The Gamer, The A.I. and The Changeling

Chapters

Speed Breaker
Midnight's Decision
Betas, boosters, and Competitive player. (revised)
3 vs 1 | The Vanguard stands alone

Speed Breaker

"Hey your really good at games. Would you like to play a new one with me?"

That was it how it all began. Of course I'm getting ahead of myself, or am I not far enough ahead? Anyways I guess I should start with everything else. My name I Button Mash. You probably know my closest friends Apple Bloom, Sweetie belle, and Scootaloo. Known as the Cutie Mark Crusaders. Along with Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. It started off as any Monday morning did. A noisy wake up call from the five of my friends to make sure we got to school on time. As always I stayed up too late gaming. So after eating a quick breakfast made by my mom we made our way to the school.

"Hey Scootaloo did you finally beat the record on the Speed Reaction?" Silverspoon inquired.

"You know it! With 3 seconds left to spare I was over by 3200 points from the quick tricks and combos. There's no way anyone will be able to beat my high score now." Scoots explained. Her wings fluttered with pride as she puffed out her chest.

"Button did you take down Rumble, Pip, Snips and Snails yet?"Sweetie asked "I'm getting real sick of their gaudy attitudes claiming they are the best Gamers." Sweetie added more than a little annoyed.

"Sweetie do you even need to ask that?" DT retorted "Obviously we won, Apple Bloom got in a few early spawn kills which set the tide Of course me being the medic I wouldn't let our ace in the whole die while Button was behind enemy lines messing them up. By the by, Silver, good job with the character switch from heavy to the Demoman. Completely through off Snips's pyro play." DT commented.

"Thank you, Diamond but I'm just glad that you were there to cover my flanks Apple bloom." Silver commented.

"Aww shucks, t'was nothing, Button was the real MVP of the match destroying Rumbles mechanic equipment." Apple bloom stated with a mild blush. I merely yawned in response to the praise still trying to wake up.

"After the fight I switched over to Seige for a while. I think Rumble is going to want us to fight in a combat 1v1 game for a match." I explained. Sweetie Belle just sighed. It seemed like something was bothering her.

"So what like, Equine Combat?" Silver Inquired.

"That or Fighterz." I replied.

"So then its simple we 6 just practice against one another using the VR system Silvers' Parents and my daddy bought for our gaming rooms." DT said Haughtily. "I mean its obvious that Rumbles' crew is going to want to play us using that. And Rumble will be having them train against the computer with his set." She added confidently. With that being said we arrived at the school the bell ringing signaling it was the start.

We sat down in our normal spots to the front of the room all next to each other. Ms. Cheerilee however was not in the room yet. It was then that Rumble had thrown a piece of paper at me it hitting my shoulder. Looking back at him he was glaring daggers before he mouthed to read it. DT picked it up before I could though and she dropped it on my desk.

"Ugh. won't he learn?" Scootaloo said obviously annoyed. Rolling my eyes I unfolded the paper and began to read it.

'Hey Loser. You got lucky yesterday but I have an ace in the hole. Wednesday, You, Scootaloo and Diamond Tiara Vs Snails, Pip and Me. VR fight at Sugar Cube Corner Pinkie Pie said she would host it. Get ready for a Public Smackdown'

"So button what does it say?" Sweetie asked.

"Rumble wants to take the match public. A VR fight Scoots Diamond and Myself vs Snails, Pip, and Rumble." I replied. "Wednesday at Sugar Cube Corner."

"Wait a second...isn't Wednesday is the release day of the Newest Game?" Sweetie Belle questioned.

"Now why would Rumble want to do a foolish thing like that, and fight with something no one knows how to play yet?" Apple asked no one in particular.

"Silver Spoon during recess we should check out the data for it so we can set up our team picks." Diamond said. Everyone nodded in response as I just looked at the 5 fillies around me. I couldn't help smiling at it all. 3 Years ago I had just transferred to this school and was a joke because of how much I played video games instead of anything else. Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon used to be one of the School's biggest bullies. The biggest being Sunset Shimmer of course. Rumble and I used to be the best of friends. Until I found out he was just taking advantage of the fact that I had some of the rarest games out and he tried to steal one. The Jewel of my collection even, Suikoden 2. It was around this time when Ms. Cheerilee walked in.

"Alright Class. Sorry I'm a little late I was talking with Principal Celestia and I have some extremely exciting news~." Ms. Cheerilee seemed almost too peppy. Like she was nervous but the reason for that was soon shown. "We have a new student. Now he used to be Home schooled but his mother felt he was more than ready for us. So please be nice." She warned us her face never faltering from her smile but her eyes stern. Ms. Cheerilee kinda scares me when she does that. The door opened and in walked a boy who looked no older than Any of the other kids in the class. He wore a red plaid button up that had a collar button that he left open. Grey dress pants and black shoes. His hair was Almost as black as the night. In fact the only thing darker than his hair was his eyes. When I looked at him I didn't see the Eyes of a kid like me or Sweetie Belle or even Diamond Tiara. I saw the eyes of some Powerful Final Boss Villain.

"Everyone this is-" Ms. Cheerilee Stopped as the new student Smiled and looked at her after shaking his head.

"Hello everyone. It's a pleasure to meet you all. My name is Midnight Requiem. To tell you some things about myself I am a hard core gamer. While not a completionist, If i play casually its only when I'm playing the Clover Project with one of my close friends or if I'm playing the story mode. I don't care for Sand box games like Minecraft. I do hope you make this class interesting for me. Because there is nothing more I hate then being bored. With that being said I'm willing to answer any questions if Ms. Cheerilee would permit." The tanned boy looked up at the teacher in question. For some reason it seemed almost like Ms. Cheerilee was almost afraid of him with the way she flinched when he turned his head before she nodded her head vigorously. The other students began to talk among themselves silently. What they said I don't know. For some reason I couldn't get my attention off him.

"Excellent Idea Midnight. This will also be good for you to learn the names of your class mates. So when anyone wants to ask a question if its your first one then be sure say to your name." She said before she sat down. "Midnight your desk will be-" She paused as she looked around the room. Then pointed in my direction. "There behind Button Mash. Button Raise your hand so he knows." Doing as I was told I raised it his eyes then locked with mine. As I slowly put my hand down I noticed he smiled but barely. A slight twitch on the sides of his lips.

"So without further a-do Let the questioning begin." He said. All at once a bunch of questions were being shouted at him like an unstoppable bombardment from TF2's Heavy. Yet he only seemed to laugh.

"Settle down 1 at a time please, I only have 2 ears." It was then when the room went silent after a single voice asked a single question.

"So you're a gamer, would you like to join my Team?" Rumbles voice resonated. The look on his face changed from childlike happiness to shock and then interest all in a matter of moments.

"I'm sorry I don't think I understand the gravity of the question. Can someone explain to me the situation?" His voice was calm and cold. His eyes seemed to have cut through everyone they looked at. I could honestly say at this point this boy, scared me. This much became near public as my hands started to shake. Both Sweetie Belle and Diamond Tiara saw this and began to whisper into my ears calming words before another Boy stood up this one with a camera around his neck.

"Featherweight of the Canterlot School press, Mr. Requiem. Allow me to explain as it seems you are not from this area. In our little town there are 2 primary gamer group teams for kids our age that stand against a lot of the older people. Both teams are in our very class.

"The first team,Known as Game Crashers is lead by Rumble, the one who asked you, seconded by Pip."- The shorter brown haired boy stood up at the mention of his name, allowing Midnight to put a face to the name. -" Followed by the dynamic disaster duo Snips and Snails." The two followed in suit as Featherweight had gestured to them. Rumbles' team then sat down.

"And their Rivals?" Midnight almost demanded. While curiosity filled his voice there was something off for those last few moments I felt as if he was staring at me. It was then that Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon stood up.

"Their rivals are none other than the Shining Crusaders." Diamond Tiara said proudly.

"Our undefeated team Consists of a total of six of us. Being Diamond Tiara our proud Support player, Apple Bloom our range game player, Sweetie Belle the Sand Box Princess, Scootaloo our daredevil speedster, Myself, being Silver Spoon as our Tactical shot caller and our Team Captain Button Mash." Each one at the mention of their names gave a subtle Nod or a confident grin and wave. All except for me.

For whatever Reason I felt Paralyzed as if I was hit with a Thunderwave from one of the electric type monsters. Sweetie Belle smiled and put her hand on my shoulder as Diamond Tiara held a nervous smile eyes shifting from him to myself constantly. Slowly I stood up my eyes looking low until I was fully standing. Hesitantly I looked up and met his eyes with mine. I swore I saw a monster worse than Sunset shimmer during the Fall formal and Worse than Twilight Sparkle during the Friendship games. This wasn't some pony based apparition, and boy did it make me flinch. When he saw that he frowned.

"H-hello, I am Button Mash, I hope we can play together." Slowly I put out my hand and he looked at it before smiling softly. I didn't notice it at the time but Rumble and Featherweight had apparently made there way to the front of the class.

"Hello, Button Mash." He went to reach for my hand to shake it when Rumble intercepted it.

"Sorry to cut in but the rivalry is mixed with a few bad attitudes. So if you shake his hand I'll have to take back my invitation." Rumble's voice was that aggravating coy and nonchalant.

"Hey Rumble. Did you ever think maybe he doesn't want to join you're team?" My words came out with more venom than I intended to the point Rumble and Featherweight turned to look at me. Featherweight with his camera at the ready.

"I'm sorry what was that? I don't think I heard you over that fearful look in your eyes." Rumble said his eyes narrowing and his face turning into a snarl. I knew Rumble was trying to bait me. He's been trying to bait me for a long time. So I don't know why now of all times I took it.

"Oh I'm sure you must have a lot of trouble hearing people since your head is always up in the clouds Rumble." I Moved forward to stand up to him. The tensions rose in the room. Out of the corner of my Eye I saw featherweight lift his Camera to see if we turned into a brawl.

"Ah so there it is.... okay then gentlemen. You're both civilized gamers, why don't we settle it this way. Whomever can beat me in any game that you both agree on." Midnight Quickly stated.

"Sure we can do it this Wednesday after I teach this poser his lesson. Do you know where Sugar Cube Corner is?" Rumble said as he turned his head away from me to look at the Midnight.

"I believe that is a confectionery shop in the suburbs correct?" Midnight asked with a slightly strained look as he tried to recall it.

"That's Right. If you need a Ride let me know, I can get my big brother to take us." Rumble said proudly.

"That or he can show up in style in a Limo." Diamond Tiara stated. "I mean after all it does seem like he's going to be our referee."

"Can I assume its for the new game? If so I have no issue with that. I Beta tested it. But I'll find my own way as my mother wouldn't like me to be picking sides so early. " The moment Midnight finished talking the bell rang signalling for Recess for us to begin.

"Midnight, I do believe that is enough for now. You may want to go see Professor Discord, now for your next class. Make sure you're mother is aware In case of something coming up." Ms. Cheerilee stated. "The rest of you hurry on and go have fun." she finished Midnight nodding left after taking out his phone and texting someone. The rest of the class was all rushing to go out and have fun. DT and Silver both began to talk strategy with Scootaloo as Applebloom and Sweetie bell took out their Joyboy's. That was Until a moment later Scoots' Joyboy started to buzz. Grabbing it quickly to see what was up we all watched as her eyes grew wide in disbelief.

"B-but that's Impossible... No one should've been able to beat my highscore..." Her eyes grew frantic as she looked at us before laughing. She showed us what was going on.

"It's a joke Right?" She asked wanting us to lie to make her feel better. "That's MY game, no one has ever received that many points." As Sweetie belle gave it to me Scootaloo continued to rant in disbelief. The leader board scores where shown.

MROL 99987612
SCTS 79513211
SNAL 79510011

"Button... It's a lie Right?" She begged with tears in her eyes. I'll be honest... at that time I wanted it to be a joke. I wanted to tell her that yeah it was just some hacker. But after seeing the tag of who made that score. For some reason I knew exactly who it was. All I could do was pull Scootaloo into a deep hug which was joined by the other crusaders as she cried. Her joyboy buzzed again. But none of us paid any attention to it. We should have because of the message that was left.

Midnight's Decision

Midnight's perspective

Plugging in my headphones I made my way to Professor Discords Lab. As usual I was greeted by a familiar voice sounding softly from them.

"Good Morning Midnight. I trust that you had a good time introducing yourself to your new home class. Shall I inform the clan of what you are up to?" Her voice was comforting as it had always been. My only real friend that I had to make.

"Don't worry about that Snow Angel, Did you send the message to the owner of that Score bearer for the game yesterday?" I replied softly enough so my mic would pick it up.

"Yes however there was no reply as of yet." Snow replied. "Would you like me to inform Chrysi of your situation at least? Your mother would do well to know that you are settling in well on your own."

"Well, I'm not on my own now am I, Snow. I have you." I chastised.

"Yes and you had to create me. Also I feel I should Inform you the school Network is clear of Linkers. Surprisingly the majority of the city is clear. Is this the escape you wished for?" She inquired. I didn't want to answer that question... Snow Angel or Ice Queen as Principal Celestia, Vice Principal Luna and Professor Discord refer to her as given her cold attitude to anyone not me.

"Midnight, we are here." She replied as I almost walked into the door not paying attention. Blinking I looked up and Knocked on the door.

"Well Come in, there is no use standing out there Midnight." The door opened to reveal very strange man. With Brownish black hair with tufts of sky blue by his ears. Eye brows and beard being white as snow. Yellow eyes with Red Irises wearing a mix and match of styles and colors that somehow made him look both sophisticated and ridiculous. I could only sigh as I unplugged one of my head phones so I could still hear Snow Angel.

"Good morning Professor Discord." I said monotonously.

"Good evening to you as well, and Say hello to your Ice Queen for me one time." He said as i walked through before closing his class room door. "And feel free to hook her up to speakers like normal." I nodded to him before taking out my phone and plugging it in.

"Good morning to you as well Professor Discord." Serina said. It took a trained ear to tell the differences in her voice as she responded.

"So your officially attending school today my boy. I'm more than happy your mother agreed to this so don't keep me waiting boy you and I both know I have no patience. I mean after all it took me only 2 generations for Celestia to let me teach here." He smiled a very fanged smile that one could almost mistake as predatory.

"All I did was introduce myself. I've met some of the members of the class and found out about the 2 gaming groups." I replied as I sat down.

"Ah, yes. Young Rumble's Game Crashers, and Monsieur Button Mash's Shining Crusaders." Discord sat back as he stroked his beard slowly.

"And now the two teams want me to referee a match they are having at Sugar Cube corner. And I agreed to it." I put my head down onto the table.

"I see... well this could be an excellent opportunity." He said as a scheme started to unfold in his head.

"Do you wish to introduce them to the Link?" Snow angel asked Professor discord.

"Well that all depends. Do you think it would be a good Idea? I'm more than aware your Mother's private school is already implementing it into their training and teaching systems, and I had thought about bringing it up With Celestia. But it would come down to our little Vanguards efforts." He said smiling at me.

"So what you want me to decide if to introduce a life changing game that goes beyond the game?" I asked more for clarity than anything else.

"I mean it sounds boring if you put it that way but yes." He replied more than a little annoyed.

"I do not believe that would be a good idea. What you're suggesting could cause long lasting mental harm on the children." Snow Angel stated.

"Ice Queen, Did you know that events before your maker here those students were already mentally messed up? Take for example Sunset Shimmer, She literally turned in a magic filled demon monster and was literally turning people into her personal zombies. At that time apparently a princess from another world that is filled with ponies instead of us humans as the dominant intelligent species came to take back the crown that was stolen from her which had given sunset those powers and she fought Sunset like that. And then there was the Sirens Hypnotizing practically everyone with there songs. and Finally the recent Friendship games against Crystal Academy where our Twilight Sparkle came from, she became some kind of magic monster and was fought back by and brought back to her senses by Sunset Shimmer. Trust me this game... outside of the phantom pain of course, Would only help them." Discord explained.

"Of course Professor. I apologize for my outburst." Snow said vehemently.

"Oh dear I seem to have made her give me a cold shoulder. Anyways my dear boy, while I may be an admin in this little world that you, your mother, and Mr.Anonymous created, you still have the final call. I have the Linker collars here which are actually about to go live for the school. All you have to do is decide if you want to bring them in to this little world of yours, of course they have to be able to play it as well. And remember there is only one chance per download and you still have one in your downloads. After all your's is the generation to Accelerate the world" Discord stated before chuckling at the last comment. The bell began ringing. "I do believe this means the end of our time together. Perhaps you should go see Principal Celestia or even Luna. Heaven's know they would love for you to talk with them on it and not just the Construct." He said almost like a father. It made me shudder as he patted my shoulder.

"I heard that Discord." Snow stated more than upset.

"I am aware Ice Queen." He Responded.

"Fine. Would Ms. Cheerilee find it an issue if i went to see Principal Celestia?" I asked as I unhooked Snow Angel putting back in my headphone into one ear.

"I'll let her know Scamp, go get some advice, Just remember Murphy's Law means Chaos Theory has a way of wiggling its way in to everything. Fare Thee well, Orange Luck." He reminded me with a slight laugh as I left his room.

"I don't like him." Angel Declared.

"I know but he is my caretaker and he helped me make you." I Rebutted

"Doesn't mean I have to like him. At least it makes sense why hes 'White Order.'" She commented as I rounded a corner before opening the door to the administrative Room.

"Hello Time Stamp. Discord recommended I come see Celestia in regards to my... Project." I said as walked up to the secretary.

"Hello, to you as well Midnight. She should only be doing paper work right now, so it should be okay for you to see her. Should I ask Vice Prinicipal Luna to see you as well?"

"No, thank you." I said with a sigh before I opened the door to see my Guardian as unplugged my headphones. Closing the door behind me Celestia looked up from her paperwork, her reading glasses on.

"Ah, Midnight Shouldn't you be in Class right now? Making some friends?" She raised an eyebrow unamused. I flinched for a moment. Before me stood the only women who has ever defeated my mother in an argument that she had set up for every possible scenario that took into consideration basically everything logical. This not only shook the foundation of the private school my mother ran, but also mildly inspired me to make Snow Angel. So of course I would be more than a little intimidated by this Powerhouse that stood before me.

"Good morning Principal Celestia." Both Snow Angel and myself said.

"Do you have a moment?" I asked hesitantly. She took of her glasses as she put down her pen to give me focused attention.

"Of course I do for you Midnight. Shall we link?" She asked with a softened smile.

"That would be best so we don't take up too much of your time." Snow angel stated from my pocket. Nodding Celestia used her key to open a locked drawer in the cabinet behind her taking out to collar like devices. An orange one and soft yellow one. She handed me the orange one adjusting the collar on my shirt so I could fit it properly. Feeling it connect to me tingled like it always did. Taking out the cord from my pocket I connect the collar to my phone and the collars turns on as a portion of it lights up into a dark neon orange signifying it is working. My vision becomes altered for a moment as everything starts to load up for the HUD. I see Celestia blink as the same goes for her as she puts hers on.

"You know, your great grandfather is a genius for making these things and it never ceases to amaze me how well they work. Even as much as correcting Vision." I simply nodded Celestia turns her head to look slightly to my left before she smiles and waves lightly. "Sorry for not saying good morning to you earlier Snow Angel."

"It's fine Principal Celestia. I understand the situation." She replied.

"Ready?" I asked her.

"Whenever you are are." Celestia replied.

"Burst Link." the three of declared all at once. The normal world became Blue as our avatars formed. I looked over at Celestia who was wearing what one would swear was a princess's regalia, if not a queens along with that strange horn and wings. As for me I had designed my character to appear a bit more like Brainiac from Super Man.

"Shall we see what field we get?" Celestia asked with a smile. I nodded slowly as I pulled up the player list and initiated the challenge suddenly the world around us changed. Suddenly we were on a floating platform with clouds drifting around us with a Roman style of building surrounded us.

"The heavens stage..." I commented.

"You know Midnight... Everytime I log into this game that we and that strange anonymous man created I first feel angry because of how it plauges the mind but then i see the beauty of why it does it." She commented. Her voice sounded more metallic. I looked over at her and pause. She looks back at me and laughs softly. "I know... this form, its not what one would expect from me right? Copper Guillotine... such a cruel name." Her form as robotic as everyone else's. As her name Implies is a Vibrant copper orange color with green eyes. her arms end in sharp claws but on the side of her for arms are single edged blades. Even her legs end in Copper Blades. I remained silent to her as she looked at the world we were in. "Shall we walk?" She asked as she rounded the Marble table that separated us. I could only nod as we moved.

For a long time we walked through the halls as the Timer went down slowly. I could only look down as I tried to avoid the reflective surfaces that would show me with my curse.

"Orange Luck... Talk to me what is it that is bothering you, are you being picked on?" Celestia asked of me.

"No, its... White Law brought something up with me. Asking if I should bring some of the other students into the game when the neuro-links go live. All of the students in my generation apparently have been outfitted and are capable of doing it from birth. but because of how new the tech is they are limiting the testing area now to 3 schools." I said. Ice began to form on the walls as footsteps could be heard coming towards us from the hallway to the left.

"I see, that's right it goes to the Hive Private school, Crystal Academy Prep, and Canterlot House." I couldn't see it but it was easy to tell she was smiling as she said this. "This will be the start of a new generation of students."

"Yes, but what bothers me is that The Hive private school has already made lesson plans for those capable of being Linkers. Including extracurricular activities. With duels to help weed out the weak. And I know that my mother-"

"Headmistress Chrysalis." Celestia said interrupting me.

"Yes, Headmistress Chrysalis, would more than likely enforce usage of this games ability to shift the edge of the games if not out right challenge you since I am here as a student. Not to mention the initial toll it has on the mind before they get into the fighting, then there is the physical pain they can feel. Add on the fact that this schools gaming groups are divided rather than aligned... and it just becomes a whole mess of things..." I sighed more than worry.

"Midnight Requiem... I find it strange how befitting your Avatar's name is. Orange Luck, One who wishes to reach far distance who views luck to always be against them. Yet based off the abilities you explained that you have you seem to literally twist luck into your favor. Not to mention that your primary weapon is a deck of cards. Perhaps it's time to tempt your luck and see if you can unite the teams." Snow Angel had just met up with us.

"I'm sorry to interrupt Principal Celestia, but doesn't that seem like a dangerous thing to do? Headmistress Chrysalis is not a very.... Forgiving person, I mean outside of Midnight they have 3 established groups. based around 3 of the primary color types. And I can already confirm with a 93.4% probability that she will send some of her students to scout and pull the younger generation into this game, just to spread it and make it so her students can cull the meek. She want's the best students to come from this game." Snow angel stated. Her avatar was where I named her from. A support unit that can immobilize enemies by freezing them in place or adding cold damage into the attacks of others. Her a hazy blue in a European belle style dress complete with 2 ribbons in her mist like hair.

"Be that as it may, I don't want my students to be hurt. However I would not stop those who wish to defend what they believe." Celestia said to Snow Angel.

"Your usage of of double meanings is rather Annoying." Snow commented. Celestia couldn't help but laugh a little.

"Well Midnight, our time is almost up. For my advice that you wanted this is what I have to say-" She turned to face me directly and look at me in what my face would be. "- Make some friends, Trust yourself and trust in them. You may have a lot of weight on your shoulders, but you are not Atlas. Take a moment and find someone other than Discord, Myself, or Ice Queen here, to confide in. Now I'll see you at dinner with Discord, ok?" She said with a slight smile. As she said that the Timer wore out and we returned back to physical world.

"Yes, Ma'am" I said with frown.

"Good now get back to class and be sure to tell Luna that we are having Spaghetti for dinner she should be on her way to your class right now. Discord will drive you to the match ok? " She said with a motherly smile, at least I think it what a motherly smile was supposed to be.

"Thank you, Principal Celestia, for your wisdom." Snow stated sarcastically before Celestia began leering at my pocket.

"Sarcasm is unbecoming of you Ice Queen." Celestia stuck a tongue out and that made me laugh a little. She smiled at that as I gave back the neuro-linker.

"Do you intend on playing tonight as well Midnight?" Her face looked worried as I plugged in the headphone jack.

"I have to... I know you don't like it but I'll be fine. I'll win." I said confidently.

"It's not you winning I'm worried about... It's you getting hurt." She said carefully, I flinched as I knew the direction this was going.

"Well would you look at the time." I said rushing out of the room and back into the hallways.

"Snow can you text Luna for me and let her know about whats going on?" I asked. I turned my eyes to look down as I thought about everything.

"Of course Midnight." She said obediently."Midnight, May I make a statement?" Her voice showed hesitancy. It was probably about that issue again. I just gave a light grunt to allow her to continue. "You should consider what Celestia,Luna, and Discord have offered you. That woman-"

"Is my mother." I finished her statement. Or at least I attempted to.

"-Has been no mother of any kind to you. She has insulted you, hurt you, mocked you, and even rejected you. She even mocked you about creating me. As far as I have researched I am the First fully functional and sentient A.I. outside of science fiction that is capable of learning without degradation.

"Furthering why I think this would be a good is for the past half year you have spent it living in one of the two House holds. Either with Celestia and Luna or with Discord. Discord even assisted into my update and upgrading. As a father figure should. Celestia has helped with your English to the point where she was more than happy to allow you transfer here. Your mother only supported it so you could spy for her. And when you had your nightmares Luna came running and helped you fall asleep. Not to mention they helped you come up with a proper name that you were able to change it to. While your mother still calls you Th-"

"Stop right there." I growled at her as my eyes filled with tears.

"... I am sorry for being aggressive. In my defense you programmed me this way." She said trying to joke about it. Wiping my tears I couldn't help but chuckle.

"It's ok... Your getting better with the emotions." I said chuckling a little bit to myself, we both knew I was just trying to avoid the subject. We both knew it wasn't going make it better but it would only make it worse. We both were well aware of it, but she was made to be my companion and my closest friend. She would speak up when it mattered most and she would comfort me. I could only imagine the amount of stress I put on her motherboard. It was a stroke of pure luck that she worked. And with the idea that she was capable of learning and evolving, it made me happy. I finally had someone I could trust. As I walked up to the door I saw Luna smiling at me. through the window in the door. I opened it up and she left giving me a pet on the head and on my desk was some orange slices and a note.

Good Luck, we know you will make some fantastic memories here. Don't be afraid. We will always do our best to help you. Signed Luna, Celestia, and Discord.

Betas, boosters, and Competitive player. (revised)

Button's Perspective

Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom had just finished calming down Scootaloo who now had a look of vengeance on her eyes. The entire time that was going on my mind was racing a mile a minute. Just what kind of player is that kid? Why would he introduce himself that way. Was there a reason why he only now started coming to school? At that moment Sweetie Belle broke me from my torrential downpour of thoughts by poking my arm.

"Hey Button... Did you notice the message on Scootaloo's Joyboy?" Sweetie Belle asked as she picked up the device in question.

"What? A message? From who?" Scootaloo's voice became confused.

"The Sender Tag only has a Snowflake and a pair of wings with a halo in between them." Sweetie Belle said confused. "I thought you're gamer tags couldn't use emojis like that?" Hearing this Scootaloo seemed to Brighten up.

"HAH I KNEW IT! IT WAS SOME HACKER!" Scootaloo said triumphantly.

"Scoots.. Y'all should take a look at this."Applebloom said while looking over Scootaloo's shoulder. Scootaloo took her Joyboy and looked at the messages

You made my friend actually have to care with your score. Sorry he got ahead of himself.

Since you made my friend smile you seem like fun! Would you like to play a game with us?

Under that question was a choice box that said yes or no and had a text box.

"They want to play a game?" Scootaloo asked. "YEAH RIGHT!" She shouted angrily. "Like I would play a game with a Hacker!" She growled as we all came in from outside. Midnight was in his desk writing stuff out with his headphones in and phone on the table. Suddenly Scootaloo's Joyboy buzzed again. A new message appeared on it.

We aren't hackers but please reconsider, He doesn't have many people we can trust to play with and he doesn't know I'm reaching out like this.

"What the hay?"Scootaloo looked around the room to see only Miss Cheerilee on her computer and the only other students are her friends and the new Kid. "So he thinks he's funny does he?" Scootaloo stormed over to Midnight's desk before Applebloom or Sweetie Belle Could stop her. Slamming her hands on the desk making him jump in surprise. "I bet you Think yourself some wiseguy huh Hacker..." She growled with her venom. I could only stare in suspense at what was going to happen. "Why would I waste my time playing with a Hacker like you." She said holding out her Joyboy at him. At this time Apple Blooms JoyBoy buzzed in her hand making her gasp before rushing to grab Scootaloo.

"Wh-What scoots mean is She was wondering why you are friends with a hacker." Applebloom said putting her hand over her friends mouth as the rest of us followed behind.

"Curse you White Law..." I heard him mutter. "My Friend is not exactly a Hacker... and while I did tell her to message you I didn't think she would do with that tag." He paused a moment before any of us could say something he got incredibly Angry. "NO, I'm Not showing you to them!"

"Midnight... If its about Snow it might be best to... After all I was made aware of it." Cheerilee said from her desk going back to her work. That was what allowed a lot of us to piece it together. Snow like the snowflake that was the sender's first portion of the tag.

"Yes I'm mad at you." Midnight said to his phone. Was he on a phone call? "Fine but you Brought this on yourself." He said as he jerked audio jack out of the port then turned off his phone. "Miss Cheerilee I'm going to see Vice Principal Luna." Cheerilee waived her hand dismissively.

"Wait a Second Where do you think your Going?" I heard Diamond Tiara say as she got in his way.

"Yeah you have some Explaining to do."I hear Silver Spoon say. I looked at him and this time he wasn't that intimidating Monster he was earlier. Suddenly he seemed really weak. "Like how do you get off on Having your Hacker friend put your Score so stupidly High! People like Scootaloo work Really Hard on their scores for that stuff!" And then just like a switch was flipped the monster was back.

"Snow Angel is not a Hacker. And I got that score by using my own Skills. Now get out of my way." He commanded This made Cheerilee stop what she was doing before staring wide eyed at Midnight. I couldn't help but wonder to myself at the time, why haven't my friends seen the monster yet? And why is Cheerilee So afraid of him. Applebloom's, Sweetie Belle's and Scootaloo's Joyboys all began to buzz violently.

"Or what? Listen here New kid, we don't even know how good of a gamer you are, so until you prove you're as good as you say and that you have only skill to beat ANY of us then you're just a wannabe loser." Silver spoon said as she walked around him. At this point the Game Crashers could be seen on the other side of the door listening to the conversation. I wouldn't know how much they heard until it was too late.

"Children that is enough I will not Have you bull-" Cheerilee went silent when Midnight shot a look at her. "Midnight... be reasonable..." is what i read from her lips.

"Hmm so it seems that your luck is working just like it always does, doesn't Orange, my boy." Immediately our attention turned to Professor Discord who opened the door. "I wonder, Would like me to help you?" He asked looking at Midnight.

"Umm Professor His name is Midnight." Sweetie Belle Corrected.

"Law...you shouldn't be calling me that name... right now." Midnight Said.

"Oh no now is the perfect especially when some drones are flitting about wanting to check in on their Deserter. I'll Get you to Vice Principal Luna. You need to deal with this before it gets out of hand. Ice Queen Texted me letting me know they were approaching. Their Links are active but not on the schools network yet. So we don't have much time. I would suggest you hurry." Professor Discord's Voice was stern and much like that first time he substituted with us. It was filled with malice and unbridled rage. I wouldn't come to understand what he was talking about deserters and Drones till much later. Everyone else was just as confused by the conversation.

"Midnight, do you need an escort? I know I'm not exactly the best but I can assist you in-" Cheerilee began only to be cut off by Discord.

"Now now Cheerilee, first you must show the difference in skill between a Beta, a Teacher and the schools Gamers." Discord said as he took held out his hand for Midnight after Silver Spoon and Diamond Tiara moved out of the way. Midnight handed over the Phone and proceeded to walk towards the VPs Office. Discord in tow.

"And of course he leaves me to handle the dirty work... Just because it luckily... Fine.. whatever. Both groups Sit down in the front now." Cheerilee said angrily. The Game Crashers came in after that as She set up her speaker system. "Ice Queen Give a test will you... "

"The systems are functioning normally... Cheerilee. Come now where is that smile? I know the kids are worried about you." Her voice came off chiding as she spoke with an audible smugness.

"Would it kill you to not be sarcastic this is going to take little bit to explain." Cheerilee's voice was exhausted.

"What is there to explain? Just play the same game he did." The voice on the speakers said.

"That... Might work? Fine... Student's All of you pay attention to the screen.. any question you have will be answered by myself and Snow Angel." She explained. We all saw Cheerilee take out a link unit and put it on like what we do when we go to game. "Log in I.D. Violet Abandon." She said the projector showed her online avatar as she went towards the speed reaction race game. The vehicle she chose for it of the 3 was the one that had the least handling and highest max speed.

"Whats she doing? That will crash right out the gate?" Snails said confused.

"She would've been better in the 3rd car... higher handling mid speed and acceleration." Scootaloo commented.

"Little Children should know to watch and learn before talking like they know." Snow angel said.

"Shut it hacker!" Scootaloo Said angrily.

"I suddenly regret having him attempt to reach out to you. Since you obviously know the difference between a hacker and capable player. Look at where Cheerilee is." Snow Angel said her voice dripping with Sarcasm. Snips and snails simply gasped as somehow Cheerilee had pulled a tight u-turn with the extreme precision careful not let the tires touch any of the blades along the wall. While still being on her first life.

"Wait... I'm usually on my second life by that point.... How is she-" Scootaloo began as they watched Cheerilee jump the track over to a different path way her points constantly increasing until she sighed and pulled to a stop and let her vehicle get destroyed 3 times at the same spot. Locking in her score at 86012907 and putting her name as CHRE. Before logging out.

"Do you all understand now." Cheerilee said frustrated with a smile. "Midnight Is not a Hacker, And Snow Angel, Although most of the faculty here refers to her as Ice Queen, is most certainly not. I was able to do what I was able to because I was a Beta Tester for this game in particular." Cheerilee explained. "Midnight and Angel... Are better gamers than you guys think... In fact his entire old school is. Snow? How is he doing?"

"3 v 1 parameters... They want a lot and are risking more than half each. They Want him back badly..." Snow said distantly.

"What are you talking about?"

"I have the fight recorded would you like me to play it?" Snow asked Cheerilee.

"After their fight tomorrow play it through their joyboys at around 7pm. Just after everyone's dinner. For now when Midnight gets back, Scootaloo, Diamond, Silver. You three are to apologize and leave him be for the rest of the day. He will need his rest. And yes he ahead enough to get away with it. Plus he might be in a lot of pain. And.... really they want..." Cheerilee sighed heavily. "Snow Angel... Answer the students however you want I need to deal with a brat. Unlimited Burst." She declared her body suddenly going rigid.

"Unlimited Burst?" Rumble asked confused just then they heard someone scream in pain from outside the school and collapse. Rushing to the window they all saw 3 teenagers with link units equipped one of them on the ground gripping their arm and side. The other two standing dazed blinked shaking their heads helping their friend up and running to the parking lot. All of a sudden Cheerilee jumped up and rushed to the door opening it up to catch the weakened Midnight. All of this transpired in roughly 6 seconds.

"Can you stand?" she asked getting a moment to recompose himself he stood shakily and visibly limped to his desk. "I hope that will serve as a lesson NOT to do that again. You can't keep fighting them on your own! What if your mother was there for that fight you know what she-"

"SHUT UP VIOLET!" He screamed before jerking his head to the other students. It was the first time any of us saw Ms.Cheerilee physically back off.

"Snow angel... Send the video to the faculty too as well." Cheerilee ordered the female voice. "And all of you need to get over whatever feud you have soon. If not, you will all be wiped out of whatever leaderboards you're on. The rest of the day is a free period. Midnight go to the school nurse." Cheerilee said as she logged off her computer heading out, as Luna showed up, a slight frown and look of worry. "Come now Young Requiem let's get you patched up."

"I'm fine."

"I'll hear none of that. The rest of you may leave school early for today given what's you all just witnessed Answers to any and all questions will be explained tomorrow." Luna said grabbing and lifting him up making him flail about to spit out obscenities before getting his mouth covered by Luna. "your Only homework is to watch the Gameplay video of Midnight Requiem against 3 of an entire school that will wipe out all normal gamers." Luna said before leaving. Everyone stood there confused as Discord came in shortly after grabbed Midnight's phone and walked away.

3 vs 1 | The Vanguard stands alone

*****3rd person POV *****

7:00 pm. Immediately as the time struck Snow Angel sent out the video which wont be able to be played till everyone was in the shared lobby to watch it. from start to finish. First one logged in was Scootaloo followed by Snails, Rumble, Button, Button's Mother? More data needed to be collected on her. Diamond Tiara and Silver spoon, Pipsqueak, Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, finally White Law, Copper Guillotine, Midnight Tyrant, Orange Luck were all logged in. First to play was a voice recording.

"Thank you all for loading into this video lobby, you will all notice for the purpose of this, Chat and communication has been restricted from all devices you would use including computers, Phones, walkies-talkies and other such devices, if you wish to attempt please feel free When Everyone is satisfied with their attempt I will continue." Snow angel proceeded to wait a total of 3 minutes. "Any last attempts from anyone?" She paused for a few moments. "Very well then. What you will be seeing today is a sample of the next level of Video games. To put it mildly I shall quote my creator."

"Hey your really good at games. Would you like to play a new one with me?" Midnight's Voice played through for everyone to hear.

The video Began to play and it showed the normal Canterlot School. But then everything changed as a wave of energy washed over the world. Broken glass, rusted metal, and decay was what was left. the Statue that stood proudly had crumbled an the inside of the school was worst for wear. It looked like an apocalypse had happened and this was part of the aftermath of time. On the top of the screen 4 health bars appeared 3 on one side 1 on the other. Each one had a name by it but one stuck out to everyone Orange Luck. Approaching the school were 3 colored robots 2 of which had insectile like properties one with what looked like a scorpions stinger, another that looked like like a Hercules beetles. They were a Bright red and Vibrant green Respectively the obvious leader was hulking with large cannon as arm from his right shoulder down Forcing him to walk like a gorilla with his ash like color. Suddenly a sound of Clapping is heard the Camera shifting its view to a fully metallic orange Robot That seemed to appear as if it was wearing a suit. In one of his hands was a deck of cards that he was shuffling. In the other dice that was being rolled around.

"You have a lot of nerve showing up on my first day here." The orange being said.

"Orange Luck, You stand as a traitor to our very foundation of the Hive Academy. I shall please Headmistress Chrysalis With the news that you have uninstalled brain burst and the deletion of your pet." The ash colored one spoke. "Since your pet is not on the server normally We will just fight you, to make this fair if you do some how beat us you get half or Points But if you lose you forfeit the same amount to us."

"3 v 1 and i risk deletion... Fine I accept. Lets see what my luck has to say about this. Die Cast" He called out lifting his hands up causing both the dice and Deck to disappear up his sleeves before turning fast and throwing out a pair of dice that seemed to grow. Catching the 3 off guard as the landed nearby them landing on a 3 and 4 in totality the 3 suddenly released a bunch of smoke as the 4 released a massive amount of ice freezing the Hercules beetle robot in place before the dice derezzed. The ash colored one roared in anger as he lifted his arm cannon up and it started charging. Suddenly through the smoke several cards where spun through like they were thrown. As the video paused so everyone could see what they were a new voice came on the line. "Ah the first cards dealt are often very sore for you my boy," Sounding Suspiciously like Professor Discord everyone listened closely. "the 5 of diamonds, Jack of spades and 2 of clubs." The video Picked back up as the cards stuck in the frozen body..

" Scoppio di diamanti,Sifon Ssylka,I sklirótita tou Jester," Suddenly in order of the calls, The Diamond card burst open launching what looked like shards of glass in multiple Directions. The 2 of Clubs turned into 2 Spikes that dug their way into the him making him scream through the ice in pain as spades Dissolved into him. His health bar started going down fast as his name revealed to be Sapphire Hercules. Strangely enough Orange Luck's Special bar filled up as fast as Sapphire Hercules's Health went down to near zero as the special gauge changed on Orange Luck turning into a deck being shuffled. As the smoke cleared the Orange robot now obviously their new class mate was missing.

"'Come into my parlor' said the spider to the fly." Orange's voice echoed from inside the decrepit building. The camera changed and showed Orange Luck Sighing deeply as he shuffled the cards looking from the Stage lights of the of auditorium watching and listening as the others tore their way through the school. While he was doing this the area underneath the shuffling deck that was his Special Gauge was slowly filling blank spots with the backs of cards with space for 7 cards with 3 being filled. That's when he heard them come into the area.

"Scarlet Stinger, Do you see him?" The one with the cannon for his arm asked.

"Negative, Hercules? Do you see him?" The red scorpion looking one replied.

"Yeah i'm bringing him down now. HORN OF ACHILLES" He Shouted as he jumped from the wall he was latched on tearing down the Scaffolding making orange luck fall taking damage from the impact, Now being surrounded.

"Excellent work Hercules. I'll be sure to inform headmistress of your accomplishment once this is over." The ash colored one said as he aimed his arm and began to charge it.

"Dread Cannon." Just as it blasted a hole of dark energy with what looked like skulls. what was left of the Orange robot suddenly began to flip apart like it was made of countless cards.

"For Shame Ash... You activated my Trap Card." suddenly Hercules was knocked down and where he stood a large circle of cards grew and proceeded to shred his arms, horn and legs off. His health zero and his avatar De-rezzing. as one of the cards slots that were filled burned away leaving an empty space that began to be filled again.

"Y-You Leveled UP?!" Stinger asked incredulously as he searched for where the Card Shark was.

"Twice... I leveled up Twice Stinger." Orange Luck replied from the stage where the Light of the Sun shone through onto him like a spotlight. " Now gentlemen lets play a game." Ash scoffed as he aimed his cannon arm at Orange It charging up as a sinister glow was made in it.

"There is nothing you can do to stop us here! You will join the Hive again." Hercules Slammed the barrel of his Cannon into the ground before discharging a energy blast that seemed to create and travel along a bunch of cracks. "Sapphire Fissure" As the the blue energy seemed to gather under before erupting in flash of damage chunking Orange Luck's health for a third as he fell into the Basement area of the building. "Now Stinger!"

"Magma Lash" The scorpion like one decaled as they followed Orange luck into the whole Swinging themselves as a red Liquid seemed to surge through the scorpion like tail and then seem to coat it, Before striking and Splattering the Magma against Orange Luck. His health Actively dropping to half before the super heated liquid starts applying tick Damage. Stinger having used the strike as a spring board to cross the gap.

"How Many Times must we remind you child, that you are not by yourself. This Stage has never done you any favors so lets Abandon it for one more Favorable. ENKATALEIPSI EDAFOUS!" A voice that was Distinctly Ms. Cheerilee's Rocked the School. And with all the force of a massive Earthquake Collapsed the School Rust Dust and Debris flying everywhere. When it settled the land appeared to be something out of Dystopian Cyberpunk style. Complete with Graffiti, Neon lights, and Glowing Chemical Canisters with heavy visibly thick air. Suddenly 4 cards flew from random locations on the map to the opponents group. 2 infront of each.

"HOLD 'EM AND BET 'EM" A system declared. As a fourth of Orange Lucks health suddenly took on a red color and a fourth of Scarlet Stingers health matched the same coloration.

"So Kids The question you need to be asking yourself is this, 'Do i feel lucky?'..." Orange luck stated as he walked forward approaching his opponents. 2 cards above his own head as the the deck he was shuffling starts flying out and making walls around them before binding all 3 leaving only their heads open and free to move.

"What is this Orange?" Scarlet asked the visor that is his eyes giving the impression of a glare.

"Ill be frank, I don't know. I've never used it before. Felt it would be fun."

" Place your Bets" The announcer stated.

"So Do you feel lucky?" Orange luck taunted "All IN!" He stated, and On the Declaration the remainder of his health bar Turned the vibrant Red. Cannon Immediately Seeing the that jerks back but is locked in place against the restraints.

" Do you Fold Or Call " The announcer's voice Asked Scarlet.

"I FOLD!" they declared. Immediately His health that was Covered in Crimson Color and the Cards Above Him burned away as a Health pack was made in the center Of all 3 of them.

"Huh neat.... Well Cannon, If your feeling Froggy, then jump because I'm guessing this will go until the deck runs out." Orange Luck stated Calmly.

"I have nothing at Risk I'll Fold." Cannon stated as all of a sudden the remaining 4 cards burned away and the health pack shot itself to Orange who healed to 75% of his health before new cards were dealt, This time the 50% of the remainder health of Scarlet was covered in the red and 25% of Cannon's health was covered, while none of Orange Luck's health bar was touched.

"Well isn't That pretty." Orange Said with a hint of Sadism.