discord said nothing more as he stayed in his presenting stance. Everyone just looked at him with irksome expressions.

"Errr..Mister Discord. Erm...aren't you going to continue?" Cheerilee asked. Already getting the feeling she made a mistake.

She didn't realize how big of one she made.

"What, nopony is going to dive in?" Discord said, tapping his foot with impatience

"Dive in?...what are you talking about? Discord...please tell me this wasn't another joke" Cheerilee put a hoof to her head getting frustrated "Please tell me there's more to this than just a drawing...what are we even supposed to learn from it?"

Discord let out a cruel chuckle "...why...we're gonna learn everything. And since nopony wants to dive in..." Discord taps the side of the chalkboard. Suddenly, like a black hole. Everything starts to get dragged towards the chalkboard. Everything..and everyone.

"DDDIISSSSCCCCOOORRDDD!" Cheerilee was the first to fall in, screaming in anger as she became a part of the chalkboard.

Yep.....shoulda expected it. At this point, why should you be worried? This didn't directly affect you. And if you read his words right. No one was in danger...it's not like he was going to make you suffer..right?

You just put your chin on the bottom of your hoof as you just sat there. looking upon the vortex as students started screaming and being pulled in, you could feel the pull. But the pull's strength seemed random. One by one, it pulled students in.

Discord just stared at you with a smile "Not surprised .Anon?"

"Nope...Let me guess, we're all going to get sucked into a replica of what happened. right?

Discord nodded "Good guess! An extra credit “A” for you! Not worried at all? not even a little bit?" He challenges your senses.

"I know you're not going to hurt a bunch of foals Discord. Fluttershy would have a cow if you were going to make them suffer."

"Ohhhhh...well" Discord swayed his hips mockingly at you "When you put it that way, it does make sense that this is purely for fun. I'll just have to think of something more....personal...for you later. Is that what you'd like?"

Ok....you didn't need that.

"Alright, alright. Relax..You don't need to start shit. I'm with you on this, So..err...what exactly is the..WOAH!"

You flip off your desk and grab onto Cheerilee's Desk as the vortex starts to intensify.

"Just follow my lead Anon, and you'll do fine" Discord says, not affected by the vortex..not one bit.

"O-ok!..Wait..Am I going to drop onto a pile of foals when i hit the cNGHHH" You almost slip, but you pull yourself back across.

"Anon, stop worrying! everypony who hits that vortex appears on the ground, sitting down, in a world of my creation. So don't worry your cute little head."

That's funny because thats exactly what you were worried about. your head. "A-alright....So...erm..letting go now"

"Seeya there Anon! We're going to have some real real fun! You'll see!" Discord says with joyful optimism.

You let your hooves slip, and get pulled into the chalkboard vortex.

A bright light hits you. Blinding you for a moment.

And as you opened your eyes. "....oh....woah.."

You were sitting among your classmates on a checkboarded hill. All around you was chaos. The sky was green. Clouds were pink. Trees were floating, houses were upside down, everything was topsy turvy.

And thankfully, just as Discord said. You were sitting on your butt.

"Ahhhh! We're Doomed!" many of the students were screaming out.

"Ahh shoulda known Discord was up to no good" Applebloom was telling the others.

Cheerilee was trying to keep her cool. She was obviously angry and scared "D-don't worry Everypony. Stick close to me. I-I'll figure a way out."

"Diamond Tiara, W-what are we going to do?!" Silver Spoon asked her in fright.

Diamond just shrugged "It'll be ok, Mister Discord is actually really nice. I bet this is part of the lesson."

"H-how do you know?" Silver Spoon shivered

"Because, I've talked to Mister Discord before. He's actually really nice." Diamond wasn’t worried, not one damn bit.

Oh man, it was pure pandemonium. You started to feel a little guilt for being so aloof.

...speaking of aloof.

You start to hear the ground shift under you, as you hear a crackling noise. "What the..."

You look behind yourself...you were on the edge of a cliff....

Fuck!

You try to rush from the edge, but the ground ahead of you splits off from the rest of the hill. You end up falling backwards towards your death. "FUCK YOU DISCOOOOOORRDD!"

You fall down..and down..and down..

and when you hit the ground below. You sink into it, then it bounces, launching you back up, past the cliff.....as you land directly on your head..right in front of Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon.

"Anon!" Diamond Tiara cheered "I was wondering where you were!" She naively hugs you, unaware of your...usual pain.

And then, in another flash of light. In front of the entire class. Discord appears with his snaggletooth grin. Donned in a purple suit. Wearing a purple top hat. And his pawn and talons ontop of a cane with the letter "D" at the top.

"Discord! What are you doing?! You said..you promised...You gave me yourOOP!" Cheerilee is stopped short as she is placed in a bubble. Her yells cannot be heard.

Discord just blows gently on the bubble and sends her flying straight up. This frightens most of the class. Enough that they gasp and shiver in fear. The CMC step up to him, finding the whole thing wrong.

"Anon...What is your dad up to?" Diamond Tiara asks naively as she finished hugging you, enjoying the moment. unafraid of what could happen.

looking at his clothes, you think...you actually had some sort of idea. Was he seriously doing a Willy Wonka bit? "uhhh...I'm not exactly sure. I didn't know he was going to do this. But....he said he'd be nice about it. We'll just have to wait and see"

"You don't know?! What if he's keeping us here as hostages?!" Silver Spoon began to panic

"Nah, why would he hold Anon hostage with us? He's his dad. Nope, I bet it's gonna be something fun!" Diamond Tiara said with excitement.

...it could be...you just hoped it didn't involve missing children.

"Ahh knew it! Ah just knew it! Ah knew you were up to no good Discord!" Applebloom said as she bravely stepped forward.

"Knew what? You can't know what's going to happen" Discord twirled his cane around then tapped it onto the ground "I haven't started the lesson yet"

"How is this a lesson?" Sweetie Belle asked, coming from behind Applebloom.

"Yeah, you tricked Miss Cheerilee! That wasn't very nice!" Scootaloo growled at him, angry to as to what he has done.

"Tricked? me?...nahh" Discord waved his paw dismissively "I'm being true to my word. But simply explaining how my empire worked is NOT good enough. So I created this replica...where the impossible...is possible. For example...you, Anon's chicken friend"

"Chicken friend?! WHAT?! That's it Discord! I'm gonna let you have it!" Scootaloo was deeply insulted. She wanted to pound on Discord.

"Well then...why don't you? Come on" Discord beckoned her, then pointed to his chin "Why don't you just try to hit me? Or do you need the wings my son gave you to reach up this high? Ohhh...but you can't use them now..can you? Did somepony have a morning flight?"

Scootaloo just flew into rage. She hated the fact she couldn't fly normally. And while the wings you gave her brought her great joy. It being pointed out as the only way to fly IS the wings infuriated her. "Grrr! I'll show you! TAKE THIS!"

Scootaloo jumped...and flew right up to Discord and clocked him in the chin. Sending his head up mechanically like a rock em' sock em' robot. Scootaloo then grinned at him, while hovering in place while her wings fluttered. "Ha! How'd you like that?"

Another Discord, still in the same attire, sidestepped into the scene and leaned on what appeared to be a now broken version of himself. "oh, I'm not the one you should be asking that question. Why don't you ask yourself instead?"

"What in the? How did y-..right..your mag-..wait a second" Scootaloo noticed she was at eye level with Discord. She then looked down. "Am...I really flying..with my own wings?"

Discord nodded, this time with a gentler smile "You are my dear, indeed you are. You see...In my world. Anything is possible. Why don't you see for yourself? unlike the wings Anon gave you, you have no limitations here. Go ahead...try it...I know you want to"

Scootaloo was completely fascinated by what was going on. She flitted to the left, then the right. "I'm really flying!...S-so..It won't run out or nothing?"

"Nope! Now go ahead...have fun!" Discord stepped back, to let her have more room.

"Girls look, I'm flying, I'm flying with my own wings!" Scootaloo said with excitement. Using her own wings being an accomplishment to her, above using the cardboard wings.

"Wow! That’s ama-...wait..." Sweetie Belle looked to Discord "isn't letting her fly around doing something nice? Discord...are you doing something nice?"

"Ahhh young filly, it may seem impossible. But that's because chaos is so misunderstood. Isn't there something you thought that was impossible that you wanted to do?" He asks her

"...U-umm..well. I've always wanted to have magic as good as somepony like Twilight." Sweetie Belle tells him, now a little entranced by the possibility of doing the impossible.

"Well, why want when you already have?" Discord leaned over his cane and grinned at her

"what?" Sweetie Belle was confused

Discord chuckled at her "I said, why want when you already have it. Why don't you try casting a complicated spell. Go ahead, just think it"

"Just think it?" She asks

"yes...it's not that complicated. Just..give it a go" Discord sighed, a little impatient.

"hrnn" Sweetie Belle wondered, now curious due to Scootaloo's ability of flight. She pointed her horn at an empty space.....and made a huge glass bowl of ice cream appear. big enough to dive into. "woah! It works!"

"Mhmmm, I told you. Now then...any more complaints?" Discord asked

Applebloom herself started to falter. The impossible was now possible? Did that mean she could do whatever she wanted?..still "What about Miss Cheerilee?..and the lesson?"

"You're in the lesson my dear. As for your teacher. She'll be fine, she's just floating in the bubble right now. Come now, this is the history of the reign of chaos. Whatever you thought you couldn't do..you now can! Isn't there something you wanted to do..that..I don't know....your sister wouldn't like, but you would?"

Now Applebloom was enticed. "...e-ermm...a-actually.A-ah always wanted to try being a grown up. Sometimes mah sister can be a bit of a butthead, tellin' me I'm always too young or small or somethin'...and for once ah...Eep!" Suddenly, Applebloom's voice started to deepen..and change.

And that wasn't the only thing that changed. She was taller, she was older....oh mercy, her longer mane, and cute bow......she was hot.

"A-a..what happened?! Ahm taller!" She was spooked, she didn't even notice her growth spurt.

Discord poofed up a giant mirror for her to look at "Take a look"

Applebloom peered into the mirror, and went wide eyed "I-is that me?"

"It is, you are now an adult, just like you wanted. And being an adult..that would mean...." He stops to let her finish.

"Ah can do whatever ah want! Woah! ah can do whatever ah want and nopony can tell me not to do it!" Applebloom hopped about in excitement.

"Exactly!..And to all of you" Discord looks at the now bedazzled foals, who were amazed at the CMCs’ exploits. "The lesson is simple! My rule was the best rule. A world of NO rules. Now, I always thought the best way of learning was through experience. So then, Go my little ponies, and enjoy yourselves!"

The entire class was enamored by this. Doing whatever you please? not one of them thought this was bad. And before you knew it. All of them spread out to do their own shit.

"Anything we want? Silver Spoon..do you think we can..." Diamond Tiara began to wonder

"ohhhh! I already think it happened! Diamond, look at your Head! Look at your sides!"

Oh god. It's happened....

"Huh?" Diamond Tiara reached up to her forehead with her hoof...and felt a horn. Then she looked back and saw..wings...and then...she beamed excitingly. "OH MY GOSH! OOHH MY GOSH! I'M AN ALICORN! LOOK LOOK! I'M AN ALICORN!"

"That's so amazing! You look so royal!" Silver Spoon stated as she took a bow

"Thank you..." Diamond giggled "Lady Silver Spoon...So..if I'm an alicorn...that makes me a princess....and that means.." She looks at you with a dreamlike smile "I need a prince"

Ohhh..you saw that coming. "W-woah...hold on there. Aren't we a little too young for that kinda thing?"

Diamond looked at you with disappointment in her eyes. "...Anon...we're destined to be together though. What does age have to do with anything?"

....right..you forget how deeply she was into you. You needed to deter her another way. As much as you loved her yourself. If this got any deeper, she may ask or even try to sneak into your room when you plop into a puddle or something. Or she may just follow you into something dangerous. Goddammit, love was complicated. “O-oh, what I meant was that we can't be together yet. We need...er....A kingdom! That's right. A kingdom. Meaning y'know, a castle..some walls..a town...stuff like that. I mean, we can do anything right? But..I'm not so good with location and stuff. I mean, you both are rich right? Wouldn't that mean you two could find the perfect spot and magically get it all set up?"

Diamond and Silver Spoon pondered on that.

"He's right....how can you be a princess without a kingdom?" Silver Spoon comes to agree with you

"I...can't...Well" Diamond Tiara smiles and points forward with determination "We'll have to fix that! Come on! Let's scope out the best place to make a kingdom!"

You didn't want to do that either. You needed to speak to Discord about all this.

"Actually. I need to speak to my dad."

"Why? C'mon..who knows how long this will last! I want to rule by your side Anon! I want to know how it feels to be married!" Diamond Tiara whined

"Errr...Married? U-ummm..You mean now?" You gulped

"Mhmm! Can you imagine it Anon? doves flying, flowers everywhere, right up on a cliff by the beachside. The soft breeze blowing through our manes. Our first dance.....and of course....when we get to say "I do" "

..oh shit nigga, she's in deep, deeper than she’s ever been. She actually has the whole wedding planned in her head. What do you even say to that?

"E-erm...y-yeah. But, doesn't your dad have to give you away too? He's...not exactly here"

"Then we'll just switch it around. Ask your dad if he'll give you away! Come on Anon, this is our chance! Don't you wanna get married?!" She was getting frustrated, all she wanted was you and you were pushing her away.

"I just....think...erm....MPH?!" You get stopped

Diamond Tiara leans in and gives you a peck on the lips "Did that help with your thinking?

Yes...NO..y-NO! DON'T ANON! DON’T GIVE IN! DAMN SHE LOOKS CUTE AS AN ALICORN! GODDAMMIT YES, NO! YES! NO! "....let me....just ask my Dad...eheh" You chuckle nervously

Diamond Tiara giggled "Ok" She then turned to Silver Spoon "Come on Silver Spoon, we gotta go set up the kingdom"

"Right behind you Princess Tiara!" Silver Spoon was excited, it all seemed like a dream.

And then..they flew off....like it wasn't even shit.

....good god...

You rushed over to Discord, who was sitting on his new throne, watching the foals play and do all sorts of chaotic shit. such as blowing up chunks of the land or riding spinning tops across hills. "Discord! Discord! We have a problem!"

"What problem? Did Timmy get out of the well again?" Discord asks you

You stop, feeling stumped for a moment. "What?..No! Look, Diamond Tiara wants you to give me up. She wants to get married!"

"Ohhh! That sounds wonderful! Of course I'll give you away to her! When does the wedding start? I need to get ready and put on my best...oh right" Discord chuckles as he looks at his suit, and tips his top hat "I'm already dressed for it"

GODDAMNNIT! "Discord! Don't joke around like that! I'm fine with...this..But I'm not going to get married! Her dad would kill me..HER MOM WOULD KILL ME!..financially...it's bad. You ever had a hospital bill, Discord? Because I can imagine it being like that times a thousand."

"Oh relax, she won't get that far. She's going to spend forever finding a spot just to set up her castle. By then, we'll reach the end part of the lesson. My defeat of course" Discord waves his paw dismissively at you as he spins his cane in the air with his magic.

...he was serious about that? "Wha? Wait...so you were serious about the whole lesson thing? Then why put Cheerilee in a bubble and let the kids just do whatever?"

"Because, it's part of the experience. See, when I ruled. All the chaos was for my personal enjoyment. So...to make a point. I'm letting them all have an ounce of my power so they could FEEL what it was like to be me back then. But just like with my fun...it'll have to end. Of course, I'll be the one taking that fateful beating. But don't you worry, I'm going to have fun with it" Discord just smiled a confident smile as he spoke.

"...huh...well...I guess it isn't that bad then...wait..is that really Applejack as a kid getting scolded?"

You point to an Applebloom who seemed to be scolding a defiant Applejack.

"Just a figment Anon, this entire realm is custom fit for fun education. Absolutely nopony can be hurt here"

"Really? Even if they blew eachother up?"

"the magic would just bounce off of their little bodies. Truuussst me, it's perfectly safe"

you sigh in relief, it seemed Discord had everything handled after all. Which means no marriage....good.

But then..you hear a cry of help from a familiar fat colt. "HAAAALLLLPPP, I CAN'T SWIM! I JUST WANTED CHOCOLATE FROM THE RIVER! I DIDN'T WANNA DROWN IN IT!"

Was that Snips?....in danger?

You raise an eyebrow at Discord "....I thought you said it was safe"

"It is! Just give it a moment, and he will realize he can just fly out of there"

"AGH! I'M SINKING! THERES NO WAY I CAN GET OUT! HELP! HELP!" Snips cries out

"Discord...he's pretty dumb. maybe you should help him...y'know...because if he drowns. Well, I mean. It wouldn't be bad for me...but still, for you? Hearth Warming Eve dinner would be all like "Aunt Fluttershy, why did Miss Twilight turn my daddy to stone" " You explain to him.

Discord was now a little annoyed. Both at you and at Snips. "Oh haha Anon, very funny. But you'll see, this whole place is absolutely idiot proof. Nopony can get hurt"

"I'M SINKING!" Snips gurgled out

You smirk at Discord, who started to growl "just give it another moment..."

"Don't worry Dnips! I'll save ya buddy!" Snails jumped into the river to save Snips.

"There see? He wouldn't dive in there not knowing there was a saf-" But then Discord gets cut off

"HELP! I DIDN'T KNOW I COULDN'T SWIM IN CHOCOLATE! SAVE US! SAVE US!" Snails calls out

"...Idiot proof you say?" You raise an eyebrow at him

"No! What I say goes....And I will prove that they can get out on their own!" Discord flies up and yells as he points to the both of them "YOU TWO! YOU DON'T NEED HELP! JUST GROW SOME WINGS..OR GILLS..OR A FIN OR TWO! IT'S NOT HARD!"

"Hey! That's a great idea!" Snips says

"Let's Do it!" Snails calls out

And in mere seconds. They had grown fins...on their heads.

"Do you think we did it right Snips?" Snails asks.

And his answer?

They both just sink into the chocolate.

You just look up at Discord and laugh at him. "yeah, real idiot proof there Discord! Nyhahahaha! and by idiot proof, I mean it's proof that you're the idiot!"

Discord started shaking his paw and talons and looked down at you "And what reason do you have to be so cocky?! Mr.Tiara?"

You immediately stop laughing as you go wide eyed and silent for a moment "Sheesh...I just found it funny. That's all. Do you know how funny it is when those two dumbshits prove someone like you wrong? On safety of all things? Way to be a spoiled sport...."

You had forgotten Discord had issues taking his own medicine. Even in the show, he always got miffed when something of his backfires.

"I'm not a spoiled sport! It's just that I have an entire process with this lesson and I don't need two foals just d-" But again he is interrupted by a third voice.

"AGH! I TRIED TO SAVE THEM LIKE RAINBOW DASH WOULD! BUT THE CHOCOLATE IS TOO THICK! HELP!" Cried Scootaloo

"....Three foals just drowning in delicious chocolate." Discord mouth was agape as he said this. He couldn’t believe how wrong he was.

But then you wonder about something else. The true point of this “lesson” "What are you even doing anyway? Teaching them that chaos is a good thing? Because that looks like what you're doing."

Discord calmly landed onto his throne and put his head above his paw as he looked at you boredly. "Do you think it's that simple?"

You nod "What else could it be?"

Discord leaned back with a soft chuckle "Oh you of little scope, this is more than just showing them that chaos is fun. It's also to show them that without an understanding of it. They can't possibly control it, and should best be left to a professional."

You raise an eyebrow at him, that didn't sound right

And you just..stare

Discord sighs and leans back "Fine...I'm just fixing my reputation with the foals of Ponyville. Since our father son duo thing has given me an entrypoint in fixing other areas of trust, I thought I'd take it by letting them have fun. But true to my word, just like my defeat, it will all come to an end and they will only have themselves to blame"

That made some more sense...but what did he mean exactly? "What does that last part mean?"

Discord points to the adult Applebloom, who was struggling with a crying fillyjack. "Look at your friend there, despite that being a shadow of her sister, she's managed to make her cry. And look at the foal on the giant top, losing control and tearing across the plains, and then there's those three foals......oh right...."

You cringe "Ahh shit...uhhhh...oh crap! They didn't drown did they?!"

OH SHIT!

you started to panic

"....hopefully not..." Discord snapped his talons. dropping Scootaloo,Snips, and Snails down into a random spot. they were spitting up chocolate.

"...I don't think I'll be drinking chocolate milk for awhile" Scootaloo twitches

You started to see what he meant. one by one, things were crashing in on the foals. Applebloom was now frightened at what she had done as the Applejack just wouldn't stop crying. It may have been a apparition, but damn was it loud. And Sweetie Belle was now having trouble getting out of that ice cream. She dove in...and now she's stuck. And shivering like mad, every grand spell she tried to escape made things worse as she summoned ladders, catapults, and other things that just fell in and sunk into the chocolate. Other foals were having trouble as well, there was even one that had his body fall apart as a joke...it wasn’t so funny now.

"Ahhh...I see...But.." You look up into the sky where Cheerilee was floating. "What about her?"
Discord shrugged "Can't win them all."

That made you chuckle a little "Guess you wouldn't really care about the opinion of a teacher,huh?"

Discord shook his head "Nope, why would I? Always demanding peace,order, and silence...egh..simply distasteful"

"Right, but you're still gonna have to do something about her. She's gonna bitch up a storm"

Discord ripped off a piece of his throne and started to bite down onto it. Smiling a toothy grin after every swallow "Oh, don't worry about that. Trust me Anon, everything is under control. My control anyway. And speaking of control.." Discord pointed behind you "looks like your Princess is coming back"

Oh shit...Diamond and Silver were back already?! "What?! How far are the-AGHHH!"

Diamond Tiara comes crashing right into you, her hooves out to manage a diving hug attack! "Anon! I'm back!" She says lovingly as she nuzzles into you

Silver Spoon lands behind her "...and we have a small problem"

"Problem? I would have never guessed..." You say near sarcastically as you just look at Discord with discontent as Diamond continues to nuzzle you.

"Yeah." Diamond Tiara hops off of you and points to the horizon, where various castles stood erect "look over there, some pretenders decided to take all the best spots!"

Silver Spoon sighed "They even took the romantic cliff near the beachside for the wedding. And when we told them to leave....they said no"

Diamond Tiara then started to get a little pushy and demanding "That's why we need you to go over there and tell them to leave! They'll listen to you!"

She started to shove at you, not too hard, but enough to get you to stand and turn to face her.

And you sighed "I'm not going to force them out of their castles..."

"What?! Why not?!" Diamond was astonished "Don't you wanna get married?!"

...ergh.. "Well...erm..."

suddenly, you hear a blast. You look into the distance, and the castles were launching cannonballs at eachother....oh fuck no...you're definitely not dealing with that. "Because they are blowing eachother up...thats why"

"Well then go in there and blow them up too then! You can do it!" Diamond cheers you on

"Yeah, just use your horn" Silver Spoon suggests

"Erm..." Good lord, do they not even realize that this wouldn't last...also. why are they so battle hungry? "Aren't we not supposed to be causing wars?"

"We aren't...they caused it! So now it's free game! Besides, they aren't an element of harmony or anypony important anyway" Diamond said..almost sounding like her old self.

Yeah...now you really understood what Discord meant. "Diamond, it's time to stop...you all had your fun..what little there was before things started to go out of control. But we need to stop before somepony gets really hurt"

Diamond started to get impatient "Who's going to get really hurt? Just go in there and tell them to leave! or use your magic! c'mmooonnn"

"No...and the reason for that isOOOHHHHHH" You are stopped short as a small cannonball smashes into your head. everything turning white and black at the same time as Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon gasped. "......and thats why I'm not doing it.....goodnight" You say in a daze before falling over unconcious

It didn't take long for you to wake up. Diamond Tiara was tending to you as you awoke. "Ergh...w-what happened?"

Diamond Tiara felt ashamed, she didn't think anything would actually happen, hell, she didn't even realize you'd get hit before you did anything. "...you got hit by a cannonball...."

"........oh....ouch!" You winced as you put your hoof on your head. You were bandaged up. "..ow...are those bandages?"

"Mhmmm, Mister Discord wrapped your head up in bandages so it wouldn't hurt so bad...I don't know how just bandages would help...but..are they helping? Do you need a massage?" She started to tear up, feeling guilty, as if it was her fault

awww....now you felt bad. She looked so upset. and it looked like she may have learned something from being overly aggressive....hopefully.

You look at her with gentle eyes and wipe her tears away. and give her a gentle smile. "Hey, I'm gonna be alright. no worries..alright?"

"But it's my fault...if I didn't make those other fillies mad and threatened them. They wouldn't have shot cannonballs everywhere...Anon...I'm-"

You sigh and put a hoof on her mouth. It was time to be cute and romantic...Ugh..why even be cute and romantic?...right...because in the long run. she WAS your marefriend..and technically...well..your first actual girlfriend. God..what a life you lived. You just wanted her to be calm and happy....without rushing you with marriage… "I forgive you Diamond. It's ok...."

She just looks into your eyes with more tears, smiles, and hugs into you gently.

Yeah, these gentle hugs? You were just fine with them....it appears everyone was gathered around again. still in the chalkboard realm. as Discord sat at the throne.Everyone was back to normal at this point. "What's going on anyway?"

"Oh...umm..well...things got out of hoof and everypony asked your dad if everything can go back to normal because...well...everypony kinda went nuts." Diamond chuckled nervously "So now he's continuing the last part of the lesson."

a few of the other foals look back silently. Discord wasn't actually around. everyone was just sitting in front of his throne...waiting. And then, they began to praise you.
"Anon...you really are cool. I don't think Anypony else could take a hit on the head like that"
"Actually, I don't think anypony would have survived that. Anon must have a head of titanium or something"
"Or maybe he's been knocked in the head so many times he became resistant to head blows"
"Nah, he's the hero colt! Hero's don't take hits like that. Hey Anon, can I tap your head?"

You wave your hoof at the young aged crowed "N-no...erm...still recovering. See the bandages? I think I may have gotten really hurt"

A few of them shrugged, with one saying "I mean...I guess. You only got knocked out. I don't think any of us would have woken up from something like that...oh boy, I'm glad your dad was nice enough to help everypony."

"Yeah, I used to think he was just a big meanie. But he's so cool! we got to do so many cool things before...err..."

"We screwed up."

"Yeaaaaahhh...Well..atleast we didn't almost drown in chocolate"

Scootaloo spoke up "Hey! you try lifting Snips out of there! He's heavier than he looks!"

Snips whined "H--hey....I'm not that heavy y'know"

"....Actually, ah'm just glad that wasn't really mah sister...I was acting like a real jerk..." Applebloom said with a frown.

it seemed they all had their wishes blown up in their faces. They all learned that doing whatever you want without thinking of the consequences wasn't a good thing. Heh...good job Discord.

Chapter 239 (Please read Author's note)

you come out from behind the open door now that the coast was clear. "No, there was that time when she tried to seal me...but seriously, what just happened?"

Discord turned to face you, with a arrogant smirk on his face "Simple, I finally trounced Twilight down to her very core. Who would have thought that all I had to do to win was tell her her week with you only made things worse...which is funny because it did actually do that." He chuckles to himself

"I guess, wow...you're pretty petty Discord. You couldn't let the whole thing go, huh?" You weren't saying it as a way to sound like a lecture, you weren't even surprised, you just kept it casual.

"Of course not! Aside from it being fun, she almost ruined everything...well" Discord turned to look towards the horizon as he puts his arms to his hips. "That should finally put an end to her trying to "Better" you." He let's out a victory laugh.

"Yeaaahh....ok. Really, I don't know how to feel about this. In fact, I feel myself leaning towards...you actually" That's what you found surprising "I mean, I guess I should feel bad that you made Twilight crap herself. But, geez. She's just so fucking nosy, I'm actually hoping this gets her to stop. I like her as a friend, that's fine but...you're right about the chimera. I would have turned him into fucking stew if I had the horn. Was Twilight always like this? I don't even remember"

"Oh, she can be. Twilight is the type of pony who would try to force you to have other friends if she thought a friend you had was no good. Really, I question the decision to make HER the princess of friendship."

"I guess....do you think Fluttershy will be ok?" She did look rather upset

"Pffft!" Discord waved his arm out "She'll be fine. Twilight will get over it. And everything will go on as normal with the added benefit of her finally leaving you alone with how you act. She should have realized her ways would never apply to a human"

Wut? you raise an eyebrow "She didn't even know I'm a human"

Discord turns over to you and rolls his eyes "A pointless detail, Anon. Because as you heard, The cutie mark is what actually mattered. And only a human such as yourself would be able to attain it. The rest is superfluous."

Ok, you understood what he meant now. But there was still one more thing in your mind. "I get it, ok. Still, I'm surprised you actually won that though. Twilight didn't even really fight you. If I was her, I would have mentioned the time when I got sent to the hospital....the first time"

Discord waggled his talon left and right at you as he smirked "Ahhh, but that would be pointless. You were in the safe town of Ponyville...which admittingly isn't actually too safe...but safe enough. And then add in the fact that it was the decision of two fathers to make a punishment befitting your little outburst. So that would mean I was doing my job correctly. Nopony could guess what would happen. But. When it did happen, you successfully repelled the danger and saved the young filly. No argument to be had there. And she can't use that Glitter Glammer pony as an example either; You did where six ponies failed, an amazing feat indeed. In other words, although I don't care for it too much, you've taken the idea of chaos and twisted it for the purpose of good and justice....ehhhh, not exactly the best use but good enough to use against Twilight. So..really, I have you to thank for this victory." Discord bows. "Good show, my son..hehehehe"

Ehhh, you didn't much care for the fact he won. Nor could you truly drudge up any care for what happened to Twilight. Just a small amount of guilt hovered over you. But...you'd get over it. There was still the problem with Chrysalis floating in your mind. And the captain being around Applebloom. The only thing that was actually relieving today was that for once, FOR ONCE, apple filly was mature. And then there was… "Yeah yeah, whatever. So what now? What happened to that thing you were working on anyway?"

Discord became excited by the mention of it "OOHHHhhohohoho, funny you mention that actually. I did have it ready for tomorrow. Buuuuut, I'm in such a good mood. I wouldn't mind showing you my greatest work now! You are curious...aren't you?"

You were "I am, and I did say I'd help with whatever it is. But, it can't take too long. Especially since you said I'd be sleeping over at Fluttershy's tonight."

"Ohhh, it won't take too long. And besides, I promise you this will be interesting." Discord snaps his talons, opening a portal into some sort of space like void. "But, before we depart. Do you have any actually hangups about what just happened?"

you shake your head. No, it'd be fine. "Nope, Twilight should leave me alone about wanting to make me, erm..Can't think of a name for it right now. But I'm just glad that this should be the final nail in the coffin. I just feel that maybe I should check up on her once after we're done so she doesn't feel too bad. I'm not a heartless monster you know, I still care"

"ehhh, you do what you feel is right. As long as you know what is what, then I don't care what you do. Now then, step inside...and prepare for the most fun you'll ever have....ever"

You start to walk through the portal "Ever huh? If you say so, I trust you Discord. As wrong as that sounds, I trust you"

You almost felt a little bad just walking into this. It was like, it just happened. And then it was done with. You were sure it'd be brought up later. But for now, Discord seemed pretty excited for this. You expected a trick or a trap as you stepped through into the starry void. But instead, you are met with a few floating doors. "....uhhhhh, what's with the doors? Are we in the dr...oh shit"

You smirked, this couldn't be..could it? "Discord, are we gonna fuck with pony dreams? That's fucking awesome! And...wait! Wait...fuck...we can't do this. Luna would know"

Discord gave you a gentle pat on the head as he stepped forward to present the doors "As cowardly as that sounds, it's also nothing you need to worry about. These aren't the doors of pony dreams. These my dear Anon.." Discord flies up, producing explosions and fireworks "ARE DOORS TO OTHER DIMENSIONS!"

W-woah "What?! Really? ohhh, shit. Are you saying we're gonna fuck around in other Equestrias? Wait...wouldn't the other versions of you get pissed about that?I figured they wouldn't want others doing chaos on their turf and taking the credit"

"Ahhh, but again, it's nothing to worry about. These doors were created by some foolish ponies from the dimension we split off from. It seems they were messing with a time spell one too many times. And created these doors which lead to different futures. Normally impossible to access, I nabbed hold of them before they became forever lost. And now, you can choose one and forge a fun little adventure while I watch from the sidelines. That's the plan. What do you think?"

wut?

Not only did this sound dangerous. But it sounds like the ones who even created these doors was Starlight...and possibly Twilight. Was that the season finale? Twilight jumping futures? No way she could have seen all of these through. It wouldn't fit the runtime. And even then, what futures are we talking about? "Woah woah woah. Hold on, so what you're saying is that you're going to send me in one of these doors to fend for myself while you watch like it's some television show?"

Discord nodded "Exactly, Doing it myself would be boring since I'm already so powerful. But you Anon are not, and yet have the knowledge required to possibly survive any of these doors. In fact, that's where the fun comes in. You choose a random door, solve it's issue, then come back and we'll call it a day. It won't even take long. Time in this realm moves at a different rate than our Equestria, we'll be done in time for dinner. Doesn't that sound amazing? Think of it! The mystery, the adventure, the intrigue! ohhhhh, how could you not want to give it a go?"

....that was pretty convincing...but still. "That does sound cool, but..what about the horn? what if there's too many dangers for me to handle in one day?"

"Ahhhh...mmnn" Discord looked a little troubled about that himself "That is a little troublesome. For you see the horn would be a lot weaker due to being away from its source. And I'd still only give you a once per day charge. But...if you do come close to eradication...well, I can't help with that either. It would take me some time to get you pulled out. But come on Anon....Fuuuunnnn!" Discord presents the doors again, chuckling nervously.

......dammit "Alright, alright. That sounds incredibly dangerous. But fine, I doubt whatever is behind those doors is THAT dangerous anyway and I am super interested. But, just in case....I need a partner"

"That, I don't mind. Especially since I'm going to assume you mean your dear dear "sister" " Discord didn't seem hesitant at all about that. He even grinned.

And you nodded "Exactly, the closer she sticks to me the better. Plus, she'd be able to help me fight off whatever danger we might run in...PLUS...I need to talk to her about this whole sleepover thing. I gotta know what she's up to and she's not going to be able to run away when she realizes I'd be the only way back to our Equestria. So, you're gonna make that happen?"

"Your wish is my command Anon" Discord chuckles evilly

"Good...also, can you make sure she thinks that you forced her into it? I don't need to hear her bitch the entire trip about how it was my fault"

"Double done, besides. I do like taking the blame sometimes. Besides, it'll be more fun this way if she thinks she's along for the ride by my own design. Anything else?"

There was one more thing, beside the doors....there was a window. "Yeah, what's with the window?"

"Oh that? That.....is quite the oddity actually" Discord sounded unsure "It just sprang up. from what I can gather however, it's a pathway into an Equestria where..similar to this one...I had brought a human over. But, I have no idea what that actually entails"

WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAH "WOAH WHAT?!"

You start stepping towards the window, now this sounded great.

"Anon, what are you doing? I wouldn't recommend going through there" Discord actually seemed worried for you when you neared that window.

You were tapping at the window, then start to slowly open it. "Relax man, I gotta see what's through here. Another human? How could I not check that shit out? I'll just pop in, take a look, see how shitty his life is compared to mine, pop back out and then we'll do the door thing. It won't take long."

Discord sighed, and started rubbing his temples with his talons "...Alright...don't say I didn't warn you"

Whatever, what the fuck did he know? You knew humans...YOU WERE ONE.

hehehe, this was gonna be cool. Fuck worrying about Twilight. This was Anon time. you'd worry about it afterwards.

You step through the window and......plop on your face. "Ngh..D-D-..mnnghhh"

You get up, in a grump. Goddammit...what the fuck! Already your good mood was starting to spoil. "W-where even am I?"

You look around, and realized you were in the hallways of Canterlot Castle. And looking upon the window, it still had a soft glow. The portal still must be open. "Huh..."

And nothing looked different "....boring so far...and why here? Fuck, how am I supposed to get to Ponyville from here?"

And as you looked around. You realized something else. The entire thought zapped your mind like lightning. Making you dart behind a pillar and hide. "...Shit...they also don't know me here either. If I get caught.....oohh god. That'd be a lot to explain"

You hid behind that pillar, contemplating your next move. And as you did, you heard a cute form of humming coming from around the bend. "..hmm?"

It was....a bat filly? Those exist?...well..yeah...they'd be part of Luna's guard set...but a filly? just wandering the castle? She was a cute grey filly with purple bat wings. Golden eyes and blonde mane. and cute sock hooves to go along with her grey coat. "Huh....that's adorable...also.."

That was your ticket. Just go up to her, talk to her, make friends and then get out of the castle unscathed while being able to enter the castle without a problem to get back through the portal. She might even have info on the human.

You wait for her to pass, and then slowly start to step up to her. And noticed something odd. She had some tech on her. looked like some sort of walkie talkie radio.

You then call out to her "Hey! Hold on a second. Can I talk to you?"

The bat filly's ear stiffen up. And she turns to look at you. the moment she does. She beams to you a sickingly sweet smile "Anon!"

oh...god...... "H-huh?"

"Anon! Hey!....wait" She tilted her head, massively confused "I thought you were in Ponyville, how'd you get back here so fast....and why?"

.......ARE YOU FUCKING SERIOUS?! IT WAS YOU?! IT'S ANOTHER YOU?!...or was it someone with the same name? and same...oh god...this could either be good or bad. "Uhmmm...I...just couldn't stay away?"

Now she seemed really confused "That's weird, your moms didn't mention it to my mom...and what's with that dopey style with your mane?"

Dopey?!..and moms? "...what's wrong with my mane? It's always been this way!" You snapped back. Which seemed to startle her

"Hey, I was just saying. And....what's up with your voice. It sounds kinda different." She peered closer, narrowing her eyes at you as her ears twitched.

Different? "Uhhmm...s-sore throat?"

...ok, this may have not been the best idea.

"...uh-huh...and...." That's when she noticed it, and started to take caution "....did you stain your flank?"

You just blink emptily at her "........e-erm. yes? Look..erm..can you just point me to Princess Celestia and Luna..please? since we're friends?"

...but that only seemed to make her suspicious "Princess?...I thought you hated that title stuff........hmmnnnn"

And then a voice started coming through her radio, it was hard to make out...but it struck you as odd. How the hell did she have tech? Was this a tech savvy Equestria?

"......So...that was like...your dad..right?" You chuckle nervously...That voice sounded pretty young. But that was the best you got.

But she didn't respond with words, she suddenly just leaned towards you as the slit of her eyes thinned. She then began to hiss loudly at you.

Jesus fucking christ! What the fuck was up with this thing!? It was scary as shit, enough to make you step back. "W-what did I say?!"

As you stepped back, the bat filly began to step forward. She looked vicious as fucking shit. "I can't believe I didn't realize you were a changeling! I should have noticed the moment you said that's what your stupid mane style always looked like. So what are you up to? Hmm? You better talk now or I'm going to put even more holes in you, HISSSSSSS!" She bares her fangs at you as she prepares herself for battle.

WHAT THE FUCK MAN!? THIS IS A FUCKING FILLY! Nah fuck this, bats are insane. Even the cute little ones are out for blood. "L-look, I don't want to fight ok? How about we just forget this ever happened. I'm not even a changeling. Geez, relax!"

"Liar! You can't trick me. Not like anypony wouldn't have realized you weren't Anon anyway. That's the worst disguise I've ever seen. You couldn't trick me with such a dumb looking face" She continues to approach you with harsh hostility in her tone.

...oh come on. Everyone else thought you were adorable. Now she was just being a cunt. "Will you stop! Geez, look, just relax ok, I'm gonna go...ok?"

"You're not going anywhere! I'm gonna find out what you're up to! And if you don't tell me. Then I'm gonna beat you up! I'll beat you up REALLY hard. And then when my mom gets you. oh yeah, you REALLY don't want that to happen. So you better fess up now if you don't wanna get hurt super bad!" She just kept approaching as you stepped back.

"O-ok..Look..the truth is....HOLY CRAP IT'S QUEEN CHRYSALIS!" you yell out as you point behind her

"Huh?" She stops to look back

"Ha! Ciao you dumb stupid bat! Haha!" You turn around and bolt towards the window.

As you are about to reach it, you make a dive.

But, right when you were about to pass through. You feel something pull you down. What's even scarier, you felt something grip your back legs as you are pulled down and slammed onto your belly. "O-ogh...Geez..what happened?...what's..with..." You pull at your legs, but they wouldn't budge "W-what?"

You look back, to see the now arrogantly grinning bat filly. She had...WHAT THE FUCK WERE THOSE?! WERE THOSE MECHANICAL HANDS COMING FROM HER SIDES?! SHE GRABBED YOU WITH...WHERE THE FUCK DID THEY EVEN COME FROM?! "Kekekeke~, who's dumb and stupid now?"

"Where did you even get those?!" How?! Equestria doesn’t have this kind of shit!

"I'm not gonna tell you that, you monster. Tell me what you're up to. Or I'm just gonna slam you over and over! And it's gonna hurt! So better talk quick!" She warns.

This crazy..fucking....bitch

You try pulling your legs away. but those mechanical hands held them damned tightly. This Anon, if he built these hands. He was pretty damn good at making them tough. "Listen, Just let me go, and we can forget this whoOOOOOOOAAAAUMPH!"

The bat filly raises you up midsentence and slams you back into the ground "Wrong answer!"

"N-ngh..." You twitch in pain "L-look, I'm not a changeling ok? I-I'm an Anon from another dimension. I can prrrrOOOOOOOOOMPH!"

She slams you again "Wrong answer again! It's like you enjoy being slammed to the ground or something...or maybe you're just trained to resist interrogation techniques. Y'know that won't help you against my mom right? You better start fessing up now before she gets here"

The bat filly..THIS bat filly...was really goddamn insane. Were all bat ponies so damn vicious?

And you were done playing nice… "I'm gonna slap your shIIIIIIIIIIIII"

She didn't even give you any chance this time, all she heard was "slap" and raised you up again "Geez, maybe I was wrong. Maybe you're just stupid"

She goes to slam you back to the ground. But her swing was so hard that you end up slipping away from her grip and instead end up getting flung out the window

"O-oops!" She meeps as she realizes you escaped

Ha! "Seeya later Fangs! Haha!"

You wave to her as you are basked into the warm light.

But.....as you look around, you notice you weren't back in the void.

there was sky, the sun, clouds. The castle walls ahead of you, and the mountain behind you, and of course, below you was a fountain, white brick, grass. ".....She threw me through the wrong window.....huh" And then you started plummeting "SHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIITTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT"

You started flailing wildly as you began to plummet. "SHIITTTT, GONNA DIE GONNA DIE!" You couldn't even get your horn on top of your face, everytime you reached for it it just vibrated away. "S-SON OF AAAAAAAA..WAIT!"

You still could reach for the grappling hook arm. You quickly spin and reach into your saddle bag and sift through it until you nab it and put it on. "Ha Ha!"

You laugh as you raise your leg triumphantly "Now...All I gottaFHHGTHGHGG"

As you began to aim, you actually had no more time to react as you plummet right into the fountain. Hard enough that your entire body was in pain. You just hung there for a moment...underwater.

This was it....the end of a saga. You were going to die here....

You just started to drift....nearing darkness.

That is, until you could hear the bat filly's voice, but only barely.

No....fuck this.

You open your eyes....you weren't going to fucking lose to a goddamn filly.

Holding the last of your breath. You sift through your bag while underwater and find an appropriate weapon.

A small box of unmeltable ice cream, this must have been the lunch Discord poofed into your bag from before...perfect.

You slowly raise your head out of the water and spot your target. She was looking around for you. Her ears were turning every which way. Looking for a sound.

As you raise your head out, you prepared to toss the box.

But the bat filly was quick. She turned towards you and pointed at you with alarm "Found you! You noisy morSDFDSFSD".

You didn't even hesitate, you hurled the box right at her before she could react. Smearing ice cream all over her face. Making her wobble and whine "Ahhh! It's so cold!"

That wasn't the only thing that was cold.

You jump out of the water and rush right at her. Making a jumping turn to buck her right at her side, sending her flying backwards. "Gotcha!"

you snicker as you see her flying back...but your grin quickly drops as she managed to catch herself in mid air. How?! HOW?! That cheap shot should have knocked her down!

And...o-oh god....the ice cream on her face was..melting?! Her fury was so high...it was melting the unmeltable ice cream. "THAT'S IT! I'M JUST GONNA BASH YOU AND BASH YOU AND KEEP BASHING YOU UNTIL YOU HAVE TO TRANSFORM JUST TO LOOK DECENT! REEEEEEEEEEE!" She screeched, her face red with anger.

"Good geez! What the hell is wrong wiOH CRAP!"

You dive to the left as she swoops in, fangs bared. As soon as she misses, she hisses and turns towards you. "STAY STILL!"

She just relentlessly keeps swooping at you. With you nearing getting hit with each dodge. You couldn't do this forever. And she was as angry as well...a fucking bat.

You tried going for your horn again, but the moment you took a second to try to get it on your face. She swooped in at near sonic speeds and tackled you, and started trying to bite at your face.

"GYYYAAHH! GGEEZ STOP!"

"REEEEEEEEEEEEE!" She hissed, she was full on berserk.

You had to dodge her head as she leaned in for each bite. Each chomp closer to your face or neck. This wasn't at all like your erotica where a bat person would gently nibble on you. this was full on Dracula!

After a few more dodges, you manage to get your back legs under her and push her off. She was still standing however. Just sliding back as she gazed at you with vicious eyes. Breathing hard. She was getting tired, but not by much. "Ngh....grrrrr.....MNNN?!"

You weren't even going to give her a chance to strike again. You move in and try using your own moves. Doing jabs and punches were difficult, but you worked them into your bucks. Unfortunately for you, this fucking filly must have some soldier blood in her or something, real high end stuff. She was dodging all your attacks as she looked for an opening. You did your best not to give her one. "Just..Back...off..already! I'm..not..a...changeling!"

"Liar!...Liar!....Hooves on fire!....Grrrr..Maybe I should do that....Just set you on fire!...Grr......wait a second" The bat filly remembered her "assets" and with another dodge, she slugs you right in the face with her mechanical hand. It was such a great realization for her that she actually smiled and cackled "Kekekekekeke~, I forgot I had these"

You slide backwards back into the side of the fountain as the bat filly, now ecstatic about that smashing punch, calmed herself enough to focus.

"G-geez...that right hook...mnnnn..." You slowly stand, you couldn't take her on with what you had. You could use the horn...you probably should.

She gestured the hand to make a "Come at me" motion. "I wasn't kidding, I'm really gonna pound you. Don't think you're getting off easy, I tried to be nice but you just had to be the biggest idiot in the world. You could never be as good as Anon, no matter how hard you try to look like him!"

Nah fuck it....if you waste your horn on her. You might not be able to use it to escape a bigger threat. Besides, she wanted to use gadgets? Fine...you had one on right now. "Shut up! Geez, You're so annoying. I'm gonna tell you right now, I'm the best "Anon" That ever was. And I'm gonna prove it!"

She raised an eyebrow at you in disbelief "...and how are you going to do that?"

"Like this!" You raise your leg and fire the grappling hook straight at her "Think fast!"

And she did...she caught the hook with her right mechanical fist. "Kekekekekeke~, hey idiot! it's not good to announce your attacks." She cackled, she was back to being in a good mood. "After I'm done with you, I'm gonna show your mangled butt to my mom. She's going to be so happy! I can't wait!"

She started to pull at the rope, FUCK!

You tried to resist, but you couldn't compete with mechanical strength. With every pull, you came closer to another knuckle sandwich. "..And look at this thing. It's so terrible. You stink at inventions too, Anon could so improve this" She said with an ever growing smirk

"H-NNMMM..RETRACT..RETRACT!" You quickly flick the switch to retract the line. It jerks so hard that even the bat filly was surprised, and starts hurtling towards you headfirst.

"GYYYYAAAAHH?! WHAT HAPPENED?!" She cried

What indeed. You weren't prepared for the bat missile that was heading towards you.

And as if you could feel it in a slow motion shot. The bat filly's head slams right into yours. She flies hard enough to slam then skid off your forehead. Yelping in pain as she flies past you after impact, flipping about and slamming onto the ground. She twitches, then with a groan, stops moving.

"Eyyowch! Geez...ogh....why?....why my head?..always my....huh?" No screeching? no anger?

You look behind yourself to see the bat filly has been K.O.ed "No way...."

You walk over to her and move her onto her back. She was breathing...she looked so peaceful and adorable.

And the best part was...you won. "HAHAHAHAHAHA! MY THICK HEAD IS FINALLY USEFUL FOR ONCE!...wait....that doesn't sound right.....ehh"

Yeah, that just made you sound stupid.

You sigh, and then look over the cute little filly. She was so fluffy and adorable. And considering her fascination with this world's Anon. She no doubt loved him....which gave you an evil idea.

You put yourself on top of her. And gently pressed your body onto hers. She groaned softly, and began to blush.

You then leaned in, and gave her a deep kiss, even pushing in your tongue. oh man...her tongue was weird. it was slim and slippery. as you pulled back. there was a trail of saliva from her mouth to yours.

you then grin, get off of her, and make a proclamation. "HA! YOU THOUGHT YOUR FIRST KISS WOULD BE WITH ANON! BUT IT WAS WITH ME!.....ERR....ANON! HAHAHA!"

With that, you moved her unconscious form near the fountain and leaned her head on it's wall for others to find. You were done here. You didn't want to tangle with this bat filly's mom or this world's Anon without proper preparation....perhaps another time. "Seeya..."

You snicker, launching your grappling up towards the glowing window.

As you retract the line to raise upwards. You look down at the fallen filly. You hoped she would remember you in someway....especially that kiss...nehehehehe

Chapter 276

You walk with Discord through the city. You could tell he was pretty pissed, stomping around as he complained. "Ohhh!" He raises his arms in anger. "That Princess Celestia! How did she figure out my plan? How could she be so malicious as to use Fluttershy against me?! The nerve of her!"

You just followed along behind him as he angrily complained. Most of the Crystal Ponies were staying away from him. Some others just gazed at him in wonderment.

"How am I supposed to tease them when Fluttershy is in the mix? There must be a way to get under their skin without hurting Fluttershy, there simply must be!" Discord growls as he slams his taloned fist into his paw.

He was pretty pissed alright. But you had to wonder why. Maybe it was the fact that Fluttershy was there at all that shook him. Because in the grand scheme of things, it shouldn't matter. "Hey Discord, I think you might be blowing this out of proportion."

Discord stops and turns to you, he actually seemed interested in what you had to say "Am I? Tell me Anon, please, tell me." Though, he was also sounding pretty sarcastic. "How are we supposed to pull this off without upsetting Fluttershy? What grand master scheme do you propose we hatch that would let us bypass this little problem, hmm?"

You felt you were right on this. Hell, he was right before any of this. Even if Fluttershy is here, she can't get mad if you both don't do anything wrong. "Well, I don't think we need to bypass it. Heck, I don't think Celestia even knew what we were doing. I mean, if we're not doing anything bad, then why will Fluttershy get upset at us? If anything, she'd get upset at any of the princesses who think we were up to no good. Especially since we really aren't other than to annoy them. That's how I see it anyway"

Discord rolls his eyes. "Oh? Is that it? Is that all you have to....." Then he stops, and starts tapping his finger in the air as the realization hits him "....hrmm, Anon. You're right, aren't you? Fluttershy ALWAYS gets mad at me whenever I have a 'misunderstanding' or just act out just a little." Discord chuckles evilly. "But what if they were the ones to react like I have. Ohohoho, Anon. The day just got better. In fact!" Discord snaps his talons, making some sort of snackbar appear in front of you "You deserve a delicious treat, you must be hungry after all" He then claps in congratulations to your thoughts "And good job, by the way. You have no idea how happy you've made me just now. And here I thought we would have to cancel everything."

You look at the floating snack bar, tap it, then take it. It had a very familiar fragrance. "Pizza?"

Discord nods. "Well, yes. You do like pizza don't you?"

"Yer dang right I do, thanks Discord." You start munching on the snack bar as you smile at Discord, feeling pretty good about helping out with something so simple. "And see? We can still do what we want to do...so...uh....what do we do first?"

"I suppose we should...hmmm" Discord looks around and notices the Spike statue not too far off in the distance. Around the statue seemed to be a tour group of various ponies being taught about the heroism of "Spike the Great". "Ahh, I suppose we should just do what the crystal ponies do and learn about idiotic nonsense."

You munch on your bar as Discord casually walks over to the tour group. You follow along, savoring every bite of this thing. It was better than a fucking hot pocket. "You're right about the nonsense stuff. If Shining didn't toss Cadance like a football, everypony would have been obliterated by now..or something. But yo, Discord. You don't think these ponies are gonna get uncomfortable with you there right? They've been mostly staying away from us."

"Oh please Anon, I'm the father of the great "Hero Colt" and friend to the princesses. Why would they be uncomfortable around me?" Discord says with an arrogant smirk.

"Uhhh, probably because they aren't as used to you as the ponies of Ponyville are and the very last time they would remember you was when you went on that tirade with Tirek"

Discord stops right before reaching the tour crowd. "Hmmm.." Luckily, they hadn't noticed him yet. Giving Discord ample enough time to change himself into a pony "I suppose that might be right. The less trouble we stir, the better. Now come Anon, let us bask in the normality of boring."

"Right behind you buddy"

You and Discord join the crowd as some old crystal pony stands next to the statue, explaining its importance. The crystal pony had very little mane left, and his tail was scraggly and shaky. But for what it's worth, he was up there and doing his best. He had a painting for a cutie mark. "...And so, using his mighty abilities of flight, which he never displayed again for reasons unknown. Spike, the brave and glorious managed to plunge the Crystal Heart into the very being of the evil King Sombra. Obliterating him and ending our many many moons of suffering. And that is why everyday we thank our savior by remembering his heroic deeds and wonderful personality. For aside from the princesses of course, there is no other pony as great as he is."

The ponies within the group started to clap and smash their hooves on the ground in celebration of Spike.

"Isn't he just the greatest?!"

"I wish I could meet him, he must be the most interesting hero in the whole world!"

"And he gets to hang out with Princess Twilight all day, truly his importance is legendary if it garners that much attention from royalty!"

"Praise Spike, the brave and glorious!"

Both you and Discord were cringing at this. Yeah..Spike...brave..glorious....egh. You've done better.

"And that ends the tour, thank you all for attending and of course giving praise to the Crystal Empire's greatest hero. I'm going to go rest my hip now..." The tour pony bows out, thanking everyone for their time again before going.

You could hear the praises coming from the other ponies. Totally enthralled by even the statue of Spike. You and Discord weren't impressed.

"I suppose if you like a second cl-" Discord goes to mock Spike straight out, but you react from surprise and slam your hoof into his mouth. "Mmhmph?!" Discord backs off and whispers angrily "What was that for?"

You whisper back. "We have to play it cool remember? Trust me, these ponies seem pretty fanatical. It could cause a problem for both of us if you insult Spike like that"

Discord grumbles and looks away. "Fine, but he is second rate. He's not like you Anon, you saved an entire world. If we could go public with what you're doing with Chryssie, they'd erect a humongous statue of you for being the one to reform the changelings."

...Woah. Even if he was annoyed. That was a big honor coming from him. "R-really? You think so?"

Discord nods. "Of course, with a bigger statue of me right behind it so ponies are reminded that it was all thanks to me that you're even here" Discord chuckles lightly to himself, then starts to speak loudly, enamored by his own words "The brave hero colt Anon! That's what the statue would say...of yours I mean. Mine wouldn't need words, the statue of me would be all anypony needed."

However, Discord's outburst catches the attention of two...rather cute and beautiful crystal mares. Both young. one was yellow with a long long blond mane and a very full and flowy tail. The other was Purple, with a short, spikey, boyish mane, with freckles that shined in the light. Her tail was rather short.

The blonde one looked down to you. And recognized you from the newspaper "Hero colt? Oh, hey!" She had a rather perky personality. "You ARE the hero colt! Aren't you?"

"Woah, gosh, hey Gold Dust, look, it's the Hero Colt kid! Right here in the Crystal Empire" The boyish one had a bit of a sort of "dumbness" in her voice. A cute ignorance about her.

"I know Clean Sweep, I know. I guess he was scoping out our very own hero to pick up on a few secrets. Sorry honey, it's just a statue, you'd have to see the real Spike to learn his moves."

OH REALLY?! OHHHHHHHHHH REALLY?! "Ahrm, well girls. I mean. I think I'm fine in the heroing department. Remember, I stopped a bunch of crazy dangerous griffon bandits during Nightmare Night. And before that, some really dangerous foalnappers. There's a reason they call me the hero colt. Plus, I do know Spike afterall. I get to hang out with all the royalty. That's how cool I am."

You snicker arrogantly and flash your horn at them. "See? This horn may look scary to you all. But I got it under control and it lets me put a stop to all the bad guys. So yeah, I'd say I'm pretty good."

You saved an entire world. Even if you couldn't say it, you were now worthy of the title of "Hero Colt". And dammit, they should realize it.

The perky one, "Gold Dust", suddenly looked at you with big amazed eyes...finally. "Woah woah woah, are you saying you get to hang out with THE princesses? You're that big of a hero?"

You nod as you smirk. "Yeeeep"

"Gosh" Clean Sweep was amazed. "That is a pretty big hero. Oh hey, Gold Dust. Whatcha think about that?"

"What do I think?" Gold Dust starts to get super excited. "I think I should ask this question! Soo, umm..Hey...Anon. We have heard of you..we really have" She gives you big dreamy eyes, enough to make your heart skip a beat. "Do you think...we could get an autograph?"

Something about this felt wrong. Yet right..yet wrong. Before, maybe you would have tried to get into her nonexistent pants. But the lewd thoughts you were now thinking felt wrong. Due to..Diamond Tiara. Still, the other feeling you were feeling. "Pride"...was overwhelming. They wanted your autograph. Which meant they understood how important you were. "Of course, I can get one for the both of you. Just get me something to write with and tell me what you want written and we'll be golden."

"Cool, cool!" Gold Dust says, getting even more excited. "If you get to hang out with the princesses then that means you hang out with our hero, Spike. So all you need to do is ask him if we could get his autograph and you can mail it to us." Gold Dust then produces a paper and pencil and quickly jots down her address and holds it towards you. "Just have him mail it here, please and thank you"

You turn near white from shock from that. After all that....After all that...AFTER ALL THAT! THEY WANTED HIS AUTOGRAPH?! But..you know what? Fine, he was a hero..but..so were you. Just… "...A-are you sure you also wouldn't want my autograph too? It might be worth something."

"Their gone, Anon" You hear Discord from behind you.

When you look up from your disillusioned state. You notice the mares were already gone. The only thing left was the paper with their address on it.

"....."

Discord changes back and gently grabs you and puts you over his shoulder, rubbing your back as gently as he can. He wasn't even acting condescending towards you. "I'm sorry Anon, but your exploits here don't beat out the apparent defeat of a evil monster like Sombra. What's gotten into you anyway? I thought you hated the blatant hero worship."

"..I....did. But I guess after you ACTUALLY save the world using your wits and know how and stuff. Y'know..suddenly you want a little recognition."

"Hrnn, I suppose I can understand that a little" Discord puts you down and pats your head. "Nopony seems to truly realize the genius behind chaos after all."

...Mnn. You were about to mention that he's a bit of a jerk in that regard. But he was being rather sincere. And really? He was kind of right. Even if he did do something really neat. A lot of the ponies may hate it because it's all loopy and chaosy. "Well, I appreciate it Discord. I think chaos is really neat..and..wait. What about that thing with Filthy Rich? I think you were talking to him about setting something up."

Discord shakes his head as he starts to walk forward aimlessly. "It's a corporate thing, Anon. It's not that he actually appreciates it. It's just to further his business and expand upon just 'Barnyard Bargains'. Though, I have to hand it to him. The animal shelter donations was both kind and coincidental of him, something I simply couldn't pass up when it came to making Fluttershy happy. Did you know he was going to ask Princess Celestia for her permission on a ride themed on her?" Discord scoffed. "How utterly ridiculous. It would be oh sooooooo boring. I'll have to make sure to rub it in Celestia's face when I tell her that I got chosen over her for a, what I'd hope, to be a very fun ride based off yours truly" Discord was already lightening up as he thought about it.

Of course, he made the conversation about himself. It was fine though. You didn't want to focus too much on what happened anyway. "Heh, small victories wherever you go, huh Discord? Hey, I got a question. Is it possible that we can sneak a peak on that baby? I kind of want to know what it looks like"

Discord shook his head. "Absolutely not, we must stick to the plan and....wait" Discord noticed Twilight hasn't spazzed yet. "You know, I haven't seen Twilight yet. I wonder where she might be."

You shrug. "It's still early, and babies are supposed to be cute. Just give it some time. We just need to go and find something else to do."

"I suppose, but what? This place doesn't have much going for it other than being all crystally, I really thought the 'Crystal Empire' emphasis on...EMPIRE..would have more to do" Discord looks around, he wasn't wrong. even the buildings were crystal like in nature. And yet there didn't seem to be much too it.

"Don't they have a stadium around here? Let's go check that out"

"Doesn't seem like too good of a suggestion. But at least it's something. Hopefully they have some poor sap being fed to a chimera" Discord started walking with you towards the stadium..but that crack.

"Was that towards me?" You make a scrunchy annoyed face at him?

"Hmm? Oh..no no. Just remembering the good old days." Discord chuckles. "Are you feeling better, Anon? Not too bothered with the whole 'Hero' thing?"

You'll live. You still had Diamond's admiration. In fact, when you thought about it. It really helped make you feel better. "It'll be fine...sorta...brrr...Did it get a little cold all of a sudden?"

"I don't notice anything. Buuuut" Discord snaps his talon. Making a warm and snuggly scarf appear around your neck. "We're still way up in the north. So it's possible it's gotten a little chilly. Oh!" Discord snaps his talons again. making your saddlebag appear. it was very square this time. something in the bag? "I put some rotten fruit inside your bag in case whatever game or event we'll be seeing is terrible." Discord makes a rotten tomato appear on his paw and bounces it for a bit "We are rather big time, aren't we? Either we get a good show or we rain down rotten justice."

That makes you snicker. "Yeah...hey Discord. Thanks, you're being pretty cool today."

Discord gives you a smug smirk as he rubs his chest triumphantly. "Anon...I'm ALWAYS cool. Don't ever forget it"

You both arrive at the entrance of the stadium. It was pretty damn big, about as big as a football stadium. But with ponies being as little as they are. You were surprised such a huge complex was even needed. But the entrance itself was empty, aside from a young janitor unicorn who was sweeping out the front.

Discord approached him, not seeing any ticket sellers, and asked him why the whole place seemed empty. This of course, startled the young janitor.

"U-uhhmm.." The janitor steps back. "A-are you really Discord?"

Discord sighs and crosses his arms trying to be nice and patient. "Yes, but that doesn't exactly answer my question. Why does the stadium seem so empty today? What? did everypony just decide combat and chaos between gladiators is suddenly boring all at once?"

"U-uhmmm" The janitor was sweating in his presence. "N-no, we don't even have those kinds of games anymore. B-but to answer your question. Today is the Crystalling. So not a lot of places are open today. And if they are, it won't be for long. It's a very rare and important event."

"....So what you're telling me is that I have nothing to throw my rotten food at?" Discord leans in and brings his face close to his, looking absolutely scaringly stoic "Is that it?"

The janitor gulped. "U-ummm.....I guess?"

Discord leans back and turns. Stepping past you as he goes to do something else. "Come on Anon, there's nothing more for us here"

You looked at the janitor with a little pity. But Discord didn't do anything to him so it wasn't that bad. No guilt really. You follow along behind Discord. What else was there to do then? The Crystal Empire seemed...pretty boring. "What are we going to do Discord? We still have a crapload of time to waste and everypony seems to be gearing up for this crystalling thing"

"Well, we wouldn't have time to waste if Twilight or Luna or even Celestia showed up ranting and raving about us doing something terrible. I just don't understand it." Discord starts rubbing his chin, absolutely puzzled as he darts his eyes left and right for any sign of the princesses "No baby's 'cuteness' can trump the power of doubt, fear, and chaos."

"Umm, what if they are taking pictures? I'd imagine Fluttershy holding the baby and cuddling it would pretty much trump any kind of chaos in this world. Don't you think?"

Discord begrudgingly nodded to that."Yes, I suppose Fluttershy does have an innate talent in making things seem more adorable than they should. Perhaps, in that case, we need to step up our game."

Step up our game? That didn't sound good. "Uhh, how are we going to do that without causing any trouble?"

Discord holds his talons up and prepares to snap. "Easy Anon" He snickers. "We just have to create a commotion without the added positives of shrieks and screams."

Discord snaps his talons. Making a large booth appear. He gently picks you up and puts you on the booth as he stands behind it. Next to it was a sign that said "Sign up for FREE PHOTOS of the Crystalling, get the BEST snapshots from any angle thanks to the chaotic abilities of the spirit of chaos himself, Discord!. Shots of the baby so close, you could swear you could hold it yourself! Sign up sheets at the front of the booth"

"What's all this? What are you doing?" This seemed a little worrisome to you.

"Simple" Discord put a camera strap around his neck. A more modern looking camera attached to it. "We open a legitimate business that will quickly have the word spread. Somepony in the castle goes frantic, comes and checks, and they'll have nothing they can say to us because we aren't doing anything wrong."

Oh....well, never mind. that didn't seem so bad.

"Oh, well. ok. I guess...well, actually. This seems like a pretty good idea. I'm sure there's a lot of ponies who'd want pictures of the baby taken. I mean, you would take those pictures right?"

"I suppose I could" Discord didn't seem like he'd really do it.

"Uhmm..You'd be causing trouble if you did all this and didn't snap those pictures. Even if it's free, Discord, you’re offering a service. If you committed fraud, the princesses would have a good reason to get angry at you."

"Eggh..fine" Discord rolls his eyes as he looks forward, faking a smile. "You make things so difficult sometimes, Anon"

You shrug to that, you were just keeping to the plan. "Hey, I'm just saying. You want to do it right then you gotta commit and...woo..." You shiver a little and sit down on the booth. Getting the scarf to curl around you as much as you could. "I hate the cold...."

"You just have to handle it for a little while longer Anon. Just a little longer. This, for sure, will be the perfect bait. Look," Discord points to a small crowd of Crystal ponies who have noticed the booth and reluctantly started to crowd around. "We are already getting our first customers!" Discord pulls out sign up sheets and puts them on the booth, smiling wider "Just be as cute and non-threatening as possible and we'll do fine"

You just sit there, brushing your mane back as you give a cute smile towards the crowd. A gaggle of various crystal ponies showed up at the booth, reading the sign and looking upon Discord with hesitation. Though, when they looked upon you. Their worries did seem to thin. Perhaps it was because they were gazing upon something "Cute and innocent".

"Is this sign true? Can you really get pictures of the new royal baby that close?"

"A-aren't you the one who was friends with Tirek?"

"Well, I know he was. But I've heard he's good now. Even has a hero of a son. That must be him."

"Oh yeah! I remember that colt. He was in the paper, the one who beat those thieving griffons. He's Discord's son? But he's so...cute."

"Well, if that's Discord's son then that's good enough for me. I want to sign up for this."

"Yeah me too, it's free right? How can you beat that?"

"Is it a limited offer? Is there only so many ponies who can sign up? If that's the case then let me through, I need those pictures for my advertisements." The crowd started to bustle as their fears left them, and their want for cute and close up baby pictures piqued.

"Now now everypony, calm down. I am the spirit of chaos after all. And chaos is in limitless quantity. Meaning everypony who signs will get a copy of the pictures. All I ask of you is to tell your friends, family, neighbors, even your bitter enemies. Spread it all across the city, make sure no ear is left deaf to the sound of the purity of new born foals" Discord was genuinely happy now. Even if he had to commit to taking the pictures, the crystal ponies overcame their worry for the chance of the best pictures anypony could ever get of this new baby.

Though, as this went on. You noticed it getting darker and colder. Was it night time already?
No it couldn't be. It was still early in the day.

You look up, and see clouds forming in the sky. Very dark and nasty looking clouds.

"...Uhhh..." You hop off the counter of the booth and give Discord a small shake. "Hey, Discord....are the clouds supposed to be doing that?"

"Anon" Discord gives you a little shake to remove your hoof. "Can't you hold on? I'm busy giving out forms." Discord looks to the crowd as he points to a dropbox. "Just put your forms in here so I can have the pictures sent to their appropriate places. No need to rush, with my powers, there is no chance that anypony will be left without a set of these must have pictures" Discord smirks as he looks around, thinking that soon the crowd would leave as new ponies would show up and the word would spread to the castle.

But as the crowd began to disperse to seek out other ponies to tell, snow started to fall. It was gentle at first, but with each passing moment it seemed to get subtly harder. "Discord, It's snowing. And those clouds, it looks like there's gonna be a terrible storm soon..I dunno. Something about it seems unnatural..."

Discord didn't seem to pay it no mind however. He immediately dismissed it. "It's normal Anon, relax. It's probably just something some pegasi on duty cooked up. A little snow to set the mood. Remember, things work differently here than they do in your world. The princesses aren't going to allow some storm to spoil their little event."

Ohhh...right. That's right. Pegasi do have the job of handling storms and rain and shit. How could you forget? Probably just a rush to get things a little snowy for dramatic effect..or something. in fact, as you looked around, some of the foals started to gather around to make snowponies and lob snowballs at each other.

"I guess, woo.." You wiped your brow in relief. "Almost thought something bad was gonna happen. Hey, here comes more ponies." You point to a smaller crowd coming to the booth. All seemingly eager to sign forms to get those pictures.

"Oh Anon, soon..oh so very soon. Those princesses will crack under the pressure" Discord snickered. "It's only a matter of time."

"I just want to see if Celestia cracks. I dunno, she kinda rubbed me the wrong way back there."

"Hrn? Oh really? interesting. In what way did she rub you wrong." Discord pulls out a doll of you and holds it close to you. "Point to where the big bad princess touched you"

That actually lightened the mood for you. You giggle as you push the doll away. "C'mon Discord. That's too much. But yeah, I dunno. She seemed like..super smug...like...she knew everything. I dunno, I don't like it. I kinda want to see her knocked down a peg"

Discord let's out a happy "Ha!" type of laugh as he pats your head proudly. "That's my Anon. That's exactly what you should be thinking. It's obvious she's being too arrogant for her own good. If anything, we'll be doing her a service in humility with this little fiasco."

"I guess, yeah.." Maybe she did need that. You felt, that unlike the Flim Flam Future Celestia, that maybe...just maybe...Celestia was getting too comfy always being on top of you and Discord in the end. As you remembered, if you had the horn during the Chimera incident. You would have totally destroyed that thing. Celestia's fault for sure.

And as you thought of this. A snowball smashes into your face, knocking you back. "W-what the! Hey! Who threw that?!" You look over to a bunch of giggling colts and fillies. Some nestled into small snow forts.

"Hey! You're the hero colt from Ponyville right? Why don't you come play with us?"

"Hmm, is he the hero colt? I would have thought he would have been able to dodge that snowball."

"No no, that's Spike, the brave and glorious."

"Oh right, only he could actually dodge a snowball. He's so cool, if only I could get his autograph...and maybe a scale. So I could be at least somewhat cool like him."

And goddammit...Fucking Spike. Even the foals here looked up to him as if he was some sort of ACTUAL hero. Well fine, you will play. You were sure you could win a simple snowball game. "Alright alright, I'll play. Just remember though. I'm a bonafide hero. The real deal. And you won't be able to land another-" As you point to yourself proudly, another snowball smacks you in the face.

The foals just giggle as your face is revealed to be pretty annoyed as the snow slowly drops down to the ground. "Ok..that's it! Prepar-" And another snowball hits your face, followed by more giggling.

DAMMIT!

You wipe off the snow from your face this time. You were now determined to show them the true power of the hero colt. "That's it! You're all going down now!"

But the foals had their doubts.
"Wow, he talks a lot huh?"

"Is he really the hero colt?"

"Well, he is with that weird Discord guy. It's gotta be him"

"I mean, yeah. But uhm...Maybe he just got really lucky at doing all that hero stuff."

"Check out that horn, it really does look like Sombra's. Why would you ever want to have something like that around your neck?"

"Dunno, weird huh?"

"Whatever..Hey, Hero Colt. Come on! Try to at least hit one of us!"

"One of you? Hehehe" You slap your horn right on your head. "How about...all of you! GET READY FOR THIS!"

You use your magic to create a rather large snowball type machine gun attachment on your back, controlled with a switch attached to your leg. The foals freak out at the magic you cast, even moreso by what was attached on your back. It was half your size, blue, and looked like some sort of cannon.

They looked terrified.
"W-woah! He must really be the hero colt. He's got that horn. It really does have weird magic in it!"

"What is that thing?!"

"It looks like some sort of..I dunno"

You snicker as you prepare to fire. "This? This thing is called the "Snowgun". It shoots thirty snowballs a second. Plenty of time to knockdown each and every one-" You get pelted with snowballs....from every single foal...at once.

The force from their snowballs is enough to knock you onto your back, immediately dislodging and knocking off the cannon and causing it to flip forward, making the barrel aim for your butt. As it smacks into the ground, It starts firing straight into your ass, making you slide a few inches forward as a mound of snow protrudes from your asshole. Causing the foals to laugh out loud.

"W-woah! That's hilarious!"

"Is he a hero colt or a clown colt? I can't tell"

"It's kinda cute actually. I'd want him to perform at my birthday party."

You shiver and groan. You couldn't even move, who knew snow could hurt so much? And it's coldness was burning you ass. But as you began to finally slowly pull yourself up, The foals start to get a little anxious. The snow was starting to come down a little too hard.

"Uh oh...I think there's gonna be a storm."

"A storm? Today? Ahh shoot, what about the Crystalling?"

"I dunno, the adults probably are still gonna do it, I think. Besides, nopony would let it get too bad."

"Still, it's getting kinda cold. I wanna go home and warm up for later."

"Awww, I guess..we barely got to play though"

"I'm good, watching that hero colt kid be a weirdo was pretty funny. Come on, we can go play board games at my house until the Crystalling happens."

And with that, as you slowly pulled yourself up. You could see the foals leaving. Shivering from the cold, you shake your fist at them and say in a chilled voice "T-t-that's r-r-r-right. Y-y-you better r-r-r-r-run!"

Ogh....you were rubbing your ass as you stood. It was getting colder by the minute. And your ass had to be near zero from that snow assault. Hell, as you looked up. The storm was getting even worse. It seemed to even be affecting Discord's "business" as the lines thinned. Many ponies opting to just go home now to wait for the Crystalling to begin.

But now....you felt...something couldn't be right. For sure this time.

Chapter 303

You and Twilight return to the train once the meeting was over. Cadance did her best to console her, but it didn't help. Thorax seemed eager to be a friend to you, but you didn't really feel like talking too much. But you made sure not to make him feel bad over it.

There wasn't much said during the walk to the train. When you both entered, you both just went to your seats and looked at each other with defeated faces.

"Anon, can I ask you a question?" Twilight finally says something, her question forlorn.

"Yeah?"

"How do you do this? You've kept this secret from everypony without it looking like you were bothered by it at all. No tell tale signs of trickery. Nothing. I know it's important, but it feels so wrong." Twilight has never had to protect someone she hated before. She found the entire thing insane.

You sigh. "I know, I know it does. It hurts whenever I lie to Aunt Fluttershy, to you, to anypony really. I don't want to lie. I want the lie to be truth. But, ugh, Celestia is right. All I've really succeeded at is making Chrysalis my friend. And that's not good when she doesn't want to be friends with anypony else."

"And that’s what gets me the most. Is that fact you're friends with her. How? She HATES ponies. Are you sure she's really your friend? I'm having a hard time believing that any changeling can be good, even after meeting Thorax. So, her being your friend? it doesn't seem like something she'd really allow."

You know the perfect moment to counter that, probably one of the few that gives you legitimate claim to protect her. "She saved my life. I know I said it before, but let me give you some context. She saved my life from her traitorous excaptain, the one before Scrappy, using my horn. She could have used my horn to escape. In fact, she lied to me saying she couldn't because of my Dad. But she could have, she had no reason to save me other than our friendship."

Twilight was already riveted by your story. That sounded crazy. That all happened? She had so many questions, her eyes practically lit up as she prepared herself to ask them, nearly forgetting her own depression as she did. "What?! She could have? But wait? A traitorous captain? He attacked you? A-anon, wait. What even goes on inside that house?! Your father allows all this?! You're just a...a...ugh" Twilight slumps forward and looks down, giving up. "Never mind, I don't even know why I'm surprised"

You reach over and start patting Twilight's head, having to stand on your seat to reach. You even try smiling, maybe that'd help. "Twilight, my life is a chaotic pot of everything. It's my cutie mark, my destiny. I fully accept it with the dangers and the perks that come with it. My Dad cares about me a lot. Trust me, he really does. He just doesn't really know how to act normal. Neither do I. But I think he's a good dad. Without him, I don't think I'd be here at all, I think. And without him, I'd never have met all my friends, and that includes Chrysalis. She cares about me in her own way. We've had a lot of laughs together, and I know I'm trying to reform her, but I also want to protect her. Like everypony else in my life, she's a friend worth protecting. Please understand, that's why this entire plan bothers me in the first place. It's a lot of lying. We both have to lie. But I'm going to lose a good friend at the end of all this. I know you hate her, but I don't. That's how it is."

Twilight raised her head slowly, and looked at you. Confused about how to feel. There's so much she didn't know, so much she learned, and so much she could guess at. You WEREN'T an ordinary colt. Not in any way ,shape, or form. It was clear to her that when left to your own devices, you were capable of extraordinary things.

Was this due to Discord's ability to be a father? Was he some sort of prodigy? In fact, thinking on that. "...Anon, I was wrong about you. Everything. You're no colt, you're a young stallion. I cannot think of anypony else who could do what you do without buckling under the pressure. Your fortitude is, well, otherworldly. It was like you already lived a life that was tougher than what you have now. I really have no right to dictate your life, especially since you have the favor of the other Princesses. So, I'll be cancelling the family classes. I don't think anypony needs them anymore."

The classes, you almost forgot about that. Discord wanted them though, if only to get his own vengeance on Chrysalis....something you'd let him have despite everything else. But still, you had to talk to him to go light on the teasing. Because maybe you yourself could use it to try to get through to Chrysalis the goodness of ponies. You had very little time, so anything you can work with, you would make the most of. "No don't, I actually want the classes to happen"

"You do? Why?" Twilight thought you'd be excited for that one. She just wanted to do you right. She felt awful, she felt if only she had known, she'd have been able to help.

"Easy, it'd force all of us to work together as a family unit. I don't have a lot of time to try to reform Chrysalis. Because, well, Princess Celestia is right, she is.....But I still have some time to try. Please, don't cancel our classes. It'll be ok. Chrysalis won't try anything on Aunt Fluttershy. Dad would annihilate her if she tried. So it'll be ok, please?"

Twilight understood, she nodded. "Alright, it sounds like a plan."

Sounds like a plan? "So, you're really with me on this? Despite Queen Chrysalis being in public and close to Aunt Fluttershy?"

Twilight nodded as she felt some confidence return to her. "Yes. As the Princess of Friendship, I can't get hung up on something like this. If Princess Celestia and Luna can trust you, then so can I. And, because you're friends with Queen Chrysalis, it is my duty to at least let you try as much as you can to reform her. I wouldn't be very good at my job if I prevented you from trying now would I? Friendship and all that"

So, she was ok with it then? That quick? "Wow, I...didn't think you'd help me at all after this."

"Anon, If you say you're that close with Queen Chrysalis, then I believe you, especially after today. If I could protect that friendship completely, I would. The most I can do for you now though is give you what you need to accomplish her reformation before we go with Princess Celestia's plan. Personally, if her idea works then I'm all for it too. But losing a friend over it, especially about somepony you care about that much....It's wrong. That's why I wish the circumstances were different. I don't even know what we're going to do with her if Thorax does reform his fellow changelings, I don't feel she'd be very pacifistic about it."

"Nope, she's going to hate on everypony and everything if that happens..." The very thought was painful to you. "I'd like to be able to keep her even after that though. Aunt Fluttershy and everypony else will probably know what happened afterwards so she'd probably have to be completely confined in the basement again. Better there than being alone in Tartarus. I just, if it comes to that, want to try to be there for her, even if she hates me. She might come around...eventually...hopefully"

"I can't guarantee anything, Anon. I'm sorry. All I can do is give you my support." Twilight could see you were really bummed out. She did her best attempt to cheer you up. "You know, you have a pretty interesting life. If it was a book, I'd read it front to back every week."

That did nothing for your mood. "...Ok"

Twilight murmured to herself how stupid that sounded, so she tried something else. "Um, well, Anon, the way I see it is that after the changelings are reformed. We can allow Chrysalis to stay in the basement as suggested. Sure she may get mad, but she's pretty smart. I think she'd see just how great friendship can be with a little time to understand why her hive gave friendship a chance. It wouldn't be too long. Friendship is like walking. Once you have it down you'll never forget it."

"....Ok" It just wasn't working

Twilight sighed. "Anon...I'm really sorry. You know if we could find another way, we would. Nopony wants to hurt you. It's just that this is important, it has to come first. it's the only shot we have."

"I know..." You groan as you put your hooves to your forehead. "I knoooow....Princess Celestia already explained it. Changelings have caused so many problems for so many ponies, leaving them as is to try to reform Chrysalis on my own isn't the greatest idea. I know.....I know...It's for the best. Let's talk about something else"

"Mnnn, well. Can we talk about Scrappy?" Twilight did want to cover this more as well. As she felt that was a little too much. Applebloom with a changeling? Hiding it from the rest of her family? Applejack would go plum loco if she found out Scrappy's real identity. She also thought about the ethics of having a changeling as a dog

"What about him?"

"I'm just wondering, isn't it kind of weird to have a breathing, thinking, independent being as a pet? Does she really consider him as a pet and a friend?"

You lay on your side on the seat and rest your head. "Twilight, Scrappy even says he's her friend and pet. He actually wants it."

"Oh...that's...really weird. Does he like being a dog then?" Twilight, couldn't fathom anypony, especially a changeling, wanting to do that.

"He does. He wants to be the best farming dog ever. He's so into it. Heck, he's so into his friendship with Applebloom that he lies to his own queen just to try to keep some balance. He tells the CMC anything she's planning and then lies to her about what he told them, all so he can keep his friendship with everypony and be Chrysalis's loyal captain while being Applebloom's loyal pet. Truthfully? I have to give it to him. He does so much to make his friends happy that I envy him. Everypony always happy to see him. But I guess I can be pretty overbearing sometimes.....and a little high and mighty as others like to say"

"Anon. Don't beat yourself up like that. Just improve yourself and you won't have a reason to be envious."

"I know, I just. Well, things get complicated. Let's not talk about me. I can handle myself just fine."

Twilight thought about delving into it a little deeper. But she didn't want to aggravate you when you looked so down, so she simply said "Alright. But I know that you're very capable of pulling yourself out of that slump. but ok, let's move on. Diamond Tiara, I know you both are close. Does that mean she knows?"

You slowly shake your head. "No, and it's better that way. I don't want to shame her or her family by letting them know I have bugs in my basement."

"I see, that's probably for the best." Twilight then thought back to Scrappy, she had an itch about him she wanted to scratch. "Anon, do you think I'd be able to meet Scrappy as himself? Rather than him acting like a dog? I'm interested in talking to him"

You shake your head again. "No, it's probably a good idea if you don't. It'd make things more complicated. Just leave it alone, and really? Can you leave me be right now? I want to be alone...I feel alone...I already said I didn't want to talk about him or... me...or anything really."

Twilight could see you were just not handling the whole thing well. She could see in your eyes that you felt you already lost a friend, and there was nothing she could do about it. She felt she had to do something, so she wondered if a certain detail about you was still true. "Hold on Anon, one more question. Since secrets are coming out. Do you actually like affection? Or is that not really a thing?"

You groan and face away from her. "Yes...I like affection. Can I just sleep until the train ride is over please? I want to try to get this out of my head."

Twilight propped herself up on her seat to make some space, then gave her belly a pat. "Then, do you want to use me as a pillow? I'm soft, it might make you feel better.Your Aunt does say it calms you down." Twilight gave you a grin. She wanted to do something, anything to ease your mind. You were going to lose a friend. A friend she hated....but still....a friend. You really didn't have it in you to accept even that.

"I don't know...I..." But then you realized...Oh god. You'd be sitting between all four of her legs. laying back on her soft underbelly. DAMMIT TWILIGHT! YOU NINNY! THIS WAS NOT AN APPROPRIATE TIME TO LIGHT UP THE LIBIDO...also, she did look comfy.

"C'mooon. I'll even give you a little head massage. It'll clear your thoughts and let you plan better, Anon. I know chances aren't that good, but if you can reform Chrysalis before Thorax is ready, then all the better for you. I just want to help, on the principle of friendship."

On the principle of friendship she says. Christ, what a one eighty. but you guessed you'd change a lot of what you thought of someone too if they were selflessly saving lives. And.....head rubs. C'mon, Anon. Don't give in. Twilight has always been a thorn on your side. If you give in now, even despite her being nice, You'll give the impression that you'll need to be dependent on her for certain things. You didn't need her thinking that.

But head rubs...

Goddammit! You are a fucking man!

Head rubs...

Fuck

You sigh and hop off your seat as you climb up, sit right in front of Twilight, and let her legs envelope you. You were having a soft blush and a warm feeling from that. But you really went red once the rub started.

Ohhh, if you were a cat. You'd purr. Twilight was jelly soft. She herself could feel your tension quickly dissipate, it made her happy that she was being of use. "Are you feeling better, Anon?"

God, you were such a baby. Giving in to fucking bookhorse. Whatever, maybe you were lucky. You'd never get this kind of affection if you were a teenager or an adult. Well, maybe as a teenager from Fluttershy. Maybe another kind of affection from Diamond...oh yeeeehh..NO! DAMMIT! NO LEWD THOUGHTS WHILE YOU WERE BEING EMBRACED! IF ANYTHING HAPPENS! TWILIGHT WOULD LOOK AT YOU LIKE A PERVERT! BESIDES, YOU WERE SUPPOSED TO BE UPSET! DAMMIT!

But them head rubs. You just lost yourself in this. Yeah, it made you feel better, it relaxed you, it let you properly plan out your line of questioning for when you went to see the X-captain. Hell, it made you want to do a special something for Chrysalis. Another movie perhaps? She'd like Goodfellas. Nah, she'd love it probably.

You win this round, bookhorse. You certainly owed Twilight for this. You'd figure out what you'd do for her later. Right now? You'd just close your eyes. And rest.

Chapter 307 - (in the Eyes of Discord)

You are Discord

Well, of course you'd be Discord. Who doesn't want to be Discord? Everyone should try to strive to be Discord.

You were swimming through the air through Canterlot Castle, invisible, looking for Celestia while spooking the guards along the way by either emitting a booming voice right in their ear or tapping them right on their spines.

Even though you had something to do for Anon. You couldn't help messing with a few ponies along the way.

And the more time you had to search, the more guards you had to spook. It was mildly entertaining.

Then as you pass by another hall, you spot Luna talking to a little blue pony.

"Aha! That must be the illustrious Thorax. Ok Celestia, you can wait for a moment." You snicker as you rub your paw and talons together "It's time for an intermission."

You slither along the floor towards Luna and Thorax, ignoring whatever they were blathering on about. You didn't care. You were so paper thin, no one would notice you unless they looked straight down.

You took control of and possessed Thorax's shadow and waited for a moment when he looked down in worry. He seemed to do that a lot so it didn't take a long time. And the moment that he looked, he saw his shadow turn into a soul eating, red, and crazy eyed monster. It made him so frightened he transformed back into a changeling and jumped onto Luna's back.

"Thorax?! What is the meaning of this!" Luna demanded, finding Thorax's advance sudden and even a little frightening.

"I-I saw a monster! Right there on the ground!" He pointed to the ground. But nothing was there.

Luna was confused "I see no monster. Thorax, quickly! Change back. None of the guards can see!"

"None of the guards can see, hmm? Interesting, quite the double standard that's going on here in this castle. Let's see how little Luna reacts if somepony does see" You slither on behind them and turn into a royal guard right when Thorax was hopping off Luna's back.

"I-I'm sorry, really. I thought I saw some sort of monster. It scared me" Thorax said, still shaking as he came off from her back.

"It's alright, Thorax, perhaps you just need some sleep. You have been spending extra time studying the books we have given you. We aren't executing the plan until much later, you don't need to rush" Luna gives him a gentle smile as she gives him a pat, calming him down.

"P-Princess Luna!" You say in a shocked and deep voice, oh so good. "You have been colluding with the enemy?! This entire time?! Then it's true, you really are still Nightmare Moon!"

Luna and Thorax turned around in shock to see you, a frightened guardspony.

"W-what?! But.." Luna didn't previously notice any guards around her vicinity "Guard, this isn't what it seems!"

"I must alert Princess Celestia at once!" And so with a hidden evil smirk, you turned towards a hallway that had a dead end.

"W-wait!” Luna called to you before looking back at her changeling companion. “Thorax, stay here. I must make haste!" Luna rushed off after you, already knowing you would have nowhere to go.

Or, nowhere to go if you were any other pony.

When Luna turned the corner to stop you, you were gone. The hallway was short and ended with a large potted plant at the end with a large painting of the sisters hanging on the wall. There was a door on the side but it was just a closet. She knew she should have you cornered. She opened the closet and looked about, but there was just fancy looking janitor stuff. No guard was about. She looked back at the hallways to spot Thorax, disguised and looking over. "Tho-Crystal Hoof, did anypony run by?"

"U-ummm, no. I didn't see anypony" He seemed worried, but he told the truth.

".....Perhaps it is I who needs sleep. How shameful, the princess of the night being distracted by her own sleepless mind. Ahrm, Crystal Hoof, this ends today's lesson. I need to rest for tonight" Luna coughed and exited the hallway, looking back again, and shaking her head in shame of herself as Thorax follows.

You were hiding in the picture all along, of course. As a little figure inside Celestia's crown. "Well, that was fun. Now where are you Princess, you can't be too far"

You slithered out of the painting and resumed your search

But she was nowhere to be seen. At least not in any of the usual spots. So you just started to randomly search other areas of the castle.

Until you found her in the kitchen, sneaking a few snack cakes from a plate. They must have been extras for something else.

"Well, well, well" you grinned at her as you became visible behind her. "You may want to be careful there, princess, wouldn't want to turn into a red giant now, would we?"

Celestia carefully puts the half eaten snack cake onto the plate. But she didn't turn to face you. "Discord, how have you been?"

"Oh, you know. Having tea with my bestest friend while also having to deal with the wild emotions of a confused human gone colt. That's all"

Celestia sighed, but she didn't seem too surprised. "So Anon told you"

"Did you expect him not to tell me? Oh, for shame Celestia, you should know better to come up with a plot that directly interferes with my fun. Naughty naughty, very bad"

Celestia turned around to face you. She was very calm and serene, you didn't like it too much. "I had an inkling he may, just not so soon. So then, I expect that you have a few objections about what I plan to do"

"Oh ho ho" You laugh, half annoyed, half intrigued "Do I ever. Tell me, what gives you the right to mess with Chryssy? You should know that I already cornered the market on fresh and delicious pranks and pokes when it comes to toying with insects."

Celestia then looked into your eyes with a serious glare. Ohhh, you hated when she does that. Soooo boring. "I'm sorry, Discord. But if that's how you wish to be, then you should know that she owes many debts to ponykind for all the pain and suffering she has caused. So I'm afraid your market has gone bankrupt."

oh, she was being sharp on the wordplay today. Interesting.

You rest your arm on the table and place your head on your paw as you yawn and look at her bored. "Cute...But if you want me to be serious then fine,serious it is. You see Celestia, Anon told me a few things that I cannot let you do. Reforming is great and all. Oh I know I wouldn't have Fluttershy if she didn't put a little of her philosophy in my life. She's quite a lovely pony, you know. Definitively the best element next to laughter. But I digress, when it comes to reforming, I happen to think you're not only doing it the wrong way, but that Anon has already got it covered. So why don't you take your little pet changeling and get him potty trained or something. We can handle it"

Celestia shook her head and sighed "This isn't a game, Discord. I fear she can't even be reformed. Even Thorax doesn't believe she can. And , from what I understand, neither does Scrappy. And Anon has made no progress in reforming her whatsoever. It was something I could already feel would have happened anyway. Chrysalis has only ever displayed a desire for conquest and destruction"

You scoff and laugh at her, you actually laugh so hard you put your paw on your head to keep yourself still. "Ohhahaha! Celestia, you joker you. No progress? Have you seen how they interact with each other? It's smiles, laughter, fun, and everything in between. I'd say that's plenty of progress. Give Anon another day or two, perhaps a week and we'll have ole Chryssy smelling flowers and singing with the birds in no time"

Celestia wouldn't break that glare, it was really throwing you off. "You're wrong, Discord. I can tell this much, her friendship with Anon is true. But we both know it's because Anon has stopped caring about all the evil she has wrought and refuses to atone for and uses his human experience to relate to her. And it's easy for him to, isn't it? Considering humans also seem to be a destructive and cruel race. Or am I wrong?"

You were taken aback. Luna, she only knew that because Luna must have been poking around in his head and informing her of things she found. Well, Celestia was indeed prepared. Perhaps she was even correct. Bah, who cares about being correct? Without a twist, it's just dull.
"It depends, humans are indeed more diverse than ponies. and much more chaos leaning to boot. But that doesn't matter, now does it? What matters is the fact that you can't expect that wormy wuss of a bug to reform an entire hive. That's just as ridiculous as a human reforming their queen. Utter nonsense, and I do know a thing or two about utter nonsense.”

"Thorax seems to think it can be done. And his word is more valuable than your’s or Anon's in that regard. And given the change he's going through and his lessening appetite for love, then it's clear other changelings are capable of the same change, perhaps this change being part of an evolution within them."

"Oh? So blue wings mcgee, instead of being a mutation, is some sort of evolution? Ohh, very astute, very interesting" You say in a mocking tone "Tell me, Professor Suncheeks, doesn't an evolution occur after thousands of years of existing and adapting? How do you explain that? It's science! You can't explain away science."

"Mhmm, since when did the Spirit of Chaos care about the laws of biology? this change has occurred and keeps occurring as he learns more about friendship. It's more progress in a few days than Anon has made with the entire time he has been with Chrysalis. It's an evolution through the magic of friendship, and I feel that this can be done through Thorax. "

Now you were starting to lose your patience. There was no way that was possible. Not without some chaotic intervention. "Celestia, perhaps you had one too many sweets. They must be clouding your mind. How can friendship cause a PHYSICAL change like the one you're suggesting. I mean, chaos magic can. Living in a funky environment can. And then there's plain ole corruption. But friendship?" You scoff "Name one other example where the MAGIC OF FRIENDSHIP caused such a change."

Celestia gives you a cheerful smile "I think you'll like the answer I have in mind…..Twilight ‘Alicorn’ Sparkle"

......

..........

You just stare into the abyss ".....hummmm, I hadn't considered that. Ugh, whatever. So you MAY have a chance. But I still believe in Anon and since It's MY house, then it's MY rules. And MY rules say no princesses allowed, so nyah!" You stick your tongue out at her. You had this. No matter how right she could or even may be, she wasn't stepping a single hoof into your home.

"Discord, please don't be unreasonable. This business is ours, and if we can at least save those who we thought unsavable then I want to try. I'm sorry about Anon, I am. But his way has made no progress with Chrysalis while others like Applebloom have made progress with Scrappy, or my sister and I with Thorax. It can be done, despite the cost being great. That is why my sister and I are also willing to take the burden that comes with our actions"

You snicker at her, you didn't quite care what she did. You didn't come here to lose. "Noble as ever. But you see, I don't care what you wish to do and how you plan to do it. I need things to be a certain way. And not only do I need Anon to remain happy and healthy to keep our family going, but I have more than enough power to keep Chryssy in her place whether she likes it or not. There's nothing you can do"

Celestia frowned, she looked hurt. Why? Oh well, of course. Because you just won.

"Discord, you haven't shown any ability to keep the situation truly contained. Chrysalis has already manipulated you enough to let herself roam Equestria at her leisure. So I'll ask again...Please let me do what I wish to do."

You bend down to Celestia and give her a gentle boop on the nose "Adorable, you think you can do something to me without your precious elements. Sorry Celestia, The ball is in my court and even if you wanted Twilight to do something, she couldn't. Even if you asked her and her friends to temporarily turn me to stone, they couldn't. Fluttershy wouldn't allow it. So, I win. You lose. Give me my trophy, because I'm number one!"

Then she really looked hurt. What a sore loser. How drool. Then again, you should have expected it to be this easy.

"Then you leave me no choice. I will have to tell Fluttershy everything"

.....what? "What? About Chryssy being Nymy? Fine, go ahead. Then I can explain to her how well me and Anon have been doing handling her compared to the four princesses put together."

You were rusing of course, But Celestia would believe it and back off.

"No Discord, I will tell Fluttershy who Anon really is, and that will be that"

....WHAT?! "YOU CAN'T DO THAT!" The snackcakes, the ovens, the pans, they all started to release jets of flames upwards from your rage. "THAT WOULD RUIN EVERYTHING! SHE'D NEVER TRUST ME AGAIN! AND WHAT ABOUT ANON!? YOU WON'T DO IT!"

"Discord, you know for the ponies of Equestria, I'd do anything. That's why I'm sorry. This is the best I can do. So please...please...don't make me do that."

All the fires extinguish simultaneously. In an instant...you lost.

You were gripping your paw and talons. looking away from Celestia, ashamed of your failure. "I think the last time I've heard you make such a threat was when we first met. I lost in my own hubris back then. But this? Celestia, it hurts."

"This is why I didn't want Anon to say anything to you. Because if he did, I knew we'd have to come to this point. I knew I'd have to press my authority as a princess to get through to you."

"Yes, well..." You couldn't think of anything. So you just had to ask. "You'll really do it, won't you?"

"If I must"

Suddenly...everything fell apart. You had nothing more you could play. Why? why would she do this? Who cares about things becoming too dangerous? You can handle it. And even if you somehow couldn't. Twilight could...maybe. It's not like anything awful could happen. It’s not as if Chryssy is that conniving and cunning, right?

Right?....R-right?

...Right?

Celestia gently placed her hoof on your paw and looked up at you, she looked so sad. "Discord, you didn't fail, and this isn't your fault. We're just doing what we have to do. Please, Don't beat yourself up over it. Go home, be there for Anon. And do your best for him."

You had no more words however. You knew nothing else you said could change anything. And you didn't want Celestia's sympathy, so you just snapped your tail fur together and disappeared.

Chapter 318

So the class was moved. The setting was an open field just outside town. If it's one thing you could appreciate about Equestria, it was it's nature sprawling all across the land. During the trek there, however, Spoiled had called the family butler, Randolph, to hold her parasol for her, and set up a mat for her to sit on instead of having to sit on the ground. She had one set up for Diamond as well. But Filthy seemed fine sitting on the ground.

As Mrs. Muffin Top took a moment to sit and enjoy the landscape, meditating on it as she cleared her mind.

Chrysalis walked over to your side and whispered. "You really made the right choice in that filly, Anon. Even her mother is agreeable."

You almost tensed when she spoke to you. You still had it in your head that something was up. But you held back, and tried to keep it casual. "She can be scary at times. Trust me, you would have liked her more before she was reformed."

"Reformed? Ugh, now I've lost interest." Chrysalis remarks.

"Really? I mean, you just found her tolerable before I mentioned it. How could you be so against it anyway? Discord is reformed and he's still a major dick to Twilight. Yeah, I mean, why not? You could just renounce your evil ways and still mess and fuck with everyone. He got away with it. Hell, he betrayed them with Tirek and he's still here."

That was actually a good point you brought up. It's not like she had to change her personality. But of course.... "That's him. And as enticing as you make it sound.There's the fact that he's ball and chained to that yellow ball of fluff and Twilight Sparkle can influence him now due to your existence. You mess up, he gets punished. Miserable, Especially since I got roped into it"

"...I guess. Still, it's better than nothing"

"I'd rather have nothing"

Oy

Mrs. Muffin Top ended her meditation and greeted everyone. "Good morning, everypony! And let me just say how proud I am to be your teacher. Yesterday, you all demonstrated that my services will not be needed for long. Because, well..." Her smiles beamed across to all of you. "You all care so much for one another. I tell you, in the big cities, all my students are usually troublemakers or they just have all these problems with each other. It's very refreshing to have such a small and well mannered class, don'tcha know"

"Oh my, that sounds terrible." Fluttershy didn't like the sounds of that. Problem parents? She was thinking that they must have been abusive or mean.

"Hrn? Now I don't consider myself a bad parent by any means, but this sounds like a challenge to my existence. Are you saying there's parents out there more chaotic than I?" Discord however, refused to believe anyone could be more of a problem than him.

"Oh, Mr. Discord, it's not like that. It's just the families I usually have aren't too agreeable or they complain or yell and scream at each other and their foals. You haven't done anything like that at all, it's actually relieving considering all I've heard about you" Mrs.Muffin Top told him, with a cheerful smile on her face.

"All you heard about me, hrn? Well, you'd agree then that I'm the most chaotic being around, right?" Discord really wanted to make sure there'd be no one else that can top him.

"Well, yes. I'd rather not mention your past crimes. But based on them, yes, very much yes...erm. I didn't insult you, did, I Mr. Discord?" She didn't want to insult him. But to her, it seemed like he wanted to hear that.

"Not at all! I'm happy with that answer." Discord said with a smirk.

"Discord, you shouldn't be too happy about it you know. What if Anon thinks being overly chaotic is ok? A little is fine, I guess, but not that much." Fluttershy looked up at him, having some dismay for him after he was accepting of such "praise".

"Oh no no, I know, Aunt Fluttershy. I know being overly chaotic is bad. But I also know Dad is the spirit of chaos. It's his thing. I just want to use my chaos to make everypony happy. Like...erm" You slap the horn onto your forehead. You had two charges, so why not show off just a little? You VERY CAREFULLY plan this spell out, not wanting it to become nightmare fuel like when you became that chameleon.

OHHHHH! You had it. It'd be cute and…

You look over to Diamond Tiara. It'd be totally cute, and she'd love it. You aimed your horn down as you noticed Thunderlane was the only one looking worried. Muffin Top was surprisingly calm, she didn't even say a word to stop you. Fluttershy was a bit tense though. The rest just looked on.

The field of grass was blasted by your magic. And in an instant, the field became a landscape of beautiful flowers, from roses to violets. It inspired awe among the class. But it wasn't over...

Many of the flowers in the distance blasted upwards and exploded in neon pollen. So vibrant and colorful, that even in the morning sun, everyone noticed. Especially when they started to spell out a set of words. Words Diamond Tiara started to say out loud "I..love...Diamo-oooh" Diamond smiled and put her hoof to her heart as she looked to you with tearful eyes "A-anon...That's so sweet."

Fluttershy found it utterly romantic and cute "That's adorable."

Filthy, who you thought would spaz out, was wiping his tears "Now that's how ya twist such an old fashioned work of love."

Spoiled looked like she was softening up just from looking at it. But she kept her mouth shut. Chrysalis just stared, then she whispered to you "I admit, that's pretty good"

Oh man, even Chrysalis was impressed. She probably hated it, but impressed nonetheless.

"Oh my, it's very pretty. See, this is what I mean. Despite being a foal, this display of love is both thoughtful and remarkable. I never see any of the parents even mention anything like this in my typical classes, don'tcha know."

Diamond couldn't contain herself anymore, and dove right into you, cuddling.

Mrs. Cake just put her head on the side of her husband's neck. "It's heartwarming"

"Kind of makes you wish you were young again. serenading the one you love" Mr. Cake said as he returned his wife's affection.

You didn't care if this was public or not, this was for everyone. To show that Discord wasn't a bad parent. To show Fluttershy how good you were. And to be more romantic than some fuck who attracted Sweetie Belle just by existing, that fucking loser.

You just gently hugged onto Diamond as she whispered "I-I love you too"

Of course she did.

Spoiled looked back to Mrs. Muffin Top to ask "I'd like an example of the type of parents you usually deal with, if you don't mind."

"Oh" Muffin Top turns her attention to Spoiled. "Well" She tilted her head cutely as she pondered "There was this mother who was forcing her twin daughters to be like her and see the world as she sees it. Anypony beneath her was beneath them and she wanted them to treat them like trash so they can focus on what was 'important'. That was a real toughy to work out, don'tcha know. Turned out one of the fillies didn't like being mean so much and ran away."

Muffin Top sighed as she continued to recollect on the memory. "...Which wasn't too bad. Because funnily enough, she ran right into little ole me. After she told me what happened, well, I had to watch over her for a few days. There was no way for me to contact her mother until I could get on a train. And I used that time to learn more about her and her life. And well, the rest is muffiny goodness. I figured out why her mother was that way, spoke to her when she got my letter and showed up for her daughter, and helped her realize that her mean and aggressive behavior wasn't really a good thing to have when raising a couple of foals. There's a little more to it, but that's the gist of it, don'tcha know."

Spoiled's pupils shrunk when she made a connection to it sounding sort of like how she used to be. "You...don't say"

"I do say, one of the worst cases of bad parenting I ever had to deal with. I'm just glad everything worked out in the end and....oh my." Muffin Top giggled. "I'm supposed to be teaching a class, aren't I?"

Spoiled was in deep thought. Feeling the creeping feeling of regret come over her for what she had done. "Y-yes, you are."

Rumble and Thunderlane didn't really know how to react to all of it. Hell, you sometimes forgot they existed. Rumble just found the whole thing to be a little too mushy.

Muffin Top took out a bag of warm muffins from her bag and held it out "Alright everypony. I don't mean to spoil puppy love, but we do have a class. But, before we start. It's time for morning muffins! They're blueberry this time, don'tcha know."

Everyone took one, including Chrysalis and Discord. Though Chrysalis stealthily handed it over to you. Not actually wanting to eat it for herself, she just wanted to seem thankful.

And then the class began.

"Welcome once again class." Muffin Top said with a smile as she looked at everyone's faces. "I have to say that yesterday was amazing. Well, relatively speaking, don'tcha know. Part of me doesn't even know why I'm here aside from taking Princess Twilight's request to come to help Mr.Discord and his family in specific. But me oh my, despite being the spirit of chaos, I can see that he's fit to be a father as anypony can be"

Discord, not skipping a beat, bows as he rolls his paw forward in a gentlemanly fashion "Such kind words. Thank you Mrs. Muffin Top for your very accurate observation."

"Now hold on there, are you saying we're a cut above the rest of all your other classes?" Filthy asked, already pleased with what he was hearing.

"Why yes, yes, that is it exactly. Now, I am not saying my other classes have any bad parents because....well..." Mrs. Muffin Top hesitated as she cringed at the thought of how things usually go. "B-but, I will say that Ponyville, in the short time I've been here, is a wonderful and friendly place." She then giggled "There was even a nice pink pony who immediately wanted to be my friend when I first arrived. And with that said, I don't think my services will really be needed after today. Well, for the most part."

She then eyes Rumble and Thunderlane. "As I do believe I still need to do some brotherly counseling. But, as for today's class itself, I'd still like to resume as normal. Who knows.." She then takes a glance at Chrysalis, as she once again gets an off feeling "There might be something new for us all to learn today, don'tcha know."

"What is today's first lesson Mrs. Muffin Top? Oh! Are we going to talk about our feelings toward each other?" Fluttershy gave a very happy and even whimsical smile. "I'd very much like that"

"Actually, Miss Fluttershy, that's exactly it. I usually save today's entire lesson plan for the end of the class regimen to see if any progress was made. But in this case, it might be best just to roll it out now. I will be calling each of the foals individually. I want them to express themselves on how they feel about their parents without fear of retaliation. Celestia knows many foals would be scared to talk bad about their parents, don'tcha know. But this is a safe place, so no matter what is said. If it causes a problem, it just means I'll have to stay a little longer."

Mr. Cake seemed rather confused. "So wait, we're not going to learn anything more after this? I mean, I coulda sworn there was more to this then just yesterday."

Muffin Top shrugged and giggled. "Like I said, my class is actually for the worst of the worst . I thought that's why Princess Twilight called me. Not everypony realizes that since everypony comes out of my class completely reformed, but that's the truth."

Spoiled then looked to her husband with a twitchy eyebrow. "So, you signed us up to a counselor who handles the worst of the worst?"

Filthy gulped as he backed off, nervous "W-well, like she said, tt was fairly hard to tell how exactly she wrangles things up. Ah didn't even realize why she was here, Sweetpea, entirely my fault."

"Hmph" She then smirked as she gave a small peck to her husband's cheek. "I would be more angry at you. But we've just proven that we are stellar, top notch, and amazing parents. In fact." She looks down to her daughter and points her forward. "Diamond, be a dear and volunteer first." She felt confident, confident that her daughter would have nothing but nice things to say.

"Yes, mother" Diamond said with a smile, she knew EXACTLY what she was going to say as she bounced forward next to Mrs. Muffin Top and looked at her with a big ole smile "Mrs. Muffin Top, can I say anything I want about my parents?"

"Yes indeedy, and don't worry. Nothing bad will happen" She assures her with a smile.

Diamond turned to face everyone with a wide smile "Well, then I don't have anything bad to say about my parents at all. Mother is beautiful and smart and Daddy is super nice and great! In fact.." Diamond began to rub her chin as her smile became more devious, then her eyes shifted towards you "They already approve of my future husband. So how could I say anything bad when I'm just so so happy to be betrothed to the most amazing colt in Equestria! All thanks to my parents of course."

Filthy let out a unsteady heavy breath as Spoiled whispered a "That's my filly"

Fluttershy just smiled and giggled. "Awww, that's so cute!"

That caught you a little off guard. But at this point, it was par for the course...right? If anything, it was Filthy who seemed affected more than anyone else. But hell, how could you deny your own awesomeness? You decide that your Diamond deserved a thrown kiss. Diamond most certainly approved as she sighed and smiled as she rejoined her parents, saying nothing more.

"Ahrm, that certainly was a way of putting things." Mrs. Muffin Top said, feeling a little awkward with that last bit. But then, after she regained her composure, she looks to Nymous. "Nymous, perhaps you'd like to say a few words?"

Now you tensed up. Hell, Discord tensed just a little as he prepped himself for something. She was going to say something negative, you knew it. Or...you thought you did. But as Chrysalis silently agreed and stepped forward and turned to face the class, she did a curtsy and shook her head as she said in an elegant tone. "I have nothing truly negative to say about my new father and aunt. How can I even say anything really? They have accepted me despite my sudden appearance in Ponyville. And while I don't see eye to eye with my new father all the time. He treats me, and especially my little brother, with care and utmost respect."

Wut?

Discord's mouth dropped to the floor, he had to manually pick it up and set in place because he wasn't expecting such a "perfect review".

Fluttershy was simply delighted. "Oh Nymous, you really are too sweet"

Chrysalis does another curtsy "You're too kind, Aunt Fluttershy". She then returns back to your side. She didn't even have a devious smirk on her face.

You lean in to whisper and ask what the fuck that was about. "Ok, I know it sounds counterproductive, but not one subtle insult? Really?"

She simply whispers back. "And risk having this last one more day? No, I'll just suck it up and give that buffoon a good word and that will be that. And I suggest you do the same."

Well, it's not like you weren't going to do that. But yeah, Chrysalis had a good idea going. You didn't like the way Muffin Top had been eyeing Chrysalis. So getting it over with fast was probably for the best.

In fact, that's how your speech pretty much went, you kept it as simple and loving as possible. And considering the only other foal left to speak was Rumble...

Well, actually. Rumble's speech didn't go so well when it ended up with him arguing with Thunderlane.

Mrs. Muffin Top, she still felt something was off about Chrysalis. But after all that? Maybe, to her, she was just getting older. As for the class itself. She felt she had to spend the day with Rumble and Thunderlane to sort their shit out. But for the rest of the class? She had something special.

She would have the foals take on different parents for the day. Although you didn't understand her reasoning for learning to appreciate others lifestyles or whatever. If it got things over with, then fine.

But also, in reality. The only swap that was possible was you and Chrysalis switched with Diamond. And thats exactly how it went. The Cakes were ok with this. In the end, happy to know that while quick, the class showed they were already well on their way of being good parents.

As for the swap? It made you feel tense. Especially since Spoiled wanted to take on Chrysalis, to see how proper she truly was. Spoiled also left you to Filthy, obviously to learn more on being a "Rich" stallion. They weren't too worried about Diamond. Well, Spoiled only threatened the worse if anything happened to her.

Yeah, to you? This whole thing seemed rushed and pointless. Way to go Twilight. You didn't understand diddly crap. Whatever. At least it'd be done soon.